CARS, BOATS, TRAINS, & RVs… OH MY!
DAY ONE
Morning
The Cannonball No. 457 is the first stop of the day where the group will learn about the last remaining Minneapolis & St. Louis Railway steam locomotive. Mason City is also home to the only remaining electric freight-hauling railroad in the entire United States. Running parallel to the Iowa Terminal electric railroad, guests can see this one of kind train in operation on almost any day of the week. Next, a wonderful tour of the Kinney Pioneer Museum where the group will relive the memories of days gone by. View the Colby Car, once manufactured in Mason City and the other cars and farm equipment of the past. Plus, demonstrations of pioneer crafts and trades including weaving, broom making and radio deejay.
Afternoon
Cruise over to Clear Lake and board the Lady of the Lake, a paddlewheel vessel perfect for an afternoon excursion. Save your appetite for a picnic style lunch served aboard the vessel.
Evening
Check into the Mason City lodging property of your choice and prepare to be entertained by the Mason City Community Theater. Get ready to applaud as you enjoy the talents of community members as they perform a wide array of productions. Another option would be to take in a production of the North Iowa Performing Arts Series. The entertainment lineup offers something for everyone including national touring productions featuring cultural dancing, award winning musicals, motivational speakers, and holiday events for the entire family.
DAY TWO
Morning
First stop of the day will be at Winnebago Industries where the group will witness the production of recreational vehicles at the largest motor home production facility. What, wind power in Iowa? Your group will learn about the 55 wind turbines at the Cerro Gordo Wind Farm. These structures are mounted on 237-foot tall tubular towers. The facility represents a growing effort to meet America’s energy needs with clean, reliable and economical electricity generated in harmony with the environment. The wind farms energy is equivalent to electricity consumed by 30,000 typical Midwest homes. This unique self guided tour will amaze your group as you discover how homes are powered by these “gentle giants”.
Afternoon
The group will then uncover the story about Mason City’s famous hometown son, Meredith Willson, author of “The Music Man”. The group will tour the Meredith Willson Boyhood Home to learn more about the man behind the music. Next, enjoyThe Music Man Square featuring replica set designs from “The Music Man “and the Meredith Willson Museum bursting with musical history, movie clips, instruments, memorabilia and great stories to tell. The group will also enjoy a tasty treat at the Ice Cream Parlor located along Music Man Square’s beautiful indoor 1912 streetscape.