Spring Day Trips & Mini-Vacations SCT

April 30 - May 6, 2010 South County Times 13

9DayTrips

Historic towns Are An eAsy Drive soutH Along i-55

It’s time to pack up the family and take advantage of this beautiful spring weather to get out and explore the area. There are dozens of towns within driving distance of St. Louis just waiting to be discovered.

Heading south on Interstate 55 travel-ers will find some of the area’s most his-toric villages, like Kimmswick, founded in 1850 along the mighty Mississippi by dry goods merchant Theodore Kimm.

Kimmswick is a shopper’s mecca with its abundance of quaint craft and specialty stores, lovely restaurants and a variety of family-friendly events.

An annual favorite event is the Straw-berry Festival, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, June 5 and 6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This festival draws about 30,000 peo-ple a year to the historic village, with its fo-cus on everything strawberry: homemade strawberry jam, strawberry shortcake, and tray after tray of fresh strawberries.

Getting to Kimmswick is easy. From St. Louis, take Interstate 55 south to the Imperial/Kimmswick exit, #186. Turn left at Imperial Main Street, then right at US-61/US-67. Turn left at MO-K, right at Fourth Street, and left at Market Street.

For more information on historic Kimmswick and a complete list of upcom-ing events, visit www.gokimmswick.com.

Travel a little further south along I-55 to Perry County and discover villages settled in the 1800s, and exquisite natu-ral wonders along the Mississippi. Perry County includes the towns of Perryville, Frohna, Altenburg, Brazeau and Farrar, to name just a few.

Perry County was founded in 1821, and was named for Oliver Hazard Perry, a Naval hero who fought in the War of 1812.

Outdoor activities are plentiful in Perry County. Perry County Community Lake, owned by the Missouri Department of Conservation, is a draw for those who like to fish. Located just west of Perryville, the lake can be reached from the I-55 west outer road.

Tower Rock Natural Area, featuring the Tower Rock national landmark, boasts a 10-mile hiking trail along the 90-foot-high rock that stands in the Mississippi River.

Upcoming events in Perry County in-clude the 25th Annual Mayfest Fiesta and Craft Fair, May 7 and 8, in downtown Per-ryville; and the 10th Annual Perry County Community Rodeo, held June 4 and 5, at the East Perry Fairgrounds.

Learn more about these events and others at www.perryvillemo.com, and www.perrycountymo.us.

A trio of horses graze in the pasture of a farm located along Highway 61 south of St. Louis. Historic towns, peaceful rural scenery and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation are just a short drive south from the St. Louis Metropolitan Area.

photo byDiana

Linsley

13DayTrips13DayTrips

B e d & B r e a k f a s tPerryville, Mo.

Girls Weekend for eiGht • $54 each

Whole House Rental ~ Winery Picnic BasketSaturday Night ~ Dinner & Dessert

Sunday ~ Gourmet BreakfastOptional: Friday Night Stay - additional $32 each

(includes breakfast saturday morning)Call (573) 547-9900willowhousebandb.com

www.gokimmswick.comfor more info or call 636-464-6464

UPCOMING EVENTS:❤ Mother's Day Weekend May 8 & 9 Treat Mom to a Relaxing Day of

Shopping and Dining

❤ Girlfriend's Day - May 15 Lunch at Blue Owl, Shopping Passport

and Tea Party at Anheuser Estate

❤ Strawberry Festival -June 5 & 6 Street Merchants, Food Vendors, Crafts, Activites for Adults & Children

❤ Father's Day Car Show -June 20 Treat Dad to a Wonderful Day...

Car Show, Dining & Entertainment!

❤ Anheuser Thursdays Lunch & Dessert at Blue Owl, Shopping

Passport, Tour of Anheuser Estate

Shopping • Dining • History • Festivals

One of a Kind Handcrafted Jewelry, Glass, Pottery and so much more!

• Fun Home & Garden Décor • Great Selection of Special Gifts for

Moms, Grads & Dads!

Ms. Mud’s BoutiqueNew

Fashionable Tops, Wraps & Accessoriesfor Women Who Want to Have Fun!

6050 2nd St. • Kimmswick • 636-464-3360www.mississippimudgallery.com

Shop Beyond the Ordinary!

www.theblueowl.comTue. - Fri. 10 - 3 • Sat. & Sun. 10 - 5

(636)464-3128

Celebrating our 25th Anniversary

The

Blue OwlRestaurant & Bakery

In Historic KimmswickMother’s Day Gift Ideas

A Blue Owl Gift Certificate, Gift Certificate to Girlfriend’s Day, Blue Owl Cookbook Collection

Mother-Daughter Day, May 1Shopping Passport, Lunch, Tea Party, Prizes

Mother’s Day, May 9 by reservationTreat Mom to a wonderful Homecooked Meal and

a Fabulous Dessert! A Flower for Every Mom!

Girlfriends Day, May 15 Shopping Passport, Lunch, Tea Party, Prizes

Anheuser Thursdays Includes Lunch and Dessert at the Blue Owl,

Shopping Passport and Tour the Anheuser Estate

Strawberry Festival, June 5 & 6

Next Door to the Blue Owlin Historic Kimmswick, MO

Tues-Sun 10-5 • 636.464.3900

Visit our Gift Shop & Candy StoreIce Cream SodasFloats and Cones

Phosphates & MaltsWaffle Cones • Pie a la Mode

Handmade ChocolatesHomemade Candies

Candy ClassesBirthday Parties, Showers...Lattes, Mocha, Coffee, Tea

The Blue Owl Presents...

q See John at treppler automotive

q Check car for door dings,

fender & bumper damage

q Schedule repair date

q pick up car, pack it up

and enjoy your trip

in a shiny, clean vehicle!

Don't get caught traveling

in a damaged car!

Before Your

DaY trip:

Treppler AuTo ServiceSince 1980

10425 Watson Rd. • sunset Hills(314) 821-8870

Collision RePaiR

Homesteading Experiencesf o r F a m i l i e s a n d L a r g e G r o u p s

• Listed on National Registry of Historical Places• Visit us on Facebook

Saxon Lutheran MemorialFrohna, MO... just 90 minutes south of St. Louis573-824-5404 • saxonlutheranmemorial.com • [email protected]

Explore rich German culture & Saxon heritage. Tour the log cabin village, learn to bake bread, work in the garden, tend the chickens, quilt and picnic. Reserve a date for your family reunion or weekend camp!

Listed in the National Register of Historic PlacesEllen and Steve Frye, owners & hosts

Call for availability, Fridays & Saturdays573.824.5271 OR 314.706.0159

[email protected]

A Farrar, Missouri a

Eggers &CompanyGeneral StoreBed & Breakfast

Perryville Country ClubUnlimited Golf with Cart for $20Enjoy Perryville’s historic 9-hole Country Club any weekday this Spring. Not valid with any other special or promotion.Valid any weekday, Mon.–Fri. before 11:00 a.m. Please present coupon for discount. Call for availability. PGA Professional, David Pearce

1111 Big Spring Blvd. ~ Perryville, MO 63775573-547-8036 ~ www.pccgolf.net

14 South County Times April 30 - May 6, 2010

10DayTrips

Missouri wine countryThe first officially recognized wine dis-

trict in the United States wasn’t Napa Val-ley. It was charming Augusta, Mo., popu-lation 300 people – and millions of grapes. Augusta, just 30 minutes west of St. Louis, joins Defiance, Dutzow, Washington and Hermann as the small-town gems of Missouri Wine Country, a scenic 50-mile swath straddling the Missouri River.

During the Civil War, Missouri was one of the nation’s leading wine produc-ers, and the wineries along the picturesque Missouri Weinstrasse (wine road) remain top producers, garnering critical acclaim. But they also attract tourists, who enjoy sampling locally manufactured vintages, touring wineries, strolling through historic districts and browsing at boutiques, an-tique shops and craft fairs.

Twenty miles south of I-70 is Her-mann’s Stone Hill Winery, the second-largest in America before Prohibition. Since 1993, Stone Hill has received over 3,500 awards and is ranked among the na-tion’s most acclaimed wineries. Stone Hill Winery has live music every Saturday from May 15 to October 30. Call 573-486-2221 or visit www.stonehillwinery.com.

Hermann is a magnet for lovers of histo-ry. More than 150 buildings in and around downtown are on the National Register of Historic Places. The Deutschheim State Historic Site (573-486-2200) preserves two homes, a barn and a winery built by 19th-century German immigrants. From the same era is the Hermann Farm & Mu-seum (573-486-3276), a working farm and living history center. It hosts many cultural programs, including the upcoming Taste for the Arts on June 5 and 6.

For Old World ambience of a livelier sort, Hermann celebrates its heritage with festivals such as Oktoberfest and Maifest. In fact, Maifest, a celebration of wine and

food, is just around the corner, slated for May 15 and 16 at Bias Winery and Gruhl-ke’s Microbrewery in Berger, located eight miles east of Her-mann.

The community of Defiance was once home to Daniel Boone, who spent his final years in a stately, four-story limestone house overlooking Femme Osage Creek. That house and over a dozen relocated and restored 19th-century buildings called Boonesfield Village are open to the public, bringing to life the days when Missouri was America’s frontier. For details, call 636-798-2005 or visit www.lindenwood.edu/boone.

Today, Defiance is home to former Kirkwood residents Becky and Ken Miller, proprietors of Sugar Creek Vineyards & Winery. Located on Highway 94 and named for the Millers’ old winding, wooded neighborhood, Sugar Creek offers a wide variety of estate wines – wines grown and bottled on site. For more details, call 636-987-2400 or visit www.sugarcreekwines.com.

Along with live music every weekend in May, Chandler Hill Vinyards in Defiance will be hosting a special Memorial Day Celebration on May 31 to support the troops, the USO and Fisher House. For more details call 636-798-2675 or visit www.chandlerhillvineyards.com.

The historic village of Dutzow, Missouri’s oldest German settlement, was founded in 1832. German heritage is evident in the architecture and ambience of the Blumenhof Winery on South Highway 94. Visit www.blumenhof.com for more information.

cont. p. 15

14DayTrips

The perfect Wine Country getaway

On the Missouri River just an hour west of St. Louis

HermannC ome see why our 19th- century German village was voted Missouri’s most beautiful town.

Wineries • B&Bs • Historic District

800-932-8687 • www.hermannmo.info

MayfestMay 15-16

New Shuttle for Amtrak Riders • www.visithermann.com

3 Winding Brook Estate Drive, Eureka Missouri636-587-2329 • www.WindingBrookEstate.com

Welcome Spring at winding BROOK estate tHe LaVendeR FaRM

Lavender Springtime Tea Join us for a gathering at the Lavender farm where moods are

brightened and senses are heightened in the fresh air. You’ll enjoy a delightful lunch in our Olde Red Barn with its unique ambience as

we celebrate spring. Visit our website for May dates and details.Visit the Lavender Shoppe for Unique and Distinctive

Gifts for the extraordinary Mom in your Life!

Open May through October, wednesday - sunday 10 to 4

group tours, Lunches & Classes available June thru October

May 21, 22 & 23In Historic Downtown Washington, Missouri

at the Intersection of Main & Elm Streets

MajorSupporter

This unique festival brings artists and vintners together on the streets ofhistoric downtown Washington!

• This celebration is the largest all-Missouri winery-tasting event in the state.

• View the work of more than 40 fine artists.

• The Art Fair is free. Admission to the Wine Pavilion is $15 in advance or $20 a the entrance and includes a special commemorative wine glass.

TIckeTs avaIlable Droege's Market & Schroeder Drug downtown location

This event sponsored by Downtown Washington, Inc.

arT FaIrFri 5 p.m.–8 p.m.

Sat 11 a.m.–8 p.m.Sun 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

WIneFesTFri 5 p.m.–10 p.m.

Sat 12 p.m.–10 p.m.Sun 12 p.m.–5 p.m.

No Coolers • No outside AlCohol• No Pets

For more information and Amtrak schedules, call636-239-1743 or 888-7WASHMO

You can also find us on the web at www.downtownwashmo.org

The Third Largest Fair in Missouri!August 4-8, 2010

Fun for all ages!

Labadie Antiques Show hosted by

on the grounds ofthe James North Farm

Early American Country AntiquesFurniture • Primitives • Smalls

Folk Art • Textiles

The TIN RABBIT

Saturday, May 8 • Early buying 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. • $15 admission10 a.m. - 3 p.m. $5 admission

Free to tote bag for first 100 early buyers2733 Hwy T • Labadie, MO 63055

www.thetinrabbit.com • (636) 742-5900

the shopsof eureka

Antiques • CafésSpecialty Shops • Art

Wallach HouseAntiques

510 N. West Ave. • 636.938.6633www.wallachhouse.com

The Faded RoséWine Shop

(inside the Wallach House)510 N. West Ave. • 636.938.6633

Susie Q Quilting1313 S. Central Ave. • 636.581.2772

www.susieqquilting.com

Wool Gatherings141 S. Central Ave. • 636.938.9908

www.woolgatherings.net

Dragonfly Designs145 S. Central Ave. • 636.587.9750www.dragonflydesignscceasy.com

Sungazing Photography15 Dryer Ave. • 636.549-3375

www.sungazingphotography.com

Great Midwest Antique Mall

530 Workman Rd. • 636.938.6760www.greatmidwestantiquemall.com

euRekA, mo 63025For inFo call 636.938.6633


11DayTrips

Missouri wine countryfrom page 14

For antiques, nearby Labadie is the place to be on May 8. The Tin Rabbit, at 2733 Highway T, will host an antique show from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. featuring fur-niture, art, accessories and more from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Call 636-742-5900 for more information.

More shopping opportunities abound in Eureka, located off of I-44. Built in 1858, today the city includes antique shops, restaurants and unique boutiques like the Lavender Shoppe at Winding Brook Estate. For more information about Eureka visit www.eurekachamber.org or www.eurekamerchants.com.

Perhaps no trip to Missouri Wine Coun-try is as relaxing as one to Washington. Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner makes round trips from the Kirkwood Train Sta-tion to the historic depot in downtown Washington each day. From there, it’s only a short walk to restaurants, antique shops and art galleries.

The best of all that Wine Country has to offer is Washington’s 29th Annual Art Fair & Wine Fest. The festival is scheduled for May 21-23, with an expected attendance of 30,000. Call 636-239-1743 or visit www.downtownwashmo.org for details.

Of course, it’s possible to savor Wine Country without ever drinking a drop. Running alongside the Missouri River is the 200-mile-long Katy Trail State Park, attracting thousands of hikers and bik-ers, especially in the spring and summer months. Some limit their explorations to the local area while others embark on journeys spanning the trail’s length. To plan a trip, visit www.bikekatytrail.com.

15DayTrips

211 Jackson Street • Augusta, MOhalcyonaugusta.com

swedish massagestone massage

couples massageprenatal massage

facialssauna

Open Daily

636.228.4110

www.ChandlerhillVineyards.Com

2009 Reader’s Choice Winner!

Sauce Magazine

Nowhere is the food, fun and, of course, award winning

wines more inviting than Chandler Hill. Best of all,

May is one of the most magical months to enjoy them

all along with our music line-up to complement the

perfect day or evening.

On Memorial Day, join Jamie Allman and 97.1 FM for

a special day benefiting the USO, Fisher House and our

troops. Discover why St. Louis

Magazine featured Chandler Hill

Vineyards in “50 Reasons

We Love St. Louis.”

Music, A Memorial And Much More In May

Experience The Region’s Most Exquisite Winery

MAYM U S I C C A L E N D A R

Visit Us Online for Early Closing & More Special Events!

596 Defiance Road Defiance, MO 63341 636.798.CORK (2675)

Saturday, May 1 - 1:00pm to 4:00pm MUSYC

Sunday, May 2 - 1:00pm to 5:00pm Ravenwood

Saturday, May 8 - 1:00pm to 4:00pm Alvin Jett

Sunday, May 9 - 1:00pm to 5:00pm Lucky Dan & Naked Mike

Friday, May 14 - 6:00pm to 9:00pm Mark Ginsberg

Saturday, May 15 - 1:00pm to 4:00pm Troubadors of Devine Bliss

Sunday, May 16 - 1:00pm to 5:00pm Prairie Soul

Friday, May 21 - 6:00pm to 9:00pm Bag Lunch Blues

Saturday, May 22 - 1:00pm to 4:00pm Michael & Elizabeth

Sunday, May 23 - 1:00pm to 5:00pm Rosewood

Friday, May 28 - 6:00pm to 9:00pm Brian Clark

Saturday, May 29 - 1:00pm to 4:00pm Keith Robinson

Sunday, May 30 - 1:00pm to 4:00pm Anita Rosamond

MeMorIAl DAyCELEBRATION

May 31 - 11:00am to 7:00pm

Support our troops, the USO and Fisher House at our all-day event featuring music, barbecue,

the Marine Color Guard and more with Jamie Allman and the 97.1 FM morning crew!

$5.00 Cover Donation

Noon to 3:00pm Arvell & Dawn

3:30pm Marine Color Guard

4:00pm to 5:30pm Steve Davis “Memories of Elvis”

O O

O

O

Tasting Room & Gift Shop Open Dailyat Highway 94 in Dutzow, Missouri

800-419-2245www.blumenhof.com

winegardenentertainment

free admission • no coverSA 5/1 ed rohAn And the roAdhouSe bAnd (rock ‘n’ roll) 2-5Su 5/2 kenny Schmitt (rock ‘n’ roll) 2-5SA 5/8 dick And JAne (rock ‘n’ roll) 2-5Su 5/9 michAel SchAerer (rock ‘n’ roll) 2-5SA 5/15 Steve leSlie bAnd (rock ‘n’ roll) 2-5Su 5/16 pennSylvAniA Slim (blues) 2-5 SA 5/22 bAglunch blueS bAnd (blues) 2-5SA 5/23 derren rASer (folk/rock/pop) 2-5 SA 5/29 butch WAX & the hollyWoodS (motown/R&B) 2-5Su 5/30 erin bode (smooth jazz) 2-5

grill open during music

Most Awarded All-Missouri Winery

OPEN EVERY DAY(636) 987-2400

Located along the Katy Trail on Hwy. 9410 miles south of Hwy. 40 near Defiance

www.sugarcreekwines.com

Enjoy A Spectacular View of the Missouri River Valley.

Musical entertainment on the terraceSaturdays & Sundays • April–October • 1–5 p.m.

Friday Nights • June & July • 7-10 p.m.Also open Friday Nights in August until 10 p.m.

~ No Cover Charge ~PiCNiC Baskets aNd Coolers with

Food always welCome.No beverages of aNy kiNd may be brought onto the winery grounds.

Check out our website for entertainment schedule

~indoor seating available~

Perfect Wines for a Perfect Setting


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Potosi

St. LouisSt. Louis

Steelville

Devil’s Elbow

Lesterville

Trout Lodge YMCA

Eureka

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521

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TuscolaTuscola

TaylorvilleTaylorville

PerryvillePerryville

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HermannHermann

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enjoy tHe greAt outDoors in MiD-MissouriAfter a long, dreary winter, most fami-

lies are anxious to get outdoors and enjoy the sunshine. There’s no better place for outdoor activity than Cuba, Steelville, Lesterville and adjacent communities like Devil’s Elbow, situated right in the middle of some of the most popular recreation areas in the state.

Cuba is located west of St. Louis along Interstate 44, about halfway between Eu-reka and Rolla. The Meramec River cuts a path between Cuba and neighboring Steelville to the south, so canoeing and kayaking are always a draw in the spring and summer months.

Cuba is home to 12 colorful outdoor murals, painted in honor of the city’s 150th anniversary. From Amelia Earhart to scenes of fun on the river, the murals enhance the business district along Route 66. Visit www.cubamurals.com for details.

Steelville is situated on three rivers: the Meramec, the Huzzah and the Courtois. These easily navigated waterways provide visitors with lots of fun on the water, from fishing to floating to just kicking back and enjoying the scenery.

Meramec State Park, Washington State Park and Indian Hills Lake are all within easy driving distance of St. Louis from I-44. Elephant Rocks State Park, with its gigantic round granite rocks, is located south of the interstate off Highway 21.

With three rivers running through the Cuba/Steelville area, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from.

12DayTrips

Located nearby is the northern edge of Mark Twain National Forest, one of the most naturally beautiful areas in Mis-souri and the state’s only national forest. Stretching from southern Missouri into northern Arkansas, the forest covers about 1.5 million acres.

Missouri is also home to more than 6,000 caves. Many St. Louisans remember childhood trips down the I-44 corridor to Meramec Caverns, known as the largest commercial cave in Missouri.

Another natural wonder is Onondaga Cave, located in Onondaga Cave State Park. Tours of Onondaga Cave are held daily. Lantern tours of nearby Cathedral Cave are offered on weekends.

Just south of the Cuba/Steelville area is the town of Potosi, home to the family-oriented Trout Lodge and Camp Lake-wood summer camp for kids. Near Potosi is the trailhead for the Ozark Trail, located in the 6,000-acre Huzzah Conservation Area, northeast of Steelville on Hwy. E. Wilderness Lodge in Lesterville, right on the Black River, is another good spot for those interested in the outdoors.

For more details on the Cuba/Steel-ville/Lesterville area, visit www.cubamo-chamber.com and www.steelville.com.

MISSOURI 1. Augusta/ Defiance/Dutzow 2. Hermann

3. Washington/Labdie 4. Eureka 5. Kimmswick 6. Cuba

7. Steelville 8. Potosi 9. Perryville 10. Farrar/Frohna

16DayTrips

Located in Historic steeLviLLe, Missouri

Featuring the best in country, gospel, golden oldies, bluegrass music and comedy!

Call for reservations!(573) 775-5999www.misn.com/MMT

May 15May 21May 22June 5June 12June 19June 26July 3July 10July 17July 24July 31Aug. 7Aug. 14Aug. 20Aug. 21

Plummer Family Country MusicRhonda Vincent & The RageGospel: The Booth BrothersCountry Variety ShowCountry Variety ShowGospel: Kingsmen QuartetGolden Oldies ShowPlummer Family Country MusicGospel: Legacy 5Country Variety ShowGolden Oldies ShowGolden Oldies ShowCountry Variety ShowGolden Oldies ShowGospel: Brian Free & AssuranceCountry Variety Show

2 PM7 PM7 PM2 PM7 PM7 PM2 PM2 PM7 PM2 PM7 PM2 PM7 PM2 PM7 PM2 PM

Crawford County Fair: July 13–July 17 • www.crawfordcountyfair.infoLion's Club Car & Motorcycle Show: September 25

Cuba Fest: Sat., Oct. 16 • Narrated Trolley Tour of Murals Sun., Oct. 17 • Cemetery Trolley Tour

12 OuTdOOr MuralS • HiSTOry MuSeuM • VeTeraNS MeMOrialHiSTOriC upTOwN BuSiNeSS diSTriCT alONg rOuTe 66

guiNNeSS wOrld reCOrd largeST rOCkiNg CHairSHOpS/diNiNg/aNiTque MallS

ViSiTOr CeNTer aT i-44 OVerpaSS (exiT 208)www.cubamochamber.com or www.cubamomurals.com

Wilderness LodgeWilderness LodgeThe Premier Historic Resort Destination on the Crystal Clear Black River

Lesterville, Missouri

Lodging, Camping, Float Trips& Fine Dining for the Whole Family! Near Johnson Shut-Ins, Taum Sauk Mountain & Elephant Rocks State ParkOpening Weekend: May 21, 2010Call for Reservations: (573) 637-2295Visit us at www.wildernesslodgeresort.com

CUBAMissoUri

60 Hwy. P

BANQUET rooM sEATs 80Buses & Large grouPs WeLcome

Week-end Buffet573-885-9922

Float the Courtois, Huzzah,and Meramec RiversCanoeing • RaftsKayaKs • tubes

Pool • HoRsebaCKlog Cabins • RVs

CamPing • sHoweRs gRouP bbQs

Steelville, miSSouri10 Miles East of Steelville on HWY. 8www.bassResort.com1-800-392-3700

1-888-FUN-YMCA

www.troutlodge.org

Celebrate Summer atCelebrate Summer at

Trout LodgeTrout LodgeTrout LodgeTrout LodgeConveniently located 75 miles

south of St. Louis between Potosi and Steelville, MO

archery • arts & crafts • campfires • climbing wall • geocaching • hiking mini-golf • pontoon tours • rifle range • shotgun range • trail rides • ziplines & more!

FAMILY GETAWAYS • REUNIONS • RETREATS • SCHOOL GROUPS FAMILY GETAWAYS • REUNIONS • RETREATS • SCHOOL GROUPS archery • arts & crafts • campfires • climbing wall • geocaching • hiking

mini-golf • pontoon tours • rifle range • shotgun range • trail rides • ziplines & more!

US miSSoUri canoe rentalLocated on the Big Piney River!Canoes • Tubing • RaftingShuttles • SwimmingKayaking • John BoatsCamping - Hot Showers573.336.2730573.855.3394www.rt66canoe.comemail: rt66canoe@zigsnet

Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Tubing, Horseback Riding, RV Hookups, Cabins and A-Frames, Camping, BBQ Dinners & Pizza Delivery.

Bring in this coupon for a 10% DISCOUNT on Floating.www.huzzahvalley.com or email us at [email protected] • 1-800-367-4516

Steelville, MO

Float the Huzzah, Courtois and Meramec Rivers


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217-268-4106 www.rockome.com

Cheese Factory

Rockome Gardens

217-268-4107 www.rockomefoods.com

1-888-45 AMISH www.amishcenter.com

Rockome Flyer-Final.indd 2 4/23/10 5:02:13 PM

GRAND

OPENING

MAY

28•29• 31

2010

PLAN

YOUR

VISIT

TODAY

Horses & buggies. Skilled carpenters.

And world class golf?Think you know Amish Country? One visit to Tuscola may just change your point of view. Located in the heart of Central Illinois’ Amish Country, Tuscola boasts high end shopping, world class golfing and a variety of community activities. From the Tanger Outlet shops and Ironhorse Golf Club to our beloved Flesor’s Candy Kitchen, we make it a point to offer what no one else does. Tuscola. Get right to the point.

Make Tuscola part of your visit to Amish Country: www.amishcountryofcentralil.com

For lodging and visitor info, go to www.tuscola.org or call toll-free (800) 441-9111.

Bring this ad to the Visitors Center at Tanger Outlet Center to receive a free coupon book. (Prices, Special Offers Expire Dec. 31, 2010)

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St. LouisSt. Louis

Steelville

Devil’s Elbow

Lesterville

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Eureka

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TaylorvilleTaylorville

PerryvillePerryville

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visit illinois AMisH country

Horse-drawn buggies are nearly as common as automobiles on the roads of central Illinois. Since 1865, when three Pennsylvania Mennonite families first settled in the area, it has become known simply as “Amish Country.”

The communities of Arthur, Arcola, Tuscola and Sullivan are home to about 4,500 conservative, rural Amish who

strive to “be not conformed to this world.” Their presence, combined with their more progressive “English” neighbors, creates an intriguing cultural blend of the old and the new. The two factions are respectful of one another’s differences and together have together created a haven for tour-ism.

The Amish influence means, among other things, that the vibrant central shop-ping district in downtown Arthur hasn’t been decimated by big-box retailers. The tidy town is chock-full of Amish-owned or operated shops selling hand-crafted clothes, custom cabinetry, home furnish-ings and unique gifts.

Hungry? Anyone hankering for a Big Mac will need to go elsewhere; there aren’t any chain restaurants in Arthur. Instead, locally owned eateries that serve lovingly prepared comfort food abound.

Arthur’s answer to Starbucks is Rosel-en’s Coffees & Delights, 1045 E. Colum-bia Street, an Amish-owned coffee shop offering brewed and blended coffee drinks, wraps, flatbread sandwiches and salads.

For dessert – or to get a prescription filled – drop by Dick’s Pharmacy, 118 S. Vine. This old-fashioned drugstore is complete with a soda fountain, serving milkshakes, malts and homemade drumsticks. Visit them on the Web at www.dicks-pharmacy.com.

Arthur hosts several annual festivals and ongoing events, such as the Down-town Arthur Market, held the third Satur-day of every month and featuring an array of crafts and antiques. The Gunny Sack Revue is a weekly favorite. Every Wednes-

cont. p. 18

The Towns of ArThur, ArcolA, TuscolA And sullivAn inviTe visiTors To sTep bAck in Time

7. Steelville 8. Potosi 9. Perryville 10. Farrar/Frohna

11. Devil’s Elbow 12. LestervilleILLINOIS 13. Taylorville

14. Tuscola 15. Arcola 16. Arthur 17. Monticello


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illinois AMisH country from page 17

day evening at 7 p.m., this bluegrass jam attracts crowds of more than 100 listeners and is open to anyone who’d like to pick or grin along.

And don’t miss the Strawberry Jam, a street festival slated for June 4 and 5, with live music, strawberry treats of every kind, craft booths, a flea market, a pie-eating contest and an antique tractor show. All events take place at the Gazebo Annex, 106 E. Progress Street, 61911. Visit www.gazeboannex.com for more information.

While Arthur is considered the heart of Amish Country, the Amish Interpre-tive Center in neighboring Arcola offers an in-depth introduction to the Old Order lifestyle. In addition to a museum with activities for young and old, the center arranges for tours of Amish homes and farms, conducted by members of the Amish community. Visitors may also stay for a family-style meal, prepared from scratch and served by an Amish family. More information on tours and events is available at www.amishcenter.com or by calling 888-452-6474.

Besides its Amish population, Arcola is known as the boyhood home of Johnny Gruelle, the creator of Raggedy Ann and Andy, and for being the broom corn (a type of sorghum) capital of the world. These unique distinctions are honored with annual events: the Raggedy Ann & Andy Friendship Gathering, held June 4 and 5, and the Broom Corn Festival, commemorating its 40th year September 10, 11 and 12. More information on these events can be found at www.amishcountryofcentralil.com.

The other small towns of the area offer

indoor village, located at 1304 Tuscola Blvd., includes a museum, restaurant and shops. And less than one mile away on I-57 is an expansive outlet mall. For more information on the town and a calendar of events, call 800-441-9111 or visit www.tuscola.org.

Aficionados of Route 66 will want to stop in Litchfield, midway between St.

Louis and Amish Country on I-55. The town, located on the legendary Mother Road, will host its 7th annual Cruisin’ Route 66 Classic Car Show on June 25 and 26. And while drive-in movie theaters are a thing of the past in St. Louis, they are alive and well in Litchfield where the SkyView Drive-In opens its 59th year of business on April 30. For movie listings and times, call 217-324-4451 or visit www.litchfieldskyview.com.

There are also plenty of natural at-tractions in Amish Country. Rockome Gardens is a quaint theme park located six miles west of I-57. Originally a private summer retreat consisting of several rock and flower gardens, its owners opened it to the public free of charge as a respite from “war, strife, jealousy, death and destruc-tion.” Since then, Rockome’s 36 acres have expanded to include a petting zoo, cheese factory and candy shop. It will open for the season May 1. For more information, call 217-268-4106 or visit www.rockome.com.

Near Sullivan, about 25 miles west of I-57, is beautiful Lake Shelbyville, an Army Corps of Illinois lake featuring 200 miles of shoreline as well as camping, boating, hiking, birding, fishing, hunting and horseback riding. There are over 50 miles of trails perfect for mountain biking, plus several marinas and campgrounds.

And surrounding the nearby Kaskaskia River, a tributary of the Mississippi, is a 20,000-acre wildlife area that is also ideal for outdoor activities.

Visit the Illinois Department of Natu-ral Resources at www.dnr.state.il.us for in-formation on planning a visit.

their own charms. In Sullivan, for exam-ple, the Little Theater on the Square offers a year-round schedule of professional per-formances. Its 53rd season kicks off June 9 with “Showboat.” For a full schedule and ticket information, call 217-728-7375 or visit www.thelittletheatre.org.

For a “one-stop-shop” Amish experi-ence, visit Amishland in Tuscola. The

14DayTrips

ArcolaFlower Patch

Illinois Amish Country’s Bed & Breakfast

A Victorian Home with Public Gardens,Gift Shop & Artist-in-Residence

Featured In

Midwest Living®

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225 East Jefferson, Arcola (217) 268-4876

[email protected]

Gift Certificates AvailableBill & Lynne Harshbarger, Hosts

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(866) 574-3624Yoder Gazebos • 2038 CR 1800 E • Arthur, Illinois 61911

Enjoy your outdoor leisure and entertainment activities even more with a Yoder Gazebo. It's like adding a room to your home at a much low-er cost. Yoder Gazebos are handcrafted using the finest weather and insect-resistant Western Red Cedar wood. Perfect in Style, Construction and Cost • Convenient kit with Pre-assembled Sections • Easy to assemble on your site • Can be shipped anywhere in the country • Eight standard sizes from 8-foot to 20-foot • Larger sizes available for use in public spaces • Brass and Zinc hardware holds strong • A price you can afford...looks expensive

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Monticello Railway Museum Monticello Railway Museum Monticello Railway Museum www.mrym.org • 1-877-762-9011 • Exit 166 on I-72

Monticello, IL

TRAIN RIDES!Rain or Shine! Sat., Sun., Holidays

May - Oct.Exhibit cars • Gift shop

Picnic sites

2010 Special Events! Throw Mama on the TrainFather’s Day Weekend

Fireworks TrainRailroad Days

Ghost TrainThe Polar ExpressTM

Lunch with Santa

Want to ride in the cab?Ask us aboutCab Rides!

Want to run a locomotive?Ask us about

Throttle Time!

May 8, 9June 19, 20July 3Sept. 18, 19Oct. 22, 23, 24, 29, 30Nov. 26, 27 & Dec. 3, 4Dec. 4, 5

4 0 1

Horse-drawn buggies are a familiar site in Illinois Amish Country.photo by Diana Linsley

The communities of Arthur, Arcola, Tuscola and Sullivan are home to about 4,500 conservative, rural Amish who strive to “be not conformed to this world.”

photo byDiana Linsley


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IllInoIs AmIsh Country

Make Your NextGet-A-Wayto the ArthurAmish Country... and Let Us Take You Inside!Gift ShopGuided Country Toursmeals In Amish HomesAmish Home TourAmish Farm TourWoodworking Shop Tour

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228 SOUTH VINE ST., ARTHUR, IL 61911217-5432312

ELI’s New Cheese & More

Monthly 3rd Saturday Craft MarketsJune 4-5 Arthur’s Strawberry Jam

July 3rd Freedom Celebration July 12-17 Moultrie-Douglas County Fair

August 28 Mennonite Relief Sale

Plus many more auctions, sales, benefits, smaller events and activities every week.

Arthur-Amish Country Visitor Center106 E. Progress

Arthur, IL [email protected]

1-800-722-6474

www.IllinoisAmishCountry.comExperience the Real Illinois Amish Life

Visit the Arthur Amish Shops. Country groceries, quilt and fabric shops, bakeries, orchards and fruitstands, woodworking shops and more. All are uni-que opportunities to interact directly with Amish shopkeepers and find special treasures to take home.

Enjoy a hearty meal right in an Amish home. Let your Amish hostess serve you a hearty family style meal right in her own kitchen. But you will need to pace yourself. This traditional meal will fill you up before you get to the home made pies for dessert!

www.ACMTours.com

Amish Adventures250 S. Vine, Arthur, IL

1-866-543-2734www.amishadventures.net

E-mail: [email protected]

WORLD FAMOUS SODAS

Hours:Mon. - Fri. 8-6 • Sat 8-5:30

217-543-2913

DICK’S PHARMACYMODERN PHARMACY

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118 S. VINE ST. • ARTHUR, IL

Miller’s

Rythym ClocksRubber Art Stamps

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Advertising Items

downtown Arthur214 S. Vine St. - Arthur, IL 61911Phone: 217-543-2108 Fax: 217-543-2110

Visa/Mastercard acceptedOpen: M-F 8:30 - 5:00 / Sat. 8:00 - 5:00

Eli L. Schrock, owner

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www.countrycheeseandmore.net

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The day starts when you want.And ends when you want.

And in between, there are things to do.And try. And taste. If you want.

Or, you could take your cue from the Amishwho still travel our brick roads by horse and buggyand enjoy life at a much slower pace.

In a town time forgot, but you’ll always rememberas the place you finally turned off your cell phoneand discovered what it’s like to connect.

On I-57.Far from the beaten path.

For lodging information, visit arcolachamber.com

LIFE. unplugged.

Photos courtesy Richard Herschberger

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