Itineraries Midwest fall 2011

www.itinerariesmidwest.com

http://ticasino.com/

table of contentsfall/winter 2011

featuring

8 Making Warm Memories ina Winter Wonderland

columns

4 destination highlight Festival du Voyageur6 travel tips Traveling to Success

Festival du Voyageur in Winnipegcelebrates the French-Canadianheritage of central Canada with dogsledding, skating, music, food, drinkand most of all: snow sculptures!During the weeks leading up to thefestival, a team of sculptors chip awayat 450,000 square feet of snow totransform Whittier Park into a winterwonderland called Voyageur Park.

on the cover

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

Dear Planner,

A number of tourists view the winter season as a time to take a break from travel.The fall colors have faded, and with it, the motivation to take group adventures.But not anymore! This issue will put an end to Midwest hibernation and renew yourtaste for wintry excitement—indoors and out!

The Midwest has certainly embraced its frosty weather. While a warmer statemight have a sandcastle competition, the Midwest offers a multitude of snow and icesculpting events. For example, Canada’s “Festival du Voyageur” has one of the largestsnow-sculpting contests in the world, with many sculptures as tall as 18 feet! The festivalgoes above and beyond to entertain groups with a variety of cold weather activities.

This season is a great time to celebrate the holidays in traditional ways as well.Many towns offer Victorian, Wild West, or Pioneer themed Christmas celebrations, allwith great food, music and gift shopping. Branson, Missouri’s “An OldTime Christmas” embodies some of the best holiday traditions inAmerica with a five-story Christmas tree, theatrical performances ofholiday classics and four million lights decorating the square!

Don’t let the cold weather keep your group indoors this sea-son. Bundle yourselves up and prepare for a WinterWonderland…

Best Regards,Heather J. Lahren, CEO - Publisher

COPYR IGHT 2011

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

[email protected] | www.itinerariesmidwest.com

Heather J. Lahren | [email protected]

Lynn Gottwalt | TRAFFIC [email protected]

Mackenzie Lahren | PROJECT [email protected]

Eric Beuning | ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE [email protected]

Chris Reber |WEB DESIGNER/[email protected]

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Heather Lahren, Kathleen Somers,Lynn Gottwalt, andMackenzie Lahren | ITINERARIES Inc.

Britt Aamodt

ADVISORY BOARD

ILLINOIS: Susan Yarolem | Celebration River Cruises

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

KANSAS: Sylvia Rice | Salina Chamber

MINNESOTA: Dawn Krosnowski | Sunshine TravelSherri Mullery | Bloomington CVB

MISSOURI: Stacy Crabtree | Metcalf Bank

NEBRASKA: Tricia Beem | Grand Island, Hall County CVBMarilyn Whitehead | Allied Tour & Travel

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

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

WISCONSIN: Peggy Bitzer | Circle WisconsinJoyce Ohrmundt | Nationwide Travelers

CENTRAL CANADA: Rose Ann Kupiak | Embassy Tours, Ltd

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

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

POSTMASTER :Send address changes to ITINERARIES Inc.

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Coming Spring 2012!Group Tours on the WaterApproximately 16,000 years ago the last glaciersretreated from the Midwest, leaving us with amultitude of lakes, rivers, streams and ponds toentertain our groups! Take a dinner cruise downthe Mississippi, enjoy a lakefront festival or ridea hydro-jet ferry from St. Ignace to Mackinac Island.The water has plenty to offer!

photo credi tsCover image: Festival du Voyageur, Winnipeg, photo courtesy of Festival du Voyageur. Other images: A.C. Miller Photography,Albert Lea CVB, Bill Curtsinger © 2008 National Geographic, Bloomington CVB, Burnsville CVB, Canyon Lake Resort, Club RegentCasino, CopperDog 150, Des Moines Register, Fairmont CVB, Festiva Hospitality Group, Festival du Voyageur, Fort Calhoun – Nebraska,Fox Hills Resort, Great North Show Providers, Lawrence Kansas, National Park Service, Patee House Museum, Pelican Breeze IICruise Boat, Rapid City CVB, St. Joseph Missouri, Saint Paul Winter Carnival, Sioux Falls CVB, Steele County Historical Society,Sylvan Lake Black Hills, Travel South Dakota, Twin Cities Minnesota Daily Photo, Two Rivers Wisconsin, Valley Spotlight – Iowa,Visit Duluth, Wabasha Street Caves, WISN – ULocal Wisconsin

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Those early fur traders were a hardybunch, and while life might havebeen harsh, complaining was nottheir style. No, they kept a happyattitude and a joyful spirit no matterwhat life dealt. It’s that same joiede vivre that Festival du Voyageurcaptures and delivers consistentlyto your groups. The voyageur eraincluded First Nation Tribes andMétis, an ethnic group of mixed Cree,Ojibwa, Saulteaux, French Canadian,Scottish and English. Festival duVoyageur offers an opportunity tolearn about, experience, andcelebrate all those cultures, but youcertainly don’t have to belong to anyparticular one. Indeed, the festivalis designed to appeal to all ages, allappetites, all sizes, all types, andwell…ALL.

From its humble beginnings as athree-day event in Winnipeg’s FrenchQuarter in 1970, the festival hasgrown to its present size andlocation. Permanently housed atthe reconstructed Fort Gibraltar inVoyageur Park, the festival now hasplenty of room for the nearly 100,000travelers attending the 10-daycelebration. Fort Gibraltar standsmost of the year as an historical sitefeaturing colorful characters living in1815. Come February though, well,that’s when Gibraltar awakens tothe beat of the voyageur and theexcitement of winter festivities.That’s when the “World’s LargestKitchen Party” kicks off.

Mark your calendar for February17-26, 2012. And to figure out whenWinnipeg’s largest festival is held anyyear, just know that Louis Riel Day isalways the third Monday of February.Louis Riel is considered, by manyCanadian folk, a hero. He is one ofthe founders of the province andfrequently referred to as the “Fatherof Manitoba.” So it’s fitting that theFestival du Voyageur always beginsthe Friday prior to Louis Riel Day andcontinues for ten days. If you can’tremember Louis Riel, just rememberPresidents’ Day—they are the sameday on the calendar.

Recognizing the special needs of

groups, the folks at Festival duVoyageur have done an excellent jobof accommodating motorcoach tours.Maison du Bourgeois, a large andelegant log structure within the fort,serves as the venue for groupreservations, dinners, and a traditionalFrench Canadian music and showoffered exclusively to groups.Packages include a one-day pass toVoyageur Park, the central hub ofthe festival. There you have accessto multiple tents with food,entertainment, the InternationalSnow Sculpting Symposium, artsand crafts, plus so much more. Yourgroup will also enjoy reserved seatingat a dinner and show in La Maisondu Bourgeois.

There’s a torchlight walk on openingnight that I highly recommend.Participants gather at The Forks andcarry candles or torches across thefrozen river to Voyageur Park. It’s somuch fun to be a part of, so they’vemade it accessible for those whochoose not to walk by having buses atthe ready for them. It’s a sight tobehold either way.

You may choose to customize yourpackage to include festivalmerchandise such as the signaturevoyageur sash (ceinture fléchée).Or maybe you would like to do aspecial and memorable group activitylike weaving a giant sash. Yourcontact for making your groupexperience the best isMaxine Robert204-237-7692 ext 225, or email [email protected]. She can alsoassist in getting you in touch withother attractions in the city.

You’ll find themed tents, heated andwarm, 12-foot high snow sculptures,fiddling, jigging, costumed voyageurs,free snowshoeing workshop,souvenirs, artesian tents, canoeraces, a pea soup challenge, ropeweaving, works of art, music of allkinds, dancing, French Canadianfood like sugar pie made with maplesyrup, and, well, the list goes on. It issuch a unique event, fun and warmand welcoming…and it just happensto be in the winter. Everyone who’shaving fun give me a hého!

Hé ho…Let’s Go…to Winnipeg!FESTIVALDU VOYAGEUR

destination highlight BY KATHLEEN SOMERS

If you’re going to bundle up and venture

your group out into the winter cold,

what better place to go than a festival

that celebrates travelers. A ten-day

winter event in Winnipeg, Manitoba,

during February fits the bill perfectly.

The Festival du Voyageur (translated as

Festival of the Traveler) celebrates

Canada’s fur trading past and her unique

French heritage with entertainment, arts,

crafts, music, and displays. It’s Western

Canada’s largest winter festival, the

experience of which will convince your

group that winter just isn’t long enough.

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Over the past 15 years, Matt Conner fromPrairie Waters Fish and Wildlife Service hasnoticed how attendance explodes whenprograms offered can connect visitors tomore than just information. After all,information is everywhere. And we reallydon’t have to leave home to find it. But offerthat same information combined with ameaningful experience, and they’ll beat apath to your doorway. You could teach agroup the history of snowshoes and howmodels have changed over the decades, butwhy stop there? Get those groups out on thetrails experiencing snowshoeing and youhave given them a meaningful connection:a new life skill. Now that’s fun...andunforgettable! “If it is not meaningful, it issterile,” says Conner. Offer your groups asense of accomplishment. “It goes back tothe old saying,” says Conner, “Give a man afish and he eats for a day. Teach a manto fish and he sits in a boat all day andmakes up lies.”

And just how do we provide that meaningfulconnection? Michael Embrey of FunMeEvents knows. His is a niche travel companythat markets Broadway shows and otherunique destinations to student groups andadult/family groups. Business is booming. Somuch so that he started another companycalled The N.I.C.E Society, which caters tothe 30+ age group and gives them that

memorable and rewarding travel experience.The N.I.C.E. Society may take you golfing,but first you will learn to make your owngolf club! Thinking of a Broadway show?Well the N.I.C.E. Society has tickets tothe Tony Awards! Their motto is “We don’tsell tours…we provide experiences.” It’s awinning ingredient for successful grouptravel. But there’s more…

When Lois Stolte of Thrivent FinancialTours organizes a trip, she always sells outearly. She wanted to take 30 people to theOrdway next month, and had to call for extratickets—four times! The group is up to 55 atpresent, with 4 more on a waiting list. Thishappens often for Lois. What’s her secret?Her regulars tell me she offers good value.But they are quick to acknowledge the realsecret to her success lies in the FUN. I heardthings like “never a dull moment,” “haven’tlaughed so much,” and “had a lot of fun.”Without question Stolte is successful withher groups, but more importantly, she loveswhat she is doing. Maybe that’s why every-one has so darn much fun.

Perhaps Stolte isn’t doing anything differentfrom most tour operators. Before her longertrips, she gets everyone together for a mealand opportunity to meet one another and geta bus buddy. On board there are games andprizes and movies. The traveler’s comfort is

her focus, and massive fun is her reputation.So what makes Lois stand out? She’s havingas much fun as everyone else on the trip!That’s right, she loves it and her joy iscontagious—a key point we can all payattention to. Lois got into the tour operatorbusiness 20 years ago because she wantedto go places. The basic intention of herbusiness is to look for places she’d like to go,and then bring along “friends.” Believe me,over the years, many of her faithful followershave become real friends also. And over theyears, she has never lost her enthusiasm forher groups and her trips. She keeps the fungoing at all times, getting people to interactand setting a happy tone.

As we feel the shakiness of uncertaineconomic times, we can all be confidentthat we have something special to offer.Creating memorable and rewarding travelexperiences is as easy as connecting tosomething meaningful, then keeping it fun.

Come on! Put a smile on your face,remember why you got into group travelin the first place, and let all thatenthusiasm shine through all that you do.When you are having fun and offering ameaningful experience for your travelers,you too will notice that “business is betterthan ever!”

Have you noticed a change in the type of trips your groups want to take, or maybe the length or number of trips? Perhaps

you have. The question is, is this a good thing? Times are changing and we all must adapt. As I talk to a diverse

selection of planners across the Midwest, I am always pleased and maybe a little surprised to learn how some operators

are making this new climate in group travel explode their business. What’s their secret? I’ve picked up a couple tips I’d

like to share. Successful trends seem to boil down to two essential elements: make it meaningful and keep it fun.

�

travel tips BY KATHLEEN SOMERS

Traveling to

SUCCESS

Join us in South Dakota next fall for the2012 ITINERARIES MIDWEST Group Travel Show & FAM.

Tour Operators, Bank Club Directors and qualified Group Leaders will have time for…Appointment Sessions, Open Trade Show, Find Out What’s New, and FAM Tour

Check our website in January for more information.

Call 877-832-7267 or visit www.itinerariesmidwest.com.

http://itinerariesmidwest.com/travel-show/

P icture yourself in your favorite flannel pajamas andfleece-lined slippers. Then see yourself heading into the

kitchen to zap a mug of hot chocolate to complement the sugarcookies and Russian teacakes stacked on a snowflake napkin.Goodies assembled, you cozy onto the living room sofa, throwan afghan over your legs and punch play on the remote.

What’s on TV tonight? Why, of course, those old chestnuts:‘Miracle On 34th Street’ , ‘ It’s a Wonderful Life’ and ‘WhiteChristmas’ . Nothing goes better with your creature comforts thanBing Crosby on the piano, crooning, “ I’m dreaming of a whiteChristmas. Just like the ones I used to know…”

BY BRITT AAMODT

Okay, so if you were to pause Bing right now and peer out the window, what would you see? Trees in fullleaf, songbirds warbling, the thermometer chugging up to eighty-plus in the shade? I don’t think so. What youreally want to see are mounded snowdrifts, ice-chunked eaves and Old Man Winter howling at the door.Anyway, cookies and hot chocolate just taste better with snow on the ground.

So, if you’re thinking of holing away for the winter and putting off group tour plans until flip-flopand shorts weather, well, think again. Right now is the best time of year for shopping, wintermarkets, songfests and sampling the bounty of a festively laden table. So put on your boots andknit cap, because we’re headed into a winter wonderland.

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Open Air Freeze FestsMaybe it’s because we don’t have a choicein the matter, but we Midwesterners andour neighbors to the north, the Canadians,have made quite a production out ofwinter festivals. And we’re talking outdoorwinter festivals. Sure, you could takeyour group to an enormous shopping mall,like the Mall of America, and have a greattime bopping in and out of temperature-controlled boutiques and specialty foodstores. But there’s just something magicalabout stepping off the motorcoach into acity square trimmed with evergreen,sparkling with lights and the music ofcarolers tuning the crisp, winter air. Andyou can only do that one season a year.

At Winnipeg’s Festival du Voyageur,you can spend hours walking the stallsand checking out the open-air schedule oftheatrical and musical performers. Andwhat about the aroma of smoky barbecuerising from a grill at Saint Paul’s WinterCarnival?

Warm yourself with a hot coffee atWinterfest in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin,and take a front-row seat at the UnitedStates National Snow SculptingCompetition. Watch outdoor artisanschainsaw and chip away at huge blocks ofice, then stick around for horse-drawncarriage and sleigh rides.

Or maybe shopping’s more up youralley? Then your group may want to checkout Christkindlmarket in Chicago.Inspired by the outdoor Christmas fairsin Nuremberg, Germany, which began in1545, the Chicago market offers up morethan fifty vendors selling everythingfrom glassware, toys, ornaments, jewelryand Christmas treats. Save your appetitefor some good German food, too:bratwurst, schnitzel, strudel and gluhwein(hot spiced wine).

Every state in the Midwest has a

winter festival or parade of some sort.Some even have more than one, to markthe before and after holiday seasons.Each outdoor event provides your groupwith a dozen reasons to celebrate life inthe cold. You get it all—shopping, music,theater, food, craft demos, hot air balloonsand fireworks. And you don’t even have toworry about hat hair, because you’ll wantto keep your hats on.

Into the Great Wide OpenNow that we’ve tempted you outside tostroll market stalls and nibble krumkakeand apple fritters in open-sided tents, whynot go the next step? Why not take yourgroup to a real winter wonderland? Manyof the nature centers and parks you love tovisit in summer for boat rides and naturewalks are open in winter too, but with afocus on the white fluffy stuff.

Winter nights are made for snowshoehikes atMinnesota’s Voyageur’s NationalPark. Many state parks have heatedcamper cabins. So if you love to ski orsnowshoe by candlelight, but also want tobe close to a warm, well-lit place, makeyour home in the park for the night.

Honey Creek, Iowa hosts owl prowlnight hikes. Listen to stories about thesefascinating birds of the night on anevening hike and even learn to make yourown owl calls. Keokuk, Iowa pulls out allthe stops for its annual Bald EagleAppreciation Days. There are observationposts along the Mississippi River as wellas programs, films and special exhibits.

In Central Wisconsin meanwhile,your group can participate in timberwolf tracking and ecology workshops atSandhill State Wildlife Area. Whileyou’re there, try out their snowshoeweaving workshop. North Dakota’sappropriately named ShiverFest putsthe sport back in winter with their annual

fishing and pond hockey tournaments.

Chill Out with History & CultureYou can trek wolves on foot, or you cansoak up Christmas lights from the comfortof your motorcoach. Lake Shawnee,Kansas boasts one million lights alongthe two-mile scenic drive, while Chicagooffers theMagnificent Mile Lights Festival.

But a drive is always better with adestination. Why not head to an historichome or farm feted out with holidaytrimmings and cookies in the oven?Wisconsin’s Yuletide at the Portage,Iowa’s Living History Farms inUrbandale and the Old Tyme Christmasat Fort Massac State Park in Illinoisrevive old-time traditions, stories, costumesand culinary treats. Sample plum puddingfrom a wood-burning stove and spiced teastraight off the hob.

And if you still want to spend yourwinter nights with a little Bing Crosby,then look no further than Illinois and theMarriot Theatre, presenting a stagedmusical version of White Christmas.Wintery productions abound in theMidwest. Iowa’s Riverside Theatre hasGuys on Ice: An Ice Fishing MusicalComedy. And then there’s Wisconsin’sFireside Dinner Theatre, which hasbeen thrilling tour groups with itsChristmas show.

There’s music, outdoor magic, plays,pageants, parades and festivals poppingup this winter season. Who says coldweather is only about dry skin and a fewextra pounds? Work off those hibernationpounds on a Winter Wonderland tour ofthe Midwest. The roads are plowed, thewalks are shoveled and the roads are linedwith twinkling lights. It’s lovely weatherfor a motorcoach adventure with yourgroup. Dontcha think?

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

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, ChicagoEntertain your group with what’s certainly the highlight of the day. Mickey Mouse is the master of ceremonies, and as the paradeheads south from Oak Street the more than one million lights along Michigan Avenue are illuminated all the way down the paraderoute. Immediately following the parade, there will be a fireworks display at Michigan Avenue and the Chicago River.

Traditionally held the Saturday before Thanksgiving, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival marks the beginning of holidayshopping along North Michigan Avenue, a strip famous for its wide number of diverse stores and boutiques. Most shops will alsohave their holiday window displays in place, as well as extended shopping hours.

There are numerous fun activities for the entire group all day long, such as choir and theater performances, ice sculptingdemonstrations, and live entertainment along the parade route. A full holiday activity guide can be found on the MagnificentMile Festival of Lights website. [ November 19, 2011 ] (See location on map below)

december• Snowflake FestivalDecember 2, Godfrey 618-466-1483

• Hometown ChristmasDecember 2-3, Belvidere 815-547-4357

• Mistletoe Ball: A Victorian Holiday Dinner & DanceDecember 3, Galena 815-777-9129

• Christmas with the LincolnsDec 7-Jan 8, Springfield 217-391-3246

• Night of the LuminariaDecember 17, Galena 815-777-9050

• Christmas at the MansionsDecember 17, Bloomington 309-828-1084

january• Eagle DaysJanuary 1-31, Madison 314-416-9930

• Bald Eagle Trolley ToursJanuary 2-February 29, Utica 800-868-7625

• Outdoor Adventure Sports ShowJanuary 7-8, Kankakee 815-935-7390

• Come Fly AwayJanuary 10-23, Chicago 312-977-1702

• 50 States in 60 MinutesJanuary 18, University Park 708-235-2222

• The State Ballet Theatre of Russia presentsSwan Lake Jan 21, Waukegan 847-782-2366

february• 37th Annual Central Illinois Jazz FestivalFebruary 3-5, Decatur 217-422-8800

• Noises OffFebruary 3-12, Chicago Heights 708-755-3444

• Galena Mardi Gras ParadeFebruary 18, Galena 800-942-5362

• Maple Syrup TimeFeb 18-Mar 11, Springfield 217-529-1111

march• St. Charles St. Patrick’s ParadeMarch 10, St. Charles 800-777-4373

• Spring Fox Valley Antiques ShowMarch 10-11, St. Charles 815-838-0606

• Annual John Deere Two-Cylinder Tractor ShowMarch 15-18, Effingham 217-347-0623

• Galena Wine Lovers’ WeekendMarch 23-25, Galena 815-777-3938

(Contact area CVBs for complete calendars)

illinois cities

calendar of events

explore more winter festivals in illinois…

Mile after Magnificent Mile.

Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light,Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago – The Museumhalls will be decked, holiday singers and dancers will fuel thefestivities, and the sparkle of dozens of decorated trees willgreet your group at the annual Christmas Around the World andHolidays of Light. As always, the 45-foot Grand Treewill take center stage in the Rotunda with more than 30,000lights and 1,000 ornaments, surrounded by more than 50smaller trees beautifully decorated by volunteers fromChicago’s ethnic communities. Stroll through the trees, enjoyintermittent falling “snow” and savor the performances on theHoliday Stage. School choral groups and dance performanceswill take place in conjunction with the exhibit.[ Opens November 17, 2011 ]

The tradition is turning 70! In 2011, the Museum iscelebrating 70 years of the beloved Christmas Around theWorld tradition. This annual holiday display began in 1942as a salute to the Allies during World War II.

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, Marriot Theatre inLincolnshire – Treat your group to one of America’s mostbeloved silver screen classics, now a brand new stage musical– Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. When two song and dancemen follow a sister act booked at a lodge in Vermont, theydiscover that with no snow and no customers, the owner isnearly bankrupt. The two acts team up and put on a show tosave the lodge. Packed with Irving Berlin hits like Blue Skies,

Count Your Blessings, I Love a Piano and the title song WhiteChristmas, your entire group will celebrate this magical timeof year with this beautiful new musical.[ October 19 – January 1, 2012 ]

Olde Tyme Christmas and Living History, Fort MassacState Park in Metropolis – Decorations and period musicaccompany reenactments of what 18th century life was likeat Fort Massac. The park staff and local historical re-enactorswill welcome guests to the visitors’center and museum, whichwill be festively decorated withitems based on 17th and 18thcentury designs. Hot-spiced teawill warm visitors as theysample cookies baked in theauthentic period bake oven.

Only in this town canyour group have aprofessional photo madewith a 15-foot statueof America’s Superhero,Superman.[ December 11, 2011 ]

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

directory & map

Chicago

iowa cities

calendar of events

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

explore more winter festivals in iowa…

Life Changing

The Nutcracker Ballet, Des Moines

december• Holiday Open Houseat the Union Pacific Railroad MuseumDecember 1, Council Bluffs 800-228-6878

• Downtown Lights the NightDecember 3, Waterloo 319-291-2038

• Christmas WalkDecember 4, Cedar Falls 319-266-5149

• Snackin’ with the ClausesDecember 11, Des Moines 515-323-6290

january• Cherokee Jazz & Blues FestivalJanuary 13-14, Cherokee 712-225-6414

• To Kill a MockingbirdJan 20-Feb 5, Des Moines 515-227-6261

• Bald Eagle Appreciation DaysJanuary 21-22, Keokuk 800-383-1219

february• Storm Lake Extreme Winter FestivalFebruary 11-12, Storm Lake 888-752-4692

• 4th Annual Frostbite OlympicsFebruary 17-18, Algona 515-295-7201

• Color the Wind Kite Flying FestivalFebruary 18, Clear Lake 800-285-5338

• Council Bluffs Home Improvement& Landscaping ShowFeb 24-26, Council Bluffs 800-228-6878

march• Tower of PowerMarch 2, Riverside 800-426-2437

• Maple Syrup FestivalMarch 3-4, Cedar Falls 319-277-2187

• Down Memory Lane– 25 Years in the Melon PatchMarch 16-17, Muscatine 319-723-4518

• Emmetsburg St. Patrick’s Day CelebrationMarch 16-18, Emmetsburg 712-852-4326


Winterfest, Amana Colonies – Your group will have aglorious winter outing at Amana’s Winterfest. Go on a winewalk, try hot-spiced wine and other samples as you travelbetween a total of six wineries! Join in a scavenger hunt orcompete in the log-sawing competition with an old-fashionedcross-cut saw, or see how far you can fling a ham in theGreat Amana Ham-Put - a shot-put style event! There’s aWinter Wreath Toss as well for those in your group who’drather not toss porky!

There will be numerous knitting/spinning, bobbin lacemaking and quilting demos, plus ice sculptures, storytelling,a marshmallow roast and schnitzel-sampling, too.[ January 28, 2012 ]

Winter Dance Party, The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake –Load your motorcoach for a PARTY at the fully restored SurfBallroom, which holds a place in music history as the finalconcert site of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. ‘The BigBopper’ Richardson. Come in February for the Annual WinterDance Party. This annual festival celebrates rock ‘n’ roll – andthe memories. The Festival lasts 3 days and featuresnumerous events; including dance lessons, a sock hop, tonsof live concert entertainment, a memorial site tour of thefarm field where the ill fated airplane came to rest, and even awedding/vow renewal ceremony, complete with cake andchampagne, for you true Rock & Roll fans.[ February 2-5, 2012 ]

Mason City – Tour the Meredith Willson Boyhood Home – apart of The Music Man Square. He is the author of one ofAmerica’s favorite musicals: “The Music Man” plus the holidaysong “It’s Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas”. Uncover theunique story regarding how he created this wonderful song, aswell as many other popular songs and plays. His home andMusic Man Square will be filled with holiday decorations andthe warmth of the holiday season.

If you time things right while in Mason City, your group willdelight in Christmas by the Lake. Catch the Christmas spiritwith a Tour of Homes, Festival of Trees, and free trolley orhorse-drawn carriage rides. Enjoy the lighted parade atnight as strolling Dickens characters bring Christmas past tolife, ending the evening with fireworks reflecting off a frozenClear Lake.[ First weekend in December ]

Winter Games, Okoboji – It all started with a couple localguys and the organization of a small broomball tournament.30 years later, with the support of hundreds of communitymembers, the small broomball tournament in 1981 has turnedinto an annual winter festival drawing thousands of peoplefrom throughout the Mid-West. The University of OkobojiWinter Games is now a weekend full of indoor and outdoorevents for all ages.[ January 27-29, 2012 ]

The Nutcracker Ballet, Des MoinesBallet Des Moines is proud to present the family classic you loved as a child with the professional ballet you appreciate as anadult. The jewel-box beauty of the Hoyt Sherman Place Theater will again be the home for The Nutcracker. Hoyt Sherman andhis family lived in their magnificent home, now adjacent to the theater, during the time of the Nutcracker’s premier. OurNutcracker is set to reflect Sherman’s era and his home. You’ll feel as if you stepped back in time as you and your group enjoythis holiday classic steeped in the beauty of the Victorian era. The production will feature nearly 300 local youth dancers andguest performances by professional dancers from companies such as the Colorado Ballet and the Cincinnati Ballet. Sit back andenjoy a visit with the “Sugar Plum Fairy.” [ December 9-11, 2011 ] (See location on map, page 12)

directory & map

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

attractionsGrout Museum District Waterloo . . 319-234-6357

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

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

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

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

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V isit Council Bluffs, Iowa for surprising bigtime public art. Between the Missouri

River and the Loess Hills, you’ll find excitingart from the mid 1800s to very contemporary.

Arrive by Interstates 80/29 to see the toweringIowa gateway by Albert Paley over the South24th Street Bridge. Make this your first of manycalls to a free cell phone tour from Iowa WestPublic Art.

Take Exit 1B to continue your art adventure atthe Mid-America Center. Wander through fivepublic art sites starting with Sunrise, WilliamKing’s pioneer couple, standing tall in gleamingaluminum.

Around the corner, see Rhythm, a massivesculpture garden by Jun Kaneko. Expect theunexpected in bright, bold color – giant bronzeheads, Kaneko’s signature ceramic dangoesand vivid tile walls. It’s just the place to stopand take it all in.

A short walk away, look up to see the largerthan life Molecule Man by Jonathan Borofsky.The 3-D sculpture made of shiny aircraftaluminum is a hit with young and old alike. Dialup to hear how the giant figures came together.

In historic downtown’s Bayliss Park, BrowerHatcher’s iconic fountain and pavilion,Wellspring and Oculus, welcome all. You’ll finda great place to relax here, bordered by astriking Veteran’s Memorial and Plazacomplete with lifelike bronzes.

After lunch at a nearby café, stop at the RuthAnne Dodge Memorial, known as the BlackAngel, and the nearby Lincoln Monument.Then follow your map a few blocks away to seeDeborah Masuoka’s whimsical HaymarketRabbits at Main and Pearl Streets.

End your day with a must-see artist, in theheart of Council Bluffs’ historic downtown.Restored Grant Wood pieces are on display inthe Pottawattamie County Courthouse lobby.Then stop just east of town at Looft Hall on theIowa Western Community College campus forone last look at the beauty of the Midwest inGrant Wood’s murals commissioned in 1926.

For more information please call 800-228-6878or visit www.councilbluffsiowa.com.

12 I T I N ERAR I E S M IDWEST FA L L /W IN T ER 2011 1 - 8 7 7 - 8 3 2 - 7 2 6 7

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explore more winter festivals in kansas

december• Christmas Light ParadeDecember 1, Ulysses 620-356-4700

• Christmas Tree LaneDecember 1-31, Abilene 785-263-1770

• Festival of NativitiesDecember 3-18, Lawrence 785-843-0276

• Lucia FestivalDecember 10, Lindsborg 888-227-2227

• Ghosts of Christmas PastDecember 11-12, Great Bend 620-793-5125

• Dolly HollyDay ToursDecember 15-23, Fort Scott 800-245-3678

• Annandag JulDecember 26, Lindsborg 888-227-2227

january• A Taste of HaysJanuary 15, Hays 785-625-6800

• All Wheels NiteJanuary 20, Independence 620-331-0604

• Eagle DayJanuary 28, Lawrence 785-842-0475

• Kansas Statehood BallJanuary 28, Abilene 785-263-2681

• Soup-R-Bowl Food FestivalJanuary 29, Hays 785-625-5252

february• Chocolate Lovers AffairFebruary 11, Lindsborg 888-227-2227

• 23rd Annual KBA Bluegrass FestivalFebruary 17-18, Wichita 316-651-0333

• Lincoln ReenactmentFebruary 17-18, Lincoln 785-524-5133

• International Pancake Day FestivalFebruary 18-21, Liberal 800-542-3725

• 16th Annual Kansas Silent Film FestivalFebruary 24-25, Topeka 785-670-3151

march• St. Patrick’s Day ParadeMarch 10, Tonganoxie 913-845-9244

• 7th Annual Runnin’ of the StripMarch 17, Severy 316-684-5855

• Women’s FairMarch 17, Garnett 785-304-2029

• Honky Tonk AngelsMarch 28, Concordia 785-243-2553


kansas cities

calendar of events

As Big As You Think

Old Fashioned Christmas Parade, LawrenceNow in its 18th year, this parade features exclusively horse-drawn carriages, wagons and coaches decorated for the season.This event was established as the premier horse-drawn event in the Midwest and attracts entrants and spectators frommultiple states. Invite a step-guide to join your group and share the story of how a retired farmer couldn’t believe his eyes whenhe saw the broken down carriage in the ditch on his farm, and what he did to restore this vintage 1895 Surrey. Groups will loveseeing these beautifully restored items, pulled by regal horses along the street. Enjoy the S.D. McCrossan Boys Ranch showhitch wagon. (A home for at-risk boys looking for “new hope for a better life.) This horse-drawn wagon, built for show orcommercial use, was selected from over 1200 entries to participate in President Obama’s Inauguration Parade, with a group ofthe boys riding in the hitch wagon, drawn by a team of 6 Belgian horses. [ December 3, 2011 ] (See location on map below)

directory & map

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

Seelye Mansion Christmas Tours, Abilene – The SeelyeMansion is one of the finest homes in Kansas. Designed by aNew York architect in 1904, for Dr. and Mrs. A.B. Seely. Themansion contains the original furniture and Edison lightfixtures. Your group will tour 25 rooms, including elevenbedrooms, ballroom, bowling alley, and kitchen areas. Specialitems of interest include a beautiful dining room, music roomwith gold French furniture and a Steinway Grand Piano, library,and the Tiffany-designed fireplace in the grand hall. Notethe collection of 700 nutcrackers displayed throughout thehome. (Previously featured on the HGTV, Christmas Castles ofAmerica). [ November 25, 2011 – January 8, 2012 ]

Chase County Country Christmas, Cottonwood Falls –Holiday Festival in Chase County, the heart of the beautifulFlint Hills. Start the day with a hearty Biscuits & GravyBreakfast and head on over to the Fabulous Fruitcake Toss. Besure to get your turn at propelling fruitcake across the riverwith a gigantic slingshot. It’s fun for all ages! Other activitiesthroughout the day include Holiday Homes Tour, “Best of ChaseCounty” Silent Auction Baskets, and Horse-drawn CarriageRides. Be sure to save some energy for shopping Chasecounty style. Fill your shopping bags with unique and valueladen gifts. In addition to all your favorite stores there is alsothe Strong City Arts & Crafts Fair. Your group will love ChaseCounty and how we celebrate Christmas! [ Nov 25-26, 2011 ]

Legends Outlets–A Legendary Light Show, KansasCity – Every 15 minutes, The Legends Outlets will come alive

with dancing lights synchronized to concert-quality, holidaymusic, providing guests an experience unlike anything theyhave seen before. This dazzling spectacle is the region’sfirst display of animated lights synchronized to music. Themajestic, 45-foot, holiday tree stands in the center of the CivicCourtyard Fountain. [ November 19, 2011 – January 2, 2012 ]

A Victorian Christmas Celebration & ChristmasDinner, Wichita – When’s the last time your group settled infor an old-fashioned Christmas celebration in an old cowtown?The Christmas Dinner Package includes museum admissionplus a delicious catered dinner. All will enjoy The Night BeforeChristmas” play, performances by the Dixie Lee Saloon Girlsand Entre Nous Dancers, Magician Roscoe Riff and displays byBlind Dog Quilts and StoneCreek Handicrafts, plus so muchmore! [ December 2-10, 2011 (annual) ]

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

Lawrence

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

Ice Box Days, International Falls – Head north for Ice BoxDays, for the active group outing, held in the “Ice Box of theNation” on the Canadian border. Take your chance at turkeybowling; throwing a frozen gobbler down the lane to knockdown as many bowling pins as possible. Enjoy snow sculptures,a night snowshoe hike in Voyageurs National Park and thefamous Freeze Yer Gizzard Blizzard Run.[ January 12-16, 2012 ]

Target Holidazzle Parade, Minneapolis – Celebrating the20th season, this year's parade will enchant your group withdazzling lights and festive floats. Target Holidazzle celebratesthe joy and wonder of the holiday season. Each paradewill feature brightly lit floats, marching bands, celebrity grandmarshals and over 200 costumed characters from popularchildren’s stories. You don't want to miss this popular Midwesttradition and Minneapolis favorite.[ November 25 – December 18, 2011 (Thurs–Sundays) ]

Christmas in the Village, Owatonna – Groups will enjoy awalk through the luminary-lit Village of Yesteryear withstrolling carolers, horse-drawn sleigh rides (Sat), NortonnaLodge Lefse demonstration & sale in their General Store (Fri).Nibble on some fancy cookies and sample a little wassail inthe General Store. Hear the parlor music in the beautifullydecorated Dunnell House, visit the Emporium Gift Shop forgreat holiday gift ideas! Saturday, visit some of Owatonnaand Ellendale’s most beautiful homes and enjoy their holidayambiance with the Historic Holiday House Tour.[ December 2-3, 2011 (annual) ]

Zonta House, St. Cloud – Get ready for the Christmasseason early, with a tour the Zonta House, held annually theweekend before Thanksgiving. A different area residence isbeautifully decorated in holiday splendor for Christmas byinterior decorators and local business. Gather the latest ideasfor decorating your own home and be inspired by new ideas you’dnever think of! Stay for the great area shopping and dining.

Victorian Christmas at the Courthouse, Stillwater –Step back in time to a traditional Victorian Christmas at thebeautifully decorated Historic Courthouse in Stillwater. Enjoylive music as you shop a wide variety of high-quality arts andcrafts. Santa will make an appearance on Saturday andSunday afternoons providing great picture opportunities for allthe young at heart. Reserve a spot for your group at the TeaRoom for a light lunch or snack. Take a tour of the old countyjail; the oldest in Minnesota, costumed vendors and volunteerswill be on hand to answer your questions. [ November 2012 ]

62nd Annual Sleigh and Cutter – Historic WinterFestival, Waseca – Waseca’s annual winter festival getsbigger and better each year with activities taking place on12-14 days over three weekends. Horse owners from aroundthe state bring magnificent horses of every type imaginableto Waseca for the parade down State Street. Only animal pow-ered units and riders are allowed. Sleighs, cutters, bobsledsand many types of wagons and buggies can be seen. Most ofthe events are free! Many restaurants and clubs offer specialmeals and entertainment. The parade is on the secondSaturday in February. [ Feb 3-19, Mar 24, 2012, weekends ]

Winter Carnival, Saint PaulThe nation’s oldest and largest winter festival. Events include parades, cultural celebrations, ice and snow sculptures and a giantsnow slide. Back in 1886, Saint Paul was America’s fastest growing city. Growing from 39,000 residents in 1880 to 120,000residents in 1886, and had also become America’s third largest rail center. To celebrate their city’s success, Saint Paul businessleaders produced the inaugural Saint Paul Winter Carnival, which was held during the first two weeks of February in 1886.

In addition to showcasing Saint Paul, the business leaders wanted to disprove a New York newspaper reporter who haddescribed their beloved city as “another Siberia, unfit for human habitation in the winter.” Patterned after Montreal’s WinterCarnival, the first Saint Paul Winter Carnival included parades, skiing, snow shoeing, a blanket tossing contest, and push ball, agame played with giant balls. The most successful attractions were its ice castle and six large toboggan slides. Today thecarnival is going strong and offers many activities to entertain your group. Come along and celebrate the “Coolest Celebrationon Earth!” [ January 26-February 5, 2012 ] (See location on map, page 35)

december• Christmas at Pioneer VillageDecember 1-2, Worthington 507-376-4431

• St. Olaf Christmas Festival Celebrates 100 YearsDecember 1-4, Northfield 507-786-3811

• Country Christmas CelebrationDecember 1-18, Lakeville 952-898-7200

• Christmas in the VillageDecember 2-3, Owatonna 507-451-1420

• Holiday Festival at WineHaven WineryDecember 3-4, Chisago City 651-257-1017

• Winter Wonderland WeekendDecember 10-11, Maple Grove 763-424-0504

• Celtic Woman: A Christmas CelebrationDecember 16, Minneapolis 800-292-4141

• Warmer By the LakeDecember 26, Duluth 800-438-5884

• Candlelight and IceDecember 31, Richfield 612-861-9365

january• Polar Dash Jan 1, Minneapolis 612-746-1364• Breezy Point Ice FestJanuary 6-7, Breezy Point 218-568-8911

• Itasca’s Lantern Lit Ski & SnowshoeJanuary 7, Park Rapids 218-699-7252

• Lake Vermilion State Park SnowmobilingAdventure January 14, Soudan 218-753-2245

• Icebox DaysJan 18-22, International Falls 800-325-5766

• Polar Daze Jan 20-29, Bemidji 800-458-2223• Bloomington’s Winter FeteJanuary 23-29, Bloomington 952-563-8693

february• Ely Winter Festival Feb 2-12, Ely 800-777-7281• Winter Tracks FestivalFebruary 3-12, Grand Marais 888-922-5000

• Laskiainen Finnish Sliding FestivalFebruary 4-5, Palo 218-638-2551

• Guys on Ice Feb 10-12, Akeley 218-652-2666• Polar Fest Feb 10-20, Detroit Lakes 800-542-3992• International Eelpout FestivalFebruary 17-19, Walker 800-833-1118

• Grumpy Old Men FestivalFebruary 24-26, Wabasha 800-565-4158

march• Winter Bluegrass WeekendMarch 2-4, Plymouth 800-635-3037

• A Taste of Wabasha Mar 3,Wabasha 877-332-4537• Giants Ridge Spring Carnival/Slush CupMarch 17, Biwabik 800-688-7669

• Annual Maple Syruping DayMarch 24, Sandstone 888-404-7743

• Jose Cole CircusMarch 28, Owatonna 800-423-6466


explore more winter festivals in minnesota…

minnesota cities

calendar of events

Explore Minnesota

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

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www. i t i n e r a r i e sm i dwes t . c om I T I N ERAR I E S M IDWEST FA L L /W IN T ER 2011 15

Explore Minnesota

day one9 – 12:00 pmArrive in Burnsville and check into your hotel.Then it’s off to the Minnesota Zoo. No matterthe time of year, this is a zoo for all seasons!Even when the weather is cold and nasty, theTropics Trail and Discovery Bay are warm andtoasty, featuring animals from the Caribbean,South Pacific, and tropical rain forest. TheMinnesota Zoo is home to more than 4,240animals representing 542 species, many ofwhich are considered rare, threatened, orendangered.12 – 2:00 pmBreak for lunch at a local eatery and follow it upwith sweets and treats from Abdallah Candiesand Gifts. Come in see them hand dip & makechocolates first-hand through their viewingwindow! The staff will personally greet eachgroup with information, history and candy facts.Plenty of free samples on hand and discountedspecials available.2 – 4:30 pmSpend some time shopping in Burnsville. A stopat Ficus and Fig, in the Grande Market SquareBuilding is a sure hit. Offering 3000 sq feet

of home décor items, bath & body products,accessories, and unique gifts! Burnsville Centeris another option with 3 department stores plus130 specialty stores for your shopping enjoyment.4:30 pmBack to your hotel to freshen up for the evening’sactivities.5:15 pmEnjoy dinner around town before attending aperformance at the Burnsville PerformingArts Center. Catch a holiday extravaganza, acomedian or a symphony, all just among the fewoptions available at the Performing Arts Center.Take time before the performance to enjoy thebeautiful views of downtown Minneapolis andtake in the setting at Nicollet Commons Parkin Burnsville’s Heart of the City.

day two8 – 12:00 pmAfter breakfast at your hotel, your group headsto Minneapolis to view Macy’s Annual HolidayDisplay, featuring three-dimensional animatedfigures. Then it is off to the American SwedishInstitute to admire their annual holiday displayof lavishly decorated trees, tables set for a

Christmas meal, and handcrafted ornamentsas celebrated in Sweden, Norway, Denmark,Iceland and Finland.1:00 pmAfter lunch, it’s time to head home, and takelasting memories of a wonderful trip with you.

For more information or to customize thissample itinerary for your group please contactyour tour operator or the Burnsville CVB,800-521-6055 or visit www.burnsvillemn.com.

Experience BurnsvilleThis sample itinerary is best around the holidays but can be customized for any time of year.

Burnsville Performing Arts Center

http://www.burnsvillemn.com/


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day one1 – 5:00 pmAs your coach nears the Shoppes art Arbor Lakes,your group will know they are in for a fun day ofshopping! Whether you're looking for the latestfashions, incredible home furnishings or the perfectgift, you'll find a combination of national retailers andlocal boutiques at The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes offersa truly unique experience.5 – 7:00 pmDine at Pittsburgh Blue, an exceptional steakhouselocated at The Shoppes. Enjoy the rewards of asuperbly flavorful steak, deep booths and a deeperwine list, a bar that makes everything better, and thekind of service everybody deserves.7:00 pmAfter dinner, your group can check into the Courtyardby Marriot Arbor Lakes for a relaxing night’s sleep.

day two8 – 9:00 amEnjoy breakfast at your hotel and check out.9 – 2:00 pmTravel to the Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley. Yourgroup will spend the day discovering wildlife and wild

places at the Minnesota Zoo. Located on 485beautiful acres just minutes from the Mall of America.The Zoo is home to more than 2,400 animals fromaround the world including grizzly bears, tigers,and monkeys. Experience the Russian Far East, atropical rain forest, a marine center, northern tundra,woodland forest, and a family farm. Enjoy a boxedlunch surrounded by nature.2 – 3:30 pmCheck into the Country Inn and Suites inChanhassen this afternoon and get ready for yourevening of entertainment.4 – 10:00 pmArrive at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres andmake a stop in the Hogarth Bar for a cocktail or twobefore dinner and the show. Your group can choosetheir dinner options from a full menu to enjoy beforethe curtain opens on the productions of Hairsprayor Forever Plaid (now showing).

For more information or to customize this sampleitinerary for your group please contact yourtour operator, the Twin Cities Tourism AttractionsAssociation www.funminnesota.com or theadvertisers on this page.

Groups have FUN in MINNESOTAThis sample itinerary is best through May 2012 for these theatre productions.

Opens February 18, 2012TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Hollywood’s glamorous and adventure-packed portrayal of pirates has captured

our imaginations for generations. But what waslife on the high seas really like during the GoldenAge of Piracy? You’ll find out on February 18,2012, when Real Pirates: The Untold Story ofthe Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Shipopens at the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Don your pirate hat and climb aboard a recreation of a pirate ship. Learn to tie knots and hoist apirate flag. Meet members of the Whydah’s crew and explore what life was like on a real pirate ship.And see more than 200 artifacts from North America’s only authenticated pirate shipwreck.

With exhibits and experiences for all ages, your group will love the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Ready to book your group’s visit or have questions? Call us during business hours or 9am to 5pm,Monday through Friday at 651-221-9444 or 800-221-9444.

Real Pirates: a touring exhibition organized by National Geographic and Arts and Exhibitions International.

The PiratesARE COMING!

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day one9 – 11:00 amBegin your day in Stillwater. Located on the St. CroixRiver, it’s one of Minnesota’s oldest towns. Its beautifulhistoric architecture houses an array of antique &specialty shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Board theStillwater Trolley with a step-on guide for a guided tour!11 – 1:00 pmYour next stop will be the St. Croix Vineyards &Winery. Located just west of Stillwater, this wineryoffers complimentary wine tasting in a restoredcentury old barn. Stroll through their picturesquevineyard and have a picnic lunch.1 – 3:00 pmGroups love to visit the Landmark Center located indowntown Saint Paul. Built in 1902, originally used asthe Federal courthouse and Post Office for the upperMidwest. One of the most popular tours they offer isthe Gangster Tour, fully enhanced by costumedguides educating your groups about the life and timesof people like “Ma” Barker, Alvin “Creepy” Karpis, JohnDillinger and his moll Evelyn Freschette, and more.

Also in the Landmark Center is the AmericanAssociation of Woodturners Gallery of Wood Art,Schubert’s Club Musical Instrument Museum &Gilman Ordway Collection of Musical Manuscripts.3 – 4:00 pmLocated just a few blocks from the Landmark Center is

the Cathedral of St. Paul. The Cathedral dominatesthe skyline and is situated on the highest point indowntown St. Paul. Each year, the Cathedral of St. Paulwelcomes over 200,000 visitors. Tours are free ofcharge, though donations are gratefully received.5 – 9:00 pmSpend the evening at The Guthrie Theater in down-town Minneapolis. Established in 1963, this newly builtfacility opened in 2006. Explore this world-renownedtheater, see a play, have dinner and take a walk on the“endless bridge,” a glass-enclosed walkway jutting outto offer breathtaking views of the Mississippi River.

Your coach will whisk you away to one of the manygroup-friendly hotels in Eagan for a peaceful nightssleep, as tomorrow is another big day around Eagan!

day two8 – 9:00 amEnjoy breakfast with your group in your Eagan hotelbefore taking on another exciting day!9 – 11:30 amToday’s excitement begins with a visit to the MarjorieMcNeely Conservatory and Como Zoo. Take a stepback in time and ride Cafesjian’s Carousel located inthe $1.1 million dollar copper-roofed pavilion just stepsfrom the entrance to Como Zoo. Tickets are only $1.50!11:30 – 4:00 pmNo visit to the Twin Cities would be complete without a

visit to Mall of America. As one of the most visitedtourist destinations in the world, Mall of Americafeatures something for everyone! Enjoy more than520 stores, 50 restaurants, attractions galore andover 300 free events annually. Plus there’s no salestax on clothing or shoes!4 – 5:00 pmHead back to your Eagan hotel to freshen up fortonight’s entertainment.6:00 pmA night at Chanhassen Dinner Theater; the largestprofessional dinner theatre in the nation. Always aguaranteed hit with groups!

For more information or to customize this sampleitinerary for your group, please contact Eagan’stour operator: Denise Olsen at 651-675-5542 [email protected]. Don’t forget - $250 CashRebate with 20 or more rooms booked in Eagan!

Eagan – at the Center of it All!This itinerary is best spring through fall.

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Group Hospitality atTHE MINNESOTA STATE FAIR

Bring your group to Treasure Island Resort & Casino.Located just outside the Minneapolis/Saint Paul metroin Red Wing, our 150,000 square foot gaming flooris bursting with excitement.We offer over 2,400 state-of-the-art slot machines, 40 blackjack tables, 6 livepoker tables in our private poker room and the largestselection of Class II table games in Minnesota.Additionally, Treasure Island Resort & Casino boaststhe largest non-smoking casino area in the Midwest.

Additional guest amenities include a 137-slipmarina, 95-site RV park, a 120-passenger cruise yachtand Island Xtreme Bowl—a 24 Brunswick™ Lanebowling center, arcade and lounge.

day one12 – 2:00 pmEnjoy a lunch cruise aboard the elegant cruise liner,Spirit of the Water, while you float down the scenicMississippi River. Note: Summer & Fall Cruisesavailable with special group rates.2:00 – 6:00 pmGolfers are challenged with each hole at Mt.Frontenac’s 18-hole golf course. Play with beautifulviews along the rolling hills of southeastern Minnesotaand the Mississippi River Valley. Non-golfers mayenjoy shopping in the area towns or try their luckat the casino!6 – 7:00 pmExperience the taste of the tropics every day. Fromfine dining to a quick snack – Treasure Island Resort &Casino offers four restaurants that are sure to satisfyany appetite.7 – 10:00 pmWith more than 2,500 state-of-the-art slot machines,44 blackjack tables and a 550-seat high stakes bingohall all in the Caribbean-themed casino, your group issure to have a blast — and maybe even win sometreasures of their own.10:00 pmRelax in a tropical-theme hotel room, or take a swimin the lush, rainforest pool environment.

day two9 – 10:00 amBefore you head home, enjoy brunch in theTradewinds Buffet, with a variety of creative cuisines totempt any palate.

For more information on this sample itinerarycontact your tour operator or our tour departmentat Treasure Island Resort & Casino, 800-222-7077ext. 2716 or 2952, Monday-Friday 8am to 4pm.

A Tropical Rain Forestin Southern MN?This itinerary may be customized for any time of theyear. Your group will never have to leave the “Island.”

The Minnesota State Fair is one of the largest and best-attended expositions in theworld, attracting nearly 1.8 million visitors annually. In addition to being a showcase for

Minnesota’s finest agriculture, art and industry, the fair features hundreds of entertainmentoptions including music all around the fairgrounds, educational exhibits, hands-onexperiences, more than 60 carnival rides; thousands of competitions, 11 nights of Grandstandshows, and more than 450 different foods.

Our hospitality staff has a variety of resources to make your day at the fair even more fun!We can help you organize a fairgrounds scavenger hunt or a trivia contest, provide self-guidedtour maps for the fair’s beautiful gardens and tree sculptures or help you plan your activities witha sample itinerary. We also provide daily entertainment and activity schedules so you won’t missa thing! Most exhibit buildings are open from 9 am to 9 pm. For early arrivals, there is plenty ofactivity in the Livestock area as animals are groomed and readied for judging.

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From 6 am to midnight, there’s always something different to seeall 12 days of the Great Minnesota Get-Together!

Morning is the best time to…• schedule a breakfast and welcome session for your group at the Blue Ribbon Picnic Area.• learn about renewable energy and sustainability at the award-winning Eco Experience.• experience the Miracle of Birth Center where lambs, calves and piglets are born.

Mid-day is the best time to…• catch one of more than 75 acts on seven free entertainment stages.• check out nearly 70 rides from around the globe at Mighty Midway and Kidway.• browse through the shops at Heritage Square or the International Bazaar.

Afternoon is the best time to…• meet Princess Kay and see the famous butterhead sculptures.• choose a snack from the menu of 350 foods, including more than 50 foods on-a-stick.• stroll through Minnesota’s largest juried art show in the Fine Arts Center.

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

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

http://www.mnstatefair.org/

Explore MinnesotaRead ITINERARIES Midwest Online.Ads hotlinked to websites.www.itinerariesmidwest.com


The Saint Paul Gangster Tour atWabasha Street Caves in Saint Paul (as seen

on the History Channel’s “Secret Passages”).

Come see and hear the history of these sandstonecaves. Explore the raw history of the originalmined caves and see the finished caves (once aromantic night club called The Castle Royal).Jaws will drop at the shocking tales of massacresand ghostly lore from Chicago to San Francisco—all in the most unique setting.

Other Seasonal Tours Include…

Winter Lights Tour – DecemberIf the festive lights of the winter season are moreyour speed, then you’ll love our Winter LightsTour. This familiar 2-hour deluxe motorcoachtour shows off the biggest and brightest displaysof holiday cheer in our chilly capital city. Yourguide is a member of winter lore, who will leadyou on your fun-filled tour.

The No Blarney TourAre the streets of Saint Paul really strewn withdrunken Irishmen? Why are Saint Paul’s most

notorious figures of Irish descent? See how Irishimmigrants influenced the architecture, politics,and religion of Saint Paul’s past.

Twin Town Tacky TourJoin the Gunderson girls, Gloria and Gladys, on ajourney to the tackiest places in Saint Paul &Minneapolis. How often do you get a chance tosee the very spot where shopping bags with han-dles were invented?

The Uff Dah!! TourSet out to discover how and why immigrants fromNorway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland came tosettle in Saint Paul and Minneapolis. Why did Ole& Lena settle here and what exactly is Lefse?

Mill City Mobs TourThis tour shows you the MiniApple when it wasrotten to the core. Yes, there were gangsters inSaint Paul, but Minneapolis had its own lot ofmobsters and racketeers.

Rivers & Roots TourJourney with us and learn about the formation ofthe Twin Cities around the Mississippi River.

Have you ever wondered how Minneapolis &Saint Paul got their names? Why are there twocities? Why did the state capitol building end upin Saint Paul?

Caves & Graves Tour – OctoberThis tour is designed to give you a shiver and nota heart attack. Hear stories of haunted sites andhistoric murders, or visit a haunted cave andlearn about the history of a local Saint Paul ceme-tery. Keep an eye on your hosts however; yourtour guide might be a mad nurse, a fortune-teller,or even a vampire!

Call to make your group reservation 651-292-1220. See you underground.

We are the “ORIGINAL!”

Join us for 50+ Wednesdays, where PassportClub members ages 50 and better have a

chance to win up to $50 in FREE slot play, plusenjoy other great discounts on food, bingo,bowling and more!

Stop by a kiosk for your chance to win up to $50in free slot play and print your vouchers forfood discounts, pull-tabs and blackjack playmatch. Other great 50+ Wednesday offersinclude $3 off a Bingo purchase, poker andblackjack drawings and a free game of bowling.To receive these offers, simply visit theappropriate venue!

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TREASURE ISLANDRESORT & CASINO’S50+ Wednesdays

(8am-8pm)

www.wabashastreetcaves.com




S aint Cloud, Minnesota’s coolest hot spot in town is Mr. Twisty. Serving up delectable icecream creations all summer long, this walk-up shop is reminiscent of the ones you rode

your bike to as a kid. The low prices and friendly atmosphere are what keep guests comingback again and again. Not to mention the one-of-a-kind soft serve used in their banana splits,parfaits, sundaes, cones, shakes, and twisters!

What makes Mr. Twisty so unique?• Italian Ice: This dairy-free dessert comes in hundreds of flavors; a different one highlightedeach week, and a refreshing cure to those hot summer days.

• Eye Candy: You heard right! Each of Mr. Twisty’s signature cones is adorned with two littlesugary eyeballs for that extra touch of character. Eat them right away or save them for later.

• Hot Food Options: Hungry for more? The shop also serves popcorn, hotdogs, pulled-porksandwiches and the ever-popular “walking taco”- a small bag of Doritos™ topped with yourfavorite taco fixings.

Open mid-March through mid-October (weather permitting). Groups of 10 or more, please callahead to maximize your visit: 320-310-0314.

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F ly or drive to Bloomington and check into one of 37 hotels, all located in the heart ofBloomington. For the ultimate in winter and experiences, visit Mall of America during the

holiday season, where the hallways are decked-out with the grandest of holiday décor. Visitors cantackle their holiday shopping lists with tax free shopping on all clothing and shoe purchases. Haveyour photo taken with Santa and take in the sounds of the season performed by locals during theHoliday Music Festival. Holiday festivities begin at Mall of America on November 10, 2011.

Bloomington celebrates winter during the 10th annual Bloomington Winter Fete, January 23-29,2012. The annual celebration brings residents and visitors out of hibernation to celebrate thejoys of winter. The event begins with the International Nordic Ski Jumping competition at BushLake Ski Jump and features a hockey and broomball tournament, ice fishing competition, a photoscavenger hunt and a history festival. Warm drinks will beavailable throughout the days of the events. Be sure tobook your hotel packages in Bloomington early, to ensureyou don’t miss a minute of the family-friendly event.

Be sure to purchase The Big Ticket™ Attraction Pass, toexperience 6 of the Twin Cities most popular attractions,and find out for yourself that Minnesota is a great placeto visit during the winter!

To book this itinerary, visit our website atbloomingtonmn.org or contact the Sales Departmentat 1-866-435-7425 or [email protected].

BLOOMINGTON, MINNESOTAThe Ultimate Minnesota Winter Wonderland

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http://mrtwistyicecream.com/



9 – 10:30 amWelcome to The Grande Depot. Housed in abeautifully restored 1912 Soo Line Depot, it offerstwo upscale retail choices for discerningconsumers. Accentric offers extensive stylishhome décor, gourmet foods, exclusive culinary,children’s gifts and much more. Cork & Caskoffers central Minnesota’s most unique selection offine wine and spirits. FREE samples of wine andfood products on Saturdays.10:30 – 12:00 pmNext stop is Crafts Direct, the get inspired, createand decorate store! Offering a huge selection of artsand crafts supplies – it’s the largest craft storein the state! See their website for project ideas,current sales flyer, and calendar of craft classes.12 – 2:00 pmTime for some serious shopping in downtownand your first stop is Herbergers! It’s always afun stop when visiting St. Cloud! Do a littlebrowsing before and after the show today. Yourreward for a short walk down St. Germain Streetis a stop at the specialty shop called NorthernBrights featuring unique, handbags, jewelry, gifts,art and fashions! You’ll find many other shopping

treasures along your way plus lunch at MexicanVillage – fun, food and fabulous margaritas!Including FREE chips and salsa.2 – 4:00 pmSee a matinee at the Paramount Theater for one ofGreat Theatre’s productions. Saturday or Sundaymatinees are perfect for mid-afternoon fun. Graba glass of wine or a soda and sit back to watchthe show.4 – 6:00Resume shopping before heading over to CaféRenaissance for an elegant dinner. Enjoy theirunique pan-Mediterranean cuisine, featuring dishesfrom the south of Italy, France, Greece, Spain,Turkey, Moroccan, and the Eastern and middle-Eastern Mediterranean. When you’re ready to turnin, the AmericInn in Sartell is a great choice forgroups to relax and unwind around their pool.

For more information of to customize thisitinerary for your group, contact the St. CloudConvention and Visitors Bureau / JeanRobbins at 1-800-264-2940, ext. 129 [email protected].

Experience St. Cloud’s “Winter Wonderland of Shopping & Theatre”Perfect for a girlfriend get-away weekend.

Here is a small sampling of what’s coming up, checkthe St. Cloud CVB’s website for a more detailed list:

West Side StoryApril 28-May 13, 2012Paramount Theater presented by Great Theatre.The world’s greatest love story takes to the streets inthis landmark Broadway musical that is one of thetheatre’s finest accomplishments. Shakespeare’s“Romeo and Juliet” is transported to modern-dayNew York City, as two young idealistic lovers findthemselves caught between warring street gangs,the Jets and the Sharks.

Shakespeare’sA Midsummer Night’s DreamMay 18-20, 3012Stephen B. Humphrey Theater, Saint John’sUniversity presented by Great Theatre. One ofWilliam Shakespeare’s most hilarious and enchantingworks comes to the stage in a production createdespecially for students. A whimsical story of love,mischief, matchmaking and magic.

www.greattheatre.org

http://www.granitecountry.com/

Explore Minnesota




“Holy Bells”– featuring the original cast!

Those loveable nuts from Deer Camp are back in another great mishap-filledadventure in the north woods! With Christmas fast approaching, the MightyHunters of Elmwood head back to their shack to cut fresh trees for the all-churchChristmas choir recital and Nativity service at the Elmwood Town Hall. Whenthe ACLU steps in and says “No church service on public property,” the guys takeit as a personal insult. Armed with an old chainsaw, plenty of fresh beer, all new songs, andfour feet of snow, what could possibly go wrong? (Check out www.deercampthemusical.comfor more information and locations.)

“Almost Home”– Doug Spartz & Friends Holiday Show

Available only through the holiday season, this show features Americana singer/songwriterDoug Spartz , along with several Nashville and Midwest friends. This Branson-styled show willshowcase some time honored traditional holiday music and also some of Doug’s original songsfrom the musical Holy Bells, a Deer Camp Christmas. If your group is looking for somethingdifferent this holiday season, this show is a sure bet! Rounding out the entertainment will besome special comedy skits with “Moose” and “Diesel”, as they reprise their roles from the hitmusical play, Deer Camp and Holy Bells. Available exclusively through Great North ShowProviders. (Check out Doug’s music at www.dougspartz.com/music.html.)

GREAT NORTH SHOW PROVIDERS:Performing in a community near you!

Experience the magic of nearly 3 millionlights illuminating Bayfront Festival Park

located on the shores of Lake Superior duringthe Bentleyville Tour of Lights. The largestholiday light show in the Midwest comes tolife every evening during the holiday season.Be amazed by the tallest steel animatedChristmas tree in the United States – 120 feettall and 17 tons! That’s more than twice theheight of New York City’s famous RockefellerCenter Christmas tree!

A step on guide can meet your group and sharethe fascinating story of what began as NathanBentley’s love of decorating for Christmas athis residence in Esko in 2001 – and continuedat his residence in Cloquet, where the familymoved in 2004, to what has now transpired intoan amazing experience at Bayfront Park inDuluth for one and all to enjoy.

Nathan went from stringing a few lights on hishome to renting boom lifts to put updecorations, all the while attracting bus loadsof people to his property.

“Each year we would add a few more thingslike popcorn, coffee, cookies, fire pits, and thenSanta was there each night. It just continuedto grow very quickly in just four years,”says Nathan.

Come enjoy a winter wonderland of lights,good will and smiles all around!

Bentleyville is an official collection site forthe Salvation Army to collect non-perishablefood items or new, unwrapped toys to supportthose less fortunate this season.

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BentleyvilleDULUTH

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www.greatnorthshowproviders.com



Comfort Suitesof Canal Park on Lake Superior

• Group discounts available in spring,winter and late fall

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

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

Hampton Innof Canal Park on Lake Superior

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

• Newly remodeled in Spring 2011

Canal Park Lodge,Canal Park’s newest lakeside hotel

• Complimentary hot breakfastfeaturing Caribou Coffee

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

Comfort Inn West,2011 Platinum Hospitality Award Winner

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

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

Stay in DULUTH!

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

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

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www.stayinduluth.com




Welcome to Austin! Located in Southeast MN only 12miles north of the Iowa border and approximately 100miles south of the Twin Cities metro area, makingAustin a perfect group tour destination. You will findAustin enroute to many popular places such as theBlack Hills, Mall of America, Wisconsin Dells, andHistoric Bluff Country also in southeast Minnesota.Not only is SPAM™Town USA a gateway to manypopular destinations, but you will be pleased todiscover Austin is a great destination of its own!

day one9:30 – 11:00 amThe entertainment begins when your costumed guidejoins you for great jokes, lots of fun sharing andof course the great history and sites of Austin,

Minnesota - SPAM town USA!11 – 12:00 pmStart downtown with Hastings Shoe Store. Built in1868, it was the site of the original courthouse andcounty offices. There is a lot of history in the buildingthat Bendixen’s Jewelry calls home.12 – 1:00 pmA great place for a trendy lunch is the Brick HouseCoffee House, built in 1858, the same year thatMinnesota became a state. It is one of the oldesthomes in Austin, with a 1930’s addition that wascarefully built to duplicate the original style.1 – 1:30 pmSt. Augustine’s Catholic Church’s parish was estab-lished in 1857. The cornerstone of the present Gothicdesign building was laid in 1894. Beautiful stainedglass windows are one of its most distinctive features.1:30 – 1:45 pmThe First United Methodist Church started in 1856,is celebrating its 150th birthday right along with thecity of Austin!1:45 – 2:15 pmTour the Arthur Winfield Wright House, now a privateresidence. Records show it was built before 1874and is the earliest, most intact example of Italianatestyling in Mower County. The detailing is unusual with

narrow gables, paired corbels, and heavily cornicedwindow and door moldings.2:15 – 2:45 pmThe Hormel Historic Home was built in 1871, and

bought in 1901 by George and Lillian Hormel. Thestately 18-room home had extensive remodeling inthe Classical Revival style and houses many originalfamily heirlooms and photographs. The brand newbanquet hall and conference center created seatingfor an additional 200. (Contact the Austin CVB forinformation about their newly added “Cooking Tipsand Trends”. Classes have been added – in partnershipwith the Hormel Home.)2:45 – 5:30 pmCheck into one of Austin’s group friendly hotels.Whether your group is looking for a full service hotel orsomething a bit simpler, Austin’s hotels know how tomake your groups time in Austin comfortable.5:30 – 7:30 pmDinner tonight will be at the Old Mill Restaurant. Enjoyexcellent food in a scenic, relaxing and historic setting.7:30 pmEnd your touring day at the Sola Fide Observatory,a program of the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center. Underthe direction of a specialist, you can view the night skywith its numerous stars and constellations.

day two9 – 12:00 pmYour second day begins with a journey up the road toRochester and a tour the Gerard Mansion. Themansion of Jay Catherwood Hormel, son of Georgeand Lillian. This 97 room chateau was designed byHarold H. Crawford, the architect responsible for manyprominent buildings in Rochester, MN. Many originalpieces still exist in this French style home. Themansion today is used as a treatment center fortroubled youth. Tours can be arranged only by theCVB with advance notice.

“Tour planning made easy” is the goal of the AustinConvention and Visitors Bureau.

For more information or to customize this sampleitinerary please contact your tour operator or theAustin Convention & Visitors Bureau, 800-444-5713.

Learn about Austin on an Architectural TourThis itinerary can be customized for any time of the year.

www.austincvb.com

Explore Minnesota



One of the most beautiful stretches of the Mississippiflows along the border of southeastern Minnesotawith soaring, wooded bluffs and charming river townsalong the way. This scenic valley offers plenty to seeand do with antique shops, wineries, apple orchardsand golf courses.

Since 1875, the St. James Hotel has provided guestswith service and incomparable experiences. Locatedon the banks of the Mississippi, the St. James Hoteloffers a setting that few other establishments canboast. Bring your group and take full advantage of thisperfect blend of history, setting and ambience.

day one9 – 10:00 amWatch pottery being made at the Red WingStoneware Company. Admire local potters creatingbeautiful stoneware in the tradition of Red Wing’sfamous Union Stoneware Company.10 – 12:00 pmIn the old Pottery District sits the historic PotteryPlace Mall—once home to the Union StonewareCompany. Today you can shop antique stores and

specialty shops. Next door is the Red Wing PotterySalesroom—a must for any visit to Red Wing. It issaid that the salesroom has the largest selection ofdinnerware, pottery and gifts in the upper Midwest!12 – 2:00 pmEnjoy lunch at the Veranda Restaurant located on thefirst floor of the St. James Hotel. The delectable menuincludes Sturdiwheat pancakes, a local favorite.Sturdiwheat is a locally owned and operated line ofpancakes, bread and cereal. After lunch check yourgroup in at the St. James Hotel for a memorable stay.2 – 4:30 pmShop the downtown district boutiques for uniquestorefronts, as well as indoor shopping protectedfrom the elements. You’ll find women’s clothing, golfwear, Red Wing shoes – the shoes that made the cityfamous – and German and Scandinavian clothing,jewelry and other wares. Around every corner is anantique store. Some shops focus on pottery, witheverything from tableware and serving dishes tomixing bowls and crocks.4:30 – 6:30 pmFalconer Vineyards opened their Vineyard Bistro in2011, located on a covered deck that overlooks a

6.5-acre vineyard. Your group will sip on FalconerVineyards wine and enjoy the serene surroundings.Wood fire pizzas are currently available in 8" personalsize, made on a wheat crust of their own recipe.6:30 – 9:30 pmTake your group to experience a little bit of Broadwayat the Sheldon Theatre. Choose one of their manycrowd-pleasing productions.

day two8:15 – 9:00amEnjoy morning coffee, tea or hot chocolate in thehistoric lobby of the St. James Hotel.9 – 1:00pmCheck out and head North on Highway 61 to TreasureIsland Resort & Casino and spend the morningplaying games. With huge jackpots and new bingogames every month, Island Bingo is a sure bet for agood time. Bingo Matinee warm-ups start at 11:45 am.Great times are in the cards at Island Bingo!

For more information or to customize this itineraryplease call your tour operator or contact theSt. James Hotel, 800-252-1875.

Come, Stay at the St. James Hotel and Shop the TownThis itinerary can be customized for any time of the year.

www.st-james-hotel.com

www.mnhs.org/jp

http://wandagaghouse.org/

www.pub500.com

http://newulmturnerhall.org/

www.kaiserhoff.org

www.walnutgrove.org

www.tatankabluffs.com

www.wowzoneefec.com

www.microtelinn.com

Explore Minnesota




Fairmont hosts a variety of options to satisfy your artsand cultural needs. Along with its small town hospital-ity and comfortable group friendly hotels, Fairmont is amust stop.

day one2:30 – 3:00 pmArrive in Fairmont and check into one of their group-friendly hotels.

3 – 4:45 pmBegin your tour with a drive through the city with theirstep-on guide, and make a stop at the Martin CountyCourt House, originally a stockade to provide safety tothe locals against Indian uprisings and was called FortFairmont. The present Court House was built in 1906.It is considered one of the Top 10 most beautiful court-houses in Minnesota. Especially noteworthy are theupper level murals and its artistic construction.4:45 – 6:45 pmBuilt in 1867 on a hill overlooking Lake Sisseton, TheChubb House is the oldest surviving house inFairmont. The house is of Greek Revival architecturewhere square nails can be seen in places throughoutthe house. Your group will enjoy dinner relaxing aroundthe warm, friendly fireplace, or the backyard is suitablefor picnics in the summer, overlooking Lake Sisseton.Food service will be arranged.6:45 – 10:00 pmAn evening performance at the Fairmont OperaHouse awaits you. This unique building has enrichedthe architectural, cultural and commercial life of theregion for over 100 years. The atmosphere, ghosts,memories of great actors, entertainers and shows areall here.

day two8 – 9:00 amBegin your day with breakfast at your hotel.9 – 11:00 amBoard the bus for an official “City of Lakes” tour. Stepback in time to treasures from yesteryear at thePioneer Museum and stroll through Fairmont’sDowntown Plaza where you’ll find specialty shops totake care of those last minute Christmas gifts.11 – 12:30 pmEnjoy a catered lunch at one of their greatest art ven-ues, the Red Rock Center for the Arts. Tour therestored 1898 red stone building that was once achurch and now houses a location for local artists todisplay their work.

For more information or to customize this itinerary foryour group please contact your tour operator or theFairmont Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, 800-657-3280, www.VisitFairmontMN.com.

Explore Fairmont’s TreasuresThis itinerary is best anytime of year.

Martin County Courthouse

Red Rock Centerfor the Arts

www.albertleatourism.org

www.visitfairmontmn.com



day one9:30 – 11:00 amStart your day with a tour of the Freeborn CountyHistorical Museum, rated one of the finest historycomplexes in Minnesota and home to both the“Minnesota Rock & Country Hall of Fame” and toMarion Ross of “Happy Days.” The village depictsthe lives of early settlers, with 14 buildings thatinclude a one-room school, general store, church,and jail. Plus see exhibits on the Civil War, history ofthe town and more.11 – 12:00 pmVisit the Story Lady Doll & Toy Museum. Enjoy over1,000 dolls and toys including antiques, storybookcharacters, designer dolls and more.12 – 1:15 pmDine at Crescendo, located in a building datingback to 1883, full of turn of the century charm andfeaturing exquisite food, an extensive wine list and

live piano music.1:15 – 3:00 pmEmbark on a breathtaking cruise on picturesqueAlbert Lea Lake, aboard the Pelican Breeze IICruise Boat. Sit back and relax on this 60-footriverboat replica. Enjoy wildlife and the historic sitesas your guides describe the history behind thischarming natural area.3 – 5:00 pmView unique displays of plant material, gardenaccents and home décor at the Garden Diva DesignStudio. They feature professional landscape designsfrom classic, formal gardens to the modern contem-porary oasis. Perfect group photo opportunities!5 – 5:30 pmCheck into one of the areas many group friendly hotels.5:30 – 7:15 pmChoose from a variety of Albert Lea’s group friendlydining options for your evening meal.

7:15 pmMarion Ross Performing Arts Center. Renamed in2008 in honor of actress Marion Ross, famous for herrole as Mrs. Cunningham on “Happy Days.” Featuringmany performances year round, including concerts,tributes and comedy specials. Call for show schedules.

day two9 – 10:00 amEnjoy a complimentary breakfast in your hotel.10 – 11:00 amTour the Itasca Rock Garden before you head forhome. It is a privately owned garden with two smallstructures resembling castles, two stone bridges, apond, and more!

For more information on this sample itinerarycontact your tour operator or the Albert Lea CVB,800-345-8414.

Good Timesin Albert Lea!This sample itinerary is best duringthe spring and summer months.

Itasca Rock Garden

Pelican Breeze II Cruise Boat

Marion Ross

www.exploresouthernminnesota.com




day one – thursday, dec 11- 3:00 pmMake your way to Owatonna at the PreferredOutlets at Medford for the best outlet pricessouth of the metro area! Shop stores such asColumbia Sportswear Company, Old Navy, TheChildren’s Place, Bass, Nike Clearance Store, Levi’sand many more.3 – 5:00 pmVisit Cabela’s World’s Foremost Outfitter andlargest fishing, hunting and outdoor gear store inthe Midwest. With four million visitors a year itis the second most popular tourist attraction inMinnesota!5 – 6:30 pmBundle up and make your next stop in downtownOwatonna to line the sidewalks for the HometownHoliday Lighted Parade – Owatonna’s version ofthe popular Minneapolis Holidazzle Parade! Windowshop and pop-into some of the stores for theirholiday open houses.6:30 – 9:00 pmVisit Central Park for a free cup of hot cider andChristmas cookies and catch a glimpse of Santa inthe Bandshell as he welcomes the holidays by

flipping the switch for the synchronized twinklelights and music show. Enjoy the Owatonna HighSchool Carolers singing Christmas carols; alsosimulcast on the radio for those who want to sitindoors. End your evening with dinner at one ofOwatonna’s fine restaurants.

day two – friday, dec 210 – 12:00 pmTake to the streets of downtown Owatonna for“Santa Specials” at Owatonna Shoe – a “REAL”Shoe Store and Kristi’s Clothing, for somethingunique and different for your wardrobe! There’s sureto be something for everyone on your shopping listwith all the shops in downtown Owatonna.12 – 1:00 pmHave lunch and treat your group to Costa’s Café& Chocolate Shop. Everyone will enjoy somehand-made/hand-dipped candies in their stockingsthis year!1 – 3:00 pmTake in Owatonna’s attractions, all decked out for theholidays, including the National Farmer’s Bankdowntown, designed by world-renowned architectLouis Sullivan.

3 – 5:00 pmBrave the elements and enjoy childhood againby renting ice skates at the Morehouse ParkChalet and skate your way along the Straight River,or watch a game of boot hockey or broomball inthe rinks!5 – 7:00 pmStep back in time for a Victorian Christmas at theVillage of Yesteryear! Horse-drawn sleigh rides,pictures with Santa, fancy cookie sale, Christmascarolers, and a stroll along the boardwalk lit byluminaries! See the Dunnell House lavishly decoratedfor the holidays. FREE admission

day three – saturday, dec 310 – 12:00 pmStop by Christmas in the Village at the SteeleCounty Historical Society and stock up on moregoodies from their fancy cookie sale. Grab somelunch before your tour of homes begins.12 – 3:00 pmVisit unique homes in Steele County on the HistoricHoliday Home Tour. All houses are decorated for theholidays and have a story to tell.3 – 5:00 pmStop by the West Hills Campus to see the winterdecorations of the Minnesota State SchoolOrphanage and Owatonna Arts Center.5:00 pmDon’t forget about those stocking stuffers! RussellStover Candies features a full selection of RussellStover boxed candies and chocolates! The candykitchen offers handmade specialties, cookies,peanut brittle, caramel apples and more. The icecream parlor serves delicious Blue Bell ice cream,sundaes, floats and shakes. Build a box of yourfavorite chocolates or select from one of the manygift baskets.

For more information on Owatonna’s HolidayShopping and Attractions Itinerary contact LisaHavelka, Tourism Director at 507-451-7970 or goto www.visitowatonna.org.

Hometown Holiday WeekendEnjoy a Hometown Holiday Weekend in Owatonna early December for a 3-day event! Check the dates for 2012.

Steele CountyHistorical Society

www.visitowatonna.org


accommodations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quality Inn & Suites Bloomington . . . 952-854-5558

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

University Hotel Minneapolis . . .800-822-6757615 Washington Avenue SE – Minneapolis, MN 55414www.universityhotelminneapolis.com

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

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

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

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

Canal Park Lodge Duluth . . . . . . . . . .800-777-8560

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

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

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

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

Sawmill Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .218-326-85012301 S Highway 169 – Grand Rapids, MN [email protected]

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www.itinerariesmidwest.comExplore Minnesota


accommodations cont’d

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

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

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

attractions

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

Chanhassen Dinner Theatres . . . 800-355-6273501 West 78th Street – Chanhassen, MN [email protected]

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

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

Northern Vineyards Winery . . . . . 651-430-1032223 Main Street N – Stillwater, MN 55082www.northernvineayrds.com

Northland Visions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 612-872-03901113 E Franklin Avenue – Minneapolis, MN 55404

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

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

Science Museum of Minnesota . . 651-221-9444120 West Kellogg Blvd – Saint Paul, MN [email protected] / www.smm.org

Treasure Island Resort& Casino . . . . . . . . . 800-222-7077 ext 2716/29525734 Sturgeon Lake Road – Welch, MN 55089www.ticasino.com / [email protected] groups some of the best gaming, accommodations,food service and nationally known entertainment in thecasino industry. Featuring over 2,400 slots, 40 blackjack tablesand a 550-seat high stakes bingo hall, all in a Caribbeanthemed casino.

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

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

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

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

GREAT Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320-258-ARTS919 W Saint Germain Street – St Cloud, MN 56301www.greattheatre.orgThe premiere community theater in Central Minnesota. GREAThas produced over 100 shows since 1998, including 5 WorldPremiere productions. Provides School Performances.

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

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

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

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

convention & visitorsbureaus and chambers

Burnsville CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .952-895-469012600 Nicolett Avenue Suite 100 – Burnsville, MN 55337www.burnsvillemn.comDiscover vibrant Burnsville where everything under the sun isright under your nose. Enjoy a variety of affordable, comfortableand uncomplicated lodging options. Explore Minnesota’s signa-ture venues and regional attractions, unique shops, diverse din-ing, fine arts and much more.

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

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

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

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

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

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

St. Cloud Area Convention& Visitors Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .320-251-4170525 Hwy 10, Suite 1 – St. Cloud, MN 56304 800-264-2940jean@granite country.comwww.granitecountry.comAmong 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

entertainment & theater

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

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

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

festivals & events

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

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

restaurants

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

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

Mr. Twisty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320-310-03145821 Ridgewood Road – St. Cloud, MN 56303www.mrtwistyicecream.comSt. Cloud’s coolest hot spot! Serving up delectable ice creamcreations, this walk-up shop is reminiscent of the ones yourode your bike to as a kid. The treats, low prices and friendlyatmosphere keep guests coming back.

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

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

shopping

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

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

tour operators

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

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

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

Christmas Tours at Smallin Civil War Cave, Ozark – Asthe first documented cave in the Ozarks, Smallin Cave iswrought with history. According to archaeological digs, it wasoriginally used by the Osage Indians and later used for CivilWar related activities. During the holidays, the cave is lit withtwinkling Christmas lights and lanterns. Sip hot cocoa arounda campfire while listening to the tour guides’ tales of Civil WarChristmas stories as well as Ozark history. The tour lasts anhour and a half and specializes in groups.[ Weekends, November 25 – December 31, 2011 ]

Weihnachtsfest “German Christmas” at DeutschheimState Historic Site, Hermann – Visit the historic Pommer-Gentner House and celebrate a traditional 19th centuryGerman Christmas! The rooms will be decorated withgreenery, lit by lamplight, and feature Christmas treesadorned with authentic German ornaments. Enjoy traditionalGerman Christmas music while sampling cookies and othertreats. Discover how the Christmas customs of the firstGerman immigrants became American traditions we continueto celebrate today. Your group is sure to have a memorableexperience! [ Dec 3-4, 10-11, 2011 ]

French Christmas Open House at Felix Vallé HouseState Historic Site, Ste. Genevieve – Take a look atMissouri’s early French roots in a home that was built wayback in 1818. Filled with numerous artifacts dating back to

the 1830s, this unique building displays the Americaninfluence on the French community of Ste. Genevieve after theLouisiana Purchase. This annual Christmas event showcasesthe music, food, customs and decorations of the early FrenchChristmas celebration known as “Le Réveillon.” Costumedguides will give tours throughout the home and explain early1800s customs. The extravagant dining room will be filled withtraditional French foods of the period, along with samples ofthe bûche de Noël—the yule log cake. [ December 11, 2011 ]

Christmas Traditions: Open Doors at First MissouriState Capitol State Historic Site, St. Charles – Theoriginal State Capitol of Missouri was located right along theMissouri River in St. Charles. Here is where Missouri’s firstlegislature was formed in the early 1800s after the citizens ofthe town pledged free meeting space if their city was chosen.After years of age and decay, the state of Missouri bought thebuilding and began their ten-year restoration project in 1961.

For two special nights this holiday season, guests areinvited to step back in time to hear the whispers of Christmascheer throughout the rough-hewn timbers and dark woodfloors of this 19th century building. Visit with costumedinterpreters in the Peck Brothers Dry Goods & HardwareStore or the Ruluff Peck residence located on the grounds. Litstrictly by candlelight, this tour is guaranteed to be magical.[ December 21 & 23, 2011 ]

Silver Dollar City’s “An Old Time Christmas”, BransonGood Morning America named it “One of the top 5 holiday events in the country.” Why? Perhaps because of the 5-story specialeffects Christmas tree, the smorgasbord of holiday food, the theatrical performances, or the four million lights shining brightlyon the square. Whatever your taste, this festival is sure to dazzle you!

Satisfy your holiday appetite with “Tastes of the Season.” Guests may eat to their heart’s content at the hickory-smoked primerib buffet or warm up with a hearty bowl of homemade chili. For those with a sweet tooth, try s’mores, gingerbread cookies andapple dumplings among other tasty Christmas treats.

Keep an eye out for the various shows performing throughout the park such as The Living Nativity, Frosty, and the grandestproduction of all: A Dickens’ Christmas Carol. This performance features original music, talented actors, a live band, andjaw-dropping special effects—all in front of stunning Victorian scenery. (See location on map, page 37)

november• Ozark Mountain ChristmasNov 1-Dec 31, Branson 417-339-2204

• Branson Area Festival of LightsNovember 1-January 2, Branson 800-800-2019

• Festival of TreesNov 11-Dec 19, Linn Creek 573-346-7191

• Moonlight Madness & Lighted Christmas ParadeNovember 26, Windsor 660-647-2318

december• Augusta’s 29th Candlelight Christmas WalkDecember 2 & 9, Augusta 636-228-4005

• Christmas on the Farm at Watkins Woolen MillState Park & State Historic SiteDecember 3, Lawson 816-580-3387

• Away in the Basement:A Church Basement Ladies ChristmasDecember 5, Rolla 573-341-4219

• Candlelight Tours atHunter-Dawson State Historic SiteDecember 9-10, New Madrid 573-748-5340

• Santa’s North Pole Dash & Snowman ShuffleDecember 10, St. Charles 636-946-0633

• “Say Cheese”Wine TrailDecember 10-11, Hermann 800-932-8687

• Heritage Philharmonic Holiday ConcertDecember 17, Blue Springs 816-224-2890

january• The Loop Ice CarnivalJanuary 14, St. Louis 314-727-2020

• Gospel Music USAJanuary 6-8, Jefferson City 800-769-4183

• Fete De GlaceJanuary 28, St. Charles 636-946-1898

• Pro Arte QuartetJanuary 30, Rolla 573-341-6365

february• Civil War in the West ExhibitFebruary 1-November 4, St. Louis 314-544-6224

• National Pheasant Fest & Quail ClassicFebruary 17-19, Kansas City 815-568-8888

• Kansas City Ballet Presents: Romeo and JulietFebruary 17-26, Kansas City 816-931-2232

march• Make Someone Happy –The Songs of Comden & GreenMarch 2-April 1, Kansas City 816-421-1700

• Irish VillageMarch 17, St. Louis 314-241-PATS


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Close to home. Far from ordinary.

Close to home. Far from ordinary.Read ITINERARIES Midwest Online.Ads hotlinked to websites.www.itinerariesmidwest.com

Whether your group is looking to make history orrelive it, St. Joseph is the place to do it. Home to 17distinctive area museums, 12 annual festivals and over17 districts listed on the National Register of HistoricPlaces, there is literally a story to tell around everycorner. The Pony Express had its starting point inSt. Joseph, Lewis and Clark traversed the area ontheir return trip in 1806, and outlaw Jesse James wasshot and killed in his St. Jo home in 1882. Your groupis invited to revel in the tales scattered throughoutthe city.

St. Joseph has plenty to offer in arts and culture aswell. The town has a world-class art museum, a

renowned symphony orchestra and outstandingtheatrical productions at the Historic Missouri Theatre.Don’t forget to check out what’s going on at MissouriWestern State University, where you can always findan art exhibit, concert, or show!

day one10 – 12:00 pmStart off with a tour of the Patee House Museum—theformer headquarters of the Pony Express and finesthotel west of the Mississippi. The museum featurestwo full floors of exhibits including horse-drawnhearses, model railroads, the vintage “Wild ThingCarousel,” stagecoaches, a blacksmith shop, antiquefurniture and toys, and a wing designed to look likethe streets of Old St. Jo. Don’t forget to stop at thehome where Jesse James met his violent end.12 – 1:30 pmEnjoy lunch at one of St. Jo’s bar & grill options. Thelocals enjoy Pops Place, Norty’s, and the SouthgateGrill for home style cooking at great prices.1:30 – 3:00 pmYour group will enjoy a leisurely walk through theexhibits at the Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art.They house one of the finest collections of 18th, 19th,and 20th century American art in the Midwest. Callahead to find out whose artwork will be featuredduring your visit.3 – 5:00 pmCheck into one of the city’s many hotels and motels forsome relaxation time.5 – 7:00 pmStep out of your comfort zone and enjoy a specialtydining experience at the JC Wyatt House. This 1891historic home serves wonderful cuisine in an authenticVictorian atmosphere.7 – 9:30 pmThe Historic Missouri Theatre presents The SandersFamily Christmas. This sequel to the New York hit,

Smoke on the Mountain, serves up more than two-dozen Christmas carols and will have the audienceover-flowing with laughter and holiday cheer. This is amust-see for the Christmas season!

day two8 – 9:00 pmEnjoy breakfast at the hotel and prepare for a dayof shopping!9 – 12:00 pmSince its founding in 1843, St. Joseph has been a hubfor trading, buying and selling. The original tradingposts of the 1800s have been replaced with shoppingdistricts, antique stores and large enclosed malls.The Jesse James Antique Mall offers over 110booths, 160 showcases and 40 small shelving areasthroughout two large rooms, making it the region’slargest antique mall and a must-stop for your group.Other popular shopping options are the Shoppes atNorth Village, Stetson Hat Company Outlet Store,and the East Hills Mall.

For more information or to customize this sampleitinerary for your group, please call the St. JosephCVB at 800-785-0360 or visit them online atwww.stjomo.com.

directory & map

convention & visitorsbureaus and chambers

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

St. Joseph CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-785-0360109 South 4th Street – St. Joseph, MO [email protected] / www.stjomo.com/stjogrouptours.aspxAn All-American city born of the fur trade and brimming with aspirit of adventure. Recently named America’s “Top Ten WesternCity” by the True West Magazine, we are a city abounding in19th century charm and timeless beauty.


Branson

Patee House Museum (PHM)

PHM

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

www.stjomo.com/cw150.aspx

O’Connor House Christmas Tour, Homer – Built in 1879by Captain Cornelius O’Connor, this grand 15-room mansion isdecorated for the holidays and open for tours the first twoweekends in November. Visitors are always impressed by theintricate walnut-carved stairway and Italian marble fireplace.The O’Connors were big collectors of little “extras,” which arewhat make the home so unique and it is clear that CaptainO’Connor meant this house to last. This grand Victorian homeis sure to impress its visitors! [ Nov 5-6 & 12-13, 2011 ]

Winter Festival of Prairie Cultures, Beatrice – Celebratethe winter traditions of homesteaders with special programsand entertainment at the Homestead National Monument ofAmerica. The Homestead Act of 1862 impacted the entireworld. The ethnic groups represented during this festival cameto America with traditions inherited from their homelands.Guests are invited to learn something new about the many

winter celebrations that take place around the world throughdecorations, clothing, music, dances and food. Some of thecultures represented at the Winter Festival include: French,German, Swedish, Polish, Irish, Czech, and Native American.Guest speakers will present the spirit of hope, humor andgenerosity, which characterized the settlers of the West.[ November 25 – December 31, 2011 ]

Ethnic Holiday Festival, Omaha – Come to the DurhamMuseum this December and learn how the world celebratesthis cheerful time of year. Local cultural organizations proudlydisplay their crafts and traditional dress, while musicians anddancers perform throughout the evening. Sample ethnic foodsand purchase a unique gift for that hard-to-shop-for person.There is even a vast display of miniature Christmas trees fromaround the world. [ December 2, 2011 ]

Father Flanagan’s Irish Christmas, Boys Town – Eachholiday season, the Flanagan house comes alive with thecheer of a traditional Irish Christmas celebration based uponfaith and family. Candles are displayed in the windows andChristmas quilts decorate the beds. Explore the displays oftraditional Irish Christmas décor, antique ornaments from the‘20s through the ‘40s, as well as antique toys. This celebrationpays tribute to the same holiday traditions set in motion byFather Flanagan—the founder of Boys Town. Tour groups of 20or more will receive complimentary cookies and cocoa![ December 5-11, 2011 ]

explore more winter festivals in nebraska

Possibilities…endless

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

nebraska cities

calendar of eventsnovember• Downtown Christmas StrollNovember 17, Columbus 402-564-1307

• Autumn Festival: An Arts & Crafts AffairNovember 17-20, Omaha 402-331-2889

• Candlelight Christmas & Lighted Vehicle ParadeNovember 18, Hartington 402-254-6939

• HarvestFestNovember 19-20, Platte Center 402-564-1845

december• In the Spirit Dec 1-31, Grand Island 308-381-4001• Ethnic Holiday FestivalDecember 2, Omaha 402-444-5071

• Downtown Christmas & Parade of TreesDecember 3, Schuyler 402-352-5472

• Old Fashioned ChristmasDecember 4, Potter 308-879-4332

• Father Flanagan’s Irish ChristmasDecember 5-11, Boys Town 800-625-1400

• Annual Christmas Bird Count at Ponca State ParkDecember 13, 402-755-2284

january• Grandma’s China CabinetJanuary 1-28, Plattsmouth 402-296-4770

• 2012 Rails and Trails Event: Lewis & Clark ExhibitJanuary 1-February 29, Madison 402-992-1221

• Omaha Symphony: Ellis Hall’s Tribute toRay Charles January 14, Omaha 402-342-3560

• Niobrara River Polar Bear Festival in MeadvilleJanuary 28, Ainsworth 402-497-2440

• 7th Annual ChilympiadJanuary 29, Milligan 402-629-4446

february• Sandhill Crane Spring Migrationmid-Feb – mid-Apr, Grand Island 800-658-3178

• Buffalo Bill Farm & Ranch ExpoFebruary 1-2, North Platte 308-532-4966

• Dinosaurs and Disasters!February 4, Lincoln 402-472-2642

• Cowboy Poetry & Music Jam at Bowring RanchFebruary 26, Merriman 308-684-3428

march• 2012 Rails & Trails Event:Civil War and Homesteading ExhibitMarch 1-31, Madison 402-992-1221

• Marsh Madness at Ponca State ParkMarch 10-11, Ponca 402-755-2284

• Beers of Nebraska Mar 24, Milligan 402-629-4446• SpringFest March 29, Humboldt 402-862-2171


Christmas at the Museum & Frahm House,Fort Calhoun

The Washington County Historical Museum houses prehistoric artifacts, Native American attire, and equipment and relics fromnearby Fort Atkinson. Early farm tools and household items depict pioneer life in the 1800s. During the month of December themuseum will be decorated for the holidays. This year’s feature will be the Nativity and a number of historical displays. The neigh-boring Frahm House—built in 1905—will also be decked with holiday cheer. The home is nearly the same as the day it wasbuilt, aside from the additions of electricity, running water and a furnace. This beautiful home is worth visiting again and again.[ December 1–31, 2011 ] (See location on map below)

Fort Calhoun

Nebraska Department of EconomicDevelopment Lincoln . . 877-NEBRASKA

directory & map

Heritage Outbound Winter Adventure, BismarckHave you ever wondered what life was like for our nation’s first inhabitants? The State Historical Society of North Dakota invitesyou to experience a one-day adventure throughout the Knife River area filled with traditional Native American activities fromhundreds of years ago. Try your hand at a Hidatsa/Mandan Native American craft, snowshoe through historic villages and hearfascinating stories about Native American life from your experienced tour guides. The day concludes with a roaring fire in anearthlodge where guests will dine on a traditional buffalo feast. The evening will continue with storytelling and music and is sureto be an unforgettable experience! [ February, 2012 ] (See location on map below)

Legendary

december• Christmas in the Park 2011December 1-31, Grand Forks 701-795-1115

• 16th Annual Old FashionedCowboy ChristmasDecember 2-4, Medora 701-623-4910

• Christmas on the PrairieDecember 3, West Fargo 701-282-2822

• Santa Fly-InDecember 3-5, Fargo 701-293-8043

• The NutcrackerDecember 9-11, Bismarck 701-530-0986

• Key Ingredients: America by FoodDecember 10-January 9,Watford City 800-338-6543

january• Monty Python’s “Spamalot”January 13, Fargo 855-694-6367

• Winter Wonderland 2012January 21, Bismarck 701-258-1975

• Trinity Mardi GrasJanuary 27-29, Dickinson 701-483-6092

february• 12th Annual Norski DaysFebruary 3-5, Fort Ransom 701-973-4811

• Cabin Fever DaysFebruary 3-13, Jamestown 701-252-3982

• Bite the Ice on the Hook Ice FishingTournament & RaffleFebruary 4, Parshall 701-862-3115

• Widget Contest/Explore Engineering 2012February 7, Bismarck 701-258-1975

march• Fargo Film FestivalMarch 6-10, Fargo 701-239-8385

• Prairie Quilt FestivalMarch 16-18, Minot 800-264-2626

• Taste of HazenMarch 21, Hazen 888-464-2936

• Nano Days 2012March 24, Bismarck 701-258-1975


north dakota cities

calendar of events

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

explore more winter festivals in north dakota

Christmas at the Carroll House, Fullerton – Fullerton’sfounding father, Edwin Forrest Sweet, had the Carroll Housebuilt in 1889—just two years after the birth of the town. It wasoriginally used as a hotel and venue for social events atwhich the featured band would make about $2.50 on a “goodnight.” Today, this historic landmark has been restored to itsoriginal holiday grandeur, featuring turn-of-the-century décorand volunteers dressed in period costumes. Do someChristmas shopping at the various vendor displays, sample avariety of holiday goodies or bid on unique items at the silentauction. Stay the night in one of this hotel’s cozy rooms, or justcome for an afternoon. [ November 20, 2011 ]

Dickens Village Festival, Garrison – Experience thecharm of Old England along the winter streets of downtownGarrison—the official “Christmas Capital of North Dakota.”Warm up with a cup of traditional English tea, a hot bakedpotato or sausage on a stick while browsing the street vendorsand craft shows and embracing a simpler time. Take a ridedown the street in a horse-drawn carriage or in an authenticdouble-decker bus: the Queen Elizabus. Local homes aredecorated to suit the festivities and some are open for tours.Evenings are concluded with a Christmas parade and aperformance of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.[ November 25-27 & December 2-3, 9-10, 2011 ]

Medora’s Old-Fashioned Cowboy Christmas, Medora– This annual event is a unique way to celebrate Christmasand a great reason to visit Medora in the winter! Show yourholiday spirit the Wild West way with oyster stew, hayrides,hoedowns and fireworks. Dress in your cowboy finest as theweekend kicks off with a wreath ceremony and continues with

“Eats on the Streets,” cowboy poetry, cowboy snow sculpting,a Catholic Mass and a theatrical performance of “A CowboyChristmas Carol.” Shops are open all day for unique holidayshopping and carolers decorate the streets with their songs.This Wild West weekend concludes with a cookie contest andsledding. Groups won’t want to miss this unique holiday festival![ December 2-4, 2011 ]

Winter Wonderland 2012, Bismarck – Located atGateway to Science—North Dakota’s only hands-on sciencecenter—your group is invited to come and explore the solarsystem in an out-of-this-world experience. Don’t worry aboutthe cold weather. This event is held indoors with a portableplanetarium (presenting a dazzling star show), astronauttraining exercises, and remote access to a professionaltelescope set up miles away in Grand Forks! Stargazing will beavailable in the parking lot for those who don’t mind bundlingup. Cookies and hot chocolate will be served to all participantsand an educational (and fun!) time is guaranteed for all.[ January 21, 2012 ]

Group Day February: Paw’tastic Fun in the Snow,Binford – This learning-based outdoor adventure is presentedby Prairie Isle Dog Trekking, Inc. Groups of all sizes are invitedto this hands-on experience. Join in learning how to harnessa dog and drive a sled while enjoying the beauty of the prairieat Red Willow Bible Camp, just outside of Binford. Otheractivities include showshoeing and cross-country skiing. Allmoney raised for this event will go towards canine cancertreatments. Dress warm and get ready to have some fun.The dogs look forward to meeting you![ February 18, 2012 ]

Bismarck


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accommodationsSettle Inn & Suites . . . . . . . . . . . . . 701-235-46994325 23rd Ave S – Fargo, ND 58104 / www.settleinnfargo.comOne of the best lodging experience at a great value for groups,in the heart of the shopping and restaurant district. Its three-story lobby with stone fireplace and colors like a westernsunset may tip you off that this hotel is wonderfully unique.

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

attractionsRed River Zoo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 701-277-92404220 21st Ave S – Fargo, ND 58103 / www.redriverzoo.orgThe Red River Zoo is a leading breeder of some of the world'srarest cold climate species. We feature world-class exhibits onover 33 beautiful acres. A leading attraction in the FargoMoorhead area for groups!

convention & visitorsbureaus and chambersFargo-Moorhead CVB . . . . . . . . . . 800-235-76542001 44th St S – Fargo, ND 58103 / www.fargomoorhead.orgFargo, ND and Moorhead, MN are located at the intersection ofInterstates 94 and 29. The largest metropolitan area betweenMinneapolis and Spokane offers unique attractions, culture,shopping and casinos. Let us customize a tour for you.

Relish Fargo-Moorhead…from simple to elegant!

This sample itinerary is best Spring through Fall!

day one1:00 pmArrive in Fargo and check into the Settle Inn &Suites, conveniently located just south of I-94. Theyare in the heart of the business, shopping and restau-rant district and a quick and easy drive to and fromanywhere in the Fargo-Moorhead area.2 – 4:00 pmLocated adjacent to the hotel is the Red River Zoo.Spend some time this afternoon at the zoo among itsoutstanding living collection. They feature exotic andnative animals and plants from areas around theworld with similar climates to the Red River Valley. Besure to take a trip back in time with a ride on thezoo’s restored 1928 antique carousel.4 – 6:00 pmTake some time to shop along Broadway in down-town Fargo, featuring many unique and specialtyshops to help you find that sweet item to take home.6 – 7:30 pmFrom simple to elegant, from fast food to hautecuisine, Fargo-Moorhead is a virtual smorgasbord ofdining choices. With more than 350 restaurants,there’s no end to the culinary variety your group canchoose for dinner tonight ~ enjoy!

7:30 pmYour group will delight in spending the evening at theFargo Theatre. This restored 1926 landmark is thearea’s only remaining vintage movie palace with avaudeville stage. Now serving as a multi-purposefacility, showing films and live productions. It alsohouses a restored theatre pipe organ, the “MightyWurlitzer.”

day two8 – 9:00 amStart your day with Settle Inn’s complimentarydeluxe “Kick Start” Breakfast Buffet serving hot &cold food.9 – 10:00 amIf your group has a great movie-type sense of humor,a stop at the “The Woodchipper” Exhibit at theFargo-Moorhead Visitors Center is a must! Yup...THAT woodchipper! They have both the REAL movieprop and a fun replica paying homage to that famousscene from the movie “Fargo.” It is a great photo opfor visitors! It just wouldn’t be right not to stop!

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

directory

www.fargomoorhead.org

http://www.redriverzoo.org/

http://www.mapleriverdistillery.com/

www.settleinnfargo.com

Christmas on the High Plains: Boots & BowsFundraiser, Spearfish – Located at the High Plains WesternHeritage Center in Spearfish, this unique holiday eventfeatures a 90-minute live stage performance highlighting themusic, poetry and dances of the Great American Cowboy.Pre-show events include presentations by well-known rodeocowboys, cowgirls, rodeo queens and inductees to theNational Cowboy & Cowgirl Hall of Fame. Take a tour of themuseum, watch re-enactors in Old West garb, or view thework of western artisans in visuals, leather and silver. Thisparticular evening at the Heritage Center will featureinternational fiddlers Kenny Putnam, Stringbean Svenson, andoriginal singer/songwriter Hank Harris. [ Nov 17, 2011 ]

Trains at Christmas, Sioux Falls – This is the premiermodel railroad event in South Dakota. Locomotive enthusiasts—both young and old—come from all over the region to thisannual event. Presented by the Sioux Valley Model EngineersSociety, this weekend will be held at the W.H. LyonsFairgrounds Expo Building and will feature thousands oftraveling layouts from the area. Vendors will be sellingclothing, model and toy trains, and other engineeringmemorabilia. Also displayed are railroad videos and clothing.Come and learn all you can about one of the world’s mostinnovative forms of transportation. [ November 19-20, 2011 ]

WJ Ranch Cowboy Christmas, Yankton – The city ofYankton prides itself on its cowboy heritage and Christmascelebrations are no exception. It may be chilly outside, but not

in this desert setting! The event will feature arts and craftsfrom over 50 sources, all displayed in a unique old-westernscene. Horse-and-buggy rides, trick roping, Model T displaysand refreshments are offered throughout the weekend at theWJ Ranch, seven miles south of Yankton. [ Nov 26-27, 2011 ]

Christmas in the Hills, Hot Springs – Enjoy a good oldfashioned holiday celebration in Hot Springs! The weekendbegins with caroling at the Evans Porch, featuring the voicesof the Sandstone Singers and a ceremonial tree lightingwill follow. The “Journey of Lights” parade will travel throughthe bustling streets of downtown and will feature music,decorative floats, and—of course—Santa Claus. A market-place event will be held on Saturday at the Mueller CivicCenter featuring handmade crafts and holiday treats. A Tour ofHomes featuring lots of great holiday decorating ideas will beheld on Sunday and a living nativity will be on display atCentennial Park. [ December 2-4, 2011 ]

Christmas with the Animals, Sioux Falls – Christmasmay be over for us, but not for the animals at the GreatPlains Zoo in Sioux Falls! Decorated with donated Christmastrees adorned with edible treats for the animals to nibble on,the zoo is alive with holiday cheer. Onlookers will watchthe animals unwrap presents filled with fruits and vegetablesand munch on garlands made from Cheerios. Zookeeperswill be delivering gifts to the animals throughout the afternoon.[ January 14, 2012 ]

explore more winter festivals in south dakota…

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

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

• Annual Holiday Open Houseof the SD State Historical SocietyNovember 25, Pierre 605-773-6000

december• Christmas on the PrairieDecember 1, Miller 605-853-3098

• Christmas in the HillsDecember 2-4, Hot Springs 605-745-6606

• Centerville Country ChristmasDecember 2-4, Centerville 605-563-2291

• Victorian ChristmasDecember 3, Mitchell 605-996-2122

• Twilight Flights at Strawbale WineryDecember 8-17, Renner 605-543-5071

• Heritage of the American West PerformanceSeries December 15, Spearfish 605-642-9378

january• Making New TraditionsJanuary 1-15, Brookings 605-688-5423

• A Museum’s Beginning: South DakotaFederation of Women’s ClubsJanuary 1-April 22, Brookings 605-688-5423

• Christmas with the AnimalsJanuary 14, Sioux Falls 605-367-7003

• Sisseton Winter ShowJanuary 20-21, Sisseton 605-698-7627

• Media One Funski Winter CarnivalJanuary 27-28, Sioux Falls 605-339-0000

february• Winter Wonderland Weekend in WilmotFebruary 3-5, 10-12, Wilmot 605-938-4707

• Mardi Gras WeekendFebruary 10-11, Deadwood 800-999-1876

• Annual Winterfest of WheelsFebruary 10-12, Sioux Falls 605-231-3100

march• Britton’s Winter FestivalMarch 9-10, Britton 605-448-5323

• Huron Outdoor ShowMarch 17-18, Huron 605-352-1933

• Hats Off to the Artists Art ShowMarch 23-25, Faulkton 605-598-4160


south dakota cities

calendar of events

Frontier Christmas, Lake CityCelebrate Christmas in the barracks at Fort Sisseton State Park! Take a sleigh ride, purchase unique holiday gifts, bake breadand even churn butter! Experience the yuletide the way our ancestors did at this historic fort, built in 1864 and named after thenearby Sisseton Indian Tribe. Take a tour led by “soldiers” and other costumed guides throughout the 14 original buildings stillintact. Men and women of the fort will provide demonstrations of carpentry, rope making, soap making, and spinning andweaving. The blacksmith will also be on hand to demonstrate his profession. Visitors are also invited to tour the hospital,doctor’s quarters and commanding officer’s quarters.

Returning to this year’s event is a display of bells and an antique sleigh. The collector will be on hand to answer questions andtell the history behind the collectibles. Musical entertainment will be provided throughout the day and don’t forget to keep aneye out for Father Christmas! [ December 10, 2011 ] (See location on map, page 44)

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

Great Faces. Great Places.


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


C anyon Lake Resort in Rapid City, South Dakota prides itself on a peaceful, restful atmosphere.Located on the western shores of Canyon Lake and nestled along the foothills of the Black

Hills, guests have no difficulty throwing their cares away. Spend the day trout fishing, walking,biking, or paddle boating on Canyon Lake. Then enjoy your evenings relaxing around the campfireand toasting marshmallows. It’s the perfect location to get “away from it all.”

Call Mike Derby at the Chophouse for more information: 605-388-8000 ext 5.

F ounded in the 1970s by two local ranchers,the High Plains Western Heritage Center

honors the old west pioneers of SouthDakota, North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming andNebraska with a furnished log cabin, ruralschoolhouse and antique saddle and black-smith shop.

A small animal farm lets visitors interactwith animals just as the settlers did, and aherd of bison and longhorn steers roam thesurrounding pastures.

Inside the center, visitors can watch educationfilms in a spacious theatre and visit thetransportation room, home to a stagecoach,chuckwagon, buggies and sleighs. Displayshonor Native American lore, cowboy cultureand the mining and forestry industries. Thecenter’s bookstore and gift shop offer a piece ofhistory to take home with Western literature,handcrafted jewelry, artwork and souvenirs.

“Historical Campfire Series” and live monthlyCowboy Music & Poetry performances areoffered throughout the year.

High PlainsWESTERN HERITAGE CENTER

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Room Amenities:• Free high-speed internet• Free local calls• Air conditioning• Connecting rooms• Microwave & Refrigerator• Cable TV

Resort Amenities:• Heated outdoor pool• Free paddleboat rides(guests only)

• Complimentary winetasting (guests only)

• Gas barbecue grills

• Picnic tables• On-site laundromat• Off-street parking• Access tohiking/biking trails

• Access to trout fishing

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Canyon Lake Resort Black Hills

Bring your Group to the BLACK HILLS!

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www. i t i n e r a r i e sm i dwes t . c om I T I N ERAR I E S M IDWEST FA L L /W I TNER 2011 43

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D oes your group enjoy special events? SiouxFalls, South Dakota has a large assortment

of high quality activities, particularly duringour upcoming holiday season. Join us forcelebrations of the season, from performancesto events, we have it all.

Sioux Falls is overflowing with performancesincluding Irving Berlin’s White Christmasand Lori Line “Christmas Bells are Ringing”concerts at the Washington Pavilion, Christmasat the Cathedral, and our very own SouthDakota Symphony just to mention a few.

A sampling of local events include: DowntownParade of Lights, A Pavilion Holiday, Festivalof Trees, Trains at Christmas, Breakfast withSanta, Downtown Holidays and so much more.Select an event and we can wrap a localizeditinerary around it!

Winter Wonderland at Falls Park continuesfrom the Friday prior to Thanksgiving through

the first week of January. It is a Holidayspectacular which includes a dazzling displayof approximately 250,000 lights, animateddancing displays, and special holiday musicpiped throughout the 123-acre park.

If you haven’t quite finished your holidayshopping, plan out time to spend at a multitudeof friendly boutiques that adorn our downtowndistrict. Visit The Empire Mall with 180specialty shops and department stores, you aresure to find that perfect something.

Grasp a taste of Sioux Falls prior to yourperformance and enjoy a wine tasting at oneof our local, rural wineries followed by areservation at one of the many Sioux Falls homegrown restaurants.

Sioux Falls is South Dakota’s largest city, so ifyou are planning a day trip or a multi-day touryou will find something for everyone. Make thisyear memorable and let us customize your tour

to include one of our many special events.Contact Cathy at the Sioux Falls CVB to assistin your next group tour.

Visit our events website for an up-to-datecalendar of events at www.SiouxFallsEvents.com.All itineraries are flexible so let us design a tourthat will suit your group's interests.

Great Faces. Great Places.

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SIOUX FALLS –Overflowing with Performances & Special Events!

The Cathedral

www.visitsiouxfalls.com/grouptours


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accommodationsCanyon Lake Resort . . . . . . 605-388-8000 ext 52720 Chapel Lane – Rapid City, SD 57702Nestled in the foothills of the Black Hills, it’s a great placeto bring groups for an overnight stay. We offer numerousamenities plus first hand information on what to see and doin the Black Hills and surrounding area.

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

Tatanka Oyate Tours Rapid City. . . . 605-381-0992www.TatankaOyateTours.com

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

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

Rapid CityThe Center of Your Perfect Tour

This sample itinerary can be customized for anytime of the year!

directory & map

day oneMorning:Mount Rushmore National MemorialThe first stop of the day is Mount RushmoreNational Memorial. Spend time in the LincolnBorglum Museum at the Memorial to learn moreabout this amazing sculpture.

Mid-Morning/Afternoon:Crazy Horse MemorialEnjoy the scenic drive to Crazy Horse Memorial.This ongoing mountain carving is the world’slargest and a majestic tribute to all Native Americantribes across the country.

Afternoon/Evening:Custer State ParkThis 71,000-acre vacation paradise is home toabundant wildlife, including one of the nation’slargest free roaming buffalo herds, making itcommon to encounter a “Buffalo Jam” while drivingin the park.

Night:Mount Rushmore National Memorialor Crazy Horse MemorialBe sure to head back to either Mount Rushmoreor Crazy Horse for their evening shows. Duringthe summer season, Mount Rushmore holds anightly patriotic lighting ceremony, while at CrazyHorse you can experience the laser light show,Legends in Light.

day twoNational Park and MonumentsMorning:Badlands National ParkThis 224,000 acre park is full of jagged spires,eroded buttes and prehistoric fossils. The moon-like surfaces of the Badlands create a hikingchallenge with breath-taking scenery. Drive theloop or get off the bus and enjoy a picnic at one ofthe scenic overlooks.

Afternoon:Wall/Wall Drug StoreAfter touring the Badlands, a popular stop is aworld-famous drug store in Wall, (Wall Drug). Thistiny store, built in 1931, has boomed to becomeblock-sized and internationally known.

Evening:Downtown Rapid City/City of PresidentsIt may not be a national park or monument, but theCity of Presidents in downtown Rapid City is agreat way to end your Parks and Monument tour.These life-sized bronze statues will take you ona journey through American Presidential history.

For more information or to customize this sampleitinerary for your group please contact your touroperator or Rapid City CVB, 800-487-3223 orwww.visitrapidcity.com.

Centrally located to the wonders of the Black Hills, including Mount Rushmore National Memorial andCrazy Horse Memorial, Rapid City provides unique historic attractions and one-of-a-kind views, all for a lowcost. With an abundance of accommodations, restaurants, activities, shopping and a great central location,Rapid City is the perfect hub for time spent touring the marvels of the Black Hills.

Lake City

Sioux Falls nightscape

Heikinpaiva Mid-Winter Festival, Hancock – Celebratethe mid-point of winter with a series of Finnish relatedactivities tentatively scheduled for Saturday, January 28 inHancock. Events include classes in nisu making, Finnish foodpreparation, wood carving, tatting, Finnish breads and 5-stringkantele throughout the week, a Family Fun Night, and a Finnishhymn sing, the Club Finndigo dinner and a movie at theCalumet Theatre and the Karhun Tanssi. Saturday’s eventsinclude a parade through downtown Hancock, Tori Markets, apolar bear dive on the Hancock waterfront; and an authenticFinnish buffet and a tanssit dance. [ January 28, 2012 ]

UP 200 Dog Sled Race, Marquette – The UP 200 race isone of the premier lower 48 states sled dog race qualifier forthe Iditarod. Race starts in downtown Marquette and travels toMunising, Grand Marais and back into downtown Marquette,MI on Sunday. Racers travel over 200 miles, and havenumerous group spectator opportunities. The Midnight Run

race starts in downtown Marquette and travels to Munising,MI. Both events are highlighted with awards banquets, andopportunities to purchase logowear. [ February 16-19, 2012 ]

2012 World Ice & Snow Sailing Championships, St.Ignace – We have a new and very exciting winter specialevent for St. Ignace! The 2012 World Ice and Snow SailingChampionships will be held in St. Ignace from February 20-26.It will be only the fourth time since this event began in 1980that it will be held in the United States; past championshipshave been held in Finland, Russia, Estonia, Quebec, Ontario,and others. [ February 20-26, 2012 ]

explore more winter festivals in michigan…

5-Star Wilderness®

CopperDog 150 Sled Dog Race, CalumetWhat could possibly inspire thousands of people to spend a weekend in the snow, working and playing in freezingtemperatures? The CopperDog 150 Sled Dog Race – that’s what! The CopperDog 150 brings dozens of professional andrecreational mushers, hundreds of sled dogs, and thousands of fans to Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula for 150 miles of sleddog racing through a pristine winter wilderness. The race starts on historic Fifth Street in downtown Calumet, Friday night.Thousands of fans crowd the streets as each sled dog team launches into the dark night, cheering them on. When the last teamhas disappeared down the trail the street party continues, taking over the town of Calumet with music, dancing, food, and drink.It’s a fun filled weekend involving the entire community – like a family party taking place on the entire peninsula. Bring yourgroup and join us for this unique experience! Fans are welcomed with open arms! [ March 2-4, 2012 ] (See location on map below)

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

november• Vino at the Casino Nov 5, Harris 906-233-2690• Christmas Tree GalleriaNovember 12-20, Caspian 906-265-2617

• Paradise Christmas BazaarNovember 26, Paradise 906-492-3434

• Les Cheneaux Old Fashioned ChristmasNov 27-Dec 7, Les Cheneaux 906-484-3935

december• Jack Frost Festival of Lights ParadeDecember 2, Ironwood 906-932-1122

• Mackinac Island Christmas BazaarDec 3-5, Mackinac Island 800-454-5227

• Christmas in CalumetDecember 4-26, Calumet 906-337-6246

• New Year’s Eve Ball DropDecember 31, Marquette 906-228-9475

january• 6th Annual Valley Spur Ski BashJanuary 7, Munising 906-387-5710

• 13th Annual Tahquamenon CountrySled Dog Race Jan 7, Newberry 800-831-7292

• SISU Ski FestJanuary 13-14, Ironwood 715-254-4104

• Great Lakes Antique Snowmobile Series– Cheboygan Rusty StudJanuary 14, Cheboygan 231-625-2567

• Cedarville BlizzardJanuary 27-29, Cedarville 888-364-7526

february• UP Snow Softball TournamentFebruary 11-12, Saint Ignace 800-338-6660

• Les Cheneaux SnowfestFebruary 16-19, Cedarville 906-484-3935

• UP 200 Dog Sled RaceFebruary 16-20, Marquette 906-228-3072

• 20th Annual Top ofthe Lake Snowmobile Show & RideFebruary 17-18, Naubinway 906-477-6298

• 2012 World Ice & Snow Sailing ChampionshipsFebruary 20-26, Saint Ignace 800-338-6660

march• CopperDog 150 Mar 2-4, Calumet 906-337-6246• UP Ice Chip Golf ScrambleMarch 3, Saint Ignace 800-338-6660

• Great Lakes Art ShowcaseMarch 12-31, Houghton 906-487-2067


upper peninsula cities

calendar of events

Calumet

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

Upper PeninsulaTravel & Recreation AssociationIron Mountain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-562-7134

directory & map

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

Fireside Dinner Theatre Christmas Show, FortAtkinson – Named one of the country’s finest attractions bythe National Bus Association, the Fireside’s Christmas showresumes its long history of beautiful singing, breath-takingdancing, gorgeous costumes, rib-tickling fun, and a deeplyspiritual commitment to the real meaning of the holiday.It is simply one of the best Christmas revues your group willever see. Seven shows weekly with dinner theatre packages.[ October 27 – December 22, 2011 (annual) ]

A Heritage Hill Christmas, Green Bay – Experience themagic of Heritage Hill for the holidays. This living historymuseum is transformed into a holiday wonderland. Groups areinvited to explore historic buildings in four distinct areas of thepark representing various periods of Northeastern Wisconsin’srich heritage and to interact with interpreters who bring theirbygone era to life. Celebrate the season in a breathtakingsetting by trying historic dancing, toy making, and holidaybaking on the farm. Relive ‘Christmas Past’ as you visit with St.Nick. Enjoy a horse drawn wagon ride as music of the seasonfills the park and warms the hearts of guests of all ages.[ December 3,10, 27, 2011 ]

Yuletide at the Portage, Portage – Rounding off threeweekends of seasonal festivities in Portage is The DowntownHistoric Living Windows. This event highlights the unique

history of Portage through costumes and sets, live actorsand entertainers who fill the windows with yuletide magic.A unique and fun outing for your group.[ December 9, 2011 ]

Carp Fest, Prairie du Chien – Bring your group to thisweeklong festival! Help build carp snow sculptures and a giantarts-and-crafts carp, take a whack at a carp piñata, go on ahot-air balloon ride and ski or hike by torchlight in LaRivierePark. The festival culminates with a laser and pyrotechnicsshow and the Droppin’ of the Carp, a large, frozen MississippiRiver rough fish, on New Year’s Eve![ December 26 – January 1, 2012 ]

Medieval Feast & Wassailing of the Apple Trees,Stockholm – Your group’s presence is requested at the annualMedieval Feast & Wassailing of the Apple Trees at MaidenRock Winery & Cidery. Join your fellow revelers to enjoy theunique sights, sounds and smells of an authentic five-coursedinner and special wassail beverages prepared by ourheralded feast chef, cider and wine stewards. Enjoy music,live entertainment, dancing and wassailing. This old Englishtradition of Wassailing through the orchard, to partake of thefruits of our harvest around a crackling bonfire is known asa way of passing on good wishes among family and friends.[ December 3, 2011 (annual) ]

explore more winter festivals in wisconsin…

wisconsin cities

calendar of events

november• Evansville Olde Fashioned Christmas CelebrationNovember 18-19, Evansville 608-882-5131

• Old Rittenhouse Inn Wassail Dinner ConcertsNov 26-Dec 18, Bayfield 800-779-2129

december• Happy Holly Days WeekendDecember 2-5, Whitewater 262-473-4005

• Main Street MemoriesDecember 3, Sheboygan Falls 920-467-6206

• Very Merry Holiday FairDecember 9-10, Baraboo 608-356-9048

• Kickapoo Exchange 3rd Annual Not Madein China Holiday FaireDecember 17, Gays Mills 608-735-4008

• Kenosha Public Museum Frost FestDecember 27-29, Kenosha 262-653-4140

january• Cool Fool Kite FestivalJanuary 1, Milwaukee 414-277-9121

• Torchlight Ski January 7, Ontario 608-337-4775• Bald Eagle Watching DaysJanuary 13-14, Prairie du Sac 800-683-2453

• Great Chefs at the LakeJanuary 20-22, Fontana 888-629-9594

• Winter Rec-FestJanuary 23-28, La Crosse 608-789-7533

• Chocolate FantasyJanuary 29, Fond du Lac 920-921-3922

february• Wine WonderlandFebruary 2, Janesville 608-755-4123

• Winter Carnival at Christmas Mountain VillageFebruary 4, Wisconsin Dells 608-254-3944

• Wine Winter & Cherry FestFebruary 4, Fish Creek 866-946-3263

• Sweet Sensations Feb 12, Oshkosh 920-651-0796• Freezin’ in February Antique ShowFebruary 25-26, Tomah 608-385-3598

march• Klondike DaysMarch 3-4, Eagle River 800-359-6315

• Arti Gras March 10-11, Green Bay 920-494-3401• St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Irish FestMarch 17, New London 920-982-3891

• Maple Syrup SaturdayMarch 24, Appleton 920-731-6041

• 25th Annual Tomah Antique Toy Farm Show– Old & New March 31, Tomah 608-372-6907


Travel Wisconsin

16th Annual Winterfest & United States NationalsSnow Sculpting Competition, Lake Geneva

Your group won’t want to miss this! Come join the fun along the frozen shores of Geneva Lake and experience the United StatesSnow Sculpting Competition! Snow artists from around the country travel to Lake Geneva, the popular southeastern Wisconsingetaway, to sculpt works of art out of blocks of snow. Come and witness the magic these artists create while participating inthe atmosphere of the competition! Your group will enjoy the beauty of art and the excitement of sport, at this one of a kindevent! Live music and magic, food and refreshments, helicopter rides, tethered hot air balloon rides, horse-drawn carriage andsleigh rides, and the magnificent snow sculptures unfold before your eyes. Call ahead for current schedule of events.

In the evening, your group can take in the dinner show at the “Dancing Horses Theatre”, held right outside Lake Geneva inDelavin, WI. This dazzling spectacle features an array of horse breeds that perform alongside their trainers in this fantastic cav-alcade of equestrian artistry. Visually stunning, and performed in a state-of-the-art, yet intimate, 300-seat theatre, this live showis truly a must-see for any horse lover – reservations required. [ February 4, 2012 ] (See location on map, page 48)


LegendaryTravel WisconsinRead ITINERARIES Midwest Online.Ads hotlinked to websites.www.itinerariesmidwest.com

day oneArrive in Mishicot, WI and check into thebeautiful Fox Hills Resort, Wisconsin’spremier 4 seasons resort!10 – 11:30 amTake the short drive over to Two Rivers, WI orthe tour of Hamilton Wood Type and PrintingMuseum. This is the only museum dedicatedto the preservation, study, production andprinting of wood type and is operated by

volunteers of the Two Rivers HistoricalSociety. At 40,000 square feet, it’s no doubtone of the largest fully functional workshopsin the world. Hosting thousands of visitorsevery year.11:30 – 12:30 pmHave lunch at the Water’s Edge Restaurant,located on Lake Michigan in downtown TwoRivers. The food is delicious! Dessert iscoming up!

12:30 – 1:15 pmYour group will be delighted to know theyare in the Home of the Ice Cream Sundae!Visit the Historic Washington House fordessert - this warm 1850s inn featuresBerners’ Ice Cream parlor commemorating

Continued on Page 48h

The Treats of Eastern WisconsinThis itinerary can be customized for any time of the year.

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Fox Hills Resort Two Rivers, WI

http://www.foxhillsresort.com/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Geneva

the invention of the ice cream sundae.1:15 – 4:30 pmBoard the coach to Kewaunee for a tour of Parallel44 Vineyard and Winery and learn how theytake grapes and turn them into wine! Their tour isone of the most unique winery tours in Wisconsin -including a walk in the vineyard in addition to theproduction facility. Enjoy “A Taste of the Tundra”!4:30 – 6:30 pmReturn to Fox Hills for a lovely dinner in theWillowview Restaurant. Enjoy views of the golfcourse and the surrounding Manitowoc County areaas you dine.

The evening is yours to enjoy the indoorswimming pool, exercise room or perhaps arelaxing massage in their onsite spa.

day two8 – 9:00 amJoin the group for breakfast downstairs.9 – 10:30 amTravel to Manitowoc for a tour of the beautifullyrestored Capitol Civic Center. It features a largeornate auditorium, plus an equally decorativelobby. The theatre, restored in 1987, now servesas a community performing arts center home tothe annual Marquee Series and several residentcompanies.10:30 – 12:30 pmHead to Kiel, WI where Henning’s WisconsinCheese welcomes your group. They are a fourthgeneration family owned cheese factory featuringan on-site Cheese Store and Museum. Henning’soffers a wide variety of cheese, including many

that have won national and world awards. Samplecheese and wine and also view the exhibits ofhistoric cheese-making implements in addition towatching the actual cheese-making process unfoldin the factory itself.12:30 – 2:00 pmArrive in Plymouth, WI for lunch at 52 Stafford.This historic inn provides very uptown service for asmall town. Their Irish cooking is like Irish song,simple and tasty on the tongue, while filling andwholesome for the body and spirit. They hope yourgroup will find the food flavorful, the services warmand generous and the tariff moderate.2 – 4:00 pmSpend some time this afternoon touring the WallDogs. Plymouth history has been hand-paintedon exterior walls throughout downtown. Follow itup with a tour of the Plymouth Historical Society,displaying a variety of exhibits. Several largecollections including exhibits featuring the firedepartment, a blacksmith shop, turn of the centuryparlor, World War II and Native American artifacts.4 – 6:30 pmDirect the coach towards Lake Michigan andSheboygan, WI. Enjoy happy hour and a deliciousGerman dinner at Al and Al’s Steinhaus and TheTavern, serving the area for over 45 years!

Return to Fox Hills for a restful night, astomorrow is another day in Manitowoc County.

For more information or to customize this sampleitinerary for your group, please contact yourtour operator or Diane Thon at Fox Hills Resort1-800-950-7615 or www.foxhillsresort.com.

Continued from Page 47: The Treats…directory & map

The attractions and areas listed in this itinerary were the highlightsof the FAM tour taken during Itineraries Midwest’s 2011 Fall Show held

at the beautiful Fox Hills Resort in Mishicot, WI.

We would like to say a special thank you to Fox Hills and all of our sponsorsfor their incredible hospitality: The Plymouth Chamber of Commerce,

The Sheboygan County Chamber, Manitowoc Area Visitorand Convention Bureau and all of their partners who made this FAM

a wonderful experience for all the attendees!

A SpecialTHANK YOU TO ALL!

��

Festival du Voyageur, WinnipegBring your group to Western Canada’s largest winter festival! In honor of the Voyageur spirit, the Festival du Voyageur’semphasis is on the beauty of winter and is the perfect venue to embrace the Manitoban winter while enjoying uniqueentertainment. Featuring more than 200 shows in 10 days, they are thrilled to present diverse programming offering numerousactivities that will please the whole group. Enjoy dancing and jigging to lively music, sleigh rides, snow shoeing, historic FortGibraltar and its historical characters, delicious French-Canadian food, and magnificent snow sculptures, there is trulysomething for everyone. Embrace your inner voyageur and experience the joie de vivre by visiting Voyageur Park and the TradingPosts around the province. Festival du Voyageur has been dubbed “The World’s Largest Kitchen Party” not to be missed!

Note: The group rate includes a day pass and access to Voyageur Park. A guaranteed reserved seat in the Poste Pambian tentin Voyageur Park for a unique show available only for group bookings. Every time slot showcases two bands.

[ February 17-26, 2012 ] (See location on map, page 50)

explore more winter festivals in central canada…

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

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

central canada cities

calendar of events

Keep Exploring

Bon Soo Winter Carnival, Sault Ste. MarieBring your group to share the excitement of this entirecommunity in celebrating winter for 10 days at the beginningof February during Northern Ontario’s largest winter carnival –BON SOO!! Proud to have been named one of the “Top 100”festivals each year for the past seven years. Enjoy more than75 events for everyone from pre-schoolers to seniors; indoorevents, outdoor events, concerts for all ages, breakfasts,contests and tournaments…there truly is so much to do inBon Soo! Everyone’s waiting for the opening of our TimHortons Winter Playground. The playground is Mr. Bon Soo’sdream, with hay wagon rides, snow shoeing, snow canoeing,dog sled rides, snow sculptures, our famous bum slides…andso much more! Come SNOWcialize with us – the greatestSNOW on Earth![ February 3 – 12, 2012 ]

Christmas Nativity with Live Animalsat Gammondale Farm, Thunder BayA favorite at Christmas time, the Nativity uses real animalsyour group can reenact this historic scene in the authenticsurroundings of our farm...folks love to dress up in ourcostumes and take part in the play. This function is suitable forgroups and schools and is offered throughout December.

In addition to the Nativity, your group can enjoy ourWagon Wheel Cabin. Share stories while enjoying the warmthof our spacious cabin. Whether your preference is hotchocolate and cookies or a complete meal, we can facilitateit for you. Mix indoor and outdoor events: visit the barn tosee the animals, games in the cabin, music and dancing,there are lots of options. Don’t forget the old-fashioned SleighRide - The big black Percheron draft horses are eager topull the sleigh for you! Horse drawn sleigh rides are a nicecompliment to the evening at Gammondale Farm. We havenumerous activities for you to choose from and can arrangethem to suit your group’s needs. [ December 2011 ]

november• Mini Trade Show for WomenNovember 5, St. Andrews 866-738-2264

• Thunder Bay Art GalleryChristmas House Tour 2011November 12-13, Thunder Bay 800-667-8386

• Island of LightsNovember 25-January 7,Portage la Prairie 204-239-8334

december• Santa’s Parade of LightsDecember 2, Portage la Prairie 204-857-7778

• Touch of Christmas – The Living NativityDecember 2-4, Steinbach 866-280-8741

• Canad Inns – Winter WonderlandDecember 2-January 7,Winnipeg 204-888-6990

• Christmas at the FortDecember 3, Dauphin 204-638-6630

january• The Last Tree of Rapa NuiJanuary 13-15, Winnipeg 204-947-0394

• Manitoba Ag DaysJanuary 17-19, Brandon 204-571-6566

february• Bon Soo Winter CarnivalFebruary 3-12, Sault Ste. Marie 866-899-1607

• Festival du VoyageurFebruary 17-26, Winnipeg 204-237-7692

• 2012 Central Canada Outdoor ShowFebruary 24-26, Thunder Bay 807-624-2621

• Shadows of the Mind Film FestivalFebruary 29-March 4,Sault Ste. Marie 705-759-3299

march• American Chronicles:The Art of Norman RockwellMarch 1-May 6, Winnipeg 204-786-6641

• Bust the Winter Blues FestivalMarch 2-4, Flin Flon 204-681-7542

• Royal Manitoba Winter FairMarch 26-31, Brandon 204-726-3590

(Contact area CVBs for complete calendars)Festival du Voyageur - Winnipeg

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

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

directory & map

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World-class Gaming Entertainment at its Best in WinnipegThis itinerary can be customized for any time of the year.

day one1 – 2:00 pmTake a step-on guided tour to see Winnipeg’s famouslandmarks, discover celebrated Winnipeggers, andlearn the origin of Winnipeg’s name and why it wasnicknamed the “Chicago of the North.”2 – 5:00 pmSee if lady luck is by your side at Winnipeg’s casinos.Visit the tropical jungles of Club Regent offeringgames of chance, great dining experiences, world-class entertainment and a selection of group touractivities. Calypso, an animated macaw, provides thewelcome as you enter Club Regent Casino. Gamingrooms are reached via a walk-through saltwater

aquarium where you can watch divers feed fish in anunderwater coral reef. Tropical paradise continues withJaguars Dance Club, games of chance and the greatbuffet of The Royal Palms restaurant. Scavenger huntsand famous top name acts complement a full rangeof gaming for lots of entertainment and enjoyment.5 – 6:00 pmCheck into your room in the Club Regent Casino Hoteland freshen up before heading out for the evening.6 – 9:00 pmBecome part of the musical entourage at CelebrationsDinner Theatre where the actors remain in characterwhile they serve the meal. Sing along, tap your feetto the music and burst into laughter during comedicproductions that feature live performances of familiarsongs from the past and present, while enjoying afour-course dinner.

day two9 – 10:00 amGet your day started with a great breakfast.10 – 1:00 pmToday the train stops at McPhillips Station Casino,set in the opulent splendor of the railroad hay days ofthe 1800s. Stroll through the historic railway villageand enjoy the view from the grand staircase leadingto more games of chance. Michele’s Restaurant

combines the elegance of the past with today’smouth-watering food offerings. The casino also offersscavenger hunts, group activities and shows with topname acts.1 – 4:00 pmThen for a change of pace, visit Assiniboia Downs forthoroughbred horseracing entertainment as you makea bet and cheer on your favorite horse to win, place orshow. Excitement is the order of the day as you watchthe action from the Clubhouse dining room and laterjoin the Winner’s Circle to present the trophy for therace named in honor of your tour group.

During the first two weeks of August you are invited totake in the sights and sounds of Folklorama, the largestand longest running multicultural event of its kind inthe world. More than 44 pavilions representing variouscultures that make up Manitoba’s mosaic, open theirdoors each evening to showcase ethno-culturalentertainment, food and drink along with fascinatingdisplays depicting lifestyles prior to emigration.

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

Winnipeg

Festival du Voyageur

L ocated at the historic Forks of Winnipeg and set for completion in 2012, the CanadianMuseum for Human Rights is a bold new project whose mission statement is to explore the

history of human rights from around the world with special interest in Canada. The ContentAdvisory Board for the CMHR has been traveling around the country collecting stories andperspectives from locals and using their feedback to incorporate into the exhibits. Though it isstill under construction, the museum offers a number of activities for visitors, including grouptours of the construction site and a glimpse into the building’s unique architecture. The designof the museum was inspired by the natural scenery and open spaces of Canada such as trees, ice,and northern lights as well as the culture of the First Nation people of Canada. A journey throughthe museum begins with a descent into the earth where visitors will explore the “roots” of theCMHR. The tour then leads through the Great Hall and a series of vast spaces and ramps untilculminating at the Tower of Hope—a tall structure protruding from the top of the museum,providing visitors with an amazing view of downtown Winnipeg.

An inspiring national landmark in the making since March of 2008, the museum will be a wel-coming place for all ages, genders, abilities, cultures, orientations and beliefs while promotingrespect, reflection and dialogue.

For general information and inquiries email [email protected] or call 204-289-2000,1-877-877-6037 (outside of Winnipeg region).

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The Canadian MuseumFOR HUMAN RIGHTS

OPENS 2012

www.tourismwinnipeg.com

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Itineraries Midwest fall 2011

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