Minnesota / Wisconsin Travel & Recreation by Rite-Way Publishing, Inc.

Minnesota Wisconsin Travel-Recreation.com

Door County, Wisconsin: Your Stories. Our Setting. Like Nowhere Else.

2012 2013

1. Albert Lea / Austin KOA

84259 County Rd. 46 • Hayward, MN 56043 April 15 - October 15 www.koa.com • rhulett50@hotmail.com

(507) 373-5170

Welcome to our Classic KOA Kamp! Two new Park Model Lodges can sleep up to 6 - bring your linens for a peaceful stay that is far better than a motel room. Near the Worlds Famous SPAM Museum, Mall of America, Diamond Jo Casino, Winnebago Industries, Cabela’s Outdoors along with many local eateries. Your kids will love our massive swimming pool (11’ deep end), our kiddie pool and our game room while you relax in our peaceful kamp. Our weekend activities include indoor/outdoor movie nights, arts and crafts, and scavenger hunts. Come see us! I-90 Exit 166, then right 0.5 mile. From I-35, take Exit 11 east 7 miles. Entrance on right.

2. Bemidji KOA

510 Brightstar Rd. N.W. • Bemidji, MN 56601 May 1 - October 1 www.bemidjikoa.com • kamp@bemidjikoa.com

Traveling Safety Tips • Whether you’re going 50 miles or 5,000 miles, always leave an itinerary with someone you know well and trust. • If you are traveling by car or RV, always service / inspect your vehicle or have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. Don’t get stuck needing repairs or maintenance while on the road. At a minimum this inspection should include: • Engine fluids • Overall running and operational condition • Transmission and drive train operation and fluid levels • Tire tread, wear, and air pressure, don’t forget the spare • Lights and signals • Horn • Windshield wipers • Glass and mirrors • Take a list of any medications you are taking, and your physicians contact information. • Don’t forget allergy medications, and if you wear medical bracelets or necklaces, put them on. • Cell phone and charger. • Phone number list or phone book. • Always have a roadside emergency kit in your vehicle when traveling. At a minimum this should include: • Flashlight • Basic tools • Jumper cables • High-visibility vest • Tire chains in the winter • Reflective triangles or flares (Flares can be dangerous, and cause fires) • Gloves • Blanket • Always carry a First Aid Kit. • Carry a 2 ½ lb. or larger fire extinguisher (ABC Classification) and know how to use it. • Your clothing should be appropriate for the weather conditions. If you’re traveling in adverse weather conditions, be prepared for the worst case scenario. • Have a detailed map. • Travel with your lights on. • Always wear your safety restraints, and make sure your passengers do as well. If you should breakdown • Get off the road, as far as the road’s edge and safety permits. • Turn on your four-way flashers. • It’s usually safest to remain in your vehicle. If you must get out, stay back, away from the shoulder of the road and the traffic. • Wear your high-visibility vest when changing tires, and have a flashlight on to make you more visible at night. • Put out the reflective triangle. Have a safe trip! ~ Safejary www.worksafetyservices.com

(218) 444-7562 • (800) 562-1742

Acres of pristine forests and 60 shimmering lakes within 15 miles make the Bemidji area a woods, water and wildlife oasis. The legendary Mississippi River starts as a creek you can step across in nearby Itasca State Park. Neighboring Lake Bemidji is a favorite spot for water-sport enthusiasts and anglers looking for walleye and perch. Soaring bald eagles with 6-foot wingspans thrill hikers in the Chippewa National Forest. Evening movies, fun-bike rentals, hot dog roasts, mini golf and the heated pool keep campers busy at this KOA. Catch a ride on an antique fire engine or enjoy a magical starry night and campfire. A free continental breakfast is offered Monday through Saturday. Start your Sunday at the pancake breakfast and wind down at the evening ice cream social. 1 Mile West of Bemidji, North Side of Hwy. 2 Between Mile Markers 109 & 110

3. Hayward KOA

11544 N. U.S. Hwy. 63 • Hayward, WI 54843 May 6 - October 9 • www.haywardcamping.com haywardkoa@yahoo.com

(715) 634-2331 • Res. (800) 562-7631

See why families say the Hayward KOA is one of the best campgrounds they’ve ever been to! Enjoy the best in Wisconsin camping with a big list of activities and fun things for all ages. We have great spaces for RV and tent campers, as well as those wanting some “cabin time.” In addition to our one and two-room Cabins, we now have Lodges! Our two-bedroom lodges sleep 6 and come complete with living room, kitchenette and bathroom. Our Luxury Lodge sleeps 8 and has a full kitchen, full bathroom, and two lofts. One of the best ways to see Wisconsin’s Northwoods is by canoeing or tubing along the pristine Namekagon River, part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. We’ll even drive you to your starting point! Our KOA is close to golf courses, hiking, ATV and mountain-biking trails and lakes with great fishing. Just 3 miles north of Hayward on Highway 63

MINNESOTA

Minnesota Wisconsin Travel-Recreation.com

Minnesota / Wisconsin Travel & Recreation Directory is published annually and distributed through hotels, restaurants, advertisers, mail requests, chambers of commerce and tourist information centers. For advertising rates, contact: Minnesota / Wisconsin Travel & Recreation Directory P.O. Box 6707, Boise, ID 83707 phone (800) 525-1166 or (208) 377-0226 fax (208) 321-0141 e-mail: info@travel-recreation.com website: www.minnesotatravelrecreation.com or www.witravelrecreation.com We have made every attempt to ensure the information contained herein is accurate. However, the information may have changed since publication of this directory. Always verify information prior to travel. Maps are provided for general reference only; please consult an official Minnesota or Wisconsin Highway Map or other detailed map for accurate distances and geographic features. We are interested in receiving notices of Minnesota or Wisconsin community events and photographs so we may include them in the next directory. There is no charge for listing events. We encourage reader contributions in the form of letters, articles, photographs, information and suggestions. Editorial opinions, articles, stories, illustrations and advertisements are not necessarily the opinions of the publishers or the staff. Liability for errors or omission that compromise the overall impact of an advertisement is limited to a correct insertion in the next publication at no charge. Copyright ÂŠ 2012 / 2013 by Rite-Way Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.

Administrative Director

Mary Wheeler

Graphic Design / Layout

Heather Hugues Liza Morgan

Webmaster

Heather Hugues

Office Manager

Kay Clover

Cover Photo: Door County Sailboat (courtesy Door County Visitors Bureau)

Boundary Waters/Quetico Wilderness Area (photo courtesy Steve Wall)

MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com â&#x20AC;˘

Contents Minnesota

Albert Lea Alexandria Anoka Austin Barnesville Becker Bena Brainerd Lakes Caledonia Cass Lake Chisholm Crosby Deer River Detroit Lakes Duluth Elbow Lake Elk River Ely Fairmont Finland

06 06 06 07 07 07 08 08 08 09 09 09 10 10 10 11 11 11 12 12

Grand Marais 12 Gunflint Trail 13 Hastings 13 Houston 14 International Falls / Rainier / Rainy Lake 14 Inver Grove Heights 14 Jackson 15 La Crescent 15 Lake City 15 Lake of the Woods 16 Lanesboro 16 Leech Lake / Walker 17 Long Prairie 17 Luverne 17 Mantorville 18 Minneapolis / St. Paul 18 Monticello 18 Moorhead 19 Morton 19

Mora / Kanabec Area Nevis New Ulm Nisswa Northfield Park Rapids / Itasca Area Lakes Pipestone Redwood Falls Rochester Sauk Centre Sleepy Eye St. Cloud Thief River Falls Tracy Tower Virginia Wabasha Wadena Winona

20 21 21 21 21 22 23 23 23 24 24 25 26 26 27 27 27 28 28

Mississippi River Facts – 29 Inside Front Cover Door County – 40 Edmund Fitzgerald – Inside Back Cover

Our Common Loons – 5 Antigo / Langlade County Bayfield Berlin Boulder Junction Brodhead Burlington Butler Cable Cassville Chetek Chippewa Falls / County Crivitz Dodgeville

• Minnesota

34 34 35 35 35 36 36 37 37 37 38 38 39

Door County Fond du Lac Hayward Lakes Hurley Iron River Ironwood, MI La Crosse Land O’ Lakes Madison Marinette County Milwaukee Mineral Point New London

40 42 42 43 44 42 44 45 45 46 46 47 47

Omro Oshkosh Park Falls Phillips Portage Prairie du Chien Rhinelander Rice Lake Sheboygan Spooner Thorp Waterford Whitewater

47 48 48 49 49 49 49 50 50 50 51 51 51

Wisconsin

State Facts

Nickname:

State Motto: Area: Population: Capital: State Tree: State Flower: State Bird: State Insect: State Fish: State Fruit: State Muffin: State Sport:

Split Rock Lighthouse (photo courtesy Paul Huber)

Gopher State or North Star State

“L’Etoile du Nord” The Star of the North 86,943 sq. miles 5,344,861 St. Paul Norway Pine Pink & White Lady’s Slipper Common Loon Monarch Butterfly Walleye Honeycrisp Apple Blueberry Ice Hockey

Minnesota State Flag (courtesy Wikipedia)

Minnesota Quarter Back (courtesy Wikipedia)

Common Loon (photo courtesy US Fish & Wildlife Service)

MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

MINNESOTA

Welcome to Minnesota

Minnesota Lake of the Woods 75 175

Roseau

Hallock

11 11

Baudette 11

International Falls

Rainy L.

Rainy R.

89 32

Warren

219

Thief River Falls

220

Kabetogama L.

217

Agassiz Pool

Upper Red L.

6 1

Lower Red L.

Crookston

Bagley

113

Lake Itasca

Leech L.

Walker Nevis

Red R.

Detroit Lakes

Barnesville

108

Fergus Falls

210

Elbow Lake

371

Long Prairie

Alexandria 27

Wheaton

Morris

Litchfield

Min

nes

ota

Redwood Falls

212 4 19

Gaylord 22

Tracy 14

Saint Peter Swan L.

Slayton

59 91

Saint James

Windom

62 60

Worthington

Fairmont 90 Jackson 4

Mankato Waseca

30 22 109

Blue Earth

• Minnesota

60 56

Mantorville Rochester Owatonna 14 218 Stewartville 42

Minnesota Has Something For Everyone By Chuck Lennon, Explore Minnesota Tourism Minnesota is a land of contrasts. From secluded canoe trails in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, house boating adventures in Voyageurs National Park, to north woods family resorts, the state has more shoreline than California, Florida and Hawaii combined. Minnesota also has internationally acclaimed arts, and unique entertainment acts and venues. Minnesota also has 20 Scenic Byways. Among them is the Great River Road along the the Mississippi from Itasca State Park through the Twin Cities to the majestic Bluff Country in the southeast. From Duluth to the Canadian border, the North Shore Scenic Drive traces Lake Superior through harbor towns and state parks. Grand Rounds Scenic Byway introduces the neighborhoods of Minneapolis, the City of Lakes, as it wends from Saint Anthony Falls through the parkway system. The Twin Cities area has more theater seats per capita than anywhere in the U.S. outside New York. They host Broadway productions as

Faribault 60

Red Wing Lake City Wabasha

61 19

Northfield

Winona 90

La Crescent

Austin Albert Lea 35

Lanesboro

Preston 56

Caledonia 43

ppi R.

30 4

Le Center

Hastings

Mississi

Luverne

New Ulm

Pipestone

Saint Paul

Shakopee Glencoe Burnsville 169 261

Olivia

Ivanhoe Marshall

Granite Falls

Montevideo

Madison

Benson Willmar

oix

107

Ortonville

Pine City

Hinckley

Cambridge Saint Cloud Mississ ippi R. Becker Center City Monticello Elk River Anoka Mounds View Coon Rapids Buffalo Roseville Brooklyn Center Stillwater Minneapolis Maplewood

55 55

Milaca

Foley

Big Stone L.

Mora

Royalton

Sauk Centre

Glenwood

Onamia

Little Falls

35 47 18

Mille Lacs L.

Brainerd

29 55

78 9

210

Duluth

Carlton 210

210

Crosby

210

Aitkin

Wadena

169

108

Two Harbors

2 65

371

108

200

200 6

Breckenridge

200 84

Finland

200

169

Grand Rapids

200

Park Rapids

135

L. Winnibigoshish

Deer River

200

113

Grand Marais

169

Virginia

Bemidji Cass Lake

200

Mahnomen 59

Moorhead

1 73

102

Ada

220

Gunflint

Vermilion L. 1

Trail

Red Lake Falls

well as classical music performances. The Guthrie Theater’s repertory company stages Shakespeare and classical and contemporary American playwrights. It’s home to world-class museums. Lakes, woods and wildlife abound in the state. The North American Bear Center in Ely provides insight into the lives of the black bears. From the center, visitors can watch three bears in a wooded enclosure with a pond. And the International Wolf Center in Ely advances the survival of wolf populations and features a resident wolf pack. Programs include howling trips, radio tracking, snowshoe treks, and more. The National Eagle Center in Wabasha has four eagles in a special viewing area. Minnesota has 1,300+ nesting pairs of eagles, more than any state except Alaska. Vast windows and a riverside observation deck enable visitors to watch eagles soaring overhead, perching in trees or fishing along the river. For more information about exploring Minnesota, go to www.explore minnesota.com or call toll free 888.TOURISM.

Our Common Loons ~ Minnesota State Parks

Of the five species of loons, the Common Loon Gavia immer is the species best known to most of us. Although it migrates to warmer areas around the Gulf of Mexico and the east and west coasts for the winter, in the spring it returns to northern lakes to breed when the ice melts. Common Loon sounds Anyone who has spent time in the northern woods has undoubtedly heard the haunting call of the Common Loon. There are four basic calls, which are heard mostly in the spring and summer. Each call has a different meaning. Hoot - The hoot call is not as intense or as loud as the other calls. It is used to keep in contact with mates, chicks and social groups residing or visiting the same lake. Tremolo - The tremolo has been described as “insane laughter;” it is 8 to 10 notes voiced rapidly and varying in frequency and intensity. This alarm call usually indicates agitation or fear, often caused by disturbance from people, a predator or even another loon. This is also the only call that loons make in flight. Wail - The wail is most frequently given in the evening or at night, and can be heard for many miles. This haunting call is not an alarm call but is used to keep in contact with other loons on the same lake and surrounding lakes. Yodel - The yodel is only made by male loons. This call is used to advertise and defend their territory, especially during incubation and early chick-rearing. If you are watching loons and they make this call or a tremolo, it usually means you are too close and are disturbing the loons. If that happens, you should leave their territory and give them their space. Striking good looks Common Loons are very striking with their black-and-white checkered back, glossy black head, white belly and wing lining, and characteristic white necklace around the throat. All loons have grayish feathers in the winter, and immature birds tend to resemble adult birds in winter plumage. The white feathers of the belly and wing linings are present year-round. Males and females look the same, although males are generally larger. Adults are large-bodied, weighing from 6-14 pounds and measuring almost 3 feet from bill tip to outstretched feet. The skeleton and muscular systems are designed for swimming and diving. Loons are streamlined. Their legs are placed far back on their bodies, allowing for excellent movement in water but making them ungainly on land. The head can be held directly in line with the neck during diving to reduce drag and the legs have powerful muscles for swimming. Many bones of the loon’s body are solid, rather than hollow like other birds, aiding in diving ability. During dives, their large webbed feet provide all of the propulsion and the wings are held tight unless they are used to help make sharp turns while chasing prey. Loons spend their time hunting, feeding, resting, preening and caring for their young. They are predators, preferring fish to other food, but they are known to eat aquatic vegetation, insects, mollusks and frogs. The life expectancy of a loon may be 15-30 years.

Loons like their space Loons arrive in pairs on northern lakes in spring as soon as the ice thaws. Loons are solitary nesters. Small lakes, generally those between 12 and 125 acres, can accommodate one pair of loons. Larger lakes may have more than one pair of breeding loons, with each pair occupying a bay or section of the lake. Until recently, loons were thought to mate for life. Banding studies have shown that loons will sometimes switch mates after a failed nesting attempt, even between nestings in the same season. Loons build their nests close to the water, with the best sites being completely surrounded by water, such as on an island, muskrat house, half-submerged log or sedge mat. Generally these birds can slip directly from the nest to water. The same sites are often used from year to year. Loons will use whatever materials are at hand to build their nests: tree needles, leaves, grass, moss and other vegetation have been found under loon eggs. Both the male and female help in nest building and with incubation, which lasts until hatching usually 26-31 days. If the eggs are lost, the pair may renest, often in the same general location. Usually two eggs are laid in June, and toward the end of the month loon chicks covered in brown-black down appear on the water. Loon chicks can swim right away, but spend some time on their parents’ backs to rest, conserve heat and avoid predators, such as large carnivorous fish, snapping turtles, gulls, eagles and crows. After their first day or two in the water, the chicks do not return to the nest. Chicks are fed exclusively by their parents for the first few weeks of life, and up until eight weeks of age the adults are with them most of the time, providing most food. After this time the chicks begin to dive for some of their own food and by 11 or 12 weeks, the chicks are providing almost all of their own food and may be able to fly. Chicks are fed small food items early in their life including small fish, crayfish, minnows and some aquatic vegetation. At migration time, the young are able to look after themselves, and the adults generally leave first, with the young follow(photo courtesy Tim Provan) ing soon after.

MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

MINNESOTA

Common Loon with Chick (photo courtesy Wikimedia)

They’re just resting The bird spends long rest periods motionless on the water. It may rouse itself to stretch a leg or wing at intervals, occasionally comically waggling a foot. When swimming on top of the water a loon will sit erect with neck slightly curved. The loon will peer under water, moving its head from side to side to locate prey. It then aims and dives quickly. Loons will stay under water for almost a minute and can dive to depths of 260 feet. During the dive, feathers are compressed and air is forced from between the feathers and from air sacs in their bodies. Loss of air from the air sacs also allows loons to quietly sink below the water surface to avoid danger. Adult loons may fly to different lakes to feed. The adaptations that make loons such efficient divers also make them heavy and slow to take wing. To take off from a lake, loons run along the surface into the wind. The distance needed to gain flight depends on wind speed; in calm times the birds may run as far as several hundred years before they gain enough speed to take off. Once in the air, the loon’s relatively small wingspan (4-5 feet) carries it at average speeds of 74 miles per hour during migration. The wings beat quickly to carry the large body and have a high degree of curvature to provide lift. Common Loons spend little time on land and have to pull themselves onto land to nest. They generally move one foot at a time to walk, shuffling along with their breast close to the ground. On return to the water, the loon slides in along its breast and stomach. At night, loons sleep over deeper water, away from land for protection from predators.

Attractions Alexandria

r) Monster Muskie (courtesy Alexandria Lakes Area Chambe

Albert Lea

Come experience all Albert Lea has to offer in Arts & Entertainment, plus don’t miss our fabulous attractions, too! Albert Lea has history, Arts & Culture including the Freeborn County Historical Museum and Pioneer Village, Art Center, Historic Downtown Albert Lea and Marion Ross Performing Arts Center. The Pelican Breeze ll Cruise Boat has customized tours on Albert Lea Lake. You can also see the beauty of our fountains at New Denmark Park. We have entertaining fun at the Aquatic Park, Bayside Ski Shows and the Farmers Market. Enjoy quilting, soap and candles at the Calico Hutch Quilting Shop and the Minnesoyta Nice Soy Candle & Soap Factory or specialty factory tours. Our community is very proud of our Annual Events including: Land Between the Lakes Triathlon, Battle of the Bands, 3rd of July Parade, 4th of July Fireworks and Carnival, April Sorenson Memorial Half Marathon, Big Island Barbeque Contest, Car Shows and Cruising Broadway, “Autumn in the Village” Historical Museum, Freeborn County Fair, Big Island Rendezvous and Festival of Trees. Nestled between two lakes there are many activities to enjoy: boating, fishing, golfing, camping, snowmobiling, biking, canoeing, kayaking and skiing. Albert Lea is at the crossroads of Interstate 90 and 35. You’ll enjoy breathtaking wildlife and beauty along the Blazing Star Bike Trail, and Myre Big Island State Park, and Edgewater Park. Please visit our entire Visitor’s Guide and calendar of events. at www. albertleatourism.org or call Albert Lea Convention & Visitors Bureau (507) 373-2316. Albert Lea is about appreciating a lake lifestyle, with hometown values and big city amenities. We boast a thriving business community, exceptional schools, state of the art medical facilities, and safe graceful neighborhoods. We very much look forward to your visit to Albert Lea.

• Minnesota

Alexandria’s legacy of hospitality dates back to the late 1800’s when Midwesterners escaped the summer heat in trains destined for Minnesota’s lake country. Our early vacationers found lodging at luxurious lakeside hotels, casual fishing camps and some of Minnesota’s earliest resorts. It was in the Alexandria Lakes Area where they, and their friends, enjoyed clean, cool lakes, refreshing swims and excellent fishing. Today, Alexandria is a year-round vacation destination offering travelers a wide selection of motels, resorts and bed & breakfasts. Located only a couple hours northwest of the Twin Cities on I-94, the Alexandria Lakes Area is perfect for family vacations, weekend getaways and business meetings. As a regional hub, shoppers can enjoy a large shopping center, strip malls, big box stores, specialty shops, fine restaurants and Carlos Creek Winery, an award-winning vintner. The Lakes Area is steeped in history. Visitors of all ages enjoy the Runestone Museum and Fort Alexandria (home of the famous Kensington Runestone), the Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum and Senator Knute Nelson’s restored residence, now home to the Douglas County Historical Society. Historic downtown Alexandria is a delight, featuring antique and specialty shops, eateries and live performances at the Alexandria Area Arts Theatre. In the early 1900’s bass fishing was the sport, and Alexandria was known as ‘The Bass Fishing Capital of Minnesota’. Outdoor activities still make the Lakes Area special. Our lakes are still top producers and now the fishing is more diverse. Cyclists, walkers and anyone who wants to get a little closer to nature enjoy the paved Central Lakes Trail. Fall rides on the Trail are wonderful, as autumn’s cooler temperatures introduce a dazzling array of colors. In the winter months, the trail is part of a 500mile groomed snowmobile trail system. What made the Alexandria Lakes Area popular over a century ago still holds true today. Visitors comment on how welcome they feel, and how much they enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of our area. We sincerely desire to provide you with a refreshing time away. Please let us know how we can help you plan a getaway to our beautiful Lakes Area. For more information, call (800) 235-9441 or visit us online at www. alexandriamn.org

ANOKA

Located at the intersection of Highways 169 and 10. 20 miles from downtown Minneapolis. Nestled between the Mississippi and Rum Rivers, lies the charming city of Anoka. Rich in history, downtown Anoka still retains the brick facades of a past era. A walk down Main Street will bring a sense of nostalgia, while visiting shops and restaurants that will delight you with their unique styles. Whether you take in a play, dine at the local tea room, stay at a beautiful Victorian Bed & Breakfast or take a leisurely walk along the river, Anoka has something for everyone. Anoka offers a special event for every season; – Spring brings you May flowers and DIVA Days, two fun-filled days of shopping and celebration for your girlfriends, moms and sisters. www.RediscoverAnoka.com – Join us in July for Anoka Riverfest, one of the largest craft shows in the Twin Cities area. There’s lots of fun, food and family entertainment. www.anokariverfest.com – Known as the Halloween Capital of the World, the celebration begins the week leading up to Halloween. There are three parades, house decorating contest, ghost tours and more. www.anoka halloween.com / www.ac-hs.org – If you love a hometown Christmas, Anoka is the place for you. Saturdays in December bring carolers, candy canes and of course Santa to downtown Anoka. Sip a hot chocolate, ride on a horse-drawn sleigh and behold the lighting of the town Christmas tree. www.RedicoverAnoka.com Whether you spend a day or stay the weekend, come home to Anoka. You’ll be glad you did!

Austin

Becker

“Minnesota’s Best Kept Secret” On behalf of the City of Becker, I would like to say “Welcome”. Becker is truly “Minnesota’s Best Kept Secret”. The City of Becker welcomes all residents and visitors with open arms. The City of Becker offers a high quality of life, while still keeping our small town values. We have a number of great recreational and community orientated facilities and activities for everyone. We have a community center that has a waterslide, rock climbing wall, racquetball court, fitness center, after school programs, as well as meeting rooms. Becker has nine parks in the community, including the 100 acre City Park. The City Park is a community favorite that includes: new playground equipment, hiking trails, disc golf, horseshoe pits, and a volleyball court. The City of Becker is also the home to Pebble Creek Golf Course. Pebble Creek is a 27-hole facility that is annually ranked as one of the top ranked public golf courses in Minnesota. Becker has always been known for its great school system and its community participation. The Becker school district is committed to educational excellence and offers a variety of classes and educational opportunities to the children of Becker. There are many great businesses, services, and churches in our community as well. The Becker Chamber of Commerce works with businesses and the city to host annual community events. The Becker Business Expo is held in January and attracts many residents and visitors. The summer begins with our citywide celebration “Freedom Days” that includes a parade, craft fair, food booths, and many family activities along with fireworks. The fall heats up with a chili/salsa contest, a fun run, and kids games included in our October Harvest Fest. Feel free to contact Becker City Hall at (763) 261-4302 or the Becker Chamber of Commerce at (763) 262-2420 with any questions you may have. Once again I would like to say “Welcome”. I hope that you are able to discover for yourself why Becker is “Minnesota’s Best Kept Secret”.

Festival always held the weekend before Labor Day Weekend P.O. Box 345 Barnesville, MN 56514

1-800-525-4901 (218) 354-2888

www.potatodays.com

spudlady@potatodays.com

Barnesville

Food, family fun and many events make up Barnesville’s Potato Days Festival, held the weekend before Labor Day every year in August. Well-known for its potato production, Barnesville draws on their potato heritage for two days of “spud”riffic fun. Each year, an estimated 17,000 tater lovers from across the country descend on this town of 2,200 to enjoy bushels of FREE fun for the entire family. Anyone who has attended the festival raves about the good food court that serves up the best of potato pancakes, dumplings, Norwegian lefse, french fries, mashed potatoes and gravy and potato sausage. The main-stay of the festival is the potato peeling and potato picking contests, but family fun continues with such events as the mashed potato wrestling competition, strong man contest, sculpting contest, street fair, “Eyes of Fashion” fashion show, quilt contest, stage entertainment and the ever-growing classic car show. Also, there are the cooking contests consisting of making the best lefse entry or the best potato recipe. Other activities include card tournaments, horseshoe contest, and Miss Tater Tot Contest. For the chocolate lover, there is the chocolate festival. For those wanting more athletic competition, come and join the 5K/10K/Fun Run, softball tournament, or the 3 on 3 Basketball contests. The demolition derby continues to grow and to bring in the sports enthusiasts who like the thrills and banging of smashing cars. Whether “spuds” are part of the activity or not, combine all the food and events and you’ve cooked up a “spud”tacular Friday and Saturday while attending the Potato Days Festival in Barnesville every August. For more information check out the festival’s website at www.potatodays. com or for a free brochure including a complete schedule of events call the “spud” line at (800) 525-4901.

Potato Days (photo courtesy Barnesville City)

MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

MINNESOTA

“Austin, Minnesota…WHERE IT’S @!” The community of Austin is a great place to visit, as well as a great place to live and work. We hope you can take some time to enjoy our beautiful city and discover all of it’s attractions and offerings. We’re home to great theater with the Riverland College Bridges Theatre, the Historic Paramount Theatre, and Matchbox Children’s Theatre. We are blessed with many cultural events, including the Austin Artist Series and the Austin Symphony Orchestra, as well as many other wonderful local talents. The past year has been a very exciting time in Austin! Our attractions showcase the Hormel legacy in the Hormel Historic Home, the Gerard Mansion, the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center, the Hormel Institute, and of course, the world-famous SPAM™ Museum! We also have an outstanding Historical Society, a mini-history farm with 39 rooms and a real alpaca farm you can visit! We have seven hotels and two nearby B & B’s for a total of over 380 rooms available for you to relax in. We also have great campgrounds, five area golf courses and two amazing disc golf courses, for your enjoyment. The softball/baseball complexes and two sports arenas are wonderful assets in our community, and have become home to several large tournaments in our area and state. Visit our website at www.austincvb.com for complete attraction details! ‘TOURISM WORKS FOR AUSTIN” For assistance in planning your stay here, feel free to contact us at (507) 437-4563 or (800) 444-5713.

lakes area is home to excellent day spas, spectacular golf, the 100mile paved Paul Bunyan Trail, a 500-acre arboretum, a wide variety of dining experiences and some of the most unique and diverse shopping opportunities anywhere. Each community within the Brainerd Lakes Area features a mix of locally owned shops that sell northwoods gifts, products created by local artisans, artwork, home furnishings, clothes, antiques, jewelers and other specialty items. When you come to the Brainerd Lakes Area, you’ll be able to enjoy all the comforts of home – and then some – when you stay at one of our lodging facilities. No matter the season, the Brainerd Lakes Area has an abundance of recreational and entertainment options available for individuals of all ages and interests. Please visit us online at www.explorebrainerdlakes.com

Caledonia “Quilting the Countryside”

(courtesy Caledonia Chamber of Comm erce)

Bena

Bena is located midway between Grand Rapids and Bemidji on U.S. Highway 2. Located on the south shore of Lake Winnibigoshish and only a few miles from Leech Lake, the Bena area is home to some of the best fishing in the state.

Brainerd lakes

The Brainerd Lakes Area is Minnesota’s premier vacation destination. With 465 lakes within a 30-mile radius, the Lakes Area offers water recreational opportunities like no other. Whether you enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, jet-skiing or just relaxing along the shoreline, the area lakes will be happy to be your host. In addition to the area lakes, the Mississippi River runs right through the heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area and the Crosby Mine Pits, which are perfect for scuba diving, are only a short drive away. The area is also home to a variety of deciduous and pine forests where you can enjoy riding your ATV, hunting, camping, horseback riding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, hiking and other outdoor activities. Wildlife is abundant and the scenery is breathtaking. Aside from the abundance of “natural” outdoor opportunities, the

On Lake Winnibigoshish in the Heart of the Chippewa National Forest Summer & Winter Fishing

800-752-2758 • www.nodaklodge.com 15080 Nodak Drive • Bena, MN 56626 8

• Minnesota

“Quilting the Countryside,” began as a creative barn improvement project for a local family highlighting their 1928 barn. An 8x8 foot square of plywood was painted in lively colors in a traditional quilt pattern and hung on their rural barn. The idea quickly caught on and thirty seven beautifully painted wooden quilts now grace rural barns throughout Houston County in southeast Minnesota celebrating our valued agricultural heritage. Visitors taking the Barn Quilt tour can be seen driving through the countryside on a daily basis. In addition, 15 local businesses are displaying fabric quilts in their stores and visitors may take a walking tour of downtown Caledonia to see these unique quilts. Our quilt logo is displayed in store front windows so visitors can easily locate these quilts. This unique agri-tourism project is attracting tourists from across the country to spend time in Caledonia, a community of 3,000 people located where the land transitions from rolling hills to scenic bluffs and into the Mississippi River Valley. Majestic eagles soaring or sitting in the treetops are common as are deer, wild turkeys and coyotes. Area streams offer some of the best trout fishing in the state. Biking and hiking trails, Beaver Creek Valley State Park, Schech’s water powered mill, horse trails, boating, and bird watching are all activities that lure people to the area. In Caledonia, check out the unique architecture of the oldest jail in Minnesota, the impressive limestone courthouse, and visit the Houston County Historical museum complex. While you are here shop our unique stores and restaurants. Located at the intersection of State Highways 44 and 76, Caledonia is located approximately 23 miles southwest of La Crosse, WI and 76 miles southeast of Rochester, MN. Please visit our website www.caledoniamn.gov which will provide you with Barn Quilt tour route information and other local tourist attraction information.

800-845-0904 • 507-724-3311 crestmtl@hotmail.com www.crestinncaledonia.com • FREE Continental Breakfast • FREE 120 Cable Channels • Microwave & Fridge in Room • FREE Wireless Internet in Lobby

Just South of Caledonia, MN on State Highway 76

Caledonia, Minnesota

508 N. Kruckow Ave. 507-725-8000 800-634-3444 AmericInn.com

• Suites with Fireplaces & Whirlpools • Indoor Pool, Whirlpool & Sauna • Complimentary Hot Breakfast

AmericInn.com

MINNESOTA

Cass Lake, Winnibigoshish, Leech Lake, Walker, Deer River, Bemidji, Bena, Pennington, & Blackduck Areas

105 U.S. Hwy. 2 • P.O. Box 548 • Cass Lake, MN 56633

(800) 356-8615 • (218) 335-2250 • www.casslake.com cass lake

The beautiful Cass Lake area has the most pristine lakes and forest habitats of our state and nation. There’s something for everyone, with it’s abundance of lakes, rivers, natural resources, culture, recreational activities and the Chippewa National Forest, that brings people back for generations. With nine lakes on the Cass Lake Chain, and Lake Winnie, Leech Lake and the many surrounding lakes, we have some of the best fishing for Walleye, Northern Pike, Muskie, Bass, Perch and pan fish. Whether you’re after a fish dinner or a trophy for your wall, we have it all here. Cass Lake area offers great biking and hiking on the many trails here along with a variety of bird watching and sightseeing locations. A perfect opportunity to view many birds and nature is touring our Mi-Gi-Zi trail, with 19 miles of paved trail looped through our forests and circling around Pike Bay. Also, many come to canoe and kayak the numerous local rivers and lakes, including the “headwaters” of the Mississippi River. If you’re a risk taker or just up for a little fun, we are proud to have three casinos on the Leech Lake Reservation. The Band also performs many cultural activities, such as Powwows, craft fairs, and musical events. Another highlight is the local Cass Lake Museum and Lyle’s Logging Camp. During fall there are great hunting opportunities, brilliant fall colors, and some of the best fishing of the year. In winter, ice fishing, snowmobiling, skiing, or a get-a-way at one of our local resorts or casinos are great stress relievers. No matter what time of year you plan to visit the Cass Lake area for its rich cultural and natural resources, we know you will go home with great memories. Our clean air, water and forests beckon you to come here, our friendly people and endless recreational activities will bring you back to our area. To learn more, call (800) 356-8615, email us at info@ casslake.com or visit www.casslake.com

Chisholm

We would like to welcome you to Chisholm ~ The Heart of the Iron Range! Chisholm is host to many fun things for the entire family to see and do. While in the area, be sure to get a firsthand look at iron mining history at Minnesota Discovery Center and the Minnesota Museum of Mining. Pay homage to the Veterans Memorial and the Iron Man, the third largest free-standing statue in the United States. To fulfill your recreational needs, you can access the scenic Mesabi Trail, a ninety-seven mile paved bicycle and walking trail. If you prefer, there are many miles of ATV and snowmobile trails in the area to satisfy

Cass Lake (photo courtesy Stan Hieronymus) every off road need. If you are event driven, plan on attending the annual Polar Bear Days Events in February, Chilly Open Golf Tournament in March, Doc “Moonlight” Graham Days in August, and the Field of Screams Haunted Tours in October. Each and every season in Chisholm in filled with entertainment and activities for you to do and see.

crosby Treasure Hunts

Ask veteran antique shoppers for their strategy and they might say, “It’s not what you’re looking for, it’s what you find.” With antique shops stretching along its streets, the chances are great of finding unexpected treasures in Crosby. Designated “The Antique Capital of the Lakes Area” Crosby’s antique shops beckon residents and visitors all four seasons. Whether you buy or browse, the variety of antiques and collectibles tucked away in historic brick buildings along Main Street and down side streets is sure to delight. Wander through sparkling elegant stemware, jewel toned Depression glass and vibrant vintage tablecloths to find just the right addition to your dining table. Admire the selections of McCoy, Roseville and Blue Mountain pottery and a variety of Red Wing crocks in hard to find sizes. On shelves and in nooks and crannies you will find playing cards, postcards, sheet music, fruit crates, decoys and fishing lures. On any given day you might find a collection of Roy Rogers memorabilia or Wallace Nutting prints. Be sure to leave space in your vehicle for the larger purchases of wood and wicker furniture, pillars, railings and architectural elements. Your treasure hunt awaits.

Hallett Antique Emporium & Abbey House Antiques Hallett: 28 West Main Street Crosby, MN 56441 218-546-5444

O Abbey House: West Main Street P 27Crosby, MN 56441 O 218-546-8311

www.hallett-abbey.com

Antique Capital of the Lake Area MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

Fishing at Sunset (photo courtesy Detroit Lakes Touism Bureau)

DEER RIVER

Deer River is the “Gateway to the Chippewa” National Forest in Minnesota’s scenic Northwoods. Surrounded by lakes, rivers and forests, the beauty of this area and what it has to offer will make your vacation memories last a lifetime.

Northern Minnesota guided fishing trips

36328 County Rd. 44 • Deer River, MN 56636 www.remingtonguideservice.com • (218) 246-2617 • (218) 259-2012

Stay & Play at the White Oak Inn & Suites and the Outpost Bar & Grill • Direct Access to Snowmobile Trail • Outpost Bar & Grill adjacent to Hotel • Party Room 201 4th Ave. N.W., Deer River, MN 56636 1-877-633-5504 • 218-246-9400

www.whiteoakinnandsuites.com Detroit Lakes

Take the short drive to Detroit Lakes where you’ll enjoy big city amenities and small town hospitality. Located in northwest Minnesota among 400 lakes and a landscape transitioning from prairie to pine and hardwood forests, Detroit Lakes is a natural year-round vacation destination. Relax at the mile-long city beach, choose from eight area golf courses, or cast a line for pan or game fish, including trophy size muskie. Join several fun festivals such as WE Fest country music festival, Street Faire at the Lakes, Northwest Water Carnival or Festival of Birds. Experience the arts with local to international performers at the Historic Holmes Theatre. For a green experience, Detroit Lakes is minutes from three state parks and two national wildlife refuges that are home to more than 275 species of birds. Explore the many area trails including the Pine to Prairie International Birding Trail, Lake Country Scenic Byway, North Country National Scenic Trail, Winter Wonderland Snowmobile Trails, Fall Color Tour routes and cross-country ski trails. Check out the online Green Tour map to visit eco-friendly spots that minimize erosion and nurture wildlife habitat. Discover the many options for dining, shopping and lodging in the Detroit Lakes area. See our online Visitor Guide and videos for more details at www.VisitDetroitLakes.com

• Minnesota

Duluth

Welcome to Duluth, where the world’s greatest lake greets you with its constantly changing mood. And where summer means one thing — fun! Whether it’s hopping on a bike, climbing a cliff, cruising the Canal, or catching a concert—it’s all here for you. You’ve already arrived on the shores of Lake Superior, where rolling waves splash against ancient slabs of stone. And you’re invited to dip your toes, skip rocks, or just stand back as the waves roll and splash. Looking for new ways to explore Lake Superior? Here are five options: • By Boat: Take a harbor cruise or go charter fishing, sailing or kayaking • By Foot: Stroll the piers, or cross the bridge and hit the beach • By Bike: Pedal the Lakewalk, Munger Trail or North Shore • By Road: Head to Brighton Beach to skip stones or explore the Western Waterfront Trail to spot special birds and waterfowl • By Attraction: Check out places like the Great Lakes Aquarium, Maritime Museum and Glensheen to get unique perspectives on the lake Aside from all the activities near the lake, Duluth is widely considered one of the America’s best towns for outdoor activity. So if you like being on the move, Duluth welcomes you with some of the Midwest’s premier trails interspersed among our 100 parks and 105,000 acres of green space — more than any other U.S. city! Get going today by requesting a complimentary copy of the Guide to Duluth. Once again, Spirit Mountain Recreation Area beckons adventure seekers with its newest outdoor thrill, the Timber Twister alpine coaster. Hop on for an exciting ride in your own individual coaster car on tracks that race 3,400 feet through the forest and down the mountain where you’ll catch scenic vistas overlooking the St. Louis River. Ride alone, or with a friend. Either way, it’s sure to be one of your favorite summer memories. The Timber Twister is the only one in the Midwest. New attractions added in 2011 to Spirit Mountain include a 700' zip line, the Timber Flyer and a nine-hole miniature golf course along with a new sixlane snow tubing park. No matter what you choose to do with your time in Duluth, we’re glad you’re here. Whether you’ve come to say “hello” again, or for the first time, you’ll find that Duluth is a timeless place, as are the memories it inspires. So welcome to the adventure that’s been waiting, tugging, wanting you to come out and play. For a complete list of activities, events, and other ways to make this a summer to remember, pick up the free Guide to Duluth in any hotel lobby, or log on to visitduluth.com You can also stop by and see us at 21 W. Superior Street, Suite 100, or call (800) 4-duluth to speak with a travel information consultant.

Elbow Lake

Clocktower (courtesy Visit Duluth)

elk river

The Indians called it “Wich a wan” (where two rivers join). Early settlers built a trading post near the junction of two rivers, the Elk and Mississippi, and called it Elk River. That tiny outpost in the rough Minnesota Territory of 1849 is now considered part of the second perimeter of the Twin Cities suburban area. Elk River covers an area of 44 square miles, and has a population of more than 25,000. Elk River, the Sherburne County seat, is unique in that its location offers residents and visitors the opportunity to sample the best of two worlds: city and country. The friendly atmosphere and slower paced life of a small community flourishes just 35 miles northwest of MinneapolisSt. Paul, while easy access to major highways and interstates are nearby for fast and easy access to the cultural and sporting events of the greater metropolitan area. A public park and beach at Lake Orono offers swimming, fishing, boating, and canoeing. There are public boat landings on the Elk and Mississippi Rivers. City parks provide hiking, biking, and cross-country ski trails. Lake Orono Park and Lion’s Park provide sheltered picnic areas and playground equipment. An all-season motorsports facility is open year-round with snocross racing and training in the winter and motocross and ATV racing in the summer. A softball complex, adjacent to the county fairgrounds, and two indoor hockey arenas are located within the city. An 18-hole golf course and a nine-hole executive golf course are available to the public, as well as tennis courts and an indoor swimming pool. Tubing and canoeing are popular on both the Elk and Mississippi Rivers. Leisure time can also be spent at a 17-screen movie theater.

Ely

Ely – “the last great pure experience” – located in northern Minnesota, where the road ends and the wilderness begins. The great draw of Ely is our proximity to the vast, pure Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The Ely community is proud of its unique bond to the forests and lakes in the area. Miles of waterways and shorelines can be explored while on a canoe or camping trip, or by a restful stay in one of our many cabins, resorts or motels. Here there are opportunities for some of the best fishing in North America. The Ely area is blessed with access to more than 5,000 lakes, streams and rivers. The area reveals itself with equal majesty and wonders whether you choose a canoe, kayak, motorized boats, snowmobiles or hike and bike the local trails. For those who wish to explore Ely, “The Coolest Small Town in America”, there will be no trouble finding a one-of-a-kind keepsake, unique north woods eateries, handcrafted items, galleries, museums and festivals. Ely and the BWCAW leave a big impression on everyone who visits: over the years we have been named Best Outdoor Sports Town in Minnesota, Canoe Capital of the World, great small town with a huge backyard, top ten lake cities, one of the best snowmobile adventures, best in wilderness getaways and a hidden gem of the USA. With all those accolades, doesn’t Ely sound like the perfect destination for your family vacation this year?

(courtesy Ely Chamber of Commerce)

MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

MINNESOTA

Elbow Lake, a city of 1,275 people, is located only 12 miles west of Interstate 94 at the junction of State Highways 55, 59 and 79 in west central Minnesota. Elbow Lake is the hub of Grant County, which is in the heart of Minnesota’s best agricultural and resort areas. Elbow Lake offers small town living at its best, while located conveniently in close proximity to several metropolitan areas. Elbow Lake is the county seat of Grant County, and is home to several federal, state and local government agencies. The historic Grant County Courthouse stands in stately eminence at the head of the city’s main street. The building is considered to be one of the most impressive architectural structures in the county as well the state. The courthouse building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. The surrounding area is excellent for fishing and hunting. Pomme de Terre Lake, located three miles east of Elbow Lake, is home to northern and walleye as well as a full assortment of pan fish. Pomme de Terre’s south end is the site of our 200-acre Tipsinah Mounds Campground. Over 25 RV camping sites (electricity and water), tenting, General Store, fishing, police patrolled and on-site caretakers make this beautiful hardwood-shaded park a must visit on your list of things to do. Elbow Lake was organized in 1873, when the county was organized, Elbow Lake was named the county seat. At this time, Elbow Lake was not yet incorporated and in fact was no more than a small cluster of residences with no commercial enterprises and was served only by existing trails rather than improved roads. The current courthouse was built in 1905-06 of Port wing Brownstone and other materials native to Minnesota. It is the most architecturally impressive structure in Grant County and probably one of the the most impressive court houses in the state of Minnesota. It has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Many of the early settlers to this area were Scandinavians. The two most important things were religion and education. As soon as enough families had settled in the area, schools and religious services were quickly organized. The district’s first school house was built in 1883 on land about one mile west of Elbow Lake in Sanford township. In 1887 a school was finally built on Elbow Lake property. It had two rooms and was two stories. This building is still in use today with many upgrades. For more information, phone Elbow Lake Chamber of Commerce at: (218) 685-5380; e-mail: chamber@runestone.net or visit our website at: www.elbowlakechamber.com

Fairmont

Fairmont, Minnesota the “City of Lakes” awaits your arrival. Located in southern Minnesota at the intersection of Minnesota State Highway 15 and Interstate 90, Fairmont’s great location is easily accessible. With our five lakes and open prairies we offer a little something for everyone no matter what time of the year. Beat the winter blues by ice fishing, cross-country skiing, or snowmobiling. Enjoy the summer months by boating, water skiing, traveling the lakes, taking in the view or simply basking in the sun, and don’t forget your fishing pole! There are several walking and biking trails you can use year-round for numerous activities. With almost twenty parks in the area there’s a lot of open space to relax and enjoy. Whether you’re here for a few hours or several days, there are many community activities to enjoy. Spend the day shopping or play golf at one of our two beautiful local courses. Swim at our Aquatic Park or watch a breathtaking sunset over the lake. If Arts and Culture is what interests you, you’ve definitely come to the right place, there’s always something going on. We have the Fairmont Opera House which hosts a wide variety of various types of entertainment for all ages, the Fairmont Film Society featuring films of all genres and other great events, and the Red Rock Center for the arts with different artists and exhibits changing monthly. Take yourself back in time and visit the numerous historical sites we have to offer. The Martin County Courthouse which is considered one of the Top 10 most beautiful courthouses in Minnesota is especially noteworthy for the upper level murals and artistic construction. With Agricultural being so strong in Martin County, Heritage Acres is a great place to see just that. This agricultural interpretive center offers many events and festivals throughout the year. We are confident you will enjoy the beauty, history, and “Southern Minnesota Hospitality” that Fairmont has to offer!

grand marais

Conducting the Waves, Grand Marais (photo courtesy Tim Wilson)

Finland

The community of Finland is located 6 miles inland from Lake Superior’s North Shore and is a small, unincorporated town settled mainly by Finnish immigrants in 1895. Finland is a small community. It has a gas station, a motel, a cooperative general store, a community center, two Lutheran churches, four bars, a post office, the Organic Consumer’s Association and Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center.

The Trestle Inn is a secluded unique restaurant and saloon nestled deep in the Superior National Forest. Constructed of huge Douglas Fir timbers from a railroad trestle.

Fishing • Hiking • Biking • Camping • Canoeing & More!

Finland, MN • 218-830-0523 • www.trestleinn.com

Travel 110 miles from Duluth on the North Shore Scenic Drive (Hwy. 61) and enjoy Minnesota’s favorite scenic byway. Splashing waves, the forested Sawtooth Mountains, waterfalls and rocky cliffs all along the way invite frequent stops and exploration. Around that last curve, Grand Marais is revealed. Only in Grand Marais every nook and cranny has personality and authenticity. An amazing arts culture, unmatched natural beauty, colorful restaurants, a wide range of lodging, unique shops and galleries are all harborside on Lake Superior. It’s an easy stroll to find and enjoy it all – besides, that’s how you catch the details. Outdoor paintings on charming signs and door panels, children’s mosaics and whimsical yard art all contribute to the sense of creativity that is everywhere. Millions of acres of wilderness beckon the outdoor enthusiast every season, and each has its own unforgettable beauty. Some see water, ice, snow, brilliant foliage. Others see hiking, kayaking, biking, XC skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding and more on hundreds of miles of trails. This is the gateway to the BWCAW, one of America’s outdoor treasures. Enjoy festivals and events with friends and family all year. Focus on a hands-on experience in art and northern crafts, or visit shops and galleries that combine originality with world-class craftsmanship. Enjoy a cappuccino, fresh fish, or dig into basted ribs, hand-cut fries, or a burger topped twenty ways. End a day in the crisp fall air perfectly with a special dinner of seasonal dishes and wine. It’s your visit, and it can be whatever you want. Grand Marais is like nowhere else on the planet, except for, maybe, somewhere in New England. But they have funny accents.

Gunflint Lake on the Gunflint Trail Scenic Byway

Fish, Hunt & Hike in the Superior National Forest 9449 Cramer Rd. • P.O. Box 548 • Finland, MN 55603

218-220-0211 • www.crookedlakemn.com schumacherscrookedlake@yahoo.com

• Minnesota

• Family and Pet Friendly • Year-Round Cabins and Activities • Summer Campsites 800-533-5814 • www.gunflintpines.com

Gunflint Trail

Golden Eagle Lodge

hastings

Hastings, located on the bluffs of the St. Croix, Vermillion and Mississippi Rivers, is reminiscent of a 19th century town. Renowned for its Victorian architecture, there are over 60 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. The LeDuc Historic Estate, a Gothic Revival mansion, is open for tours, May – October and for special events throughout the year. Spring and summer bring fun-filled events. Historic Hastings Saturday Night Cruise-Ins, featuring classic cars, are held every other Saturday evening beginning at the end of May. During July, Rivertown Days, a community-wide festival, features a parade, music fest, arts and crafts fair, carnival and more. Also, in July, step back in time with the Little Log House Antique Power Show. Fans of the great outdoors will appreciate Spring Lake Park Reserve and nearby Afton State Park with fantastic river views and trails. Picnic near Vermillion Falls or watch boats and barges pass through Lock and Dam #2. A mild fall afternoon is perfect for boating or a great golf game at one of the area courses. The St. Croix Apple Festival offers a variety of fun for all ages. Family and friends can spend the day finding that perfect pumpkin, frolicking through a corn maze, picking apples or taking a hayride. Hastings Alexis Bailly Vineyard was the first to make all its’ product from Minnesota-grown grapes. Visitors are encouraged to walk through the vineyards, bring a picnic lunch, play bocce ball, sample and purchase the wines. Tours weekends, June through mid-November. Located between Welch Village and Afton Alps alpine ski areas and nearby cross-country ski trails, sports enthusiasts have several choices for winter recreation. Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center invites adventurers to put on a pair of snowshoes and walk through the wilderness. There’s also plenty of action at nearby Treasure Island Casino. Antique stores, gift shops, dining establishments and so much more await you in Hastings! For more information, contact the Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau at (651) 437-6775 or visit www.hastingsmn.org

Cruise-In (photo courtesy Hastings Area CC & Tourism Bureau)

Come in any season & see how Hastings shines!

MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

MINNESOTA

The Gunflint Trail is a two-lane historic “Scenic Byway” that stretches 65 miles northwest from Grand Marais, MN. Rich in history, you can take a step back in time by visiting the Gunflint Trail Historical Museum. www.goldeneaglelodge.com This area is surrounded by 3 million acres of the Superior National For800-346-2203 est which makes it an excellent place for all types of wilderness vacations. The Trail has many businesses, miles of trails with scenic overlooks, lakes for recreation, hiking and biking opportunities, berry picking, Your year-round family photography, and access points to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness to name a few. Wildlife sightings are numerous and the Unspoiled and resort and Nordic Ski beauty is immeasurable-there is something for everyone here on the unforgettable... Center on Minnesota’s Gunflint Trail. one of the Upper Midwest’s Golden Eagle Lodge is an extraordinary place on the trail as it offinest experiences! Gunflint Trail fers seclusion unmatched anywhere here. The resort and its small 9-site campground give a unique wildlife vacation for many visitors. Nestled in on the north shore of Flour Lake, it is the only resort or resident on this crystal clear glacial lake offering trophy fishing for Smallmouth Bass and DNR managed Walleye and Lake Trout. Spaced for privacy, these lakefront cabins have many handmade items and are finished in the true Northwoods Ambiance. They all have private docks and great views of the wilderness. Flour Lake is surrounded by forested tundra and scenic views that you access in the summer by the 27 miles of hiking trails that become Nationally Renowned Cross-Country Ski Trails in the winter. The Gunflint Trail boasts the largest cross-county ski area in Minnesota covering 100 square miles and offering the best cross-country skiing with over 176 kilometers of marked and groomed tracked trails, lit for night skiing, and many trails groomed for skate skiing. Golden Eagle Lodge is a silent sports only Nordic Ski Center during winter, catering only to XC skiers and snowshoers.

Houston Sign View (courtesy Houston, MN)

Houston

Alice the Great Horned Owl welcomes you to Houston from her office perch at the Houston Nature Center, located in spectacular Trailhead Park. There you can hop on the Root River Trail and after working up a sweat take a free shower in the clean restrooms. Or for a totally different experience, rent a Segway to travel the trail. You’ll delight in the ingenious recycled bicycle art tucked amid diverse plantings of native grasses and flowers. A few steps out of the park you’ll find yourself in town where there are locally made treasures to be discovered while you sip a latte or cappuccino at the local coffee house. Fuel up with a hardy breakfast, tempt your taste buds with authentic German food, or partake in decadent ice cream desserts or pie. You’ll find an enthralling diversity of events from Houston Hoedown Days the last full weekend in July, the Root River Triathlon the third Saturday in May, bluegrass festivals the third weekends in May and August, and the International Festival of Owls the first weekend in March.

International Falls, Ranier and Rainy Lake

Fantastic fishing, biking, hiking and ski trails, abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, historic sites, scenic vistas and plenty of public hunting land are among the reasons you’ll find the International Falls, Ranier and Rainy Lake areas perfect for recreational travel. The Rainy Lake area is well known in Minnesota, because it was one of the first lakes to establish slot-limits to protect breeding Walleye, it is now producing large age classes of Walleye. Additionally, the Rainy Lake Sportfishing Club has been promoting catch-and-release fishing for over a decade. The end result is that it is increasingly easy to catch a nice Walleye on Rainy Lake. Anglers know they are improving the fishery by releasing fish that are within the protected slot. Bass anglers are also attracted to Rainy Lake, where there is a thriving Bass fishery. Rainy Lake hosts the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship and a catch-and-release bass tournament in International Falls features both Rainy Lake and Rainy river. Rainy River is a broad, fast-moving river separating Minnesota and Ontario between International Falls and Baudette, some 60 miles to the west. There are Walleye, Bass, Northern Pike and Sturgeon to be caught in the river and there are boat launches every ten miles or so, and in some cases, much closer than that. There are special rules on the seasons for border waters, anglers come to Rainy River for the extended spring fishing (open until mid-April) because of the abundant

International Falls, Ranier & Rainy Lake CVB Minnesota’s Vacation Paradise 301 2nd Ave. • International Falls, MN 56649 cvb@rainylake.org www.rainylakevacation.com 14

• Minnesota

Rainy Lake (courtesy Morgon Mae Schultz)

boat launches, and a chance for early season open water fishing. This past spring, there were over 145 vehicles with trailers parked near one of the popular launches. Voyageurs National Park sprawls over a large portion of Rainy Lake, and the Park Service has added hiking, biking and ski trails to provide a great experience visiting the park. Many trails are accessible only by boat though, so plan on bringing your own or hiring a water taxi. No boat? No worry! There are hiking, biking and ski trails outside of the park. The Rainy Lake Bike Trail runs from International Falls along Highway 11 E to the resort area on Rainy Lake and is being extended to bring visitors right to the Voyageurs National Park Rainy Lake Visitor Center. The center features a theater with a film about the park, some history oriented interpretive displays, a convenient and large boat launch and parking area and a self-guided nature trail.

Inver Grove Heights

Conveniently located just minutes from downtown St. Paul and many major attractions, Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota is a beautiful and enjoyable city for families, couples and business travelers. At the intersection of Interstate 494 & Highway 52, the city overlooks the bluffs of the Mississippi River and offers hotel services for your relaxation and comfort. Most of our hotels also supply free shuttle services to and from the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, Mall of America and Minnesota Zoo. The lovely city of Inver Grove Heights is home to approximately 33,300 residents, providing a mix of residential and commercial facilities on its rolling wooded terrain. Visitors and residents alike can experience downtown St. Paul just five minutes away as well as the famous Mall of America only ten minutes away. In these areas you will find exciting attractions such as Nickelodeon Universe and Sea Life Aquarium at Mall of America, Science Museum of Minnesota, Padelford Packet Boat Cruise, Wabasha Street Caves and many more. Whether you are a theater goer or sports fan, there is something for everyone with the Minnesota Orchestra, Target Field and Xcel Energy Center located nearby. Within Inver Grove Heights itself, is a complete greenhouse, garden center and nursery. You can also enjoy your time at a 16-theatre cinema, indoor leisure pool with two large waterslides, or various parks that offer mountain biking, picnicking, fishing and volleyball. Ranking in the Top 5 Short Courses in the Twin Cities, Arbor Point Golf Club, and Championship Course, Inver Wood Golf Course, are great places to get outdoors and enjoy a peaceful game. Visitors can also experience nature and the great view of the Mississippi River by taking a stroll along the newly renovated Rock Island Swing Bridge. From amusement parks to shops, historic sites to stadiums, Inver Grove Heights truly is a place for people of all ages and interests. Let your mind unwind knowing that staying in Inver Grove Heights saves you money while providing a variety of opportunities for entertainment and leisure. Our three hotels offer complimentary breakfasts, free parking and a quiet safe environment. There are also several unique and delicious restaurants within the area to satisfy your taste buds. For more information on the community and deals on Great Stay Packages, visit the Inver Grove Heights Convention & Visitors Bureau at www.VisitIGH.com the River Heights Chamber of Commerce at www.RiverHeights.com or call (651) 451-2266.

Jackson

Blacksmith Shop, Fort Belmont (courtesy Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce, CVB)

MINNESOTA

Jackson is nestled beautifully in a valley. While here, ride your bike or walk on the trails along the Des Moines River while bird watching or hike through Kilen Woods state park. Tour historic Fort Belmont to see the sod house, grist mill, tower, and more. You can take in races at the Jackson Speedway, golf at the Jackson or Loon Lake golf course, play Frisbee golf, swim at our indoor pool, take in a movie at our historic state theater and more. We also have several shopping opportunities at our unique businesses. Satisfy your palette at any of our delicious restaurants. Lodging can be done at the campgrounds, hotel/motels, or our Bed and Breakfast. Feel free to phone the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce at (507) 847-3867 to find out if there are any special events happening while you will be here. We celebrate Town & Country days the 3rd weekend in July. Crazy days include crazy deals, inflatables and games entertain our children, a parade travels through our main street, and bands play at our Rhythm of the River events. August brings our county fair and a Chamber Golf Event on the last Thursday of the month. The first weekend in December highlights our Holiday Fest parade with lots of lights followed by a fireworks display. We hope that you will stop in to visit us in Jackson!

La Crescent

La Crescent is a community of 5,000 with a rural township population of about 1,500, making La Crescent the largest community in Houston County. Houston County is renowned for its upper Mississippi scenery and La Crescent’s apple orchards. Gateway to the scenic beauty of southeastern Minnesota, La Crescent is uniquely located on three officially designated scenic highways and by-ways. Apple Blossom Scenic Drive is the Minnesota byway with magnificent vistas of the bluffs, surrounding Mississippi River valley, and thousands of apple trees. Historic Bluff Country National Scenic Highway and the Great River Road National Scenic Byway are also passageways through www.lacrescentmn.com La Crescent which offer outstanding views. Many recreational opportunities exist in La Crescent – fishing, boating, hunting, golfing, skiing, snowmobiling, and biking. La Crescent is fortunate to have many parks Chamber of Commerce and green space. Hickory Park, on the north edge of town, is the first 109 S. Walnut Suite B • La Crescent, MN 55947 of its kind in the area having handicapped accessible facilities. Several Apple Capital of (507) 895-2800 • (800) 926-9480 parks in the area offer hiking with picturesque views. Minnesota The annual Apple Festival in September includes an arts and crafts Gateway to the scenic beauty of Southeastern Minnesota, La Crescent is show, a parade and plenty of live entertainment. located on three designated scenic byways - Apple Blossom Scenic Drive, For more information, contact the La Crescent Chamber of ComHistoric Bluff Country National Scenic Byway, & the Great River Road. merce at (507) 895-2800, (800) 926-9480 or at www.lacrescentmn.com

La Crescent

Kids Fishing (courtesy Inver Grove Heights CVB)

Lake City

Lake City is located along the shoreline of Lake Pepin, an outwash formation of the Chippewa and Mississippi Rivers, approximately three miles wide and 21 miles long, with the magnificent Mississippi running through it. Lake City is a beautiful historic river town where you can enjoy all the natural splendor of the surrounding bluffs, the lake, and numerous parks and vistas our city has to offer. Our largest park, 250-acre Hok-Si-La Park, has walking trails, an interpretive center, tent camping, screened shelters, a dining hall, and a beach. Enjoy the scenic views from a paddleboat or the relaxing breeze off the waters from a sailboat. Lake City has some of the greatest boating in the Midwest. Lake City offers many fine restaurants, unique small town shops and places to stay, many with beautiful views of Lake Pepin. Whether you want to fish, sail, motorboat, swim, golf at one of our three golf courses, just relax, or partake of our birthright, the sport of water skiing invented by Ralph Samuelson in 1922, we promise you that you will not want to leave this magical place. Whatever you choose to do, there is something for everyone. For more information please phone Lake City Chamber of Commerce (800) 369-4123 or e-mail: chamberevents@lakecity.org or visit our web site at: www.lakecity.org

MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

Lake of the Woods (photo courtesy J. Stephen Conn)

Lake of the Woods

Greetings from the top of Minnesota… Lake of the Woods. With great scenery, great people and great fishing we are what vacations are all about. Lake of the Woods is a border lake sharing shoreline with Manitoba, Ontario and Minnesota. The entire lake is approximately 90 miles long and 55 miles wide, covering 951,337 acres. It has 65,000 miles of shoreline and 14,500 islands. The Minnesota portion of Lake of the Woods is 317,000 acres with a maximum depth of 39 feet. Visitors experience some of the best angling on Lake of the Woods, at any time of the year. Nature buffs are right at home here with birding, photography, camping, canoeing and sight-seeing. Relax in an atmosphere that seems to be held back in time and enjoy the quiet of natural sounds, smells and sights. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and you can see the beauty of this area for miles on end. Lake of the Woods boasts being the northernmost point in the contiguous U.S. What a privilege to live in a border area and experience the best of two countries. Travel to and from Canada continues to be easy with proper documentation. Our Canadian neighbors also take pride in the beauty and splendor of Lake of the Woods. Baudette, Minnesota and Lake of the Woods proudly announce that they are the official “Walleye Capital of the World”. Yes, walleyes are in abundance in these pristine waters and their cousins, the sauger, are some of the best eating around. Anglers are never disappointed in these waters. From the amateur to the pro, fishing is always an adventure whether trolling and bait fishing or using the famous down riggers used on the large charter boats. Guides are Coast Guard approved and travel the waters with great confidence and expertise. Other species seen in these waters are Northern Pike, Small mouth bass and Jumbo Perch. Rainy River is the dividing border between the two countries and Sturgeon inhabit the waters of the river as they have for decades. A person who lands a sturgeon, said to be a pre-historic fish, can say that they have had a true fishing experience. Avid adventurers love Lake of the Woods for many other reasons. Wildflowers are in abundance with its showcase for the state flower, the

Angle Inn Lodge Sport Fishing ~ Wildlife ~ Snowmobiling ~ Breathtaking Scenery • Top-Notch Accommodations • Home-Cooked Meals • Staffed Dock, Guides, Fishing Supplies • Reasonably Priced All-Inclusive Packages

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P.O. Box 11 • Oak Island, MN 56741 • 800-879-4986

• Minnesota

Lady Slipper. Bird watching is quickly becoming another characteristic of the area and also hunting for whitetail deer, bear and geese. Untouched forests continue to hold their beauty and are protected to remain a great drawing card. When planning your next travel adventure be sure to include a visit to the “top” of the United States and the “top” of Minnesota for “top” entertainment and pleasure. We look forward to greeting you as you visit Lake of the Woods.

Lanesboro

Relax in a quiet place with no stoplights or franchises. Lanesboro, Minnesota (pop. 788) is a historic village nestled in the Bluffs of the Root River Valley. Experience the spectacular paved Root River State Bike Trail, winding 60 miles through Bluff Country. Excellent for biking, hiking, and cross-country skiing, it runs along towering limestone bluffs, dense hardwood forests and peaceful small towns. Lanesboro was named one of America’s Prettiest Towns by Yahoo! Travel / Forbes Traveler for scenic beauty and small town charm. Mother Earth News recognized Lanesboro on the “Great Places You’ve (Maybe) Never Heard Of” list honoring the city’s cultural and natural attractions. Lanesboro celebrates local food and is the Rhubarb Capital of Minnesota! The 2009 Minnesota Legislative Session ended with a new designation for Lanesboro. A senate resolution recognizing Lanesboro as the Bed and Breakfast Capital of Minnesota was proclaimed. On July 6, 2009, Senator Sharon Erickson Ropes and Representative Greg Davids presented the official proclamation. The group visited many of the Bed and Breakfasts that give Lanesboro this unique designation via Molly the Trolley. With 15 Bed and Breakfasts in Lanesboro, and the immediate surrounding area, there is a great display of architecture, including Victorian homes, craftsman homes, and new homes. Innkeepers extend their Minnesota hospitality to today’s traveler and offer a unique experience in their comfortable and nationally recognized B&Bs. Breakfasts are delightful in every inn and have their own claim to fame! Try all of them and see what you like best! To learn more, visit www.lanesboro.com

Lake of the Woods Tourism P.O. Box 518 - Baudette, MN 56623

Toll free: (800)

382-FISH (3474) (218) 634-1174

www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com • info@lakeofthewoods.com

leech lake / walker

The Leech Lake area is a land of stories & rich history. Visit for a day, a weekend, a week, or even longer and leave with a treasury of tales.

205 Minnesota Ave. W. • Walker, MN 56484 (800) 833-1118 • (218) 547-1313 info@leech-lake.com • www.leech-lake.com Boating Leech Lake (courtesy Bill McChesney)

Long Prairie

646 Lake St. • Hwy. 71 S. • Long Prairie, MN 56347

Long Prairie

(320) 732-4188 • Fax (320) 732-6159

Free SuperStart® Breakfast • Free High-Speed Internet • Truck / RV Parking • Lake Charlotte Nearby • Long Prairie Country Club & Golf Course Within 1 Mile

www.super8.com 1-800-800-8000

Long Prairie, which was named after the river flowing through the city, is located in central Minnesota. Bordered on the south by beautiful Lake Charlotte, Long Prairie is the county seat of Todd County. Located at the junctions of U.S. Hwy 71, TH 287 and TH 27, Long Prairie offers a wide variety of businesses and shopping opportunities along with an abundance of recreational and leisure activities.

Luverne

Luverne is the hidden jewel of the Minnesota prairie. Located at the intersection of I-90 and U.S. Highway 75, this city is a gateway to Minnesota from both the Iowa and South Dakota borders. This “corner of heaven” is home to beautiful Blue Mound State Park. The park features native plants, songbirds, Sioux quartzite cliffs, abundant wildlife and a bison herd. Hiking, biking, rock climbing, camping and nature-watching create a prairie playground for visitors. Just down the road is Touch the Sky Prairie. This 600 acre partnership between U.S. Fish and Wildlife and the Brandenburg Foundation is restored native prairie. See land alive with plants that the first settlers to the region experienced. When you are done with your hike, travel to Luverne and stop by the Brandenburg Gallery at the Rock County Courthouse Square. Award winning nature photographer and Luverne native Jim Brandenburg’s images adorn the walls of the gallery. The gallery is operated by the Brandenburg Foundation and proceeds support restoration of Touch the Sky Prairie. Luverne is a vibrant community with a rich local history. The Rock County Heritage Center and the Rock County Veteran’s Memorial located at the Rock County Courthouse Square tell the story of life in Rock County from 1938-1948 and share the memories of WW II veterans. Fine arts, music and cultural events provide entertainment for visitors and enhance the lives of local residents. The Luverne Area Chamber will help you create a wonderful adventure in this town of old-fashioned hometown values, rich culture, fascinating history and spectacular prairie beauty. Call (888) 283-4061 or check out the website: www.luvernechamber.com or e-mail us at luvernechamber@iw.net

Cozy Rest Motel “Your Home Away From Home” Clean Rooms • Friendly Staff

(507) 283-4461

116 S. Kniss Ave. • Luverne, MN 56156

Sunrise Motel

114 S. Sunshine Ave. • Luverne, MN 56156

(507)-283-2347 • 1-877-641-2345

Park-like setting with beautiful gardens & picnic area on grounds with a city park directly across the street. Clean, comfortable newly-redecorated rooms.

• Microwaves & Refrigerators • Wireless Internet • Cable TV • Some Pets Allowed “Come as a guest, leave as a friend!”

MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

MINNESOTA

The Leech Lake area offers memorable year-round vacation adventures, with a variety of recreational activities including world-class fishing, hunting, great golfing, hiking, biking, skiing, and snowmobiling on hundreds of miles of woodland trails and scenic byways. When visiting the Leech Lake area there are accommodations to meet every need from quiet campgrounds and family resorts to elegant hotels, quaint bed & breakfasts and adventurous houseboats. You will find exceptional shopping in our quaint downtown area. Indulge in our restaurant’s cuisine ranging from different ethnic specialties to boat accessible dining. The Walker / Leech Lakes Area is home to an array of unique festivals celebrating every season. Whatever season you chose to visit there are festivals to entertain you. Summer brings Walker Bay Days on the shores of Leech Lake; also the Moondance Jam and Moondance Country Fest are two of the state’s largest outdoor music festivals. Fall brings a pallet of colors surrounding the outdoor multi-cultural Ethnic Fest, with food and music filling the streets. Winter means the return of the International Eelpout Festival to the frozen waters of Leech Lake. Leech Lake – famous for its amazing fishing, offers multi-species fishing and breathtaking views. Explore the many bays the lake has to offer – you won’t be disappointed! Whether you are fishing for a trophy fish, or looking for a nice catch for a fish fry – you have come to the right place. Make sure you take time to visit us – once won’t be enough! Although fishing continues to be one of the most popular activities, visitors find this area holds a stunning array of experiences, activities and opportunity. Whether people visit for a day, a weekend, a week, or even longer, they leave with a treasury of tales. You will too, when you visit us and indulge your north woods spirit. Come enjoy small town hospitality on the big waters of Leech Lake.

mantorville

A Nationally Registered Historic Place Located just 20 minutes from Rochester, MN, Mantorville is a historic delight to visit. It is nestled in the picturesque valley of the Zumbro River. The town is named for the Mantor brothers who settled in 1854 with their families. You and your family will discover the same charm that brought the Mantors, and inspired the citizens of Mantorville to preserve the entire downtown by placing it on the National Historic Registry in 1975. There is a wealth of architectural heritage, fine dining, entertainment, shopping, festivals and activities for all ages and interests. Mantorville has many things to offer those that might travel here for a day. From great places to shop, excellent dining, year-round live theatre, trails and recreational activities, antiques and gifts, numerous festivals, talented artists and much, much more. In addition to its history and museums, Mantorville is best known for the Hubbell House Restaurant, Mantorville Theatre Co., Marygold Days Festival, Mantorville Brewing Co. and the Chocolate Shoppe. To learn more, visit us online at www.mantorvilletourism.com

Minneapolis / st. paul

The Minneapolis area’s arts and culture scene is second to none – it is currently experiencing an arts explosion. And with five professional sports teams, it’s always action-packed here. One of the most alluring aspects of Minneapolis is the opportunity to enjoy its green urban environment – visitors can enjoy biking, walking, running, blading, boating and fishing, all within the city limits. Sparkling lakes, inviting trails and rolling green spaces beautify the urban landscape and make Minneapolis an all-season playground. Bike, hike, pedal or paddle – all within the limits of downtown. In a city where every resident lives within six blocks of a park, the great outdoors are highly prized. Minnesota has more golfers per capita than any state in the country, which means quality courses abound. There are seven public courses in Minneapolis and 170 more in the surrounding area. Minnesota is famous for its lakes, Minneapolis included. There are 22 lakes within the city limits, including the popular Chain of Lakes (Lake Calhoun, Lake Harriet, Lake of The Isles), which curls around southwest Minneapolis, drawing bikers, walkers, runners and sun-seekers to the area’s hip, active neighborhoods. Boaters, swimmers and anglers can make a splash too, thanks to convenient lake access, watercraft rentals, clean beaches and well-stocked waters. Having transitioned from industrial to recreational, the Mississippi Riverfront delights outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs with parks, picnic areas, landmarks and monuments along miles of well-kept trails. The Audubon Great River Birding Trail, Grand Rounds Scenic Byway, and St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail, which highlights unique mill ruins, a working lock and dam, and the only stone railroad bridge to cross the Mississippi

River, all pass through this history-rich recreation haven. Minneapolis is a world-class shopping destination. People from around the globe come to shop the city’s chic boutiques, stellar malls and diverse retail districts. Mall of America is a big reason shoppers flock here, but there are many others, including a red-hot downtown shopping zone. We’re proud to be home to the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the nation. Highlighting world-class collections that span millennia, the city’s museums engage, inspire and educate millions each year. Boasting groundbreaking buildings and exhibits, they display tremendous foresight and reach. Nearly 60 destinations – many in and around downtown – celebrate life’s natural, artistic and scientific wonders. Deliciously diverse and always evolving, the Minneapolis dining scene packs a flavorful punch. From Uptown to Downtown, the city bursts with top-notch restaurants, talented chefs and friendly staff ready to serve. A marquee theater destination, Minneapolis is home to nearly 100 theater groups and more than 30 performance venues. Don’t miss the largest non-juried theater festival in the U.S. – the Minnesota Fringe Festival. The annual festival packs theaters across the city every August. It’s the ideal time for theater lovers to experience the city’s diverse theater scene. To learn more, visit us online at www.minneapolis.org

monticello

Located in central Minnesota, on the crossroads of I-94 and Hwy. 25, Monticello is a great place to live and work. The city prides itself on its Mississippi River heritage, 28 city parks, 20 miles of paved pathways and our winter visitors, the Trumpeter Swans. The location of Monticello lends itself as an easy commute to St. Cloud or the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Our many restaurants and hotels serve the tourism trade and our local residents with quality services, making Monticello a fantastic place to take a break. During the summer months, Montissippi Park features paved pathways along the Mississippi River for biking or hiking, as well as great picnic areas. Monticello has five lakes within a 7 mile drive that are inviting to boaters and sunbathers alike. Our Mississippi River offers great fishing and canoeing and family fun, as do our wonderful riverside parks. During the winter months, Monticello plays host to over 1,500 onceendangered Trumpeter Swans. They are fed daily at Mississippi Drive Park from Dec. 1 thru March 1st. Travelers from throughout the globe enjoy visiting the park during the winter months for the best winter photography around. We invite you to make a stop in Monticello to see why this city is growing and sending smiles to visitors throughout the Midwest. Information on Monticello may be found at the Monticello Chamber of Commerce and Industry website at www.monticellocci.com or call (763) 295-2700 for further information from the Chamber.

(courtesy Monticello Chamber of Comm erce)

sy smcgee, Flickr)

Pond Hockey Championships, Minneapolis (courte

• Minnesota

MINNESOTA Fargo-Moorhead Downtown Street Fair (photo courtesy Fargo-Moorhead CVB)

Moorhead

The most reliable information in any area is always supplied by those who make it home. Your best source of Fargo Moorhead community information is the local Chamber of Commerce of Fargo Moorhead. The FM Chamber provides a community directory that looks at the best of living, working, learning and playing in Fargo Moorhead. It will help you connect with local businesses and events to make Fargo Moorhead a place you will enjoy visiting. Whether you’re a new visitor or returning, single, a couple, or a family, there is an exciting adventure for all. A unique community with a metropolitan population of 194,839 provides something for everyone, from fine arts to sports teams, along with an endless list of events and festivals. Even with all the activities available, your visit will be worry free, affordable and luxurious. The business community is customer-orientated and will work diligently to make you at ease during your stay. The food and hotel accommodations are abundant. From elegant to fast food, 350+ restaurants provide a virtual smorgasbord of dining choices. Lavish, but affordable accommodations are strategically located for your convenience so you can be near what you choose. This diverse community offers exhilarating entertainment, dynamic attractions, unique events and sightseeing that is both robust and se-

rene. Entertainment consists of performing and fine arts such as museums, theatres, opera, symphonies and galleries. Attractions include live comedy, dance clubs, microbreweries, funky coffee houses, casinos, live music, and antique and shopping malls. Recreation and leisure amenities like golf courses, spas, billiards, and city and state parks are here for you. Year-round events include festivals, trade shows, concerts and celebrations. Don’t forget sightseeing! Guided outdoor field trips, bus tours and a river boat tour of the mighty Red showcase our beautiful river valley. With all this to enjoy, there’s no reason not to visit. Before or when you arrive please contact the Fargo Moorhead Chamber at www.fmchamber.com call (218) 233-1100, email info@fm chamber.com or stop by for a visit at 202 First Avenue North, Moorhead, Minnesota. We are here to make it happen! ~ article courtesy Wanda Roath

Morton

Morton is located in south central Minnesota at the junction of State Highways 19 and 71. The River Valley community has an abundance of natural beauty year-round. We offer easy living and fun for all ages at any time of the year, which makes it an ideal environment for raising a family.

“Nicest and Cleanest Motel in the Area!” • Free Continental Breakfast • Free Local Phone Calls • Exercise Room • Free WiFi

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877-256-6307 • www.fargoinn.com 1025 38th St. S.W. • Fargo, ND 58103

• Free WiFi • Free Shuttle to Casino • 24 Hr. Truck Stop on Property

400 Kokesch Dr. • Morton, MN • (507) 697-6205 • (800) 245-9800 www.abvi.com MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

World’s Largest Dala Horse (courtesy Max Sparber)

Mora & the Kanabec Area

The City of Mora, Kanabec County, Minnesota, is located 72 miles north of Minneapolis and St. Paul at the intersection of Minnesota Trunk Highways 65 and 23. It is also 52 miles northeast of St. Cloud and 91 miles southwest of Duluth. Mora is the crossroads of East Central Minnesota. The county seat of Kanabec County, Mora is nestled on the edge of the northern forests, alongside the Snake River in East Central Minnesota. It was first platted on May 19, 1882, incorporated as a village in March 1891, and was designated a city by state statute in 1973. The citizens of Mora elect a mayor and four council members to four-year staggered terms. The state demographer estimated the 2007 population of Mora at 3,481. The city covers an area of 4.31 square miles and contains the two lakes of Lake Mora and Spring Lake, and a portion of the Snake River. The Kanabec Area is neighbor to one of the fastest growing counties in the state providing real estate buyers an outstanding value for their

111 Union St. S. Mora, MN 55051

(320) 225-6233

dollar. We offer a growing community with significant real estate cost savings in land acquisition, commercial properties and housing. Centrally located in East Central Minnesota, the Kanabec Area is literally one hour from everywhere providing easy access for shipping, transportation and commuting. The metro areas of Minneapolis/St. Paul and St. Cloud can be easily reached in less than an hour and Duluth in an hour and a half. We are close enough to the cities to allow businesses and residents all the conveniences and technologies of metropolitan living, yet far enough away to retain our lifestyle. There is a wealth of human resources in the area. The influx of metro area residents, who desire our rich heritage and outstanding quality of life, makes an excellent addition to our pool of high quality workers. Sound values, commitment to education, excellent health care, strong work and business ethics, and an enthusiastic spirit are the foundation of our community. Kanabec County is an area expanding at exponential rates. This is attributed to the fact that the county includes many natural resources making it an exceptional place to live and work. Kanabec County cities and towns include, Brunswick, Grasston, Ogilvie, Mora and Quamba. Many people, when they hear of Mora think of the Vasaloppet. This event is part of a series of events that began in 1981. The Mora Classic committee and its various sponsoring organizations began a series that consists of four events. These events are: Snake River Canoe Race www.snakerivercanoerace.org Sponsored by the Snake River Canoe Club. The course is 25 kilometers down the Snake River from the Hinckley Road Bridge (Kanabec County Road 3) to the landing in Mora below the Kanabec History Center. The race is held on the first Saturday in May. Mora Bike Tour www.morabiketour.org This event is a tour, not a race, and offers options of 25 and 50 miles along picturesque country roads. The start and finish are at the Vasaloppet Nordic Center. Food and water stops and a sag wagon are available. The tour is held on the third Saturday in September. Mora Half Marathon www.morahalfmarathon.org This road race is along a 13.1 mile course which begins and ends in downtown Mora. The run, mostly through a rural setting, is held on the third Saturday in August. Mora Vasaloppet Cross-Country Ski Race www.vasaloppet.org Cross-country skiers are offered challenges on 58km, 42km classic, and 35km trails. All three races begin north of Warman, split onto separate trails, and then join again just before the finish in downtown Mora. The Vasaloppet is held on the second Sunday in February. www.moramn.com www.ci.mora.mn.us www.kanabeccounty.org www.moraclassicseries.org

(320) 679-5792 (800) 291-5792

www.madeofmora.com

Products from over 90 artists / artisians. Products sold at Made Of MORA are unique!

• Minnesota

111 South Union St., Suite 2 • Mora, MN 55051 www.moramn.com • karen@moramn.com

Nevis

Nevis is a wonderful place to visit, raise a family, vacation, or retire! We are located on the Lake Country Scenic Byway. The Heartland State Trail runs through town and right in our “back yard” we have the Paul Bunyan State Forest and Itasca State Park.

New Ulm

Nisswa Always in Season

Nisswa is nestled in North Central Minnesota amid the Land of 10,000 Lakes and is just north of Brainerd/Baxter. Nisswa is surrounded by the City of Lake Shore, Pequot Lakes, Crosslake, Pine River, Jenkins and Merrifield. From its humble beginnings as a railroad stop and lumber camp to its quaintly modern shopping and resort community, Nisswa has blossomed into a destination for locals and visitors alike. Nisswa offers our visitors unique shopping, fine dining and resorts along with great fishing, golf on world-famous courses, skiing, hiking, snowmobiling and so much more. We also host numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including: Nisswa Winter Jubilee, Feb.; Nisswa Turtle Races, every Wed. starting June - Aug.; Nisswa Stamman Scandinavian Festival, June; Nisswa Freedom Days Celebration, July; Majestic Pines Fine Art Festival, July; Nisswa Fall Festival & Smokin’ Hot BBQ Challenge, Sept.; City of Lights Celebration & Holiday Fireworks, Nov. For more details, check out our website’s calendar of events at www. nisswa.com

Turtle Races, Nisswa (courtesy Ken Ratcliff)

Our comfortable accommodations include 7 clean, modern cabins overlooking Lake Belle Taine.

1-877-726-7716 • www.resortcontent.com resortcontent@unitelc.com 24519 Fairwood Lane • Nevis, MN 56467

~ Secluded bay opens into the main part of the lake. ~ Easy access to the Heartland Trail for hiking and biking. ~ Fishing to challenge the serious & the not so serious angler. ~ Algae free lake, ideal for swimming & other water sports. NORTHFIELD

Located 40 mi. south of the Twin Cities and 50 mi. N.W. of Rochester. The quaint rivertown of Northfield is most noted for their courageous townspeople who bravely stood up against the notorious James-Younger Gang, dating back to September of 1876. Northfield made its mark in history by defeating the bandits from robbing their town’s bank and in doing so changed the ways of the Old West forever. Not an easy thing for a small town to do according to the gang’s track record up until that point in history. Today, Northfield hosts an annual event in celebration called the Defeat of Jesse James Days, held the weekend after Labor Day. Approximately 150,000 visitors come each year to witness a live reenactment of the bank raid, attend a rodeo, old-time tractor pull, arts and crafts show and more. In the summer the Outlaw Run also takes place. Motorcycle enthusiasts follow the Outlaw Trail retracing the gang’s hoof prints as they fled out of town on that September day. This is of historic importance because they were pursued by what would become the largest posse in U.S. history according to that time. Northfield was founded by John W. North who sought out the land for reasons of building a mill on the Cannon River. He saw promise in the rich land for agriculture and had strong ideals in religion, education and commerce for the town. These values still hold true today. Northfield is a vibrant community with nationally ranked colleges (St. Olaf and Carleton) and Malt-O-Meal’s headquarters are by the old mill site making the sweet aroma of cereal all day long. Northfield is an active community that has a variety of events going on throughout the year. Go to www.visitingnorthfield.com for more events and activities.

Nisswa Chamber of Commerce

25532 Main St. • P.O. Box 185 • Nisswa, MN 56468 (218) 963-2620 • (800) 950-9610 requests@nisswa.com • www.nisswa.com Nisswa offers our visitors unique shopping, fine dining & resorts along with great fishing, golf on world famous courses, skiing, hiking, snowmobiling and so much more.

MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

MINNESOTA

Just 90 miles southwest of the Twin Cities, in the Minnesota River Valley, sits New Ulm. Called “The Most German City in the USA” by the Federal Census of 2000, this town of 15,000 people continues to preserve its strong German heritage with its many festivals, historic buildings and unique attractions. The “Dakota Conflict of 1862” was the largest Indian and white battles in American history and there are several local sites to help you understand this significant event, including the displays at the lovely Brown County Museum. A great Walking Tour brochure and audio and visual hand-held iPod tours are available at the Visitor Center. The Minnesota and Cottonwood Rivers converge in New Ulm and offer plenty of outdoor activities. Flandrau State Park borders the city and provides camping, swimming, fishing, hiking and bird-watching. A city-wide 7-mile bike path allows for biking and hiking options. Shopping is a treat with the many specialty shops carrying unique and imported goods. Lodging options include three hotels, two motels and four lovely B & Bs. Festivals abound with a large festival nearly every month. Several celebrate our strong German heritage but there are many reasons for fun-lovers to visit New Ulm! Come and visit during festival times, for Christmas or any time. You won’t be disappointed! To learn more, visit us at www.newulm.com

Looking for a quiet, restful place to stay and lots of old-fashioned family fun?

Guy, Flickr) Park Rapids Fishing (courtesy Mr.Outdoor Canoeing Itasca (courtesy Jim Brekke)

park rapids

A Beautiful Vacation Spot in the Heart of Itasca Area Lakes Country! Park Rapids is located in the north central region of Minnesota, which is home to the historic Headwaters of the Mississippi River at Itasca State Park. The towering pines, pristine lakes and call of the loon and soaring eagles beckon you to come, relax and enjoy. Itasca Area Lakes Country offers four seasons of fun. Spring brings the beginning of fishing season, with Walleyes and Northerns, Bass, Crappies and Sunnies just waiting for your hook in one of our many lakes. Our area offers excellent birding opportunitites with over 200 bird species including loons, Trumpeter swans, eagles, hawks and owls. Pileated woodpeckers, waterfowl and song birds galore. The diverse ecosystem, home of the Mississippi and Red River flyways, provides year around birding.

Quality Resorts & Campgrounds Your Vacation Area for All Seasons www.itascaarea.com

Park Rapids • Lake Itasca • Nevis • Dorset • Waubun

Our area lakes are the perfect place for your summer fun and sports – fishing, boating, canoeing, water-skiing and tubing. For sports on land, we have great golf courses, hiking, biking, ATV trails and of course shopping! Autumn arrives in glorious color. The woods are filled with abundant wildlife for the hunting enthusiast or the camera buff. Winter brings ice fishing, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing in snow covered woods. And don’t miss the opportunity to walk across the stepping stones at the Headwaters of the mighty Mississippi River in Itasca State Park. Established in 1891, Itasca is Minnesota’s oldest state park. It’s 32,000 acres offer a wide array of wonders from the tallest red and white pine trees to discovering the beauty and history of our area. For the perfect place to stay in our Park Rapids / Itasca area, be it a resort or campground, see us on the web at www.itascaarea.com We have a spot waiting for you.

Formerly Econo Lodge

Budget Host Inn & Suites 40847 US Hwy. 169 Onamia, MN 56359 (320) 532-3838 www.budgethost.com

Wireless Internet • Cable TV • Jacuzzi Suites • Continental Breakfast Bring in this ad for 10% off the regular rate!

He “See Mis adwat the sis ers sip pi R of the ive r!”

~ Housekeeping ~ Winterized Cabins ~ Heated Outdoor Pool 15782 Wilderness Drive Lake Itasca, MN 56470

(218) 266-3312

www.bertscabins.com

• Minnesota

Home of the Mississippi River Headwaters at Itasca State Park Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Hwy. 71 South • P.O. Box 249 • Park Rapids, MN 56470

(218) 732-4111 • (800) 247-0054 • www.parkrapids.com

pipestone

Redwood Falls

Located about 110 miles west / southwest of the Minneapolis / St. Paul Area on Hwy. 19 / 71. The scenic city of Redwood Falls is nestled along the fertile and picturesque Minnesota River Valley in the heart of the Minnesota River Valley National Scenic Byway. This area is of historical significance as it is within this region that the Dakota (Sioux) Uprising which took place in 1862. Visitors can learn the story of the event by visiting area historic sites including the Lower Sioux Agency nearby. Redwood Falls was opened to settlement shortly afterwards in 1864. The city of Redwood Falls is named after their famous water falls found within Alexander Ramsey Park. It is Minnesota’s largest municipal park boasting 217 acres of natural beauty. Catch the breathtaking view of Ramsey Falls, visit the outdoor zoo, camp, or hike the miles of trails. Bordered along the park is an 18-hole championship golf course lending its players to a challenge with breathtaking views. Gilfillan Estates nearby was the home of Charles Gilfillan. Learn how his ownership and management of 13,000 acres in Redwood County impacted the entire area. The family is remembered not only for their passion for the advancement of agriculture, but also for their contributions toward improving the quality of life in the area. This commitment toward agricultural excellence is visible today as plant and seed research continues by private companies. Each August, Farmfest, an annual farm show, is held nearby welcoming 35,000 attendees and 500 exhibitors. Each June, Redwood Falls is the site of the annual Invention & Idea Show sponsored by the Minnesota Inventor’s Congress. Inventors bring their innovative products to gather feedback on product marketability, to obtain production partners, and to gain information on protecting their idea through the development process.

Redwood Falls (courtesy Benjamin Stockwell)

410 West Park Rd. Redwood Falls, MN 56283 www.selectinnredwoodfalls.com

1-800-287-5443 • (507) 644-4444

• FREE Casino Shuttle • Continental Breakfast • Indoor Pool & Whirlpool • FREE Wireless High-Speed Internet • Pets Allowed • Weekly & Monthly Rates Available Farmfest, Redwood Falls (courtesy Chapendra, Flickr)

Rochester

From fantastic independent shops and restaurants to a rare mix of hunting and fishing options, Rochester boasts two of the nation’s most innovative businesses – Mayo Clinic and IBM – and much, much more. Known as a great place to live, work and visit, Rochester combines the sophistication of a large metro area with the ease and friendliness of a small city. Rochester lies where the blufflands of the Mississippi River meet the prairies of Southeastern Minnesota, in America’s driftless area where breathtaking scenery and wildlife abound. The Giant Canada Goose, once thought to be extinct, was rediscovered here and now thrives yearround. Rochester offers 60 miles of hiking/biking trails, seven public golf courses and more than 100 city parks, including Soldier’s Field Park and its magnificent Veterans Memorial, which honors all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Visitors to Rochester also enjoy touring historical attractions such as the Mayowood Mansion or the Plummer House of the Arts, and family friendly attractions. A giant ear of corn water tower that serves the local Seneca Foods plant is a Rochester landmark that visitors love to photograph. Regardless of the weather, Rochester’s skyway and subway system make it easy to get from your parking spot to any local entertainment venue. Because of the world-renowned reputation of the Mayo Clinic, Rochester is a city full of fun attractions for its many yearly visitors.

MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

MINNESOTA

Pipestone is located in extreme Southwest Minnesota on Hwy. 75, Hwy. 23, and Hwy. 30. Take the time to stop and explore our community and you will discover a prairie gem, rich in culture and history. Pipestone has one of Minnesota’s largest historic districts with twenty beautiful Sioux quartzite buildings. All are listed on the National Historic Register. The Pipestone National Monument is a “must see.” For thousands of years Native Americans traveled great distances to the sacred Pipestone Quarries where stone used to fashion ceremonial pipes is found. Native Americans still quarry the red pipestone and visitors are encouraged to watch live demonstrations of pipes and crafts being carved. No visit to the monument is complete without a walk through the Coteau prairie and a view of Winnewissa Falls. For true history buffs or just the curious, stop into the Pipestone County Museum and see first hand the wealth of history artfully preserved and displayed. While in town visit our many restaurants from fine dining or down home cooking. Pipestone has lodging and camping facilities. Unlike most “tourist stops,” Pipestone has not lost its charm or affordability. To learn more, contact the Pipestone Chamber of Commerce at (800) 336-6125 or visit us on the web at www.pipestoneminnesota.com

Sauk Centre

Sauk Centre is located at the crossroads of I-94 and Highways 71 and 28, in the center of Minnesota. Sauk Centre has activities for Convention & Visitors Bureau all ages! Fishing enthusiast – Big Sauk Lake is a dynamite lake for anglers. It Jct. I-94 & Hwy. 71 • P.O. Box 222 is the area’s largest lake running for 10 miles north of town. The Fairy Sauk Centre, MN 56378 • (320) 352-5201 Lake chain is located four and a half miles northwest of town and is a popular spot for water sports. sccvb@mainstreetcom.com Lake Wobegon Trail for hiking, biking and snowmobiling, runs through www.visitsaukcentre.com Sauk Centre and connects to over 46 miles of trails. Golfers are welcome to enjoy the three excellent courses available. Grey Stone National Golf Course designed by PGA professional Tom Lehman is an 18-hole British style course. The Lynx National Golf Course is an 18-hole links-style course and was nominated by Golf Digest as one of the best new courses in America. The Sauk Centre Country Club, a 9-hole picturesque course, is the oldest course having been established in 1921. One of the main attractions is the Theatre and its marquee. The theatre has six screens showing first run films every night and Sunday matinees. Sauk Centre offers many other entertainment venues including bowling, skateboarding, frisbee golfing along with many local parks and playgrounds. Sinclair Lewis Days is the annual summer celebration held the third weekend in July, followed closely by the Stearns County Fair. Sauk Centre is noted for being the birthplace of Sinclair Lewis, the first American author to win the Nobel Prize for Literature. A museum dedicated to Sinclair Lewis is located in the Interpretive Center. We Invite you to STOP BY – STAY AWHILE. Check out Sauk Centre at www.visitsaukcentre.com or www.saukcentrechamber.com

Sunset on the Lake and Lake Trail (photos courtesy Sleepy Eye Chamber of Commerce)

Sleepy Eye

115 2nd Avenue NE • Sleepy Eye, MN

www.sleepyeyechamber.com (507) 794-4731 • (800) 290-0588 secofc@sleepyeyetel.net

It’s all right here in Sleepy Eye...from specialty shops and crafts to groceries, gifts and fine furniture. But Sleepy Eye is even more. We are home to service people, craftsmen and professionals due to our quality of life, first rate education and profitable business opportunities. You get professional care at home town prices. It’s all right here in Sleepy Eye! Sleepy Eye was established in 1872 when the railroad came through. The village was named for the beautiful lake which borders on the north and west. The lake had been named for the chief of a band of Sisseton Dakota, “Ish-Tak-Ha-Ba,” or Chief Sleepy Eye, friend to all men. His bones lay beneath the granite obelisk monument erected in his honor, which stands beside the historic railroad depot. The restored depot is home to a museum operated by the local historical society. White settlers began a community in this Indian Territory around 1860.

• Smorgasbord on Friday & Saturday • Recently Renovated Rooms

500 Burnside St. S.E. Sleepy Eye, MN 56085 photo by J. Stephen Conn

• Minnesota

(507) 794-3211

MINNESOTA

Quarry Park, St. Cloud (photo courtesy Rob Evans) During the Indian War of 1862, the major battles were fought at Fort Ridgely, just 10 miles north of Sleepy Eye. The Interpretive Center at Fort Ridgely houses displays and provides a slide program that explains the history of the site. From 1883 to 1921, the flour mill at Sleepy Eye drew many people to the area. The promotional items given away by the mill have become a favorite of collectors who frequent many of the area auctions. The “Old Sleepy Eye Collectors Club” has over 1,000 members nationally. Sleepy Eye is located in the rich agricultural heartland of our country and supports numerous agribusinesses. Several industries are located in Sleepy Eye, including the nation’s largest manufacturer of specialty advertising calendars. The service and retail businesses that serve the community offer a wide variety of shopping experiences. You will find several specialty shops featuring gifts, crafts, souvenirs and antiques. Are you hungry?... Sleepy Eye visitors may enjoy excellent eateries of all types—fast food chains, old-fashioned family cafes and fine dining restaurants. Sleepy Eye Lake lies within the city and boasts two swimming beaches, two parks containing playgrounds and picnic shelters, a boat landing, a 3.2 mile trail around the lake, and campground. There are several other parks in Sleepy Eye with shelters and playgrounds. The Family Aquatic Center, which opened in 2008, features a zero entry splash pool for children, 2 diving boards, a lap pool, lily pad walk, 2 water slides, concession stand and shaded picnic areas. In 1874, the Laura Ingalls Wilder family followed a rough path from Wisconsin to Walnut Grove, Minnesota. Today, a portion of that route, Highway 14 from Mankato to South Dakota, has been designated as the “Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Highway.” Sleepy Eye is located on this highway. Communities along the route offer services and attractions to make visitors’ journey to “Wilder Country” complete. The TV show “Little House on the Prairie,” which portrays the Ingalls family’s life in Walnut Grove, mentions the town of Sleepy Eye in some of its episodes. The “Linus” statue can be seen from Highway 14 as you drive by the Dyckman Library. This statue pays tribute to a Sleepy Eye native, Linus Maurer, and is the newest in our collection of attractions. Just blocks from Highway 14, you can visit the Chief Sleepy Eye Monument, the Sleepy Eye Depot Musuem and the Chief Sleepy Eye Statue. Visitors are welcome at several special events in Sleepy Eye throughout the year. An old-fashioned 4th of July Celebration is an annual event along with fireworks over the lake. On the third weekend in August, the annual Buttered Corn Days is held in Allison Park, where steamed corn is

dipped in butter for a gigantic corn feast. Other Corn Days festivities that you can enjoy are the musical entertainment, the crafters & vendors, kids games, waffle feed, fun walk/run, corn-eating contest and the Grand Parade. During the last Sunday in September, hundreds of people gather for Great Grassroots Gathering, an autumn craft show and flea market set up in Allison Park.

St. Cloud

St. Cloud began as three separate settlements on the Mississippi River which were founded by three extremely different men. One of the town sites was begun by a former slave owner who was involved in the fur trade, bringing slave-owning Southerners to the area. A second settlement was begun by a professional town-entrepreneur who attracted Protestants opposed to slavery. The third site was intended for a sawmill which drew Catholics from Germany. In spite of the differences, the three settlements eventually merged into one city in 1856. The name “St. Cloud” was chosen to reflect the area’s French heritage, being named after a suburb of Paris, France. Soon after, granite deposits were discovered and area granite companies began shipping granite to sites all over the world. Today, in addition to granite production, the area is a center for education and retail, and is one of the state’s popular destinations for recreation and tourism. Central Minnesota is a theater of the seasons. Spring is alive with color, from crab apple trees to tulips and daffodils. The summers are warm and balmy with quickly passing thunderstorms. Our autumns are crisp and clear with abundant fall foliage colors. Even our winters are beautiful with hoarfrost and crystal snowfalls. But don’t be fooled – always check the thermometer before heading outside! Visitors to the St. Cloud area continue to comment on the exceptional number of attractions and activities they discover in the region. Examples abound. Thousands visit the Munsinger and Clemens Gardens in the summer. Others immerse themselves in the history and culture of the area at local museums. Art lovers find an intriguing variety of art galleries to explore. Still others find scenic parks and the mighty Mississippi River to enjoy, Central Minnesota truly offers an uncommon variety of attractions. St. Cloud and the surrounding area attract visitors from all over the region, state, nation and world. If you’re planning a visit to the area any time soon, the folks at the St. Cloud Area Convention and Visitors Bureau can answer your questions. Contact them at (320) 251-4170 or (800) 264-2940 or by logging on at www.granitecountry.com

MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

Thief River Falls, MN

(courtesy Thief River Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau)

Reasons for all Seasons! www.visittrf.com 218-686-9785

• One of the country’s top birding and wildlife areas, Thief River Falls is home to a wide variety of recreation, history, and entertainment! • Located on Minnesota’s first birding trail, the “Pine to Prairie Birding Trail,” Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge has over 61,500 acres of diverse plant and animal life to enjoy. • The birthplace of Arctic Cat, Thief River Falls has access to more than 500 miles of trails in Northwestern Minnesota. Thief River Falls

One of the country’s top birding and wildlife areas, Thief River Falls is home to a wide variety of recreation, history, and entertainment! Located on Minnesota’s first birding trail, the “Pine to Prairie Birding Trail,” Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge has over 61,500 acres of diverse plant and animal life to enjoy. The birthplace of Arctic Cat, Thief River Falls has access to more than 500 miles of trails in Northwestern Minnesota. Arctic Cat snowmobiles have been manufactured in Thief River Falls for over 35 years and the plant has one of the top tours in the nation! Our area rivers provide wonderful canoeing, tubing and fishing! The Seven Clans Indoor Waterpark & Casino is located only 7 miles from Thief River Falls. Enjoy the 40,000 sq. ft. Indoor Water Park with over 750 feet of slides, a Lazy River Ride and more! Step back into yesterday at the Peder Engelstad Pioneer Village. Named after a local Norwegian immigrant, the village consists of 19 buildings with over 25,000 individual items on display. Minnesota’s northern-most vineyard, Two Fools Vineyard, is located just 15 minutes from Thief River Falls. The Ralph Engelstad Arena and Huck Olson Memorial Civic Center provide over 140,000 square feet for multi-sport activities and events with 3,550 theater-style seats. End the day at one of our great accommodations. Choose from America’s Best Value Inn & Suites, AmericInn Lodge & Suites, Best Western Inn, C’mon Inn or T-59 Motel & Video. If you’re more the outdoorsy type, check out the Thief River Falls Tourist Park. In Thief River Falls you can choose from an endless list of events and attractions—world-class snowmobile races, cultural festivals and professional bull riding contests. Check out our calendar of events at www.visittrf.com for a full list of reasons to Visit Thief River Falls!

tracy area

(courtesy D. Bjorn)

Come Along for the Ride!

Tracy Area Chamber of Commerce

372 Morgan Street • Tracy, MN 56175

(507) 629-4021

tracychamber@iw.net • www.tracymn.org

• Minnesota

Tracy is located in southwestern Minnesota and is the home of Box Car Days, the Tracy Area Sportsmen’s and Car Show and the Prairie Women’s Expo. It also is a great place to live! Box Car Days is more than an ordinary summer celebration! It’s been held every Labor Day weekend since 1927. The weekend is filled with activities for the whole family, concluding with the grand parade on Labor Day afternoon. The Tracy Area Sportsmen’s Show and Car Show happens in April and is one of the premiere shows in southwestern Minnesota. The Prairie Women’s Expo highlights include seminars, a salad luncheon, free “goodie bags,” and a variety of specialty exhibits catering to women. Healthcare services include Sanford Tracy Medical Center (a hospital, medical clinic, outpatient specialty services and an attached senior housing complex), Prairie View Healthcare Center (a skilled-care facility), and the Fitness Depot. Tracy is fortunate to have both a volunteer ambulance service and fire department. Tracy offers outstanding educational opportunities with an elementary school (K-6), a high school (7-12) and a private Catholic school (K6). There is also an early childhood development center and a private preschool program available. Tracy also boasts a number of specialty stores and businesses that have a huge variety of unusual and unique gifts and products. Through the Economic Development Authority, there are great housing and business incentives. Tracy is also home to a number of churches (various denominations), city parks, the Wheels Across the Prairie Museum, the Tracy Aquatic Center, the Tracy Country Club, a public library and a municipal airport. Tracy, MN . . . come along for the ride! For more information, please call the Tracy Area Chamber of Commerce at (507) 629-4021 or visit www.tracymn.org

MINNESOTA

(courtesy Fortune Bay Resort Casino)

TOWER FortunE Bay Resort Casino

If you’re thinking about planning your next vacation getaway, you won’t have to look any farther than Fortune Bay Resort Casino in Tower, Minnesota. Not only do we have a wide array of resort rooms that fit every budget, but we are also located on beautiful Lake Vermilion where there is never a shortage of great things to do no matter what time of year it is. We have easy access to hiking, snowmobile and cross-country ski trails right outside our doors. Our facility includes a full service marina, Wilderness golf course, RV Park, Heritage Museum, arcade, gift shop, deli/grill, fantastic restaurant and two bars. Guests are encouraged to use our heated pool, sauna, whirlpool and workout center, which is the perfect way to recharge your batteries when the day is done. If you aren’t ready to call it a night, then you might want to try your luck in our 24/7 fast-paced casino, which features live blackjack, 800 slot machines, interactive poker and roulette. Please call (800) 555-1714, ext. 7542 or visit us online at www.Fortunebay.com to plan your next vacation getaway!

Virginia

Virginia Golf Course

Located in the heart of the Mesabi Range, Virginia is a scenic destination for countless vacationers traveling in the Iron Range. Pro Shop • Full Service Dining Room, Bar & Lounge • Snack Virginia’s Olcott Park is the site of the Virginia Area Historical SoBar • Rental Clubs & Carts • Driving Range • Practice Green ciety’s Heritage Museum which provides visitors with an authentic look at the historic logging days of the area. Olcott Park is also home to the 1308 18th St. N. • Virginia, MN 55792 much loved “Land of the Loon” festival, which attracts thousands of visitors each summer. Virginia’s rich mining history is celebrated at the Mineview in the Sky (218) 748-7534 (restaurant) Overlook and the Oldtown-Finntown Overlook, both offering truly breathtaking views of the area’s deepest open pit mines. Virginia is a retail hub for the Iron Range, where popular, unique shopping venues area complemented by a wide variety of restaurants, lounges and entertainment. The city has two lakes, numerous parks and a newly renovated 18-hole municipal golf course. www.ironrange.com

(218) 748-7530

Wabasha

Wabasha was established in the 1830’s and lays claim to being Minnesota’s oldest community. Wabasha’s commercial district is listed on the National Historic Register. The renovated downtown offers unique shopping, dining and concerts under the bridge. The interstate bridge over the park connects Wabasha with western Wisconsin. Wabasha is home of the films “Grumpy Old Men” and “Grumpier Old Men”. The story “Grumpy Old Men” was written by Mark Steven Johnson whose grandfather lived in Wabasha. Watching this movie you will get an understanding of our area in the winter and “Grumpier Old Men” will expose you to our summer in Minnesota. The city welcomes the docking of steamboats during their summer trips up the Mississippi. We have great fishing, boating, canoeing, picnicking and hiking. Free outdoor concerts every Friday throughout the summer at Heritage Square. There are two marinas and a panoramic 18-hole golf course atop beautiful Coffee Mill Bluff. A variety of lodging choices are available. There are motels, lofts, and bed & breakfasts located in town. Wabasha has a courtesy dock and campgrounds within the city. Dining options include full service café’s, fast food outlets, bar & grills or fine dining restaurants. The National Eagle Center is located on Pembroke Avenue along the Mississippi River. ‘Soar with the Eagles program’ is an annual event that takes place in mid-March. Winter enthusiasts will enjoy snowmobiling on groomed trails. Coffee Mill Ski Resort, Kruger, Whitewater and Snake Creek State Parks offer many trails for downhill and cross-country skiing. For more, phone the Wabasha-Kellogg Area Chamber of Commerce at (800) 565-4158 or visit us online at www.wabashamn.org

MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

(photo courtesy Wadena Chamber of Commerce)

wadena

Located at the cross roads of three major highways: 10, 71 and 29 in Central MN. “Roads from home come through Wadena.” A wonderful destination for folks of all ages to stop, visit or play. Wadena is one of Minnesota’s Star Cities and our beautifully renovated downtown offers many irresistible shopping and dining experiences that only a small town can offer. Take time to stroll our streets and alleyways and you’ll get a thousand year Minnesota history lesson as told through our Alley Arts Murals on

Wadena Convention & Visitors Bureau (218) 632-7704 • (877) 631-7704 www.wadena.org

Any time of year, Wadena is a great place to visit!

• Unique Shops & Restaurants • Historic Depot & Museum • Murals • Model Railroad • Bike Trails • Mountain Bike Trails • Cross-Country Ski & Hiking Trails • Extensive Snowmobile Trails • Golf Course • Parks • Concerts • Short Drive from Countless Lakes & Great Hunting, Too!

AmericInn • 800-634-3444 Eastwood Inn of Wadena • 877-425-7026 Brookside Motel • 800-929-4603 City Campground • 218-631-7707

Where the Prairie Meets the Woodlands

• Minnesota

18 buildings telling the stories of Ojibwa life, Vikings discovering North America, mining, trapping, the evolution of farming, saw mills, railroad and many more. The railroad has played a huge roll in Wadena’s history. At present there are 80 plus trains per day. (Approximately one every 15 minutes) No longer in operation for the railroad, our historic depot houses railroad and community history going back to very early settlement days. You will also find an abundance of architectural history in our buildings and homes. The art-deco period shines through at the Cozy Theatre and Wadena Memorial Auditorium. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy our community all twelve months of the year. We offer trails for bike riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Our 18-hole public golf course is waiting for you. Like disc golf? Yes, we have it! Located at Sunnybrook Park & Campground on the east end of town, one of 13 parks in Wadena. Each park offers its own unique experience whether you’re hosting a family picnic or just need to unwind, relax and enjoy nature. For the fisherman, within 30 minutes you’ll be on any one of numerous lakes offering not only great fishing but also, great family memories both winter and summer. Our community boasts a newly renovated medical center with the latest technology, a community and technical college, and both a K-12 public school and a K-6 private school system. We’d love to have you stop and say “hi”, we know you’ll enjoy our community with its friendly and helpful citizens eager to assist you.

Winona

Arts & Cultural Destination in Southern Minnesota Winona is one of the most beautiful Great River Road towns, nestled between the covered limestone river bluffs that rise 500 feet and the stunning mighty Mississippi River. The historic architecture and cultural opportunities give Winona a soul that is living, breathing and growing. Still, Winona with its wealth of culture, arts, history, recreation, and festivals, is relatively undiscovered; a treasure destination waiting to be explored and enjoyed. Winona’s history lives on in architecturally significant historic buildings and vintage homes that thrill history buffs. One author has called Winona the “Stained Glass Capital” of the nation because of the many stained glass studios that located here, that still thrive today. Winona is partially surrounded by the Upper Mississippi River National Fish and Wildlife Refuge so many species of birds, fish and amphibians can be found in the area. Visitors to the area will find an abundance of outdoor recreation. Cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and ice-fishing in the winter; horse-riding, and birding in the spring; fishing, bicycling, canoeing, and golfing in the summer, and hiking, apple-picking, and vibrant fall colors draw people from all over the region in the Fall. Even tundra swans are drawn to the area in the Fall! Come discover the historic island city with its flourishing arts and cultural events, many attractions, as well as great recreational opportunities. Visit Winona, (800) 657-4972, www.visitwinona.com

Points of Interest Austin Hormel Historic Home Spam Museum Caledonia

Elk River Oliver H. Kelley Farm - A working historical farm administered by the Minnesota Historical Society. Sand Dunes State Forest - An experience of nature and wildlife about 10 miles from Elk River. Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge - Location of Ann Lake Campground and picnic area 5 1/2 miles west of Zimmerman, adjacent to Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge. Fargo-Moorhead Bonanzaville Buffalo River State Park Celebrity Walk Of Fame Children’s Museum At Yunker Farm Cornstock House Fargo Air Museum Historic Fargo Theatre Historical & Cultural Society Of Clay County Maury Wills Museum Msum Planetarium Msum Regional Science Center

hastings Afton State Park LeDuc Historic Estate Lock & Dam #2 Spring Lake Park Reserve Vermillion Falls

MINNESOTA

Barn Quilt Tour

Flandrau State Park Harkin General Store Hermann Monument Historic Gag and Lind Homes Minnesota Music Hall of Fame Ratskeller at Historic Turner Hall Schell’s Brewery and Gardens

Plains Art Museum Red River Zoo Roger Maris Museum Rourke Art Gallery & Museum Ss Ruby

park rapids Itasca State Park & Lakes Mississippi River Headwaters Pipestone Pipestone National Monument

La Crescent Great River Road National Scenic Byway Hickory Park

redwood falls Alexander Ramsey Park & Falls Gilfillan Estates Minnesota River Valley National Scenic Byway

Lanesboro Lanesboro State Fish Hatchery - 23789 Grosbeak Rd. Year-round, one of five minnesota state cold-water Trout hatcheries managed by dnk. Monday - Friday 7:00-3:30.

rochester Mayo Clinic Mayowood Mansion Plummer House of the Arts Quarry Hill Nature Center Skyline Raceway Soldier’s Field Park

mantorville Chocolate Shoppe Hubbell House Restaurant Mantorville Brewing Co. Mantorville Theatre Co.

sauk centre Big Sauk Lake Lake Wobegon Trail

new ulm Brown County Museum

Fun Mississippi River Facts 1 Hundreds of years ago, Native Americans used the Great River Road for trade and travel, with the Hopewell Indian culture becoming the most advanced society in early North America.

1 The Mississippi River’s depth ranges from less than 3 feet at the headwaters in Minnesota, to the deepest section between Governor Nicholls Wharf and Algiers Point in New Orleans where it is 200 feet deep!

1 Sixty percent of all North American birds (326 species) use the Mississippi River Basin as their migratory flyway! 1 The name “Mississippi” comes from the Anishinabe people (Ojibwe Indians). They called the river “Messipi” or “Mee-zee-see-bee,” which means “Big River” or “Father of Waters.”

1 The Mississippi River is a fishing hot spot! 241 fish species inhabit the Mississippi River and its tributaries! 1 A raindrop falling into Lake Itasca would arrive at the Gulf of Mexico in about 90 days. 1 Water skiing was invented in 1922 on the Mississippi River, in a wide part of the river known as Lake Pepin, between Wisconsin and Minnesota.

1 At 24 miles long, the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway in New Orleans, Louisiana is the world’s longest over-water highway bridge.

1 Explorer Henry Schoolcraft was the first white man to locate and document the true

source of the Mississippi River at Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota. The year was 1830. 1 The historic lumber town of Grand Rapids, along the Great River Road in Minnesota, is also home to actress Judy Garland. Her childhood home is open to the public. 1 The Mississippi River forms the 3rd largest drainage basin in the world. Its system of 29 locks-and-dams stretches 669 miles between Minneapolis, MN and Granite City, IL, controlling nearly 2/3 of the nation’s watershed. 1 Crowley’s Ridge in eastern Arkansas is one of the great geologic oddities of the world, and the Delta’s only “highlands.” The only other similar land form is found in Siberia.

1 The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial in St. Louis, Missouri (better know as the Gateway Arch), is the tallest monument in America. At 630 feet, it is more than twice as tall as the Statue of Liberty.

1 The charming town of Hannibal, Missouri, is home to author Samuel Clemens (aka Mark Twain) and the “unsinkable” Molly Brown. Clemens’ boyhood home is now a museum open to the public. www.experiencemississippiriver.com

MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

Area Chambers of Commerce & Visitors Centers Ada Chamber...........................................................(218) 784-3542 Aitkin Chamber.........................................................(218) 927-2316 Albany Chamber.......................................................(320) 845-7777 Website:............................................ www.albanymnchamber.com Albert Lea CVB.........................................................(507) 373-2316 Website:................................................. www.albertleatourism.org Alexandria Lakes Chamber........(320) 763-3161 or (800) 235-9441 Website:..................................................... www.alexandriamn.org Annandale Chamber................................................(320) 274-2474 Anoka Area Chamber - Andover, Anoka, Champlin, Coon Rapids, Dayton, Nowthen, Ramsey & St. Francis............. (763) 421-7130 Website:.......................................... www.anokaareachamber.com Or:........................................................ www.rediscoveranoka.com Apple Valley Chamber..............................................(952) 432-8422 Appleton Chamber...................................................(320) 289-1527 Arlington Chamber...................................................(507) 964-2283 Austin CVB.................................(507) 437-4563 or (800) 444-5713 Website:.......................................................... www.austincvb.com Avon Chamber.......................................................... (320) 356-4115 Barnesville..................................(218) 354-2888 or (800) 525-4901 Website:................................................... www.barnesvillemn.com Becker Area Chamber..............................................(763) 262-2420 Website:.................................................. www.beckerchamber.org Belle Plaine Chamber...............................................(952) 873-4295 Bemidji Chamber........................(218) 444-3541 or (800) 458-2223 Benson Chamber.....................................................(320) 843-3618 Big Stone Lake Chamber - Ortonville.......................(320) 839-3284 Biwabik Chamber.....................................................(218) 865-4183 Blackduck Chamber.................................................(800) 323-2975 Blooming Prairie Chamber.......................................(507) 583-4472 Blue Earth Chamber.................................................(507) 526-2916 Brainerd Lakes Chamber - Jenkins & Pequot Lakes Phone.......................................(218) 829-2838 or (800) 450-2838 Website:........................................ www.explorebrainerdlakes.com Buffalo Chamber.......................................................(763) 682-4902 Burnsville Chamber..................................................(952) 435-6000 Caledonia..................................................... www.caledoniamn.gov Cambridge Chamber................................................(763) 689-2505 Canby Chamber.......................................................(507) 223-7775 Cannon Falls Chamber............................................(507) 263-2289 Carlton Area Chamber..............................................(218) 384-3322 Cass Lake Area Chamber..........(218) 335-2250 or (800) 356-8615 Website:........................................................... www.casslake.com Chatfield Commercial Club.......................................(507) 867-3870 Chisago Lakes Area Chamber................................. (651) 257-1177 Chisholm Chamber.....................(218) 254-7930 or (800) 422-0806 Website:............................................. www.chisholmchamber.com Cokato Chamber......................................................(320) 286-5505 Cold Spring...............................................................(320) 685-3653 Cook Chamber.........................................................(877) 526-6562 Cottage Grove Chamber..........................................(651) 458-8334 Crane Lake Visitor & Tourism Bureau......................(218) 993-2901 Crookston Chamber...................(218) 281-4320 or (800) 809-5997 Cuyuna Country.......................................................(218) 546-8131 Dakota County Regional Chamber...........................(651) 452-9872 Delano Chamber......................................................(763) 972-6756 Detroit Lakes Chamber............................................(218) 847-9202 Website:................................................ www.visitdetroitlakes.com Duluth Chamber.......................................................(218) 722-5501 Website:................................................. www.duluthchamber.com Eden Prairie Chamber..............................................(952) 944-2830 Edina Chamber........................................................(952) 806-9060 Elbow Lake Chamber...............................................(218) 685-5380 Website:........................................... www.elbowlakechamber.com Elk River Chamber................................................... (763) 441-3110 Website:................................................. www.elkriverchamber.org Ely Chamber...............................(218) 365-6123 or (800) 777-7281 Website:...................................................................... www.ely.org Eveleth.....................................................................(218) 744-7444 South Lake-Excelsior Chamber................................(952) 474-6461 Fairmont CVB............................(507) 235-8585 or (800) 657-3280 Website:................................................. www.visitfairmontmn.com Faribault Chamber......................(507) 334-4381 or (800) 658-2354 Fargo Moorhead Chamber....................................... (218) 233-1100 Website:....................................................... www.fmchamber.com Fergus Falls Chamber..............................................(218) 736-6951 Forest Lake Area Chamber .....................................(651) 464-3200 Glencoe Chamber....................................................(320) 864-3650 Glenwood Lakes Area Chamber..............................(320) 634-3636 Grand Forks-East Grand Forks Chamber................(701) 772-7271 Grand Marais Area Tourism Association...................(218) 387-2524 Toll Free..................................................................(888) 922-5000 Website:..................................................... www.grandmarais.com Grand Rapids Chamber...........................................(218) 326-6619 Granite Falls Chamber.............................................(320) 564-4039 Hastings Area Chamber...........................................(651) 437-6775 Toll Free..................................................................(888) 612-6122 Website:........................................................ www.hastingsmn.org

â&#x20AC;˘ Minnesota

Hibbing Chamber.................... (218) 262-3895 or (800) 4-HIBBING Hill City Chamber.....................................................(800) 519-6939 Hinckley Chamber....................................................(320) 384-0126 Hoyt Lakes...............................................................(877) 955-2344 Hutchinson Chamber................................................(320) 587-5252 I-94 West Chamber..................................................(763) 428-2921 International Falls, Ranier & Rainy Lake CVB..........(800) 325-5766 Website:............................................. www.rainylakevacation.com Isanti Chamber.........................................................(763) 444-8515 Itasca Area Lakes Tourism Association.......... www.itascaarea.com Jackson Area Chamber............................................(507) 847-3867 Website:........................................................ www.jacksonmn.com Kanabec Area Chamber (Mora)...............................(320) 679-5792 Toll Free..................................................................(800) 291-5792 Website:............................................... www.kanabecchamber.org La Crescent Chamber of Commerce........................(507) 895-2800 Toll Free..................................................................(800) 926-9480 Website:.................................................... www.lacrescentmn.com Lake Benton Chamber.............................................(507) 368-4641 Lake City Chamber.....................(651) 345-4123 or (800) 369-4123 Website:............................................................... www.lakecity.org Lake Crystal Chamber..............................................(507) 726-6088 Lake Minnetonka Area Chamber..............................(952) 472-5622 Lake of the Woods Tourism - Baudette.................... (218) 634-1174 Toll Free..................................................................(800) 382-3474 Website:........................................... www.lakeofthewoodsmn.com Lake Osakis Resort Association...............................(800) 422-0785 Lake Vermilion Chamber - Soudan, Tower...............(218) 753-8909 Lakeville Chamber......................(952) 469-2020 or (888) 525-3845 Lamberton................................................................(507) 752-7601 Lanesboro Chamber...................(507) 467-2696 or (800) 944-2670 Website:......................................................... www.lanesboro.com Laurentian Chamber - Aurora, Biwabik, Chisholm, Cook, Eveleth, Gilbert, Hibbing, Hoyt Lakes, Mountain Iron, Tower, Virginia Phone.....................................................................(218) 741-2717 Le Center Chamber..................................................(507) 357-6737 Le Sueur Chamber...................................................(507) 665-2501 Leech Lake Area Chamber.......................................(218) 547-1313 Toll Free.................................................................. (800) 833-1118 Website:......................................................... www.leech-lake.com Litchfield Chamber...................................................(320) 693-8184 Little Falls Chamber.................................................(320) 632-5155 Long Prairie Chamber..............................................(320) 732-2514 Website:.......................................................... www.longprairie.org Luverne Chamber.......................(507) 283-4061 or (888) 283-4061 Website:............................................... www.luvernechamber.com Madelia Chamber......................(507) 642-8822 or (888) 941-7283 Madison Chamber....................................................(320) 598-7301 Mankato Chamber......................(507) 385-6640 or (800) 697-0652 Mantorville Area Chamber........................................(866) 313-8687 Website:............................................ www.mantorvilletourism.com Marshall Chamber....................................................(507) 532-4484 McGregor Chamber..................................................(218) 768-3692 Meet Minneapolis.......................(612) 767-8000 or (800) 620-1958 Melrose Chamber.....................................................(320) 256-7174 MetroNorth Chamber . .............................................(763) 783-3553 Milaca Chamber.......................................................(320) 983-3140 Minneapolis Regional Chamber - Bloomington........(612) 370-9100 Website:.......................................... www.minneapolischamber.org Montevideo Chamber.................(320) 269-5527 or (800) 269-5527 Monticello Chamber.................................................(763) 295-2700 Website:.................................................... www.monticellocci.com Moose Lake Chamber..............................................(218) 485-4145 Morris Chamber........................................................(320) 589-1242 Murray County Chamber..................... www.murray-countymn.com New Prague Chamber..............................................(952) 758-4360 New Ulm Area Chamber & CVB...............................(507) 233-4300 Toll Free..................................................................(888) 463-9856 Website:............................................................. www.newulm.com Nisswa Chamber........................(218) 963-2620 or (800) 950-9610 Website:.............................................................. www.nisswa.com North Branch Chamber............................................(651) 674-4077 North Hennepin Area Chamber................................(763) 424-6744 Northfield Area Chamber............(507) 645-5604 or (800) 658-2548 Website:............................................... www.visitingnorthfield.com Olivia Chamber........................ (320) 523-1350 or (888) 265-CORN Orr-Pelican Lake Association...................................(877) 254-4691 Outing Chamber.......................................................(218) 792-5857 Owatonna Chamber...................(507) 451-7970 or (888) 423-6466 Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber........................... (218) 732-4111 Toll Free..................................................................(800) 247-0054 Website:........................................................ www.parkrapids.com Paynesville Chamber.................(320) 243-3233 or (800) 547-9034 Pelican Rapids Chamber..........................................(218) 863-1221 Perham Chamber.....................................................(218) 346-7710 Pine City Area Chamber...........................................(320) 322-4040 Pipestone Chamber & Visitor Center........................(800) 336-6125 Website:......................................... www.pipestoneminnesota.com

Princeton Chamber..................................................(763) 389-1764 Prior Lake Chamber.................................................(952) 440-1000 Red Wing Chamber....................(651) 388-4719 or (800) 762-9516 Redwood Area Chamber & Tourism ........................(507) 637-2828 Toll Free..................................................................(800) 657-7070 Website:...................................................... www.redwoodfalls.org Remer Chamber.........................(218) 566-1680 or (800) 831-5262 Richfield Chamber....................................................(612) 866-5100 River Heights Chamber - Inver Grove Heights, South St. Paul Phone.....................................................................(651) 451-2266 Website:...................................................... www.riverheights.com Robbinsdale Chamber..............................................(763) 537-4534 Rochester CVB...........................(507) 288-4331 or (800) 634-8277 Website:...................................................... www.rochestercvb.org Rush City Chamber..................................................(320) 358-4639 Saint Paul Area Chamber - Falcon Heights, Lauderdale, Maplewood, North Oaks, North St. Paul, Oakdale, Vadnais Heights...................................................................(651) 223-5000 Website:............................................. www.saintpaulchamber.com Sandstone Chamber................................................(320) 245-2271 Sauk Centre CVB.....................................................(320) 352-5201 Website:................................................. www.visitsaukcentre.com Savage Chamber.....................................................(952) 894-8876 Shakopee Chamber.................................................(952) 445-1660 Sherburn Chamber...................................................(507) 764-2607 Sleepy Eye Chamber...............................................(507) 794-4731 Toll Free..................................................................(800) 290-0588 Website:........................................... www.sleepyeyechamber.com SouthWest Metro Chamber.......................................(952)448-5000 Spring Valley.............................................................(507) 346-7367 Springfield................................................................(507) 723-3500 St. Charles................................................................(507) 932-3020 St. Cloud Chamber...................................................(320) 251-4170 Website:.................................................. www.granitecountry.com St. James Chamber..................................................(507) 375-3333 St. Joseph Chamber.................................................(320) 363-7201 St. Peter Chamber....................................................(507) 934-3400 Staples-Motley Area Chamber.................................(218) 894-3974 Stewartville Chamber...............................................(507) 533-6006 Stillwater Chamber...................................................(651) 439-4001 Thief River Falls CVB...............................................(218) 686-9785 Website:................................................................ www.visittrf.com Tracy Area Chamber................................................(507) 629-4021 Website:.............................................................. www.tracymn.org Twin Cities North Chamber......................................(763) 571-9781 Twin Cities West Chamber.......................................(763) 450-2220 Two Harbors Chamber - Beaver Bay, Finland, Isabella, Knife River, & Silver Bay..................................................(218) 834-6200 Tyler Chamber..........................................................(507) 247-3905 Wabasha-Kellogg Chamber & CVB..........................(651) 565-4158 Toll Free..................................................................(800) 565-4158 Website:....................................................... www.wabashamn.org Waconia Chamber....................................................(952) 442-5812 Wadena Chamber....................................................(218) 632-7704 Toll Free..................................................................(877) 631-7704 Website:.............................................................. www.wadena.org Wahpeton Breckenridge Chamber...........................(701) 642-8744 Warroad Chamber....................................................(218) 386-3543 Waseca Chamber.....................(507) 835-3260 or (888) 9WASECA Wayzata Chamber....................................................(952) 473-9595 Wells Chamber...........................(507) 553-6450 or (866) 553-6450 Wheaton Chamber.................................... www.cityofwheaton.com White Bear Lake Chamber.......................................(651) 429-8593 Willmar Chamber......................................................(320) 235-0300 Windom Chamber...................(507) 831-2752 or (800) 7-WINDOM Winona.......................................(507) 452-0735 or (800) 657-4972 Website:....................................................... www.visitwinona.com Winsted....................................................................(320) 485-2366 Winthrop...................................................................(507) 647-5306 Woodbury Chamber.................................................(651) 578-0722 Worthington Chamber..............................................(507) 372-2919 Zimmerman Chamber..............................................(763) 856-4404 Zumbrota..................................................................(507) 732-4282

Calendar of Events

For a Full List of Events and Event Details, Contact Area Chambers of Commerce/Visitor’s Bureaus.

july anoka – Riverfest barnesville – Clay County Fair BECKER – Golf Mixer bird island – Polka Fest Days crosby Fire Dept. Parade, Music & Fireworks Power Boat Races Steak Fry & Street Dance danube – Fun Days detroit lakes – Arts & Crafts in the Park Becker County Fair Fireworks on the Beach Northwest Water Carnival edgerton – Dutch Festival elk river – Sherburne County Fair emily – Emily Day Celebration & 5K Emily Day Scramble @ Emily Greens fargo / moorhead Fargo’s Downtown Street Fair Red River Valley Fair franklin – Catfish Days hastings – Little Log House Antique Power Show Rivertown Days Houston – Hoedown Days

Jackson – Town & Country Days la crescent Night at the Loggers Golf Outing leech lake / walker – Christmas in July Leech Lake Walleye Tournament Muskie Fishing Opener Moondance Jam Walker Crazy Days mantorville – Dodge County Free Fair Ride for a Reason Ronald McDonald Motorcycle Run minneapolis / st. paul – 10,000 Lakes Festival Basilica Block Party Bastille Day Country Market Rockin’ Ribfest Minneapolis Aquatennial Minnesota Orchestra’s Sommerfest Rondo Days Taste of Minnesota nevis – Muskie Days Pig Races new ulm – Bavarian Blast Nisswa – Freedom Days Celebration Majestic Pines Fine Art Festival Turtle Races northfield – Crazy Daze Rice County Fair olivia – Corn Capital Days outing – Fun Run 5K Walk/Run/Crawl pipestone Chuck Wagon Cook-Off Cruise for Care Love of the Land Rendezvous Old Time Fiddlers Pipestone Crazy Days Pipestone Powwow Red Hat Extravaganza redwood falls Ag Ribeye Open Golf Tournament Redwood County Fair Relay for Life rochester – Spring Creek MX Races St. John’s Block Party The Cruise sauk centre – Sinclair Lewis Days Stearns County Fair seaforth – Polka Fest Sleepy eye – Old-Fashioned 4th of July & Fireworks thief river falls – Demolition Derby Marshall County Fair Park & Recreation Pioneer Day Pennington County Fair Swenson Golf Tournament Thunder on Hooves PBR Bullride wabasha – Riverboat Days walnut grove – Family Festival Wilder Pageant august austin – Mower County Fair barnesville – Potato Days bechyn – Czech Fest bird Island – Renville County Fair CHISHOLM – Doc “Moonlight” Graham Days crosby – Heritage Days & Crosby Centennial Power Boat Races deerwood – Deerwood Open Summerfest detroit lakes – Pine Point Powwow Pine to Palm Golf Tournament WE Fest Country Music Festival Young Life Triathlon emily – Battle of Bars Golf Tournament fargo / moorhead – Blues Festival Island Park Craft Show North Dakota Horse Park Racing Pioneer Days @ Bonanzaville We Fest Country Music Festival Houston – Bluegrass Festival Jackson – Chamber Golf Event Jackson County Fair Jackson County Saddle Club Horse Show MN Corn Cob Open Golf Event la crescent – Apple Annie Follies lanesboro – Buffalo Bill Days

leech lake / walker – Cajun Fest Northern Reflections Fine Art League Walker Bay Days Walker Crazy Days mantorville – Beatles Bash Berne Swissfest Civil War Shivaree MN State Sheriff’s Posse Ride Stage Coach Motorcycle Ride minneapolis / st. paul Loring Park Art Festival Minnesota Fringe Festival Minnesota Irish Fair Minnesota Renaissance Festival Minnesota State Fair Powderhorn Art Fair Uptown Art Fair mora – Half Marathon nevis – Uffda Days new ulm – Brown County Free Fair Nisswa – Turtle Races northfield Bridge Chamber Music Festival Dakota County Fair Outlaw Run Vintage Band Festival olivia – Corn Capital Days pipestone – Civil War Days Indoor/Outdoor Health Fair Jasper Quartziter Days Pipestone County Fair redwood falls – Farmfest rochester – Artigras Gold Rush Greek Festival Olmsted County Fair sanborn – Watermelon Days Sleepy eye – Buttered Corn Days thief river falls – BBQ Cookoff Bountiful Harvest Crazy Days Last Ride Blues Festival Smash & Bash Demo Derby Street Wizards Car Show

MINNESOTA

june austin – Hambone Blues Festival BECKER – Freedom Days bird island – Wing Ding Days COOK – Timber Days crosby Commit to Get Fit 5K Run/Walk Fifty Lakes Family Fun Day Spring Warm-up Ride for Veterans cuyuna – Woodtick Races detroit lakes – Street Faire at the Lakes White Earth Powwow fairfax – Summer Celebration fargo / moorhead – Rib Fest & More Roger Maris Golf Tournament Scandinavian Hjemkomst Festival World of Outlaws Jackson – Father’s Day Franks-A-Lot Fort Belmont JAM Session la crescent – Slice of Life 5K Run/Walk lake city – Tour De Pepin Bike Tour Water Ski Days lanesboro – Art in the Park Rhubarb Festival leech lake / walker Moondance Jammin Country Fest mantorville – Art Guild Art Show Old Tyme Days minneapolis / st. paul Edina Art Fair Grand Old Day Hot Summer Jazz Festival Juneteenth Midsummer at the American Swedish Institute Minneapolis MOSAIC Stone Arch Festival of the Arts morgan – Morgan City & Country Days morton – Lower Sioux Powwow River Bottom Days nevis Gene Cirks Memorial Scholarship Car Show new ulm – Autofest Car Show Nisswa – Stamman Scandinavian Festival Turtle Races northfield “Golf-A-Palooza” Wild West Shotgun Shootout! Junebug Festival of Music Retirement Community Golf Classic Taste of Northfield pipestone – Watertower Festival redwood falls FFA Donkey Softball Fund Raiser Redwood Community Parade Rotary Fly-In Breakfast Scott Preusse Car & Cycle Show Senior Expo @ St. Catherines rochester – Rochesterfest springfield – Riverside Days wabasso – All Fest

september aitkin – Festival of Adventures austin – National Barrow Show® belview – Old Sod Days crosby “North of the River Run” Motorcycle Run Women’s Expo deerwood – Tour of Cuyuna Bike Ride detroit lakes – Dick Beardsley ½ Marathon & 5K Laddies Loppet Mountain Bike Race emily – Gary Steiner Iron Man Classic fargo / moorhead – Big Iron Ag Expo Greater Moorhead Days Western MN Steam Thresher’s Reunion Jackson – Fort Belmont Rendezvous la crescent – Apple Festival Arts & Crafts Fair & Flea Market Classic Car Show Krazee Days lanesboro – Harvest Moon leech lake / walker – Ethnic Fest “Fall Has it All” Begins “No Class” Car Show North Country Marathon & 10K mantorville – Marigold Days Zumbro Bend Rendezvous Mcgregor – Tour of the Lakes Bike Ride minneapolis / st. paul – Minnesota Renaissance Festival Minnesota State Fair mora – Mora Bike Tour morton – Scarecrow Festival nevis Scholarship Fund Junior Fishing Tournament new ulm Riverblast Free River Celebration Nisswa Fall Festival & Smokin’ Hot BBQ Challenge northfield – Defeat of Jesse James Days Rice County Steam & Gas Engines Fall Show

MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com •

Calendar of Events (cont.)

For a Full List of Events and Event Details, Contact Area Chambers of Commerce/Visitor’s Bureaus. pipestone – Ozark Jubilee @ PPAC redwood falls – Fall Farm Festival Redwood Falls Festival rochester – Gold Rush Sleepy eye – Great Grassroots Gathering thief river falls – Fly-In/Drive-In Breakfast Train & Hobby Show tracy – Box Car Days october bay lake Oktoberfest @ Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge BECKER – Harvest Fest CHISHOLM – Field of Screams Haunted Tours crosby – Fall Family Festival detroit lakes – Lucky’s Loype Pumpkin Run fargo / moorhead – Women’s Showcase la crescent – Dinner at the Depot lake city – Johnny Appleseed Days lanesboro – Harvest Moon leech lake / walker “Fall Has it All” Leech Lake Band of Ojibwa Treats for Tots Walker Rotary Extravaganza mantorville – Fall Festival Old Fashioned Christmas minneapolis / st. paul Minnesota Orchestra’s Musical Spooktacular Twin Cities Marathon new ulm – Oktoberfest northfield South Central MN Studio ArTour pipestone – Chili Cook-Off thief river falls – Goose Fest november aitkin – Fish House Parade Brainerd lakes – Holiday Arts & Crafts Festival Sertoma Winter Wonderland World Famous Fish House Parade fargo / moorhead Holiday Lights Parade Downtown Santa Village leech lake / walker – Festival of Lights minneapolis / st. paul Holidazzle Parade morton – Beneath the Village Wreath new ulm – Parade of Lights Nisswa – City of Lights & Holiday Fireworks redwood falls – Christmas by Candlelight Elfin’ Magic Craft Sale Holid-Ice Santa Spectacular thief river falls – Holiday Craft Fair december bird island – Old Fashioned Christmas Brainerd lakes – Rock & Roll Xmas Spectacular crosby – Christmas in the Park fargo / moorhead – North Dakota Ag Show Santa Village Jackson – Holiday Fest Parade & Fireworks la crescent – Winter Parade lanesboro – Holiday Weekend leech lake / walker – Christmas Musical minneapolis / st. paul – Holidazzle Parade Riverfront New Year’s Celebration northfield – St. Olaf College Christmas Festival Winter Walk pipestone – Chirstmas Craft & Bake Sale Opland’s Christmas Festival of Music sanborn – Memories of Hometown Christmas Springfield – Outdoor Nativity Pageant thief river falls – Holiday Train january Brainerd lakes Antique Snowmobile Rendezvous Ice Fest Ice Fishing Extravaganza Snow Golf Tournament fargo / moorhead – Boat & Marine Show Jackson – Winterfest Cornation Winter Crazy Days la crescent Rotary/Lions Super Community Event

• Minnesota

minneapolis / st. paul Saint Paul Winter Carnival

february Brainerd lakes – Arctic Blast Snowmobile Rally Crosslake Dog Derby Crosslake Winterfest Eelpout Festival Ski & Board-a-Thon Snow Golf Tournament CHISHOLM – Polar Bear Days crosby – Ice Fishing Contest & Scorpion Snowmobile Homecoming Vintage Snowmobile Show & Go detroit lakes – Polar Fest & Polar Plunge fargo / moorhead Red River Valley Home & Garden Show la crescent Crucifixion Mardi Gras lanesboro – Winter Weekend Vintage Snowmobile Show & Go leech lake / walker – Eelpout Festival Polar Pout Plunge Sled Dog Race minneapolis / st. paul City of Lakes Loppet Food & Wine Experience Home & Garden Show Saint Paul Winter Carnival Scottish Ramble mora – Vasaloppet Cross-Country Ski Race Nisswa – Winter Jubilee rochester – Builders Home Show Winterfest sauk centre – Farm Toy Show wabasha – Grumpy Old Men Festival march austin – Stampin’ & Scrappin’ Retreat Brainerd lakes – Blades to Broadway Gull Lake Frozen Fore Polar Bear Plunge St. Patrick’s Day Parade Vacationland Figure Skating Club Show CHISHOLM – Chilly Open Golf Tournament crosby – Trade & Sport Show detroit lakes – Home & Garden Show fargo / moorhead – Fargo Film Festival Red River Valley Sportsmen’s Show Houston – International Festival of Owls Jackson – Farm & Home Show la crescent – Business Expo & Chili Cook-Off Family Fair Lions Fish Boil Pot O’ Gold Raffle & Party leech lake / walker – Moondance Bonspiel Walker Area Sport & Travel Show mantorville – Mulligan Stew minneapolis / st. paul Home & Garden Show Macy’s - Bachman’s Flower Display St. Patrick’s Day Parade new ulm – Bock Beer Fest Fasching-A German Mardi Gras pipestone – Museum’s Spring Fling St. Patrick’s Day Parade rochester – Taste of the Town Woodcarvers Annual Show wabasha – Soar With the Eagles Program april austin – Pioneer Days Brainerd lakes – Bunny Bash Run for the Lakes Marathon & Nisswa Spring Fling Spring Lakes Area Home Tour la crescent – Crucifixion Parish Gala Neighbors Day lanesboro – Ibsen Festival Ladies Day leech lake / walker Home & Garden Show mantorville Dodge County Civil War Muster & Reenactment minneapolis / st. paul International Film Festival

Macy’s - Bachman’s Flower Display morton – Spring Garden Party northfield – Earth Day Celebration Home & Garden Show pipestone – Opland Spring Festival rochester – Turkey Ridge Encampment World Festival tracy – Sportsman’s Show & Car Show may austin – Birding Festival Pioneer Days crosby – Fishing Opener detroit lakes – Avenue of Flags/Memorial Walk Festival of Birds elk river – Taste of Elk River fargo / moorhead – Fargo Marathon hastings – Saturday Night Cruise-In Houston – Bluegrass Festival Root River Triathlon la crescent – Apple Blossom Time Applefest Button Kick-Off lanesboro – Bluff Country Gathering Memorial Day Program Stand-Still Parade leech lake / walker – Golf Tournament Large & Small Mouth Bass Opener Veterans Memorial Powwow Lucan – Captain Dan Fun Days mantorville Dodge County Civil War Muster & Reenactment Spring Fling minneapolis / st. paul Cinco de Mayo Mexican Fiesta Festival of Nations May Day Parade Northeast Minneapolis Art-a-Whirl mora – Snake River Canoe Race nevis – Fishing Opener new ulm – Statewide Firemen’s Chili Cook-Off northfield – Lion’s Club Pancake Breakfast Rice County Steam & Gas Engines Swap Meet & Flea Market redwood falls – Captain Dan Fun Days Ramsey Park Jamboree rochester – Gold Rush Med City Marathon

Powerboat Races on the Mississippi (photo courtesy Michael Hicks)

Welcome to Wisconsin Wisconsin State Flag

State Facts Nickname: State Motto: Area: Population: Capital: State Tree: State Flower: State Bird: State Animal: State Dog: State Fish: State Insect: State Mineral: State Fossil: State Dance:

Wisconsin Quarter Back Badger (photos courtesy Wikimedia) 13

Superior

Bayfield

Washburn Iron River

Ashland

Hurley

169 13

63 35

Cable

Grantsburg

Spooner Shell Lake

Balsam Lake

Ladysmith

Barron

Ellsworth 35

Chippewa Falls

Eau Claire

Antigo

Wausau

Wabasha Alma

Neillsville

Mauston

133

Prairie du Chien

sin

con

Cassville

18 39 80

191

151

81 133

Madison 92

Mineral Point

Darlington 11

92 69 59

Janesville

State Boundaries County Boundaries

Brodhead Monroe

W i s c o n s i n County Seat

Toll Roads and Bridges Interstate Highways

Port Washington

60 83

Butler

Jefferson

67 19

151

Dodgeville

State Capitals

Milwaukee

Waukesha

12 59

Sheboygan

Juneau

Lancaster 133

Manitowoc

Fond du Lac

R. 133

Baraboo

Wis

Portage

Richland Center 60

151 Omro Oshkosh Green Berlin Lake 41 44

Chilton

L. Winnebago

Montello

Viroqua

Kewaunee

55 110

13 80

110

Wautoma

Friendship

Appleton

New London

Waupaca

WISCONSIN

La Crosse

Sparta

Green Bay

161 49

Petenwell L.

173

110

Black River Falls

Sturgeon Bay 42

Wisconsin Rapids 54

95 93

Stevens Point

Whitehall

Egg Harbor

Shawano

Oconto

22 32

Durand 37

153

Keshena

153

Marinette

141

Thorp

180 64

Merrill

Menomonie

Medford

64 73

Crandon

17 86 13

Rhinelander

139

Hudson

Florence

Eagle River

Phillips W i s c o n s i n

182

Park Falls 70

Hayward L. Chippewa

St C 70

Land O’ Lakes 51

R roix

Badger State “Forward” 54,310 sq. miles 5,711,767 Madison Sugar Maple Wood Violet Robin Badger American Water Spaniel Muskellunge Honey Bee Galena Trilobite Polka

Whitewater 43

Burlington Elkhorn

94 32

Racine

Kenosha

WiTravelRecreation.com • Major Rivers Intermediate Rivers

Attractions

Releasing Eagle to the Wild, Antigo (photos courtesy Edward J. Culhane, WDNR)

Antigo / Langlade County

Langlade County is a true year-round destination for recreation, with four seasons of fun. Mountain biking in Langlade County is one of the best kept secrets in the Midwest. The lakes, rivers, streams and springholes offer a wide range of fishing. There are approximately 735 wilderness lakes scattered over the county. For the winter enthusiast, there are over 500 miles of regularly groomed snowmobile trails, numerous cross-country ski trails and a downhill ski area, Kettlebowl, which offers a series of towropes, a heated chalet, restrooms, and a snack bar. The Wolf River country, long known as Wisconsin’s “Troutland” for the spirited fish in these clean Northern waters, is one of the state’s richest resources. The Wolf flows quietly into Troutland in the community of Lily. From here downstream, the river is a mischievous mix of boulder-strewn rapids interspersed with quiet stretches of water. The rapids become rowdier the farther downstream you go. In the 28 miles it flows through our area, the Wolf drops 430 feet in elevation. Trout fishermen come for the excitement and challenge of matching wits with the brookies, browns, and rainbows that swell in the Wolf River and its tributaries. White-water rafting and canoeing are popular sports that take advantage of the river’s boisterous nature. People who raft or paddle the Wolf are rewarded with outstanding shoreline scenery, abundant wildlife and excellent water quality. The Langlade County Forest is a great place to horseback ride. There are four trails located within Langlade County for you to enjoy and discover all the beauty our county has to offer. Golfers will find a challenge 15 miles north of Antigo at Bass Lake Country Club’s 18-hole course and Riverview’s 9-hole facility just 4 miles west. Maplewood Golf Course in Pickerel, 25 miles northeast of Antigo, presents a scenic 9-hole challenge. Langlade County’s 15 well-equipped parks offer everything from playgrounds, baseball & softball diamonds, tennis & basketball courts, wading pools & picnic areas, hiking & walking trails, and fishing. Wintertime skating rinks are numerous including an indoor facility that hosts hockey events, but also offers public skating time.

1005 S. Superior St. Antigo, WI 54409 www.antigochamber.com

• Wisconsin

The County has two ATV trails, Parrish Highlands and Augustyn Springs. The Parrish Highlands offers 55 miles of spectacular scenery. The Augustyn Springs trail is 21 miles and provides great riding on rolling to very hilly terrain. Over 50 miles of the Ice Age Trail is located within Langlade County. The trail has five segments; the 13-mile Kettlebowl, the 12-mile Lumbercamp, the 9.5-mile Old Rail Road, 12.3-mile Highland Lakes and the 12mile Parrish Hills. Jack Lake trails weave through changing scenery of hardwood, aspen and conifer forests in Veteran’s Memorial Park. Ackley Wildlife Area, 11 miles west of Antigo, offers a chance to view waterfowl, deer and the occasional black bear. Meeting all tastes and interests, the County hosts a bowling establishment, two health and fitness clubs, movie theatre, and aquatic center open year-round. With all of these activities, plus many more, there is something for everyone! You can decide if your visit with us will be relaxing or exhilarating! To learn more, contact: Antigo / Langlade County Chamber of Commerce, 1005 S. Superior St., Antigo, WI 54409, call (715) 623-4134, e-mail info@antigochamber.com or visit us online at www.antigocham ber.com

bayfield

Bayfield takes pride in its quaint, harbor-town atmosphere and offers an escape from the frantic pace of everyday life. Bayfield is proud to offer a relaxing retreat at the edge of nature’s unspoiled beauty. Winter in Bayfield offers the finest in cross-country and downhill skiing, snow shoeing, dog sled adventures, and hikes out to the ice caves. For a once in a lifetime experience, hop aboard the windsled, an amphibious winter transport, for a lightning quick trip across frozen Lake Superior to Madeline Island for some winter fun. Or take your car on the ice road just to say you have done it! You’ll find unique, one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques where your shopping has never been better – outfitter wear and supplies, funky fashion statements, fudge and pies made before your eyes, Scandinavian gifts, children’s gifts, a great selection of used books, home décor or whitefish and Trout fresh from Lake Superior. Accommodations range from Victorian homes remodeled as bed and breakfasts to ultra modern architecture, waterfront properties, secluded woodland hide-a-ways, and in town hotels and motels. The exquisite beauty of the Bayfield Peninsula proves irresistible in attracting a variety of artists from all disciplines. Noted as one of the best 100 artist towns in the U.S., the numerous studios and galleries have something for everyone’s taste. To learn more, contact the Bayfield Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Bureau at (800) 447-4094 or visit online at www.bayfield.org

Berlin “On The Fox”

With the Fox River flowing through the heart of the city it gives way to many events, activities, and family fun for each of the four seasons. The Fox River is the mainstream to a city rich in history. From the home of the brave Mascoutin Indians, to today the grounds for a vast variety of industry. Berlin is well known for it’s public parks system, with an impressive eight parks that total over 107 acres for residents and visitors to enjoy. Inclusive of these parks are three shelter houses and a gazebo to host your festivities at, a Frisbee golf course, two well manicured ball diamonds, a fenced basketball court, sand volleyball, horseshoe pits, several large play areas, a public campground set on the bank shores of the North flowing Fox River, several boat launches, an outdoor aquatic center, and so much more. These Berlin parks also hold several Armed Forces memorials & statues for the public to pay tribute to those who have served, and a Fireman’s park that shows our appreciation for all that our volunteers do. If boating and fishing are your game, then Berlin and the Fox River is the place to drop anchor. The Fox River also serves as a great travel guide for snowmobilers, taking you straight to Lake Butte des Morts. Berlin’s Historical Society is very dedicated to keeping all of this history alive and available to the public at the museum, a visit that is well worth your time. Many roots are traced back to Berlin and the Historical Society is ready to assist with any questions. To learn more about Berlin and to see a calendar of events – visit www.1berlin.com or call the Berlin Chamber at (920) 361-3636.

Boulder Junction

Boulder Junction holds a trademark as the “Musky Capital of the World,” based on the fact that more muskies are caught per square mile than any other similar sized area of the world. There are many recreational opportunities available during every season. Winter activities include hunting, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. For those who prefer to spend their vacation during the warmer seasons, activities such as golf, camping, paddling, and attending events at the community park are available options. Yearround recreation includes horseback riding and viewing the many birds and wildlife of the natural forests.

Cabin & Breakfast on the Lake

A Fishing and Family Resort on secluded Little Crooked Lake tucked away in the Northern Highland State Forest 6235 Evergreen Lane Boulder Junction, WI 54512

brodhead

When the communities of Decatur and Clarence refused to help the railroad come through their villages, another route was planned; thus, Brodhead came to be established in 1856 and was named after the engineer who laid out the railroad, Edward Brodhead. Over 150 years later, Brodhead has become a thriving community that welcomes visitors to an array of entertainment forms. Entertainment can be intense or relaxing! The Sugar River Raceway is a half-mile asphalt go-kart track that attracts a lot of racers, including some who have gone on to professional careers in racing. The Decatur Lake Country Club, a picturesque 18-hole golf course, offers slick greens, challenging sand traps and lots of water. The Sugar River State Bike Trail, a 22-mile trail created from a former railroad bed, goes through woods, nature preserves, pastures, and over streams and lakes. Special events include an annual Amish School Fundraiser. Hundreds flock to the sale which occurs the last Saturday of July each year. An Amish furniture store is nearby, as well. Also in July, Brodhead hosts a Pietenpol Fly-in. During the second weekend of August, the Covered Bridge Days festivities offer entertainment in many forms. AutumnFest in September also offers a weekend of entertainment, including a chili contest and a bike tour. Free concerts are held each Sunday during the summer at Veterans Memorial Park. Ten Eyck’s Apple Orchard, with its 50 varieties of apples, Decatur Dairy, with its award winning cheese, and Sugar Maple Emu Farm, which features marvelous emu products, are other places visitors enjoy. History lovers will want to check out the historical downtown and the Depot Museum. While in town, don’t miss seeing the Half Way Tree, a tree that Indians said marked the half way point between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi. A U.S. survey team found the Indian runners to be remarkably accurate! Two campgrounds and three places of lodging, along with eleven restaurants also help make your visit to Brodhead a fulfilling and comfortable one. We hope you’ll come visit and learn why Brodhead, a community nestled in the rolling hills of Green County, Wisconsin, is a special place to live or visit!

(608) 897-8411 P.O. Box 16 Brodhead, WI 53520 Chamber of Commerce www.brodheadchamber.org Escape to Brodhead for relaxation & fun!

• The Sugar River Bike Trail • Go-Kart race track • public swimming pool • 18-hole golf course • historical railroad depot museum • two campgrounds • picnic sites • canoeing & fishing

877-947-2132 www.evergreenlodgewi.com l Grassroots Fly-In Brodhead Midwest Antique Airplane Club’s Annua (courtesy D. Miller)

WISCONSIN

WiTravelRecreation.com •

(photo courtesy Burlington Chamber of Commerce)

Discover Burlington!

Burlington has much to offer, beginning with our lakes, rivers, streams, and woodlands. Visitors can enjoy a pleasant afternoon as they stroll along Burlington’s Riverwalk or stop by one of the many parks, some along the banks of the White and Fox Rivers, offering playground equipment, picnic areas, and fishing. Or sit awhile and enjoy the Kiwanis Civic Band which performs free concerts in Echo Park on Friday evenings in the summer. Our rivers and lakes make Burlington a popular destination for boating, fishing and water sport enthusiasts alike. Area lakes include Bohner’s Lake, Brown’s Lake, Rockland Lake and Echo Lake – located in the heart of the city. No visit to Burlington is complete without seeing the Aquaducks Water-Ski Show held every Thursday evening in the summer at Fischer Park on Brown’s Lake. An excellent way to see our fabulous fall colors is to take a drive along one of our seventeen Rustic Roads. Just minutes southeast of Burlington on Rustic Road Hwy. B, you will find two of our areas most valued treasures, AEppelTreow Winery and Brightonwoods Orchard, a collaborative venture that produces award-winning wines and sweet cider and a large variety of heritage apples in season. Across the street sits the Richard Bong State Recreational Area with over 4,500 acres of rolling grassland, savanna, wetlands and scattered woodland. Open year-round and offering 41.1 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, snowshoeing, and dirt bike riding. Burlington is home to several historical, educational and entertaining attractions as well. The historic Malt House Theater is home to The Haylofters, the oldest continuing community theater in Wisconsin. The

Historic Burlington, Wisconsin Only 10 minutes from Lake Geneva! Shopping, Restaurants & Farmers Market, Parks & Scenic Riverwalk, Biking & Hiking Trails, Fishing & Watersports

262.763.6044 36

• Wisconsin

www.burlingtonchamber.org

Burlington Historical Society maintains the Burlington Historical Museum and Pioneer Cabin, and has also traced the BUR SPUR of Wisconsin’s Underground Railroad. The Spinning Top Exploratory Museum, Logic Puzzles Museum, and Chocolate Experience Museum will delight children and adults alike. Known as the home of the Liars’ Club, Burlington boasts the Tall Tales Trail, a self-guided tour of championship lies immortalized on bronze plaques displayed throughout the downtown area. Burlington’s official nickname, Chocolate City USA, celebrates Nestle USA’s long term commitment to the community as well as the annual ChocolateFest festival held every year on Memorial Day weekend, a well known and well attended event. For information on any of these events or attractions, contact the Burlington Chamber at (262) 763-6044 or visit us online at www.burlington chamber.org

THE VILLAGE OF BUTLER “OLD” AND “NEW”

The land that today encompasses the Village of Butler was ceded to the federal government in 1833 under a treaty concluded with the Chippewa, Ottawa and Potawatomie Indian nations. The prefix “Old” was added to the name of Butler after the establishment and growth of New Butler and identified the area around 124th Street and Lisbon Road and Capitol Drive. When the Post Office was discontinued in 1903, Old Butler legally ceased to exist. It probably would have been forgotten eventually, but when the railroad yards were planned, the name “Butler” was given to them. The New Butler yards contained twenty-one tracks and accommodated 1,525 cars at one time. North of the yards was one of the largest railway roundhouses in the west. The small community was settled mostly by railroad workers and their families and was incorporated as the Village of New Butler on May 5, 1913. While New Butler was essentially regarded as a railroad town, the original developers had additional plans for it. Real estate speculators bought about 150 acres of land just west of the train tracks. New Butler’s development as a railroad town did not meet speculators’ high hopes. The railroad boom died by 1915, and in 1920, only 600 lived in the village. The “New” was dropped from the village’s name in 1926 after the settlement known as “Old Butler” failed to develop.

Cable

It’s our pleasure to invite you to the Cable Area in Northwest Wisconsin. Our unspoiled lakes, the majestic Chequamegon National Forest, the abundant wildlife, the warm, friendly people and the World Class Events will capture your heart and imagination forever! In an era of hurried, hectic lifestyles, the Cable Area gives you the opportunity to escape and relax, to unwind and enjoy life once again. If you need to get away, but aren’t sure how far away you want to be, we offer you the opportunity to be as connected or disconnected as you want to be. Many places offer Wi-Fi or internet connections, and cell phone reception is continually improving in our area. The Cable Area features getting back to what really matters, family, friends and good times. Imagine yourselves sitting around the camp fire telling stories and watching the stars, or hiking up to the top of St. Peters Dome to be welcomed by the most breathtaking views you’ve seen in a life time. Watch your child’s eyes light up while catching a first fish, or the proud smile of the fisherman in the family reeling in the biggest fish he has ever caught. If you’re into more of a fast paced type of vacation, the Cable Area is home to the nationally known CAMBA Mountain Bike Trails. The CAMBA system offers 300 plus miles of trail systems from family fun riding to outrageous single track trails. Canoeing and kayaking opportunities await the avid thrill seeker or the family looking to spot some wildlife on an afternoon water adventure. erce) (courtesy Cable Area Chamber of Comm The Namakagon River offers families and the more laid back adventurer a slower pace to enjoy the natural beauty. The White River has a much faster pace and a few rapids. Rent a canoe or kayak for the afternoon and explore one of our many lakes in the area. In the winter months our National Forest turns into a winter paradise. With over 1,200 miles of interconnecting snowmobile trails you’ll never get bored or see the same view more than once! Cross-country ski our gorgeous trails and ski the American Birkebeiner World Lopet Trail. Strap on a pair of snowshoes and trek through the snow covered pine bows. If your taste buds want to experience something new, we offer some of the best cuisine north of the Twin Cities. From exceptional local grown vegetables, local fare, to a true Wisconsin Fish Boil you’ll get a real taste of the north woods at one of our many restaurants. We may not have a Starbucks but we sure can brew a cup of coffee or steam up one of the best lattes you’ve had in a long time. Of course since we live in Wisconsin you can expect some of the best beer around. With four breweries and three wineries located within an hours drive, everyone is serving a local brew. After you have visited us once, there is no doubt you’ll be back again. To learn more, visit us online at www.cable4fun.com

Cassville

Cassville Tourism

Cassville Wisconsin, a small town nestled between the scenic bluffs and the mighty Mississippi is rich in history and is one of the oldest vilTreasure on the lages in Wisconsin, established in 1827. Home of Wisconsin’s first govMississippi! ernor, Nelson Dewey, Cassville is surrounded with natural beauty and the quiet and peacefulness of days gone by. P.O. Box 576 • Cassville, WI 53806 Travel here by rustic country roads, bike, car ferry, boat or airplane and enjoy one of the Wonders of Wisconsin and one of the best small towns on a river. River recreation beckons all. Fishermen find their yearwww.cassville.org round catch whether on the Mississippi or picturesque backwaters. Become part of the nostalgic past as you journey back in time at the Stonefield Historic Site, one of the newest Great River Road Interpretive Centers along the Mississippi. It features a recreated turn-of-the-century village. The State Agricultural Museum and the Dewey homestead relating the changes in time, both in agriculture and human lives. Witness a breathtaking scene at the summit of the Nelson Dewey State Park! The scenic bluffs and trails offer camping, incredible hiking, bird watching and fantastic photo opportunities! Enjoy a picture perfect view of the majestic Mississippi at Riverside Park. Take a ride on the Cassville Car Ferry, the oldest ferry service in Wisconsin. Visualize a twenty-three year old Nelson Dewey making his first trip across the Mississippi to reach the little village that was envisioned to become the first capital of the Wisconsin Territory! Experience Cassville, Grant County’s Treasure on the Mississippi! For more information about what Cassville has to offer, check out our website www.cassville.org

608-725-5855

2 miles East of Hillsdale or 8 Miles West of Chetek on “D” to 16 1/2 St. www.triplehhhenterprises.com • (715)-458-4107 • 3bar@chibardun.net

Chetek

There are six major lakes in Chetek; Lake Pokegama, Lake Ojaski/ Mud Lake, Prairie Lake, Ten Mile Lake, Lake Chetek, and Moose Ear Lake. The Fish-O-Rama happens here every year. Fishing abounds in the fertile waters of these lakes. Crappies, Bluegills, Perch, Bullheads, Bass, Northerns and Walleyes are all sought after and caught in the chain. The lakes have been stocked over the years with thousands of Walleye fingerlings, courtesy of the DNR and the local Lakes Protection Association. www.chetek.com

WiTravelRecreation.com •

WISCONSIN

• Horseback Riding • Group Activities • Bunkhouse Available • Tack Shop

Chippewa County

Welcome to Chippewa County, Your Northwoods Family. Chippewa County welcomes you to visit our beautiful county. You will enjoy a diverse variety of attractions, homemade culinary delights, unique shopping, pristine natural beauty, along with fun and exciting events. Chippewa County has a rich history and is full of one-of-a-kind attractions that showcase the past and present. They include: Cook-Rut10 South Bridge Street • Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 ledge Mansion, Yellowstone Trail, Chippewa Falls Museum of Industry (888) 723-0024 • (715) 723-0331 & Technology, Bloomer, Cadott, Stanley and Chippewa Falls Historical www.chippewachamber.org Societies, Autumn Harvest Winery, Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company, Yellowstone Cheese, the Heyde Center for the Arts and many more throughout the county. If you are searching for somewhere to stimulate your taste buds with an exceptional atmosphere, you will find it here. With over 450 lakes and streams throughout Chippewa County, numerous restaurants have wonderful waterfront seating with fabulous views. Our restaurants offer the convenience of dining out, with the great taste of home cooking. If you are visiting on the weekend, be sure to check out the ever-popular “Friday Night Fish Fry” at just about any restaurant in the county. With all the great restaurants in Chippewa County you won’t be disappointed and definitely won’t leave hungry. There are outlet and factory stores, antiques, crafts and homemade items, and nationally known stores offering an array of products. You will find products from cheese to wine, shoes to handmade soaps, antiques or collectibles, and just about anything in between. For a breath of fresh air, step out and embrace the area’s natural beauty and take a horse drawn wagon ride through pristine forestland. Our 32,000 acres of pristine forestland and many picturesque parks offer a great opportunity to view birds and other wildlife. Visit the 300-acre Irvine Park and Zoo located in the city or check out Lake Wissota State Park or Brunet Island State Park for great fishing, swimming, and camping. The Old Abe State Trail and Duncan Creek Trail are great ways to enjoy the outdoors whether biking, hiking, or rollerblading. Two nationally acclaimed music festivals along with the ever popular, Northern Wisconsin State Fair, bring many top name performers to the area. Throughout the year our calendar of events is full of festivals and celebrations, including community fairs, Oktoberfest, Pure Water Days, Sturgeon Fest, Stanley Steamer Days / Rodeo, along with many more. Listed are a few events widely recognized throughout the county. Whether you are looking for a relaxing weekend away or an adventure filled weekend, Your Northwoods Family welcomes you. To learn more, visit www.chippewachamber.org, www.chippewacounty.com or contact the Chippewa Area Visitors Center at (888) 723-0024 or 10 S. Bridge St. Chippewa Falls, WI 54729. Chippewa County (photo courtesy Randen Pederson)

Crivitz

Crivitz enjoys a small town atmosphere with a focus on the recreational opportunities in the area, including hunting, fishing, boating, camping, snowmobiling and competitive sports activities.

Rafting Resort & Campground, LLC Rafting trips are run daily on the exciting Peshtigo & Menominee Rivers, including crashing whitewater, gentle stretches of river, and some of the most scenic wilderness in the state. Our campground features individual water and electric sites, as well as individual & large wooded group sites, modern shower/restroom facilities, paintball and a bar with music and games. We are only a short distance from some of the best fishing in the area!

www.thorntonsresort.com • (715) 757-3311 W. 12882 Parkway Rd. • Athelstane, WI 54104

• Wisconsin

Crivitz (courtesy Digidave, Flickr)

1122 N. Johns St. Dodgeville, WI 608-935-9094 Signature ButterBurgers & Fresh Frozen Custard www.culvers.com/restaurants/dodgeville

154 N. Iowa St. Dodgeville, WI 53533 608-935-3812

Complete line of baked goods including cornish pasty & saffron daily!

Dodgeville

WiTravelRecreation.com •

WISCONSIN

Dodgeville is at the heart of it all here in Iowa County. Surrounded by rolling hills, beautiful wooded valleys and numerous lakes and streams, your trip to this area is one you won’t forget. We are a thriving community, located only 40 minutes from Madison, WI. With a population of nearly 6,000 we offer a wide variety of shopping experiences, places to eat, sights to see and much more! No matter what the season, there is no better place to be than Dodgeville. Our surroundings are host to almost limitless entertainment and outdoor recreation. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy camping, boating, canoeing, fishing, hiking, hunting, horseback riding, rock climbing, crosscountry skiing, snowmobiling, swimming and biking. For those of you who enjoy auto touring, our winding country roads appeal to many and nothing tops viewing fall foliage of Southwest Wisconsin. Besides the scenic views surrounding us, we have events happening all the time, like the Dodgeville Blues Fest, Farmer’s Appreciation Day, the Lands’ End Annual Sale, The Bloomfield Balloon Fest, and new this year, A Winter Film Festival, just to name a few. Three world-renowned attractions, The House on the Rock, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin and American Players Theater are just a short drive up the road. Dodgeville’s business community keeps good company, from family-owned retail businesses to international corporations, including the headquarters for Lands’ End. Get in touch with history at the Iowa County Historical Society, the restored cabin from Henry Dodge’s original mining party and other artifacts from the lead mining era. One of the most notable structures in the downtown is the Iowa County Courthouse, the oldest continuously active courthouse in the state. Dodgeville is home to Governor Dodge State Park, the second largest state park in Wisconsin. We also have three beautiful parks within our lovely town to enjoy; Harris, Centennial, and Wilson Park. With so many things to see and do, you’ll be sure to come back time after time. Contact the Dodgeville Area Chamber of Commerce for more information: (877) 863-6343 toll free or info@dodgeville.com

www.dcmm.org

We Offer Deluxe Waterfront Lodging & Exclusive Vacation Rental Homes.

920-743-5958

7353 Horseshoe Bay Rd. Egg Harbor, WI 54209

1-800-257-1560 www.shallows.com

Door County

Door County Mixes Scenic Beauty with Arts, Entertainment, and Fun Praised by travel writers and visitors from around the world and named one of the top ten vacation destinations in North America by Money magazine, Door County, Wisconsin offers scenic seaside experiences in the heart of the Midwest. Surrounded by Lake Michigan, this long and slender peninsula with 300 miles of shoreline combines natural beauty and outdoor adventure with acclaimed performing and visual arts, renowned galleries and shops, delectable local cuisine and pampering accommodations. Visit DoorCounty.com for a comprehensive look at all there is to see and do in this vacation paradise as well as information on available accommodations from resorts to motels to B&Bs to cottages. For personal travel assistance, contact the Door County Visitor Bureau at 800-527-3529.

7340 State Hwy. 42 Egg Harbor, WI 54209

920-868-9417

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• Wisconsin

www.eggharborfunpark.com HUGE ARCADE • GO KARTS 18-HOLE MINIATURE GOLF PIZZA & ICE CREAM PARTIES and MUCH MORE

Experience a traditional Door County fish boil featuring fresh whitefish caught daily. Served nightly except Sun. Chicken or ribs available. Reservations requested.

Home-Cooked Breakfasts specializing in local favorites. www.oldpostoffice-doorcounty.com • 920-854-4034 Overlooking Eagle Harbor on Hwy. 42 in Ephraim

“Your One Stop Shop, Stay & Play!” Across for Shopping by Peninsula State Park Bike, Hike, Golf, Winery & Theatres

(800) 569-0059 www.applecreekresort.com

Renard’s Cheese Store features a wide variety of cheese, cheese curds, homemade sausage, and specialty foods from throughout the Door County area. www.renardscheese.com • 920-825-7272 2189 County Road DK Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

Charter Fishing in Door County for Salmon, Trout, Bass & Walleye on Lake Michigan in Green Bay & Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin Captain Scott Gutschow

www.reelactioncharters.com (920) 360-2136 Door County’s

full-service grocery store

7770 Hwy. 42 • Egg Harbor, WI 54209

(920) 868-2120 • www.doorcountygrocery.com Full-Service Meat Dept. • Fresh Bakery • Wide Selection Of Specialty Foods • Full Produce Dept. • Stellar Customer Service

Olson Cottages www.olsoncottages.com The way Door County “was” and “is” meant to be enjoyed! Four family-friendly vintage cottages nestled on one of Lake Michigan’s best sand beaches. 6846 Highway 57 • Baileys Harbor, WI 54202

920-823-2365 • OlsonCottages@Yahoo.com

Kangaroo Lake Resort Lakeside Cottages Along 400 Feet of Eastern Shore Friendly & Secluded

920-839-2341

Baileys Harbor www.kangaroolake.com

Ice Cream • Restaurant • Souvenirs 9990 Water St. • P.O. Box 187 • Ephraim, WI 54211 (920) 854-2041 • www.wilsonsicecream.com

The Log Den Restaurant

• Country & Exotic Fare • Fresh Ingredients • Healthy Choices • Children’s Menu • Family Atmosphere • Sports Lounge 6626 WI-42 Egg Harbor, WI 54209 920-868-3888

www.thelogden.com

WISCONSIN

(photo courtesy Door County Visitors Bureau)

WiTravelRecreation.com •

Fond du Lac

Fond du Lac is centrally located 60 miles from Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay, with access from Highways 41, 151, and 23. More than 200 years ago French explorers established an isolated trading post on the southern shores of Lake Winnebago, one of the largest inland bodies of water within the boundaries of any state in the nation. They named it Fond du Lac, because of its location at “the far end of the lake.” The city became known as the gateway to the Fox River Valley. By 1837, Fond du Lac’s population numbered only about 15 persons. But growth then came at a steady pace, with many settlers arriving from the east. When Wisconsin was granted statehood in 1848, Fond du Lac ranked as the state’s second largest city and on March 19, 1852, was incorporated as a full-fledged city with a population of over 2,000. With the building of lumber mills during the mid-1800s the city continued to flourish. Added impetus came from the railroads which streamed through Fond du Lac. Colorful leaders of business, industry, and politics were well-known beyond community boundaries. Maureen Daly’s classic novel “Seventeenth Summer” used her hometown of Fond du Lac as her setting for the pre-World War II love story. Beautiful 400-acre Lakeside Park, at the southern edge of Lake Winnebago, contains welcoming gardens, fountains, gazebos, and lagoons. Fond du Lac’s symbol, the Lakeside Park Lighthouse, was built in 1933, standing 40 feet high. The eight-sided lighthouse is of Cape Cod design, with the flagstone base rising 10 feet above ground and 30 feet of frame construction rising above that. Windows are placed at intervals, and there is a catwalk on the top. Views from the top of the lighthouse are available May 1 through mid-October, weather permitting. From the top of the lighthouse, the city of Fond du Lac lays to the south. Cruises on Lake Winnebago can be taken on the Lakeside Spirit, moored in Lakeside Park.

• Over 30 Different Types of Animals • Shop in Our Farm Store • Group & School Tour Programs Open Weekends 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. May - October or during the week by reservation

Fond du Lac Lighthouse (courtesy gobucks2, Flickr)

Located halfway between Oshkosh & Fond du Lac Just off Hwy. 41

www.glacierridgeanimalfarm.com • 920.688.3488

hayward lakes

The Hayward Lakes Area Welcomes You to our Northwoods! Woods, Water, World Class Events…Hayward, Sawyer County. Hayward’s unique setting and northwoods appeal make it the ideal destination for your vacation. Breathe in the fresh air…relax in the beautiful Northwoods, or challenge yourself in one of the many outdoor sport activities the Area has to offer. Whatever your vacation purpose, the Hayward Lakes area promises to be an unforgettable destination. Our community truly welcomes you as our guest in the Northwoods. Abundant in crafts as well as fine art, Hayward offers many shops you will love. Visit our famous candy stores, homemade ice cream parlors, relaxing coffee shops, gift stores and specialty shops, all with Northwoods appeal. Tempt your taste buds at one our fine restaurants, the options are so many…we know we have the best dining establishments around! Hayward has many unrivaled shops that make for a very pleasant shopping trip. Hayward offers so much to see and do. Area attractions welcome you to enjoy a variety of activities. Our shopping district consists of numerous specialty shops, and you’ll be sure to enjoy a relaxing, fun, shopping trip in the Hayward area. Want to get off the beaten path? We have maps outlining all area antique stores available at the Hayward Information Center. Our Center also houses individual store brochures, trail maps, information on golf, fishing and much more. And of course, our Area Visitors Guides are always on hand for you. This is the time to visit all of your favorite Hayward daily attractions, activities and our variety of unique shops. You will surely enjoy our area’s unique spots! Visit the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame, Chicago gangster Al Capone’s Northwood’s Retreat - The Hideout, journey through wilderness Walk, enjoy a Lumberjack Show, canoe or tube down the river, horseback our beautiful forests with area stables, stop at the casino for gaming or a show, shop the flea markets, take kids mini-golfing or to the go-cart tracks. Play one of the golf courses in the “Golf Capital of Wisconsin”. There’s so much to do and see. If its fishing you’re into, Sawyer County is the place! We have over 55,000 acres of glacial lakes and we are “Home of the World Record Muskies.” We welcome you to our Northwoods hometown; we know you’ll enjoy visiting throughout the year. Hayward…still unhurried…still uncrowded…still a vacation paradise.

Ironwood, MI

Ironwood, MI is situated opposite the Montreal River from Hurley, WI. The area boasts the Black River National Forest Scenic Byway, including numerous waterfalls and the Copper Peak Ski Flying Complex. In the Summer and Fall, Copper Peak offers chairlift and elevator rides to the top of the world’s largest ski jump. The 954,000 acre Ottawa National Forest offers 27 campgrounds, access to 35 scenic waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails in the North Country National Scenic Recreation Trail.

• Wisconsin

• 24 Hour Indoor Pool, Hot Tub and Sauna • FREE Daybreak Continental Breakfast • FREE High-Speed Wireless Internet • Whirlpool Suites • All Rooms: Coffeemaker, Iron & Board, Hair Dryer

13355 N. US Hwy. 51 • Hurley, WI 54534 715-561-3500 • www.hurleydaysinn.com

Four Season Resort Incredible downhill skiing in winter & championship golf in summer! • Chalets, Condos & Lodge • Fun for the Entire Family! • Located on Weber Lake

www.skiwhitecap.com • www.skyegolf.net

715.561.2227

The Finest in Italian Food since 1923

Restaurant Italian Market

Open Daily at 4 p.m. Lunch Mon. - Thurs. 11-2

www.libertybellchalet.com

P.O. Box 55 • 109 5th Ave S Hurley, WI 54534 • (715) 561-3753

www.HurleyWI.com

Hurley is one of the most natural destinations for people who enjoy the outdoors. The city is surrounded by vast hardwood forests accented by the ancient Penokee Mountains, hidden canyons, many remote waterfalls and the south shore of the world’s largest freshwater lake. Folks enjoy 4-wheeling on 200 miles of trails and silent sports, too. One of Lake Superior’s longest uninterrupted sandy beaches stretches from Saxon Harbor westward into the sunset for nearly four miles. Near the harbor there’s swimming, deep sea fishing and agate hunting. Within half an hour of downtown Hurley visitors can discover some 25 waterfalls, including 7 of the 10 tallest cascades in Wisconsin. The area is also rich with heritage sites and one of the largest historic museums in northern Wisconsin. In the spring, the waterfalls really roar to life with the rain and melting snows engorging rivers flowing northward. In the autumn the colors rival those seen in New England. Surprisingly in Hurley visitors find great lodging values during the warm weather months. That’s because high season in Hurley runs from Christmas to mid March. The city is especially lively in the winter months. Nestled between four downhill ski resorts, Hurley is the trailhead for more than 500 miles of snowmobile trails and within half an hour of 140 km of Nordic ski trails. Even when nobody else has snow, Hurley does. The unique micro-climate that combines Superior’s lake effect with the region’s little mountains mean an average annual snowfall of just more than 204 inches.

Hurley Area Chamber of Commerce • 715-561-4334 • www.HurleyWi.com

888-40-HAVEN (715) 561-5626 www.havennorth.com

1075 La Rue Court • Hurley, WI 54534

id ntu re r

#1 attraction in the U.P. Chair lift and elevator ride to the top of the world’s largest ski jump where you can see forever. www.copperpeak.org Ironwood, MI

Steep Creek Outfitters & Cafe, home of Whitecap Kayak Guided Kayaking Trips 930 E US2, Ironwood, MI (906) 364-7336 www.WhitecapKayak.com “Serving up the Best Food & Activities of the Outdoors” WiTravelRecreation.com •

WISCONSIN

• Located on ATV/Snowmobile Trails • Nightly & Weekly Lodging Rentals

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p Co

Experience Nature at its Finest!

P.O. Box 448 7515 US Hwy. 2 Iron River, WI 54847 (800) 345-0716 (715) 372-8558 www.visitironriver.com

iron river

Experience Nature at its Finest when you plan your vacation in Iron River which is nestled in Northwest Wisconsin’s Lake Superior region. Known as The Recreation Area of the North, Iron River in Bayfield County features 96 lakes, 12 trout streams and the south shore of Lake Superior only minutes away! One of the largest counties in Wisconsin, Bayfield County is home to many national treasures including the ChequamegonNicolet National Forest, Inch Lake State Natural Area, Rainbow Lake Wilderness Area and the Apostle Island National Lakeshore. Rent an ATV or snowmobile or bring your own and experience the Midwest’s best trail system that includes over 500 miles of groomed trails plus forest roads

and the 62-mile Tri County Recreational Corridor. Enjoy walking along our wilderness lakes, stargazing in our clear night skies, or soaking in Wisconsin’s prettiest scenery. Iron River offers many silent sport activities. Hike the North Country Trail, Mountain Bike the Camba Bike system, Ski the numerous cross-country trails or try your hand at dog sledding. Sightsee your way thru the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and see lots of wildlife including deer, bears, beautiful birds and wildflowers. Enjoy excellent fishing and swimming in crystal clear lakes. Sample the best wild blueberries around and check out the Blueberry Festival the 4th weekend in July. Whether you enjoy fishing, hiking, biking, camping, hunting, horseback riding, bird watching, berry picking, golfing or bowling, Iron River is the place to be! Ride your motorcycle along the scenic Delta-Drummond Road. Rent a canoe and take a relaxing float down the Bois’ Brule River. Photograph lovely waterfalls and wade our trout streams for steelhead. Climb the scenic St. Peter’s Dome and photograph a hundred square miles along Superior’s shore! Take scenic side trips to Bayfield, the Apostle Islands, and quaint fishing villages along Lake Superior’s south shore. See for yourself why people come here to vacation… and they end up calling Iron River “home”! Discover Iron River! Contact the Iron River Area Chamber at (800) 345-0716 for more information or visit www.VisitIronRiver.com

La Crosse

La Crosse and the surrounding communities form a regional commercial center and shopping hub. In the northeastern part of the city lies the region’s largest shopping center, Valley View Mall. The surrounding area includes numerous big-box stores, and many restaurants. Other shopping centers in the La Crosse region include Three Rivers Plaza, Marsh View Center, Shelby Mall, Jackson Plaza, Bridgeview Plaza, and the Village Shopping Center. Downtown La Crosse has continued to grow in recent years, providing shopping, farmers’ markets, hotels, restaurants, specialty shops, and events at La Crosse Center alongside the Mississippi River. Mississippi River, La Crosse (photo courtesy Jib, Flickr)

La Crosse Area

Convention and Visitors Bureau 410 Veterans Memorial Dr. La Crosse, WI 54601 (800) 658-9424 • (608) 782-2366 www.explorelacrosse.com

Welch Motel

3643 Mormon Coulee Rd. • La Crosse, WI 54601

608-788-1300 www.welchmotel.com

Rates Starting at $38 and Up 16 Rooms w/ Full or Queen Beds • At-Your-Door Parking • Phones • Cable Tv with Hbotm • High-Speed Internet • Air-Conditioning & Complimentary Ice & Coffee • Personalized Customer Service • Family Owned & Operated

We Can Guarantee Clean, Affordable Comfort!

• Wisconsin

land o’ lakes

Land O’ Lakes Land O’ Lakes, a place for all seasons, lies in the heart of the great Northwoods. It is a sportsman’s paradise for fishing on the Cisco Chain Chamber of Commerce of 15 lakes with over 281 miles of shoreline, Lac Vieux Desert with its promise of world record Tiger Musky and over 100 other clear water P.O. Box 599 lakes teeming with Musky, Northern, Walleye, Bass, Panfish, and Trout Land O’ Lakes, WI 54540 just waiting to make your vacation an adventure. (715) 547-3432 Here you will find the headwaters of the mighty Wisconsin River flowing through beautiful forested country that is steeped in Native American www.landolakes-wi.org history. Lush forest surrounds Land O’ Lakes, providing a serene wonderland for nature lovers, sports enthusiasts and anyone just wanting to “get away from it all.” Miles of hard-surfaced roads allow sightseers to enjoy the peaceful landscape or stroll, bike or hike on the meandering paths to see the real beauty of the Northwoods. Enjoy the 7.5 miles of paved bike trail along which you can watch for birds and animals in their natural habitat. On the waterways, watch for loons, ducks and more while swimming, sailing, boating or canoeing. Come enjoy the quiet winter wonderland that is Land O’ Lakes when the hills, valleys and lakes offer the fun of snowmobiling, cross-country and downhill skiing, skating and ice fishing. Land O’ Lakes is truly your relaxation destination with four season family fun. There are accommodations to meet everyone’s needs with a wide selection of great lodging options. The downtown area offers churches, banking, recreation, gift and bait shops, antiques, groceries, restaurants, a historical museum, library and much more. Many events and festivals are planned throughout the year for your pleasure. Join us for the July 4 Fireworks and Parade, Cheese and Wine Tasting, Art Impressions, Barefoot Charlie Festival and Barefoot Brew-Ha and more. Check the calendar of events on the web site at www.landolakes-wi. org for details. Come to Land O’ Lakes for four season fun, your relaxation destination.

John Nolen Drive, Madison Marathon (courtesy John Maniac i)

Madison

WiTravelRecreation.com •

WISCONSIN

Madison – where our natural and human capital enrich hearts and minds from around the world. Madison boasts beautiful four-season scenery, outdoor recreation, stimulating educational and cultural offerings, distinctive restaurants and shops creating a perfect destination for those who live here and those who visit. Uniquely situated between two glacial lakes, Madison sits on an isthmus of natural beauty surrounded by water. The city has more than 260 city parks and over 120 miles of shared-use biking and walking trails that offer diverse recreational opportunities. Madison was named one of the Top Ten Most Bike-Friendly Cities in America according to Bicycling Magazine’s 2010 rankings. Following in the footsteps of a number of environmentalist pioneers with ties to Madison – Aldo Leopold, John Muir, and Gaylord Nelson – the city is dedicated to protecting and sustaining our green space for generations to come. The region has numerous eco-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and attractions. Named after President James Madison, Wisconsin’s state capital is a progressive, energetic metropolis with a wonderfully diverse population. Throughout its history, Madison has been known for strong political activism and forward thinking. Scholars and researchers from around the world looking to continue their higher educational goals come to Madison to attend the University of Wisconsin – Madison (UW). With over 42,000 students, the UW is a renowned public university and a globally recognized research institution at the forefront of such innovative fields of study as agribusiness, bioscience and engineering. The city was ranked in the top ten most innovative cities by Forbes Magazine in 2010. Culturally, Madison offers excellent music venues, resident theater groups and visual art centers. The destination lends itself to an urban sophistication usually reserved for larger metropolitan areas. The recently completed $205 million arts district is full of museums, theaters, eclectic shops and diverse, ethnic dining experiences. Overture Center for the Arts presents more than 200 performances, art exhibits, and events every year. Madison is a lively, unique city, providing authentic experiences and memorable getaways. Discover more about Madison at www.visitmadison.com

Marinette County

Summer or winter, whatever you’re seeking in outdoor recreation, you’ll enjoy it more in The Real North ‐ Marinette County ‐ an experience for all seasons and all tastes. Watch the sun rise over Lake Michigan, or hike along hushed woodland trails in 300,000 acres of unspoiled public land. Fall asleep to the call of the loon while you camp on the forested lakeshore, or stay in a rustic cabin. Catch a record Muskie then enjoy dinner at one of the many welcoming restaurants. Follow U.S. 41 to Peshtigo and Marinette, where the Peshtigo and Menominee Rivers join the bay of Green Bay and finally Lake Michigan. Paddle your own canoe along the winding 11‐mile Peshtigo River Trail in the Peshtigo Harbor Wildlife Area. Visit one of the many historical museums, swim, enjoy delightful shops and restaurants, and stay at a modern lodging establishment. Follow Highway 141 north. Pass the meridian marker halfway between the Equator and the North Pole. Inhale the heavy scent of pine and hardwood forests. You’re Up North! Trails for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and year‐round ATVing wind through the county. Wildlife abounds! Side roads lead to Governor Thompson State Park, Peshtigo River State Forest, or Marinette County’s 22 incredible parks and boat landings, 14 waterfalls and countless unspoiled sandy beaches. Thrill to white-water rafting, the extreme sport of adventure seekers who navigate the Peshtigo and Menominee Rivers. Relax with a tube trip on the Peshtigo. Sail the waters of Green Bay and Lake Michigan. To learn more, call Marinette County Tourism at (715) 735-6681 or (800) 236-6681. Visit us online at www.therealnorth.com

Milwaukee Art Museum rtesy VISIT Milwaukee) cou (photo

milwaukee

Why Milwaukee? Major museums, a world-class performing arts scene, sophisticated dining and nightlife, outdoor adventures and special events offering diversity and culture, all with an easy attitude and warm hospitality that makes visitors feel right at home – that’s Milwaukee. The “wings” of the Milwaukee Art Museum designed by international architect Santiago Calatrava have become an iconic representation of Milwaukee but the real treasures lie inside the building with more than 20,000 permanent holdings spanning antiquity to present. Other attractions include the world’s only HarleyDavidson Museum, an interactive learning experience unlike any other at Discovery World and the Milwaukee Public Museum which offers unique experiences such as the Puelicher Butterfly Wing and Streets of Old Milwaukee exhibit. Milwaukee is front and center on the national stage in arts and culture offerings with acclaimed, powerhouse organizations such as The Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Florentine Opera Company and Milwaukee Ballet Company. Food enthusiasts find everything from the traditional to the exotic in Milwaukee. Visitors can travel the globe without leaving the city with authentic French cuisine at Lake Park Bistro, traditional German fare at Mader’s Restaurant, spice and flair with south-of-the-border dishes at La Fuente and much more. Outdoor recreational activities that showcase the greener side of Milwaukee include rollerblading along the Lakefront past Bradford Beach,

• Wisconsin

Milwaukee Skyline (photo courtesy VISIT Milwa ukee) hiking through the trails of Schlitz Audubon Nature Center or visiting over 15,000 acres of green space at the County Parks throughout the Great Milwaukee area. Milwaukee is home to some of the nation’s largest ethnic festivals including Irish Fest, German Fest and Festa Italiana, all of which take place at the Henry W. Maier Festival Park. The park is also home to the world’s largest music festival, Summerfest, which rocks Milwaukee’s lakefront with music for 11 days each year. Full of celebration, Milwaukee is a city that surprises and delights first time visitors and keeps those returning time and again finding out there is always more to discover. For more information please go to www.visitmilwaukee.org or call (800) 554-1448.

mineral point

new london

Visit New London for small town charm and big city amenities. Stroll through the historic downtown of this picturesque Wolf River / riverside community and take pleasure in the charming restored buildings. New London is the perfect destination for one-of-a-kind festivals. Numerous parks offer walking, biking, cross-country ski trails and a variety of other sports. The legendary Wolf River Sturgeon Trail provides

Little Wolf River Tubing (photo courtesy New London Area Chamber) the perfect vantage point to observe the awesome sturgeon during their spring spawning ritual. The staff of Mosquito Hill Nature Center offer year-round family oriented programs and activities. In September, Honey Sunday celebrates the honeybee and the gentle art of beekeeping. Enjoy honey-baked goods and honey sundaes. At the Harvest Moon Festival celebrate the full moon by stargazing, taking the Great Pumpkin Walk or bundling up for a hayride in the crisp fall air. Whether spending a lazy summer day floating down the river, or a fall day sampling locally made cheese and sausage, we are sure you will enjoy your time in New London. To lean more, contact the New London Area Chamber of Commerce at (920) 982-5822 or visit www.newlondonchamber.com

Omro

Omro, built along the banks of the Fox River, offers visitors and residents alike the perfect combination of business and residential amenities. Omro retains a small-town feel, but presents a big-city attitude. Located eight miles west of Oshkosh along the Highway 21 Corridor, Omro is the gateway to recreation and relaxation throughout the state. The city’s central location and close proximity to Lake Winnebago and larger urban centers, such as Oshkosh, Fond du Lac, and Appleton, allow residents and visitors a wealth of shopping and entertainment opportunities. Offering over seven miles of waterfront property, Omro is a haven for all water enthusiasts including boaters, fishermen and canoeists. In the winter, this same strip is visited by snowmobile riders from throughout the mid-west and the major trail system sleds directly through the city. Omro’s location on the Fox River gave it two early advatages: a position on one of the few natural transportation and communications routes of the time, and abundant water for industrial use. Omro started a revitalization process in 1986, and has seen renewed growth. Through projects such as the historic walking tour and the designation of a historic downtown district, Omro is paying homage to its past even as it builds for the future. So, whether you’re just passing through our city or you’ve come to stay, we’re sure you’ll enjoy all that we have to offer. To learn more, visit us online at www.omro-wi.com

WiTravelRecreation.com •

WISCONSIN

Mineral Point, Wisconsin: 21 artist owned studios & galleries, worldclass art workshops & cultural events, historic sites, well-preserved 19th century architecture, wood-fired pizza, handcrafted beer, great food, an outdoor summer theater under the stars, award winning artisan cheeses, quaint historic lodging, small town shops, Cornish pasty, figgyhobbin, bucolic nature trails and lots of friendly folks. Population: 2,613 - give or take a few. There is something special going on here, and whatever it is it makes this little town really cool. Mineral Point has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1971, the first city in Wisconsin to be so honored. In 2007, the National Register recognized us as one of America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations. In 2008, it was voted the People’s Choice as “the Most Beautiful Wisconsin Town” and also the “Best Town for an Historic Getaway.” This small community in southwest Wisconsin has been recognized as an artist magnet for decades. Shopping in Mineral Point is a big part of what makes us an original … a small town with a flair for creativity. Structures built of locally quarried stone, circa 1860, house restaurants, lodging, shops and galleries. You might want to enjoy the traditional miner’s meal with a Cornish pasty and finish with figgyhobbin, a funny name for a most delightful dessert. With a history that goes back to before Wisconsin was a state, Mineral Point has plenty of stories and local folklore. Wisconsin’s nickname, the Badger State, originated here. Miners who burrowed into the hillsides to create crude temporary shelters looked quite like badgers to passersby. One of our favorite streets in town is called Shake Rag. It has been said that housewives would shake a rag to signify mealtime and call the menfolk in from the mines. More likely, shake rag is derived from a term that signified a place where rough and ragged individuals lived. Mineral Point, an early mining community, certainly was that. But over the course of nearly 200 years, it has transformed itself. It is an authentic place where the creative spirit flourishes. For more information, contact the Chamber of Commerce at (888) POINT WI or www.mineralpoint.com

(courtesy Oshkosh Convention & Visitors Bureau)

Oshkosh

Oshkosh is Wisconsin’s Event City because of the extraordinary variety of affordable and accessible events that it hosts each year. These events are one of the key elements in making Oshkosh a great place to live, work, study and visit. While many cities in Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest may lay claim to have very active calendars of events, Oshkosh stands apart. Oshkosh hosts hundreds of events each year, including one of the largest in the world, EAA AirVenture. Whether visitors are lured by the thrill of aviation, the sounds of some of the nation’s best musicians, fascinating museum exhibitions and classical performances, opportunities to study fascinating subjects, challenging sporting competitions or the desire to express faith with thousands of others, Oshkosh hosts the most accessible, affordable, and diverse selection of events in Wisconsin. These events are the gateways through which visitors are introduced to Oshkosh and discover and enjoy its historic precincts, museums, waterways, university, arts and culture. Oshkosh is Wisconsin’s Event City and can successfully host events for up to one million participants. For event organizers, Oshkosh presents some of the most unique, affordable, flexible, and easily accessible venues in Wisconsin. We excel at hosting international, regional and local events because of our outstanding venues, highly skilled event Oshkosh Convention and Visitors Bureau management teams, central location, affordability and our welcoming, www.visitoshkosh.com • (920) 303-9200 entrepreneurial and event-friendly community.

Park Falls

Welcome to the gateway to your northwoods adventure… In spring the lakes begin to thaw in preparation of opening fishing season in May. In April, area biking and hiking trails also open. In summer we offer an abundance of outdoor enjoyment including swimming, hiking, biking, boating, fishing, water skiing, tubing, ATVing, tennis, volleyball, canoeing & camping. Park Falls is surrounded by over 900,000 acres of federal, state and county forests. We offer uncrowded waterways for fishing and boating activities. Wildlife is abundant with many different species of wildlife including black bear, whitetail deer, timber wolves, coyotes, snowshoe hare, badger, fish, porcupine, and raccoon. We also have many species of birds native to the area including loons, hawks, owls, bald eagles, osprey, ruffed grouse, great blue herons and many types of ducks and geese. You may even catch a glimpse of the occasional elk or moose if you’re lucky! In fall our area becomes spectacular with the colors of the changing leaves. It’s also the time of year when many hunting seasons begin, including the Ruffed Grouse, with which we are known as the “Ruffed Grouse Capital of the World.” ATVing continues through November 15th on most trail systems. In winter the northwoods are transformed into a winter wonderland. Snowmobile enthusiasts travel to Park Falls to ride the 500 miles of well groomed trails. These trails are some of the finest in Wisconsin. We offer a 24 hour/7 days a week trail condition report beginning December 1st each year and continuing throughout the season. Other activities Chamber of Commerce enjoyed in our area in the winter include ice fishing, cross-country skiing 400 4th Avenue South • Park Falls, WI 54552 & snow shoeing. The Park Falls Chamber of Commerce is open daily 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., (715) 762-2703 • (877) 762-2703 Monday thru Friday. If you’re planning to stay in or around the Park Falls E-mail: chamber@parkfalls.com • www.parkfalls.com ...and with good area, please give us a call at (877) 762-2703, email us at chamber@ Spectacular Grouse Population • 1 Million Acres of Public Land! reason! parkfalls.com or check out our website at www.parkfalls.com

Park Falls Area

• Wisconsin

Phillips

Phillips is located in the picturesque Northwood, surrounded by many lakes and rivers. It offers a serene setting with recreation galore. In Phillips, one can enjoy activities year-round including fishing, hunting, boating, hiking, biking, walking, swimming, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, ATV riding, canoeing, kayaking and camping just to name a few. Phillips is nestled amongst many beautiful Wisconsin lakes including the chain which consists of Duroy, Elk, Long and Wilson. Additionally, the Phillips area is surrounded by lush green forests and is home to 857,000 acres of the Chequamegon National Forest, the Flambeau River State Forest, County and other industrial lands. Consider Phillips for your next vacation. “The Northwoods is Our Backyard” and we’d like to share it with you and yours!

Portage

The Explorer’s Route Marquette and Joliet were among the first ...You should be the next. While some dispute may exist as to who the greatest exploring duo ever was, of this we are certain: You will have a memorable experience blazing a trail through which history and recreation unite. Visit the Museum at the Portage, the Indian Agency House or the Surgeons’ Quarters. The grounds at the Indian Agency House include a Prairie Garden with access to the Portage Canal that has a handicap accessible portion of the Ice Age Trail. Here is where history really meets recreation. Discover what the Wisconsin Department of Tourism recognizes as the state’s number one outdoor recreation resource. Covering 31 Wisconsin counties and tracing the glacial formations of more than 10,000 years ago, the Ice Age Trail is primarily for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing – and in specially designated areas – biking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, and camping. And don’t forget canoeing. One of the earliest forms of transportation, canoeing is a method which we in Portage carry dear. The canal is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A smooth, paved walkway running alongside the canal allows you to experience the history of the canal—without the threat of tipping in a canoe. Complete this journey with a leisurely stroll along the scenic, 2.5-mile long Wisconsin River Levee. Built on the north side of the Wisconsin River, the levee protects low lying areas of Portage from the threat of flooding. Indeed, Portage allows great access to many waterways. You can boat, swim, water ski, and fish until the sun goes down in shadows cast by history and a couple legendary explorers.

Prairie du Chien

Prairie du Chien has always been a “natural place to gather” beginning way back in the 1600s when Native Americans and fur traders gathered for the largest rendezvous in the Midwest. Today, the Prairie du Chien area provides a perfect combination of fascinating history, natural scenic beauty and contemporary attractions. Prairie du Chien is situated along the banks of the Mississippi River in southwest Wisconsin, four hours south of Minneapolis, MN, and four hours west of Milwaukee, WI. The community is one of the larger towns on the Wisconsin Great River Road, a National Scenic Byway. Untouched by the glaciers of ages past, the distinctive hills and valleys of this “driftless region” provide unparalleled vistas, historic and archeological sites, hunting and fishing challenges plus many sources of entertainment and shopping for visitors. Every community has its own history, and Prairie du Chien is no exception. As the oldest settlement on the Upper Mississippi River, the area is the scene of many events of national significance beginning with Marquette and Joliet’s visit in 1673. Popular historic sites include the Fort Crawford Museum, Villa Louis Historic Site, and Effigy Mounds National Monument. Unlimited recreational opportunities give the visitor a chance to explore this unique area. Two nearby state parks and National Monument offer scenic views of the Mississippi River, miles of hiking trails, and viewing of migratory waterfowl. Prairie du Chien offers all the amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Golf courses, specialty shopping, and variety of lodging and dining, meets the needs of all travelers. For more information on the Prairie du Chien area, contact the Prairie du Chien Area Chamber of Commerce, visit our web site at www. prairieduchien.org or call (800) 732-1673.

Rhinelander

Rhinelander is the business and service center for Oneida County. The city offers several parks. Hodag Park is located along the beautiful Boom Lake shoreline and Pioneer Park features a logging and railroad museum complex. Rhinelander features an 18-hole public golf course with clubhouse and restaurant. Rhinelander is the Home of the Hodag, a mythical creature created by pioneer and timber cruiser Gene Shepard in 1896. Although it originated as a hoax, the Hodag became a local legend and the symbol of the City. Many local businesses, as well as the Rhinelander High School sports teams, are named for the Hodag.

Rhinelander

668 West Kemp St. • Rhinelander, WI 54501

(715) 369-3600 www.qualityinn.com

• Free Hot Breakfast • High-Speed Internet • Exercise Room • Indoor Heated Pool & Hot Tub • Pet-Friendly

WISCONSIN

Rhinelander Hodag (courtesy Dan Gross)

WiTravelRecreation.com •

rice lake

Located in Barron County in Northwest Wisconsin. Rice Lake is the largest community between Eau Claire and Superior and the largest in Barron County. Rich in history, Rice Lake area was home to the Woodland Indians several thousand years ago. Referred to as the Mound Builders, evidence of their existence can be found at Rice Lake and elsewhere in Barron County in the form of conical burial mounds. Visitors to Rice Lake will find a number of good lakes for fishing and ten golf courses to test their skills. Rice Lake has three miles of hiking and biking trails and the motorized Wild Rivers Trail begins here and runs 100 miles north to Superior. For a scenic hike, there is the Ice Age Trail on the north side of Barron County, following the edge of the last ice age. Snowmobile trails also abound in the area. On request, visitors can get a guided tour to the Pipestone Quarry, located in the Blue Hills eight miles east of Rice Lake. Many believe it is that quarry that is referred to in Longfellow’s “Song of Hiawatha.” For more information about the Rice Lake area, please contact the Rice Lake Area Chamber of Commerce at (715) 234-2126 or visit www.ricelakechamber.org

Kohler-Andrae State Park (courtesy Ron Wiecki)

Sheboygan

Welcome to Sheboygan County, a great place to live, raise a family, work, worship and play. When early settler William Farnsworth arrived in 1818, he belived the place where the Sheboygan River meets Lake Michigan was an ideal site to establish a community. He was right. City history documents waves of 19th century immigrants from the British Isles, Germany, Holland, Belgium and Luxembourg, as well as Central and Middle Europe. In building Sheboygan County, those immigrants brought the values of hard work, pride in home and family, service to community and an appreciation of the area’s natural resources. Those values still apply today. Sheboygan County is rich in opportunities to enjoy the good life. Visit us online at www.visitsheboygan.com

Above & Beyond

Children’s Museum

Hands-On Family Fun!

H Tree House Adventure H Sky Crawl H Magnet Table H Kids Klinic H Toddler Rainforest Room H Play School House H Craft Area and Much More!

902 North 8th St. • Sheboygan, WI 53081

(920) 458-4263 • www.abkids.org

• Wisconsin

spooner

Centrally located in a region that contains Lake Superior, the famous Apostle Islands, world-class recreational events such as the Heart of the North Rodeo and the American Birkebeiner, as well as unparalleled natural resources, Spooner is a four-seasons playground for all who venture to it – to visit or to live. Woods, water and wildlife are in abundance. A diverse and unique shopping district. An excellent transportation system. Modern accommodations. Full-service restaurants. A highquality health care network. The Spooner area today is a popular destination for many and a city growing ever-more attractive and hospitable. Spooner was in its very beginning famed as a railroad town. The division point between St. Paul and Lake Superior, it was located at the hub of the famous “Omaha X,” the point at which four lines of the railroad converged. Now, a single excursion train – the Wisconsin Great Northern – rumbles along the tracks that once bore hundreds of cars per day. A museum stands at the cross of the old Omaha X, marking a spot where an era passed through.

Thorp

Located in the northwestern corner of Clark County on Highway 29, Thorp is the gateway to Wisconsin’s agricultural epicenter. Thorp has a healthy local economy and a busy main street, where you’ll find a unique blend of quaint horse-drawn wagons and modern culture and technology.

Holland’s Family Cheese

Rolf and Marieke Penterman are first generation Wisconsin dairy farmers who moved from the Netherlands to Wisconsin in 2002. Because Holland is so small and the population so dense, farmers are limited on how much land they can obtain for dairying. Having both grown up on small, 60-head dairy farms in the eastern part of Holland, Rolf and Marieke wanted to pursue their passion for dairy farming in an area that would afford them the capabilities of expansion. Wisconsin, with its vast dairy base and farm-friendly people seemed ideal. Rolf and his brother, Sander, purchased property near Thorp, a small rural community located between Chippewa Falls and Wausau. Marieke joined her husband, Rolf, in 2004, and so began the adventure. MariekeTM is our signature cheese made with an authentic Old World Gouda recipe. The equipment, cultures, herbs and spices are all imported from Holland. The rBGH-free cow’s milk couldn’t be fresher being piped directly from the first milking of the day into the processing vat. The curd is hand-packed into 18 pound forms before going under the press. It is then brined for 60 hours. Then the wheels are transferred to the special curing room and aged on Dutch pine planks which absorb the liquid as the cheese ages. For the first 14 days, the cheese is turned (flipped over) daily to ensure that the butterfat is evenly distributed throughout the cheese. The wooden planks are also cleaned daily and turned to prevent molds. During this time, the breathable coating is hand-painted on the cheese. After the initial daily turning is complete the cheese is turned twice weekly for as long as it is in our facility. Marieke began making cheese in November 2006 and won Best of Class with Marieke’s Foenegreek Gouda for flavored semi-soft cheese in the United States Championship Cheese Contest sponsored by the WI Cheese Maker’s Association. Since her first win in 2007, Marieke has added 40 more world and national awards for her cheese in four years. Learn more about Holland’s Family Cheese at www.hollandsfamily cheese.com or give us a call at (715) 669-5230.

Waterford

Exotic Wildlife and Farm Animals Education, Conservation, and Preservation See exhibits featuring some of the most amazing exotic, farm, and wildlife animals. Learn about our wildlife and participate in hands-on interaction with certain animals. Enjoy our clean and safe environment.

6831 Big Bend Rd. (Hwy. 164) • Waterford, WI

Whitewater

There are few places as dynamic, yet as quaint and picturesque as Whitewater. Situated on Cravath and Tripp Lakes, nestled within the Kettle Moraine State Forest’s glacially carved landscaped, Whitewater, offers endless vacation and cultural opportunities. Take advantage of all of Whitewater lakes services ranging from boat, canoe, pontoon, kayak and paddle boat rentals to picnic areas, beaches, campgrounds, fishing, hiking trails and wildlife preservation areas. Challenge yourself at Southern Wisconsin’s largest indoor rock climbing gym; one of the nation’s top twelve par 3 golf courses; a round of disc golf; an hour or two of geo-caching; a day of hang gliding or perhaps a family afternoon at Whitewater’s very own Aquatic Center. Many free entertainment opportunities exist in Whitewater for the informed traveler. Whether it’s a Saturday evening on Whitewater Lake watching the Minneiska Water Ski Show, Concerts in the Park / Family Fun Nights, Sounds of September, Outdoor Community Arts Projects, Crossman Gallery Exhibits, Group Guided Walks, Biking the Scenic Roads or Whitewater’s Historic Walking Guide. For more information, please phone toll free at (866) 499-8687 or visit our web site at www.discoverwhitewater.org

WiTravelRecreation.com •

WISCONSIN

www.beardenzoo.com • (262) 895-6430

Levi Barnes and Samuel Chapman established the area that would later become the Village of Waterford community on January 1, 1836, when they obtained waterpower rights on the Fox River. A dam was built and later a sawmill and flourmill were added which became the nucleus of Waterford. The village developed as a result of the milling activities and got its name, “Waterford” because of its location at the shallow area of the Fox River where horse-drawn covered wagons could cross. Their families and other settlers soon followed and in a short time a thriving village had grown up on the banks of the Fox. Waterford was separated from the town of Rochester, of which it was originally a part, in 1847.

Area Chambers of Commerce & Visitors Centers Adams County Chamber..........................................(608) 339-6997 Algoma Chamber.....................................................(920) 487-2041 Almena Commercial Club.........................................(715) 357-3312 Antigo / Langlade County...........(715) 623-4134 or (888) 526-4523 Website:................................................. www.antigochamber.com Appleton-Neenah (Fox Cities) Chamber..................(920) 734-7101 Arcadia Chamber.....................................................(608) 323-2319 Ashland Chamber.....................................................(715) 682-2500 Baileys Harbor Business Association.......................(920) 839-2366 Baldwin -Woodville Chamber...................................(715) 684-2221 Balsam Lake Chamber.............................................(715) 485-3424 Bangor Business Club..............................................(608) 486-2356 Baraboo Chamber......................(608) 356-8333 or (800) 227-2266 Bayfield.......................................(715) 779-3335 or (800) 447-4094 Website:.............................................................. www.bayfield.org Beaver Dam Chamber..............................................(920) 887-8879 Belleville Chamber...................................................(608) 424-3336 Beloit Chamber.........................................................(608) 365-8835 Berlin Chamber........................................................(920) 361-3636 Website:.............................................................. www.1berlin.com Birchwood Chamber.................................................(800) 236-2252 Black River Falls Chamber.........(715) 284-4658 or (800) 404-4008 Blair Chamber..........................................................(608) 989-2517 Bloomer IDC and Chamber......................................(715) 568-3339 Boscobel Chamber...................................................(608) 375-2672 Boulder Junction Chamber.......................................(800) 466-8759 Website:........................................................... www.boulderjct.org Brillion.......................................................................(920) 756-2250 Brodhead Chamber.................................................. (608) 897-8411 Website:.............................................. www.brodheadchamber.org Brookfield Chamber..................................................(262) 786-1886 Burlington Chamber.................................................(262) 763-6044 Website:............................................. www.burlingtonchamber.org Burnett County Tourism - Webster...........................(715) 349-5999 Butler Chamber........................................................(262) 781-5195 Website:.................................................... www.butlerchamber.org Cable Area..................................(715) 798-3833 or (800) 533-7454 Website:......................................................... www.cable4fun.com Cadott Chamber.......................................................(715) 289-3338 Cambridge Chamber................................................(608) 423-3780 Cassville Tourism......................................................(608) 725-5855 Website:............................................................. www.cassville.org Cedarburg Chamber.................................................(262) 377-5856 Chetek Chamber......................................................(800) 317-1720 Website:................................................................ www.chetek.net Chilton Chamber......................................................(920) 418-1650 Chippewa County - Stanley......................................(715) 723-7150 Chippewa Falls Chamber...........(715) 723-0331 or (888) 723-0024 Website:.............................................. www.chippewachamber.org Clark County - Colby, Greenwood, Loyal.................(715) 255-9100 Clear Lake Chamber................................................(715) 263-2157 Cleveland Chamber..................................................(920) 693-8256 Clintonville Chamber................................................(715) 823-4606 Columbus Chamber.................................................(920) 623-3699 Conover Chamber......................(715) 479-4928 or (800) 236-4928 Crandon / Forest County Chamber..........................(715) 478-3450 Cross Plains Chamber.............................................(608) 843-3166 Cuba City / Grant County Chamber.........................(608) 822-3501 Cudahy Chamber.....................................................(414) 483-8615 Cumberland Chamber..............................................(715) 822-3378 Darlington Chamber...................(608) 776-3067 or (888) 506-6553 DeForest Chamber...................................................(608) 846-2922 Deer Park / New Richmond Area Chamber..............(715) 246-2900 Delafield Chamber....................................................(262) 646-8100 Delavan-Delavan Lake Area Chamber.....................(262) 728-5095 Denmark Chamber...................................................(920) 863-6400 Dodgeville Area Chamber.........(608) 935-5993 or (877) 863-6343 Website:......................................................... www.dodgeville.com Door County Chamber - Sturgeon Bay....................(920) 743-4456 Toll Free..................................................................(800) 52-RELAX Website:....................................................... www.doorcounty.com Eagle River Chamber.................(715) 479-6400 or (800) 359-6315 East Troy Chamber..................................................(262) 642-3770 Eau Claire Chamber.................................................(715) 834-1204 Edgar Chamber........................................................(715) 352-2891 Edgerton Chamber...................................................(608) 884-4408 Elkhart Lake Chamber................(920) 876-2922 or (877) 355-4278 Elkhorn Chamber.....................................................(262) 723-5788 Ellsworth Chamber...................................................(715) 273-6442 Elroy Chamber.........................................................(608) 462-2453 Evansville Chamber.................................................(608) 882-5131

â&#x20AC;˘ Wisconsin

Fennimore Chamber................................................(608) 822-3599 Fitchburg Chamber...................................................(608) 288-8284 Florence Chamber....................................................(715) 528-3595 Fond Du Lac Chamber.............................................(920) 921-9500 Website:................................................................. www.fdlac.com Fort Atkinson Chamber.............................................(888) SEE-FORT Fox Lake Chamber...................................................(920) 928-3777 Franklin / Oak Creek Chamber.................................(414) 768-5845 Frederic Area Community Association.....................(715) 327-4836 Fremont Chamber....................................................(920) 446-3838 Friendship / Adams County Chamber......................(608) 339-6997 Galesville Chamber..................................................(608) 582-2868 Germantown Chamber.............................................(262) 255-1812 Glendale Chamber...................................................(414) 332-0900 Grafton Chamber......................................................(262) 377-1650 Grantsburg Chamber................................................(715) 415-2886 Granville-Brown Deer Chamber...............................(414) 357-5493 Green Bay Chamber................................................(920) 437-8704 Green Lake Chamber.................(920) 294-3231 or (800) 253-7354 Greendale Chamber.................................................(414) 423-3900 Greenfield Chamber.................................................(414) 327-8500 Hartford Chamber.....................................................(262) 673-7002 Hartland Chamber....................................................(262) 367-7059 Hayward Chamber...................................................(715) 634-8662 Hayward Lakes.........................................................(800) 724-2992 Website:................................................... www.haywardlakes.com Horicon Chamber.....................................................(920) 485-3200 Hudson Chamber....................... (715) 386-8411 or (800) 657-6775 Hurley Chamber.......................................................(715) 561-4334 Website:............................................................ www.hurleywi.com Iola-Scandinavia Area Chamber...............................(715) 445-4000 Iron River Area Chamber...........(715) 372-8558 or (800) 345-0716 Website:...................................................... www.visitironriver.com Janesville Chamber..................................................(608) 757-3160 Jefferson Chamber................................................... (920) 674-4511 Johnson Creek Chamber.........................................(920) 699-4949 Juneau Chamber......................................................(920) 386-3359 Kaukauna Heart of the Valley Chamber...................(920) 766-1616 Kenosha Chamber...................................................(262) 654-1234 Kewaskum Chamber................................................(262) 626-3336 Kewaunee Chamber...................(920) 388-4822 or (800) 666-8214 Kiel Chamber............................................................(920) 894-4638 La Crosse Chamber.................................................(608) 784-4880 Website:.............................................. www.lacrossechamber.com La Pointe / Madeline Island Chamber......................(715) 747-2801 Lac Du Flambeau Chamber.....................................(715) 588-3346 Lake Geneva Chamber............................................(262) 248-4416 Lake Mills Chamber..................................................(920) 648-3585 Lake Nebagamon Chamber.....................................(715) 374-2283 Lake Tomahawk / Oneida County.............................(800) 236-3006 Lancaster Chamber..................................................(608) 723-2820 Land Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Lakes Chamber...........................................(715) 547-3432 Website:..................................................... www.landolakes-wi.org Lodi Chamber...........................................................(608) 592-4412 Lomira......................................................................(920) 269-4112 Luxemburg Chamber................................................(920) 845-2722 Madison Chamber....................................................(608) 256-8348 Website:.................................. www.greatermadisonchamber.com Manawa Chamber....................................................(920) 596-2495 Manitowish Waters Chamber...................................(715) 543-8488 Manitowoc-Two Rivers Area Chamber.....................(920) 684-5575 Marinette / Menominee Area Chamber....................(715) 735 6681 Website:...................................................... www.therealnorth.com Markesan Chamber..................................................(888) 584-7336 Marshfield Chamber.................................................(715) 384-3454 Mauston Chamber....................................................(608) 847-6676 Mayville Chamber.....................................................(920) 387-5776 Mazomanie...............................................................(608) 795-2100 McFarland Chamber................................................. (608) 838-4011 Medford Chamber......................(715) 748-4729 or (888) 682-9567 Mellen Chamber.......................................................(715) 274-2330 Menomonee Falls Chamber.....................................(262) 251-2430 Menomonie Chamber...............................................(715) 235-9087 Mequon-Thiensville Chamber..................................(262) 512-9358 Mercer Chamber......................................................(715) 476-2389 Merrill Chamber..........................(715) 536-9474 or (877) 907-2757 Middleton Chamber..................................................(608) 827-5797 Milton Chamber........................................................(608) 868-6222 Milwaukee Association of Commerce.......................(414) 287-4100 Website:................................................................. www.mmac.org Mineral Point............................................................(888) POINT WI

Website:..................................................... www.mineralpoint.com Minocqua, Arbor Vitae, Woodruff Chamber..............(715) 356-5266 Mishicot Chamber....................................................(920) 755-2525 Monona Chamber.....................................................(608) 222-8565 Monroe Chamber.....................................................(608) 325-7648 Montello Chamber....................................................(608) 297-7420 Mosinee Chamber....................................................(715) 693-4330 Mount Horeb Chamber...............(608) 437-5914 or (888) 765-5929 Mukwonago Chamber..............................................(262) 363-7758 Muskego Chamber................................................... (414) 422-1155 Nashotah Chamber..................................................(262) 367-3374 Neillsville Chamber...................................................(715) 743-6444 New Berlin Chamber................................................(262) 786-5280 New Glarus Chamber.................(608) 527-2095 or (800) 527-6838 New Holstein Chamber............................................(920) 898-9095 New Lisbon Chamber...............................................(608) 562-3555 New London Chamber.............................................(920) 982-5822 Website:.......................................... www.newlondonchamber.com New Richmond Chamber - Star Prairie....................(715) 246-2900 Oconomowoc Chamber............................................(262) 567-2666 Oconto County...........................(920) 834-6969 or (800) 297-4343 Oconto Falls Area - Lena..........................................(920) 604-1008 Omro Chamber.........................................................(920) 685-6960 Website:............................................................ www.omro-wi.com Onalaska / West Salem Chamber............................(608) 781-9570 Oostburg Chamber...................................................(920) 564-6500 Oregon Chamber......................................................(608) 835-3697 Osceola Chamber......................(715) 755-3300 or (800) 947-0581 Oshkosh Chamber...................................................(920) 303-2266 Website:.............................................. www.oshkoshchamber.com Palmyra Chamber....................................................(262) 495-8316 Pardeeville.......................................... www.villageofpardeeville.net Park Falls Area Chamber..........(715) 762-2703 or (877) 762-2703 Website:............................................................ www.parkfalls.com Pelican Lake Chamber.............................................(715) 487-5222 Peshtigo Chamber....................................................(715) 582-0327 Pewaukee Chamber.................................................(262) 691-8851 Phelps Chamber.........................(715) 545-3800 or (877) 669-7077 Phillips Chamber......................................................(715) 339-4100 Website:................................................ www.phillipswisconsin.net Platteville Chamber..................................................(608) 348-8888 Plymouth Chamber.....................(920) 893-0079 or (888) 693-8263 Port Washington Chamber.......................................(262) 284-0900 Portage Chamber..........................................(800) 474-2525 ex. 32 Portage County - Plover, Stevens Point...................(715) 344-1940 Website:.............................................. www.portagecountybiz.com Potosi-Tennyson Chamber.......................................(608) 763-2261 Poynette Chamber...................................................(608) 635-2425 Prairie Du Chien Chamber.........(608) 326-8555 or (800) 732-1673 Website:.................................................... www.prairieduchien.org Prescott Chamber....................................................(715) 262-3284 Presque Isle Chamber................(715) 686-2910 or (888) 835-6508 Princeton Chamber..................................................(920) 295-3877 Pulaski Chamber......................................................(920) 822-4400 Racine Chamber......................................................(262) 634-1931 Randolph Chamber..................................................(920) 326-4769 Reedsburg Chamber..................(608) 524-2850 or (800) 844-3507 Rhinelander Chamber................(715) 365-7464 or (800) 236-4386 Website:......................................... www.rhinelanderchamber.com Rice Lake Chamber....................(715) 234-2126 or (800) 523-6318 Website:................................................ www.ricelakechamber.org Richland Center Chamber........................................(608) 647-6205 Ripon Chamber........................................................(920) 748-6764 River Falls Chamber.................................................(715) 425-2533 Sauk Prairie Area Chamber......................................(608) 643-4168 Saukville Chamber...................................................(262) 268-1970 Sayner-Starlake Chamber........................................(715) 542-3789 Seymour Chamber...................................................(920) 833-6053 Shawano Chamber...................................................(715) 524-2139 Sheboygan County Chamber...................................(920) 457-9491 Website:......................................................... www.sheboygan.org Shell Lake Chamber.................................................(715) 468-4340 Siren Chamber...........................(715) 349-5999 or (800) 788-3164 Slinger Advancement Association............................(262) 644-6252 Somerset Chamber..................................................(715) 247-4009 South Milwaukee Chamber......................................(414) 762-2222 Sparta-Fort McCoy Chamber...................................(608) 269-4123 Spooner Chamber....................................................(715) 635-2168 Website:................................................ www.spoonerchamber.org Spring Green Chamber............................................(608) 588-2054 St. Croix Falls & Taylors Falls Chamber...................(715) 483-3580

Area Chambers of Commerce & Visitors Centers St. Germain Chamber..............................................(715) 477-2205 Stoughton Chamber...................(608) 873-7912 or (888) 873-7912 Stratford Chamber....................................................(715) 687-4466 Sturtevant Chamber.................................................(414) 886-2600 Sun Prairie Chamber................................................(608) 837-4547 Superior-Douglas County.........................................(715) 394-7716 Sussex-Lisbon Chamber..........................................(262) 246-4940 Theresa Chamber....................................................(920) 488-2810 Thorp........................................................................(715) 669-5371 Website:........................................................ www.cityofthorp.com Three Lakes Area Chamber.....................................(715) 546-3344 Tomah Chamber.........................(608) 372-2166 or (800) 948-6624 Tomahawk................................................................(800) 569-2160 Townsend / Lakewood Chamber..............................(715) 276-6500 Twin Lakes Chamber................................................(262) 877-2220 Union Grove Chamber.............................................(262) 878-4606

Verona Chamber......................................................(608) 845-5777 Viroqua Tourism........................................................(608) 637-2575 Wabeno.................................................................... (715) 473-2311 Washburn Chamber...................(715) 373-5017 or (800) 253-4495 Washington Island Chamber....................................(920) 847-2179 Waterford Chamber.................................................. (262) 534-5911 Website:....................................................... www.waterford-wi.org Waterloo Chamber...................................................(920) 478-2500 Watertown Chamber.................................................(920) 261-6320 Waukesha County Chamber....................................(262) 542-4249 Waunakee Chamber.................................................(608) 849-5977 Waupaca Chamber.....................(715) 258-7343 or (888) 417-4040 Waupun Chamber....................................................(920) 324-3491 Wausau Region Chamber........................................(715) 845-6231 Wausaukee Chamber...............................................(715) 856-5627

Waushara Area / Wautoma Chamber.......................(920) 787-3488 Wauwatosa Chamber...............................................(414) 453-2330 West Allis / West Milwaukee Chamber.....................(414) 302-9901 West Bend Chamber..................(262) 338-2666 or (888) 338-8666 Westfield Chamber...................................................(608) 296-4146 Weyauwega Chamber..............................................(920) 867-2500 Whitehall Chamber...................................................(715) 538-4353 Whitewater...............................................................(866) 499-8687 Website:............................................ www.discoverwhitewater.org Winchester Chamber................................... www.winchester-wi.org Winneconne Chamber..............................................(920) 582-4775 Winter Chamber.........................(715) 266-2204 or (800) 762-7179 Wisconsin Dells Chamber........................................(866) 505-2907 Wisconsin Rapids Chamber.....................................(715) 423-1830 Wittenberg Chamber................................................(715) 253-3525

Points of Interest Bayfield Peninsula Lake Superior Madeline Island

Bayfield

Berlin Hamilton’s Shoe Store Mascoutin Golf Course Brodhead Half Way Tree Sugar Maple Emu Farm Sugar River Raceway Sugar River State Bike Trail Ten Eyck’s Apple Orchard Burlington Malt House Theater Richard Bong State Recreation Area Rustic Road Hwy. B

Land O’ Lakes Cisco Chain Of 15 Lakes Langlade County Ice Age Trail Langlade County Forest New London Mosquito Hill Nature Center New London Public Museum Phillips Chequamegon National Forest Flambeau River State Forest

Prairie Du Chien Effigy Mounds National Monument Fort Crawford Museum Villa Louis Historic Site Ice Age Trail Pipestone Quarry

Rice Lake

Spooner Wisconsin Great Northern Train Thorp Holland’s Family Cheese - N13851 Gorman Ave., Thorp, WI 54771. (715) 669-5230 • www.hollandsfamilycheese.com

) Hayward Lakes (courtesy Tom Kelly

Cable American Birkebeiner World Lopet Trail Camba Mountain Bike Trails St. Peters Dome Cassville Nelson Dewey State Park Stonefield State Historic Site Fond Du Lac Lakeside Park Lighthouse HaywArd National Fresh Water Fishing Hall Of Fame

WISCONSIN

La Crosse Grandad Bluff Hixon House International Friendship Gardens Lock And Dam No. 7 & 8 Mt. La Crosse Myrick Hixon Eco Park Norskedalen Riverside Museum Shrine Of Our Lady Guadalupe St. Rose Chapels Wisconsin Great River Road Scenic Byway

WiTravelRecreation.com •

Calendar of Events

For a Full List of Events and Event Details, Contact Area Chambers of Commerce/Visitor’s Bureaus. june antigo – Ambassadors Arts & Crafts Fair Cruisin’ With Culvers Classic Car Show Golf Outing Historical Society’s Summer Picnic Market Street Fest Relay for Life Stock Car Races bayfield – Blessing of the Fleet berlin – CHN Charity Golf Classic Community Steak Fry VFW Poker Run burlington – Arts & Crafts Fair Burlington Cycling Classic Herb Fest NASCAR Nationwide RA 200 Weekend cadott – Country Fest cassville – Firemen’s Picnic in the Park Fly-In Breakfast Free Fishing Weekend Rescue Squad Dance St. Peter’s Fish Fry Visitor’s Appreciation Day @ Stonefield State Historic Site & Nelson Dewey State Park cedarburg – Strawberry Festival chippewa Falls Frenchtowns Annual Tube Float & Regatta cornell – Cornell Community Fair fennimore – Prairie Villa Rendezvous fond du lac – Art on the Island Tour of America’s Dairyland Fond du Lac Bicycling Gran Prix Walleye Weekend Free Family Festival hayward – Community Festival Iron River – Summerfest la crosse – Deke Slayton Airfest YWCA Garden Fest land o’ lakes Callie Rohr Memorial Canoe Race Sporting Clays Fun Shoot Milwaukee – Bead & Button Show Juneteenth Day Lakefront Festival of Arts Miller Lite Ride for the Arts Milwaukee 225 IndyCar Race Polish Fest PrideFest Summerfest Mount Horeb – Horribly Hilly Hundreds Spring Art Tour Summer Frolic new london – Amish Bake Sale Rawhide Boys Ranch Fish Fry Relay for Life VFW Veteran’s Ride Walleyes for Tomorrow Kid’s Fishing Day Wolf River Classic Chevy Club Car Swap Meet & Craft Show phillips – Czech/Slovak Festival prairie du Chien – Big River Scenic Trail Ride Bits & Pieces Jazz Blackhawk Avenue PrairieFest Cajun Fest rice lake – Aquafest Civil War Encampment Hungry Hollow Steam Engine Days shell lake Monarch Butterfly Habitat Tours spooner – Badger Car Show Family Festival Jack’s a Hack Golf Tournament Tri-County Dairy Breakfast stanley – Stanley Steamer Rodeo Days stone lake – Arts & Crafts Show thorp – Dairy Days Lion’s Club Demolition Derby trego – Chopperfest Wauwatosa – Scottish Fest / Highland Games july antigo 4th of July Parade & Fireworks Biking Weekend Country Possum Chase 1-Mile or 10K Cruisin’ With Culvers Classic Car Show Langlade County Youth Fair Spirits at the Lake Golf Outing & Spirit Sampling Stock Car Races bayfield – Festival of Arts

• Wisconsin

berlin – Bugle Mouth Bass Tournament Fox River Days Family Fun Pig Roast birchwood – Bluegill Festival bloomer – Bloomer Community Fair brodhead – Pietenpol Fly-In burlington – 4th of July Parade & Concert Heatstroke 100 Bike Ride Kids Nature Craft and Flower Lore Kohler International Challenge cadott – Nabor Days Rock Fest cassville – Twin-O-Rama chippewa Falls – Northern Wisconsin State Fair cornell – Gospel Bluegrass Jamboree Elkhart Lake – Kohler International Challenge fond du lac – Car-A-Funda Fond du Lac County Fair Symphonic Band Americana Concert & Fireworks hayward – Honor the Earth Powwow Lumberjack World Championships Iron River – Blueberry Festival la crosse – Riverfest land o’ lakes – Art Impressions Show & Sale Barefoot Brew-Ha Barefoot Charlie Festival Big Bang Golf Outing Cheese & Wine Tasting Milwaukee – Bastille Days Brady Street Festival Downtown Milwaukee Fireworks (3) Festa Italiana German Fest Mount Horeb – Annual Art Fair Antique Vehicles Show Blue Mound State Park Insane Terrain Challenge Bike Ride FDMH Fire Muster Jane Austin “Picnic in the Park” Sons of Norway Kaffe Stue Village Birthday Party New auburn – Jamboree Days new london – Amish Bake Sale Heritage Days & Rail Fest Rawhide Boys Ranch Fish Fry Oshkosh – EAA AirVenture park falls – Butternut Pioneer Days Float the Flambeau prairie du Chien – Pig in the Park Prairie Dog Blues Festival The War of 1812 Reenactment sarona – Family Canoeing Basics Long Lake Fireworks Sheboygan – Midsummer Festival of the Arts Plymouth Jazz Crawl for the Arts Plymouth Mill Street Festival shell lake – Monarch Butterfly Habitat Tours Pie & Ice Cream Social Street Dance spooner – Fireman’s Golf Scramble Heart of the North Rodeo Railroad Memories Museum Brat Feed Spooner Invitational Golf Tournament Washburn County Junior Fair stanley – Lion’s Watermelon Festival stone Lake – Historic Pie & Ice Cream Social thorp – Fireworks Extravaganza & Music in the Park Wauwatosa – Independence Day Parade august antigo – Car Show & Swap Meet Cruisin’ With Culvers Classic Car Show Fuddfest Country Music Festival Langlade County Youth Fair Lion’s Club Tractor Pull Stock Car Races Tator Trot 1-Mile or 10K Run, 4-Mile Walk bayfield – Festival of Arts berlin – Blue Knights Bruce Williams Memorial Ride & Co-Ed Softball Tournament CHN BBQ Competition Chamber Golf Outing Cruzin’ America Daze Car Show & Memorial Cruise bloomer – Bloomer Community Fair brodhead – Covered Bridge Days burlington – Corn and Brat Day Kids - Back to School Nature Craft Southern Bar-B-Que boyd – Street Dance & Corn Feed

cassville – Juvenile Diabetes Poker Run & Auction Lions & Lioness Bean Bag Tournament Stonefield’s Railroad Days Team Bibs MS Bike Ride Tonnage Tournament chippewa falls Indianhead Swap Meet & Car Show Pure Water Days cornell – Car Show Chippewa River Rendezvous fond du lac – Amazing Wisconsin Big Bird Air Show Ice Cream Social, Vintage Car & Craft Show Race the Lake hayward – Sawyer County Fair la crosse – Century Links’ Sand on the Riverfront Great River Folk Fest Great River Jazz Fest Irishfest Milwaukee – African World Festival Irish Fest Mexican Fiesta Milwaukee A La Carte Milwaukee Air & Water Show Morning Glory Fine Craft Fair Wisconsin State Fair minong – Summer Days Mount Horeb – Cave of the Mounds Discovery Tour new london American Water Spaniel Club Dog Show Amish Bake Sale Heritage Days & Rail Fest Rawhide Boys Ranch Fish Fry park falls – Craft Show Flambeau Rama Northwoods Classic Car Show prairie du Chien – Peek at Prairie’s Past Prairie du Chien Treaty of 1825 Sheboygan – Gus Macker Tournament Jaycees Brat Days Roar on the Shores Tall Ship Lynx shell lake – Monarch Butterfly Habitat Tours spooner Indian Rifle & Pistol Club Family Range Day Jack Link’s Beef Jerky Golf Tournament Jack Pine Savage Days Railroad Memories Museum Brat Feed stone Lake – Just for the Fun of it Day Crafts, Music, Car Show Lutheran Church Salad Luncheon & Bake Sale thorp – Indianhead Truck Show september antigo – Corn Roast Cruisin’ With Culvers Classic Car Show Fly-In Air Show Lakes & Leaves Bike Ride Lakeside Brat Fry Muck Run Springbrook Buckskinners Rendezvous St. John Catholic Church Fall Festival St. Wencel’s Catholic Parish Festival Wolfman Triathlon barronett – Colorfest Fall Festival bayfield – Fall Harvest Festival & Orchard Tours berlin – All Saints Catholic School Dinner Auction Charity “Ride for Health” brodhead – AutumnFest burlington – Chocolate City Golf Outing Grandparents Picnic & Pie Auction Fundraiser SCCA National Championshbip Runoffs St. Charles Fall Festival VSCDA Elkhart Lake Vintage Festival cable – Chequamegon Fat Tire Festival cassville – Cassville Car Cruise Park Preservation Party St. Charles Fall Festival Stonefield’s Sorghum Day Cedarburg – Wine & Harvest Festival chippewa falls Autumn Harvest Winery Fall Festival Oktoberfest elton – Evergreen Day Celebration fond du lac – Fondue Festival Rienzi Cemetery Walk Wisconsin Street Rod Show & Corn Roast hayward – Fall Festival Iron River – “Rocking and Rolling” Car Show Jefferson – Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival

Calendar of Events (cont.)

For a Full List of Events and Event Details, Contact Area Chambers of Commerce/Visitor’s Bureaus. jim falls – Lion’s Sturgeon Festival la crosse – Story Fest land o’ lakes – Colorama Celebration Colorama Bike Tour Milwaukee – Harvest Fair / World Beef Expo Frank Mots International Kite Festival Indian Summer Festival Milwaukee Rally Milwaukee River Challenge Oktoberfest Weekends Mount Horeb – Festival of the Mounds Quilts of Northwestern Dane County Thirsty Troll Brew Fest new london – Amish Bake Sale “An Autumn Gala” Cheese & Sausage Fall Family Fest Harvest Moon Fest Honey Sunday Rawhide Boys Ranch Fish Fry park falls – Dirt Devils ATV Rally Flambeau 40 On-Road Bike Race Pike Lake Fun Days phillips – Fall Harvest Festival (Last Weekend) prairie du Chien – Villa Louis Carriage Classic sarona – Soupstock IV Sheboygan – Dairyland Surf Classic & Wave Rave ISAF Nation’s Cup Frand Final / Sail Sheboygan Sheboygan County Fair Taste Sheboygan spooner – Dogs & Desserts shell lake – Town & Country Days stone lake – Cranberry Festival Jr. King & Queen Coronation Luncheon & Show trego – September Fest Wauwatosa – TosaFest

november antigo – Job’s Daughters Harvest Ball berlin – CHN Diabetic Health Fair Lighted Holiday Parade

december antigo – Chili Cook-Off Christmas Parade birchwood – Bluegill Christmas Festival berlin – Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols burlington – Christmas Parade Mrs. Santa’s Pantry cassville – St. Charles Advent Breakfast chippewa falls Bridge to Wonderland Parade fond du lac – Lakeside Park Holiday Lights la crosse – Holiday Lights Spectacular Milwaukee – Winterfest Mount Horeb – Caroling in the Cave Gingerbread House Display new london – Holiday of Wonder Parade St. Joseph Residence Love Light Ceremony park falls – Kris Kringle Christmas Parade prairie du Chien – Carp Fest “Droppin’ of the Carp” Holiday Parade spooner – Breakfast with Santa Train New Year’s Eve Dinner & Dance Party Train Santa’s Pizza Party Train january antigo – Chili Feed & Raffle Ski Junket barronett – Fishing Contest bloomer – Speed Rope Jump Contest burlington – Chamber Dinner, Meeting & Auction cassville – Bald Eagle Days chippewa falls – Candlelight Ski Night fond du lac – Chocolate Fantasy Foot of the Lake Synchronized Skating Competition Fondy Jr Jam Basketball Tournament Milwaukee – Cool Fool Kite Festival New Auburn – Snowshoeing by Moonlight new london – Family Fun Day @ Mosquito Hill Nature Center park falls – Jusin Donner Memorial Fisheree Polar Bear Plunge phillips Ice Fishing Tournament (Last Weekend) Radar Run on Wilson Lake (Last Weekend) prairie du Chien – Taste of Prairie du Chien spooner – Jack Frost Fest Stanley – Stanley Ice Races february antigo – Snowmobile Races White Lake Fishing Derby bayfield – Apostle Islands Sled Dog Race Blue Moon Ball berlin – Mid-Winter Art Fair Wine & Roses Wine Tasting Event burlington – Crystal Ball Spring Fashion Show cassville – Conservation Club Fish Fry Ski Busters MS Poker Run & Auction Cedarburg – Winter Festival Chippewa falls Wine, Beer & Cheese Tasting Gala fond du lac – Kettle Moraine Samoyed Special Dog Shows Taste of Fond du Lac

Iron River – “Chill Out” Weekend Milwaukee – Auto Show New auburn – Snowshoeing by Moonlight park falls – Jonny Angel Fisheree Justin Donner Memorial Fisheree Sno-Gypsies Fisheree pelican lake – Ice Fishing Derby prairie du Chien – Fisheree Valentine Seafood Extravaganza shell lake – Winter Environmental Film Festival washburn county – Ice Fishing Contest march antigo – Kettlebowl Fun Day St. Patrick’s Day Parade bayfield – Run on Water Winter Festival berlin – Taste of Berlin burlington – Yo-Yo Celebration & Convention cassville – Ecumenical World Day of Prayer St. Charles Fish Fry fond du lac – Agriculture Showcase Miss Fond du Lac Pageant Milwaukee Blarney Run/Walk & St. Patrick’s Day Parade Indian Summer Festivals Winter Powwow Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Sports Show new london Grand Parade & Irish Fest Irish Celebration Musky Magic @ New London Middle School prairie du Chien – St. Patrick’s Day Parade shell lake – Winter Environmental Film Festival thorp – Firemen’s Ball Smelt Feed april burlington Cash Raffle & New Buildings Awards Ceremony Chicken & Biscuit Dinner@Honey Creek Community Baptist Church cassville – Cassville Ferry Begins Operation Lioness Bake Sale chippewa falls Figure Skating Club Ice Show fond du lac All Breed Dog Show, Obedience & Rally Trial Week of the Young Child @ Children’s Museum Iron River – Home & Recreation Expo la crosse Between the Bluffs Beer, Wine & Cheese Fest land o’ lakes – Easter Bunny Brunch new london Big Whopper Weekend Fishing Contest shell lake – Classical Piano Music Festival Earth Day Event spooner Bowling Tourney @ Keglers Pub & Pin Indianhead Rifle & Pistol Club Gun Show stone lake – Historical Society Spaghetti Feed may antigo – Antigo Spring Fest Memorial Day Parade Wolf River Territory Days bayfield – Bayfield in Bloom berlin – Healthy Living Fair Helping Hands for Cancer 5K Run/Walk boyd – Ringelspiel Days burlington – Brat Day & Boat Races ChocolateFest Carnival Pioneer, Woodland Rendezvous chippewa falls Chippewa Valley Century Ride Chippewa Valley Renaissance Faire fond du lac “A Before Mother’s Day” Art & Craft Show Lakeside Spirit Cruises Begin land o’ lakes – Sporting Clays Fun Shoot Spring Trap Shoot prairie du Chien – Bird Walk Half Marathon & 5K Race Mother’s Day Mississippi River Cruise sarona – Barn Dance Sheboygan – Kohler International Festival of Beer shell lake – Monarch Butterfly Habitat Tours spooner – Mother’s Day Brunch Train Pet Walk stone lake – Lion’s Club Fish Fry

WiTravelRecreation.com •

WISCONSIN

october antigo – Fall Festival Grandview Orchard Applefest Halloween Costume Parade Indian Summer Classic Junior Women’s Craft Fair Oktoberfest bayfield – Apple Festival Fall Harvest Festival & Orchard Tours berlin – Historical Society’s Ghost Walk Pig Roast & Open House Pumpkins on Petunias bloomer – Women’s Club Arts & Crafts Fair burlington – Spooky City Kickoff Party Turkey Dinner & Bazaar cassville – Stonefield’s Safe & Spooky Halloween fond du lac – Central Wisconsin Gun Collectors Gun & Military Show Halloween Dinner & Ghost Stories by Candlelight hayward – Evening of Wine, Beer & Chocolate la crosse – Oktoberfest land o’ lakes – Ruffled Grouse Championship Milwaukee – Hunting Moon Powwow Milwaukee’s Lakefront Marathon Mount Horeb – Fall Heritage Festival Halloween at Cave of the Mounds Pioneer Days Quilt Show Sons of Norway Host Frokost New auburn Parade of Colors Fall Hike on Ice Age Trail new london – Amish Bake Sale Halloween Haunted Trail @ Hatten Park Rawhide Boys Ranch Fish Fry St. Joseph Residence Bazaar park falls – Ruffled Grouse Fall Festival pearson – Dirty Dog Dryland Derby prairie du Chien – Hoffman Halls of Terror Shihata Orchard Fest Victorian Trick or Treat “Visiting Our Ancestors” Sheboygan – Kohler Food & Wine Experience Sheboygan Shindig spooner – Jack O’ Lantern Festival stone lake – Cranberry Festival Pancake Breakfast Pie & Ice Cream Social thorp – Pumpkin Festival

bloomer – Light Up the Park burlington – Christmas Craft Mall chippewa falls Christmas Village fond du lac – Cathedral Concert Holiday Art & Craft Show la crosse – Holiday Lights Spectacular Milwaukee – Holiday Folk Fair International Milwaukee Holiday Parade Veterans Day Parade Mount Horeb – Holiday Craft Bonanza Holiday Wine Tasting Soiree new london – Amish Bake Sale prairie du Chien Tastes, Toasts & Tomfoolery Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot spooner – Christmas Arts & Crafts Show Breakfast with Santa Train Santa’s Pizza Party Train Thanksgiving Noon Buffet Train stone lake – Scholarship Chili Feed thorp – Hometown for the Holiday

Lake Michigan Beach (photo courtesy Lester Public Library)

â&#x20AC;˘ Wisconsin

Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald

Nearly thirty-five years later, the sinking of the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald is one of the most mysterious sinkings heard of around the Great Lakes. On November 10, 1975, the Edmund Fitzgerald was lost with all 29 crew men just 17 miles north-northwest of Whitefish Point, Michigan. When you talk about Edmund Fitzgerald, some may ask “who is that?” Others may say “There is a song about the Edmund Fitzgerald!” The S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald was a freighter traveling from Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Zugg Island in Detroit, Michigan in November of 1975. When it was christened in 1958 it was the largest ship of its kind to sail on the Great Lakes. In one of the biggest Lake Superior storms in recent history, it was lost with all hands. Twenty-nine men perished, and it is still unclear entirely what happened that stormy night. Left behind are twenty-nine families who remember their loved ones as brave men who were loving brothers, sons, and fathers. In November, 1975 as one of the strongest storm in years pounded Lake Superior with fury, the Edmund Fitzgerald began experiencing problems. It took on water and had a list, and had been in frequent contact with the S.S. Arthur M. Anderson, another larger freighter. The Arthur M. Anderson first reported the loss of contact to the Coast Guard, and was one of many ships involved in the rescue search for the Edmund Fitzgerald. At 7:10 p.m. on November 10, 1975, “Big Fitz,” as many called it, disappeared from radar and had no further radio contact. What happened to the Edmund Fitzgerald? Did the cargo shift? Did the ship scrape the bottom of the lake while traveling through a shallow portion of the water? Did waves swamp the ship? While dozens of theories exist, many times one just as plausible as the other, there are more questions than answers. Whatever may have happened to the Edmund Fitzgerald around 7:10 p.m. on November 10, 1975, it ended in the tragic loss of 29 men. It is believed it happened so quickly that aiding the crew may not have been an option, as there was not even a distress call before radio traffic went silent. Twenty-nine men were lost in the stormy sea of Lake Superior. The wreckage lays 535 feet below cold Lake Superior. They were fathers, they were brothers, and they were sons. They had a family like all of us, and like everyone who loses a loved one, the pain of their friends and families was quite real. On November 11, 1975, twenty-nine families woke up with fear and anger, questioning “why me?” They would never again see their father, their brother, or their son. Never again would the Christmas ham be carved by “Daddy.” Never again would there be a Thanksgiving with your brother, or a birthday to celebrate with your son.

The sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald took with it more than just a ship, it took with it twenty-nine men who were loved, admired, and that will never be forgotten. As you remember the Edmund Fitzgerald, think less of the loss of a ship, and more of the loss of a brave crew. May the legend of twenty-nine men live on... Starting soon after the official discovery of the wreckage, explorations commenced to shed light on the cause of the wreck as well as to investigate whether the remains of the crew members were among the wreckage. Although one diving team in 1994 did discover the remains of a lost crewman, it is widely believed this body was not one of the 29 men lost in 1975. The day after the shipwreck, memorials began. Reverend Richard Ingalls of Mariners’ Church in Detroit, Michigan prayed for the 29 men and their families and rang the church bell 29 times, for each man on the Edmund Fitzgerald, just as the song “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” by Gordon Lightfoot tells. The memorial gained widespread attention by the media, and to this day every year the memorial ceremony occurs. In 1995 the bell of the Edmund Fitzgerald was raised and restored as a commemoration to the crew. On permanent loan, it is now prominently displayed in the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum at Whitefish Point, just 17 miles from the wreckage. Each November 10, family members, friends, and a host of others join in a standing room only memorial service that features 29 rings of the original bell from the Edmund Fitzgerald. The 1995 raising of the bell was one of the last times the Edmund Fitzgerald would ever be seen in person, as dives to the ship, which resides in Canadian waters, are now forbidden. At least one reported illegal dive has occurred involving a citizen diver. Countless books and websites dedicated to informing others have been published, by authors as young as fifteen to people with years and years experience and expertise regarding the Great Lakes. No shipwreck on the Great Lakes has received as much attention, and been the subject of as much controversy as the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald. For more information on the Edmund Fitzgerald, please consult S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald Online at http://www.ssefo.com. Another great destination for shipwreck and Great Lakes enthusiasts is the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum in Whitefish Point, Michigan. ~ written by Tim McCall, www.ssefo.com

Minnesota

Wisconsin Live the Adventure! MinnesotaTravelRecreation.com WiTravelRecreation.com

Mississippi River Headwaters, MN (courtesy Matthew Traucht)

Tommy Bartlett Show, WI tt.com) (courtesy www.tommybartle

Biking Elroy-Sp arta Trail, WI (courtesy Wend y Soucie)

Split Rock Lighthouse (photo courtesy Paul Huber)