The Great River Road

La Crosse, WI, Red Wing, MN, Pepin and Stockholm, WI
 

Join us for a 2-day all-inclusive adventure along Wisconsin's Great River Road on July 9-10, 2025. Enjoy breathtaking views and historical landmarks, including lunch at the Historic Charmant Hotel in La Crosse and a visit to the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum in Pepin. Stay at the historic St. James Hotel in Red Wing, MN, and have dinner aboard the Spirit of the Water riverboat with stunning Mississippi River views.

On Day 2, start with Tai Chi, explore the Red Wing Shoe Company Museum, and enjoy free time in downtown Red Wing. Visit Stockholm, WI, for award-winning pie, explore the Stockholm Museum and local artisan shops, then head to Lavender Bluff Farm. Finally, savor a farewell dinner at Humble Moon before returning to our pick-up stops.

Stair climbing, above average walking, getting on and off the bus many times during the day, uneven surfaces and standing in one place, historic building, outdoor grassy surfaces.
 

Venues on the tour are subject to change.

TRIP PRICE & INCLUSIONS

All-Inclusive
$799 Per Person Double Occupancy
$899 Single
Deposit of $400 at the time of sign-up
Balance due by June 9, 2025. 
No refunds after June 9, 2025.

Be prepared to register for trip insurance - only available at the time of the trip sign up. 

For more information or to sign up for the trip, and payment, call Lori at (414) 477-0155.

Morning:

 7:30 AM- Departure from Watertown Plank Park and Ride, with an additional pick-up in Pewaukee. 

The adventure kicks off as we travel along the scenic Great River Road, renowned for its breathtaking views and historical significance.

Created in 1938 from a network of federal, state, and local roads, the Great River Road forms a single route along the Mississippi River from head to toe. Under the tutelage of Albert Greensfelder, the road was created to serve the exploding
number of automobiles in the 1930s. It extends over 3,000 miles but, we are only traveling the most northern portion. It’s been referred to as the most beautiful drive in Wisconsin.

Afternoon:

Lunch at the iconic Historic Charmant Hotel in La Crosse, Wisconsin (I). Enjoy a delicious meal in this beautiful setting before we step back in time.

After lunch, visit the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum in Pepin, Wisconsin (I). Discover the early life and inspirations of the beloved author of Little House on the Prairie, and gain unique insights into her journey.

Travel to Red Wing, MN where we check into the historic St. James Hotel (I), a marvel since 1875. Experience its charming Italianate architecture and elegant decor, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

Listed as an award winner by Historic Hotels of America. The St. James Hotel opened on Thanksgiving Day, 1875, after a group of 11 civic-minded businessmen recognized the need for a first-class lodging establishment in Red Wing, which was the wheat-trading center of the world at that time.

Evening

Enjoy dinner on the Spirit of the Water riverboat (I). Take in stunning views of the Mighty Mississippi while savoring a delightful meal aboard this relaxing cruise.
 

After dinner, we return to the St. James Hotel to unwind for the evening.

Morning:
Begin the morning with a hearty breakfast (I) at the St. James Hotel, fueling up for another exciting day.

9:00 AM - Meet at the nearby park for a rejuvenating Tai Chi session (I), connecting
with nature and embracing peaceful energy.

After the session, visit The Red Wing Shoe Company Museum (I) and explore the
history behind this iconic brand known for durability and craftsmanship—find out
what’s it all a-boot!

Enjoy leisure time in downtown Red Wing. Within a one to three block walk, there is a plethora of shops and museums to choose from. Visit Duluth Trading Company, Red Wing Shoes, The Pottery Museum and Store, The Aliveo Military Museum, The Goodhue County Historical Society, The Uffda Shop (admissions, if needed, are extra).

10:50 AM - Depart Red Wing and head to the quaint village of Stockholm, WI.

Afternoon: 
Lunch at the Stockholm Pie Company and General Store, renowned for serving up “the best pie in the United States.” Voted the best pie in the United States, this 400 square foot restaurant will serve as many as 1,000 people in a weekend. 

The attraction is the secret pie crust. Discover why this small eatery is a beloved stop along the Great River Road.

Stockholm WI is an artisan hub and includes several great eateries. Steeped in its Swedish roots, you will discover a small village with a big culture. Although the village is home to 82 people, many artists and craftsmen have been drawn here making Stockholm a haven of handcrafted and homemade goods.

3:00 PM - Head to visit Lavender Bluff Farm (I), where you'll experience the soothing properties of lavender and other locally sourced goods. Discover a variety of handcrafted items perfect for home and wellness.

Evening: 
Enjoy a delicious dinner at Humble Moon (I). As the day draws to a close, we head back to our original pick-up points, filled with new memories, delightful experiences, and a deeper appreciation for the unique beauty of the Great River Road.
 

Create lasting memories!

*(I) Included Meal or Activity