BELLE ISLE. Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, the brainchild of renowned architect Albert Kahn, is home to a variety of different plants and flowers, including Michigan's largest orchid collection. If you're homesick for that bright, Florida sunshine or the warm Arizona spring, then plan to log some time walking amongst the conservatory's ferns, palms, and cacti.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS. This historic English Arts and Crafts-style mansion, built for Detroit newspaper mogul George Gough Booth, dates from the early 1900s. The home still contains much its original artwork, tapestries, and furnishings, affording guests insightful glimpses into the lifestyles of the wealthy "other half" during the pre-World War I era. Surrounding the manor an estate are more than 40 expertly landscaped acres, including dozens of brightly hued annual and perennial flowerbeds, an Oriental garden, a bog garden, and a sunken garden. Advance reservations are required if you want to enjoy a Thursday lunch in the home. House tours include a visit to the gardens. The Thursday house tour is available with an optional luncheon ­ call ahead to reserve.