The Story of Bev’s Friends and Family Tours
Bev Lysne, Founder and Owner
Monty Lysne, Tour Coordinator
It all began in 1996. Bev Lysne, driven by her passion for people and travel, started organizing simple bus tours in the Owatonna, MN area. Her thoughtfully chosen destinations, warm hospitality, and unbeatable value quickly set her tours apart.
Word spread. What started with a few local travelers soon blossomed into hundreds of happy adventurers from across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa.
Over the next 25 years, Bev guided groups to unforgettable places—from local gems like the Chanhassen Dinner Theater to international highlights like Italy, Ireland, and New Zealand. With every trip, she delivered not just a journey, but a complete travel experience.
In 2024, Bev welcomed her son, Monty Lysne, to the team. Monty brings decades of experience organizing service-learning trips, camps, and regional and international travel for teens and young adults—including three years living and touring in Australia with his family. He joins Bev to help serve the 500+ travelers who have journeyed with her and are ready to bring their friends and family along for the ride.
So... where are we headed next?
“For 25 years, we’ve travelled with Bev’s Friends and Family Tours. We have gone on great adventures, from exciting locations to entertaining venues to unique culinary experiences. We continue to take trips with Bev because her trips are well-planned, with special destinations and local delights. We recommend Bev’s Friends and Family Tours highly!” - Mitchell and Lynn Rhodes, Owatonna, MN
