Join 5-time Emmy-award-winning actor John McGivern and discover hidden gems throughout the Midwest. Go behind-the scenes with John as he films a brand-new episode of John McGivern’s Main Streets™ and enjoy a special performance just for our group. With stops including the largest railway museum in the U.S., Amana Colonies, and a local dairy farm, this is an adventure you won’t want to miss!
DAY 1—ILLINOIS RAILWAY MUSEUM
This morning, meet your fellow travelers for a welcome brunch in Milwaukee! We will then travel to the Illinois Railway Museum, the largest railway museum in the United States. Explore their collection of rail equipment and perhaps take a ride on one of their vintage locomotives. Tonight, we will stay in Davenport, where you’ll have time to explore the local shops and eateries. B, L
DAY 2—ISABEL BLOOM/AMANA COLONIES
Start today with a visit to Isabel Bloom, featured on an episode of John McGivern’s Main Streets™! Go behind the scenes and learn how the artisans craft their beloved sculptures. Continue on to the Amana Colonies for an in-depth look at one of America’s oldest communal societies. B, L
DAY 3—REIMAN GARDENS/JOHN MCGIVERN
Visit Reiman Gardens, the botanical garden of Iowa State University. Marvel at the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing, home to almost 1,000 species of butterflies. This afternoon, enjoy free time in Ames before joining John McGivern for dinner and a special performance! Experience the joy of John McGivern’s Main Streets™ in person with your fellow travelers. B, D
DAY 4—MATCHSTICK MARVELS/NATIONAL CZECH AND SLOVAK MUSEUM/ DUBUQUE
Our first stop of the day is Matchstick Marvels, a museum displaying the incredible work of artist Pat Acton. Over 8.6 million matchsticks have been glued together to create huge, detailed scale models. Then, we will travel to the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library in Cedar Rapids. This Smithsonian affiliated institution is America’s
leading preserver of Czech and Slovak heritage. Tonight, embark on a historic progressive dinner through Dubuque! Each course will be served in a different historic building, where Dubuque’s past will be illuminated
through docent tours and live entertainment. B, L, D
Day 5—DAIRY FARM/RETURN HOME
Our final day begins with a visit to Berning Acres, a family-owned dairy farm. On this guided tour, get an in-depth
view of dairy production, meet furry friends, and even try milking a cow! This afternoon, return to Milwaukee with new friends and cherished memories. B, L
Quality Accommodations
Night 1: Hotel Blackhawk, Davenport
Nights 2-3: Gateway Hotel, Ames
Night 4: Hotel Julien, Dubuque
Dates:
Sep 2-6, 2025
Price Per Person:
Double $1,997
Single $2,335
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
Call for availability
Depart/Return:
Milwaukee, WI
Inclusions:
Free airport transfer or hotel parking
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Our Welcome Breakfast on Day 1 is in Brookfield, Wisconsin starting at 8:00 a.m. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive in Milwaukee the day prior. For pre-night room availability, please call the CTD office.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart the Milwaukee Airport after 5:30 p.m. on Day 5. The motorcoach will drop off at both the starting hotel and Milwaukee Airport. For post-night room availability, please call the CTD office.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Complimentary parking is available for the duration of the tour at the starting hotel in Brookfield. If you are flying into Milwaukee, we ask that you utilize Uber, Lyft or a taxi service.
Walking Distance
Moderate walking is required to fully enjoy this tour. Some walking will also be on uneven paths. While walking canes are allowed, we are unable to accommodate travelers using other mobility devices, including walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
High of 77°, low of 52°
Time Zone
Central
Hotel Amenities
Each hotel has a hair dryer, iron and ironing board, swimming pool, and fitness room.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
