Parke County Covered Bridge Festival 70th Anniversary

DAY 1: FALL FOLIAGE AT MORTON ARBORETUM

Begin your autumn getaway with a welcome breakfast in Milwaukee, where you’ll meet your fellow travelers before heading to The Morton Arboretum. Board the Acorn Express Tram for a narrated ride through colorful woodlands and seasonal displays dressed in peak fall color. Later, continue into Indiana for a delicious group dinner before arriving in Terre Haute, your home for the next two nights. B, D

DAY 2: INDIANA’S BELOVED PARKE COUNTY COVERED BRIDGE FESTIVAL

Today, experience the charm and traditions of the 70th anniversary Parke County Covered Bridge Festival, one of Indiana’s most treasured fall celebrations. Start your day at historic Billie Creek Village, where pioneer-era buildings, artisan demonstrations, a classic general store, and festive autumn décor bring Indiana’s past to life. Then continue to the town of Rockville, transformed during the festival into a lively gathering filled with craft vendors, antiques, homemade treats, live entertainment, and warm hospitality. Enjoy time to browse the festival booths and purchase lunch from local food vendors. Be sure to try fresh apple cider pressed on an 1870s hand-cranked press and the famous homemade pumpkin ice cream. Later, set out on a guided tour through the “Covered Bridge Capital of the World” to learn about the area’s rich history and visit several of Parke County’s 31 historic covered bridges surrounded by brilliant autumn color. Return to Terre Haute this evening with wonderful memories of Indiana’s treasured fall festival. B

DAY 3: COVERED BRIDGES, MAPLE SYRUP, AND GLOWING PUMPKIN PATHS

This morning, continue your Parke County Covered Bridge Festival experience with a visit to the village of Bridgeton. Browse unique shops and festival vendors, sample local favorites, and explore the historic Bridgeton Grist Mill, producing stone-ground products since 1823. Nearby, you’ll find “Indiana’s Most Famous Covered Bridge,” a picturesque landmark that perfectly captures the spirit of the season. This afternoon, continue to Harris Sugar Bush for a sweet look at the maple syrup-making process. Tonight, experience the magic of Harvest Nights at Newfields, where glowing pumpkins, illuminated pathways, seasonal displays, and twinkling lights create a festive autumn evening. B, D

DAY 4: FALL AT THE FARM

Before returning home, enjoy one last taste of Indiana’s hospitality with a visit to Fair Oaks Farms, one of the Midwest’s premier agricultural destinations. During the Dairy Adventure tour, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at life on a working dairy farm. Enjoy free time to explore the grounds, browse the shop, sample farm-fresh cheese, learn more about modern farming or even grab a scoop of Fair Oaks’ famous homemade ice cream. After a delicious lunch, begin your journey home with memories of covered bridges, countryside landscapes, and cherished autumn traditions. B, L

QUALITY ACCOMODATIONS

Nights 1-2: Drury Inn and Suites, Terre Haute, IN
Night 3: Courtyard by Marriott at the Capitol, Indianapolis, IN

Dates:

Oct 9-12, 2027

Price Per Person:

Double: $1,497
Single: $1,745

Pre/Post Tour Hotel:

$158 per night

Depart/Return:

Milwaukee, WI

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 at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service

Arrival Time

Our Welcome Breakfast on Day 1 is at our hotel, Hampton Inn Milwaukee/Franklin, from 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. We recommend arriving by 6:30 a.m. if you are flying into Milwaukee.

Departure Time

Schedule your flight home to depart the Milwaukee Airport any time after 7:00 p.m. on Day 4.

Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking

Our starting hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to/from the Milwaukee Airport. If you are driving to the starting location, they also offer complimentary parking for the duration of the tour.

Walking Distance

To fully enjoy your vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace up to a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, please know you may be expected to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law requires mandatory motorcoach driver breaks.

Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.

Average Temps

October – high of 72° F, low of 50° F

Time Zone

Eastern

Hotel Amenities

Most accommodations arranged by Country Travel Discoveries are equipped with in-room amenities such as a hair dryer, iron, and coffee maker. In addition, some properties may also have a pool, fitness center, or laundry facilities.

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, view Travel Protection Information.