Wander Wisconsin

Scenic Vistas & Architectural Gems

  • Date

    July 9-12, 2024 | Tue / Fri – 4 Days 

  • Location

    Racine | Madison | Spring Green | Lake Geneva

Overview

Discover some of Wisconsin’s most magnificent marvels! Wander through the south-central region of the glorious land of cheese to discover more of what this state is known for, such as Taliesin—the extraordinary estate of architect Frank Lloyd Wright! Hit a few other noteworthy stops in this architect’s repertoire such as the SC Johnson Headquarters in Racine, and the Unitarian Meeting House. House on the Rock is another architectural anomaly waiting to be explored, as well as a plethora of other fun attractions you’ll visit while galivanting around. Spend three nights in the Badger State’s capital city—Madison, where you’ll be drawn to the city’s beautiful natural setting—an isthmus separating two glacial lakes, surrounded by rolling hills. Take a city tour of Madison and slip out to the outskirts of town to delve into Scandinavian folklore in charming Mount Horeb—you may even have the chance to snap a selfie with a troll! Culminate with a historical home tour and narrated lunch cruise around Lake Geneva!

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE

  • Encounter several Frank Lloyd Wright Trail Sites
  • In Depth House Tour at Taliesin
  • Discover House on the Rock
  • Stay on Madison’s Beautiful Capitol Square
  • Lake Geneva Luncheon Cruise
  • Visit Enchanting Black Point Estate
  • Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra Outdoor Concert

PACKAGE INCLUDES

  • Roundtrip motorcoach transportation from Indianapolis
  • Escorted
  • 3 nights accommodations
  • Breakfast daily
  • 3 lunches, 1 dinner
  • Sightseeing and admissions per itinerary
  • Ground transportation
  • Hotel baggage handling

Note: This itinerary includes activities where moderate walking is required.

Tue, July 9: Depart in the morning and head to Racine, Wisconsin for an introduction to some of Frank Lloyd Wrights artistry at SC Johnson’s headquarters. Take a guided, informative, walking tour—perfect for those wanting a closer look at the architecture as well as an understanding of the company’s legendary partnership with the renowned architect. The tour features parts of the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Administration Building and Research Tower, as well as Fortaleza Hall which includes the Timeline Tunnel, the SC Johnson Gallery: Frank Lloyd Wright: Corporate Cathedrals and of course, the gift shop! Continue to the capital city of Madison to check into your hotel, located directly on Capitol Square, for a three-night stay. Get settled and soak in the surroundings of this city situated on a beautiful isthmus between two lovely lakes—the Monona and Mendota. A Welcome Dinner is included this evening. (Meals: Dinner)

Wed, July 10: Wake up to an included breakfast at leisure before setting off on a guided city tour today. Meander through the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, hear stories of the past, and see iconic landmarks—such as the Unitarian Meeting House and The Monona Terrace Community Center. For lunch today, head just outside of Madison to adorable Mount Horeb, a village dedicated to preserving their Norwegian Heritage, known for their “trollway”— a route through town dotted with over 30 intricately carved troll statues. Lunch is included before some free time to check out the trolls and the village shops. Back in downtown Madison, the balance of the day is yours to walk around the beautiful, manicured grounds of the capitol building or stroll along the lakefronts. Nearby museums offer opportunities to learn and explore, and plentiful cafes and galleries await your arrival. For dinner, memorable meals made with fresh local ingredients can be discovered at a variety of eateries around the hotel. On Wednesday evenings in the summer, the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra performs free concerts on the Capitol Square. Join the group at reserved “VIP blanket seating on the lawn” to share wine and unforgettable music. (B,L)

Thu, July 11: After breakfast at the hotel head to Spring Green, home of Taliesin, the estate of architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The estate’s name is Welsh for “shining brow,” and the property integrates its building designs with the rolling hills and includes buildings that span Wright’s entire career from the 1890s to the 1950s. Your two-hour tour will visit Wright’s self-designed Prairie-Style home, the Hillside School that was used by his apprentices and the Tan-y-Deri house built for his sister. Lunch is included on site before moving on to nearby House on the Rock, where visionary architecture, eclectic collections and incredible stories await. Explore unique collections that include the world’s largest carousel, a 200-foot sea creature and a room full of automated music machines. Be sure to step into the Infinity Room, offering stunning vistas of the Wisconsin River Valley and the surrounding prairie. Return to Madison and have the evening at your leisure. (B,L)

Fri, July 12: Check out of the hotel following breakfast and head to Lake Geneva. The fun continues on a luncheon cruise aboard the Grand Belle of Geneva! Hear the history of the lake and see the grand estates lining its edges, such as the Wrigley Estate, comprised of six homes! Following the cruise, tour Black Point Estate, built for Chicago Beer Baron Conrad Seipp in 1888 and considered one of the finest examples of period architecture and furniture in the Midwest. Return to Indianapolis in the evening. (B,L)

Best Western Premier Park Hotel. The only hotel in Madison located directly on Capitol Square, this hotel boasts the perfect location for easy access to downtown sightseeing and attractions. Highlights: This hotel consistently garners accolades for its pristine, comfortable rooms, complemented by nice views. • in-room coffee/tea maker • complimentary WiFi Internet access • restaurant • bar • indoor pool • fitness center.

Pricing

  • Complete Package
  • Double P/P – $1,529
  • Triple P/P – $1,449
  • Single – $1,849

*Subject to change due to increase in fuel surcharge