Embark on a 5-day, 4-night journey into history, nature, and Shaker culture! From the scenic Spring Mill State Park to the historic Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, discover fascinating heritage sites, enjoy guided tours, and participate in unique activities like carriage rides and lotion making. Relax with delicious meals, music on the lawn, and charming accommodations. Don’t miss this enriching adventure!

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

Day 1 – September 11

• Depart from Watertown Plank Park and Ride, with optional pick-ups at the Racine Visitor Center and The Brat Stop.
• Enjoy a scenic travel day with an included lunch (I) in route.
• Arrive in Mitchell, Indiana, and check in to the charming, newly renovated Spring Mill Inn after a hearty dinner (I).
• Relax for the evening in this historic setting, nestled within the beautiful Spring Mill State Park.

Spring Mill State Park offers a powerful illustration of the link between the natural and cultural worlds. The water flowing from several cave springs led to the founding of an industrial village in the early 1800s. Pioneer entrepreneurs took advantage of a constant water source that never froze, using it to power several gristmills, a wool mill, a sawmill, and a distillery. In turn, pioneer settlers shaped the landscape around the village, clearing land for agriculture and timber.    

Between this evening and tomorrow morning, we will explore this story in the park’s interpretive facilities—the Pioneer Village, Gus GrissomMemorial, and Twin Caves Boat Tour (as available, not ADA).    

Day 2 – September 12

• Start the day with a delicious breakfast at the Inn (I).
• Continue to explore the Spring Mill Park attractions.
• At 11 am we check out and enjoy lunch (I) along the way. Continue travel to Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill in Harrodsburg, KY.

Upon arrival we soak up the history and culture of the Shaker community.  There is a plethora of things to do here! Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is home to 34 original Shaker structures. Among these buildings you will find more than 30,000 sq. ft. of indoor museum exhibitions, as well as a variety of educational opportunities along outdoor pathways and trails.  You will relax to music at night. All tours such as architecture, rock fence, summer tasting out of the garden and many exhibits await you and are included.

• Settle into the quaint East Family Dwelling House, decorated with Shaker-style furniture and offering stunning views of the countryside.
• Indulge in a specially prepared dinner (I) for the group, followed by an enchanting Music on the Lawn performance to wind down your day.

Day 3 – September 13

• Enjoy a traditional Shaker breakfast (I) before immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Pleasant Hill.

You have the entire day to do what interests you most as well as some very interesting, planned activities. After breakfast there will be a guided tour to acquaint you with the grounds and gardens including the history of the village. There is a public music program which you can participate in. The music program includes a demonstration of the Shaker style worship from which the name Shaker came. This program is a visitor favorite.

• Take a guided tour of the village, stroll the gardens, and learn about the unique architecture and way of life.
• Participate in a lively public music program, where you’ll experience Shaker worship and music firsthand.
• After lunch (I), enjoy free time to explore, followed by a carriage ride (I) through the village and a lotion-making class (I) with healing herbs, creating a keepsake to take home.
• Evening: Savor another delicious dinner (I), then relax to Music on the Lawn under the stars.

Day 4 – September 14

• Start the day with a Shaker breakfast (I), then have free time to revisit your favorite spots or explore new ones in the village.
• After lunch (I), board the bus for Nashville, Indiana, where you’ll check in at the historic Story Inn, a charming bed and breakfast dating back to 1851. This isn’t just any inn, it’s a small town, established in 1851, turned bed and breakfast and it’s ours for the night. 
• Enjoy a dinner (I) made with locally sourced ingredients grown on the property, prepared by the inn’s talented chef.

Day 5 – September 15

• Enjoy a light continental breakfast (I) in your room at the inn before exploring the quaint shops and galleries in downtown Nashville, IN.
• After some free time for shopping and a light lunch on your own, we’ll begin the journey back to our original points, with dinner (I) along the way.

*(I) Included Meal or Activity

Join us on a 5-day, 4-night adventure through history, nature, and culture! Visit the Shaker Village, explore Spring Mill State Park, and experience charming towns like Nashville, IN. Enjoy delicious meals, fun activities, and unforgettable memories.

There are no elevators in any of the hotels. You may have to walk up many flights. We will do our best to accommodate. 

There is a way above average amount of walking. These are buildings from the early 1800s and are not ADA compliant.

Venues on the tour are subject to change.

Includes Bus, Hotels, 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 5 Dinners, All Admissions and Activities.

$2,559 Person Double Occupancy 

$2,999 Per Person Single Occupancy

$400 Deposit Will Hold Your Place

Balance Due August 11, 2025

No refunds after August 11, 2025

Be prepared to register for trip insurance at the time of the trip sign up. You will be asked your date of birth. Trip insurance is available only at the time you book the trip.