Before heading to The Rally, the largest organized gathering of RVers in America, why not participate in a more intimate, behind-the-scenes tour in the heart of the RV industry?
This year, The Rally has planned a pre-rally program aimed at RV enthusiasts who want to get an in-depth look at the RV lifestyle and industry – while socializing with others who have similar interests.
Bob Livingston, publisher of MotorHome magazine, and his wife, Lynne, are the hosts of this adventure, which begins in Elkhart, Ind. Here they will lead a group of RVers on a short journey into the past and present – with a little partying stirred in to enhance the experience.
Here’s the plan: Meet on Friday, July 16, in Elkhart, Ind. Once settled in at the RV park, the special four-day event commences with a private, guided tour of the Newmar RV factory to learn firsthand how the vehicles are built. From there, participants will mingle with members of the Amish community and finish off the day with a fabulous meal prepared by people who cook home-style food like you’ve never tasted before.
The next morning guests will tour the RV/MH Hall of Fame Museum, which has an amazing display that relives the 100-year evolution of RVs. In the afternoon, an interactive tech and lifestyle seminar will be presented. Bill Gehr, of Bill’s RV in Ventura, Calif., will join Livingston to answer attendees’ questions. Gehr – who has been living and breathing RVs for more than 35 years – and his wife, Jenn, are full-timers. On Sunday’s schedule, it’s off to Studebaker National Museum in nearby South Bend. Dinner and more socializing follow.
On Monday, the group breaks camp and heads for Louisville. It’s about a six-hour drive to The Rally site. Once there, participants will gather for a farewell party and get a preview of all the great things in store for them during the following six days at The Rally. To top it off, participants in this special program get the VIP treatment: They will be assigned a premium site close to all the action.
The cost for this special RV immersion tour, which includes an extra “early bird” day, is $1,169 per rig (two people), if you’re signed up for The Rally; for those not registered for The Rally, and departing on Tuesday morning, the tour price is $1,299. For reservations or more information, call 800-829-5140.
