Itineraries Midwest Winter 2015-16

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www.lakotaways.com

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featuring

6 Timeless Trippingcolumns

4 festivals ABA’s Top 100 Events of 2016

8 BEST OF feature itinerary-1City Nights & Northern Lights

11 BEST OF feature itinerary-2St. Joseph Arts & Culture

12 BEST OF feature itinerary-3Main Street Across Nebraska

50 calendar of events

Best of Itineraries Midwest: It’s a blast from the past asItineraries pays tribute to its most memorable group tours.Since 2001, our magazine has highlighted a wide variety ofgroup tour ideas including festivals, scenic byways, agri-tourism,theatre, wineries and many more. This magazine is chock-full ofmotorcoach-friendly tours for a wide range of interests.

on the cover

l e t t e r f r o mt h e pub l i s h e r

Dear Planner,

Many of our readers have commented that they love to refer back to our pastmagazines in order to find group tour ideas. So rather than a specific theme for thisissue, we’ve decided to dig through our Itineraries library and dust off our favoritetours, give them an updated makeover, and present them to you once again!

This issue covers everything from cars to wineries, farming to festivals. Discoverendless shopping opportunities in Minnesota, travel back to the Wild West in NorthDakota, then steer your motorcoach to South Dakota for a breathtaking drive alongscenic byways and vistas. Or start your tour in Iowa, where unique arts & craftsawait. Then indulge in food festivals in Illinois and Native American culture inWisconsin. You’ll also find one of our all-time favorite itineraries, featuring a 14-daytrip between the U.S. and Canada. If variety is what your groups have been lookingfor, then look no further!

Now read on to discover Itineraries Midwest’sgreatest hits! And stay tuned for an all new,never-before-seen theme for our next issue!

Best Regards,Heather J. Lahren, CEO - Publisher

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

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iowa - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 17

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

kansas - - - - - - - - - - - - - 20

Guy GetawaysBreweries, car shows, sporting events, outdooradventures, golf, gaming and more…this issue willbecome your new favorite travel tool when planningthat perfect “man-cation” for your group. You’ve heardof girlfriend getaways. Well, this issue caters to thegroup that prefers things a little more rugged.

table of contentswinter 2015-16

michigan - - - - - - - - - - - 21

Coming Spring/Summer 2016 !

56 South 33rd Avenue, #234 | St. Cloud, Minnesota 56301320-259-1082 | 877-832-7267 | Fax: [email protected] | www.itinerariesmidwest.com

Heather J. Lahren | [email protected]

Mackenzie Lahren | PROJECT [email protected]

Eric Beuning | ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE [email protected]

Debi Burger | SALES [email protected]

Chris Reber |WEB DESIGNER/[email protected]

Ashley Nelson | ASSOCIATE GRAPHIC DESIGNER;MARKETING MANAGER | [email protected]

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Heather Lahren, Kathleen Somers,Ashley Nelson, andMackenzie Lahren | ITINERARIES Inc.

Britt Aamodt, Chelsea Einerwold

We make every effort to be as accurate as possible, but assumeno responsibility for errors or omissions found in this magazine

or any 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.

56 South 33rd Avenue #234, St. Cloud, MN 56301

PHOTO CREDITS

Albert Lea CVB, Alpenfest, American Music & Vintage Arts Fest,Arch Camp, The Archway, Baraboo’s Big Top Parade & CircusCelebration, Chicago Architecture Foundation, Chicago Flowerand Garden Show, Greater Des Moines CVB, Dodge City CVB,Eagan Convention & Visitors Bureau, Explore Minnesota, ExploreSouthern Minnesota, Feast of Nations, Garden Glow, Harold WarpPioneer Village, Indian Summer Festival, International CarillonFestival, International Festival, Jacksonville Area CVB, LakotaWays, Lutsen Mountains, Mackinac Island, Mall of America,Medora CVB, MN River Valley National Scenic Byway, NebraskaFirefighters Museum & Education Center, Norsk Hostfest, NorthDakota Tourism, Northfield CVB, Nouveau Wine Weekend, OldCreamery Theatre, Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce &Tourism, Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway, Pictured RocksBoat Cruises, Plymouth Chamber of Commerce, PlymouthPlayhouse, Potawatomi Hotel & Casino, Route 66, SnowFest 2016,South Dakota Office of Tourism, St. Cloud Area CVB, St. JosephCVB, Visit St. Louis, Thunderhead Brewery, Topeka VisitorsBureau, Trainland U.S.A. , Travel Iowa, Travel Manitoba, UnitedTribes International Powwow, Wadena Area Chamber ofCommerce, The Wallace Centers of Iowa, Warrens CranberryFestival, Winter Wonderland, Worthington Area Chamber/CVB

COPYR IGHT 2015 - 1 6


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festivals

Congratulations to these events for being selected as part of the

American Bus Association’sTOP 100 EVENTS OF 2016

With the release of the American Bus Association’s 2016 Top 100 Events in North America, ABA is celebratingits 34th year of this coveted annual list. What began as a way for motorcoach operators to incorporate newproducts into their itineraries has grown into one of the most sought-after lists by travel professionals, motorcoachoperators and the general public. The following list showcases the events taking place in the Midwest.

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ILLINOIS

1-International Carillon FestivalSpringfield, ILJune 1–5, 2016www.carillon-rees.org/events/carillon-festival

The International Carillon Festival is locatedin historic Washington Park. This free eventalso has tours available for your group andfeatures evening concerts by some of theworld’s best carillonneurs. Allow 30 minutesfor your tours.

KANSAS

2-Tulip Time in TopekaTopeka, KSApril 4–24, 2016www.visittopeka.com

This two-week event gives visitors theopportunity to explore more than 100,000tulips and daffodils as they bloom aroundthe city in three locations: Lake Shawnee’sTed Ensley Botanical Gardens, Old PrairieTown in Ward-Meade Historical Park andDoran Rock Garden. Each location has itsown events.

3-Dodge City DaysDodge City, KSJuly 29–August 7, 2016www.dodgecitydays.com

This is a 10-day celebration hosting morethan 50 events, including the award-winningPRCA Hall of Fame Dodge City Rodeo.Come see why TIME Magazine namedDodge City’s Roundup Rodeo one of the“50 Authentic American Experiences.”Located in one of the country’s lastremaining Wild West towns, it’s the“Greatest Show on Dirt!”

MICHIGAN

4-Mackinac IslandLilac FestivalMackinac Island, MIJune 3–12, 2016www.mackinacisland.org

This 10-day festival is one of the Island’sbiggest attractions. Enjoy “A Taste ofMackinac,” held on the lawn of the HarbourView Inn and surrounded by some ofthe Island’s oldest lilacs. Sample culinaryfavorites from local chefs, wine tasting, andmore. Other festivities include the coronationof the Lilac Festival Queen & Court, GrandHotel History Lecture, horse drawn carriagetours, numerous concerts, and boat cruisesunder the Mackinac Bridge.

5-AlpenfestGaylord, MIJune 12–16, 2016www.gaylordalpenfest.com

Alpenfest is Gaylord’s unofficial annualhomecoming weekend. Home of the “World’sLargest Coffee Break,” Gaylord’s beautifulAlpine Village Main Street transforms intothe Alpenstrasse. The event includes apancake breakfast, main street arts & craftsfair, ethnic foods and a parade.

MISSOURI

6-American Music& Vintage Arts FestBranson, MOApril 27–28, 2016www.bransontravelplanning.com

Branson’s largest springtime event offersyou the opportunity to sample some ofBranson’s top 20 entertainers during twodays of matinee performances. Guests havethe opportunity to win prizes throughoutthe event.

7-Route 66:Main Street Through St. LouisSt. Louis, MOJune 25, 2016–Feb 12, 2017www.mohistory.org/route66

Explore the local history of this world-famoushighway known as The Mother Road. Hearstories about the motels and tourist trapsthat could be found along the road as itmeandered through St. Louis. All reservedgroups receive meet/greet orientation withcoupons for use in the Museum Store.

8-Garden GlowSt. Louis, MONov 19, 2016–Jan 1, 2017www.mobot.org

The Missouri Botanical Garden transformsinto Garden Glow each winter, featuring morethan a half million lights. Walkways becomesensory light tunnels with installations alongthe pathways, giving the feel of a fairyland.Take time to shop at the Garden Gate Shop.

NORTH DAKOTA

9-Medora MusicalMedora, NDJune 3–Sept 10, 2016www.medora.com

Experience this Wild West musical under theBadlands sky in the 2,900-seat Burning HillsAmphitheatre. This outdoor production featuressinging, dancing, and nationally known

comedy and variety acts. Dedicated toTheodore Roosevelt’s time in the Badlands,the Medora Musical is brand-new each yearand celebrates the spirit of the West.

10-United TribesInternational PowwowBismarck, NDSeptember 8–11, 2016www.unitedtribespowwow.com

This annual powwow attracts more than1,800 dancers and representatives frommore than 70 tribes, making this one of thelargest gatherings in the North Central States.Enjoy arts & crafts, food vendors, traditionalceremonies and more.

11-Norsk HøstfestMinot, NDSept 27–Oct 1, 2016www.hostfest.com

America’s premier Scandinavian festivalcelebrates the Scandinavian culture andcuisine of Nordic countries. Enjoy one dayor take in all four days to see several freestages of entertainment and amazingperformances in the Great Hall of Vikings.The food will not disappoint!

WISCONSIN

12-Baraboo’s Big Top Parade& Circus CelebrationBaraboo, WIJuly 23, 2016www.bigtopparade.com

Baraboo is the historic home of the worldfamous Ringling Bros. Circus. The main eventis the Big Top Parade, featuring more than75 circus and community entries, includingantique circus wagons, animals, clowns,and bands.

13-Warrens Cranberry FestivalWarrens, WISeptember 23–24, 2016www.cranfest.com

The world’s largest cranberry festival inWarrens, Wisconsin has something foreveryone, including shopping, contests,marsh tours, and a parade. The festivalboasts 850 arts & crafts booths, 350 fleamarket & antique booths, and 100 farmmarket vendors.

To view the complete list,visit www.buses.org.

ABA TOP 100 EVENTS OF 2016

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TLet’s start with your business. You know, bringing groups together and loading themon a motorcoach and taking them to destinations. It’s fun, right? Yes, I know it’s alot of hard work, but there is also a real sense of accomplishment when you knowyou’ve done a good job. Everyone had a great time and the entire experience wasa net positive. So once in awhile it’s nice to reflect back on what worked, what wasa huge success, and where your greatest sense of pride came from. This time of yearjust lends itself to that sort of reflection.

So here at Itineraries, we thought it would be fun to highlight some of our favoriteattractions over the years since we were first published back in 2002. Then itoccurred to me that choosing a favorite theme, destination, or magazine might bea little like trying to choose your favorite child. It all depends on the day of the week,stage of development, or at my age, who called home most recently. So instead,I have decided to highlight some of my most memorable tour ideas. Hoping you enjoywhat we have put together for you, we also would like to encourage you to reflect onyour own successes. Perhaps it will inspire you to bring back some old favorites.

TimelessTripping

It’s Showtime!In the spring of 2010,Itineraries Midwest had thetheme of “Theaters Big andSmall.” We shared some ofthe advantages of taking yourgroups to the theatre. I stilllove that idea, perhapsbecause I have always lovedlive theatre, and the groupexperience just makes it evenbetter. From professionalBroadway type performancesto local theatre experiences,groups love live theatre, andplanners love to give theirgroups the opportunity. It’s amatch made in heaven. Manyof the Midwest’s playhouses,big and small, cater to thegroup tour market, offeringdiscounts, free parking, arrivalreceptions, behind-the-scenestours and other optionstailored to make your jobeasier and entice repeatbusiness. It’s a win-win-win:good for you, good for them,and great for your groups.

The Midwest is hometo every style of theatreavailable, without the stickershock of a New York play.You’ll find dramas andcomedies, farces and streetplays, elaborate productionswith huge casts and sets, orsmall one man/woman showswith little more than aspotlight. There are summerstock theatre festivals,paddleboat showboats, citypark productions and churchbasement ladies—or anythingin between! Plays are a groupexperience like no other.

Shows can be the solereason for a group outing orcombined with a much largerand longer trip. They can bea reason to get dressed upand show off your finest, or acasual outdoor amphitheatreexperience. Even the

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theatrical houses can be anattraction in and ofthemselves. With optionsrunning the whole gamut, itjust makes good sense toinclude a little drama in yourtrips…the good kind.

Wine CountryOnce considered strictlythe domain of France,winemaking became a popularfascination with Americanswhen California wines startedwinning awards and makinga name for themselves. Today,you don’t have to travel toCalifornia wine country totour a vineyard. Every state inthe Midwest is producingwines, with tours and tasting,and some are pretty darngood. Oh, I admit, I have beenon some terribly boring tourswhere I felt I had to drinkjust to tolerate them. But Ihave also been on someexcellent tours that were sosurprisingly entertaining andfun that I just couldn’t helpbut rave. How do you knowahead of time where thegood ones are? We don’tknow. Seems like trial anderror, word of mouth, andexperience are your best bets.That’s why ItinerariesMidwest has decided torun a little CONTEST.

I place wine tours in thesame category as breweries.While not all groups will lendthemselves to such outings,both tour types can be funand educational for yourgroups. Some will involvewalking through the vineyard;some will offer a large giftshop, tasting and otheramenities. Wineries can beas unique as the winesthemselves. There arewine/brewery trails that cantake days to complete, or you

can make one specific winerythe object of your daytrip.

Just as any good winecan be paired with acomplimentary food, yourwine tasting tour can bepaired with any number ofdestinations as part of a day’souting or multi-day trip.In Wisconsin, we once toureda cheese factory thatculminated in shoppingtheir store for cheese, andyou guessed it, wines.Brewery/wine tourscomplement each other, butalso go well with restaurants,theatre, or agriculturethemes. So popular is theidea, Itineraries hashighlighted the theme at leasttwice since the magazinebegan (summer 2002, summer2007). If you are not familiarwith this type of tour, acouple items to be aware of:states have different lawsaround sending wine throughthe mail, so be sure you workwith the winery if you wantyour group to be able to ship

wines home. Not all tastingrooms charge – it’s best toknow before you go. Manywill have a gift shop, but notall. Some will require moretime than others. What aboutfood? Some offer food andentertainment, some are open

7 days a week, but most arenot. Some are more seasonal.You can be sure the onesadvertising in Itineraries areeager to serve your group.Just make sure you get allyour details straight fromthe winery before booking.

Down on the FarmEmerging as one of the mostpopular types of group travelis agricultural tourism. Youmight recognize the similaritybetween wineries andagri-tours because, after all,vineyards are growing cropslike any other farmer. Stillthere’s a difference. In winterof 2012 we wrote about theLoess Hills area of Iowa,specifically Honey CreekCreamery and a goat herdernamed Sharon Oamek (“KidsMake the Darndest Tours!”).That’s just one example ofwhy Agritourism Worldreports 89% of groupsare planning to includeagri-tourism in future travel,and 87% would recommend

farm/market visits to friendsand family. Fresh air toursfeed the soul as well as themind. Choose a hay wagonride, apple picking, corn mazeor visit a working farm.America’s Midwest is a treasuretrove of opportunities to get

your group back to nature anddown on the farm. Considertulip bulb festivals, horticul-tural gardens or berry picking.Have you been to Wisconsin’sCranberry Discovery Centerand Wetherby CranberryCompany? One of the besttours I have personallyenjoyed was at Wetherby’s.Or maybe think outside thebox a little with a horse balletat Tempel Farms in Illinois(home of the Lipizzans), ora Bees & Blossoms Tour atArbor Day Farm in Nebraska,or tapping the sugar maplesin Minnesota.

The more you thinkabout it, the more ideasyou’ll come up with. Andalong the way your group willbe exposed to some of NorthAmerica’s most stunningvistas. Pretty prairie lands orbeautiful Black Hills trailscan be part of the adventure.Scenic byways and the GreatMississippi River Road couldmake getting there half thefun. Remember to include

interactive presentations likestate parks and arboretumsoffer. The Midwest, with hervibrant natural settings, willstimulate all the senses,making your agri-tourismadventure unforgettable.

Evaluate and submit yourfavorite (or not-so-favorite) wine tours

for a chance to win a PRIZE!

All evaluations will be posted online.Details and deadlines can be accessed on our website at

www.itinerariesmidwest.com.


City Nights & Northern LightsA 14-day Two Nation sample itinerary.

feature itinerary-1

Travel to one of the most diverse and unspoileddestinations on the North American continent. Thenorthern lights still appear in the night skies inremote areas, yet the cities offer a wealth ofentertainment and shopping temptations. Great forgroups of all ages!

day oneMinneapolis & Saint Paul, MN9:00 am – 12:00 pmThe Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul arenot identical twins. Minneapolis’ contemporary, sleekskyscrapers contrast with Saint Paul’s European-stylearchitecture. Enjoy a city tour including Minneapolis’Nicollet Mall, Guthrie Theater, Walker ArtCenter and Sculpture Garden. In Saint Paul, theVictorian homes on Summit Avenue lead to the SaintPaul Cathedral, State Capitol, Ordway Center forthe Performing Arts, Science Museum ofMinnesota, James J. Hill House, & the MinnesotaHistory Center.12 – 6:00 pmGroups are greeted upon arrival at Mall of America®.A mall representative will assist with shoppingmaterials and share some of the history of this“city within a city.” The USA’s largest shopping/entertainment center beckons shoppers with over520 stores for tax-free shopping and 50 restaurantsthat appeal to a variety of tastes.6 – 11:00 pmEnjoy an evening of entertainment in the HennepinAvenue Theater District, Chanhassen Dinner

Theater, or the Plymouth Playhouse.

day twoMinneapolis/Saint Paulto Bemidji, MN (230 miles)8:00 am – 12:00 pmTravel the Great River Road along the MississippiRiver to Little Falls, MN. Relive Charles Lindbergh’sflight across the Atlantic with a visit to the LindberghHome and Interpretive Center.12 – 1:30 pmIn Bemidji, a giant statue of Paul Bunyan, mythicalgiant lumberjack, stands by Lake Bemidji with his blueox, Babe. Legend says Paul’s footsteps formedMinnesota’s 10,000 lakes when he and Babe took awalk after a rainstorm.1:30 – 5:00 pmIn nearby Itasca State Park, the Mississippi Rivertrickles out of a spring-fed lake, beginning its 2,552-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can walkacross the headwater stones or a log bridge.Naturalist-guided excursions are available.

day threeBemidji, MN to Winnipeg, MB (229 miles)8:00 am – 1:00 pmFrom Bemidji, travel north to Winnipeg (Manitoba’scapital), a cosmopolitan city with an exciting anddiverse range of attractions, activities, dining, shoppingand people.1 – 3:00 pmWith roots as an early fur trade hub, and later a gateway

to Canada’s pioneer west and a center of commerce,Winnipeg boasts rich history. Explore stunning turn-of-the-century architecture while strolling the streetsof the Exchange District, a National Historic Site,and taste the old world charm of over 45 restaurantsand cafés.3 – 5:00 pmClimb aboard a replica ship from the fur trade era atThe Manitoba Museum, or take a glimpse into the lifeof a voyageur at Lower Fort Garry National HistoricSite. Tour the Royal Canadian Mint to see howCanada makes their currency.5 – 9:00 pmSpend a little time at one of the city’s two casinos.Evening activities include dinner theatre, Broadwaymusicals, gaming and dining.

Year-round festivals dot the social calendar of thisurban oasis on the prairie. The world’s largestmulticultural festival, Folklorama, in August andFebruary’s “Kitchen Party” at the Festival duVoyageur are just two of the over 140 festivals youcan enjoy throughout the year.

day fourWinnipeg to Riding MountainNational Park, MB (142 miles)12 – 4:00 pmHeading west along the Trans-Canada/YellowheadHighway, take time to smell the lilies at Neepawa’sLily Nook and visit the Margaret Laurence Museum,a living memorial to its author. Turn north onto

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Earth lodge -Knife River Indian Villages National Historic SiteLake Audy -Riding Mountain National Park


CITY NIGHTS & NORTHERN LIGHTS

Highway 10 and end up in Riding Mountain NationalPark, a wild and wonderful mecca with its cool lakes,rushing rivers and dense green forests. It is home toelk, deer, black bear and other magnificent wildlife,along with its own herd of bison, which roam therange at Lake Audy.4:00 pmEnjoy the evening at the nearby townsite ofWasagaming or Clear Lake, located in the heartof Riding Mountain National Park. They offer shops,restaurants, a movie theater, a museum, visitorcenter, marina, accommodations and a championshipgolf course.

day fiveRiding Mountain National Parkto Boissevain, MB (115 miles)9 – 11:00 amDepart early and spot the wildlife as you drive south toBrandon. This is Manitoba’s second largest city with apopulation of 47,000.11:00 am – 2:00 pmRich agricultural heritage is showcased at the DalyHouse Museum and the Commonwealth Air TrainingPlan Museum, where pilots from throughout theCommonwealth trained for World War II.2 – 5:00 pmA warm prairie welcome awaits you in Boissevain,voted one of Canada’s most beautiful towns. Itfeatures outdoor art murals, the Moncur Gallery, theIrvin Goodon International Wildlife Museum,Walkinshaw Place’s map of Canada fields, and

Dueck’s Cedar Chalet for a homemade meal.5 – 7:00 pmBoissevain is located just north of the InternationalPeace Garden in Dunseith, North Dakota. This2,339-acre botanical garden commemorates peacebetween the U.S. and Canada. It has 155,000flowers and is open all year with peak flowers in Julyand August.

day sixDunseith to Minot, ND (90 miles)9 – 10:30 amThe Turtle Mountain Scenic Byway covers 24 milesthrough the tree-covered Turtle Mountains with beautifullakes, lush foliage and an abundance of wildlife.10:30 am – 12:00 pmIn Minot, visit the Scandinavian Heritage Park. ThisNordic heritage park features the Gol Stave ChurchMuseum, a Danish windmill, Finnish sauna, a 240-year-old Norwegian log house, a replica stabbur,Swedish Dala horse, and visitor center.12 – 3:00 pmThe Roosevelt Zoo offers educational displays, zootours and more than 200 mammals, birds and reptiles.3 – 4:00 pmTour and sample wines at Pointe of View Winery.North Dakota’s first bonded and commercial wineryoffers a variety of experiences on North Dakota nativefruits and sampling of the product.4 – 6:00 pmMinot’s unique restaurants offer entrées ranging frompheasant to elk, in addition to standard selections.

day sevenMinot to Bismarck, ND (110 miles)9:00 am – 12:30 pmKnife River Indian Villages National Historic Site inStanton was home to the Mandan and Hidatsa Indiansand last occupied in 1845. This site has remains ofthree Hidatsa villages, with 210 depressions and thehome of Sakakawea, as well as a modern museum,visitor center and a reconstructed earth lodge. Openyear round.12:30 – 3:30 pmIn Washburn, the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Centeris a world-class interpretive site along the route Lewisand Clark traveled on their “voyage of discovery” morethan 200 years ago. Nearby is the reconstructed site ofFort Mandan, winter home of Lewis and Clark, theCorps, and Sakakawea from 1804-1805.3:30 – 6:00 pmIn Bismarck, you can choose from a variety ofactivities. The North Dakota Heritage Center has oneof the world’s largest collections of Plains Indianartifacts, second only to the Smithsonian. FortAbraham Lincoln State Park, located on the banks ofthe Missouri River, includes On-A-Slant IndianVillage—a Mandan Indian village which thrived for200 years. Near the village is the Fort AbrahamLincoln Visitors Museum, displaying exhibits relatingto the life of the Mandan Indians and the militaryhistory of the fort. Before you leave the park, tour the7th Cavalry Commissary, barracks, horse stables and

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Journey Museum -Rapid City, SD

The Manitoba Museum -Winnipeg


CITY NIGHTS & NORTHERN LIGHTS

the Custer House—the last home and command ofGeneral George and Libbie Custer.6 – 9:00 pmConclude the day with a relaxing ride on the Lewis andClark Riverboat.

day eightBismarck to Medora, ND (128 miles)9 – 11:00 amMake a stop in Richardton at Assumption Abbey,a historic Bavarian Romanesque Catholic Church builtin 1909 and identified by its twin spires. The Abbeylibrary, gift shop, and wine cellar are open by request.11:00 am – 1:30 pmThe Ukrainian Cultural Institute in Dickinsonfeatures folk art, research library, Ukrainian exhibitsand food items.1:30 – 4:00 pmMedora, an authentic Old West cow town, wasfounded in 1883 by theMarquis de Mores and namedfor his wife. Tour the 26-room, 2-story house known asthe Chateau de Mores State Historic Site. The NorthDakota Cowboy Hall of Fame offers Western heritageand history of life on the plains with homesteaders andtrail drivers, American Indians, rodeos, and the impactof the horse.4 – 5:30 pmThe Billings County Courthouse Museum holdsmemorabilia, history of the county and courtroomstories of cowboys. Bully the Play, a one-manperformance from the Broadway play, presents the lifeof Theodore Roosevelt as president, father, husbandand hunter in the North Dakota Badlands.5:30 pmFor dinner, experience Pitchfork Steak Fondue, aunique western steak meal served at the TjadenCenter on the bluffs, offering a spectacular view of thescenic Badlands. After the Fondue, sit back and enjoythe Medora Musical, a Broadway-style musical showstaged outdoors in the Burning Hills Amphitheatre,which is carved into a Badlands canyon. Westernentertainment and a patriotic salute are part of eachshow. Trail rides, mountain biking, hiking, museums,many gift shops and restaurants are bustling duringthe summer season.

day nineMedora, ND to Deadwood, SD (220 miles)9:00 am – 12:00 pmTake a morning loop drive through TheodoreRoosevelt National Park. The colorful North DakotaBadlands provide the scenic backdrop to thispark. Named for the 26th U.S. President, the parkmemorializes his contribution to conservation. Atthe entrance to the South Unit of the park, tour theVisitors Center and Theodore Roosevelt’s Cabin fromthe Maltese Cross Ranch.12 – 3:00 pmEnjoy a picnic lunch at the park followed by horsebackriding, mountain biking, or hiking along the markedtrails of the Badlands on the Maah Daah Hey Trail,or canoe through the Theodore Roosevelt National Parkon the Little Missouri River.

3 – 7:00 pmDepart Medora for historic Deadwood, SD and enjoy ahistoric tour, learning about the 1876 gold rush and thecolorful characters that passed through here.7:00 pmTry your luck at gaming or visit historic attractions.In summer months, see re-enactments of the“Murder of Wild Bill Hickok” and the “Trial ofJack McCall.”

day tenDeadwood to Black Hillsto Rapid City, SD (112 miles)9 – 11:00 amTravel on Hwy 385 to Mount Rushmore NationalMemorial, America’s Shrine of Democracy. This driveoffers views of Pactola Lake, pine-covered mountains,and lush meadows.11:00 am – 1:00 pmCrazy Horse Memorial is a work in progress of amountain-sized man and his spirited horse. Hill Cityoffers many area artists’ shops on Main Street.1 – 8:00 pmBoard an historic 1880 train. Experience this relaxing20-mile round-trip ride between Hill City and Keystone.Back in Keystone, enjoy activities like shopping,presidential attractions, exploring Black Hills caves,touring a gold mine, or panning for gold. Eveningentertainment includes a lighting ceremony at MountRushmore National Memorial.

day elevenRapid City to Black Hillsto Rapid City, SD (147 miles)9:00 am – 12:00 pmCuster State Park’s Wildlife Loop offers opportunitiesto watch for 1,500 bison as well as pronghorn, deer,prairie dogs, elk, mountain goats and bighorn sheep inthis 71,000-acre wildlife preserve.12 – 2:00 pmTravel south to Wind Cave National Park and enjoy atour of unique box-work formations in the fourthlongest cave in the world.2 – 4:00 pmHot Springs offers The Mammoth Site, an activepaleontological dig site. Their current mammoth countis 61, with 58 Columbian and 3 woolly mammoths.4 – 5:30 pmThe Journey Museum in Rapid City gives awonderful overview of the Black Hills from the Lakotaand white man’s perspectives. Downtown Rapid Cityis a mecca for shoppers looking for Native Americanart. Black Hills Gold Jewelry tours are available to seehow this unique jewelry is made.5:30 – 8:00 pmJoin cowboys for a chuckwagon dinner, complete withsinging and entertainment, at the Fort Hays Old WestTown & Dinner Show.

day twelveRapid City to Mitchell, SD (288 miles)9 – 10:30 amTravel east on I-90 to the town of Wall, where a littlecountry drug store (Wall Drug) became famous foroffering free ice water, and now features one of the

largest collections of original western art in the country.10:30 am – 1:30 pmTravel the SD Hwy 240 Loop through BadlandsNational Park and enjoy the spires and pinnacles ofthis 244,000-acre wilderness area.1:30 – 4:30 pmTraveling east on I-90, you’ll find the Akta LakotaMuseum & Cultural Center in Chamberlain, offeringartifacts as well as modern day Native American art.4:30 – 6:00 pmContinuing east, attraction choices in Mitchell includetheWorld’s Only Corn Palace, theMitchell PrehistoricIndian Village and Dakota Discovery Museum.

day thirteenMitchell, SD to Austin, MN (261 miles)8 – 11:00 amTour Sioux Falls, South Dakota’s largest city,where options include a tour of Falls Park, theWashington Pavilion of Arts and Science, theOutdoor Campus, the Great Plains Zoo, and greatshopping opportunities.11:00 am – 3:00 pmCrossing the border into Minnesota, have lunch at alocal restaurant in Pipestone. Since 900 A.D., NativeAmericans have gathered catlinite (soft stone) from thequarry at Pipestone National Monument for peacepipes. Visitors can learn the history of Native Americanculture at an interpretive center, watch NativeAmerican craftspeople carve the pipestone, and walkthrough the quarry.3 – 7:00 pmStop in Albert Lea and enjoy dinner and othergroup-friendly accommodations.

day fourteenAustin toMinneapolis/Saint Paul, MN (112 miles)10:00 am – 12:30 pmGeorge A. Hormel began life in an 1861 log cabin, andthen went on to build a meat-processing empire inAustin. The most famous Hormel product, SPAM®,became linked forever with World War II as a staple forallied troops.12:30 – 2:30pmEn route toMinneapolis, visit Cabela’s (it’s not just forsportsmen) in Owatonna. A 35-foot mountain replicais inhabited with 100 trophies of wildlife species. Seenative and predator fish in a walk-through aquarium,snack on an ostrich or buffalo burger, and visit the artgallery. Depart for Minneapolis to conclude your CityNights and Northern Lights adventure.

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Continued from Page 9: City NIghts...

Call ahead...Explore Minnesota / 888-VISITMN

North Dakota Tourism / 800-435-5663

South Dakota Office of Tourism / 800-S-DAKOTA

Travel Manitoba / 800-665-0040

www.2nationtours.com


feature itinerary-2 ST. JOSEPH ARTS & CULTURE

1 1

Whether your group is looking to make historyor relive it, St. Joseph is the place to do it.Home to 17 distinctive area museums, 12annual festivals, and over 17 districts listed onthe National Register of Historic Places, thereis literally a story to tell around every corner.The Pony Express had its starting point inSt. Joseph, Lewis and Clark traversed thearea on their return trip in 1806, and outlawJesse James was shot and killed in his St. Johome in 1882. Your group is invited to revelin the tales scattered throughout the city.

St. Joseph has plenty to offer in arts andculture as well. The town has a world-class artmuseum, a renowned symphony orchestraand outstanding theatrical productions at thehistoric Missouri Theater. Don’t forget tocheck out what’s going on at MissouriWestern State University, where you canalways find an art exhibit, concert, or show!

day one9:00 am – 12:00 pmStart off with a tour of the Patee HouseMuseum, the former headquarters of the

Pony Express and finest hotel west of theMississippi. The museum features two fullfloors of exhibits including horse-drawnhearses, model railroads, the vintage WildThing Carousel, stagecoaches, a blacksmithshop, antique furniture and toys, and a wingdesigned to look like the streets of Old St. Jo.Don’t forget to stop at the home where JesseJames met his violent end.12 – 4:00 pmMount up and head to the Pony ExpressNational Museum. The famous mail deliveryservice started within these walls on April 3,1860. Your guide will give a personalizedtour of exhibits covering the creation, runningand demise of the Pony Express. Contact thePony Express National Museum to makearrangements for your group’s catering needs.They can fit any budget for catering along withmuseum tours.4 – 10:00 pmSettle into your hotel and head over to the JCWyatt House. This 1891 historic home serveswonderful cuisine in an authentic Victorianatmosphere (by reservation only). Spend therest of your evening at the Missouri Theater.

As with many of these old theaters, it too hasa wonderful story and a variety of entertainment.

day two10:00 am – 1:00 pmYour group will enjoy a leisurely walk throughthe exhibits at the Albrecht-Kemper Museumof Art. They house one of the finest collectionsof 18th, 19th, and 20th century American artin the Midwest. Call ahead to find out whoseartwork will be featured during your visit andfood arrangements can be made at theAKMA café.1– 4:00 pmSince it was founded 1843, St. Joseph hasbeen a hub for trading, buying and selling. Theoriginal trading posts of the 1800s have beenreplaced with shopping districts, antique storesand large enclosed malls. The Jesse JamesAntique Mall offers over 110 booths, 160showcases and 40 small shelving areasthroughout two large rooms, making it theregion’s largest antique mall and a must-stopfor your group. Other popular shopping optionsare the Shoppes at North Village, Stetson HatCompany Outlet Store, and the East Hills Mall.

St. Joseph Arts and CultureThis sample itinerary can be customized for any time of the year!

For more information or to customize this sample itinerary for your group,please call the St. Joseph CVB at 800-785-0360 or visit them online at www.stjomo.com.

FALL/WINTER 2011

Covered wagon Patee House Museum

Missouri Theater


Experience the Lincoln Highway Scenic &Historic Byway, one of Nebraska’s mostnostalgic and fascinating routes! It’s also theonly byway that spans the state from itseastern to western borders on US Highway30. Plus, this 400-mile byway is part ofthe original Lincoln Highway, America’sfirst transcontinental artery between SanFrancisco & New York. Now known as USHighway 30, this historic route lets you enjoya leisurely tour.

day one11:30 am – 1:30 pmStart your travels just north of the LincolnHighway Scenic & Historic Byway inMinden, home of the world-famous HaroldWarp Pioneer Village. Twenty-six buildings—including a sod house, one room school,Pony Express station, and an 1884 church—make up the village. It houses the oldestexisting Buick, plus 350 other antique cars, 20historic aircraft, 100 vintage tractors, guns,motorcycles, snowmobiles, boats, buggies,trains, and trolleys. The historic crafts ofspinning, weaving and broom-making aredemonstrated year-round.1:30 – 2:30 pmTravel north to Shelton, located on US Hwy 30(the byway). Stop at the Shelton HistoricalInterpretive Center & Lincoln HighwayVisitor Center. It is located in an historic1909 Meisner Building along 1 block of theoriginal Lincoln Highway bricks. View historyof the Lincoln Highway, including originalhighway markers, postcards and vintagememorabilia.2:30 – 4:00 pmContinue your travels west along the byway

to Kearney. View The Great Platte RiverRoad Archway Monument, the only touristattraction in the nation located over afederal interstate highway. The “Arch”commemorates westward expansion ofAmerica, including the West’s originalAmerican Indian inhabitants, the Oregon,California, and Mormon Trails, the earlypioneers, the modern railroad and more!Explore the history of transportation andcommunication along the famous Platte RiverRoad through great interactive exhibits.4 – 5:00 pmAlso in Kearney is The Nebraska FirefightersMuseum & Education Center. It recognizesthe history and dedication of Nebraska’smany brave firefighters and EMTs. Themuseum features the history of Nebraskafirefighting through images, artifacts andstate-of-the heart exhibits.5 – 7:00 pmStroll outdoors through the Cliff HillegassSculpture Garden. Then off to ThunderheadBrewery for some award-winning beer anddelicious pizza baked in a stone oven. Tours ofthe brewery can be arranged.7:00 pmCheck into your group-friendly hotel andspend the evening on your own. As youexplore Kearney look for Cranes on Parade, acommunity-wide art project featuring six-footfiberglass works of art.

day two9 – 10:00 amWake up and smell the coffee! Enjoybreakfast at your hotel before you boardyour motorcoach and travel west along thebyway to Lexington.

10 – 11:00 amExplore The Heartland Museum of MilitaryVehicles. The museum features an impressivecollection of military equipment & machinery,such as jeeps, ambulances, helicopters, tanksand a rare snow tractor.11:00 am – 1:00 pmLexington is also home to Mac’s CreekWinery & Vineyards. Sample excellentNebraska produced wines and tour thevineyards and production facilities. ThePrairie Bistro offers a light lunch menu ofsandwiches, salads, pizzas, and gourmetpicnic baskets. The staff will help you pairyour meal with great Mac’s Creek wines. TheBistro is open from 12 – 3pm.1 – 2:15 pmLoad the motorcoach and travel west alongthe byway to Gothenburg to see one of thefew Pony Express stations still intact inNebraska, located in the city park. Originalhistoric items are on display and you cansend postcards to friends and family backhome postmarked with the original PonyExpress stamp!2:15 – 4:00 pmContinue your travels on the byway to NorthPlatte. Enjoy a spectacular view of UnionPacific Railroad’s Bailey Yard, the world’slargest railroad classification yard, from atopthe 8-story Golden Spike Tower & VisitorCenter. The 95-foot tall tower and visitorcenter features an enclosed 360-degree viewof the action below, historical and regionalrailroad memorabilia, and a gift shop. You canchoose to continue your travels west alongthe Lincoln Highway Scenic & Historic Bywayall the way to Wyoming or end your travelsand head for home!

For more information or to customize this sample itinerary for your group,please contact your tour operator.

feature itinerary-3

SUMMER 2010

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Main Street Across NebraskaThe Lincoln Highway Scenic & Historic Byway

This sample itinerary can be customized for any time of the year!


MAINSTREET ACROSS NEBRASKA

13

Thunderhead Brewery

The Nebraska Firefighters Museum& Education Center

Arch camp

The Archway -Kearney


GALENA

Nouveau Wine Weekend

ring your group and raise a glassas they celebrate the release ofGalena Cellars’ Nouveau Wineand pay tribute to the region’s

rich heritage and culture! A traditionalhorse-drawn wagon parade deliversGalena Cellars’ Nouveau Wine to areabusinesses. Launched in 1985 by GalenaCellars winemaker Chris Lawlor, thiscelebration is based on the French BeaujolaisNouveau celebration. “Nouveau is a shortlyfermented wine from the fall’s harvest,” saysLawlor. “It’s meant to provide a preview of thevintage and celebrated.” Indulge in wine tastings,including not only Nouveau, but also everythingfrom elegant Oregon Pinot Noirs to stunning NapaValley Cabernet Sauvignons, crisp MarlboroughSauvignon Blancs to toasty Carneros Chardonnays.Enjoy wine dinners, wine-inspired spa packages, lodgingpackages, shopping and all that brings wine-lovers bliss.

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Illinois: Mile after Magnificent Mile.

spotlight

illinois

Annual Puerto RicanHeritage Festival | AURORA

Enjoy this group-friendly celebrationof Puerto Rican heritage andculture. This is a great opportunityto experience ethnic foods andauthentic music! Guests will alsoenjoy a parade, the Aurora TalentShow and the Miss Puerto Rico ofAurora contest. This two-day festivalfeatures endless food vendorsoffering wonderful cuisine, dominocompetitions, traditional folk music,Puerto Rican bands, Puerto Ricancraftsmanship vendors andnon-stop fun.

Taste of Chicago | CHICAGO

Grab your groups and prepare to fillup on food — from classic Chicagodishes, to specialty cuisines fromethnic neighborhood restaurants,to inspired chef creations. The city’srecipe for a fantastic food festivalcombines Top Chefs, Grammywinners, entertainment for all agesand several thousand tastingservings of favorite Chicago bites.This quintessential summer eventappeals to all of your senses. Takein dazzling Lake Michigan and itsmagnificent skyline – the backdropto this five-day event in Grant Park.Plan your trip today, and be sureto bring an appetite! This annuallakefront festival is held every July.

Swedish Days | GENEVA

Welcome to Swedish Days!Swedish Days (Svenskarnas Dag,Inc.) is the Midwest’s oldestMidsommar festival, dating back to1911. Swedish Days is celebratedannually on the third Sunday ofJune at Good Templar Park. Thisethnic festival, organized by theSwedish Day Committee, hasentertained the Fox Valley area forgenerations. Come out for the dayand enjoy beautiful Good TemplarPark! This group-friendly event hassomething for everyone: arts &crafts fair, Scandinavian food,Maypole Celebration, live music,children’s choir, and more.

Skokie Festival of CulturesSKOKIE

Since its inception in 1991, theSkokie Festival of Cultures hasbecome one of the premier ethnicfestivals in Illinois, attracting morethan 400,000 visitors and dozensof cultures, all representing Skokie’stremendous diversity. Explore thisfree “Tour of the World” where youand your group will enjoy two daysof ethnic folk music and dance, awide range of food, unique arts andcrafts, international children’s games,Whole Foods Market InternationalBeer Tasting, a merchandise bazaar,and dozens of cultural boothsand displays.

illinois festivals & more…

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SUMMER/FALL 2014


This renowned city features breathtaking architecture,rich history and astounding collections of public art.Let the Chicago Architecture Foundation showcasetheir city to your groups for an engaging, entertainingand memorable experience.

---8 – 11:00 amPut on your walking shoes this morning and discoveroutdoor Chicago. This tour will show off traditionalrealism such as the Art Institute’s bronze lions, allthe way to the sleek modernism of the “Cloud Gate,”located in Millennium Park. Discover lesser-knowngems hidden among skyscrapers as well asmonumental works by modern masters. Downtown isfilled with great public sculptures.11:00 am – 12:30 pmBrunch will be held at The Bristol. With a wide rangeof delicious brunch options, your groups will enjoy thisexperience.12:30 – 5:00 pmTake a ride out of downtown Chicago to experience thehistory of Frank Lloyd Wright in this afternoon bustour. Discover the neighborhood that Wright called homeand see where his famed Prairie style of architecturebegan. Explore the Wright home and studio as well asthe Historic District to find his “little jewel box.”5 – 7:30 pmDinner with a view awaits your group at The SignatureRoom at the 95th. Located atop the John HancockCenter along the Magnificent Mile, this fine diningrestaurant offers exquisite food, superb service, and adazzling skyline view.7:30 – 9:00 pmAll aboard for a Chicago’s First Lady cruise. A tourguide will interpret more than 50 beautiful buildingsthat stretch along the Chicago River. This architecturaltour will reveal how this small backcountry outpostcity turned into one of the world’s most importantcrossroads in just 100 years’ time. Enjoy it all fromChicago’s finest fleet.

day two9 – 11:30 amBegin your day at the Charles Gates Dawes House,home of former United States Vice President, WorldWar I Brigadier General, and Nobel Laureate CharlesGates Dawes. The Dawes House was built in 1895 onthe shores of Lake Michigan. The Evanston HistoryCenter resides in the home.11:30 – 1:00 pmEnjoy a group lunch at one of the numerous diningopportunities in the area. Chicago’s North Shore has arestaurant to suit every taste.1 – 2:30 pmContinue north on Sheridan Road as it winds its wayalong the shores of Lake Michigan. Take a moment tostop and view the Grosse Point Lighthouse, built by

the United States government in 1873 as the leadlighthouse marking the approach to Chicago afterseveral shipwrecks demonstrated its need. In 1999,Grosse Point Lighthouse was designated a NationalHistoric Landmark by the National Park Service—thefirst lighthouse on the Great Lakes to carry that status.2:30 – 3:30 pmFurther along Sheridan Road, the gleaming, nearly200-foot high dome of the Bahá’í House of Worshipcomes into full view. Over 30 years of constructionhave resulted in this striking landmark, whichoverlooks Lake Michigan and is one of the mostvisited sites on all of Chicago’s North Shore.Surrounded by nine formal gardens and fountains, itis one of seven Bahá’í temples in the world, and theonly one in the Western Hemisphere.3:30 – 5:00 pmAs you continue your travels north on Sheridan Road,your tour day ends at the Chicago Botanic Gardenwhere you can experience 23 beautiful gardens andthree natural habitats set on 385 acres of lush, rollinghills and tranquil lakes. Visitors can take walkingguided tours of the garden or take the popular tramtour. The trams wind through the far reaches of thegarden and give you hidden views of select gardens.It’s relaxing to traverse many far-reaching points of thegarden in the comfort and convenience of the tram.

Mile after Magnificent Mile.Read ITINERARIES Midwest Online.Ads hotlinked to websites.www.itinerariesmidwest.com

w w w. i t i n e r a r i e s m i d w e s t . c o m I T I N ERAR I E S M IDWEST W INTER 2015 - 1 6 15

Chicago: A Tour of World-Class ArchitectureThis sample itinerary can be customized for any time of year.

For more information or to customize thissample itinerary for your group, contact theChicago Architecture Foundation at 312-322-1130,email [email protected] or onlineat www.architecture.org.

For information & booking, contact Chicago’s NorthShore Convention & Visitors Bureau at 847-763-0011or visit www.visitchicagonorthshore.com.

Bahá’í House of Worship

Chicago Botanic Garden


www.architecture.org/groups

directory

Blackhawk Waterways Convention& Visitors Bureau. . . . . . . . . 800-678-2108201 N Franklin Avenue – Polo, IL [email protected] region of NW Illinois boasts the Ronald ReaganBoyhood Home, John Deere Historic Site, a VictorianCastle, group-friendly theatrical productions andunique lodging options. We cater our itineraries to yourgroup’s specifications.

Chicago ArchitectureFoundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 312-561-2165224 South Michigan Ave – Chicago, IL [email protected] world-class city features breathtaking architecture,rich history and astounding collections of public art. Letthe Chicago Architecture Foundation showcase theircity to your groups for an engaging, entertaining andmemorable experience.

Jacksonville Area CVB . . . 217-243-5678310 East State Street – Jacksonville, IL 62650visitors@jacksonvilleil.orgwww.jacksonvilleil.orgJacksonville is full of the unexpected. From our CivilWar and Abraham Lincoln connections, to the modernbusiness of today, the area offers something foreveryone. Let the Jacksonville Area CVB help youcreate a wonderful trip.

Mile after Magnificent Mile. Read ITINERARIES Midwest Online.Ads hotlinked to websites.

www.itinerariesmidwest.com

16 I T I N ERAR I E S M IDWEST W INTER 2015 - 1 6 1 - 8 7 7 - 8 3 2 - 7 2 6 7

day one10:00 am – 12:00 pmYour day begins with the Underground Railroaddriving tour. The hub of the Underground Railroad in the1800s, Jacksonville sheltered hundreds who wishedto escape the horrors of slavery. Enjoy a tour throughseveral local historic homes that served as shelters.

12 – 1:00 pmStop for lunch in historic downtown at Mulligan’s.Enjoy their “Irish pub and grub” that includes fabulousfood and beverages with excellent service.1 – 6:00 pmFollow in the footsteps of Abraham Lincoln thisafternoon in the Looking For Lincoln Audio Tour.Jacksonville has many Lincoln sites and twointerconnected tours. Start at the life-size statue of aseated Lincoln and his dog, then work your waythrough Jacksonville, finding all the connections to our16th president and a few exhibits with dramatizedaudio clips for an entertaining and educational tour.6 – 8:00 pmDinner tonight is at Leo’s Pizza & Ristorante Italianofor authentic pizza and Italian specialties.

day two10:00 am – 12:00 pmEnergize your group with a home-style country brunch

from Norma’s North Star Café.12 – 4:00 pmSpend your afternoon with some Historic Walking Toursthroughout Jacksonville. Make stops at Big Eli FerrisWheel, the School for the Deaf Museum, the StrawnArt Gallery or take a Haunted Jacksonville Tour.4 – 6:00 pmTake a tour of theWallDog Murals downtown. Paintersfrom all over the country—and as far away as Irelandand Australia—worked on these 10 historic murals.6 – 8:00 pmFinish the evening with dinner at Muggsy’s FineDining. Group-friendly service welcomes you, alongwith a full culinary team to suit your needs.

For more information or to customizethis sample itinerary for your group, contact theJacksonville Area CVB at 800-593-5678 or onlineat www.jacksonvilleil.org.

History in JacksonvilleThis sample itinerary can be customized for any time of year.

Welcome to Jacksonville, Illinois—a community rich in historical treasures, thriving with arts and culture, and wrapped in Midwest hospitality.Centrally located between St. Louis and Chicago, Jacksonville offers an excellent hub for your next hub & spoke group tour.


www.jacksonvilleil.org

DES MOINES

TheDes MoinesArts Festival

he Des MoinesArts Festivalreturns to WesternGateway Park, June

24th-26th, 2016. For the past17 years, this free, three-dayfestival of the arts has drawnover 2 million people and beencrowned by its peers as one of the best festivals in the world! Featuring roughly175 talented artists and their original artwork in a variety of categories, this festivalreflects the very best, having been selected from a competitive jury process.Guests have the unique opportunity to meet artists face-to-face from around theworld and purchase their artwork. They also offer activities for adults, includingan interactive mural where thousands of people cancontribute their personal touch in recreating twomasterpieces of modern art. Guests can enjoy morethan 100 hours of entertainment, including film, livemusic, and performing arts. More than 20 eclecticfood booths provide patrons with a variety ofculinary delights. June 24-26, 2016 | 800-451-2625

Iowa: Life Changing

spotlight

iowa

1st Fridays Art Walk | FAIRFIELD

Your group can stroll the beautifultown square and enjoy 19+ galleriesfilled with world-class art. Tour artgalleries, taste incredible foods,or watch wonderful performances!1st Friday of every month, 641-233-8883

Pella Tulip Time FestivalPELLA

Pella comes alive with tulips atTulip Time. Thousands of residentswear Dutch attire and celebrate theirDutch heritage. Travel back in timeto a European village full of windmills,tulips and excitement.May 5-7, 2016 | 641-628-4311

DubuqueFest | DUBUQUE

This 3-day fine arts festival featureslive music and many arts & craftsfrom regional artists. Features a“creation station” for imaginativeart projects and activities!May 20-22, 2016 | 563-599-0165

24th Annual Marion ArtsFestival | MARION

This nationally recognized fine art& craft event features 50 artistsfrom across the country, hands-onart activities for everyone, food,and entertainment.May 21, 2016 | 319-377-6316

Iowa Arts Festival | IOWA CITY

This free community celebrationfeatures over 115 local and regionalvisual artists displaying and sellingtheir artwork, as well as a musicfestival, “Culinary Row,” and a varietyof creative activities & entertainment.June 3-5, 2016 | 319-337-7944

Glenn Miller FestivalCLARINDA

Celebrate the music and memory ofAlton Glenn Miller. Enjoy tours of GlennMiller’s birthplace home, stage shows,picnics, dances, & historical displays.June 9-12, 2016 | 712-542-2461

Riverview Art RenaissanceBELLEVUE

Stroll along the beautiful MississippiRiverfront and view original artworkdisplayed by many artists in this one-day event. Aug 2016 | 563-872-5830

Amana Artisans’ AnnualStudio Tour | AMANA COLONIES

Enjoy a beautiful fall driving tourof the seven villages of the AmanaColonies, visiting artists’ studiosalong the way. Several Amanaartists open their studio doors forthis 3-day event. Interact with theworking artists and see how andwhere their creations are being made.Sept 2016 | 800-579-2294

Holiday Arts Festival | WATERLOO

Begin your holiday shopping at theWaterloo Center for the Arts andpurchase artwork from the finest Midwestartists working in wood, jewelry, metal,clay, glass, print, painting & more!Nov 5-6, 2016 | 319-291-4490

more IA pageants & art crawls…

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SPRING 2009


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www.itinerariesmidwest.comLife Changing


Trainland U.S.A.The Original Operating Toy Train Museum in Iowa

What better place to learn about three eras of trains than at TrainlandU.S.A.? This extensive toy train museum in Colfax, IA displays Lioneltrains and accessories along 4,000 feet of track. The development of therailroad across the United States is represented in frontier, steam, anddiesel eras. With a display area that spans the size of two average ranchstyle homes, your groups will not miss a thing. The center section showsoff the frontier and steam train era, while outside the diesel era runsfrom coast to coast. Trainland’s attention to intricate detail is what setsthem apart as a truly unique destination. The scenery is hand-paintedand the entire layout is enclosed in glass. Groups will be able to toywith four control panels that create an automated train control systemthat includes their own telephone communications.

Trainland U.S.A. houses over 60 operating Lionel accessories, mostof which are still in their original state! Now on-site is the originalChicago and Northwestern Depot. Go online to www.trainlandusa.comand click the “Online Tour” to see some highlights to expect duringyour group’s visit.

Open by appointment April-October. Special rates are available forgroups of 15 or more. Contact Judy at Trainland U.S.A. at 515-674-3813for more information and to book your tour today!

The Old CreameryTHEATRE

There’s nothing like the experience of live theatre, especially whenit is shared with others. Amana, Iowa’s Old Creamery Theatreinvites your groups to experience live theatre to the fullest. Laughand enjoy a professional performance while sitting next to friends,both new and old. Each guest has the opportunity to meet the cast,adding a personal touch to your group’s experience. Motorcoachparking is free and convenient, with drop-off and pick-up areasavailable. The larger the group, the larger the discount!

2016 Main Stage / Amana, IASteeple People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 21 – May 22Broadway Hit – TBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2 – 26Shear Madness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 4 – 28Grease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 8 – October 2Nana’s Naughty Knickers . . . . . . . . . . . October 13 – November 6Winter Wonderettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November 17 – December 18

2016 Studio Stage / Middle Amana, IACompletely Hollywood Abridged . . . . . . . . . . March 31 – April 17I’ll Eat You Last: A Chat with Sue Mengers . . . June 30 – July 17Buyer and Cellar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 21 – 31Me and Jezebel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 6-9 & November 10-13

While you’re in the neighborhood, enjoy theAmana Colonies. Alsocalled The Amanas, the Amana Colonies are a National HistoricLandmark. They began in 1714 in Germany and continue today onthe Iowa prairie. Be sure to check out Iowa City and CedarRapids while visiting the area!

Book your group today! Call the Old Creamery Theatre box office at319-622-6262 or visit online at www.oldcreamery.com.

hotSTOP

hotSTOP


trainlandusa.com

www.oldcreamery.com

directory

Old Creamery Theatre Co. 800-352-626239 38th Avenue – Amana, IA 52203www.oldcreamery.comThe Old Creamery Theatre Company is proud to be theoldest professional theatre company in the state ofIowa! This year we are celebrating 45 years of bringinglive, professional theatre to the people of Iowa andthe Midwest.

Trainland U.S.A. . . . . . . . . . . 515-674-38133135 Hwy 117N – Colfax, IA 50054www.trainlandusa.comAn operating toy train museum displaying Lionel trainsand accessories. Trainland U.S.A. features originalrailroad memorabilia and old toy trains dating from 1916to 1976. This exhibit represents three eras of time;frontier, steam, and diesel.

The Wallace Centers of Iowa756 16th StreetDes Moines, IA 50314 . . . . . . . . . . 515-243-70632773 290th StreetOrient, IA 50858. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . [email protected] / www.wallace.orgWCI provides educational programs & communityservices, grows organic produce, and offers locallysourced meals. Offering one- and two-day itineraries.

Life ChangingRead ITINERARIES Midwest Online.Ads hotlinked to websites.www.itinerariesmidwest.com


Restored FarmhouseSee what a rural home would look like inearly 20th century Iowa. Today, the farmhouseincludes offices for the staff and serves as thegift shop and produce market.

Gathering BarnThis meeting and educational facilityreplicates the original barn that stood westof the house in the early days of the farm.The authentic building adds character to thehistorical site, which is on the NationalRegister of Historic Places.

Flower GardensLong before Henry A. Wallace developedhybrid corn, his first hybrid experiment waswith his mother’s flower garden, crossingpansies. The floral gardens use flowers grownin the greenhouse as well as plants sharedby area gardeners.

Sculpture Walking PathThis gentle, ¾-mile walking trail beckonsvisitors to relax and ponder. View five outdoorsculptures as well as other hidden gemsalong the way.

Orchard & Produce GardensFour working acres produce 8 to 10 different

kinds of fruits and 30 to 40 varieties ofvegetables. The fresh produce is used atthe Gathering Table restaurant and sold onThursdays and Fridays inside the gift shop.

Restored Iowa PrairieThese nine acres of former pasture werereconstructed in 2007 to incorporate additionalnative grasses and forbes. Currently, the areagrows about 20 grasses and 120 forbes,resulting in beautiful vistas year round.

PondThis 1.5-acre pond was constructed in 1996,along with three grassed waterways and aterrace. It is a tribute to Henry A. Wallace’spassion for contour farming and reforestation.

Gathering Table Restaurant,Gift Shop & MarketGather your group for lunch or dinner inthe Gathering Barn. Menus vary dependingon what is available to harvest from thegardens. The gift shop has a diverse selectionof homemade gift items such as jewelry,ceramics, note cards, quilted hangings,primitive art, handmade lotions & bath salts.Seasonally, the Market offers fresh producefor sale from the garden and orchard.

TheWallaceCentersOF IOWASustainable food & civilityinitiatives – Orient, IA

You can do it all at theCountry Life Center. Stroll,dine, and shop at the historic birthplacefarm of Henry A. Wallace, U.S. Vice President, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, and founder ofPioneer Hi-Bred Corn Company. Acres of sustainably grown fruits and vegetables are transformedinto farm-to-table meals served in the Gathering Barn. Unique outdoor art sculptures dot the¾-mile walking path through the restored Iowa prairie. Take home a treasure from the farmhousegift shop, which features handcrafted items from Iowa artists.

Discover more at the Country Life Center…

Expand your trip to this rural landscape by asking about one- and two-day itineraries!Contact The Wallace Centers of Iowa at 641-337-5019 or go online to www.wallace.org.

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www.wallace.org

Topeka

here’ssomething foreveryone in thecapital city of

Kansas! This Midwesterncity is filled with uniqueattractions and activitiesand will fill your day withfun. Explore first-classhistorical attractions,including the Brown v. Board National Historic Site& Museum (dedicated to the case that ended legalsegregation in public schools), Old Prairie Town, theKansas Museum of History, and the Kansas StateCapitol. See a performance at the Topeka CivicTheatre, visit their many art galleries and enjoy thelocal shopping and delectable dining.

Topeka is home to many annual events, includingFiesta Mexicana, Intertribal Pow Wow, and the Huff‘n Puff Balloon Rally. The famous Tulip Time Festivalfeatures nearly 100,000 tulips and daffodils and is held every April. Plan yourtour during one of these events to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Topeka is a fantastic group destination regardless of the size of your groupor reason for your trip. Come and see for yourself!

Kansas: As Big As You Think

spotlight

kansas

other kansas mayberrys…

Abilene – Hear how Abilene haschanged from its Wild West days. Visitthe restored Union Pacific Depot andenjoy a sugar cookie made from MamieEisenhower’s recipe, or visit thehome where President Eisenhowerwas raised. Abilene also offers one-hour narrated trolley tours for groups.

Atchison – Atchison offerscommunity theatre, concerts and artfunctions. The city’s small-towncharm, rich historical legacy, andunique downtown-shopping districtare increasingly drawing travelersfrom across the country and aroundthe world. Be sure to visit the AmeliaEarhart Birthplace Museum!

Cottonwood Falls – CottonwoodFalls serves as a great jumping offpoint for a visit to Chase County andthe Flint Hills. The Chase CountyCourthouse is located at the end ofthe town’s brick main street,Broadway. Broadway boasts dozensof places to go, including shops,galleries, restaurants, and a hotel.

Council Grove – With more than24 historical sites and a carefullypreserved past, Council Groveremains a treasure trove of history.Once a bustling rendezvous point onthe Santa Fe Trail, today it attractstourists and history buffs who areeager to relive the trail days’ spirit.

Fort Scott – This community, builtaround a frontier military fort wellover 160 years ago, is rich in historicheritage, shopping opportunities,industry, culture, education andoutdoor recreation. They are nationallyknown for their Fort Scott NationalHistoric Site and National Cemetery.

Goodland – This one is a can’t-miss attraction. The sheer size of this24- by 32-foot rendition of Vincent vanGogh’s masterpiece, set upon aneight-story easel, has drawn interestedand bewildered travelers from aroundthe world. The Van Gogh Project is aseries of Big Easel paintings basedon his Sunflower Paintings.

Leavenworth – This quaint cityinvites you to discover, explore,experience, shop, dine, enjoy, andrelax! As the first city incorporated inKansas, Leavenworth was developedsouth of Fort Leavenworth—theoldest fort west of the MississippiRiver in continuous operation.

Lindsborg – Experience a specialblend of history and culture. OldWorld charm springs from richSwedish heritage. Unique shops andrestaurants, museums, art galleries &working studios, cultural and ethnicevents, great places to stay, and lotsof friendly people await you here.

Wamego – A visit to Wamego’s OzMuseum is all that’s needed to visiteverything Oz. See one of Wamego’sbest-known landmarks, the SchonhoffDutch Mill. It’s the state’s only workingstone windmill and is still used togrind wheat to flour today.

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Old Prairie Town

SUMMER 2009


spotlight

michigan

Copper Harbor LighthouseTours | COPPER HARBOR

Your group will enjoy a narratedcruise through Copper Harbor’s oncebustling port that takes you to oneof Michigan’s oldest lighthouses,restored to its original beauty andoverlooking the majesty of LakeSuperior. This single tour encompassesa total lighthouse experience,including a ride in a boat similar toan early 20th century lighthouselaunch. Once at the lighthouse, youwill be met by a host who will assistyou through the historic lighthousecomplex, which includes a maritimemuseum, shipwreck artifacts,Michigan’s first commercial coppermine site, and easy historic walkingpaths. Please allow 1½ hours forthe round-trip tour.

Munising Bay Shipwreck ToursMUNISING

Book your group on an explorationof the depths of Lake Superior andits sunken vessels aboard the onlyplace in the United States that allowsyou to see real shipwrecks on aglass bottom boat! Munising BayShipwreck Tours offers moderntravelers a chance to see the proudboats that sailed the Great Lakesbefore the turn of the century.Preserved by Lake Superior’s frigidwaters, these doomed vessels lay onthe bay bottom where they met theirfates when the tempestuous lakedisplayed its violent power. Historycomes alive as you hear about theseturn-of-the-century wrecks.

Soo Locks Boat ToursSAULT STE. MARIE

Experience the world’s busiest locksystem aboard a delightful 2½-hourluncheon cruise. You will sail thehistoric waterway of the St. Mary’sRiver while enjoying a delicious buffetluncheon. This tour will take youthrough the Locks, right alongsidethe big freighters. Your tour boatwill ride the water as it is raisedtwenty-one feet, straight up, to thelevel of Lake Superior.

Toonerville Trolley RiverboatTour | SOO JUNCTION

Welcome to the Tahquamenon FallsWilderness Excursion. The ToonervilleTrolley, an authentic narrow gaugerailroad, takes your group 5½ milesthrough thick forest; the habitat ofbear, deer, moose, gray wolf, andmany types of birds. This incredibletrain has been in operation since1927. The unique train ride andriverboat tour provides the onlyaccess to the Upper TahquamenonFalls. The tour combines the 24”narrow-gauge track of yesteryearwith an old-fashioned riverboat tripthat is second to none in wildernessadventures! Food, beverages andrestrooms are available on the boat.

wet your feet in Michigan…

MUNISING

Pictured RocksBoat Cruises

reat your groups to theworld famous PicturedRocks sandstone cliffs. Bring yourcamera on a breathtaking 2½ to 3-hour

cruise along Pictured Rocks NationalLakeshore. The crystal clear blue-green watersof Lake Superior have created masterpiecesof colors and rock formations found nowhereelse in the world. The cruise passes pointssuch as Lovers Leap, Grand Portal, MinersCastle, and Indian Head. These rock sculpturesare described with legend and lore by yourcaptain. The boat slowly cruises close to someof the rocks so that you may take outstandingphotos. The views are breathtaking, up closeand wonderful! The beaches, sand dunes, andwaterfalls along the Lake Superior shorelinewill delight viewers of all ages. The boattravels 18 miles along the lakeshore andturns around at Chapel Rock. Stop bytheir large gift shop for unusual gifts,sweatshirts, t-shirts, books, nautical items,and lighthouse collectibles.

Pure Michigan

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SPRING 2012


BLOOMINGTON

Mall of America

his “city within a city”offers more than 520stores, 50 restaurants,and attractions galore,

including Nickelodeon Universe®—featuring more than 30 rides—andSEA LIFE® Minnesota Aquarium,opening the door to mysteries ofthe deep blue sea. Other uniqueattractions include the House ofComedy, the LEGO Store, A.C.E.S.Flight Simulation Center, AmericanGirl® and much more! What doesn’tthis mall have? It is one of the mostvisited tourist destinations in theworld; there really is something foreveryone here. Visit Bloomingdale’s,Macy’s, Nordstrom, Sears, and manyunique shops for gifts and treasures.And if you ever get done shopping, spend some timeto take in your surroundings, as there are people herefrom all over the world on any given day. They offergroup packages and perks as well as a dedicatedpick-up and drop-off facility for motorcoaches.

Explore Minnesota

spotlight

minne

sota

Albert Lea – Choose from shopswith one-of-a-kind dolls to vintageantiques & collectibles, and manymore. Visit Something Special in theNest and browse their gift gallery, allhoused in a historic 1887 church.

Alexandria – This vibrant andbustling community is far from ordinary.Visitors will find shopping malls,major retailers, and a wide selectionof specialty shops and boutiques.

Austin – Explore what makes thistown famous: the SPAM® Museumand SPAM® Store! Browse throughover 400 one-of-a-kind treasures fromSPAM® socks to SPAM® bathrobes,plus everything in between, includingSPAM® of course! A new SPAM®

Museum will be unveiled in 2016!

Bemidji – Visit a collection ofshops with special charm. BemidjiWoolen Mills is a unique store sellingquality woolen garments, yarn, andcomforters. Bemidji also offers severalantique stores and national stores.

Harmony – Enjoy a metropolis ofantique & Amish treasures. Visit homesand farms of local Amish familiesand purchase baked goods, baskets,woodcrafts, candy, quilts and more.

Owatonna – Welcome to the homeof Cabela’s, one of the largest fishing,hunting & outdoor gear stores in theMidwest. This destination featuresmuseum-quality animal displays, hugeaquariums, and trophy animals inre-creations of their natural habitats.

Park Rapids – Browse the quaintshops and Historic Main Street forone-of-a-kind specialty items. Fromhomemade fudge to furniture, to jewelry,books and clothing, you’re sure topick up a thing or two to take home.

Roseville – Visit Rosedale Center,featuring more than 150 stores andhuge expansion known as The Plaza.Also in Roseville is the Har Mar Mall,offering over 40 fine specialty shops.

Saint Cloud – Here is a retailmecca offering big retail names aswell as smaller, unique specialtyshops. The downtown area featuresboutiques, theaters, and art galleries,plus The Arts Co-op—a fine art &craft gallery featuring handcraftedgifts and home décor by local artisans.

Saint Paul – Grand Avenue spans30 blocks from the Mississippi Riverto downtown Saint Paul. Browsethrough a variety of original shops.When you’re hungry, Grand Avenuehas a table waiting.

Stillwater – Stillwater is known asan antiques destination, but alsoincludes a wide variety of uniqueshops, galleries and fine restaurantsalong the beautiful St. Croix River.

Willmar – Willmar’s Kandi Mall isanchored by Herberger’s, JCPenney,and Dunham’s Sports, and boastsover 50 specialty stores. Then it’s offto New London-Spicer, offeringdelightful shops, antiques and more.

more shopping in minnesota…

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FALL 2009


Thursday night is Swing Night at theWabasha Street Caves along the

Mississippi River in downtown Saint Paul.It’s a jumpin’ evening of music and dance thatyour tour members will love.

Nostalgia fills the air...and the ear! And if youbelieve in time travel or something akin to it—or just plain old reminiscing—this is where thepast comes alive!

The big band plays rhythmic, high-energy,horn-led, woodwind- accented dance tunes,one after another. Standards like In theMood and String of Pearls meld with bigband versions of Cabaret and other morecontemporary songs. Close your eyes just abit as the dancers whirl. You’re at a USOCenter... or a Canteen... or the famed AragonBallroom. You can almost hear a young girlasking a young man a long way from home,“Are you stationed here?”

And, yes, generally speaking, the crowd isyounger. But don’t let that discourage youfrom bringing older tours. It’s a joy seeinghow college kids have discovered the fun ofswing dancing, many of them dressed in thestyle of the period. All of which is a tribute tothe timelessness of that troubled but treasuredtime in America.

“It really got rolling about fifteen years ago,”says Donna Bremer, owner of the WabashaStreet Caves. “We’d been having Swing Nightfor a few years, and then a Gap TV commercialwith swing dancing got young peopleinterested. A group of them started comingregularly. They called themselves the ‘CaveCats’. They came dressed in ‘40s style andknew all the dance moves.” Swing Night hasbeen thriving ever since.

It isn’t just the music and dancing that makethe Wabasha Street Caves appealing, though.Built into sandstone caves carved out byearly settlers first for the silica sand, thento store perishable produce, and later togrow mushrooms commercially, the facilitymeanders through nooks and crannies in theside of the cliffs. High, arching stucco ceilingsare the most notable feature, and the 60-footbar is a standout, too.

The exterior features a formidable lightedcastle façade rising against the cliff. Originallyopening in 1933 as the Castle Royal, it was arambunctious and romantic depression-erajoint, billed as the “World’s FinestUnderground Night Club.”

During the ‘30s Saint Paul was a gangsterhaven. The attitude of authorities was if theydidn’t make trouble they were welcome tostay, so the likes of Ma Barker and JohnDillinger were frequent visitors to Castle Royal.Supposedly, one night in 1934 three gangsterswere gunned down at dinner. A bullet holein the marble fireplace from that hoodlumshootout still remains.

In the years before World War II, the DorseyBrothers—Harry James, Cab Calloway, GlennMiller and other legends—played at CastleRoyal as part of their Midwest tour.

In the decades since its nightclub heyday,the Caves also had brief reincarnations asa teen center and a pizza place. Bremer andher husband Steve, bought the facility 20years ago to renovate as offices for theirconstruction firm, but then decided it alsowas ideally suited to be an event center(as opposed to a full-time night club). So itnow regularly hosts private functions suchas corporate affairs, class reunions, andweddings, with Thursday Swing Night the onlyregular time it’s open to the general public.

And then there are the numerous ghoststories. Yes, there are. Unnerving tales ofspectral presences wandering the catacombshave been told for years. Many, many timesvisitors have heard strange sounds when noone was there. The Caves are, in fact, oneof Saint Paul’s most notable haunted places.So beware.

Tour groups are always welcome. Just call toplan events in advance. Most times, groupscome for a complete package: tour, dancelessons and Swing Night. The cave tour beginsat 5pm with dance lessons at 6:15pm and livemusic from 7 to 10pm. Also, be advised theWabasha Street Caves is a beverage-onlyfacility. Food service is not available, so besure your group eats beforehand.

A cave tour, dance lesson, music, memories,jumping and jiving in a unique atmosphere...even ghosts, perhaps? What better way foryour group to spend a Thursday evening.

Oh, another thing to be sure your tourmembers understand: No matter what theirage... NO aerials or lifts on the dance floor.Sorry about that!


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

Explore Minnesota

The Wabasha Street Caveswww.wabashastreetcaves.comJump, Jive ‘n’ Wail...with a Ghost or Two

BY RICK PEARSON


www.wabashastreetcaves.com


Explore Minnesota Read ITINERARIES Midwest Online.Ads hotlinked to websites.


W inters in Minnesota aren’t for the faint-heartedor the easily cold, but winter in Eagan,

Minnesota is extremely special and made for the bestkind of people. It may be for the mere fact that thereis so much to do indoors or outdoors, but there are afew certain things that really make Eagan a prime spotduring the chillier months. The city that is made upof over 300 lakes, 50 parks and a copious amount ofgreen space is also just ten minutes from Minneapolisand Saint Paul, so the opportunities for adventure andfun are endless.

Head over to Lebanon Hills Regional Park whereactivities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing,hiking and ice-fishing are right at your fingertips.Try your hand, or should we say feet, at kicksledding, anew and growing sport that you can participate in withothers or alone. If you’re more of a sports spectator,you’re in luck because Eagan is just ten minutes awayfrom professional sports venues such as Xcel Energy

Center where the Minnesota Wild drop the puck orTarget Center, the Minnesota Lynx and Timberwolves’stomping grounds. Having the best gear is needed forparticipating in any and all of these exhilaratingexpeditions so you need to check out Eagan’s TwinCities Premium Outlets, the largest outlet mall in theUpper Midwest. It has over 100 stores including theNike Factory Store, Under Armour, Van Heusen andFossil. So whether you need a new hoodie for your runby Schulze Lake or you want to pick up a new dressshirt for a romantic seafood dinner at Jensen’s Food& Cocktails, Twin Cities Premium Outlets has youcovered, and always for a great price! How does everyday discounts of 25 to 65% off sound to you? The outletmall in Eagan offers those low prices and much more.

After a long, exciting day, stressing out about a hotelshould be the last thing on your mind – stay in anyof Eagan’s 15 fantastic lodging properties and you willmost definitely have a good night’s sleep.

Contact the Eagan Convention & Visitors Bureau at 866-324-2620or online at www.eaganmn.com and start planning your adventure today.

Twin Cities Premium Outlets®

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Chill out in EAGAN




Explore Minnesota

Lebanon Hills Regional Park


www.eaganmn.com




The genius of John Denver has sprung to lifeat the Plymouth Playhouse in Plymouth,

Minnesota with the production of Country Roads:The Music of John Denver. Starring Dennis Curleyand backed by a six-piece band, this tribute to oneof America’s favorite folk singers will have yousinging along, smiling, clapping, and maybe eventearing up a little. The cast skillfully performssome of your favorite John Denver tunes sure toinvoke warm memories of a simpler time. Not justa tribute, the show intersperses songs with Curley’spersonal recollections of growing up with JohnDenver’s music, plus stories from family, friendsand YOU, the audience.

My group ranged in age from mid-30s to early-80sand they all loved it. “This is soooo much fun,” saida woman sitting next to me after just two songsinto the show. Peter Rothstein, Artistic Directorat Theater Latté Da, says of Curley, “He minesthe warmth, charm and humor in John Denver’siconic songs. His stunning voice will thrill both

John Denver fans and make new fans for thoseunfamiliar with one of America’s great musicalstorytellers.”

As always, Plymouth Playhouse knows just how towelcome groups. Special discount pricing is offeredfor groups of 10 or more, plus weekday matineesmay combine a buffet lunch with the show inthe Sunset Room. Catered by the Green MillRestaurant, the Rocky Mountain BBQ includespulled pork + buns, baked beans, corn, coleslaw,pickles, kettle chips, and dessert with coffee & icedtea. You might also inquire about their overnight“Stay & Play” packages (includes a room for two atthe Ramada Hotel Plymouth, a dinner voucher atthe Green Mill Restaurant and two theatre ticketsto the current show – all under one roof).

The show runs through May 1, 2016. To bring yourgroup, check out www.plymouthplayhouse.com.You’ll leave thinking it was “almost heaven.”

Country RoadsAT THE PLYMOUTH PLAYHOUSE

By Kathleen Somers

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Discover the Lure ofLUTSEN MOUNTAINS

B ring your groups to Lutsen and experiencewonders at every turn. With endless

miles of hiking trails, canoeing and dramaticcoastlines, you will immediately see thatLutsen Mountains is not just for skiing!There is a mystique about Lutsen that lures

visitors back year after year and in all seasons.The North Shore has what no other place canoffer: an inland sea, a mountain backdrop, anunspoiled wilderness and a feeling all its own.A tour around Lake Superior or along the

North Shore would not be complete withouttaking a ride on the Lutsen Mountain Tram,rising 1,000 feet over Lake Superior to the topof Moose Mountain and dropping you off atthe Summit Chalet. Come inside to relax andenjoy the North Woods ambience, order lunch,snacks, and beverages and take a seat on theChalet’s expansive deck, a wonderful place tosoak in the fresh mountain air and panoramicviews of Lake Superior’s dramatic coastline.Your group can spend a night (or two) at the

Lutsen Resort. From simple to luxurious, they

have a variety of lakeside accommodations.Professional outdoor educators on staffprovide customized experiences for your groupor incorporate their regular lineup of guestactivities into your group tour. The spacious

beach in front of the lodge is a great spot for abarbeque or a place to gather around a campfire.For more information and to customize a trip

to fit your group, contact Lutsen Mountains at218-406-1319 or online at www.lutsen.com.

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Explore Minnesota


www.lutsen.com




Uniquely situated in Central Minnesota,Wadena and Park Rapids are your gateway toNorth Country adventure and recreation.

9:00 am – 1:00 pmPark Rapids is often known for parking in themiddle of the street. Here you will have anopportunity to do some great shopping. Maketime for the Nemeth Art Center. The NAChouses a stunning collection of 16th through19th century old world masters, Nigerianartifacts and revolving exhibits featuringlocal artisans.1 – 4:00 pmHead south on 71 to Wadena and dive into

history this afternoon at the Wadena CountyHistorical Society Museum & GenealogyCenter. They have rooms and rooms ofdisplays such as an 1896 barn wall, AldrichDepot display, Two Nations Indian Village,and a military display, just to name a few.4 – 6:00 pmThe history lesson continues at The DepotVisitors Center & Railroad Museum. Builtin 1915 and listed on the National Registerof Historic Places, The Depot is a wonderfulplace to view historic depot photographsand artifacts.6 – 7:30 pmDinner tonight is at The Uptown. Newly

remodeled, you will find a clean, neatrestaurant with great service.7:30 – 9:00 pmEnjoy entertainment tonight at the WadenaMemorial Auditorium. The auditorium is acultural and historic landmark that’sprovided countless hours of community andregional enjoyment. It has been restored inthe beautiful Art Deco style of the early1930s, with its bold, vivid colors and dramaticdesign. A grand piano is also a part of theallure of the auditorium’s elegance. As the cen-ter for the performing arts, it is one ofWadena’s most appreciated assets.

For more information contactyour tour operator or the WadenaChamber of Commerce at 877-631-7704,[email protected] orvisit www.wadenachamber.com.

Wadena & Park Rapids: Gateway to the NorthThis sample itinerary can be customized for any time of year.

Downtown Park Rapids

The Depot Visitors Center & Railroad Museum

Downtown Wadena


www.wadenachamber.com



Explore Minnesota

We invite you to enjoy Central Minnesota, home toSt. Cloud and the Central Lakes area. This invitingMinnesota destination will provide your groups witha warm and memorable experience.

day one11:00 am – 2:00 pmYour day begins in St. Joseph. The St. Benedict’sMonastery Art & Heritage Place is a museum,gallery and gift shop that features the history andtalents of the Sisters of the Order of Saint Benedict.While you are on campus, grab some lunch at theGorecki Dining Center. Food comes buffet style,with an amazing variety of delicious food stations!2 – 4:00 pmMake an impression at Art As You Like It, locatedin Waite Park. It’s a great place for children andadults alike. They’ll provide the materials; all youneed to do is have fun! Make an art piece that canbe taken home the same day as a souvenir!4 – 5:00 pmCheck into one of the many group-friendly hotelsin the area and get ready for your adventuresthis evening.5 – 7:00 pmLocated on the scenic Sauk River, Anton’s is theperfect restaurant for groups. A top choice of thelocals since the 1930s, you will learn the history ofthe lodge’s past while admiring the log walls andirresistible popovers.7 – 9:00 pmWatch the sun set with an evening stroll throughMunsinger & Clemens Gardens. Located just offthe banks of the Mississippi River, MunsingerGardens invites you to relax on a bench, a swing,or in the gazebo overlooking the water and shade

gardens. Across the street you will find sunnyClemens Gardens, featuring the 24-foot“Renaissance Fountain with Cranes.” Learn thebeautiful story that ties these two gardens together.

day two11:00 am – 2:00 pmTake a detour to the Stearns History Museum.With two floors of exhibits, your groups will be busy!Learn about the Pan car that was manufacturedin St. Cloud in the early 1900s or participate in

the Artifind scavenger hunt!2 – 6:00 pmMake your way downtown. Choose from aself-guided St. Cloud Historic District WalkingTour, or meander down the streets to find uniqueshopping and tasty restaurant options.

For more information or to customizethis sample itinerary for your group,contact the St. Cloud Area CVB at 320-251-4170or online at www.granitecountry.com.

Explore Granite CountryThis sample itinerary is best during the warmer months,but can be customized for any time of year.

Munsinger & Clemens Gardens

Munsinger & Clemens Gardens


www.visitstcloud.com




Only in SOMNHotstops in Southern Minnesota

Prairie Land

PipestoneNational Monument – PipestoneFor countless generations, American Indianshave quarried the red pipestone found atthis site. These grounds are sacred to manypeople because the pipestone quarried hereis carved into pipes used for prayer. Manybelieve that the pipe’s smoke carries one’sprayer to the Great Spirit. The traditionsof quarrying and pipe-making continuehere today.

End-O-Line RailroadPark & Museum – CurrieThe End-O-Line Railroad Park & Museumcollects, preserves, exhibits, and interpretsartifacts and stories of the SouthwestMinnesota frontier experience. Theircollection of buildings and artifacts are astunning reminder of the past and the rolethat railroads played in establishing our nation.

Laura Ingalls WilderMuseum – Walnut GroveEnjoy learning the history of the Ingalls

family in Walnut Grove at the Laura IngallsWilder Museum. The museum’s collectionsare housed in a series of interestingbuildings, including an 1898 depot, a chapel,an onion-domed house, dugout display,little red schoolhouse, early settler home,and covered wagon display.

HistoricDayton House – WorthingtonExperience the Victorian-period elegance andhospitality of this fully restored 1890s home.The Historic Dayton House can serve as agathering place for a wide variety of specialevents. It is also a unique place to rest andrelax with all the lodging amenities youwould expect in a five-star bed and breakfast.

Fort Belmont – JacksonStop by Fort Belmont in Jackson, Minnesotaand explore a unique re-creation of FortBelmont built by settlers living in Belmonttownship of Jackson County in the early1860s. See a blacksmith shop, hand-builtprairie sod house, trading post, museumand more.

Minnesota River Valley

Salt Lake – MariettaOutside of tiny Marietta on the western plainsof Minnesota is Salt Lake, the only alkalinelake in the state. This briny body of waterattracts all sorts of birds not native to thearea and is a bird-watching Mecca. Alkalinesoils run off into the lake, which has no inletor outlet, leaving it a legitimate salt lake.

Jeffers PetroglyphsHistoric Site – ComfreyFor literally thousands of years, the JeffersPetroglyphs Historic Site has been animportant place for the people who lived here.Before the pyramids were built, before the firststone was erected at Stonehenge, there werecarvings in the rock. Long after those firstpetroglyphs, this was a holy site to the nativepeople who lived in and around this area.

Oldest Rock on Earth – Granite FallsVisible here are some rock outcrops near theYellow Medicine County Museum just as youcome into town from the east. The exposed

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Pipestone

Jeffers Petroglyphs

Historic Dayton House

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Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum



www.exploresouthernminnesota.com




rock is 3.8 billion years old, which isimpressive considering the earth itself is4.5 billion years old. This rock was exposedfrom the mantle when Glacial Lake Agassizemptied into the ocean during the last IceAge. The draining of this impossibly hugelake apparently caused the ocean to rise1-3 feet. Walk right up to it and touch apiece of true geological history.

Schell’s Brewery – New UlmCome to the place where the story of Germancraft beer began. Schell’s has been passeddown through six generations. Brew mastersremain dedicated to German traditions, mosttraining in the Fatherland. As of 2013, Schell’shas crafted over 100 different varieties ofGerman-inspired brews. They will keep makingGerman craft beer until people stop enjoyingbeer…which clearly won’t be happening!

Minnesota’s MachineryMuseum – Hanley FallsThis museum features five large buildingson a beautiful six-acre site. Its mission is to

recapture a century of stories about farm life.Implements, tools, tractors and gas enginesin mint condition along with rural art helpyou look back to an era when neighborsworked together to harvest their crops, raisebarns, and build a better life for their families.

Southern Lakes

SPAM® Museum – AustinFor over 12 years, the SPAM® Museumhas delighted over a million visitors withdelicious curated exhibits celebratingdelicious curated meat. The SPAM® Museumsimply can’t be beat — except perhaps bya brand new SPAM® Museum! A new SPAM®

Museum will be unveiled in 2016.

Orphanage Museum – OwatonnaAs the only known Orphanage Museum inthe nation, the Minnesota State PublicSchool Orphanage Museum was founded to“Remember the Children.” Visit and learnabout the unique history of the school. Explorethe museum, historic Cottage 11, the children’scemetery, and interactive campus to get aglimpse of what life was like for the childrenwho called the orphanage their home.

Minne-SOY-Ta NiceCandle & Soap Factory – Albert LeaMinne-Soy-Ta Nice Boutique not only sells andmanufactures natural bath and body products,but also supports and sells products made bylocal artists and crafters.

Jolly Green Giant – Blue EarthAt 55.5 feet tall, the Jolly Green Giant is theeighth-tallest freestanding statue in the UnitedStates. Looking north toward I-90, the Giantstands on an eight-foot-tall platform completewith a staircase so that visitors may pose forphotos between his six-foot-long feet.

Outlaw Trail – NorthfieldSince 1948, folks have come from all over tothe Defeat of Jesse James Days to witness thereenactment of the attempted bank raid —those pivotal seven minutes in history whenNorthfield heroically defended itself againstthe notorious James-Younger Gang. Storiesstill echo down the Outlaw Trail about whattook place here. The stories take on a life oftheir own and no doubt include some folklore,but many known facts have been documentedby historians.

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Schell’s Brewery

National Eagle Center

Orphanage Museum

SPAM® Museum



Explore Minnesota

FARMS & RED BARNSWhat do the Jolly Green Giant, a millionaire’sestate, and a 100-year-old “Century Farm” havein common? They’re all here along the Byway!Near Redwood Falls is the Gilfillan Estate.

Tour the mansion, the large farm museum,and attend FarmFest—a huge agriculturalfestival held every August.Minnesota’s Machinery Museum in Hanley

Falls hosts the state’s largest collection offarm equipment and exhibits. Check outthe old time threshing show every August!East of Montevideo is the Olof

Swensson Farm Museum built in 1901.You can see the large barn, 22-room home,and welcoming grounds.Le Sueur is home to the Green Giant

Company. The local museum and townmarkers tell the whole story! Ho, Ho, Ho!

CANOEING, KAYAKING & HIKINGThe Minnesota River, generally slow andwinding, provides excellent game fishingincluding walleye, northern, channel andflathead catfish. Rock rapids, white water,and fine fishing can all be found on theYellow Medicine River and Hawk Creek,which some claim are two of the best whitewater rivers in the state. If that sounds tooambitious for you, try your luck on theChippewa or the Pomme de Terre Rivers,as they are known for their wildlife-viewingand gentle waters.Prime spots for hiking are located in the

MINNESOTARIVER VALLEYByway Bits

hotSTOP

Gilfillan Estate

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Mississippi River Valley& Historic Bluff Country

National Eagle Center – WabashaThe National Eagle Center is a world-classinterpretive center located on the banks ofthe Mississippi River in Wabasha. They arehome to five rescued eagles: four bald eaglesand one golden eagle. During a visit to theNational Eagle Center, you can experiencethese magnificent creatures up close!

National Trout Center – PrestonThe National Trout Center seeks to conserveour natural and cultural heritage of trout andtheir coldwater environments by engagingthe public through education, practice andawareness. Individuals, families, students andgroups are invited to participate in lecturesand workshops, take a tour, or request aspecialized educational program to meetyour group’s interests.

LARK Toys – KelloggFor over a quarter of a century, LARK Toyshas offered remarkable toys, most notablytheir own handmade heirloom wooden toys.With over 20,000 square feet to explore,

they’re one of the largest family owned andoperated specialty toy stores in the country.

Minnesota MarineArt Museum – WinonaWith its substantial and diverse collections,10+ annual exhibitions, and dozens ofprograms, the Minnesota Marine ArtMuseum is one of the most unique anddynamic art museum experiences you canfind. You’re invited to discover why theMMAM is more than you’d expect.

Niagara Cave – HarmonyNiagara Cave is one of the most fascinatingand unique geological attractions in theUnited States. During the one-hour guidedtour, visitors will witness an undergroundstream leading to a waterfall nearly 60 feethigh, stalactites both delicate and massive,calcite flowstone, and several fossils thathave been dated to over 400 million years.

For more information about SouthernMinnesota, call 800-868-7476 ext 162 or visitwww.ExploreSouthernMinnesota.com.

Minnesota Marine Art Museum


six state parks and many other parks alongthe Byway. A wide variety of hiking awaitsyou with forested, prairie, and riparianecosystems. Bring along friends or family tomake this trip a memorable one. Don’t forgetthe camera!

GEOLOGY, MINING& THE CONTINENTAL DIVIDESee the oldest exposed rock in the world!That’s what you’ll find near Granite Falls,but there are several other places along theByway that will excite the geologist in you.Look closer and you will even find cacti

among the outcrops.The draining of Glacial Lake Agassiz from

west central Minnesota after the last ice ageshaped this river valley. There is stillevidence of those forces for the sharp eye.The old town of Ottawa is ripe with

limestone buildings from a local quarry,including a church, town hall, and barn.Near the Minnesota/South Dakota border is

the Continental Divide, which separates waterflowing south to the Gulf of Mexico and waterflowing north to Hudson Bay. A sign atBrowns Valley explains this phenomenon.

GOLF & FRISBEE GOLFThere are more than 25 golf courses along the

Byway with a wide variety of playing surfacesand layouts, many with beautiful bluff andvalley views! Frisbee golf courses exist inmany river valley communities.

HUNTING & FISHINGHunting in the valley begins in the fallwith over 150,000 geese at the Lac qui ParleWildlife Management Area. Deer, duck,pheasant, and turkey are numerous, andtrapping muskrat, mink, fox, raccoon, andbeaver is also viable. Bow and black powderhunting have grown recently with outfittersable to supply your needs along the MinnesotaRiver Valley National Scenic Byway.Ortonville’s Big Stone Lake is famous for

national fishing contests, but all along theriver and its tributaries walleye, largemouthbass, crappies, northern pike, perch, blue gill,and fighting catfish abound. Don’t forgetabout the ice fishing in the winter!

BIRDINGThe Minnesota River Valley Birding Trail isalmost entirely within the Scenic Byway andthere have been sightings of nearly 350 specieswithin the river’s watershed. With manyrefuges, wildlife management areas, scientificand natural areas, parks and other specifiedlands, the habitat is healthy and widespread.Check www.birdingtrail.org for great details!FESTIVALSWith 287 miles’ worth of towns, there’s boundto be a festival for your taste or season.Here is just a sample of some events:Sauerkraut Days (Henderson), Rock BendFolk Festival (St. Peter), RibFest (Mankato),Bavarian Blast (New Ulm), FarmFest(Redwood Falls), Fiesta Days (Montevideo),AppleFest (Appleton).

As you can see, a wide range of interests andactivities await you along the MN River ValleyNational Scenic Byway! For information call888-463-9856 or visit www.MNRiverValley.com.




Minnesota River

Salt Lake birding

Benson parade

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www.mnrivervalley.com



Explore Minnesota

Welcome to Worthington. Conveniently located alongInterstate 90 in the southwest corner of the state,groups will find many attractions, lodging, restaurantsand shops just waiting to be explored.

day one10:00 am – 12:00 pmDiscover a symbol of Worthington’s early years thismorning at the Historic Dayton House. This artisticmasterpiece has many architectural features for yourgroup to see, as tour guides talk about the threefamilies who occupied the home.12 – 1:30 pmCheck out the local restaurants for lunch.1:30 – 3:00 pmSpend the afternoon at the Nobles County HistoricalMuseum. Groups will find historical displays andarchives that preserve the lives of early Europeansettlers in Nobles County.3 – 6:00 pmStep back in time at the Pioneer Village. Locatedacross from the Nobles County Fairgrounds, thisvillage contains 40 restored buildings and a museumof farm machinery that reflects early years of the area.6 – 7:30 pmCheck in to your hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner atHickory Lodge Bar & Grill.7:30 – 9:00 pmThis evening’s entertainment will be at the MemorialAuditorium of Performing Arts. As one of the largestauditoriums in southern Minnesota and northernIowa, this venue seats 735. State-of-the-art lightingand sound will welcome you in this newly restored1931 building.

day two10:00 am – 2:00 pmSpomer Classics awaits your group with displays ofover 300 advertising items that include automobiles,implements, oil, gas and much more. Each piece isrestored and in working order. Your group can viewpeddle cars as well as 20-30 classic cars. There arealso neon and porcelain signs and clocks.2 – 5:00 pmDowntown Worthington features a variety of uniqueshops for your group to find one-of-a-kind items.Comfortable benches and a quaint environmentsurround downtown, making the shoppingexperience memorable.

For more information or to customize thissample itinerary for your group, contact theWorthington Area Chamber/CVB at 507-372-2919or online at www.worthingtonmnchamber.com.

Explore HistoricWorthingtonThis sample itinerary can be customizedfor any time of year.

Historic Dayton House

Spomer Classics


www.worthingtonmnchamber.com




Nestled between lakes Albert Lea and Fountain,Albert Lea has appropriately been dubbed “TheLand Between the Lakes.” Offering the bestyear-round recreational activities and tours, yourgroups will love this small-town community thatboasts big-city amenities.

day one10:00 am – 12:00 pmWelcome to southern Minnesota! Your first stopthis morning is at Minne-soy-ta Nice. Groups willmake their own candle and a bar of soap for justfive dollars! Tour the boutique and browse throughtheir unique gifts.12 – 4:00 pmGrab a bite to eat and make your way to GreibroksMini History Farm & County Fair Museum.Groups will tour more than 700 model tractors,trucks, cars, farm machinery, steam engines, andairplanes throughout the unique 40-room farm-house.4 – 5:00 pmCheck into the Holiday Inn Express and get ready

for the evening.5 – 8:00 pmThe Pelican Breeze II Cruise Boat awaits yourgroup for a Mystery Dinner and a history-guidedcruise through Albert Lea Lake. This 60-foot pon-toon style riverboat has a seating capacity of 55and features 2 smoke stacks, a paddle wheel, wetbar, tables, and can be enclosed for inclementweather.

day two8:00 amEnjoy a continental breakfast at the Holiday InnExpress, then prepare to board your motorcoachfor a fun-filled day.10:00 am – 2:00 pmHead on out to visit the Alpacas of Oak KnollFarms. Groups will delight in interacting with thesefuzzy creatures. They may just want to take onehome! Learn their history and how their wool isused. Photo shoots available.2 – 4:00 pmVisit one of the top museums in the state at the

Freeborn County Historical Museum, Library &Village. The museum holds famous exhibits whilethe village boasts a church, schoolhouse, stores,and farm machinery.4 – 7:00 pmHistoric Downtown Albert Lea is full of uniqueshops, art galleries and antique stores. Take abreak from shopping and stop at a local downtownshop for coffee, pizza, sandwiches, or fine dining.7 – 9:00 pmYour evening entertainment is located in the heartof the city at the Marion Ross Performing ArtsCenter. Performances include ACT Theatre dra-mas, comedians, dance, Metropolitan Opera,Bolshoi Ballet, National Theatre in HD along withspecial events and national touring artists.

For more information or to customizethis sample itinerary for your group,contact the Albert Lea CVB at 800-345-8414or online at www.albertleatourism.org.

The Land Between the LakesThis sample itinerary can be customized for any time of year.

Pelican Breeze II TourPelican Breeze II Tour Alpaca of Oak Knoll Farms

Freeborn County Historical Museum,Library & Village


www.albertleatourism.org



Explore Minnesota

Burnsville Performing Arts Center

Shop, dine, and stay in Owatonna! Located just onehour south of the Twin Cities on I-35, their history &attractions make it worth the trip every time.

day one10:00 am – 12:00 pmWelcome to Owatonna! Start out your visit withthe Historic Walking Tour. Discover a blend ofarchitectural styles from the late 1800s to early1900s. View historic homes, schools, churches, andother buildings clustered downtown as well as nearbyresidential areas.12 – 4:00 pmGrab a bite to eat with the group and make your wayto the Minnesota State Public School OrphanageMuseum. This was the largest school of its kindever operated in Minnesota from 1886 to 1945. Relivehistory through pictures, artifacts and personal storiesby the orphans who were raised here.4 – 6:00 pmCheck in to the AmericInn Hotel & Suites ofOwatonna and then take an afternoon stroll throughOwatonna’s Mineral Springs Park. Known for its“healing waters,” you may drink from the naturalsprings as Princess Owatonna watches over you.6 – 8:00 pmPick one of many local group-friendly restaurantsfor dinner. With a wide variety, there is a placefor everyone!

day two11:00 am – 2:00 pmYour group will step back into the life of a Minnesotapioneer as they walk through the Steele CountyHistory Center Village of Yesteryear. This siteincludes 15 buildings full of history.2 – 4:00 pmHave the afternoon to explore. Visit Cabela’s World’sForemost Outfitter where you’ll see animal displays,an indoor aquarium, shopping, and a café & fudgeshop. To further satisfy your sweet tooth, visit theRussell Stover Outlet for candy, samples, and BlueBell ice cream.4 – 6:00 pmFinish off the afternoon with a visit to the SteeleCounty History Center, featuring rotating exhibits,educational programming, and displays that are allrelative to Steele County and Minnesota history.

For more information or to customize this sampleitinerary for your group, contact the Owatonna AreaChamber of Commerce & Tourism at 507-451-7970or online at www.owatonna.org.

FindingOwatonna’s RootsThis sample itinerary can be customizedfor any time of year.

Steele County History Center

MN State Public SchoolOrphanage Museum

Village ofYesteryear


www.visitowatonna.org




Along the scenic bank of the Cannon River, liescharming Northfield, Minnesota. With its 150years of history, art, culture and education,Northfield offers something for everyone.

day one10:00 am – 12:00 pmStart your morning off in Northfield at thebeautiful Japanese Garden located at CarletonCollege. Ancient rocks support the frame of thisgarden that was designed by Dr. David Slawson in1974. The garden is said to embody a philosophyof fulfillment found in harmony and tranquility ofbody, mind and spirit.12 – 1:00 pmSpend lunch at the Hogan Brothers’ AcousticCafé. Specializing in hot hoagie sandwiches,

honey-cracked wheat bread and a signaturesauce, groups will find something tasty!1 – 3:00 pmAlso located at Carleton College is the GoodsellObservatory. The building, constructed in thelate 1890s, houses three telescopes—all over110 years old. Both the 8” and 16” telescopes canbe used during open house hours.3 – 5:00 pmGet outdoors at the Cowling Arboretum thisafternoon! Hike, run, ski, fish or simply enjoy theoutdoors with this upland and lowland forest thatincludes a 150-acre prairie providing excellent birdand wildlife watching. In the winter, trails aregroomed for both classic and skate skiing.5:00 pmCheck into your hotel and get ready for dinner atone of Northfield’s many group friendly restaurants.

day two10:00 am – 12:00 pmThis morning starts out with a walk through theNerstrand Big Woods State Park. With severalactivities offered each season, groups will enjoyone of the last extensive stands of the “big woods.”12 – 1:00 pmDive into India for lunch. Chapati serves aselection of traditional Indian dishes as well asseveral of their own creation. All dishes are

made with freshly ground herbs and spices andcontain no MSG.1 – 3:00 pmHistory awaits you this afternoon at the NorthfieldHistorical Society & Museum. Experience lifeas it was in the 1800s. The museum preservesthe site that was once the bank that the James-Younger gang attempted to rob in 1876.3 – 6:00 pmTake a tour through the many historic sites inNorthfield. Tours include landmarks such as theArcher House, the Scriver Building, the GrandEvent Center and more.

For more information or to customizethis sample itinerary for your group,contact the Northfield CVB at 507-645-5604or online at www.visitingnorthfield.com.

Japanese Garden

Cowling Arboretum

Come One, Come All to Northfield!This sample itinerary can be customized for any time of year.

Goodsell Observatory


www.visitingnorthfield.com



Explore Minnesota

directory

accommodations

Lowell Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .651-439-1100102 2nd Street N – Stillwater, MN 55082www.lowellinn.com

attractions

Lift Bridge Brewing Co. . . . . . . . . 888-430-BEER1900 Tower Drive West – Stillwater, MN 55082www.liftbridgebrewery.com

Saint Croix Vineyards . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-430-33106428 Manning Avenue North – Stillwater, MN 55082www.scvines.com

St. Croix Boat and Packet . . . . . . 651-430-1234525 Main Street South – Stillwater, MN 55082www.stillwaterriverboats.com

Stillwater Trolley Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-430-0352400 Nelson Street – Stillwater, MN 55082www.stillwatertrolley.com

Lutsen Mountains - North ShoreMountain Tramway . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218-663-7281445 Ski Hill Road – Lutsen, MN 55612www.lutsen.comTake a ride on the Midwest’s only gondola. Travel over thePoplar River valley and through vast woodlands, ending upat the top of Moose Mountain, where your group will enjoyfood service and breathtaking views.

convention & visitorsbureaus and chambers

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, FREEwelcome bags and FREE Mall of America coupon books ($9.95value). You’ll also enjoy our low 3% lodging tax. Ask how toqualify for our $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.

St. Cloud Area Convention& Visitors Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .320-251-41701411West St. Germain Street, Suite 104 800-264-2940St. Cloud, MN [email protected] the many attractions are world-class gardens, history,granite, and great places to stay and eat. The St. Cloud CVBtakes pride in helping you plan the perfect getaway. Creativityis key to the success of your group tour.

WadenaChamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . 877-631-77045 Aldrich Avenue SE / PO Box 107 – Wadena, MN 56482www.wadenachamber.comLocated in the middle of Minnesota’s lakes and resorts area,Wadena has fun for any season. From our Art Deco Downtownwith great shopping and many historic storefronts to our manypublic parks and community-wide celebrations, something’salways happening in the Wadena community!

Albert Lea CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-373-2316102W Clark Street – Albert Lea, MN 56007 800-345-8414susie@albertleatourism.orgwww.albertleatourism.orgLocated 90 minutes from Minneapolis, where I-90 & I-35intersect, featuring small town hospitality with big cityamenities. Plus additional lakes and 38 city parks hostingvarious outdoor activities.

Minnesota River ValleyScenic Byway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-463-9856www.mnrivervalley.comLocated along the Minnesota River, motorcoach your groupsthrough Hardwood forests, 3.8 billion-year-old granite out-crops, and lush prairie grasses. State and local parks dot thevalley along with museums and history sites.

Northfield Area Chamber& Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-658-2548205 3rd Street West – Northfield, MN 55057www.visitingnorthfield.comLocated just 30 minutes from the Twin Cities along the shoresof the Cannon River. Whether you enjoy the arts, history ornature, you’ll find multiple outlets for education as well asopportunities for relaxation and live entertainment.

Owatonna AreaChamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . .800-423-6466320 Hoffman Drive – Owatonna, MN [email protected] in south central Minnesota, 45 minutes fromMinneapolis/Saint Paul on I-35. Come “discover our facesand places” – filled with historical, recreational and culturalopportunities as well as nearly 700 guest rooms to accommodateany group.

Southern MinnesotaTourism Association . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-975-6766115 East Hickory #230 – 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.

Worthington Area Chamber& CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .507-372-29191121 Third Avenue – Worthington, MN 56187www.worthingtonmnchamber.comWorthington is a friendly community in the Southwest cornerof MN. Bring your group here for some fantastic tours,including the Pioneer Village, Historic Dayton House, and WarMemorial Auditorium.

festivals & events

MinnesotaRenaissance Festival . . . . . . . . . . . 952-445-736112364 Chestnut Blvd – Shakopee, MN 55379www.renaissancefest.comEat, drink, and be merry! The 16th-century atmospherefeatures more than 250 artisan booths, 16 stages of liveentertainment, free parking, and food fit for a king!

restaurants

Grand BanquetHall & Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-430-1235301 2nd Street South – Stillwater, MN 55082www.grandbanquethall.com

Lake Elmo Inn Event Center . . . . 651-779-59943712 Layton Avenue N – Lake Elmo, MN 55042www.lakeelmoinn.comIf your group is looking for a fine dining experience outside ofthe city, then Lake Elmo Inn is the place for you. Comfortableatmosphere, friendly faces, and wonderful food! It’s why we’vebeen open over 29 years!

Rafters Restaurant, Night Club& Event Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-342-1502317 South Main Street – Stillwater, MN 55082www.stillwaterrafters.com

tour operators

Valley Tours, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 651-439-6110101 Pine Street West #4 – Stillwater, MN [email protected]

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St. Louis

our group may besurprised at theassortment ofentertainment

options available here. FromShakespeare and Broadwayto dance troupes & Americanmusicals under the stars, St. Louiscan definitely entertain your group.One great venue is the FabulousFox Theatre. This 1929 moviepalace, one of the first theatersbuilt for “talkies” by movie mogulWilliam Fox, was designed ina style described as Siamese-Byzantine. Its showy interior—featuring a lobby guarded by twosculptures of majestic lions withtwinkling yellow eyes—is often moreelaborate than the sets from the touring Broadway shows and entertainmentevents that now grace the theater’s stage. Your group is welcome to take abehind-the-scenes tour. We also have to mention The Muny in St. Louis, one ofAmerica’s oldest and largest outdoor musical theaters. They offer seven professionallymounted Broadway musicals each season, presented in a breathtaking setting framedby the majestic oaks of Forest Park. Dining is available on-site and backstage toursare offered for groups of 15 or more.

Missouri: Close to home. Far from ordinary.

spotlight

missouri

more missouri theaters…

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SPRING 2010

Arrow Rock – The Arrow RockLyceum Theatre is a nonprofitprofessional theater located in theunique village of Arrow Rock, a 19thcentury National Historic Landmark.The Lyceum has been entertainingaudiences in the heart of Missourifor over 50 years producing a varietyof musicals, dramas and comedies.Each year, this 408-seat theaterattracts professional talent fromacross the country to produce aneight-show season (June-December).Performers, designers, directors,and technicians take residence inArrow Rock for five months to bringits patrons Broadway caliberproductions throughout the summer.

Branson – You can’t think oftheatre and Missouri and not haveBranson pop into your head! For 50years, live shows have been the stapleof a trip to Missouri. With over 50theaters and more than 100 shows,Branson is truly the live music showcapital of the world! From country torock n’ roll, magic and comedy tomusical theatre, gospel, small intimateshows and major world-classproductions, Branson offers a varietyof entertainment options for all.

Hannibal – The Star Theatre is ahistoric theater built in 1906 andtoday has been fully restored to itsoriginal beauty. It is open as a Dinnerand Movie Theatre complete witha singing and dancing wait staff!Enjoy comedy shows by twonationally touring comedians the2nd Friday of every month, and otherspecial events throughout the year.

Kansas City – The historic FollyTheater, Kansas City’s oldest theater,is listed on the National Register ofHistoric Places. The “Grand Lady of12th Street” presents and hosts awide range of quality events for thecommunity. Live theatre, world-classjazz series, national touring shows forchildren and a variety of programming.

Rolla – The Leach Theatre islocated on the campus of theMissouri University of Science andTechnology. The theatre hosts anaverage of 100 events per academicyear (August to May).

St. Joseph – The Missouri Theater isconsidered one of the finest theatersin the U.S. This Moorish style buildingis a classic example of a 1920spalace theater, with features includinga huge Bedouin tent ceiling andmany sculptures including wingedbulls, gods, and archers in combat.Tours available by appointment.

Springfield – Come experience thearts in the 1926 historic Gillioz Theatre& Jim D. Morris Arts Center! Throughan exquisite and formal lobby to agolden sky of ornate paintings anddetailed architecture, you will enjoylive theatre, movies, conventions,concerts, film festivals & much more.


MINDEN

HaroldWarpPioneer Village

xplore the largestprivate collection ofauthentic Americana anywhere!The Pioneer Village complex

holds over 50,000 irreplaceable itemsof historical value, restored to operatingorder, arranged in groups and also in thechronological order of their development.Ride a priceless steam carousel, see17 historic flying machines, and marvelat 100 antique tractors. See the world’soldest Buick, a 1902 Cadillac, and a1903 Ford, both designed by HenryFord. Plus 350 other antique cars, alldisplayed in their order of development.Stop by the General Store and the toy store and view authentic goodsfrom a bygone era. See an original art collection including 25 Currierand Ives prints, 23 Jackson paintings, and the largest single collectionof Rogers statues. Twelve historic buildings are positioned around thecircular “green,” including a real Pony Express Station, an Iron Horse,and a home made of sod. You’ll have to see it to believe it!

Nebraska: Possibilities…endless

spotlight

nebraska

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Carhenge | ALLIANCE

Six local families constructed thisunique replica of the world-famousStonehenge in 1987. Carhenge isformed from vintage Americanautomobiles, painted gray to replicatethe famous “wonder of the world.”Voted one of the “Wackiest Attractions”in the country, you’ll be impressed bythis vehicular phenomenon.

Strategic Air and SpaceMuseum | ASHLAND

The objective of the museum is topreserve and display historic aircraft,missile, and space vehicles andprovide educational resources. Themuseum is regarded as having one ofthe top collections of strategic aircraft.

Fairmont State AirfieldFAIRMONT

Previous site of a U.S. bomber trainingfacility during WWII, the airfield isnow listed on the National Register ofHistoric Places. Four of the five largehangars originally built to last from5-7 years are still standing alongwith the original water tower.

Stuhr Museum of the PrairiePioneer | GRAND ISLAND

From May 1st through Labor Day,experience Stuhr’s 1890s RailroadTown, a living history communityfeaturing costumed interpreters. TheStuhr Building & Gus Fonner MemorialRotunda are open year-round.

Great Platte River RoadArchway | KEARNEY

Ride with the Pony Express, hearthe rumble of the Iron Horse andwatch a drive-in movie as you tracethe history of transportation andcommunication right up to the fiberoptic age. Special group rates andcatering options are available.Make your reservation today!

Heartland Museum of MilitaryVehicles | LEXINGTON

This museum features roughly 100vehicles including helicopters, tanks,halftracks, ambulances, and a jeepfrom every branch of the service,plus displays of weapons, uniforms,engines, equipment, and more.

Bailey Railroad Yard andGolden Spike Tower & VisitorsCenter | NORTH PLATTE

This observation tower provides abird’s-eye view of North Platte’sUPRR Bailey Yard, the world’s largestrailroad classification yard. More than150 trains pass through the yarddaily. It’s a one-of-a-kind experiencefor railroad lovers of all ages!

Cody Park Railroad MuseumNORTH PLATTE

See one of the largest steamlocomotives ever built, the UnionPacific Challenger 3977. The RailroadMuseum also exhibits the 1969 UP#6922 World’s Largest DieselLocomotive and railroad memorabiliahoused in several railroad cars anda fully restored rail depot.

more ‘on the go’ in nebraska…

SUMMER 2010


Medora

he romantichistory of theWild Westlives on in

historic Medora. Thisauthentic cow townboasts a 26-roomchateau overlookinga walkable townof shops, cafés,museums and theBurning Hills Amphitheater. This open-airtheater hosts evening performances ofthe world famous Medora Musical, offeringa mix of music types, plus live horses onstage! And do not miss the infamousPitchfork Steak Fondue. Go back to thedays before automobiles on a buggy ridethrough downtown, where a cowboyguide points out historic buildings andtells tales of a bygone era. Medora offersspectacular scenery and dozens of indoorand outdoor activities to make your visit a modern “Old West” experience thatyou will never forget. Mosey your group by the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fameon your way outta town…I reckon you’ll find plenty there to see! Howdy partners!

North Dakota: Legendary

spotlight

northdak

otamore north dakota wild west…

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FALL/WINTER 2010

Annual United TribesInternational Pow WowBISMARCK

This annual event is held in the LoneStar Arena at United Tribes TechnicalCollege. Enjoy this impressive powwow, representing over 70 tribes, withover 1,500 dancers and drummersand drawing over 20,000 spectators!On ABA’s list of 100 best events!

Frontier Village and World’sLargest Buffalo MonumentJAMESTOWN

Guide your group into a prairie townfrom the early days of the west.They have re-created the town bybringing 24 original buildings fromthe frontier villages to this site andfilled them with antiques and artifactsto let you experience what life waslike for those that lived on the prairie.Feed the buffalo in the village, andif the season is right, you may evensee baby bison! You can also take astagecoach ride and see the World’sLargest Buffalo Monument, with liveones grazing right beneath it.

Badlands Trail RidesKILLDEER

Take your group for a ride along thetrails. You will be treated to a guidedhorseback trail ride through thespectacular scenery of the NorthDakota badlands on a westernadventure. They will match you withthe right horse and the right trailsand provide riding tips.

Fort Abraham LincolnState Park | MANDAN

Visitors can relive what it was like forGeneral Custer and his command in1875. We invite you to take a step“back to 1875” as uniformed soldiersand laundresses conduct living historyguided tours through the reconstructedCuster House and Central Barracks.Come out to Fort Abraham Lincolnand relive the legacy!

Lewis & Clark InterpretiveCenter | WASHBURN

Located along the Lewis & Clark Trail,discover the legacy of CaptainsMeriwether Lewis and William Clark.You can experience the heroic andhuman sides of these explorers andtheir friendship with the area’s NativeAmericans. The Center has expanded,with an exhibit gallery telling the storyof Fort Clark and the fur trade andsteamboat era. A spacious rest areais provided, along with a gift shop.

Theodore Roosevelt NationalPark | WATFORD (north unit entrance)

The Grand Canyon of the North,only half as deep and a lot morecomplex, has great opportunitiesfor hiking, biking and scenic viewing.Visit the Long X Trading Post VisitorsCenter, showcasing the ranchingand trail driving lifestyle of the1880s. The 70,000-acre park and itsrugged topography honor TheodoreRoosevelt, who ranched andestablished the national park system.


PeterNorbeckNationalScenicByway

70 miles, travel through the Black Hills National Foreston SD Hwy 87 and Iron Mountain Road (US Hwy 16A)

his drive offers breathtaking views of some ofthe Black Hills’ most stunning scenery andwill lead your group on a delightful adventure.Needles Highway features tunnels, hairpin

curves and slender granite pinnacles and meandersthrough 14 miles of magnificent rock formationscalled “needles.” One of the most prominentrock formations on the highway is theNeedles Eye, reaching 30 to 40 feet in theair with a 3-foot-wide slit. Three granitetunnels on Iron Mountain Road perfectlyframe the faces of Mount RushmoreNational Memorial in the distance. Also onthe route are three pigtail bridges, built inthe 1930s, which have a corkscrew shape.Come spend a day exploring the fabledBlack Hills, where bison roam free and theOld West is very much alive.

South Dakota: Great Faces. Great Places.

spotlight

southdakota

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Badlands Loop StateScenic Byway31 miles, travels on SD 240 – Thisdrive cuts through the middle ofbreathtaking formations of BadlandsNational Park. In addition to carvedsteep canyons and high cliffs, it isalso home to the largest and mostcomplete example of mixed-grassprairie preserved by the NationalPark Service. Scenic overlooks,with names like Seabed Jungle,Pinnacles, and Prairie Wind, offeroutstanding photo opportunities.

Mount RushmoreYour group can have a great BlackHills excursion with the help of anexperienced step-on guide. SeeMount Rushmore National Memorial,Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer StatePark and more. The epic sculpture ofMount Rushmore features the facesof four exalted American presidents:George Washington, ThomasJefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, andAbraham Lincoln. South Dakota’sBlack Hills provide the perfectbackdrop for the world’s greatestmountain carving. These 60-foot highfaces, 500 feet up, look out over asetting of pine, spruce, birch, andaspen in the clear western air.

Native AmericanScenic Byway136 miles, travels between Pierreand Chamberlain – The bywaystretches across the hills, bluffs andthe expansive tallgrass plains ofthe Sioux people, who preservethe history of the shaping of theAmerican West. Found alongsidethe Missouri River, dams createdtwo scenic lakes on the river: LakeFrancis and Lake Sharpe. As youpass through the green-gold hillsof this byway, its many memorialmarkers, monuments, museums,and sacred sites commemorate theheritage of the Sioux Nation andallow you to explore history fromthe Native American point of view.

Spearfish CanyonScenic Byway22 miles, travels from Spearfishon U.S. Alt-14 – Experience thenature, history, and adventure of theBlack Hills. From a distance, thelight-absorbing Ponderosa pinesmake the hill country of SouthDakota seem dark, more black thangreen, giving the country the nameof Black Hills. Prospectors still minethe gold beneath the surface. Andas the byway cuts through theBlack Hills, it melds all elementsof the Black Hills legacy into asingle experience. Spearfish Canyonfeatures nearly vertical cliffs withstone in Neapolitan shades of brown,pink, and gray. The narrow 11th HourGulch has such high walls that itonly gets one hour of sunlight perday, and by mid-fall a large pillar ofice already begins crystallizing.

more south dakota vistas…

SPRING 2011


attraction

Lakota Ways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-601-5103600 Main StreetPO Box 303 – Wall, SD 57790www.lakotaways.com

Raise a tipi, wear authentic tribal face paint, eat abuffalo burger, or dance at a powwow. Visit themost famous Native American reservation in theworld: Pine Ridge. While there, pay reverent homageto the open air Wounded Knee Massacre site andbe welcomed by friendly, expert informed localvillage descendants of the 1890 & 1973 WoundedKnee survivors. Your group tour experience cannotget any more ‘Native’ than that.

directory

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day one6:00 – 10:00 amEarly risers heading to Mount Rushmore NationalMemorial Monument just before sunrise won’t bedisappointed. The morning sun highlights the granite

giving you a truly unique look at the mountain andpostcard-perfect pictures. After watching the sun comeup, sit down for a hot breakfast and morning lattewith a spectacular presidential view, plus stop at theVisitor Center, gift shop and concessions stands.

10:00 am – 1:00 pmEnjoy the scenic ride to Crazy Horse Memorial, justa few miles from Mount Rushmore. This ongoingmountain carving is the world’s largest and a majestictribute to all Native American tribes across the country.The visitor complex includes a welcome center, theIndian Museum of North America, the Native AmericanEducational & Cultural Center, the sculptor’s log homestudio, indoor and outdoor galleries, museum giftshop and expansive viewing veranda. Enjoy lunch atthe Laughing Water Restaurant.1 – 4:00 pmAfter lunch, take your group underground for a look atthe beauty below the surfaces. Jewel Cave NationalMonument is approximately 20 miles west of CrazyHorse and is the world’s second longest cave.Located about 30 miles from Jewel Cave you’ll findthe world’s fourth longest cave, Wind Cave NationalPark. Both caves have daily tours.4 – 8:00 pmWall Drug is such a fun place to end your day. Thosefabulous homemade donuts, buffalo burgers and theshopping are always worth the stop. You may evenhave time to take your group to the NationalGrasslands Visitor Center just up the block.

day two10:00 am – 12:00 pmVisit the Wounded Knee Massacre Site. Groups willhear the true story of the event from Lakota guidesand view the small memorial.12 – 4:00 pmCelebrate the Lakota culture, Native art, and historiccollections at the Red Cloud Heritage Center. Thecreativity and skill of North America’s Nativecommunity is represented in this museum for yourgroup to enjoy.

With Lakota Ways, groups get the full Nativeexperience. Their tours range from Cultural toArt and are flexible to fit your group. For moreinformation, call 605-891-9692 or visit them onlineat www.aclosefamily.wix.com/copy-of-lakotaways.

The Origin of ourLand’s Greatest MonumentsThis sample itinerary is best spring through fall.


www.lakotaways.com

MILWAUKEE

IndianSummerFestival

his is the largestNative Americanfestival in the UnitedStates. It brings together

members of many American Indian tribesto share and preserve the centuries-oldtraditions of their respective tribes. Inaddition to its spectacular competitionpowwow, Indian Summer is also knownfor its American Indian music, food, art andcrafts. Your group can take in a torch-lit canoeprocession, terrific fireworks, tribal villagere-creations, cultural demonstrations, storytellers, lacrossetournaments, American Indian traditional and contemporaryentertainers, a sprawling Indian marketplace, and a fiddle andjig contest. In the heart of the Midwest, Wisconsin is a fittinglocation for this annual celebration of Native American culture,home of eleven tribes, and the largest number of tribes eastof the Mississippi River. The reservations of these elevensovereign nations occupy more than one-half million acres ofWisconsin’s most beautiful and unique landscapes. And nowhere willyou find a better powwow than at Indian Summer Festival in Milwaukee.

Travel Wisconsin

spotlight

wisco

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Stonefield | CASSVILLELocated on the Great River Road,Stonefield includes a re-created1900s rural village where you canexplore over 30 shops and services.Celebrating Wisconsin’s richagricultural heritage with the StateAgricultural Museum, Stonefieldhouses Wisconsin’s largest collectionof farm tools, models, and machinerydetailing the state’s agricultural past.Experience the sights and soundsof the railroad — the era’s mostimportant transportation. Stonefieldcelebrates the railroad’s impactduring Railroad Days, an event thattakes place every third weekend inAugust. Discover the grand summerestate of Wisconsin’s first governor,Nelson Dewey.

Wade House Historic SiteGREENBUSHBack in the 1860s, horse-drawnstagecoaches moved travelersbetween Sheboygan and Fond du Lac.This was a slow and uncomfortablejourney, but there was a haven forrest at the midway point; in the heartof the wilderness was the WadeHouse. Now this state historic sitecaters to travelers in a different way.Your group can tour the stagecoachinn as well as the Wesley JungCarriage Museum, which housesWisconsin’s biggest wagon andcarriage collection. Reconstructionof the Herrling Sawmill, powered bywater from the Mullet River, addsyet another dimension to the studyof local history.

Native American Tourism ofWisconsin (NATOW)The Native American people are“Inviting People Back to Our Land.”Wisconsin is home to the largestnumber of Native American tribeseast of the Mississippi River. Thereservations of these eleven sovereignnations occupy more than one halfmillion acres of Wisconsin’s mostbeautiful and unique landscapes:pristine lakes, rivers and streams,towering forests and ancient wildrice beds, each teeming with anabundance of wildlife. Discover howtheir tribal art, traditions and cultureare significant parts of both Indianand non-Indian communities in thestate, making Wisconsin a remarkableplace to explore the history of NativeAmerican people.

Wisconsin Historical SocietyMADISONWisconsin’s Historical Museum onCapital Square in Madison is full ofwonderful information for you to planyour tours to historic sites thatconnect you with the past by invitingyou inside the very places wherehistory happened. Begin exploringthree centuries of Wisconsin historyby visiting Old World Wisconsin,Wade House, Villa Louis, CircusWorld, Madeline Island Museum, H.H.Bennett Studio, Pendarvis, Stonefield,First Capitol, and Reed School.

wisconsin cultural history…

SUMMER 2011


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This 500-mile loop takes you to some of Wisconsin’sgreatest travel destinations. Become a “cheese head”for a few days as you and your group enjoy some goodold fashioned Wisconsin hospitality!

day one9:00 am – 1:00 pmWelcome to Thorp, Wisconsin, home of Holland’sFamily Cheese. A recently opened location, yourgroups will be able to visit the Penterman Farm, thecheesemaking facility, and the Marieke® Gouda Store.Each facility has viewing areas where your groupswill be able to see each stage of the cheesemakingprocess. Holland’s Family Cheese welcomes yourgroups to share in their passion of modern familyfarming and handcrafted cheesemaking! Enjoy lunchat Café DUTCHess.1 – 6:00 pmHead south to Beaver Dam and get settled intoyour room at the AmericInn Lodge & Suites. Thisnewly renovated award-winning hotel is known for itscleanliness and great customer service. With modernamenities and a hot breakfast, your groups will beable to kick back and feel at home.6 – 8:00 pmChoose from two delicious options for dinner.Palenque Mexican Bar & Grill will serve your groupsan authentic Mexican dinner, while the BaysideSupper Club offers a wonderful banquet facility onbeautiful Beaver Dam Lake.

day two9 – 11:00 amStart the day in Beaver Dam by browsing the aisles ofNancy’s Notions. This sewing outlet was featured onPBS’s popular Sewing With Nancy.11:00 am – 12:00 pmStop for a snack at It’s A Sweet Life and indulge ingourmet cupcakes! Offering 6 flavors every week,you are sure to find the perfect treat to suit yourtaste buds.12 – 2:00 pmSpeaking of taste buds, Schultz’s Cheese Haus offerswonderful and unique cheese samples as well aslocal wine tastings. Each aisle is bursting withcheese spreads, cracker assortments, jerky &sausage, specialty cheeses, gift boxes, and evencandies & chocolates! Wisconsin souvenir items arealso available.2 – 4:00 pmA one-hour drive to Plymouth brings you to 52Stafford. This historic inn provides uptown servicewith small town charm. Their Irish cooking is like anIrish song; simple and tasty on the tongue, while fillingand wholesome for the body and spirit. They hope yourgroup will find the food flavorful, the services warmand generous, and the tariff moderate.4 – 5:00 pmSpend some time this afternoon touring Plymouth’s

500 Miles Through WisconsinThis sample itinerary can be customized for any time of year.

Wisconsin Dells Boat Tours

Plymouth Walldog


www.mariekegouda.com

www.beaverdamchamber.com

www.plymouthwisconsin.com

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famous murals. Modern mural artists, known as theWalldogs, have hand-painted Plymouth’s historyalong exterior walls throughout downtown. Follow itup with a tour of the Plymouth Historical Society,displaying a variety of exhibits. View several largecollections featuring the fire department, a blacksmithshop, turn-of-the-century parlor, World War II, andNative American artifacts.5 – 8:30 pmHead one hour south to Milwaukee, where your groupwill love the Potawatomi Hotel & Casino. The hotelfeatures Locavore, a full-service casual restaurantand lobby bar, as well as a coffee shop, fitness centerand more. The folks at Potawatomi continue to offer

the very best in gaming action across two massivefloors that include table games, slot machines, bingo,poker and off-track betting. Is your group interestedin seeing a show? The 500-seat Northern LightsTheater serves up world-class comedy and musicalacts, giving you the best seats in the house. And checkout their group packages! From bingo to hotels,Potawatomi offers great deals for groups of ten ormore. Don’t miss out!

day three8 – 10:00 amHead two hours northwest to Mauston. Positionedhalfway between Chicago and Minneapolis, Mauston


www.mauston.org/tours

www.paysbig.com

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finds you centered in the scenic Wisconsin outdoors.With clean, friendly, and affordable lodging that isgroup-friendly, Mauston serves as the ideal base campfor experiencing the real Wisconsin. There are manylocal attractions to see!10:00 am – 1:00 pmA morning boat ride on The Cruisin’ Turtle willaccommodate up to 50 people with 25 under cover.Equipped with air conditioning and heat, it’s a greatway to get on the water in Mauston! You are welcometo have your cruise catered or bring your own food.1 – 3:00 pmLocated just 10 miles north of downtown WisconsinDells is Fawn Creek Winery. Indulge in a glass of finewine while savoring the peace and quiet of the woodson the outdoor deck overlooking this seven-acrevineyard. This family-owned business is nestled on36 acres amid a grove of maple, pine and oak trees.They feature complimentary wine tastings, a gift shop,and a micro menu.3 – 6:00 pmReturn to Mauston and check into your hotel. Maustonhas several great choices for evening entertainment. Ifvisiting during the warmer months, an outdoor dinneralong the lake is the perfect way to end the day.

day four9:00 am – 3:00 pmHead west to Cashton and take in a simpler lifestyleas you tour Wisconsin’s largest Amish community atDown A Country Road. Over 300 Old Order Amish

call the area home and have established a communityrich in history, culture and handcrafted treasures.Chuck and Kathy Kuderer have established a very closefriendship with many of the Amish families in the area,and together they work to bring handmade treasuresand treats to you at The Village Shops at Down ACountry Road. The Village Shops consist of 6 uniquesmall cottages filled with products made by the localAmish, other local artisans and some unique generalgiftware. Most of the little cottages were built by theAmish and are set in amongst beautiful gardens. Thereis no cost to stop with your group at The Village Shops,however there is a fee for the tour.

For more information or to customize this sampleitinerary for your group, contact any of the following:

BEAVER DAM CHAMBER OF COMMERCE920-887-8879 / www.beaverdamchamber.com

DOWN A COUNTRY ROAD608-654-5318 / www.downacountryroad.com

HOLLAND’S FAMILY CHEESE715-669-5230 / www.mariekegouda.com

MAUSTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE608-847-4142 / www.mauston.org/tours

PLYMOUTH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE920-893-0079 / www.plymouthwisconsin.com

POTAWATOMI HOTEL & CASINO800-729-7244 / www.paysbig.com

Potawatomi Hotel & Casino




www.downacountryroad.com

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accommodations

Ages Past B&B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 608-654-58501223 Front Street – Cashton, WI 56619www.agespastbnb.com

AmericInn of Beaver Dam . . . . . 920-356-9000www.americinn.com/hotels/wi/beaverdamWe know there’s no place like home, but with our newlyupdated furnishings, room décor, flat screen TV’s and cozySerta® Perfect Sleeper beds, the AmericInn Beaver Dam will feellike your home away from home.

attractions

Apple Holler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262-884-71005006 S Sylvania Ave – Sturtevant, WI 53177www.appleholler.com

Barn at Harvest Moon Pond . . . . 608-635-4344N3540 State Road 22 – Poynette, WI 53955www.barnharvestmoon.com

Circle M Market Farm . . . . . . . . . . 608-558-05011784 County Rd H – Blanchardville, WI 53516www.circlemfarm.com

Down a Country Road . . . . . . . . . . 608-654-531812651 State Hwy 33 – Cashton, WI 54619www.downacountryroad.com

Glacial Lake Cranberries . . . . . . . 715-887-41612480 County Road D – Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495www.cranberrylink.com

Gramma Miller’sFarm Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 715-249-3060N4317 Elizabeth Lane – Hancock, WI 54943www.grammamillersmarket.com

Hinchley’s Dairy Farm Tours . . . . 608-764-50902844 Hwy 73 – Cambridge, WI 53523www.dairyfarmtours.com

Holland’s Family Cheese LLC . . . 715-669-5230200 W Liberty Drive – Thorp, WI 54771www.mariekegouda.com

Kickapoo Orchard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 608-735-463746490 Highway 71 – Gays Mills, WI 54631www.kickapoo-orchard.com

Maple Trees& Milwaukee Trains . . . . . . . . . . . . 608-606-2866106 2nd Street E – Westby, WI 54667www.OcoochMountainAcres.com

Meuer Farm LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 920-418-2676N2564 US Hwy 151 – Chilton, WI 53014www.meuerfarm.com

Milwaukee County Zoo . . . . . . . . 414-256-543210001 West Blue Mound Road – Milwaukee, WI [email protected] of the country’s finest zoological attractions, they willeducate, entertain and inspire you! Visit over 2,000 mammals,birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles in specialized habitatsspanning 200 wooded acres. Explore fun attractions andenticing special events.

National HistoricCheesemaking Center . . . . . . . . . 608-325-46362108 6th Avenue – Monroe, WI 53566www.nationalhistoriccheesemakingcenter.org

Old World Wisconsin. . . . . . . . . . . . 262-594-6301W372 S9727 Hwy 67 – Eagle, WI 53119www.oldworldwisconsin.wisconsinhistory.org

PotawatomiHotel & Casino . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-729-72441721 W Canal St – Milwaukee, WI 53233www.paysbig.comPotawatomi Hotel & Casino offers high-stakes bingo, over 100table games, 3,000+ slot machines, a 20-table Poker Room, a500-seat theater and an Off-Track Betting Room. Numerousdining options plus a brand new, luxurious 19 story hotel.

Rural Arts Roadtrip . . . . . . . . . . . . . 920-286-0971W1993 Thede Road – New Holstein, WI 53061www.ruralartsroadtrip.com

Rushing Waters Fisheries . . . . . . 800-378-7088N301 County Road H – Palmyra, WI 53156www.rushingwaters.net

Sassy Cow Creamery . . . . . . . . . . . 608-837-7766W4192 Bristol Road – Columbus, WI 53925www.sassycowcreamery.com

Stonefield Historic Site . . . . . . . . . 608-725-521012195 Hwy VV – Cassville, WI 53806www.stonefield.wisconsinhistory.org

Warrens Cranberry Festival. . . . 608-378-4200PO Box 146 – Warrens, WI [email protected]’s largest cranberry festival, with more than 1,200arts/crafts, flea market and antique booths. Experienceeverything cranberry. Delicious! Tour a cranberry marsh andsee one of the largest marching band parades in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin CranberryDiscovery Center &Wetherby Cranberry Co. . . . . . . . . 608-378-4878204 Main Street – Warrens, WI 54666www.discovercranberries.com

convention & visitorsbureaus and chambers

AbbyColby Crossings Chamber . 715-223-8509PO Box 418 – Abborsford, WI 54405www.abbycolbyareachamber.org

Beaver DamChamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . 920-887-8879127 South Spring Street – Beaver Dam, WI [email protected] Dam is a picturesque community that is located insouth central Wisconsin on Beaver Dam Lake. The communityoffers plenty of waterborne recreation, as well as many otherplaces for groups to explore.

Calumet CountyTourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 920-849-1493 x263206 Court St – Chilton, WI 53014www.travelcalumet.com

Green County Tourism . . . . . . . . . . 608-328-18381016 16th Ave – Monroe, WI 53566www.greencounty.org

MaustonChamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . . 920-637-1271303 Mansion Street – Mauston, WI 53948www.visitmauston.com

PlymouthChamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . 888-693-8263PO Box 584 – Plymouth, WI 53073www.plymouthwisconsin.comPlymouth is Wisconsin’s Mural Capital! Located in SheboyganCty, it’s nestled in the gently rolling hills of the Kettle Moraine.This quaint town is ideal for visitors to rest, relax, and rejuvenate.

StoughtonChamber of Commerce . . . . . . . . 608-873-7912532 E Main Street – Stoughton, WI [email protected] on the banks of the Yahara River, Stoughton is a treasurechest of Norwegian Heritage and Victorian architecture, Artsand Culture, and warm, friendly Festivals. Let us provide yourgroups with a fun and educational experience.

wineriesFawn Creek Winery. . . . . . . . . . . . . 608-253-44003619 13th Avenue – Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965www.fawncreekwinery.com

Munson Bridge Winery . . . . . . . . . 715-229-4501W6462 Bridge Road – Withee, WI 54498www.munsonbridgewinery.com

Trout Springs Winery . . . . . . . . . . . 920-864-77618150 River Road – Greenleaf, WI 54126www.troutspringswinery.com

Vetro Winery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 920-674-96501414 Vino Lane – Jefferson, WI 53549www.vetrowine.com

directory


Indian Summer Festival - Milwaukee


illinoisjanuary• Volo Bog’s WinterFestJanuary 10, Ingleside 815-344-1294

• Spring Awakening at the Marriott TheatreJanuary 14-31, Lincolnshire 847-634-0220

• Bald Eagle Toursat Crab Orchard National Wildlife RefugeJanuary 23-February 1, Marion 618-997-3344

february• Southern Illinois Boat & Fishing ShowFebruary 5-7, Marion 618-993-2657

• Chicago Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise– Spirit of ChicagoFebruary 13-14, Chicago 866-273-2469

• The Peking Acrobats 30th Anniversary Tourat the James Lumber CenterFebruary 19, Grayslake 847-543-2300

march• Kane County Flea MarketMarch 5-6, St. Charles 630-584-6926

• Chicago Flower & Garden ShowMarch 12-20, Chicago 312-241-1250

• West Side Story:A Paramount Theatrical ProductionMarch 16 – April 24, Aurora 630-896-6666

• Crappie USA Super TournamentMarch 18-20, Marion 618-997-3690

iowajanuary• The Lion, the Witch, and the WardrobeJanuary 8-24, Des Moines 515-277-6261

• World’s Toughest RodeoJanuary 8-9, Des Moines 515-564-8000

• Annual Ice Fishing DerbyJanuary 16, Mason City 641-421-3673

• Iowa Boat, RV & Vacation ShowJanuary 22-24, Cedar Falls 319-232-0218

february• 12 Angry MenFebruary 5-21, Des Moines 515-277-6261

• Cedar Rapids SportshowFebruary 12-14, Cedar Rapids 319-232-0218

• 4th AnnualDes Moines Area Bluegrass FestivalFebruary 26-27, Johnston 641-799-1442

march• North Iowa Home and Landscaping ShowMarch 4-6, Mason City 319-232-0218

• Eastern Iowa SportshowMarch 11-13, Cedar Falls 319-232-0218

• St. Patrick’s Day CelebrationMarch 18-20, Emmetsburg 712-852-4326

• Riverdance: 20 YearsMarch 22-24, Mason City 641-422-4188

kansasjanuary• Birger Sandzen Holiday Gift ShowNov 8 – Jan 24, Lindsborg 785-227-2220

• Starbird-Devlin Rod& Customs Charities Car ShowJanuary 16-17, Wichita 316-722-9190

• The Big Friendly Giant– Dallas Children’s TheatreJanuary 19, Junction City, 785-238-3906

february• Lincoln DaysFebruary 12-13, Lincoln 785-524-5133

• Chocolate Lover’s AffairFebruary 13, Lindsborg 888-227-2227

• Mary PoppinsFebruary 18-21, Hutchinson 620-662-1601

• EquiFest of KansasFebruary 26, Topeka 785-776-0662

march• PSU International Food and Culture FairMarch 5, Pittsburg 620-235-4680

• Saint Louis Brass QuintetMarch 5, Junction City 785-238-3906

• Tallgrass Film Festival Road ShowMarch 20, Junction City 785-238-3906

• PSU Best of Broadway Series,“Beauty and the Beast”March 22, Pittsburg 620-231-7000

michiganjanuary• Plymouth Ice FestivalJanuary 8-10, Plymouth 248-817-8836

• Bookings, Bullets & Bows:Expo & Gun Show 2016January 15-17, Cadillac 231-878-2479

• Winter Delights:A Festival of Wine, Food and MusicJanuary 23, Benton Harbor 269-927-1221

• Snowfest 2016January 27 – February 1,Frankenmuth 800-863-7999

february• 12th Annual Magical Ice FestFebruary 5-7, Saint Joseph 269-985-1111

• Detroit Camper & RV ShowFebruary 10-14, Novi 586-752-6381

• Burton Mountain FestivalFebruary 19-21, Harbor Springs 844-824-9665

• Michigan Nordic Fire FestivalFebruary 26-28, Charlotte 517-541-0095

march• Retro WeekendMarch 4-6, Harbor Springs 844-824-9665

• 7th Annual Brew-Ski FestivalMarch 12, Harbor Springs 844-824-9665

• Michigan Gem& Mineral Society ShowMarch 18-20, Jackson 517-522-3396

illinois

iowa

kansas

michigan

CONTACT AREA CVBS FOR COMPLETE CALENDARS.

calendar of events 2016[ january – february – march ]

50

International Festival –Madison, WI Winter Wonderland –Sioux Falls, SD


minnesotajanuary• Ice FestJanuary 9-10, Breezy Point 218-562-7811

• Back to Hack Winter FestivalJanuary 15-17, Hackensack 218-675-6135

• WinterfestJanuary 22-23, Worthington 800-279-2919

• Midwest Vintage Snowmobile ShowJanuary 29-31, Waconia 651-649-4688

february• Sportsmen’s ShowFebruary 5-7, St. Cloud 320-255-7272

• 50th Annual DuluthBoat, Sports, Travel & RV ShowFebruary 17-21, Duluth 952-431-9630

• Central MN Farm ShowFebruary 23-25, St. Cloud 320-255-7272

• Grumpy Old Men FestivalFebruary 27, Wabasha 651-565-4158

march• Winter Bluegrass WeekendMarch 4-6, Plymouth 612-285-9133

• CMBA Home ShowMarch 11-13, St. Cloud 320-255-7272

• An Irish Day of Dance& St. Patrick’s Day CelebrationMarch 17-20, St. Paul 651-292-3225

• Motorhead MadnessMarch 19-20, Duluth 952-447-5999

missourijanuary• Eagle Watch at Roaring River State ParkDec 19 – Jan 16, Cassville 417-847-3742

• Museum After Hours: The Life and Shoes ofCharles Tweedie at Missouri State MuseumJanuary 6, Jefferson City 573-522-6949

• 16th Annual Eagle Days – Lake of the OzarksJanuary 9-10, Lake Ozark 800-386-5253

february• Kansas City Repertory Theatre Presents:

The Diary of Anne FrankJan 29-Feb 21, Kansas City 816-235-2700

• The Leache Theatre Presents: RagtimeFebruary 8, Rolla 573-341-4219

• Eagle Watching at Big Sugar Creek State ParkFebruary 20, Pineville 417-847-3742

• Polish Baltic Philharmonic OrchestraFebruary 29, St. Louis 314-533-7662

march• Kansas City Theatre Presents:

Roof of the WorldFeb 26 – Mar 27, Kansas City 816-238-2700

• Leach Theatre Presents:The Legendary Count Basie OrchestraMarch 5, Rolla 573-341-4219

• St. Patrick’s Day Celebrationand Home Brew CompetitionMarch 19, Sikeston 573-380-3801

• The Spring Thing Walkat Washington State ParkMarch 19-20, 636-586-5768

nebraskajanuary• Cabin Fever Antique Show & SaleJanuary 10-11, Lincoln 402-432-1451

• Fonner Park Outdoor ExpoJanuary 15-17, Grand Island 308-382-4515

• Central Nebraska Home & Builders ShowJanuary 22-24, Grand Island 308-382-4515

february• Fragile Beauty:

The Glass Art of Craig Mitchell SmithFebruary 1 – May 8,Omaha 402-346-4002

• Hinamatsuri: Japanese Doll ExhibitFebruary 18 – March 3,Omaha 402-346-4002

• Flashdance: The MusicalFebruary 19-20, Lincoln 402-472-4747

• Valley County Home & Ag ExpoFebruary 27, Ord 308-728-7875

march• From Nebraska to the World:

Buffalo Bill’s Wild West ShowJanuary 30 – May 1, Omaha 402-444-5071

• Orchid Show and SaleMarch 5-6, Omaha 402-346-4002

• Puddin’ and the GrumbleMarch 10-20, Lincoln 402-472-4747

• America’s ParksMarch 14 – May 14, Chadron 308-432-6401

north dakotajanuary• Art Exhibit:

“Missouri Valley Gold” by Greg WalterDecember 16 - January 16,Jamestown 701-251-2496

• Winter Ag & Construction ExpoJanuary 13-14, Jamestown 701-252-1400

• Broadway in Bismarck Presents“Million Dollar Quartet”January 24, Bismarck 701-355-1384

• North of Normal FrostivalJanuary 29-31, Fargo 701-282-3653

january• Sport and Rec ShowFebruary 4-7, Jamestown 701-252-4835

• Cabin Fever DaysFebruary 5-14, Jamestown 701-252-3982

• 54th Annual Feast of NationsFebruary 6, Grand Forks 701-777-2731

• ShiverFestFebruary 19-21, Devils Lake 701-662-4903

march• North Dakota Winter ShowMarch 1-6, Valley City 701-845-1401

• KX Sport RV Boat ShowMarch 11-13, Minot 701-852-2104

• Fargo-Moorhead Opera– The Face on the Barroom FloorMarch 13-15, Fargo 701-239-4558

south dakotajanuary• Winter WonderlandNovember 20 – January 10,Sioux Falls 605-275-6060

• 15th Annual Mobridge Ice Fishing TournamentJanuary 7-9, Mobridge 605-845-2500

• ISOC Snowcross ShootoutJanuary 22-23, Deadwood 605-578-1876

• Mardi Gras WeekendJanuary 29-30, Deadwood 605-578-1876

february• Living History FairFebruary 5-6, Watertown 605-886-7335

• South Dakota’s Largest Tailgate PartyFebruary 7, Deadwood 605-578-1876

• Watertown Winter Farm ShowFebruary 9-13, Watertown 605-886-5814

march• James Valley Model Railroad Open HouseNovember 21 – March 2,Aberdeen 800-732-5682

• Custer Trade ShowMarch 5, Custer 605-673-2244

• St. Patrick’s Day WeekendMarch 18-19, Deadwood 605-578-1876

• Curt Carter Memorial Gun ShowMarch 19-20, Watertown 605-793-2347

wisconsin calendarjanuary• Intenational Festival 2016January 9, Madison 608-258-4141

• Bald Eagle Watching DaysJanuary 15-16, Prairie Du Sac 608-643-4168

• Milwaukee Boat ShowJanuary 15-24, West Allis 616-447-2860

• WinterfestJanuary 22-24, Beloit 608-365-4838

february• Winterfest &

U.S. National Snow Sculpting CompetitionFebruary 3-13, Lake Geneva 262-248-4416

• Hot Air AffairFebruary 5-7, Hudson 715-386-8411

• Greater Milwaukee Auto ShowFebruary 20-28, Milwaukee 414-908-6001

• Mad City Model Railroad Show and SaleFebruary 20-21, Madison 608-267-3976

march• Motown the MusicalMarch 1-6, Madison 608-258-4141

• Home, Garden & Leisure ShowMarch 11-13, West Bend 262-338-2666

• Super Home ExtravaganzaMarch 18-20, Fond Du Lac 920-922-9067

• WPS Farm ShowMarch 29-31, Oshkosh 866-920-3276

north dakota

wisconsin

SnowFest 2016 –Frankenmuth, MI Chicago Flower and Garden Show –Chicago, ILFeast of Nations –Grand Forks. ND

missouri

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minnesota nebraska south dakota



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Itineraries Midwest Winter 2015-16