RTownShopper.com is the website for you!

If your life needs just a little spice

RTown has so many options for half the price

Check out our newly featured restaurant, Venue

They have 20 Different Burgers on the menu!

If you feel like you’re having a boring week,

Take your family camping at Deer Creek

Go see the Timber Rattlers when they play the Burlington Bees

Or just watch the game at Big D’s

If you love to golf, check out the Royal Scot Golf Course and Supper Club

Check out Steve Nuthals Massage Therapy for a good rub

Let your little ones try out martial arts

And the older ones will be thrilled to ride go-karts

There is a secret keyword hidden in this poem

You may use this if you’re cooking dinner at home

Even though RTownShopper.com is already sold out of Lifest tickets, they’re still available at the Lifest website. And if you can’t buy tickets, volunteer! All you have to do is apply online. A 4.5 hour shift will get you access to the entire event. And when you’re in Oshkosh for Lifest, RTownShopper.com is a great resource to get discount restaurant gift certificates or even find a place to stay with our discount lodging gift certificates.

At RTownShopper.com, we love our customers and in turn we want our customers to love our site. Our customers come back time and time again for the amazing deals we offer. You can find so many incredible deals ranging from discount festival tickets to discount dining gift certificates to discount hotel gift certificates. RTownShopper.com is where you can get more bang for your buck by saving 50% off at hotels, restaurants, golf courses, salons and more.

Road racing first came to Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin in 1950, when the Chicago Region of the Sports Car Club of America and the Elkhart Lake Business Men’s Association got together for a road race through the village and the surrounding county. Ever since that first green flag dropped, the tradition of road racing has continued in the resort town.

Racers competed on public roads for three years, but for the safety of fans and drivers alike, a permanent road course was constructed. In 1955, Road America opened its gates to a track carved out of several farms and Elkhart Lake Sand & Gravel through Wisconsin’s beautiful Kettle Morraine region. The challenging 14-turn, four-mile road course continues to be a favorite of the drivers, including racing legends Mario Andretti and Brian Redman.

Road America hosts professional and club events throughout the year, including Superbikes, NASCAR Nationwide, SCCA, and vintage racing, including the Kohler International Challenge, one of the largest vintage racing events in the country. The pro events feature marquee names and top race teams, racing hard for series points, podium finishes, and ultimately, sponsorships and winnings. At club events, the largely amateur field is divided into classes, and rare, irreplaceable automobiles race for a spot in the winner’s circle.

Unlike many courses, the entire track is not visible at once. Race fans hike, bike, drive, or catch a shuttle throughout the roads, fields and hillsides of the 600 acre facility, with favorite viewing points for on-track action at corners around the course. Many bring their collector cars to events, and clubs maintain special parking areas such as Porsche Park at Turn One and Corvette Corral at Turn Three. Local groups and businesses operate concession stands, lauded by national automotive magazines as the finest trackside dining in the country. Many fans also tailgate and camp in the fields around the track.

Elkhart Lake continues to embrace its racing heritage, hosting a Concours d’Elegance where rare, expensive, and showy cars line up to be admired and judged. Even the police cars sport checkered flags. In Elkhart Lake, road racing began in 1950, but the action never stopped.

If you go

RTownShopper has discount Road America ticket packages available for several events. Simply enter “Road America” into the Search box on RTownShopper.com and click Search for complete listings.

Current listings include:

• Two 4-day admission tickets to the WeatherTech SCCA June Sprints June 24-27, 2010
• Open Karting at the Briggs & Stratton Motorplex
• Beginner and Experienced Rider Course
• Two 4-day admission tickets to the AMA Suzuki Superbike Doubleheader June 3-6, 2010

Better together

We also offer a discount dining coupon for the Depot Steakhouse in nearby Plymouth, Wisconsin. Enjoy steak, seafood, sandwiches, and more!

Summer and romance go hand in hand. Summer vacation, walks on the beach, picnics in the park…but pressures of the adult world make it hard to get away for a vacation for two. While a romantic getaway to Hawaii or Tahiti may be out of reach, Milwaukee, Wisconsin has romantic destinations to keep the home fires burning.

If you love art and architecture, head downtown to the exhilarating Milwaukee Art Museum. Situated downtown on the lake, the building’s dramatic profile is defined by the Santiago Calatrava-designed Quadracci Pavilion. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday 10 am to 5 pm, and open until 8 pm on Thursdays. Stop by the Cafe Calatrava, where floor to ceiling windows overlook Lake Michigan. On warmer days, venture out to the patio for some of the best views of the lakeshore.

Another romantic favorite is Bartolotta’s Lake Park Bistro overlooking Lake Michigan and surrounded by Milwaukee’s Lake Park. The French restaurant features wood floors and large windows, and authentic French cuisine worthy of a special occasion. For a more casual approach and outstanding frozen custard, try Kopp’s, known for their burgers and custard, with locations in Greenfield, Brookfield, and Glendale. Did we mention the custard?

Window shoppers can head to historic downtown Cedarburg for boutique shopping, artist studios, and wine tastings. The Cedar Creek Winery, located in the Historic Cedar Creek Settlement Shops, is an award-winning winery, offering tours and tastings daily. Tours are by appointment. Visit the last remaining covered bridge in Wisconsin for a romantic photo opportunity right out of Bridges of Madison County, and plan a picnic along Cedar Creek.

If you’re looking for a real “get away from it all” experience, try our discount coupon for Sybaris Pool Suites in Mequon, Wisconsin, where rooms feature in-room whirlpools and fireplaces. Even phones are limited, so leave all of your troubles and responsibilities at home. This couples’ retreat promises plenty of ambiance, perfect for a day’s getaway for a birthday or anniversary. You may not even want to leave your room.

What are your favorite romantic Milwaukee destinations?

The last notes have been studied, the final paper has been written, and the last essay question has been answered. Fox Valley graduates have earned their degrees, and it is finally time for family and friends to witness the transition.

If you’re traveling to Appleton, Green Bay or Oshkosh for the ceremony, check out RTownShopper.com for hotel travel discounts and gift certificates for the college graduate in your life. We also feature nearly 60 Fox Valley restaurant coupons for dining in the area.

As your graduate files in to the chords of Pomp and Circumstance, you know that the graduation march began years ago, and walking across the stage to receive a handshake and degree is merely the first steps of a new chapter.

As the ceremony concludes, they will move their tassel from right to left and earn a rousing round of applause for their achievement. No matter what grades or class rank they received as students, every one has now reached the proud goal of college graduate.

Congratulations Class of 2010! Here is a listing of area college commencement ceremonies:

Fox Valley Technical College
Sunday, May 16
1:30 p.m.
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Kolf Sports Center

Lawrence University
Sunday, May 16
10 a.m.
Creasy Commencement Commons or Appleton Arena

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Wednesday, May 19
6 p.m.
Resch Center

St. Norbert College
Sunday, May 16
1:30 p.m.
Schuldes Sports Center

University of Wisconsin-Fox Valley
Tuesday, May 20
7 p.m.
UW Fox Fieldhouse

University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Saturday, May 15
11:30 a.m.
Kress Events Center

University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Saturday, May 15
9 a.m and 2 p.m.
Kolf Sports Center

When you’re planning your next family vacation, take some time to plan for the car trip as well. Long hours cramped in the car can make even the best-behaved child cranky or irritable. With our travel tips, you’ll remember more from your family vacation than the words, “Are we there yet?”

1. Bring a pack. Let each child pack a backpack of car-appropriate toys. Handheld electronic toys are an obvious choice, but consider headphones as well. Some headphones come in animal shapes for younger children. Non-electronic toys include magnetic doodling toys, koosh balls, etch-a-sketch, ponies, and stuffed animals. Even toddlers can pick a few toys for themselves. Kids may surprise you with their choices – common household items can be amusing in the hands of a child.

2. Movie time ideas. In-car movie players and portable DVD players have become a sanity-saver for many parents, allowing actual adult conversation to take place in the front seat. Consider limiting movie time to trips over an hour, or powering it down after lunch for a few hours. Car games like alphabet scavenger hunt or car bingo can be fun diversions as well.

3. Start on a full belly. While it can be tempting to start first thing in the morning, consider leaving after a meal. Younger kids will fall asleep, and older ones will be satisfied for at least a little while. Plus, full stomachs can ward off carsickness.

4. Don’t forget sunglasses. Even if it’s cloudy, you may hit a patch of sunshine that no sunshade will keep out of children’s eyes, especially when driving due east or west.

5. Pack portable snacks and drinks. Keep non-messy snacks and drinks handy. Bags of cereal, crackers, cut up fruit and drinks with lids keep kids satisfied until it’s time to stop for a meal.

6. Eat at local restaurants. While fast food may be convenient, try a local diner along the way. Many restaurants offer discount dining coupons, and children’s meals are often very reasonable. Skipping the drive-thru gives everyone a break from the car.

7. Drive while they sleep. If your children will sleep in the car, consider leaving at night. Eat an early dinner and pack the kids in their jammies. Once it’s lights out, you can make real progress along your route.

Planning a family vacation? What tips have worked for you and your family?

photo by Digidave

They say everybody’s Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, you can be Irish for an entire week.

Irish Week kicked off March 4 with the Shamrock Club’s annual Birthday Party at the Irish Cultural Heritage Center. Irish Week spotlights  Irish culture and pride, and includes Irish dancers, music, and a Mass in Honor of St. Patrick. The week of festivities concludes on March 13 with the time-honored Shamrock Club of Wisconsin’s 44th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in downtown Milwaukee, the biggest St. Patrick’s Day parade in Wisconsin.

While The Shamrock Club is celebrating its 44th anniversary of producing the parade, the tradition dates back to 1843, before Wisconsin had even achieved statehood. The parade takes place at noon, and features more than 150 units, including Irish dance groups, pipe and drum corps, local celebrities and dignitaries.

The parade will proceed east from the Shops of Grand Avenue on 3rd and Wisconsin, north on Plankinton, west on Kilbourn, north on Old World 3rd Street, east on Juneau, and south on Water Street.

Following the parade is the Shamrock Club’s Post Parade Party from 1 to 6 pm at the Irish Cultural and Heritage Center at 2133 West Wisconsin Avenue, headlined by Different Drums of Ireland.

If You Go
Save on your hotel with our discount travel coupon for the Baymont Inn & Suites of Glendale, Wisconsin,  or use this lodging discount for the AmericInn Lodge & Suites of Germantown, Wisconsin.
Parking is $2 during the event at the Shops at Grand Avenue.
Parade spectators are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to donate. Volunteers collect the donations in shopping carts during the parade.

The Quality Inn, Green Bay WIsconsin

Vacation in Green Bay at the Quality Inn & Suites

It’s time to pack your bags and take a break.  Plan a vacation in your own backyard; escape to Green Bay Wisconsin.

Take in Green Bay’s annual Artis Gras held the weekend of February 6th at the Shopko Mall. View works from hundreds of artists and craftsman throughout the Midwest.  You’ll also enjoy live classical music, jazz and dance.  Next stop, Packer’s Hall of Fame where you’ll take in more than 80 years of football history.  Enjoy interactive displays paying tribute to 130 players.  Afterwards relax at the Quality Inn & Suites. You’re looking good with your discount gift certificate saving your family half off at the Quality Inn & Suites on a two-night stay.  It’s a travel deal that can’t be beat. Your stay includes $20 in funny money good at the arcade and a complementary hot deluxe breakfast. Your family will love the indoor pool and fitness center. In the evening have dinner out 50% off Green Bay restaurant gift certificates.

For the next evening be sure to take in Frosty Family Fun Night at Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary.  The kids will love the campfire, treats and night animals.  You’re sure to come home feeling refreshed, ready to tackle another week, after your weekend retreat in Green Bay.

In this tough economy, a week-long vacation just isn’t an option for many. Some can’t afford to take time off of work. Others are too busy to get away for an entire week. Airlines can be a hassle, or too expensive. For those with young children, finding someone to watch the kids for a week is impossible, and some just don’t want to leave the children that long. There is a lot of planning for a trip, and some don’t even have the time to do that.

For all of these reasons, consider taking a mini vacation. Take a long weekend, or plan a mid-week break. These Wisconsin travel coupons are for destinations within just a few hours of Appleton, Green Bay, and Oshkosh. Even better, break your vacation time into several small trips, and spread them out throughout the year. Even on a limited budget, you can get away from it all.

Door County Getaway

This discount travel coupon for Door County is in the heart of Ephraim, Wisconsin. The Edgewater Resort offers waterfront views of scenic Eagle Harbor, whirlpool baths, fireplaces, and your own living room and full kitchen, all decorated in casual cottage style.

Bed & Breakfast in Waupaca, Wisconsin

Be pampered with this travel deal for the historic Green Fountain Inn in Waupaca. This elegantly furnished bed & breakfast features a charming fireplace in the sitting room, perfect for curling up next to with a loved one.

Resort luxury

Relax in resort luxury with our travel discount to the Fox Hills Resort in Mishicot with two indoor pools, on-site spa and fitness center and weekend entertainment at the Benchwarmers Sports Bar. The Willowview Restaurant, located on-site with a view of the golf course, is also available to treat you in style.

Madison shopping and dining

Discount lodging in Madison is available just steps from the capitol building and vibrant State Street shopping and dining when you stay at the Hotel Ruby Marie. Enjoy luxurious accommodations decorated in beautiful historic style after a night out on the town.

Nearby North Woods

Head for the “North woods” with our travel coupon for the Rustic Wolf Inn in Shiocton, where every one bedroom suite is decorated with handmade log beds and tables and beautiful pine slab counters. A large deck overlooks the scenic Wolf River.

Gateway to Milwaukee

You get a great travel deal for Milwaukee with our discount lodging coupons for the AmericInn Lodge & Suites in Germantown, just minutes from Milwaukee. Enjoy a peaceful stay and relax by the indoor pool and hot tub after a day of sightseeing in the city.

Pine Mountain Resort

This popular ski resort is located in Iron Mountain, Michigan which is approximately an hour and a half north of Green Bay, Wisconsin. Pine Mountain has terrain for all abilities and has three lifts. The resort provides food, beverages lodging, and of coarse, great skiing. Pine Mountain is also known throughout the world as having one of the best ski jumping hills.

RTownShopper.com is offering this great gift certificate:

Two(2) lift passes  a $78.00 value, RTown Price $39.00

Passes are valid only during lift season and only one pass per person.

Blackjack Mountain

Located in the upper peninsula of Michigan, Bessemer is about a four-hour drive from Green Bay and is the home of Black Jack Mountain ski resort.

The mountain has 19 ski trails. New improvements to the lodge and the slopes; a new terrain park, and an increased focus on customer service will all add to your NEW Blackjack experience.

RTownShopper.com is offering these two different certificates:

Two(2) lift passes, an $80.00 value, RTown Price: $40.00
Four(4) lift passes, a $160 value, RTown Price: $80

Visit skiblackjack.com for information on trail conditions, directions, and other mountain information. Black out dates apply- holiday week of 12/26/09 – 1/3/10. Expires 4/1/10

Nordic Mountain

Nordic Mountain, located in beautiful Wautoma, Wisconsin, offers a great place for the whole family to enjoy. At Nordic Mountain, they believe that skiing should be a sport that everyone can enjoy and afford. The resort is centrally located, about an hour and forty minutes south-west from Green Bay, and less than an hour west from Oshkosh.

RTownShopper.com two gift certificates for 50% off:

Two(2) lift passes, a $70.00 value, RTown Price: $35.00
Four(4) lift passes, a $140.00 value, RTown Price: $70.00

Valid 11/15/09- 4/1/10. Black out dates apply: Holiday week of 12/26/09- 1/3/10.