Itineraries Midwest Summer 2011

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table of contentssummer 2011

featuring

8 Stories and Cultures of thePast and Present

columns

4 destination highlight Travel Wisconsin5 profile Germany Without A Passport

Indian Summer Fest inMilwaukee is theIndian Nation’s largest cultural celebrationcelebrated annually on Milwaukee’slakefront. Witness a Traditional PowWow,Indian dance troupes, Tribal Villages,cultural demonstrations, Juried Fine Art,American Indian traditional&contemporaryentertainers, authentic foods, a NativeFarmers Market, and an extensive NativeMarketplace featuring authentic jewelry,arts & crafts, clothing and much more!

on the cover

l e t t e r f romt h e pub l i s h e r

Dear Planner,

Put down the history books and experience their contents for yourself! Walk the trailsof the nation’s first explorers and discover the culture of its first inhabitants: the NativeAmericans. Cultural tours are a favorite among groups and cater to a diversity of inter-ests while educating, entertaining and often inspiring.

Home to eleven tribes—the largest number of tribes east of the Mississippi River—Wisconsin is this issue’s destination highlight. Milwaukee hosts the famous IndianSummer Festival as well as a number of pow-wows, while the Ho-Chunk Nation is morethan happy to give cultural tours of their lands. This issue also explores geological histo-ry, military history, and the pioneers of the Laura Ingalls Wilder Days.

Finally, the Itineraries staff would like to thank Kelly Surla and Jill Ressemann fortheir hard work and dedication. In her five years with Itineraries, Jill’s talents have beengreatly appreciated. She is very excited to take those talents with her to the Twin Citiesfor a full-time position and we wish her all the best. Congratulationsto Kelly who has committed her skills to Itineraries for over eightyears. She has decided to step back from the working world totake on a much bigger challenge: raising twin babies! Abigail andAustin are lucky to have such a wonderful mom, who we willdearly miss.

We thoroughly enjoyed putting together this issue for yourgroup and sharing with you the “Land That Shaped the People.”

Best Regards,Heather J. Lahren, CEO - Publisher

COPYR IGHT 2011

56 South 33rd Avenue, #234 | St. Cloud, Minnesota 56301320-259-1082 | 877-832-7267 | Fax: 763-201-7945

[email protected] | www.itinerariesmidwest.com

Heather J. Lahren | [email protected]

Lynn Gottwalt | TRAFFIC [email protected]

Mackenzie Lahren | PROJECT [email protected]

Eric Beuning | ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE [email protected]

Matt Lahren | BUSINESS [email protected]

Jill Ressemann |MARKETING [email protected]

Chris Reber |WEB | [email protected]

Carinna K. Hard Bullemer | ART DIRECTORHARD AT WORK Design, inc. | [email protected]

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Heather Lahren, Kathleen Somers, Lynn Gottwalt,Jill Ressemann, &Mackenzie Lahren | ITINERARIES Inc.

Britt Aamodt

Vicky Engelhaupt | South Dakota Dept of Tourism

ADVISORY BOARD

ILLINOIS: Susan Yarolem | Celebration River Cruises

IOWA: Sharon Dixon | Inbound IowaBob Oliver | Legacy Tour & Travel

KANSAS: Sylvia Rice | Salina ChamberMINNESOTA: Dawn Krosnowski | Sunshine Travel

Sherri Mullery | Bloomington CVB

MISSOURI: Stacy Crabtree | Metcalf BankNEBRASKA: Tricia Beem | Grand Island, Hall County CVB

Marilyn Whitehead | Allied Tour & Travel

NORTH DAKOTA: Deanne Felchle | North Dakota TourismCarrol Juven | Juven Tours & Travel

SOUTH DAKOTA: Shebby Lee | Shebby Lee ToursKaren Witt | Watertown CVB

WISCONSIN: Peggy Bitzer | Circle WisconsinJoyce Ohrmundt | Nationwide Travelers

CENTRAL CANADA: Jill Lusty | Tourism WinnipegRose Ann Kupiak | Embassy Tours, Ltd

We make every effort to be as accurate as possible, but assume noresponsibility for errors or omissions found in this magazine orany other corporate publications produced by ITINERARIES Inc.

Proud Members of:Tour Minnesota Association (TMA) & American Bus Association (ABA)

POSTMASTER :Send address changes to ITINERARIES Inc.

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U.P., MICHIGANU.P., MICHIGANU.P., MICHIGAN

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illinois - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 8

iowa - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 9

central canada - - - - - - 49

wisconsin - - - - - - - - - - - 45

south dakota - - - - - - - - 40

kansas - - - - - - - - - - - - - 12

north dakota - - - - - - - - 38

nebraska - - - - - - - - - - - 37

missouri - - - - - - - - - - - - 36

minnesota - - - - - - - - - - 16

upper peninsula, MI - - 43

Coming Fall/Winter 2011!Winter Wonderland…A Look at Winter FestivalsDon’t let the cold weather keep your group indoors!Awe-inspiring ice and snow sculptures decoratethe parks, while a frozen lake provides the perfectsetting for kite-flying, turkey-bowling and broomball.Cozy up around a bonfire, or view a fireworks displayat one of the many festivals happening this winter.

photo credi tsCover image: Indian Summer Fest, Milwaukee, photo courtesy of Donald S. Abrams. Other images: Adam Hester Photography, Ancestorsof Cornelius Dunham, Black Hills, Canal Park Lodge, German Fest-WI, Emporia-KS, Fairmont CVB, Fargo Air Museum, Fargo CVB,Harley Davidson Museum, Iowa Tourism, Itasca State Park, Kansas City Kansas, Kansas, Kim Huskey, Mall of America, Manning Iowa,Mankato-MN, Marquette Country-MI, Michigan, Minnesota Historical Society, MN Office of Tourism, MN Renaissance Festival, MNState Fair, Missouri, National Farm Toy Museum, Nebraska, North Dakota Tourism, Owatonna CVB, Rapid City CVB, Sioux Falls-SD,South Dakota Tourism, St Joseph CVB-MO, St. James Hotel, Stillwater-MN, Thunder Bay, TourismWinnipeg, Warren Cranberry Festival

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UNIQUELY WISCONSINCreativity abounds in Wisconsinoffering one-of-kind encounterssure to creatememories. Perchedon a 60-foot chimney of rockoverlooking Wyoming Valley, theHouse on the Rock is anarchitecture marvel. Fourteenspectacularly decorated roomsmake up the main house. Therest of the 200 acres is anextraordinary complex of gardens,streets and museum buildingshousing unbelievable collections,among them a recreation of a19th century village street, abreathtaking display of musicmachines, and the world’slargest carousel. Once home tothe greatest acting team in thehistory of American theatre,Alfred Lunt and Lynn Fontannewelcomed “anyone who wasanyone” in theatre, arts andliterature to their Wisconsinretreat Ten Chimneys. Thisnational treasure displays anenchanting décor of originalpieces hand-picked by the Lunt’sin the 1920s, ‘30s and ‘40s. Oncecoveted by the nation’s greatestluminaries, an invitation to thisexquisite house museum is nowextended to the public. Since1964, theFiresideDinner Theatrehas entertained tour groupswith one of the best professionaltheatre experiences inWisconsin. Enjoy award-winningcuisine and browse the uniquegift shops prior to the theatrein the round.

SMALL TOWNHOSPITALITY, BIG APPEALMidwest charm and hospitalityare vibrant in the numerous

towns dotting the state. Theimportance of Wisconsin’simmigrant influence is evidentin New Glarus, America’s “LittleSwitzerland.” Complete withthemed shops and restaurants,this alpine village greetsvisitors to experience itsSwiss heritage.

Located on the shore of theMississippi River, the city of LaCrosse celebrates its river towntradition. Amid the surroundingtowering bluffs, opportunitiesinclude distinctive shopping inthe downtown district, seasonalfestivals and paddlewheelerrides on the La Crosse Queen.And just 45 miles east of LaCrosse, tourists can experiencethe heart of cranberry country,Tomah, Wisconsin. Go behindthe scenes to see how thestate’s fruit is harvested orfeel the rush of a jet engine-powered tractor at theBudweiser Dairyland SuperNational Truck & Tractor Pull.

For more of a resort town feel,the Wisconsin Dells, the“Waterpark Capital of theWorld,” offers a wide variety ofattractions (not just water-slides) including scenic boatrides through sandstone chasms,live entertainment shows,Ripley’s Believe It or Not!Museum, and over 90 otherunique experiences. For amore serene visit, tour over 300miles of scenic shoreline dottedwith bustling harbors, quietcoves and pristine scenery ofthe Door County Peninsula.Ten lighthouses, eleven golfcourses, acclaimed music and

performing arts theatres, andhundreds of renowned artistsand galleries along with thetraditional Door County fishboils offer irreplaceablememories in a picturesquesetting. Once visited by MaryTodd Lincoln and GeneralsSherman and Sheridan, theGeneva Lakes Area has been apopular vacation destinationsince post the Civil War.Whether searching for antiquesor fine art, or exploring the lakeon the Lake Geneva CruiseLine, thousands of visitors jointhe ranks of the first whovisited this beautiful area ofWisconsin and built it into thepopular resort town that it nowis. Not far from the bustle ofMilwaukee, the city of Racineoffers beautiful beaches,boutique shops on Main Street,a considerable selection ofrestaurants and a city zoo...allwithin a small town ambiance.

JEWEL OFTHE GREAT LAKESLocated on the western shoreof Lake Michigan, the city ofMilwaukee offers all of theadvantages of a big city whilealso retaining a small towncharm. Dubbed as the city thatknows how to have a goodtime, not only will you find adiverse selection of ethniccuisine (illustrating the city’simmigrant roots) a world-classsymphony and a nationallyacclaimed ballet company, butalso unique attractions onlyfound in Milwaukee. Take atour of the Harley-DavidsonMuseum and celebrate the

people, products, culture andhistory which have madeHarley-Davidson the icon it istoday. Learn about Milwaukee’sbrewing heritage by taking oneof the numerous brewery toursthroughout the city, includingtheMiller Brewery Tour and theLakefront Brewery Tour. Forthose who enjoy shopping,Bayshore Town Center, locatedin the nearby community ofGlendale, offers diverse shoppingin a beautiful outdoor setting.Including table games, slots,bingo, poker, off-track betting,restaurants and a 500-seattheater, Potowatomi BingoCasino, located in the heart ofdowntown Milwaukee, is aparadise for those interested ingambling at a top-notch facility.

For further informationon touring Wisconsin…Whatever the interests of thegroup, whatever the season,Wisconsin offers memorableexperiences for everyone. CircleWisconsin, the state’s premiergroup travel and tourismresource providing andpromoting Wisconsin statetravel itineraries, ideas, thingsto do, attractions, lodginginformation, destination mar-keting organizations andinbound receptive operators isavailable to assist travelplanners. Bringing group travelto Wisconsin since 1985, thefriendly, knowledgeable staffare experts in making a visit anunforgettable, exciting experience.To contact Circle Wisconsin,call toll-free 800-223-0652, or visitwww.circlewisconsin.com.

TRAVEL WISCONSIN

destination highlight BY CIRCLE WISCONSIN

BORDERED BY LAKES MICHIGAN AND SUPERIOR, THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER AND THE STATE OFILLINOIS, AND WELL-KNOWN FOR ITS CHEESE AND LOVE OF BEER, WISCONSIN IS FAR MORETHAN AN OPPORTUNITY TO FILL YOUR STOMACH WITH GASTRIC PLEASURES. THE STATE’SNATURAL BEAUTY, AS WELL AS UNIQUE GROUP FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS, PROVIDE TOURISTSOF ALL INTERESTS MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES.

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If creating a wonderfully memorable time for your group, at avery affordable price, and far less work for you than most trips,sounds appealing, then this is the trip you’ll want to plan for nextyear. This dynamic festival can be planned for a day trip, as part ofa longer excursion, or done as an overnight. However you plan it,you will want to repeat it year after year as your group will havesuch a great time they will be talking about it whenever the subjectturns to best-time-I-ever-had-with-a-group.

Begin by getting yourself on the German Fest mailing list soyou will have a hardcopy of the schedule for 2012 when it comes outearly next year. Next, contact Linda in marketing who helps groupsmaximize their German Fest experience. She can arrange freeparking for your bus, plus 2 complimentary tickets for groups of 25.She can also arrange for “Bus Bakery” …this year a huge almondmacaroon cookie… very German. It’s a chewy gluten free cookiemade with almond paste and slices of almonds. Mmmm. “To diefor!” says Linda, who delivers the cookies onto your motorcoach atthe end of your group’s stay. But let’s not leave yet!

Linda is your contact for discount group tickets. “I try and getthem here as cheaply as I can” she says. That’s just one of the manyways staff will work with you to insure your successful experience.In fact, groups are catered to in such a way that sometimesindividuals will call and ask if there is a bus group they could con-nect with at the festival. Her most frequently asked question?“What time is the parade?” Note it’s always on Saturday at 2:00 pm.The parade winds through the whole grounds and includes aspectacular array of colorful expressions from each of therepresented societies. The individual clubs carry a handembroidered flag. “Just a beautiful experience” says John Schaefer,VP of Culture and Entertainment.

True, we are talking about the largest German celebration inNorth America, honoring the cultures of German speakingcommunities around the world, but you don’t need to be German tojoin in the fun. In fact, all you really need to do is just show up. Thefestival occurs the last full weekend in July and attracts about100,000 party goers of all ages. In its 31’st year now, German Festjust keeps getting better. We could go on and on about the food,fresh daily and nearly all is homemade, but that wouldn’t leaveus room to rave about the entertainment! Consider just a few

possibilities, beginning with music.From great traditional music and antique instruments such as

the zither or button box, to a national recording act like this year’s10,000 Maniacs, there is something for everyone. You’ll find toetapping fun at the Musikgarten stage within the Culture Tent. In anod to 1960’s Hamburg, Germany’s Star Club, a battle-of-the-bandscompetition at the Rock Stage will reward winning bands withcash prizes and more.

New this year is the Eat-a-thon. Participants have 5 minutes toeat everything provided. Thursday its brats and buns, Friday issauerkraut, Saturday is the Dill Pickle eating contest (individuallywrapped) and Sunday is German coffee cake. The championreceives a domestic round trip flight on Air Tran.

Returning is the Dachshund Derby, aka, wiener dog racing.This event always delivers plenty of laughs. Another popularattraction is Karin Gottier, world renowned expert on German folkdance and traditional costumes. People crowd around the stagewhen Karin shares her extensive knowledge and displays costumesfrom all over Germany. “We’ve had so many compliments on this”said John Schaefer.

You can trace your heritage at German Fest. The Sons &Daughters of the Veterans of the Civil War assist festgoers inresearching family roots. An exhibition by the German EmigrationCenter, Bremerhaven features biographies from 1830-1974emigrants. Some in your group may be interested in knowingGerman Fest offers edelweiss for sale. Take it home to grow in yourown yard. Other cultural highlights include wood and stone carvingdemos, blacksmithing, ethnic clothing and folk dance. There’straditional German apple wine, and even a beer competition.And don’t forget to stay for the fireworks!

Church service Sunday morning tends towards the non-denominational with each year being led by a different sect. Thisyear Milwaukee’s Archbishop Listecki will say Mass, accompaniedby a 65 member chorus and 35-piece brass ensemble. The rewardfor attending is more than spiritual. All in attendance receive freeadmission to German Fest…yes even your entire motorcoachgroup. “We’re very tour operator friendly” says Schaefer. “Those arebeautiful people for us to have.” Now that’s Gemutlichkeit!

Hungry? How ‘bout a little Kaitoffel Pfannekuchen (pancakes made from shredded potatoes served with sausage and applesauce)?Or maybe you’re more in the mood for a Frankfurter und Bier, or perhaps Schwarzwaelder (Black Forest cherry cake). Think

food, fun, and festivities! Think German Fest! Held annually on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan in downtown Milwaukee,Wisconsin, this is the party fondly referred to as Milwaukee’s Original Haus Party. And it’s a really good time. While food and drink isan integral part of any good party, it’s only one of the many reasons German Fest has been exciting people from all 50 states, attractingbusloads of repeat attendants. It’s sort of like the state fair, only not. It’s sort of like the Renaissance Festival, but no. And it’s sort of likea carnival, yet soooo not. It’s the best of all those, plus way more.

GermanyWithout A Passport

BY KATHLEEN SOMERS profile

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The year is 1634. Jean Nicolet, Frenchcitizen and courer de bois (woodsman), headswest across the North American continent.

Samuel de Champlain, founder of New Franceand Quebec City, has dispatched him to scout for

a river rumored to lead all the way to the Pacific—and thus to lucrative trade routes with China.Nicolet crosses Lake Michigan and eventuallydisembarks at Red Banks. In this wild, remoteregion, the explorer encounters the Ho-Chunk,

a people he believes to originate from Chinaor one of its neighbor kingdoms. Success, he

declares to himself. The route to thePacific is close at hand.

If only Nicolet had landed inpresent-day San Francisco and not present-day Green Bay. Wisconsin schoolchildrenknow very well who this Frenchman was.

Nicolet was the first European to exploreWisconsin. His journey, though failing in itsintended goal, survives today in books, gift shop

souvenirs and commemorative plaques.Jean Nicolet and his Ho-Chunk guideshave lived on to become part of the state’shistorical and cultural heritage.

BY BRITT AAMODT


If you’ve been in travel for any length oftime, you’ve probably heard aboutcultural heritage tours. Maybe you’ve evenorganized one or thought about it.

So what exactly is a cultural heritagetour? It’s travel for the purpose ofexperiencing places and activities thattap into the stories and peoples of thepast and present. These tours includehistoric, cultural and natural attractions.

In 2009, the U.S. Cultural & HeritageTourism Marketing Council conducted astudy. They found that two-thirds ofcultural heritage travelers visited anhistoric site, while half visited museumsand galleries. Fifty-eight percent wantedtheir trip to be educational. Sixty-fivepercent sought out towns that hadretained their old buildings and historiccharm. What else do they like? Historicalre-enactments, arts and crafts festivals,arts performances, state and nationalparks, museum shops and explorationsof urban neighborhoods. They also cozyup to culinary experiences, but whodoesn’t like good food!

Okay, now that we’ve looked at whatcultural heritage travelers want, let’s lookat some of what the Midwest has to offerthese adventurous spirits.

HistoryThe first humans reached the NorthAmerican continent tens of thousands ofyears ago. It is believed that these firstAmericans traveled a land bridge acrossthe Bering Strait, between the easterntip of Siberia in Russia and Alaska,during the Ice Age. When the Europeansdiscovered America, there were alreadymillions of Native Americans settled coastand coast and every point in between.

Minnesota’s recorded history begins withJeffers Petroglyphs. There are over 2,000carvings, including deer, elk, buffalo,turtles and people, at the site, whichNative Americans have been coming to forthousands of years for worship and tocarve their stories in rock. Jeffers, likemany cultural heritage sites, also catersto adult group tours with tours of thecarvings, a multi-media presentation,prairie walks and the atlatl range.

Wisconsin may be known for beer,cranberries and cheese—and you can’t gowrong with one of these foodie tours—butit also boasts the Logan Museum, withspecial collections from native North andSouth America. The Historic IndianAgency House was built in 1832 forJohn Klinzie, the Indian Agent for theHo-Chunk Nation, and is furnished withhousehold items appropriate to theperiod. You can learn about Iroquoisbeadwork, Wampum beads and longhous-es at the Oneida Nation Museum.

In Missouri, Fort Osage, the second U.S.outpost built following the LouisianaPurchase, organizes events throughoutthe year. The Grand Festival Chez lesCanses hosts a gathering of historicalreenactors, portraying the Natives,French, English and Spanish in NorthAmerica from 1690 to 1799. Ft. Snellingand Grand Portage in Minnesota offercostumed actors representing the state’sfrontier and military history.

CultureFor the cultural heritage tourist, cultureis about the people, traditions and artsthat have grown up in a region over time.Kansas has a long-standing relationshipwith the cattle industry and with music.So it’s not surprising to find a number ofoptions for jazz and BBQ tours of Kansas.Chicago has its very popular gospelbrunch Sunday and blues tours tocommemorate its musical heritage. But italso has the American Indian Center andthe associated Trickster Gallery, withexhibits of contemporary (post-1960s)Native art.

If you’re looking for more NativeAmerican culture, you’ll want to checkout North and South Dakota. NorthDakota has the Painted Canyon VisitorCenter, Knife River Indian Villages,fossil sites and plenty of grassland. But italso has the United Tribes InternationalPowwow held each September inBismarck, one of the largest powwows inthe country.

When you think South Dakota, youprobably think of the Black Hills, buffalo,Kevin Costner’s Dances With Wolves(it was filmed there), Deadwood and gold

mines. But don’t forget the Crazy HorseMemorial, which is the world’s largestsculpture-in-progress. You can visit thisstunning work of art, as well as thenearby Sculptor’s Studio, NativeAmerican Cultural Center and theIndian Museum of North America.

NatureA lot of the cultural heritage sites we’vealready noted come equipped with naturetrails and guided tours. Crazy HorseMonument, for instance, has a trail thatwends the base of the mountain and endsat Crazy Horse’s outstretched arm. Thenagain, one of the highlights of SouthDakota is the Badlands National Park,former hunting ground for the Lakota andbefore them the Arikara. With its rockyspires and buttes and rich fossil beds, theBadlands provides a unique spectacle forthe eye and a window into Lakota history.

Pere Marquette State Park is a naturalwonder that offers up programs relatingto its Native American heritage. Itsfestival features crafters, artisans andlive music in the Pere Marquette Lodge.You can follow the Great River Road, aNational Scenic Byway, to Iowa’s EffigyMounds, which preserves 200 Indianmounds in the natural setting. Here,groups can partake in ranger-led birdwalks, living history moonlight hikes andarchaeology demonstrations. The UpperSioux Agency State Park is a Minnesotapark that includes the site of the YellowMedicine Agency, destroyed in the DakotaWar of 1862, and acres of natural beauty.

Putting it all togetherMotorcoaches are perfectly designed forcultural heritage tours. The motorcoachcan take in any number of historic sites,cultural hotspots and nature spots thatare remarkable in and of themselves,but when linked together in an itinerarytell a broader story of history, culture andpeople. What’s more, these sitesunderstand the cultural heritage tourists,who want to be entertained while they’rebeing educated. For group tour operators,they offer the advantage of specialprogramming and knowledgeable tourguides, and often pack history, cultureand nature into a single site. Talk abouthaving so much to see and so little time.


belleville, bloomington,champaign, chicago, dixon,east dubuque, galena, hanover,kewanee, la salle, marshall,moline, monee, mt carroll,mt morris, peoria, rochelle,rockford, savanna, springfield,st. charles, stockton, thomson

Cahokia Mounds, CollinsvilleIllinois’ only United Nations World Heritage Site. This 2,200-acre site preserves the central section of the largest prehistoricIndian city north of Mexico. Cahokia Mounds offers a World-Class Interpretive Center with museum exhibit galleries, anorientation show theater, a public programming auditorium, museum shop, a snack-food service, and a courtyard foreducational programs. Outdoors you’ll find self-guided tours, guided tours, trails and the 100 ft high Monks Mound, the largestearthwork in North America.

Be sure to visit the Cahokia Mounds Museum Gift shop, which carries a wonderful assortment of souvenirs, books, gamesand hand-crafted Native American-made items including paintings, drawings, ceramics, sculpture, textiles and jewelry.There really is so much to see and do, you'll want to stay all day! Therefore, please dress accordingly. Comfortable clothingand shoes are recommended. (See location on map below)

august• LollaploozaAugust 5-7, Chicago 888-512-7469

• Wheaton Ale FestAugust 6, Wheaton 630-665-4710

• Illinois State FairAugust 12-21, Springfield 217-782-6661

• The 6th Annual Kite FestivalAugust 13-14, Glencoe 847-853-5440

• Chicago Air and Water ShowAugust 20-21, Chicago 312-744-3370

• 28th Annual Port Clinton Art FestivalAugust 27-28, Highland Park 847-432-0800

• Parrothead Street PartyAugust 27, Quincy 217-228-8696

september• Nauvoo Grape FestivalSeptember 2-4, Nauvoo 217-453-6648

• Frankfort Fall FestivalSeptember 3-5, Frankfort 815-469-3356

• Squawk and Oink Barbeque FestivalSeptember 5, Momence 815-935-7390

• Murphysboro Apple FestivalSeptember 14-18, Murphysboro 618-684-6421

• 9th Annual Lake Villa Civil War DaysSeptember 17-18, Lake Villa 847-356-6100

• 10th AnnualInternational Route 66 Mother Road FestivalSeptember 23-25, Springfield 217-236-6515

• Long Grove’s 19th Annual Apple FestivalSept 3-Oct 2, Long Grove 847-634-0888

october• 26th Annual Scarecrow FestivalOctober 7-9, St. Charles 630-377-6161

• Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, The MusicalOct 19-Jan 1, Lincolnshire 847-634-0200

november• It’s a Wonderful LifeNov 10-Dec 24, St. Charles 630-584-6342

• ChristkindlmarketNov 23-Dec 24, Chicago 312-567-8571

• Avenue of LightsNov 24-Jan 1, Quincy 217-222-7980

• Christmas at the Dana-Thomas HouseNov 28-Dec 31, Springfield 217-782-6776

(Contact area CVBs for complete calendars)

illinois cities

calendar of events

more native america & cultural history tours in illinois…

Mile after Magnificent Mile.

National Great Rivers Museum, Alton – This 12,000square foot facility located on the banks of the MississippiRiver is dedicated to telling the story of the river. The museumfeatures more than 20 exhibits and displays, many of whichare highly interactive and computer-animated.

Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago – One of the world’sfinest art collections dating back from 3000 B.C. through the1990s including famous French Impressionist paintings anddrawings as well as fine and decorative arts from America,Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Apple River Fort State Historic Site, Elizabeth – Grouptours to the Apple River Fort are anything but ordinary. Thetown of Elizabeth was named for the heroines of the battlenamed Elizabeth, and Abraham Lincoln camped outside thefort in June of 1832 with his militia unit. This Fort is the site ofone of the battles fought during the Black Hawk War.

The Belvedere Mansion and Gardens, Galena – TheBelvedere has been considered the finest mansion in Galenasince it was built in 1857. This Italianate mansion is furnishedwith antiques, including the famous “Gone With the Wind”green velvet draperies. Come experience the majesty of thehouse and the beautiful gardens for yourself.

Naper Settlement, Naperville – A group-friendly outdoorvillage of 30 historic structures nestled on a beautifully land-scaped 12-acre site. Enter the buildings and meet costumed

interpreters who will share the experiences of daily life, workand celebration in a recreated 19th century midwestern town.

Black Hawk State Historic Site, Rock Island – This is awooded, steeply rolling 208-acre tract - bordering the RockRiver. It offers visitors the opportunity to see the WatchTower Lodge that houses the John Hauberg Indian Museum.The museum features Sauk and Meskwaki Native AmericanIndian artifacts and displays depicting the four seasons andlife of these tribes.

Abraham LincolnPresidential Library& Museum, Springfield– A museum unlike anyother-enabling visitorsto experience the entireLincoln story forthemselves, underone roof-in a moderntelevision control roomon Election Night, 1860,the Blue Room of the WhiteHouse; an Indiana log cabin;Ford’s Theatre, etc.

Illinois Bureau of Tourismwww.enjoyillinois.com . . . . 800-2CONNECT

directory & map

Native Harvest Festival at Cahokia Mounds - Collinsville

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august• 40th Annual Bix BeiderbeckeMemorial Jazz FestivalAugust 4-7, Davenport 888-249-5487

• Hardacre Film FestivalAugust 5-6, Tipton 563-886-6350

• Hoover’s Hometown DaysAugust 5-6, West Branch 319-643-5327

• Iowa State FairAugust 11-21, Des Moines 800-545-FAIR

• Meskwaki PowWowAugust 11-14, Tama 641-484-4678

• Amana Festival of the ArtsAugust 13, Middle Amana 319-622-3678

september• Festival of Iowa BeersSeptember 4, Amana 319-622-3672

• Celtic Festival and Highland GamesSeptember 17 Davenport 309-794-0449

• Des Moines Renaissance FaireSeptember 3-5, 10-11, 17-18,Des Moines 515-262-4100

• Creston/Southwest IowaHot Air Balloon DaysSeptember 16-18, Creston 641-782-7021

• Honey FestSeptember 18, Cedar Rapids 319-362-0664

october• 10th Annual Pioneer FestivalOctober 1, Corydon 641-872-2211

• Madison County Covered Bridge Festival,October 7-9, Winterset 515-462-1185

• U.S. Cellular World Food FestivalOctober 7-9, Des Moines 877-773-8821

• Bentonsport RiverfestOctober 8-9, Bentonsport 319-592-3579

november• Iowa Wine TrailNovember 5-6, Marquette 563-873-2509

• Live Greeting Card WindowsNovember 21, Algona 515-295-7201

• WeihnachtsfestNovember 25, Manning 712-655-3541


iowa cities

calendar of events

Western Historic Trails Center, Council BluffsSee over two hundred sculptures by artist Timothy Woodman, interpreting the Lewis & Clark, Mormon Pioneer, California andOregon Trails. Hiking/biking trails wind through 400 acres of prairie along the Missouri River. Join them for “Jam and Bread,” amusic jam session for musicians/listeners, Thursdays 1 pm-4 pm with free samples of homemade bread. Enjoy a cup of coffeeand visit with a western historian the first Friday of each month at “Campfire, Coffee and Conversation.” History comes alivewith reenactments, music/lectures and Native American food and dance during “White Catfish Camp Living History Weekend,”held the fourth weekend in July. “Holidays on the Trail,” the first weekend in December, offers free sleigh rides, refreshments,holiday shopping, and holiday movies/presenters in the theater. An expansive gift shop awaits you. The Center hosts new eventsthroughout the year, so call ahead to see what’s happening. (See location on map, page 11)

amana, ames, anamosa,balltown, bankston, bellevue,burlington, cedar rapids,clinton, council bluffs,decorah, davenport, des moines,dubuque, dyersville, guttenberg,independence, iowa city,maquoketa, mason city, mcgregor,sioux city, urbandale, waterloo

Amana Colonies, Amana – The Colonies have been atreasure on the Iowa prairie for over 150 years; welcominggroups to an experience that is as unique as they are. Theseven historic villages of the Amana Colonies were foundedby German immigrants as a religious communal society in1855 and have been collectively named a National HistoricLandmark. One of Iowa's most famous travel attractions, theAmana Colonies preserve their crafts and culture whileoffering a variety of experiences. Groups love to shop so thereis plenty of opportunity to purchase antiques, handwovenbaskets, furniture and clocks, and locally made wine and beer.Indulge in hearty family style cooking, unwind in a full-servicehotel, and take in a theater performance.

Abbie Gardner Sharp Cabin, Arnolds Park – This historiclandmark is the site of the 1857 Spirit Lake Massacre. Fromher cabin, 13-year-old Abbie Gardner witnessed the violentconflict between European-American settlers and AmericanIndians —right in her front yard. The cabin has been restoredto mimic its original 1856 appearance. A visitor’s centerdisplaying artifacts is on site, as well as a monumenthonoring those killed and a one-acre park. Admission is free,while donations are greatly appreciated.

Second Annual Muddy River Pow-wow, Farmington –This three-day event (June 10th to June 12th, 2011) is held atthe picturesque Indian Lake Park and features the drumstylings of the Night Eagle Singers. The event is open to alldancers, drums, and vendors. Free camping sites areavailable—stay for a few hours, or all weekend! The pow-wowcommittee will be offering free ice cream and strawberriesas part of the Strawberry Festival held the same weekend.

Mills County Historical Museum, Glenwood – Whenhighway 34 was being built out of Glenwood in the 1930s,many earth lodges were uncovered throughout the Loess Hills.Upon their discovery, archaeologists were called in, delayingthe construction of the highway for two years. Many of theitems found during the excavation—dated nearly 1000 yearsold—are on display in the museum. About 70 of these lodgeshave been uncovered in the area. Many of them are located onthe Glenwood Resource Center land and can be viewed duringa visit to the museum. A replica lodge was built and containsseveral artifacts found in earth lodges. A film depicting theunearthing of the lodges, as well as the construction of thereplica lodge, can be viewed by appointment.

Tama County Historical Museum, Toledo – This museumis located in a former jail, built in 1870 and used until 1970.It now houses a vast display of Native American and pioneerartifacts including tools, utensils, toys, musical instruments,furniture and clothing. Beadwork and paintings by thelocal Meskwaki tribe are also displayed and provide someinteresting perspective on their life hundreds of years ago. Grouptours available by prior arrangements and admission is free!

Toolesboro Indian Mounds, Wapello – The Hopewellianmounds are on the National Register of Historic Places andare designated as a National Historic Landmark. Across thefive-acre site are seven burial mounds constructed between100 BC and 200 AD. Visitors may explore an educationalcenter, artifacts and a diorama. These mounds are someof the best-preserved remnants of Native American culturein Iowa. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day—grouptours available!

more native america & cultural history tours in iowa…

Life Changing

Western Historic Trails Center - Council Bluffs, IA

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www.itinerariesmidwest.comLife Changing

Life of YesteryearThis sample itinerary is good anytime of the year!

A Day toExplore WaterlooThis sample itinerary is good anytime of the year! 10 – 11:00 am

Immerse yourself in Council Bluffs’ rich and colorfulhistory by visiting the Historic Squirrel Cage Jail,built in 1885 for $30,000. This unique rotary jail hasthree floors of revolving pie shaped cells inside acylinder shaped jail. It is one of only 18 ever builtand the only three-story. Only three remain today.11 – 1:00 pmMarvel at the lavish Victorian mansion, the HistoricGeneral Dodge House. This 14-room mansion, builtin 1869, is one of Iowa’s premier historic homes andis considered a National Historic Landmark. GeneralGrenville M. Dodge, a Civil War veteran, dubbed“the greatest railroad builder of all time”, built thehome. The mansion is historically authentic,complete with a majority of the Dodge family’soriginal furnishings. After your tour enjoy lunch in thethird floor ballroom, where the Dodge’s entertainedmany prominent historic figures.1 – 2:15 pmRemember the days of “Riding the Rails” with a stopat the RailsWest Railroad Museum. The restored1899 Rock Island Depot originally was built forChicago Rock Island and Pacific Railroad. The depotnow houses railroad artifacts and an operating HO

gauge model railroad, depicting a world where trainswere still king. The last of the Rock Island passengertrains pulled out of the depot on May 30, 1970.2:15 – 3:30 pmStep back in time where you’ll discover why, inDecember 1847, 200 pioneers built the KanesvilleTabernacle in just 2 ½ weeks. Learn more aboutthe Mormon Pioneers as they traveled throughCouncil Bluffs.3:30 – 4:45 pmContinue your tour of the Mormon Pioneer Trail, aswell as the other three trails that traversed throughCouncil Bluffs; the California, Oregon and Lewis andClark trails at the Western Historic Trails Center.4:45 – 5:45 pmFinally you will enjoy a breathtaking view of theMissouri River Valley at the Lewis and ClarkMonument & Overlook. This monument wasdedicated to the 1804 expedition of Lewis and Clarkand their historic meeting with the Otoe andMissouria tribesman.

For more information or to customize this sampleitinerary for your group please contact your touroperator or Council Bluffs CVB, 800-228-6878 x130.

10 – 11:30 amArrive in Waterloo for a tour of the John DeereTractor Assembly to see how these large greentractors are manufactured. Free tours are offeredMonday – Friday.11:30 – 1:30 pmEnjoy a truly delicious lunch at Galleria de Paco.This is a unique opportunity for your group to dineunder this recreated magnificent “Sistine Chapel”ceiling, one of the world’s most fabulous works ofart done by using 5,200 cans of Krylon spray paint.1:30 – 4:00 pmA visit to the Grout Museum District and TheSullivan Brother’s Iowa Veterans Museum is amust stop while in Waterloo. The Five SullivanBrothers of Waterloo all perished when the U.S.S.Juneau sank during a battle in World War II.The museum honors all veterans from Civil war topresent day.

For more information or to customize thisitinerary for your group, please contact your touroperator or Lonnie Elmore at Travel Waterloo800-728-8431 www.travelwaterloo.com/groups.


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accommodationsCandlewood Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-233-03692491 Holiday Road – Coralville, IA 52241 319-325-0984ottis.bunning@lodgehotels.comwww.candlewoodsuites.com/coralville-iaTravelers will appreciate the modern convenience afforded inthe free business center like a public computer with Internetaccess, and copy and fax service along with a full kitchen withevery modern convenience in every room! Don’t forget aboutthe outdoor gazebo for group gatherings.

attractionsGrout Museum District Waterloo . . 319-234-6357

ManningHausbarn - Heritage Park . . . . . . 712-655-313112196 311th Street – Manning, Iowa 51455www.germanhausbarn.comTake our guided tour of all three attractions; authenticHausbarn, historic farmstead and church. We provide groupswith an enjoyable experience that has been described timeand time again as ‘just like a mini-tour of Germany”.

Waterloo Center for the Arts &Phelps Youth Pavilion Waterloo . . . . 319-234-6357

convention & visitorsbureaus and chambersCouncil Bluffs CVB . . . . 800-228-6878 Ext 1307 North 6th Street – Council Bluffs, IA [email protected] / www.councilbluffscvb.comWe have an abundance of history, unique attractions,entertainment, and quality events and activities. Gaming,sporting events, museums, historical sites, nature, annualfestivals, performing arts facilities, world-class dining, andcomfortable lodging await your reservation.

Waterloo ConventionVisitors Bureau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-728-8431500 Jefferson Street – Waterloo, IA [email protected] / www.travelwaterloo.comFree trolley tours of John Deere Tractor Assembly, Isle CasinoHotel Waterloo, Sullivan Brothers Iowa Veterans Museum,Galleria de Paco “Sistine Chapel”, AG Tours, live theatre,creative itinerary planning, free step-on guide with overnight.

Western Historic Trails Center

What is aGERMANHAUSBARN?

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In the 17th and 18th centuries, Hausbarnswere a common form of dwelling throughoutseveral areas of Germany. This was especiallytrue in Schleswig-Holstein, a state in theNorthwest part of Germany. Many of theManning area families are descendants ofimmigrants from that area.

The Hausbarn is a unique structure thatconsists of living quarters for not only thefamily – including bedrooms, sitting, diningand cooking areas – but also areas for housinglivestock, farm equipment and feed.

The Hausbarn that sits at Manning’s HeritagePark was originally built in 1660. Due to manyyears of political conflict and boundary changesin Europe, it can boast it stood proudly in Austria,Prussia, Denmark and of course, Germany,before it was dismantled and sent to Manning,Iowa, to be preserved and re-assembled. If thishistoric Hausbarn could talk it would tellstories of being governed by Princes, Dictators,a British Occupation Force and finally, aDemocracy. It has survived state wars, tribalboundary disputes and two world wars.

It is evident from just one glance at theHausbarn that it reflects a collectivecommunity pride and conveys Manning’soverall commitment to preserve a vividunderstanding of our German Heritage.

For more information please call 712-655-3131or visit www.germanhausbarn.com.


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more native america & cultural history tours in kansas…

As Big As You Think

Mid-American All-Indian Center, WichitaThe Mid-America All-Indian Center is a multi purpose facility; it houses a museum, a Gallery of Nations for special events,and a gift shop. Exhibits of traditional artifacts and contemporary art depict the Native American cultures of the past andpresent. Serving as a cultural center and museum dedicated to educating people about and preserving the heritage of theAmerican Indian.

The museum hosts special exhibits by Native American artists throughout the year. Follow the walkway on the grounds leadingto the iconic Keeper of the Plains, an impressive 44' statue that pays tribute to the Native Americans who made the this areahome before the arrival of settlers. It stands at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Arkansas Rivers, and embodiesa “sacred hoop” and the 4 elements that make up life (earth, air, fire and water). Each of the five manufactured boulders in theriver next to the plaza has a fire feature, and the grouping makes up the “Ring of Fire.” (See location on map, page 15)

Eisenhower Presidential Library & Museum, Abilene– There is plenty of history here, just pick a place to begin.The museum depicts the military and civilian careers ofDwight D. Eisenhower with changing exhibits. The VisitorCenter houses an extensive gift shop and auditorium showinga film about Ike. The campus features the PresidentialResearch Library, which holds 26 million pages in 3 milliondocuments. Researchers come from around the world to studythe 5 Star General and President. Eisenhower’s boyhoodhome, sits in its original location and is open for tours. ThePlace of Meditation where President and Mrs. Eisenhowerare buried is also open to the public. Named as one of theoriginal 8 Wonders of Kansas.

Symphony in the Flint Hills, Flint Hills – Plan a uniqueadventure for your group that happens annually in theFlint Hills. Join them in this remarkable setting for a concertfeaturing the renowned Kansas City Symphony and anafternoon of presentations and prairie activities. After theconcert, stay to gaze at the stars through telescopes, dance totraditional western music, or sit in the moonlight around astory circle…The Flint Hills are blessed with some of the mostmagnificent, natural landscapes of our continent.

Fort Scott National Historic Site, Fort Scott – Thisrestored frontier military fort (1842-1853) highlights each ofthe site's 20 historic structures, furnished rooms, exhibits,

costumed interpreters, and special event weekends, helpsyour group experience the events that shaped the nation. Thestory of Fort Scott is the story of America growing up.

Marais des Cygnes Massacre State Historic Site,Pleasanton – In May 1858, proslavery men gunned down 11free-state men in a ravine that is now an important landmark.The shootings shocked the nation and became a pivotal eventin the Bleeding Kansas era. A few months later, abolitionistJohn Brown came to this site on a military trail to build a fort.Take your group for a drive through this now beautiful naturalsetting and learn more about freestaters and border ruffiansand their stories. Experience the site through outdoor exhibits.Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1974.

The Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art, St. Joseph –Housing one of the finest collections of 18th-, 19th- and20th-century American art in the Midwest region. Throughspecial exhibitions, educational programs, performance eventsand publications, the Albrecht-Kemper serves as a culturalarts center for Northwest Missouri. An important MaryCassatt pastel, Mother Looking Down Embracing Both of HerChildren, is a study for an oil of the same subject now hangingin the White House. Other highlights include urban realistpaintings from the ‘Ashcan School’, Custer’s Last Stand bythe influential regionalist Thomas Hart Benton, and excitingcontemporary works by recent American masters.

abilene, bonner springs, chanute,council grove, dodge city,emporia, fort scott, hays,hutchinson, independence,junction city, kansas city,lawrence, leavenworth,liberal, lindsborg, manhattan,mcpherson, newton, pittsburg,russell, salina, topeka,washington, wichita

august• Dodge City DaysAugust 1-7, Dodge City 800-653-9378

• Civil War on the Western FrontierAugust 8-21, Lawrence 785-856-3040o

• Tumbleweed Festival150th Birthday CelebrationAugust 26-28, Garden City 800-879-9803

• The Kansas SesquicentennialAll-Star Show and 70’s Dance PartyAugust 27, Topeka 785-267-0498

• Victorian Ball-Old Cowtown MuseumAugust 27, Wichita 316-219-1871

september• Little Balkans DaysSeptember 2-4, Pittsburg 800-879-1112

• Kansas Renaissance Sept 3-Oct 16 (Wknds),Bonner Springs 913-721-2110

• Caldwell 140th Anniversary Celebrationand Kansas 150th Anniversary Cattle DriveSeptember 3-5, Caldwell 620-845-6666

• Kansas State FairSeptember 9-18, Hutchinson 800-362-3247

• Freedom FestivalSeptember 17-18, Osawatomie 913-755-4384

october• OZtoberfestOctober 1-2, Wamego 866-458-8686

• Svensk HyllningsfestOctober 7-8, Lindsborg 888-227-2227

• Kansas 150 FestivalOctober 8, Wichita 316-265-2800

• Historic Cato Tours andKansas SesquicentennialOctober 21-22, Arcadia 620-232-6944

• NeewollahOctober 21-30 Independence 877-633-9655

• Annual Blues Masters of the CrossroadsOctober 21-22, Salina 800-716-3553

november• Cattlemen’s DayNovember 5, Eureka 620-583-5838

• Trail of Tears Memorial WalkNovember 5, Wichita 316-350-3340

• Winter WinderlandNov 18-Dec 31, Topeka 785-232-0597

• 61st Annual Christmas City of the High PlainsNov 26-Jan 1, WaKeeney 877-962-7248

december• Lucia FestivalDecember 10, Lindsborg 888-227-2227


kansas cities

calendar of events


As Big As You Think


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Discover KansasIf your groups are looking for new and exciting vacation adventures, then Kansas is the place you want to be! History buffs can explore thestate’s legendary cowboy towns or visit Kansas’ countless museums. Outdoor lovers will be ecstatic to know Kansas is still home on the rangeto the American bison. And for nature lovers, Kansas is home to the largest remaining stand of tallgrass prairie in North America, providinga glimpse of what the continent looked like 200 years ago! Read on to discover all Kansas has to offer for your group tours of any type!

ColbyColby is truly the Oasis on the Plains, and theywelcome you to explore their chosen 8 wondersof Thomas County:Beginning with Colby’s Prairie Museum of Art andHistory, featuring the Kuska Collection with over28,000 artifacts from around the world andoccupying 24 acres which includes the CooperBarn (the largest barn in Kansas). Also listed amongthe highlights are: Thomas County Courthouse,Northwest Research and Experiment Center,Fike Park, Houston House (a classic 1906 VictorianHome), First Presbyterian Church, organized in1886 and Colby City Hall, this art-deco sand-colored building was built in the 1920’s and is alsolisted on the National Register of Historic Places.

800-611-8835 /www.OasisOnThePlains.com

Dodge CityDodge City is a pure definition of the West…agateway to history that began with the opening of theSanta Fe Trail by William Becknell in 1821 andbecame a great commercial route between Missouriand New Mexico until 1880. Dodge City’s attractionsoffer you and your group a wide variety ofexperiences! Relive the wild west as you stroll alongthe old Dodge City’s boardwalk. Tour Dodge City,Fort Dodge, and the Santa Fe Trail on the DodgeCity Trolley. For a faster pace head to the world ofauto racing at Dodge City Raceway Park, or kickback at the Boot Hill Casino and Resort, where youcan dine on fine food at the Firesides Restaurantand try your luck at the tables & slot machines. We’vegot the right mix to entertain everyone in your group!

800-Old-West / www.VisitDodgeCity.org

Emporia

As official founding City of Veterans Day, Emporia isalso home to one of the smallest but most beautiful

William Allen WhiteHouse Historic Site

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zoos in Kansas! Botanically lush with beautiful floraldisplays spring through fall. Your step-on guide takesyou around town telling the tales of our history, ghoststories, military and political tidbits, and more. Learnabout one of Kansas’ most famous people with aguided tour of the state historic site; the WilliamAllen White house (pictured on page 13). Followit up with a tour of the restored Granada Theatre,

renovated to its original Spanish Revival Architecturalstyle. Got chocolate? End your day at the SweetGranada, a Chocolate Café. We offer free itineraryset-up, visitor packets, and a really good time!We’re right on your way and conveniently locatedon Interstate 35.

800-279-3730 / www.EmporiaKSChamber.org

Kansas City –Wyandotte CountyKansas City, Kansas is a leading tourist location inthe state & the metropolitan area. Home to Kansas

Speedway, Great Wolf Lodge, SchlitterbahnVacation Village Waterpark, Legends Outlets-Kansas City, Nebraska Furniture Mart andCabela’s. With unique, one-of-a-kind restaurantssuch as T-Rex and Backfire Barbeque, featuringthe Orange County Choppers we have everythingyou need to make your next tour a success. A fewminutes south you’ll discover Overland Park,Lenexa and Olathe in Kansas. Take a slightlylonger trip north to experience the historic citiesof Fort Leavenworth and Atchison. We hope youwill enjoy the rich historic past and exciting presentof Kansas City, and we look forward to welcomingyou to our city!

800-264-1563 / www.VisitKansasCityKS.com

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Granada Theatre

Backfire Barbeque

Great Wolf Lodge

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directory & map

convention & visitorsbureaus and chambers

Colby CVB Colby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-611-8835

Dodge City Dodge City . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-OLDWEST

Emporia Chamber Emporia . . . . . . . . 800-279-3730

Kansas Travel & Tourism DivisionTopeka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 785-296-2009

Kansas City – Wyandotte County CVBKansas City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-264-1563

The Legends at Village WestKansas City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 913-788-3700

Merriam Visitors BureauMerriam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-707-6534

Visit Topeka Inc.Topeka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-235-1030

Mid-American All-Indian Center

MerriamMerriam, Kansas! Nestled in the heart of theMidwest, Merriam is only 10 minutes from down-town Kansas City! Combining hometown hospitalitywith big city amenities. Enjoy delicious and plentifulrestaurants, shopping venues, beautiful parks,nature trails, attractions and events in Merriam.

Tour Guitarlamp.com – the shop where theinfamous Guitar Lamp is crafted. Sample an oldfashioned soda at Georgetown Pharmacy Soda &Espresso Shop, and bring home some treats fromValomilk Candy Cup, a family business since 1903.Merriam is also home to K.C. Strings; the crafters ofthe finest string instruments played in symphoniesaround the world. Headed by master luthier AntonKrutz. Ask about Merriam’s group-friendly hotels,itineraries and incentives!

866-707-6534 /www.ExploreMerriam.com

The Legends –Kansas CityLegends Outlets is a 1.2 million square-footopen-air shopping and entertainment center andincludes over 100 stores and restaurants. LegendsOutlets is a legendary choice for your group’sshopping, dining, entertainment and lodging needs.Some of the nation’s hottest retailers call TheLegends home, including Gap Outlet, BananaRepublic Factory Store, Ann Taylor Factory Store,

Tommy Hilfiger, BCBG Max Azria and many more.They also bring several first-ever restaurants to theregion, including Dave & Buster’s and T-Rex -- a20,000-square-foot destination restaurant wheredinosaurs come to life amongst extravaganttheatrical settings.While here, enjoy the free walkingtour tributes to great Kansans. Legends uses itsvarious amenities to celebrate these famousKansans, there are more than 80 tributes in avariety of art forms, including statues, portraits andmedallions. Pedestrian plazas and courtyards addto the ambiance featuring lush landscape andoutdoor fireplaces.

[email protected] /www.LegendsShopping.com

TopekaExplore Topeka’s colorful past while experiencingthe amenities of the present day, including 20fascinating attractions, 16 art galleries, fiveperforming arts facilities, established annual events,delectable dining and unique shopping you’lldefinitely need to spend more than one day exploringthe capital city of Kansas.

Randall Travel Marketing, Inc identified thefollowing four attractions as “Must-Sees”.- Brown v. Board National Historic Site & Museum- Kansas History Museum- Old Prairie Town at Historic Ward-Meade Park

- Kansas State CapitolTopeka’s galleries and facilities showcase some

of the best local, regional and national talent.Topeka hosts several arts and cultural-themedevents throughout the year, such as theMulvane/Mountain Plains Art Fair, FiestaMexicana and the Inter-Tribal Pow Wow.

800-235-1030 / www.VisitTopeka.com



http://www.visittopeka.us/

albert lea, alexandria, austin,bemidji, bloomington, chanhassen,eagan, faribault, grand portage,harmony, minneapolis, morton,park rapids, plymouth, owatonna,roseville, saint paul, st. cloud,stillwater, willmar

Pipestone National Monument, Pipestone – Pipestoneis a prairie gem rich in culture and history. The PipestoneNational Monument is a “must see.” For thousands of yearsNative American Plains and Woodland Indian tribes-Ojibwa,Dakota, Oto, Pawnee, Sac Fox, Lakota traveled great distanceto the sacred pipestone quarries where stone used to fashionceremonial pipes is found. Native Americans still quarry thered pipestone and visitors are encouraged to watch livedemonstrations of pipes and crafts being carved.

Freeborn County Museum, Library & HistoricalVillage, Albert Lea – This historical museum is rich withunique, professionally designed exhibits defining the history ofFreeborn County. The village has 18 buildings: Church, School,General Store, Log Cabins, Blacksmith Shop, Barbershop,Bank, Shoe Shop, Train Depot and more. A unique new displayarea contains the Eddie Cochran/Marion Ross exhibits; bothwere natives of Albert Lea. The story of Southern Minnesotasettlement by Europeans is told in a variety of ways. See a fewof the unusual pieces -- such as the square grand piano,jicara, knitting machine, mastodon tooth, and a log scriber.

Mille Lacs Indian Museum & Trading Post, Onamia –Ojibwe culture is highlighted here with exhibits, activities& original artwork available for purchase. The museum’sspacious crafts room serves as a demonstration area fortraditional cooking, birch-bark basketry and beadwork. Thebuilding’s arching window wall reflects the shoreline of LakeMille Lacs. All fashioned in cedar, the exterior is highlightedwith a copper dome and an inset tile band designed byMille Lacs elder Batiste Sam. Adjacent to the museum, arestored trading post retains its 1930s appearance. Here

visitors find American Indian gifts from Mille Lacs artisans.

Fort Snelling, Saint Paul – Discover an 1820s military out-post once the focus of a small settlement but now at the cen-ter of the Twin Cities. Your group will enjoy a full living historyprogram with costumed guides presented daily during thesummer, and on weekends in May, September and October.The histories of the people of Minnesota intersect at the fort,and guests can explore these diverse stories within its walls.The Fort’s costumed guides demonstrate historic crafts; per-form period musket and cannon firings; portray Colonel andMrs. Snelling, as well as soldiers and civilians; cook periodfoods; and share the stories of Minnesota’s history with guestsof all ages.

Wabasha Street Caves – Down in History Tours,Saint Paul – As seen on the History Channel, Down In HistoryTours offers a unique alternative to the typical tour.Knowledgeable and talented guides who make historyfascinating narrate their theme tours. Historically dressedcharacter guides converse and interact with the groupmembers. Enjoy our unusual, fun-filled blast from the past tours!

North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum, Tofte –The North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum welcomes tourgroups, the culturally curious traveler and even the virtualvisitor from across the globe. It was the second fish house builtin this location; the first log fishhouse was completelydestroyed by a fierce storm in 1905.If your group is on LakeSuperior's North Shore, you don’t want to miss out on theexperience of the unique maritime heritage engrained in thelandscape and people who call this country home.

Jeffers Petroglyphs, ComfreyMinnesota’s recorded history begins at Jeffers, where American Indians for thousands of years have traced life stories in rockcarvings (petroglyphs). The Jeffers Petroglyphs site is marked by over 2,000 carved images of human figures, tools, andanimals such as bison, salamanders, turtles, elk, and thunderbirds. Uncover the mysteries of these ancient glyphs. Why werethey put there? What did they represent to those who left them? It is said that the majority of the carvings document historicalevents. Others were put there for spiritual reasons, as parables and prayers. The earliest glyphs at the site were carved some9,000 years ago, while the most recent are as young as 150 years old, making Jeffers one of the oldest continuously usedsacred sites on earth. A site guide provides tours, and the visitor center offers hands-on exhibits and a multimedia presentation.A sheltered picnic area is available for your group. (See location on map, page 35)

august• Rhubarb Frenzy at Winehaven WineryAugust 4-7, Chisago City 651-257-1017

• Minnesota Fringe FestivalAugust 4-14, Minneapolis 612-872-1212

• RibfestAugust 4-7, Mankato 507-389-3000

• Buffalo Bill DaysAugust 5-7, Lanesboro 507-467-3722

• Bayfront Blue FestivalAugust 12-14, Duluth 800-4du-luth

• Twin Cities Polish FestivalAugust 13-14, Minneapolis 612-963-7755

• Steele County Free FairAugust 16-21, Owatonna 507-451-5305

september• St. Croix Vineyard’s Grape StompSeptember 10-11, Stillwater 651-351-1717

• Quadriga Starlight ToursSeptember 15-16, Saint Paul 651-296-2881

• 39th Annual Traditional Pow-WowHonoring the 38 DakotahSeptember 16-18, Mankato 507-387-3572

• CulturfestSeptember 24, Owatonna 800-423-6466

• OktoberfestSeptember 30-October 1, October 7-8,New Ulm 877-359-2941

october• Fall Festival of the ArtsOctober 8-9, Red Wing 800-498-3444

• Harvest Moon FestivalOctober 20-21, Farmington 651-460-8050

• Big Island Rendezvous and FestivalOctober 1-2, Albert Lea 800-658-2526

november• Home for the HolidaysNovember 10-12, Austin 800-444-5713

• Triple EspressoNovember 16-Jan 8,Saint Paul 612-874-1100

• Northern Vineyard’s WineryCheese & Chocolate WkndNovember 19-20, Stillwater 651-430-1032

• Bentleyville Tour of LightsNovember 19-December 26,Duluth 800-4du-luth

• Capital Civil War TourNovember 26, Saint Paul 651-296-2881


more native america & cultural history tours in minnesota…

minnesota cities

calendar of events

Explore Minnesota

For a complete list of MN cities & eventsplease visit www.itinerariesmidwest.com.


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In November of 1922, after years of searching for it, British archaeologistHoward Carter stepped into the 3,000-year-old tomb of KingTutankhamun in Egypt’s Valley of the Kings. The young Egyptian boy hiredto bring water to the workers of the dig came across a stone step whiledigging a hole for a water jar. Excavation of the step gave way to a setof stairs leading into a tomb that was filled with “wonderful things”according to Carter and his team. His six years of work were over.

For the first time in Minnesota, ancient Egyptian artifacts from King Tut’stomb—as well as other Egyptian rulers—are on display for the public’senjoyment at The Science Museum of Minnesota. Over 100 authenticantiquities offer insight into the 18th dynasty and its most famous ruler:King Tut. Your group will be fascinated by the most recent scientificdiscoveries of Tut’s mummy through CT scans and computer models, as wellas the efforts being made by today’s top scientists to investigate the cause ofhis mysterious death. Discover what it was like to live like a pharaoh andexplore the daily lives of those living under their rule. What did they wear?What religion did they practice? Answers to these questions and many more canbe found at Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs on displaythrough September 5th, 2011. Call today to reserve group tickets (15 or more)or visit www.smm.org/tut/groups.

TUTANKHAMUN:The Golden Kingand the Great Pharaohs

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As you explore our country’s culture andhistory -Wabasha Street Caves (home

of the original Saint Paul Gangster Tour)offer a tour that will show your group the otherside of our ancestor’s past escapades.

Your Guide…a nefarious gangster hood or hismoll. The famous crook’s tour! Explore the sitesof nightclubs, kidnappings, and gun battlesassociated with the 1930’s gangsters like JohnDillinger, Ma Barker and Babyface Nelson.See the sights where the gangsters lived it up as

they planned and executed some of the mostnotorious crimes ever perpetrated in the upperMidwest. Your guide takes you past the mostinfamous gangster hideouts and the famousnightclubs where many gangsters spent timesocializing with the public.

As seen on the History Channel, Down In HistoryTours are narrated by knowledgeable andtalented guides who make history fascinatingand thrilling while interacting with your group.Choose from a variety of tours, including Ghost& Graves Tour, Cave Tours, Mill City Mobs-Tour,Winter Lights Tour and many more! Some tours

are designed for groups of 25 or more.

You can hear the complete history during theHistoric Cave Tour of the Wabasha Street Cavesdone for the public Thursdays at 5pm andSaturday & Sundays at 11am year ‘round. Groupscan be arranged most days so please call theoffice, 651-292-1220. See you underground.

WABASHAStreet Caves

F rom 6 a.m. to midnight, there’s alwayssomething different to see all 12 days of

the Great Minnesota Get-Together!

Morning is the best time to…• schedule a breakfast and welcome session foryour group at the Blue Ribbon Picnic Area.

• learn about renewable energy and sustain-ability at the award-winning Eco Experience.

• experience the Miracle of Birth Centerwhere lambs, calves and piglets are born.

Mid-day is the best time to…• catch one of more than 75 acts on sevenfree entertainment stages.

• check out nearly 70 rides from aroundthe globe at Mighty Midway and Kidway.

• browse through the shops at HeritageSquare or the International Bazaar.

Afternoon is the best time to…• meet Princess Kay and see the famousbutterhead sculptures.

• choose a snack from the menu of 350 foods,including more than 50 foods on-a-stick.

• stroll through Minnesota’s largest juriedart show in the Fine Arts Center.

Evening is the best time to…• go to extremes on Adventure Park’s rides.• see big-name entertainers at the newly-restored 1909 Grandstand.

• watch the nightly fireworks spectacular.

For more information call 651-632-2689or email [email protected].

MINNESOTAState Fair

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It is hard to escape the smell of tasty delicacies with more than 100 food booths throughoutthe village. Taking your group trip to The Minnesota Renaissance Festival would not becomplete without the famous Turkey Leg. Rotisserie smoked Turkey Legs have become astaple to most patrons who visit the Festival. However, a Turkey Leg is not on the menu foreveryone. The Festival also offers a variety of customary renaissance foods, for instance,scotch eggs, spinach pie, and bangers & mash.

In addition to traditional Renaissance festivities, the Minnesota Renaissance Festivalelaborated on the events that occur at most renaissance festivals to include theme weekendsthat focus on different aspects of the Renaissance era. These weekends have changed over theyears to bring new and fresh events to the Festival. The weekends for the 2011 MinnesotaRenaissance Festival are: Italian Carnivale, Royal Ale Festival, A Silk Road: Discover the

Riches, Highland Fling, Wine, Chocolate & Romance,High Seas Adventure and Shamrocks & Shenanigans.

Each weekend takes on a feel of its own with specialevents, dance, song, and competition directly related tothat weekend. For example, our Royal Ale Festivalincludes free beer tasting, home beer demonstrations,pub sing-alongs and the yearly Wench Press Competition.

The 41st annual Minnesota Renaissance Festival runsweekends and Labor Day. Groups are welcomed and the bus parking is the best! For moreinformation, visit www.renaissancefest.com or call 952-445-7361.

THE TRADITION CONTINUES…The 41st Annual

Minnesota Renaissance Festival

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When your group tour comes to downtownMinneapolis, MN you will not want to miss

the opportunity to stop atNorthland Visions. It isa destination to share with your group andfriends specializing in Native American art fromthe Woodlands and Plains tribes surroundingMinnesota. Experience native foods like WildRice, wild berry jellies and syrups. Your groupwill love the sculptures, paintings, beadwork,jewelry, original native and traditional art. Gifts

of the Northlands offers unique, allMinnesota gifts. This store is nativeowned with a knowledgeable staff forquestions and answers on history of the art andculture. Restaurant and bakery next door foryour enjoyment.

Northland Visions is open Mondays throughSaturdays, 9am-5pm. For more information call612-872-0390.

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8 – 9:00 amPut on your walking shoes and hop on the coachfor this ‘east of the wild west’ version of a “wild’adventure. You’ll start out by touring theLebanon Hills Visitor Center. The Visitor Centershowcases several green building features suchas a vegetative roof, rain garden and day lighting.9 – 11:00 amArrive at Bachman Floral & Garden Center. Thetour includes a behind-the-scenes look at theirphone center, which processes approximately800 orders/day. It also includes the fresh floraldesign area, the greenhouse and the gift/homedecor areas. Tour participants receive a freerose and a discount coupon for purchasesmade that day only.11 – 12:30 pmNothing says Minnesota like the MississippiRiver – so the next stop is theMississippi RiverVisitor Center and Mississippi River Gallery.Located inside the Science Museum ofMinnesota, this center is staffed by rangersfrom the National Park Service who will shareinformation about the 72-mile MississippiNational River and Recreation Area.12:30 – 3:00 pmAs a part of this “wild” adventure you’ll visit

the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory and ComoZoo. This experience allows guests to visit anauthentic neo-tropical rainforest. New in 2010is Polar Bear Odyssey - a new polar bearhabitat that places bears in a natural immersiveenvironment. The conservatory is home to thebeautiful sunken gardens and seasonal flowerdisplays, making this a must-see anytime ofthe year.3 – 3:30 pmNext, take a step back in time and rideCafesjian’s Carousel located in a $1.1 milliondollar copper-roofed pavilion just steps from theentrance to Como Zoo.3:30 – 5:00 pmIt’s time to get on the mighty Mississippi River,so come aboard a Padelford Riverboat! Seewhat captivated the likes of Mark Twain so manyyears ago. Spot bald eagles, egrets and falconsas you travel back in time from Saint Paul’sbustling downtown harbor through theMississippi National Great River Park.

“A raindrop falling at Lake Itasca (at theMississippi headwaters) would arrive at the Gulfof Mexico in about 90 days.”-National Park Service

For more information or to customize thissample itinerary for your group, pleasecontact Eagan’s tour operator: Denise Olsenat 651-675-5542 or [email protected]’t forget - $250 Cash Rebate with 20 ormore rooms booked in Eagan!

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We get it- the typical guy cringes at the thought ofspending a day at the nation’s largest shopping Mall,tagging along as his significant other shops til’ shedrops. The fact is that Mall of America is muchmore than just a mall for women. We have created anitinerary to prove just that. We hope you enjoy thisnew take on a guy’s perfect day at MOA!

11 – 12:00 pmA.C.E.S. Flight Simulation Take full control ofsophisticated flight simulators that are duplicates ofthose used to train military pilots. Fly both modernF/A-18 Hornet jets and classic WWII Fighters such asthe P-51 Mustang and F4U Corsair.12 – 2:00 pmLunch at Skydeck Sports Bar. Watch the game on the

big screen, grab a beer, and challenge your friends orfamily to a game of bowling or pool. Here you will findplenty of arcade games and entertainment options tokeep you busy all afternoon!2 – 3:00 pmPlay a round at Moose Mountain Adventure Golf,an 18-hole miniature golf course that features anoriginal, whimsical design with an old-time northwoods feel.3 – 5:00 pmCatch a matinee movie at Theatres at Mall ofAmerica® which offers comfortable high-back rollerseats, digital and 3D screens, real buttered popcorn,D-BOX Motion® seats, the STARBAR Lounge and aone-of-a-kind experience in the exclusive VIP Theatre(for those 21 and older).

5 – 10:00 pmGrab a bite at the R. Burger Bar, a casual, built-to-suitburger bar offering something for all burger tastes.After your meal, step into Rick Bronson’s House ofComedy for laughs, fun and entertainment while yousit back and enjoy a comedy show from some of thebig names in the industry.

For those men who do enjoy shopping, here are just afew of the many world-class stores Mall of Americahas to offer: Microsoft, Armani A/X (just opened),The Art of Shaving, and HUGO BOSS.

For more information or to customize this sampleitinerary for your group please contact your touroperator or the Mall of America, Romy Ecker at952-883-8499, [email protected].

Explore Minnesota




Guy’s Day at Mall of America®This sample itinerary can be customized anytime of the year!

The year 1968 was a pivotal point in UnitedStates history. A nation at war was the

catalyst for social turning points as we sawassertions of Black Power, feminist uprisings attheMiss America Pageant, and the assassinationsof both Martin Luther King Jr. and RobertKennedy. Johnny Cash performed at FolsomPrison, Hair made its Broadway debut, andOliver! won the Oscar for Best Picture.Richard Nixon succeeded Lyndon Johnson’spresidency claiming, “The long, dark night forAmerica is about to end.” View this compellingmulti-media exhibit October 14th, 2011through February 20th, 2012.

Currently on display at the museum isUnderwear: A Brief History. As the nameimplies, this exhibit includes undergarmentsfrom the Victorian era to the 1970s. Viewbusiness records, production methods, productsamples, photos and advertisements fromleading underwear companies such asMunsingwear Inc. The exhibit is not limitedto just women’s undergarments either—acollection of men’s briefs (including informationon the “kangaroo pouch”) is on display as well.This fascinating—and sometimes giggle-inducing—exhibit will be at the MinnesotaHistory Center through September 11th, 2011.Reserve your group tickets (15 people ormore) at www.minnesotahistorycenter.org.

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Comfort Suitesof Canal Park on Lake Superior

• Group discounts available in spring,winter and late fall

• Complimentary hot breakfast• Comp rooms for escorts with15 rooms or more

• Discounted drivers room• All suites come with microwave & fridge• Pool & whirlpool• Exercise room• 100% smoke-free property

Hampton Innof Canal Park on Lake Superior

• Lakeside rooms and suites available• Complimentary hot breakfast• In-room microwave & fridge• Free high-speed internet• Free bus parking• Escort comps & driver discountsavailable spring and fall

• Newly remodeled in Spring 2011

Canal Park Lodge,Canal Park’s newest lakeside hotel

• Complimentary hot breakfastfeaturing Caribou Coffee

• Pool & whirlpool• 24-hour exercise room• Free bus parking (plug-ins available)• Meeting room• 100% smoke-free property• Easy access to the Lake Walk

Comfort Inn West,2011 Platinum Hospitality Award Winner

• Complimentary hot breakfast• Pool, whirlpool & sauna• Free WiFi• Group welcome receptions• Express check-ins• Luggage handling• Bus parking• Meeting room

Check out www.StayinDuluth.com or call1-888-766-7636 for flexible lodging optionsfor large groups or for more information.

Stay in DULUTH!

Planning a group tour of the North Shore?The following hotels invite you to stay with them.

All are centrally located among shopping, dining, andNorth Shore attractions. Best of all, they offer group rates!

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http://www.stayinduluth.com/

Greater Mankato CVB / Anna Thill800-657-4733

www.greatermankato.com

Microtel Inn & SuitesThe Microtel Inn & Suites located in Mankato,Minnesota is a clean, comfortable hotel where youget more for your money. We look forward towelcoming you and your group today.

The Springfield Microtel Inn & Suites on EastHighway 14 welcomes you! Plan a visit to theSod House on the Prairie; and Visit the LauraIngalls Wilder Historic Museum! Check out thePetroglyphs, over 2,000 ancient American Indiancarvings. Enjoy fine dining in Springfield, MN.

Pub 500A place for gathering! Located in the heart ofMankato’s Entertainment District, Pub 500 is theperfect spot to gather with a small group aroundthe fireplace, a busload in our semi-private diningarea or large group around our bar. Enjoy genuinehearty fare and liberating libations. With a wideselection of beer, wine, drinks, entrees, appetizersand sandwiches you’ll find something to pleaseeveryone in the bunch!

New Ulm CVB / Terry Sveine888-463-9586

www.newulm.com

New UlmSomething is always brewing in New Ulm. Thiscity of charm and tradition is located in theMinnesota River Valley and is recognized for itsstrong German heritage, evident in its manyfestivals, monuments, architecture and traditions.Tour the 2nd oldest family-owned brewery in thecountry; August Schell’s Brewery. Go cuckoo-overcuckoo clocks or nutcrackers, glassware, musicboxes and steins. Dine like the Deutsche, asmany of New Ulm’s restaurants and festivalsserve up traditional German cooking. It’s authenticDeutschland cuisine, minus the airfare.

Turner HallHead to the historic Rathskellar at Turner Hallwhere generations have enjoyed a good time andgreat food. Stop in for lunch and a cold beverage,and to admire the recently uncovered and restoredmurals of Germany, Switzerland and Italy.Theyoffer legendary food, fabulous atmosphere, dailydrink specials and outdoor seating overlookingbeautiful Turner Park.

Veigel’s KaiserhoffVeigel’s Kaiserhoff has been a favorite destinationwith old world charm since 1938. We havebanquet rooms available for all of your needs. TheKaiserhoff menu offers a wide variety of choices.The Kaiserhoff Ribs have always been a favorite.We also offer German specialties, seafood, steaks,sandwiches, salads, a children’s menu, and a fullbar. Open daily with a full menu available.

Redwood Falls AreaChamber & Tourism / Alyssa Adam

800-657-7070www.redwoodfalls.org

Jeffers Petroglyphs – ComfreyThe Minnesota Historical Society invites you touncover this hidden story, told on islands ofuncovered rock, amid the prairie grasses, whereAmerican Indians left carvings —petroglyphs—humans, deer, elk, buffalo, turtles, thunderbirds,atlatls and arrows. They tell a story thatspans 5,000 years. The glyphs served manyfunctions, including recording important events,depicting sacred ceremonies, and emphasizingthe importance of animals and hunting. The basictour option is about 2 hours in length. Extra timeis needed for the gift shop or to eat lunch.

Wilder PageantThe Wilder Pageant is a family-oriented outdoordrama based on the life of Laura Ingalls Wilderin Walnut Grove. It is a live performance eachnight with all characters from the Walnut Grovearea. Laura narrates the story, reflecting on herlife in Walnut Grove in the 1870s. The hillsideamphitheater has been developed for extensivelighting, sound, and special effects.

Come to our Valley.Enjoy its warm embrace.The river flowing gentlyThrough this quiet, peaceful place.

OurMinnesotaRiver Valley.Excerpt from poem “Come to our Valley”

by Verne Enestvedt


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V lley.

“Home of those Famous Barbecued Ribs”German & American Food

Family Friendly Atmosphere

221 North Minnesota Street - New Ulm, MN

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Veigel'sKaiserhoff

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Fairmont is located amid a series of five lakes.Whetheryour group is looking to satisfy their arts/entertainmentand cultural needs or wanting to explore the outdoors,the “City of Lakes” offers something for everyone.

9 – 12:00 pmWelcome to Fairmont! Join the fun with an official“City of Lakes” tour beginning at Martin CountyHistorical Society’s Pioneer Museum. Featuring avast collection of Native American relics in addition tomany artifacts from Martin County’s history. See aWooton Desk, a 1923 American La France fire truck, apioneer home display from the turn of the 20th centu-ry and many other artifacts.

Continue on to the Martin County Courthousewhich was initially a stockade providing safety to thelocal citizens against Indian uprisings. It was calledFort Fairmont. Especially noteworthy are the upper

level murals and artistic construction. It is consideredone of the Top 10 most beautiful courthouses inMinnesota.12 – 1:30 pmEnjoy a catered lunch at Red Rock Center for theArts. Tour the restored 1898 red stone building thatwas once a church and now houses a location formany local artists to display their work. It was con-structed of Sioux red quartzite and has 19 beautifulstained glass windows. Listed on the National Registerof Historic Places.1:30 – 4:00 pmSpend the afternoon enjoying Heritage Acres, alongLake Avenue. This is an Agricultural Interpretive Center.Your group can stroll through yesterday on “Old MainStreet” – where community events and festivals arecelebrated throughout the year. Tours are conductedthrough yesteryear’s Pioneer Village4 – 6:30 pmCheck into one of Fairmont’s comfortable lodging facil-ities and freshen up for dinner.6:30 pmAn evening performance at the Fairmont OperaHouse will entertain your group this evening. Thisunique building that has enriched the architectural cul-tural and commercial life of the region for over 100years. The Fairmont Opera House is proud to presentseason after successful season of live performances.

For more information or to customize this sampleitinerary for your group please contact your touroperator or Fairmont CVB 800-657-3280.

Fairmont Welcomes You!This sample itinerary can be customized for anytime of the year.

Red Rock Centerfor the Arts

Martin County Courthouse


visitfairmontmn.com

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Historic Red Wing in the fall never disappointsgroups.

day one9:00 amArrive at Red Wing’s historic depot, now thevisitor’s center. The local guide from Roaming RedWing will join you here.9:15 – 10:45 amThis remarkable tour takes you past an arrayof buildings that are on the National Registerof Historic Places and will include a stop on topof Sorin’s Bluff. This spectacular scenic overlookof the city and Mississippi River Valleyablaze with autumn’s colors will leave you withlasting memories.10:45 – 11:45 amWatch pottery being made at the Red WingStoneware Company. Admire local potterscreating beautiful stoneware in the tradition ofRed Wing’s famous Union Stoneware Company.11:45 – 1:30 pmLunch at the Veranda Restaurant located on the

first floor of the St. James Hotel. The delectablemenu includes Sturdiwheat pancakes, a localfavorite. Sturdiwheat is a locally owned andoperated line of pancake, bread and cereal mixes.1:30 – 3:30 pmIn the old Pottery District sits the historic PotteryPlace Mall. Once home to the Union StonewareCompany, today you can shop antique stores andspecialty shops. Next door is the Red WingPottery Salesroom, a must for any visit to RedWing. It is said the Salesroom has the largestselection of dinnerware, pottery and gifts in theupper Midwest!3:30 – 5:00 pmBack to the St. James Hotel where you will checkyour group in. Relax or visit the St. JamesShopping Court, all conveniently located on thefirst level of the hotel.5 – 8:00 pmFalconer Vineyards opened their Vineyard Bistroin 2011, located on a covered deck whichoverlooks 6.5 acre vineyard. Your group will sipon Falconer Vineyards wine and enjoy the

serenity surroundings. Wood fire pizzas arecurrenty available in 8" personal size made on awheat crust of their own recipe.

day two8:15 – 9:00 amFor breakfast, enjoy Morning coffee, tea or hotchocolate in the Historic Lobby.9 – 1:00 pmPlenty of shopping without ever leaving theSt James! A variety of shopping options await justa few steps from your room. The St. JamesCourtyard showcases one-of-a-kind clothingstores, fine gifts, even salon and spa services.You group could leave the hotel, but why wouldyou want to?

Before heading home, take time to explore down-town Red Wing’s unique shopping opportunities.

For more information or to customize thisitinerary please call your tour operator or contactthe St. James Hotel, 800-252-1875.

Fall Colors and Local FlairThis itinerary works best in the Fall.


www.st-james-hotel.com

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The Hormel Institute – Austin, MN – A Unique Tour. The Hormel Institute’s vision isspecific: Improve the health of the world.

The Hormel Institute was establishedin 1942 by Jay C. Hormel and is aresearch unit of the University ofMinnesota and collaborative researchpartner with Mayo Clinic. TheHormel Institute conducts researchand provides education in thebiological sciences with applicationsin medicine and agriculture. Itscurrent focus is on cancer prevention and control. Previous milestone discoveries include thenaming/research of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, as well as the anti-cancer benefits ofcompounds found in ginger and green tea in addition to other globally recognized cancerpreventive research findings.

Tours of The Hormel Institute are pre-arranged through the Austin CVB, 800-444-5713.

The Hormel INSTITUTE

AUGUST 9–14:127th Annual Mower County Fair.Affordable fun for everyone! Fair week isfilled with youth & open livestock shows, freestage entertainment, grandstand shows, arts,crafts, & horticulture, carnival rides, and ofcourse your favorite fair foods! Come seeAmerica’s original Children's Farmyard. Visitthe website www.mowercountyfair.com orcall 507-433-1868 for details.

NOVEMBER 10-12:The Hormel Historic Home’s 24thAnnualChristmas Open House at 208 4th Avenue,NW. Visit www.hormelhistorichome.orgfor details or call 507-433-4243. OpenHouse hours are 11 am-3pm daily. Duringthe Open House, you can view each room ofthe Home as decorated by area merchantsjust in time for the Christmas holidays.Luscious cranberry cake will be served.Groups are welcome!

DECEMBER 3:Austin’s 2ndAnnualMerryTubaChristmas!This free community Christmas concert willbe held at the Oak Park Mall at 1 pm inCenter Court. Players of the tuba, sousa-phone, baritone and euphonium are encour-aged to join the fun! TubaChristmas, heldaround the world for 37 years, was foundedby the Harvey G. Phillips Foundation. Callthe Austin CVB at 507-437-4563 for detailsor www.tubachristmas.com.

Bring your coaches to Albert Lea for theBig Island Rendezvous - October 1st and

2nd, 2011 to see history come alive.

What is a ‘rendezvous’ you ask? It is a cele-bration of history during the fur trade period(1650 - 1840) and early Frontier America(1750-1870) including the Civil War Era andPioneer Settlement (1840-1865).

Your groups can experience the fur tradeperiod in the Voyageur encampment, Native

American Tipi tours, the Scottish ClannTartan, New Ulm Battery, and many EarlyAmerican crafts such as woodworking,blacksmiths, and candle making just to namea few. All types of colonial period trades andproducts are sold and various skills of theartists are demonstrated each day.

The festival hosts different performanceareas with music and dance continuouslythroughout both days. The musicians move

Big Island RENDEZVOUS


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www.albertleatourism.org



around to give a moreintimate performance

to smaller audiences under the trees or in the Bear ClawTavern. Celtic, Bluegrass, Gaelic, old-time country, gospel andCajun music are some of the type of performances presented.

Over 300 tents and campfires create 12 acres of “atmosphere”in which to shop and listen to the entertainment. Variouscommunity groups and individuals offer a huge selection ofspecialty foods. You will find food here that you would notfind at home, such as the most popular kettle korn and buffalo,fry bread, homemade root beer, pork chop on a stick, Indiantacos, and funnel cakes for a sweet treat, and so much more!

All new attractions for 2011 will include a Woodland Indianencampment, exhibits and buffalo hide tipi from the movie

Dances with Wolves with Larry Belitz, eastern frontier artworkby Robert Griffing will be on display, period fishing exhibitand demonstration by Historic Angling Enterprises; andJim Hanson, owner/curator of Museum of the Fur Trade inChadron, Nebraska.

Motorcoach operators get discounts on admissions plus freeadmission to drivers and escorts. Guides are available withadvance notice. There is a special drop off and pick up zonein the heart of the Rendezvous. Albert Lea has many moreattractions that can be arranged to go along nicely with yourgroup’s trip to the Rendezvous!

Voted one of the Top 100 Events in North America by theAmerican Bus Association for 2011. For more informationcall 1-800-658-2526.

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day one – friday, oct 1410 – NOONShop ‘til you drop at the Preferred Outlets atMedford! Over 32 stores with discounted outletpricing! Tour operators and tour attendees canstop in the Mall Office for coupon books andadditional goodies!Noon – 1:00 pmGrab lunch at the Northwoods Cache in Cabela’sWorld’s Foremost Outfitters store! Take a little timeto shop for all your hunting, fishing, outdoor gear orhome décor! Take a guided tour through the store tosee the animal dioramas, fresh water aquarium, andfudge shoppe!1 – 3:00 pmTour the State School Orphanage Museum andlearn the story of Minnesota’s orphans. Between1886-1945, 10,635 orphans passed through theonly State School Orphanage in the country. Take aguided tour, watch videos and hear stories as told bythose who lived at the orphanage.3 – 4:00 pmTake some time to wander the grounds of the StateSchool Orphange Museum to see the newly restoredboys Cottage 11, Audio Stations, Root Cellar, and

Children’s Cemetery. You can see and feel thehistory and story of the Orphange throughout thegrounds of this wonderful campus!4 – 5:00 pmFreshen up at your hotel and get ready to hit a nighton the town in Owatonna!5 – 7:00 pmEnjoy a tasty supper at Owatonna’s FamilyRestaurant or a specialty martini with appetizersand a meal at Torey’s restaurant. Or choose fromany number of Owatonna dining options for yourfavorite meal!

7 – 9:00 pmEnjoy a Concert at the beautiful Owatonna ArtsCenter with the fun and friendly band Hot & Bothered!

day two – saturday, oct 159 – 11:00 amMake your way to Owatonna in time to shop theFarmers’ Market in Central Park. Vendors line the‘town square’ displaying beautiful hand-made items,homemade foods & fresh produce.11 – NOONCross the street and discover historic downtown inthe National Farmer’s Bank, designed by world-renowned architect Louis Sullivan. The bank buildingis famous for its Prairie School architecture. Takea closer look at the historic downtown, homes,churches and schools with a self-guided walkingtour. Pick-up your guide book at the Bank.Noon – 1:00 pmRelax and enjoy the historic buildings, coffeeshops, boutiques and restaurants downtown.For treats of the chocolate sort stop by Costa’s Café& Chocolate Shop featuring delicious hand-made/hand-dipped candies. Discover a variety ofperfect lunch spots to choose from downtown.1 – 3:00 pmStop by and get your pumpkins and gourds at theOak View Nursery Pumpkin Patch in Owatonna!With over 25 activities and attractions you are sure tohave a great old-fashioned fall afternoon at thePumpkin Patch!3 – 4:00 pmStop by the former home of Daniel C. Gainey –founder of the Jostens Ring Company in Owatonna.This French-Normandy home and former Arabianhorse farm has beautiful grounds and offerspre-arranged tours. Or see the Winton Guesthouselocated on the University of St. Thomas GaineyConference Center grounds. The Winton Guesthousewas designed by Minnesota architect Frank Gehry,as a playhouse for his grandchildren and wasrecently moved to this property in 2010!4 – 10:00 pmCome on down for a Hoedown at the NEW SteeleCounty History Center! Admission is only $15 andincludes your country style chicken dinner and musicalentertainment by the Dick Kimmel Band for theevening along with other great barn-dance/hoedownactivities! Check-out the Steele County HistoricalSociety website for more information on this fun-filledevent, www.steelecohistoricalsociety.org

For more itineraries and activities in Owatonna,contact the Tourism Department 800-423-6466 orgo to www.visitowatonna.org

Old-Fashioned FallVisit Owatonna for some old-fashioned fun on this 2-day itinerary - October 14 & 15, 2011.


http://www.owatonna.org/visit/welcome.php



accommodations

Americas Best Value Inn & SuitesShakopee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 877-291-0622

Cambria SuitesBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .952-854-0300

Comfort Inn AirportBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .952-854-3400

Country Inn & Suites at Mall of AmericaBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-854-5555

Country Inn & Suites WestBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-831-9595

Courtyard by Marriott MPLS/BloomingtonBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-876-0100

Crowne Plaza BloomingtonBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-831-8000

Days Inn Bloomington WestBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-835-7400

Embassy Suites BloomingtonBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-884-4811

Embassy Suites Minneapolis AirportBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-854-1000

Extended Stay AmericaBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-884-1400

Fairfield Inn by MarriottBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-858-8475

Hampton Inn & SuitesAlexandria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320-763-3360

Hampton Inn & SuitesBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-854-7600

Hampton Inn By HiltonBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-835-6643

Hilton Garden Inn MPLS/BloomingtonBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-831-1012

Hilton Minneapolis/BloomingtonBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-893-9500

Hilton Minneapolis/Saint Paul AirportBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-854-2100

Holiday Inn Bloomington Airport I-35WBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-884-8211

Holiday Inn Express MPLS Airport/Mall AreaBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-854-1687

Holiday Inn & Suites MPLS AirportBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-854-9000

Holiday Inn MPLS NW Elk River. . 763-656-44009200 Quaday Avenue NE – Otsego, MN [email protected] / www.hielkriver.comMinnesota’s favorite water park resort! Stay, Play, Shop andExperience local history all within a 5-mile radius! On thebanks of the Mississippi River you’ll find local hospitalityat its best beckoning you and your group. Four storywaterslides, lazy river, and separate zero depth entry pool; funfor absolutely all ages!

Homewood Suites By HiltonBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-854-0900

Hotel 340 Saint Paul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .651-280-4120

Hyatt Place Minneapolis Airport-SouthBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-854-0700

La Quinta Inn Bloomington-MPLSBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-881-7311

La Quinta Inn & SuitesBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-830-1300

Le Bourget Aero Suites HotelBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-893-9999

Microtel Inn & SuitesBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-854-6600

Minneapolis Airport MarriottBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-854-7441

Mystic Lake Prior Lake . . . . 800-262-7799 ext 665

Park Plaza Bloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-831-3131

Quality Inn & SuitesBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-854-5558

Radisson Hotel Bloomington By MOABloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-854-8700

Ramada Mall of AmericaBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-328-1931

Residence Inn MPLS/BloomingtonBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-876-0900

The Saint Paul Hotel . . . . . . . . . . .651-292-9292350 Market Street – Saint Paul, MN [email protected] / www.saintpaulhotel.com254 professionally decorated guestrooms and suites. Each withminibar, safe, and high-speed internet access. Concierge, news-paper, laundry, valet, business center, and rooftop fitness center.

Sheraton Bloomington Hotel-MPLS SouthBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-835-7800

Sofitel MinneapolisBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-835-1900

Staybridge SuitesBloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-831-7900

Super 8 Motel Bloomington . . . . . . . . . 952-888-8800

Travelodge Bloomington . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-854-3322

AlexandriaHampton Inn & Suites . . . . . . . . . . 800-Hampton2705 S Broadway – Alexandria, MN 56308 320-763-3360AXNMN_Hampton_Suites@hilton.comwww.alexandriasuitesmn.hamptoninn.comOpened 2008. Free Hot Breakfast, Indoor Pool and Whirlpool,Fitness Center, Business Center, Suite Shop, Free Wired/wirelessinternet, Microwave & Refrigerator in all rooms, meeting roomon site 10-50 people.

AmericInnSilver Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 877-254-1827

AmericInn Lodge & Suites& Event Center of Moorhead . . . 218-287-7100600 30th Ave S – Moorhead, MN 56560 877-287-7100Our two-story waterfall cascades into a tropical courtyardfeaturing an indoor 9-hole championship, miniature golf course,swimming pool, children’s pool, & whirlpool. We have a lounge,fitness center and free deluxe hot continental breakfast.

AmericInn of Sartell . . . . . . . . . . . .320-259-0877119 LeSauk Drive – Sartell, MN [email protected]/hotels/mn/sartellStay at the hottest spot in the St. Cloud area, the AmericInn ofSartell, we’re on the border to everywhere. Experience a quietnight’s sleep with our soundguard guestrooms and wake up toour free enhanced continental breakfast.

Canal Park LodgeDuluth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-777-8560

Comfort Inn – West . . . . . . . . . . . .218-628-14643900 West Superior Street – Duluth, MN [email protected] Platinum Hospitality Award winner. Complimentary HotBreakfast. Indoor Pool, Whirlpool & Sauna. Weeknight guesthospitality hour with apps and a cash bar. Great location nearall area attractions at an affordable price.

Comfort Suites Canal Park . . . . .218-727-1378408 Canal Park Drive – Duluth, MN [email protected]/hotel/mn031The Comfort Suites Canal Park is located on beautifulLake Superior in Historic Canal Park. Enjoy dining, museums,shopping, and the boardwalk within walking distance. We willmake your group tour successful and memorable.

Hampton Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-426-7866310 Canal Park Drive – Duluth, MN [email protected]/hi/duluthRelax in our sunroom and watch your ship come in! In CanalPark on Lake Superior and next to the lake walk, we arecentrally located for shopping, dining and attractions. Newlyremodeled in summer 2011.

North Shore Resorts by OdysseyDuluth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .218-728-8060 Ext 114

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accommodations cont’d

Microtel Inn & Suites Mankato . . . . .507-388-2818

Microtel Inn & Suites Springfield . . .507-723-8200

St. James Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-252-1875406 Main Street – Red Wing, MN 55066www.st-james-hotel.comCentrally located between the Twin Cities and Rochester andmere footsteps away from all scenic Red Wing has to offer, theSt. James Hotel is the ideal headquarters for your tour group’ssoutheast Minnesota action.

attractions

American Swedish InstituteMinneapolis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 612-870-3344

Minnesota Historical Society . . . 651-259-3444345 W Kellogg Blvd – Saint Paul, MN 55102www.mnhs.orgChief caretaker of Minnesota’s story and the History Center ishome to the Society’s vast collections. Within our archivesreside artifacts ranging from American Indian moccasins andartwork to furniture and photographs. Civil War-era flags and awealth of genealogical information.

Mystic Lake Casino - HotelPrior Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-496-7345

Northern Vineyards Winery . . . . . 651-430-1032223 Main Street N – Stillwater, MN 55082www.northernvineayrds.comNorthern Vineyards makes award-winning wines using grapesgrown in Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Relax on the deckoverlooking the St. Croix River and the historic lift-bridge.Group tours are available by appt. Open daily for wine tastingand sales.

Northland Visions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 612-872-03901113 E Franklin Avenue – Minneapolis, MN 55404Specializing in Native American art from the Woodlands andPlains tribes. Sculptures, paintings, beadwork, jewelry, nativefoods, original native and traditional art, gifts of the northlands,offering unique, all Minnesota gifts.

Padelford Packet Boat CompanySaint Paul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-227-1100

Saint Croix Vineyards . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-430-33106428 Manning Avenue – Stillwater, MN 55082www.scvwines.comSaint Croix Vineyards has built a reputation for producing fineMinnesota wines. Visit their rustic tasting room, stroll in thevineyards, tour the winery and enjoy one of their many events.Open mid April thru Dec. Groups welcome.

Science Museum of Minnesota . 651-221-9444120 West Kellogg Blvd – Saint Paul, MN [email protected] the Science Museum of Minnesota the science that shapesfor our daily lives comes to life through hands-on exhibits andlarger than life Omnitheater films and a world class collectionof fossils and artifacts. More info at (651) 221-9444.

Twin City Model Railroad MuseumSaint Paul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-647-9628

Wabasha Street Caves . . . . . . . . . . . 651-292-1220215 Wabasha Street South – Saint Paul, MN 55107www.wabashastreetcaves.comDown In History has exciting historic tours done by costumedcharacters. Historic Walking Cave Tours in Saint Paul andStillwater. Motorcoach Gangster Tours, Irish Tours, TackyTours, Ghost & Graves Tours, & More! We make history fun!

Wells Fargo History Museum . . 612-667-4210Sixth Street South and Marquette Avenue Skyway LevelMinneapolis, MN [email protected] a fun, interactive museum on the skyway in downtownMinneapolis. See the glimmer of gold, send messages bytelegraph, examine a historic stagecoach, and more! Guidedtours available. Free and open to the public.

Coborn’s Lake Itasca Tours Inc.54725 Sunset St – Osage, MN 56570 . . . . 218-266-3660Off Season phone: 218-573-2216Naturalist narrated 2 hour tours to the Mississippi Headwatersaboard the 141 Pax “Chester Charles II”, on Lake Itasca.Unique opportunities for viewing and photographing wildlife.Snacks & beverages for sale. New in 2011: A local shuttleservice available upon request.

Lutsen Mountain Lutsen. . . . . . . . . . . 218-406-1319

August Schell Brewing CompanyNew Ulm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 507-354-5528

Wanda Gag House New Ulm . . . . . . . . 507-359-2632

Wow!Zone Mankato . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 507-625-2695


Meet Minneapolis Minneapolis . . . . . 888-676-6757

Roseville Visitors Association . .651-633-30022100 N Snelling Avenue, Suite 59 877-980-3002cdonovan@visitroseville.comwww.visitroseville.comRoseville is perfectly positioned to everything the Twin Citieshas to offer. Just 10 min. from Saint Paul & Minneapolis, ourhotels offer lower hotel tax and free motorcoach parking.Complimentary planning service & FREE roses for group tours.

Saint Paul Convention . . . . . . . . . . .651-265-4906& Visitors Authority 800-627-6101 ext. 4906175 West Kellogg Blvd, Suite 502 – Saint Paul, MN [email protected] classic group tour destination. In addition to offering avariety of group-friendly activities, we provide unparalleledservice for tour operators and group leaders. Take advantageof our group services such as itinerary planning and meet &greet programs.

Eagan Conventionand Visitors Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . .651-675-55461501 Central Parkway – Eagan MN [email protected] makes planning your next group outing easy! Personalservice includes custom and creative itineraries, FREE welcomebags and FREE Mall of America coupon books ($9.95 value)You’ll also enjoy our low 3% lodging tax. Ask how to qualify forour $250 cash rebate.

Stillwater& Oak Park Heights CVB . . . . . . . .651-351-1717PO Box 2025 – Stillwater, MN 55082www.discoverstillwater.comHistoric Stillwater, Minnesota is located along the banks of thescenic St. Croix River. Our many unique shops, restaurants,lodging establishments & attractions make a perfect groupdestination. Located within 30 min. of most major Twin Citiesmetro attractions.

Twin Cities TourismAttractions Association . . . . . . . .952-858-8493PO Box 11858 – Saint Paul, MN [email protected] CITIES OF MINNESOTA ATTRACTIONS. So much to do forevery season! We list the best entertainment and hotels. Ourinformation guide helps you plan for your clients and grouptours. Metro area CVBs are listed.

Albert Lea Convention& Visitors Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-373-2316102W Clark Street – Albert Lea, MN 56007 800-345-8414cvbdirector@albertlea.orgwww.albertleatourism.orgLocated 90 minutes from Mpls, where I-90 & I-35 intersect,featuring small town hospitality with big city amenities. Plusadditional lakes & 38 city parks hosting various outdoor activities.

Austin CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-437-4563104 11th Ave NW Ste D – Austin, MN 55912 [email protected] Town, USA. Southern Minnesota Tourism at its best!Home of Fortune 500 Company Hormel Food Corporation.Tourists will be delighted with the SPAM Museum, HistoricHormel Home, Paramount Theatre, & other exciting attractions.

Explore Southern MinnesotaTourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-868-7476 ext. 162115 East Hickory #403 – Mankato, MN 56001www.exploresouthernminnesota.comYou’ll be surprised…at what you’ll find in southern Minnesota!With many scenic byways, festivals, parks & trails, historicsites, caves, bluffs, waterfalls & so much more, it makes aperfect destination for any group.

Fairmont Convention& Visitors Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-657-3280323 East Blue Earth, PO Box 976 – Fairmont, MN 56031www.visitfairmontmn.comFairmont the “City of Lakes” awaits your arrival. Located insouthern Minnesota on Interstate 90 we have a range oflodging and dining options to fit your needs. Lakes, history,open spaces, discover Fairmont!

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Greater Mankato . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-657-4733One Civic Center Plaza 507-385-6661Mankato, MN 56001 / [email protected] Mankato is great for groups! We can help you plangroup tour itineraries that focus on Native American culture,the famous Betsy-Tacy book series, year-round outdoor softadventure, Minnesota Vikings Football and much more.

Lanesboro AreaChamber of Commerce . . . . . . . .800-944-2670100 Milwaukee Road, PO Box 348 – Lanesboro, MN 55949www.lanesboro.comPartnering with Explore Mississippi Bluffswww.exploremississippibluffs.comLanesboro, Minnesota is the premier arts and culture destina-tion in the Midwest. Group Tours enjoy the theatre, arts center,winery, Molly the Trolley, and Amish Tours. Itinerary building,step on guides and customized programs.

New Ulm CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-233-43001 North Minnesota - PO box 862 – New Ulm, MN 56073www.newulm.com90 miles southwest of Minneapolis/St. Paul we offer somethingfor everyone, from one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants toimportant historical sites, and much more. Most importantly,it’s still a place where friends old and new are greeted with awarm welcome.

Owatonna AreaChamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . .507-451-7970320 Hoffman Dr – Owatonna, MN 55060 800-423-6466www.owatonna.orgLocated in south central MN, 45 minutes from Mpls/Saint Paulon I-35. Come “discover our faces & places” - filled withhistorical, recreational & cultural opportunities as well asnearly 700 guest rooms to accommodate any group.

Redwood Falls AreaChamber and Tourism . . . . . . . . .507-637-2828200 South Mill Street – Redwood Falls, MN 56283www.redwoodfalls.orgRedwood Falls is an area rich in history, heritage and scenicbeauty, unique shopping opportunities, and an abundance ofrecreational and leisure activities. Come see for yourself!

Tatanka Bluffs CorridorRedwood Falls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-637-2828

Willmar Lakes Area CVB . . .800-845-8747 Ext 792104 Highway 12 East – Willmar, MN 56201www.willmarlakesarea.comVisit the Willmar Lakes Area. Only 2 hours west ofMinneapolis/Saint Paul. 360 lakes, 36 parks, 81 holes of golf –and that’s just on the drive in! Let our staff help put togethera getaway for your group.

entertainment & theater

Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. . . 952-934-1547501 W 78th St – Chanhassen, MN 55317 800-355-6273www.chanhassendt.comSince 1968 Chanhassen Dinner Theatres have been recognizedfor quality theatre entertainment & fine dining.The nation’s largestprofessional dinner theatre is AAA Magazine recommended,“Any Twin Cities visit should include an evening at Chanhassen!”

History TheatreSaint Paul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-292-4323

Minnesota Centennial ShowboatSaint Paul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 612-625-4001

Plymouth Playhouse. . . . . . . . . . . . . 763-553-16003313 Republic Avenue – Minneapolis, MN 55426groupst@plymouthplayhouse.comwww.plymouthplayhouse.comCelebrating 31 years of hits, Plymouth Playhouse is bestknown for producing comedies. This intimate 211-seat theateris located in the Best Western Kelly Inn on the lower level.Church Basement Ladies now playing to sold out audiences.

festivals & events

MinnesotaRenaissance Festival. . . . . . . . . . . 800-966-82151244 S Canterbury Road, Suite 306 952-445-7361Shakopee, MN [email protected] the 16th century with hundreds of costumedvillagers and 12 stages of entertainment. More than 275artisans sell and display handcrafted wares. Open WeekendsAugust 20-October 2, 2011. Group discounts available.

Minnesota State Fair . . . . . . . . . . . 651-632-26891265 Snelling Avenue North – Saint Paul, MN 55108www.mnstatefair.orgThe great Minnesota Get-Together. Local, national andinternationally-known entertainers, horse show and rodeoperformances, Mighty Midway and Kidway rides, competitions,exhibits, attractions and concessions.

Minnesota TimberwolvesMinneapolis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 612.337.DUNK

Wilder PageantWalnut Grove. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-859-3102

restaurants

Cherokee TavernSaint Paul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-457-2729

El Burrito Mercado RestaurantSaint Paul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-227-2192

Pub 500Mankato . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 507-625-6500

Veigel’s KaiserhoffNew Ulm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 507-359-2071

shopping

Mall of America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 952-883-884360 E Broadway – Bloomington, MN 55425 [email protected] of America is the largest shopping and entertainmentcomplex in the nation, featuring 520 stores, 50 restaurantsand attractions galore. Enjoy no sales tax on clothing andshoes. Valuable coupon books, Meet and Greet Service andother group travel services available.

Northland Visions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 612-872-03901113 E Franklin Avenue – Minneapolis, MN 55404Specializing in Native American art from the Woodlands andPlains tribes. Sculptures, paintings, beadwork, jewelry, nativefoods, original native and traditional art, gifts of the northlands,offering unique, all Minnesota gifts.

tour operators

MetroConnectionsMinneapolis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-747-8687

Valley Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-439-6110101 West Pine Street – Stillwater, MN 55082www.valleytours.comValley Tours offers custom designed group tours of Stillwaterplus custom motorcoach itineraries. Tours include professionalguides in Victorian dress, lodging, dining, riverboat cruises,Victorian homes, historic sites, attractions and more. Groupplanning since 1978.

Jeffers Petroglyphs

Jeffers Petroglyphs

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branson, cape girardeau,charleston, columbia, crocker,eagleville, farmington,fort leonard wood, hannibal,hermann, kansas city,jefferson city, mansfield,rock port, springfield, st. louis,st. joseph, st. robert, west plains

St. Joseph Museum, St. Joseph – Dedicated to thecultural and natural history of the area, this museum is wellknown for its extensive collection of Native American artifacts.Their collection includes objects from ten cultural regionsof North America, such as clothing, accessories, pipes,weapons, pottery and jewelry. They are currently featuringexhibits devoted to the Lewis and Clark Expedition throughnorthwest Missouri.

The St. Joseph Museum is one of four in the St. JosephMuseums, Inc. system. Take a sneak peek at the other threemuseums before you leave. Discover the history of “StateLunatic Asylum No. 2” at the Glore Psychiatric Museum,explore the history of African American culture at theSt. Joseph Black Archives, or tour the turn-of-the-centurygrandeur of the Wyeth Tootle Mansion. All are located inclose proximity to one another and offer hours of enjoymentfor any group.

Osage River Pow-wow, Eldon – Come and enjoy authenticNative American food, crafts and culture at the Miller CountyFairgrounds, June 17th – 19th. The Young Bucks will provideguests with their energetic drumming, while all vendors, singers,dancers and drummers are welcome. The committee is lookingforward to crowning a new princess this year at their legendary“Princess Contest.” Everyone is welcome!

Museum of Westward Expansion, St. Louis – Whatbetter place to put a museum of westward expansion than

right beneath the Gateway Arch? Here is where the concept ofManifest Destiny was born. Discover what life was like for theAmerican Indians of the 19th century as well as the pioneersof the Lewis and Clark days. Rare Indian Peace Medals are ondisplay, as well as survival weapons and an actual tepee.Animatronic figures come to life as they tell the stories of theexhibits and National Park Rangers are available for walkinggroup tours. Come relive the days of the Old West!

Will Rogers Indian Club 46th Annual Pow-wow,Marshfield – This two-day event begins June 10th at theShow Me Cowboy Church and Arena. Spectators andAmerican Indians alike are welcome to come together fora living history weekend. The mission of the Will Rogers IndianClub is to preserve the arts, crafts and culture of the NativeAmerican,so come andsupport theirt r a d i t i o n swith singing,dancing, eatingand shopping.

Missouri State Museum, Jefferson CityLocated on the first floor of the Missouri State Capitol, this museum captures the essence of Missouri history. Their vast col-lection of exhibits displays the natural and cultural history of the Show-Me State. Guided tours are offered among the exhibitsas well as the rest of the Capitol building. The highlight of the museum? A rare collection of over 125 Civil War battle flags, manyof which belonged to or were captured by Missouri units on both sides of the war.

The Missouri Governor’s Mansion welcomes group tours through November, providing guests with a unique experience. Thebuilding that housed the offices of the first Capitol stood on the very grounds where the mansion stands today. Construction ofthe original mansion was completed in 1871. It had three stories, 13 bedrooms, and no bathrooms or closets. Since then, it hasbeen restored by various First Ladies who wanted to make the mansion “more livable.” Costumed volunteers called “docents”lead tours of the building, telling tales of its history. (See location on map below)

august• Vineyard DaysAugust 6-7, Hermann 800-909-9463

• Missouri State FairAugust 11-21, Sedalia 660-827-8150

• Glasgow 175th Birthdayand Heritage Ways FestivalAugust 12-14, Glasgow 660-338-2576

• Cowboy Up! Arts FestivalAugust 13, Sikeston 63801

• Trails West FestivalAugust 20-22, St. Joseph 800-216-7080

• Walking Tours of Fort BellefontaineAugust 27-28, St. Louis 314-544-6224

• Festival of NationsAugust 27-28, St. Louis 314-773-9090

september• Mark Twain Festivalat Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic SiteSeptember 3, Florida 573-565-3440

• Big Muddy Blue FestivalSeptember 3-4, St. Louis 314-241-5875

• 35th Annual Japanese FestivalSeptember 3-5, St. Louis 314-577-9400

• Kansas City Irish FestSeptember 2-4, Kansas City 816-561-7556

• Silver Dollar City’s National Harvest FestivalSeptember 10-11, 14-18, 21-25, 28-30;October 1-2, 5-9, 12-16, 19-23, 26-29,Branson 800-475-9370

• Taste of St. LouisSeptember 23-25, St. Louis 314-534-2100

october• 30th Annual Deutsch Country DaysOctober 15-16, Marthasville 636-433-5669

• Homestead Days Festival at Nathan BooneHomestead State Historic SiteOctober 15-16, Ash Grove 417-751-3266

• Apple Butter FestivalOctober 29-30, Kimmswick 636-464-7407

november• Ozark Mountain ChristmasNov 1-Dec 31, Branson 800-800-2019

• Silver Dollar City’s An Old Time ChristmasNovember 5-6, 10-13, 17-20, 23-27,Branson 800-475-9370


more native america & cultural history tours in missouri…

missouri cities

calendar of events

Close to home. Far from ordinary.


Missouri Division of TourismJefferson City . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-519-2100

directory & map

Missouri State Museum


more native america & cultural history tours in nebraska

august• Wilber Czech FestivalAugust 5-7, Wilber 888-494-5237

• Kool-Aid DaysAugust 12-14, Hastings 800-967-2189

• Nebraska Balloon and Wine FestivalAugust 12-13, Omaha 402-346-8003

• Greek FestivalAugust 13-14, Bridgeport 308-262-0281

• Columbus DaysAugust 18-21, Columbus 402-564-2769

• Nebraska State FairAug 26- Sept 5, Grand Island 308-382-1620

• Midlands Pirate FestivalAugust 27-28, Bellevue 641-357-5177

september• 25th Annual Labor Day ExtravaganzaSeptember 2-4, Lexington 308-324-5504

• 1891 Agricultural FairSeptember 3-5, Grand Island 308-385-5316

• Miles of Memories Country Music FestSeptember 8-10, Hastings 903-467-9545

• 12th Annual PolishFestSeptember 11, Ashton 402-631-9660

• 43rd Annual AppleJack FestivalSept 16-18, Nebraska City 402-873-6654

• German Day-OktoberfestSeptember 16-17, Omaha 402-333-6615

• 20th Annual Fort Omaha Intertribal PowwowSeptember 24, Omaha 402-457-2253

october• Siouxland OctoberfestOctober 1, South Sioux City 402-404-8439

• 7th Annual October CzechfestOctober 1, York 402-362-6413

• Great Plains Welsh Heritage FestivalOctober 8-11. Wymore 402-421-8192

november• O’Connor House Christmas TourNov 5-6 & 12-13, Homer 402-987-3330

• Christmas at Union State Tree LightingCeremony Nov 25, Omaha 402-444-5071

• Fantasy of TreesNov 25-Dec 31, Grand Island 308-385-5316

• Holiday Tour of HomesNovember 26, Henderson 402-723-5793


nebraska cities

calendar of events

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, HarrisonView fossils left behind by the bizarre mammals of the Miocene Epoch some 20 million years ago. Walk the trails and explorethe areas in which the digs were conducted, while observing the fossils that were left in place. A visitor center offers a life-sizediorama of the ancient landscape as well as interactive exhibits.

Also displayed is a vast collection of Native American artifacts known as the Cook Collection. “Captain” James Cook was a formerprofessional hunter, Army scout, and guide. He owned the Agate Springs Ranch, which served as a haven for Indian visitors for50 years. He welcomed and fed his guests and received presents in return. Over time his collection grew and is now on displayfor the public’s enjoyment, highlighting the friendship between Cook and the High Plains tribes. (See location on map below)

Museum of the Fur Trade, Chadron – The collectionswithin this museum—located at the Bordeaux Trading Post—represent every type of object exchanged by Europeans andAmericans and the native people of North America. One of themuseum’s highlights is its extensive collection of firearms,made exclusively for sale to the Indians. It includes the earliestknown trade gun, made in the Netherlands before the year1650. Aside from the obvious types of trade items such asguns, blankets, axes, beads and kettles, unusual goods aredisplayed as well. Visitors are always amused by the playingcards, tobacco boxes, jewelry and quill smoothers not oftenseen at other museums.

Dancers of the Plains Pow-wow, Kearney – This eventis an exhibition of a pow wow celebration as well as acultural learning experience. Everyone is invited to participateor simply watch as they welcome the Otoe-Missouria back toThe Great Platte River Road Archway on June 17th and 18th.The pow-wow begins with a ceremonial tepee raising,followed by hands-on activities and demonstrations. Asalways there will be plenty of dancing, shopping, eatingand celebrating!

University of Nebraska State Museum, Lincoln – Thismuseum has plenty in store for visitors this summer. Exhibitsdisplay a variety of collections highlighting paleontology,zoology, botany, entomology, and anthropology. “Amphibians:

Vibrant and Vanishing” includes a vivid collection of photostaken by National Geographic Photographer Joel Sartore. Theexhibit introduces viewers to rare species of amphibians andtheir descent into extinction.

Explore the evolution of hunting and fighting fromterritorial times to World War I at the “Weapons ThroughoutTime” exhibit. This impressive collection includes swords,knives, axes, arrows, clubs, spears, pistols, rifles, cannons,armor and shields over a span of 9,000 years. Prehistoricarrow points used by the Great Plains tribes can be viewed upclose and provide insight into their technology, and theirartistic styles. Other weapons on display come from theAmazon, Africa, the Middle East, Japan and Australia.

chadron, columbus, fremont,grand island, gretna, hastings,kearney, kimball, lincoln,mccook, minden, nebraska city,norfolk, north platte,omaha, royal, scottsbluff,sidney, valentine, york

Possibilities…endless


Nebraska Department of EconomicDevelopment Lincoln . . 877-NEBRASKA

directory & map

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument


Fort Totten State Historic Site, Fort TottenBeginning in 1867 soldiers built a log structure that was enlarged and expanded to include dozens of buildings. The purpose ofthis fort was to protect the Totten Trail, an overland route that extended across Dakota Territory from southern Minnesota to thegoldfields of western Montana, and later to control and protect the Totten Indian Reservation. In 1891 the post became theproperty of the Bureau of Indian Affairs and served as an Indian boarding school and health care facility. The old CompanyBarracks is now home to the Fort Totten Little Theater, where a local musical theatre group performs in the summer. Located onthe southeastern edge of the town of Fort Totten, groups are welcome to come experience the past in the Pioneer Daughter’sMuseum, Interpretive Center, changing State Exhibits, and a walking tour of 16 original 1870 buildings. It is open year-round asan outdoor museum. (See location on map, page 39)

more native america & cultural history tours in north dakota

Legendary

bismarck-mandan, bottineau,bowman, crosby, devils lake,dickinson, fargo/moorhead,garrison, grafton,grand forks, jamestown,langdon, medora, minot,rugby, valley city, wahpeton,west fargo, williston

north dakota cities

calendar of events

august• Medora MusicalAug 1-Sept 17, Medora 800-633-4444

• Wild West ShootoutAug 6, 20; Sept 3, Jamestown 701-320-2725

• Pyrotechnic GuildInternational Fireworks ConventionAugust 6-12, West Fargo 701-282-2200

• FAME-Fun, Art, Music and EntertainmentAugust 7, Dunseith 888-432-6733

• Fargo AirShowAugust 13-14, Fargo 701-293-8043

• Heritage DaysAug 20-21, East Grand Forks 701-740-2066

• Blues on the RedAugust 27, Grand Forks 701-772-8404

september• United Tribes International PowwowSeptember 8-11, Bismarck 701-255-3285

• Sodbuster Days Fall HarvestSeptember 9-10, Fort Ransom 701-973-4331

• 2011 Downtowner’ Street FairSeptember 16-17, Bismarck 701-223-1958

• Apple Harvest at the Maple RiverWinery and DistillerySeptember 25-27, Casselton 701-347-5900

• Norsk HøstfestSeptember 27- Oct. 1, Minot 701-852-2368

october• 27th Annual Uffda DayOctober 2, Rutland 701-724-3673

• The Big One Art and Craft FairOctober 15-16, Fargo 701-837-6059

november• Pride of Dakota Holiday ShowcaseNovember 5-6, 701-792-1200

• Xcel Energy Holiday Lights ParadeNovember 22, Fargo 701-241-1570

• Dickens Village FestivalNov 25-27, Dec 2-3, Garrison 800-799-4242


Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Bonanzaville, Fargo – Bonanzaville is the region’s largesthistorical attraction offering fun and educational opportunities.The Pioneer Prairie Village and Museum sit on 12 acres andhave 43 buildings and more than 400,000 artifacts andmillions of memories. This is a great group attraction and isoperated by the Cass County Historical Society and is a greatgroup attraction. Prepare to spend several hours browsingthe hundreds of exhibits and artifacts from the days ofthe pioneers!

Fort Seward Military Post, Jamestown – An activemilitary fort from 1872-1877, Fort Seward now houses aninterpretive center displaying artifacts excavated from thesite's archaeological digs. A new computer kiosk takes you onan audio-visual virtual tour of the site. The grounds are alsohome to a Veterans’ Memorial and scenic views of the JamesRiver Valley. While in Jamestown take a step back in time at

the re-created prairie town of Frontier Village. 24 Buildingsfilled with antiques and artifacts that bring the world of theprairie pioneers to life.

Medora – Visitors to Historic Medora will be able toexperience the history, heritage and culture of a communitythat has been a home to the iconic American cowboy and the26th president of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt.Despite a permanent population that hovers close to 100,Historic Medora is the home to seven museums:• Billings Museum• The North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame• Chateau de Mores State Historic Site and Interpretive Center• Von Hoffman House• Harold Schafer Heritage Center• Theodore Roosevelt National Park Visitor Center• Transportation Museum

Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, Washburn – Thisprovides an overview of the Lewis & Clark Expedition, withspecial emphasis on the time spent at Fort Mandan during thewinter of 1804-1805. The displays include Native Americanartifacts; a buffalo robe visitors will be able to try on, as wellas a “cradle-board” much like the one Sakakawea may haveused to carry her baby. An authentic wood canoe carved fromthe trunk of a large cottonwood tree demonstrates the winterpreparations the Expedition made while at Fort Mandan.



LegendaryLegendaryRead ITINERARIES Midwest Online.Ads hotlinked to websites.www.itinerariesmidwest.com

accommodationsAmericInn Lodge & Suites& Event Center of Moorhead . . . 877-287-7100600 30th Avenue S – Moorhead, MN 56560Two-story hotel & event center features a waterfall that cascadesinto a tropical indoor courtyard. Home to Courtney’s Comedy Club.

attractionsHeritage Hjemkomst Interpretive CenterMoorhead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218-299-5511

Maple River Winery & DistilleryCasselton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 701-347-5900

Red River Zoo Fargo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 701-277-9240

convention & visitorsbureaus and chambersFargo-Moorhead CVBFargo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-235-7654

directory & map

Celebrate our Scandinavian culture!This sample itinerary can be customized for anytime of the year!

day one10 – 11:00 amStart your adventure by soaring into the Fargo AirMuseum, where you can enjoy a special display ofWWII planes. This museum also features aviationhistory and memorabilia from North Dakota and thesurrounding area.11 – 12:00 pmContinue on to the 1927 Historic Fargo Theatre.Here you can enjoy a classic, silent or first-run film inthis art-deco style theatre, accompanied by theMighty Wurlitzer pipe organ.12 – 2:00 pmPull in to see the Celebrity Walk of Fame at theFargo-Moorhead Convention & Visitors Bureau. Thewalk features over 100 celebrity signatures, handand foot prints, permanently set in cement. See thefootprints or handprints from George W. Bush toBarney, the purple dinosaur. Who’s shoes do youwant to step into? Make sure to stop for lunch.2 – 4:00 pmBonanzaville is a wonderful way to experienceFargo and Red River Area history first hand. With

40 buildings and 400,000 artifacts, there is certainlysomething for everyone! For groups more than 25people, Bonanzaville offers a special group rate.4:00 pmCheck into the AmericaInn of Moorhead after abusy day. There's no better place to stay and nobetter value than AmericInn®. Your group willnotice the difference the moment they check intoover-sized rooms.

day two9 – 12:00 pmStart your days adventure at the Historical andCultural Society of Clay County, by relivingthe journey of the Viking Ship “Hjemkomst”(Yem-komst), as it sailed from Minnesota to Norway.Learn about the voyage, including the storm 500miles from New York that caused a crack in the hullnearly 14 feet long and almost led the crew to retreatback to North America. See how the crew livedduring the 72-day voyage. While you’re there, walkthrough the Norwegian Stave Church, a replica ofthe Hopperstad Stave Church in Vik, Norway.

12 – 1:30 pmNext stop Lunch, Fargo-Moorhead is a virtualsmorgasbord of dining choices! As you head eaststop in Hawley, MN for that favorite Norwegianpotato treat. Carl’s Lefse Place will tantalize yourtaste “spuds” with its homemade lefse.

For more information or to customize this sampleitinerary for your group, please contact yourtour operator or the Fargo Moorhead CVB,800-235-7654 or visit www.fargomoorhead.org.

Fargo Air Museum

Fort Totten State Historic Site


http://fargomoorhead.org/

aberdeen, belle fourche,beresford, bridger,brookings, chamberlain,crazy horse, deadwood,de smet, flandreau, garretson,keystone, lake city, mitchell,mobridge, platte, pierre,rapid city, roslyn, selby,sioux falls, sturgis,watertown, webster, yankton

Prairie Homestead, Philip – “It is a classic example of thefrugal but satisfactory life of the men who built the West. Itshould interest every American.” - excerpt taken from theTypical Sod House Homesteader Plaque

Built in 1909 and listed on the Register of National HistoricPlaces. This sod dugout was built with a log front & rafters,thick sod walls, dirt floor and a dirt roof. This historical siteoffers your group a valuable history lesson while entertainingall ages and interests. You can walk back in time in andaround this 160-acre homestead. Some original furnishingsand machinery along with those typical of the times are ondisplay. A self guided and/or cell phone walking tour of thesod home, root cellar, outhouse, chicken coop and barn can beexperienced. Enjoy the livestock, prairie dogs, iris gardens andother sites and sounds of the prairie while you experience thelifestyle of your pioneer ancestors.

Historic Deadwood, Deadwood – This old mining town isstill as wild at heart as it was in the 1800s when the outlaws,gamblers and gunslingers ruled the streets. Today, the entireBlack Hills’ town is a National Historic Landmark and an idealplace to release your inner outlaw. The history here is as richand diverse as the miners, pioneers and fortune seekers thatcame here more than a century ago. Walk in the footsteps oflegends—like Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane and Seth

Bullock—as you discover Deadwood’s Wild West ways.

South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center, Pierre – You’llexperience everything from early American Indian cultures tothe arrival of white settlers, riverboats and railroads. Hearstories told by a pioneer woman, see a Lakota teepee up closeand witness the workings of a replica gold mining operation.Of particular importance is the museum’s collection of 1,339Native American objects. The collection, which focuses onthe Sioux Indians, is noteworthy for both its quality and itsdocumentation.

Downtown and Beyond, Rapid City – Walk through thePresidential history of the United States with a tour of RapidCity and the Black Hills. Start with the birth, growth, expansionand preservation of our nation at Mount Rushmore NationalMemorial. Travel south toward Crazy Horse Memorial, theworld’s largest mountain carving in progress, take a detouraround the wildlife loop in Custer State Park to see buffalo andthe “begging burros.” Learn about our great leaders at theNational Presidential Wax Museum, with a walking tour of theCity of Presidents; Life-sized bronze statues of many of ournation’s presidents line the streets of downtown Rapid Cityproviding a living history lesson and great photo opportunities.

more native america & cultural history tours in south dakota…

south dakota cities

calendar of events

Great Faces. Great Places.

august• Sioux River Annual Folk FestivalAugust 6-8, Canton 605-987-2582

• Redlin’s 8th AnnualSummer Concert CelebrationAugust 6-7, Watertown 605-882-3877

• Fur Trader Days and Antiques Tractor PullAugust 12-14, Geddes 605-337-9632

• Scottie Stampede Rodeo Daysand Scotland Kuchen FeierAugust 12-14, Scotland 605-583-4419

• Huron Prairie FestAugust 13, Huron 605-352-5638

• Great Dakota Wine FestAugust 27-28, Vermillion 605-624-4500

september• South Dakota State FairSeptember 1-5, Huron 800-529-0900

• Crazy Horse September Night BlastSeptember 6, Crazy Horse 605-673-4681

• Ribs, Rods and Rock n’ RollSeptember 9-10, Vermillion 605-624-5571

• Watertown Arts FestivalSeptember 10-11, Watertown 605-868-3569

• Annual Homesteader DaySeptember 11, Brandon 605-594-3824

• Spirit of the West FestivalSeptember 16-18, Sioux Falls 605-334-9202

• St. Joseph’s Indian School PowwowSeptember 17, Chamberlin 800-584-9200

• Buffalo RoundupSeptember 26, Custer 605-255-4515

october• 1880 Train Oktoberfest ExpressOctober 1, Hill City 605-574-2222

• Autumn Festival, An Arts and Crafts AffairOctober 7-9, Sioux Falls 402-331-2889

• Black Hills PowwowOctober 7-9, Rapid City 605-341-0925

november• Aberdeen WinterfestNovember 19-20, Aberdeen 605-626-7081

• Trains at ChristmasNovember 19-20, Sioux Falls 605-373-0222

• Heritage of the American WestPerformance SeriesNovember 17, Spearfish 605-642-9378

• Mitchell Parade of LightsNovember 21, Mitchell 605-995-8427

• WJ Ranch Cowboy ChristmasNovember 26-27, Yankton 605-661-8356

• Festival of Lights Parade Rapid CityNovember 26, Rapid City 605-348-1930


Prairie Star Gallery, Sioux FallsSimple on the outside, spectacular on the inside! Stop in, and put the world on pause. Experience a time inconceivable by today’sstandards: 125 years ago the telephone had just been invented; automobiles still were on the horizon; and, television and cellphones weren’t even science fiction. Hard to believe? Not for the artists of Prairie Star Gallery, who have filled the Gallerywith centuries-old art forms displayed in a beautiful century-old building. The exceptional variety and originality of their artdistinguishes Prairie Star Gallery from others. Nearly all art is from the U.S.; a small percentage is created by Canadian Iroquois.It is Indigenous handmade, authentic, and high quality. The artists they represent are predominately from Northern Plainstribes, such as Lakota, Dakota, Ojibwa (Chippewa, Anishinaabe), Blackfeet, Assiniboine, Three Affiliated Tribes of Ft. Berthold,and many others, including Navajo, Santo Domingo, and Potawatomie. Nearly every day, one or more artists will be in thegallery -- selling, sharing, and enjoying other artists’ work. Your group will agree it’s a one of a kind stop that is not to be missed!(See location on map, page 42)



LegendaryRead ITINERARIES Midwest Online.Ads hotlinked to websites.www.itinerariesmidwest.com

The history of Sioux Falls revolves aroundthe cascades of the Big Sioux River.

The lure of the falls has been a powerfulinfluence. Tribes of the Lakota and Dakotaand widely ranging nomadic bison huntersarrived sometime around the 18th century.Early maps indicate they used the falls as aplace to rendezvous with French fur trappers,considered the first European visitors at thefalls. The falls also drew the attention ofearly explorers. An August 1804 journal

entry of the Lewis and Clark expeditiondescribes the falls of the “Soues River.”

The Village of Sioux Falls, consisting of 1,200acres, was incorporated in 1876. The citycharter was granted in March 1883.

The arrival of the railroads ushered in thegreat Dakota Boom decade of the 1880s.The population of Sioux Falls mushroomedfrom 2,164 in 1880 to 10,167 at the close ofthe decade. The growth transformed the city.

Key Points of Interest:

Prairie Star Gallery – Feel the energy oflocal and national indigenous artists. Learnabout customs, culture, traditions and lifeways of authentic Plains Indian Art.prairiestargallery.com

Center for Western Studies – The buildingfeatures a Museum and Art Gallery withchanging exhibits including local artists. It

Sioux FallsSOUTH DAKOTA’S LARGEST CITY

Great Faces. Great Places.


hotSTOP


grouptours.siouxfallscvb.com


Great Faces. Great Places. Read ITINERARIES Midwest Online.Ads hotlinked to websites.


holds documents related to early contactwith Plains Indians, the settlement period inthe Dakotas.www.augie.edu/cws

Blood Run National Historic Landmark –Designated in 1970, is like a natural island in asea of residential and commercial developmenta few miles southeast of Sioux Falls straddlingthe Big Sioux River in Iowa and South Dakota.Occupants were primarily Oneota IndigenousPeoples, including Omaha, Ioway, Oto andYankton Sioux Tribes. The site is a time capsuleof Indigenous culture. No other Oneota site ofsuch size and integrity is known to exist in theUnited States.www.parkswildlifefoundation.org/projects/BloodRun.aspx

Falls Park – Visit the Falls located near historicdowntown. It features a visitor informationcenter, gift shop and five-story viewing tower

and cafe. Falls Park is also home to a FREESound and Light Show featuring informationabout the history of Sioux Falls and is shown at9:30pm, weather-permitting, from MemorialDay to Labor Day.

Downtown Sioux Falls – Enjoy SculptureWalk,FREE trolley, museums, specialty boutiquesto eateries.

Check out our website for more itineraries atgrouptours.siouxfallscvb.com or call Cathy at800-333-2072 or email [email protected].

accommodationsDeadwood Mountain Grand Hotel,Event Center & Casino . . . . . . . . . 605-673-46811906 Deadwood Mountain Dr . 877-907-GRAND(4726)Deadwood, SD 57732 / [email protected] Black Hills’ premiere large-scale entertainment venue,housed in the completely refurbished 1906 Homestake MiningCompany with a full restaurant, casino, entertainment complexand 98-room hotel, the Deadwood Mountain Grand is a greatlocation for groups.

attractionsCrazy Horse Memorial. . . . . . . . . . 605-673-4681Crazy Horse, [email protected] / www.crazyhorsememorial.orgWorld’s largest mountain carving in progress, minutes fromMt. Rushmore on Hwy 16/385. Witness work on the mountain,museums, movies, sculptor’s log studio-home, nightly laserlight show in season, restaurant and gift shop. Openyear-round. 605-673-4681, www.crazyhorsememorial.org,[email protected].

High PlainsWestern Heritage Center . . . . . . . 605-642-9378I-90 Exit 14 – Spearfish, SD 57783info@westernheritagecenter.comwww.westernheritagecenter.comFeaturing western art, artifacts and Native American exhibitschronicling the heritage of 5 plains states. Outdoor displaysinclude antique farm equipment, log cabin, one room school-house, live longhorn steers and buffalo. Open year round

Tatanka Oyate Tours Rapid City. . . . 605-381-0992

convention & visitorsbureaus and chambersDepartment of Tourism & State DevelopmentPierre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-S-DAKOTA

Rapid City CVB . . . . . . . 800-487-3223 ext 8489444 Mt. Rushmore Road N – Rapid City, SD 57701www.visitrapidcity.comCentrally located to the wonders of the Black Hills and MountRushmore National Memorial, Rapid City, provides uniquehistoric attractions and one-of-a-kind views all for a low cost.For more information go to VisitRapidCity.com.

Sioux Falls Convention& Visitors Bureau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 605-336-1620200 N Phillips Ave Suite 102 . . . . . . . . . . 800-333-2072Sioux Falls, SD 57104 / [email protected] Falls, South Dakota’s largest city is located at thejunction of I-90 and I-29… abundant shopping, local flavorrestaurants, vibrant downtown, accommodating hotels andhistoric Falls Park! Need Assistance?? Tour Itineraries,step-on-guides-we’ve got it!

directory & map

Prairie Star Gallery

Continued from Page 41: Souix Falls…


http://www.canyonlakeresorts.com/

Astor House Historical Museum, Copper Harbor –Located on the grounds of the Minnetonka Resort, seetheir fine display of antique dolls, toys, and local artifacts.A collection of mining materials relating to the early copperboom days and a nice mineral display. Deep-sea diver,nautical lanterns, wheels and shipwreck material add to thehistory of Lake Superior. Early tools, civil war material, bottle,insulator and grocery collections relate to the early businesses,plus much more.

Eagle Harbor Lighthouse and Museum Complex,Eagle Harbor – The red brick Eagle Harbor Light Stationsits on the rocky entrance to the harbor and is a workinglighthouse guiding mariners across the northern edge ofthe Keweenaw Peninsula. The Keweenaw History Museumcontains many copper mining exhibits and memorabilia. TheCommercial Fishing Museum and Maritime Museum offerviews of fascinating shipwreck artifacts and marine exhibits.Its fog signal building was built in 1895 and warned of therocks and reefs offshore when the light could not be seen.The former assistant keepers dwelling now houses aCommercial Fishing Museum, originally part of the LifeSaving Station on the other side of the harbor and were movedto this location. During WWII, commercial fishermen onLake Superior were exempt from the draft as they wereessential for feeding the nation. Lake Superior fish are still astaple of the northern diet.

Shipwreck Theatre Big Top Music Show, Munising(pronounced Myu•ni•sing) – Rain or shine, the Shipwreck TheatreBig Top Music Show offers a unique group experience. Listento nationally acclaimed singer/songwriter Carl “Bearfoot”Behrend sing and tell stories about Great Lakes shipwrecks,sea captains and Native American legends. The ShipwreckTheatre runs throughout the summer and hosts guest singersduring the season. Shows can also be performed by appoint-ment for travel groups and bus tours - complete with catering.

Museum Ship Valley Camp, Sault Ste Marie – Launchedin 1917 by the American Shipbuilding Company of Lorain, OH,the ore carrier VALLEY CAMP now serves as a floatingmuseum for Great Lakes Maritime History. Listed on theNational Register of Historic Places, the 550' ship logged overthree million miles before being taken out of service in 1966.Today, she holds the largest Great Lakes Maritime Museumwith over 100 fascinating exhibits inside her cavernous cargoholds. Conveniently equipped with an access ramp, visitorscan view the engine room with its 1800 h.p. triple expansionsteam engine and two coal-fired Scotch boilers, the crew’squarters, and the Pilot House. The Valley Camp also containsan exhibit featuring two of the lifeboats from the ill-fatedEdmund Fitzgerald plus comprehensive videos on her demise.In addition, the Museum also displays four 1,200-gallonaquariums stocked with various species of fish from theGreat Lakes region.

more native america & cultural history tours in michigan…

5-Star Wilderness®

Marquette Harbor Lighthouse, MarquetteAn award-winning destination with something for everyone in the group. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, sandy beaches, historicalsites and culture. Located on the southern shores of Lake Superior, it is the UP’s largest city. Home of Northern MichiganUniversity and points of interest include the historic downtown area, and Presque Isle Point Park, the iron ore docksand Marquette Harbor Lighthouse. This is the oldest significant structure in the city and more importantly, the lighthouseis one of the most historic navigation beacons on Lake Superior and critical to the development of the Great Lakes iron oretrade. Until the opening of the major Minnesota mines in the 1890s, Marquette was the premier shipping port for iron ore onthe Great Lakes and this Marquette beacon was vital for the safe navigation of ships entering Marquette. Tours are offeredthrough the lighthouse and grounds, led by museum guides, a requirement established by the Coast Guard. Your group willenjoy the treasure trove of museums, galleries, performing arts and antique shopping as well while visiting Marquette! (See loca-tion on map, page 44)

calumet, curtis, crystal falls,escanaba, iron mountain,iron river, ironwood, gladstone,grand marais, houghton,marquette, menominee,munising, newberry, ontonagon,st. ignace, sault st marie,wakefield, watersmeet

august• Fab FridayAugust 5, St. Ignace 800-338-6660

• 20th Annual Humungus Fungus FestAugust 5-7, Crystal Falls 906-265-3822

• Bayside Music FestivalAugust 6, St. Ignace 800-338-6660

• Marquette County FairAugust 11-14, Marquette 800-544-4321

• UP State FairAugust 15-21, Escanaba 906-786-2192

• Wild Blueberry FestivalAugust 19-21, Paradise 906-492-3219

• Gathering of Eagles PowwowAugust 19-21, Les Cheneaux 888-364-7526

• Rendezvous at the Straits PowwowAugust 27-28, St. Ignace 800-338-6660

september• Celtic FestivalSeptember 2-3, Hancock 906-395-6803

• Marquette Area Blues FestSeptember 3-4, Marquette 800-544-4321

• Multi-Cultural FestivalSeptember 17, Houghton 906-487-2920

• 3rd Annual Newberry OktoberfestSept 30-Oct 1, Newberry 906-293-5777

• Michigan Brewers Guild3rd Annual Fall Beer FestivalSeptember 10, Marquette 906-228-9475

october• Leif Erikson Viking Days Fall FestivalOctober 8, Norway 906-221-1955

• UPtoberfestOctober 8, Escanaba 906-420-0779

• Drummond Island Fall on the Island FestivalOctober 7-9, Drummond Island 800-737-8666

november• Christmas Parade of LightsNovember 25, Sault St. Marie 906-635-6973

• Paradise Christmas Bazaar & Tree LightingNovember 26, Paradise 906-492-3219


upper peninsula cities

calendar of events



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Marquette Harbor Lighthouse

directory & map


Upper Peninsula Travel & RecreationAssociation Iron Mountain . . . . . . . . . . 800-562-7134

Marquette Country CVB . . . . . . . . 800-544-4321Marquette / www.marquettecountry.orgWe’re here to help you plan a trip for the memory books.We offer customized itinerary planning, step-on guides,reservation assistance, digital images, Familiarization toursand more—all at no charge!

day one2:00 pmArrive in Marquette Country in Michigan’s UpperPeninsula in the afternoon. Enjoy a welcomereception in your honor and check into an arealodging facility.5:00 pmTravel to Landmark Inn in downtown Marquette,Enjoy dinner from a limited menu at the SkyroomRestaurant on the top floor overlooking LakeSuperior and the downtown area. Discover a placethat time forgot... but you never will! Tour thisbeautiful landmark, including some of their nicestrooms, all restored to their original splendor.

day two8 – 9:00 amEnjoy breakfast at your hotel and meet your stepon guide from Marquette Country Tours in thehotel lobby.9 – 11:30 amSpend the morning touring the historic city ofMarquette on this sightseeing tour. The tourincludes Marquette’s Historic Home and HarborDistrict, Presque Isle Park and over 7 miles ofscenic Lake Superior shoreline. (Note: Visit theLake Superior shoreline museum to learn of

Marquette’s rich maritime history).11:30 – 1:00 pmTravel to Upfront and Company in downtownMarquette for lunch. Relax in this unique atmosphereand enjoy great American cuisine and quality service,within a pleasant, inviting, and unique atmosphere.1 – 3:00 pmTravel to Michigan Iron Industry Museum inNegaunee Township for a tour of museum exhibitsand outdoor interpretive paths. Michigan’s iron builtthe rails westward and the skyscrapers upward.Find out what it was like to work underground andfollow the trail to the site of the Carp River Forge.3 – 4:30 pmDo some shopping and sightseeing on your own for

remainder of afternoon in downtown Marquette.Meet at Docker’s Candy and Gifts for a sweet treatbefore heading back to hotel.4:30 – 6:00 pmGet freshened up for dinner.6:00 pmMeet your guide for dinner at the Casa CalabriaItalian Restaurant in the Village. Pasta, pizza,steaks and more! A great dining experience in afestive Italian atmosphere.

For more information or to customize this sampleitinerary for your group, please contact your touroperator or the people at Marquette Country1-800-544-4321, www.marquettecountry.org.

Heritage Theme Tour of the Historic Marquette Iron RangeThis itinerary can be customized for anytime of the year.


http://marquettecountry.org/

Stonefield, Cassville – Located on the Great River Road,Stonefield includes a re-created 1900s rural village whereyour group can explore more than 30 shops and services thatwere part of a typical Wisconsin village. CelebratingWisconsin's rich agricultural heritage with the StateAgricultural Museum and houses Wisconsin’s largest collec-tion of farm tools, models, and machinery detailing the state’sagricultural past. Experience the sights and sounds of the rail-road — the era's most important transportation. Stonefieldcelebrates the railroad's impact each year during RailroadDays, an event that takes place the third weekend in August.Discover the grand summer estate of Wisconsin’s first gover-nor, Nelson Dewey. Explore Stonefield today to see what madethe state become “America’s Dairyland.”

Wade House, Greenbush (13 miles from Plymouth) – Backin the 1860s, horse-drawn stagecoaches moved travelersbetween Sheboygan and Fond du Lac. This was a slow anduncomfortable journey, but there was a haven for rest at themidway point. In the heart of wilderness was the Wade House,a place to get a hearty meal and spend the night. Now thisstate historic site caters to travelers in a different way. Yourgroup can tour the stagecoach inn as well as the Wesley JungCarriage Museum, which houses Wisconsin’s biggest wagonand carriage collection. Reconstruction of the Herrling sawmill,powered by water from the Mullet River, adds yet anotherdimension to the study of local history.

Native American Tourism of Wisconsin (NATOW) – TheNative American people are “Inviting People Back to OurLand”. Wisconsin is home to the largest number of NativeAmerican tribes east of the Mississippi River. The reservationsof these eleven sovereign nations occupy more than one halfmillion acres of Wisconsin’s most beautiful and uniquelandscapes: pristine lakes, rivers and streams, toweringforests and ancient wild rice beds, each teaming with anabundance of wildlife. Bring your groups to discover theirtribal art, traditions and culture are significant parts of bothIndian and non-Indian communities in the State, makingWisconsin a remarkable place to explore the history of NativeAmerican people.

Wisconsin Historical Society, Madison – Wisconsin’sHistorical Museum on Capital Square in Madison is full ofwonderful information for you to plan your tours to historicsites that connect you with the past by inviting you inside thevery places where history happened. So chart a course to thepast and begin exploring three centuries of Wisconsin history.

Indian Summer Festival, MilwaukeeThis is the largest Native American festival in the United States. It brings together members of many American Indian tribes toshare and preserve the centuries-old traditions of their respective tribes. In addition to its spectacular competition Pow Wow,Indian Summer is also known for its American Indian music, food, art and crafts. Your group can take in a torch-lit canoe pro-cession, terrific fireworks, tribal village re-creations, cultural demonstrations, storytellers, lacrosse tournaments, AmericanIndian traditional and contemporary entertainers, a sprawling Indian marketplace, and a fiddle and jig contest.

In the heart of the Midwest, Wisconsin is a fitting location for this annual celebration of Native American culture, home of eleventribes, and the largest number of tribes east of the Mississippi River. The reservations of these eleven sovereign nations occu-py more than one-half million acres of Wisconsin’s most beautiful and unique landscapes. And nowhere will you find a betterPow Wow than at Indian Summer Festival in Milwaukee. (See location on map, page 48)

more native america & cultural history tours in wisconsin…

Travel Wisconsin

appleton, ashland, baraboo,bayfield, beloit, brookfield,chippewa falls, columbus, eauclaire, elkhorn, fort atkinson,fond du lac, green bay, hudson,la crosse, lake geneva, madison,manitowoc, milwaukee, minocqua,menomonie, mishicot, mount horeb,oshkosh, platteville, prairiedu chien, sparta, st. croix falls,stevens point, stoughton, sturgeonbay, sturtevant, superior, tomah,two rivers, watertown, waukesha,wausau, woodruff, wisconsin dells

august• Wisconsin State FairAugust 4-14, West Allis 800-884-3247

• Fiesta MexicanaAugust 12-14, Racine 262-308-3543

• Harbor Park Jazz & Blues FestivalAugust 20, Kenosha 262-654-2412

september• Revolutionary War EncampmentSeptember 3-4, Saukville 262-377-9620

• Apostle Islands Lighthouse CelebrationSeptember 7-17, Bayfield 715-779-5619

• Indian Summer FestivalSeptember 9-11, Milwaukee 414-604-1000

• Great Lakes BrewFestSeptember 16-17, Racine 262-636-9312

• Warren’s Cranberry FestivalSeptember 23-25, Warrens 608-378-4200

• Spirit of the St Croix Art FestivalSeptember 24-25, Hudson 715-386-8411

• Wade House 21st Annual Civil War WkndSeptember 24-25, Greenbush 920-526-3271

october• Cranberry FestOctober 1-2, Eagle River 800-359-6315

• Bayfield’s 50th Annual Apple FestivalOctober 7-9, Bayfield 800-447-4094

• OktoberfestOctober 8-9, Lake Geneva 800-345-1020

• Mishicot PumpkinfestOctober 15, Mishicot 920-755-4560

• Fall Foliage CruisesOctober 15-16,Prairie du Chien 877-647-7397

• Kohler Food & Wine ExperienceOctober 20-23, Kohler 800-344-2838

• A Fireside ChristmasOctober 27-December 22,Fort Atkinson 920-563-9505

november• Wisconsin Original Cheese FestivalNovember 4-5, Madison 608-358-7837

• Downtown Holiday ParadeNovember 12, Racine 262-634-6002


wisconsin cities

calendar of events

• Old World Wisconsin• Wade House• Villa Louis• Circus World• Madeline Island Museum

• H.H. Bennett Studio• Pendarvis• Stonefield• First Capital• Reed School


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PlymouthLocated in Sheboygan County, Plymouth is nestledin the gently rolling hills of the Kettle Moraine StateForest. Our quaint town is an ideal place for visitorsto rest, relax, and rejuvenate. Enjoy a leisurely strollthrough historic Plymouth’s downtown, visit thePlymouth Arts Center, tantalize your taste buds atone of our many restaurants and explore the manymagnificent historic houses and buildings whichhave been converted to bed and breakfast inns.Meander through Plymouth’s many quaint shops.Plymouth is conveniently located one hour north ofMilwaukee; one hour south of Green Bay; and twohours north of Chicago. Welcome to our paradise!

888-693-8263 / www.PlymouthWisconsin.com

Harley Davidson Museum

Whether your group members were born to bewild - or mild - makes no difference at the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee. Much more

than a nostalgia trip for motorcycle enthusiasts, theMuseum offers a glimpse of American history andculture like you've never seen it before. Excite andinspire your group with a custom-made experience,with a choice of 5 tour options and countless foodservice options provide your roadmap to adventure!

Walk through exhibits that tell the stories of theextraordinary people, products, history and culture ofHarley-Davidson.

Peek into a portion of the Archives never beforeopen to the public, home to over 450 motorcyclesand thousands of artifacts.

Stroll around the 20-acre Museum campus, enjoy

the riverwalk or just sit back along the waterfronttaking in the Milwaukee skyline.

Check out the unique Museum-inspired giftsavailable at The Shop.

Examine the industrial architecture both insideand outside the Museum’s three buildings.

877-HD-Museum / www.h-dmuseum.com

Real RacineRacine is conveniently located on the beautifulshores of Lake Michigan, just 25 miles south ofMilwaukee and 65 miles north of Chicago. Racineoffers a diverse selection of interesting, cultural,historical and entertaining attractions for the grouptraveler including a wide range of fine restaurantsand affordable accommodations.Points of Interest include:• Case-New Holland Tractor Assembly PlantTour - see tractors being manufactured frombeginning to end.

• Danish Bakeries for World-Famous Kringle -Authentic Danish pastry kringle

• Wind Point Lighthouse - built in 1880,considered to be the oldest and tallest workinglighthouse standing on Lake Michigan.

• SC Johnson Administration Building & TheGolden Rondelle Theater - the largest commercialproject designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

• Racine Art Museum - houses one of the mostsignificant collections of contemporary crafts ofany North American museum.

• Roots of Freedom Underground RailroadHistory Tour - In-town walking and driving toursand an out of town driving tour.

262-884-6400 / www.GroupsLoveRacine.com

Potowatomi Bingo - CasinoThe Forest County Potawatomi (FCP) have livedin Forest County, Wisconsin, since the late 1800s.To learn more about their heritage, visit thePotowatomi Cultural Center Library and Museum,

A Trip to Wisconsin is Truly Eye-OpeningWisconsin tourism offers a wealth of things to see, do and experience with your group. Drawing hundreds of thousands of visitorsannually—both nationally and internationally—tourism is the state’s third-largest industry. Culture enthusiasts are beside themselves whenthey experience the infinite number of Native American attractions. Adventurers discover new challenges in the many forests and lakes.History buffs are awed and inspired by landmarks and museums, and those seeking unique food and wine will always be satisfied at thethousands of restaurants available. A trip to Wisconsin is truly eye-opening and caters to groups of every kind. Read on to discover moreabout this exciting and welcoming tourism opportunity for your group.

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where you can view historical photos, read stories,see videos and learn the language.

For a day of entertainment, Potawatomi BingoCasino has everything you would want: tablegames, slots, bingo, poker, off-track betting. Take abreak from gambling and stop for dinner at one oftheir five restaurants. Fuel up between games ordine before a great show; linger over dessert orgrab a bite while watching your favorite sportsteam. Entertainment can be found in every corner ofPotawatomi Bingo Casino. From the stunningNorthern Lights Theater, which welcomes anarray of national acts, to musical performances atBar 360 and comedy shows at The Fire Pit’s sidebar, there’s always a great show to check out.

414-847-7910 / www.paysbig.com(See Ad on page 48)

Warren Cranberry FestivalWarren’s Cranberry Festival is the world’slargest cranberry festival. There is something foreveryone, including shopping, contests, a parade andmuch more.

This year marks the Festival’s 39th year. Sincethe first Festival in 1973, attendance has grownfrom 3,500 to over 110,000 each year! People fromall over come to enjoy the Festival - boasting over

850 Arts & Crafts booths, 350 Flea Market boothsand 100 Farm Market vendors. If you get hungrydoing all that shopping, head over to one of the 100Food Vendors for some tasty treats.

Your group can arrange to have a guided tour ofa cranberry marsh on Friday or Saturday duringthe Festival. You will be able to see harvestingequipment; cranberry beds and you will have theopportunity to purchase fresh cranberries, honeyand wine to take along home.

608-378-4200 / www.cranfest.com


http://www.cranfest.com/

http://www.foxhillsresort.com/

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S et in the scenic rolling countryside ofNortheast Wisconsin in Manitowoc

County, the Village of Mishicot offers visitorsa friendly, small-town atmosphere for whichMidwestern communities are famous, andtakes pride in creating an environment thatis relaxing and welcoming to visitors!

Located 30 miles SE of Green Bay, withinthe Village of Mishicot is one of Wisconsin’slargest vacation destinations, Fox Hills Resort.The Resort features 45 holes of golf, and isManitowoc County’s hub for year round funand entertainment.

Fox Hills Resort also offers safe andcomfortable lodging, swimming pools, fitnesscenter, sauna and spa. You’ll want to eat atone of the Resort’s convenient dining options.Their Willowview Restaurant is a value pricedrestaurant, Benchwarmers Sports Bar servesup “ginormous” sandwiches and appetizers,daily food and beverage specials and weekendentertainment. And, the 19th Hole Bar andGrill provides refreshments and sandwiches

for a quick grab ‘n go option.

Fox Hills Resort is eager to be yourdestination when planning your group tourof Northeast Wisconsin! Let them be theHub in your tour of the area. With Green Bayto our North, Sheboygan to our South, DoorCounty to our East and the Fox Cities to ourWest, Fox Hills is centrally located withconvenient access from major roadways!

Fox Hills Resort welcomes Motorcoachtravelers with a special room rate,complimentary lodging for the Escort andthe Driver (with 20 room minimum), step-onhostess to welcome your guests…luggagehandling is also available. Plus, the Resorthas over 15,000 square feet of banquet andmeeting space for group functions.

Call Diane Thon for more information at920-755-3625 or visit www.foxhillsresort.com.


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Come to Fox Hills Resort for the2011 ITINERARIES MIDWESTGroup Travel Show and FAMon September 25-27, 2011.

(see show ad on page 2)

directory & map

accommodationsFanny Hill Victorian Inn . . . . . . . .800-292-80263919 Crescent Avenue – Eau Clarie, WI [email protected] high on a hill overlooking the picturesque ChippewaRiver is one of Wisconsin’s biggest treasures, the enchantingFanny Hill Dinner Theatre. Celebrating over 32 years ofhilarious live theatre, award winning gourmet dining andfirst class service. It has earned the distinction of being oneof Wisconsin’s premier group tour destinations.

Fox Hills Resort . . . . . . .800-950-7615 Ext 3621250 W Church St – Mishicot, WI 54228www.foxhillsresort.comFox Hills Resort in Mishicot, Wisconsin features year roundlodging, activities, meeting/banquet space, swimming pools,onsite Restaurant and Sports Bar with weekend entertainment,spa services and 45 holes of golf. Minutes from Green Bay.

attractionsHarley Davidson MuseumMilwaukee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 877-HD-Museum

Potawatomi Bingo Casino . . . . .414-847-79101721 W Canal St – Milwaukee, WI [email protected] Potawatomi Bingo Casino you’ll experience plenty of casinoaction 24/7! The casino offers 500 slot machines, 8 tablegames, bingo and much more!

convention & visitorsbureaus and chambersPlymouth Chamber/Visitors CenterPlymouth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-693-8263

Real Racine Racine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262-884-6400

eventsWarrens Cranberry Festival Inc.Warren . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 608-378-4200

Indian Summer Festival


http://www.paysbig.com/

Fort William Historical Park, Thunder BayFor centuries, the Aboriginal peoples from North America cultivated many relationships not only with the land, plants, andanimals, but also through the ritual of trading.

Annually in August Fort Williams Historical Park welcomes Aboriginal re-enactors to join Fort staff to re-create this excitingtime in Canada’s (known as “Kanata” by aboriginals) history as it played out on the shores of the Great Lakes and theKaministiquia (Gaa-mi-nis-tig-weyaa) River. Experience the Aboriginal culture through performance and fine arts, music, food,exposition, and history.

Consider Fort William’s other unique options for your group, in addition to touring this historic site, you may wish to enhanceyour visit with private dinner parties, workshops, nature activities and many other one of a kind experiences. Spend thenight for an exceptional adventure that engages your group in the past through active participation and costumed role-playing!(See location on map, page 50)

more native america & cultural history tours in central canada…

manitobaashern, binscarth, brandon,dauphin, flin flon, grandrapids, portage la prairie,selkirk, steinbach, the pas,st. andrews, thompson, winnipeg

ontarioatikokan, dryden, flanders,fort frances, kenora, longlac,sault ste. marie, sioux lookoutthunder bay, vermilion bay

central canada cities

calendar of events

Keep Exploring

august• FolkloramaJuly 31-August 13,Winnipeg, MB 800-655-0234

• Festa ItaliaAugust 5-6, Thunder Bay, MB 800-667-8386

• Blueberry FestivalAugust 14, Sault St Marie, ON 705-759-5443

• Anishnawbe Keeshigun Aboriginal FestivalAugust 19-21,Thunder Bay, ON 800-667-8386

• Subury SummerfestAugust 25-28, Sudbury, ON 705-688-7570

• Morden Corn and Apple FestivalAugust 26-28, Morden, MB 204-823-2676

september• Dragon Boat FestivalSeptember 9-11,Winnipeg, MB 204-982-1830

• Riverfest 2011Sept 10, Thunder Bay, MB 807-625-2230

• Bushplane DaysSeptember 17-18,Sault St. Marie, ON 877-287-4752

• War of 1812 Rendezvous and Fur TradeSeptember 22-25,Sault St. Marie, ON 705-759-5443

• Bay Street Film FestivalSeptember 29-October 2,Thunder Bay, MB 800-667-8366

october• Algoma Fall FestivalOctober 1-29,Sault St. Marie, ON 705-949-0822

• Migration FestivalOctober 1-2,Oak Hammock Marsh, MB 204-467-3300

november• Manitoba Ahbee Festival:Bringing People TogetherNovember 2-6, Winnipeg, MB 866-449-0251

• Winnipeg Aborginal Film FestivalNov 17-26, Winnipeg, MB 204-943-1970

december• Canad Inn Winter WonderlandDecember 2-January 1,Winnipeg, MB 204-888-6990


New Iceland Heritage Museum, GimlDedicated to preserving and presenting this fascinatingchapter of Manitoba's history. Begin your group visit with aten-minute film. The "New Iceland Saga" tells the story of onepioneer family through the eyes and experiences of fourgenerations. Inside the museum you will find a painting thatcomes to life, a full size tent and a pioneer cabin, plusknowledgeable local guides will take you on a guided walkingtour suited to the specific interests of your group.

Le Musee de Saint-Boniface Museum, WinnipegSaint-Boniface Museum highlights the French-speaking andMétis heritage of Manitoba. The permanent exhibits includethe history of the Grey Nuns and how their convent wasbuilt. A collection of artifacts connected with Louis Riel is ofnational importance and can be seen in the exhibit “Louis Riel,Son of Red River and Father of Manitoba.” Other displayscontain artifacts related to the Métis people and the Red RiverColony. The period rooms illustrate traditional crafts and dailylife among French-Canadian families at the start of the 20thcentury. Visit their gift shop offering a variety of souvenirs,gifts and heritage-themed items related to the fur trade andthe French and Métis cultures.

Fort la Reine Museum, Pioneer Villageand Tourist Bureau, Portage la PrairieOver 25 buildings displaying thousands of artifacts includingnative artifacts that pre-date the arrival of Europeans. Seeexamples of the square cut log homes, early stick builthouses, to the comparatively modern homes constructedafter World War I, and to a Pioneer Village that served as theircommercial centre, the Museum offers fine examples of themall.On the east side of the property, there is the Allis-ChalmersMuseum, which is the largest indoor display of Allis-Chalmersequipment in the world.

Canadian Museum for Human Rights, WinnipegSet for completion in 2012, Canada’s Museum for HumanRights is a bold new project whose mission statement isto explore the history of human rights from around the worldwith special interest in Canada. The Content Advisory Boardfor CMHR has been traveling around the country collectingstories and perspectives from locals and using their feedbackto incorporate into the exhibits. An inspiring national landmarkin the making since March of 2008, the museum will be awelcoming place for all ages, genders, abilities, cultures,orientation and beliefs while promoting respect, reflectionand dialogue.


convention & visitorsbureaus and chambersTourism Thunder BayThunder Bay, Ontario . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-227-2227

Winnipeg Tour Connection . . . . . 800-665-0204Winnipeg, Manitobawww.tourismwinnipeg.comWinnipeg offers a variety of signature experiences, uniqueproducts and warm hospitality for your next travel group.We’ve made it easier than ever to plan your next trip withup-to-date planning features, specialized itineraries, images,video and promotional materials.

directory & map

I

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Eat Drink and Be MerryThis itinerary can be customized for anytime of the year.

Discover Winnipeg’s unique neighborhoods as yousearch for the ultimate in taste-tempting food.

day oneArchaeologists believe the land at the intersection ofthe Red and Assiniboine Rivers was a gatheringplace for indigenous people 6,000 years ago. TodayThe Forks, as it is known, is a bustling centre ofdining, entertainment and shopping. The Forks Marketis a food emporium with a mix of ethnic restaurantsand made-in-Manitoba food items. The aroma of cin-namon buns leads you to Tall Grass Prairie Bakery,where your group can bake their own loaf of breadand enjoy the samples. Or taste local delicacies at TheCurrent Restaurant at the Inn at The Forks. Developyour culinary skills under the expert guidance of theinstructors at De Luca’s Cooking Studio as theydemonstrate a variety of authentic Italian dishes.The Manitoba Japanese Cultural Centre offers tipson sushi rolling and the art of presentation. Localchocolatiers celebrate Winnipeg flavors in theircreations – try Mordens’ of Winnipeg or ConstancePopp. Both have a signature spin on what a Manitobatreat should taste like.

Winnipeg’s ethnic food restaurants not onlyserve the best of their cultural cuisine, but featureinternational dishes influenced by Manitoba’sregional cuisine flavors.

Ukraniain perogies, Greek souvlaki and Indiancurry are all available throughout the city. CorydonAvenue, also known as “Little Italy”, is noted forits popular patio restaurants, gelaterias and bars.Over the past decade, the area has changed frompredominately Italian cuisine to include tastes fromaround the world. Soak up the atmosphere and enjoythe sights and sounds as you stroll the avenue.

day twoFor a glimpse into Winnipeg’s past, head to TheExchange District National Historic Site, a30-block neighborhood comprised of stunningarchitecture, where a large portion of the city’svibrant arts and culture scene can be found alongwith bustling restaurants and trendy boutiques.

Osborne Village is a densely populated enclaveboasting an eclectic and electric dining, shoppingand nightlife scene.

Your night-cap can include local Manitoba beeroptions; Fort Garry Lager, Half Pints or Crown RoyalWhiskey – brewed from the waters of Lake Winnipeg!

For more information or to customize this sampleitinerary for your group, please contact yourtour operator or Winnipeg Tour Connection 1-800-665-0204, [email protected].

Fort Williams Historical Park

Fort Williams Historical Park


http://www.tourismwinnipeg.com/

find these “group-friendly” hotels online now:

If you are a group-friendly hotel and want information to participate in www.grouplodgingmidwest.com, call the Itineraries Inc. office at 1-877-832-7267.

Designed by group travelers, grouplodgingmidwest.com is the premier online travel tool that gives you allthe information you need to plan upper Midwest group travel stays. Enjoy peace of mind knowing you havethe right contact names, numbers, maps, photos and little details that always make a difference.Bookmark grouplodgingmidwest.com today and come back often for new hotels to check out.

IOWACORALVILLE/IOWACITY

Suburban Extended Stay HotelMINNESOTA – Northern

ALEXANDRIAHampton InnBRAINERDThe LodgeDULUTH

Comfort Inn - WestComfort SuitesHampton InnMOORHEAD

AmericInn Lodge & SuitesSARTELL

AmericInn Lodge & SuitesMINNESOTA – Twin Cities Metro

BLOOMINGTONCambria Suites

Comfort Inn AirportCountry Inn & SuitesAt Mall of America

Country Inn & Suites WestCourtyard by Marriott MPLS/Bloomington

Crowne Plaza BloomingtonDays Inn Bloomington WestEmbassy Suites Bloomington

Embassy Suites Minneapolis AirportExtended Stay AmericaFairfield Inn by MarriottHampton Inn BloomingtonHampton Inn & Suites

Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis/BloomingtonHilton Minneapolis/Bloomington HotelHilton Minneapolis/St. Paul AirportHoliday Inn Bloomington Airport I-35Holiday Inn Express Minneapolis

Airport/Mall AreaHoliday Inn & Suites Minneapolis Airport

Homewood Suites by HiltonHyatt Place Minneapolis Airport-SouthLa Quinta Inn Bloomington-Minneapolis

La Quinta Inn & SuitesLe Bourget Aero Suites Hotel

Microtel Inn & SuitesMinneapolis Airport Marriott

Park PlazaQuality Inn & Suites

Ramada Mall of AmericaResidence Inn Minneapolis/BloomingtonSheraton Bloomington Hotel-MPLS South

Sofitel Minneapolis

Staybridge SuitesSuper 8 MotelTravelodgeELK RIVERHoliday InnOTSEGO

Riverwood Inn & Conference CenterSAINT PAULSt Paul HotelSHAKOPEE

Americas Best Value Inn & SuitesNORTH DAKOTA

DICKINSON/MEDORARamada Grand Dakota Lodge

& Conference CenterWISCONSINEAU CLAIRE

Fanny Hill Victorian InnSIREN

The Lodge at Crooked LakeWABENO

Potawatomi Carter Casino Hotel

Join us in Mishicot, Wisconsin at Fox Hills Resort September 25-27, 2011 for the2011 ITINERARIES MIDWEST Group Travel Show and FAM.

Tour Operators, Bank Club Directorsand qualified Group Leaders will have time for…

- Appointment Sessions- Open Trade Show- Find Out What’s New- FAM Tour

Register today for the opportunity towin a FREE NOOK eReader!

Call 877-832-7267 or visitwww.itinerariesmidwest.com.


http://www.grouplodgingmidwest.com/

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Documents

Itineraries Midwest Summer 2011