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WELCOME TO THE 2025 ADULT BUS TRIP SEASON!

Get inspired by new experiences, destinations, cultures and cuisines. Take this opportunity to expand your knowledge and step out of your comfort zone, while building long-lasting connections with fellow travelers. 

Here at the Y, our core values are caring, honesty, respect and responsibility, and we do our best to provide programming and an atmosphere that reflects these values. Trips are developed by the ForeverWell Department and are designed for a wide range of interests, ages, activity and mobility levels. Two-tiered pricing for one-day trips reflects a discount that is given to our YMCA of the Fox Cities’ members.

Transportation for most trips (unless otherwise noted) is a deluxe motorcoach. These buses come with the following amenities:

  • Restroom
  • Climate control
  • Reading lamps
  • Extra head and legroom
  • Passenger windows offer a panoramic view
  • Plush-covered, reclining seats
  • High-capacity cargo bays
  • Above-head storage space

VIEW FULL BROCHURE


Here are the answers to the most popular questions asked by our participants.

BUS TRIP FAQs

 

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

A paid registration is necessary to secure a seat for any trip. Trips may fill quickly, so register early. Please confirm that the Y has your current address, phone number and e-mail contact information.

REGISTRATION FOR ONE DAY TRIPS

Registration begins February 17 for all one-day trips. Detailed information for each registered trip will be emailed out in the form of a confirmation letter prior to the trip date. You can register:

  • In-person with cash, check or credit card at any YMCA of the Fox Cities location.
  • Online anytime at ymcafoxcities.org with a credit card (VISA, MasterCard, Discover).

REGISTRATION FOR OVERNIGHT TRIPS

We partner with various organizations to provide extended trip opportunities. For more information regarding your options, contact Kate Yates at 920.886.2105, or kyates@ymcafoxcities.org. You can also view your options on our website at ymcafoxcities.org/foreverwell.

Prior to the trip, a mandatory pre-trip meeting will take place at a YMCA branch, to go over final details.

CANCELLATION POLICY

FOR ONE DAY TRIPS

UP TO 2 WEEKS BEFORE TRIP DATE

  • Refund for most/all monies paid*

LESS THAN 2 WEEKS BEFORE TRIP DATE

  • No refund given

ILLNESS OR INJURY (MEDICAL)

  • Refund issued as a System Credit** for most/all monies paid* with a summited signed doctor’s note

INCLEMENT WEATHER

  • No refunds if the bus is able to travel and the attractions are not closed
  • If the transportation company determines that it is unsafe to transport passengers the trip may be rescheduled and/or a credit will be issued

*Charges pre-paid by the Y, such as, but not limited to, theater tickets or cruise tickets are non-refundable and will not be included in the refund.
**System Credit can be used for all future Y programming or trips.

FOR OVERNIGHT TRIPS

Detailed information for each trip's cancellation policy will vary. 


UNDERSTANDING ACTIVITY LEVELS

Activity levels for each trip vary, and can range from lightly active, moderately active, and very active. We have indicated the activity level next to each trip. While these levels are determined by our team, please remember that you know your limitations best. Please reach out if you have any questions.

Light activity level

 

LIGHTLY ACTIVE

Moderate activity level

 

MODERATELY ACTIVE

Very active

 

VERY ACTIVE


PLEASE NOTE: REGISTRATION WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE UNTIL MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2025.

APRIL/MAY TRIPS

DESTINATION KOHLER | Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Very active

We will begin our day at the John Michael Kohler Arts Center. On a guided tour of the Art Center, we will learn about their contemporary art exhibitions in eight galleries which change based on themes. We will also tour their award-winning artist-designed washrooms and their outdoor sculpture gardens. After our tour you will have time to browse the museum store where you’ll discover artist-designed jewelry, toys, gifts, books, handbags, stationery, clothing and more. We will then have a buffet lunch in the Arts Center Café.

Next we will be transported to the Art Preserve and take another guided tour. The Preserve offers a one-of-a-kind art museum focusing entirely on work from artist-built environments—spaces and places that have been significantly transformed by an artist. With over thirty-five art environments, you can immerse yourself in entire worlds constructed by artists and glimpse thousands of pieces of art in visible, curated storage.

We will end our day in Kohler wandering through The Shops at Woodlake. Here you can peek into some of the 20 boutiques and specialty shops featuring fashionable men’s and women’s apparel, unique collectibles, tasteful home furnishings and contemporary design stores. 

Travel home immersed in the sights and experiences from your day.

REGISTER TODAY

Includes: deluxe transportation, lunch, cruise and gratuities


WINE, CHOCOLATE AND ARTISAN CHEESE TOUR
Wednesday, May 21, 2025 AND Thursday, May 22, 2025

Moderate activity level

Welcome to Door County Trolley’s Wine, Chocolate and Artisan Cheese tour where we’ll explore the delectable flavors of Door County. We’ll visit a local winery, chocolatier, and enjoy an artisan cheese tasting. You’ll sample award-winning wines, handmade chocolate treats, and locally made cheeses. You’ll also have the opportunity to purchase your favorite wines, chocolates and cheeses to take home with you. The tour includes a cozy trolley ride, with a sit-down lunch at a restaurant along the way. A day of indulgence and, throughout the day, you’ll have time to enjoy the spring blossoms and waterscapes.

REGISTER TODAY - May 21

REGISTER TODAY - May 22

Includes: deluxe transportation, trolley tour, lunch and gratuities

JUNE TRIPS

MILWAUKEE BREWERS SENIOR STROLL DAY | Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Moderate activity level

It’s the Y’s ever popular trip to Milwaukee to root for our home team. Head to American Family Field for a game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Atlanta Braves. It’s a classic summertime activity, so let’s go out to the ballgame!

Lunch is on your own, you can choose ballpark food or bring a bag lunch to enjoy. You are allowed to bring in sealed beverages and personal sized food items at this time. Then it’s “Play Ball,” so take in the game along with the sights, sounds and smells of the stadium.

Our shaded group seats are located in the Loge Infield Boxes. The stadium is large and there are some steps to negotiate getting to your seat.

Also, if you would like to bring a child under the age of 16, please contact the ForeverWell Department. GO BREW CREW!

REGISTER TODAY

Includes: deluxe transportation, game ticket and all gratuities


CRUISE THE BAY | Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Moderate activity level

Our first stop on this Door County trip will be at the popular Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant. The restaurant is famously known for having goats on its renowned green sod roof. This tradition started in 1973. Today, Al Johnsons keeps several dozen goats on a Sister Bay farm. Enjoy your lunch while being entertained by these delightful characters.

Next, after some free time in Sister Bay, we will depart on a 2-hour boat cruise to Death’s Door from Sister Bay Marina where you will immerse yourself in the fascinating human history and stunning scenery, both natural and man-made. The journey starts with a leisurely cruise along the north shore of Sister Bay, where you’ll witness some of the best man-made beauty this county has to offer. As we continue north towards Door Bluff Headland Park and into Gills Rock, you will hear captivating stories of Northern Door County’s rich commercial fishing heritage, tales of the Lake’s historical shipwrecks, and even the fascinating story of the historic Death’s Door battle between local tribes that gave rise to the waterways’ title.

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey! Come and join us for an adventure you won’t forget!

REGISTER TODAY

Includes: deluxe transportation, lunch, cruise and gratuities

JULY TRIPS

CALLING ALL GARDENERS | Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Very active

Your day will start out at Allen Centennial Garden located on the University of Wisconsin campus. Allen Centennial Garden is the artful living laboratory and public botanical garden of the Horticulture Department at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The Garden serves as an outdoor classroom for UW-Madison students and the surrounding communities, providing meaningful learning opportunities for visitors of all ages.

Next, dine at the Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co., where you’ll have several delicious entrees to choose from! 

Then, spend the afternoon at Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison. We will start by taking a guided tour of the outside gardens. Then, we will explore the Blooming Butterflies exhibit housed in the Bolz Conservatory. You will have the opportunity to make connections with these fluttering friends while learning about the butterfly life cycle. You may also have the opportunity to witness a butterfly emerge from a chrysalis!

Travel home thinking of all the new perennials you will add to your 2026 garden!

REGISTER TODAY

Includes: deluxe transportation, lunch, tours and gratuities


PENINSULA PLAYERS PRESENTS - MISERY | Sunday, July 27, 2025

Moderate activity level

Spend the morning in Fish Creek; while enjoying shopping, dining and arts in the heart of Wisconsin’s Door Peninsula! There is a unique variety of locally-owned-and-operated stores throughout this walkable charming town. Lunch is on your own with countless dining options from gourmet to simple.

Next, you’ll enjoy a matinee show at Peninsula Players Theater, a professional theatrical treasure, presenting Broadway-quality performances. This afternoon the Peninsula Players presents Misery based on Steven King’s suspenseful novel. After a car accident, famous novelist Paul Sheldon wakes up in the home of his “number one fan,” Annie Wilkes. Discovering Paul has killed off her favorite character (Misery Chastain), Annie tries to coax him into writing a new novel to bring her back. Concerned he may be more prisoner than patient, Paul writes as if his life depends on it - and perhaps it does. William Goldman, award winning screen writer and playwright, creates a spellbinding blend of humor and horror as he unwinds this exciting story. Join us in for a memorable day in Door County!

REGISTER TODAY

Includes: deluxe transportation, show ticket and gratuities

AUGUST TRIPS

A DAY AT THE FAIR | Wednesday, August 6, 2025
ALL AGES WELCOME (with accompanying adult)

Very active

Gather up your friends, children, and grandchildren for the great Wisconsin State Fair!

This trip is both convenient and fun. Enjoy the entire day on your own to explore everything the fair has to offer. Choose to see things like agriculture displays, a variety of farm animals, textiles and crafting, culinary judging, numerous entertainment stages, Expo Center demonstrations and much more. The fair even includes a circus! Do not forget about the famous food! The fair boasts over 35 different foods on a stick, roasted corn, on the cob, homemade lemonade and the ever-popular State Fair Cream Puffs! At the end of the day, the bus till be waiting to take you home.

Relax as you think about everything you saw, did and tasted throughout the day.

REGISTER TODAY

Includes: deluxe transportation, State Fair Admission and gratuities


WILD TIME AT THE ZOO | Wednesday, August 20, 2025
ALL AGES WELCOME (with accompanying adult)

Very active

If you enjoy leisurely strolls through the zoo and want to learn more about the animals you see, consider joining us for a day at the Milwaukee County Zoo! Visit over 3,100 mammals, birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles in specialized habitats spanning 190 wooded acres. Enjoy free time to explore your favorite exhibits.

We will reserve a picnic area for you to enjoy your lunch and join a Conservation Conversation to learn about conservation work at the zoo and have an opportunity to ask questions of a zoo expert. Come along and walk on the wild side!

REGISTER TODAY

Includes: deluxe transportation, zoo admission and gratuities

SEPTEMBER TRIPS

GENEVA LAKE CRUISE & BLACK POINT ESTATES | Wednesday, September 10, 2025

Moderate activity level

Dedicate a fall day to exploring Lake Geneva and its beautiful surroundings. When you arrive, you will have one-hour of free time to acclimate yourself to the quaint downtown area. Stop in the visitor center, explore Riviera Beach and Library Park, take a peek in the many shops and coffee houses, or spend time exploring a segment of the famous Lake Geneva Shore Path.

Next, you’ll board the Lake Geneva Cruise Lines for lunch and a full lake tour. Lunch will be served on the main deck in a climate-controlled environment. While enjoying lunch you will see the entire 20-mile shoreline of Lake Geneva and hear all the history that has made this area famous. Learn about how many wealthy Chicagoans made this area their summer retreat in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s and see how many of those mansions and estates remain. The tour includes all the famous sights that gave the area the name “Newport of the West”.

We will end our day in Lake Geneva with a tour of Black Point Estate. A docent from the estate will board our bus and introduce us to the estate as we make the short drive to the property. Upon arrival, enjoy a look inside this historic property built for Chicago Beer Baron Conrad Seipp in 1888 as a retreat, and in that spirit the home remains a place to relax, refresh and explore. This magnificent mansion is considered one of the finest examples of period architecture and furniture in the Midwest and is one of the oldest homes in Lake Geneva. Join us for a true Lake Geneva experience!

REGISTER TODAY

Includes: deluxe transportation, cruise, lunch, estate tour and gratuities


CHICAGO YOUR WAY | Saturday, September 13, 2025

Very active

Travel to Chicago and spend the day anyway you choose! Pick your favorite museum or visit a museum you’ve not been to before. Purchase your passes in advance for most museums and avoid the longest lines. Watch marine life at Shedd Aquarium. If the air is clear, head to the top of the Willis Tower for a spectacular panorama that allows you to see into four states. Shop and play on Navy Pier. Ride up to “94” in the Hancock Building and experience Tilt – if you dare! Imitate the animals at the Lincoln Park Zoo. You can take a Segway tour along the lakeshore or board one of the Lake Michigan cruise boats for water views or an architecture tour. If you’re a shopper, knock yourself out on State Street or Michigan Avenue. Enjoy an upscale meal, a vendor cart experience or bring your brown bag lunch to enjoy in the breeze at one of the parks along the lakeshore. Contact a friend and spend the day together. Head to the theater district for a matinee performance. Chicago neighborhoods all have something to offer. You’ll have 7-8 hours in the city to do whatever suits you.

There will be one drop-off and pick-up location centrally located in the city near the Chicago Cultural Center and Millennium Park.

Travel back to the Fox Cities remembering the sights and sounds of the city!

REGISTER TODAY

Includes: deluxe transportation and gratuities

OCTOBER AND DECEMBER TRIPS

GHOST TOUR OF DOOR COUNTY
Wednesday, October 8, 2025 AND Thursday, October 9, 2025

Light activity level

We will begin our evening excursion at Door County Trolley and embark on their Ghost Tour. We will step aboard the “Trolley of the Doomed” as we hear tales of ghostly sunken ships, haunted lighthouses and mysterious happenings on the darker side of this spirited peninsula. There is a reason this tour was showcased in USA Today, Chicago Tribune, Midwest Living Magazine! Join our scary, fun, and informative filled tour that is truly one of a kind.

After our tour, we will stop at The Log Den for dinner. This log cabin-style restaurant was designed and constructed by the Lautenbach family, who owns and operates it to this day. Between dairy farming, crop farming, logging, and construction, it took roughly ten years to complete. The Log Den has been serving the Door County community since 2007.

Head back to the valley with all the spirit of Halloween!

REGISTER TODAY - October 8

REGISTER TODAY - October 9

Includes: deluxe transportation, tours, dinner and gratuities


FIRESIDE DINNER THEATER - IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE | Thursday, December 11, 2025

Light activity level

The story of George Bailey and his wonderful life in Bedford Falls has brought hope and inspiration to every heart with its celebration of the goodness in all of us. The Fireside is proud to bring you this stunning, live-stage version of Frank Capra’s beloved film. Written by Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning lyricist Sheldon Harnick, one of the creators of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, and Grammy and Emmy Award winner Joe Raposo whose music from SESAME STREET inspired generations of young people, A WONDERFUL LIFE captures all the magic of the film as it shines with the spirit of Christmas. Join us at The Fireside for this unforgettable musical version of a classic Christmas tale and a delicious meal!

REGISTER TODAY

Includes: deluxe transportation, cruise, lunch, estate tour and gratuities