Fundraising tours, collaborations, and stories behind how we make a difference in Michigan communities
At Tours Around Michigan, we care about meaningful experiences. Whether it’s hosting fundraising tours, donating experiences for a local auction, or lending our expertise to community efforts – we’re happy to contribute in strengthening Michigan through connection, storytelling, and giving back.
ACCESSIBLE EXPERIENCES
Accessibility isn’t an after-thought — it’s part of our DNA. Tours Around Michigan is the first U.S. tour company ever endorsed by Accessible Travel Press Online in Netherlands, which also awarded us 2024 Favorite Accessible worldwide. Tours Around Michigan is also the first service company to partner with AbleVu/AbleEyes for inclusive travel. We welcome guests who roll on wheels, use sign-language interpreters, bring service animals, identify as neurodiverse, or simply want clear, welcoming communication.
When historic venues or unique locations present challenges, we proactively explore alternate routes and accommodations, so no one is left out. Because fun experiences in Michigan belong to everyone.
TEAM BONDING EXPERIENCES
When a business, nonprofit, or community group partners with Tours Around Michigan for a private or(opens in a new tab) custom tour,(opens in a new tab) it’s far more than sightseeing. It’s about building stronger connections among colleagues, volunteers, stakeholders while enjoying Michigan’s rich culture(opens in a new tab) and history(opens in a new tab). These shared experiences foster trust, spark fresh ideas, and help teams move together in a meaningful way.
If you’re a nonprofit board searching for a retreat to remember, a corporation looking for a new way to invigorate your team, or a community organization eager to strengthen connections, our tours offer more than historic views. They provide connection, understanding, and a experience that turns into a story within your team’s journey.
Candice Smith sharing Michigan Serial Killer Connections with a packed room at Bay City Library
Presentations & Virtual Experiences
When you can’t join our a walking tour, we bring stories to you. Our presentations and virtual experiences(opens in a new tab) open a window into Michigan’s rich past and present, from fascinating true-crime tales like Michigan’s Serial Killers to inspiring looks at our state’s art, architecture, and local culture.
We’ve shared these very popular programs with libraries, senior groups, classrooms, and community events, each one shaped to fit the audience and their interests. Every session is filled with stories that spark curiosity, laughter, and those “I never knew that!” moments.
Whether we’re exploring how art has transformed Grand Rapids, uncovering the city’s industrial roots, or simply sharing Michigan’s human stories, our goal is the same: to connect people through history and make learning feel alive, no matter where you’re tuning in from.
Supporting Local Businesses
Our tours and partnerships proudly highlight the best of Michigan’s local culture(opens in a new tab), from small businesses to major attractions. Over the years, we’ve collaborated with historic Amway Grand Plaza Hotel,(opens in a new tab) DeVos Place and Van Andel Arena to connect visitors with shows and events and partnered with the Grand Rapids Public(opens in a new tab) Museum(opens in a new tab) on the Grand River Adventure since its very first season.
We also work with Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DTGR)(opens in a new tab) on special festival tours for World of Winter and shared stories for the Grand Rapids Literature Festival as an history storyteller. Local partners like Leonard at Logan Bed & Breakfast(opens in a new tab) help us create unique experiences that celebrate the character and hospitality of West Michigan.
Beyond our tours, we’re always sharing information about local festivals, like ArtPrize,(opens in a new tab) small businesses, art, history,(opens in a new tab) and attractions, helping both residents and visitors connect more deeply with everything that makes our communities shine. We even let you know the most(opens in a new tab) haunted spots.(opens in a new tab)
We partner with Grand Rapids Bed & Breakfast Leonard At Logan to combine overnight bookings with tours to explore the area.
Fundraising Tours
Every tour we host has the potential to make an impact beyond the experience itself. Our Fundraising Tours are designed to support Michigan’s nonprofits and community organizations turning history, storytelling, and exploration into opportunities to give back.
Each fundraising tour(opens in a new tab) is created for a specific cause, with a portion of ticket sales donated directly to that organization. We collaborate closely with our partners to promote the event together, spreading awareness while creating something memorable for their supporters.
Sometimes, our contributions come in the form of donated experiences, private group tours or gift certificates offered as auction items at local fundraisers. One of our favorite moments was seeing the WYCE Auction winners proudly holding an oversized check for their donated Grand Rapids Ghost Tour
Community Involvement & Local Expertise
Our passion for Michigan’s people and stories extends beyond our tours. Our owner Candice Smith frequently shares her expertise as a historian, storyteller, and community advocate — serving as judge for the Kent County Youth Fair Talent Competition and West Michigan Chalk Art Festival.(opens in a new tab) Collaborations with GR Lit Fest(opens in a new tab), Van Andel Arena(opens in a new tab) and DeVos Performance Hall. Tours Around Michigan also hosts an educational stop for the annual Grand River Adventure at Grand Rapids Public Museum.
As a recognized local expert, local media(opens in a new tab) taps Candice’s knowledge about Michigan’s heritage, including evolution of the local art scene, Grand Rapids’ role as first in the world to add fluoride to its water, sharing local historic buildings(opens in a new tab), and even ghost stories.
Tours Around Michigan also supports community events like cultural(opens in a new tab) festivals(opens in a new tab), exhibits(opens in a new tab), the Grand Rapids International Wine,(opens in a new tab) Beer(opens in a new tab) & Food(opens in a new tab) Festival and Michigan(opens in a new tab) International(opens in a new tab) Auto Show(opens in a new tab), helping promote the experiences that make Michigan vibrant. We also collaborate with Downtown Grand Rapids Inc as the tour partner for World Of Winter Festival, the largest winter festival in the U.S. We also love supporting other small businesses, like beekeepers,(opens in a new tab) wooden bowl makers(opens in a new tab), and sound therapy.
Watch Local Interviews And Coverage Of Our Fundraising Tours
Check out Our Stories(opens in a new tab) page for more. You can also visit our YouTube playlist Supporting Our Community(opens in a new tab).
OUR PARTNERS
Want to Host A Fundraising Tour?
For any additional information or inquiries, please feel free to email us
