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.
NOTE: This day trip is limited to 49 participants between UWRA, PLATO, & Verona Senior Center.
Schedule (Return times are approximate)
| 7:30 a.m. |
Depart Dutch Mill Park and Ride |
| 8:00 a.m. |
Depart Verona Mill Park and Ride |
| 7:00 p.m. |
Return Dutch Mill Park and Ride
|
| 7:30 p.m. |
Return Verona Park and Ride |
Departure Locations -- Please arrive at departure site 15 minutes prior to departure.
Verona Park and Ride
East side (Dutch Mill Park and 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.
Cost
$125 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, meal, and gratuities.
Lunch Buffet - Chicken, ham, scalloped potatoes, grilled mix veggies, salad, bread & butter, coffee and milk, and brownies for dessert
For insurance purposes, all travelers are required to complete the Verona Member Form (no charge) and Verona Trip Waiver Form annually. Please download forms here, complete, and bring to the bus on the day of the trip.
Please note that these forms must be completed annually. If you have traveled with us and completed the forms on a previous 2026 excursion, the forms are not needed.
Registration Details and Deadline
Register online. Mailed in reservations and checks are accepted. Registrations much be received no later than Friday, August 21, 2026.
Refund Policy
UWRA 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. Refunds made by check.
Questions
Contact trip coordinator Sandi Haase at (sandi.haase@wisc.edu) or the UWRA office at 608-262-0641.
UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu
