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Each trip has a designation of a yellow N or a blue S at the top. Trips marked with the  are Northern trips and will generally have pick up locations from LaSalle/Peru north. Trips marked with the  are Southern trips and will generally have pick up locations from LaSalle/Peru south. Please be sure to check pick up locations at the bottom of each trip description before registering, as this is where you will need to meet the bus for departure.
2023 DAY TRIPS
 Tuesday, April 18, 2023
PRISON, PULPITS & POOR BOYS
We begin our day by visiting the Joliet Area Historical Museum. This museum occupies the space formerly known as the Ottawa Street Methodist Church. This interactive museum celebrates themes and experiences of people who settled in the Joliet area, including the Route 66 Experience, War Heroes Gallery, permanent gallery, temporary gallery and gift shop. See the new, 2-story exhibit that celebrates space exploration and the Apollo missions—The Soaring Achievements of John C. Houbolt, a Joliet native!
Next, we will enjoy lunch at the iconic Merichka’s restaurant in Crest Hill. Merichka’s opened on April 18, 1933 when prohibition was repealed. They are famous for their Poorboy, a garlic seasoned cube steak sandwich. After 89 years of operation, the 3rd and 4th generation of family are still operating the restaurant. Our limited menu options include a half-fried chicken, Poorboy steak sandwich, Yodel Burger, Icelandic Cod or Fried Jumbo Shrimp.
Finally, we will visit the infamous Joliet Prison. Opened in 1858, just six years after the incorporation of the City of Joliet, the Illinois State Penitentiary, now known simply as the “Old Joliet Prison,” has, for better or worse, been synonymous with the City of Joliet. The Joliet Prison, with its iconic castellated gothic architecture was designed by Chicago’s earliest architect W.W. Boyington, who also designed the Chicago Water Tower. The Prison is probably best known today for its most popular, albeit fictional inmate – “Joliet Jake” Blues from the 1980 film The Blues Brothers. Since then, the Prison has made a number of appearances in films in television, including as the character of “Fox River State Penitentiary” in the critically acclaimed Fox series Prison Break, and in smaller scenes in Derailed, Let’s Go to Prison, and recently, Empire. We will enjoy a 90-minute walking tour of this 15-acre property, led by actual prison guards who worked at the prison while it was still in operation. You will hear about the daily life at the prison during their time there—a more personal take on the site’s history. We will visit the East and West Cell Houses, North Segregation, Cafeteria, Chapel and Honor Dorm on this tour.
WAIT LIST ONLY.
Please note—adult themes and language are used on this tour and closed toed walking shoes are recommended as this is an un-restored site with uneven walking surfaces in some areas. Tours are held regardless of weather and the buildings are not climate controlled. The site is not completely ADA compliant but around 70% of the tour is accessible to all patrons.
Cost: $100 per person. Cancellations will be refunded ONLY if we are able to fill your vacancy.
Fee includes: Transportation, guided tour of prison and entrance into history museum, lunch, all associated taxes and tips.
Pick up: 8:00 a.m. Mendota First State Bank Parking Lot - 706 Washington St., Mendota / 8:30 a.m. Flying J - 343 Civic Rd., LaSalle
Tuesday, May 23, 2023
ALL HANDS ON DECK!
Experience the best of Chicago with an architectural lunch cruise and spend your afternoon on the Chicago River with dining, picturesque views, and a narrated architectural tour of the city. While onboard, you’ll enjoy chef-prepared plated menus, distinctive service, and breathtaking views from the climate-controlled interior and open-air outdoor deck. The Architectural Lunch Cruise offers the best views of Chicago with an accompanying narrated tour highlighting the history of the city from the water.
Following our cruise, we will step back in time with a visit to the Historic Pullman District. The model industrial town of Pullman, Illinois had its beginning on May 26, 1880. This town was the physical expression of an idea born and nurtured in the mind of George M. Pullman (1831–1897), president of Pullman’s Palace Car Company. We will begin the tour in the Exhibit Hall, which houses exhibits on Pullman, providing an interpretive look at the town of Pullman, the Pullman Palace Car Company and their founder, George M. Pullman. Next, we will take a walk around town to view the original buildings of the town. Almost the entire original 1880’s housing still stands today. Our docent-guided tour will provide history about the district, its architecture, and the landmark historic community today.
Join us for an enjoyable afternoon in the Windy City!
Please note, the Pullman portion of the trip is a walking tour. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
Cost: $150 per person
Fee includes: Motor coach transportation, lunch cruise, Pullman walking tour, all associated taxes and tips. Cancellations will be refunded only if we are able to fill your vacancy.
Pick up: Flying J LaSalle at 9:15 a.m., Mendota Civic Center at 9:30 a.m., Rochelle Petro at 10:15 a.m. We will return to LaSalle at approximately 8:30 p.m., Mendota at 8:45 p.m., Rochelle at 9:30 p.m.
Friday, June 9, 2023
LEGENDS IN CONCERT - DIRECT FROM LONDON
What makes a performer a legend? It’s that certain something that makes them shine brighter than all the rest, that enduring talent that makes their popularity live on around the world. Join us for an exclusive Midwest engagement of a brand new Legends In Concert – Direct from London at the Fireside Dinner Theatre! It’s all there – The Sound! The Look! The Glamour! The Magic! Featuring tributes to legendary British superstars of yesterday and today – Freddie Mercury, Adele, Rod Stewart, Elton John, and Dusty Springfield – with a four-piece band and performers so gifted, you’ll swear the real thing is right before your very eyes.
Before the show you will have a chance to browse through the Fireside Gift Shops, featuring unique and whimsical gifts for every taste, and pick up some fresh bakery items from the Fireside’s Artisan Bakery. Your delicious lunch choices for this show include Chicken Cordon Bleu, Steak Diane or Grilled Shrimp. Be ready to make your menu selection when you call to reserve your spot!
WAIT LIST ONLY.
Cost: $120 per person
Fee includes: Motor coach transportation, lunch, show, all associated taxes and tips. Cancellations will be refunded only if we are able to fill your vacancy.
Pick up: LaSalle Flying J at 8:00 a.m., Mendota Civic Center at 8:20 a.m., Rochelle Petro at 9:00 a.m. Return to Rochelle at approximately 5:35 p.m., Mendota at 6:15 p.m. and LaSalle at 6:35 p.m.
Thursday, July 6, 2023
CHICAGO CUBS AT MILLER PARK
Come along with us to cheer on the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs! Don’t fight the Chicago traffic or park miles away from the stadium and forget where your car is parked! Instead ride along with Vista Club to Miller Park in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to see the Cubbies take on the Brewers. Don’t worry about cool temperatures or rain —in case of inclement weather, Miller Park’s fan-shaped roof can close in less than 10 minutes. We will have the same great seats as last year! When you work up an appetite cheering on the Cubs, delicious concessions and cold beverages are steps away from our seats! While at the game, we will enjoy traditions only experienced at Miller Park, like the 6th inning Sausage Races. Cheer on your favorite sausage: the Bratwurst, the Polish, the Italian, the Hot Dog or the Chorizo. Get your vocal cords ready — during the 7th inning stretch not only will we sing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” we will also sing “Roll Out the Barrel” saluting Milwaukee’s beer-making history! We may be sitting in Brewer Country, but we will be singing “Go Cubs Go”!
Cost: $95 per person
Fee includes: Admission to game, transportation, taxes and tips. Food and Beverage purchase will be on your own. Cancellations will be refunded only if we are able to fill your vacancy.
Pick up: Depart LaSalle Flying J at 8:30 a.m., Mendota Civic Center at 9:00 a.m., Rochelle Petro at 9:45 a.m. We will return immediately after the game is won!
Wednesday, August 23, 2023
MJ - THE MUSICAL
The music. The showmanship. The icon. Now, the unparalleled artistry of the greatest entertainer of all time comes to Chicago as MJ, the Tony Award®-winning new musical centering on the making of Michael Jackson’s 1993 Dangerous World Tour, begins a tour of its own. Created by Tony Award®-winning Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ offers not just Michael Jackson’s singular moves and signature sound, but also a thrilling glimpse into the creative spirit and obsessive mind that created the biggest pop superstar the world has ever known.
Before the show, we will enjoy a delicious lunch at the Italian Village. Lunch choices include Eggplant Parmesan or Lasagna. Be ready to make your menu selection when you call to register. Please note: the Italian Village has 27 steps to reach the dining area with no elevator.
Join Vista Club as we experience the national tour premiere of MJ-The Musical!
LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE!
Cost: $145 per person
Fee includes: Motor coach transportation, show (lower balcony seating), lunch at Italian Village, all associated taxes and tips. Cancellations will be refunded only if we are able to fill your vacancy.
Pick up: 8:30 a.m. LaSalle Flying J, 8:50 a.m. Mendota Civic Center, 9:40 a.m. Rochelle Petro. We will return to Rochelle at approximately 6:30 p.m., Mendota at 7:10 p.m. and LaSalle at 7:30 p.m.
 Monday, September 18, 2023
MUSEUM DAY
Ever have the urge to travel to Chicago to visit some of the museums, but feel overwhelmed with the hassle of driving, paying for parking and fighting traffic? Let Vista Club take the worry out of the day for you! This trip will make drop off and pick ups at various museums during the day. No museum tickets will be purchased (all of this will be on your own) and should you wish to do something other than the museums, feel free to grab an Uber or Taxi and spend the day however you choose—just be sure to be back at the pick up location when the bus returns!
Bus Schedule (bus schedules are approximate and could vary slightly depending upon traffic):
10:00 a.m. Drop off at Museum Campus Area
- Field Museum (9 a.m.—5 p.m.)
- Shedd Aquarium (9 a.m.—5 p.m.)
- Adler Planetarium (9 a.m.—4 p.m.)
10:10 a.m. Drop off at Art Institute (11 a.m.—5 p.m.)
10:20 a.m. Drop off at Navy Pier (11 a.m.—8 p.m.)
5:00 p.m. Pick up at Navy Pier
5:10 p.m. Pick up at Art Institute
5:20 p.m. Pick up at Museum Campus Area
Please note: Museum hours listed were valid at the time of the printing of this document. Please double check hours of operation prior to finalizing your plans for the day. Many museums have discounts for educators, veterans, etc., and can be purchased online ahead of time. Please check each website to determine what discounts are available.
Cost: $55 per person
Fee includes: Motor coach transportation and driver tip only. All other expenses for the day will be on your own. Cancellations will be refunded only if we are able to fill your vacancy.
Pick up: 6:50 a.m. Schnuck's Normal, 7:30 a.m. America's Best Wenona, 8:00 a.m. Flying J LaSalle. Return at approximately 8:00 p.m. to LaSalle, 8:30 p.m. to Wenona, 9:10 p.m. to Normal
 Friday, October 20, 2023
FALL FOLIAGE ON THE CELEBRATION BELLE
Imagine yourself cruising down the Mississippi, admiring the colors of nature all around you. Beautiful scenery abounds as you float up and down the river while in the background the great sounds of music from the 40’s to the present. Sit back, listen, and even dance to the sounds of your favorite tunes. Big Band, Country, and Rock and Roll, it’s all there. Don’t forget your cameras to capture the scenic views!
Our cruise will begin with a hot lunch buffet followed by an enjoyable afternoon on the water. 2023 is the 40th season for the Celebration Belle, a 750- passenger paddlewheel boat, specifically designed for cruising the waterways of the great Mississippi River!
Join VISTA Club for this relaxing and colorful afternoon!
Cost: $125 per person
Fee includes: Motor coach transportation, lunch cruise, all associated taxes and tips.
Pick up: 7:30 a.m. Schnuck’s Normal, 8:15 a.m. America’s Best Wenona, 8:45 a.m. Flying J LaSalle. Return to LaSalle at approximately 4:30 p.m., Wenona at 5:00 p.m., Normal at 5:45 p.m.
 Wednesday, November 15, 2023
BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROL KING MUSICAL
Beautiful is the inspiring true story of Carole King's remarkable journey from teenage songwriter to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. From the chart-topping hits she wrote for the biggest acts in music to her own life-changing, trailblazing solo album, Beautiful takes you back to where it all began — and takes you on the ride of a lifetime. Featuring such unforgettable classics as "You've Got a Friend," "One Fine Day," "So Far Away,” "Take Good Care of My Baby," "Up on the Roof," "You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling," "Will You Love Me Tomorrow," and "Natural Woman," this Tony and Grammy Award-winning musical phenomenon is filled with the songs you remember and a story you'll never forget!
Before the show we will enjoy lunch at the theatre. Menu options include Garlic Crusted Pork Loin or Herb Crusted Salmon with Red Pepper Sauce. Either option will include salad, vegetables and dessert. Be ready to make your lunch selection when you call to register.
On our way back home, we will make a stop at the Long Grove Confectionery Factory Store in Buffalo Grove. This store is full of delectable chocolate and candy—a perfect time to stock up on your favorite items for the holidays!
Join VISTA Club for a “beautiful” afternoon out with friends!
Cost: $130 per person
Fee includes: Motor coach transportation, lunch, performance, all associated taxes and tips.
Pick up: LaSalle Flying J at 7:45 a.m., Mendota Civic Center at 8:00 a.m., Rochelle Petro at 8:45 a.m., Woodman’s North Aurora 9:45 a.m. Return to N Aurora at approximately 6:00 p.m., Rochelle at 6:40 p.m., Mendota at 7:20 p.m. and LaSalle at 7:35 p.m.
Sunday, December 3, 2023
HOW THE BARN STOLE CHRISTMAS
THE BARN IS BACK! Since 1975, the Conklin’s Barn (later known as the Barn II) has been hosting generations of theatergoers. And now the Barn III is diving into all your favorite Christmas movies in this hilarious spoof on one classic tale involving a big, green grump and his dislike of the holidays! Join The Conklin Players and this “chartreuse curmudgeon” as he attempts to thwart the plots of your favorite Christmas films! Will he succeed? Or will these loveable characters show him the true meaning of Christmas before it’s too late? Come celebrate the holidays with us classic Barn III style!
Prior to the show we will enjoy an amazing meal featuring Applewood Smoked Pork Loin along with the Barn’s other traditional favorites. A beverage package has also been included so you will be able to enjoy soft drinks, cocktails, house wine (signature wine excluded) or beer with your meal.
Don’t be a Grinch...get into the holiday spirit with your friends from the Vista Club!
Cost: $110 per person
Fee includes: Performance, lunch, transportation, 2 beverages, taxes and tips. Cancellations will be refunded only if we are able to fill your vacancy.
Pick up: Depart Rochelle Petro at 9:00 a.m., Mendota Civic Center at 9:40 a.m., LaSalle Flying J at 10:00 a.m. We will depart for home from the Barn at approximately 3:30 p.m., returning to LaSalle at approximately 4:40 p.m., Mendota at 5:00 p.m. and Rochelle at 5:40 p.m.
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