Great Lakes Travel Deals

Chicago to Costa Rica from $300 Round Trip on JetBlue!

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 01:10:51 GMT

Looking for a tropical getaway this fall? JetBlue is offering round-trip flights from Chicago to Liberia, Costa Rica starting at just $300 for travel in September and early October.

This is a new all-time low for this route since I began tracking fares. The previous low was $302, which I found back in October 2025. Considering this route is typically priced at $650+, this is an exceptional value.

September and early October are a great time to visit Costa Rica’s Guanacaste region. While you may encounter occasional tropical showers, you’ll also find lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and excellent opportunities to enjoy beautiful beaches, national parks, waterfalls, wildlife, surfing, and zip-lining.

✈️ Why Fly Into Liberia?

Liberia’s Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) is the perfect gateway for travelers headed to Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. It’s smaller, easier to navigate than San José, and puts you within an hour of many of the country’s top beaches, resorts, and national parks. You can land, clear customs, and be swimming in the Pacific Ocean before lunch.

🌿 Five Amazing Things to Do in Costa Rica with a Week Off

Relax in Tamarindo — A laid-back surf town just an hour from the airport with golden beaches, boutique hotels, and beachfront dining.

Soak in Arenal’s Hot Springs — Visit La Fortuna for hiking, volcano views, and natural hot springs surrounded by rainforest.

Explore Rincon de la Vieja National Park — See volcanic mud pots, waterfalls, and wildlife just 30 minutes from Liberia.

Take a Catamaran Cruise — Spot dolphins, snorkel, and watch the sunset from the Gulf of Papagayo.

Stay in an Eco-Lodge — Experience the country’s famous sustainability efforts firsthand in a jungle canopy or riverside retreat.

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Chicago to Iceland from $321 Round Trip on Delta!

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 23:15:30 GMT

Looking for an unforgettable late summer adventure? Delta is offering round-trip flights from Chicago to Iceland starting at just $321 for travel in August and September.

Considering this route is usually priced at $650+, this is an exceptional value and one of the better Iceland fares we’ve seen from Chicago.

August and September are phenomenal times to visit Iceland. You’ll enjoy mild temperatures, long daylight hours in August, colorful fall scenery as September arrives, waterfalls at their peak, and some of the year’s best opportunities to explore glaciers, black sand beaches, geothermal hot springs, and the famous Golden Circle. Late September also marks the beginning of the Northern Lights season.

As always, these fares are limited and can disappear quickly, so travelers interested in visiting Iceland this summer or early fall may want to book sooner rather than later.

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Detroit to Saint Martin from $325 Round Trip on JetBlue This Fall

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 11:32:56 GMT

Looking for a Caribbean getaway this fall? JetBlue is offering a limited number of round-trip flights from Detroit (DTW) to Saint Martin (SXM) starting at $325 round trip.

This fare is well below the historical average of $500+, making it an excellent value for travelers looking to visit one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful islands.

A few reasons travelers love Saint Martin:

The island is home to 37 beautiful beaches, offering everything from quiet coves to lively stretches of sand.
Maho Beach is world-famous for its up-close views of aircraft landing just overhead.
The island is shared by France and the Netherlands, giving visitors the opportunity to experience two distinct cultures, cuisines, and atmospheres in one destination.
Crystal-clear water, excellent snorkeling, sailing, and a relaxed Caribbean vibe make it a favorite year after year.

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Grand Rapids to West Palm Beach from $98 Roundtrip

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:45:08 GMT

Allegiant is currently offering nonstop flights from Grand Rapids to West Palm Beach starting at just $98 roundtrip for travel in October and November.

For perspective, this route has averaged $250+ roundtrip since I began tracking fares three years ago, making anything near $100 an exceptional value for a nonstop flight to South Florida.

West Palm Beach is known for its beautiful beaches, upscale shopping and dining along Worth Avenue, vibrant waterfront district, and easy access to nearby destinations like Palm Beach, Delray Beach, and Boca Raton. Visitors also enjoy the area’s warm weather, golf courses, boating, and outdoor activities.

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Chicago to Portland, Maine from $168 Roundtrip

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:49:05 GMT

JetBlue is currently offering roundtrip flights from Chicago to Portland, Maine starting at $168 for travel in July and August.

For perspective, this route is typically priced at $300+ roundtrip, making this an excellent opportunity to visit Maine during its most beautiful season.

Portland is known for its historic waterfront, outstanding seafood, charming downtown, and easy access to some of New England’s most scenic coastline. Visitors can explore the Old Port district, visit iconic lighthouses, take a ferry into Casco Bay, or enjoy fresh lobster overlooking the Atlantic.

At $168 roundtrip, this is a fantastic price to experience one of the most popular summer destinations in the Northeast.

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South Bend to Fort Lauderdale from Just $88 Roundtrip!

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 11:43:35 GMT

Allegiant is currently offering roundtrip flights from South Bend to Fort Lauderdale starting at just $88, the lowest fare I’ve personally seen on this route.

Fort Lauderdale is best known for its beautiful beaches, boating culture, and year-round warm weather. Visitors can stroll the shops and restaurants along Las Olas Boulevard, relax on miles of sandy coastline, or explore the city’s extensive network of canals that have earned it the nickname “The Venice of America.”

The airport also provides easy access to some of South Florida’s most popular destinations, including Miami, Hollywood Beach, the Everglades, and the Florida Keys.

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Several long-weekend options are available, including departures on Friday with returns on Monday, making this an easy and affordable escape from the Midwest. I’m also seeing a handful of week-long stays for those looking to spend more time in the Sunshine State.

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Chicago to New Zealand from $886 Roundtrip!

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 14:19:52 GMT

Roundtrip flights from Chicago to Auckland, New Zealand are currently available from $886 for travel between November and April.

For perspective, this route typically prices at $1,200+, making this a significant discount to one of the world’s ultimate bucket-list destinations. It appears Delta, United, and American are all competing on the route, creating rare pricing pressure and some excellent options for travelers.

Even better, I’m seeing availability during Thanksgiving and around Valentine’s Day, creating an opportunity for an unforgettable holiday getaway.

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What To Do With 7–9 Days in New Zealand

If I had a week (or nine days), here’s how I’d structure it:

Auckland + Waiheke Island (2–3 days)

Harbor views, volcanic cones, waterfront dining, and an easy ferry to Waiheke for vineyards and coastal hikes.

Rotorua (1–2 days)

Geothermal parks, bubbling mud pools, Māori cultural experiences, and natural hot springs.

Queenstown (3–4 days)

Fly south. This is the adventure capital of the world — alpine lakes, dramatic mountains, Milford Sound day trip, hiking, wine country, or just soaking in the scenery.

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Just Posted: Detroit to Martha’s Vineyard for $200 Round Trip

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:18:55 GMT

If you’ve ever wanted to see how New England’s famous beach towns compare to our Great Lakes shoreline communities, this is a great opportunity.

I’m currently seeing flights from Detroit to Martha’s Vineyard for just $200 round trip in August. For comparison, this route is typically $450+, making this a significant discount.

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Why Visit Martha’s Vineyard?

Located off the coast of Massachusetts, Martha’s Vineyard is known for its charming seaside towns, beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and classic New England character. Think of it as a saltwater cousin to some of our favorite Lake Michigan destinations.

Why August?

August is peak season on the island, with warm weather, lively downtowns, outdoor dining, farmers markets, and some of the best beach conditions of the year.

A Few Highlights

Edgartown – Historic homes, shops, and a postcard-worthy harbor.
Oak Bluffs – Colorful Gingerbread Cottages and the oldest operating carousel in America.
Aquinnah Cliffs – Stunning ocean views and one of the island’s most iconic landmarks.
Island Bike Trails – A great way to explore beaches, towns, and scenic coastline.
Fresh Seafood – Lobster rolls, oysters, and clam chowder are local favorites.

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Detroit to Tokyo for $884 Direct on Delta!

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 11:26:14 GMT

I’m currently finding nonstop Delta flights from Detroit to Tokyo starting at $884 round trip for travel between September and February.

While this fare isn’t the lowest we’ve ever seen on this route, it is still a steep discount from typical pricing, especially considering the recent increases in fuel costs that have pushed many international airfares higher. Nonstop flights between Detroit and Tokyo are often priced at $1,200+ round trip, making this a very attractive opportunity to visit Japan without the hassle of a connection.

My brother-in-law recently returned from Japan, and he has traveled extensively throughout the U.S. and internationally. What stood out to me was that he didn’t just enjoy the trip—he said Tokyo and Japan are places he would happily visit several more times. That’s not an endorsement I’ve heard him give many destinations before, and it certainly caught my attention.

If Japan has been on your radar, this is one of the better nonstop fares I’ve seen from Detroit in quite some time.

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A Simple 5-Day Itinerary Around Tokyo

September through February offers some of the best weather and sightseeing opportunities in Japan. Fall brings comfortable temperatures and spectacular autumn colors, while winter often delivers crisp, clear days with excellent views of Mount Fuji and festive holiday illuminations throughout Tokyo.

Whether you’re visiting during peak fall foliage or the winter holiday season, here’s an easy 5-day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip.

Day 1 — Shibuya + Shinjuku

Ease into the city:

Check out Shibuya Crossing and Shibuya Sky for the big rooftop views
Wander through Shinjuku’s Omoide Yokocho + Golden Gai
Warm up with a bowl of ramen (Ichiran or Afuri are great starters)

Day 2 — Tokyo Midtown Lights + Roppongi

Walk through the Midtown and Roppongi
Stop for coffee and dessert in Aoyama or Nogizaka
End the night at Tokyo Tower

Day 3 — Asakusa + Tokyo Skytree

A classic Tokyo day.

Visit Senso-ji, one of the most photogenic spots in the city
Snack your way down Nakamise Street
Head up Tokyo Skytree for big views of the skyline

Day 4 — Day Trip to Hakone or Kamakura

Your choice depending on the vibe:

Hakone: Hot springs, mountain air, and views of Mt. Fuji
Kamakura: Coastal temples, the Great Buddha, and easy hiking trails

Day 5 — Tsukiji Market + Ginza

A fun last day:

Fresh sushi and street snacks in Tsukiji
Explore Ginza’s holiday windows and shops
Pick up gifts and snacks inside Tokyo Station before heading home

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Grand Rapids to Alaska for Just $255 Round Trip Is the Cheapest Fare I've Ever Seen!

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 10:35:58 GMT

Just a couple of weeks ago, I shared flights from Grand Rapids to Anchorage priced at $377 round trip. Those same flights have now dropped even further.

I’m currently finding Delta and United flights from Grand Rapids to Anchorage starting at just $255 round trip, which is the lowest fare I’ve personally seen on this route. Flights to Alaska from West Michigan are typically $550+, making this an outstanding value for one of North America’s most bucket-list-worthy destinations.

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Why Visit Anchorage?

Anchorage is the perfect first-time Alaska destination and serves as a gateway to some of the state’s most iconic scenery. Fall brings colorful tundra, snow-capped mountains, fewer crowds, and excellent opportunities to spot moose, bald eagles, bears, and salmon.

Within a few hours of Anchorage, you can explore:

Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park
Girdwood and Alyeska Resort
Turnagain Arm, one of America’s most scenic drives
Talkeetna, known for its Denali views
Denali National Park

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Nantucket for Less: Nonstop Flights from Detroit Starting at Just $182 Round Trip

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Sat, 06 Jun 2026 01:25:37 GMT

If Nantucket has been sitting on your travel wish list, this is one of the better opportunities I’ve seen in quite some time.

I’m currently finding flights from Detroit to Nantucket starting at just $182 round trip for travel during August and September on Delta and JetBlue.

Considering that Nantucket is one of the most sought-after summer destinations in New England—and airfare to the island often climbs significantly during peak travel periods—this is an excellent price point for a late-summer getaway.

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Why Visit Nantucket in Late Summer?

Late summer is arguably one of the best times of the year to experience the island.

The weather is still fantastic. Daytime temperatures are typically comfortable, the Atlantic Ocean has had all summer to warm up, and beach days are still very much on the agenda.

The crowds begin to ease slightly. While August remains popular, the island starts to feel a bit more relaxed as September arrives, allowing visitors to enjoy Nantucket’s charm without quite as much congestion.

A Few Nantucket Highlights

Brant Point Lighthouse

One of the island’s most recognizable landmarks, Brant Point Lighthouse welcomes visitors arriving by ferry and offers beautiful views of Nantucket Harbor.

Cisco Beach

Known for its rolling surf, wide sandy shoreline, and stunning sunsets, Cisco Beach is a favorite among both visitors and locals.

Nantucket Whaling Museum

Nantucket’s history is deeply tied to the whaling industry. The museum offers fascinating exhibits and a rooftop observation deck with panoramic views of downtown.

Downtown Nantucket

The cobblestone streets, historic architecture, boutiques, galleries, and seafood restaurants make downtown one of the most walkable and enjoyable destinations in New England.

More Than Just a Week-Long Vacation

While many travelers automatically assume Nantucket requires a full week, don’t overlook the possibility of a shorter getaway.

When you open one of the flight options and search around a bit, you’ll find opportunities for 3- to 5-day trips, and other shorter itineraries.

Bottom Line

Roundtrip fares from Detroit to Nantucket starting at $182 are an outstanding value for one of the Northeast’s premier summer destinations. Between the beaches, historic charm, fresh seafood, and postcard-worthy scenery, Nantucket offers a completely different feel from most East Coast beach towns.

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Michigan’s Best Vacation Coffee? More Than 1,300 Travelers Weighed In

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:06:10 GMT

Our friends over at Pure Michigan recently asked a simple question:

The response was incredible.

More than 1,300 comments poured in from travelers across the state, creating a treasure trove of recommendations ranging from iconic coffee shops and hidden gems to campfire percolators overlooking Lake Michigan.

As summer road trip season gets underway, I thought it would be helpful to summarize some of the most frequently mentioned spots. Whether you’re heading Up North, visiting the Upper Peninsula, exploring the lakeshore, or spending a weekend on Mackinac Island, consider this your unofficial Michigan Vacation Coffee Guide.

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Northern Michigan Favorites

Roast & Toast — Petoskey

Perhaps the most frequently mentioned coffee shop in the entire discussion. Travelers repeatedly cited Roast & Toast as a can’t-miss stop when visiting Petoskey and Little Traverse Bay.

Leelanau Coffee Roasting Company — Glen Arbor

A favorite among visitors exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes, Glen Lake, and the M-22 corridor. Many commenters mentioned making it a tradition every time they visit the area.

North Perk — Petoskey

Another Petoskey favorite that received numerous mentions from locals and vacationers alike.

Port City Brew — Manistee

Praised for both the coffee and the friendly atmosphere, Port City Brew earned several enthusiastic endorsements from Lake Michigan travelers.

Lake & Latte — Onekama

A popular stop for visitors exploring the scenic shoreline between Manistee and Frankfort.

Mackinac Island & Straits Area

Lucky Bean Coffeehouse — Mackinac Island

One of the most frequently recommended coffee shops in the state. Many visitors make Lucky Bean a mandatory stop every time they visit the island.

Watercolor Cafe — Mackinac Island

Known for coffee drinks, breakfast options, and homemade pastries, Watercolor also received multiple recommendations.

Java Joe’s — St. Ignace

If there was a consensus favorite near the Mackinac Bridge, Java Joe’s may have been it. The shop was mentioned over and over by travelers heading to and from the Upper Peninsula.

Upper Peninsula Favorites

Dream Bean — Grand Marais

One of the breakout stars of the discussion. Travelers raved about the coffee, cinnamon rolls, and the perfect start to a Lake Superior morning.

Falling Rock Cafe & Bookstore — Munising

Coffee, books, and a great location near Pictured Rocks make this a perennial favorite.

Les Cheneaux Coffee Roasters — Cedarville

A beloved stop in the eastern U.P. that generated a surprising number of recommendations.

Keweenaw Coffee Works — Calumet

One of the most frequently mentioned destinations in the western U.P. coffee scene.

Dancing Crane Coffee House — Brimley

Repeatedly praised by visitors exploring the Soo, Bay Mills, and the eastern Upper Peninsula.

Southwest Michigan Standouts

Uncommon Coffee Roasters — Saugatuck

One of the clear favorites from Michigan’s lakeshore communities. Commenters highlighted both the coffee and the garden atmosphere.

Lemonjello’s — Holland

Another highly recommended stop that appeared repeatedly throughout the discussion.

Infusco Coffee Roasters — Sawyer

A favorite among travelers exploring Harbor Country and Southwest Michigan’s beaches and wineries.

Traverse City Area Favorites

The Traverse City region may have generated more recommendations than anywhere else in the state.

Frequently mentioned spots included:

Mundos Coffee
Espresso Bay
Higher Grounds
Good Harbor Coffee
Third Coast Bakery
Bay Breeze Coffee
Cuppa Joe

Honorable Mentions Around the State

A few additional shops that received multiple endorsements:

Herman’s Boy — Rockford
White Pine Coffee Roasters — Oxford
Lexington Coffee Company — Lexington
Aldea Coffee — Grand Haven & Muskegon
Water Street Coffee — Kalamazoo
Roos Roast — Ann Arbor
Michigan Coffee Company — Cadillac
Cabin Creek Coffee — Alpena
Cooks Coffee Nook — Rogers City

The Real Winner? Camp Coffee.

As I worked through the comments, one answer appeared almost as often as any coffee shop:

Coffee brewed at a campsite.

Whether it was a percolator over a campfire, a mug enjoyed on a cottage deck, or a cup shared while watching the sunrise over Lake Michigan, many travelers argued that Michigan’s best coffee experience has less to do with the beans and more to do with where you’re drinking it.

Coffee Cup Link

So before you hit the road this summer, save this list. With more than 1,300 recommendations from Michigan travelers, there’s a good chance your next favorite coffee shop is somewhere on it.

Did your favorite make the list? If not, drop it in the comments and let’s continue building Michigan’s ultimate vacation coffee guide. ☕🚗🌊🏕️

Chicago to Los Angeles - Nonstop from $98 Round Trip!

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 10:57:18 GMT

If Southern California is on your radar, this fare is worth a look.

I’m currently seeing nonstop flights from Chicago to Los Angeles starting at just $98 round trip for travel at the end of August and beginning of September.

Anytime I find a West Coast fare under $100 round trip, it’s worth publishing. Flights on this route are usually much more expensive, making this an outstanding value for a trip to one of America’s most popular destinations.

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Why Travelers Love Los Angeles

Beaches and Coastal Communities
Los Angeles offers easy access to iconic Southern California beach destinations including Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Venice Beach, and Malibu.

Hollywood and Entertainment
From the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Griffith Observatory to Universal Studios and live entertainment venues, Los Angeles is one of the world’s most recognizable tourism destinations.

Easy Access to Southern California
Los Angeles serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations such as Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, Catalina Island, Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park, and San Diego.

Outstanding Food Scene
The city is known for its diverse culinary offerings, ranging from authentic taco stands and food trucks to some of the nation’s most acclaimed restaurants.

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Grand Rapids to Myrtle Beach for Just $80 Round Trip on Allegiant – A New All-Time Low

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 10:46:52 GMT

If you’ve been thinking about a beach getaway this summer, this is one of the best deals I’ve seen all year.

I’m currently finding nonstop flights on Allegiant from Grand Rapids to Myrtle Beach starting at just $80 round trip for travel in July and August. Not only is this an incredible value, but it’s also a new all-time low for this route.

For perspective, flights between Grand Rapids and Myrtle Beach have historically averaged $275+ round trip, making this fare less than one-third of what travelers typically pay.

Availability includes both traditional week-long vacations and shorter weekend escapes, giving travelers plenty of flexibility to enjoy one of the East Coast’s most popular summer destinations.

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Why Travelers Love Myrtle Beach in the Summer

Miles of Beaches

Myrtle Beach offers more than 60 miles of sandy coastline along South Carolina’s Grand Strand. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly beach days, morning walks, swimming, or simply relaxing with a good book, there’s plenty of room to spread out.

Affordable Family Fun

One of Myrtle Beach’s biggest draws is the variety of attractions beyond the beach. Visitors can enjoy mini golf, water parks, amusement rides, live entertainment, seafood restaurants, outlet shopping, and countless family-friendly activities without breaking the bank.

Outstanding Golf

Golfers have long considered Myrtle Beach one of America’s premier golf destinations. With dozens of public courses ranging from beginner-friendly layouts to championship-caliber tracks, it’s easy to see why the area is often called the “Golf Capital of the World.”

Use Myrtle Beach as a Gateway to the South Carolina Coast

One of the underrated benefits of this route is that Myrtle Beach can serve as the starting point for a broader South Carolina road trip.

Charleston

Just over two hours south of Myrtle Beach, Charleston is consistently ranked among America’s most beautiful and historic cities. Visitors can stroll cobblestone streets, admire colorful historic homes along Rainbow Row, explore Fort Sumter, dine at nationally acclaimed restaurants, and enjoy the city’s famous Southern hospitality.

Pawleys Island

Located south of Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island offers a quieter and more laid-back coastal experience. The area is known for beautiful beaches, marsh views, seafood restaurants, and a slower pace that feels worlds away from everyday life.

Murrells Inlet

Often called the seafood capital of South Carolina, Murrells Inlet features excellent waterfront dining, scenic marshwalks, and opportunities for boating, fishing, and sunset views.

The Bottom Line

At just $80 round trip, these nonstop flights from Grand Rapids to Myrtle Beach represent an exceptional value and a new record low for the route. Whether you’re planning a family beach vacation, a golf trip with friends, or using Myrtle Beach as a launching point to explore Charleston and the South Carolina coast, this is the kind of fare that can make a summer getaway surprisingly affordable.

Travel is available throughout July and August, and with fares this low, I wouldn’t be surprised to see the cheapest dates disappear quickly.

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Flint to Destin, Florida - Nonstop from $108 Round Trip!

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Thu, 28 May 2026 10:53:00 GMT

If you’re looking to stack the deck and get one more beach trip before winter arrives, this is an outstanding option. Allegiant nonstop flights from Flint to Destin, Florida are currently priced starting at just $108 round trip for travel this fall.

This route is typically priced at $350+ making this a fantastic opportunity to visit Florida’s Emerald Coast for a fraction of the normal cost.

Destin and the surrounding 30A communities are especially popular with travelers from northern climates during the fall thanks to warm temperatures, lower humidity, and beautiful white-sand beaches without the heavy summer crowds. Gulf water temperatures also stay surprisingly warm well into October, making beach days, boating, and swimming still very enjoyable.

Another reason travelers love this area in the fall is the laid-back atmosphere combined with incredible seafood, scenic beach towns, golf, fishing, and some of the clearest water anywhere in the continental United States.

I’ve listed a few sample dates below, but availability appears fairly widespread this fall. If one option doesn’t fit your schedule, open it up and navigate around to search for additional dates.

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Grand Rapids to Anchorage, Alaska - Priced at $377 on Delta

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Wed, 27 May 2026 11:01:39 GMT

Delta is currently offering flights from Grand Rapids to Anchorage, Alaska priced starting at just $377 round trip for travel August through December. This route is usually priced at $550+, making this an excellent opportunity to visit one of the most scenic destinations in North America for well below average pricing.

I’ve listed a few sample flight options below, but this fare appears to be widely available across multiple date ranges. If one of the listed options doesn’t fit your schedule, open it up and navigate around to search for additional dates.

Fall is an especially spectacular time to visit Anchorage and Southcentral Alaska. The mountains surrounding the city begin glowing with vibrant yellow and orange tundra colors, while snow starts returning to the higher peaks creating incredible contrast for photography and sightseeing. Wildlife viewing also tends to be excellent in the fall with opportunities to spot moose, bears, bald eagles, and migrating salmon throughout the region.

Anchorage also makes a fantastic basecamp for exploring nearby destinations like Turnagain Arm, Girdwood, Seward, Talkeetna, and Denali National Park before winter conditions fully settle in.

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Rare: Toronto to the Azores for Just $370 Round Trip - A New Low!

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Sat, 23 May 2026 14:07:12 GMT

If you’ve been dreaming of a unique island escape, this might be your shot. I just found a one-off flight from Toronto to Ponta Delgada in the Azores direct on WestJet for just $370 round trip—and it’s the only one anywhere near this price. Flights surrounding it are sitting in the $650–$750+ range.

The Azores — often called the Hawaii of the Atlantic — are a breathtaking volcanic island chain located off the coast of Portugal, known for crater lakes, dramatic coastlines, hot springs, whale watching, and lush green landscapes.

This fare sets a new low for the route. The previous low was $416, which I found back in October 2024. The timing also lines up beautifully with late August and early September, when the Azores typically offer warm temperatures, vibrant green scenery, hydrangeas still blooming in some areas, and ideal conditions for hiking and exploring the islands. If you can make the dates work, this is an outstanding opportunity.

Why Visit the Azores?

Natural Wonders: Lush crater lakes, hot springs, waterfalls, and dramatic coastlines offer nonstop beauty and adventure.
Outdoor Activities: Whale watching, hiking volcanic peaks, canyoning, and soaking in geothermal pools are just a few reasons outdoor lovers flock here.

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This is a rare deal to a destination that’s still under-the-radar for many U.S. travelers—so if you're flexible, jump on it fast before it disappears.

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GRAND RAPIDS TO CHARLOTTE - FLIGHTS FROM $147 ROUNDTRIP

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Wed, 20 May 2026 10:29:40 GMT

I’m currently seeing Delta flights from Grand Rapids (GRR) to Charlotte, North Carolina (CLT) priced starting at just $147 roundtrip for travel from June through September.

This is an exceptional price for this route. Flights from Grand Rapids to Charlotte have historically averaged $350+ and the previous low I had found was $152 back in November of 2023.

I’ve listed several Saturday-to-Saturday options below, but this pricing is actually fairly widespread. If you’re looking for a quick 3- or 4-day weekend getaway, open up one of the flights and navigate around a bit — there are quite a few combinations available.

Why Charlotte Works

Charlotte is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country and makes a great long weekend destination with:

Great food & brewery scene
Uptown sports atmosphere
NASCAR Hall of Fame
Nearby lakes and golf
Access to the Blue Ridge Mountains

A few great nearby summer ideas:

Spend a day on Lake Norman
Explore Asheville, Biltmore Estate, & the Blue Ridge Parkway
Catch an MLB game, concert, or soccer match
Visit charming small towns throughout North Carolina

And honestly, North Carolina is one of the most underrated states in the country for a longer road trip.

You get:

Historic sports towns like Durham and Chapel Hill
Beautiful coastal scenery and seafood towns
Mountain drives and waterfalls
Charming small towns
Beaches, BBQ, breweries, and Southern hospitality all in one state

The Flights

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GRAND RAPIDS TO ORANGE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA — NONSTOP FLIGHTS FROM $133RT

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Tue, 19 May 2026 10:55:45 GMT

I’m currently seeing limited nonstop flights from Grand Rapids (GRR) to Santa Ana / Orange County (SNA) priced starting at just $133 roundtrip on Allegiant for select summer dates.

This is an outstanding price for nonstop service to Southern California — especially into Santa Ana, one of the easiest and most convenient airports in the country. Flying into SNA puts you close to Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, Disneyland, and more without dealing with the chaos of LAX.

A few great summer ideas:

Beach days in Laguna or Newport Beach
Disneyland & Disney California Adventure
Sunset dinners along the Pacific Coast
Balboa Island & coastal bike rides

A really solid nonstop summer option from West Michigan.

The Flights

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THE ULTIMATE MICHIGAN SUMMER CHECKLIST

Great Lakes Travel Deals — Tue, 19 May 2026 10:11:43 GMT

Michigan summers go fast. The days are long, the sunsets explode and stretch into the evening, and before you know it, it’s already football season and the leaves are changing.

From Lake Michigan beach towns and scenic drives to waterfalls, dunes, whitefish dinners, wineries, freighters, and nights under the stars, summer in Michigan is something special.

Here are 25 can’t-miss quintessential Michigan summer experiences to help fill your calendar over the next few months.

And honestly… narrowing this list down to just 25 was nearly impossible. Let me know what I missed.

Michigan Summer Checklist

☐ Watch a Lake Michigan sunset in South Haven, Grand Haven, Ludington, or Manistee

☐ Drive M-22 through Sleeping Bear Dunes, Glen Arbor, Leland, and Traverse City

☐ Cross the Mackinac Bridge with the windows down and music up

☐ Spend a day biking around Mackinac Island

☐ Kayak beneath the cliffs at Pictured Rocks

☐ See Tahquamenon Falls

☐ Take the scenic drive through Tunnel of Trees (M-119)

☐ Grab cherries, wine, and roadside farm market snacks on the Leelanau Peninsula

☐ Spend an afternoon floating in Torch Lake

☐ Ride the dunes at Silver Lake with Mac Woods

☐ Watch the stars at Headlands International Dark Sky Park

☐ Explore Copper Harbor and Brockway Mountain Drive

☐ Hike in the Porcupine Mountains

☐ Stop at Kitch-iti-kipi in the Upper Peninsula

☐ Eat fresh whitefish somewhere north of the bridge

☐ Spend a beach day in Saugatuck, St. Joseph, or Holland

☐ Walk the Detroit Riverwalk and explore downtown Detroit

☐ Visit the Henry Ford Museum or Greenfield Village

☐ Watch freighters pass through the Soo Locks

☐ Explore Fayette Historic State Park

☐ Take a slow drive along US-2 in the UP

☐ Visit Whitefish Point and the Shipwreck Museum

☐ Spend a weekend in Petoskey, Harbor Springs, or Charlevoix

☐ Grab ice cream and walk a small-town downtown somewhere “Up North”

☐ Watch at least one sunrise and one sunset over the Great Lakes this summer