Enhance your 2026 Midwest Travel Network Conference experience with optional curated tours and activities throughout McHenry County. These experiences are available exclusively to registered conference attendees and are designed to showcase the region’s unique flavors, landscapes, and communities.
- Capacity is limited to 20 attendees per activity.
- Transportation is included unless otherwise noted.
- Please choose only one activity per time block.
- Registration is first-come, first-served. Waitlists are enabled.
Looking to explore more on your own?
Attendees arriving early or extending their stay can discover even more things to see and do throughout the area, the wonderful places and wide-open spaces – https://www.naturallymchenrycounty.com/2026-midwest-travel-network-conference/
Wednesday, June 10 – Morning (Choose ONE)
A Perfectly Brewed Morning
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Capacity: 20
Start your day the Naturally Inspired way with two of McHenry County’s iconic caffeine creators. At Casting Whimsy, discover handcrafted loose-leaf tea blends with a delightfully nerdy twist. Then head to Conscious Cup Coffee Roasters for an exclusive coffee cupping experience at their roasting facility — sampling blends the same way the pros do before they hit the cafés.
Activity Level: 1 (Low Activity)
Small Shops, Big Finds
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Capacity: 20
Explore two of McHenry County’s newest retail destinations — McHenry Riverwalk Shoppes and Shops on Main. Both are part of innovative local incubator programs designed to help small businesses test and grow in short-term brick-and-mortar spaces. Meet local makers, hear their stories, and enjoy time to shop these one-of-a-kind finds.
Activity Level: 2 (Light Activity)
Wednesday, June 10 – Afternoon (Choose ONE)
Harvest & Hops
1:00 – 5:00 PM
Capacity: 20
Agritourism and craft beer — two McHenry County specialties in one flavorful afternoon. Visit Tom’s Farm in Huntley during peak strawberry season for a guided farm tour and fresh, locally grown treats. Then head to Sew Hop’d Brewery, Huntley’s hometown brewery housed inside a historic sewing machine factory, for a behind-the-scenes tour and tasting.
Activity Level: 3 (Moderate Activity)
Quarry Quest at Three Oaks
1:00 – 5:00 PM
Capacity: 20
What was once a rock quarry is now one of Crystal Lake’s most stunning outdoor playgrounds. Three Oaks Recreation Area offers a brief guided overview before you set off to explore your way. Hike the scenic 3-mile loop trail, relax on the beach, paddle the lake by kayak or pedal boat, or amp up the adrenaline at The Quarry Cable Park — one of the Midwest’s premier wakeboarding destinations.
Activity Level: 5 (Active Adventure)
Thursday, June 11 – Morning (Choose ONE)
Prairie Awakening at Soulful Prairies
8:30 – 11:00 AM
Capacity: 20
Reconnect with nature at Soulful Prairies in Woodstock during one of their most breathtaking annual traditions — the Pasture Release. Gather on the pasture deck as the horses eagerly await their first gallop to fresh spring grass after winter. Witness their joyful run across the prairie, then enjoy a light breakfast and time to connect with fellow guests and the equine residents in this peaceful retreat setting.
Activity Level: 3 (Moderate Activity)
Accessible Outdoor Adventures
8:30 – 11:00 AM
Capacity: 20
Experience how the McHenry County Conservation District is creating nature for all. Tour The Hollows Conservation Area, where paved trails and accessible canoe launches make outdoor recreation more inclusive. Enjoy guided insight into these features and time to immerse yourself in the beauty of McHenry County’s natural landscapes.
Activity Level: 3 (Moderate Activity)
Note: This is a drive-on-your-own experience. Please plan to arrive at the designated location by 8:30 AM.
Saturday, June 13 – Post-Conference (Choose ONE)
Flavors on the Fox
1:00 – 4:00 PM
Capacity: 20
Perfectly positioned along the scenic Fox River, Downtown Algonquin sets the stage for a progressive culinary experience. Stroll this charming riverfront district while enjoying curated tastings from a variety of local restaurants — a delicious way to explore the heart of the community.
Activity Level: 3 (Moderate Activity)
Discover the Real Woodstock
1:00 – 4:00 PM
Capacity: 20
Explore the charm of historic Downtown Woodstock, famous for its picturesque square and as the filming location for Groundhog Day. Join the Real Woodstock team for a guided walking tour featuring historic architecture, iconic filming sites, and the stories that make this town a Midwest treasure.
Activity Level: 3 (Moderate Activity)