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Overview
Badlands & Beyond: A Journey Through the Heartland
Join us for an unforgettable 7-day, 6-night adventure through the scenic wonders and hidden treasures of South Dakota, Nebraska, and beyond! This exciting tour features some of the Midwest’s most iconic attractions, including the famous Corn Palace, the legendary Wall Drug, the awe-inspiring Mount Rushmore, and the dramatic landscapes of the Badlands.
Our journey continues into Nebraska, where we’ll explore historic Chimney Rock, the fascinating Kearney Archway Monument, the vibrant capital city of Lincoln, and the stunning beauty of Lauritzen Gardens in Omaha. And just when you think the fun is winding down, we’ve planned a surprise stop in Iowa to add one more memory to your adventure!
With deluxe motorcoach transportation, comfortable accommodations, and 12+ delicious meals included, this tour offers the perfect mix of sightseeing, history, nature, and relaxation. Don’t miss this chance to experience the heart of America with friends, fun, and faith!
Cancelation Policy
December 31, 2025: No Cancelation Fee
January 1 - March 31, 2026: $500.00 Cancellation Fee + nonrecoverable
After April 1, 2026 Only recoverable expenses
TravelSafe Vacation Insurance. If you are interested in purchasing insurance, please call 1-888-885-7233. Be sure to mention code TOMWI01 if you purchase insurance.
What's included
- TRANSPORTATION
Deluxe Motor Coach
- LODGING
Premier Lodging
- MEALS
12+ included meals
- ATTRACTIONS
all tickets and admission to included attractions
What's not included
- TIPS
Driver ($3-$4 per person per day) and Tour Director ($5-$6 per person per day)
- MEALS
Meals listed as on your own or not included in the itinerary
Itinerary
Green Bay ➝ Milwaukee ➝ La Crosse ➝ Spam Museum ➝ Western Minnesota
Our journey begins with warm greetings and comfortable seating aboard our Deluxe Motorcoach as we pick up travelers in Green Bay and make our way south to additional pick-ups in Milwaukee. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful Wisconsin scenery as we head west.
By midday, we'll arrive in La Crosse, where you'll have time to enjoy lunch on your own in this charming river town
This afternoon brings a fun and quirky stop at the world-famous Spam Museum in Austin, Minnesota. You’ll be surprised how much there is to learn (and laugh about) as you explore the history and impact of this iconic canned meat.
We’ll wrap up our day with a peaceful evening in Western Minnesota, where we’ll check in to our hotel and settle in for a good night’s rest. It’s just the beginning of an incredible journey through the heartland
Western Minnesota ➝ Corn Palace ➝ Wall Drug ➝ Badlands ➝ Rapid City
We’ll start the day with an included breakfast before continuing our westward adventure. Our first stop is the quirky and colorful Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota—a true Midwest icon! You’ll have time to explore this one-of-a-kind attraction and browse the gift shops filled with local flavor.
Next, we travel toward the edge of the Badlands, stopping for lunch on your own along the way. Stretch your legs, grab a bite, and maybe try a South Dakota specialty!
This afternoon, we’ll pull into the legendary Wall Drug, where kitschy charm meets Wild West history. Browse the massive general store, enjoy a 5¢ coffee, or snap a photo with a jackalope—it’s all part of the fun!
From there, we’ll embark on a scenic driving tour through Badlands National Park, where otherworldly landscapes, rugged rock formations, and wide-open skies await. Keep your camera ready—you never know when a bighorn sheep or prairie dog might make an appearance!
We’ll finish the day in Rapid City, where we’ll gather for an included group dinner and reflect on the amazing sights we’ve seen. Then it’s off to the hotel for a restful night before more adventures tomorrow!
Mt. Rushmore ➝ Crazy Horse ➝ Custer State Park ➝ Fort Hayes
After an included breakfast, we’re off for a full day of exploration in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota—and we’ll be joined by a knowledgeable local guide who will share stories, history, and insights throughout the day.
Our first stop is the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where the faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln are carved into the granite cliffs. You’ll have time to walk the Presidential Trail, visit the museum, and take in the powerful symbolism of this American landmark.
Next, we travel to the inspiring Crazy Horse Memorial, the world’s largest mountain carving in progress. Learn about the legacy of Lakota warrior Crazy Horse and the fascinating story behind this massive and ongoing tribute to Native American heritage.
This afternoon, we’ll journey through the scenic roads of Custer State Park, home to rolling hills, towering granite spires, and abundant wildlife. Keep an eye out for buffalo, wild burros, and other native animals as we wind through this breathtaking landscape.
We’ll cap off our day with an included dinner and toe-tappin’ entertainment at the Fort Hays Chuckwagon Supper and Show. Enjoy a hearty cowboy-style meal and a lively Western music performance that’s sure to have you smiling and clapping along.
After a full day of memorable sights and sounds, we’ll return to our hotel for a good night’s rest.
Rapid City ➝ Gold Mine Tour ➝ Chimney Rock ➝ North Platte, NE
We’ll begin our day with a little sparkle—heading to a local gold mine tour, where you’ll learn about the rich mining history of the Black Hills and see how prospectors once sought their fortunes deep in the hillsides. It’s a fun and fascinating peek into South Dakota’s gold rush past!
Then we say goodbye to the Black Hills and head south into Nebraska, where the wide-open plains and prairie history await. Along the way, we’ll stop for lunch on your own—and if you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to try a famous Runza, Nebraska’s beloved stuffed sandwich!
This afternoon, we’ll visit the iconic Chimney Rock and Museum, a towering natural landmark that once guided pioneers along the Oregon Trail. The visitor center and museum provide insight into the challenges and triumphs of those early settlers and the importance of this historic site.
As evening rolls in, we’ll enjoy a laid-back included dinner featuring local pizza favorites, then check in to our hotel in North Platte for a relaxing night. Another great day of adventure, history, and heartland hospitality!
We’ll start the day with an included breakfast at the hotel before hitting the road for another day of discovery. Our first stop is the impressive Kearney Archway Museum, a unique structure that spans Interstate 80 and tells the incredible story of westward expansion. From pioneers and Pony Express riders to modern-day travelers, you’ll walk through history in a truly immersive experience.
Afterward, we’ll enjoy lunch on your own in Kearney—with plenty of options for every taste—before continuing east to Nebraska’s capital city, Lincoln.
Once in Lincoln, we will get aquanted with the city and checked into our hotel
Tonight, we’ll head to the beautiful James Arthur Vineyards for a private wine tasting, dinner and entertainment! It’s the perfect way to cap off a memorable day in Nebraska.
Lincoln ➝ Omaha ➝ Des Moines Area ➝ Iowa City
We’ll begin the day with another included breakfast before setting out to explore Nebraska’s stunning seat of government. A guided tour of the Nebraska State Capitol will showcase the building’s striking architecture, fascinating artwork, and towering 400-foot domed tower—the second tallest in the nation!
Next, we travel to Omaha, where we’ll enjoy an included lunch before taking in the natural beauty of the Lauritzen Gardens. These spectacular botanical gardens offer peaceful paths, vibrant floral displays, and even a model railroad garden—an oasis of tranquility right in the city.
This afternoon, we’ll make a rest stop in the Des Moines area, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and grab a snack before continuing on.
We’ll finish the day by checking into our hotel in Iowa City, where a warm welcome and a relaxing included dinner at the hotel await. It’s the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the incredible experiences of the week before our journey home tomorrow.
Iowa City ➝ Dyersville ➝ Home
After our final included breakfast, we’ll begin the last leg of our journey with a stop that’s sure to tug at your heartstrings—The Field of Dreams in Dyersville, Iowa. Step onto the legendary field where dreams came true in the beloved film, explore the Field of Dreams farmhouse, and if you're lucky, you might even have a catch with a Ghost Player!
You’ll have time to enjoy lunch on your own right at the field, soaking in the peaceful Iowa countryside and reliving one of Hollywood’s most magical movie moments.
With hearts full and cameras loaded, we’ll then begin our journey home, starting with drop-offs in Milwaukee and continuing north to Green Bay.
Who is Tom’s Christian Tours?
We are a Christian-based tour company that plans and leads worry-free travel experiences. From motorcoach getaways to international adventures, we handle the details so you can enjoy the journey. Our home base is in the Lake Country Region of Southeast WI.
Do you only do tours for individuals, or do you work with groups too?
Both! We welcome individuals, friends and couples on our scheduled tours, and we also specialize in coordinating custom trips for churches, schools, and other groups.
Do I have to be a member of a church to travel with you?
Not at all. While our tours are Christ-centered and often include devotions, all are welcome to join us.
What if your tour dates do not work with my schedule?
No Worries. Tom’s Christian Tours can work with you to schedule you on a group tour anywhere in the world. *these tours would not have a TCT host/guide along on the tour
Who leads the tours?
Our experienced tour directors travel with you to ensure everything runs smoothly, while also providing Christian fellowship along the way. Exact tour director will vary by tour.
What should I pack?
Each traveler receives a packet with travel tips, luggage requirements, and packing suggestions specific to their tour 3-4 weeks prior to departure.
Is there time for personal exploration?
Yes! Our itineraries include guided activities as well as free time to relax or explore at your own pace.
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Testimonials
What Our Travelers Are Saying
"It was wonderful to have everything nicely planned out for us but still have time to explore on our own… it was a trip that will have lasting memories. A great group, knowledgeable guides, and wonderful bus driver."
Melissa P.
Alaska 2025
"We had a wonderful time. It was nice meeting all of our fellow travelers. This was our first trip with Tom's Christian Tours. Based off of this, there will be more. We're looking forward to our next one."
Peter M.
New England in Fall 2025
"I had a fabulous time! The scenery is gorgeous, the food and accommodations were top notch and the people were very friendly and became like family. Highly recommend!"
Linda B.
Alpine Adventure
"This was a trip of a lifetime for us. Tom's selected the best hotels, meals, and tours… Guides were personable experts and the pace was perfect for us. Looking for our next travel with Tom's to Egypt!"
Clayton A.
Alpine Adventure
Three decades of faith, fellowship, and unforgettable journeys.
For over 30 years, we've helped travelers explore the world through carefully planned adventures that combine inspiring destinations, Christian fellowship, and lasting memories.
+10k
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+30 Years
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Customer Recommendation
Experience thoughtfully planned adventures that combine exceptional destinations, genuine fellowship, and the comfort of traveling with a trusted Christian community.
Tour Directors Who Pray With You, Not Just Greet You
Our directors lead the devotions, share their own faith stories, and join the dinner conversation. They aren't hired guides reading a script; for them, leading Christian travel is a calling, not a paycheck.
A Midwest Family Company, three Generations Deep
Scott and Tammy ran TCT for 13 years and their son Tom and his wife Becca run it today. Call us and you'll reach a real human: no call center, no hold queue, no outsourced bookings desk.
Premium Travel Without the Luxury Markup
We don't pretend to be Four Seasons or Viking Cruises. We pick mid-to-premium hotels, well-run restaurants, and quality experiences without the luxury markup, so you get comfort and real value without paying for a brand name
Comfortable Pacing, Designed for the Long Haul
We don't cram 14 cities into 7 days. Our itineraries leave room for free afternoons, sit-down meals, and the kind of pacing that lets you come home rested instead of running on fumes.
Christian Travel That Goes Beyond Bible Lands
Most Christian tours specialize in Israel and Egypt. We travel all across the US and around the world because we know it’s not the destination that matters, it's the like-minded people that make every place feel closer to home.
A Fellowship That Feels Like Family
Most tour groups scatter at the end of the trip and never speak again. Our guests trade Christmas cards, host each other for dinner back home, and rebook the next trip together year after year







