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Travel Wisconsin – Explore the Frank Lloyd Wright Trail

June 1, 2017

Frank Lloyd Wright is widely regarded as America’s greatest architect. Wisconsin, Wright’s former home, is rich in public buildings and private residences created by the architect, including his own estate.

Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center

The tour begins in Madison, home to two unique public buildings designed by Wright. The Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center, on the shores of Lake Monona, is a recently built structure inspired by Wright’s 1938 design for a “dream civic center.” He first designed it as a cultural, governmental and recreational building, then reworked the design several times between 1938 and 1959, signing off on the final plans just seven weeks before his death. Monona Terrace was completed in 1997 on the same site that Wright had originally proposed, with his design used for the building’s exterior. Guided tours are offered daily.

Seth Peterson Cottage

About an hour’s drive north of Madison, the Seth Peterson Cottage stands on the edge of a wooded bluff overlooking picturesque Mirror Lake in Mirror Lake State Park. The only Wright-designed house in the world available today for public rental, the cottage was originally designed for a Wisconsin native with a lifelong interest in Wright’s work. The elegant yet simple structure has been described as “having more architecture per square foot than any other building (Wright) ever designed.” It can be rented for special events, meetings and overnight getaways, and public tours are given the second Sunday of each month.

Taliesin

The most notable of all of the Wright-designed structures in Wisconsin is his home and studio complex, Taliesin. Located west of Madison amid the rolling countryside of Spring Green, Taliesin is regarded as Wright’s “self portrait.” Begun in 1911 and rebuilt twice after fire damage, the home was designed to integrate with the surrounding pastoral landscape, according to Wright’s philosophy of organic architecture. It was filled with furniture designed by Wright and constructed of materials including plaster, limestone, wood and glass that were meant to mirror its natural setting. Over the 50 years that Wright lived and worked at Taliesin, the home was an ongoing architectural project, as he continued to modify it until his death in 1959. Wright used the buildings on his estate to test new ideas and spatial constructs, making them an enduring testament to his evolving views on architecture and nature. The 600-acre landmark estate includes several other Wright-designed structures. Four different public tours of Taliesin are offered from May through October.

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church

One of Wright’s last major works, the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in the Milwaukee suburb of Wauwatosa was dedicated in 1961, two years after Wright’s death. The building’s circular design is a radical departure from traditional Byzantine church architecture yet retains the concept of a domed space and incorporates symbols and colors associated with the Greek Orthodox faith. Its overall design is based on a Greek cross inscribed with a circle. Public tours are available by appointment.

Johnson Wax Administration Building

Two Wright-designed buildings are located in the southeastern Wisconsin city of Racine. Opened in 1939, the Johnson Wax Administration Building still serves today as the SC Johnson’s international headquarters. More than 200 sizes and shapes of bricks were made according to Wright’s specifications to create the building’s unique angles and curves. Designed to be the main office area, the Great Work Room is the building’s most renowned feature, with slim dendriform columns supporting its roof and glass tubing used in place of conventional windows. Public tours are offered on Fridays year-round. Set on a 36-acre parcel on the western shores of Lake Michigan, Wingspread was originally designed by Wright as a residence for the Herbert Fisk Johnson family. The 14,000-square- foot house in Racine was completed in 1939 and is shaped like a four-winged pinwheel. A prime example of Wright’s organic architecture, the structure is made primarily of limestone, brick, stucco and wood, and its long, low silhouette stretches out to meet the surrounding land. A 30-foot chimney rises from the octagonal living space at the building’s center, providing five fireplaces on three levels. The Johnson family lived in the home for 20 years. In 1959, Wingspread was turned over to the Johnson Foundation to serve as an educational and conference center. Free public tours are available by appointment when conferences are not in session. Download an Explore the Frank Lloyd Trail itinerary.

Discover more at: TravelWisconsin.com

Lebanon I-44 Speedway

As always don’t forget, it’s speed season! Lebanon I-44 Speedway (the only NASCAR sanctioned track in Missouri) has many fun events lined up for the summer! Bring Dad to take in the action with Motorcycle Stunt Night on June 17 and Emerson/Copeland Night on June 24 with a special kids’ event. Check here for more with Lebanon I-44 Speedway.

Thoroughbred Country, Way More Than Horses

This Video of the Week is brought to you by Thoroughbred Country South Carolina.  Besides the obvious horse related activities, you’ll also find authentic Southern Tradition in this hidden gem.  No wonder their motto is “We’re Way More Than Horses!”  Plan your trip today, find more here.

Springfield, IL

April 1, 2016

Always Legendary Springfield, IL is a charming and historic Midwestern city filled with world-class sites and attractions ready to welcome you with a friendly small-town atmosphere. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of true Americana in the city that Lincoln loved.

Abraham Lincoln called Springfield home for 30 years. In fact, in Springfield, you can tour the only home Lincoln ever owned at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. The home is restored to its appearance when Lincoln was elected the 16 th President of the United States and is set in a neighborhood that will transport you to the heart of the city that Lincoln knew as a father, husband, neighbor and politician.

Let History come alive for you! The city has numerous sites and attractions that provide a picture of Lincoln’s life and legacy. These include the world-renowned Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the Old State Capitol, where Lincoln gave his famous “House Divided” speech, Lincoln’s New Salem, a reconstruction of the village where Lincoln spent his young adulthood, and the Lincoln Tomb, among many others. In the summer months, “History Comes Alive” in the streets of Springfield, and you can see Lincoln give one of his famous speeches, hear about Mary Todd Lincoln’s daily life, or even meet General Grant!

Old Route 66 runs through the center of town. Travelers along the famous Mother Road often stop for an original Cozy Dog at the Cozy Dog Drive In, still operated by the same family that founded the business in the 1940s. A visit to the Route 66 Twin Drive-In Movie Theatre recalls nostalgic summer nights eating popcorn and watching a double feature on the big screen. South of town you’ll find “Brick 66,” a section of original brick road from 1931.

From Frank Lloyd Wright to the State Capitol Building, great architecture calls Springfield home. Make sure to visit the Dana-Thomas House, one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpieces of the early Prairie Style, featuring the most complete collection of original Wright furnishings and art glass. The State Capitol building gives visitors an insider’s look at state politics in the beautiful Renaissance Revival/Second Empire style building topped with a 405 foot dome. You might also be interested in the restored antebellum mansion, Edwards Place, where you can see the famous Lincoln courting couch.

Stay in style. When you’re looking for a place to wind down for the day, you’ll find a wide range of lodging options, from luxury full-service hotels to economy chains to quaint bed and breakfasts and the city abounds with unique local dining, interesting shops and plenty of cultural and recreational options. So, hit the open road and visit Springfield soon. Start planning your trip today at VisitSpringfieldIllinois.com.

Bowling Green, Kentucky—Geared for fun!

April 1, 2016

Home of the Corvette, natural wonders and unique, first-class attractions, take your crew to where the rubber meets the road in Bowling Green, Kentucky! This charming city is nestled among rolling hills just one hour north of Nashville, TN, where the classic American sports car is celebrated and there is a new adventure around every curve. From car enthusiasts to family fun, this thriving and beautiful town welcomes all.

Folks are calling Bowling Green “Hot Rod City, USA” for good reason. Visitors are welcome to watch the step-by-step production of the Corvette at the GM Corvette Assembly Plant and see mint classics and prototypes at the National Corvette Museum. The NCM Motorsports Park and Beech Bend Raceway bring all car enthusiasts together. Whether motorsports is your passion, drag racing is your addiction or restoration is your hobby, get your tail end to Kentucky this year and see why we’re geared for hot rods! If you have an obsession for hot rods, check out the Goodguys 5th Nostalgia Nationals, the 14th Annual Holley National Hot Rod Reunion, the Danchuk Tri-Five Nationals and more!

Not only is this town about fast cars; visitors can also explore natural wonders. Kentucky’s only underground boat tour is at Lost River Cave. Only a short 30 minutes away is the world’s longest-known cave system at Mammoth Cave National Park, celebrating its 200th year of cave tours in 2016 along with the NPS Centennial. Adventures above and below ground are always fun for families.

Along with natural wonders, Bowling Green is rich in history. Visitors can view the works of a world-renowned artist at the Downing Museum at Baker Arboretum and learn about trains at the Historic Railpark & Train Museum. Visitors can also walk among restored aircraft and hear about their pilots at the outdoor Aviation Heritage Park.

Rich history leads visitors to the city’s historic and quaint downtown. Around Fountain Square Park and the downtown area sit dozens of shops, restaurants and activities including a stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour at Corsair Distillery and a professional minor league baseball team, the BG Hot Rods!

For cave seekers and families to car enthusiasts and history buffs, Bowling Green is geared for fun! VisitBGKY.com

New Orleans, LA

December 10, 2015

Gingerbread Cathedral at Sheraton Hotel New Orleans One of New Orleans’ most iconic landmarks, the St. Louis Cathedral, constructed entirely of gingerbread is welcoming guests as they enter the lobby of the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel this year. Executive Chef Mark Quitney and his pastry team’s St. Louis Cathedral Gingerbread Scene enhances the hotel’s already festive decor which includes their time-honored display of Cajun Kris Kringle and his pirogue full of toys pulled by his trusty alligators, Bourée, Boudin and Roux-Dolph.

“This is the premiere piece of a wonderful new holiday tradition,” commented Chef Quitney. “Each year we plan to expand our French Quarter scene which will eventually include gingerbread renditions of the Presbytere and Cabildo as well.”

Geared up for the holidays, the hotel is also offering guests a new Holiday Traditions Treasure Hunt package which leads guests on a quest to discover treasured New Orleans’ holiday traditions.

Details on the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel’s seasonal offerings can be found at: www.sheratonneworleans.com/papanoel

Thoroughbred Country, South Carolina, Runs for the Roses

October 6, 2015

Take an unusual route to a regular destination and you might happen upon Thoroughbred Country, South Carolina, encompassing the town of Aiken, where horses are the prize. Travel by US 78 or 278 through Thoroughbred Country’s charming small towns including Williston, Blackville, Denmark and Bamberg on your next trip to Charleston or Hilton Head.

As cool weather closes in, run for the roses at Thoroughbred Country’s autumn and winter events like the Katydid Combined Driving Event, November 5-8, a three-phase driving competition including both horses and ponies driven as singles and in pairs by some of the top carriage drivers in the country. That same weekend, equestrian enthusiasts can bring their own horses for a special trail ride through Silver Bluff Audubon’s 3,200-acre wildlife sanctuary with two eight-mile trails. On Thanksgiving Day, the Aiken Hounds’ Opening Meet is preceded by the annual Blessing of the Hounds, a beloved and time-honored tradition at Memorial Gate in the Woods, presented by the Hitchcock Woods Foundation. At the end of 2015, don’t miss Christmas in the Backcountry at The Living History Park, and the City of Aiken’s 45th annual Christmas Craft Show, featuring over 100 local artisans, December 4-5, at the H. Odell Weeks Center.

Save the date: On January 9, the Aiken Training Track and Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame are partnering to offer the Backstretch Tour, going behind the scenes of Aiken Training Track to experience what it’s like on the backstretch while also getting an inside look at the magic of training Thoroughbred racehorses. For more information, 803-643-2121 or 803-642-7631.

For a complete listing of special events, including the 24th Annual Christmas in Hopelands light exhibit at Hopelands Gardens in Aiken, December 13-23 and 26-27, featuring the famous gardens illuminated with over 100,000 lights.

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ALWAYS LEGENDARY SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS

April 1, 2015

Brought to you by Springfield, Illinois CVB this year to experience Abraham Lincoln’s life and legend. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is marking its 10th anniversary with special exhibits, programs and performances throughout 2015.

The city features numerous sites and attractions that provide insight into Lincoln as a man, husband, father and politician. These include the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Old State Capitol, where Lincoln gave his famous “House Divided” speech and the Lincoln Tomb, among many others.

Old Route 66 runs through the center of town. Travelers along the “Mother Road” often stop for an original “Cozy Dog” at the Cozy Dog Drive In, still operated by the same family that founded the business in the 1940s. A visit to the Route 66 Drive In Movie Theatre recalls nostalgic summer nights eating popcorn and watching a double feature on the big screen. South of town you’ll find “Brick 66,” a section of original brick road from 1931 nestled between two corn fields.

Springfield abounds with other interesting and unique things to do, including the Dana Thomas House, one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpieces of the early Prairie Style, and featuring the most complete collection of original Wright furnishings and art glass. The Illinois State Museum tells the story of the state’s cultural and natural history with interactive displays, life-size dioramas and a gift shop full of the work of Illinois artists. The State Capitol building gives visitors an insider’s look at state politics in the beautiful Renaissance Revival/Second Empire style building topped with a 405 foot dome.

When you’re done touring, spend some time cooling off at Knight’s Action Park, a fully equipped water park with amusements, mini-golf, batting cages and lots more family fun. Or, spend your evening on a spooky ghost walk exploring the unusual and bizarre side of Abraham Lincoln’s Springfield.

The city that Abraham Lincoln loved has its fair share of quirky food traditions, original Route 66 treats and “as-seen-on-TV” curiosities that appeal to both adventurous eaters and those that crave down-home comfort food. So when you’re ready to dine, make sure to sample a “Horseshoe” sandwich, feast on a giant pancake at Charlie Parker’s Diner or visit the country’s oldest drive-up window at the Maid Rite.

Visit us in Always Legendary Springfield, Illinois for sites dedicated to the life of Abraham Lincoln, Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, the Illinois State Capitol and more. Visitors have a wide range of lodging options, from luxury full-service hotels to economy chains to quaint bed and breakfasts. Add in unique local dining, nightlife and recreation options and you’re on your way to one great getaway.

More information about the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum’s 10th anniversary can be found at Springfield Illinois and information about Self-Guided Tours.