BTM March/April 2014

rs Maga Tou zin s u

an Serving B us

1979-2014 n Gr lan oup P r To u

er

d

sf

Anniversary

or 35 ears y

35th

Ê eÊ¥

¥B

Volume XXXIV, Number 4 • March/April 2014

Fantastic Train Journeys page 6

Cincinnati, Ohio – The Queen City page 27

Meet Chicago Northwest page 20

SOUTHSIDE

BAD BEAT JACKPOT

LIVE

BAR

GAMES

THOROUGHBRED

RACING

PRESQUE ISLE

ROULETTE

NEWEST

SIMULCASTCRAPS

TABLE

DOWNS CLUBHOUSE & LOUNGE

SOUTHSIDE

POKER

ROULETTE

STEAKHOUSE

SENSORY 3

STEAKHOUSE

BAR GET IN YOUR GAME

NEWEST BUFFET

SLOTS

TABLE

SIMULCAST

ROULETTE

BACKSTRETCH BAR

GAMES

BAD BEAT JACKPOT SENSORY 3

SOUTHSIDE

BAR IDEO POKER

YOUR GAME

TABLE

BACKSTRETCH BUFFET CRAPS

OULETTE

GET IN

IMULCAST

BACKSTRETCH

IVE THOROUGHBRED RACING

SLOTS TABLE LIVE ENTERTAINMENT GAMES BUFFET VIDEO POKER BAR

BACKSTRETCH BAR

LIVE GAMES

CRAPS

TABLE

THOROUGHBRED

RACING GET IN

SENSORY 3 YOUR

contents 6

MARCH/APRIL 2014

27

STAFF

20 24 14 Features

Guides

Take a look at the exciting new offerings The Queen City has in store for your guests, including a spectacular new riverfront development that is sure to amaze.

Take a journey by rail and experience travel that has been employed and enjoyed for generations.

27

CINCINNATI, OHIO

Specials 20

MEET CHICAGO NORTHWEST

Chicago’s Northwest suburbs are full of treasures your group will not want to miss, from shopping, exciting dinner theater, a famous thoroughbred racetrack and many more surprises.

24

SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA

Groups that come to explore Santa Barbara’s exquisite wine trails, beaches and culture will understand why it is known as the “American Riviera.”

6

14

RAILROADS

RICHES IN NICHES

Specialty tours are in demand and the momentum of this demand shows no sign of slowing down. The best part is the possibilities for tour ideas are limited only to the imagination.

Editor & Publisher . . . . . . . . . Larry Plachno Business Manager . . . . Nancy Ann Plachno Bookkeeping . . . . . . . . . . . . Dianne Billquist Typesetting/Page Layout . . . . Sherry Mekeel Assistant Editor . . . . . . Laura Wagenknecht Office Asst.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Angela Swords

Bus Tours Magazine 9698 W. Judson Road Polo, Illinois 61064-9015 (815) 946-2341 Fax: (815) 946-2347 Web site: www.bustoursmagazine.com Advertising Central/International bustours@busmag.com – (608) 333-5041 West west@busmag.com – (540) 641-4476 Midwest midwest@busmag.com – (815) 946-2341 Northeast tourgroups@busmag.com – (815) 946-2341 Southeast srickles@aol.com – (770) 664-4567

COVER PHOTO

Your group can enjoy a unique thrill as they summit and descend New Hampshire’s Mt. Washington on one of the most unique and iconic train rides in the world aboard Mount Washington Cog Railway. This historic journey is both educational and adventurous and is fun for guests of all ages . MOUNT WASHINGTON COG RAILWAY.

And More 4

31

34

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK 20 TIPS

by Dr. Charleen Jaeb

ADVERTISERS INDEX

BUS TOURS MAGAZINE (ISSN 0199-6096) is published six times annually by National Bus Trader, Inc., 9698 W. Judson Road, Polo, Illinois 61064. Subscriptions, $15 (in US funds) annually, Canadian & International $20 (in US funds). Printed in U.S.A. Second class postage paid at Polo, Illinois 61064 and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to BUS TOURS MAGAZINE, 9698 W. Judson Road, Polo, Illinois 61064.

Change of Address: Please send old mailing label (or old address and computer number) as well as new address.

Advertising: Display advertising rates sent on request. Advertising deadline is the last day of the second month preceding publication.

Founded in 1979, BUS TOURS MAGAZINE is the oldest independent magazine in the bus and group tour market. Circulation includes bus and group tour planners in the United States and Canada regardless of affiliation or whether commercial, private or corporate or group leader.

The contents of this publication may not be reproduced either in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. The name BUS TOURS MAGAZINE and the logo incorporating the passengers, bus and destinations are trade marks of National Bus Trader, Inc.

Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014 • 3

From the Editor’s Desk Celebrating an Anniversary

still have two coaches in the barn behind our office. As time permits,

and Seeking a Partner

we get out on the road to visit bus and group tour attractions.

We have had an electronic version of BUS TOURS MAGAZINE for 10

This year marks the 35th anniversary of BUS TOURS MAGAZINE. We

years but would like to do more with digital as our world moves in

could not have done it without you. We owe a thank you to our read-

that direction. Our problem is that we are already spread too thin in

ers and advertisers for supporting us over these years. I also need to

management. The current round of shows and bad weather has not

give a substantial pat on the back to our staff, many of whom have

helped this situation nor has our rural location.

been with us for a substantial number of years.

As a result, we are looking to take in a partner to help us with both

It is easy to look back at our involvement with buses and tours over

running the company and expanding into new areas. The ideal can-

the years. I purchased my first bus in 1963 and began running tours.

didate would be someone with bus, tour and business experience and

When we founded BUS TOURS MAGAZINE in 1979 in an office used to

preferably someone who enjoys working in our industry. If you are

manage a local bus operation, the industry was still regulated. For a

interested or if you know someone who might be interested, please

while our office was located in Wisconsin where we ran Wisconsin

phone or send an e-mail to input@busmag.com.

Illinois Stages and planned tours out of that same office. Today, we

Larry Plachno, Editor

SHE WAS BORN A SLAVE. SHE DIED A HERO. 100 years later, later, Harriet Tubman Tubman still inspires us.

Join us in celebrating the Harriet Tubman Centennial in 2013 in her homeland on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

Book your your tour today a OUR. att 800.522.T 800.522.TOUR.

Dorchester and Caroline Counties, Mar Maryland yland HarrietTubmanByway.org HarrietTubmanBywa HarrietT ubmanByway.org | 1.800.522.T 1.800.522.TOUR OUR

HARRIET TUBMAN CENTENNIAL 2013 Join the journey. journey. W Walk alk in the footsteps of a hero.

4 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

Check #339 on Reader Service Card

Check #487 on Reader Service Card

Daily BAT FACTORY TOURS and so much more!

Amazing ARTIFACTS

8 0 0 W E S T M A I N S T R E E T / L O U I S V I L L E , K Y 4 0 2 0 2 / 8 7 7. 7 7 5 . 8 4 4 3 /

SLUGGERMUSEUM.COM

Check #437 on Reader Service Card

Check #437 on Reader Service Card

Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014 • 5

Wilmington & Western Railroad

Rambling on the Rails Imagine that you are rolling through forested

Group tours have the flexibility of riding

woods, up a steep and cragged

estates, past historic homes and mill sites,

one of the scheduled trains or scheduling a

mountain peak, past picturesque

aboard a vintage steam train, just like those

charter for their bus group. Costs depend on

that your great-grandparents rode.

the size of the group; phone the office to dis-

T

ake a trip through majestic Red-

Heartland small towns or anywhere else the tracks will take you. The adventure is wait-

Take your group aboard the scenic line.

ing. Part scenic, part nostalgic, all pure fun,

Listed on the National Register of Historic

a train ride is something everyone in your

Places, the Wilmington & Western Railroad

RailsWest Railroad Museum

group can enjoy.

is Delaware’s only steam tourist railroad.

Council Bluffs, Iowa

Special railroading adventures are available

cuss your options.

Council Bluffs, Iowa is the terminus of the

Wilmington & Western Railroad

for railroaders of all ages. Whether you want

Transcontinental Railroad. You do not need

Wilmington, Delaware

to explore history, celebrate holidays, wine

to look hard to see the effect of the railroads

Climb aboard the Wilmington & Western

and dine or just have fun, the Wilmington &

on this town. From its humble beginnings to

Railroad. The whistle of a steam train echo-

Western Railroad has just the event for you.

today, Council Bluffs is where great things

ing through the hills is a sound that has all

Most of their weekend rides travel to Mt.

happened. This was the Wild West and is still

but disappeared in the world. Yet there is a

Cuba Picnic Grove for a short layover – bring

reminder of the time preserved for you to

a box lunch and enjoy the countryside. A

experience the Wilmington & Western Rail-

round trip ride is 1 ⁄2 hours. See wwrr.com for

Railroad was nothing more than a bunch of

road. Imagine yourself riding on a real rail-

a full schedule of events and departure times

businessmen brainstorming the idea, a young

road through the Red Clay Creek Valley, with

or phone the business office for further details

lawyer named Abraham Lincoln had come to

its ever-changing natural beauty and wildlife.

at (302) 998-1930.

Council Bluffs to check out some property he

6 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

1

an exciting place to be.

Back in a time when the Transcontinental

%'>?@$'?A)#B !"#$%&"'#$()*+&,) !"#$%&"'()*&'+',-'.-)

&-./$#01234056$&/75 %308/$'84.6$,059&:1;<.3 -726$#-.:807$)=./16 17=>:?@%.A?:B1 ?@@%1=?1&B%@&BCD

Check #498 on Reader Service Card

< !"#$%&'(&")*# < +)*$',%#$)-".',./%& < 01234)*'(&")*# < ,"..'5"&-%#$'(&")*# < 6"*$"'(&")*# "*7'28&%9

(LLPFBO 6>IIBV 2>FIOL>A -RPBRJ -RI?BOOV 3QOBBQ .LOQE *RAPLK )KAF>K> 0ELKB

TTT ELLPFBOS>IIBV LOD !"#"$%&'(%)*+#"$*%,-(%.(/"0%123*4'5*#6 7'(23/#*%."28*$#%/04%9-(*%:0,-(;/$"-0

Check #479 on Reader Service Card

Check #380 on Reader Service Card

Check #495 on Reader Service Card

Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014 â&#x20AC;¢ 7

Guide: Railroads RailsWest Railroad Museum

car. Stories come alive as you see and hear

orabilia. One level down, the Cog Railway

history well worth the stop and the chance

Museum is open to the public and free for all.

to slow down and look back at a time when

Here visitors can learn the story of the “Rail-

the railroads moved this country to where it

way to the Moon” and its great pioneering

is today.

inventor, Sylvester Marsh.

The RailsWest Railroad Museum is open

The Cog has maintained its historic roots

February through December, Tuesday

by allowing passengers to take the three-

through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and

hour round trip riding in a historic coach

Sunday 1-4 p.m. There is plenty of bus

powered by a vintage coal-fired steam loco-

parking on site. Group tours can be

motive. For visitors interested in learning

scheduled by phoning Carla Borgaila at

more about The Cog’s technological

(712) 314-3940. For more information visit

advances, modern and eco-friendly biodiesel

thehistoricalsociety.org/depot.htm.

engines are available.

No matter what motive power a passen-

Mount Washington Cog Railway

ger chooses, one cannot help experience a

Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

sense of adventure and history as the train

The Mount Washington Cog Railway is the

begins the spectacular climb up a three-mile-

had taken on. He was inadvertently stuck in

first mountain–climbing cog railway in the

long track to the 6,288-foot summit of Mount

this town for three days. That is when he made

world and the only cog railway east of the

Washington. Along the way, lively com-

the best of it and talked with some of the

Rocky Mountains. The Cog is located in the

mentary is given from the brakemen about

town’s more prominent citizens, Samuel

Presidential Mountain Range of New Hamp-

the many points of visual interest, the his-

Bayliss and General Dodge to name a couple.

shire in historic Bretton Woods village, just

tory of the railway and the various climate

Council Bluffs was not even a blip on the map

three hours north of Boston. In operation since

zones passengers will travel through on their

for proposed routes of the Transcontinental

1869, The Cog has a long history of innova-

journey to the top of the highest peak in the

until he was brought up over the bluffs to look

tion and was registered as a National Historic

northeastern United States.

across the Missouri River. Lincoln was

Engineering Landmark in 1976.

As the train reaches the summit, the Sher-

impressed. He had been back a handful of

Marshfield Base Station buzzes with activ-

man Adams Visitors Center comes into view.

times after that and did follow through with

ity and is as picturesque as the mountain

This hearty mountaintop facility houses

making Council Bluffs the Terminus of the

itself. Visitors watch train operations from

restrooms, cafeteria, gift shop and the Mount

Transcontinental Railroad. Omaha and Coun-

the decks above while enjoying their lunch,

Washington Observatory’s Museum. There is

cil Bluffs both prospered from this.

and visit the gift shop for souvenirs and mem-

an hour to enjoy a snack, explore and take in

Museums on both sides of the river share different aspects of area rail history and are all worth visiting but none more than the RailsWest which showcases all of the rail lines that travelled through Council Bluffs.

Come in and see the 1899 Rock Island Depot, the last remaining passenger depot in Council Bluffs. The waiting rooms originally separated by gender now proudly display memorabilia from each line to pass through. Enjoy the view from the station agent’s room and try your hand at the telegraph. Model trains abound indoors as real trains pass by on the live tracks just outside the door. In the train yard step aboard steam engines, ring bells, sort mail, relax and enjoy the seating in the cabooses or in the lounge 8 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

Mount Washington Cog Railway

THE MOUNT WASHINGTON an AMA AMAZING AMAZ ZING ADVENTURE ADV AD VENTURE to the top of NEW ENGLAND’S

HIGHEST PEAK! Great for Studen t Trips Too! Find Us!

FREE

NEW nteractive Weather

FOOD/GIFTS/MUSEUM

Cont act Group Contact Group S Sales ales Di Director, rector or,, S Susan us a n P Presby resby at at 6603.278.5550 03 .278.5550 or Sue@thecog.com Sue@thecog.com STATION, N MI. FROM FR O M R BASE B A SE ROAD, ROAD, MARSHFIELD M ARSHFIELD STATION, NH H (6 MI. RT T 302 302 & BRETTON BRET TON WOODS) WOODS) NOVEMBER · VISIT V I SI T U SO NLINE AT OPEN OPEN LATE L ATE APRILAPRIL- NOVEMBER US ONLINE AT THECOG.COM THECOG.COM Check #459 on Reader Service Card

Upgraded Experience Experience Upgraded

SPECIAL GR GROUP OUP R RATES ATES

1-800-242-9287 www.agawacanyontourtrain.com Check #302 on Reader Service Card

Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014 • 9

Guide: Railroads the spectacular panoramic view, spanning the

for all-day weekend tickets or to reserve use

Monticello Railway Museum

peaks above the clouds or on some days the mountains and valleys of New Hampshire.

A complimentary pass to the Observatory

of the picnic grove contact General Manager Syl Keller at (217) 493-1688. He will help you coordinate your visit, even if you are running

Museum’s new interactive weather exhibit

early or trailing a little behind.

is included with the purchase of a Cog ticket.

Reservations are required two weeks in

Here guests can experience the unique qual-

advance; payment is due upon arrival. The

ities of the peak from the comfort of a state-

museum reserves the right to substitute

of-the-art indoor space. Visitors can also tour

equipment as necessary. Approximate min-

the historic Tip Top House, a hiker hostel built

imum visit time is two hours.

in 1853, set as it was in its heyday.

Skunk Train

The Cog experience is an educational

Fort Bragg, California

adventure with a variety of hands-on lessons

Welcome to Mendocino County, northern

in history, science and geography. With a capacity of up to 210 passengers per hour

California, home of the famous Skunk Train.

and options for customized presentation and

The California Redwoods provide an awe-

meal add-ons, The Cog is a perfect fit for

bus are complimentary guests for a train

inspiring backdrop for this piece of Ameri-

groups and students, and a must-do for any

ride and other activities within easy walk-

can history.

New England itinerary. The Cog is open from

ing distance.

Regardless of your departure point,

late April through November. Visit

Rain or shine under the covered train

sounds of the occasional whistles fill the air

thecog.com, phone Susan Presby, director of

shed, you will walk through two rows of dis-

as your train chugs through tunnels, over

group sales, at (603) 278-5550 or e-mail

play cars that illustrate the comforts and haz-

bridges and past open meadows. The train

sue@thecog.com for more information.

ards of sleeping car travel and the non-stop

follows the coastal "Redwood Route" as it

activity of the railway post office workers

has since 1885. It is the towering trees, a

Monticello Railway Museum

who sorted letters en route, picking up and

glimpse of a deer drinking from the Noyo

Monticello, Illinois

throwing off bags of mail at small towns. You

River, an isolated fisherman's cabin peeking

will see a setting for dinner in a railroad offi-

from the forest and the notion that you have

(myrm.org) is the custodian of railroad his-

cial's private car, an elegant affair from 80

left the rest of the world behind that draw

tory for central Illinois and is located on Inter-

or more years ago.

people to the Skunk Train. Departing from

The

Monticello

Railway

Museum

state 72 just 20 minutes from interstates 74

The Best Western Monticello Gateway Inn

Fort Bragg the first few miles are along the

and 57 at Champaign, Illinois. Charter trip

is located within one-half mile of the museum

Pudding Creek estuary where common sight-

visitors will take a train ride aboard vintage

grounds, across from a large conve-

ings include blue heron, egrets, osprey, ducks

open-window railroad equipment restored

nience/fuel mart. You will find a wide vari-

and the occasional lounging turtle. After

by the museum's volunteers. It is a round-

ety of interesting restaurants in downtown

trip ticket back to the 1940s, when stream-

Monticello – plus fast food options. All are

lined trains were coming into favor but steam

within walking distance of the county cour-

engines and old heavyweight coaches still

thouse square and near the downtown depot.

had their place.

You can make Monticello the economical

A representative will greet your riders and

headquarters for overnight trips as well, with

direct them to the attractions on the grounds,

Amish country just 45 minutes south, and

located at the end of Iron Horse Place, a

Lincoln sites and Robert Allerton Park both

frontage road at I-72 exit number 166.

just 10 minutes away. The Abraham Lincoln

There is ample parking for multiple buses

Museum in Springfield is just 80 minutes

plus clean restrooms and vending services

down I-72 and all are attractions worth

at this location. The museum's depot is also

another day.

its gift shop with a wide variety of railroad-

Weekday charters start at $360 for up to

only souvenirs and t-shirts for kids and

40 riders – with groups more than that num-

adults. Your driver and up to two guides per

ber at $8 each. To add additional trips, arrange

10 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

Skunk Train

Check #632 on Reader Service Card

Guide: Railroads passing through a dark 1,122-foot tunnel, the Skunk Train snakes its

fect trip for your bus tour group. Options can include entertainment,

way along Noyo River and zigzags through the Redwood-thick Noyo

dining, overnight stays at local hotels, themed trains, itinerary plan-

River Canyon. Departing from Willits and traveling to Northspur, your

ning assistance and much more. For more information visit

train will climb the eastern slope of the Coastal Mountain Range and

skunktrain.com/groups or phone (707) 964-6371.

cut through it at Tunnel #2 (the Summit) before descending down into the Noyo River Canyon. This is the mountain part of the railroad’s

Illinois Railway Museum

8 ⁄2 miles of track which were laid in to cover a straight line distance

Union, Illinois

1

of less than one mile.

Built as a logging railroad in 1885 by Charles R. Johnson, the Skunk line was a logical vehicle for moving massive Redwood logs to the

The railroad history buffs in your groups will find themselves immersed in a unique display of history, nostalgia and all things train when they visit the Illinois Railway Museum (IRM).

Mendocino Coast sawmills from the rugged back country – not to mention the train played a vital role in transporting families and work-

Illinois Railway Museum

ers who set up the various logging camps along the route.

The nickname Skunk originated in 1925 when motorcars were introduced (which today are sometimes referred to as railbuses or railcruisers). These single unit, self-propelled motorcars had gasoline-powered engines for power and pot-bellied stoves (burning crude oil to keep the passengers warm). The combination of the fumes created a very pungent odor, and the old timers living along the line said these motorcars were like skunks, “You could smell them before you could see them.”

The Skunk Train offers a variety of public and private excursions and has a dedicated group tour staff ready to help you plan the per-

The Illinois Railway Museum is a top-notch facility, which has the mission of collecting, preserving and restoring rolling stock, artifacts, structures and related transportation equipment for display to the public. They also take pride in exhibiting the operation of restored rolling stock and equipment on their demonstration rail line.

Other activities in which they partake include collecting, preserving and maintaining a reference library of publications, drawings, technical information and other materials regarding railroads, railways and related forms of transportation for research and other purposes.

It has always been a prime desire of the museum and its membership to display historic collections to the public at large.

Throughout IRM’s existence, there has been a concerted outreach to the general public to gain recognition, acceptance and support.

Having invested more than 50 years to establish its presence and recreate the railroad environment, the Illinois Railway Museum is remaining true to its goals and planning for the future.

In addition to its displays and trains, the Illinois Railway Museum Check #605 on Reader Service Card

12 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

offers special events throughout the year. For a schedule and more information visit irm.org or phone (815) 923-4000.

q

Check #522 on Reader Service Card

Check #455 on Reader Service Card

All A ll Aboard!

Aboar ard! d!

See how Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trains get on the right track. t &JHIU TUPSZ (PMEFO 4QJLF 5PXFS PĂľFST B QBOPSBNJD WJFX PG 6OJPO 1BDJmD T #BJMFZ :BSE t -BSHFTU SBJM ZBSE JO UIF XPSMEÂ&#x2030; UIPVTBOET PG SBJMDBST FWFSZ EBZ t )JTUPSJD EJTQMBZT SBJMSPBE BSUJGBDUT BOE B HSFBU HJGU TIPQ t +VTU NJOVUFT PĂľ * 5PVS HSPVQT XFMDPNF t "O VOGPSHFUUBCMF FYQFSJFODF GPS USBJO MPWFST PG BMM BHFT

EISENHOWER RETURNS HOME! Come see the restored Dwight D. Eisenhower exhibit.

Open August 2nd, 2014

h h n k 5 8855

5 R 5 5 65 6 5 ( 9 2 0 ) 4 3 7 - 7 6 2 3 8 8

8

Ĺ&#x153;Ĺ&#x2018;Ĺ&#x161;5Ĺ?Ĺ&#x2DC;Ĺ&#x2DC;5ĹĽĹ&#x2018;Ĺ?Ĺ&#x17E;5R59 Ĺ&#x153; Ĺ&#x2018; Ĺ&#x161; 5 Ĺ? Ĺ&#x2DC; Ĺ&#x2DC; 5 ĹĽ Ĺ&#x2018; Ĺ? Ĺ&#x17E; 5 R 5 9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 555 Ĺ&#x203A;Ĺ&#x161;5@5 Ĺ?Ĺ 5R511 5 Ĺ&#x203A; Ĺ&#x161; 5 @ 5 Ĺ?Ĺ 5 R 5 11 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5 Sun S un

North Platte Omaha Grand Island

Lincoln

Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center 1 / )PNFTUFBE 3E t /PSUI 1MBUUF /& 9101 p 308. t GoldenSpikeTower.com This institution is an equal opportunity provider, and employer.

ADMISSION CHARGED

Maple Tree Tapping & Milwaukee Trains Tour at Logan Mill Lodge

"# #! # www.OcoochMountainAcres.com Reservations accepted by emailing: ruthrupp@mwt.net Check #497 on Reader Service Card

"# %

! $# "" "

Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ 13

Pirate’s Dinner Adventure

Riches in Niches hances are you will have group mem-

dining on fine grub and grog at Pirate's Din-

unimaginable discovery has been made. It is

bers with a diverse range of back-

ner Adventure. The classic tale of good ver-

revealed that the last descendant of a fabled

grounds and life experiences, but that

sus evil offers the perfect blend of action, com-

Gypsy tribe has been found. The Golden

does not mean you cannot include some activ-

edy and romance, along with the opportunity

Gypsy is said to hold the key to a legendary

ities and tours that hone in on a specific topic

for the audience to interact in the action.

pirate treasure. The coveted treasure is hid-

C

that may be a little bit out of their range of hob-

The stage is set on an authentically repli-

bies or expertise. Who does not like stepping

cated 18th-century Spanish galleon measur-

into a glittery fanciful dream world, an

ing 46 feet long, 18 feet wide with 40-foot

den in a Secret Cove and guarded by a terrifying Sea Dragon.

At the climax of the evening's festivities

enchanting menagerie of creatures or an

masts anchored in a 250,000-gallon indoor

Pirates attack. Captain Sebastian the Black

action-filled swashbuckling pirate produc-

lagoon with night sky lighting. Surrounding

and his pirate crew catch Captain Fetter by

tion? Here are a few great niche ideas to con-

the lagoon is a six-sided showroom of six addi-

surprise and take him, the Gypsy, Princess

sider for your next tour.

tional “ships” where the audience is seated.

Anita and all of the guests captive. They are

Pirate’s Dinner Adventure

The all-new adventure, “Rise of the Sea

then brought on board the ship in the Secret

Dragon,” is set during the night of the 10th

Cove where he plans on taking revenge on

Buena Park, California

Annual Governor's Gala, a celebration of the

Captain Fetter and using the Gypsy and

and Orlando, Florida

defeat of the dreaded Captain Sebastian the

Princess Anita to perform a ritual which will

Marvel at an astonishing display of spe-

Black and his horde of pirates. In attendance

locate the legendary treasure.

cial-effects wizardry, aerial artistry, swash-

at the Gala is her Royal Highness, Princess

Will anyone survive when the fearsome

buckling swordplay and dynamic duels, while

Anita and her fellow guests. This year, an

Sea Dragon rises above the ship deck to

14 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

Check #580 on Reader Service Card

Guide: Niche Tours defend his pirate treasure? Find out during a night packed with stunts, aerial artistry, special effects and fun on the High Seas.

Pirate’s Dinner Adventure is located in Buena Park, California and in Orlando, Florida. To book your group, you can do so by phoning the group sales department at (866) 439-AHOY. For more information, visit piratesdinneradventure.com.

Mall of America Bloomington, Minnesota Mall of America unveiled a new exhibition center on Feburary 14 with the exciting opening of the 30,000- square-foot Barbie Dreamhouse Experience. The exhibition center offers new group travel experiences at the largest U.S. shopping and entertainment center in

Mall of America

Bloomington, Minnesota, attracting 42 million visitors annually.

The massive Barbie Dreamhouse interactive experience consists of two life-sized houses, complete with pink elevators, a walk-in “glitterizer,” an endless closet and a dazzling “diamond” ring display.

free on the Mall’s north lot. For full details, contact Isabella Rhawie, tourism account representative, at Isabella.rhawie@moa.net.

Mall of America features designer brand goods from throughout

Including more than 20 pounds of glitter and 100 gallons of pink

the world at 520 stores with no sales tax on clothing or shoes. The

paint for decor, the Barbie Dreamhouse Experience provides an

Mall also offers 50 restaurants and many attractions for hours of fam-

unprecedented opportunity to interact with Barbie®, her friends and

ily fun including Nickelodeon Universe®, the nation’s largest indoor

family, and truly see what it is like to live her dreamy life. Using Radio

amusement park. Other Mall attractions include a large aquarium,

Frequency Identification (RFID) technology bracelets and LED touch

LEGO®, mirror maze, ropes-climbing course, aircraft simulators,

screens, guests can create their own personalized experiences dur-

miniature golf, 14-screen movie theater, American Girl®, Build-A-

ing the tour – including digitally “trying on” Barbie’s famous fashions.

Bear® and much more.

Barbie’s best friends, family and pets are also featured through-

Mall of America will open more than 20 new stores and restau-

out the experience in unexpected ways with animation, photogra-

rants this year. They will complement existing retailers like Burberry,

phy and interactive games creating an engaging experience for Bar-

Michael Kors, Apple, Coach, AIX Armani Exchange, Victoria’s Secret,

bie fans of all ages.

Hugo Boss, Lacoste, Microsoft and Abercrombie & Fitch.

More than 350 Barbie dolls and other collector memorabilia are

The Mall also conducts more than 400 events each year, all free

on display. Additionally, guests can purchase Barbie Dreamhouse

to guests. Many Hollywood celebrities and musicians perform at

dolls and accessories on-site at Barbie Dreamhouse boutiques.

the Mall. Visit www.mallofamerica.com/events for details on upcom-

The Barbie Dreamhouse Experience is located on Mall of Ameri-

ing events.

ca’s third floor, southeast side throughout 2014. Group ticket dis-

Almost 40 Bloomington hotels are located within 10 minutes of

counts are available for this one-of-a-kind experience by phoning

Mall of America and offer complimentary shuttle service to/from the

(952) 883-8809 or groupsales@mallofamerica.com.

Mall and MSP Airport. Radisson Blu Mall of America opened last

Mall of America will open two 10,000-square-foot exhibitions in early 2014 to offer even more group travel experiences.

March and is the first hotel to be attached to the Mall. It features a full-service restaurant and bar, meeting and event facilities, large

The Mall hosts more than 12,000 groups annually. The tourism

work-out center and pool, complimentary guest package pick-up in

department offers a wide variety of group experiences including an

the Mall and attractive group rates. For more information, contact

iPad scavenger hunt sponsored by Dick’s Last Resort, meet-and-greet

Joan Hane, group sales manager, at joan.hane@radisson.com

service, orientation tours, student presentations, cooking classes,

Visit mallofamerica.com for more information.

wine tastings, behind-the-scene tour at SEA LIFE® Minnesota Aquarium and much more. Group travel planners can get a complimentary

Columbus Zoo

VIP shopping bag for all members of their groups including coupon

Columbus, Ohio

book, map and directory and other discounts. The discounts offer more than $2,000 in combined savings.

In a first-ever, one-of-a-kind opportunity, tour groups this year will have unique access to a behind-the-scenes tour of Columbus

Mall of America offers a dedicated bus drop-off and pick-up facil-

Zoo and Aquarium led by legendary zookeeper Jack Hanna. Being

ity on its east side, which is weather protected. Buses can park for

offered on a very limited basis only to groups spending the night in

16 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

Check #496 on Reader Service Card

Guide: Niche Tours Columbus, the tour is available two dates this

access not only to the number one zoo in

the Jack Hanna tour dates to help them

coming fall – September 19 and September

America, but also to America's favorite

design another tour featuring the Colum-

20, 2014. Thus, tour operators are encour-

zookeeper, who's been made even more rec-

bus Zoo and Aquarium, along with some

aged to act quickly on this limited-engage-

ognizable by his frequent David Letterman

of the many other unforgettable experien-

ment tour.

appearances. Groups can also explore the

tial tours Columbus offers just to groups.

Groups booking this exclusive tour will

Columbus Zoo's brand-new 43-acre Heart of

Tour operators are encouraged to contact

spend the night in a Columbus hotel that

Africa exhibit, which opens May 22," said

Dudley at RDudley@ExperienceColum-

specially caters to groups and will enjoy the

Roger Dudley, CTA, Experience Columbus

bus.com or (800) 354-2657.

following:

tourism sales manager. "Space for groups is

Columbus is a city unlike any other.

•A private meet and greet for your group

extremely limited for this special experience,

Vibrant and alive, Ohio’s capital is known for

with Jack Hanna and one of his animal

so we encourage groups to contact us right

its open attitude, smart style and entrepre-

friends

away, in order to reserve a spot.”

neurial spirit. Columbus' uncommon blend

•The opportunity for each member of your

Dudley added that his office will work

of neighborhoods, arts and culinary experi-

group to have their picture taken with Jack

closely with any group that cannot make

ences, events, attractions and accommoda-

and receive a printed copy before they leave

tions are made unforgettable by its diversity

Columbus Zoo

the zoo •Attendance at a Jack Hanna show avail-

of outgoing locals who warmly welcome visitors. Free travel guides, maps, online book-

able only to groups in attendance that day

ing and detailed information are available at experiencecolumbus.com/

•All-day entry to the Columbus Zoo and

or

(866)

397-2657. Visitor information is also avail-

Aquarium • One catered breakfast, lunch or dinner

able on Facebook at facebook.com/

"We have specially created this unique

ExperienceColumbus and facebook.com/ ColumbusFoodScene.

opportunity to give groups extraordinary

Fargo Air Museum, Fargo

18 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

The stories of North Dakota, told by the people of North Dakota.

Start your group tour’s journey at LegendaryND.com.

Check #550 on Reader Service Card

q

CenterofCT.com

Check #145 on Reader Service Card

CENTRAL REGIONAL TOURISM DISTRICT SERVING

Check #343 on Reader Service Card

You expect Connecticut to have historic villages, fine dining, shops, art and theater.

But not a museum where you can climb into historic airplanes, rides aboard a vintage steam train, tours of Mark Twain’s favorite home or the place where PEZ is made.

(Don’t worry – we still have those New England stone walls, too.)

Surprised? Discover more and plan your group tour at CenterofCT.com or call 860.787.9640. facebook.com/centerofct @tourismct youtube.com/centerofct pinterest.com/CenterofCT

Scan code to view travel webisodes. www.youtube.com/centerofct

Check #414 on Reader Service Card

Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014 • 19

I

ntroducing Chicago Northwest, a cosmopolitan

region made up of eight vibrant communities on

the edge of Chicago O’Hare’s International Airport,

Meet Chicago Northwest Better on the Edge

all offering a multitude of shopping, attractions, and

dining experiences for your tour groups.

The northwest suburbs region features the fifth largest shopping district in America with one of the nation’s largest malls, the largest IKEA in the United States, outstanding outlet stores and hundreds of unique boutiques and treasure-filled shops just perfect for exploring and discovering.

Entertainment options abound as well. All age groups will delight in the largest collection of historic railway equipment in America. Walk the exquisite grounds of the most beautifully landscaped Thor-

Grand Court

oughbred racetrack in the United States. Tour the oldest and largest continuously operating winery in Illinois and then taste its award-winning offerings. You can also

tic floors of absolutely everything you may need to furnish your home

hang on to your seats during Chicagoland’s only 5-D movie expe-

or office at very affordable prices. Do not forget to sample their famous

rience. From intimate comedy clubs to jousting knights on majes-

Swedish Meatballs in the top floor café. Learn more by phoning (888)

tic horses, there is no shortage of entertainment for young and old.

888 4532.

Chicago Northwest has an amazing array of dining options at its

Nearby in the Woodfield Village Green you will find incredible deals

more than 600 eating establishments from fast food to elegant candlelit

at Nordstrom Rack, Sax Fifth Avenue’s Off Fifth and Bloomingdale’s

restaurants. Name your favorite. In addition to the typical Chicago

The Outlet Store, all offering outlet prices from some of your favorite

favorites like steak, pizza, and the sensational Chicago hot dog, you

department stores. Phone (847) 330-1537 for more information.

can be pretty sure that even the most obscure cuisine has a home in

Looking for independent boutiques? Stroll the cobblestone walks of Long Grove Historic Village (visitlonggrove.com). This historic vil-

Chicago Northwest.

lage maintains the character of its farming community past with orig-

Shopping

inal 1800s buildings, cobblestone walks and beautiful gardens set

Miles of treasure-packed aisles greet you in the nearly 300-store

off–the-beaten-path in a quaint little village. Plan to attend one of

Woodfield Mall (simon.com/mall/woodfield), the largest shopping cen-

many famous festivals including: Strawberry Festival, Chocolate Fes-

ter in Chicagoland. Registered motorcoach groups receive a compli-

tival, Apple Festival and more. Long Grove welcomes motorcoach

mentary Signature Meet and Greet service. A guest services represen-

groups and offers services such as step-on meet and greets and

tative will greet your bus with a Woodfield Mall shopping bag and discount

coupon books for prearranged groups,

booklet with discounts and merchant offers at hundreds of stores.

Take a break for lunch in the jungle of Rainforest Café or one of

Attractions

the dozens of other fine dining, casual or quick eats restaurants in

Surrender to an age of bravery and honor while witnessing epic

the mall. Options include P.F. Chang’s, Stir Crazy, Chill Bubble Tea,

battles of steel and steed during the exciting Medieval Times Dinner

Texas De Brazil, A&W All American Food, Red Robin, Panda Express,

and Tournament (medievaltimes.com). You will thrill to a rousing live

Nestle Tollhouse Café and more.

jousting tournament and marvel at awe-inspiring horsemanship and

Woodfield Mall offers on-site designated bus parking and some

falconry. Medieval Times serves a four-course meal fit for royalty. They

excellent incentives for tour operators.

offer special rates, services and

The mall’s main office can be reached

packages for tour groups. Groups

by phoning (847) 330-0220.

can be dropped off and picked

What is that giant blue and yellow building

is

is a circle drive for easy access.

IKEA

The attraction’s large on-site

(ikea.com/us/en/store/Schaumburg)

parking lot has plenty of room

in the United States, with three gigan-

for motorcoaches. Step-on

the

you

see?

largest

It

up at the entrance where there

20 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

Special: Chicago Northwest greeters are available. For more information on the Schaumburg cas-

site lot that can accommodate buses. For more information phone

tle, you can phone the group sales office at (847) 662-0555.

(847) 844-9300.

The gamers in your group will enjoy both Dave & Buster’s (dave-

It is difficult to describe TopGolf (topgolf.com/Chicago). It is skeet-

andbusters.com) and GameWorks (gameworks.com) for gaming, fun

ball meets golf – or golf on steroids. What is not hard to describe is

and fantastic food. Choose from hundreds of games and prizes at

the fun you will have playing this easy game for golfers and non-

either. GameWorks is a test facility for the video game industry with

golfers alike. Hit balls into the 300-yard outfield with dartboard-like

games you cannot find anywhere else in the country. For informa-

targets in the ground. The closer to the center circle your micro-

tion about bringing your group to Game Works phone (847) 413-2660.

chipped ball lands, the more points you receive. You can also enjoy

In addition, with

lunch or dinner in any one of their several party rooms. TopGolf can

Lynfred Winery

Dave & Buster’s

accommodate groups large and small; advance reservations are rec-

50,000 square feet

ommended. Phone (630) 595-4653.

of

both

video

Illinois Railway Museum (irm.org) is a living history museum and

games and pool

America’s oldest collection of historic railway equipment, streetcars,

tables, your group

steam, diesel and electric locomotives, as well as passenger and

will have a great

freight cars. Ride an electric interurban train, behind a mighty steam

time. Group reser-

locomotive or on a 1950s diesel passenger train through Illinois farm-

vations

are

land on a 10-mile round trip ride. Groups of 25 or more receive $2 off

required at Dave

the regular admission price on weekends and $3 off regular admis-

& Buster’s; private group functions are offered. For more informa-

sion on weekdays. Admission for drivers and escorts is complimen-

tion phone (630) 543-5151.

Lynfred Winery (lynfredwinery.com) is Illinois’ largest and oldest continuously running family-owned winery. Lynfred produces more

tary. The museum’s on-site lot has plenty of room for motocoach parking. Docents can be provided for tours at a cost of $40 per hour.

For information about group sales phone (815) 923-4391, Ext. 404.

than 50 varietals and 25,000 cases of award-winning wine each year.

The Pix5D (pix5d.com) movie experience combines 3-D with physi-

Sip on their vast array of acclaimed wines paired with cheese and

cal and environmental effects for an ultimate theater experience. Hold

other nibblings. Take the time to enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of

on to you seat as it

the winemaking process. Groups can book private parties, which can

moves in sync with

include a daytime tour and tasting, a luncheon, a light lunch or hors

the onscreen activ-

d’oeurves and wine pairings. Private evening tours, dining and tast-

ity. Additional envi-

ings are also available. Private events are 21⁄2 hours and are charged

ronmental effects

by the person. For more information phone (630) 529-9463.

Medieval Times

include smoke, fog,

If craft beer is more your taste, get a behind the scenes look at

thunder, snow and

the making of traditional lagers and ales at Church Street Brewing

more. Pix5D is

Company (churchstreetbrew.com). They use the finest barley and

located at Wood-

hops from North America, the UK, Germany and New Zealand right

field

on-site. Come have a taste, have a pint or take home a growler. They

Schaumburg. Tickets for adults are $7; larger groups should buy tickets

offer a tap room that is open for tastings and tours on Thursdays and

in advance. Phone (847) 605-1500 for information.

Fridays from 4-7 p.m. (Thursdays are your best bet if you want a

Mall

in

Experience genuine go cart racing at K1 Speed (k1speed.com) in

smaller crowd). There is on-site bus parking available, but it can be

state-of-the-art, European electric carts that are eco-friendly, safety-ori-

limited at busy times. Parking suggestions can be provided by staff if

ented, and provide superior performance to traditional gas carts. Party

you find the lot is full. Private functions can be set up by contacting

rooms are available for your group’s dining needs. K1 Speed is open

the owners. You can phone the brewery at (630) 438-5725

seven days a week. Interested planners should phone (630) 433-3700

Pinstripes Bocce Ball and Bowling (pinstripes.com), is a dining

for information on rates and private party/dining options for your group.

and entertainment venue that features a bistro with exceptional Ital-

Arlington International Racecourse opened in October of 1927

ian/American cuisine and wine, bowling and bocce ball, a year-round

and 20,000 fans braved the crowd for the gala event. It has been

outdoor patio and a fire pit, plus live blues and jazz music on week-

described as the most beautiful track in America. The racing season

ends. They offer space for private functions that can accommodate

runs from May through September. This Churchill Downs Thor-

20 to 600. Group discounts for food and games are offered; reserva-

oughbred racing track is a majestic jewel in the northwest suburbs.

tions should be made as far in advance as possible. They have an on-

They offer a variety of options for groups that can include dining, Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014 • 21

Special: Chicago Northwest tours and special amenities. To learn more

Visit chicagonorthwest.com for information

suwa Japanese Marketplace, the largest Japan-

phone (847) 385-7550. The property’s on-site

on the many fine local comedy clubs.

ese marketplace in the Midwest. Walk the aisles

lot can accommodate buses.

Elaborate rod puppets, sculpted and intri-

filled with Asian products, baked goods and

Dining

groceries. Enjoy the Japanese ready-to-eat offer-

cately costumed on-site, perform selections

Hungry anyone? The Streets of Woodfield

from famous musicals, operas and operettas

offer a multitude of options in a convenient

in the quaint Opera in Focus (operainfo-

location. In this one-stop dining, shopping and

A great place for group to explore is Arling-

cus.com), the only rod-puppet theater in the

entertainment mecca you will find fast casual

ton Heights for more delightful shopping and

United States. This truly is a unique experi-

dining options like Meatheads Burgers and

an amazing array of fabulous restaurants, all

ence you will not soon forget. After the show,

Fries, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Red Mango

within a walkable two-block area.

guests are given a behind-the-scenes look at

Frozen Yogurt and Corner Bakery. Maggiano’s

how the puppets and shows are created.

Little Italy and Shaw’s Crabhouse feature gor-

Groups of 30 or more can arrange for a spe-

geous upstairs private dining rooms.

cial performance, which can include a catered

ings, sushi, noodle dishes and food court selections.

Planning Assistance All this and more is available to you in

No trip to Chicagoland would be complete

Chicago Northwest. Phone the tourism office,

lunch or dinner. Reservations are required.

without a deep-dish pizza. Some great area

Meet Chicago Northwest, at (847) 490-1010

Phone (847) 818-3220 for more information.

pizza restaurants include Lou Malnati’s,

or visit ChicagoNorthwest.com. The knowl-

When you think of Chicago, you think com-

Moretti’s and Uno Chicago Grill. Perhaps your

edgeable staff can assist with itinerary rec-

edy. Chicago Northwest has lots of options to

group would like a grilling demonstration.

ommendations, hotel, attraction and dining

tickle your funny bone. Enjoy the Second City

Chicago’s own Weber Grill restaurant offers

reservations and more. If you would like a

performing troupe at Metropolis Performing

steaks, barbeque, burgers and more.

personalized familiarization tour of the area

Arts Center, true improvisational comedy at

Your Chicago Northwest adventure would

before you book, they will be happy to be

Laugh Out Loud Improv Theatre, or world-

not be complete without a quick trip to Japan.

your tour guide for a day. Best of all, their ser-

famous stand up comics at IMPROV Chicago.

You will be transported to the Far East at Mit-

vices are always free.

Check #679 on Reader Service Card

22 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

Check #298 on Reader Service Card

q

AMERICA’S

RAILWAY MUSEUM LARGEST

Coming to the Pacific Northwest?

Plan to Stay in Lynnwood 15 Minutes North of Seattle

SEE, RIDE AND EXPLORE AMERICA’S LARGEST RAILWAY MUSEUM!

10 Minutes from Boeing Tour Lodging 40% Less Than Seattle Legendary Shopping

The Illinois Railway Museum is composed of many collections representing different aspects of railroading in the United States. Locomotives and cars, artifacts such as buildings, signals and much, much more!

Over 400 Railroad & Transportation vehicles operating and on display!

Ride trolleys, interurbans, & coaches on our railroad!

Explore the displays in car barns and open railyards

Group Friendly Dining Hours of Operation: Sundays: April - October: 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturdays: May - October: 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Weekdays: Memorial Day - Labor Day: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

www.LynnwoodTourism.com

For Information: Call 1-800-BIG-RAIL or visit: www.irm.org

Or Call (425) 670-5040

7000 Olson Rd., Union IL 60180 (Take I90 to Hwy 20 Exit— Follow the Signs)

Check #481 on Reader Service Card

Check #501 on Reader Service Card

O P P I N

Historical

G

T

Lynnwood Tourism Bus Tours Magazine Ad 3.5” x 4.75” - Full Color 1/2014

o u r

Clay yto toncounty yiowa.co om m

Check #348 on Reader Service Card

Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014 • 23

Explore the American Riviera

Santa Barbara, California

downtown Santa Barbara, and only blocks from the beach, the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail is the ideal adventure for those who want to sip and savor some of Santa Barbara County’s finest wines without leaving the city. A uniquely “green” wine tasting experience, this trail can be navigated by foot, bike or even by pedi-cab, and often allows for detours to shop, sightsee, and sink your toes in the sand.

Rolling hills and breathtaking vineyard views are certainly a treat, but this urban option is a dream for those looking to maximize their wine tasting experience without ever having to leave downtown Santa Barbara. Buses can park at the nearby Visitors Center and let passengers roam the Urban Wine Trail and Funk Zone on their own.

Coastal Cities Day-trippers want to spend the night.

First-time visitors vow to return. Tourists dream of relocating their lives here. Longtime residents stay forever. Some Angelenos even leave a boat moored in the harbor, to keep a toe in local waters, so to speak. No one ever wants to say goodbye.

Located just 90 miles from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is a world apart. It is a city of white-washed buildings with red tile roofs tucked between the mountains and the sea.

Casual and friendly, it also offers an extensive menu of sophisticated cultural attractions ranging from theater and dance to music and visual arts, reflecting a cultural richness out of proportion to the city’s small size.

The sun shines 300 days a year here, making Santa Barbara a mecca for every kind of outdoor pursuit. It is a place where the land yields organic fruits and vegetables, and where these exquisite ingredients fuel an idiosyncratic cuisine accompanied by superb Santa Barbara County wines – world-class

Mission Santa Barbara

vintages from the nation’s fastest-growing viticultural region. It is a place where sooth-

Urban Wine Trail

and taste wines of many different varieties

ing hybrid architecture reflects Spanish,

Created by a group of like-minded winer-

and styles crafted from Santa Barbara Coun-

Moorish, Portuguese and American Indian

ies, the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail

ty’s best vineyards. With more than 20 tasting

roots, and where wrought iron adornments,

(urbanwinetrailsb.com) offers both novices

rooms conveniently located in the culturally-

exquisite tile work, cool fountains and shady

and aficionados the opportunity to learn about

emerging “Funk Zone” neighborhood in

paseos beckon to our collective need for

24 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

Check #488 on Reader Service Card

Check #290 on Reader Service Card

This modest four-room home has been restored to reflect its appearance in 1907, the year of Dukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birth. Take a guided tour of the Birthplace home and our impressive collection of John Wayne memorabilia. See the larger-thanlife statue of Duke, a gift of the Wayne family.

JOHN WAYNE BIRTHPLACE Open 10amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;4:30pm daily % (877) 462-1044 216 S. Second St., Winterset www.johnwaynebirthplace.museum

'4+' 5 +0'44;; n 1 1&)+0) Gr afto a fton Zipline Gra

Check #451 on Reader Service Card

Ď´ĎŹĎŹ dĹ?ĹľÄ?Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152; ZĹ?Ä&#x161;Ĺ?Ä&#x17E; Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E; 'Ć&#x152;Ä&#x201A;Ĺ&#x152;ŽŜÍ&#x2022; /> ϲώϏϯϳ ϲϭϴ-ϳϴϲ-Ď´Ď°ĎŻĎľ

Ć?Ä&#x201A;ĹŻÄ&#x17E;Ć?Î&#x203A;Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ä&#x17E;Ć?Ç&#x20AC;Ĺ?Ä&#x17E;Ç Í&#x2DC;Ä?Žž CONTACT US TO CUSTOMIZE A PACKAGE JUST FOR YOUR GROUP.

dĹ&#x161;Ä&#x17E; Ć&#x2030;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;ĨÄ&#x17E;Ä?Ć&#x161; Ć?Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝Ć&#x2030;Ĺ˝Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152; Ä&#x161;ĆľĆ&#x152;Ĺ?ĹśĹ? Ä&#x201A; ^Ć&#x161; >ŽƾĹ?Ć? sĹ?Ć?Ĺ?Ć&#x161; Ĺ˝Ć&#x152; ŽŜ Ç&#x2021;ŽƾĆ&#x152; Ç Ä&#x201A;Ç&#x2021; Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝ Ć&#x152;Ä&#x201A;ĹśĆ?ŽŜ Ĺ˝Ć&#x152; Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ?Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ĺ?Ĺ˝Í&#x2DC; :ĆľĆ?Ć&#x161; ĎŻĎą ĹľĹ?ŜƾĆ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć? ĨĆ&#x152;Žž ϳϏ Î&#x2DC; ϹϹÍ&#x2DC;

Check #435 on Reader Service Card

Experience 15,000 Y Years ears of Histor History! y! b 23,000 square feet to explore b Meeting and event rentals

b Family and group rates b Open 10am - 5pm daily

www.columbiagorge.org 990 SW Rock Creek Dr. Stevenson, WA WA

Check #892 on Reader Service Card

dÄ&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ć&#x152;Ç&#x2021; Ĺ?Ć?ŽŜ ZÄ&#x201A;ĹśÄ?Ĺ&#x161; ZÄ&#x17E;Ć?Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ć&#x161; Ĺ?Ĺś Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ç&#x2021;Ä&#x17E;ŜŜÄ&#x17E;Í&#x2022; tz

:ĆľĆ?Ć&#x161; Žč ŽĨ /-ĎŽĎą ŽŜ Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E; ŽůŽĆ&#x152;Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x161;Ĺ˝ tÇ&#x2021;ŽžĹ?ĹśĹ? Ä?Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ä&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Í&#x2DC; dZy dĆ&#x152;Ä&#x201A;Ĺ?Ĺś dŽƾĆ&#x152;Ć? Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝ Ć?Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x17E; Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E; 'Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161; ĹľÄ&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ĺś Ĺ?Ć?ŽŜÍ&#x2022; ,Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ć?Ä&#x17E;Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ä?ĹŹ Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ä&#x161;Ĺ?ĹśĹ?Í&#x2022; dĆ&#x152;Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x161;Ĺ?ĹśĹ? WĹ˝Ć?Ć&#x161; Ĺ?Ĺ?Ĺ&#x152; Ć?Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ˝Ć&#x2030;Í&#x2022; ^Ä&#x17E;ĹśÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Í&#x203A;Ć? Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ć?Ć&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĆľĆ&#x152;Ä&#x201A;ĹśĆ&#x161; Ä?Ä&#x201A;ĹľĆ&#x2030;Ĺ?Ć&#x152;ŽƾŜÄ&#x161; Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ&#x161; žŽĆ&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Í&#x160;

PLAN YOUR VISIT TODAY! TODAY!

800.991.2338

SPONSORED BY The City of Stevenson and Skamania County Chamber of Commerce

Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ 25

Special: Santa Barbara overlooking

the

trees of the Goleta Butterfly Grove for unusual

ocean. From several

clumps of “leaves.” They just might be but-

lookout points visitors

terflies. Free parking is available in the lot at

have an unobstructed

the Sperling Preserve at Ellwood Mesa Open

view

pic-

Space on Hollister Avenue. It is a little more

Channel

than a one-half-mile walk from the parking

of

turesque

the

Islands. Stop on the

lot to where the butterflies live.

bluffs above the seal

Groups interested in history and archi-

preserve to quietly

tecture will not want to miss the following:

watch the seals play-

The most visited landmark in the city, Mis-

ing in the water and

sion Santa Barbara (santabarbaramisson.org),

sunbathing along the shoreline. The best

was founded in 1786 as the 10th of 21 Fran-

design. It is a place where the wild nature of

spot for viewing is well marked with a sign,

ciscan missions in California. Antonio Ripoll,

Channel Islands National Park is visible from

and has a bench for resting. Tip: Bring binoc-

who designed the "Queen of the Missions,"

the manicured gardens of grand Montecito

ulars for the best view, please be respectful,

chose a Greco-Roman architectural style that

estates. It is contrast and complement,

and do not attempt to approach the seals

features columns and statuary on the cornice.

human art and natural art, the simple and

from the beach. To arrange a docent for your

The Mission has a famous sandstone facade

comfort, solace and beautiful human-scale

the sophisticated, the old world and the new.

group visit, contact: (805) 684-2247 or

based on a plate from the Spanish edition of

It is The American Riviera®.

carpsealwatch@gmail.com.

a Roman architecture book by Vitruvius, dat-

With so much to choose from, below are

The Ellwood Mesa Open Space is home

ing to 27 B.C., and is distinguished by twin bell

some suggestions for groups to experience

to several species of wildlife, including the

towers, which no other California mission has.

the nature side of Santa Barbara:

Monarch Butterfly, which makes its winter

The edifice stands on a plateau offering a spec-

The Channel Islands are also among the

home in the eucalyptus groves that span the

tacular view over the city to the Channel

world’s prime whale-watching grounds, with

interior boundaries of the Mesa. During the

Islands. Visitors can attend mass on Sundays

more than two dozen species present at var-

winter (mid-November to mid-February),

and take a self- or docent-led tour through the

ious times as they follow eons-old migratory

Monarch Butterflies migrate from their sum-

Mission museum, the gardens, the courtyards,

routes through the nutrient-rich waters around

mer homes and congregate in massive

the chapel and the cemetery, where 4,000 Chu-

Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa and San Miguel

mash Indians are buried.

Islands. Condor Express Whale Watching

The self-guided Red Tile Walking Tour

(condorexpress.com) will put you in the right

(santabarbaracarfree.org) encompasses

place to spot gray, humpback and minke

12 blocks within downtown Santa

whales, plus orcas (killer whales) and five

Barbara and includes 17 stops

types of dolphins along with sea lions,

and 22 historic adobes dating

harbor and elephant seals, and sea

from the 1700s through the

otters. Summer visitors often spy 50-

1800s. Many of the structures

ton blue whales – the largest creatures

were built in the Spanish-revival

ever to have inhabited the Earth.

The Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary (seal-

and Moorish styles that were man-

Seals

dated by community leaders after the earthquake of 1925. Highlights include the

watchcarpinteria.com) is a protected birthing habitat for harbor seals from December 1

city's major red-roof landmarks, among

through May 31. One of four harbor seal

colonies that roost in the canopy of the area

them the Santa Barbara County Courthouse,

rookeries remaining along the southern Cal-

known as the Goleta Butterfly Grove

Casa de la Guerra, El Paseo and its famous

ifornia coast, it is home to a colony of around

(goletabutterflygrove.com). The Monarchs

"Street in Spain" and the Lobero Theatre.

400 harbor seals. Nearly 100 pups are born

are most easily seen during the middle of the

Go to the Santa Barbara Car Free Web site

here every year. The Carpinteria Seal Sanc-

day. They usually hang from eucalyptus

for a printable map and information on

tuary is an easy walk or bike ride from town

branches in amazing clusters when the

each stop.

along the Coastal Vista Trail. The trail runs

weather is cool and flutter around when

for miles along the bluffs, offering great views

directly warmed by the sun. Look up in the

26 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

For more information on activities in Santa Barbara, visit SantaBarbaraCA.com.

q

Cincinnati, Ohio

History and Science. In addition, the Union Terminal is an attraction in itself. Built in the 1920s in the glorious art deco style, it is an architectural masterpiece. The complex also has a five-story OMNIMAX Theater, which presents larger-than-life sight and sound productions on its huge screen. The Museum Center features a variety of exhibits throughout the year that highlight history, nature, culture and a variety of other fascinating topics. The museum offers programs for adults and children such as Cincinnati Heritage Programs Tours, Dig for Dinosaurs, lectures, special events and Music in the Museum, to name a few. The museum center can create a program especially tailored for your group, which includes visiting a combination of the attractions and exhibits, a step-on guide tour

\

and other experiences all at a discounted price. Groups must make a reservation at

Rich History, Bright Future

least two weeks in advance to receive a group discount.

The museum complex is conveniently

C

incinnati USA continues to gain

the rise, and now is the perfect time to

located just off Interstate 75 and offers free

recognition as one of the country’s

explore both its rich history and its bright

on-site bus parking. Dining can be arranged

top-tier destinations, boasting

future.

and special packaged group experiences are

world-class sports teams, robust arts, architectural, music and cultural history, and a

available. Groups must have a minimum of

Signature Cincinnati Experiences

15 members to receive group special offers.

vibrant downtown scene that includes

Nothing beats the views from the river

award-winning restaurants and attractions

and a great way to discover The Queen City

alongside beautiful hotels and plenty of

is on a cruise with BB Riverboats. BB River-

There are many great African-American

shopping. The number of new develop-

boats has exclusive rights for riverboat

heritage attractions in Cincinnati. One of the

ments in the city has exploded over the past

cruises and has been a key player in all of the

most popular is the National Underground

Phone

(513)

287-7021

or

visit

cincymuseum.org for more information.

few years – more than $2 billion in capital

"Tall Stacks" festivals, which were held in the

Railroad Freedom Center. Located in down-

investments to improve everything from

Cincinnati area in 1988, 1992, 1995, 1999,

town Cincinnati, this award-winning

Cincinnati’s dynamic riverfront to its his-

2003 and 2006. Located in Newport, Ken-

museum tells the story of the struggles that

toric downtown neighborhoods.

tucky, they are the oldest and largest river-

slaves endured on their quest for freedom

boat company in Cincinnati and feature

and also educates on modern-day slavery

The results include a beautiful riverfront development, The Banks, which resides

lunch, dinner, sightseeing and private char-

and human trafficking that still exist today.

between Great American Ballpark and Paul

ter cruises. Group discounts are offered to

Exhibits include Brothers of the Borderland

Brown Stadium and features more than

groups of 30 or more. There is free parking

which is 25-minute film shown in an experi-

80,000 square feet of restaurants, entertain-

at the dock on “Riverboat Row” and parking

ential theater. The story of a young woman’s

ment and retail. The arrival of Horseshoe

is also available on paved streets nearby. Visit

perilous journey to freedom is accented with

Casino Cincinnati brings 350,000 square-feet

bbriverboats.com

sounds of crickets and fog rising from the

of casino floor to the Broadway Commons

261-8586 for more information.

or

phone

(800)

river, making it an immersive, multi-sensory

district. Cincinnati was the first North Amer-

The Cincinnati Museum Center at Union

experience. Other exhibits include an authen-

ican city to host the World Choir Games in

Terminal features threes museums: The

tic slave pen in which slave traders held their

2012, and the Major League Baseball All-Star

Cincinnati History Museum, Duke Energy

human commodities captive until they could

Game will hit town in 2015. Cincinnati is on

Children’s Museum and Museum of National

be sold. The exhibit Escape! features handsBus Tours Magazine / March, 2014 • 27

Feature: Cincinnati on activities, storytelling and more to recount

Discounted rates are offered to groups

Hall of Fame where they can see exhibits and

the experiences of men and women who

of 10 or more with advance reservations.

memorabilia from the Reds’ glory days both

resisted slavery in the mid 1800s. Other

The group price is $17 for adults and tours

past and present. Groups of 15 or more

exhibits include From Slavery to Freedom, The

are self-guided. Lunches from Sharkey’s

should make reservations at least two weeks

Struggle Continues, Steven Mark Passage: On

Café can be ordered for groups who wish to

in advance. The adult group rate is $14. Tours

the Underground Railroad and many others.

enjoy a meal at the aquarium. The parking

are not available when the team is playing

Group tours are offered to groups of 15 or

lot for school and charter buses is conve-

home games. For more information phone

more and must be reserved in advance. The

niently located two blocks from the New-

the Reds Hall of Fame box office at (513)

cost for adults is $10 per person. Options

port Aquarium. Use the Bus Parking Pass

765-7923. Learn more at the official Reds

include a Highlights Tour, the Faith to Free-

that is sent with your ticket confirmation to

Web site cincinnati.reds.mlb.com.

dom Tour or a self-guided tour. Box lunches

turn into the honor box at the bus parking

from the North Star Café can be ordered in

lot. Drivers must complete the infor-

advance. Also available for purchase are gift

mation on the parking pass.

bags for your group or vouchers for the muse-

All buses dropping off

um’s gift shop. Buses may drop off visitors at

groups for Newport

the 2nd Street/group entrance of the build-

Aquarium must

ing but are then asked to seek off-site park-

do so on East

ing.

For

more

information

go

to

freedomcenter.org; to make a group reservation phone (513) 333-7737.

If your group enjoys animals, then a trip

3rd

Most people see dozens of signs every day and do not think twice about most of them. The American Sign

American Sign Museum

Museum changes the notion of signs being mundane

and

turns them into

Street

objects of fasci-

(between Mon-

nation. Accord-

mouth

and

ing to the muse-

Saratoga Street)

um’s

to Newport Aquarium is a must. Located in

in front of Star

Newport, Kentucky this state-of-the-art

Lanes

aquatic wonderland is home to thousands

Restaurant). Pull up to the curb

(before

Web

site

“Signs not only show

Brio

us the way and invite us in (or not!), they reflect the his-

of creatures in an astounding one million-

as far west as possible without blocking the

tory, technology, commerce and culture of

gallon aquarium. Your group can come nose-

valet exit. Once dropped off, guests will walk

our communities. Signs and the sign indus-

to-nose with incredible fish such as ham-

along the valet drive to the stairs or eleva-

try have their own stories to tell…” Museum

merhead sharks and rays, reptiles such as

tors and proceed to the River Walk Level.

founder Tod Swormsted wanted to preserve

the Nile crocodile and even have encounters

The aquarium is to the left of Barnes and

and celebrate signs and the stories they told.

with playful penguins. Exhibits highlight

Noble. For more information contact group

From classic neon hotel signs, nostalgic

aquatic life from all over the world, allowing

sales at (859) 815-1471. Learn more about

drug store signs, advertisements, roadside

visitors to learn about and see the diversity

the aquarium on their Web site newpor-

signs and more, the museum is a true piece

of life in our oceans, ponds and rivers. Addi-

taquarium.com.

of unique Americana. The museum also has

Lovers of America’s pastime, baseball,

an on site neon shop where visitor can see

scenes tour, a chance to view animal feed-

have undoubtedly heard of the iconic Cincin-

how these most eye-catching signs are

ings, rides on “duck” vehicles which voyage

nati Reds. Groups always love to catch a Reds

made. They also have extensive archives of

on land and water, overnight stay programs

game at Great American Ballpark. However

books, photos and documents reflecting the

and more.

if time is limited or it is not baseball season,

art, craft and history of signmaking.

tional experiences include a behind-the-

Newport Aquarium

they can opt for a

28 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

Guided tours for groups are offered at a

guided ballpark tour,

cost of $10 per person. Groups should phone

which takes guests

in advance. The museum is located in the

around to different

Camp Washington neighborhood – Exit 3 off

areas of the park from

I-75. Visit signmuseum.org or phone (513)

the press box to the

541-6366 for more information.

bullpen and many

A National Historic Landmark, the

places in between.

Cincinnati Observatory, has been called the

The tour also includes

birthplace of American astronomy. Here

admission to the Reds

groups can view the summer sky through

Check #287 on Reader Service Card

Bus Tours Magazine

View more information on our suppliers Click on Supplier Directory

3 .:.3, .7846< 69.7* '4&6) 8-* $$ .'*68< -.5 $ $

" ! %

View our magazine electrically Click on Current Issue for our digital Turnpage edition

View our interactive Reader Service Card for advertisers information. Click on Reader Service Card

www.bustoursmagazine.com

+642 &18.246* &896)&<7 &< 93*

*58 (8

" ! # 46 .3+462&8.43 46 84 46)*6 8.(0*87 &11

;;; 1.'*68< 7-.5 (42 64/*(8 .'*68< -.5 .7 & &18.246* '&7*) 11 :41938**6 ( 343564>8 46,&3.=&8.43

Check #552 on Reader Service Card

Bus Tours Magazine

Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ 29

Feature: Cincinnati the world’s oldest operational telescope.

Other

tour

companies

include

balance is paid the day of the visit. Contact the

Take the time to relax and enjoy an evening

Architreks (downtowncincinnati.com)

visitor center coordinator at (860) 522.9258,

of wine and cheese at this fascinating sci-

which offers a walking tour highlighting

Ext 317 or info@stowecenter.org for more

entific attraction. Visitors also learn how

the Queen City’s beautiful architecture and

information or to request a group tour date.

President Adams laid the Observatory’s orig-

Cincinnati Art Snob (cincinnatiart-

Learn more at harrietbeecherstowcenter.org.

inal cornerstone in Mt. Adams in 1843 and

snobs.com) which takes groups to some

Cincinnati is also home to a thriving Jew-

why the Observatory was moved to its pre-

of the city’s vibrant art venues. Both com-

ish population which arrived in the city in

sent site in 1873. Visitors can also discover

panies offer pre-planned itineraries or can

1850 and have left their mark in local archi-

how 19th-century astronomers determined

create customized tours.

tecture and culture. The 19th century set-

time for Cincinnati and how the first U.S. weather prediction was achieved. Parts of this tour are not handicap accessible. Learn more at cincinnatiobservatory.org.

Tours

tlement Over-the-Rhine was the home of

Heritage Attractions The Harriet Beecher Stowe Center is a

German settlers who created their own city within a city. The neighborhood today is still

place that celebrates author Harriet Beecher

heavy in German influence with its

Stowe, best known for her anti-slavery

churches, shops, schools, breweries, singing

novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin. The story Beecher

societies, theaters, beer gardens and more.

Cincinnati is home to some top-notch

told in the novel shined a light on how

Those who wish to explore their own Ger-

tour companies that offer unique treks

Americans viewed slavery, the system that

man heritage will take special delight in this unique community.

through the city by foot or by motorcoach.

treated people as property and the injus-

American Legacy Tours offers several fas-

tice it created. Her words inspired debate,

cinating tours of Cincinnati and nearby

encouraged thought and in its own way

towns. A popular tour is Queen City Under-

helped pave a path for the freedom of

ground which explores historic landmarks

slaves.

And Even More There is much more in Cincinnati – worldfamous brewery tours, renowned art muse-

and some underground tunnels in Over-the-

The center includes the Harriet Beecher

ums and studios, performing arts venues and

Rhine. Before there was Las Vegas, there

Stowe House, a place where she lived for

theaters, a symphony orchestra, the Cincin-

was Newport, Kentucky – The Newport

33 years, the Katherine Seymour Day

nati opera, the Cincinnati ballet, and the

Gangster tour is a two-hour, award-win-

House, a visitor center complete with

wildly popular new Horseshoe Casino located

ning tour which celebrates this sleepy Ken-

museum store and historic gardens, and

in downtown Cincinnati. They also have a

tucky town’s once seedy past. The tour

Stowe’s Nook Farm Neighborhood. Guided

famous food scene, which will enthrall food-

begins with two gangster guides leading a

tours of the house are offered year round

ies of all tastes with world-famous chili,

raucous, high-energy presentation inside

and different themes and seasonal high-

quaint diners, fine desserts, craft beer and

an old casino. For the remaining 90 min-

lights are offered. They include African

much more. In fact we have only scratched

utes, tour guests prowl the streets where

American History, Women's History, Amer-

the surface of all there is to experience in the

gangsters made their millions, gamblers lost

ican Woman's Home, House and Garden,

Queen City.

their lives and ladies of the night earned

Harriet Beecher Stowe's Nook Farm and

Regardless of the size of your group or their

their living as Newport grew to become a

Christmas at the Stowes. Tours are led by

interests, the Cincinnati USA CVB can help you

premier U.S. gaming destination. See the

historical interpreters. There are free make-

create the perfect trip for your guests – one that

buildings that housed casinos, brothels and

and-take craft projects available at the vis-

will make them want to come back again and

speakeasies, explore Newport's connection

itor center and an I-Spy scavenger hunt for

again. For learn more visit www.cincyusa.com

to well-known crime figures and learn about

tours offering prizes to guests who can

or phone (912) 267-1558.

the individuals who gave the town its infa-

locate objects in the

mous reputation. Other tours offered by

Stowe House.

American Legacy Tours include Cincinnati

Tours for groups of

area ghost tours, a Civil War historical tour,

10 or more people

a tour of one of the city’s legendary brew-

must be arranged in

eries and more. They regularly work with

advance. A 50 percent

bus groups and can customize a tour just

non-refundable down

for

payment secures the

your

guests.

Learn

more

americanlegacytours.com.

30 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

at

q

reservation and the

Tulips at Annual Zoo Blooms

20 Tips For Bus Tour Planners by: Dr. Charleen Jaeb

20 Tips for Educational Travel

Travel. Your challenge is to find them and

colleagues and students, articles in BUS TOURS

determine how you can serve them.

MAGAZINE and on the Internet are deciding

Educational travel is more than just sight-

The information for this article is based on

factors. Two student travel magazines are Stu-

seeing trips or student tours. It is a carefully

conversations with bus company employees,

dent Group Tour and Teach and Travel. ACIS

planned combination of tours, site visits, and

teachers and group leaders, researching the

specializes in international trips for middle

hands-on learning and cultural experiences

Internet, experience chaperoning our chil-

and high school students. Check them out on

with talented tour managers that can be cus-

dren’s field trips, planning college student trips,

the Web. You may qualify for a free subscrip-

tomized for all ages. “Lifelong learning” are

escorting bus trips for Lakefront Lines, being

tion or catalogs.

the buzz words of the 21st century.

a passenger on educational tours and 13 years

Typical student groups are from elemen-

as a group leader.

3. Keep in mind who you are planning the trip for. Young students are active and like to

tary schools, high schools and colleges. Some

The reason for writing it is because I

walk; sometimes have more energy than adult

colleges are doing away with their buses

received requests for an update on a column

chaperones, and often have a shorter atten-

because maintaining them is too expensive.

from January 2010 on student tours and

tion span. Most adult learners do not like to

Bus companies and travel planners are capi-

adding information on educational travel for

stand for long periods of time, appreciate ear-

talizing on this development. The fastest grow-

adults. Here are 20 tips to assist you when

phones to hear guides. Many learners enjoy

ing student populations are non-traditional.

planning educational bus trips for all ages:

different modes of travel such as boats, fer-

Some colleges give credit for experience and

1. Be familiar with the top travel destina-

ries, trains, trams, trolleys and horse or trac-

set up programs designed to fit the lifestyle and

tions in United States. According to Student

tor-drawn wagons. They also like animal

learning preferences of the group categorized

and Youth Travel Association (SYTA), the 10

encounters and interactive learning.

as “adult learners” who now make up 40 per-

most popular places teachers visited in 2013

4. Prior to scheduling destinations, find out

cent of the college population. A growing num-

were: New York, Washington, D.C., Orlando,

if there are different restrictions for different

ber take courses online for new careers or to

Chicago, Southern California, Boston, Atlanta,

ages. For example, on a trip my daughter took

meet requirements for their profession.

Virginia, Pennsylvania and Texas. Additional

with her second grade students to NASA, all

2013 favorites for seniors include Niagara

adults accompanying the group had to have

Other non-traditional students are home schooled, enrolled in adult education classes,

Falls, Branson, Alaska, Las Vegas and Florida

photo IDs. If college age students want to stop

learning in retirement classes, history, science

as well as international trips.

at a casino, in most states only people 21 and

and physical fitness classes or clubs, voca-

2. Work with teachers as partners on stu-

over are admitted. Most casinos require proof

tional or public service professions, or take

dent trips. Teachers decide where they want

of age in the form of a passport or driver’s

bus trips for international students and visi-

to go, what they want to see and do, when they

license to enter or receive discounts offered

tors. Some choose educational travel with

want to go, how much they can afford, and

to bus groups. Passports are required for trips

organizations that target older learners such

whose approval is needed. Contact a bus com-

outside United States.

as Roads Scholar (formerly Elderhostel), Grand

pany immediately to make sure buses are

Circle Tours, Vantage Tours, National Geo-

available. Previous experiences, recommen-

in elementary school so you know which kids

graphic Expeditions, and National Geographic

dations from bus companies, travel agents,

are yours and know the name of the ones caus-

5. Put nametags on the students, especially

Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014 • 31

20 Tips ing trouble. Let the teacher decide on seat-

laugh. When I was a bus driver, playing their

this chaperoning my daughter’s 8th grade

ing arrangements. Furnish nametags to adult

kind of music was always a bargaining point

trip to Washington, D.C.

learners with cell phone numbers of the escort

in getting them to behave.” Your passengers

16. To attract student bus tours, set up a

on back. Nametags are often required to enter

may be interested in popular music from the

Web site (or add it to the one you have)

attractions and they make it easier to recog-

40s through 90s, classical musical or coun-

designed to make planning student field trips

nize group members off the bus.

try western. Play it softly.

easier and faster for teachers. An example is

6. Have enough chaperones. Teachers and

11. Have snacks on board. Kids are always

Eyre Bus, Tour and Travel’s Web site

parents are excellent for young students. A

hungry. However, some bus companies do

eyre.com. Teachers and tour planners can

good ratio for elementary grade students is

not allow milk products or beverages that

pick the date/time, destination and itinerary

one chaperone for every four students. Space

are easily spilled. Good suggestions for all

for their trips. Within one business day an

them throughout the bus. A second grade

ages are wrapped candy, stick pretzels, cook-

Eyre Tour staff member returns a compre-

chaperone going with the class to the zoo

ies without nuts, and bottled water. Some

hensive price quote to them.

might be responsible for four or five children

teachers require all food to be consumed off

17. Promote cities or tourist attractions

(and their lunch bags); escorting them

the bus at rest stops and food stops. With

close to home. The economy pushed “stay-

through the zoo at their own pace and mak-

adults it works well to keep bottled water or

cations” (vacationing closer to home) to the

ing sure they get back to the bus on time. A

soda beneath the bus in coolers to hand to

top of the travel trend list for 2009. “Second

junior high chaperone might have five to

them wrapped dry when they return from

tier” cities in your state like Cleveland,

eight students at an amusement park or state

rest stops.

Columbus and Cincinnati in Ohio are hot

fair and meet with them at designated times.

12. Try to schedule meals at appropriate

options for schools looking to stretch their

Adult learners have the escort and driver on

times. A lunch that is two hours late is a dis-

travel dollars. Farm baseball teams with

the bus but may require more local guides if

aster. For young students if lunch bags are

upcoming major league players are as excit-

the group is separated on walking tours.

packed, be sure names are on them and

ing to watch as major league teams, and they

7. Make sure the microphone and VCR

decide ahead of time where they will be kept

have smaller parks, better seats and lower

work when boarding the bus. One teacher told

and how they will be distributed. Older learn-

prices. In 2013 people preferred traveling in

me she had ones that did not and it was dis-

ers like rest stops every two to three hours

groups rather than on solo expeditions to

astrous. If a local guide will be taking the group

and retail therapy on a stop for a major meal,

save money, allowed hobbies to decide their

on a walking tour, suggest he or she have a

especially if there is no time for shopping

itinerary and uploaded every step of their

portable microphone. If not, request that they

later in the day.

give information on the bus using its micro-

13. Have rules and regulations on safety,

sojourn. Smartphones became the new tour guides to share information.

bus behavior and language. Let students and

18. Choose food stops the travelers enjoy.

8. Take along a first aid kit and some emer-

parents know them ahead of time in writing

A picnic lunch at a park rest stop is a fast, fun

gency clothing supplies, tissues, paper tow-

and repeat them on the bus. For adult learn-

inexpensive stop. Restaurants with an atmos-

els, dampened wash clothes, ice, hand san-

ers have them written in your tour catalogs

phere like the Hard Rock Café, The Rainforest,

itizers, etc. Drivers usually have some but not

and repeat them early the first day. Many bus

and restaurants with a game room are popu-

all of these. Have young students bring in a

companies require drivers to show a safety

lar. Home-hosted meals in an Amish home or

signed permission slip with a list of medica-

video.

at a ranch in Montana or an apartment in War-

phone and furnish maps or handouts.

14. Know your state’s rules and school’s

saw or restaurants offering ethnic food such

requiring similar medical information from

policy about student bus travel. Although

as Italian or Japanese prepared and served by

adult passengers. Read them before the trip.

your trip may be taken on a commercial bus

natives according to their culture make memorable, educational experiences.

tions, allergies and special needs. Consider

9. Play an age-appropriate video(s) on the

line, it is a good idea to know the state guide-

bus and consider allowing them to bring per-

lines drivers of school busses have to follow,

19. Go the extra mile if you have been

sonal electronic devices on long trips. Videos

as well as your school policy on things like

asked to plan or escort a student bus trip. For

can be used to explain the history of your des-

discipline, cell phones and permission slips.

example, contact the destination’s conven-

tination or an adventure film relative to it. Most

15. For middle school trips, if you sleep

tion and tourism bureau and ask if they

school outings are seen as fun affairs, so it is

four to a room, make sure you patrol the

would put together a welcome package to

fine to choose videos for pure enjoyment.

rooms regularly. The kids have a habit of

be given out at one of their stops. Set up a

staying up all night. It is not a bad idea for a

meeting with a city official. Ask if there are

chaperone to take a seat in the hall. I learned

specific areas at the destination the teacher

10. Play their kind of music on the bus.

One bus magazine editor told me, “Do not 32 • Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014

Check #378 on Reader Service Card

Check #576 on Reader Service Card

Rugged Colorado Linda Balough (719) 836-4298 lbalough@parkco.us www.southparkheritage.org

Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ 33

20 Tips would would like like the driver to drive through. Include

youare areprepared prepared and and treat your IfIfyou your paspas-

them them in in the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plans. Arrange a group

sengersasasyou youlike like treated, you will sengers toto bebe treated, you will be

picture. picture. Bus companies sometimes give dis-

be respected requested again.

If love you respected and and requested again.

If you

counts counts to to schools that book exclusively with

love learning asyou I do, you will new learnthings new learning as I do, will learn

them them and/or and/or donate gift certificates to the

things find thatpassengers some passengers and findand that some knowknow more

schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s charitable charitable events. events.

more than You will also discover than you do.you Youdo. will also discover that all

20.

20. Keep Keep in touch with teachers and adult learners learnersafter after the the trip. trip.

Send Send them them a thank a thank you note. you note.

For students, For students, consider consider dropping dropping by the

GET A GOOD LOOK AT THE RICH HISTORY OF

thatbus all trips yourcan busbe trips caninto be turned into your turned educational educational travel. travel.

Yourcomments comments welcome on this Your areare welcome on this col-

class by the and class taking andataking small gift a small or send giftit or to them send

column suggestions for future columns umn and and suggestions for future columns are

via it tothe them teacher. via the Let teacher. them know Let them whenknow new

are appreciated. e-mailaddress address is appreciated.

My My e-mail is

services, when new prices services, or trips prices areor added. trips are If you added. are

cdjaeb@wowway.com. Happy Springtime. cdjaeb@wowway.com.

Springtime.

aIf company you are a company escort or escort group or leader, grouplet leader, your

Mynext nextcolumn columnwill will suggest suggest games to My to play play

passengers let your passengers know which knowtrips which you trips willyou be

onthe thebus. bus. on

escorting will be escorting for the upcoming for the upcoming year. year.

With degrees from four universities, Dr. Charleen Jaeb has been a business professor at Cuyahoga Community College. After her retirement in 2000, she became a trip planner for the CCC retirees and Middleburg Heights Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club, filling as many as 15 buses each year. Jaeb and her husband escorted trips for Lakefront Lines in Cleveland, Ohio. She says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was wonderful and somewhat unbelievable in retirement to be able to do what you love to do and get paid for doing it.â&#x20AC;?

q

If the walls could talk they would tell you about the Jake Bird, Francisco Guldice, Deputy Claude Daily, prohibition bootlegging and more. Council Bluffs is proud to have one of the only three remaining rotating jails in the country.

Advertiserâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Index Aeries Riverview Winery

Lynnwood, Washington Tourism . . . .23

and Lodging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Madison Chamber of Commerce . . . .25

Algoma Central Railway . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Mall of America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Atlantic City CVA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Milwaukee Road Caboose . . . . . . . . .13

Central Regional Tourism

Miromar Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

District CT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Clayton County Development Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Columbia Gorge Interpretive

Monticello Railway Museum . . . . . . . .7 Mt. Washington Cog Railway . . . . . . . .9 National Railroad Museum . . . . . . . . .13 North Dakota State Tourism . . . . . . . .18

Center Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Northern LIghts Casino . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad . . . .7

Park County Colonial Heritage . . . . . .33

Durango & Silverton Narrow

Pirateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dinner Adventure . . . . . . . . . .15

Gauge Railroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Presque Isle Downs & Casino . . . . . . . .2

First Exposure USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Project Liberty Ship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Forever Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Railswest Railway Museum . . . . . . . .34

German American Heritage Center . .25

Roaring Camp Railroads . . . . . . . . . . .12

Golden Spike Tower . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Skunk Train . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Harriet Tubman Byway . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Starved Rock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Holiday Inn of Upstate New York . . . .33

Terry Bison Ranch Resort . . . . . . . . . .25

Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum . . . . .7

Whitewater Valley Railroad . . . . . . . .35

Illinois Railway Museum . . . . . . . . . . .23

Wilmington & Western Railroad . . . . . .7

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 34 â&#x20AC;˘ Bus Tours Magazine / March, 2013

The Rails West Railroad Museum is housed in the 1899 Rock island Depot and showcases all the lines used to run through Council Bluffs, has rolling stock in the yard to explore and has the best model train layout around.

!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Please Call us at (712) 323-5182 Check #593 on Reader Service Card

Check #950 on Reader Service Card

IF A PICTURE’S WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS, IMAGINE THE STORIES. DO ATLANTIC CITY.COM

Check #303 on Reader Service Card

For information contact Heather Colache at 609.449.7151 or hcolache@accva.com