2024 Circle Wisconsin Tour Planner

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ON THE WATER

Boat tours, ferry crossings and maritime museums enhance itineraries

The Ideal Place For Group Tours

Attraction spotlights, sample itineraries and extensive listings help planners craft the perfect Upper Midwest group adventure

PROFILES OF EVERY CIRCLE WISCONSIN MEMBER

Research our vast network of DMOs, hotels, restaurants and attractions

ADVENTURES IN AGRITOURISM

Tap into Wisconsin’s rural roots and its cornucopia of good food



Is Always Growing With 78 acres of orchards and farm growing apples, peaches and pears, Apple Holler serves as the perfect venue for your event. Gather your group for guaranteed good times and memories to last a lifetime. Your Group’s Ag-venture May Include: Pick your own apples and peaches Orchard and farm tours Tractor drawn train rides Golden goat bridge; feed the mini goats

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Farm to table lunch Butterfly garden pollination exhibit Craft beer and hard cider tasting Wedding and family reunion venue

Farm to Table Dining Available The Red Barn Restaurant serves delicious down-home cooking, touched by the magic of apples. Farm Shop Finish your day with a visit to our Farm Shop, Bakery & Gift Shop. Bring home our delicious homemade bakery, Wisconsin wines, hi-top apple pies, apple dumplings, honey-sweetened apple butter, jams, jellies, gifts and other delicious specialties. Apple Holler’s Ag-venture is for the Kid in All of Us To book your group’s Ag-venture today, call 262-884-7100.


contents FEATURES

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Adventures in Agritourism

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9 Top Wintertime Picks

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10 Top Outings On the Water

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Go With the Pros

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That’s Entertainment!

The House on the Rock, Spring Green

Tap into Wisconsin’s rural roots and its cornucopia of good foods Group tour leaders appreciate that Wisconsin is a year-round destination Boat tours, ferry crossings and maritime museums enhance itineraries Premier tour/bus operators look forward to working with you Wisconsin stages present crowd-pleasing options

Art Preserve, Sheboygan

Northwoods & Lake Superior

SAMPLE ITINERARIES

Eastern Shores South Central Crossroads Northwoods & Lake Superior Mississippi River Valley & Beyond Wisconsin Heartland

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Wisconsin Heartland Eastern Shores

All itineraries are samples and can be customized to fit your group’s needs

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MEMBER LISTINGS BY REGION

Eastern Shores South Central Crossroads Northwoods & Lake Superior Mississippi River Valley & Beyond Wisconsin Heartland State-Wide

Mississippi River Valley & Beyond

South Central Crossroads

Mississippi Valley scenery near La Crosse

On The Cover: North Point Lighthouse, Milwaukee

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CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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Experience the Best of Wisconsin Today P

repare to be amazed! Our latest planner for this year is bursting with an incredible array of destinations and attractions that will make your next tour to Wisconsin an unforgettable experience. Picture yourself exploring stunning sights, indulging in delicious local cuisine and immersing yourself in vibrant cultural festivals. Embrace the warm welcome from friendly locals and create unforgettable memories in Wisconsin. From tried-and-true favorites to brand new gems, we have highlighted the very best places to visit, ensuring that every traveler gets a taste of the fun and excitement that Wisconsin has to offer. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a history buff, there’s something for everyone! Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of our outdoor activities. Explore pristine landscapes on land or water for adventures that will leave you in awe. The possibilities are endless! As you delve deeper into our communities, prepare to be captivated by the rich history, fascinating attractions and vibrant culture that awaits you at every turn. Every step you take will unveil another story waiting to be discovered. And let’s not forget about the museums! Wisconsin boasts a multitude of museums that not only showcase the wonders of our state but also embody the spirit of America itself. Get ready to be inspired as you explore these treasure troves of knowledge and creativity. We are beyond excited for you to embark on this incredible journey through Wisconsin’s wonders. Our planner is designed to make your trip seamless and enjoyable, guiding you every step of the way. This spring, get ready to meet and connect with over 100 top-notch destinations, attractions, theaters and more from not only Wisconsin but also the surrounding Midwestern states (Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota and the Dakotas). Mark your calendars for April 14-16 and join us at the Radisson Conference Center in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin for the annual Circle Wisconsin Midwest Marketplace, an event that promises to be a game-changer for anyone seeking unforgettable group travel experiences. You’ll discover new destinations off the beaten path, uncover captivating attractions and connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for creating unforgettable group experiences. For further details and registration information, visit our official website, www. midwestmarketplace.org, or feel free to reach out directly. We can’t wait to welcome you! So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next group tour to Wisconsin now and get ready for an adventure like no other!

Wendy Dobrzynski

Executive Director wendy@circlewisconsin.com

Cory Mace

Learn more about Wisconsin’s group travel opportunities!

Dells Boat Tour, Wisconsin Dells

Hank Aaron statue at Carson Park, Eau Claire

Oshkosh Public Museum

Badger Coaches, Inc., VP of Sales & Marketing corym@badgerbus.com

Circle Wisconsin Is a Proud Member and Partner of:

P.O. Box 20750 • Milwaukee, WI 53220 • Phone (414) 545-1100 • (800) 223-0652 www.circlewisconsin.com 6

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Hotels by Region Contact information on Circle Wisconsin lodging members can be found in this planner’s regional listing sections and also on www.circlewisconsin.com

Candlewood Suites Milwaukee Airport Oak Creek

Oneida Hotel & Conference Center Green Bay Green Bay Tundra Lodge Resort & Conference Center Green Bay

Door County’s Rowleys Bay Resort & Restaurant Ellison Bay

Legendary Waters Resort & Casino Red Cliff

Landmark Resort Egg Harbor

Comfort Suites Milwaukee Airport Oak Creek Fairfield Inn & Suites Milwaukee Airport Oak Creek Holiday Inn Express & Suites Milwaukee Airport Milwaukee

Northwoods and Lake Superior

Wisconsin Heartland Eastern Shores

Mississippi River Valley and Beyond Harbor Shores on Lake Geneva Lake Geneva

AmericInn Lodge & Suites Wisconsin Dells Chula Vista Resort Wisconsin Dells

Sun Prairie

South Central Crossroads

Fairfield Inn & Suites Sheboygan Sheboygan

Kalahari Resorts Wisconsin Dells

Baymont Inn & Suites Madison West Madison Chalet Landhaus New Glarus Comfort Suites Madison West Madison

Cascade Development Sun Prairie Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Fort Atkinson Fort Atkinson Holiday Inn Express & Suites Madison North Central Group Madison

Comfort Inn Fond du Lac Fond du Lac Comfort Suites Appleton Appleton Holiday Inn Appleton Appleton

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oshkosh Oshkosh Holiday Inn Express & Suites Fond du Lac Radisson Fond du Lac Fond du Lac


Cranberry harvest season in Central Wisconsin

Adventures in Agritourism Tap into Wisconsin’s rural roots and its cornucopia of good foods

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isconsin and cheese go together. In fact, America’s Dairyland leads the nation in cheese production, turning out more than 600 varieties. What better trip souvenir than a block of cheddar or bag of curds. While we often associate Wisconsin with cheesy goodness, many are surprised to learn that cranberries are big business, too. Did you know that more than half the world’s supply of cranberries is grown on 250 Wisconsin family farms? For tour groups exploring Wisconsin, some of the best experiences involve getting out into the countryside and meeting the growers and producers responsible for some of our favorite foods. Everyone likes to eat, but few of us know where our food comes from and how it ends up in the grocery store and on the dinner table. Connecting travelers with farm life plays a major role in the state’s tourism scene. The term for this wildly popular phenomenon is agritourism. Visiting traditional farms, cranberry marshes, cheese factories and farmers’ markets give vacationers a refreshing peek into rural life—and many opportunities for tasting. The National Historic Cheesemaking Center in Monroe, a shrine to the cheese and dairy industries, spotlights the evolution of crafting Wisconsin’s most famous product. Along with exhibits, the video “How to Make the Greatest Cheese in the World” tells you all you need to know about curds and whey. Group tours led by docents, including retired cheesemakers, are offered year-round. Also in Monroe is Alp & Dell Cheese, a retail store connected to the Emmi Roth USA cheese plant. This group-tour favorite offers a large selection of cheeses from traditional cheddar and Swiss to specialty cheese made with sheep and goat’s milk. You can enjoy free samples and watch cheese being made from the viewing hall. On weekday mornings at Henning’s Wisconsin Cheese in Kiel, groups can see cheesemakers work their magic over massive stainless steel vats. A short video in the little museum covers the whole process, from the time milk is received from 20 small dairy farms to the finished product. Founded by Otto Henning in 1914, Henning’s is a fourth-generation family enterprise that daily produces between 12,000 and 20,000 pounds of cheese—cheddar, colby, mozzarella, farmers and gouda. Specialty cheddars in the store range from blueberry cobbler and pumpkin spice to apple, bacon, chipotle and tequila lime. A wedge of cheddar in the shape of a cow or Wisconsin map makes the perfect gift. In the Lake Winnebago Region near Fond du Lac, LaClare Family Creamery in Malone invites guests to sample goat milk cheeses and observe cheesemakers through viewing windows. Guests also enjoy watching the goats on the 26-foot-tall climbing silo and posing with the friendly four-legged critters. Guided tours can be arranged. The cafe menu includes salads and sandwiches featuring LaClare cheeses; save room for ice cream made from goat’s or cow’s milk.

www.circlewisconsin.com

Alp & Dell Cheese, Monroe

Henning's Wisconsin Cheese, Kiel

LaClare Creamery, Malone CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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Photo courtesy of Door County Visitor Bureau

Apple Holler, a group favorite in Sturtevant

Randy Mink Photo

Door County cherries

Lautenbach's Orchard Country, Door County

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CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

Central Wisconsin is cranberry country. Harvest time for the state’s No. 1 fruit crop, from mid-September through October, is the perfect time to tour a cranberry marsh in the Wisconsin Rapids and Tomah areas. Flaming fall foliage contrasts with the vast crimson lakes where workers shovel the floating berries onto an elevator belt that conveys them to waiting trucks. In downtown Warrens, groups can learn about the tart red berries at Discover Cranberries, a museum, cafe and gift shop housed in a historic cranberry warehouse building. The shop sells everything from cranberry relish to cranberry wine. Its oldfashioned ice cream parlor dishes up five flavors of cranberry ice cream. Central Wisconsin, to the surprise of many, also produces a lot of ginseng root. In fact, Marathon County, with more than 1,000 ginseng farms, has been declared the Ginseng Capital of the World. Visit Wausau can help arrange a tour to one of the larger operations. By Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin, the Bayfield area abounds with berry farms and fruit orchards. Summer travelers flock to the Fruit Loop for strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries. You’ll also find sweet and tart cherries. The area’s 10 apple orchards are popular fall destinations. Apple Holler, a year-round tourist favorite in Sturtevant, invites groups to participate in an “Ag-venture.” The 78-acre family farm offers pick-your-own apples, peaches and pears, plus orchard and farm tours, hayrides and sleigh rides. The farm-to-table Red Barn Restaurant serves delicious downhome cooking. Treats in the farm store and bakery include apple butter, apple cider, apple turnovers and apple pies. You can feed the goats at the Golden Goat Bridge. More than a dozen apple orchards make the Eau Claire area a prime harvest-time destination. Ferguson’s Orchards, a center of agri-entertainment, offers apple and pumpkin picking, corn mazes, haunted houses and wagon rides. Eau Claire also is the largest grower and producer of horseradish. Set among the bluffs of the Mississippi River in Prairie du Chien, Shihata’s Orchard features u-pick apples and can arrange a wagon ride and tour of the packing house. A half hour to the northeast, on a hill known as Orchard Ridge, five orchards flank Highway 171 in the community of Gays Mills, which proclaims to be the Apple Capital of Wisconsin. Door County also abounds with apple orchards but is most famous for its cherries. Farm markets at large orchards like Lautenbach’s (in Fish Creek) and Seaquist (Sister Bay) sell not only freshly picked cherries but cherry products ranging from juices and jams to donuts, muffins and strudel. Most Door County orchards offer pick-your-own cherries in July and August. During blossom-viewing season in mid-to-late May, the highways and byways are lined with cherry trees cloaked in pink and white flowers. Apple blossoms’ peak time arrives about a week later. For seasonal bounty, tour groups have a field day at farmers’ markets across the state. The Dane County Farmers’ Market is www.circlewisconsin.com


a beloved Madison tradition. On Wednesdays and Saturdays from April to November, vendors throng Capitol Square, with about 130 showing up every Saturday. All of the items for sale are grown, raised and produced in Wisconsin by the person behind the stand. The Stevens Point Farmers Market, a community staple since 1853, is the oldest continuously operating such market in the state. It is held daily (Saturday’s the big day) from May to October on Mathias Mitchell Public Square, a lively gathering spot surrounded by 19th century brick buildings. Brand new on the agritourism scene, the Food + Farm Exploration Center in nearby Plover spotlights the intersection of farming and food, the people who make it happen and the processes that take it from field to fork. Dozens of immersive, multi-sensory activities and exhibits provide a new perspective on agriculture and food production. In the Farm Tech Shed, sit in the driver’s seat of mammoth machines that keep the industry moving. The learning space extends beyond the center’s walls to encompass four demonstration fields, each with its own crop rotation and center pivot irrigator. Welcoming visitors to the attraction is the world’s largest potato masher, a 39-foot-tall sculpture that invites selfies. Viticulture is also part of Wisconsin’s agricultural scene, and many wineries offer group tours. Door Peninsula Winery, the state’s largest winery, dispenses free samples of many of its 70 wine varieties. Most popular are the Blackberry Merlot and Cherry Mimosa, an “applewine” combing cherry wine and sparkling apple cider. The popular winery is one of eight on the Door County Wine Trail between Lake Michigan and Green Bay. In Greater Green Bay, groups can savor the fruit of the vine at places like Von Stiehl Winery in Algoma and Parallel 44 Vineyard & Winery in Kewaunee. In Baraboo, 20 minutes from Wisconsin Dells, wine fans flock to Baraboo Bluff, Balanced Rock and Broken Bottle wineries. Bailey’s Run Vineyard, nestled in the rolling hills of New Glarus, commands one of the most scenic views of any winery in Wisconsin. Agricultural fairs are staged across Wisconsin every summer. The ultimate ag party is the Wisconsin State Fair, an 11-day August extravaganza in West Allis. Fair goers attend pig races, see milking demonstrations and feast on deep-fried cheese curds and roasted sweet corn dripping with butter. The fair’s iconic cream-filled pastry, officially known as the Original Cream Puff, has been a staple since 1925, when Wisconsin’s farmers and bakers came up with a way to showcase the wheat and dairy industries. No discussion of agritourism is complete without mentioning Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center. At this massive red barn just off Interstate 43 near Manitowoc, visitors can witness the birth of a calf and explore interactive exhibits that explain the origins of our food. The on-site Wisconsin Cafe dishes up farmto-table fare using locally sourced ingredients from America’s Dairyland—the state’s license plate tagline since 1939. www.circlewisconsin.com

Original Cream Puff, a Wisconsin State Fair staple

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9 Top Wintertime Picks

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Group tour leaders appreciate that Wisconsin is a year-round destination

ather than hibernate in winter, Wisconsin embraces the season. Whether you’re looking for some indoor coziness or rosycheeks fun in the frosty air, the choices are plentiful during the Christmas holidays and beyond. Here are a few ideas to rev up your engines and warm your hearts when the snowflakes fall.

Photo courtesy of Prairie du Chien Chamber

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Eagle watching is a popular wintertime activity in Prairie du Chien and other towns in Wisconsin's Mississippi River Valley.

www.circlewisconsin.com

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Rotary Lights, La Crosse

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ROTARY LIGHTS. Gearing up for its 30th year in 2024, Rotary Lights at La Crosse’s Riverside Park offers an opening-night parade, musical entertainment, ice skating, a towering Christmas tree and free s’mores at the fire pits. There’s a live Nativity production, complete with animals, on select nights. Guests can walk, drive, or take a carriage or hayride through the fantasyland of more than 3 million lights. Santa and his reindeer are in attendance through December 23. Enjoyed by nearly 130,000 visitors every year, the free nightly extravaganza (food and cash donations accepted) runs from Thanksgiving weekend through New Year’s Eve.

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MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT. For the 13th year in 2024, the nightly display of electric artistry will transform the winding roads of Sheboygan’s Evergreen Park into a winter wonderland. Choreographed to music, twinkling outlines in the light-festooned woodlands may range from a gingerbread house to a 3-D mega star and jolly hippopotamus. On Friday and Saturday nights at the Quarryview Center across from the park, visitors can board the trolley for their tour and will find concessions, entertainment and Santa Claus. The much-anticipated holiday spectacle (from the Friday after Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve) is staged by the Rotary Clubs of Sheboygan County. Donations of cash and pantry items are welcome.

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WINTERFEST. Lake Geneva’s annual Winterfest features the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship. During the first week in February along the shore of Geneva Lake, more than a dozen state-champion teams create largerthan-life sculptures out of massive 10-foot-tall blocks of snow. Steps away from the lakefront, the downtown Ice Sculpture Walk dazzles fest-goers with Instagram-worthy works of art. Winterfest, a free event, also includes live music and bonfires on the beach with hot chocolate and s’mores for purchase. Geneva National Resort in Lake Geneva presents Winter Realms, a frozen fantasyland of caverns, crawl spaces, slides, tunnels, towers, thrones and snow sculptures. Illuminated at night with LED lights, the wintertime attraction, formerly called Ice Castles, includes a Polar Pub ice bar, ice slides, a tubing hill and horsedrawn wagon rides.

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THE FIRESIDE DINNER THEATRE. One of the Midwest’s premier dinner theaters, this group-friendly venue in Fort Atkinson will present Miracle on 34th Street from October 31 to December 22, 2024. Based on the classic movie, the big brassy Broadway musical tells the warm and funny story of Kris Kringle, a sweet and jolly old man who has to prove in court that he is the real Santa Claus. There are matinee and evening performances. Groups can choose from a three-course meal, four-course meal or buffet in the 1,000-seat restaurant. www.circlewisconsin.com


U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship, Lake Geneva

Paine Art Center's Nutcracker in the Castle

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EAGLE WATCHING. The Mississippi River Valley around Prairie du Chien is an ideal wintering habitat for the bald eagle. From early morning until about 3 p.m., the birds can be seen be seen soaring, perching in riverside trees and sitting on the ice. The best places to see eagles include Gordon’s Bay boat landing and nearby Lock and Dam #9, a short drive north of Prairie du Chien. A good viewing spot in Prairie du Chien is between the Blackhawk Avenue and Washington Street bridges.

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PABST MANSION. The 1892 Milwaukee home of beer baron Frederick Pabst gets gussied up for the holidays, enhancing its Victorian splendor with glittering trees, elaborate garlands and other festive decorations. Christmas at the Pabst Mansion, an annual tradition, features selfguided tours from mid-November to early January. Special evening tours from Thursday to Saturday include live holiday music and drinks for purchase like spiced wine and hot pecan whiskey cider.

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NUTCRACKER IN THE CASTLE. Running from midNovember to early January, the annual display of scenes from The Nutcracker fairytale enchants visitors to Paine Art Center and Gardens, which occupies a historic estate in Oshkosh. Guided tours feature live musical, acting and dance performances, and a special treat awaits in the Sugar Plum Fairy’s Cupcake Cafe. The Paine mansion also glows with 70 Christmas trees.

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MITCHELL PARK DOMES. Consisting of three glass domes standing seven stories high, this horticultural blockbuster is one of Milwaukee’s favorite attractions, especially at Christmastime. From mid-November to early January, “A Holiday Snow Globe” in the Floral Dome dazzles visitors with hundreds of poinsettias grouped with decorated spruce trees. The annual Winter Train Show (January-March) features a miniature train exhibit with 600 feet of tracks. New themes each year ensure every show is different, with unique props to set the scene and over 4,000 plants to create a stunning display. Also appealing in winter is the warmth provided by the Tropical Dome and Desert Dome, showplaces for exotic vegetation.

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STADIUM TOURS. Historic Lambeau Field, home of football’s Green Bay Packers, offers year-round, behindthe-scenes tours that take guests through the players’ tunnel and onto the track that circles the turf. On the main floor of the six-story atrium are entrances to 1919 Kitchen & Tap, open year-round for lunch and dinner, and the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame. The Packers Pro Shop sells every kind of green-andgold logo gear imaginable. A completely indoor tour experience awaits wintertime visitors to the Milwaukee Brewers’ American Family Field, a stadium covered by a retractable roof. Tours reveal some of the most restricted and non-public areas, including the playing field, visitors’ clubhouse and dugout, Brewers bullpen, luxury suite level and press box. CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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10 Top Outings On the Water Boat tours, ferry crossings and maritime museums enhance Wisconsin itineraries

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lessed with a plethora of scenic rivers and lakes, Wisconsin abounds with on-the-water experiences. Bordered on the north and east by two of America’s five Great Lakes and on the west by the mighty Mississippi, the state offers countless aquatic adventures, from sightseeing cruises to nature walks. Groups can delve into Wisconsin’s maritime heritage at captivating museums and historic lighthouses. Here are 10 ways to navigate the Badger State’s great waterways and revel in their stories:

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GENEVA LAKE MAILBOAT TOUR. Lake Geneva Cruise Line’s U.S. Mailboat Tour is a 2½-hour cruise that circles southeastern Wisconsin’s beautiful, spring-fed Geneva Lake. Besides narration highlighting the history of the magnificent lakeside mansions and their lavishly landscaped grounds, the tour (daily from June 15 to September 15) features the added drama of young mail carriers hopping on and off the moving boat as they deposit letters in pier mailboxes. Passengers cheer on the “mail jumpers,” hoping they make it back onboard without falling into the water (which they sometimes do). Mailboat

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Cruising the scenic Wisconsin River in Wisconsin Dells

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Randy Mink Photo

Photo courtesy of Lake Geneva Cruise Line Lake Geneva Cruise Line's U.S. Mailboat Tour

Wisconsin Maritime Museum, Manitowoc

service has been a Geneva Lake tradition since 1916. The boat has an enclosed lower deck and an open, covered top deck. The cruise line’s two-hour “Full Lake Tour” does the circuit without the mail stops. Also available is a cruise visiting 1888 Black Pointe Estate, the only historic lakefront home open for tours (accessible only via Lake Geneva Cruise Line).

time relaxing on deck, eating and drinking, playing bingo in the main lounge and watching movies in the theater. You lose sight of land after 50 minutes and begin to see it again 50 minutes before arrival at the destination. The steamship is a National Historic Landmark, the only mobile one besides San Francisco’s cable cars.

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WISCONSIN MARITIME MUSEUM. Located on the Manitowoc River in downtown Manitowoc, this crowdpleaser is one of the largest such museums in the U.S. Focusing on the Great Lakes and Wisconsin, the museum displays antique boats, ship models, historic shipwrecks and nautical artifacts, and sheds light on Manitowoc’s shipbuilding history as well. One exhibition spotlights the USS Cobia, a restored World War II submarine permanently moored on the river. Walking through the sub, visitors see the torpedo launchers, bunk room, radio room, officers’ quarters, mess hall and engine room. Plaques along the riverfront memorial walk commemorate each of the 28 WWII submarines built for the U.S. Navy by Manitowoc Shipbuilding Company, which at one point employed 7,000 workers, including 600 women. The Sub BNB overnight program can accommodate up to 65 guests in the Cobia’s bunks. The vessel is heated and airconditioned, and a light breakfast is included.

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S.S. BADGER. Another fixture on the Manitowoc waterfront is the terminal for the S.S. Badger, a car ferry that crosses Lake Michigan twice a day, from mid-May to early October, between Manitowoc and Ludington, Michigan. The last coal-fired steamship still in operation in the U.S., the Badger carries up to 600 passengers and 160 vehicles, including trucks, tour buses, RVs and farm equipment. Named for the University of Wisconsin athletic teams, the Badger was designed to transport rail cars when it entered service in 1953. During the four-hour, 60-mile crossing, passengers spend their

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MADELINE ISLAND FERRY. Crossing Lake Superior on the 25-minute voyage between Bayfield and Madeline Island, motorcoach passengers on the ferry disembark in the town of La Pointe. A local step-on guide meets your coach for a tour of the largest and only inhabited island in the 22 Apostle Islands. Groups enjoy shopping in the boutiques and art galleries. A weaving demonstration can be scheduled at Woods Hall Craft Shop, famous for its hand-woven rugs. Stop in for a hot beverage at Mission Hill Coffee or have lunch at the harborside Beach Club. The Madeline Island Historical Museum focuses on Ojibwe culture and the island’s past as a French trading post and British settlement.

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CRUISING THE DELLS. Groups in Wisconsin Dells have a number of on-the-water options. Original Wisconsin Ducks maintains a fleet of World War II amphibious vehicles that have wheels and can float, offering one-hour rides that navigate woodland trails, the Wisconsin River and Lake Delton. Showcasing secluded canyons and unusual rock formations, the ducks careen down steep hills and make dramatic plunges into water. Wisconsin River cruises operated by Dells Boat Tours pass by majestic sandstone cliffs, gorges and outcroppings that have been sculpted by wind, water and time. On the two-hour Upper Dells Boat Tour, passengers disembark to walk through narrow passageways at Witches Gulch and watch a dog leap between towering rock pillars. The one-hour Lower Dells Boat Tour features landmark formations like Hawk’s Bill and Baby Grand Piano. The line also offers sunset dinner cruises and 50-minute Jet Boat adventures that combine awesome scenery with spin-outs, slides and power stops. www.circlewisconsin.com


Randy Mink Photo Foxy Paddler on the Fox River, downtown Green Bay

Betty Lou Cruises offers public and private charter cruises.

HORICON MARSH. Horicon Marsh Education & Visitor Center invites exploration of the nation’s largest cattail marsh. Described by the United Nations and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as globally significant because it is home to endangered species and a stop for migrating birds, the swampy oasis is a tranquil habitat for a complex ecosystem. Bird watchers have spotted at least 300 birds – egrets and owls to pelicans and bald eagles. The center, located one hour northwest of Milwaukee, offers videos and interactive exhibits in its Explorium, plus five miles of trails and boardwalk affording breathtaking views. Recreational activities include canoeing and kayaking.

goes as far north as the lighthouse at South Bay Marina, where the Fox meets Green Bay, an arm of Lake Michigan. Providing a relaxing introduction to Wisconsin's oldest and third-largest city, it will make stops for food, drinks and restroom breaks.

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ROGERS STREET FISHING VILLAGE. This Two Rivers museum complex comprises a collection of historic sheds and other buildings on the site of century-old fishing yards on the East Twin River. Visitors can view exhibits on commercial fishing, shipwrecks and the Native Americans who first fished in Lake Michigan. They can explore the inside of a fishing tug and climb up the 1886 North Pierhead Lighthouse, one of the few authentic wooden lighthouses left on the Great Lakes. Transplanted from its original location, the beacon guided ships into the harbor until 1969. The large modern building on the grounds houses the Great Lakes Coast Guard Museum, a treasure house of artifacts from the present-day Coast Guard station and U.S. Life-Saving Service station that preceded it.

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FOX RIVER CRUISES. Two-hour Fox River cruises on the cozy, 22-guest Foxy Paddler provide a peaceful way to see Green Bay. For passengers who want to help propel the motorized paddlewheeler, 12 seats are equipped with pedals. Sights along the way include bridges, pelicans and other waterfowl, mountains of coal and gravel, and paper mills (Green Bay has been called the toilet paper capital of the world). Covered by an awning striped in orange, white and gray, the pontoon boat

www.circlewisconsin.com

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SISTER BAY SCENIC BOAT TOURS. From the marina in the Door County village of Sister Bay, the 149-passenger Norra Dörr cruises Green Bay, sailing past the bluffs, caves and lighthouse of Peninsula State Park. On the 90-minute voyage, hear stories of French explorers and early Native American inhabitants. Keep an eye out for whitetail deer drinking along the shore or a bald eagle in flight. The two-hour “North Shore to Death’s Door Cruise” spotlights northern Door County, with stories about commercial fishing, shipwrecks and how Death’s Door may have gotten its name. Other tour offerings include a sunset live music cruise.

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BETTY LOU CRUISES. View the picturesque city of Madison while cruising either Lake Mendota or Monona aboard Betty Lou Cruises. Enjoy breathtaking views of Madison’s skyline, which can include the State Capitol, Monona Terrace (a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece), the Governor’s Mansion and miles of scenic natural shoreline. Choose from a variety of cruising options from lite snacks to full delicious dinners while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Wisconsin’s state capital. CHECK OUT WISCONSIN'S HISTORIC LIGHTHOUSES

Four dozen historic lighthouses along the shores of Lakes Michigan and Superior stand as testaments to Wisconsin’s rich maritime heritage. Many are still operational and welcome visitors with compelling stories and breathtaking views. Door County’s 11 lighthouses comprise the highest concentration in the state. In Milwaukee’s Lake Park, the 1888 North Point Lighthouse is a museum and invites visitors to climb the 74-foot tower. In the Village of Wind Point in Racine County, the 1880 Wind Point Lighthouse, at 108 feet, is one of the tallest and oldest lighthouses on Lake Michigan.

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Go With the Pros

Wisconsin’s premier tour/bus operators look forward to working with you

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roup tour planners will find just the professional expertise they need by partnering with the following reliable tour, motorcoach and receptive companies:

Badger Bus. A family-owned and -operated company founded in 1920, Badger Bus has the right vehicle for your group tour. Its fleet ranges from 6-passenger mini-vans all the way up to the 81-passenger double decker coach. Lamers Bus Lines. Providing trustworthy service for 80 years, this transportation company offers a wide range of bus sizes. Amenities on its deluxe motorcoaches include restrooms, extra head and leg room, and a host of other features. Lamers offers custom tour planning as well. C&M Presents. This operator offers a range of tour packages in Green Bay, Door County and other parts of eastern Wisconsin. It also will work with you to customize an itinerary for your group, handling every detail, from attraction admissions to lodging and meals.

Happy Times Tours & Experiences. Pros with more than 25 years of tour experience can arrange anything from a themed Milwaukee day trip to a three-night excursion to the Apostle Islands. It customizes fun, creative itineraries for groups of 15 or more. Brilliant EdVentures. A full-service operator for U.S. and Canadian destinations, this company works with groups of all types, sizes and ages. As a one-stop shop, it offers complete customized tour planning for educators, group leaders, church groups and tour operators needing wholesale services. Tour the Great Lakes is ready to make your group's experience truly exceptional as you explore the Great Lakes region. Whether you're exploring bustling cities or quaint coastal towns and villages, their team of experts is dedicated to curating an itinerary tailored to your group's interests. They can provide expert guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and stories about the Great Lakes region. Through engaging commentary and fascinating anecdotes, they will bring the history, culture and natural wonders of this incredible area to life. Personalized Tours, Inc. for 36 years has been providing motorcoach tours ranging from one to 30 days in Wisconsin and beyond. Since 1999, Personalized Coaches, Inc. has supplied the transportation needs of Personalized Tours and also offers deluxe coaches that groups can charter. Downtown Milwaukee Photo courtesy of Visit Milwaukee

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CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

www.circlewisconsin.com


That’s Entertainment! Wisconsin stages present crowd-pleasing options

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ive performances, from lavishly staged Broadway musicals to laugh-until-you-cry comedy shows, are just the ticket for spicing up Wisconsin tour itineraries. Peninsula Players Theatre entertains Door County visitors with top-quality musicals, dramas and comedies from June to October in a covered theater on the forested shores of Green Bay. Gearing up for its 89th season, America’s oldest professional resident summer theater will enthrall 2024 audiences with fare such as the poignant Neil Simon comedy I Ought to Be in Pictures, Million Dollar Quartet and Agatha Christie’s The Stranger. Door County’s Northern Sky Theater presents original musicals beneath the stars and towering pines at Peninsula State Park’s amphitheater and indoors at the Gould Theater. At downtown Green Bay’s historic Meyer Theatre, Let Me Be Frank Productions presents hilarious all-original musicals that fuse elements of Saturday Night Live sketches and pop concerts. The Fireside Dinner Theatre in Fort Atkinson has been a favorite with motorcoach groups for decades. The 2024 playbill includes Jersey Boys, Fiddler on the Roof, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Nunsense, Matilda: The Musical, Rocky: The Musical and Miracle on 34th Street. Marcus Performing Arts Center in downtown Milwaukee presents

everything from ballet and opera to comedy and magic acts. Among touring Broadway shows scheduled for 2024 are Mamma Mia!, Shrek: The Musical, TINA: The Tina Turner Musical and Moulin Rouge! The Musical. Legendary Entertainment has arrived in the Wisconsin Dells, bringing you an extraordinary dinner theater experience like no other—the Legacy Dinner Theater! Prepare yourself for a journey into a world of wonder and joy. Visit their website and explore the 2024 schedule. You won’t want to miss the spectacular holiday event, "Christmas in the Dells." It promises to be a holiday extravaganza that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come. Your travelers will be immersed in the enchanting world of Christmas as you meet Santa Claus himself, sing along to timeless classics performed live and witness a breathtaking live nativity scene. The talented performers from around the globe will captivate you with their exceptional singing, mesmerizing dancing, thrilling skating routines and awe-inspiring aerial acts. The Legacy Dinner Theater is committed to creating memories that will last a lifetime. The Dancing Horses Theatre in Delavan presents dazzling spectacles of equestrian artistry in a 300-seat indoor arena. Offered year-round, the 90-minute show stars horses in a variety of breeds that perform with exacting precision alongside their trainers. The 40-acre property’s Animal Gardens Petting Zoo is open May-October. Lunch and dinner packages are available.

The Dancing Horses Theatre, Delavan

www.circlewisconsin.com

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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Photo: Durston Saylor


Eastern Shores An Overload of Itinerary Gold in Eastern Wisconsin

This five-day itinerary follows the coastline of Lake Michigan and ventures inland as well, featuring some of the state’s best museums and historical sites. Delve into automotive and railroad history, explore the state’s pioneer past, connect with Native American culture, take in horticultural splendor and satisfy your taste buds at traditional supper clubs.

DAY 1

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MANITOWOC, TWO RIVERS

op aboard the S.S. Badger and embark on a journey across Lake Michigan from Ludington, Michigan to Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Once you arrive in Manitowoc, prepare to be captivated by the magnificent Rahr-West Art Museum. Housed in a stunning late 19th century Queen Anne-style Victorian mansion, this architectural wonder will transport you back in time. With its 13 bedrooms, 7 full and partial baths and six fireplaces, every corner is waiting to be explored. The museum hosts an incredible collection of art by renowned artists like Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe and Andy Warhol. And here’s something mind-boggling: Did you know that in 1962 Sputnik IV, the famed Soviet satellite that captured the world’s imagination, crashlanded in Manitowoc? Yes, right outside this very museum! Travel a short distance along the lake and be surprised that the town of Two Rivers is home to Hamilton Wood Type & Printing Museum, which has the world’s largest collection of wood type and the tools to use it. Immerse yourself in a captivating world through the art of typography and delve into the rich history of American printing. From intricately designed letterforms to vintage printing presses, this museum is a haven for lovers of design, history and all things print-related.

DAY 2

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n Green Bay, get outdoors and stroll the beautiful grounds of Green Bay Botanical Garden. Schedule an experience in the herbal garden: See, smell and explore the wide variety of herbs used in culinary dishes, medicinal preparations and overall wellness. Then enjoy an herbal demonstration full of tastes, remedies and recipes. You will create an herbal scrub to take home. The Automobile Gallery presents more than 100 years of automotive history and beauty ranging from an ultra-rare 113-yearold Cadillac Model T Touring Car to the space-age 2020 Ford GT Supercar. Whether you are an avid collector, an enthusiast or just a fan of history, you’ll marvel at the array of vibrant paint colors, the number of automakers represented and the diverse range of automobiles presented in authentic splendor. Your guest’s favorite will be the one that evokes the warmest memories. Explore the National Railroad Museum’s historic trains, engaging exhibits and beautiful property. Highlights of the collection include the General Motors Aerotrain, General Dwight D. Eisenhower’s World War II command train, Union Pacific #4017 “Big Boy,” Pennsylvania Railroad GG-1 electric locomotive, the Pullman porters and Lake Mitchell car and Wisconsin 40&8 boxcar.

DAY 3

Randy Mink Photo

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Rahr-West Art Museum, Manitowoc

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CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

GREEN BAY

GREEN BAY

estled on the banks of the Fox River, Heritage Hill State Historical Park brings the pioneer past to life. Embark on a fascinating tram tour that will transport you through time. Marvel at Fort Howard, a fortress built in the early 1800s to safeguard and preserve the vital river routes into the heartland. It stands as a testament to the bravery and determination of those who defended this gateway to progress. Heritage Hill boasts another claim to fame—it was here that the first American settlement west of Lake Michigan took root. Stop in at the newest attraction in Green Bay, the Mulva Cultural Center to enjoy one of the traveling exhibits featured in this magnificent building. Savor a meal with beautiful views of the Fox River and the rotating art exhibits in the lobby. Visit the Amelia Cornelius Culture Park to immerse yourself in Oneida Nation culture and history. The Oneida Long House is a replica traditional home of the Oneida people. The long house tells the story of its creation, the Iroquois confederacy, women and men’s roles, and Oneida’s participation in the Revolutionary War. www.circlewisconsin.com


DAY 4

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MARINETTE COUNTY, SHAWANO COUNTY, APPLETON, BRILLION, CALUMET COUNTY

n Marinette County stop at the Peshtigo Fire Museum, which preserves stories from the deadliest wildfire in U.S. history. It tore through northeastern Wisconsin in October 1871—the same day as the better known Great Chicago Fire, only about 250 miles away. The Peshtigo fire scorched about 1.5 million acres, leaving only one building standing. It killed at least 1,152 people, injured about 1,500 and left another 3,000 homeless. Travel west to Shawano Country and enjoy a truly unique and fun-filled attraction, Sun Drop University Museum. Learn the history of Sun Drop soda, watch movies on the history of Twigs, view the bottling process and, of course, sample their sodas. We are off to another Queen Anne Victorian-style home, Hearthstone, in Appleton. This house was the first in the world to be lit by an Edison central hydroelectric power station. It retains many unique features, including the original Thomas Edison eclectroliers and light switches. You’ll also be surprised to learn that Harry Houdini called Appleton his hometown. Exhibits at the History Museum at the Castle chronicle his childhood, early career and rise to fame. As an outdoor power equipment manufacturer, AriensCo has been intertwined with the American landscape since 1893. At the company’s original manufacturing plant in Brillion, group tours have over 14,000 square feet of museum exhibits to explore. A guided tour tells the story of this country’s journey from horse and plow to horsepower. Historic vignettes allow guests to experience a 1890s factory, 1930s farm culture and a 1960 backyard – all under one roof. Tonight be prepared for an extraordinary Wisconsin dining experience in the Calumet County region, which boasts 16 supper clubs, each offering an authentic taste of Wisconsin. Be sure to indulge in the most popular drink amongst locals—the legendary Brandy Old Fashioned. Begin with a relish tray, freshly baked bread, comforting soup and a refreshing salad before feasting on an exquisite entree. And let's not forget the ice cream drinks that will transport you to dessert heaven!

DAY 5

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GREENBUSH, CEDARBURG, RACINE

isiting the Wade House takes you on a journey through Wisconsin’s past with tours of the Wade House Inn, blacksmith shop and sawmill. Wade House is named for the stagecoach inn built by the town’s first European settlers, Sylvanus and Betsey Wade. Explore the Greek Revival-style inn, taste food from its kitchens, belly up to the bar in the taproom and play period games. On the grounds you’ll meet friendly farm animals, see sparks fly from the anvil and smell fresh sawdust. In the visitor center, enjoy interactive exhibits and discover the history of horsepower in the Wesley W. Jung Carriage Museum, which boasts Wisconsin’s largest collection of vintage carriages and wagons. Located on a historic homestead, the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts in Cedarburg displays an extraordinary collection of quilts, from meticulously handcrafted masterpieces to modern and innovative designs. Walk through the galleries, surrounded by vibrant colors, intricate patterns and the unmistakable craftsmanship that goes into each quilt. As you depart Wisconsin, immerse yourself in the rich Danish heritage that Racine proudly boasts and treat yourself at one of its Kringle bakeries. From traditional almond- and pecan-filled Kringles to innovative flavor combinations, these establishments are havens for lovers of the oval-shaped delicacy.

Please join us in

by SHEBOYGAN COUNTY ROTARY CLUBS

PLAN A GROUP OUTING to drive through the festive holiday lights show choreographed to music in Evergreen Park, Sheboygan. Motor coach and group tours welcome. Open November 29 to December 31, 2024 5:00-9:00 PM (closed Dec. 24). At nearby Quarryview Center, enjoy a visit with Santa, entertainment, designer wreath raffles, and concessions on Friday and Saturday nights. MakingSpiritsBright.com

Wade House, a restored stagecoach inn in Greenbush www.circlewisconsin.com

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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Eastern Shores

Impress Your Groups With First-Class Attractions in Eastern Wisconsin On this three-day itinerary, your group will visit historic homes, botanical gardens and a famous zoo. They’ll also ride a vintage train, delve into automotive history and enjoy some serious food sampling.

DAY 1

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WILLIAMS BAY, ELKHORN, EAST TROY

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HARTFORD, OSHKOSH, MILWAUKEE

oday we’ll begin at the Wisconsin Automotive Museum, the original home of Kissel cars built here in Hartford. Showcasing over 115 vintage autos, the collection is rounded out by displays of automotive artifacts such as gas pumps, signs, license plates, oil cans and other petroliana. To experience more of days gone by, we’ll visit two historic homes in Oshkosh, the first being the stately Sawyer home with its Tiffany Studios treasures. Built in 1908 in the English Tudor Revival style, it now is home to the Oshkosh Public Museum. The mansion houses an outstanding collection of exhibits and artifacts detailing the history of a community and its people. The eight-foot Apostles Clock is arguably the museum’s most popular attraction. A mechanical masterpiece, it was created by Oshkosh resident Mathias Kitz and took six years to complete. Every hour on the hour, the clock chimes and small figures representing the Apostles pass before Christ and bow their heads. Travel just across the street to Paine Art Center and Gardens. This English country estate includes a historic mansion, art collection and nearly four acres of botanical

Randy Mink Photo

ocated in Williams Bay, just outside of Lake Geneva, is Yerkes Observatory, considered to be the birthplace of astrophysics. Famous astronomers such as Carl Sagan, Edwin Hubble and other notable scientists studied here; Einstein was a visitor in 1921. The observatory’s architecture and landscape plan both make compelling cases to visit as well. The Beaux Arts and Romanesque building was designed by Henry Ives Cobb, the architect who drew many of the imposing Gothic structures at the University of Chicago. Yerkes is at once ornate and stately and also fanciful and irreverent with caricatures of major players in its history sculpted in the stone columns. After your Yerkes visit, stop in at Duesterbeck’s Brewery in Elkhorn, a fifth-generation family farm producing handcrafted beer. With 20 different styles of beer, you’ll relax in the taproom or pavilion or on the huge outdoor patio. You are sure to find something for yourself or that someone special at the gift shops on the grounds. Sit back and relax and enjoy a scenic ride aboard the East Troy Electric Railroad. The historic streetcars travel the last remnants of the Milwaukee Electric Railway & Light interurban rail system. Before boarding, explore the museum detailing the history of the railroad.

DAY 2

Yerkes Observatory, Williams Bay

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CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

Oshkosh Public Museum www.circlewisconsin.com


China Lights at Boerner Botanical Gardens gardens. With changing exhibits throughout the year, there is always something new to experience. During the holidays, the home is transformed into the magically themed Nutcracker in the Castle. This afternoon in Milwaukee, treat your taste buds on one of the many awardwinning tours offered by Milwaukee Food & City Tours. Choose from bakery tours, a pizza circuit or progressive brunch. Other favorite options: MKE Fish Fry and Churches & Chocolates

DAY 3

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MILWAUKEE

pend the morning on a guided tour of greater Milwaukee’s Boerner Botanical Gardens, with its colorful and fragrant displays laid out in 12 formal gardens. Explore a rose garden, peony garden and daylily garden; stroll under blossoming crabapples; and enjoy the view while at an event in the Garden Room. The gardens each fall host the China Lights festival, which features illuminated scenes, live performances, cultural displays and a bustling marketplace. Depart your bus and hop aboard a tram for a guided ride through the Milwaukee County Zoo. One highlight will undoubtedly be encountering the majestic elephants. These gentle giants will leave you in awe with their enormous size, graceful movements and wise demeanor. Prepare to be enchanted by the sight of elegant giraffes gracefully sauntering across their habitats. Towering above the treetops, these gentle creatures possess an otherworldly beauty that is sure to captivate your heart.

www.circlewisconsin.com

LUNCH SPACE • DISCOUNTED RATE FOR GROUPS SUBMARINE TOURS • MUCH MORE!

OPEN YEAR ROUND

wisconsinmaritime.org • 920-684-0218 75 Maritime Drive • Manitowoc, WI

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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Discover Oshkosh… The best adventures are found here.

As a premier destination in the heart of Wisconsin, Oshkosh always offers an exciting variety of events and attractions for groups of any size. Explore life by the lake and take a stroll on the riverwalk or attend events ranging from dinner theaters to the world’s largest airshow, EAA AirVenture. Supper clubs, waterfront dining, breweries, wineries, chocolate shops and drive-ins allow every visitor to find their favorite flavors.

For the most up-to-date list of exhibits and events, visit DiscoverOshkosh.com.

(920)303-9200


Eastern Shores

Lake Michigan’s Shores Offer a Wealth of History and Culture This three-day itinerary spotlights some of the most outstanding attractions in Sheboygan, Milwaukee and Kenosha. Admire captivating works of experimental art, get immersed in motorcycle culture, revel in the Gilded Age and take one of the best brewery tours in America.

DAY 1

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MANITOWOC, SHEBOYGAN, MILWAUKEE

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MILWAUKEE

t the Jewish Museum Milwaukee, step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Wisconsin's Jewish community, tracing its roots back to the first wave of Jewish immigrants. Marvel at thought-provoking exhibits that delve deep into the unique experiences, traditions and contributions of this vibrant community. The museum goes beyond historical narratives, providing a fresh perspective on contemporary issues such as social justice and human rights through the lens of Jewish values. Get an in-depth look into the lifestyle and culture of the motorcycle community that only the Harley-Davidson Museum can provide. Learn how it all started and discover the motorcycle’s influence on law enforcement, WWI and WWII, racing and pop culture. A highlight will be the Tsunami Motorcycle display, which features a bike that had drifted over 4,000 miles across the Pacific Ocean after being washed away in a storage container during the devastating tsunami that struck Japan back in 2011. The bike’s remains serve as a memorial to the tragedy that claimed more than 15,000 lives. Prepare to be transported back in time to the glamorous Gilded Age with a visit to the Pabst Mansion. This architectural gem preserves and interprets the opulent lifestyle of one of Milwaukee's most iconic figures, Captain Frederick Pabst, the renowned beer baron. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of a historic home meticulously restored to its former glory. Marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship of the lavish interiors that reflect the Pabst family’s wealth and influence. From stunning chandeliers to intricate woodwork, every corner tells a story of

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CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

John Michael Kohler Arts Center, Sheboygan

Photo courtesy of Visit Milwaukee

DAY 2

Randy Mink Photo

isembark the S.S. Badger in Manitowoc and head south to begin your journey along the Lake Michigan shore. At the John Michael Kohler Arts Center and the Art Preserve in Sheboygan, discover the works of self-taught and contemporary artists. Continue south to Milwaukee with your first stop at the North Point Lighthouse Museum in Lake Park. On a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, it showcases a wide variety of artifacts pertaining to the lighthouse and its keepers. Visitors can also see exhibits about the role Milwaukee has played in the regional maritime activities of the Great Lakes. Members of your group can climb the 84 steps and ladder to reach the lantern room at the top for a beautiful view of the lake and city.

Pabst Mansion, Milwaukee www.circlewisconsin.com


Photo courtesy of Visit Milwaukee

Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee a bygone era. Learn about Pabst's immense impact on Milwaukee and his legacy as a visionary entrepreneur. Lakefront Brewery offers an experience that combines history, entertainment and, of course, beer. As you embark on this delightful tour, you'll be treated to a captivating blend of facts, lore and jokes. But let's not forget about the star of the show—the exceptional beer. Sip the meticulously crafted brews as you dive deeper into the artistry behind each pint. And what better way to complement your tour than with some of the finest fried cheese curds in Milwaukee. As you revel in the unforgettable flavors and stories at Lakefront Brewery, make sure to save room for its traditional Milwaukee fish fry.

DAY 3

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MILWAUKEE, KENOSHA

nother Milwaukee gem is the Grohmann Museum, home to the world's most comprehensive art collection dedicated to the evolution of human work. The collection comprises more than 1,900 paintings, sculptures and works on paper from 1580 to the present. They reflect a variety of artistic styles and subjects that document the evolution of organized work from manpower and horsepower to water, steam and electrical power. Paintings show tradespeople engaged in their craft, such as the blacksmith, chemist, cobbler, cork maker, glass blower and taxidermist. A unique collection of 17th century medical paintings depicts the primitive beginning of early medical treatments. More recent works are images of machines and men embodying the paradoxes of industrialism of the mid-18th century to post-World War II. These works, often commissioned by the factory owner, are views of steel mills and foundries surrounded by train tracks or dark factory interiors where glowing molten metal is juxtaposed with factory workers and managers. As you leave Wisconsin, our final stop along Lake Michigan is Kenosha. Visit the Civil War Museum, ride an authentically restored electric street car, and tour the Southport Light Station, Kemper Center and Durkee Mansion.

www.circlewisconsin.com

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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Join us for Cultural Tours of the Oneida Reservation! The Oneida Nation has taken bold steps to ensure our legacy is strengthened for future generations with a financial obligation of $2.6M for ADA improvements to the Amelia Cornelius Culture Park. The 40-acre parcel is located less than a mile west of the city of Green Bay and currently features a life-size replica long house and five 100+ year old log homes. The long house is stocked with furs and pieces to tell the story of life hundreds of years ago. The log homes are themed to continue the story of the Oneida people’s arrival to the Michigan territory, later Wisconsin in 1822.

2024 Site Enhancements Visitor Center Pavilion Expanded Parking Lot Medicinal Garden


Eastern Shores Region Members ■ ATTRACTIONS

■ CHARTER/RECEPTIVE ■ CASINO

DOOR COUNTY ATTRACTION

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DOOR COUNTY ATTRACTION

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DOOR COUNTY DMO

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DOOR PENINSULA WINERY

SISTER BAY SCENIC BOAT TOURS

DESTINATION DOOR COUNTY

ROWLEYS BAY RESORT

Sturgeon Bay Few destinations in the Midwest provide a combination of natural beauty, history and small-town charm like Door County. Over a dozen quaint villages contain museums, galleries and shops.

Ellison Bay Largest full-service resort in northern Door County. Lake Michigan waterfront, two queen beds in each room, flat-screen TVs, complimentary room policy, Rowleys Bay Restaurant and fullservice waterfront pub.

ROB PETERSON 920-743-7431 marketing@dcwine.com www.dcwine.com

NICK DOKOLAS • 920-376-1220 tours@doorcountyboats.com www.doorcountyboats.com/ sister-bay-scenic-boat-tours

ELIZABETH CHARNEY 920.743.4456 ext 147 elizabeth@doorcounty.com www.doorcounty.com

JEWEL PETERSON OURADNIK 920-854-2385 groups@rowleysbayresort.com www.rowleysbayresort.com

Sturgeon Bay Wisconsin's largest winery is open year-round and features over 50 wines and ciders. Large retail area for Door County gifts, wine accessories, homemade fudge and specialty food products.

DOOR COUNTY LODGING

LANDMARK RESORT

Egg Harbor The Landmark Resort in Door County is about creating memories that will linger long after returning home, featuring breathtaking views, numerous amenities, and comfortable lodging.

Sister Bay The Norra Dorr provides narrated cruises out of Sister Bay in Door County Monday-Saturday, Mid-May to Mid-October. The boat has a capacity of 125 people with a lower and upper deck so there is plenty of room.

DOOR COUNTY THEATRE

NORTHERN SKY THEATER Fish Creek Original musicals under the stars! Must-see theater outdoors under the stars at Peninsula State Park Amphitheater or indoors at the intimate, state-of-the-art Gould Theater. Pure Door County fun!

DOOR COUNTY THEATRE

GREATER GREEN BAY AREA ATTRACTION

PENINSULA PLAYERS THEATRE

GREEN BAY PACKERS

Fish Creek Door County’s professional theatrical treasure, presenting Broadway-quality comedies, dramas and musicals for 89 seasons. Be immersed in an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Green Bay The 15,000-square-foot Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame is conveniently located on the main floor of the Lambeau Field Atrium. A tribute to the greatest story in sports, the HOF educates and inspires visitors.

GROUP SALES DEPARTMENT (920) 868-5164 groupsales@thelandmarkresort.com www.thelandmarkresort.com

BECKY DELISLE 920-854-6117 becky@northernskytheater.com www.northernskytheater.com

AUDRA BAAKARI BOYLE 920-868-3287 audra@peninsulaplayers.com www.peninsulaplayers.com

JACOB SERVAIS 920-569-7145 servaisj@packers.com www.packershofandtours.com

GREATER GREEN BAY AREA ATTRACTION

GREATER GREEN BAY AREA ATTRACTION

GREATER GREEN BAY AREA ATTRACTION

GREATER GREEN BAY AREA ATTRACTION

GREEN BAY BOTANICAL GARDEN

HERITAGE HILL STATE HISTORICAL PARK

MULVA CULTURAL CENTER

Allouez Experience 56 acres of living history at Heritage Hill State Historical Park. The park features 26 historic buildings encapsulating Northeastern Wisconsin’s history from the 1600s – early 1900s. Open year-round.

De Pere The Mulva Cultural Center is a world-class, architecturally significant, cultural destination showcasing the finest traveling exhibits, art and photography, speakers and films. The facility offers exhibit space, classrooms, an expansive gift shop.

EMMA MOORE 920-593-5682 Emoore@gbbg.org www.gbbg.org

CLAIRE GWALTNEY 920-448-5150 x201 claire@heritagehillgb.org www.heritagehillgb.org

THOMAS SHEFCHIK 920-278-0124 tshefchik@mulvacenter.org www.mulvacenter.org

Green Bay Escape your everyday with 47 thriving acres of display gardens and natural areas full of plants, flowers, and wildlife. Rekindle your love of the outdoors and explore the beauty of Wisconsin.

www.circlewisconsin.com

NATIONAL RAILROAD MUSEUM

Green Bay Experience the history, culture, and technology of American railroading! Walk through Gen. Eisenhower's WWII command train, sit in the cab of the Big Boy, and see the world's largest collection of Drumheads! JUSTIN LAMBRECHT 920-437-7623 jlambrecht@nationalrrmuseum.org www.nationalrrmuseum.org

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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Eastern Shores Region Members ■ ATTRACTIONS

■ CHARTER/RECEPTIVE ■ CASINO

GREATER GREEN BAY AREA ATTRACTION

ONEIDA NATION OF WISCONSIN

Green Bay Traditional Oneida Longhouses and early twentieth century log homes will immerse you in what life was like for the Oneida. Learn more at ExploreOneida.com.

GREATER GREEN BAY AREA ATTRACTION

THE AUTOMOBILE GALLERY & EVENT CENTER Green Bay Cruise down memory lane with extraordinary views and stories of 100+ pristine collector vehicles spanning 110+ years. You can find a car for every memory whether it be a 1957 Ford Thunderbird or the 2020 Ford GT!

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GREATER GREEN BAY AREA CHARTER/RECEPTIVE

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GREATER GREEN BAY AREA DMO

C&M PRESENTS

DISCOVER GREEN BAY

JULIE GERCZAK 920-770-1470 julie@greenbay.com www.greenbay.com

Green Bay We offer concierge-style service and unique tour opportunities throughout Wisconsin. The VIP service and added touches we include make your guests’ experience memorable and fun!

Green Bay Looking for something new and exciting? Be part of the action. Go behind the scenes. Amp up your group visit by trying a Green Bay Signature Experience. See history and performing arts from a whole new perspective.

LEAH STROOBANTS 920-496-5647 lstrooba@oneidanation.org www.exploreoneida.com

DARREL BURNETT 920-437-9024 Inquire@theautomobilegallery.org www.theautomobilegallery.org

SUSAN BROBERG 920-471-7951 info@candmpresents.com www.candmpresents.com

GREATER GREEN BAY AREA LODGING

GREATER GREEN BAY AREA LODGING

GREATER GREEN BAY AREA THEATRE

ONEIDA HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER GREEN BAY

TUNDRA LODGE

LET ME BE FRANK PRODUCTIONS

ARIENSCO MUSEUM

Green Bay It's our 25th season in 2024. Shows "2 1/2 Belgians", "WIR Nights", "Bay Beach Boys", "The Abrams Family", and "A Frank's Christmas". Get your laugh on with Let Me Be Franks all original Juke Box musicals!

Brillion Explore this country's journey from horse-and-plow to horsepower. Vintage equipment, artifacts, memorabilia and 14,000 sq. ft. of gallery space allow you to experience the significant events that have shaped the American landscape.

AMANDA LAFAVE 920-405-6405 amanda.lafave@rhccgb.com

LISA KUSSOW (920) 491-5761 lkussow@tundralodge.com www.tundralodge.com

FRANK HERMANS 920-371-4070 frank@letmebefranks.com www.letmebefranks.com

BREE BOETTNER 920-756-5125 bboettner@ariensco.com www.arienscomuseum.com

Green Bay We have a love for tour groups! Plan a trip to Green Bay to visit us and receive fun-filled package items including free breakfast and food coupons!

OSHKOSH/FOND DU LAC/APPLETON ATTRACTION

HORICON MARSH

Horicon Truly experience Horicon Marsh by exploring the interactive Explorium exhibit, five miles of winding trails & boardwalk and the Flyway Gift Shop. The Education & Visitor Center offers breathtaking views. ELIZABETH HERZMANN 920-387-7893 elizabeth.herzmann@wisconsin.gov www.horiconmarsh.org

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CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

Green Bay The Tundra Lodge is always looking for ways to add value to your experience. Featuring accommodations just a short stroll from legendary Lambeau Field, Tundra Lodge has the ideal package to meet your needs.

OSHKOSH/FOND DU LAC/APPLETON ATTRACTION

LACLARE CREAMERY

Malone Tour. Eat. Shop. Learn about goats and view our cheesemakers at work. Enjoy our cheese tasting experience and grab a bite to eat in the café. Head outside to view 700+ goats and our 26-ft high goat silo. Garden Center opens in spring.

JESSI SCHOOFS jessischoofs@laclarefarms.com www.laclarefamilycreamery.com

OSHKOSH/FOND DU LAC/APPLETON ATTRACTION

OSHKOSH PUBLIC MUSEUM

Oshkosh The cornerstone of the Oshkosh Public Museum is the 1908 Historic Sawyer Home: the last original Tiffany Studios commission that is open to the public worldwide. Our galleries feature contemporary Native American art and culture exhibits. KATE STEL 920-236-5763 kstel@ci.oshkosh.wi.us www.oshkoshmuseum.org

OSHKOSH/FOND DU LAC/APPLETON ATTRACTION

OSHKOSH/FOND DU LAC/APPLETON ATTRACTION

PAINE ART CENTER & GARDENS

Oshkosh The Paine features a historic 1920s mansion with ornate interiors, an exceptional Barbizon art collection, breathtaking architecture, and 3+ acres of flourishing botanical gardens. TERESA MOUCHA 920-235-6903 tours@thepaine.org www.thepaine.org

www.circlewisconsin.com


OSHKOSH/FOND DU LAC/APPLETON DMO

OSHKOSH/FOND DU LAC/APPLETON DMO

OSHKOSH/FOND DU LAC/APPLETON DMO

OSHKOSH/FOND DU LAC/APPLETON LODGING

DESTINATION LAKE WINNEBAGO REGION

FOX CITIES CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

OSHKOSH CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

COMFORT INN FOND DU LAC

Oshkosh Oshkosh is conveniently located along I-41 less than 90 minutes from Milwaukee and only three hours from Chicago. Discover world-class museums, a historic downtown, fine dining restaurants, and great views.

Fond du Lac Conveniently located right off Highway 41. The newly renovated 78-room hotel offers a complimentary continental breakfast buffet. Rooms feature a microwave, refrigerator, coffeemaker and complimentary Wi-Fi.

LIZ ENGH 920-923-3010 lengh@fdl.com www.fdl.com

ALISON HUTCHINSON 920-734-3358 ahutchinson@foxcities.org www.foxcities.org

JODI JENSEMA 920-303-9200 jodi@discoveroshkosh.com www.visitoshkosh.com

JOAN PINCH 920-322-8204 jpinch@wiscohotels.com www.wiscohotels.com

Fond du Lac Fond du Lac – the perfect hub-andspoke to take you north, south, east or west and bring you home at the end of the day! From food to fun, our “Group Tour-Approved” excursions drive interest and create memories.

OSHKOSH/FOND DU LAC/APPLETON LODGING

Appleton The Fox Cities-Greater Appleton area is nestled along the Fox River and northern Lake Winnebago. Our sumptuous food, one-of-a-kind shopping, uplifting arts, and culture will make your stay.

OSHKOSH/FOND DU LAC/APPLETON LODGING

OSHKOSH/FOND DU LAC/APPLETON LODGING

OSHKOSH/FOND DU LAC/APPLETON LODGING

COMFORT SUITES APPLETON

HOLIDAY INN APPLETON

Appleton One of the few upscale all-suite hotels in Appleton. The 130-room hotel offers a complimentary hot breakfast buffet and evening cocktail reception in Duffy's Pub.

Appleton Modern hotel featuring 121 guest rooms. Enjoy breakfast and dinner in Toast to Toast, our fast casual restaurant. Take a dip in the pool to relax after a long day. Enjoy our spacious fitness center and outdoor patio.

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES FOND DU LAC

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL & SUITES OSHKOSH

JOAN PINCH 920-322-8204 jpinch@wiscohotels.com www.wiscohotels.com

JOAN PINCH 920-322-8204 jpinch@wiscohotels.com www.wiscohotels.com

JOAN PINCH 920-322-8204 jpinch@wiscohotels.com www.wiscohotels.com

JOAN PINCH 920-322-8204 jpinch@wiscohotels.com www.wiscohotels.com

OSHKOSH/FOND DU LAC/APPLETON LODGING

RADISSON FOND DU LAC

Fond du Lac Full service hotel with comfortable guest rooms and exceptional service and amenities will make your guests feel right at home. All 133 guest rooms have refrigerators and microwaves, complimentary bottled water, breakfast and a Keurig coffeemaker. JOAN PINCH 920-322-8204 jpinch@wiscohotels.com www.wiscohotels.com

www.circlewisconsin.com

SHEBOYGAN/MANITOWOC AREA ATTRACTION

ART PRESERVE

Sheboygan The Art Preserve of the John Michael Kohler Arts Center lets visitors interact with the Arts Center's world-renowned collection of artist-built environments— spaces and places that have been significantly transformed to embody and express aspects of their history. JENNY WALLACE 920-458-6144 jwallace@jmkac.org www.jmkac.org/art-preserve

Fond du Lac Our beautiful hotel offers 86 spacious guest rooms with refrigerators, microwaves and Keurig coffeemakers. Bright open breakfast room offering complimentary deluxe breakfast buffet.

SHEBOYGAN/MANITOWOC AREA ATTRACTION

Oshkosh All rooms have microwave, refrigerator, coffeemaker, hairdryer and Wi-Fi. Complimentary hot breakfast provided as well as an evening cocktail reception.

SHEBOYGAN/MANITOWOC AREA ATTRACTION

FARM WISCONSIN DISCOVERY CENTER

HAMILTON WOOD TYPE & PRINTING MUSEUM

ABIGAIL WINKEL 920-726-6000 tours@farmwisconsin.org www.farmwisconsin.org

JENIFER ANNE 920-794-6272 info@woodtype.org www.woodtype.org

Manitowoc Located halfway between Chicago and Door County, Farm Wisconsin inspires visitors to explore the wonders of Wisconsin agriculture. Interactive exhibits and a guided tour will engage guests of all ages.

Two Rivers The Hamilton Wood Type & Printing Museum preserves history for creative use today. You’ll smell the sawdust and ink when touring this working museum, where today’s printers use historic equipment and processes.

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

37


Eastern Shores Region Members ■ ATTRACTIONS

■ CHARTER/RECEPTIVE ■ CASINO

■ DMOs

■ FESTIVALS

■ LODGING

■ SHOPPING

■ THEATRES

SHEBOYGAN/MANITOWOC ATTRACTION

SHEBOYGAN/MANITOWOC ATTRACTION

SHEBOYGAN/MANITOWOC ATTRACTION

JOHN MICHAEL KOHLER ARTS CENTER

RAHR WEST ART MUSEUM Manitowoc Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, Marc Chagall and Andrew Wyeth lead the nationally recognized collection. Includes the Historic Vilas-Rahr Mansion and site of the 1962 crash landing of the Sputnik IV spacecraft.

S.S. BADGER

WADE HOUSE

Sheboygan Sheboygan's acclaimed arts center features contemporary art exhibitions, performances, community events, classes and workshops for all ages. Admission is free. LAURA TYMM (920) 453-0346 ltymm@jmkac.org www.jmkac.org/art-preserve/

GREG VADNEY 920-686-3090 gvadney@manitowoc.org www.manitowoc.org

SARA SPORE (800) 841-4243 info@ssbadger.com www.ssbadger.com

920-526-3271 wadehouse@wisconsinhistory.org www.wadehouse.org

SHEBOYGAN/MANITOWOC ATTRACTION

SHEBOYGAN/MANITOWOC AREA DMO

SHEBOYGAN/MANITOWOC AREA DMO

SHEBOYGAN/MANITOWOC AREA DMO

WISCONSIN MARITIME MUSEUM

TRAVEL CALUMET

MANITOWOC AREA VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU

VISIT SHEBOYGAN

SHELLY HARMS 902-335-0065 shelly@visitsheboygan.com www.visitsheboygan.com

SHEBOYGAN/MANITOWOC AREA ATTRACTION

Manitowoc Relax on an authentic steamship experience across Lake Michigan, complete with outdoor decks, private staterooms, food & beverages, gift shop, children’s activities and more! Transporting passengers and autos between Ludington, MI and Manitowoc, WI.

Plymouth Wade House showcases the horsepowered world that existed before planes, cars and railroads. Explore the golden era of the carriage through our stagecoach hotel and other historic structures.

Manitowoc The Wisconsin Maritime Museum engages and educates the public about the maritime history of Wisconsin in the Great Lakes region.

Calumet County Come join us in the Supper Club Capital of the Midwest® and experience our distinctive venues, hidden gems, and old-world Wisconsin beauty and charm. Discover Calumet County’s unique blend of rolling hills, seasonal colors, and sweeping vistas.

CAROLINE DIEMER 920-684-0218 cdiemer@wisconsinmaritime.org www.wisconsinmaritime.org

RICK SENSE 920-849-1680 rick.sense@calumetcounty.org www.travelcalumet.com

LORI WANDEN 920-686-3071 lwanden@manitowoc.info www.manitowoc.info

SHEBOYGAN/MANITOWOC FESTIVAL

SHEBOYGAN/MANITOWOC LODGING

SHEBOYGAN/MANITOWOC AREA SHOPPING

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES SHEBOYGAN

HENNING’S WISCONSIN CHEESE

BOERNER BOTANICAL GARDENS

JOAN PINCH 920-322-8204 jpinch@wiscohotels.com www.wiscohotels.com

MINDY AUSLOOS 920-894-3032 mindy@henningscheese.com www.henningscheese.com

SHIRLEY DOMMER WALCZAK 414-525-5603

MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT

Sheboygan Making Spirits Bright is a drivethrough lights show beginning Friday after Thanksgiving through the end of December. Experience entertainment, photos with Santa and trolley rides at nearby Quarryview Center. DAVE HOFFMAN 920-918-0432 dhoffman@sheboyganlights.org www.makingspiritsbright.com

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CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

Sheboygan The only Marriott property within 35 miles of Sheboygan. Complimentary breakfast awaits you in the morning. Relax and unwind in the pool or fitness center. Grab a drink or appetizer at the lobby bar.

Manitowoc Only in Manitowoc-Two Rivers can you watch a calf birth at the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center and ride aboard the S.S. Badger Car Ferry.

Kiel Take a ride through the Wisconsin rural countryside and experience Henning’s Wisconsin Cheese for yourself. You can watch cheese being made and try fresh cheese curds every morning Mon-Fri.

Sheboygan We’re the “Malibu of the Midwest” and the “Bratwurst Capital of the World.” From world-class food options to group-friendly attractions, welcoming hotels and scenic vistas, we encourage you to explore “The Sheboygan Way.”

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA ATTRACTION

Hales Corners Experience the amazing gardens located in Whitnall Park. Meander the Gardens and see artwork from local Wisconsin artists. Enjoy the Rose, Rock, Rain Harvest, Children’s, Trial Gardens.

Shirley.walczak@milwaukeecountywi.gov

www.boernerbotanicalgardens.org

www.circlewisconsin.com


Explore the Fox Cities

The Fox Cities are the perfect blend of rich history, flavorful cuisine, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Centrally located with access to I-41 and highways 45 and 10, the area is an ideal hub-and-spoke destination with endless original experiences.

For more information, contact Alison Hutchinson at ahutchinson@foxcities.org


Eastern Shores Region Members ■ ATTRACTIONS

■ CHARTER/RECEPTIVE ■ CASINO

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA ATTRACTION

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA ATTRACTION

■ FESTIVALS

■ LODGING

■ SHOPPING

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA ATTRACTION

■ THEATRES

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA ATTRACTION

HARLEY-DAVIDSON MUSEUM

JEWISH MUSEUM MILWAUKEE

MACKENNA KRUPA 414-277-2333 krupa@msoe.edu www.grohmannmuseum.org

LYNDA FLETCHER 414-287-2799 Lynda.fletcher@harley-davidson.com www.h-dmuseum.com

CASSIE SACOTTE 414-390-5757 cassies@milwaukeejewish.org www.jewishmuseummilwaukee.org

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA ATTRACTION

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA ATTRACTION

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA ATTRACTION

CEDARBURG HISTORY MUSEUM AND VISITOR CENTER

GROHMANN MUSEUM

Cedarburg Discover Cedarburg's rich history by stopping by the History Museum and Visitor Center located in the heart of downtown.

Milwaukee The Grohmann Museum Collection includes over 1,700 paintings, sculptures and works on paper from 1580 to the present. They reflect a variety of artistic styles and subjects.

JODI SPANBAUER 262-377-5856 tourism@cedarburg.org www.cedarburg.org

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA ATTRACTION

■ DMOs

Milwaukee With an unrivaled collection of Harley-Davidson® motorcycles and memorabilia, a 20-acre, parklike campus and a calendar full of activities, the H-D Museum is one of Milwaukee’s top destinations.

Milwaukee Jewish Museum Milwaukee uses the history of Milwaukee’s Jewish community to make connections between groups and to contemporary times.

MILWAUKEE COUNTY ZOO

LAKEFRONT BREWERY

MILWAUKEE BREWERS

MITCHELL DOMES

Milwaukee A landmark among horticultural conservatories, this mid-century gem houses an impressive collection of tropical and desert plants from around the world. The Show Dome is reimagined five times a year for themed floral shows.

Milwaukee Open year-round, the Milwaukee County Zoo is home to over 2,500 mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles. The zoo continues to be recognized as one of the finest in the country.

CHRIS RANSON 414-292-0803 chris@lakefrontbrewery.com www.lakefrontbrewery.com

CHELSEA ROESSLER 920-606-3495 chelsea.roessler@brewers.com www.mlb.com/brewers

ERIC LEVIN 414-257-5604 Eric.levin@milwaukeecountywi.gov www.mitchellparkdomes.com

CHEYENNE GILLIS • 414-256-5433 Cheyenne.gillis@ milwaukeecountywi.gov www.milwaukeezoo.org

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA ATTRACTION

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA ATTRACTION

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA ATTRACTION

Milwaukee Voted Milwaukee’s best brewery tour. Entertaining guides show you the ins and outs of brewing, tell you a little about ourselves and serve you some cold ones along the way. Top that with amazing cheese curds.

Milwaukee American Family Field is a retractable roof stadium in Milwaukee. Located southwest of the intersection of Interstate 94 and Brewers Boulevard, it is the home ballpark of Major League Baseball's Milwaukee Brewers.

CIRCLE WISCONSIN Plan your next Great Lakes adventure with us! We’re the ultimate itinerary resource, and we guarantee a unique & fun experience. Join us for Midwest Marketplace 2024 Contact: Wendy Dobrzynski 414-545-1100 wendy@circlewisconsin.com

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CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

NORTH POINT LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM

OLD WORLD WISCONSIN

PABST MANSION

Milwaukee Visit a restored 1888 lighthouse, museum and event destination in historic Lake Park. Climb the 74foot tower for spectacular views of Lake Michigan and Milwaukee.

Eagle Voted the #1 Place to Take Your Kids in the Milwaukee area, Old World Wisconsin is a 600-acre history and nature park where you discover Wisconsin's roots. Step into the daily lives of Wisconsin’s early immigrants.

ANN WOLLMER 414-332-6754 keeper@northpointlighthouse.org www.northpointlighthouse.org

BOB PARKER 262-594-6301 Robert.parker@wisconsinhistory.org oldworldwisconsin.org

BRITTANY WILLIAMS 414-931-0808 info@pabstmansion.com www.pabstmansion.com

Milwaukee The Pabst Mansion was completed in 1892 for world-famous beer baron Captain Frederick Pabst and his wife Maria. This Gilded Age museum boasts stunning interiors, elegant furnishings and a brilliant fine arts collection. Open year-round for tours.

www.circlewisconsin.com



Eastern Shores Region Members ■ ATTRACTIONS

■ CHARTER/RECEPTIVE ■ CASINO

■ FESTIVALS

■ LODGING

■ SHOPPING

■ THEATRES

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA ATTRACTION

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA CHARTER/RECEPTIVE

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA DMO

WISCONSIN AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM

WISCONSIN MUSEUM OF QUILTS & FIBER ARTS

Cedarburg The only museum in Wisconsin devoted to quilting, Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts is located on an intact 1850s German farmstead. Enjoy the restored barn, rotating exhibitions and a gift shop.

MILWAUKEE FOOD & CITY TOURS Wauwatosa Discover Milwaukee’s most delicious neighborhoods with itineraries such as a Progressive Ethnic Lunch; Churches & Chocolates; and Christmas Bakery Bus. Guided food and sightseeing tours include tastings that add up to a meal.

VISIT MILWAUKEE Milwaukee Milwaukee is Wisconsin’s largest city. Visitors are always amazed by the city’s renowned culinary scene, distinctive neighborhoods, worldclass entertainment and one-of-akind attractions and festivals.

DAWN BONDHUS-MUELLER 262-673-7999 info@wisconsinautomuseum.com www.wisconsinautomuseum.com

MELISSA WRAALSTAD 262-546-0300 director@wiquiltmuseum.com www.wiquiltmuseum.com

THERESA NEMETZ 262-853-5239 theresa@milwaukeefoodtours.com www.milwaukeefoodtours.com

MEGAN HUSBAND​ 414-287-6239 mhusband@milwaukee.org www.visitmilwaukee.org

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA FESTIVAL

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA FESTIVAL

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA LODGING

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA LODGING

CHINA LIGHTS WISCONSIN Hales Corners China Lights Wisconsin is an annual outdoor walk-through event in Boerner Botanical Gardens in the fall season. Experience the garden at night with more than a thousand pieces of lantern installations, stage performances and food and drinks.

WISCONSIN STATE FAIR Milwaukee Enjoy family-friendly activities, exciting entertainment, agriculture shows, delicious food and more at the Wisconsin State Fair! Group admission ticket discounts and free bus parking are available when arranged in advance.

CANDLEWOOD SUITES MILWAUKEE AIRPORT Oak Creek Located just nine miles from the Potawatomi Casino, all suites have a fully equipped kitchen. Affordable seasonal group rates available. Complimentary onsite motorcoach parking.

COMFORT SUITES MILWAUKEE AIRPORT Oak Creek Newly renovated property offering 138 oversized guest rooms, complimentary breakfast and on-site Duffy’s Pub. All rooms are suites with microwave, refrigerator, coffeemaker, hairdryer and free Wi-Fi.

888-484-2698 Ext. 701 marketing@tianyuculture.com www.chinalights.org

414-266-7028 groupsales@wistatefair.com www.wistatefair.com

JOAN PINCH 920-322-8204 jpinch@wiscohotels.com www.wiscohotels.com

JOAN PINCH 920-322-8204 jpinch@wiscohotels.com www.wiscohotels.com

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA LODGING

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA LODGING

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA THEATRE

LAKE GENEVA AREA ATTRACTION

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES MILWAUKEE AIRPORT Oak Creek The 119-room hotel offers a complimentary breakfast daily. Relax in the pool and whirlpool. The Fairfield is only 15 minutes away from downtown Milwaukee.

HOLIDAY INN & SUITES MILWAUKEE AIRPORT Milwaukee Start your morning with a deluxe hot continental breakfast buffet. All of the 115 guest rooms have a microwave, refrigerator, coffeemaker, hairdryer and Wi-Fi. Located just two miles from Milwaukee’s General Mitchell Airport.

MARCUS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Milwaukee Milwaukee's entertainment destination offering touring Broadway shows, opera, ballet, children's theater, off-Broadway shows and special Marcus Center Presents events nearly 365 days a year! Aggressive group discounts and pricing.

BLACK POINT ESTATE & GARDENS

JOAN PINCH 920-322-8204 jpinch@wiscohotels.com www.wiscohotels.com

JOAN PINCH 920-322-8204 jpinch@wiscohotels.com www.wiscohotels.com

JOHN BARNES 414-273-7207 ext 1 jbarnes@marcuscenter.org www.marcuscenter.org

DAVID DESIMONE 262-248-1888 david.desimone@wisconsinhistory.org www.blackpointestate.org

GREATER MILWAUKEE AREA ATTRACTION

Hartford With over an acre of exhibit space, the museum displays 120 vehicles on two floors representing more than 30 different auto manufacturers. Hartford is home to the luxury Kissel automobile.

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■ DMOs

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

Lake Geneva Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Geneva Lake and tour the expansive and elegant Victorian estate of Chicago Beer Baron Conrad Seipp. Outside, explore eight acres of picturesque landscapes.

www.circlewisconsin.com


LAKE GENEVA AREA ATTRACTION

LAKE GENEVA AREA ATTRACTION

LAKE GENEVA AREA ATTRACTION

LAKE GENEVA AREA ATTRACTION

DUESTERBECK'S BREWING COMPANY Elkhorn A 5th generation family farmhouse microbrewery located in the countryside of Walworth County. Producing more than 20 hand crafted beers on-site. A true Wisconsin farm experience!

EAST TROY RAILROAD MUSEUM

LAKE GENEVA CRUISE LINE

East Troy Take train rides on trolleys or interurbans from our historic East Troy Depot to the Elegant Farmer. Charters, including elegant dining charters, can be scheduled any day of the week.

Lake Geneva There is no better way to enjoy beautiful Lake Geneva than on a scenic boat tour! Choose from a wide variety of tour options the famous U.S. Mailboat Tour, a delicious Luncheon Tour or an Ice Cream Social Tour.

YERKES OBSERVATORY Williams Bay

BEN JOHNSON 262-729-9771 comments@dbcbrewery.com www.dbcbrewery.com

JIM FEYERHERM 262-684-9148 jimf@easttroyrr.org www.easttroyrr.org

SUSAN SCHINDLER 262-248-6206 susan@glcl.net www.cruiselakegeneva.com

Yerkes Observatory, home to the world’s largest refracting telescope, is an architectural masterpiece on fifty acres of Olmsted-designed grounds. Many of the most influential astronomers in the world have worked here since 1897.

LAKE GENEVA AREA DMO

LAKE GENEVA AREA LODGING

LAKE GENEVA AREA THEATRE

RACINE/KENOSHA AREA ATTRACTION

VISIT LAKE GENEVA Lake Geneva Acclaimed resorts, award-winning restaurants, and distinctive shopping are just the beginning of an unforgettable group getaway. Enjoy lake cruises, stroll the Lake Shore Path, or hit the links. Explore Black Point Estate and Yerkes Observatory.

HARBOR SHORES ON LAKE GENEVA Lake Geneva We specialize in tour groups, offering competitive rates with an ideal location in downtown Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Plan a unique vacation experience with us today!

DANCING HORSES THEATRE & PETTING ZOO Delavan Wisconsin's #1 attraction located on the Wisconsin/Illinois border. Our 90-minute performance in a climatecontrolled theater is open year-round with shows changing three times a year. Seating for 300 plus two party rooms.

APPLE HOLLER Sturtevant Apple Holler is a farm-to-table restaurant, bakery, gift shop, orchard and family farm with pick-your-own-apples, peaches, and pears. Enjoy four seasons of fun: orchard & farm tours, hayrides, sleigh rides and wedding venue.

JILL GAULKE 262-812-0022 jill@visitlakegeneva.com www.visitlakegeneva.com

CAROLINE CORNELISON 262-248-9181 caroline@harborshoreslg.com www.harborshoreslg.com

JOYCE BICEK 262-728-8200 info@thedancinghorses.com www.thedancinghorses.com

DAVE FLANNERY 262-884-7100 info@appleholler.com www.appleholler.com

RACINE/KENOSHA AREA DMO

RACINE/KENOSHA AREA DMO

VISIT RACINE COUNTY Sturtevant Racine features Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, Danish Bakery tours, the Case IH Tractor factory, Wind Point Lighthouse, glass blowing, the best family-run Beer Garden in the area, and America's largest collection of craft art.

VISIT KENOSHA Kenosha Make new memories on Kenosha’s Lake Michigan shore. Enjoy tasty treats at Tenuta’s Deli and Mars Cheese Castle, travel back in time at five museums, climb a lighthouse, tour historic districts and ride on electric streetcars.

CARI GREVING 262-884-6400 cari@visitracinecounty.com www.visitracinecounty.com

KRIS JENSEN 262-654-7307, ext. 22 Kris@VisitKenosha.com www.visitkenosha.com

www.circlewisconsin.com

Yerkes Observatory, Williams Bay

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

Randy Mink Photo

WALT CHADICK wchadick@ yerkesobservatory.org www.yerkesobservatory.org

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/de·light·ed/

The The feeling feeling of of being being highly highly pleased. pleased.

S CA N F O R M O R E I N F O S CA N F O R M O R E I N F O

Your perfect Great Lakes vacation awaits in beautiful Door County, Wisconsin. Your Great Lakes vacationshoreline, awaits in abeautiful County, Wisconsin. With perfect 300 miles of Lake Michigan thriving Door year-round arts scene, With 300 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, a thriving year-round arts scene,is historic tours and lighthouses, and delightful orchards and vineyards, there historic toursofand lighthouses, and delightful and vineyards, is no shortage things to see and do. Plus, theorchards emerging culinary scenethere delivers no shortage of things to see and do. Plus, the emerging culinary scene delivers inspired flavors while cherished classics are served at fish boils and supper clubs. inspired flavors while cherished classics are served at fish boils and supper clubs. Plan your tour today! Plan your tour today!

D O O R C O U N T Y. C O M D O O R C O U N T Y. C O M


THE ULTIMATE

LAKE GENEVA EXPERIENCE

Enjoy historical narrated boat tours, meal cruises, and live entertainment! cruiselakegeneva.com • (262) 248-6206 Riviera Docks, 812 Wrigley Drive, Lake Geneva, WI


South Central Crossroads

This Region Really Packs a Punch Over three days your group will get a close-up look at historic cars, marvel at pioneer craftsmanship and take in horticultural splendor. Also on the agenda: a quirky house of wonders, buildings designed by one of America’s premier architects and a museum dedicated to a beloved condiment.

G

BELOIT AREA

et ready to step into a world where history, pop culture and automotive marvels collide in the most extraordinary way at the Historic Auto Attractions. From the moment you set foot inside, you’ll be captivated by the sheer diversity of the collections. Prepare to be starstruck as you explore an extensive display dedicated to Elvis Presley. Marvel at his iconic costumes, immerse yourself in his music and discover rare memorabilia that will transport you straight back to the rock ‘n’ roll era. Witness automotive history unfold before your eyes as you encounter the world’s largest collection of presidential and world leaders’ limousines. Brace yourselves for an encounter with vehicles straight out of Hollywood blockbusters! From Batman’s sleek Batmobile to the quirky Ghostbusters Ecto-1 and even the time-traveling DeLorean from Back to the Future, this museum has it all. Then travel back in time with a visit to the grounds of Beckman Mill in Beloit. Nestled amid picturesque surroundings, this remarkable destination boasts an authentically restored 1868 grist mill, an 1840s cooperage, a captivating blacksmith shop and more. Take in the mesmerizing sight of the meticulously preserved grist mill, where the echoes of its working gears and grinding stones whisper tales of yesteryear. Marvel at the craftsmanship on display at the cooperage, where skilled artisans once crafted barrels that stood as testaments to their mastery. Explore the blacksmith shop and witness firsthand the artistry and skill required to forge intricate metalwork. And don’t forget to stroll through the charming grounds, taking a moment to soak in the serene beauty that surrounds you.

DAY 2

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CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

The grounds of Beckman Mill in Beloit include a blacksmith shop.

JANESVILLE, SPRING GREEN

n Janesville, relive your childhood memories through the smell of fresh cut wood and feel of a wooden toy in your hand. It’s as close to Santa’s workshop as you can get. Only in Janesville can you tour the manufacturer of handcrafted JANESVILLE Coaster Wagons and other wooden toys patterned after historic products of the early 20th century. The tour will draw you into their toy making gallery and delight all who watch the artisans create. Then catch a breath of fresh air as you stroll Rotary Botanical Gardens, home to over 26 themed gardens, such as the Japanese and English Cottage gardens.

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Photo courtesy of Visit Beloit

DAY 1

Rotary Botanical Gardens, Janesville www.circlewisconsin.com


Drive the scenic rural roads to Spring Green to experience the iconic architecture, culture and nature of Frank Lloyd Wright’s home, studio and school. A visit to his Taliesin estate is an intimate look at the 70-year career of one of America’s greatest architects. Constructed of natural materials and designed to be a part of the surrounding landscape, these buildings are the most personal of Wright’s masterpieces. His cherished community lifestyle and groundbreaking philosophies were founded in the hills of this Driftless Area valley. Constantly inspired by nature, Wright’s endless ideas are apparent in the experimental, organic architecture present in the buildings. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Taliesin offers tour options that include Hillside and Taliesin, two significant, yet distinctly different Wright-designed buildings.

DAY 3

D

SPRING GREEN, MIDDLETON

own the road, Alex Jordan opened his dream house built atop a chimney of rock. Over the years, his vision expanded beyond the house and a collection beyond words was accumulated to create The House on the Rock. From that spark of imagination, it has evolved to include displays and collections of the exotic and unusual, including a carousel with over 260 animals, 20,000 lights and 182 chandeliers. The Infinity Room extends 218 feet out over the scenic valley with over 3,000 pieces of glass. Be mesmerized by the dazzling displays of music machines. During the holidays The House on the Rock is decked out with over 6,000 Santas of all sizes and types. Middleton is home to the internationally known National Mustard Museum, where you can taste, see and learn about mustard from all 50 states and more than 70 countries. Explore more than 6,700 jars, pots and tubes of mustard, and hundreds of items of mustard memorabilia. At the tasting bar, sample some of the most popular brands before making that tasty purchase in the gift shop. Then enjoy a craft beer and a tour at Capital Brewery, which brews medal-winning, German-style lagers. Explore quaint downtown for unique shopping experiences; drop in at Hubbard Avenue Diner even if just for a slice of pie.

The House on the Rock, Spring Green

BELOIT Where StoriesDifferent Begin Undeniably

Beloit can accommodate day-trip groups, overnight hub and spoke seekers, or weary travelers looking to stretch their legs during a long journey. Make your trip a home run and slide into our new, $37 million, downtown stadium!

VISITBELOIT.COM

National Mustard Museum, Middleton www.circlewisconsin.com

CONTACT MATTHEW BOSEN TO PLAN YOUR VISIT AT MATT@VISITBELOIT.COM OR 608.313.1366 60 Miles South of Madison 75 Miles West of Milwaukee 90 Miles West of Chicago PHOTO: ABC SUPPLY STADIUM

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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South Central Crossroads Members ■ ATTRACTIONS

■ CHARTER/RECEPTIVE ■ CASINO

SPRING GREEN ATTRACTION

■ DMOs

SPRING GREEN ATTRACTION

■ FESTIVALS

■ LODGING

■ SHOPPING

MADISON/MIDDLETON DMO

■ THEATRES MADISON/MIDDLETON DMO

THE HOUSE ON THE ROCK

TALIESIN

DESTINATION MADISON

CITY OF MIDDLETON

JENNY GREENE • 608-935-3639 groupsales@ thehouseontherock.com www.thehouseontherock.com

BRIAN CARROLL 608-588-7900 Ext 231 bcarroll@taliesinpreservation.org www.taliesinpreservation.org

SAMANTHA BROWN 608-255-2537 brown@visitmadison.com www.visitmadison.com

LAURA PORTZ 608-831-3399 lportz@cityofmiddleton.us www.visitmiddleton.com

MADISON/MIDDLETON LODGING

MADISON/MIDDLETON LODGING

MADISON/MIDDLETON LODGING

MADISON/MIDDLETON LODGING

BAYMONT INN & SUITES MADISON WEST

CASCADE DEVELOPMENT

Madison This group-friendly 129-room newly renovated hotel on Madison’s west side offers microwave, refrigerator, coffeemaker and complimentary Wi-Fi in rooms. Pool, whirlpool and lounge area are available.

Madison Cascade Development owns and operates three IHG-branded hotels throughout the greater Madison area. Our properties are conveniently located off Interstates 90/94/39 and are near a variety of restaurants, shopping and entertainment.

COMFORT SUITES MADISON WEST

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES MADISON

JOAN PINCH 920-322-8204 jpinch@wiscohotels.com www.wiscohotels.com

CAITLYN CANTERO 608-216-7513 catie@cascadedevelop.com www.cascadedevelop.com

JOAN PINCH 920-322-8204 jpinch@wiscohotels.com www.wiscohotels.com

JOAN PINCH 920-322-8204 jpinch@wiscohotels.com www.wiscohotels.com

Spring Green Alex Jordan’s retreat opened in 1960 and has since has grown into an attraction with many buildings and exhibits. You will explore some of the world’s most unique collections, including the world’s largest carousel, automated music machines and more.

Spring Green Discover Frank Lloyd Wright’s “autobiography in wood and stone” on a tour of the breathtaking 800acre Taliesin property including his home and studio. These buildings are the most personal of Wright’s masterpieces.

Madison Meet in Madison. A walkable city with exceptional experiences and endless fun. Award-winning local dining and a can’t miss craft beverage scene. 10,000 hotel rooms. Named one of the world’s happiest cities and best for biking.

Madison Awarded the No.1 Comfort Suites in the nation. All 95 suites offer microwave, refrigerator, coffeemaker and complimentary Wi-Fi. Your guests can utilize the pool, whirlpool and fitness center.

Middleton With more than 80 restaurants and 55 shops, a charming downtown district, and one-of-a-kind stops like Capital Brewery and the National Mustard Museum, travelers will always find something unique to discover in Middleton.

Madison Conveniently located on Madison’s East Side and to many local attractions, the newly renovated Holiday Inn Express and Suites Madison is easily accessible from the interstate. Offering complimentary bus parking.

MADISON/MIDDLETON LODGING

FORT ATKINSON/STOUGHTON DMO

FORT ATKINSON/STOUGHTON DMO

NORTH CENTRAL GROUP

FORT ATKINSON AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

STOUGHTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

FORT ATKINSON TOURISM 920-563-3210 tourism@fortchamber.com www.explorefort.com

CALLIE LAPOINT 608-873-7912 visit@stoughtonwi.com www.VisitStoughton.com

CIRCLE WISCONSIN Plan your next Great Lakes adventure with us! We’re the ultimate itinerary resource, and we guarantee a unique & fun experience. Join us for Midwest Marketplace 2024 Contact: Wendy Dobrzynski 414-545-1100 wendy@circlewisconsin.com

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CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

Middleton The North Central Group owns and operates 10 Hilton and Marriott brand hotels throughout the greater Madison area. Our properties are conveniently located off of Interstates 90/94/39 and are in close proximity to local attractions. MADDI OLSON 507-382-8756 molson@ncghospitality.com www.ncghotels.com/motorcoach

Fort Atkinson With Broadway entertainment, antique shops and gift shops, great dining, and a beautiful riverwalk, Fort Atkinson is your perfect destination for a group tour, romantic getaway or girls’ weekend.

Stoughton Stoughton: Known for a richness of Norwegian Heritage, those that take a peek beyond the rosemaling discover many reasons to stay a while between their travels between here and there.

www.circlewisconsin.com


FORT ATKINSON/STOUGHTON THEATRE

FORT ATKINSON/STOUGHTON LODGING

THE FIRESIDE DINNER THEATRE

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES FORT ATKINSON

PENDARVIS

Fort Atkinson Relax in our indoor heated swimming pool, whirlpool and fitness room. Lounge by the fireplace in our Great Room. Enjoy the added touches like remote HD cable TV and coffeemaker.

Mineral Point Discover how the preservation efforts of two men helped save Wisconsin’s Cornish history. The picturesque stone buildings of Pendarvis were preserved by life and business partners Bob Neal and Edgar Hellum.

FRANKI ELMORE 800-477-9505 groupsales@firesidetheatre.com www.firesidetheatre.com

GROUP SALES • 920-563-3600 holidayinnexpress fortatkinson@yahoo.com www.hiexpress.com/fortatkinsonwi

BETHANY BRANDER 608-987-2122 pendarvis@wisconsinhistory.org www.pendarvishistoricsite.org

NEW GLARUS LODGING

NEW GLARUS SHOPPING

JANESVILLE/BELOIT ATTRACTION

Fort Atkinson Exciting professional musicals, memorable dining, spectacular gift shops, Klopcic Family hospitality and fabulous service make The Fireside a complete destination in itself or the perfect complement to any Wisconsin tour.

CHALET LANDHAUS INN

New Glarus The Chalet Landhaus Inn is where traditional Swiss hospitality and charm welcome you year-round. Chalet Landhaus is built in a traditional Swiss style with a blend of modern convenience and old-fashioned decor to give you a touch of Switzerland. BRIANA LENZLINGER 608-527-5234 briana@chaletlandhaus.com www.chaletlandhaus.com

ALP & DELL CHEESE

Monroe Located in the Roth Kase Creamery, home of the world champion cheese Surchoix. A leader in quality, selection and price. Come watch cheese being made and enjoy free samples. TONY ZGRAGGEN 608-328-3355 tony@alpanddellcheese.com www.alpanddellcheese.com

MINERAL POINT ATTRACTION

NEW GLARUS DMO

NEW GLARUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

New Glarus Visit New Glarus, America’s Little Switzerland! Established as a Swiss colony, New Glarus retains its Swiss charm via alpine architecture, traditional festivals and mouthwatering Swiss delicacies. BEKAH STAUFFACHER 608-527-2095 bekah@swisstown.com www.swisstown.com

JANESVILLE/BELOIT DMO

HISTORIC AUTO ATTRACTIONS

JANESVILLE AREA CVB

ALEX MERRY 815-389-7917 museum@historicautoattractions.com www.historicautoattractions.com

LORI JOHNSON 608-757-3171 meetings@janesvillecvb.com www.janesvillecvb.com

Historic Auto Attractions is a great place to bring a group of any size, with a parking lot that can accommodate! Let guests explore 86,000 sq ft of exhibits ranging from the Wild West, to Gangster Land.

Janesville Whether you prefer themed itineraries, arts and culture, botanical gardens or museums, your group will be delighted to visit Janesville, “Wisconsin’s Great Outside.”

JANESVILLE/BELOIT DMO

VISIT BELOIT

Beloit Beloit offers year-round experiences including Minor League Baseball, public art, historic sites, unique dining and a magnificent farmers' market. From day-trips to overnight, along with hub and spoke and weary travelers looking to stretch their legs. MATTHEW BOSEN 608-313-1366 matt@visitbeloit.com www.visitbeloit.com/meetings

www.circlewisconsin.com

The House on the Rock, Spring Green

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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Northwoods & Lake Superior Wisconsin – Naturally!

This three-day itinerary in northern Wisconsin spotlights an unspoiled land of dense forests, hundreds of lakes and small towns between the Mississippi River and Lake Superior. Highlights include attractions that honor our veterans and chronicle the area’s colorful fur trade, logging and mining history.

DAY 1

O

SPOONER, SHELL LAKE, SUPERIOR, ASHLAND

ur adventure into the magnificent Northwoods of Wisconsin begins in Washburn County at the renowned Tommy G. Thompson State Fish Hatchery in Spooner, which proudly holds the title of being the world's largest musky hatchery. Brace yourself for a truly extraordinary experience as you delve into the fascinating world of fish conservation. Witness firsthand the extraordinary efforts that go into raising over 100 million eggs from the wild to this colossal hatchery during the spring season. From late April through October, you'll have the opportunity to observe the intricate process of spring egg incubation operations. Marvel at the dedication and expertise of the hatchery staff as they carefully nurture these delicate eggs. During fall pond harvest, you witness hatchery fish being harvested before they are released into Wisconsin's sparkling waters. Get creative and inspired or find that perfect gift at The Potter’s Shed in Shell Lake. With more than 200 artists from the US and Canada featured, you’ll find lots of pottery, jewelry, woodwork, glass, candles and much more. For hands-on fun, groups can choose from a variety of art projects. We’ll make our way north to Superior and visit the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center, a WWII museum that honors the memory of Major Bong and all veterans. Located on the shores of Lake Superior, it shares the story of Richard Bong, “America’s Ace of Aces” and hometown hero.

Autumn majesty in northern Wisconsin www.circlewisconsin.com

DAY 2

C

ASHLAND, HURLEY, MONTREAL

elebrate the history and heritage of Lake Superior at the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center in Ashland. Listen to spirited songs of voyageurs singing as they paddle their furladen, 35-foot birch bark canoes across Lake Superior. Peek inside an 18th century fur trading post. Feel the rumble of an explosion in a deep-shaft iron mine. The displays present an overview of human cultures interacting with the land and natural resources of the Northern Great Lakes region, from the Ice Age to the present. Head to the observation deck for an overview of the area. In Hurley, our first stop is the Iron County Historical Society Museum, whose displays touch on iron mining, railroads, the timber industry and much more. Little Finland down the road keeps alive the proud heritage of the many Finnish immigrants that settled in the area. More on the mining industry will be explored when you experience the remnants of the world’s deepest iron ore mine. Montreal was built as a utopian mining community, as the Montreal Mining Company provided everything miners and their families needed. The entire town is on the National Register of Historic Places.

DAY 3

I

NEILLSVILLE. EAU CLAIRE

n Clark County, we’ll visit Highground Veterans Memorial Park, a 155-acre manned park west of Neillsville that pays tribute to veterans of WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf. There is also a National Native American Vietnam Memorial. The historic 1897 Clark County Jail Museum in Neillsville occupies a building noted for its castle-like appearance, complete with turrets. Each sheriff and his family lived in the residence portion. The jail portion houses old law enforcement equipment and two floors of cell blocks. Stop for a tour, shop or a bite to eat at Marieke Gouda, where you can see the milking parlor, cheese making and cow spa barn. We end our Northwoods tour in Eau Claire. Experience the life of a lumberjack at the Wisconsin Logging Museum, which replicates a 1890s logging camp. Learn about the history of the lumber industry in the Chippewa Valley and the pine trees that were transported down the Chippewa River, the lumberjacks that made a home at the camps, and the technology boperating a logging camp in the late 1800s. CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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Northwoods & Lake Superior Members ■ ATTRACTIONS

■ CHARTER/RECEPTIVE ■ CASINO

XXX ATTRACTION

MADELINE ISLAND FERRY

La Pointe Welcome Aboard! Crossing spectacular Lake Superior between Bayfield and Madeline Island, bask in striking views and the natural beauty of both the Lake and the Apostle Islands from our ferries. The ride itself is just the beginning as your group will enjoy a fully narrated tour of the Island highlighting its’ history, present day life, and many entertaining attractions. MARY ROSS • 715-747-2051 maryross@madferry.com www.madferry.com

ATTRACTION

■ FESTIVALS

■ LODGING

ATTRACTION

MADELINE ISLAND MUSEUM

La Pointe Hop on the ferry and explore the cultures that called Madeline Island home including the Ojibwe (Chippewa), French, British, and Americans. Bella and Leo Casper opened the museum in 1958.

715-747-2415 madelineisland@wisconsinhistory.org www.madelineislandmuseum.wisconsinhistory.org

CASINO

■ SHOPPING

■ THEATRES XXX ATTRACTION

NORTHERN GREAT LAKES VISITOR CENTER

Ashland Free admission; open 365 days a year. The Center provides a great introduction to Lake Superior’s cultural and natural history. Enjoy the exhibits, theater, trails, observation tower and gift shop.

ROSE HAVERI • 715-685-9983 rooms@nglvc.org www.nglvc.org

DMO

THE RICHARD I. BONG VETERANS HISTORICAL CENTER

LEGENDARY WATERS

BAYFIELD COUNTY

JOHN GIDLEY • 715-392-7151 gidley@bongcenter.org www.bongcenter.org

TAYLOR KRAJNAK • 715-779-9435 taylor.krajnak@legendarywaters.com www.legendarywaters.com

MARY MOTIFF • 715-373-3491 Mary.Motiff@bayfieldcounty.wi.gov www.travelbayfieldcounty.com

Superior The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center is a fascinating and beautifully presented history museum honoring America's "Ace of Aces," Richard Bong, who shot down 40 enemy aircraft in the South Pacific.

DMO

CLARK COUNTY TOURISM

Superior Clark County welcomes you and your groups to experience rural beauty and agritourism at its finest. Any season meander along the scenic country roads and enjoy the breathtaking views, artisan cheese makers, and Mennonite specialty handmade creations. SHEILA NYBERG • 715-255-9153 info@clarkcounty.org www.clarkcountywi.org

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■ DMOs

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

Red Cliff Northern Wisconsin’s premier resort casino features 47 tastefully appointed deluxe rooms and Premier suites. Nearly 250 slot machines, restaurants, promotions, guest services, ATM, camping, sandy beach, boat launch and marina.

DMO

Washburn Nature meets culture along the WI Lake Superior National Scenic Byway. Tour orchard country or take a cruise around the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Enjoy local cuisine and craft beverages along the way and a performance at the Big Top Chautauqua!

DMO

HURLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

MARINETTE COUNTY TOURISM

JACKIE WIEDOWER • 715-561-4334 hurley@hurleywi.com www.hurleywi.com

JENNIFER SHORT • 715-732-7503 Jennifer.short@marinettecountywi.gov www.ExploreMarinetteCounty.com

Hurley Rich in mining heritage, Hurley provides visitors with access to 10 waterfalls and outdoor recreational opportunities: skiing, snowshoeing, hiking and kayaking.

Marinette From stunning waterfalls to spectacular fall colors, we think your group will “fall” in love with Marinette County, the Waterfall Capital of Wisconsin. Quaint shops, unique eateries and Northwoods charm.

www.circlewisconsin.com


DMO

SHAWANO COUNTRY TOURISM

Shawano Vacation in WI’s Barn Quilt capital! We are home to three Native American tribes, an Amish Community, Shawano Lake, the Wolf River, and endless recreational activities to experience (fishing, camping, white water rafting and more!) We invite you to see what we have to offer in Shawano Country! MICHELLE ERON • 715-524-2139 meron@shawanocountry.com www.shawanocountry.com

DMO

VISIT EAU CLAIRE

Eau Claire No matter what the season, Eau Claire has many attractions to WOW! From seeing what’s brewing, tasting savory wines, outdoor fests, Nations largest sculpture tour, or a show at the Pablo Center, there are many memorable adventures awaiting!

MIDWEST MARKETPLACE

DANA CROSSON • 715-829-2685 dana@visiteauclaire.com www.visiteauclaire.com/groups

JOIN US APRIL 14 – 16, 2024 IN FOND DU LAC, WI AT THE RADISSON HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER Join operators and planners from across the

DMO

United States and Canada as they network with

suppliers from Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan,

Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and North & South Dakota. Discover new connections, build partnerships, and unlock endless possibilities for crafting

WASHBURN COUNTY TOURISM ASSOCIATION

fun-filled group experiences in the heartland of

Spooner Washburn County is home to nearly 1,000 lakes, hundred of miles of trails, incredible attractions, and friendly businesses waiting to serve you during your Washburn County vacation!

KELSY SCHULTZ • 715-635-9696 marketing@washburncounty.org washburncounty.org

www.circlewisconsin.com

America. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to

create unforgettable memories for your groups!

REGISTER TODAY!

midwestmarketplace.org 414-545-1100

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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Mississippi River Valley & Beyond Travel the Great River Road

On this three-day itinerary exploring western Wisconsin, visit historic sites along the Great River Road. The river towns are some of the state’s oldest communities. Take in the beauty of the scenic riverside bluffs, tap into the area’s mining heritage and gain appreciation of the pioneering Norwegians who settled here.

S

MINERAL POINT, PLATTEVILLE, DICKEYVILLE

tart your adventure in the Driftless Region of Wisconsin with a visit to beautiful towns amidst the bluffs along the mighty Mississippi and inland. Tucked away in a valley in historic Mineral Point, Pendarvis celebrates the groundbreaking community of some of the first Wisconsin “Badgers.” As you approach this charming neighborhood, first settled by the Cornish, the 19th century will instantly come alive through the limestone buildings and cozy nooks. Head into Platteville, where your underground adventure awaits! Tour the 1845 Bevans Lead-Zinc Mine, ride in a 1931 mine train (weather permitting) and discover the history of the Upper Mississippi Valley mining district. The museum traces the development of culture in southwestern Wisconsin’s Driftless Area starting with mineral mining, rural life and the establishment of community. Galleries display fascinating and nostalgic models, dioramas, artifacts and photographs interpreting stories and music of home, school, farm and civic life in the Platteville region. You won’t be able to miss the world’s largest “M,” an iconic symbol of the mining tradition and the history of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. Stop at Dickeyville Grotto & Shrines, the works of Father Mathias Wernerus, who constructed the grotto (1924-1930) out of materials and found objects from all over the world.

DAY 2

E

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

Dickeyville Grotto & Shrines

PRAIRIE DU CHIEN

njoy the beautiful drive west towards the Great River Road to Prairie du Chien, the second oldest city in Wisconsin. Fort Crawford stood guard over Prairie du Chien from 1816 until 1856. Now, the Fort Crawford Museum displays the history of the fort, the city and the many lives that crossed here including Zachary Taylor, the fort commander between 1829 and 1837 and later 12th president of the United States. Jefferson Davis, who became president of the Confederacy during the Civil War, was stationed at Fort Crawford as a lieutenant. Sauk leader Black Hawk surrendered at Fort Crawford after the Black Hawk War of 1832. Engaging interpreters will take you on a journey through time as you tour Villa Louis, the Dousman family’s stunning 1871

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Randy Mink Photo

DAY 1

Fort Crawford Museum, Prairie du Chien www.circlewisconsin.com


La Crosse and the scenic Mississippi River Valley

Italianate-style mansion, one of the most authentically furnished Victorian houses in America. It boasted the innovative modern conveniences of indoor plumbing and steam heat, making it comfortable as well as stylish. Continue north up the Great River Road, a National Scenic Byway, to La Crosse. Along the way, enjoy the beauty of the bluffs and the abundance of wildlife including bald eagles, and view towboats and barges passing through locks and dams. Get a photo with the tallest six-pack of beer in the country before your scenic sightseeing cruise on the La Crosse Queen, a modern-day replica of the grand paddlewheelers that cruised the river in the early 1900s.

DAY 3

E

LA CROSSE

xplore the history of the region’s Norwegian settlers at Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center. The site consists of a two-story house, summer kitchen, spring house, corn crib, granary, outhouse, chicken coop, machine shed, tobacco shed, stable, barn and blacksmith’s shop. The buildings are arranged in the traditional Norwegian shape called a “tun” and filled with artifacts donated by local families. A visit to La Crosse isn’t complete without a stop at Grandad Bluff, a 600-foot-high bluff overlooking the city and Mississippi River Valley, with views of three states—Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. Just a short 10-minute drive up a winding bluff road are legendary sights bursting with summer greenery or vibrant fall colors.

www.circlewisconsin.com

Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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Mississippi River Valley & Beyond Members ■ ATTRACTIONS

■ CHARTER/RECEPTIVE ■ CASINO

ATTRACTION

■ FESTIVALS

■ LODGING

ATTRACTION

■ SHOPPING

■ THEATRES DMO

NORSKEDALEN NATURE AND HERITAGE CENTER

VILLA LOUIS

DISCOVER PLATTEVILLE

Coon Valley Open year-round, enjoy the beauty of the Driftless Region while learning about the area’s earliest settlers: Norwegian immigrants! See their homes, their belongings, hear their stories. Hike miles of trails through the wooded bluffs, enjoy a typical Norwegian meal.

Prairie du Chien Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, this National Historic Landmark offers a panorama of Wisconsin history, beginning with the arrival of early fur traders through the heyday of the Victorian era. Costumed interpreters lead tours of the grand mansion, one of the most authentically furnished Victorian houses in America.

LORI DUBCZAK • 608-452-3424 lori.dubczak@norskedalen.org www.norskedalen.org

608-326-2721 villalouis@wisconsinhistory.org www.villalouis.wisconsinhistory.org

WAYNE WODARZ • 608-348-8888 director@platteville.com www.platteville.com

DMO

EXPLORE LA CROSSE

PRAIRIE DU CHIEN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & TOURISM COUNCIL

Prairie du Chien Just a stone’s throw from La Crosse, WI and Dubuque, IA, Prairie du Chien has small-town charm, rich history, and an abundance of outdoor events and activities.

BEN MORGAN 608-782-2220 morgan@explorelacrosse.com www.explorelacrosse.com

608-326-8555 pdccoc@mhtc.net www.prairieduchien.org

TOMAH CHAMBER & VISITORS CENTER

FESTIVAL

ROTARY LIGHTS

Tomah Tomah is known as "Cranberry Country," but we also head "Beyond the Bog!" There's so much going on: Downtown Thursday Nights, Grand National Truck/Tractor Pull, Warrens Cranberry Festival.

La Crosse More than three million lights illuminate La Crosse’s Riverside Park. Among the splendor is a 140-foot Christmas tree, and animated light displays fill the park. Live Nativity presentation on weekends until Christmas. Nearly 130,000 visitors a year enjoy this holiday tradition.

TINA THOMPSON 608-372-2166 tthompson@tomahwisconsin.com www.tomahwisconsin.com

608-784-9993 www.rotarylights.org

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

Platteville A rich mining history pairs with bountiful recreation in Platteville. Explore museums, trails, streams, parks, art and more!

DMO

La Crosse La Crosse is rich in scenic beauty, diverse attractions, cultural events and first-class hospitality. La Crosse attracts more than two million visitors annually, as groups are attracted to the upper Mississippi River and the Driftless Region.

DMO

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■ DMOs

www.circlewisconsin.com



Wisconsin Heartland Iconic Wisconsin

This three-day itinerary offers a mix of cultural experiences, wildlife exploration and local cuisine, providing a well-rounded adventure in the Wisconsin Heartland.

DAY 1

D

BARABOO

id you know that Baraboo is the birthplace of the renowned Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus? This charming town holds a special place in the hearts of circus enthusiasts around the world. Begin your day at the historic Al. Ringling Theatre, built in 1915. Take a guided tour of this magnificent showplace, designed in the style of grand French opera houses, to learn about its rich history and marvel at the stunning architecture. If there's a performance scheduled, consider attending a show at this iconic venue. Immerse yourself in a carefree world of fun at Circus World Museum. It's a treasure trove of memorabilia that will transport you back to a time when circus magic came alive under the big tops. Located at the original winter home of the Ringling Bros. Circus, this National Historic Landmark site examines the innovations, excitement and wonder of the American circus. Touring the grounds, you’ll explore seven massive buildings that bring to life the fascinating heritage of the more than 100 circuses that made their home in Wisconsin. Through engaging exhibits you’ll experience the legendary lives and pageantry that fueled America’s most popular form of entertainment Your visit wouldn’t be complete without a performance under the big top. This year’s theme is “Blast Off.” Watch camels and acrobats as they gallivant through the galaxy of horses, aerialists, acrobats, dogs, llamas and clowns.

DAY 2

T

BARABOO, STOUGHTON

his morning, head over to the International Crane Foundation, the only place in the world with all 15 species of these birds. It is a one-of-a-kind place dedicated to the protection and breeding of cranes. Many of these long-legged creatures are endangered and on the verge of extinction. Take a leisurely stroll on paved trails to learn about and enjoy these magnificent birds. This afternoon, explore downtown Stoughton, a delightful small town with strong Norwegian roots. Visit Livsreise, which spotlights the journey from Norway, features the cultural heritage brought to Stoughton and shares stories of individual immigrants. Changing exhibits and displays highlight Norwegian heritage and arts organizations including the Vesterheim National Norwegian American Museum. Immerse yourself in the stories of emigrants’ personal journeys in America and

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CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

Al. Ringling Theatre, Baraboo

International Crane Foundation, Baraboo www.circlewisconsin.com


Old World Wisconsin, a living history museum explore the cultural roots of Norwegian-American heritage, from performing arts and traditional customs to industrial entrepreneurs and the language. Stoughton’s culinary scene is reflected in over 30 restaurants, cafes and cocktail lounges that vary from American grub to Norwegian cuisine. Downtown, visit locally owned boutiques and galleries housed in buildings dating from the 1880s. You’ll find crafters and artisans who sell art, antiques, gifts and jewelry.

DAY 3

B

EAGLE

efore heading home, spend the morning experiencing the world of Wisconsin’s early immigrants at Old World Wisconsin, where history comes alive. Set against the backdrop of the Kettle Moraine State Forest and 600 acres of picturesque woodlands, prairie and wetlands, Old World Wisconsin is a one-of-a kind-place where the modern world fades away to reveal over a century of history. The site includes 60 authentically restored historic homes, farms, stores and workshops. Step into the daily lives of the early immigrants who arrived between the 1840s and 1910s by trying your hand at crafts and trades, chores and cooking. Lend a hand in the blacksmith shop, dye and spin wool, knead bread, collect eggs, try on wood shoes, ride highwheel tricycles and have a beer in the Brewhouse. Groups can explore the site by complimentary tram. If you're planning a tour to Baraboo, check the calendar for the most thrilling event of the season – the not-to-be-missed Big Top Parade! Prepare to be transported back in time as you witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the circus coming to town. Set for Saturday, June 8, 2024, this one-of-a-kind parade is a true extravaganza that will leave you breathless and filled with wonder.

www.circlewisconsin.com

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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Wisconsin Heartland Members ■ ATTRACTIONS

■ CHARTER/RECEPTIVE ■ CASINO

WI RAPIDS/MARSHFIELD/STEVENS POINT DMO

■ DMOs

PLOVER DMO

■ FESTIVALS

■ LODGING

■ SHOPPING

■ THEATRES

PLOVER ATTRACTION

WAUSAU DMO

FOOD+FARM EXPLORATION CENTER

WAUSAU/CENTRAL WISCONSIN CVB

CENTRAL WISCONSIN TOURISM ASSOCIATION

PLOVER AREA CVB

SARA BRISH 715-344-2556 sara@stevenspointarea.com www.centralwisconsin.com

MALORIE PAINE 715-345-5250 mpaine@ploverwi.gov www.comeovertoplover.com

NEVADA PAZDRA 715-303-3276 npazdra@fftf.us www.explorefoodandfarm.org

JODI MAGUIR 715-355-8788 JMaguire@visitwausau.com www.visitwausau.com

WI DELLS/BARABOO ATTRACTION

WI DELLS/BARABOO ATTRACTION

WI DELLS/BARABOO ATTRACTION

WI DELLS/BARABOO ATTRACTION

CIRCUS WORLD

DELLS BOAT TOURS

INTERNATIONAL CRANE FOUNDATION

ORIGINAL WISCONSIN DUCKS, INC.

608-356-9462 naturalists@savingcranes.org www.savingcranes.org

608-254-8751 mail@wisconsinducktours.com www.wisconsinducktours.com

WISCONSIN DELLS/BARABOO LODGING

Stevens Point Marshfield, Stevens Point, and Wisconsin Rapids are located along Interstate 39 in the center of Wisconsin. We offer a casino stop, locally sourced dining options and brewery/winery/distillery tours.

Baraboo Explore Wisconsin’s circus heritage on the National Historic Site of the original winter home of the Ringling Bros. Circus Tour. Walk through buildings filled with exhibits highlighting America’s most popular entertainment for over 50 years.

Wisconsin Dells Experience the fascinating history of the Wisconsin Dells on one of our boat tours. Encounter towering sandstone cliffs, narrow gorges and amazing rock formations carved into fantastic shapes by wind, water and time.

Plover Learn. Play. Explore. Discover. Learners of all ages are invited to visit the exploration center. Come and see the incredible technology and sustainable practices used in modern production agriculture.

Baraboo Visit Cranes of the World at the International Crane Foundation in Baraboo, Wisconsin, the only place on the planet to see 15 species of cranes. Enjoy hiking trails and an all-new expanded gift shop.

DEB MCCARTHY • 608-356-8341 deb.mccarthy@ wisconsinhistory.org www.circusworldbaraboo.org

ADITI RABSKA 608-254-8555 groups@dellsboats.com www.dellsboats.com

WISCONSIN DELLS/BARABOO DMO

WISCONSIN DELLS/BARABOO DMO

WISCONSIN DELLS/BARABOO FESTIVAL

BARABOO AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

WISCONSIN DELLS VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU

BARABOO’S BIG TOP PARADE

Wisconsin Dells Wisconsin Dells bus tours are as popular as ever. So if you’re looking for a compelling combination of historic, modern, delicious and entertaining, then hop on the bus marked Wisconsin Dells.

Baraboo Each summer the Ringling Brothers' hometown celebrates their legacy with a circus parade through the streets of downtown Baraboo. Join us Saturday, June 8 for the 11 a.m. parade and a weekend full of circusthemed fun.

BEN BROMLEY • 608-356-8333 memberrelations@ baraboochamber.com www.baraboo.com

VICKY GALITZ 608-254-8088 EXT 345 sales@wisdells.com www.gatherinthedells.com

BEN BROMLEY • 608-356-8333 memberrelations@ baraboochamber.com www.baraboo.com

Baraboo Baraboo features Wisconsin's most popular state park (Devil's Lake), a circus museum located on grounds developed by the Ringling Brothers and a Rockwellian downtown square dotted with specialty shops.

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Plover Come over to Plover and experience something new with your group! Plover has unique outdoor experiences, wonderful dining options and exciting opportunities for exploration.

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

Wausau Wausau welcomes groups to experience the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Museum, explore the Andrew Warren Historic District, stop at the 45 X 90 Marker, tour a ginseng farm and more.

Wisconsin Dells The original land and water adventure. For over 70 years these reliable, amphibious vehicles have provided groups with the ideal way to experience all the scenic Dells' natural wonders.

AMERICINN LODGE & SUITES

Wisconsin Dells Located just off interstate 90/94, exit 87, we are located in the heart of Wisconsin Dells. Very motorcoachfriendly, offering 24-hour coffee, accessible rooms and baggage handling. Free hot homestyle breakfast. ANN KAMINSKI 608-254-1700 ann@americinndells.com www.americinndells.com

www.circlewisconsin.com


WISCONSIN DELLS/BARABOO LODGING

CIRCLE WISCONSIN

Plan your next Great Lakes adventure with us! We’re the ultimate itinerary resource, and we guarantee a unique & fun experience. Join us for Midwest Marketplace 2024 KALAHARI RESORTS Wisconsin Dells Kalahari Resorts offers a premier destination in Wisconsin for groups and tours of any size. Kalahari has everything you need – first-class service, 1,000 guest rooms, premium dining, customizable meeting spaces, spa treatments, Wisconsin’s largest indoor waterpark, and much more! KORTNEE CARROLL • 608-254-5530 kocarroll@kalahariresorts.com www.kalaharimeetings.com

Contact Wendy Dobrzynski • 414-545-1100 • wendy@circlewisconsin.com

Discover

Cranes of the World at the

International Crane Foundation

WISCONSIN DELLS/BARABOO THEATRE

AL. RINGLING THEATRE

Baraboo America's Prettiest Playhouse built in 1915. The Al. Ringling Theatre is a treasure of rare quality. Magnificent and richly designed in the style of grand French opera houses, it’s a masterpiece of European architecture. Come hear the story of its design, creation, renovation, and the man who built it.

CHARLENE FLYGT • 608-356-8864 CharleneFlygt.art@gmail.com www.alringling.org

WISCONSIN DELLS/BARABOO THEATRE

Our work is about life on earth—and a healthy, more liveable planet for all.

• ADA Accessible • Paved Paths • World-Class Gift Shop • Beautiful Photo Opportunities

LEGACY DINNER THEATER Wisconsin Dells Legacy Dinner Theater stands out as a premier entertainment destination with a diverse array of shows catering to various tastes. The theater offers a revolving lineup that ensures there’s always something for everyone. Guests can indulge in great drinks, savor delicious food, and be captivated by amazing shows. LESLIE THOMAS • 608-432-7469 Groups@LegacyEntertainmentGroup.com www.legacydinnertheater.com/group-sales

www.circlewisconsin.com

Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 1 to October 31 E11376 Shady Lane Rd Baraboo, WI 53913 www.savingcranes.org

CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

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Wisconsin State-Wide Members ■ ATTRACTIONS

■ CHARTER/RECEPTIVE ■ CASINO

ATTRACTION

■ DMOs

■ FESTIVALS

■ LODGING

CHARTER/RECEPTIVE

■ SHOPPING

■ THEATRES

CHARTER/RECEPTIVE

WISCONSIN HISTORICAL SOCIETY

BADGER BUS

BRILLIANT EDVENTURES

JEANNINE SHERMAN • 608-263-2377 jeannine.sherman@wisconsinhistory.org www.wisconsinhistory.org

CORY MACE • 608-310-4874 corym@badgerbus.com www.badgerbus.com

ELAINE MOULDER • 912.434.3088 x2 elaine@brilliantedventures.com www.brilliantedventures.com

As one of the nation’s oldest, largest and most active state historical societies, we understand the power history has to enrich and transform lives. Tour our historic sites and museums, discover our world-class collections, explore our extensive genealogical archives, programs and exhibits, and so much more. Start your journey today!

CHARTER/RECEPTIVE

Badger Bus is a family owned and operated company that was founded in 1920 and has offered outstanding sales and services ever since. As a motorcoach operator, we can help with all of your transportation and travel needs and will find the right vehicle for you to journey in comfort.

CHARTER/RECEPTIVE

Let Brilliant Edventures whip up custom tour programs, equip you with marketing essentials, take care of all the details, and be at your service 24/7!

CHARTER/RECEPTIVE

HAPPY TIMES TOURS & EXPERIENCES

LAMERS BUS LINES

PERSONALIZED TOURS & COACHES INC.

KRIS HOFF • 414-867-2727 info@happytimestours.com www.happytimestours.com

WANDA NEUMAN • 920-496-3600 wandan@golamers.com www.golamers.com

TRACY SCHUELLER • 920-528-7600 tracy@gopersonalized.com www.gopersonalized.com

We have over 25 years of tour experience and are leaders in providing exclusive group tour experiences. Our most popular trip is a Laverne & Shirley themed trip of Milwaukee. Our tours will always be fun, creative, unique and provide local experiences. We customize to meet your group's needs.

With their fleet of motorcoaches, mini coaches, school buses, limo coaches and trolleys, Lamers Bus Lines plans and provides memorable travel experiences for groups of all sizes. Lamers has been your trusted passenger professionals for more than 80 years. Hop on board knowing you're riding in a safe and clean vehicle.

Personalized Tours creates unparalleled travel experiences both in Wisconsin and beyond. Whether you're planning a one-day or an extended adventure, our team will work closely with you to curate an itinerary that perfectly matches your preferences and interests. We also can provide deluxe motorcoach charters, ensuring that your group travels in comfort and style.

CHARTER/RECEPTIVE Northern lights over the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center in Ashland

TOUR THE GREAT LAKES

Receptive tour operator offering group tour itineraries in 25 port cities on the Great Lakes including Door County, Apostle Islands region, Mackinac Island, Chicago, Cleveland and Detroit. Themed itineraries, step-on guides and Circle the Lake multi-day trips.

THERESA NEMETZ • 262-853-5239 theresa@tourthegreatlakes.com www.tourthegreatlakes.com

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CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

www.circlewisconsin.com


EXPERIENCE A MILWAUKEE ICON TOURS • SHOPPING • DINING

With over 15 years as one of Milwaukee’s top tourist destinations, the H-D MuseumTM campus offers premium retail shopping, an array of interactive exhibits, unique riverfront dining at MOTOR® Bar and Restaurant and a calendar full of events. Now is the time to plan your epic adventure.

Scan for the latest Offers & Promotions

©2024 H-D or affiliates. HARLEY-DAVIDSON, HARLEY, H-D, and the Bar and Shield Logo are among the trademarks of Harley-Davidson Motor Company


Thank You to our Advertising Partners Apple Holler, Sturtevant................................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Baraboo Chamber, Baraboo........................................................................................................................................................................... 61 Central Wisconsin Tourism Association, Stevens Point........................................................................................................................... 11 Circus World, Baraboo.................................................................................................................................................................................... 59 Dancing Horses Theatre, Delavan................................................................................................................................................................ 22 Destination Door County, Sturgeon Bay.................................................................................................................................................... 44 Destination Lake Winnebago, Fond du Lac.................................................................................................................................................. 2 Discover Green Bay, Green Bay.................................................................................................................................................................... 68 Fox Cities CVB, Greater Appleton................................................................................................................................................................ 39 Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee......................................................................................................................................................... 65 International Crane Foundation, Baraboo................................................................................................................................................... 63 Janesville Area CVB, Janesville....................................................................................................................................................................... 52 John Michael Kohler Arts Center, Sheboygan............................................................................................................................................ 23 Kenosha Area CVB, Kenosha......................................................................................................................................................................... 28 Lake Geneva Cruise Line, Lake Geneva....................................................................................................................................................... 45 Making Spirits Bright, Sheboygan.................................................................................................................................................................. 25 Marcus Performing Arts Center, Milwaukee.............................................................................................................................................. 31 Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee.................................................................................................................................................................... 67 Milwaukee County Zoo, Milwaukee............................................................................................................................................................ 41 National Railroad Museum, Ashwaubenon.................................................................................................................................................. 41 Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center................................................................................................................................................... 58 Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, Green Bay.................................................................................................................................................... 32 Oshkosh CVB, Oshkosh.................................................................................................................................................................................. 29 Radisson Hotel & Conference Center, Green Bay.................................................................................................................................... 41 Taliesin, Spring Green.................................................................................................................................................................................. 5, 39 Visit Beloit, Beloit............................................................................................................................................................................................. 47 Visit Middleton, Middleton.............................................................................................................................................................................. 48 Visit Sheboygan, Sheboygan..................................................................................................................................................................... 34, 35 Wisconsin Historical Society........................................................................................................................................................................ 49 Wisconsin Maritime Museum, Manitowoc.................................................................................................................................................. 27

Circle Wisconsin 2024 Tour Planner Editorial & Advertising Office Premier Travel Media 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 advertising@ptmgroups.com

Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk jeff@ptmgroups.com

Senior Editor – Randy Mink randy@ptmgroups.com

Chief Editor – Jason Paha jason@ptmgroups.com

Director, Design & Production – Lisa Hede lisa@ptmgroups.com

Production Coordinator – Kelsey Ledford kelsey@ptmgroups.com

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Published in Partnership with Circle Wisconsin P.O. Box 20750, Milwaukee, WI 53220 Phone: 414.545.1100

Executive Director – Wendy Dobrzynski wendy@circlewisconsin.com

The publisher accepts unsolicited editorial matter, as well as advertising, but assumes no responsibility for statements made by advertisers or contributors. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, but the publisher makes no warranty that listings are free of error. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited photos, slides or manuscripts.

Circle Wisconsin Tour Planner is published by Premier Travel Media, 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406, Willowbrook, IL 60527. The magazine is distributed free of charge to qualified tour operators, travel agents, group leaders, bank travel clubs and other travel organizations.

Send Address Change to: Premier Travel Media 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527

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publication

All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher. CIRCLE WISCONSIN 2024 TOUR PLANNER

www.circlewisconsin.com




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