Music, Memories, and Wright!

Explore iconic landmarks and uncover timeless stories of Meredith Willson, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Mason City’s rich history in this 3-day itinerary.

DAY ONE

Morning

Begin your journey with a tour of the Cannonball No. 457, the last remaining Minneapolis & St. Louis Railway steam locomotive. Restored to its original glory, it offers a fascinating glimpse into railway history. Continue to the Charles H. MacNider Art Museum, a beautifully restored 1920s Tudor Revival home showcasing a diverse collection of American art, including works by Grant Wood, Thomas Hart Benton, and other Iowa artists. Don’t miss the Bil Baird puppet collection, featuring his famous creations from The Sound of Music.

Afternoon

Dive into the story of Mason City’s beloved hometown composer, Meredith Willson, at his boyhood home. Then, step into The Music Man at The Music Man Square, where replica sets, memorabilia, and musical history await. Stroll along the charming 1912 streetscape and enjoy a treat at the nostalgic Ice Cream Parlor.

Evening

Check into your hotel and prepare for a delightful evening of dinner and entertainment in Mason City or Clear Lake. Savor local cuisine and perhaps catch live music or a holiday event to cap off your day.

DAY TWO

Morning

Explore the rich architectural heritage of Mason City with a tour of the Rock Crest-Rock Glen Historic District, home to the largest grouping of Prairie School Architecture on a unified site. Learn about Frank Lloyd Wright’s impact on the city with visits to the Stockman House and the Architectural Interpretive Center for an in-depth look at his designs.

Afternoon

Step back in time at the Historic Park Inn Hotel, the world’s last remaining Frank Lloyd Wright-designed hotel. Discover the beauty of restored spaces like the Skylight Room, the Ladies Parlor, and the Gentlemen’s Lounge on a guided tour. Continue to the Kinney Pioneer Museum, where you’ll relive frontier life through vintage exhibits, a pioneer village, and craft demonstrations. End the afternoon with a visit to the Surf Ballroom & Museum, the iconic final concert site of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson.

Evening

End the day with a scenic excursion aboard the Lady of the Lake paddlewheel boat. Enjoy breathtaking views of the sunset over the lake—a perfect close to a memorable day.

DAY THREE

Morning

Kick off your final day with a visit to Winnebago Industries, where you’ll see the craftsmanship behind recreational vehicles at the largest motorhome production facility. Explore the fascinating history of firefighting at the Clear Lake Fire Museum, home to an impressive collection of vintage fire trucks, equipment, and memorabilia. Then, unwind at Central Gardens, a 2.75-acre oasis featuring 22 themed gardens, water features, and the picturesque Moongate Theatre Steps.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring downtown Mason City’s specialty shops and retail stores, perfect for finding unique gifts and souvenirs. For art enthusiasts, take a self-guided tour of the River City Sculptures on Parade, featuring 80+ stunning outdoor sculptures. On your journey home, enjoy a viewing of The Music Man video aboard the coach, reliving the magic of Mason City’s most famous production. 

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