The Group Travel Leader April 2025

Spring break

GROUPS

GATHER ON THE GULF

STUDENT TRAVEL ISSUE

KEENELAND HORSE RACING, LEXINGTON

What can you say about a place like Georgetown, Kentucky? A lot, actually. From our world-famous equine attractions to world-class dining, bourbon, and outdoor recreation, Georgetown is the home of Bluegrass adventure. It’s your kind of place, you just don’t know it yet. That’s Georgetown, Kentucky for ya!

BY BRIAN JEWELL

What kinds of trips do our students deserve? That’s a question I had never asked myself until I took my kids to see a live stage performance of “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood.”

Before “Bluey” took over the world, the PBS show “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” was every preschool parent’s best friend. The show was the successor to the legendary “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” and featured many of the relatable characters created by Fred Rogers, updated with folksy, catchy songs and empathetic lessons for a new generation of kids. It was an excellent program that kids loved and parents felt good about.

My kids, like most others their age, loved Daniel Tiger. So when we found out a touring live version of the show was coming to our city, we made plans to take them to see it. They were probably three and five years old.

I have seen a lot of live theater over the years, much of it in the context of my work as a travel journalist. I love the chance to catch a world-class show on Broadway, but I’ve also had some enjoyable evenings at regional theaters around the country. And like most people, I have had to suffer through some less-than-stellar high school plays. But none of those experiences prepared me for what I would see when Daniel Tiger hit the stage.

I’ll be honest, I didn’t have high expectations for the show. After all, the primary audience wasn’t even old enough for kindergarten. Who would bother putting a lot of effort into a production for kids that young?

To my surprise, though, the show wasn’t just good — it was extraordinary. The actors gave

EDITOR’S MARKS

authentic and engaging performances. The singing was top-notch. The costumes, set pieces and production values reminded me of what I have seen on Broadway.

As I sat and watched my kids mesmerized by the show, it hit me: The fact that they were performing for children didn’t cause this cast to phone in their performances. It motivated them to do their best.

I realized at that moment that if we want our kids to appreciate great art and culture when they’re adults, we have to give them great art and culture while they’re young. Kids deserve excellent theater experiences just as much as adults do.

That principle holds true for travel as well. Students deserve to have high-quality, impactful travel experiences. They deserve the best we can give them. After all, if we want them to be avid travelers as adults, we have to introduce them to great travel experiences while they are young. We have to teach them that travel is something worth loving.

Here at The Group Travel Leader, we endeavor to play a small part in that effort each April in our annual student travel issue (see the story “Brain Breaks” on page 14). We want to help you find inspiration and ideas for amazing student trips. And we hope the trips you plan for student groups impact your travelers us much as student trips once impacted us.

There will always be differences between student and adult tours. But one thing that should be the same is the commitment to give every trip your best effort. Because your travelers always deserve that, no matter how young or old they are.

Seashore always a good bet in Atlantic City

BY VICKIE MITCHELL

Before 1978, Atlantic City was all about sea breezes, sandy toes and pounding waves.

Then gaming rolled in, and glittery casino resorts with fancy restaurants, major league entertainment, boutique shops and spas took the spotlight.

Still, even as groups are drawn to Atlantic City’s nine casino resorts, they always find time to enjoy its sand and sea.

Seaside Stops

One exhilarating option is a climb up Absecon Lighthouse, New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse. It stands tall on a square of green lawn a few blocks from Atlantic City’s famed boardwalk. A climb up its 228 steps requires strong legs and lungs, but the reward is a breathtaking look at the Jersey shore.

Of course, enjoying Atlantic City’s seaside location doesn’t have to be strenuous. Beach services are happy to set up comfy chairs and umbrellas in the soft sand. Slow strolls along the surf’s edge provide a peaceful break from the cacophony of the casino floor.

Many beach bars along the five-mile iconic boardwalk are perfect for post-gaming gatherings. The Steel Pier and its four bars are a good place to start. Two bars that sit where the pier meets the bustling boardwalk are prime for people-watching. A drink at the Wheel Bar can calm nerves before a spin on the pier’s 227-foot-tall Wheel. For a wider view, helicopter rides take off at the pier. And, to feel truly out to sea, groups can settle in for drinks, dancing and dining at the pier’s Ocean Reef Oasis Bar, 1,000 feet out over the Atlantic.

Many of the six casinos along the boardwalk have beach bars, including LandShark Bar & Grill at Resorts Casino Hotel, open year-round. And, for those who might want to get away from the crowds, there’s the VUE at the Claridge Hotel, Atlantic City’s only rooftop bar, where heat lamps take the chill off cool evenings.

Surf's Up

Getting out on the back bay or sea is still one of the best ways to appreciate Atlantic City’s coastal location, and there are many ways to do that. For an active adventure, there’s deep sea fishing, parasailing, surfing lessons and kayak tours. A boat tour of the back bay is a more sedate option. The Tiki Boat, a covered pontoon with its own bar, works well for parties of 25 or fewer, and because it motors on flat waters, spills or seasickness are not issues. Atlantic City Cruises’ 130-passenger yacht, with its open and covered decks and enclosed spaces, is well popular for sunset and dolphin watching cruises.

And, while much about a trip to Atlantic City is in the hands of Lady Luck, a cruise of the waters around the city offers one sure thing. “There are lots of dolphin pods in the area, so we guarantee you will see dolphins!” said Heather Colache, tourism account director for Visit Atlantic City.

FAMILY MATTERS

COLLETTE PRIORITIZES GROUP LEADER PARTNERSHIPS

SALEM, Ohio When it comes to expanding your group travel business, partnering with the right tour operator can be the key to unlocking new opportunities. The travel industry is constantly evolving, and having a trusted partnership with a reliable tour operator can help streamline and simplify the process of organizing trips.

Collette is a perfect example of a tour operator that puts the experience of the traveler first. With over 107 years in business, it’s safe to say that Collette has proven itself as a leader in the industry by providing unmatched support and resources.

Collette also has a strong track record of fostering long-term relationships. Their vice president of global development, Jim Edwards, has been with the company for over 29 years.

In his tenure with Collette, Jim has focused on developing and maintaining high customer service, playing an integral role during Collette’s growth into many major markets and national partnerships. This includes Collette’s national partnership with The Group Travel Family, which has spanned more than 20 years.

With 107 years in business, it’s no wonder Collette has developed so many services that take the stress out of the experience, not just for the planner but their guests too.

By offering over 160 itineraries spanning all seven continents, Collette enables planners to sell year-round and keep business thriving even during the off season. Planners also gain access to ready-to-use marketing tools and have no minimum group requirements or deposits. This lets them focus on enhancing the travel experience rather than meeting quotas.

Collette’s reputation is also backed by its Cancel for Any Reason travel protection policy, allowing travelers to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before their trip. This highlights the peace of mind that travelers can enjoy when partnering with a trusted partner.

“Collette understands the industry,” said Jennifer Ferguson, general manager of The Group Travel Family of Brands. “They know what it takes to be a group leader and know how to offer value for the travel planning process. We’re always excited at the chance to work with Jim and Collette.”

To learn more about working with Collette, visit collette. com/groups

Jim Edwards awards a Collette trip to Pat Holder of People’s Bank in Clifton, Tennessee, at the 2024 Select Traveler Conference.

“COLLETTE UNDERSTANDS THE INDUSTRY. THEY KNOW WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A GROUP LEADER AND KNOW HOW TO OFFER VALUE FOR THE TRAVEL PLANNING PROCESS.”

WILLIAMSBURG

TO HOST CONFERENCE SERIES

SALEM, Ohio — Williamsburg, Virginia, one of the nation’s foremost historic destinations, is looking to remain ahead of the pack by hosting a series of national travel conferences over the next three years. Visit Williamsburg will host Select Traveler Conference 2026, African American Travel Conference 2027 and Small Market Meetings Conference 2028. All three travel events operate under the umbrella of Group Travel Family of Brands and focus on the affinity travel and meetings markets.

Select Traveler Conference will deliver upscale affinity travel planners to experience Williamsburg firsthand. African American Travel Conference delivers the diversity market, and Small Market Meetings Conference brings meeting planners to discover the value that Williamsburg offers event planners seeking destinations of small and medium footprints.

“We are excited to assist Visit Williamsburg in hosting these events and know that many of our conference delegates will return with travel bookings to Williamsburg for years to come,” said Jennifer Ferguson of The Group Travel Family. Ferguson worked directly with Edward Harris, Visit Williamsburg’s chief operating officer, in securing the conference host agreement.

“Working with Edward Harris was such a pleasure,” Ferguson said. “He really understands the affinity travel markets as well as the unique position that Williamsburg holds in the travel industry.”

Visit Williamsburg likes to remind travelers that it is the perfect blend of historic sites, outdoor adventure and entertainment. To reach Visit Williamsburg please call 757-2532313 or email sales@visitwilliamsburg. com

BLUEGRASS MUSIC AND BARBECUE HIGHLIGHT SELECT TRAVELER CONFERENCE IN OWENSBORO

BY MAC LACY

OWENSBORO, Kentucky — More than 200 travel industry members gathered March 9–11 in Owensboro, Kentucky, for the 2025 Select Traveler Conference, a meeting that has drawn domestic and international affinity travel planners, travel companies and destinations since 1996.

Owensboro is an Ohio River port city best known as the home of bluegrass music and for producing award-winning western Kentuckystyle barbecue and Kentucky bourbon. Delegates were treated to all three during evening events at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum, as well as at a Kentucky Derby party that featured custom-made hats from the Kentucky Derby Museum and Louisville Tourism.

“We really enjoyed having these travel planners in Owensboro because we know that once you come here, you’ll want to come back,” said Visit Owensboro president Mark Calitri. “The Group Travel Family was great to work with, and the delegates who came represent a lot of future business for us.”

“Visit Owensboro pulled out all the stops

for us,” said Select Traveler Conference general manager Jennifer Ferguson. “Mark Calitri and his staff were on top of every detail and made sure our delegates experienced all of Owensboro’s authentic visitor appeal. The Owensboro Convention Center is as visually appealing as any we’ve ever met in.

“I want to give a shout out to Teresa Jones of Visit Owensboro who attended every session with us and made certain the city was well represented. She worked all their events, attended marketplace and was at all our meals. Teresa made our jobs a lot easier.”

Visit Owensboro organized sightseeing tours for all delegates to local sites like Moonlite Bar-B-Q, the new Owensboro Racing and Gaming venue and Green River Distillery. The Owensboro Convention Center, where delegates enjoyed floor-toceiling views of the Ohio River, showcased the area’s bustling river commerce.

The opening session featured an interactive conversation about working with DMOs between Stacey Cabell, owner of Starstuff Travel in Tom’s

River, New Jersey, and Charlie Presley, founder of The Group Travel Family and founding partner of the Select Traveler Conference. At the conference’s annual buyer breakout session, travel planners identified dozens of domestic destinations like Hawaii, Nashville, South Dakota and New Orleans for 2025 trips and listed many popular countries including Italy, Ireland, Iceland, Scotland and Spain for 2025 oversea excursions. Meal sponsors included Collette, James B. Beam Distilling Company, Mayflower Cruises and Tours, Visit Owensboro and Visit French Lick West Baden. Two days of marketplace appointments yielded thousands of one-on-one sales discussions among travel planners, destinations and travel companies.

Next year’s conference will take place in historic Williamsburg, Virginia. Ally Ramello, group sales manager for Visit Williamsburg, came to Owensboro to extend the invitation to all attendees for 2026. The final dates will be announced in coming weeks. For registration details, visit selecttravelerconf.com or call 800-628-0993.

PHOTOS

BY MAC LACY

Delegates hit the runway at a gala Kentucky Derby party in Owensboro.

The annual buyer breakout session takes place overlooking the Ohio River.

Live bluegrass music at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

MICKY KANDOLA INTERNATIONAL TOUR DIRECTOR

Does artificial intelligence spell the beginning of the end of the tourism profession? Or can using AI make you a better guide and help you build a more profitable company?

Micky Kandola believes AI is nothing but good news for guides, tour operators and other tourism professionals. As a veteran tour director, he has found ways to leverage the power of AI to get better and faster at his work and he loves helping others do the same. Micky joins this episode of the podcast to discuss how travel pros can put artificial intelligence to work in their businesses without sacrificing their unique humanity.

Micky shares how he uses ChatGPT and other AI tools to prepare for tours and create resources his travelers love. He also gives his perspective on why the human touch of group tours is irreplaceable and how travel pros can use AI to find hidden insights in their tour evaluations.

Is AI a threat to the tour industry?

“The people saying AI is going to take our jobs are the guests who are downloading an app and doing it on their own. On a tour, people need a human contact. The commentary isn’t the most important thing I do. The most important thing I do is connect with my guests and make sure they know they’re taken care of.… AI can’t do that. There’s something about human beings that we want a human being doing it. Even if an AI can do a really good job, how are they going to be the person on the ground directing tours? I think of it as a tool, not a replacement.”

On using AI to analyze post-tour evaluations:

“It will find trends and give examples and snippets of what people were saying. It can give you a full report. Think of it like your super-smart friend, the smartest person in the world. It knows everything. So, ask it to add its own knowledge.”

On avoiding mistakes with AI:

“When it gives me information that’s not correct, I can see that because of my experience. And if there are pertinent details that look off, I’ll Google that as well…. There are also third-party apps that are researchers. They’ll take what ChatGPT says and go line by line telling you if it’s accurate or not and the source of the information.”

To become a sponsor of Gather and Go contact: To listen to the full

KYLE ANDERSON kyle@grouptravelleader.com

TELISA RECH telisa@grouptravelleader.com

essentialsGroup Travel

BY RACHEL CRICK

We’ve come a long way since the dawn of the digital age, and now your company’s online presence can make or break your business. So how can you build a website that will secure generations of group travel business to come? Your travel website needs will vary depending on the type of business you own, and tour operators, group leaders and travel advisors that book group business are each going to need different features on their sites. Here are some things every travel website should include, as well as a few tools specific to each category of travel seller.

Everybody Needs: PHOTOS AND STRONG BRANDING

In 2025, aesthetic appeal lends almost as much credibility to your website as functionality. Every business website needs a clean and professional look so that customers know it’s a legitimate business. An important part of the aesthetics for travel websites is photography, because photos sell travel. It’s especially important to use photos you’ve taken as opposed to stock photos, which may be pretty but lack authenticity. A website should also have strong branding. Company branding should be very clear, including a visible logo (not something tiny in the corner), your company name, and a tagline that describes clearly and succinctly what makes your company unique. For example, “ABC Tours: Local specialists on traveling to Napa Valley” tells people very clearly who you are and what you do.

BUILDING BLOCKS OF A

Everybody Needs: A LEAD GENERATION TOOL

Site visitors should equal leads, and if you don’t have any way to collect them, you’re missing out on growing your business. Whether it’s a pop-up inviting site visitors to sign up for an e-newsletter or a form they can complete to enter a giveaway, lead generation is all about bringing site visitors into your business’ universe. It’s a form of outreach that draws travelers in, so that even if they don’t purchase a trip or book a call with you today, they will be more likely to in the future. When you have names and email addresses, you can send them any materials you publish, include them in marketing campaigns, invite them to follow you on social media and notify them of appealing trips you think they’d like. But none of that is possible without a lead generation tool.

3

For Travel Advisors: A SCHEDULING TOOL

If you’re a travel advisor that books group business, chances are you’re frequently tasked with customizing a group’s trip. Whether you go on that trip and act as a group leader or not, the main call to action on your website should be “book a call with me.” That will give you a chance to talk details with your clients and help them plan the trip of their dreams. That means one of the most important features of your website is going to be a scheduling tool. Many of these integrate with your personal calendar and eliminate the backand-forth hassle of manually scheduling a call. The traveler can set up a meeting with you, and it will automatically appear on your daily schedule, which creates a seamless experience.

GREAT TRAVEL WEBSITE

To complement this searchable inventory, you need a powerful ecommerce tool that allows you to accept bookings and payments directly on the website. People who want to take your tours should never have trouble finding the “Book Now” button. For Tour Operators: SEARCHABLE INVENTORY AND E-COMMERCE 4

If you’re a tour operator, you likely have dozens of trips on your roster for travelers to consider and compare. If visitors to your site have to scroll through all of them to find the one they’re searching for, they’ll end up frustrated and overwhelmed. Instead, your site needs a searchable inventory so that prospective clients can simply type “Europe” and find what they’re looking for. It’s a bonus if your inventory lets visitors filter the trips by price or location so they can easily find the trip that works best for them.

For Group Leaders:

LOTS OF DETAILS, THIRD-PARTY REGISTRATION TOOLS

If you’re a group leader, chances are you’re only selling one or two trips at a time — after all, you can’t be everywhere at once. That means you don’t necessarily need a searchable inventory. However, what you do need is lots of details of the trips you are selling. That includes itineraries, photos from past trips to the destination, packing lists and more. The more a traveler can get drawn into the idea of the trip while on your website, the more likely they are to book it.

Because you’re not selling dozens of trips at a time, you may or may not find it helpful to have your own e-commerce or registration tool. However, if you want these tools without the hassle and expense of setting them up yourself, many travel tech platforms offer white-label registration and ecommerce software that gives you the power to take payments and book trips through a third party in a web portal that looks like it’s part of your brand.

BrainBREAKS

Enjoying Gulf Shores’ emerald

Artwork at The Hangout in Gulf Shores

COURTESY ALABAMA’S BEACHES

waters

COURTESY

A mural in Alabama’s Orange Beach

Seafood at Lulu’s in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach’s Giant Crab Seafood Restaurant

COURTESY ALABAMA’S BEACHES

The Hangout in Myrtle Beach

STUDENT

STUDENTS LOVE THE FUN OF THESE SPRING BREAK DESTINATIONS

BY WENDY HELFENBAUM

Agreat spring break trip can be the highlight of a student’s year. Spring has always been the busiest season for student group travel. And while many spring trips are focused on educational destinations, sometimes a fun-focused trip can do wonders for students as well.

From spring skiing and hiking adventures to thrilling new 3D rides and wildlife exploration, there are plenty of fantastic attractions for student groups at popular spring break destinations across the U.S.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Known for its 60 miles of beaches, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, offers plenty for groups. Students can discover local wildlife on a two-hour Visit Murrells Inlet Saltwater Marsh Eco Tour or learn about African American education in the 1930s at the Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum and Education Center.

Group packages are available for attractions at the Broadway at the Beach entertainment complex, where students can enjoy escape games, mirror mazes, a beach rider jet boat and go-kart tracks. Myrtle Waves Water Park — the state’s largest — features 22 exciting slides, a wave pool, raft rides and a lazy river. And at WonderWorks’ Soar and Explore, groups can zipline 50 feet above the water on a 1,000-foot course or try the 40-foot-high ropes course spanning three levels.

Travelers can also head to Barefoot Landing for wildlife encounters at Alligator Adventure or join one of Brookgreen Gardens’ student programs like Mother Nature’s Café, a guided tour through the zoo. Many local theaters have educational workshops and meetand-greet events with performers.

Student-friendly restaurants include The Hangout, Swig and Swine, Big Chill Island House and Flying Fish Public Market and Grill.

VISITMYRTLEBEACH.COM

Orlando, Florida

Big news in the world’s theme park capital: Universal Epic Universe — the first new park in 25 years — opens May 22 with five new worlds groups can explore: Celestial Park, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic and Dark Universe. There are also two new group-friendly hotels adjacent to the park, Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort.

Student-friendly options include the popular Planet Hollywood, Rainforest Café and House of Blues at Disney Springs Resort. Universal’s CityWalk offers Hard Rock Café, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, and The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen.

Beyond adrenaline-pumping rides, theme parks offer educational experiences for groups. The Disney Imagination Campus has interactive workshops, performances and special events for students. Universal Orlando Resort’s youth programs include hands-on learning activities like Kongtrol Panel. SeaWorld Orlando has up-close animal encounters, plus STEM Days and Sleepovers led by animal experts.

VISITORLANDO.COM

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Students flock to sunny Gulf Shores, Alabama, to enjoy watersports and more. At The Wharf — Orange Beach’s entertainment district — you can charter a dolphin cruise aboard a 65-foot Bonner walk-around vessel with a glass-bottom viewing area.

At Waterville USA, travelers can cool off in the waterpark, try the escape house or perfect their technique at the Top Golf Swing Suite. At the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, groups can have hands-on learning experiences like sloth and lemur encounters or service opportunities. Book a pro to teach students how to build

an awesome sandcastle at Sand Castle University, or explore the 28 miles of trails at Gulf State Park. There’s even a bunkhouse where students can sleep over.

At night, steer students to Main Street for the dazzling SPECTRA Laser Light Experience, which incorporates choreographed lighting effects, music and stateof-the-art lasers.

Dining can be reserved at The Hangout, for seafood on the beach plus foam parties, or at LuLu’s Gulf Shores, which has an on-site arcade and ropes course.

GULFSHORES.COM

An evening astronomy program at Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Millions of visitors head to the Grand Canyon each year for spectacular views and recreational activities. Students can hike the popular cross-canyon corridor — where the South Kaibab, Bright Angel, and North Kaibab Trails meet near the only bridges spanning the Colorado River — or walk the paved Trail of Time, featuring a geologic timeline showing how Grand Canyon was formed.

Groups can also rent bicycles or book backpacking and white-waterrafting trips.

Students can catch the Yavapai Point sunset, then take a guided constellation tour. The Grand Canyon is a protective haven for some of the last remaining dark skies in the country, and students can use on-site telescopes to see views of Jupiter, Saturn and Mars, plus double stars, star clusters, nebulae and distant galaxies.

Group-friendly dining is available at Yavapai Tavern on the south rim and Desert View Ice Cream. Several free shuttles connect lodges, campgrounds, restaurants and shops for easy group transfers.

VISITGRANDCANYON.COM

Sunset at the Grand Canyon’s Yavapai Point

BY K. THOMAS, COURTESY NPS

A scenic overlook in the Grand Canyon

Stowe, Vermont

Blessed with good snow through April, Stowe, Vermont, is the ski capital of the Northeast and offers a wide range of activities for student groups, including ski or snowboard lessons at Stowe Mountain and Topnotch.

Stowe’s extensive trail system makes it great for ice skating, Nordic skiing, dog sledding, snowshoeing, tubing and fat biking. Groups can also take a scenic gondola ride, go indoor rock climbing or visit Nebraska Knoll, a local maple sugaring farm.

Mountain dining options for groups include Spruce Camp Grill, Cliff House Restaurant atop the mountain, and waffle and noodle trucks.

Groups can discover other popular activities near the mountain, such as a 30-minute tour of Ben and Jerry’s factory, which includes samples afterward. Students can also pay their respects to Dearly De-pinted ice cream in the outdoor Flavor Graveyard.

GOSTOWE.COM

COURTESY

Students skiing in Stowe

BY M.

Touring the

Ben and Jerry’s factory

Keystone and Vail, Colorado

Located 40 minutes apar in Colorado, Keystone and Vail are world-class ski resorts providing unforgettable student trip memories.

At Keystone, groups can ski at night through the end of March, and all day well into April. Visitors should check out Keystone’s unique “ski beaches” at Labonte’s Smokehouse BBQ at the bottom of the Ruby and Santiago chairlifts, as well as at the Mountain House base area, to hang out under the sun in an Adirondack chair.

Eateries include Go Big Burger, Timber Ridge Lodge for ramen bowls and nachos or Summit House at the top of Dercum mountain, where students can have lunch and hot chocolate. For a special treat groups will remember, book a scenic horse-drawn Sleigh Ride Dinner at the original Keystone Homestead in nearby Soda Creek Valley.

At Vail, spring means ‘bluebird skiing’ — under sunny, clear skies — and après-ski meals around outdoor firepits. Activities for non-skiers include Nova Guide’s snowmobiling excursions or ATV rides through Vail’s backcountry terrain, ice skating in the village, free snowshoeing tours through the mountains, and learning about local wildlife at the Nature Discovery Center, a yurt located at the top of the Eagle Bahn gondola. DISCOVERVAIL.COM

Snowboarding in Keystone

Exploring a Keystone ice house

Starting a run at Vail Ski Resort

With the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean as its backyard, Virginia Beach is a favorite destination for groups looking to share experiences within a vibrant coastal community. Beautiful beaches, inland waterways and nature parks offer outdoor adventures from hiking to kayaking, while attractions like the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and the Military Aviation Museum provide opportunities for learning.

A thriving arts and entertainment scene as well as culinary specialties that showcase fresh, locally sourced seafood and produce add to the charm of Virginia Beach, where memorable moments can happen during a sunset cruise, along the Boardwalk or simply gathering around the table. In Virginia Beach, you’ll find everything you need for an adventure filled with laughter, learning and lasting memories.

South Padre Island, Texas

A tropical island oasis off the southern tip of Texas, South Padre Island is known for its clear emerald water and 34 miles of soft white sand. Wildlife-loving groups can dive into educational programs at Sea Turtle Inc. to learn about conservation efforts and rehabilitation; visit the SPI Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary; or head out on a dolphin watch tour.

Active pursuits include horseback riding on the beach, speeding around the off-road dirt track, and water sports such as jet skiing and stand-up paddle boarding at the Laguna Madre Bay.

After working up an appetite, groups can visit Meatball Café for fish tacos and burgers or Dirty Al’s for fresh seafood.

SOPADRE.COM

Panama City Beach, Florida

Groups looking for great nature experiences will find them in Panama City Beach, Florida. Students can take a shuttle or charter a catamaran adventure tour to Shell Island within St. Andrews State Park, where they can watch for dolphins and other marine animals, snorkel and enjoy an inflatable water park, paddleboards and kayaks.

At Pier Park, groups will love SkyWheel, the area’s newest attraction that soars 200 feet above the pier. Here, travelers can play 18 holes of mini golf. Students can also rent single or tandem kayaks and paddleboards to paddle on Lake Powell in Camp Helen, where they’ll spot wild heron, egret and river otter. Rainy days are fun at 810 Billiards and Bowling, which has arcade games, darts, pingpong and more. Groupfriendly waterfront food spots include Pineapple Willy’s, which offers island-inspired dishes like Caribbean Salad and Mahi-Mahi BLTs, and Runaway Island, which boasts seven kinds of fish tacos. Local favorite Thomas Donuts is a popular stop for dessert.

VISITPANAMACITYBEACH.COM

St. Andrews State Park pier in Panama City Beach

A horseback excursion on South Padre Island

Panama City Beach’s famous Thomas Donut

To make a lasting impression, take your students on an unforgettable

History comes alive beyond the classroom in places like Longwood, America’s largest octagonal home, built with over a million bricks handmade by enslaved craftsmen, and the winding hills of Vicksburg National Military Park, where a decisive Civil War siege and battle changed the course of American history. The lessons continue at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, where students can immerse themselves in the stories of heroes who sacrificed everything for freedom and equality. Learn more at VisitMississippi.org/StudentTour.

OREGON

By Rachel Crick

To travel to Oregon is to experience harmony with nature.

Its breathtaking scenery stretches from cool coasts in the west to a high-desert climate in the east, with plenty of lush forests and famous waterfall photo-ops in between. And Oregon is a hotspot for food and wine lovers; its fertile soil yields bountiful harvests for farm-to-table fare, as well as fruitful vineyards that produce award-winning wines.

From its most bustling cities to its most remote hiking trails, Oregon’s diverse attractions will please any group seeking great views and great food.

Foster Lake is one of Willamette Valley’s many gorgeous destinations for outdoor recreation.

BY JOEY HAMILTON

POPULAR DEMAND

PORTLAND JAPANESE GARDEN

With eight gardens spanning more than 12 acres in the heart of Portland, the Portland Japanese Garden opened to the public in 1967. Its lush greenery, colorful blooms and tranquil water features create a peaceful atmosphere that both honors Japan’s culture and demonstrates harmony between art and nature. Groups can follow winding paths through each garden, visit the galleries to see the latest art installations and stop in to Umami Café, a glass-walled tea house where they can enjoy Japanese tea, miso soup, mochi and honeycomb castella cake. Private tours led by volunteer docents can be arranged for groups of 15 or more.

CANNON BEACH

Majestic sunsets, captivating tide pools and iconic scenery await groups on Oregon’s coastline. Its beaches are magical, not for warm weather and a tropical feel but rather for their stunning year-round scenery. Cannon Beach is perhaps its most famous coastal destination. It’s home to Haystack Rock, a massive rock formation rising high above the sand, where visitors can see tufted puffins in the summer and plenty of marine life when the tides recede. Nearby, elk graze in coastal meadows, and in the distance, groups may glimpse migrating whales in winter and spring. The town named for the beach is a renowned arts destination with quaint shops and art galleries.

WILLAMETTE VALLEY

The Willamette Valley stretches 150 miles north to south in western Oregon. Above all, this region is known for its award-winning wine. With more than 700 wineries in the region, pinot noir is its most famous varietal, but its pinot gris and chardonnay are also well-known. The region’s fertile soil makes it ideal for farming, and farm-to-table fare is abundant. Groups can treat themselves to vineyard tours, wine tastings and group meals at local restaurants before exploring the valley’s numerous parks and scenic areas, including Silver Falls State Park, known for its many picturesque waterfalls and hiking trails.

COURTESY TRAVEL OREGON

A fire on Cannon Beach

Toketee Falls in the Willamette Valley

Portland Japanese Garden

COURTESY WILLAMETTE VALLEY VISITORS ASSOCIATION

Cannon Beach

UP AND COMING

CASCADA THERMAL SPRINGS AND HOTEL

Located in Portland’s Alberta Arts District, the Cascada Thermal Springs and Hotel is a new addition to the city’s health and wellness offerings. Described as a wellness sanctuary and hotel, the LEED Platinumcertified facility opened in late 2024. One of its most talked-about features is its conservatory, which is kept at 85 degrees year-round and contains a swimming pool and plenty of tropical plants. There’s also an underground sanctuary with thermal pools, a steam room and a sauna, as well as a restaurant, a bar, a fitness center and a café. While guests who stay in the hotel’s 100 rooms get a discount on visits to the sanctuary, anyone is welcome to visit and enjoy the site’s wellness offerings.

OREGON’S AAPI FOOD AND WINE FEST

The third annual Oregon Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Food and Wine Fest is coming to the town of Dayton in the Willamette Valley. The event was created to showcase restaurants and wineries owned by Oregon’s AAPI population, as well as to promote diversity in Oregon’s culinary scene and celebrate innovative flavors and food pairings. It will be held May 17–18 in 2025 at the Stoller Family Estate Vineyard and Winery, a 400-acre vineyard and event venue, and will feature dozens of food and wine vendors.

COURTESY WILLAMETTE VALLEY VISITORS ASSOCIATION

Cascada Thermal Springs and Hotel BY JESSE KIRK

Food at the AAPI Food and Wine Fest

AAPI Food and Wine Fest

JAMES BEARD PUBLIC MARKET

The effort to install a Pike Place-like market in Portland has been underway for two decades. The effort will pay off this year when the first phase of the James Beard Public Market will open in Pioneer Courthouse Square, a downtown park. The public market will feature over 38,000 square feet of space and 40 businesses, including a butcher, a cheese shop, a fish market and a teaching kitchen. The market will also have a rooftop space. Named for the Portlandnative chef James Beard, the market will be a place for groups to enjoy Oregon’s excellent culinary scene and purchase souvenirs.

COURTESY JAMES BEARD PUBLIC MARKET

A rendering of the James Beard Public Market

OVERNIGHT SENSATIONS

BRASADA RANCH

Outside of Bend, Brasada Ranch is a high-desert ranch offering luxury accommodations and an abundance of amenities for visitors. With views of the Cascade Mountains and pastures of grazing horses, the 1,800-acre ranch offers the opportunity for a peaceful retreat. Its menu focuses on farm-to-table fare, while the activities offered emphasize wellness. The ranch is especially renowned for its horseback riding and its golf course, though it also has pools, a spa and hot tubs. Its accommodations range from standard guest rooms and suites to entire cabins, many of which have fireplaces and hot tubs.

THE VINTAGES TRAILER RESORT

One of the most distinct trends in lodging is the rise of glamping, which combines all the adventure of being surrounded by nature with the modern conveniences of a hotel. The Vintages Trailer Resort in Dayton, features a collection of 34 upscale Airstream trailers with newly restored interiors featuring warm wood tones and modern decor. Groups can also enjoy the property’s on-site pool, general store and a community firepit to gather around.

Brasada Ranch

The Vintages Trailer Resorts

Vistas at Brasada Ranch

COURTESY HUMBLE SPIRIT

A meal at Humble Spirit

COURTESY BRASADA RANCH

MEMORABLE MEALS

HUMBLE SPIRIT

In McMinnville, a town in the heart of Willamette Valley wine country, Humble Spirit is a James Beard Award semifinalist and farm-to-table restaurant with a menu focused on sustainable practices like regenerative farming. The menu is crafted from fresh, in-season and local ingredients, many of which are sourced directly from the restaurant’s associated farm and carefully paired with the region’s wines. From elevated dishes like the squash mezzaluna pasta with sage brown butter to a fresh take on classics like a double cheeseburger, Humble Spirit blends innovative flavors with Oregon’s classic culinary roots.

KANN

James Beard Award-winning chef Gregory Gourdet’s restaurant Kann has caused quite a stir in Portland’s culinary scene since opening in 2022. A fusion of Haitian cuisine with Pacific Northwest ingredients, the menu features vibrant colors and bold spices, while cocktails and mocktails use Haitian ingredients; perhaps the restaurant’s most unique feature is the live fire cooking, which entails cooking over an open flame. Guests rave about the twice-cooked pork, warm plantain brioche buns, the coffee-rubbed braised short rib and the collard greens. While seating is limited in the restaurant, with advanced notice, a private dining room above the restaurant can accommodate up to 36 guests.

STUDENT TRAVEL ISSUE

More than 1 million sandhill cranes migrate to Nebraska’s Platte River Valley each spring.

DESTINATION

NEBRASKA NOW

THRIVING CITIES AND NATURAL WONDERS DEFINE THE CORNHUSKER STATE

BY ELIZABETH HEY

Dynamic and relevant, Nebraska intricately weaves together values that truly matter to visitors — genuine hospitality, savoring the moment, and the importance of heritage and history.

From thriving cities like Omaha and Lincoln to frontier outposts such as Valentine and Scottsbluff, each destination captures a different aspect of Americana. Whether your group is interested in exploring the state’s thriving cities or visiting its rugged buttes and rolling prairies, there’s an opportunity to slow down and enjoy Nebraska.

OMAHA

Nebraska’s largest city, Omaha, is a cosmopolitan destination with a flair for the artistic. At Kiewit Luminarium, an immersive art experience on the banks of the Missouri River, groups can wander through luminous corridors and domes while exploring a world of multisensory experiences featuring collaborative games and more.

In the evening, the Old Market’s cobblestone streets are the place to be for dining, shopping, galleries and nightlife. Nearby, the Orpheum Theater hosts Broadway productions and more in this former 1927 vaudeville house.

In the 1930s, Omaha saw itself on the silver screen in “Boys Town,” a movie starring Spencer Tracy and Micky Rooney that told the true story of Father Flanagan, a priest who established a thriving orphanage in the city. Today, groups can take guided tours of Boys Town to see the elegant Georgian-style house where Flanagan lived from 1927 to 1941 while supervising this nonprofit. Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium consistently ranks as one of the world’s top zoos. Visitors can see pygmy hippos in the world’s largest indoor rain forest and saunter through a 70-foot-long shark tunnel. Maintained by the zoo, the 440-acre Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari near Ashland offers face-to-face animal interaction. On its four-mile, drive-through loop, bison and elk wander onto the road while the wetlands support sandhill

cranes and American white pelicans with nine-foot wingspans. Late-May through mid-October, groups can catch a melodrama afterward in the 165-seat theater at nearby Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.

“Also between Lincoln and Omaha, the 300,000-squarefoot Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum displays aircraft from world conflicts and the Cold War era,” said Jenn Gjerde, marketing manager for Visit Nebraska.

“It’s great for people who like history as well as aerospace, and director Clayton Anderson is a former astronaut.”

LINCOLN

The capital of Nebraska radiates an energetic vibe. On the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus, Husker mania prevails during football season. Groups can watch the school’s marching band performing outside Kimball Recital Hall about an hour prior to kick off before the marching into Memorial Stadium, which was named in honor of Nebraskans who served in World War I. Stadium tours include its state-of-the-art training facility and a chance to step onto the turf.

Not to be outdone, Lincoln’s arts and culture scene thrives. Downtown, the Haymarket District’s turn-of-thecentury warehouses now contain boutiques, restaurants and entertainment venues. Screamers Family Restaurant caters to groups with cabaret-style singers performing during meals. Themed tribute nights showcase musicians such as Nat King Cole, Taylor Swift and Stevie Nicks.

“The state’s signature sandwich just might be the Runza, which is a traditional bierock or chopped cabbage burger enveloped in a dough pouch,” said Gjerde. “In 1949, the first Runza Drive Inn opened in Lincoln, but today groups can enjoy them across the state. They’re also known for hand-dipped onion rings, chili and cinnamon rolls.”

KEARNEY

Lied Center for the Performing Arts hosts the world’s greatest artists and features Nebraska’s top talent. On UNL’s main campus, the Sheldon Museum of Art houses a significant contemporary collection and hosts First Friday events. Morrill Hall’s top-notch natural science collection showcases mammoth skeletons, while its 60-seat domed Mueller Planetarium offers explorations of the universe. On UNL’s east campus, the International Quilt Museum displays the world’s largest collection of publicly owned quilts. They represent more than 60 countries and date from the 1600s. Also on campus, visitors can stroll the Earl G. Maxwell Arboretum, which features mature trees, lilacs, cold-hardy rhododendrons, hosta cultivars and a native wildflower prairie.

In south-central Nebraska, the city of Kearney becomes one of the most popular birding destinations in the country each spring when more than 1 million sandhill cranes migrate to the area’s Platte River Valley. There are numerous places for groups visiting the area to set in on the action. Fort Kearny Bridge is a popular self-guided viewing spot. And this year, the Iain Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary, located 15 miles east of Kearney, celebrates its 50th anniversary. Groups can book guided blind tours by reservation. In addition, the season will include art classes, speakers and more, in a recently renovated visitor center.

“Groups can have a similar experience at the Crane Trust near Wood River,” said Gjerde. “Most groups will do both experiences, and people are seeing not just sandhill cranes but also the endangered whooping crane, which makes it very unique.”

En route, groups can time travel at The Archway, an inventive museum spanning Interstate 80. As visitors pass from one side of the archway to another, they learn about Nebraska history with the help of wireless headsets, video

The Gene Leahy Mall on Omaha’s riverfront

Touring Memorial Stadium in Lincoln

projection and life-size dioramas. The journey begins with pioneer life and ends at a replicated 1950s drive-in theater showing news reels announcing the interstate highway system.

Another transportation-focused attraction, Kearney’s American Automobile Experience, displays more than 125 beautifully restored vintage cars ranging from the early 1900s to modern times. Highlights include highway memorabilia and a recreated 1950s gas station and drive-in theater screen with the city’s original ticket booth.

In downtown Kearney, an area known as the Bricks serves as the hub for creative arts. Crane River Theater hosts performances year-round. Formerly a vaudeville theatre, the World Theatre has been restored using its original 1926 blueprints. Kearney native and Hollywood screenwriter Jon Bokenkamp spearheaded fundraising for the restoration. The Museum of Nebraska Art primarily features Nebraska artists and reopens this spring after a multimillion-dollar renovation.

LET’S EXPLORE

IN LINCOLN, NEBRASK A

There is nothing more exciting than finding new places to enjoy a breezy summer night. Come experience it for yourself!

Lincoln’s International Quilt Museum

The American Automobile Experience in Kearney

Biking the Cowboy Trail near Valentine

explore six plant habitats and view some of the 230 species of birds. The refuge maintains a herd of 350 bison on its 19,000 acres. In April and May, baby bison calves can be seen frolicking near the visitor’s center.

SCOTTSBLUFF

Preparing for the Nebraska Star Party

VALENTINE

In the north-central part of the state, the area around Valentine is rich with outdoor activities for groups.

Hundreds of thousands of stars twinkle above Merritt Reservoir, 30 minutes southwest from Valentine. A beginner-friendly field school gives instruction using a telescope. And each summer, locals celebrate their spectacular view of the heavens.

“The Nebraska Star Party is held every July or August depending on the new moon, and it’s Nebraska’s only dark sky park with an international accreditation,” said Gjerde, “People from all over the world come to this event.”

A speaker’s program, catered meals and door prizes will be part of this year’s July 20-25 celebration.

Cyclists can cruise the Cowboy Trail between Valentine and Norfolk, passing through the Sandhills and native prairies. Just east of Valentine, they cross the 148-foothigh trestle bridge above the Niobrara River. Additionally, the drive along the Outlaw Trail Byway, between Sioux City and Valentine, affords some of the state’s prettiest fall foliage.

Always popular, canoeing or tubing on the Niobrara River might include a stop at Smith Falls. Lesser known but equally inviting is the 20-foot-wide waterfall cascading into clear waters at Berry Bridge. The spring-fed Niobrara has many tiny waterfalls along its banks. Two hiking trails at Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge invite visitors to

Near the state’s Western border and outside the town of Scottsbluff, Scotts Bluff National Monument is the site of a natural wonder and Oregon Trail landmark. Visitors can choose one of several ways to reach the dizzying summit of the bluff 800 feet above the North Platte River Valley. A spiraling road ascends to 360-degree views of the Platte Valley and into Wyoming. Hikers can reach the top via 1.6-mile Saddle Rock Trail. At the visitor center and museum, paintings and photography of artist and explorer William Henry Jackson tell the story of Western exploration. Costumed interpretation programs and ranger talks on the front lawn occur frequently in the summer.

“This national monument should be on everyone bucket list,” said Gjerde. “Outside the visitors center you can see the wagon swales from the pioneers and walk on the actual Oregon Trail.”

In town, Riverside Discovery Center allows year-round viewing of tigers, grizzly bears and bison — just a few of its 170 native and exotic animals. Agriculture and heritage livestock breeds are the focus in the Heritage Barn. Afterward, groups can head to Flyover Brewing Company for craft lagers and ales made with Nebraska malt, as well as wood-fired pizzas. Papa Moon Vineyards and Winery produces rave-worthy handcrafted cider. Their farm tasting room and outdoor venue opens in warmer weather, while an in-town restaurant remains open year-round.

Day tripping from Scottsbluff, Fort Robinson State Park preserves an outpost on the plains. Groups visiting the park can stay in the 1909 enlisted men’s quarters or in former officer’s quarters, which dates from 1874 to 1909. Inside the fort’s Trailside Museum of Natural History, Ice Age bull mammoths have their tusks locked in combat. Activities on site include horse-drawn tours, horseback, open-air Jeep rides and evening steak cookouts among the buttes.

VISITNEBRASKA.COM

Scotts Bluff National Monument

THE OPPOSITE OF “ALL

Throughout history, traveling has energized people. Mystery and excitement are constant travel companions when we visit new places. Take Nebraska, for example. Over the centuries, travelers have arrived in boats, buckboards, buggies, Conestoga wagons, and railroad Pullman cars. We’ve seen it all. And now you can, too, from a luxurious, modern-day motorcoach. Take a tour of our beautiful state, and you’ll see historic forms of travel, frontier trails, unspoiled nature, small towns, big cities, and more. Your next adventure awaits, at visitnebraska.com/group_travel. All aboard!

A COLONIAL ICON

WILLIAMSBURG LEADS THE PACK IN LIVING HISTORY

BY TOM ADKINSON

Archaeologists keep uncovering treasures; historians continue reinterpreting the past; and tour operators never have to duplicate itineraries in Williamsburg and Virginia’s Historic Triangle. The region may be old, but newness blossoms regularly.

America is on the cusp of its semiquincentennial (that’s the fancy word for 250th birthday) in 2026, and the Williamsburg region is a window into the story of the nation’s origin. Groups can explore where English colonists established their first permanent settlement in North America, where ideas for an independent nation hatched and where a European ally helped secure America’s birth.

COLONIAL CAPITAL

Colonial Williamsburg, a 301-acre living history museum that can be a singular destination for groups, is the attraction most synonymous with visiting this part of Virginia. Colonial Williamsburg itself is on the edge of a major birthday, too. As the U.S. celebrates 250 years, Colonial Williamsburg will mark its 100th birthday.

A hundred years ago, modern times were almost understandably overwhelming Williamsburg’s past. Progress led to the disappearance of important Colonial structures, modification of others, construction of new buildings and intrusions such as overhead electric wires.

The condensed story of why Colonial Williamsburg exists in its current state — a veritable through-the-looking-glass trip into the 1700s — is that a minister named Rev. W.A.R.

The Colonial Capitol is one of hundreds of restored and re-created historic buildings in

Goodwin tantalized oil magnate John D. Rockefeller Jr. with a vision for some of his immense philanthropy — creating the world’s largest museum of American history. Plenty of building blocks remained in 1926, and Williamsburg’s historic area today includes 89 original 18th-century buildings along with hundreds of others reconstructed based on historical data and archaeological research.

“We have 301 acres, so this can be an overwhelming place if you don’t come with a plan,” said Brittany Rice, director of sales for Colonial Williamsburg, while quickly adding that she and her team stand ready to help group leaders organize successful itineraries.

Rice said Colonial Williamsburg can be part of a much bigger itinerary or a multi-faceted destination unto itself.

BY JUDD DEMALINE

COURTESY VTC

Colonial Williamsburg.

STUDENT TRAVEL ISSUE

ADD-ON EXPERIENCES

Some of Williamsburg’s most entertaining programs are “Visit a Nation Builder” presentations. Skilled actors put groups in a Colonial mindset by taking on the personas of famous figures such as Patrick Henry and the Marquis de Lafayette or of lesser-known people such as Ann Wager (teacher at the Bray School, established in 1760 for Black children) or Jane Vobe (proprietor of the King’s Arms Tavern).

Speaking of the King’s Arms Tavern, a popular group dining destination, it is a reproduction of a public house from 1772. Everything is true to its original period, including various dishes inspired by Colonial recipes. Examples include “peanute” soup, “shoat (pork) in the French way,” salmagundi (a “supper” dish known in modern times as a chef’s salad) and “onion pye.” A menu served by special arrangement pays homage to dishes from Martha Washington’s table. Her “Great Cake” featured citrus fruit, currants and brandy. Find other Colonial meals at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern and Shields Tavern.

While the whole of Colonial Williamsburg is a museum, two art museums add even more depth to the story. They are the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum and the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, where curators make items more interesting than one might expect. Those range from busts of Sir Walter Raleigh to a miniature violin similar to one Thomas Jefferson played and pewter and ceramic chamber pots.

Group-friendly lodging is abundant in the Historic Triangle, and Colonial Williamsburg itself has a wide selection. All are convenient to the historic area, and price points vary. They include the luxurious 62-room Williamsburg Inn and even multi-bedroom Colonial homes.

Groups can disperse to wander through three parallel milelong streets. They also can stay together for public programs or events booked solely for them. Interpreters in Colonial garb work throughout the property to explain daily life, describe historic events and demonstrate trades and crafts. It is enjoyable to see a group of schoolchildren watch a Colonial soldier explain the many steps of firing a musket — and then cover their ears when he finally pulls the trigger. Similarly, it is fun to observe the facial expressions of a high school tour group as a guide describes the rigors — and restrictions — of being an apprentice to a tradesman. No one would volunteer for that life today.

A historic interpreter at Colonial Williamsburg’s Wythe House

An onion pie at one of Colonial Williamsburg’s restaurants

BY TOM ADKINSON

BY TOM ADKINSON

COURTESY VTC

Revolutionary War reenactors in Yorktown

HISTORIC TRIANGLE

Both chronologically and geographically, Colonial Williamsburg is between two other major destinations — Jamestown and Yorktown. The National Park Service’s 23-mile-long Colonial Parkway in the Colonial National Historical Park links the three locations, which are collectively known as the Historic Triangle.

The Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation complements Colonial Williamsburg with two major attractions. The Jamestown Settlement is a living history museum that illuminates the native American culture that English colonists encountered in 1607, documents the first arrival of enslaved Africans in 1619 and showcases replicas of the English colonists’ three sailing ships — the Godspeed, the Discovery and the Susan Constant. The Susan Constant is due back later in 2025 after a two-year restoration project at Connecticut’s Mystic Seaport Museum.

An interactive experience at Jamestown Settlement

FOR THE FAMS YOU’D LIKE TO ATTEND! APPLY TODAY

Are you looking for new ideas in your old favorites or a new destination for your group to enjoy? Register for one of our 2025 FAMs to learn about these great destinations from the local experts. To apply for a chance to attend any of these complimentary FAMs, go to www.grouptravelleader.com/FAMs.

KENTUCKY FAM TOUR

MAY 26-30, 2025

Kentucky Department of Tourism is partnering with The Group Travel Leader Inc. to host a FAM tour May 26-30, 2025. The tour will showcase experiences and attractions in Northern Kentucky, Lexington and Louisville. If you are interested in bringing groups to Kentucky, register online for the chance to attend:

JULY 27-30, 2025

SAVANNAH FAM TOUR

Visit Savannah is working with The Group Travel Leader Inc. to host a FAM tour July 27-30, 2025, that will include a gospel dinner cruise, trolley tour of the historic city, dolphin excursion and more. If you are interested in bringing your groups to our destination, register online for the chance to attend this FAM:

The area’s destination with the most dramatic impact is the small Yorktown community along the York River — the site of a decisive battle pitting the Continental Army and its French allies against a hemmed-in British force. The allied siege succeeded, the British surrendered and the outcome of the Revolutionary War was sealed.

That story unfolds at a National Park Service site and at the American Revolution Museum, a facility that combines museum displays, videos and artifacts with a replica of a Continental Army encampment and a Colonial farm where costumed interpreters explain aspects of the war and everyday life. A museum highlight is a 12-minute film, “Revolution.” It reverberates through “a 4D-experiential theater” that puts guests amid the siege of Yorktown, complete with wind, smoke and thundering cannons.

For today’s group tours, the beauty of visiting Virginia’s Historic Triangle is its compactness. The motorcoach’s odometer will register less than 30 miles traveling from Jamestown to Colonial Williamsburg to Busch Gardens to Yorktown.

Let your group discover the many wonders of Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown. The Historic Triangle offers the perfect blend of storied attractions, exhilarating outdoor adventures, and enriching entertainment for groups of all sizes and interests.

Beyond the country’s largest living history museum, find delightful surprises including roller coasters, culinary gems, craft breweries, and wineries.

Tap into the spirit of discovery and set epic memories in motion. Plan your group’s incredible getaway today.

COURTESY JAMESTOWN-YORKTOWN FOUNDATION

Farm-kitchen cooking at Yorktown’s Museum of the American Revolution

NATIVE VOICES

INDIGENOUS GUIDES HIGHLIGHT THESE CULTURAL TOURS

Seeing destinations through the eyes of a local always provides a richer experience — but perhaps never more than when those locals are Indigenous.

BY CYNTHIA BARNES

Touring a place with the descendants of those who’ve inhabited lands for thousands of years provides a profound connection, revealing stories and traditions that are often overlooked. Indigenous guides offer insights into sustainable practices, ancient rituals, and the deep spiritual and cultural connections they hold with their homelands and their ancestors. In addition, Indigenousowned and -operated tours empower communities, promoting respect and pride while providing valuable economic assistance and supporting the preservation of traditional folkways.

From the Great Plains to the Salish Sea of British Columbia, the lush rainforest of Hawaii and the majestic desert of New Mexico, here are five Indigenous tours that preserve heritage while helping your group foster a deeper understanding of the peoples who share our world.

COURTESY NAVAJO TOURS USA

Navajo Tours USA introduces travelers to New Mexico through the perspective of Indigenous guides.

Culinary experiences in Hawaii on the

IMU MEA ‘AI FOOD TOUR HAWAII

The furthest thing from a tacky tourist luau, Imu Mea ‘Ai Food Tour, a regenerative eco-tour, will give your group an authentic taste of Hawaiian culture, along with a traditional tasty feast. Preparing food (mea ‘ai) in an underground oven (imu) is an ancient practice at the heart of Hawaiian culinary culture. This food tour, which is available as a full-day or half-day experience, allows visitors to assist in the construction of the underground oven and the preparation of the locally sourced meal that is cooked within it, culminating in a joyful and delicious meal shared with members of the community.

Iopa Maunakea is the executive director for the nonprofit Men of PA’A, the social enterprise that operates the food tours.

“This is my family legacy, as far as perpetuating our Hawaiian culture, and living our family legacy of service to others,” said Maunakea. “We not only serving our initial local communities but now our visitor communities as well.”

Guests who participate in the full day tour gather materials and construct the oven that will roast a pig and an assortment of local vegetables. While the meal is cooking they participate in other activities — such as lei-making, hula or hikes — before enjoying the meal. For a half-day tour, visitors construct an imu and then enjoy a meal that was put in to roast in another oven earlier in the day.

“After the four-hour tour, people often go visit the volcano or go back to another activity,” said Maunakea. “On the longer one, they will stay with us all day. And the beautiful part about this whole thing is, imu is an ancient art — as ancient as hula, as ancient as the canoes. It’s a legacy practice. And that’s the beauty of it.”

IMUMEAAI.COM

TATANKA REZ TOURS

SOUTH DAKOTA

People may not be immediately familiar with the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, home to the Oglala Lakota Nation. Covering 2.1 million acres in the southwestern corner of South Dakota, it’s ranked as the poorest county in the United States. But many Americans will recognize the name Wounded Knee, the site of an 1890 massacre by federal troops that killed as many as 300 Lakota men, women and children, as well as a 1973 occupation that brought the indigenous rights movement to the forefront of the news.

Tianna Yellowhair was only 19 when she started Tatanka Rez Tours, the only Native-owned tour company in the state, 10 years ago. Each tour, from a few hours to a few days, is planned to accommodate the needs and interests of each individual group, be it a family of four or a fleet of motorcoaches.

“We want to bring [groups’] interests to the forefront while making sure they get an accurate account of history,” said Yellowhair. “We pick a meeting location, start with a little bit of Lakota language and an introduction of the area, and then from there, we will actually start our journey.”

Popular stops include the Historical Center at the Oglala Lakota College campus, where Tatanka Tours guide (and Tianna’s father) Guss is a faculty member; the Lakota Prairie Ranch, which serves a mean cheeseburger; and the Oglala Lakota Artspace.

“This is something that’s beyond an income now,” said Yellowhair. “It’s very much us being able to retell our stories, to break the stereotypes. We’re able to stand at the front to say, ‘this is how it was told, and this is how we are here on the reservation. This is our story, and this is what we’re sticking with.’”

TATANKAREZTOURZ.COM

PHOTOS COURTESY IMU MEA ‘AI FOOD TOUR

Tatanka Rez Tours guides

COURTESY TATANKA REZ TOURS

Imu

Mea ‘Ai Food Tour

CHEROKEE NATION TOURS

OKLAHOMA

The largest Native American tribe in the United States, the Cherokee originally inhabited what’s now Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee and the Carolinas before being forced west along the Trail of Tears into the territory of Oklahoma. Now numbering almost half a million people, the Cherokee Nation is headquartered in the capital of Tahlequah, which was established in 1839.

Travel specialists at Visit Cherokee Nation will custom design a tour for every size and interest, but downtown Tahlequah is a must. The beautifully landscaped Cherokee Cultural Pathway is filled with Native art and links some of the capital’s most important sites, including the Cherokee National Historical Museum, the Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum and the Cherokee National Prison Museum.

Donna Tinnin is the senior manager of museums and events for Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism and grew up in Tahlequah.

“When I was in junior high, my dad worked in our capitol building, which dates from 1869,” she said. “It’s now our National Historical Museum, but Dad prefers to remember it the way it was. It sits right in the middle of our beautiful historic downtown. Visitors will get a chronological view of who we are as a people — what we’ve been through, our resilience, and where we are today, still a thriving, sovereign society.”

Tinnin also recommends that groups plan to stop at the Cherokee Arts Center and its Spider Gallery, where oneof-a-kind pieces by local artists are available for purchase.

VISITCHEROKEENATION.COM/GROUP-TOURS

PHOTOS COURTESY CHEROKEE NATION

Art on the Cherokee Cultural Pathway

The Cherokee National History Museum in Tahlequah

STUDENT TRAVEL ISSUE

OklahomaCityMuseumofArt

FirstAmericansMuseum

In Oklahoma City, you’ll be met with history, charm and wonder. Discover new perspectives and stirring experiences in the Modern Frontier.

NationalCowboy&WesternHeritageMuseum

BricktownWaterTaxi

HOMALCO CULTURE AND WILDLIFE TOURS

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Located between Campbell River and the mainland of British Columbia, the Discovery Islands are an archipelago set in a maze of intricate waterways. This is the home of the Homalco people, Homalco meaning “people of fast-running waters” in Ayajuthem, the traditional language of the northernmost Salish First Nations.

The Homalco First Nation (which has a population of about 500) owns and operates Homalco Culture and Wildlife Tours, which offers a variety of seasonal excursions throughout the area. Comfortable 12-person watercraft with heated cabins and onboard washrooms depart from the Campbell River terminal on Vancouver Island. The Deluxe Grizzly Bear and Culture Tour takes visitors on a journey through one of the best whale-watching spots in British Columbia to reach the village site of Aupe. This is one of the villages where the Homalco made their home before missionaries forcibly relocated them, separating families and forcing children into residential boarding schools. After a picnic lunch at beautiful Orford Bay, guides will lead your group on a hike in search of bears, eagles and other wildlife.

“As long as we’re sharing our stories on our terms, I think it’s a win-win for both us as Homalco people and for people who are very respectful and genuinely curious about learning,” said Chyanne Trenholm, the company’s general manager. “It provides us with a lot of different opportunities, socioeconomic opportunities and language and cultural revitalization. We’re still here, and this is what we’re doing today to reclaim ourselves, reclaim our future, reclaim our language and our lands. It’s just really positive for us.”

HOMALCOTOURS.COM

NAVAJO TOURS USA

NEW MEXICO

Small groups will find the natural and spiritual wonders of northern New Mexico revealed when exploring the region with Navajo Tours USA. Kialo Winters of the Diné Nation (Navajo/Zia Pueblo) and Terri Winters (Navajo/White Mountain Apache) founded the operation 10 years ago, using their backgrounds in education to bring the history and mystery of their ancestral lands to life for visitors from around the world.

Hiking through the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness, your group may come across shark teeth and marine fossils projecting from the sandstone hoodoos, towering formations created as the land changed over millions of years.

“The composition, the strata of soil regarding geology and its history is all familiar,” said Kialo Winters. “What’s interesting is that the stories of our indigenous stories bridge that composition to our lore. A lot of our stories we see when we’re walking on the trails.

“The whole landscape just came alive, and that allowed us to put together a journey so our guests can understand the connections, and to give history to our lands. To say there is story there, these are very important areas for us to identify. And so what that does is sort of break down stereotypes of who and what Indigenous peoples are — to say that we are here, we do have a history. And these areas are very important to us.”

NAVAJOTOURSUSA.COM

COURTESY HOMALCO CULTURE & WILDLIFE TOURS COURTESY NAVAJO TOURS USA

COURTESY NAVAJO TOURS USA

Exploring the waters around Vancouver with Homalco Culture and Wildlife Tours

A Homalco guide

Exploring the New Mexico wilderness with Navajo Tours USA

Sunset in New Mexico’s Bisti/ De-Na-Zin Wilderness

EXPERIENCE

Monumental

HART RANCH RODEOS

WILD WEST WEDNESDAYS- EVERY WEDNESDAY NIGHT, June 25 - August 13 at Hart Ranch Camping Resort. Fun for the whole family! Group rates available, gates open at 5pm. Rodeo begins at 7pm. Featuring Rough Stock events, Barrel Racing, Breakaway Roping, Rodeo Clown, Trick Rider, Food Trucks, & more!

605.399.2582 • HRResort.org

WALLL DRUG STORE

America’s #1 roadside attraction. Made famous by offering free ice water to weary travelers. There is something for everyone in this wonderland of free attractions, shopping, and a restaurant that seats 520 people. Located in Wall off I-90 and 8 miles north of Badlands National Park

605.279.2175 • WallDrug.com

KEVIN COSTNER’S TATANKA STORY OF THE BISON

60 million bison once roamed the Great Plains.  By 1890, less than 1,000 survived. This is their Story!  Learn how the eradication of one animal destroyed the way of life for the Northern Plains people.

The spectacular, larger than life bronze sculpture includes 17 pieces creating a “Buffalo Jump.”

605.584.5678 • StoryofTheBison.com

PRAIRIE HOMESTEAD

Experience the life of an early pioneer! Prairie Homestead historical site offers a valuable history lesson on the Homestead era of the old west. Watch our informative movie before heading out to explore the old out buildings and sod house. You will feel like you stepped off the pages of Little House on the Prairie.

605.433.5400 • PrairieHomestead.com

WALL-BADLANDS AREA CHAMBER

Set among the picturesque backdrop of expansive plains and breathtaking views of Badlands National Park, the Wall-Badlands area offers all the expected and plenty of the unexpected. Enjoy Western history, outdoor recreation, wildlife, amazing landscapes and more!

888.852.9255 • Wall-Badlands.com

KEVIN COSTNER’S ORIGINAL DEADWOOD TOUR

Climb aboard for a Deadwood adventure and be captivated by this historic town's colorful past. Our 1-hour, live-narrated tour travels down cobblestone streets and up to Mt. Moriah Cemetery. Come hear the history that made the Old West fun! Call for group rates. Additional savings when booking with Tatanka. 605.584.5678 • DeadwoodTour.com

WALL

Badlands National Park

SPECIAL SECTION

Shore Things

WATERFRONTS ARE WONDERFUL IN THE CAROLINAS

BY DIANA BOCCO

There’s something captivating about water: the way sunlight dances on its surface, the rhythmic sound of waves lapping against the shore and the calm it brings to even the busiest of minds.

With their many coastal and lakeside landscapes, the Carolinas are a dream for groups seeking that mix of adventure and relaxation.

In addition to over 300 miles of Atlantic coastline, the Carolinas are also dotted with pristine lakes, rivers and estuaries, providing endless opportunities to explore, unwind and take in the region’s natural beauty.

North Carolina’s Outer Banks alone span more than 100 miles of barrier islands, offering everything from wild horse sightings to the hallowed grounds of the Wright Brothers’ first flight. Meanwhile, South Carolina’s Lowcountry is home to tidal creeks, marshlands and iconic beaches like Hilton Head, where the Atlantic meets Southern charm. Inland, lakes like Lake Norman and Lake Murray provide quieter, yet equally enchanting, alternatives to the coast.

These are places where groups can connect — not just with each other but also with the natural beauty and rich history that define the Carolinas.

Charleston, South Carolina

Overlooking the Cooper River, Charleston Waterfront Park is a testament to the city’s dedication to blending natural beauty with communal spaces. This 12-acre park, with its meticulously landscaped gardens, iconic pineapple fountain and shaded walking paths, offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of one of the South’s most historic cities. The park’s design reflects Charleston’s charm, with sweeping views of the harbor, swaying palmetto trees and benches perfectly positioned for watching sailboats glide by.

For groups, the park is often a starting point for exploration. Harbor cruises depart from nearby docks, offering panoramic views

COURTESY OUTSIDE HILTON HEAD

Sunrise over the beach at Hilton Head Island

of Charleston’s historic skyline, Fort Sumter and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. The park’s proximity to downtown means groups can easily transition from a peaceful stroll to exploring Charleston’s cobblestone streets, boutique shops and award-winning restaurants.

CHARLESTONCVB.COM

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Spanning a massive 42 square miles, this Lowcountry gem is a haven for groups seeking both adventure and relaxation.

“Hilton Head Island is unique — as the first eco-planned destination in the country, it has a very different look and feel than other beach destinations,” said Charlie Clark, vice president of communications at the Hilton Head Island Visitor and Convention Bureau. “It’s very tropical and lush with no building over five stories high,

“We’re an island 12 miles long and five miles wide, and in that span are 24 golf courses.” — CHARLIE CLARK

no neon or billboards. Signage must be muted, and you’ll notice the color palate of the island blends with nature.” There are also no streetlights on the island, so, as Clark points out, “the stars put on quite a show after dark.”

The island’s 12 miles of sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing or simply soaking in the Atlantic views.

“The first order of business for any group is get out on the water,” Clark said. “Hilton Head Island is a natural dolphin habitat, so we highly recommend groups take advantage of the island’s dolphin tours. Boat companies like Outside Hilton Head cater to groups and understand their needs and can cater and do custom trips to the private Page Island for group oyster roasts and other activities.”

Kayaking is also quite popular with groups, and groups might come across rays, herons, dolphins (and even a bald eagle if they’re lucky) when out on the water.

Hilton Head Island is also well known as a golf destination.

“We’re an island 12 miles long and five miles wide, and in that span are 24 golf courses,” said Clark. “Groups also take advantage of amenities on the island where golf and networking go hand in hand, such as the Top Tracer facility at Palmetto Dunes.”

HILTONHEADISLAND.ORG

Lake Murray, South Carolina

A short drive from Columbia, Lake Murray is more than just a body of water — it’s a retreat, a playground, and a gathering place for those who love the outdoors. Spanning 50,000 acres with 650 miles of shoreline, this man-made lake draws boaters, paddlers and nature lovers looking to escape the city noise.

For groups, Lake Murray offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Pontoon boats glide across the water, stopping at hidden coves where travelers can cool off with a swim or lay out a picnic under the Carolina sun. Kayakers and paddleboarders carve their way through quiet inlets, while thrill-seekers take to the lake for wakeboarding, tubing or jet skiing.

BY RAUL RODRIGUEZ, COURTESY CHARLESTON WATERFRONT PARK

A sunny day on the Charleston waterfront

COURTESY OUTSIDE HILTON HEAD

A Hilton Head kayaking excursion

BY SEAN PAVONE, COURTESY CHARLESTON WATERFRONT PARK

Relaxing waterfront in Hilton Head

Charleston Waterfront Park is a picturesque retreat in the heart of a popular historic destination.

COURTESY OUTSIDE HILTON HEAD

On land, groups can head to Dreher Island State Park to stretch their legs on wooded hiking trails or settle into a shady spot for an afternoon cookout. Birdwatchers can scan the skies for ospreys and bald eagles, while campers wake up to mist rising off the water. For a more relaxed experience, groups can book a sunset cruise to take in the lake’s evening glow or gather around a bonfire at one of the park’s designated fire pits.

When it’s time to take a break from the water, groups can explore Bomb Island, a historic site and a seasonal roosting ground for tens of thousands of purple martins. In the summer, sunset boat tours give visitors a front-row seat to this breathtaking natural spectacle. Those looking for a lively atmosphere can check out Lake Murray’s floating summer concerts, where bands perform from a barge while boaters, kayakers and paddleboarders gather around for a one-ofa-kind music experience.

LAKEMURRAYCOUNTRY.COM

Lake Norman, North Carolina

As North Carolina’s largest man-made lake, Lake Norman offers a sprawling waterscape perfect for groups looking to unwind, explore or embrace a bit of adventure. Stretching over 32,000 acres with 520 miles of shoreline, the lake’s size allows for everything from peaceful retreats to high-energy activities, all within a short drive from Charlotte.

For those drawn to the water, Lake Norman’s numerous marinas provide a variety of rental options, including pontoon boats for leisurely cruising, jet skis for thrill-seekers and paddleboards for

those looking to explore at a slower pace. Groups can drop anchor in a secluded cove for swimming, set up a lakeside picnic, or take a guided boat tour to learn about the area’s history and wildlife. Sunset cruises are a popular option, offering a relaxing way to take in the lake’s breathtaking evening colors.

Beyond the water, Lake Norman State Park provides a scenic escape with 30 miles of hiking and biking trails winding through hardwood forests and along the shoreline. The Itusi Trail, a favorite among mountain bikers, offers a mix of rolling terrain and lakeside views. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s diverse wildlife, from great blue herons gliding over the water to deer grazing in the woods.

For groups looking for a hands-on experience, Latta Nature Preserve features interactive programs, horseback riding trails and the Carolina Raptor Center, where visitors can get up close with rescued birds of prey. Jetton Park and Ramsey Creek Park provide additional green spaces with walking paths, picnic areas and even a small sandy beach for those wanting to relax by the water.

Proximity to Charlotte means groups can easily add an urban element to their getaway, whether it’s visiting the NASCAR Hall of Fame, catching a show, or exploring the city’s food and craft beer scene before returning to the lake’s peaceful surroundings.

STUDENT GROUP TRIP?

BRING IT TO

There’s nowhere a group of students would rather be than The Beach. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has 60 miles of beaches and endless attractions for student groups of all ages. Let them enjoy classic boardwalk entertainment and amusement park rides, and then mix some education in with the fun at museums, galleries and attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium and WonderWorks. Whether you’re planning a leisure trip or a student performance, The Beach will make it unforgettable.

10 world-class theaters for student performances, education and entertainment.

2,000+ restaurants to satisfy every craving in the South’s newest foodie haven.

Beaufort, North Carolina

Set against North Carolina’s stunning Crystal Coast, Beaufort is a waterfront town where history, nature and small-town charm converge. Founded in 1709, it’s North Carolina’s third-oldest town, and its past is woven into every cobblestone street, Colonial home and harbor view. From pirate legends to scenic coastal landscapes, Beaufort offers an engaging mix of experiences for groups looking to explore both its past and present.

Strolling through Front Street, visitors can soak in views of the harbor, where sailboats bob on the water and fishing vessels return with the day’s catch. The Beaufort Historic Site, a collection of beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century buildings, brings the town’s maritime and Colonial history to life. Costumed guides lead tours through the Old Burying Ground, where weathered tombstones tell tales of sailors, soldiers and even a young girl buried in a rum barrel.

Boat tours to Rachel Carson Reserve, just across the water, provide an up-close look at the wild horses that roam the uninhabited islands. These tours also offer the chance to spot dolphins, herons

Groups might also want to stop by Beaufort’s North Carolina Maritime Museum, which featuring artifacts from Blackbeard’s flagship, Queen Anne’s Revenge.

and other coastal wildlife. For a more immersive experience, groups can kayak through the reserve’s marshes and peaceful estuaries.

Groups might also want to stop by Beaufort’s North Carolina Maritime Museum, which featuring artifacts from Blackbeard’s flagship, Queen Anne’s Revenge, which ran aground near the town in 1718. The museum’s exhibits bring the region’s pirate-filled past to life with real treasures recovered from the shipwreck. At the nearby Watercraft Center, traditional boatbuilding techniques are still practiced today.

Adventurous groups can take a ferry to Cape Lookout National Seashore, where they can climb the iconic black-and-white diamond-patterned lighthouse or comb the beach for seashells and sand dollars.

VISITBEAUFORTNC.COM

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Stretching over 100 miles along North Carolina’s coast, the Outer Banks is more than just a beach destination — it’s a place where history, nature and adventure come together. This string of barrier islands is known for its unspoiled shores, maritime heritage and distinctive small-town charm, making it an ideal getaway for groups looking to explore, unwind or do a bit of both.

History lovers can visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, where Orville and Wilbur Wright achieved their groundbreaking first flight in 1903. Nearby, Roanoke Island offers a glimpse into America’s oldest unsolved mystery — the disappearance of the “Lost Colony” in the late 16th century. The island is also home to the Elizabethan Gardens, a beautifully landscaped tribute to the era of Queen Elizabeth I, and the North Carolina Aquarium, where visitors can get up close with marine life native to the region.

Nature enthusiasts won’t want to miss a guided tour to see the wild horses of Corolla, believed to be descendants of Spanish mustangs that arrived centuries ago. For a different perspective of the Outer Banks’ beauty, groups can climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse for open views of the Atlantic and the rolling sand dunes below.

Groups ready for true adventure should try kayaking through Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge for a chance to spot black bears and red wolves. After a day of exploration, groups can relax with a classic coastal meal at one of the area’s waterfront restaurants, where fresh seafood and sunset views are always on the menu.

OUTERBANKS.ORG

COURTESY OUTER BANKS VISITORS BUREAU

The famous Cape Hatteras Lighthouse on the Outer Banks

A horse on the waterfront in Beaufort, North Carolina

COURTESY VISIT NORTH CAROLINA

Invite your group to discover a powerful story of hope at the Billy Graham Library. Together, you can retrace Billy Graham’s journey of faith as you explore multimedia presentations, displays, photos, and memorabilia. Come see what God can do through a life that is fully surrendered to Him.

Staff Sound-off

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE DESTINATION FOR A WEEKEND GETAWAY?

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

DONIA SIMMONS

PUBLISHER

MAC LACY

CONTROLLER

SARAH SECHRIST

VP OF SALES & MARKETING

KYLE ANDERSON

Hands down, it’s Stanford, Kentucky. I love to stay in one of the guest houses with The Stanford Inn at Wilderness Road; eat breakfast or lunch at the Bluebird Café; and shop at all the quaint local shops.

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

TELISA RECH

M y wife and I both grew up on the lakes in Western Kentucky, and they will always be our favorite weekend getaway destinations.

VP & EXECUTIVE EDITOR

BRIAN JEWELL

Aconcert and hotel room or the lake

GRAPHIC DESIGN & CIRCULATION

ASHLEY RICKS

I love to fly down to my best friend’s house in Dunedin, Florida, for long weekends.

M y wife and I had an amazing long weekend in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, last year. This picturesque village sits right of the Blue Ridge Parkway and has lots of hiking nearby.

Cincinnati wins out by the sheer number of trips since we go every month, but Atlanta has my heart. We head there a couple of times a year.

I ’m a big lake-weekend-withfriends kind of guy, no matter where that lake is.

WRITER & PROJECT COORDINATOR

RACHEL CRICK

I really like to be in a mountain cabin for a weekend getaway. It’s nice to disconnect a little and be surrounded by nature.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Welcome to Staff Sound-Off, the monthly column where our staff members answer questions about their travel practices and preferences. We hope you enjoy these tips. If you have a question you’d like to see us answer, send it to me and it may appear in a future issue. BRIANJ@GROUPTRAVELLEADER.COM

YOUR VOYAGE AWAITS

Add an unforgettable destination to your tour. Prepare for a thrilling adventure through biblical history at our life-size Noah’s Ark, located just south of Cincinnati.