Several of North America’s iconic resorts await groups searching for history, adventure or simple relaxation in 2015. These properties have special packages and experiences available for groups.
Grand Hotel
Mackinac Island, Michigan
The historic Grand Hotel in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula hotel is a seasonal property with fun themed weekends.
“It is not a cookie-cutter hotel,” said Victoria Leonard, Grand Hotel’s group tour coordinator. “You’re coming to be pampered and to enjoy the ambiance of our gardens, fountains, scenery, carriage rides and being on a North American island.”
Groups should note the hotel operates six months a year, May to November. During low season, the grounds are less crowded and prices are lower. Shoulder season is busier and grows more expensive. High season is very busy and more expensive.
A popular theme that groups enjoy is Titanic Weekend, which celebrates the famed luxury steamship. The hotel is transformed into the doomed ship with a bon voyage party, guest speakers and a Titanic dinner theater. Guests assume the roles of actual passengers and later learn if they “survived” the disaster.
Another popular theme weekend is “Somewhere in Time,” which re-creates the classic 1980 movie that was filmed on Mackinac Island and starred Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeve.
Other themes are “The Great Gatsby,” jazz, Mother’s Day, Fourth of July, golf, girlfriend’s getaway, wine and ballroom dancing.
Four Seasons Resort
Whistler, British Columbia
Located 175 miles northeast of Seattle, Whistler is a remarkable area nestled in some of the continent’s most beautiful country. Known for the Twin Giants — Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains — it offers an abundance of skiing, snowboarding, hiking and exploration for guests staying in any of the mountain resorts.
“Definitely spend time on the mountains; better yet, the back country,” said Brian Dye, director of sales and marketing at the elegant Four Seasons Resort in Whistler. “People can challenge by choice by riding a bike along Lost Lake or taking a two-hour hike on a pristine lake accessible only by helicopter.”
Groups can hike or snowmobile to a lodge for dinner on 6,000-foot Cougar Mountain, then take a zip line back down afterward.
Numerous local adventure companies will book experiences. The Four Seasons tour staff can coordinate rooms and activities. Booking for several days is recommended for a fuller experience.
French Lick Resort
French Lick, Indiana
One of the nation’s most impressive historic preservation comebacks can be found at French Lick Resort in south-central Indiana. The historic French Lick Springs , with 443 rooms, and the West Baden Springs Hotel, with 243 rooms, were recently restored to resemble their glory days in the late 1800s.
The local mineral springs still provide comfort and, some say, healing powers at two luxury spas inside the hotels.
“We’re a hidden little gem in a wonderful location,” said Kristin Werner, the resort’s senior sales manager.
French Lick Resort primarily draws visitors from late spring to early fall and hosts corporate, association, social, motorcoach and military groups. Golf, in season, is a fun group activity. The Pete Dye Course is memorable. At one of Indiana’s highest elevations, it has rugged terrain, lakes and beautiful scenery.
Many groups staying at the resorts take advantage of the French Lick Casino and stage shows at the Windsor Ballroom.
