Discover the diverse cultures, landscapes, and attractions of the upper Midwest - from the pristine shores of Lake Superior to America’s Cranberry Capital, from the Northwoods to the Apostle Islands. You’ll discover the agricultural bounty of Northern Wisconsin and Minnesota while experiencing the warm spirit of folks who call this region home.
- Spend the day on Madeline Island
- See America’s Cranberry Capital
- Tour Split Rock Lighthouse and Glensheen Mansion
- Visit the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame
- Guided tour of Stillwater, MN
DAY 1—WELCOME TO MINNEAPOLIS!
Today meet your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner in the renowned “City of Lakes.” If you choose to arrive early you can take the hotel’s complimentary shuttle to the famous Mall of America located right across the street. D
DAY 2—STILLWATER/INTERSTATE STATE PARK/GLENSHEEN MANSION
Start your exciting day with a guided tour of historic Stillwater as we learn the history and enjoy the charm of this fascinating town on the banks of the St. Croix River. We’ll follow the St. Croix River north and visit Interstate State Park where you’ll see a deep gorge with glacial potholes and other unique rock formations. After lunch, we tour the amazing 39 room Glensheen Mansion on the shores of Lake Superior before settling in for two nights in Duluth. B, L
DAY 3—LUTSEN GONDOLA/SPLIT ROCK LIGHTHOUSE/LAKE SUPERIOR
RAILROAD MUSEUM
This morning, take a thrilling ride on the Midwest’s only mountain gondola. Enjoy the panoramic view as you glide over the Poplar River valley to the top of Moose Mountain, weather permitting. We’ll have a delicious lunch in Lutsen before heading to Two Harbors where you’ll see the nostalgic Split Rock Lighthouse, restored to its 1920s grandeur. This afternoon it’s “all aboard” at the Lake Superior Railroad Museum! Housed in the restored Duluth Union Depot, you’ll be able to walk around and sit in unique trains. B, L
DAY 4—MADELINE ISLAND/BAYFIELD
Long-lasting memories are in store in beautiful Bayfield where you’ll board the Madeline Island Ferry. Sail over to Madeline Island to see views of the 22 Apostle Islands. With a local guide, we’ll tour the Madeline Island Museum, historic Catholic Mission Cemetery, and Woods Hall craft shop. You’ll also have a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before some time perusing the unique shops on the island. Tonight, we will overnight in Hayward, host of the Lumberjack World Championships. B, L, D
DAY 5—FRESHWATER FISHING HALL OF FAME/LEINENKUGEL
Fishing fans are in for a treat at the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame in Hayward. It boasts massive collections of world-record mounted freshwater fish and lures, plus classic fishing boats. Next “on tap” is Leinenkugel Brewery in Chippewa Falls where we’ll see firsthand how award-winning beers are made in this old-world Germanic brewery. Tonight, settle into your hotel in Eau Claire. B, L
DAY 6—AMERICA’S CRANBERRY CAPITAL
This morning it’s off to Warrens America’s Cranberry Capital. After lunch, we’ll visit a Cranberry bog where you will learn how cranberries are grown and harvested. Then we will stop at the Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center, taste some cranberry products, and learn what makes Wisconsin the nation’s leading cranberry producer. Tonight, we will have a delicious farewell dinner in Onalaska. B, L, D
DAY 7—LARK TOYS/NATIONAL EAGLE CENTER/HOME
Today journey back to your childhood at LARK toys for a visit. Next, we will head north along the Mississippi River and meet some magnificent birds at the National Eagle Center. Here you can get up close with these beautiful creatures and learn all there is to know about both Bald Eagles and Golden Eagles from an expert. After lunch we return to Minneapolis with fond northern memories! B, L
Quality Accommodations
Night 1: Courtyard Marriott, Bloomington
Nights 2-3: Inn on Lake Superior, Duluth
Night 4: Flat Creek Inn, Hayward
Night 5: Fairfield Inn, Eau Claire
Night 6: Stoney Creek Inn, Onalaska
Dates:
Jul 16-22, 2023
Sep 10-16, 2023
Price Per Person:
Double $2,277
Single $2,855
Pre-/Post Tour Hotel:
$148/night
Depart/Return:
Minneapolis, MN
Inclusions:
Free airport shuttle or hotel parking
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling of one suitcase per person at hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, Courtyard Marriott Bloomington, starting at 6:30 pm. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive by 4:00 pm. If you choose to arrive early, you can take the hotel’s complimentary shuttle to the famous Mall of America located right across the street.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport any time after 5:00 pm on Day 7.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our starting hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to/from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport. If you are driving to the starting location, they also offer complimentary parking for the duration of the tour.
Walking Distance
Moderate walking is required to fully enjoy this tour. Some walking will also be on uneven paths. While walking canes are allowed, we are unable to accommodate travelers using other mobility devices, including walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
July, August and September – high of 85°, low of 65°
Time Zone
Central
Hotel Amenities
Each hotel has a hair dryer, iron, ironing boards, swimming pool and Wi-Fi.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on tour is casual. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, visors, and comfortable walking shoes will add to your enjoyment of this tour.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
