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Let the Games Begin!

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Whether you’re an athlete, superfan, or casual enjoyer, following professional sports is a unifying part of American culture. Those sporting roots run deep through the Northeast, where halls of fame and iconic stadiums and other sports venues are preserving the region’s history of athletic triumphs, plus providing a space for all generations of fans to come together.

From Lincoln Financial Field, where the 2023 Super Bowl contender Philadelphia Eagles play, to the second-oldest active college stadium in New Haven, Connecticut, fans of all sports can find a place to share their passion in the Northeast.

Including a trip to a sports game is often a highlight on a tour, but there are many other ways to appeal to fans in your group. Examine America’s sports heritage at museums, foster camaraderie amid the thrill of cheering crowds, and appreciate the talent and hard work of sports heroes at esteemed halls of fame throughout the region. Sports-related tour stops are the perfect way to promote group bonding as travelers reminisce on moments in sports history, play on team rivalries, and connect with other lifelong fans.

Exploring sports halls of fame in the Northeast during group tours promises an immersive journey through athletic legacies. These hallowed halls preserve the triumphs and narratives of sporting icons, tracing the evolution of games cherished by millions while inspiring camaraderie through shared admiration for beloved sports and athletes. No matter your group’s game of choice, the Northeast has a wide variety of hall of fame experiences to intrigue travelers.

The National Sailing Hall of Fame at The Sailing Museum in Newport, Rhode Island, is housed in what was once the press room for the America’s Cup, which is still the world’s oldest international sporting competition. Here, novice boaters and sailing aficionados alike will delight in tales from the open sea, find exhibits on the basic principles of sailing, and highlight the achievements of the world’s greatest sailors. Also in Newport, the International Tennis Hall of Fame is undergoing an exciting renovation and is scheduled to reopen this spring, when groups will once again be welcomed to tour exhibits on tennis stars like Arthur Ashe, Roger Federer, and Coco Gauff.

In Saratoga Springs, New York, tour the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, where artworks and artifacts illustrate the distinct eras of the sport of horse racing in America. Nearby, groups can experience the thrill of the sport for themselves with a visit to the famed Saratoga Race Course.

The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts, is named for the inventor of basketball, Dr. James Naismith, and honors the history of the sport and more than 400 Hall of Fame inductees, including legends like Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley. Tour more than 40,000 square feet of basketball history, and spend some time engaged in friendly competition on the hall’s court.

In 1932 and 1980, New York’s Lake Placid was given the honor of hosting the Winter Olympics. The best athletes from around the world gathered in the beautiful Adirondacks to compete and represent their respective nations, setting new records and promoting global harmony. Today, groups can tour Lake Placid Legacy Sites, a collection of four Olympic-level sporting venues that include the Olympic Center, Olympic Jumping Complex, Mount Van Hoevenberg, and Whiteface Mountain. Each site offers a unique way to interact with sports history. At the Olympic Center, tour the Lake Placid Olympic Museum to learn about the natural geography that made the area a desirable location for the Games, see iconic logos and merchandise, and hear Olympic athletes tell the stories of how they harnessed their sporting talents through hard work to become the best. Get a bird’s-eye view of Lake Placid from Mount Van Hoevenberg Skyride or Cloudsplitter Gondola on Whiteface Mountain.

Monument Park, Yankee Stadium, New York City, New York;
Credit: Yankee Stadium Tours

With 11 professional teams, New York City boasts the most major league sports franchises of any city. Come see the stadiums and venues where players wow New Yorkers and visitors from all over the world. MetLife Stadium, home to both the New York Jets and Giants, offers guided group tours of premium spaces like the press box and luxury suites. Plus, go down onto the field where your group’s favorite athletes play each week. In New York City’s Bronx, a tour guide will escort your group around Yankee Stadium, home of the New York Yankees, and regale them with tales of New York sports history.

Also in New York, Buffalo’s Highmark Stadium, home to the Buffalo Bills football team, offers guided tours that provide fans with a behind-the-scenes look at premium spaces, the press box, and a visit to the stadium field.

Visit “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark,” Boston’s Fenway Park, with the help of an experienced tour guide. On nongame days, groups can learn about Red Sox legends and take in the views atop the fabled Green Monster overlooking left field. Include a stop at the Sports Museum to get an even deeper dive into the world of Boston sports.

Baseball is often described as the “national pastime,” with its popularity tracing back to the 18th century. Since then, generations of Americans have played and attended baseball games, singing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” snacking on stadium foods, and cheering on their teams. Explore America’s baseball heritage at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. Peruse iconic baseball memorabilia and exhibits on the sport’s defining moments, baseball’s portrayal in movies, and famous sports writers and broadcasters.

Other sports museums focus on the legacies of baseball players. The Jackie Robinson Museum in New York City tells the story of the first modern African American to play major league baseball. More than a sports museum, the exhibits address equity in sports and Robinson’s legacy as a great baseball player and civil rights activist.

Travel south to Baltimore, Maryland, to learn about George Herman “Babe” Ruth, a former New York Yankee who was widely considered the greatest hitter to ever play baseball. At the Babe Ruth Birthplace and Museum, discover the origins of the tradition of singing the national anthem at baseball games and learn about the life of one of the first true sports stars.

Another fun baseball museum is the Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center in Little Falls, New Jersey. Yogi Berra was known for his athleticism but also his oft-quoted “yogi-isms,” or witty and ironic quips. Learn about his athletic legacy and contributions to American pop culture with a group tour to the museum.


By Katherine Lawless

Main Image: Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Springfield, Massachusetts; Credit: Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

Casinos of Winnipeg

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Casinos of Winnipeg
Casinos of Winnipeg
Interior shot of gaming floor at Club Regent Casino

Your Moment Awaits at the Casinos of Winnipeg! McPhillips Station Casino and Club Regent Casino both offer the thrill of gaming, excellent dining options as well as world class entertainment in the Club Regent Event Centre. We are excited to work with groups to customize an itinerary and help you explore all Winnipeg has to offer!

Nearby attractions: Both casinos are located in good proximity to hotels, shopping and other popular Winnipeg attractions!

Business Hours: 10 AM – 3 AM daily

Bus Parking: Yes, ask for parking locations upon booking. No fees.

Type of Attraction: Entertainment & Dining

Group Rates: Please call for program offers.

Casinos of Winnipeg
Unit A – 1555 Buffalo Place
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 1M1 CANADA
Group Sales Contact: Kien Dang
Group Sales Phone: 1-800-265-3912 ext.1504
Email: tourism@mbll.ca
Web: casinosofwinnipeg.com

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Experience Sioux Falls

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Experience Sioux Falls

Experience Sioux Falls
200 N Phillips Ste 102
Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57104
Phone: (605) 373-2036
Fax: 605-338-0682
Email: korsack@experiencesiouxfalls.com
Web: experiencesiouxfalls.com

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Hardin County Convention & Visitors Bureau

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Hardin County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Hardin County Convention & Visitors Bureau
495 Main St
Savannah, Tennessee 38372-2039
Phone: 731-925-8181
Fax: 731-925-6987
Email: beth@tourhardincounty.org
Web: tourhardincounty.org

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Itinerary: Sauk Centre, Minnesota

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EXPLORE

Found in the center of the state about an hour and a half from the Twin Cities, Sauk Centre, Minnesota, is a treasure trove of history that recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. One of the historic places to add to your itinerary is the Sinclair Lewis Boyhood Home, a National Historic Landmark where famed author Sinclair Lewis spent his childhood. As the first winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1930, visitors can participate in 25-minute narrated guided tours to see where the novel writer first sparked his creativity. To continue your tour of this charming small town, be sure to go shopping on Main Street. Clad in old-fashioned brick buildings, guests can get in some retail therapy at Restock New & Vintage, Sprinkle of Joy clothing boutique, and Heaven and Earth Essentials, where groups can stock up on oils and fragrances.


SEE

To add some visual appeal to your Sauk Centre trip, take your group in for a lesson at 510 Art Lab. They’ll get the chance to let their creative juices flow through classes that teach participants quilting, macrame, travel photography, and glass fusion, among others. For another way to get inspired, your group can take the “Mural Tour” of Sauk Centre. With several murals created by local artists, the murals, spotlighting anything from “The Wizard of Oz” scenery to town history, can be found on Main Street, the side of a thrift store, and the Bandshell in Sinclair Lewis Park.


SAVOR

The nearby Redhead Creamery, which specializes in artisan cheeses that can only be found in the Midwest, offers farm tours, a tasting room, and a cheese shop. Looking to sample local libations? Then head to Panther Distillery for a tour and to taste delicious spirits, including bourbon and whiskey in flavors like maple syrup, honey, and apple.


LEARN MORE

Explore Minnesota

exploreminnesota.com


Main Image: Bandshell mural, Sinclair Lewis Park; Credit: Explore Minnesota/Waqar Ahmad

Experience it ‘All in Arlington’

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Metropolitan Park
Metropolitan Park Photo courtesy of Stay Arlington

Are you dreaming about a “Spring Awakening”? Wanting to travel someplace with events, concerts, art festivals, dining experiences, and an all-around cornucopia of things to do this spring? Well, guess what: You can do them “All in Arlington.”

Chock-full of cultural experiences, historic discoveries, unexpected adventures, and downright adorable neighborhood charm, Arlington is a destination that demands to be seen.

Experience the national history and local flavor. First, some monumental favorites: the Marine Corps War Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, and Air Force Memorial are just a few of the city’s many American treasures that Arlington is so proud to share. 

In May, come to QuarterFest Crawl, featuring live music and culinary specials that showcase the spirit of Ballston, one of Arlington’s many neighborhoods. Each neighborhood has its own personality and vibe. Clarendon is a cool mix of home-grown shops and popular brands. Crystal City and Pentagon City, just steps from the Potomac, run on high octane and innovation. 

Buena Vida
Buena Vida
Photo courtesy of Stay Arlington

After strolling an array of lively neighborhoods, expect to have worked up an appetite. Head on over to Columbia Pike and choose from an eclectic selection of ethnic restaurants. Continue your food adventure in Rosslyn and find everything from diverse global cuisines to American favorites. From casual, to white tablecloth, to international food halls, check out Arlington gems like Buena VidaLebanese TavernaOur Mom EugeniaTexas Jack’s Barbecue, or Quarterdeck. And for nighttime activities, there are pubs, wine bars, sports bars, and live music venues, too. So, when it comes to wining and dining, come to Arlington.

The Renegade
The Renegade
Photo courtesy of Stay Arlington

Arlington is home to acclaimed companies, including the Tony Award-winning Signature Theatre, Synetic Theater, and Avant Bard Theatre. Have a seat and be dazzled by a profusion of performing arts. But also visit the myriad museums, galleries, and other venues bursting with art events—more than 1,500 every year.

Bike Path in Arlington
Mount Vernon Trail
Photo courtesy of Stay Arlington

Arlington combines the best of big city amenities with the charm of vibrant, walkable neighborhoods. What better place to bring family and friends, or maybe just treat yourself to a getaway where you can relax, rejuvenate, and unwind? Take in the beauty of the urban landscapes with 75 miles of trails and 1,100 acres of parks. No wonder Arlington has been voted “Fittest City in America” six times! 

Although it’s been said before, it still bears repeating: All of this is “All in Arlington.” Visit Arlington this spring!

Stay Arlington
800-677-6267
stayarlington.com

Lead image:
Metropolitan Park
Photo courtesy of Stay Arlington

Itinerary: Reno-Tahoe, Nevada & California

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GAME

With a reputation as Las Vegas’ quirky sibling to the northwest, Reno, Nevada, has casinos galore for groups to explore. Try your luck with Peppermill Resort Spa Casino’s top-rated slot machines, explore Atlantis Casino’s 60,000 square feet of casino space filled with premier table games, or get a personalized group gaming experience from the casino hosts at Grand Sierra Resort and Casino.


SAIL

Perhaps the most notable natural wonder of the Reno-Tahoe area is Lake Tahoe itself. Formed by tectonic plate movement more than 2 million years ago, the alpine lake straddles the California-Nevada border and is filled with gorgeous crystal blue waters that make the perfect canvas for a group sailing excursion. Tahoe Sailing Charters is based in Tahoe City, California, and offers group boating on its 36-foot Tahoe Dreamer yacht and its 50-foot Tahoe Cruz sailboat. The sailing company partners with The Board in Truckee, California, to offer catered, locally made charcuterie boards.


LEARN

UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center in Incline Village, Nevada, offers guided group tours for up to 15 that give insight into the lake’s ecosystem and natural makeup. Tours can include visits to a variety of interactive exhibits focused on wildlife, research, water movement in and out of the lake, conservation, and more. Visitors will learn about the latest findings, which touch on why the lake is changing and how to preserve it, from the research teams at the center.


LEARN MORE

Reno-Tahoe Territory

renotahoe.com


Main Image: Tahoe Sailing Charters; Credit: Tahoe Sailing Charters

Beyond the Beaten Path

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From one end of the country to the other, places exist that serve as the hub, or gateway, to many other destinations to explore and experience. The hub destinations are great for tour groups because they allow everyone to get the most out of their trip: Planners can find all the amenities and offerings of a big city, but not far away find other places—or spokes—to put on their group’s itinerary.

Group tour planners seeking options for their clients have many to choose from. Not all hub destinations have the same type of spoke offerings either—although each usually provides ideas in the way of outdoor adventure. That’s another beauty about these types of trips: Clients can experience entertainment and culture, but also the country’s rugged side.

New York City, New York, for instance, is a hub for culture, exploration, and history, but is also a gateway to outdoor destinations, such as Niagara Falls. Likewise, Las Vegas, Nevada, at the other end of the country, offers entertainment (including an active nightlife) and recreation not terribly far away to toss on your itinerary.

Nevada

Speaking of, roll the dice in Vegas, then set about exploring other attractions, all within a day’s trip. According to Tracie Barnthouse, chief communications officer with Travel Nevada/Nevada Division of Tourism, it might surprise people just how much there is to experience and enjoy in the Silver State.

“Nevada is an amazing state full of so much diversity in landscapes, and I think people are often surprised of how much the state has to offer—especially for groups,” she says. “From the culinary scene to the outdoor recreation opportunities and the state and national parks in Nevada, there are plenty of activities and experiences for groups to explore.”

In fact, Travel Nevada has developed a road map to help visitors experience all that the Silver State has to present groups. “Our Neon to Nature road trip is developed as a hub-and-spoke from the Las Vegas area,” she says.

Outside the flashing casino lights of Vegas, Mother Nature has her hand in the colorful hues of the state, including those found at Valley of Fire State Park. The park lives up to its name with its fiery-looking sandstone formations, many of which contain petroglyphs carved into its ancient rock. The carvings are believed to be from the Ancestral Puebloans who lived in the Moapa Valley some 2,500 years ago. The passing of time over centuries also has played a hand here with the interesting formations of petrified wood found in the area. Since you’re just about an hour’s drive away, why not visit iconic Lake Mead and Hoover Dam?

Mesquite, about 80 miles north of Vegas, serves as the gateway to these places, but it also has plenty of things to experience in town—including multiple championship golf courses designed by legendary golfers Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. These golf courses, Barnthouse says, offer “amazing views of the desert landscape.”

The riverside community of Laughlin, about 90 miles south of Las Vegas in the southernmost tip of Nevada, offers “access to the Colorado River, dinner cruises, and entertainment,” Barnthouse says. Among the offerings are hotel/resort casinos and their playgrounds, but with its proximity to the Colorado River there’s also dinner, jet boat, and riverboat cruises as well as Jet Ski rentals. Visitors can even take a water taxi. The Laughlin Riverwalk also connects travelers to Fisherman’s Access Park, the Laughlin Bridge to Arizona, and the Colorado River Heritage Greenway Park and its trails.

Douglas Corner Cafe, Nashville, Tennessee;
Credit: Jeff Adkins
Tennessee

In the southern region, make way to Nashville for all things music, but don’t forget to put other Tennessee destinations on your list. To get a taste of history, visit the Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery, where guided group tours are available. Different tour options are offered, and visitors can learn about the history of Belle Meade from the early 1800s through the early 1900s.

Visitors also have the option to take the “Southern Food Traditions Tour,” during which participants of the tour will learn about the rich culinary history of the mansion and local food delights. Here, there’s a smokehouse and stream-powered dairy, as well as gardens and fruit trees.

A rather remarkable place sure to please tour groups is the Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park. Located in Manchester, the fort dates back some 1,500 to 2,000 years ago. By the time the European settlers arrived, it was unsure what exactly the place was used for, and they misnamed it a “fort.” Really, it is a study in geology. Here, groups can enjoy hiking and, as they traverse the trails, can learn the history of the area through 12 interpretive panels set up along the way. Depending on the time of year, there also are festivals and other activities in which to partake.

What’s a visit to Tennessee without a stop at Graceland? A nearly 14-acre site in Memphis, the mansion was the home of early rock star Elvis Presley. Today, the property is open to tours, where visitors can see where the talented singer not only lived but also where his body is buried.

Loess Hills State Forest, Iowa;
Credit: Iowa Tourism Office
Iowa

Not to be overlooked when it comes to exploring hub and spoke destinations in the Midwest is the Hawkeye State. Start your journey in Des Moines, Iowa, where exploration and fun are only clicks away—literally, with the city’s many app-directed scavenger hunts. Put on your thinking cap and get started exploring the landmarks and hidden gems of the city while answering questions on the app that will reveal new clues. There are several themed apps to choose for hunts in and around Des Moines.

Also in the city are several places to enjoy the fine arts, including the Des Moines Art Center, a free museum that showcases modern and contemporary art from various genres and media. The State Historical Society of Iowa and the Salisbury House & Gardens also are located here. The latter has been described as a Tudor, gothic, and Carolean-style manor built in the 1920s by cosmetics magnate Carl Weeks and his wife, Edith Van Slyke Weeks. The house is open for tours and other occasions for both private and public groups.

After the book “The Bridges of Madison County” was published, a popular movie was also released based on the book, and, besides its romantic themes, got people curious about Iowa’s bridges. So, why not explore the covered bridges of southern Iowa? While on the road, drive one—or several—of the state’s 13 scenic byways while uncovering the beauty and overlooked wonders of the area.

For fun, did you know Iowa is home to the World’s Largest Grotto or manmade cave? The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption, located in West Bend, is another site to put on your itinerary. Something else Iowa boasts is it being the home to the world’s largest fiberglass strawberry statue, located in Strawberry Point. Hint: Bring your camera.

Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Sleepy Hollow, New York;
Credit: Adobe/Casual-T
New York

You experienced Vegas, now hit the lights of New York City. If ever there was a mecca for art and entertainment, it is the Big Apple. You know Broadway, of course, but there are many other cultural experiences to explore here, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art, National Academy Museum School of Fine Arts, and International Center of Photography. At the museums, learn the important history of the city, state, and country. Be sure to include the Jewish Museum and Museum of the City of New York on your list.

There also are all the iconic places here to take your tour group—Central Park, Niagara Falls, Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and more. But once you’ve experienced the Big Apple, embark on the other adventures New York provides, including the Mohonk Preserve, a protected natural area that spans some 8,000 acres in the Shawangunk Mountains; Jones Beach State Park, home to more than 6 miles of white sand beach on the Atlantic Ocean; Storm King Art Center, an open-air-museum-turned-sculpture garden, home to the largest collection of outdoor sculptures in the United States; and, across state borders, the Thomas Edison National Historic Park, located in West Orange, New Jersey, where the famous inventor Thomas Edison helped change the world. These are all must-see stops while in the Empire State.

Lastly, perhaps you’ve read the book “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” by Washington Irving. Now, groups can see the land where the fictional story takes place. The real Sleepy Hollow—no headless horseman here, though—is a unique and welcoming community filled with interesting architecture and historical sites. Among them are the Old Dutch Church, built in the 1690s, and the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. There’s even the Headless Horseman Bridge in homage to the famous book and its author.

Sleepy Hollow is a tranquil area that still lives up to the description that Irving described, denoting it as “a little valley or rather lap of land among high hills, which is one of the quietest places in the whole world. A small brook glides through it, with just murmur enough to lull one to repose; and the occasional whistle of a quail or tapping of a woodpecker is almost the only sound that ever breaks in upon the uniform tranquility.”


By Andrew Weeks

Main Image: Lake Mead, Nevada; Credit: Travel Nevada/Sydney Martinez

Fun on the Farm

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Contrary to other travel sectors, agricultural tourism didn’t see the difficulties some industries experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The popularity of agritourism has been growing steadily,” says Xinyi Qian, director and state specialist of the Tourism Center at University of Minnesota. “The COVID-19 pandemic, which made clear the importance and benefits of local foods and being in nature, may not be all negative to agritourism. Its popularity has continued to grow, so far, post-pandemic.”

Agritourism is one of the fastest-growing industries in the country and has become the lifeblood of many rural local economies. Nationally, according to the latest numbers by the U.S. Census of Agriculture, it is estimated that between 2002 and 2017, income from agritourism businesses increased from $202 million to $949 million. “This steady increase is part of a large global trend,” explains Sheila Everhart, executive director of the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association (WATA), noting that agritourism remains popular today. She sees it up close and personal in the Badger State. Wisconsin, a state rich in agriculture, offers much in the way of farm education and tourism.

“Wisconsin’s deep agricultural foundation in combination with its vibrant tourism industry fuel a powerful economic engine,” she says. “Agriculture contributes more than $104.8 billion annually to Wisconsin’s economy. The state is home to 64,100 farms on 14.2 million acres, with an average farm size of 222 acres. Annually, 435,700 jobs, or 11.8% of state employment, are involved in agriculture.”

Sylvia Burgos Toftness, president of WATA, says agricultural tourism continues to grow in significance for several reasons: “The public is looking for a reconnection with the people who grow their food and fiber; the public increasingly seeks outdoor experiences for an afternoon, weekend, or week; and farmers are eager to welcome visitors to their farms,” she says. “There are also the economic benefits: Small family farms can realize a much-needed revenue stream by offering on-farm recreation, food, and entertainment. The economic boost is also usually felt by the nearby town as visitors extend their time and dollars during their trip. Local hotels/motels, restaurants, and other downtown businesses often report an uptick in business when individuals or groups attend on-farm events.”

However, echoing what Qian said about agritourism being nuanced by available activities, Toftness says finding places to go is at times perplexing. “One of the challenges for the general public is finding a farm they can visit,” she explains, noting WATA is proactive in its efforts to meet the challenge. “WATA has responded to this by continually updating a website especially designed to help people find farms providing the activities and foods they’d like. The website makes it easy to find farms by location or type of activities provided,” Toftness continues. “Interestingly, an additional challenge is sometimes helping elected officials understand that by encouraging agricultural tourism, they are supporting an economic engine with positive impact on local economies—especially rural communities.”

Everhart says any number of agricultural tourism opportunities are being planned in Wisconsin this year, including Weekend Ag-Venture Tours in March 22-24, Sept. 27-29, and Nov. 15-17.

Making herbal remedies at Herbal Safari, Bull Brook Keep, Clear Lake, Wisconsin;
Credit: Sylvia Burgos Toftness

Toftness, who owns a ranch called Bull Brook Keep, is transitioning her property into an herbal farm. Named Herbal Safari, the farm welcomes visitors and offers tours of the property and its many medicinal plants. “My husband and I are transitioning from a cattle operation to a medicinal permaculture focus,” she explains. “This means I welcome visitors to guided herb walks—called herbal safaris—that include perennial plants, shrubs, and trees common to the Upper Midwest. The goal of an herbal safari is to help these ‘explorers’ see the many helpful plants that also grow in their own backyards.”

She says good things are in store for the industry, but also for her farm, and she looks forward to welcoming new and returning visitors. “In 2024, I’ll schedule four to five Safaris throughout the growing season because what’s in leaf, bloom, and fruit changes as we move from spring to summer to fall,” she says. “I also expect to hold both basic and more advanced Herbal Remedy Making classes.”

Agritourism in Michigan and Minnesota

In Northwest Michigan, visit Cotton Creek Farms, an alpaca farm located in Thompsonville that is both educational and entertaining. With a motto of “Our Farm is Where the Magic Happens,” it is a place that is enchanting for young and old alike. Cotton Creek is a working farm that offers alpaca breeding, sales, boarding, and mentoring. It also has an on-site farm store and offers guided alpaca tours. The animals at this farm are a mix of 4-H, hobby, pet, and show-quality alpacas; they even have names. Meet Adel, Amara, Daisy, Diva, Dolly, Faith, and Heartthrob, among many others.

A couple of other stops on your agricultural tourism trip to Michigan are Weiss Centennial Farm, Overhiser Orchards, and Uncle John’s Cider Mill. Providing fresh fruit since 1863, Overhiser Orchards in South Haven is a u-pick orchard that also has animals on-site. Among the tasty edibles to pick here are apricots, peaches, pears, and sweet and tart cherries. Weiss Centennial Farm, established in 1853 in Frankenmuth, is a great place to visit for farm tours and classes. And Uncle John’s Cider Mill, near St. Johns, offers seasonal experiences at the site. Besides the cider mill, there also is a tap room, pie barn, and gift shop.

Back in Minnesota, Qian says there are plenty of agricultural tourism options in her state, but the offerings depend “on a group’s interest, size, location, and the amount of time the group has.” Some of the possibilities include orchards such as Apple Jack Orchard in Delano, Crow River Winery in Hutchinson, and Keepsake Cidery in Dundas. As autumn approaches, there are plenty of corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and u-pick farms to visit.

Located near Eden Valley, Minnesota, is A maze’n Farmyard that welcomes all types of groups, including those wishing to celebrate special events. Activities here are plentiful, including a 20,000-square-foot maze, different games to choose from, a 150-foot slide, petting and feeding barn, goldfish and duck pond, pony rides, a lifesize birdhouse in which to feed the parakeets, and a miniature golf course.

Qian, who is excited about the future of agritourism not only in her state but also across the country, says she sees momentum to help the industry even at the congressional level—“and I believe it will continue to grow.” As it does, even more opportunities will be available.


By Andrew Weeks

Main Image: Wild blue vervain at Bull Brook Keep, Clear Lake, Wisconsin; Credit: Sylvia Burgos Toftness

AC Hotel Frisco Colorado by Marriott

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AC Hotel by Marriott Denver Downtown

The AC Hotel Frisco is where modern meets the mountains! Very conveniently located off I-70 in the heart of the mountains, but only 70 miles from downtown Denver. On-site AC Kitchen offering breakfast and dinner daily. Year round activities include 6 World Class Ski Resorts all within 20 miles. We are between the Georgetown and Leadville railroads. Lake Dillon just across the main street offering outdoor recreational activities with a 26 mile recreation path circling the lake. The Frisco Bay Marina has boat rentals, beach front, and the Island Grill with live music. The charming Main Street Frisco is just one mile away offering shopping and bars and restaurants for all tastes.

Memberships: Tour Colorado, Destination Colorado

Nearby attractions:

  • Lake Dillon with Frisco Bay Marina
  • Frisco Adventure Park
  • Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mtn, Arapahoe Basin, Vail and Beaver Creek Ski Resorts
  • Georgetown and Leadville railroads just 30 minutes drive
  • Charming and historical downtown Frisco

Seasonal Dates: Year Round with slower seasons in late April – May, and mid-October to mid-November
Business Hours: 24 hours
Bus Parking: Complimentary

Type of Lodging: Hotel, 133 rooms, 4 floors
Lodging Tax: 10.725%
Group Rates: We can provide one comp room for escorts, and a discounted rate for the driver.
Deposit/Payment Policy: 50% deposit 60 days out
Cancellation Policy: Less than 30 days forfeit deposit

Lodging Features:

  • Air conditioning
  • Fitness Center
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Indoor swimming pool
  • Outdoor patio with fire pits
  • On-Site Restaurant serving breakfast and dinner
AC Hotel by Marriott Denver Downtown

AC Hotel Frisco Colorado by Marriott
Group Sales Contact: Donna Horii
1202 Summit Blvd
PO Box 552
Frisco, Colorado 80443
Phone: 970.368.6280 ext 3
Email: Donna.Horii@acmarriott.com
Web: acfriscocolorado.com

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