Day 1 : Arrive in Minneapolis

Upon arriving in Minneapolis, we settle into our comfortable hotel for the night.

Day 2 : The Great River Road

We begin our adventure with a drive on the Great River Road, following the curves of the mighty Mississippi River. Take in the natural beauty of lush valleys, towering bluffs, charming river towns, and bald eagles soaring overhead as we make our way to the Freedom Park Great River Road Visitor Center. Located on the confluence of the Mississippi and St. Croix Rivers, this picturesque stop offers insight into the region’s ecosystems and culture. Afterwards, we travel to Red Wing Shoe Store and Museum to learn about their handcrafted leather boots, then view souvenirs, the world’s largest boot, and exhibits. Our vistas of the Mississippi along this National Scenic Byway continue during our journey to Villa Bellezza Winery and Vineyards in Pepin, Wisconsin. Feel transported to Italy’s stunning countryside during our Welcome Lunch and tasting of internationally award-winning wine! We then visit the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, the “Eagle Capital of America.” Tonight, we check in to our accommodations in the riverside city of La Crosse and have dinner together.

Day 3 : Cranberries & Cows

Our day in the Dairy State kicks off in Warrens, home to the world’s largest cranberry festival. Enjoy a visit to Discover Cranberries, where we learn about the fruit’s life cycle from seed to harvest and spend time browsing unique products in the gift shop, such as cranberry wine and ice cream. Later, we arrive in Marshfield for lunch at leisure before touring local dairy businesses operated by the Heiman family. Go behind the scenes at Heiman Holsteins farm to hear how their innovative rotary parlor and labor-saving robot improves their milking process, then see products of the milk at Weber’s Farm Store and award-winning Nasonville Dairy. A short drive to Plover brings us to our next destination, Food + Farm Exploration Center. Browse fun, hands-on exhibits that showcase the incredible technology used in modern production agriculture and reveal where your food comes from. This evening, we check in to our nearby Stevens Point hotel and have dinner at a traditional Midwest supper club.

Day 4 : Dairy Delights

This morning, we travel to Wisconsin’s largest automated dairy operation, Miltrim Farms in Athens. Learn how this fourth-generation farm focuses on providing exceptional cow care, hear about the owner’s vision of sustainability, and witness the impressive milking system in action! Enjoy a privately catered lunch in their Milk Haus before our journey continues to Marieke Gouda in Thorp. We explore the farm and milking parlor, then see the traditional Dutch cheesemaking process with raw milk in the creamery and aging room. Afterwards, take time to shop for wine, cheese, and imported Dutch goods. Later, we arrive in Holiday Vacations’ home city of Eau Claire, nestled along the Chippewa River, and settle in for a two-night stay.

Day 5 : Chippewa River Trolley & Leinenkugel’s

Our exploration of Eau Claire begins with a unique trolley tour to see historic and beautiful sites as we travel along rail bridges, through lush forests, and down city streets. There’s also time for you to stroll the downtown area, take in serene views of the river, browse some of the quaint shops, and grab a bite to eat. Later, become immersed in 156 years of brewing history during our tour at family-owned Leinenkugel’s in Chippewa Falls. Browse vintage artifacts and hear about their award-winning beer, then head over to the Leinie Lodge for a sampling and time to shop.

Day 6 : Angus Ranch & Alpacas

We travel to Rooney Angus Ranch in Chippewa Falls for a tour of their family-owned farm today, followed by visiting friendly animals at Justorian Alpacas in Osseo. Hear how this charming hobby farm raises Suri alpacas and witness the distinct personality of each one! Afterwards, savor a taste of “grandma’s cooking” with a perfect blend of Norwegian and American traditions at Norske Nook Restaurant, complete with a slice of award-winning pie. We return to Minneapolis this evening and check in to our hotel before celebrating our adventure with a Farewell Dinner.

Day 7 : Fly Home

After breakfast, we say our goodbyes and return home with fond memories of our enriching agricultural experiences in the Upper Midwest.