Enter the Backyard Excursions Mystery Destination Contest

Information provided on
this website and in our publications is as current as possible at time of inclusion.
It is suggested that you always call ahead to confirm dates, times and locations before planning any trips.

1. Family memories are created every day at the Mystery Destination—here is their mascot, Willie the Dragon. (Posted on 9/2)

2. You can roll and bake your own pretzel every day at the Mystery Destination. (Posted on 9/11)

3. Have a splash blast with the whole family in one of the five indoor pools and three whirlpools. (Posted on 9/18)

4. The lobby was built to create an old world European feel welcoming guests from near and far. (Posted on 9/25)

5. With over 40 unique shops and boutiques, the Mystery Destination is a premier spot for antiques and gifts. (Posted on 10/1)

6. "All aboard!" an authentic Stern paddlewheel vessel and take a cruise down the river near the Mystery Destination. (Posted on 10/10)

7. The Mystery Destination has the largest Family Fun Center of any midwest hotel with 100+ video and redemption games, air hockey and pool tables. (Posted on 10/17)

8. Nearby you will find thirteen beautiful acres of riverfront gardens, grounds and streams. (Posted on 10/24)

9. Year after year, visitors return to feast on the world-famous “all-you-can-eat” family-style chicken dinners. (Posted on 10/31)

10. The original German word "glockenspiel" is literally translated into English as "bells play". The Glockenspiel is this area's famous icon. (Posted on 11/7)

11. "Holz BrückeHolzs Brickay" means a "covered wooden bridge" and the Mystery Destination is home to the only known covered bridge with dormers. (Posted on 11/14)

12. Family-owned and run for four generations, this European-themed location is this area's #1 tourist attraction. (Posted on 11/21 - Final clue)

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Can you guess where Pete, the Backyard Excursions’ Mystery PI, is?

Need Some Help?

Remember, our mystery destination IS listed in the current issue of the Backyard Excursions Travel Ideas Resource Guide. Click on the cover image to review the digital version of the guide.

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Backyard Excursions is a travel idea resource guide providing a rich variety of destinations and attractions in the Great Lake states including Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Wisconsin and Illinois. Discover great vacation ideas including family activities, romantic getaways, accommodations, entertainment, shopping, tours, museums, sports, recreation activities and more, all in “your own BACKYARD." Visit locations in Michigan like Frankenmuth, Mackinaw, Traverse City, Bay City, Midland and Ludington. Take a road trip to Shipshewana, Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, South Bend, Greenfield or Antique Alley, Indiana. Explore Toledo, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Youngstown and Put-in-Bay, Ohio. Take an excursion to Chicago, Springfield, Peoria or Rock Island, Illinois. Plan a weekend in Green Bay, Black River Falls, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin Dells or Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The destinations are endless, yet not so far away.