Day 1 – Omaha to Chicago

Begin your journey at dawn as you board the coach in Omaha, settling in for a scenic drive across the Midwest. Midmorning brings a refreshing break amid the vibrant collections of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, a peaceful stop filled with greenery and blooms. Continue eastward through rolling farmland and small towns, enjoying the changing landscapes along the way. By early evening the skyline of Chicago comes into view; settle into your hotel and gather for a spectacular Welcome Dinner to kick off your adventure. (D)

Day 2 – Chicago to Holland & Festival Kickoff

Leave the Windy City behind and travel east along the Lake Michigan shoreline, crossing into Michigan and Eastern Time. After a brief lakeside rest stop to stretch and enjoy the view, arrive in Holland by late morning, just in time to immerse yourself in the Tulip Time festivities. Begin at Centennial Park, where colorful flower beds showcase the artistry of tulip planting at its finest. Then join locals for the beloved Kinderparade, where children dressed in traditional Dutch costumes scrub the streets before marching proudly through town in a heartwarming display of heritage and community spirit. Later, step inside the historic Knickerbocker Theatre to enjoy a short film highlighting Holland’s fascinating history and Dutch traditions. Cap off the afternoon with dinner at a local café before settling into your hotel for an overnight stay in Holland, where tulips and warm hospitality set the stage for the days ahead. (B, L)

Day 3 – Tulip Gardens & Dutch Heritage

Awake to a kaleidoscope of colors and dive into the very heart of tulip country. Begin your morning at the Tulip Immersion Garden, where tens of thousands of blooms are arranged in raised beds so you can admire their beauty at eye level—a photographer’s dream and a breathtaking way to experience Holland’s signature flower. Continue on to Windmill Island Gardens, where the centuries-old De Zwaan windmill stands as both a cultural landmark and a working piece of history, surrounded by acres of vibrant tulip beds and traditional Dutch architecture. After a delicious lunch, explore Veldheer Tulip Gardens, home to millions of bulbs in bloom and demonstrations by skilled artisans hand-carving wooden shoes. Cap off the afternoon at Nelis’ Dutch Village, a recreated 19th-century town complete with canals, rides, shops, and lively folk demonstrations that bring Dutch traditions to life. This evening, return to Holland and enjoy free time to relax, shop, or savor dinner on your own before tomorrow’s adventures. (B)

Day 4 – Parade Day & Return to Chicago

Take advantage of your final morning in Holland with a leisurely stroll through the downtown flower displays, where tulips and seasonal blooms create a picture-perfect farewell, or browse the artisan market for handcrafted keepsakes to take home. After lunch, stake out a spot along the parade route for the Volksparade and watch as costumed dancers, marching bands, and colorful floats bring Dutch heritage to life with music, movement, and pageantry. As the last notes of the parade fade, it’s time to bid farewell to Holland. Journey westward, crossing back into Central Time, and arrive in Chicago by early evening. Check into your hotel, then choose how to spend your final night—whether savoring a memorable dinner in one of the city’s famed neighborhoods, enjoying the energy of the Magnificent Mile, or unwinding with a peaceful walk along the lakefront. (B, L)

Day 5 – Chicago to Omaha

Set out from Chicago after breakfast and begin the journey home across Illinois and Iowa. Take regular breaks at roadside rest areas to stretch your legs and enjoy the changing landscape. Continue west and arrive in Omaha by early evening, bringing with you cherished memories of tulips, Dutch festivities and the camaraderie of the open road. (B)"