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, guided by her love of people and passion for travel, started organizing simple bus tours in the Owatonna, Minnesota area. Her thoughtfully chosen destinations, genuine hospitality, and unbeatable value quickly set her tours apart.
Word spread quickly. What began with a few local travelers soon grew into hundreds of happy adventurers from across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa—many of whom became lifelong friends along the way.
Over the next 25 years, Bev led groups to unforgettable destinations—from nearby favorites like the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre to faraway wonders in Italy, Ireland, and New Zealand. With each trip, she offered more than a getaway. She created experiences filled with laughter, connection, and the joy of shared discovery.
In 2024, Bev welcomed her son, Monty Lysne, to the team. Monty brings decades of experience leading service-learning trips, camps, and international adventures for teens and young adults—including three years living, working, and exploring in Australia with his family. Together, Bev and Monty continue to serve the more than 500 travelers who’ve journeyed with Bev—and the many new friends ready to join them on the road ahead.
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
