When visiting Hillman, Michigan’s Thunder Bay Resort, your group will no doubt want to take advantage of the resort’s many unique experiences. Group Tour spoke to Shelia Kolcan, general manager and group tour liaison, about all that awaits visitors at this lively resort.
Q. How would you describe Thunder Bay Resort to someone who has never visited before?
A. Thunder Bay Resort is rated one of America’s best attractions and has earned ABA’s Best of the Best designation for six years in a row. We feature a unique experience east of the Rockies. Our Elk Viewing Carriage Ride, Gourmet Dinner & Wine Tasting guests experience an “over the river and through the woods” horse-drawn carriage ride through a 160-acre elk preserve. The charming Elk Antler Cabin awaits with a five-course gourmet meal prepared in view on two 125-year-old wood cook stoves. Up to six Michigan wines are offered during the meal. Overnight lodging is available with Deluxe Suites, Villas, and Chalets. Breakfast is available at our Clubhouse Grill before departure the next morning.
Q. What makes Thunder Bay Resort a great place for group tours?
A. Thunder Bay Resort is conveniently located 90 miles south of Mackinac Island, 140 miles north of Frankenmuth and only 30 minutes from Alpena. Spectacular summer weather in Northern Michigan offers warm days and cool nights to refresh travelers.
Q. How does Thunder Bay Resort help tour operators plan their group tours?
A. Thunder Bay Resort offers itinerary planning with recommendations for local activities and festivals. We have prepared a brochure which is available in a printed hard copy and a digital version with hyperlinks to area attractions to simplify itinerary selections for our area.
Q. How and where can group tours discover and connect with activities in the area?
A. The Best of Thunder Bay Country digital brochure features attractions and activities in Northeast Michigan, including hyperlinks, which makes itinerary planning a breeze.
Q. What’s your long-term outlook for group tours at Thunder Bay Resort?
A. Group tours are a mainstay of business at Thunder Bay Resort, and we expect a continuing upward trend of reservations. Jack Matthias, owner of Thunder Bay Resort and the mastermind of our elk attraction, passed away in October of 2024, and Matthew Smith has taken the helm and is driving our resort into the future with a fresh perspective of updates and commitment to meeting and exceeding client expectations.
Q. Is there anything new or upcoming at Thunder Bay Resort that group tour planners should know about?
A. Our new management has plans to update and renovate lodging with new furnishings and streaming TVs. The Clubhouse Grill has already undergone transformation. All-new golf carts await our golfers, and our brand-new disc golf course provides a challenging yet fun experience for guests. An on-site massage therapist will be joining our ranks this summer.
Q. Is there anything else our audience of tour operators should know about Thunder Bay Resort?
A. Thunder Bay Resort’s memorable tour stop is considered a bucket list must, and most guests consider it a highlight of any Northern Michigan tour.
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Thunder Bay Resort
thunderbayresort.com
