Vacation - John Deere Style
School's out for Summer (or almost for many)! Looking for a family-friendly or even farmer-friendly getaway for your summer vacation? Assuming you're a John Deere fan (because you're reading this blog on our website), why not make your next vacation and John Deere vacation?
If you're considering making a pilgrimage up to Iowa or Illinois to check out the John Deere hotspots here are some must see's to add to your itinerary:
- John Deere Historic Site: Where it all began! Open April 1 through the end of October, step back in time at John Deere's original blacksmith shop located in Grand Detour, IL. Take in live forging demonstrations, tour John Deere's family home and view artifacts to complete this educational experience. Admission is FREE! Can't beat that!
John Deere Pavilion: Just a little over an hour southwest of John Deere's homestead, you'll find several John Deere sights in Moline, IL where the current John Deere World Headquarters is located. The 14,000 square foot John Deere Pavilion highlights historical and modern equipment that has shaped the agricultural industry. Interactive exhibits give visitors a hands-on experience right in the heart of downtown Moline. Admission is free at the Pavilion as well.
Check out this video:
Factory Tours: While most factories are only open for Gold Key (a special experience that can be added to customers' equipment purchase) and Dealer organized tours, these tours allow a literal inside look at some of the most advanced manufacturing practices and technologies that build the world-famous green machines. Check the John Deere website for the latest information regarding potential public tours at Harvester Works (combines), Ottumwa Works (hay and forage) and Des Moines Works (cotton, sprayers and tillage).
John Deere Tractor and Engine Museum: Opened in 2014 in Waterloo, Iowa, another John Deere hot-spot, this museum offers more great immersive and interactive experiences on the exact spot of the first Deere tractor factory. From equipment displays from the original steel plow to modern day equipment - you can relive John Deere's history. Once again - admission is free!
Before you go, don't forget to download: Visit John Deere Mobile App
This is a FREE interactive John Deere mobile guide that features audio tours, photos, video, selfie filters, and virtual reality experiences at the John Deere Pavilion, John Deere Historic Site, John Deere Tractor & Engine Museum, and John Deere World Headquarters, as well as a behind the scenes look at artifacts, documents, photos, and art from the company archives.
Download it in the Apple Store: HERE
Get it on Google Play: HERE