This year, the Ride to Meet takes place in the wonderful island town of Winona, Minnesota, known for incredible scenic beauty, wildlife, and river-town history located on the Mississippi River.
On Saturday, we’ll have a group photo at the Veterans Memorial Park (GPS 44.04070, -91.64371). After gathering at 10AM, a group photo will be taken at 12N by superb local photographer Tim Thompson who uses stitching and drone techniques for wonderful and unique photos. PLEASE PLAN ON BEING THERE!
Then we’ll gather in a shaded outdoor setting for a catered BBQ beginning at 1pm. Water, lemonade and sodas included. BYOA, no bottles or glassware. Lots of door prizes, too, but you must be present to win!
The Jaycee Pavilion is reserved at the Lake Park Complex, 340 Lake Park Dr., Winona. GPS 44.039569, -91.634453. It's located next to a fine Veterans Park on the shores of Lake Winona.
For those arriving early, there are many great motorcycle roads in the area, including one to the famous Soldiers Walk Veterans Memorial Park in Arcadia, Wisconsin, this year featured as WI-1. And MN-7, American Legion Post #9, is just minutes from the Jaycee Pavilion. Other activities will include a riverboat "Pizza Cruise" from La Crosse, Wisconsin on Friday 5pm-7pm, $19.75pp, space is limited so make reservtions early at 608-784-8523.
NOTE: Local Winona Rider Russ Marsolek #206 and his brother Steve #303 will let us know of other enjoyable things to do via the TOH Facebook page during the coming months. For instance, you can tour the famous Watkins HQ and Museum (natural household and health products since 1868), and Minnesota Marine Art Museum, or the Lark Toys Company in Wabasha, Minnesota.
Want a beautiful motorcycle ride? Try Winona north on Highway 61 to Red Wing, Minnesota, crossing the river there and traveling into Wisconsin, turning south on Highway 35, and back to Winona. Round trip of about 130 miles of gorgeous scenery and small river towns with plenty of neat shops and eateries. And you’ll be hugging the Mississippi River in both directions with ample turnouts for photo ops. Watch for Bald Eagles, as they are everywhere!
A block of rooms is available September 12-14 at the host hotel that also has a newly-renovated Brewski’s Pub and Grill, a great meeting place with good food and drinks. The group rate is $89.99 + tax (including breakfast) for a king bed/whirlpool bath, or two queen beds. Limited availability, and the special rate won't be available after August 11.
Riverport Inn & Suites
900 Bruski Dr., Winona, MN 55987
Contact: Asst. GM Ashley Rolbiecki, 507-452-0606
NOTE: Capacity for the Ride To Meet is limited, so register early!
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