Where History Meets the Mighty Mississippi:
Villa Louis & River Cruise
Tuesday, September 15, 2026
Registration deadline is Friday, August 21
Registration begins Tuesday, July 21
Learn the rich history of the Mississippi River and all of its glory as we cruise the river. We will hear tales of the great Mississippi River’s past, present, and future. We will bask in the splendor of the wilderness of the Mississippi and witness for ourselves exactly how beautiful, powerful, and splendid the great Mississippi is.
Following a lunch buffet, we will walk through the doors of Villa Louis and step into the life of one of Wisconsin’s most historic families – the Dousmans. Located on the beautiful banks of the mighty Mississippi River, this National Historic Landmark offers a panorama of Wisconsin history, from the advent of the first fur traders to the War of 1812, through the splendor of the Victorian era.
In 1870, H. Louis Dousman contracted with the renowned Milwaukee architect E. Townsend Mix to design and construct a new home for the Dousman family. Mix chose the popular Italianate style and the use of Milwaukee pressed brick. When completed in 1871, the home boasted the modern conveniences of indoor plumbing and steam heat, making it comfortable as well as stylish. Today the mansion has been meticulously restored to its historic appearance, standing as a showcase of Victorian architecture and design.
Visiting Villa Louis offers rare access to earlier, lesser-known phases of Wisconsin history. The 25-acre site includes over a dozen historic structures filled with vibrant hues and rich textures reflecting the family’s rise to wealth and leisure.
___________________________________________
Lunch Buffet - Chicken, ham, scalloped potatoes, grilled mix veggies, salad, bread & butter, coffee and milk, and brownies for dessert
_________________________________________
PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity. You will be required to fill out the 2026 Verona Senior Center New Member and Trip Waiver Form (no charge). You can fill out these forms in advance or on the day of the trip.
Schedule: (Return times are approximate)
TRAVELERS ARE REQUESTED TO ARRIVE 15 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
7:30 a.m. Depart (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot)
8:00 a.m. Depart Verona Park & Ride
7:00 p.m. Return Verona Park & Ride
7:30 p.m. Return (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot)
Departure Locations:
Verona Park & Ride - 2585 Old PB, Verona, WI
East Side (Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot))
Map below for those boarding the bus on east side Dutch Mill Park & Ride. Please park in the "east" lot as indicated by the arrow. (east of Arby's)
Cost: $125 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, meal, taxes, and gratuities.
Seating is limited, so register today! Registrations must be received no later than noon on Friday, August 21, 2026.
Mail-In Registration Form: Print, Fill-in and Mail this Form for those who wish to register off-line and by check
Refund Policy: PLATO refunds an event fee if cancelled prior to the registration deadline. Refunds after the registration deadline are only processed if a wait-listed registrant can attend.
PLATO Membership: PLATO membership is $60.00/year and all memberships renew on July 1.
For further information, contact PLATO trip coordinator, Bob Shaw, robert.e.shaw@gmail.com , 608-255-3486.
