Building a Tour, One Story at a Time: My FAM Trip to Michigan

A stunning sunset bathes the landscape in golden light, casting a warm glow over a Michigan lighthouse standing watch beside lush greenery and tranquil waters.

“Michigan — who knew?” I found myself saying that more than once as I traveled across the state, guided by generous, welcoming women from local tourism offices who helped open my eyes to everything Michigan has to offer.

This trip was part of a FAM tour — short for “familiarization,” a kind of behind-the-scenes research trip that allows travel professionals like me to explore new destinations, meet potential partners, and get inspired to create meaningful travel experiences. While I wasn’t quite sure what I’d find, I knew I was open to discovery.

This was only my second time in Michigan — my first was last fall for a tour operator’s conference in Traverse City. I left that event deeply moved by the warmth of the people I met and curious to know more. That curiosity led me back for a closer look.

🌿 What Surprised Me About Michigan

To be honest, I didn’t have many expectations — and I think that made the surprises even sweeter.

I was struck by how progressive and creative Michigan felt. From Detroit’s vibrant revival and rich Black history to the sustainable agriculture and entrepreneurial spirit of Traverse City, this wasn’t a place clinging to the past — it was actively shaping its future.

Here are a few standout stops that made a lasting impression:

• Detroit – A story of urban resilience, packed with architectural beauty, an incredible art museum, and living legacies of African-American history and innovation.

• Great Lakes Bay Region – Where small-town hospitality meets nature and heritage. I especially loved the Bavarian flair and Oktoberfest energy in Frankenmuth.

• Grand Rapids – Home to world-class public gardens and museums, as well as strong civic vision.

• Ludington – A town that surprised me with its maritime history, artist-run shops, and a walkable, welcoming downtown.

• Holland – With its Dutch heritage, iconic windmill, lighthouse views, and a heartfelt connection to seasonal rhythms and celebration.

• Traverse City – A testament to farm-to-table living, wineries, and cherry orchards — it felt like a breath of fresh (and delicious) air.

Everywhere I went, people showed up with pride, knowledge, and a strong sense of place.

👭 Women's Stories in the Heart of the Midwest

One of the unexpected gifts of this trip was hearing women’s voices — not in formal presentations, but through the stories they carried and the passion they had for their communities.

I met Barbara Wunsch in Traverse City, a local guide and lifelong farmer who specializes in heritage tours of Old Mission Peninsula. Her deep roots in the land, and her joy in sharing that story, reminded me why I do this work: to amplify women’s voices and invite others to learn through connection.

In Rochester, I toured Meadow Brook Hall, built by Matilda Dodge Wilson. Her legacy as a philanthropist, mother, and visionary helped reframe the region’s industrial history through a lens of personal story and agency. It’s these kinds of details that bring a destination to life for me — and I believe, for the women who travel with me too.

🛤️ What This Means for the Tours I’m Creating

I’m still shaping the itinerary, but this FAM tour made it clear that Michigan is full of stories that deserve to be told — and experienced.

In Detroit, we’ll explore urban renewal and creativity.

In Frankenmuth, we’ll celebrate heritage and hospitality.

In Traverse City, we’ll taste the land and meet the women who tend it.

The upcoming Taste of Michigan - Fall 2026 tour won’t be a whirlwind of photo ops — it will be a space for connection, reflection, and discovery. It will feel personal, intentional, and shared — just like the Founder’s Circle was meant to be.

There are also new ideas simmering for Spring 2027:

– Genealogy research in Ludington 

– Civic leadership themes in Grand Rapids 

– Creative workshops rooted in local culture and story in Holland

💌 Want to Be Part of It?

I created the Founder’s Circle for women 50+ who feel that travel should mean something more — more connection, more meaning, more space to reflect.

If that sounds like you, I invite you to:

📥 Download the free Founder’s Circle Welcome Guide 🔗Click to Download

📬 Join the interest list for upcoming 2026 and 2027 tours 🔗Click to Join the List

And I’d love to know —

Have you ever been surprised by a place you thought you knew?

Tell me in the comments or share your story on Instagram.