America's Heartland
Bridges of Madison County, Amana Colonies, Field of Dreams, and Lincoln Land
August 20 - 27, 2026
$2199 Per Person Double Occupancy $2699 Single Occupancy
Your Eight Day America's Heartland tour includes:
MN Coaches Transportation: Northeast MN Boarding: Grand Rapids, Hibbing, Chisholm, Virginia, Eveleth, Hermantown, Cloquet.
Central Minnesota Boarding: Sartell, Little Falls, Rice & Baxter. Twin Cities Area: Roseville, Coon Rapids, and Lakeville Seven Nights Lodging: One in West Des Moines at the Drury Inn & Suites, One night at the beautiful Cobblestone Inn in Winterset,
IA, One night at the Hampton Inn in Dubuque, IA, one night at the Historic Hotel Millwright in Amana, IA, Two nights at the
Drury Inn & Suites in Springfield, IL, and one night at the Sheraton West in West Des Moines, IA.
FYI: On this tour, we can only offer single or double rates due to the limitations of two of our hotels.
Highlights: Visit Covered Bridges of Madison County and John Wayne’s home & museum with a local step-on guide,
The Pella Historical Museum & Wyatt Earp experience in Pella, IA, The Field of Dreams experience, including the Ghost game, in Dyersville,
IA escorted by a local step-on guide, a local theater production of “Always, Patsy Cline” and a tour of the Amana Colonies with a local step- on guide, and the full Abraham Lincoln experience in Springfield, IL
Other Attractions: Pizza on the Prairie, Field of Dreams Farmhouse Tour, National Farm Toy Museum, If You Build It Exhibit, Amana Heritage Museum, Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairground, the Dana Thomas House tour, and even a visit from Abe, himself.
14 Meals: Six Breakfasts; Two Lunches (one boxed lunch); Four Dinners; Two Cocktail/Light Dinner receptions.
Luggage Handling, Taxes, Tips & Fully Guided with a Happy Trails Host
Deposits and Final Payment Due Date: $200 per person deposit is due with each reservation and is non-refundable after June 10, 2026 Final balance due: June 20th, 2026. Reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Cancellations: A refund for cancellation between June 10 and June 20, 2026 is dependent on refunds Happy Trails Tours can secure from vendors. No refunds with cancellations made after June 20, 2026. Please consider travel protection insurance to protect your investment. Happy Trails strongly encourages purchasing travel protection insurance to cover your tour. Ask for more information. Final Documents: Final documents are expected to arrive three to four weeks prior to departure with specifics on boarding time and location. Kindly complete the form below and mail it in with your deposit. Thank you.
Central Minnesota Boarding: Sartell, Little Falls, Rice & Baxter. Twin Cities Area: Roseville, Coon Rapids, and Lakeville Seven Nights Lodging: One in West Des Moines at the Drury Inn & Suites, One night at the beautiful Cobblestone Inn in Winterset,
IA, One night at the Hampton Inn in Dubuque, IA, one night at the Historic Hotel Millwright in Amana, IA, Two nights at the
Drury Inn & Suites in Springfield, IL, and one night at the Sheraton West in West Des Moines, IA.
FYI: On this tour, we can only offer single or double rates due to the limitations of two of our hotels.
Highlights: Visit Covered Bridges of Madison County and John Wayne’s home & museum with a local step-on guide,
The Pella Historical Museum & Wyatt Earp experience in Pella, IA, The Field of Dreams experience, including the Ghost game, in Dyersville,
IA escorted by a local step-on guide, a local theater production of “Always, Patsy Cline” and a tour of the Amana Colonies with a local step- on guide, and the full Abraham Lincoln experience in Springfield, IL
Other Attractions: Pizza on the Prairie, Field of Dreams Farmhouse Tour, National Farm Toy Museum, If You Build It Exhibit, Amana Heritage Museum, Route 66 Experience at the Illinois State Fairground, the Dana Thomas House tour, and even a visit from Abe, himself.
14 Meals: Six Breakfasts; Two Lunches (one boxed lunch); Four Dinners; Two Cocktail/Light Dinner receptions.
Luggage Handling, Taxes, Tips & Fully Guided with a Happy Trails Host
Deposits and Final Payment Due Date: $200 per person deposit is due with each reservation and is non-refundable after June 10, 2026 Final balance due: June 20th, 2026. Reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Cancellations: A refund for cancellation between June 10 and June 20, 2026 is dependent on refunds Happy Trails Tours can secure from vendors. No refunds with cancellations made after June 20, 2026. Please consider travel protection insurance to protect your investment. Happy Trails strongly encourages purchasing travel protection insurance to cover your tour. Ask for more information. Final Documents: Final documents are expected to arrive three to four weeks prior to departure with specifics on boarding time and location. Kindly complete the form below and mail it in with your deposit. Thank you.
August 20 – Thursday – Day One Travel to Des Moines, IA (approx. 435 miles from Grand Rapids, MN)
Below is a tentative schedule for boarding. Timing and location are dependent on registration.
Northeast Minnesota – Minnesota Coaches Main 56 Passenger Coach
5:00AM - Grand Rapids IM Hotel – 1702 S Pokegama AV Phone: 218-327-1108
6:00AM – Hibbing McDonalds (people parked in back lot) Phone: 218-262-0000
6:20AM - Chisholm McDonalds near Iron Man Phone: 218-254-4227
6:45AM - Village Inn / Hardee’s Parking Lot, Thunderbird Mall, Virginia Phone: 218-744-1969
7:05AM - Eveleth Super Eight – 1080 Industrial Drive Phone: 218-744-1661
8:05AM - Hermantown Parking Lot by Menards & McDonalds 4809 Miller Trunk Hwy Phone: 218-722-0078
8:30 - 9:00AM - BREAKFAST break at McDonalds (Cloquet)– Bus departs at 9:00AM. Paying on your own.
8:45AM - Cloquet McDonalds – 709 Hwy 33 Phone: 218-879-8497
11:00AM – Roseville Target Parking Lot (Map to be provided) 1515 CO RD B, Roseville Phone: 651-631-0330
Central Minnesota - Minnesota Coaches – Shuttle to meet the coach at Lakeville Cracker Barrell -
8:45AM – Baxter - Walmart 7294 Glory RD (Near McDonalds) Phone: 218-829-5510
9:30AM – Little Falls – Walmart – 15091 18 ST SE Phone: 320-632-9268
9:55 AM - Rice Holiday Gas Station 435 Main ST Phone: 320-393-4450
10:15AM – Sartell AmericInn 119 LeSauk DR Phone: 763-421-8040
Noon – 1:00PM - LUNCH at Cracker Barrel in Lakeville (Paying on your own.)
12:45PM – Cracker Barrell (Lakeville) - 17189 Kenyon Ave (952) 898-5151
1:00PM – Wheels Rolling
2:30PM – Comfort Stop - Top of Iowa Welcome Center – 4705 Wheelerwood RD, Northwood, IA (641) 324-3184 4:45PM – Arrive at West Des Moines, IA. Drury Inn & Suites 5505 Mills Civic Parkway, (515) 457-9500 Happy Trails frequently stays at Drury’s whenever we are in an area where they are available. Be greeted with a warm welcome, Clean rooms, and best-in-class amenities. Enjoy hot breakfast, dinnertime snacks and drinks at 5:30 Kickback®, Wi-Fi, popcorn, business centers, workout facilities, and more! Tonight, plan on dinner and cocktails. Upon arrival, you will receive coupons for both food and cocktails. Enjoy
The standard Thursday night Kickback® buffet includes: Spring Salad, Spring lettuce mix, grape tomatoes, croutons, assorted dressings, Vegetable Soup served with oyster crackers, Meatballs Served with Brown Gravy, Normandy Vegetables, Whipped Potatoes, Hot Dog & Bun, Cheddar cheese, relish, ketchup, mustard, Chips, Salsa & Nacho Cheese, Salsa & Jalapenos. Light Dinner included today
Below is a tentative schedule for boarding. Timing and location are dependent on registration.
Northeast Minnesota – Minnesota Coaches Main 56 Passenger Coach
5:00AM - Grand Rapids IM Hotel – 1702 S Pokegama AV Phone: 218-327-1108
6:00AM – Hibbing McDonalds (people parked in back lot) Phone: 218-262-0000
6:20AM - Chisholm McDonalds near Iron Man Phone: 218-254-4227
6:45AM - Village Inn / Hardee’s Parking Lot, Thunderbird Mall, Virginia Phone: 218-744-1969
7:05AM - Eveleth Super Eight – 1080 Industrial Drive Phone: 218-744-1661
8:05AM - Hermantown Parking Lot by Menards & McDonalds 4809 Miller Trunk Hwy Phone: 218-722-0078
8:30 - 9:00AM - BREAKFAST break at McDonalds (Cloquet)– Bus departs at 9:00AM. Paying on your own.
8:45AM - Cloquet McDonalds – 709 Hwy 33 Phone: 218-879-8497
11:00AM – Roseville Target Parking Lot (Map to be provided) 1515 CO RD B, Roseville Phone: 651-631-0330
Central Minnesota - Minnesota Coaches – Shuttle to meet the coach at Lakeville Cracker Barrell -
8:45AM – Baxter - Walmart 7294 Glory RD (Near McDonalds) Phone: 218-829-5510
9:30AM – Little Falls – Walmart – 15091 18 ST SE Phone: 320-632-9268
9:55 AM - Rice Holiday Gas Station 435 Main ST Phone: 320-393-4450
10:15AM – Sartell AmericInn 119 LeSauk DR Phone: 763-421-8040
Noon – 1:00PM - LUNCH at Cracker Barrel in Lakeville (Paying on your own.)
12:45PM – Cracker Barrell (Lakeville) - 17189 Kenyon Ave (952) 898-5151
1:00PM – Wheels Rolling
2:30PM – Comfort Stop - Top of Iowa Welcome Center – 4705 Wheelerwood RD, Northwood, IA (641) 324-3184 4:45PM – Arrive at West Des Moines, IA. Drury Inn & Suites 5505 Mills Civic Parkway, (515) 457-9500 Happy Trails frequently stays at Drury’s whenever we are in an area where they are available. Be greeted with a warm welcome, Clean rooms, and best-in-class amenities. Enjoy hot breakfast, dinnertime snacks and drinks at 5:30 Kickback®, Wi-Fi, popcorn, business centers, workout facilities, and more! Tonight, plan on dinner and cocktails. Upon arrival, you will receive coupons for both food and cocktails. Enjoy
The standard Thursday night Kickback® buffet includes: Spring Salad, Spring lettuce mix, grape tomatoes, croutons, assorted dressings, Vegetable Soup served with oyster crackers, Meatballs Served with Brown Gravy, Normandy Vegetables, Whipped Potatoes, Hot Dog & Bun, Cheddar cheese, relish, ketchup, mustard, Chips, Salsa & Nacho Cheese, Salsa & Jalapenos. Light Dinner included today
August 21 – Friday – Day Two Travel to Winterset, IA (approx. 40 miles from West Des Moines)
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Today, we will travel to Winterset, IA where we will meet a step-on guide who will
show us several of the Covered Bridges of Madison County. Other highlights will include the John Wayne Museum & Home, Theater program with Iowa’s own popcorn, shopping on the Winterset square and even Pizza on the Prairie. 7:00 – 9:00AM – Breakfast (included) 8:00AM – Place bags outside your room 9:00AM – Wheels Rolling – Next stop, Winterset! |
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9:45AM - Arrive to Winterset
Be prepared to enjoy the day with our professional step-on guide and learn what's behind the community's worldwide fame as w tour visit three of six Bridges of Madison County, made famous in the 1995 American romantic drama film produced and directed by Clint Eastwood, who also shared in the film alongside Meryl Streep. Winterset is also the birthpace of American icon John Wayne, and the award winning John Wayne Birthplace and Museum is the only museum in the world dedicated to the legendary actor.
Be prepared to enjoy the day with our professional step-on guide and learn what's behind the community's worldwide fame as w tour visit three of six Bridges of Madison County, made famous in the 1995 American romantic drama film produced and directed by Clint Eastwood, who also shared in the film alongside Meryl Streep. Winterset is also the birthpace of American icon John Wayne, and the award winning John Wayne Birthplace and Museum is the only museum in the world dedicated to the legendary actor.
Be prepared to enjoy the day with our professional step-on guide and learn what's behind the community's worldwide fame as w tour visit three of six Bridges of Madison County, made famous in the 1995 American romantic drama film produced and directed by Clint Eastwood, who also shared in the film alongside Meryl Streep. Winterset is also the birthpace of American icon John Wayne, and the award winning John Wayne Birthplace and Museum is the only museum in the world dedicated to the legendary actor.
Be prepared to enjoy the day with our professional step-on guide and learn what's behind the community's worldwide fame as w tour visit three of six Bridges of Madison County, made famous in the 1995 American romantic drama film produced and directed by Clint Eastwood, who also shared in the film alongside Meryl Streep. Winterset is also the birthpace of American icon John Wayne, and the award winning John Wayne Birthplace and Museum is the only museum in the world dedicated to the legendary actor.
Be prepared to enjoy the day with our professional step-on guide and learn what's behind the community's worldwide fame as w tour visit three of six Bridges of Madison County, made famous in the 1995 American romantic drama film produced and directed by Clint Eastwood, who also shared in the film alongside Meryl Streep. Winterset is also the birthpace of American icon John Wayne, and the award winning John Wayne Birthplace and Museum is the only museum in the world dedicated to the legendary actor.
Be prepared to enjoy the day with our professional step-on guide and learn what's behind the community's worldwide fame as w tour visit three of six Bridges of Madison County, made famous in the 1995 American romantic drama film produced and directed by Clint Eastwood, who also shared in the film alongside Meryl Streep. Winterset is also the birthpace of American icon John Wayne, and the award winning John Wayne Birthplace and Museum is the only museum in the world dedicated to the legendary actor.
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10:00AM – Depart for a two-hour Madison County tour including at least three of the famed covered bridges. 12:00PM – Arrive to the Winterset Courthouse Square. Here, you will have an opportunity to dine and shop on your own. You will find at least 8 eateries on the square and have some time to shop. There are over 20 retail/gift shops on the square in the award-winning retail district, including one of Quilt Sampler’s Top Shops (Piece Works Quilt Shop) and a Ben Franklin store. The Winterset Retail District won the 2019 Iowa Tourism Award for Outstanding Retail Experience! |
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2:00PM – Visit the John Wayne Birthplace & Museum and the Iowa Quilt Museum.
First, we will tour the award-winning John Wayne Birthplace & Museum. Since the John Wayne Birthplace Society was established in 1982, more than a million visitors have journeyed to historic Madison County to tour his birthplace home. With the opening in 2015 of the 6,100 square foot museum, visitors now have the opportunity to see the largest diversified exhibit of John Wayne artifacts in existence, including original movie posters, film wardrobe, scripts, contracts, letters, artwork, and sculpture, and even one of his last customized automobiles.
For you quilt lovers, enjoy a visit to the Iowa Quilt Museum located in the former J.C. Penney building on the Winterset courthouse square. The museum welcomes quilters, quilt lovers, history buffs, and all appreciators of American art and culture. Their mission is to promote appreciation of the American quilt and the art of quilting through displays of quilts and information about quilt history.
4:00PM – Iowa Theater Program - The Iowa Theater, a fully-renovated 1913 single-screen cinema, where we will view a special Short program on the theater’s history and renovation just for groups. The program includes a short video about movies made in and about Iowa. You will enjoy freshly popped popcorn and sodas an afternoon snack.
5:00PM – Check in to tonight’s lodging: Cobblestone Inn & Suites – 1304 N 4th AV, Winterset. 515-462-4889 Please note: This property does not have an elevator, but for your convenience, we have arranged for luggage handling. If stairs pose a problem, please request a first-floor room. No guarantees, but we will reach out to the hotel with your request.
6:00PM – You’re in for a treat, tonight. We are heading to the Wallace Farm for Pizza in the Prairie. You will dine on from-scratch brick oven pizza packed with straight-from-the-farm veggies & local meats! House-made sides, desserts and a signature drink are all crafted from the garden produced and harvested just steps away from the kitchen. Beer, wine and soft drinks are available, too. Live music from 5:30 to 9PM. Walk the prairie path and enjoy the outdoor art along the way: 5 permanent sculptures + the temporary Prairie Art exhibit.
9:00PM – After a delightful day, we will board the coach and head back to the hotel for the night. Sleep tight and get plenty of rest. Tomorrow will be another busy day!
Breakfast & Dinner included today.
First, we will tour the award-winning John Wayne Birthplace & Museum. Since the John Wayne Birthplace Society was established in 1982, more than a million visitors have journeyed to historic Madison County to tour his birthplace home. With the opening in 2015 of the 6,100 square foot museum, visitors now have the opportunity to see the largest diversified exhibit of John Wayne artifacts in existence, including original movie posters, film wardrobe, scripts, contracts, letters, artwork, and sculpture, and even one of his last customized automobiles.
For you quilt lovers, enjoy a visit to the Iowa Quilt Museum located in the former J.C. Penney building on the Winterset courthouse square. The museum welcomes quilters, quilt lovers, history buffs, and all appreciators of American art and culture. Their mission is to promote appreciation of the American quilt and the art of quilting through displays of quilts and information about quilt history.
4:00PM – Iowa Theater Program - The Iowa Theater, a fully-renovated 1913 single-screen cinema, where we will view a special Short program on the theater’s history and renovation just for groups. The program includes a short video about movies made in and about Iowa. You will enjoy freshly popped popcorn and sodas an afternoon snack.
5:00PM – Check in to tonight’s lodging: Cobblestone Inn & Suites – 1304 N 4th AV, Winterset. 515-462-4889 Please note: This property does not have an elevator, but for your convenience, we have arranged for luggage handling. If stairs pose a problem, please request a first-floor room. No guarantees, but we will reach out to the hotel with your request.
6:00PM – You’re in for a treat, tonight. We are heading to the Wallace Farm for Pizza in the Prairie. You will dine on from-scratch brick oven pizza packed with straight-from-the-farm veggies & local meats! House-made sides, desserts and a signature drink are all crafted from the garden produced and harvested just steps away from the kitchen. Beer, wine and soft drinks are available, too. Live music from 5:30 to 9PM. Walk the prairie path and enjoy the outdoor art along the way: 5 permanent sculptures + the temporary Prairie Art exhibit.
9:00PM – After a delightful day, we will board the coach and head back to the hotel for the night. Sleep tight and get plenty of rest. Tomorrow will be another busy day!
Breakfast & Dinner included today.
August 22 – Saturday – Day Three Travel to Pella, Dyersville & Dubuque, IA (230 Miles from Winterset)
Get ready for a jam-packed day with Windmills, Wyatt Earp, and America’s favorite pastime, baseball! We will leave Winterset and head to Pella, IA and then on to Dyersville where the 1989 movie, Field of Dreams, starring Kevin Costner, was filmed.
7:30 – 8:30AM – Enjoy breakfast (included)
7:30AM – Place your luggage outside your door for the porter.
8:30AM – Hop on the bus and wheels rolling. Next stop: Pella, IA
Get ready for a jam-packed day with Windmills, Wyatt Earp, and America’s favorite pastime, baseball! We will leave Winterset and head to Pella, IA and then on to Dyersville where the 1989 movie, Field of Dreams, starring Kevin Costner, was filmed.
7:30 – 8:30AM – Enjoy breakfast (included)
7:30AM – Place your luggage outside your door for the porter.
8:30AM – Hop on the bus and wheels rolling. Next stop: Pella, IA
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9:45AM – Arrive in Pella’s picturesque Historic Village. Founded in 1847 by Dutch immigrants seeking religious freedom and named after the biblical "city of refuge". The town maintains strong Dutch traditions, celebrated
through festivals like Tulip Time, its architecture, and unique dialect We plan to visit the Pella Historic Museum and the Wyatte Earp Museum. There will be time to shop at the quaint shops and dine (on your own) in the village square. |
12:30PM – Depart Pella. Next stop Dyersville and the Field of Dreams Movie Set.
3:30 – 4:00PM – Arrive in Dyersville. Dyersville, Iowa, is famous for being the filming
location of the movie Field of Dreams, attracting baseball fans to its iconic ballpark, but it's
also known as the "Farm Toy Capital of the World" due to the National Farm Toy Museum and its extensive antique markets,
When Iowa farmer Ray hears a mysterious voice one night in his cornfield saying "If you build it, he will come," he feels the need to act. Despite taunts of lunacy, Ray builds a baseball diamond on his land, supported by his wife, Annie. Afterward, the ghosts of great players start emerging from the crops to play ball, led by "Shoeless" Joe Jackson. But, as Ray learns, this field of dreams is about much more than bringing former baseball greats out to play.
3:30 – 4:00PM – Arrive in Dyersville. Dyersville, Iowa, is famous for being the filming
location of the movie Field of Dreams, attracting baseball fans to its iconic ballpark, but it's
also known as the "Farm Toy Capital of the World" due to the National Farm Toy Museum and its extensive antique markets,
When Iowa farmer Ray hears a mysterious voice one night in his cornfield saying "If you build it, he will come," he feels the need to act. Despite taunts of lunacy, Ray builds a baseball diamond on his land, supported by his wife, Annie. Afterward, the ghosts of great players start emerging from the crops to play ball, led by "Shoeless" Joe Jackson. But, as Ray learns, this field of dreams is about much more than bringing former baseball greats out to play.
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Upon arriving at the Field of Dreams, prepare to enjoy an evening of “Game Night“
entertainment. We will enjoy a tour of the house, dinner at the Dug Out (on your own), and a Ghost Show. The Ghost Players officially form as a touring baseball exhibition team made up of local Iowans, many of whom were extras in the 1989 Field of Dreams film. They first appeared at the movie site in Dyersville in costume, recreating scenes and playing games for fans. Maybe we’ll see Shoeless Joe or even Doc Grahams. Following the game, we will travel to Dubuque. Our digs for the night will be the Hampton Inn. 3434 Dodge ST. Phone: 563-690- 2005. Make yourself at home for the night. Each room features refrigerators and flat-screen televisions, pillowtop bed with down comforters and premium bedding. Complimentary wired and wireless internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming provides entertainment. Complimentary toiletries and hair dryers are available. There is a grocery/convenience store on site and room service if you get a hankering for a snack. |
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August 23 - Sunday – Day Four Travel to Amana, IA (85 miles from Amana)
Today will be another busy day as we take in a few more sites in Dyersville and then head off to the Amana Colonies right after lunch. Once in Amana, you can look forward to a local production of “Always… Patsy Cline”!
. 6:00 – 8:30AM – Enjoy breakfast at the hotel (included)
7:00AM – Place your luggage outside your door for the porters.
8:30AM – Wheels Rolling!
Today will be another busy day as we take in a few more sites in Dyersville and then head off to the Amana Colonies right after lunch. Once in Amana, you can look forward to a local production of “Always… Patsy Cline”!
. 6:00 – 8:30AM – Enjoy breakfast at the hotel (included)
7:00AM – Place your luggage outside your door for the porters.
8:30AM – Wheels Rolling!
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9:00AM – Visit the National Farm Toy Museum.
The National Farm Toy Museum is a collection based museum with two floors of displays based on agriculture equipment. Located in Dyersville, Iowa, home to the Ertl Company now TOMY, Scale Models and SpecCast respectively, earning our town moniker "The Farm Toy Capital of the World!" Along with this rich heritage, the museum and Dyersville are home to the Summer Farm Toy Show every June and Toy Farmer Magazine's National Farm Toy Show each November. |
10:00AM – Visit the “If You Build it Exhibit. The Ghost Players officially form as a touring baseball exhibition team made up of local Iowans, many of whom were extras in the 1989 Field of Dreams film. They first appeared at the movie site in Dyersville in costume, recreating scenes and playing games for fans.
11:30AM – Life is short! Eat Dessert First! We will stop at the Millwork Creamery to enjoy a scoop of creamy, house-made gelato – topped with two of whatever goodies your heart may desire. While you’re getting “scooped” at the creamery, your boxed lunch will be picked up from the Dyersville Family Restaurant. You are invited to eat on the coach as we travel to Amana.
12:30PM – (or as soon as everyone is ready to go!) Hop on the bus and wheels rolling!
Next stop Amana!
11:30AM – Life is short! Eat Dessert First! We will stop at the Millwork Creamery to enjoy a scoop of creamy, house-made gelato – topped with two of whatever goodies your heart may desire. While you’re getting “scooped” at the creamery, your boxed lunch will be picked up from the Dyersville Family Restaurant. You are invited to eat on the coach as we travel to Amana.
12:30PM – (or as soon as everyone is ready to go!) Hop on the bus and wheels rolling!
Next stop Amana!
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2:00PM – Arrive in Amana and the Amana Performing Arts Center for a 3:00PM curtain call.
Always…Patsy Cline is a heartfelt and entertaining musical that celebrates the life and music of legendary country singer Patsy Cline. Based on a true story, this touching production is centered around the unique friendship between Patsy Cline and her devoted fan, Louise Seger. Featuring over 20 of Patsy’s greatest hits, including “Crazy,” “I Fall to Pieces,” and “Walkin’ After Midnight,” the show is a joyous journey through her timeless music. With its blend of humor, emotion, and unforgettable melodies, Always… Patsy Cline offers a poignant glimpse into the singer’s life and the bond she shared with her fans, making it a must-see for music lovers of all ages. |
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5:30PM – Dinner at a local restaurant favorite, The Ox Yoke Inn. The Ox Yoke Inn features traditional meals made from timeless Old World German and American recipes passed down from mother to daughter. Menu: OxYoke Special Buffet that includes: Fried Chicken, Smoked Ham, and Roast Beef with Rhubarb Streusel Pie. You will not leave hungry! (included) Immediately after dinner, we will head to our hotel for the night. Hotel Millwright in Amana. 800 48th Ave, Amana, IA Phone: 319-326-3331. This property offers all the amenities you’d expect in an upscale but historic hotel including a bar and lounge. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included today.
August 24 - Monday – Day Five Travel to Springfield, IL (245 miles from Amana)
We cannot leave the Amana Colonies without first touring the area with a professional step-on guide. The highlights include their unique history as a communal society, beautiful, preserved villages with 19th-century architecture, traditional crafts like woodworking and quilting. After lunch, we will head to Springfield, Il.
7:00AM – Please place your luggage outside your door.
7:30 – 8:30AM – Enjoy a hot breakfast buffet (included)
8:30AM – Wheels Rolling as we head to the Amana Visitor’s Center
8:45AM – Arrive at the Amana Visitor’s Center and meet our local Step-on Guide for a tour of the Amana Colonies plus a few stops on the way. Stops to include but not limited to:
We cannot leave the Amana Colonies without first touring the area with a professional step-on guide. The highlights include their unique history as a communal society, beautiful, preserved villages with 19th-century architecture, traditional crafts like woodworking and quilting. After lunch, we will head to Springfield, Il.
7:00AM – Please place your luggage outside your door.
7:30 – 8:30AM – Enjoy a hot breakfast buffet (included)
8:30AM – Wheels Rolling as we head to the Amana Visitor’s Center
8:45AM – Arrive at the Amana Visitor’s Center and meet our local Step-on Guide for a tour of the Amana Colonies plus a few stops on the way. Stops to include but not limited to:
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Schanz Furniture & Refinishing, a family-owned business that has been designing and building custom furniture as well as repairing and refinishing old furniture for several generations. Schanz Furniture has a reputation for high quality, handmade furniture and a beautiful hand-rubbed finish. Fern Hill Gifts and Quilts began in 1987 in one little room. Today they are proud to occupy all 3 floors of the South Amana, Iowa General Store. Over 5,000 bolts of quilting fabric and Antiques, Garden, Home Decor & More
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11:30AM – Return to the Ox Yoke Inn for a delicious Lunch of Chicken Walnut Salad Sandwich and dessert. (included)
12:30PM – Board the coach and next stop, Springfield, IL. (There will be a comfort stop approximately midway to Springfield)
4:30 - 5:00PM – Arrive at our hotel for the next two nights! Drury Inn & Suites Springfield. 3180 S Dirksen Pkwy.
217-529-3900. Enjoy free hot breakfast, dinnertime snacks and drinks at 5:30 Kickback®, Wi-Fi, popcorn, business centers, workout facilities, and more! Tonight, plan on dinner and cocktails. Upon arrival, you will receive coupons for both food and cocktails. Enjoy
7:00PM – board the coach for a Route 66 Experience.
Located at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, this experience offers a breathtaking birds-eye view of Illinois’ legendary Mother Road. Showcasing 92 communities from Chicago to the Chain of Rocks Bridge, step back in time with billboards and muffler men who once lined the famous route. Best enjoyed in the evening when the neon comes to life. We will head back to the hotel for a good night’s rest. Tomorrow will be a full day!
Breakfast, Lunch and Light Dinner included today.
12:30PM – Board the coach and next stop, Springfield, IL. (There will be a comfort stop approximately midway to Springfield)
4:30 - 5:00PM – Arrive at our hotel for the next two nights! Drury Inn & Suites Springfield. 3180 S Dirksen Pkwy.
217-529-3900. Enjoy free hot breakfast, dinnertime snacks and drinks at 5:30 Kickback®, Wi-Fi, popcorn, business centers, workout facilities, and more! Tonight, plan on dinner and cocktails. Upon arrival, you will receive coupons for both food and cocktails. Enjoy
7:00PM – board the coach for a Route 66 Experience.
Located at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, this experience offers a breathtaking birds-eye view of Illinois’ legendary Mother Road. Showcasing 92 communities from Chicago to the Chain of Rocks Bridge, step back in time with billboards and muffler men who once lined the famous route. Best enjoyed in the evening when the neon comes to life. We will head back to the hotel for a good night’s rest. Tomorrow will be a full day!
Breakfast, Lunch and Light Dinner included today.
August 25 – Tuesday – Day Six All things Lincoln
Today will be all about the Sixteenth President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln and his “hometown”. We will meet our local step on guide who will accompany us as we will visit the Illinois State Capitol, the Lincoln Museum, the Old State Capitol, and Lincoln’s Tomb. As an extra “wow”, we will visit the Dana-Thomas House, a Frank Lloyd Wright Design interior. Our Guide will fill in the times We have a full day that starts early! Not all times have been determined yet, but the following are firm:
6:30 – 7:30AM – Enjoy a hot breakfast at the hotel.
8:10AM – Arrive at the Illinois State Capitol Complex Visitor’s Center for an 8:30AM tour.
9:15AM – Arrive at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum for 9:30AM tour.
11:30AM – You are free to have lunch at any of the restaurants around the Museum.
The following are within easy walking distance: 6th Street Café (American Cuisine), Jimmy Johns, Subway, La Piazza (Italian), Long Nine Junction (Sandwich & soups), Anvil & Forge. Our Guide will provide the time to return to the coach.
1:20PM – Arrive at the Dana-Thomas House for our 1:30PM reservation. NO CAMERAS, PLEASE.
2:25PM – Arrive at the Old State Capitol for our 2:30PM Tour.
3:15PM – Arrive at the Lincoln Tomb. Photos are allowed but SILENCE IS REQUIRED.
3:50PM – Reboard the coach and return to the hotel to freshen up before dinner.
5:30PM – Board the coach and head to dinner (included) at Maldaner's. They boast they are a comfortable place for everyone! Established in 1884, Maldaner's Restaurant, one of Springfield's oldest and finest restaurants. Our Menu tonight begins with a Mixed Green Salad, Two entrée Dinner Buffet of Chicken Breast with Mushroom Sauce, Roast Beef with Madeira Wine Sauce (both gluten free), Homemade Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, ot Veggie Medley, and dessert of brownie with ice cream and chocolate.
8:00PM – Return to the hotel for a good night’s rest!
Breakfast and Dinner included today.
6:30 – 7:30AM – Enjoy a hot breakfast at the hotel.
8:10AM – Arrive at the Illinois State Capitol Complex Visitor’s Center for an 8:30AM tour.
9:15AM – Arrive at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum for 9:30AM tour.
11:30AM – You are free to have lunch at any of the restaurants around the Museum.
The following are within easy walking distance: 6th Street Café (American Cuisine), Jimmy Johns, Subway, La Piazza (Italian), Long Nine Junction (Sandwich & soups), Anvil & Forge. Our Guide will provide the time to return to the coach.
1:20PM – Arrive at the Dana-Thomas House for our 1:30PM reservation. NO CAMERAS, PLEASE.
2:25PM – Arrive at the Old State Capitol for our 2:30PM Tour.
3:15PM – Arrive at the Lincoln Tomb. Photos are allowed but SILENCE IS REQUIRED.
3:50PM – Reboard the coach and return to the hotel to freshen up before dinner.
5:30PM – Board the coach and head to dinner (included) at Maldaner's. They boast they are a comfortable place for everyone! Established in 1884, Maldaner's Restaurant, one of Springfield's oldest and finest restaurants. Our Menu tonight begins with a Mixed Green Salad, Two entrée Dinner Buffet of Chicken Breast with Mushroom Sauce, Roast Beef with Madeira Wine Sauce (both gluten free), Homemade Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, ot Veggie Medley, and dessert of brownie with ice cream and chocolate.
8:00PM – Return to the hotel for a good night’s rest!
Breakfast and Dinner included today.
August 26 - Wednesday – Day Seven Travel to West Des Moines, IA (345 miles from Springfield)
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Before we leave Springfield after lunch, we will visit the Lincoln home and enjoy a city tour of Historic Springfield.
6:30AM – 8:00AM – Enjoy a full hot breakfast (included) 7:30AM – Place luggage outside your door for the porter. 8:00AM – Meet our step-on guide for our city tour of Illinois’ beautiful capital. 10:25AM – Arrive at the Lincoln Home for our 10:40AM tour. Note: bags, food, drink, and gum are NOT allowed. Please leave those items on the motorcoach. It will be locked and secure. 11:40AM – Say good-bye to our Springfield Step-on Guide and depart the Lincoln Home to have lunch (pay on your own) around the Presidential Museum. You will find quite a few restaurants within a 1 and 1 ½ block area |
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1:00PM - Depart Springfield and head to West Des Moines.
2:30PM – Arrive in the Davenport, IA area for a fast-food lunch and comfort stop. (To be named in the final documents)
3:00PM – (or as soon as possible) – Wheels rolling as we head to West Des Moines for the night.
5:30PM – Arrive to West Des Moines - Hampton Inn – West Des Moines. 7060 Lake Dr, West Des Moines.
515-446-2312. This property offers most amenities you’d expect including free WiFi, convenience store, indoor pool, free coffee in public areas, continental breakfast, fitness area, and laundry facilities.
** At this time, we have yet to identify what the dinner arrangements will be. If there are no restaurants available within walking distance, Happy Trails will bus the group to the nearest restaurant(s). (paying on your own) Breakfast included today.
2:30PM – Arrive in the Davenport, IA area for a fast-food lunch and comfort stop. (To be named in the final documents)
3:00PM – (or as soon as possible) – Wheels rolling as we head to West Des Moines for the night.
5:30PM – Arrive to West Des Moines - Hampton Inn – West Des Moines. 7060 Lake Dr, West Des Moines.
515-446-2312. This property offers most amenities you’d expect including free WiFi, convenience store, indoor pool, free coffee in public areas, continental breakfast, fitness area, and laundry facilities.
** At this time, we have yet to identify what the dinner arrangements will be. If there are no restaurants available within walking distance, Happy Trails will bus the group to the nearest restaurant(s). (paying on your own) Breakfast included today.
August 27 - Thursday – Day Eight Homeward Bound!!
The best part of traveling is the places we’ve visited, the new friends we’ve made, and the memories that will last a lifetime. Today, we say goodbye to our fellow travelers as we plan to sleep in our own beds tonight! Please note that the schedule below is an estimate and subject to change.
6:30 - 8:30AM- Enjoy a full hot Breakfast, using the voucher received at check-in.
7:30AM -Set your luggage outside your door for the porter.
8:30AM - Board the coach and we'll begin the final leg of our journey home.
10:45AM – Arrive at Top of Iowa Welcome Center - 4705 Wheelerwood Rd, Northwood, IA
Depending on time, we may stop in Owatonna to visit either Russell Stover’s Candy Outlet and Cabela’s
1:00PM – Arrive in the Lakeville Cracker Barrell - 17189 Kenyon Ave (952) 898-5151
This will also be the location for the shuttle to transfer Central MN group & luggage.
2:00PM - Depart Lakeville.
Estimated arrivals to the various towns are as follows;
Central MN: 3:45PM - Sartell; 4:15PM – Rice; 4:35PM – Little Falls; 5:10PM - Baxter
Northeast: 2:35PM – Roseville; 4:30PM-Cloquet; 5:00PM–Duluth;(Quick Dinner Break); 7:00M-Eveleth; 7:15PM-Virginia; 7:45PM - HBG; 8:30PM –Rapids. Breakfast included today
6:30 - 8:30AM- Enjoy a full hot Breakfast, using the voucher received at check-in.
7:30AM -Set your luggage outside your door for the porter.
8:30AM - Board the coach and we'll begin the final leg of our journey home.
10:45AM – Arrive at Top of Iowa Welcome Center - 4705 Wheelerwood Rd, Northwood, IA
Depending on time, we may stop in Owatonna to visit either Russell Stover’s Candy Outlet and Cabela’s
1:00PM – Arrive in the Lakeville Cracker Barrell - 17189 Kenyon Ave (952) 898-5151
This will also be the location for the shuttle to transfer Central MN group & luggage.
2:00PM - Depart Lakeville.
Estimated arrivals to the various towns are as follows;
Central MN: 3:45PM - Sartell; 4:15PM – Rice; 4:35PM – Little Falls; 5:10PM - Baxter
Northeast: 2:35PM – Roseville; 4:30PM-Cloquet; 5:00PM–Duluth;(Quick Dinner Break); 7:00M-Eveleth; 7:15PM-Virginia; 7:45PM - HBG; 8:30PM –Rapids. Breakfast included today
Things to Know Before You Go on Branson Tour
The Coach/ Escort & Driver: The bus is being chartered through Minnesota Coaches Duluth. It’s a new coach with leather interior. The coach has 56 comfortable seats that recline. It also has a restroom on board, TV sets with a VCR/DVD player, microphone, and adjustable footrests and offers outlets to charge your electronic devices. We love to play movies on board, tell stories, play a few games and have snacks! (We love treats!) Folks are welcome to bring snacks on board, too. We try to stop every 2-3 hours.
How to Pack: The tour is completely casual. Dress comfortably with good walking shoes. When packing, you are allowed one bag to be stowed in the cargo bay and a carry-on that can be stowed in the overhead compartment. We have secured luggage handling at each hotel property but on occasion, the hotel fails to provide. Pack with the intent that you must lift and transport your bags. The overheads are slightly smaller than those on planes. Soft sided duffle like bags fit best. Always pack medical equipment and medications in your carry-on. Handbags do not count as luggage.
Seat Rotation: We do not rotate seats. We have always tried to honor reserved seat requests, but it's getting more and more difficult to promise any particular seat because almost everyone who signs up has some type of special need. Please let us know in advance if you have critical special needs and we'll do our best to accommodate ~ But cannot promise. ALL SEATS ARE RESERVED ONCE WE DESIGN THE SEATING CHART. People stay healthier if they don’t rotate. We ask that you do not board the coach if you are not feeling well. Get a doctor’s OK to do a group tour if you are under the weather.
Hotels /Smoking/ Non-smoking: The hotels where we are staying are 3+*. Read your day-by-day to learn the specifics on each property. All the rooms are non-smoking. Most hotel properties are all non-smoking. Please don’t smoke in them. Penalty charges WILL apply. We stop every 2 ½ -3 hours for quick breaks, comfort stops or meals along the way.
Special Needs / Perfumes/ Fragrances: Kindly refrain from using strong perfumes/ colognes while traveling on this tour. So many folks have allergies to the chemicals in them and may become sick while traveling. Thank you very much for this consideration. Please let us know if you have any special needs such as; allergies, motion sickness, medical concerns, or physical disabilities that may affect walking or climbing stairs. We have reserved ADA rooms at each property, but they are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. Unfortunately, we cannot promise these rooms. Everyone must be able to climb at least 5-7 steps to get in the coach. Hotels ONLY have a limited number of ADA Rooms. We ONLY have a number of seats toward the FRONT. Depending on when you registered and the severity of your need, seats cannot be promised in any part of the coach. Thank you for understanding.
Dining: This tour includes many of your meals throughout the tour. Please notify us immediately if you have food allergies or sensitivities. We will make every effort to insure appropriate foods will be available for you.
Tipping: Tips for the included meals, luggage handling and the area guide in this package pricing. Tips for your MN COACH DRIVER and HAPPY TRAILS TOUR MANAGER are not included. While encouraged, this is left to your own discretion at the end of the tour. Suggested prevailing tip is $5 – 8.00 per day, per person for both driver and guide.
Weather: The weather should be similar to Minnesota if not slightly warmer. Some of our activities are outdoors so please consider packing sunscreen and even insect repellent if you use it. We also have a couple evening outdoor activities. Please pack light jackets or sweatshirts.
NOTE: Travel Insurance helped pick up the cost of this added expense for our travelers who purchased the insurance. Changes on your Itinerary: We reserve the right to adjust this schedule for the benefit of all traveling. Thank you for your understanding. If a change of hotel, restaurant or attraction occurs, we’ll try to replace it with one of equal value or better if at all possible. As always… we’ll inform you of any changes as we learn of them, themselves.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is available to help defray monies lost due to illness, family emergencies, trip interruption, due to cancellation. It can offer peace of mind and financial security and protect your tour investment. Call our office for further information.
Happy Trails Disclaimer: Happy Trails Tours acts only as an agent for the various independent suppliers that provide hotel accommodations, transportation, theater, or other services connected with this tour. Such services are subject to the terms and conditions of those suppliers. Happy Trails Tours, INC and their respective employees, agents, representatives accept no liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or any other default of any company or person in performing these services. Responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages or expenses of any kind due to sickness, weather, strikes, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature, local laws or other causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws and regulations of country in which they are provided. Happy Trails Tours INC is not responsible for any baggage or personal effects of any individual participating in the tours/trips arranged by Happy Trails Tours. Individual travelers are responsible for purchasing a travel insurance policy, if desired, that will cover some of the expenses associated with the loss of luggage or personal effects.
The Coach/ Escort & Driver: The bus is being chartered through Minnesota Coaches Duluth. It’s a new coach with leather interior. The coach has 56 comfortable seats that recline. It also has a restroom on board, TV sets with a VCR/DVD player, microphone, and adjustable footrests and offers outlets to charge your electronic devices. We love to play movies on board, tell stories, play a few games and have snacks! (We love treats!) Folks are welcome to bring snacks on board, too. We try to stop every 2-3 hours.
How to Pack: The tour is completely casual. Dress comfortably with good walking shoes. When packing, you are allowed one bag to be stowed in the cargo bay and a carry-on that can be stowed in the overhead compartment. We have secured luggage handling at each hotel property but on occasion, the hotel fails to provide. Pack with the intent that you must lift and transport your bags. The overheads are slightly smaller than those on planes. Soft sided duffle like bags fit best. Always pack medical equipment and medications in your carry-on. Handbags do not count as luggage.
Seat Rotation: We do not rotate seats. We have always tried to honor reserved seat requests, but it's getting more and more difficult to promise any particular seat because almost everyone who signs up has some type of special need. Please let us know in advance if you have critical special needs and we'll do our best to accommodate ~ But cannot promise. ALL SEATS ARE RESERVED ONCE WE DESIGN THE SEATING CHART. People stay healthier if they don’t rotate. We ask that you do not board the coach if you are not feeling well. Get a doctor’s OK to do a group tour if you are under the weather.
Hotels /Smoking/ Non-smoking: The hotels where we are staying are 3+*. Read your day-by-day to learn the specifics on each property. All the rooms are non-smoking. Most hotel properties are all non-smoking. Please don’t smoke in them. Penalty charges WILL apply. We stop every 2 ½ -3 hours for quick breaks, comfort stops or meals along the way.
Special Needs / Perfumes/ Fragrances: Kindly refrain from using strong perfumes/ colognes while traveling on this tour. So many folks have allergies to the chemicals in them and may become sick while traveling. Thank you very much for this consideration. Please let us know if you have any special needs such as; allergies, motion sickness, medical concerns, or physical disabilities that may affect walking or climbing stairs. We have reserved ADA rooms at each property, but they are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. Unfortunately, we cannot promise these rooms. Everyone must be able to climb at least 5-7 steps to get in the coach. Hotels ONLY have a limited number of ADA Rooms. We ONLY have a number of seats toward the FRONT. Depending on when you registered and the severity of your need, seats cannot be promised in any part of the coach. Thank you for understanding.
Dining: This tour includes many of your meals throughout the tour. Please notify us immediately if you have food allergies or sensitivities. We will make every effort to insure appropriate foods will be available for you.
Tipping: Tips for the included meals, luggage handling and the area guide in this package pricing. Tips for your MN COACH DRIVER and HAPPY TRAILS TOUR MANAGER are not included. While encouraged, this is left to your own discretion at the end of the tour. Suggested prevailing tip is $5 – 8.00 per day, per person for both driver and guide.
Weather: The weather should be similar to Minnesota if not slightly warmer. Some of our activities are outdoors so please consider packing sunscreen and even insect repellent if you use it. We also have a couple evening outdoor activities. Please pack light jackets or sweatshirts.
NOTE: Travel Insurance helped pick up the cost of this added expense for our travelers who purchased the insurance. Changes on your Itinerary: We reserve the right to adjust this schedule for the benefit of all traveling. Thank you for your understanding. If a change of hotel, restaurant or attraction occurs, we’ll try to replace it with one of equal value or better if at all possible. As always… we’ll inform you of any changes as we learn of them, themselves.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is available to help defray monies lost due to illness, family emergencies, trip interruption, due to cancellation. It can offer peace of mind and financial security and protect your tour investment. Call our office for further information.
Happy Trails Disclaimer: Happy Trails Tours acts only as an agent for the various independent suppliers that provide hotel accommodations, transportation, theater, or other services connected with this tour. Such services are subject to the terms and conditions of those suppliers. Happy Trails Tours, INC and their respective employees, agents, representatives accept no liability whatsoever for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or any other default of any company or person in performing these services. Responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages or expenses of any kind due to sickness, weather, strikes, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature, local laws or other causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws and regulations of country in which they are provided. Happy Trails Tours INC is not responsible for any baggage or personal effects of any individual participating in the tours/trips arranged by Happy Trails Tours. Individual travelers are responsible for purchasing a travel insurance policy, if desired, that will cover some of the expenses associated with the loss of luggage or personal effects.