Ann Arbor is not just a hub of culture, academia, and history—it’s also a fantastic starting point for exciting day trips and weekend getaways. With a charter bus rental, you have the flexibility, comfort, and convenience to explore a wide range of destinations, both nearby and beyond state borders. Whether you’re planning a group outing, a family trip, or a corporate retreat, here are some top destinations to consider for your Ann Arbor charter bus adventure.

Nearby Destinations in Michigan

1. Detroit, MI (45 Minutes)

Distance from Ann Arbor: 44 miles

Explore Detroit’s rich cultural scene and historic sites. Must-visit attractions include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Motown Museum, and the revitalized Detroit Riverwalk. For sports fans, catch a game at Comerica Park or Ford Field.

2. Frankenmuth, MI (1 Hour 30 Minutes)

Distance from Ann Arbor: 90 miles

Known as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth is perfect for a day of charming shops, hearty German food, and unique attractions like Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland.

3. Lansing, MI (1 Hour)

Distance from Ann Arbor: 65 miles

Visit Michigan’s capital city to tour the Michigan State Capitol building, the MSU Broad Art Museum, or the sprawling Potter Park Zoo. It’s great for a mix of history, learning, and fun.

4. The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village (30 Minutes)

Distance from Ann Arbor: 25 miles

History buffs will love this Dearborn destination, where they can step back in time and explore Henry Ford’s innovations, historic vehicles, and exhibits on American entrepreneurship.

5. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (4 Hours)

Distance from Ann Arbor: 215 miles

Behold breathtaking views of Lake Michigan from towering sand dunes. Hiking, swimming, and picnicking make this a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Beyond State Borders

1. Chicago, IL (3 Hours 50 Minutes)

Distance from Ann Arbor: 240 miles

The Windy City offers unmatched entertainment, from Navy Pier and Millennium Park to world-class museums, deep-dish pizza, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Ideal for both day trips and weekend getaways.

2. Cleveland, OH (2 Hours 45 Minutes)

Distance from Ann Arbor: 170 miles

Home to the iconic Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland is also known for its waterfront attractions along Lake Erie, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and West Side Market.

3. Indianapolis, IN (3 Hours 45 Minutes)

Distance from Ann Arbor: 260 miles

Immerse yourself in motorsports history at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, or enjoy the family-friendly attractions at the Indianapolis Zoo and White River State Park.

4. Niagara Falls, ON (4 Hours 15 Minutes)

Distance from Ann Arbor: 255 miles

Take your group across the Canadian border to marvel at one of the world’s most famous natural wonders. Niagara Falls offers jaw-dropping views, boat tours with Maid of the Mist, and a stunning illuminated waterfall at night.

5. Columbus, OH (3 Hours)

Distance from Ann Arbor: 175 miles

Ohio’s capital is brimming with attractions such as the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the Scioto Mile park system, and the German Village, known for its cobblestone streets and cozy eateries.

1. Type and Size of the Bus
   • Type: Different types of buses (charter bus, minibus, executive coach, party bus, etc.) have varying costs based on their amenities and features.
   • Capacity: Larger buses generally cost more due to their size and the number of passengers they can accommodate.
2. Distance and Duration
   • Mileage: Costs increase with the total distance traveled.
   • Trip Duration: Longer rental periods, such as multi-day trips, result in higher charges, especially if overnight stays for the driver are required.
   • Route Complexity: Multiple stops or routes with high traffic can add to the cost.
3. Timing and Season
   • Time of Year: Demand during peak seasons (summer, major holidays) typically raises prices.
   • Day of the Week: Weekend rentals often cost more than weekday trips.
   • Time of Day: Night or off-hour bookings can sometimes involve additional fees.
4. Pick-Up and Drop-Off Location
   • “Garage time” to your starting point may incur extra costs.
   • Special accommodations for remote or hard-to-reach locations could also increase expenses.
5. Driver and Staff
   • Driver fees, which include wages, per diem, and overnight accommodations (if needed), are often factored into the total price.
   • Additional staff, such as tour guides or assistants, may involve extra charges.
6. Fuel Costs
   • Fluctuations in fuel prices can affect the overall rental cost, especially for long-distance trips.
7. Permits and Tolls
   • Road tolls, parking permits, and special city permits (if required for your route) can raise the total price.
8. Insurance and Liability
   • Extra coverage beyond the federal minimum for insurance coverage or liability waivers.
9. Special Requests
   • Custom itineraries, last-minute bookings, or changes to the schedule may involve additional charges.

Tips to Manage Costs

• Book in advance to secure better rates.
• Choose a bus that meets your exact needs without unnecessary extras.
• Consolidate routes and stops to minimize time and distance.

Let us know if you’d like help with specific estimates or further advice!

We only partner with bus operators who share our steadfast commitment to safety and service. We vet all of our operators through a process that includes:

• Safety Records: We examine safety records in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Safer database to ensure the operator in question is fully compliant with the DOT.
• Assessing On-Time Performance: Not being late is crucial, so we select partners that have successfully delivered for us numerous times in the past.
• Customer Reviews: Ratings from past customers helps us gauge overall satisfaction and service quality.

We also require our partners to uphold high standards in cleanliness and customer service, ensuring all trips are as pleasant as they are safe. Our thorough approach guarantees that from the moment you get on board, you can relax knowing that safety is our top priority.

Planning your charter bus trip has never been easier! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you secure a bus rental for your trip:

1. Contact a Reservation Specialist:
   • Reach out to one of our reservation specialists by calling 866-205-5197! They’re available to assist you with all your travel needs and answer any questions you may have.
2. Identify Your Destination:
   • Decide where you want to go, and from where- perhaps take a tour of University of Michigan’s central campus? Or maybe you’d rather sample the goods at the farmers market in Kerrytown District? Or maybe you want to see a game at the stadium known as The Big House?
3. Discuss Your Travel Requirements:
   • Provide details about your travel dates, passenger count, and any other special requirements. This will help our specialist recommend the best bus options for your group.
4. Select Your Bus Type:
   • Choose from a variety of charter buses, such as minibuses for smaller groups or full-sized coaches for larger parties. Each type offers different amenities, so be sure to discuss your preferences.
5. Receive a Quote:
   • Get a free price quote based on your travel itinerary, group size and date. This will ensure you have a clear understanding of the costs involved.
6. Finalize Your Booking:
   • Once you’re satisfied with the arrangements, confirm your booking with your account executive. The account executive will finalize your itinerary and provide any additional information you need.
7. Prepare for Your Trip:
   • Pack your bags, gather your group and get ready for an exciting adventure!

By following these steps, you’ll have a memorable experience booking a charter bus for your next trip. Happy trails!

When you book a charter bus rental, understanding the payment process is important to ensure there are no misunderstandings. Here’s a breakdown of how it typically works:

1. Get a Quote: After you have selected the perfect bus for your trip and shared your itinerary, you’ll receive a detailed quote. Once you accept this quote, you can move forward to the payment stage.
2. Secure Your Booking with a Deposit: To lock in your reservation, a deposit of 20% is required if the trip is more than 30 days away. This will ensure that your bus is reserved exclusively for your trip.
3. Payment Confirmation and Dates: When the deposit is processed, you’ll get a confirmation. This will include important information, such as the deadline to pay the remaining balance- always 30 days prior to the trip.
4. Payment Methods: A credit card is generally required to finalize the reservation. This will ensure that any future payments can be processed efficiently. We also accept payment by ACH, wire and check.

By following these steps, your North American Charter Bus rental will be secured, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey.