Bus Tours Magazine Volume XLIII, Number 3 January - February 2022

Volume XLIII, Number 3 • January/February 2022

Hub and Spoke page 18

Shopping/Dining/Lodging page 15

Historical Attractions & Museums page 4

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contents

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 Volume XLIII, Number 3

STAFF

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11

4

Editor & Publisher . . . . . . . . Larry Plachno Business Manager . . Nancy Ann Plachno Typesetting/Page Layout . . Sherry Mekeel Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jake Ron Plaras Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sara Morris

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Bus Tours Magazine 9698 W. Judson Road Polo, Illinois 61064-9015 Phone: (815) 946-2341 Fax: (815) 946-2347 Web site: bustoursmagazine.com Advertising

Central/International West

midwest@busmag.com – (815) 946-2341 Midwest

midwest@busmag.com – (815) 946-2341 Northeast

midwest@busmag.com – (815) 946-2341 Southeast

tourgroups@busmag.com – (815) 946-2341

Guides 4

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15

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS & MUSEUMS Historical attractions and museums have often been popular stops on bus tours. Here are a few locations from around the united states that have been traditional favorites.

STUDENT & SENIOR TOURS some attractions are particularly appropriate for student or senior groups. Here are a few places that appeal to student and senior groups and can be included in your next bus tour.

SHOPPING, DINING & LODGING outlets of Mississippi is the largest outlet shopping mall in the state and very popular with bus groups. starved rock Lodge in oglesby, illinois offers both lodging and dining for bus groups and has been a popular bus stop.

Features 18

20

HUB AND SPOKE TOUR Plymouth, Massachusetts is a great location to base your bus tour. Located south of Boston, the area offers numerous attractions including the local cranberry industry, historic locations, museums and typical new england.

ON THE ROAD AGAIN Plymouth, Massachusetts is a great location to base your bus tour. Located south of Boston, the area offers numerous attractions including the local cranberry industry, historic locations, museums and typical new england.

And More 22

ADVERTISERS INDEX

The editorial staff at Bus Tours Magazine are always looking for news items and editorial material on places that want bus tour groups to stop. Please phone (815) 946-2341 or send material to editorial@busmag.com.

ddunay@busmag.com – (201) 781-6133

COVER PHOTO

Located near Dyersville, iowa, Field of Dreams was originally built for the 1989 movie of the same name. it has become increasingly popular with bus groups and is conveniently located near the national Farm Toy Museum and Dubuque, iowa. joHn young.

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. Periodicals postage paid at Polo, Illinois 61064 and at additional mailing offices.

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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 / January, 2022 • 3

Relive History in Lexington Lexington, Massachusetts An unforgettable journey awaits your clients in Lexington and Concord, as they relive history on a tour they will never forget. They will sit back and relax, while one of our professional costumed step-on guides transports them back in time to April 19, 1775.

First, they will learn about the notable sites and historic houses around Lexington Battle Green, where “the first blood was spilt in the dispute with Great Britain,” as George Washington wrote in his diary. In that short skirmish, 77 militia faced 700 British Regulars. Eight colonists lost their lives and 10 were wounded. Two British soldiers were also injured. After the battle, Samuel Adams exclaimed to John Hancock, “What a glorious morning for America!” So it began. . .

The tour continues east on the Battle Road through Minuteman National Historical Park, as you trace the steps of the British as they marched toward Concord. You will stop at Paul Revere’s Capture Site, or another notable site inside the park. It is up to you.

Before arriving in Concord, guests will take a brief “detour” into the 1800s, passing through the neighborhood where American

Lexington Minuteman Statue

literary giants Louisa May Alcott, Ralph

Historical Attractions

Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne and Henry David Thoreau all lived. The trip culminates at the Old North Bridge, a truly

& Museums

majestic site where your guests will learn about the Battle of Concord – a much more successful effort for the colonists. Finally, on the way back to Lexington, your guide will

ton, Massachusetts, in the heart of Lexington

ber 1991, is one of the country’s most pic-

long march back to Boston must have been

Center. Dedicated bus parking, ample

turesque destinations.

like for the British.

restrooms and an expansive gift shop are

continue to paint a vivid picture of what the

The private, customizable charter tours

The library is the largest of 13 federallyoperated presidential libraries. Perhaps the

offered.

most popular exhibit is Air Force One, the air-

and step-on guides are available seven days per week throughout the year. To book a

Ronald Reagan

step-on guide and custom tour contact Casey

Presidential Library

tors can step aboard the same presidential

Hagerty, tourism coordinator for the Town

Simi Valley, California

aircraft that took Ronald Reagan all over the

craft personally used by the president. Visi-

of Lexington, at (781) 698-4568. You can also

Situated on a mountaintop with fabulous

world. This flying White House, tail number

e-mail at chagerty@lexingtonma.gov. All

views of the surrounding mountains, valleys

27000, served seven U.S. presidents from

tours depart from the Lexington Visitors Cen-

and the Pacific Ocean, the Ronald Reagan

1973 to 2001.

ter, 1875 Massachusetts Avenue in Lexing-

Presidential Library, which opened in Novem-

4 • Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022

Guide: Historical Attractions & Museums The Oval Office today is a symbol of the American presidency, and its re-creation here gives visitors a moment to ponder the power and responsibilities of the president. This room is a full-sized reproduction of the Oval Office as it appeared during Ronald Reagan’s presidency.

At the Reagan Library, touch a piece of history when you place your hand on a 9foot tall piece of The Berlin Wall. Marvel at the beautiful graffiti Berlin residents on the West side – or free side – placed on the wall, while reflecting on the stark grey concrete

Ronald Reagan Presidential Library

East side – or the side where residents were not free.

Through February 27, 2021, tour through FBI: From Al Capone to Al Qaeda, an exhibition

declassified materials and stories related to

(docents) are available only for groups of 15

which shares the storied career of the FBI

the largest war ever to be fought on the

or more. All groups 20 persons or larger must

through the use of over 300 artifacts and FBI

planet.

make a reservation. Groups must also use

interviews. From April 2 through October 9,

Free on-site parking is available, with spe-

one form of payment for the entire group,

2022, tour through The Secrets of WWII, a

cial bus stalls set aside, and the bus driver

but payment may be made at the time of the

never-before-seen exhibition highlighting

and an escort are comped. Groups of any size

visit.

some of the formerly Top Secret and recently

can be accommodated, but tour guides

EXPERIENCE

MASSACHUSET TS

MAKE HISTORY ON A BUS TOUR! IT’S A G R E AT TIME TO

EXPLORE

Sit back, relax, and allow our costumed step-on guides to transport your guests back in time to April 19, 1775. You’ll explore the notable sites and historic houses around Lexington Battle Green, Minuteman National Park and the Old North Bridge in Concord. Or, create your own custom itinerary!

Tours available seven days per week.

To book a step-on guide and custom tour contact: Casey Hagerty, Tourism Coordinator 781-698-4568 or email at chagerty@lexingtonma.gov.

All tours depart from the Lexington Visitors Center; 1875 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE, LEXINGTON

ENJOY: • Dedicated Bus Parking • Restrooms • Gift Shop

Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022 • 5

Guide: Historical Attractions & Museums Martinsburg-Berkeley County CVB West Virginia Shoppers and history enthusiasts find hours of entertainment in Martinsburg, Berkeley County, West Virginia. The rich history of the area links to events from before the Revolutionary War through the Civil War. Martinsburg is surrounded by historical sites and provides the perfect picturesque downtown for hub and spoke tours or good oldfashioned shopping sprees.

It is time to park the bus and let tour passengers explore. The peaceful and delightful town of Martinsburg has great finds at every turn. With innumerable shopping opportunities, the quaint Norman Rockwellesque downtown is sure to charm visitors. The store windows shine with artisan décor, unique

Adam Stephen House Martinsburg-Berkeley County

finds, spa-worthy luxuries and antiques only available in such a historic place. Word to

PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM

One of California’s most beautiful and unique destinations!

For information on The Secrets of WWII and other special exhibits, please visit ReaganLibrary.com

Tour Through Air Force One 27000

View a Full Scale Replica of the Oval Office

Touch an Authentic Piece of the Berlin Wall

The Reagan Library follows all CDC COVID health guidelines and cleaning procedures.

40 Presidential Drive • Simi Valley, CA 93065 • ReaganLibrary.com

6 • Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022

Guide: Historical Attractions & Museums the wise: pack an empty suitcase to carry all the new treasures one

Historic Ft. Steuben

will find at the downtown shops.

Steubenville, Ohio

Are you feeling peckish after shopping? Groups find a selection of

History, archaeology, genealogy – the past is present in Steubenville,

tasty eats at Martinsburg’s locally-owned restaurants. Choose between

one of Ohio’s oldest cities. Known as the City of Murals, 25 larger-

world cuisines or go straight to dessert. Visits to DeFluri’s Fine Choco-

than-life paintings on buildings throughout the city reflect the area

lates and Everything Cheesecake will satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth.

and America’s growth. Well-known figures such as Abraham Lincoln

For more eclectic shopping and eateries, groups head 15 minutes

and Steubenville native son Dean Martin share the fame with less

east to Shepherdstown, the oldest town in West Virginia. Groups vis-

familiar personalities such as “Sloopy” and Fleetwood Walker. Knowl-

iting Shepherdstown find the only thing more alive than the local arts

Historic Ft Steuben

scene is hospitality.

It is easy to make a group tour historical in Berkeley County. Historic sites like Morgan Cabin – the home of West Virginia’s first white settlers, the General Adam Stephen House and The George Washington Heritage Trail pull history from the past and into today. Groups can even see George Washington’s outdoor bathtub in nearby Berkeley Springs. There is an ample amount of Civil War sites, as well. Groups can visit the Martinsburg B&O Roundhouse to see the place once destroyed by Stonewall Jackson’s troops in 1861. Men, of course, are not the only participants in the war. Check out the Berkeley County Museum, located in the home of Confederate spy Belle Boyd at the aptly named Belle Boyd House.

These opportunities and more wait for motorcoach tours in Berkeley County. For information, visit travelwv.com or phone (304) 264-8801.

GET TO THE HEART OF IT

travelwv.com

304.264.8801

Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022 • 7

Guide: Historical Attractions & Museums edgeable and entertaining step-on guides

to

are available to tell the stories behind each

advance on the library’s

of the murals.

Web site at bush41.org.

be

purchased

in

Early American frontier life can be expe-

The Bush Library and

rienced at Historic Fort Steuben, a completely

Museum cares for more

reconstructed fort built on the original site

than 44 million pages of

overlooking the Ohio River. Adjacent to the

official documents and

fort is the First Federal Land Office west of

donated collections from

the Alleghenies – built in 1801 as an early

George H.W. Bush’s pres-

American home office. Copies of genealogy

idency and throughout

records of early settlers are on file here. An

his public career, as well

on-going archaeology dig is on- site with his-

as more than 60,000 arti-

Oceans of Plastic George Bush Presidential Library & Museum

torical displays in the Fort Steuben Visitor

facts and an extensive

Center. Find old fashioned games and toys

audiovisual collection. Many of these papers

explores the rich history of the Texas coast

as well as historical books and souvenirs at

and artifacts are on display in the museum.

and how the Sea Grant program has sup-

the Museum Shop. As part of the Lewis &

While telling the story of the 41st president,

ported the shoreland and its people through

Clark National Historic Trail, the Visitor Cen-

the museum covers several aspects of U.S.

cutting-edge research and innovative out-

ter includes an exhibit on the Corps of Dis-

and world history for the past 100 years.

covery.

reach and education. From maintaining

For the newest focus exhibit, the Bush

healthy coastal ecosystems to aiding sus-

The stained-glass windows and architec-

Library and Museum partnered with Texas

tainable fisheries to promoting resilient com-

ture of Steubenville’s Historic Downtown

A&M to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the

munities, Texas Sea Grant has helped Texans

Churches are a source of wonder while a visit

Texas Sea Grant College Program. Texas Sea

protect and enhance the unique and vital

to the Antique Warehouse offers a huge

Grant: 50 Years of Science and Stewardship

resources of Texas’ coastal marine environ-

selection of antiques and memorabilia. Tour the elegant Jefferson County Historical Association Mansion Museum with its Dean Martin exhibit, Presidents Room and Riverboat display.

Just 20 minutes from the city is the Quaker village of Historic Mount Pleasant, an important site of the Underground Railroad in the 19th century and on the National Register of Historic Places. After touring the village, enjoy locally produced wine at Black Sheep Vineyard or one of The Farm Restaurant’s specialty desserts.

A tour can be customized to meet the expectations of your travelers. Excellent lodging options and a variety of dining experiences make an overnight stay in Steubenville a unique travel experience.

George Bush Presidential Library and Museum West College Station, Texas The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum is looking forward to welcoming you. Admission tickets for the museum need 8 • Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022

Guide: Historical Attractions & Museums ments. The Texas Sea Grant exhibit will be

These temporary exhibits will be on dis-

on display in the Ansary Gallery of American

play until July 5, 2022. For more information

The house was formally dedicated as a

History through July 5, 2022.

or to purchase your tickets, visit bush41.org.

museum in ceremonies held in the garden

Additionally, the Bush Library and

a

valuable

and

historical

jewel.

of the Bradford House in 1965. You are

Museum is proud to feature Oceans of Plastic,

Bradford House

invited to enjoy a tour of the house and the

a strangely beautiful collection of art made

Washington, Pennsylvania

garden leading to the recently constructed

from plastic waste acquired from beaches

It was rare to have a stone house in fron-

log kitchen. Tours can be built to accommo-

along the Texas Gulf Coast. Artist and beach-

tier America late in the 18th century. The

date your specific needs. The Bradford House

comber Shelia Rogers began collecting dis-

Bradford House in Washington, Pennsylvania

is available for guided tours seven days a

carded plastic and then transformed it into

is such an example. Built in 1788 by David

week except major holidays. There are sev-

vibrant works of art to bring awareness to

Bradford, a prominent lawyer in southwest-

eral

the true impact of plastics on our wildlife and

ern Pennsylvania, it played an important role

accommodate groups within walking dis-

marine ecosystems.

restaurants

that

can

in the Whiskey Rebellion of 1794. This house

tance. The Bradford House works with local

is the oldest structure in Washington and one

restaurants, hotels and attractions to create

mental President outlines the almost 30 envi-

of the oldest in western Pennsylvania. It is

the best possible experience for your group.

ronmental initiatives and legislation that

the centerpiece of a rich local history that a

In addition, a new Whiskey Rebellion Edu-

President signed during his administration.

group of loyal and dedicated citizens actively

cation and Visitor Center opened in May

Visitors will hear President Bush’s thoughts

works to preserve.

A third exhibit, George Bush: An Environ-

on the environment in his own words, and

2021, directly across the street from the

After going through many changes in

museum. The center accommodates the

they will discover a selection of environmen-

ownership and usage over the decades, the

needs of our physically-challenged visitors

tal-related artifacts from the collections of

house was acquired by the Pennsylvania His-

with fully accessible exhibit space and an

the Bush Library and Museum.

torical and Museum Commission in 1959 and

accessible restroom. The addition of the edu-

underwent an extensive restoration. It is now

cational center shares the important story of

Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022 • 9

Guide: Historical Attractions & Museums the Whiskey Rebellion and how it helped

To schedule a tour of both sites, contact

shape American history through hands-on

the Executive Director Tracie Liberatore,

activities and displays, including a historic

at bradfordhouse@verizon.net or (724 )

timeline, period exhibits and 18th century

222-3604.

q

tavern bar and distilling displays.

Bradford House

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10 • Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022

Student and Senior Tours Field of Dreams Movie Site

regular season game between the New York

Dyersville, Iowa

Field of Dreams Movie Site and how it was chosen to serve as the set for

Yankees and the Chicago White Sox. Major

the film, the celebrities that have visited the

The Field of Dreams Movie Site was

League Baseball will be returning for a sec-

site throughout the years and more. Bus tour

selected in 1987 to serve as the movie set for

ond game to be held Thursday, August 11,

groups are also given a special discount for

the 1989 Academy Award nominee for Best

2022, between the Chicago Cubs and Cincin-

30-minute guided tours inside the Field of

Picture of the Year – Field of Dreams. Since

nati Reds. Patrons are invited to play catch

Dreams farm house. Contact Kayla at the

the film's premier, just as foreshadowed in

on the diamond, explore the gift shop and

Dyersville Chamber of Commerce at (563)-

the movie, people from all around the world

take a tour of the oh-so-recognizable farm

875-2311

have visited our corner of fantasy and reality

house.

dyersville.org to set up a group tour at the

in rural Dyersville, Iowa, to experience the magic for themselves.

This serene ball diamond has been a pop-

or

dyersvillechamber@

Field of Dreams Movie Site.

ular bus tour group destination since the

Atlantic City

The iconic movie site celebrated its 30th

film's premier in 1989. A special experience

anniversary in 2019 and continues to con-

is offered for bus tour groups that they are

From top-notch dining experiences, lux-

tinues to make fans smile with a record-set-

sure to never forget as one of the legendary

ury hotel accommodations, entertainment

ting 250,000 visitors in 2021. On August 12,

Ghost Players greets them and provides a

and more, Atlantic City has more than

2021, the Field of Dreams Movie Site played

guided tour of the Field of Dreams Field,

enough to make it a perfect and safe get-

host to the first-ever Major League Baseball

walking them through the history of the site

away.

Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022 • 11

Guide: Student & Senior Tours Looking to relax and recharge? Atlantic City has the answer. Pamper yourself at one of the world-class spas where you will be taken on a journey of pure relaxation. From a Himalayan Salt Grotto, to Rhythm & Motion rooms, each spa offers an experience of its own.

Is sports more your speed? Atlantic City’s land-based sportsbooks are the hottest

Atlantic City

venues in town. From the Boardwalk to the Marina District, fans can pick their favorite teams, relax in plush seats and enjoy the action on multiple LED screens. With all

or accessories? Bass Pro Shops is the ultimate

The Atlantic City Experiene. Home to the Miss

Atlantic City’s nine casino resorts offering

outdoor world and offers the area’s largest

America Pageant and many firsts, learn about

state-of-the-art sportsbooks, no sporting

selection for hunting, fishing, camping, boat-

the city’s origins and make Jim Whelan

event is likely to be missed.

ing and more.

Boardwalk Hall the first stop to start your

Shopping never goes out of season and

Located off the world-famous Atlantic City

Atlantic City experience.

Atlantic City’s Tanger Outlets The Walk on

Boardwalk, Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall is a

Did you know that Atlantic City is home

Michigan and Atlantic avenues features 50

premier entertainment venue that has been

to more than 50 murals? Stories behind the

national retail brand outlets store such as

dazzling guests for more than 91 years. Inside

artists’ works are as touching and moving as

Michael Kors, Coach Kate Spade New York,

the newly renovated atrium, you will find a

the murals they create, and these permanent

Under Armour and Victoria’s Secret, just to

brief overview of the city’s expansive history

public works of art show the heartbeat of

name a few. Need outdoor attire, equipment

and accomplishments, which is known as

Atlantic City. A few of the unique and beau-

12 • Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022

Guide: Student & Senior Tours tiful pieces include Before I Die which featuers fill-in-the-blank lines

lection, 1917 Curtiss Bi-Plane, McCord Fishwheel Replica and exhibits

where a person can add their bucket-list item to the wall, and the Jelly

dedicated to the local Columbia River Indian tribes, as well as Russian

Fish, an optical illusion mural where the tentacles of the jellyfish

and Japanese heritage. Feel free to rest your feet in the theaters fea-

appear to move when using red and blue 3D glasses.

turing films about the formation of the gorge, local history and its

Complete Atlantic City information is offered, and a knowledgeable

future. Learn how Skamania County became Washington’s first

staff is available to help you. For more information visit

“Sasquatch Refuge,” and why 1,000s of couples would anxiously run

touratlanticty.com.

to Skamania County to tie the knot, earning it the title “Marriage Mill.”

The museum is open seven days a week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. View

Columbia Gorge Interpretive

columbiagorge.org for more information and admission cost. Stop

Center/Museum

by to pick up a children’s workbook and crayons (free). Even join in

Stevenson, Washington

on the search for their very own “Bigfoot.”

The Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center/Museum is located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge in Stevenson, Washington.

Texan Theater

The museum features more than 11,000 square feet of indoor exhibits,

Greenville, Texas

as well as a large display of antique trucks, logging equipment, mine

Welcome to the Texan Theater – a place where history meets mod-

replica and train cars. The Columbia Gorge is known for its exquisite

ern amenities. The full- restored venue has kept the art deco feel

beauty and unique natural history. Would you like to learn more about

while providing the comfort and safety of a modern post-Covid world.

how it was formed? Or explore the roots and culture of its earliest

Spacious seating and good ventilation make it one of the safer ways

people? Then be sure to stop in and explore the 15,000 years of history,

to see entertainment.

from local native tribes to the settlers that followed in the footprints of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

The walls were originally built around 1890. One area the modern footprint was a mercantile store while the rest of the walls housed the

The museum is dedicated to preserving the stories and culture of

King Opera House. Mr King was an independent sort who preferred get-

the Columbia River Gorge. It features the world’s largest rosary col-

ting his own shows instead of going through a buyer. He would go to New York to find shows to bring to his opera house. Many greats came

Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center/Museum Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022 • 13

Guide: Student & Senior Tours White Pines Lodge

porate retreats, wedding receptions and week-

Mt. Morris, Illinois

end getaways. Be sure to visit at Christmastime,

White Pines Lodge is excited to be open

when you can take a horse-drawn wagon ride,

once again providing the great meals, enter-

visit with Santa, buy a freshly-cut Christmas

tainment and cozy accommodation. Guests

tree and more.

will be pleased that many of the popular

Discover White Pines Lodge, where you

items and employees that made White Pines

will find time to relax and unwind in this

a special getaway are still around.

If you have never been to Mount Morris, Illinois, you now have a new reason to plan a trip there. One of life’s joys is finding a hidden gem like this

Texan Theater

less than two hours from Chicago. The 1930’s-era lodge is nestled deep in the

through like George M Cohen, when he was

forest of White Pines

part of the Five Cohens, Helen Keller. and John

State Park. The restau-

Boles. The opera house closed in 1920.

rant is known far and

The modern configuration opened at the

wide for its delicious

Texan Theater in 1934. Many of the opera

home-style cuisine,

house features are still present – from posters

generous portions and

advertising the opera house shows to the stage

friendly staff. Guests can enjoy delicious

itself. In 2010 the current owner, Barbara

homemade dishes for breakfast, lunch or din-

Horan, bought the theater and began a four-

ner in this treasured landmark. Whether you

year renovation, preserving what she could

are stopping by for a family outing, a wedding

and bringing the movie house into the modern

reception, a business retreat, a Christmas

era by installing full production for bands as

party or an intimate night out for two, this

well as surround sound for modern movies.

well-known restaurant takes pride in ensur-

Your stop in Greenville at the Texan The-

ing that every guest who steps through the

ater can accomplish many things. The Texan Lobby is a hometown coffee shop featuring

door has an experience to remember.

The restaurant is also host to the Pines

Nespresso coffee. From shots to fancy blended

Dinner Theater, a live theater experience

drinks, you can get just about anything you

which has been providing musical and

can imagine. Light lunches are available. If

comedic entertainment for more than 30

you want something more hearty, then you

years. Adjacent to the landmark restaurant

can coordinate with the onsite catering depart-

is a charming and rustic gift shop filled with

ment to have a special meal provided just for

nostalgic gift items and souvenirs which will

your group. While lunch is being eaten, various

become precious mementos.

kinds of entertainment can be provided – from a band, to lecture, to a movie.

From stopping to stretch everyone’s legs

Authentic, cozy log cabins provide overnight lodging just a stone’s throw from the lodge.

Natural beauty abounds with miles of hiking

to a few hours of entertainment and shop-

trails that crisscross over bubbling streams and

ping, the Texan Theater is the perfect stop

along moss-covered limestone bluffs. This

along your trip down the historic Bankhead

lovely destination is ideal for motorcoach

Highway.

groups, romantic escapes, family outings, cor-

14 • Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022

peaceful forest. Phone (815) 655-2400 or go to visitwhitepines.com for details.

q

White Pines Dinner Theater

Outlets of Mississippi

Shopping, Dining & Lodging Outlets of Mississippi

including pizza, Chinese food, hibachi, sushi,

conveniently located across from the Food

Pearl, Mississippi

Southern cuisines and a Mexican Bar & Grill.

Court and near the bus tour drop-off area.

At 325,000 square feet, Outlets of Missis-

Snack vendors offer fresh popcorn, cookies,

The latest additions may be the most

sippi is the largest outlet shopping destination

brownies, sodas and candies, chocolates and

exciting. Entertainment is abundant around

in the state. Located minutes from the capital

frozen yogurt. Shoppers will also enjoy ice

this family-friendly outdoor shopping center

city of Jackson in the city of Pearl, Outlets of

cold beers and daiquiris which can be carried

and includes a 10,000-square-foot eSports

Mississippi is the perfect stopping place at

around the property.

arena that offers gaming and Virtual Reality

the Crossroads of the South at the junction

Visitor Services welcome center is also

experiences for all ages. Travelers will also

home to the Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi

enjoy “escape rooms” and the latest craze

Top name brands include Polo Ralph Lau-

Pearl Gallery. Hundreds of local artists display

“smash rooms” where patrons can gear up

ren, Michael Kors, Coach, Banana Republic,

hand-made items that can be purchased as

and break all sorts of items with bats and golf

Gap Outlet, Johnston & Murphy, Cole Haan,

souvenirs. Guests will also find special dis-

clubs. It is an experience like none other.

of interstates 55/20 and highways 80/49.

Nike, Under Armour, Adidas, Carter’s Babies

counts, a VIP coupon brochure and plenty of

Outlets of Mississippi is nested inside “The

and Kids, PUMA as well as several locally-

tourism information for The Hospitality State.

Connection” which is within walking distance

owned shops and boutiques. Outlets of Mis-

Wheelchairs, strollers and other amenities

to some of Mississippi’s best attractions includ-

sissippi also has a variety of dining options

are also found at Visitor Services which is

ing the state’s only Bass Pro Shops, Cavender’s Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022 • 15

Guide: Shopping, Dining & Lodging Starved Rock Lodge

16 • Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022

Guide: Shopping, Dining & Lodging Western Outfitter, Holiday Inn and Trustmark

hits by Elvis Presley, Patsy Cline, Dean Martin

Park, home to the Mississippi Braves (Dou-

and others. A hot buffet lunch is included in

ble-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves).

the ticket price. The setting is the historic Great Hall.

Starved Rock Lodge Oglesby, Illinois Starved Rock Lodge, located in Oglesby,

Trolleys play an important role in the tours offered by Starved Rock Lodge, providing a comfortable way see the region. Land and

Illinois, is nestled in the middle of scenic

water cruises aboard the Eagle I riverboat

Starved Rock State Park (a National Historic

offer guests a slow-paced cruise on the east

Landmark) featuring stunning sandstone

side of Starved Rock State Park offering a

canyons and seasonal waterfalls. Starved

view of the forests, foliage and wildlife from

Rock Lodge is the only lodging facility located

the Illinois River. Tours of the lodge and

within the park. Built by the Civilian Conser-

guided hikes are often added to enhance the

vation Corps in the 1930s, the lodge is a

guest’s experience.

unique, architectural masterpiece with a

Starved Rock Lodge features comfy hotel

massive Great Hall anchored by the largest,

rooms, cabins, an indoor pool complex, the

two-sided limestone fireplace in the Midwest.

Back Door Lounge, Main Dining Room and

Guests remark that the ambiance is much

Café – all under one roof. In warm weather,

like that of lodges in national parks.

outdoor dining on the Veranda offers a stun-

The most popular group tours activities

ning view of scenic LaSalle County and the

are the lodge’s Tribute to the Stars series of

Illinois River Valley. Starved Rock Lodge is

musical performances. The talented singers

more than a day trip – it is a lasting memory.

and performers take guests on a walk down memory lane with their renditions of famous

For more information phone (800)

868-7625 or view starvedrocklodge.com. q

Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022 • 17

Plymouth, Massachusetts If you love winter snow scenes, cozy and warm accommodations, hot chocolate beside a fire and peaceful walks that reflect New England winter beauty, Plymouth County is the place to be this winter. A muchneeded getaway will refresh, revive and recharge your spirit.

A lively art scene abounds during the winter months in America’s Hometown – Plymouth, Massachusetts. A strong schedule of theater exists at the Spire Center and at Memorial Hall, and art takes center stage at Plymouth Center for the Arts and at countless art galleries in the historic district.

A road trip through the South Shore will delight you as you pass cranberry bogs, small towns with New England charm and beautiful country roads. These typical New England towns with church steeples and town greens will make your getaway a comfy, relaxing experience especially when you find the perfect bed and breakfast or inn and amble along the downtown streets where unique non-chain shops offer some of the best gifts and memorabilia. A planned history adventure will take you to the numerous towns the Mayflower pilgrims settled. Do not miss Alden House in Duxbury and learn about pilgrims John and Priscilla Alden.

The Metro south region of the county has one of the finest craft museums in the country, the Fuller Craft Museum in Brockton.

While there, head downtown to see the incredible Civil War-era architecture of City Hall or take in the history of the city's shoemaking claim to fame at the Brockton Historical Society.

In Cranberry Country where area farms in these small country towns provide visitors with a view of the colorful harvesting of this truly American berry, winter brings views of

Hub and Spoke Tour

iced-over ponds, snow-dusted trees and country scenes. You may decide to stop in at The A. D. Makepeace Company in Wareham to grab a bite at their market. Families especially will enjoy Edaville Family Theme Park

18 • Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022

Feature: Hub and Spoke in Carver and their Christmas Festival of Lights in December.

Plymouth County has been welcoming visitors since 1620 when the Mayflower pilgrims landed in Plymouth Bay. If you have not made it here, you owe it to yourself to experience a piece of Americana that has long held the heart of what New England is all about.

For more information, download the See Plymouth app.

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Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022 • 19

On the Road Again

Springfield, Illinois Springfield, Illinois CVB

The group visited us back in May and their

With a stay in the Capital City, Visit Spring-

It was so great to get back to having tour

mystery tour wanted an emphasis on expe-

field provides a complimentary welcome

groups in 2021. While the volume of groups

riences vs site seeing. The group began their

from a Lincoln presenter. The next day the

was not as heavy as pre-pandemic, it cer-

tour with a behind-the-scenes green house

presenter gave a talk to the group in Lin-

tainly allowed for us to get creative with tour

tour of Washington Park Botanical Gardens.

coln’s historic neighborhood. At that time

groups. Perhaps one of the most creative

Each person potted and received a plant as

the home was not accepting indoor tours,

excursions in Springfield this past year was

something to take home.

but this version really brought the neigh-

with Care Free Travel.

One of our local Lincoln presenters welcomed the group during that night’s meal.

20 • Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022

borhood to life. The only home Lincoln

Feature: On the Road Again ever owned and the surrounding historic neighborhood gives a terrific glimpse into Lincoln’s family life.

Next up was a tour of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Ordinarily spectacular on its own, the one-of-a-kind museum was topped off by one of their tour enhancements. This enhancement provided a behind the scenes look at the holovision performance Ghosts of the Library. The behind-the-scenes look allows groups to meet with show managers and actors to learn how this amazing show is pulled off.

Finally a Lincoln-era home, Edwards Place (also home to the Springfield Art Association) provided a tour and craft project that the participants could take with them. The home is famous for housing

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

the “courting couch” where Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd spent some of their courtship. The Springfield Art Association provides everything from painting to soap making. They are really outstanding at tailoring an activity for a group.

The group had such a terrific time they are planning for their return this coming June.

jas you take in the sights and sounds of our galleries and our gardens.

The Garden Pavilion entices guests to learn about Utopia, a breathtaking marble sculpture by renowned Spanish artist Jaume Plensa that fills the room and the eye.

Frederik Meijer Gardens

A full calendar of events and programming is scheduled for

& Sculpture Park

2022, including a sculpture exhibition by Yinka Shonibare CBE in

Grand Rapids, Michigan

our newly expanded and renovated sculpture galleries, beginning

The light at the end of the tunnel grew brighter in 2021, when we saw the slow return of a “new normal” to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan. After having closed our

in April.

Additional

information

can

be

found

online

at

MeijerGardens.org/plan/adult-groups/.

doors for nearly three months in 2020, due to government-imposed

Chicago Southland CVB

nationwide shutdowns brought on by the pandemic, we welcomed visitors who were eager to return to our indoor and outdoor facilities.

Despite the COVID-related setbacks we have all experienced, the

With a 158-acre main campus and nearly four miles of walking trails,

Chicago Southland Convention and Visitors Bureau had another pro-

Meijer Gardens has more than enough room for guests and tour

ductive year for tourism thanks to the hard work and dedication of

groups to safely wander and wonder inside and out, in every sea-

our staff.

son—as well as take part in narrated tram tours during warmer months.

Delighted tour groups have been able to experience the beauty of

Like most, we have adapted to the times and our sales team has become experts at selling the Chicago Southland via virtual tradeshows, meeting more than 500 event/tour planners and almost

our various gardens, our permanent sculpture collection of more

400 prospective customers, as we continue to grow our customer

than 200 works by artists from around the globe, and our three beloved

base.

and highly regarded annual horticulture exhibitions: University of

Of course, there is no better endorsement of the area and work

Michigan Health–West Christmas & Holiday Traditions with its dozens

we do than testimonials. After a COVID delay pushed Gary Block

of Christmas trees and cultural displays and a host of related hap-

Tours Spirtual Tour back a year, they were able to take that trip in

penings, The Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming and its

2021. “Visiting the Shrine of Christ's Passion was what this trip was

plethora of butterflies-to-be and beauties in flight, and Chrysanthe-

all about and had been included in our FAM tour,” said Gary Block,

mums & More! – alive with a cornucopia of autumn flora and color

“but none of this could have even happened had it not been for Tobie

and cheery special events.

It has been a whirlwind of activity as motorcoach tours and adult

(Fitzpatrick, Chicago Southland Convention and Visitors Bureau Tour and Travel Market manager) at Chicago Southland. She was there

tour groups enjoyed new and blossoming facilities throughout 2021

when I needed mileage help or to help me fill a space that was open

as we neared completion on our four-year, $115 million expansion

between an attraction and dinner. I could probably write a small book

project. A new Welcome Center and widened corridors in our existing

on all the help Tobie supplied. She is a wonderful, caring person and

building mean more room than ever to remain physically distanced Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022 • 21

Feature: On the Road Again without her, these four days would never

when you book a bus tour with Tobie and the

to talk with you and make your group travel

have happened. You can trust Tobie to make

Chicago Southland Convention & Visitors

dreams come true.

it happen.”

This type of “TLC” treatment is more than

Bureau. For more information and our current incentive programs, Tobie would love

just a marketing campaign, it is the standard

Phone

(888)

895-3211

or

view

TourChicagoSouthland.com for more q

information.

Gary Block Tour Chicago Southland

Advertiser’s Index Atlantic City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Historic Richmondtown . . . . . . . . . . . .9

See Plymouth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Bradford House

Jacksonville Area CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Starved Rock Lodge

Historical Association . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 City of Ft. Madison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Columbia Gorge

Martinsburg-Berkeley County CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

& Conference Center . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Temsa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

McKinney CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Texan Theater Greenville . . . . . . . . . .13

Interpretive Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Outlets of Mississippi . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Town of Lexington,

Field of Dreams Movie Site . . . . . . . . .12

PixelGraphics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Massachusetts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

George Bush Library & Museum . . . . . .8

Prevost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

White Pines Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Generac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Ronald Reagan

Historic Ft. Steuben . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 22 • Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2022

Presidential Foundation . . . . . . . . . . .6

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REDISCOVER ATLANTIC CITY

The Story Continues Excitement awaits in Atlantic City, including miles of sandy beaches, our world-famous Boardwalk and the thrilling Steel Pier. Enjoy tax-free shopping, award-winning dining, live entertainment and other great attractions.

Here you can experience the ultimate getaway and create a lifetime of memories.

Atlantic City Expert Heather Colache is available at 609-318-6097 or hcolache@meetac.com to make sure you enjoy Atlantic City as it was meant to be experienced.

Meet AC received funding through a grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism.

TourAtlanticCity.com

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Historical Association . . . . . . . . . . . .9 q City of Ft. Madison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 q Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 q Field of Dreams Movie Site . . . . . . . .12

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9698 W. Judson Road, Polo, Illinois 61064 January/February, 2022

•

Atlantic City page 24

•

Bradford House Historical Association page 9

•

Field of Dreams Movie Site page 12

•

George Bush Library & Museum page 8

•

Historic Richmondtown page 9

•

Martinsburg-Berkeley County CVB page 7

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Moving Ahead With 2022 Tours

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