mature adults

First stop on the trip will be an authentic German lunch at the House of Gerhard followed by an afternoon at Civil War Museum which includes a 30-45 minute theater performance. Who better to tell the stories of the people who were touched by the Civil War or slavery than the individuals themselves? The Civil War Museum focuses on the contributions of the Upper Middle West – Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Minnesota, and Michigan. Before heading back to Illinois, trip goers will also have some time to explore on their own and hop aboard an authentic streetcar for a 2-mile scenic tour of the Lake Michigan shoreline, Harbor Park, two historic districts and the downtown business district.

The Producers is an uproariously funny musical with hilarious songs that will have you grinning from ear to ear. Nobody does comedy like Mel Brooks and nobody does shows like the Paramount in Aurora. Under the right circumstances, a producer could make more money with a flop than he could with a hit. And so begins one of the most hilarious cons in musical theatre history.

Join us as we head East and over the boarder to Clinton, Iowa for some gaming at Wild Rose Casino. Located on the Mississippi, Wild Rose Casino dates back to the earliest days of riverboat gaming in Iowa.

Based on the beloved Academy Award-winning Disney film, this nine-time Tony nominated musical continues to win the hearts of people all over the globe. Trapped in her provincial life, a young and intelligent beauty risks everything to become the heroine of her own story and break a wicked spell imprisoning a castle of enchanted misfits and a terrifying beast.

Experience the elegant High Tea at the Drake Hotel in festive downtown Chicago as you enjoy live holiday musical entertainment, finger sandwiches, pastries and an assortment of very fine teas.  Following High Tea, you will have time to shop on the Magnificent Mile. Continue the holiday festivities at the ballet where you will be mesmerized by the boldly reimagined “Nutcracker” with Tchaikovsky’s glorious score played live by the Chicago Philharmonic Orchestra and performed by the Joffrey Ballet Company.

Our first stop is in Theresa, Wisconsin to visit Widmer’s Cheese and Confections by Joel. Widmer’s Cheese Cellars settled in the heart of one of the richest cheese making areas in America more than 80 years ago. There will be a 15 minute video, possible tour depending on what needs to be made, free samples and cheese makers can answer your questions upon request. Chocolate is a specialty for blind entrepreneur, Joel Bernhard, owner of Confections by Joel. He started making candy back in 1999, selling to friends and neighbors but as word spread about his delicious chocolates he expanded to an old general store which is over 100 years old, with original tin ceilings and hardwood floors. Next stop is Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

Experience a 14-mile fall trip through the beautiful Wisconsin countryside aboard a historic trolley and learn a bit of history of this 111 year-old rail line in the museum. Schedule includes a stop at Indianhead Park and the Elegant Farmer Depot where you can purchase an award winning pie baked in a paper bag or many other bakery and market items. Following our train ride will be lunch at the restored 1940’s farm home at the Red Geranium Restaurant. Menu includes your choice of grilled chicken angelina or black angus chapped steak, please make your selection at time of registration. A house salad, chef’s choice of a vegetable and starch, rolls, coffee, tea, lemonade and coke products are included with the meal. As we travel home, we will stop at the uniquely interesting Ginger Blossom in Richmond, IL to browse the ethnic and traditional crafts, rugs, furniture, sweaters and antiques from all over the world!