2025 August LGT by Premier Travel Media

American Dreamin’ for Over 100 Years

TOURS THAT TELL THE TALES OF AMERICA’S STORIED PAST

Collette’s award-winning guided tours give travelers the chance to experience the United States through the lens of independence, music, and history –– the diverse culture that colors America’s present and future.

Take your group on the American adventure of a lifetime.

Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary

9 Days | 12 Meals

Classic Tour (max 44 travelers)

Walk in the footsteps of history as you retrace America’s rise through Revolutionary Era landmarks in Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.

America’s Music Cities

8 Days | 11 Meals

Classic Tour (max 44 travelers)

Discover the je ne sais quoi of New Orleans jazz, explore the “Birthplace of the Blues” in Memphis, and find the inspiration that creates the Nashville Sound.

America’s Cowboy Country

8 Days | 10 Meals

Classic Tour (max 44 travelers)

Discover the wild tales of the Wild West as you venture through vast landscapes, get to know the culture of Indigenous tribes, and visit old western towns straight from the movies.

Enjoy a fingersnapping, toetapping time on a tour of America’s most famed musical cities – New Orleans, Memphis and Nashville. Experience New Orleans, where jazz, food and fun are always on the menu. Explore Nashville with a tour highlighting the city’s musical history and influence. Spend two nights in Memphis, “birthplace of the blues.”

COLLETTE

(844) 445-5663

collette.com/groups

Take a Tour of America’s Music Cities

NEW ORLEANS

Explore the many sides of New Orleans and how jazz began and thrives here. Join a local guide for a panoramic city tour, seeing the famous St. Louis Cemetery #3 and Esplanade. Then, it’s on to a walking tour of the French Quarter viewing St. Louis Cathedral, Pirates Alley and more. Tonight, get to know your travel companions at a New Orleans-style dinner before continuing on to Maison Bourbon, a live jazz club in the French Quarter. Your hotel will be the Sheraton New Orleans, located near the renowned French Quarter. Relax in one of its 1,110 guestrooms with stunning city views and New Orleans charm.

MEMPHIS

This morning, embark on a civil rights history tour via coach and follow the route of Martin Luther King Jr.’s last march, stopping at Mason Temple where he gave his famous “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” speech the night before he was assassinated. Take time to explore how the era continues to shape equality and freedom to this day during a visit to the National Civil Rights Museum. Next, savor a lunch of down-home barbecue done Memphis-style: dry-rubbed and slow-smoked with sauce on the side. Get a taste of the Southern barbecue tradition and its deeply rooted spirit of community. Later, get acquainted with the musical history of Memphis with a visit to Sun Studio, perhaps the most famous recording studio in the world before continuing on to

the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, highlighting the musical journey of this popular city.

Your hotel is The Guest House at Graceland, an unprecedented resort experience inspired by Elvis Presley. The Guest House at Graceland is just steps away from the music world’s most important and beloved landmark — welcoming music fans, Graceland guests, Memphis visitors, world travelers and groups alike.

NASHVILLE

Roll along Music Highway to Nashville – the “Music Capital of the World.” Arrive in Nashville and tour the historic Ryman Auditorium, the original home of the Grand Ole Opry. What began as a building where a local radio broadcast show aired once a week in 1925 has grown to become an entertainment complex that attracts music fans from all over the world. After some free time for lunch, it’s your choice. Join a hands-on chocolate-making lesson at the iconic Goo Goo Candy Shop or visit the Johnny Cash Museum where you’ll be immersed in the life and legacy of Johnny Cash, a “100 Greatest Artists of All Time” honoree. This evening, take your reserved seat at the renowned Grand Ole Opry.

You will stay in the Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville. Situated in the heart of Nashville, Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center welcomes guests to a stunning resort experience. From SoundWaves, the city’s premier aquatic attraction, to an exciting lineup of activities and entertainment, there’s something for the entire group to enjoy.

RANDY MINK

ON MY MIND

Vol. 35, No. 1 February 2025

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Let’s Party Like it’s 1776

Looking Back to Move Forward

MAMemories from my early days on this planet are few and far between, but one of my strongest childhood remembrances is hearing my parents talking fondly about the United States Bicentennial in 1976.

emories from my early days on this planet are few and far between, but one of my strongest childhood remembrances is hearing my parents talking fondly about the United States Bicentennial in 1976.

s the world continues to move forward at a breakneck pace and technological advances reshape our daily lives (hello, AI), travelers are increasingly looking backward.

For years, I envied those who participated in the activities associated with the Bicentennial. I admired the communal spirit and patriotism that accompanied such events as the Delaware crossing re-enactment and the Boston Oil Party. I longed for the days when a unified country saw its residents paint their mailboxes and fire hydrants red, white and blue.

The history and heritage market has experienced significant growth in recent years, fueled by a global surge in interest in cultural preservation and a growing desire among travelers to engage with historical sites and traditions. The numbers back this up as the global heritage tourism market size was estimated at $604 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $778 billion by 2030. Heritage is no longer just history, it’s big business.

Fast forward 50 years and those of us who missed the Bicentennial are in luck, because now it’s our turn to celebrate.

This issue of Leisure Group Travel, the History and Heritage edition, understands travelers’ fascination with the past and features a host of fabulous stories filled with top-flight attractions and stunning photographs.

One such example is a piece written by our award-winning writer Randy Mink, who shares how the country, along with the travel industry, is gearing up for the massive America250 celebration in 2026.

On July 4, 2026, our nation will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the official start of the nation. The Semiquincentennial is expected to be the largest, most inspired celebration in the nation’s history. To honor these festivities, Rosie Rios, chair of America250, shares her thoughts on what lies ahead and where groups should consider taking a U-S-A-cation.

FACES OF FOOD TOURISM

LGT also shines a spotlight on some of the most iconic landmarks that have shaped the American west while in the south, we unearth five states that serve some of the best African American food on the planet.

Our Faces of Live Theater profiles highlight a few of the many creative forces working tirelessly to make each performance possible. They take you behind the curtain and show how the shows you love go from an idea to an event.

Traditionally, February is LGT’s culinary month, so we went behind the scenes and shined a spotlight on some of the brightest voices in the food industry with our Faces of Food Tourism profiles. LGT interviews some of the leading culinary minds and learns about some of the best practices they can share along with the latest food industry trends.

Mississippi gets plenty of love this issue as venerable writer Dave Bodle explores this charming Southern state and tells how deep its musical roots run. Dave also explores Mississippi’s iconic trails that honor its impressive musical heritage.

This year’s Live Theater guide is robust, featuring some of the finest theaters in the country. Whether your group wants to see a Broadway show, be wined and dined or take a behind-the-scenes tour, this guide is for you.

Fans of religious travel will also appreciate this issue as LGT pays a visit to the holiest wonders in the world and highlights some of the best religious attractions for Bible study groups.

LGT even takes a trip to Thailand, where we discover the cultural quirks and intriguing idiosyncrasies of one of Asia’s great travel destinations.

So, join us as we count down to 2026 and the many festivities that await us. The Semiquincentennial promises another chance to paint the town red, white and blue—only this time, with considerably more history to celebrate.

So, whether you’re tracing the footsteps of pioneers, savoring stories through soul food or applauding the magic of live theater, this issue proves one thing: the past isn’t just preserved — it’s being passionately experienced, one journey at a time.

Chief Editor

Happy travels , Jason Paha Chief Editor

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AMERICA’S BIGGEST

BIRTHDAY YET AMERICA’S BIGGEST BIRTHDAY YET

The country, along with the travel industry, is gearing up for America250

By Randy Mink

In the upcoming months, an earthshaking revolution that turned the world upside-down 250 years ago will be celebrated in grand style throughout the land, creating special opportunities for history-themed tour programs.

The congressionally established U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, operating as the non-partisan America250.org, plus commissions in each U.S. state and territory, will be coordinating events to salute the nation’s founding in 1776.

The milestone’s red-letter day will be July 4, 2026, the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, but events and special museum exhibitions will be staged well before and after.

Independence Day fireworks at the National Mall, Washington, D.C.

In a recent report to Congress, the America250 folks pledged to deliver “the largest and most inspiring commemoration in our nation’s history.”

Many are comparing the America250 hoopla to the country’s bicentennial bash in 1976, a star-spangled commemoration that, for those old enough to remember, evokes memories bathed in red, white and blue. There were sculptures and monuments created for the occasion, along with historical reenactments, parades and festivals. More than 90 percent of the population participated in at least one 1776-related event.

Rosie Rios, former U.S. treasurer and chair of the Semiquincentennial Commission, fondly recalls observing bicentennial fetes as an 11-year-old in Northern California. “I remember feeling a strong love of country during the bicentennial in 1976. I want my kids—and all Americans—to experience that same feeling for the semiquincentennial.”

Much of the focus in 2026 will be on the Eastern Seaboard, where colonial America had its beginnings. Countless historical attractions in the Atlantic Coast states make the Revolutionary War and struggle for independence from England come alive.

Philadelphia:

Birthplace of a Nation

Philadelphia, one of America’s oldest cities, will be one of the celebration’s epicenters and is planning a full slate of events. The city’s historic district is home to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were drafted and signed. Nearby are the Liberty Bell Center, National Constitution Center and Museum of the American Revolution.

In 2026, Philadelphia’s annual July 4th festival, Welcome America, will be kicking things up a notch. It’s the nation’s largest and free Independence Day celebration. Red, White, & Blue To-Do, celebrated July 2 and inspired by John Adams’s call for “pomp and parade,” features festivities

in the historic core, known as America’s most historic square mile.

The Declaration’s Journey, a special exhibition running from October 18, 2025, to January 3, 2027, at the Museum of the American Revolution will include rare early printings of the American Declaration,

How did a document created out of a

Ben Franklin at Independence Hall, Philadelphia.

Liberty Bell Center, Philadelphia.

plus documents related to the more than 100 nations that have integrated its ideals.

In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and the Middleton family (majority owners of the Philadelphia Phillies baseball team) will present A Nation of Artists, the most expansive collection of American art ever mounted in Philadelphia. The two museums will display more than 1,000 pieces, including works from the Middletons’ private holdings.

Thanks to a $15 million gift from philanthropist Kenneth C. Griffin, the National Constitution Center will open a new gallery on America’s founding in February 2026 and another on separation of powers in May 2026. Griffin will lend his copy of the U.S. Constitution—one of the 14 known original, official printed copies—and a rare first printing of constitutional amendments

debated by Congress that would become the Bill of Rights (on display through 2026).

Festivities in the Nation’s Capital

Washington, D.C. also will take center stage during America250 celebrations. The Smithsonian 250th Festival (June 18-July 12, 2026) will transform the National Mall into a living testament to the country’s cultural heritage. July 4, 2026 on the Mall will be highlighted

by a reenactment of the Declaration of Independence signing, a gala parade and spectacular fireworks show. The National Park Service estimates around 50 million people (inclusive of travelers and locals) will visit the National Mall in 2026, about 15 million more than a typical year.

Major developments in D.C. in 2026 include an improved Tidal Basin with wider walkways and 250 freshly planted cherry trees, new exhibits at the Jefferson Memorial,

Tidal Basin, Washington, D.C.

completion of the National Air and Space Museum expansion, a new museum under the Lincoln Memorial and free performances at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

A new interactive museum at the National Archives, opening in October 2025, will feature George Washington’s original copy of the Constitution. The Archives will present the Spirit of Independence Festival on Constitution Avenue from June 5-7, 2026.

11-16, 2026.

Virginia: Hotbed of Revolutionary Lore

On the Potomac River in Virginia, just outside of Washington, D.C., Patriots Path: A Revolutionary War Encampment will provide hands-on activities through December 2025 at George Washinton’s Mount Vernon, the home of America’s first president. Visitors can touch the items inside the tents, wash clothes in the laundry yard and examine cooking utensils as they immerse

themselves in the daily life of soldiers, military officers and the camp followers who traveled with the army.

Yorktown, site of the decisive 1781 battle that led to Britain’s surrender, will be a natural focal point for history-minded travelers in Virginia next year. The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown will host Give Me Liberty: Virginia & the Forging of a Nation, the commonwealth’s signature commemorative exhibition. On display from July 1, 2026, to January 31, 2027, the exhibition will feature lesser-known voices such as enslaved and free Black people, Indigenous peoples, women and young people. Rare artifacts will include a Charles Willson Peale painting of George Washington as colonel in the Virginia Regiment, Washington’s silver hilted smallsword worn during the French and Indian War, Patrick Henry’s

Parade of tall ships returns to Boston Harbor July

spectacles and an ivory paper cutter associated with his famous “Give Me Liberty” speech. Give Me Liberty is on view at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture in Richmond through January 4, 2026.

The Yorktown museum’s newest treasure is the circa-1790 portrait of Washington by Charles Peale Polk, the nephew of Charles Willson Peale. Depicting Washington as the victor at the 1777 Battle of Princeton, it went on permanent exhibit on July 4, just in time for the one-year countdown to America’s 250th anniversary, The painting previously was held in a private collection in Portugal before resurfacing in America three years ago.

The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown will mark its 10-year anniversary in 2026, continuing a legacy that began 50 years ago with the opening of the Yorktown

Victory Center for the 1976 bicentennial.

The Sail Yorktown Festival will feature tall ships and military vessels on the York River from June 12-14, 2026. The weekend will include a Parade of Sail, free deck tours, live entertainment, living history demonstrations, reenactments, live firings and military drills.

Sail250 to Showcase Tall Ships

The Yorktown regatta is an affiliate event of Sail250, an America250 maritime extravaganza featuring a fleet of majestic tall ships and military vessels from more than 20 countries. Sail250’s first stop is in New Orleans (May 28-June 1), followed by Norfolk and Hampton Roads, Virginia (June 19-24) and Baltimore (June 25-July 1). The ships spend July 3-8 in New York Harbor before their final call in Boston (July 11-16).

Revolutionary Fervor in Massachusetts

The first major battles of the American Revolution took place in Lexington and Concord in April 1775. Concord’s role in the conflict and how its role has been remembered over time will be the subject of Revolutionary Legacies, a special exhibit that opens in March 2026 at the Concord Museum. Also in observance of America250, Transformed by Revolution, opening in October 2025, will explore how ideas about community and belonging changed during and after the American Revolution.

In immersive, newly renovated galleries, the ongoing exhibition April 19, 1775 displays the lantern used as a signal by Paul Revere on his famous midnight ride, plus dozens of other objects that witnessed the start of the American Revolution.

Minuteman National Historical Park in Lexington, Concord and Lincoln (about 30 minutes north of Boston) plans a wide range of programs and events in observance of America250. The visitor center’s 25-minute multimedia presentation tells the story of “the shot heard around the

world,” a reference to the first rifle shots at the Battles of Lexington and Concord.

America250 in the Heartland

In downtown Louisville, Kentucky, Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) plans to open a new museum in July 2026. The SAR Education Center & Museum , now under construction on Main Street, will interpret the Revolutionary period through large-scale multimedia productions, digital displays and other hightech features.

In central Illinois, the Peoria Riverfront Museum is gearing up to celebrate the 250th anniversary of America’s founding with The Promise of Liberty, an exhibition that will occupy two of its five major galleries. Opening January 31, 2026 and running through the year, the exhibition

will showcase 250 objects and documents of historical significance. Among the items will be a Gilbert Stuart portrait of George Washington on loan from Colonial Williamsburg, a 1776 edition of the Declaration of Independence, a first printing of the U.S. Constitution, a rare photo of Abraham Lincoln in Peoria and Martin Luther King’s 1963 “I Have a Dream” speech. The galleries also will spotlight American Indigenous peoples in the Illinois River Valley, French explorers who settled the area and central Illinois farming innovations that made an impact worldwide. The Promise of Liberty is guest curated by documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, whose six-part film The American Revolution premieres on PBS television stations in November 2025.

In Nebraska, the 500-Mile Sculpture Garden, a series of eight modernist sculp-

tures installed along Nebraska's I-80 rest areas during the 1976 U.S. bicentennial, will be rejuvenated. As the nation approaches its semiquincentennial in 2026, Nebraska is preparing to enhance these iconic installations. While specific plans are still unfolding, the Nebraska Semiquincentennial Commission has been actively discussing initiatives to commemorate 250 years of independence.

The Nebraska History Museum in Lincoln is preparing a special exhibit to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Though details are still under wraps, the exhibit will explore Nebraska’s unique contributions to the nation’s story, highlighting the people, events and cultural touchstones that have shaped the state over the past twoand-a-half centuries.

TWO museums. ENDLESS discovery.

Experience the stories that shaped a nation

The revolutionary spirit of the 18th century lives on at Colonial Williamsburg through bold ideas, groundbreaking preservation, hands-on education, and dynamic civic engagement. As we celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary and Colonial Williamsburg’s 100th, we welcome America—and the world—to join us in 2026 in honoring the past, engaging the present, and inspiring the future.

To book today, visit colonialwilliamsburg.org/2026group

GETTYSBURG!

CELEBRATE AMERICA’S 250TH IN

The lessons learned from Gettysburg’s dramatic history have had a profound impact on how we see our country — and ourselves. The hallowed battlefields and powerful memorials tell the American story in a way that nowhere else can — as an unfiltered, personal experience. There has never been a better time to visit Gettysburg.

Central New York: Where America’s Past Comes to Life

Rooted in rich history and brimming with creative energy, it’s a place where groups can enjoy unforgettable experiences.

Located in the heart of New York State, the Central New York region offers a refreshing alternative to the expected, where the experiences are as unique as the place itself.

FORT STANWIX NATIONAL MONUMENT

Known as “the fort that never surrendered,” Fort Stanwix in Rome, New York successfully repelled a prolonged siege in August 1777 during the Revolutionary War. Established in 1935 and opened in 1976, Fort Stanwix commemorates the original fort which protected the Oneida Carry as European nations fought for control of this portage, the homelands of the Six Nations Confeder acy, and the rich resources of North America. One of 400+ National Park Service sites, Fort Stanwix National Monument offers a fullscale reconstruction of the original fort built in 1758 by the British during the French and Indian War and occupied by Americans during the Revolutionary War.

OLD STONE FORT MUSEUM

during the American Revolution. The stone fort was attacked by a large force of British regulars, Loyalists and Indians led by Sir John Johnson and Mohawk Chief Joseph Brant on October 17, 1780. At least three cannonballs struck the fort during the attack and a hole in the cornice molding left by one of those cannonballs is still visible today. That cannonball, along with the original beam it struck are on exhibit inside the museum.

FENIMORE FARM AND COUNTRY VILLAGE

The Old Stone Fort Museum Complex presents three centuries of rural New York history in and among seven historic and exhibit buildings on 25 acres in the scenic Schoharie Valley. The main museum is housed in the Old Stone Fort which was built in 1772 as a High Dutch Reformed Church and fortified in 1777

As one of the oldest rural life museums in the country, Fenimore Farm & Country Village in Cooperstown provides groups with a unique opportunity to experience 19th-century rural and village life first-hand through authentic demonstrations and interpretative exhibits.

The museum, founded in 1943, comprises a Colonial Revival stone barn listed on the National Register for Historic Places, a recreated historic village circa 1845, the Empire State Carousel, and a working farmstead. Through its 19th-century village and farm, the museum preserves important examples of upstate New York architecture, early agricultural tools and equipment, and heritage livestock.

CENTRAL NEW YORK REGION visitcentralnewyork.com/travel-trade

Photos: Old Stone Fort (above) credit: Schoharie County, Fort Stanwix (left) credit: Oneida County , and Farmers Museum Cart (below) credit: Otsego County.

IN REVOLUTION, FROM GRIT TO GLORY.

The Faces of Live

TheaterThese creators bring performances to life

Live theater is a vibrant and exciting excursion for groups of all kinds. The theater offers a shared experience full of music, storytelling and unforgettable moments.

Whether it’s a high-energy musical, a touching drama, or a laugh-out-loud comedy, there’s something on stage for everyone to enjoy together. Behind the curtain, it takes a talented and passionate team to bring these productions to life. People like Calvin Gilmore, whose musical roots bring a unique energy to the

stage, Tina Jo Wallace, who leads the charge at Derby Dinner Playhouse, Camille Brown, whose choreography redefines Broadway revivals, and Orin Wolf, whose producing vision brings global stories to local audiences, are just a few of the many creative forces working tirelessly to make each performance possible.

— From Stage Lights to Spotlight —

Camille Brown

Choreographer for the Broadway revival of the musical Gypsy

How did you first get involved in the live theater industry?

My mother introduced me to musical theater at a very young age. We watched her favorite

movie musicals and she also took me to Broadway shows. As a student, I went the concert dance route. I asked Georgiana Pickett for advice on how I could break into

the industry since concert dance was (is) a completely different world. She suggested that along with speaking about my company, Camille A. Brown & Dancers, I also share that I’m interested in a career in theater.

In 2011, Daniel Aukin contacted me and asked if I was interested in meeting with him to interview for the choreographer position on Fortress of Solitude. He said my work in concert dance was very theatrical and he was really drawn to it. I met with him and got the job. It was my first job as a choreographer for theater.

What’s been your proudest professional achievement to date?

I think the proudest achievement is that I haven’t given up. There are obstacles that can discourage you. It’s also very scary to lead a company and have a career as a director and choreographer for theater. Every day I get up and go into the studio is a proud moment.

What makes live theater such a powerful and enduring form of entertainment?

You feel the magic. All elements come together to tell a people story that touches people and changes lives. It’s the power of the arts singing in chorus with each other.

“You feel the magic. All elements come together to tell a story that touches people and changes lives. It’s the power of the arts singing in chorus with each other.”

— Camille A.

Brown

What are the biggest challenges facing live theater today?

Engaging and sustaining audiences.

What changes have you seen in group sales and tourism-driven attendance in recent years?

It seems that they have lowered. Theater took a big hit because of COVID-19.

What do you think regional theaters or smaller productions can learn from Broadway’s model—or vice versa?

I think both can learn from each other.

What advice would you give to destinations or travel planners who want to incorporate more live theater into their itineraries?

Make sure you carve out time to see a show. It could possibly change your life.

— Center Stage and Close to Home —

Tina Jo Wallace

Producing Artistic Director, Derby Dinner Playhouse

How did you first get involved in the live theater industry?

My poor family, who had to listen and watch me act, sing and dance while I was growing up, would say I have been performing since birth. While growing up, I was encouraged and supported by my patient family, wonderful teachers, and multiple community theatre programs in my area. I then went on to get my BFA in Acting from Syracuse University and have been working in live theatre my entire adult life.

What’s been your proudest professional achievement to date?

That is an impossible question! I loved playing opposite my fiance (now husband) as Beatrice in Much Ado About Nothing for Kentucky Shakespeare. I have so many shows I performed in here at Derby Dinner that I am proud of. I have so many moments while teaching theatre camps and classes when students have brought me to tears with their progress. There were

wonderful moments sitting in an audience watching a show I have directed and hearing the visceral response to a moment that I was part of crafting. But one that stands out is when my 17-year-old came to watch rehearsal for Singing in the Rain, my first mainstage show I as the new Producing Artistic Director at Derby Dinner. As we finished Act 1, I asked what they thought and they started crying, hugged me, and told me how proud they were of me. That might be it!

What makes live theater such a powerful and enduring form of entertainment?

Community. You cannot experience live theatre alone or in a vacuum. It is a communal experience. Like watching a movie in a packed theatre, you can hear and feel others responding to the story along with you. Unlike watching a movie, the performers and technicians can feel and hear that too. So, in a place where we experience stories of love, life, failure, triumph, sadness, glory, and all measures of humanity, we are experiencing it together. It encourages community and empathy. And each performance is completely unique! Even with the most accomplished, consistent actors, each show is informed by the audience, by the feeling in the room, by how much sleep they got, the conversations they’ve had during the day and maybe even what they had to eat before the show. You cannot completely replicate a live show and that reality is magical!

“You cannot completely replicate a live show and that reality is magical.”

— Tina Jo Wallace

What changes have you seen in group sales and tourism-driven attendance in recent years?

We have found that our corporate group business is still not back to pre-pandemic levels. Groups are booking with smaller sizes, 15-20 people rather than the 40+ we’ve been used to in the past. We are relying more on our local community groups and regional tour operators.

What do you think regional theaters or smaller productions can learn from Broadway’s model?

While we can always learn from others, I think trying to replicate Broadway or the Broadway model in regional theatre can be dangerous. Our theatres are not in the same ecosystem that Broadway is. Every city with a regional theatre is unique. The cost of living, the average income, the transportation system or lack thereof, the culture, and so many other things determine what the needs and desires of a community are in terms of entertainment. We have to listen and respond to our own communities to develop our model.

— Building a Theater Legacy —

Calvin Gilmore

Country music singer and recording artist

How did you first get involved in the live theater industry?

I grew up in the Ozarks on a third-generation farm. Music was always a part of my life, but I didn’t pursue it seriously until my early twenties, when I was working in the Hallmark mailroom by day and singing in restaurants and bars around Kansas City at night. Eventually, a Nashville label showed interest, but I needed capital to record a demo, so I got into real estate to fund it. That turned into a surprising success, but after a few years—and with a growing family—I realized I still wasn’t doing what I was meant to do. I came up with the idea of building my own theater where I could perform and stay rooted in one place. It took a lot of faith and a few big risks, but in 1986, we opened The Carolina Opry in a converted nightclub in Myrtle Beach. I never imagined then that it would help launch an entire entertainment industry on the Grand Strand or that

we’d still be going strong nearly 40 years later.

What’s been your proudest professional achievement to date?

I’ve had the honor of recording the material I love with some of the best producers and musicians in Nashville and making numerous appearances on the Grand Ole Opry stage—both lifelong dreams come true. But my proudest achievement has to be building The Carolina Opry from the ground up. What started as a small show in a renovated nightclub has grown into a nationally recognized theater that’s entertained millions. After all these years, we’re still creating something people want to come back to, year after year. That kind of longevity and connection with audiences is something I’m truly proud of.

What makes live theater such a powerful and enduring form of entertainment?

Live theater has a soul to it—an energy you can’t replicate on a screen. It’s that real-time connection between the performers and the audience. Every night is different, and the shared experience of music, laughter, and storytelling creates something lasting.

What are the biggest challenges facing live theater today?

Audience attention is more divided than ever. Between streaming platforms, social media, and short-form content, it’s easy to lose people’s time and focus. Also, the cost of producing high-quality shows continues to rise while audiences often expect more for less. We’ve always held ourselves to a high production standard and maintaining that while staying accessible to families and tourists is a constant balancing act.

What advice would you give to destinations or travel planners who want to incorporate more live theater into their itineraries?

Focus on quality. Don’t just check the box with the cheapest ticket you can find—your customers will notice the difference. Give them a high-quality experience they’ll remember and talk about long after the trip is over. Partner closely with the theaters—many of us are happy to tailor the experience and even recommend dining or hotel partners to help weave the show seamlessly into your itinerary.

Live theater is one of the most powerful ways to connect people—families, friend groups, even strangers. It creates shared memories and adds heart to the travel experience. It shouldn’t be optional, it should be on every itinerary.

— The Power, Risk and Magic of the Theater —

Orin Wolf

Producer of Buena Vista Social Club

How did you first get involved in the live theater industry?

I did acting when I was a kid and I always loved the theater. Then, when I got into college, I was studying theater and I was doing some writing and directing. My teacher suggested that I think about producing because I became obsessed when I was in plays with what was going on in the audience, with

what was going on backstage, etc. So, I looked into it and felt like producing actually might be a calling for me, it really clicked. After college I came right to New York and started interning for different producers.

What’s been your proudest professional achievement to date?

I’m proud that I get to work in the theater every day and

make a living and raise a family in New York City. I’m also proud that some of these impulses around adapting films like The Band’s Visit and the album Buena Vista Social Club seem to be resonating with audiences.

What makes live theater such a powerful and enduring form of entertainment?

(One unique thing about theater is) the energy and spontaneity of seeing people do things live. There’s nothing like it. The theater is a sort of forced meditation of economics to me and to audiences, and it’s also what makes it less valuable to big banks and private equity, which are the things that tend to ruin art and commerce. I think that’s one of the things that makes it so exciting and relevant in today’s culture, where everything is digital and everything is artificial. The theater is a respite from that.

What are the biggest challenges facing live theater today?

I think, like all industries, we went through a time where the relationship between labor and employer was strained, and there was a lot of economic concessions that have made theater very expensive. It’s always been a luxury good, and it’s always had a high price of entry for Broadway. I don’t see that as a challenge necessarily, I see that as sort of what this industry is and how it operates. I actually think this industry is shielded from a lot of challenges that other industries face today because of what I said. But I think the challenge that we continue to face is how do you remain daring?

“The theater is a respite… in today’s culture, where everything is digital and everything is artificial.”

— Orin Wolf

What changes have you seen in group sales and tourismdriven attendance in recent years?

I think group sales continue to be a bedrock of how Broadway shows survive. I also come from the touring industry, and I think tours are also a bedrock of how this industry survives. But the great thing about and how it’s intersected with Broadway is that it’s been consistent and we can depend on it, and then being able to depend on something allows room for taking more risk and tourism has always been

If international or foreign tourism takes any sort of a dip because of what’s going on in the world, I do think that could have an impact and that could force certain shows that look for foreign tourism to have different outlooks and different reality checks. So, I think it’s important that as a city and as an industry we’re investing in tourism and making sure we’re encouraging foreign tourism to the greatest extent possible. Because New York City is still producing the best theater in the world and it’s still a great city to come visit.

Live Theater Guide

Whether your group is in the mood to see a Broadway show, be wined and dined or take a behind-the-scenes tour, these theaters have something for everyone.

BROADWAY IN AUSTIN

Austin, Texas

The 2025/26 Broadway in Austin season is packed with Tony-winning hits and bold new takes on beloved classics. Groups of 10+ can reserve seats now and unlock special pricing, priority access, flexible payment plans, reduced fees, and concierge support.

Highlights include Kimberly Akimbo, The Outsiders, Disney’s Beauty and The Beast, Six, The Sound of Music, Hadestown, The Great Gatsby, Mamma Mia!, The Wiz, and & Juliet

Whether for school trips, company outings, or friends’ night out, group bookings are the best way to experience the magic—at a better price.

Visit BroadwayInAustin.com or email Sarah Koehler at skoehler@broadway.com to reserve your seats.

Book early. Save more. Enjoy the show— together.

The company of the North American Tour of & JULIETPhoto Credit Matthew Murphy

BROADWAY DIRECT GROUP SALES

New York, NY

As one of Broadway’s longest-standing stewards of live theatre, the Nederlander Producing Company of America is proud to invite group travelers to experience a truly record-breaking 2025–26 season. With nine historic theatres in the heart of New York City, our venues have long served as the backdrop for iconic performances, unforgettable debuts, and cultural milestones.

This past year, we were honored to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Richard Rodgers Theatre — a crown jewel of Broadway and home to some of the most groundbreaking productions in history. Looking ahead, we are thrilled that both the Lena Horne Theatre and the Palace Theatre will join this centennial legacy in the coming two years, underscoring our company’s century-long commitment to

artistic excellence and historic preservation.

The 2025–26 season is poised to make history, with a dynamic mix of classic revivals, anticipated world premieres, and star-studded performances that speak to every kind of theatre lover. Whether your group is looking for an electrifying new musical, a timeless play, there has never been a better time to return to Broadway.

Broadway Direct Group Sales’ team is dedicated to curating unforgettable outings for student groups, tour operators, faithbased organizations, corporate travelers, and beyond. With flexible pricing, early access to group seating, and exclusive add-ons like post-show talkbacks or Broadway meet-and-greets, we are ready to roll out the red carpet for every guest who walks through our doors.

Come celebrate 100 years of Broadway brilliance — and be part of the next century of magic. Curtain up! (broadwaydirect.com)

2025 LIVE THEATER GUIDE

CELEBRATE THE ROCKETTES 100TH YEAR AT THE CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR STARRING THE RADIO CITY ROCKETTES® New York City, New York

Experience the magic of the holidays at the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes® taking place during the Rockettes milestone 100th anniversary.

A staple of the holidays in New York City, the awe-inspiring Christmas Spectacular features intricate choreography performed by the incomparable Radio City Rockettes® throughout nine showstopping numbers. The production, which can only be seen at Radio City Music Hall, blends classic numbers that audiences know and love, such as “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers,” with innovative technology that extends the show beyond the stage, including Frost Fairy drones. In 2024, the production introduced cuttingedge holographic technology in a new scene starring Santa Claus and set to the holiday classic “We Need A Little Christmas.” Paired with the digital projections, the holographic animations in this scene immerse audiences in holiday wonder while referencing

classic Rockettes numbers with images of a double decker bus, wooden soldiers, rag dolls, and more.

Start planning your holiday travel early and secure your seats for the Christmas Spectacular. But don’t stop there—let a member of our Group Travel Department curate an unforgettable day filled with memorable experiences. Explore special packages that offer unique opportunities, such as a behind-the-scenes tour of Radio City and a pre-show reception in the historic Roxy Suite. Showcase your talents in a dance workshop led by a Rockette, or give your group the unforgettable opportunity to sing on the Great Stage at Radio City Music Hall before the curtain opens at the Christmas Spectacular.

Don’t miss out on this unparalleled holiday experience! Secure your tickets now and embark on a journey that will ignite your holiday spirit. (Rockettes.com/PMTravel)

BARTER THEATRE Abingdon, Virginia

Open since 1933, Barter Theatre is one of the longest-running professional theaters in the country, providing worldclass entertainment for generations. Located in Abingdon, VA, a charming town in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the theatre boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery, making it an ideal destination for any group.

Each year, Barter Theatre features a lineup of shows, including large musicals, classic tales, new Appalachian works, and much more!

Barter Theatre is group-friendly and offers various amenities, including group discounts, loading and unloading zones, bus parking, and a friendly staff to assist you in planning your group excursion. Additionally, group leaders and drivers receive complimentary tickets.

Dinner theaters combine high-class live entertainment with scrumptious dining for the ultimate curtain call. Any itinerary planner will tell you that treating clients to a dinner and show under one roof—without even changing seats—makes his or her job that much easier. In fact, a dinner theater visit could be your itinerary’s star attraction.

DISNEY ON BROADWAY

New York, NY

Discover the magic of Disney on Broadway with THE LION KING and ALADDIN in New York City! Disney Theatrical Sales is your go-to source to easily secure group tickets and unlock incredible perks for your purchase, such as no booking fees, exciting merchandise offers, and flexible payments.

Get ready for show-stopping magic!

ALADDIN on Broadway continues its amazing legacy of granting wishes, boasting over 80 dazzling special effects and more than 300 breathtaking costumes. Then, journey to the Pridelands and witness the truly extraordinary art and majesty of THE LION KING on Broadway, playing at the Minskoff Theatre in the bustling heart of Times Square. Each of these iconic productions promises a truly unforgettable experience for your group.

Ready to dive even deeper into this mesmerizing world of Broadway? Your group can truly enhance their experience by participating in a Disney on Broadway Workshop! You can choose from a variety of workshops including Movement & Music, Spotlight on Singing, Spotlight on Dancing, Business of Show Business, or The Art of Puppetry. These engaging 90-minute workshops are passionately led by Disney Teaching Artists and serve as a perfect, inspiring addition to any trip.

Looking to connect with cast members and ask the questions you’ve always been wondering? We’re thrilled to offer special cast Q&As that can be added on. Following the performance, your group can enjoy a 15-minute facilitated conversation directly with cast members! Available select dates and performances.

If a trip to NYC isn’t on your agenda right now, fear not! You can still explore the magic of Disney on Broadway with our North America touring productions – THE LION KING and BEAUTY & THE BEAST. With more than 50 cities lined up, the magic may be closer than you realize.

Connect directly with our Disney Group Sales Team at 212-703-1040, DTG. Group.Sales@Disney.com or by visiting DisneyTheatricalSales.com.

(www.DisneyTheatricalSales.com )

WHERE GUESTS ARE LIKE FAMILY

DINNER THEATRES

Everyone has a special place that evokes happy memories, lots of laughs, and maybe even some tears. For many, dinner theatres have been one of those special places for decades - where couples celebrate anniversaries, friends toast birthdays, and families gather for a summer or holiday show.

Attending a lunch and show with a school, scout troop, or church group, is often the first introduction students have to live theatre. Experiencing the show come alive right in front of them instead of on a screen, and also interacting with the cast for Q&A sessions, getting signed autographs, or even joining a summer camp, can be lasting memories that create a theatre lover for the rest of their life.

This is the same for groups that visit the NDTA member dinner theatres, where group leaders

and their group members become like family. The theatre staffs get to know their story, and in turn they begin to share experiences of life and other travels. The groups have their favorite server, they know the step on guide that greets them at the door for every visit, and they even know the performers that appear in numerous shows each season who stop by the table just to say hello. These are the memories that only a dinner theatre can provide!

The dinner theatre experience is unique - no rushing from a restaurant to the theatre to get into your seats. Relaxing in the dinner theatre setting, you can connect with other guests in the dining room, with group members that traveled with you, and with the staff at each new theatre you visit. At a dinner theatre, you are a guest in their “home”, and you are treated like family.

Just like choosing to add a new recipe to the family Thanksgiving meal, each dinner theatre thinks about all of these people when choosing a season or menu for each show. “Will Dave like this one for his group?” “Would they like to see some new creative shows they haven’t heard of?” “Should we offer vegetarian items on the buffet?” “Should we add more matinees or start the show earlier?” These are the questions each staff asks as they think about what their audiences, their “family,” want for each new year. And just like family, you may not always get exactly what you want on the menu, but you can trust that the company and connections will be worth every minute of your visit. Find all the National Dinner Theatre Association members at ndta.us

PHOTO COURTESY OF DERBY DINNER PLAYHOUSE, LOUISVILLE, KY

• Arizona Broadway Theatre (AZ)

• Silver Star Theater (AZ)

• Murry’s Dinner Playhouse (AR)

• Candlelight (CO)

• Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre (FL)

• Suncoast Broadway Dinner Theatre (FL)

• Circa ‘21 Dinner Playhouse (IL)

• Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre (IN)

• Derby Dinner Playhouse (IN)

• Toby’s Dinner Theatre (MD)

• Washington County Playhouse (MD)

• Cornwell’s Dinner Theatre (MI)

• Chanhassen Dinner Theatres (MN)

• La Comedia Dinner Theatre (OH)

• Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre (PA)

• Pines Dinner Theatre (PA)

• Desert Star Playhouse (UT)

• Riverside Center for the Performing Arts (VA)

• The Fireside (WI)

• The Jackson Hole Playhouse (WY)

DERBY

DINNER PLAYHOUSE Clarksville, IN

For over 50 years, Derby Dinner Playhouse has been delighting audiences with unforgettable entertainment. delicious dining, and heartwarming performances. Their upcoming season features such shows as COME FROM AWAY, DIAL “M” FOR MURDER, ELF THE MUSICAL, THE BUNCO SQUAD ROLLS AGAIN, THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE, and HAIRSPRAY. Located just minutes from downtown Louisville, KY, this 450-seat theatre is noted for their professional productions of Broadway musicals, comedies, and Children’s Theatre. The Derby Dinner stage is surrounded by tiers of dining tables set “in-the-round”, which provides an intimate setting not usually found in most theatrical venues. Group rates are available for groups of 20 or more with gratuity included, and coffee and soft drinks are free! (derbydinner.com)

BEEF & BOARDS DINNER THEATRE

Indianapolis, IN

Broadway’s magic enchants audiences six days a week in one of the most successful professional dinner theatres in the country. Located in Indianapolis, Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre presents an array of top shows each season, including Waitress, Jersey Boys, Pretty Woman, Les Misérables, Mamma Mia! , plus classics including Fiddler on the Roof, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Holiday Inn, and Singin’ in the Rain Conveniently located on the Northwest side of Indianapolis, Beef & Boards is just off of Michigan Road (Exit 27) on I-465. The theatre offers ample free parking, including complimentary on-site coach parking. Plus, there are dozens of full-service hotels in the immediate vicinity.

Group rates and complimentary tickets for escorts and drivers available for groups of 20 or more are available, with special group options including actor talkbacks following the show, included desserts and gratuity, and theatre buy-outs (minimum 300 tickets).

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre works with each group’s specific needs to make the experience easy and memorable. Beef & Boards is a member of the American Bus Association and the National Dinner Theatre Association.

Visit beefandboards.com and click on “Groups” to find out more or to request a group rate. The Group Sales Department can be reached via email at groups@beefandboards. com, or by calling 317.876.0503.

Located just 18 miles from downtown Minneapolis, Chanhassen Dinner Theatres has delighted guests for 56 years with fine dining, superb live musical theatre, and a wide range of entertainment options. It’s the nation’s largest professional dinner theatre, showcasing lavish musicals on its 569-seat Main Stage, including current productions like Grease, now playing through October 4th, 2025. Immediately

following will be Irving Berlin’s White Christmas running from October 10th, 2025, through February 7th, 2026. Guys and Dolls will take the stage February 13th, 2026, and run through September 26th, 2026.

On weekends, the Playhouse hosts Stevie Ray’s Comedy Cabaret, featuring audience-inspired comedy routines. The Fireside Theatre presents popular concerts paying tribute to artists like The Eagles,

Fleetwood Mac, and more. Chanhassen boasts Minnesota’s largest privately owned restaurant, serving up to 1,000 dinners in a two-hour window before each show. It’s hailed by the Los Angeles Times as one of the best dinner theaters nationwide, recommended by AAA Magazine for any Twin Cities visit, and praised by the Star Tribune as the area’s top professional musical theatre.

2025 LIVE THEATER GUIDE

CIRCA ‘21 DINNER PLAYHOUSE

Rock Island, IL

Take one step into the Circa ‘21 Dinner Playhouse and feel the overwhelming charm of what once was the bustling historic Fort Armstrong Theatre, first opened in 1921. Today, the classic building sits on the same corner in Rock Island, Illinois and offers a high-end dining experience and modern award-winning musicals while still maintaining the elegant and timeless atmosphere.

Circa ‘21 Dinner Playhouse showcases a variety of events including comedies, dramas, mysteries, musicals, celebrity attractions and children’s shows. All ticket sales for evening and matinee shows include a freshly chopped salad or pasta salad, a plated entrée served to your seat and a choice of coffee or tea. Groups are always given a warm welcome at the playhouse. Your visit always includes complimentary tickets for escorts and drivers of motorcoaches, the best available seating at the time you make your reservation and plenty of free, safe motorcoach parking. (circa21.com)

DUTCH APPLE DINNER THEATRE/BROADWAY PALM

Lancaster, PA / Ft Myers, FL

Voted Top Ten Dinner Theatres in USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards. For over 40+ years, Prather Productions have provided great entertainment at a great value. Located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and Ft Myers, Florida, these outstanding theatres offer exceptional entertainment at two convenient venues for an experience to remember. The delicious meals include a lavish buffet with salad bar, hot entrees, sides and desserts. A served dinner is offered on select evenings. After dining, enjoy a captivating Broadway-style production featuring nationally selected performers, dazzling sets, beautiful costumes and a live orchestra. Group rates include meal, show, tax and gratuity, plus a complimentary meal and show ticket for group escort and motorcoach driver. What better way for your group to make memories to last a lifetime! Contact Group Sales today for reservations and be the star when you book your next group trip with us!

RIVERSIDE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

Fredericksburg, VA

Discover world-class entertainment conveniently located right between Richmond and Washington, D.C. at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts—where Broadway lovers feel right at home. Nestled in Fredericksburg, Virginia, this award-winning Performing Arts Center in its 27th year presents dazzling Broadway-style musicals and plays yearround, featuring top-tier talent, stunning sets, and a live orchestra. Voted one of USA Today’s Top Ten Dinner Theatres for 2025.

Riverside brings the magic of Broadway to life in its 400-seat theatre. Enjoy a chef-prepared, multi-course meal served tableside before the curtain rises—elevating your outing into an unforgettable experience of fine dining and exceptional theatre.

More than just a show, Riverside offers an experience—perfect for date nights, family outings, or group events. With professional productions rivaling New York stages and

a welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder theatre lovers from across the region return again and again. We are located right off I95, offer FREE parking, and LOVE working with groups and schools. Call 540-681-1226 for group rates.

Join us for an upcoming performance and see why Riverside is Virginia’s hidden Broadway gem!

For tickets and showtimes, call 540-370-4300 Visit us at www.riversidedt.com

Broadway awaits—closer than you think.

EASTERN REGION

REVOLUTIONARY BARS IN THE EAST

Here are historic taverns in the Eastern U.S. that perfectly blend Founding Fathers–era significance with culinary charm—ideal for group itineraries focused on history and dining.

FRAUNCES TAVERN — New York City, NY

Established in 1762 as Queen’s Head Tavern, Fraunces Tavern became a pivotal Revolutionary-era hub where George Washington bid farewell to his officers at war’s end in 1783. Today, it’s both a museum and a restaurant, offering colonial-style menus alongside exhibits on Revolutionary history. (frauncestavern.com)

WHITE HORSE TAVERN –Newport, Rhode Island

Established in 1673, the White Horse Tavern holds the distinction of being America’s oldest operating tavern, where the likes of Revolutionary thinkers and colonial officials once dined. It is perfect for history buffs and culinary enthusiasts alike. (whitehorsenewport.com)

HANOVER TAVERN — Hanover, VA

Dating back to 1733, the Hanover Tavern is tied closely to Patrick Henry—who helped run it in his youth—and hosted figures such as George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette. Now restored, the site combines a functioning tavern and theater, complete with heritage programs, historical exhibits, and dining spaces. (hanovertavern.org)

MIDDLETON TAVERN — Annapolis, MD

Operating since 1750, Middleton Tavern in Annapolis welcomed Revolutionary icons like Washington, Jefferson, and Franklin. Situated on the waterfront, it retains period architecture and nautical décor, while offering modern group-friendly seafood menus (especially renowned crab cakes and mussels). (middletontavern.com)

A Group Getaway Full of Entertainment

Atlantic City Is the Ultimate Group Escape

Atlantic City is a perfect destination for groups seeking a mix of excitement, entertainment and relaxation. With its vibrant Orange Loop, groups can explore an eclectic range of bars, restaurants and art galleries, all within walking distance of each other, making it perfect for a casual day out. For those looking for more thrills, Atlantic City’s famous casino resorts offer a variety of gaming options, luxurious accommodations, and world-class dining, providing a lively backdrop for group activities. Whether you’re enjoying the nightlife, indulging in fine dining, or taking in a spectacular show, Atlantic City is packed with attractions that cater to all types of group getaways.

LEGENDARY BOARDWALK

Construction on Atlantic City’s world-famous Boardwalk began in 1870, and from then on, it has become an American icon. The Boardwalk stretches for four miles along the Atlantic Ocean coastline (plus an additional mile and a half into neighboring Ventnor City), making it the longest boardwalk in the world.

Groups can stroll along the Boardwalk and enjoy ocean views on one side and great shopping on the other, ranging from high-end retail to saltwater taffy shops.

WINERIES

Those seeking top-notch wineries will love the Atlantic City region, which has a host of wineries within a short drive. Among the top wineries in the region are Renault Winery (one of the oldest continuously operating wineries in the United States), Sharrott Winery in Hammonton (an award-winning winery that is open year-round and offers live entertainment throughout the year), and Bellview Winery in Landisville (which features more than 20 estate-grown varietals and more than two dozen wines).

Another popular stop on the Boardwalk is Steel Pier, featuring its 227-foot observation wheel with 40 climate-controlled gondolas. Steel Pier also has dozens of rides and games and, of course, funnel cake. Everything you could possibly want is within walking distance, from shops to five-star restaurants to casinos, attractions and great shows.

WORLD-CLASS BEACHES

Atlantic City boasts beautiful, easily accessible free beaches. Just a short drive from the city center, these coastal spots offer everything from laid-back vibes to stunning views. Highlights include Atlantic City Beach, known for its calming scenery and great waves, and Brigantine Beach, one of the most scenic stretches along the Jersey Shore. With plenty of shoreline to explore, it’s easy to find your perfect spot in the sand.

VISIT ATLANTIC CITY

Heather Colache, 609-318-6097

heather@visitatlanticcity.com visitatlanticcity.com/group-travel

Photos: Atlantic City Coastline (above), Atlantic City Boardwalk (left) and Atlantic City Cruises (below).

MARITIME MARVELS

Estates in the Salt Air

By Justine Leavitt

This is your guide to the Northeast’s maritime marvels and time-traveling group adventures

Picture the sun on the ocean as Old World estates cast shadows on the ground. Hear the waves crashing around you. Feel the wind blowing through your hair. This image sounds like a scene in a period film—but the New England coast lets you travel back in time.

Step into the hushed grandeur of velvet-draped ballrooms where chandeliers glint like fireworks frozen in time—and step out onto a schooner deck where gulls wheel overhead and sails spin in the wind. This is your mansions-meets-maritime guide to the Northeast: a curated corridor where the Gilded Age meets the open sea. Where else can you sip tea like a Vanderbilt before suiting up for a lobster bake on the beach?

Illustrious Estates

Newport’s Crown Jewels: Opulence on the Ocean

Take a front-row seat to America’s most lavish chapter on Newport Mansions Tours in Rhode Island. Opulent summer homes—once only for the country’s elite—now open their gates to group travelers seeking a taste of decadence.

For a deep dive into Newport’s high society, Rosecliff is a must—its mirrored ballroom hosted Gatsby-esque soirées that still echo in the walls. Fans of the Vanderbilts

can’t miss Marble House. And at the Breakers, every ceiling is a story: cherubs, gold leaf and frescoes as intricate as lace. Steer your group toward a docent-led tour for rich narratives or opt for self-paced audio tours that let guests linger in marble halls. But remember the best tours are often the most popular, so make sure to prebook.

Traveling with a group? You can reserve five Newport property tours on one invoice. And coach buses are welcomed with reserved parking near the visitor center, so you can focus less on logistics, and more on the relaxation you deserve.

Hudson Valley Heritage: Where Legends Live

If Newport mansions are the sparkle of the Northeast, the estates in Hudson Valley are its soul—rooted, storied, quietly radiant.

Begin at Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate perched above Sleepy Hollow, N.Y. Here, luxury caters to all. Try the two-hour Classic Tour (wheelchair accessible) that guides visitors through terraces, gardens and galleries. More adventurous groups may opt for the Grand Tour, which includes underground tunnels and extra wings.

Just north lies the Vanderbilt Mansion, its sweeping lawns and Beaux-Arts interiors a quieter, dignified counterpart to Newport’s ostentation. Not to mention, the combo of history, foliage, and proximity to NYC makes this region a fall favorite. And groups of mixed mobility can share in the beauty as most of the main paths are walkable.

For the perfect ending to a long day, relax with a group picnic on the bluff overlooking the Hudson River and reminisce about the history you took part in.

Coastal Castles: Maine & More by the Sea

In Portland, Maine, the Victorian charm continues at the Victoria Mansion—a coast-

Rosecliff in Newport, Rhode Island, is an elegant mansion overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Photo courtesy of Dennis Jarvis

Kykuit. Photo by Amy Meredith

Rosecliff. Photo by Dennis Jarvis

al castle known for its elaborate trompe l’oeil ceilings and ornate interiors. Pair this stop with a lighthouse loop: Portland Head Light, Bug Light, and Spring Point Ledge Light form a picturesque circuit, easily navigated by coach and ideal for photo stops.

It’s a quieter brilliance here—less Gilded Age, more salt-air romance. But the storytelling is no less rich.

Maritime Marvels

Mystic

Seaport: The History of the Coast

Down the Connecticut coast, the Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic is no static showcase—it’s a dynamic, docked village that hums with maritime memory. Show your inner seaman among historic ships, a recreated 19th-century seafaring town,

FAQS FOR GROUP PLANNERS

When’s peak foliage?

Aim for mid-September through October, when maples ignite the skyline from Rhode Island to Maine.

Weather tips?

Layer up. Mornings can be brisk, afternoons sunny, and coastal breezes cool even in summer.

ADA considerations?

Many estate tours offer accessible options—notably Kykuit’s Classic Tour and selected Newport properties. Coastal cruises can vary in ADA options, so make sure to contact each provider for specifics.

Lead-time for group bookings?

Booking at least 6 months in advance is ideal for fall, especially for cruises and mansion blocks. Many venues offer dedicated group coordinators, so don’t hesitate to reach out early.

and expert performers in full period attire. Upgrade your visit with the 45-minute planetarium program, where visitors can chart the stars like Magellan, learning to navigate by constellations. Or book the behind-the-ropes shipyard tour where wooden vessels come back to life under skilled hands.

Maine Windjamming: A Seafarer’s Dream

No Northeast journey is complete without embracing the region’s romantic coastline. Trade land for sea aboard Maine Windjammer Cruises, a threenight charter on a traditional tall ship.

Departing from Rockland, ME, these vessels are perfect for groups eager for a true seafaring thrill. Days are filled with scenic sails past spruce-topped isles, on-deck picnics, and plenty of photo ops. But the showstopper? A beachside lobster

bake, complete with a driftwood fire, buttery crustaceans, and s’mores with sea spray. Evenings invite stargazing from the deck, wrapped in blankets and the hush of a sea breeze.

YOUR NEXT STEP: Plan the Ultimate Northeast Itinerary

From New England coastal cruises to Hudson Valley mansion tours, this Northeast escape blends luxury with legend. Don’t waste a second and book your time machine to the Gilded Age on a New England group tour. Whether your happy place includes gilded ceilings or starfilled decks, the Northeast is ready—are you aboard?

JourneyThrough New York State

Engage with hands-on exhibits, walk among the treetops, and witness the raw power of Niagara Falls

Discover New York State, a four-season destination rich with variety and beauty, from the tranquil white sandy beaches of Long Island to the roaring splendor of Niagara Falls. Scale new heights in the high peaks of the Adirondacks or the skyscrapers of Manhattan.

WILD CENTER

The Wild Center in Tupper Lake, near the center of Adirondack Park, has been named the No. 1 science museum in the country by readers of USA Today. The Wild Center resides on 81 acres and has a 54,000-square-foot indoor space, filled with live exhibits, multimedia shows and hands-on experiences. There are trails, guided canoe trips on the river that runs by the Center’s campus, and a staff ready and willing to show you around, and answer questions about anything having to do with the wild world of the Adirondacks.

STRONG MUSEUM OF PLAY

The Strong National Museum of Play is the region’s largest year-round family attraction and the only museum in the world devoted to the importance of play.

Kids Market, meet Big Bird and Elmo on Sesame Street, travel Down a Sunny Dirt Road to meet The Berenstain Bears®, and enjoy so much more.

NIAGARA FALLS STATE PARK

Fun for all ages, the museum was voted on the KidsOutAndAbout.com list of Top 20 Places to Bring Kids in Rochester. The museum has more than 150,000 square feet of dynamic, hands-on exhibits space.

Guests can save the metropolis from evil-doers in the American Comic Book Heroes exhibit, shop in a kid-sized Wegmans Super

Niagara Falls, recognized as the oldest state park in the United States, attracts millions of visitors per year, as its patrons marvel at the more than 750,000 gallons of water that flow over the falls each second. The falls, which consist of the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls and a portion of the Horseshoe Falls, more popularly known as the Canadian Falls, surge alongside 400 acres of lush scenery. The landscape is surrounded by a variety of visitor experiences, including museums, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities that highlight the region’s rich natural and historical significance.

I LOVE NY Danae Jones-Persip grouptravel@esd.ny.gov iloveny.com

Photos: Niagara Falls State Park (above), Wild Center (left) and Strong Museum of Play (below).

WESTERN REGION

HISTORY COMES ALIVE IN THE WEST

Here are four standout museums in the Western United States that bring history to life through immersive, interactive experiences—ideal for group travel itineraries.

BUFFALO BILL CENTER OF THE WEST — Cody, Wyoming

This sprawling museum complex includes five distinct museums—from the Buffalo Bill Museum to the Plains Indians Museum and Cody Firearms Museum—offering a deep dive into the art, culture, natural history, and myth of the American West. Groups can book Exclusive Tours, which provide behind-the-scenes access, handson artifact interactions, and curated storytelling from expert guides. (centerofthewest.org)

WESTERN SPIRIT: SCOTTSDALE’S MUSEUM OF THE WEST — Scottsdale, Arizona

Located near Old Town, this 43,000-square-foot museum is a Smithsonian Affiliate dedicated to the history, art, and culture of 19 states in the American West. With rotating exhibitions of Western art, living cultures, and artifacts, the museum encourages interactive learning through audio guides, gallery prompts, and storytelling displays. (westernspirit.org)

MUSEUM OF HISTORY & INDUSTRY (MOHAI) — Seattle, Washington

MOHAI is respected nationally and treasured locally as a dynamic, innovative museum where historical exploration inspires people to create a better future for themselves and their communities. (mohai.org)

OREGON MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY (OMSI) — Portland, Oregon

While primarily a science museum, OMSI excels at immersive, hands-on storytelling that spans natural history and industry. With large-format theater experiences, planetarium shows, and rotating exhibits, OMSI encourages discovery through interaction and live demonstrations. (omsi.edu)

Must-See Stops Along the Way

By Emma Svoboda

Follow the paths of early pioneers with this guide to historic landmarks and iconic stops that shaped the American West

As America expanded westward in the 1800s, migrants used networks of trails toward California and Oregon to explore all the west had to offer. Not only did they gain economic opportunity, but they also found more natural beauty and created more iconic attractions and historic sites. Embark on an adventure westward with these historic must-see spots. From museums to monuments to some of the most iconic landmarks of the United States, the West offers beauty and learning opportunities for everyone.

Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming

Museum of American Speed

Located in Lincoln, Nebraska on Speedway Motors Campus, Museum of American Speed showcases automotive and racing history. The museum is home to more than 600 historically significant engines and has more than 340 vehicles on display. Their collections include Indy racing, drag racing, show cars, rare motorcycles, an art gallery, and much more. Whether you take a guided tour or explore the three floors at your own pace, there is much to learn. There are also a handful of free to attend car shows held each year on Speedway Motors Campus.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Carved into South Dakota’s Black Hills are the 60-foot-tall faces of four former U.S. presidents. Mount Rushmore National Memorial shows the labor of 400 workers who carved George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. The Black Hills stand as a landmark for America’s history, being a culturally and spiritually significant place for many tribal nations as well as being the site of one of the country’s most famous symbols. Take a hike on the Presidential Trail for more views of Mount Rushmore, learn about the carving process at The Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center, or visit the Sculptor’s Studio to see Gutzon Borglum’s scale model of the landmark sculpture.

Register Cliff

While traveling from Fort Laramie, emigrants would spend the night around and carve their names into Register Cliff in Wyoming. Travelers would inscribe their names, dates, places of origin, and various messages. This soft sandstone cliff holds a piece of history with signatures still visible, mostly from the 1840s and 1850s. One of the three most-known registers of the desert, this is a must-see stop. Get a close-up view of the signatures of some of the estimated 500,000 migrants who traveled the trail.

Independence Rock and the Oregon Trail

On the Nebraska portion of the Oregon Trail lies Scotts Bluff National Monument. It has served as a landmark for Native Americans and travelers. The monument stands 800 feet above the North

Platte River. There is plenty to do in Scotts Bluff’s 3,000 acres. Drive Summit Road to see the view from the top, hike nearly four miles of trails, or check out the world’s largest collection of William Henry Jackson’s artworks.

Along the Oregon Trail in Wyoming stands Fort Laramie National Historic Site. Once

the largest and best-known military post in the Northern Plains, Fort Laramie was abandoned in 1890. Take a guided tour of what was once a private fur trading fort.

Farther west on the Oregon Trail is Independence Rock. This register was the camp site for fur trappers who celebrated Independence Day

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nearby in 1830. The Wyoming State Historic Site stands at 1,900 feet long by 850 feet wide and has more than 5,000 names carved. The highest point is 136 feet above its surroundings and Devil’s Gate, a 370-foot-deep gorge carved by the Sweetwater River, is visible from the point. Walk around the base of the rock and view the inscriptions, trail ruts, and interpretive exhibits.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park’s beauty seemed like something out of a fiction novel to news magazines receiving descriptions from the first visitors of this natural wonder. Established in 1872, America’s first national park spans nearly 3,500 miles and into three states.

Known for its vibrant colors and geothermal features, Yellowstone has more geysers and hot springs than anywhere else in the world. Seated on top of a dormant volcano, Old Faithful’s home is one of the most visited national parks. Observe the wildlife, active geysers, and geologic wonders of one of the largest national parks.

Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Explore the Wonders of Colorado Springs

From the summit of Pikes Peak to the red rocks of Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs offers iconic landmarks

Colorado Springs is the perfect place for those wanting to experience some of the United States’ most stunning natural landmarks. Located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, the skyline is lined with gorgeous snowy peaks, and the city’s proximity to other unique attractions like sand dunes, cliff dwellings, fossil beds, hot springs, and castles makes it an even more desirable destination. Below are some of the best day trips in and around Colorado Springs to give visitors the full experience of all the area has to offer.

PIKES PEAK

Take in incredible views from the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain. Visitors flock to Pikes Peak for not only for its breathtaking views, but also for the challenge of hiking or driving to the summit. Whether you’re driving your own vehicle or soaking in the views as a passenger on our shuttle, the Pikes Peak Highway offers a 19-mile scenic route to the top, where visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Your group can either ride a shuttle up Pikes Peak Highway or ride the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. Your group can then explore the informative exhibits in the Summit Visitor Center while enjoying a famous high-altitude doughnut.

one of the most accessible museums in the world and tells the story of Team USA through incredible interactive exhibits.

GARDEN OF THE GODS

Marvel at the incredible red rock formations of Garden of the Gods either by traversing the trails by foot, e-bike, trolley, Jeep or segway. Famous for its beautiful sandstone formations and striking views, the park is a National Natural Landmark, and a destination you do not want to skip. Garden of the Gods offers many opportunities for visitors to explore the breathtaking scenery, whether by vehicle, Segway, bike, foot or horseback, and features a center containing galleries, a geo trekker theater and a café where visitors can sip refreshments and snack while admiring the unforgettable view.

U.S. OLYMPIC & PARALYMPIC MUSEUM

The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum offers a timeless experience by capturing the history of Team USA at the Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as the hopes and dreams of future generations. This awe-inspiring attraction is

VISIT COLORADO SPRINGS

Juliet Jacoby

719-685-7625

juliet@visitcos.com www.visitcos.com

Photos: Garden of the Gods (above), Cog Railway (left) and U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum (below).

Colorado SpringS

Meet in the middle.

Halfway to just about anywhere and tucked into the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs plays backdrop to groups and tours with a professional staff dedicated to assisting operators every step of the way. With all there is to see and do, you’ll want to add another day to your itinerary! Or two. Or three.

You’ll never compromise when you meet in the middle.

S O UTHERN REGI O N

HAUNTED SOUTHERN HOTELS

Here are four captivating historic hotels in the American South that are ideal for group travel—each with legendary guests, intriguing stories, and (maybe) a ghostly resident or two.

READ HOUSE HOTEL

Chattanooga, Tennessee

This storied hotel, founded in 1872 and rebuilt in 1926, has welcomed a who’s who of political and cultural figures—from U.S. presidents including Ulysses S. Grant and Ronald Reagan to Elvis Presley, Oprah Winfrey, and even Al Capone. Its infamous Room 311, once occupied by Capone, is said to harbor the restless spirit of Annalisa Netherly—a former resident. (thereadhousehotel.com)

UNION STATION HOTEL

Nashville, Tennessee

Once one of Nashville’s busiest train stations (circa 1900), this architectural gem now operates as a historic hotel. Travelers report sightings of Abigail, a tragic wartime spirit who apparently waits endlessly on the former train platform for her fiancé, who never returned from war. Groups can book Abigail’s themed suite (Room 711), dine in the grand terminal-style lobby, and enjoy curated history presentations. (unionstationhotelnashville.com)

JEKYLL ISLAND CLUB RESORT

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Established in 1886 as an exclusive retreat for America’s elite—including J.P. Morgan, the Rockefellers, and Vanderbilts—this resort is steeped in Gilded Age opulence. It is also said to be haunted by several friendly ghosts: a phantom bellman delivering suits to unwitting grooms, a former president still walking the veranda at sunset, and club members lingering in beloved haunts. (jekyllclub.com)

THE MENGER HOTEL

San Antonio, Texas

Opened in 1859, the historic Menger Hotel has hosted U.S. presidents like Teddy Roosevelt (who recruited his Rough Riders in the hotel bar), as well as famous performers, political figures, and cultural icons. Guests have reported seeing the spirit of chambermaid Sallie White, along with the ghosts of President Roosevelt and King Ranch founder Captain Richard King wandering the halls. (mengerhotel.com)

A Journey Through GEORGIA’S HISTORIC HEART AND SOUL

This traveler’s guide explores Georgia’s most iconic sites

By Emma Svoboda

Georgia isn’t just a state—it’s a living museum. From cobblestone streets to Civil War battlefields, every corner whispers stories of resilience, revolution and reinvention. Whether you're a history buff, a curious traveler, or someone chasing the charm of the Old South, Georgia’s historic sites offer a captivating journey through time.

Savannah: Where the Past Lives On

Begin your adventure in the Savannah Historic District, a cityscape frozen in time. With its cobblestone streets, manicured gardens and oak-shaded parks draped in Spanish moss, Savannah is

more than picturesque—it’s poetic. As the largest National Historic Landmark District in the U.S., it boasts more than 20 squares filled with museums, churches, mansions and forts from the Revolutionary and Civil War eras. Whether you're sipping sweet tea at an outdoor café or catching a local art festival, Savannah blends Southern hospitality with timeless elegance.

Walk beneath the iconic oak-lined path at Wormsloe Historic Site, and take in the peaceful, haunting beauty of Bonaventure Cemetery Explore the city’s charming historic squares, each filled with history and Southern elegance. Visit the First African Baptist Church and the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace for a deeper look into Savannah’s inspiring past.

Wrap up your journey at the Mercer Williams House Museum, a stunning mansion with a mysterious story. Savannah is a city that invites you to slow down, look around, and step into history.

A Traveler’s Guide to Jekyll Island

For those seeking a peaceful yet enriching group getaway, Jekyll Island offers a rare blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and coastal serenity. Located along Georgia’s Golden Isles, midway between Jacksonville and Savannah, this barrier island has long been a favorite for families, friends, and travel groups looking to reconnect in a setting that feels both timeless and untouched.

With 10 miles of wide, sandy beaches and over 5,000 acres of preserved maritime forest and dunes, Jekyll Island invites visitors to slow down and savor the moment. Group-friendly activities abound—from biking along scenic trails and teeing off on one of four golf courses to exploring the island’s rich heritage in the 250-acre Historic Landmark District. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center offers an inspiring look at local conservation efforts, while Mosaic, the Jekyll Island Museum, brings the island’s storied past to life through engaging exhibits and guided tours.

Accommodations cater to every kind of group, whether you're gathering at the elegant Jekyll Island Club Resort, booking a beachfront vacation rental, or enjoying the simplicity of the island’s campgrounds. With development limited to just a small portion of the island, the atmosphere remains quiet and uncrowded—perfect for meaningful conversations, shared meals, and spontaneous adventures.

Whether you're planning a reunion, a retreat, or a relaxing escape with friends, Jekyll Island offers the space, spirit, and scenery to make every moment memorable.

Echoes of the Civil War

Next, head north to Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, where the fields still echo with the footsteps of soldiers. This historic site offers a powerful look into one of the Civil War’s most pivotal battles, with preserved landscapes, monuments, and a visitor center rich in exhibits and stories. It’s a place to reflect, remember, and better understand the nation’s past.

A short drive away, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park offers a different kind of reverence—where forested ridges and sun-dappled paths create a reflective space for both hikers and history lovers. The climb may be steep in places, but the panoramic views and quietude at the summit are well worth the ascent.

From Museums to Mounds

Georgia’s heritage isn’t confined to battlefields. In Cartersville, the Booth Western Art Museum showcases the spirit of the American West with the largest permanent exhibition space for Western art in the country. Just a short drive away, the Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site invites you to step back over a thousand years. Wander among the towering mounds and explore the museum to uncover the lives of the Mississippian people who once thrived here.

Before the day ends, stop by the Bartow History Museum, also in Cartersville, to explore 200 years of local stories, artifacts, and exhibits that bring Georgia’s past to life.

Walking in the Footsteps of Legends

No historical journey through Georgia is complete without honoring its Civil Rights legacy. In Atlanta, the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park offers a moving glimpse into Dr. King’s early life and the neighborhood that shaped him. Walk through his childhood home, visit Ebenezer Baptist Church, and reflect at the King Center. The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park offers free, ranger-led tours of his birth home on a first-come, first-served basis. Timed tickets must be picked up the same day at the Visitor Center or King Center, with no reservations. Tours start around 10:00 AM, last about an hour, and are limited to 15 people. Private companies also offer walking, trolley, and bus tours covering key civil rights landmarks in Atlanta. Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.

Round out your tour experience with visits to the Margaret Mitchell House, where Gone with the Wind was penned; the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, a powerful tribute to global struggles for justice; and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, which chronicles the life and legacy of the 39th president.

Mercer Williams House Museum in Savannah.

Jekyll Island.

PHOTO BY NATALIE MAYNOR

SHOWCASE

Group-Friendly Getaway for Adventure

Greensboro, NC blends outdoor thrills, rich arts and culture, and hands-on attractions

Residing in North Carolina’s picturesque heartland, Greensboro is the perfect place for groups to relax and enjoy outdoor adventures, quality entertainment and an abundance of arts and culture. With a population of just under 300,000, Greensboro is large enough to offer great shopping, restaurants and culture and small enough that getting around town is a breeze.

GREENSBORO

SCIENCE CENTER

The Greensboro Science Center combines a museum, zoo, and aquarium in one. It is the only facility in North Carolina to feature a duly accredited aquarium, museum, and zoo all in one destination. Groups can also enjoy Skywild, an aerial adventure park located above the zoo that features seven different courses and has a total of 60 unique, animal-inspired challenges. Above & Beyond is a hands-on, high-flying exhibit that invites guests of all ages to explore the science and innovation of flight. From designing virtual jets to riding a space elevator, this immersive experience celebrates the past, present, and future of aerospace technology.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

GREENSBORO ARTS & CULTURE

Greensboro is Piedmont Triad’s arts hub and is home to the NC Folk Festival, which draws more than 100,000 each September. The fest features an incredible lineup of performances across multiple genres, featuring artists from around the globe, and a celebration of North Carolina’s rich heritage.

Greensboro boasts more than 100 miles of trails and greenways for hiking, biking, walking, and enjoying the great outdoors. Groups can explore all the Greensboro community has to offer, from its award-winning public art along the Downtown Greenway to the serene hiking and mountain biking trails skirting the three city lakes. Greensboro’s parks are a true gem, offering endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

The city is also home to 150-plus public art installations city-wide, from murals to sculptures located throughout the city. Greensboro also houses a spectrum of performance venues— from the 3,000-seat Tanger Center to the historic 1927 Carolina Theatre and event-rich Greensboro Complex. The city has a growing live music scene, with venues and local talent drawing crowds each week.

Greensboro is perfect for groups as it has a walkable downtown footprint, motor-coach parking and a year-round calendar filled with art and entertainment.

GREENSBORO CVB

(336) 274-2282 info@visitgreensboronc.com VisitGreensboroNC.com

Photos: Downtown Greensboro (above), Greensboro Science Center (left) and a family outdoors in Greensboro (below).

States to Taste African American Heritage

From Gullah rice fields to New Orleans gumbo— plan a soul-stirring Southern road trip

By Madelyn Bugai

The South’s story is plated in gumbo, etched on lunch counter stools and carried by Gullah praise houses—each one a living archive of culture, resistance and tradition. From the Sea Islands of South Carolina to the jazz-filled streets of New Orleans, the region’s history buzzes with connections between food, tradition and music. This buzz is palpable in bowls of shrimp and grits, the mounds of powdered sugar atop a beignet and the sweet juice of a ripe peach. To journey through the South is to taste, hear and feel generations of Black culture.

Cafe Du Monde. Photo by Mark Gunn

SOUTH CAROLINA:

Rice, Resistance & Rich Gullah Roots

The Gullah Geechee Corridor, stretching along the coastline of South Carolina from the Sea Islands of the Lowcountry to the northern border, preserves culinary traditions rooted in West African tradition. Enslaved people from the “rice coast” brought rice, okra, benne seed and millet—often hidden in women’s braids—to America during the transatlantic slave trade.

Gullah dishes are hearty and savory, built on grains, leafy greens, slow-braised vegetables and local seafood such as shrimp, crab, oysters and fish. Signature meals like Hoppin’ John, garlic crabs, red rice and okra soup reflect a rich blend of African and Southern influence. Experience Gullah Geechee culinary heritage at places like Bertha’s Kitchen in North Charleston, which locals say is “authentic, no frills southern cooking off the beaten path.”

For deeper insight, stop by the Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture at the College of

Charleston to learn more about Gullah Geechee culture, as well as the history of African Americans in the Lowcountry. With a mix of digital exhibitions, changing galleries and permanent exhibitions, the Avery Research Center is dedicated to documenting the history, traditions and legacies of African Americans and their influence on American society, culture and narratives.

Louisiana’s Creole cooking. This style highlights the cultural fusion and edible history that defines Louisiana’s identity.

Creole cuisine, born in New Orleans, is a conglomerate of French, Spanish, African, Caribbean, and Native American flavors and techniques. Developed by people from various cultures converging in New Orleans, Creole cuisine thrives on complexity, layering ingredients like tomatoes, okra, seafood and spices in dishes like Creole gumbo.

The notable Creole dessert—the beignet—diverges from the typical complex flavor profile of Creole cuisine. Beignets, usually served in threes, are sweet, soft, light, and covered with powdered sugar. Introduced to New Orleans by French Acadians in the 1700s, beignets quickly became adopted into home-style Creole cooking. The oldest coffee shop in New Orleans, Cafe Du Monde, is one of the most iconic places to enjoy sweet beignets with a nutty chicory coffee.

Beyond the plate, Louisiana’s culture buzzes with music, festivals, Voodoo and unique languages like Louisiana Creole and Cajun French. From museums to Mardi Gras, Louisiana life teems with heritage, resilience and celebration.

LOUISIANA: Creole Flavor and Cultural Fusion

Louisiana is known for its iconic culture built upon music, festivals and unforgettable food like gumbo, jambalaya and beignets. Each dish brimming with the authentic flavors of

ALABAMA: Sweet Home, Strong Roots, & Sizzling Catfish

Sweet Home Alabama is more than just a phrase—it captures the essence of a state known for its landscapes, hospitality and vital role in American history. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute transports visitors back in time to the 1950s by offering an immersive exploration of segregation through nearly 500 recorded oral histories, replicas of a Freedom Riders bus and the actual jail cell door where MLK wrote “Letter From Birmingham Jail.” About an hour away is Selma’s Edmund Pettus Bridge; the place where the 1965 “Bloody Sunday” march catalyzed the Voting Rights Movement. Alabama’s cuisine also tells stories from the past. Enslaved people were often left to survive on what they could find, catch, grow or forage. Catfish, abundant in local lakes, became a vital

Edmund Pettus Bridge. Photo by Mike Norton

Avery Research Center in Charleston. Photo by Warren LeMay

food source that could be cooked in large quantities. Cooking and sharing catfish fostered community, endurance and cultural expression.

In and around Birmingham, fried catfish can be found at many restaurants served along with soul food sides like hushpuppies or greens. Jake’s Soulfood Cafe in Hoover offers a Southern Catfish plate that’s hearty and flavorful. Back in the city, Saw’s Soul Kitchen delivers a twist on the iconic dish by grilling instead of deep-frying their catfish.

GEORGIA: Peaches and Power

When surrounded by the slow-paced, sweet-tea-sipping charm of Georgia, it’s important to remember the complex legacy behind its most iconic foods. Georgia peaches aren’t just a sweet fruit or the staple ingredient in an excellent peach cobbler—they’re a reminder of how Black labor impacted the culture and economy of Georgia.

peach cobbler and hot-sauce wings. B&L Wings is a great place to try iconic wings, with over 15 different wing flavors to choose from. Ranging from Spicy Mango Orange to Mild Lemon Pepper, B&L Wings is sure to have a wing flavor for anyone. Trap Wingz ATL is another exceptional option, having been consistently ranked among Atlanta’s top 3 wing spots annually from 2020 to 2023.

NORTH CAROLINA: Trails of Truth & Tables of Soul

Eastern North Carolina houses a self-guided heritage trail that features over 30 stops called the African American Experience of Northeast NC. Dotted with outdoor interpretive signs and monuments, parks, waterways and museums, the trail connects sites like the 1867 Historic Jarvisburg Colored School, the Pea Island Cookhouse Museum and the Mariners’ Wharf. Launched on Juneteenth, the trail tells stories from the Underground Railroad, Civil War emancipation and early Black education.

The history of Georgia peaches are deeply rooted into slavery and its aftermath. After the Civil War, Georgia began growing peaches to distance their state’s association with slavery. Despite this motivation, orchards were labored by Black people under Black Codes and Convict Leasing. These laws and systems policed Black people and forced the incarcerated to be treated like slaves.

In Savannah, the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum tells local stories of struggle and resistance, highlighting the city’s role in the fight for equality. The city’s rich history and architecture are a reminder to visitors that Georgia’s beauty often comes layered with grit, resistance and survival.

If you’re hungry for more than just history, Atlanta is home to thousands of Black-owned restaurants that serve staple dishes like

On the other side of the state, Charlotte shines as a hub for Southern Black cuisine. Soul food restaurants, like world renowned Mert’s Heart & Soul, Nana Morrison’s Soul Food and La’Wan’s Soul Food are all local spots known and loved for dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese and shrimp and grits. Diners Drive-Ins & Dives star, Guy Fieri, raved about Mert’s, stating that “When you come to Charlotte North Carolina, you gotta try some Low Country and he hears that Mert’s is the Joint to try it at.”

Tapas bar, Soul Gastrolounge, is set to reopen in spring/ summer 2025, springing excitement among locals and dedicated foodies. In a similar vein, over 30 new venues are set to open between 2025 and 2026, featuring soul-inspired cuisine that leans into Southern culinary traditions.

The oldest coffee shop in New Orleans, Cafe Du Monde, is one of the most iconic places to enjoy sweet beignets with a coffee. Photo by Lauren Mitchell

Cafe Du Monde.

P hoto by Todd Carr

Year-Round Charm Awaits in Myrtle Beach

This southern paradise offers unforgettable experiences for every season

BROOKGREEN GARDENS

Opened in 1932, Brookgreen Gardens has stood the test of time and continues to entertain, bringing in more than a quarter of a million visitors a year. This amazing nature experience was voted one of the Top 10 gardens to visit in the U.S. by Trip Advisor. While exploring, groups can choose from a wide variety of activities and locations. The garden hosts daily tours with the option to walk, ride in a Trekker, or cruise on a boat. Guests can marvel at the more than 2,000 sculptures created by 430 artists while walking the ground sand botanical gardens. Not to mention the hundreds of plants, flowers and 250-year-old oak trees to view.

The Gardens are also home to the beloved holiday event: Nights of a Thousand Candles. See the Gardens come to life amid the soft glow of more than 2,700 hand-lit candles and millions of sparkling lights. From 4 - 9 p.m. walk the paths with a warm cup of cider, enjoy the sounds of holiday music, and celebrate the season with family and friends.

ALABAMA THEATRE

Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Alabama Theatre, the crown jewel of North Myrtle Beach. Feel the energy of live music that will have you dancing in your seat, marvel at jaw-dropping acrobatics, and laugh until your cheeks hurt with our side-splitting comedy. Since 1993, the Alabama Theatre, founded by the legendary supergroup Alabama—has been the heart of Grand Strand entertainment, delighting millions of guests from all over the world. A trip to Myrtle Beach isn’t complete without experiencing the magic of the Alabama Theatre.

BROADWAY AT THE BEACH & BAREFOOT LANDING

Spanning more than 350 acres, Broadway at the Beach has a variety of specialty shops, unique dining, lively entertainment and hassle-free parking, catering to visitors of all ages.

Winter Wonderland at The Beach is a popular walking tour of lights along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. Featuring a free lights display along a gorgeous mile of oceanfront area along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, Winter Wonderland at The Beach is a one-of-a-kind event you won’t want to miss. It features free weekend entertainment through the festival such as Santa appearances, caroling and DJ dance parties at Plyler Park.

VISIT MYRTLE BEACH

Zavier Jones

843-916-7234

zavier.jones@visitmyrtlebeach.com

VisitMyrtleBeach.com/Groups

Photos: Night of A Thousand Candles (above), Winter Wonderland (left) and Broadway at the Beach (below).

TOUR PLANNING?

BRING IT TO

Take the pressure out of group tour planning by picking a place 19 million people visit every year. Myrtle Beach has it all – 60 miles of beaches, 2,000+ restaurants and hundreds of attractions to keep people of all ages engaged and entertained. Our team is here to help you put together the perfect trip, whether you’re planning for a student group, veterans reunion, motorcoach tour or musical event.

60 miles of sunny, sandy beaches and 14 unique communities to explore.

Scenic cruises and fishing charters. Endless fun on and off the water.

MIDWEST REGI O N

HISTORIC MIDWEST VENUES

Here are four historic venues in the Midwest that beautifully blend architectural charm with full-service, group-friendly amenities—ideal for planners seeking history-rich settings enhanced by modern conveniences.

MILL

CITY MUSEUM — Minneapolis, Minnesota

Once the world’s largest flour mill, this dramatic museum perched beside the Mississippi River now serves as a unique event venue in downtown Minneapolis. With soaring brick walls, towering steel beams, and open-air courtyard space, it offers historic ambiance alongside fully equipped event areas for groups ranging from intimate receptions to gatherings of up to 700–1,000 attendees. (mnhs.org/millcity)

HOTEL

JULIEN DUBUQUE — Dubuque, Iowa

Founded in 1839 and recently modernized, Hotel Julien combines historic grandeur with modern amenities on the banks of the Mississippi River. Its elegant Grand Ballroom—with 17-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows—can accommodate up to 215 guests, while additional spaces like the River Terrace and Atrium support receptions, breakout sessions, and dining with sweeping river views. (hoteljuliendubuque.com)

STAN

HYWET HALL & GARDENS — Akron, Ohio

This stunning 1912 Tudor Revival estate and gardens, built by F.A. Seiberling of Goodyear fame, offers historic elegance coupled with a full suite of event spaces. Groups can choose from the carriage house (125 attendees), or the gardens and conservatory for outdoor gatherings. The Tudor Revival Playhouse, inspired by the Estate’s Carriage House, is 15 feet tall, and includes a spiral slide, an amazing marble chase and a rock-climbing wall. (stanhywet.org)

ABRAHAM LINCOLN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM — Springfield, Illinois

One of the nation’s premier presidential museums, this 200,000-square-foot facility offers interactive exhibits, cutting-edge technology and elegant event spaces. Groups can host meetings in the Union Theater (seating 250), cocktails or receptions on Museum Plaza or dinners in the glass rotunda banquet space. (presidentlincoln.illinois.gov)

WHERE WATER MEETS WONDER

A journey through the heart of the Great Lakes

By Emma Svoboda

Five mighty lakes. One inland ocean. See natural wonders, impressive feats of engineering, and iconic pieces of history. From the roar of the Soo’s steel gates to dawn’s first blush over Lake Huron, here’s how to ride the waves—by car, ferry or sheer curiosity.

Open 365 days a year, Niagara Falls State Park lives up to its reputation as a natural wonder of the world.

Lake Superior

Start off the adventure in Duluth, Minnesota with a visit to Great Lakes Aquarium and check out the historic Aerial Lift Bridge nearby. For more local history, Lake Superior Railroad Museum and Split Rock Lighthouse are great stops. About 40 miles north of Duluth, you’ll find Gooseberry Falls State Park. Enjoy a hike around the trails with views of scenic waterfalls.

Follow US-2 toward Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, featuring 21 islands along the northern tip of Wisconsin. With sandstone caves, historic lighthouses and campsites, there is plenty to explore.

Visit Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park for more natural views. It is the largest state park in Michigan with 60,000 acres of old-growth forest.

Make your way east to Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Watch as freighters clear the 21-foot drop of this engineering feat which connects Lake Superior and Lake Huron.

Lake Michigan

Take a scenic drive on US-2 and stop at the sand dune pull-offs along the only Great Lake fully located in the U.S. Ride the ferry to Mackinac Island to check out the many options this historic carfree island has to offer. Mackinac Island is renowned as the place to get away from it all and relax. It is home to historic forts, one-ofa-kind golf courses, horse-drawn carriage tours and world-famous fudge.

Heading south, enjoy a scenic drive through Tunnel of Trees on your way to Traverse City. Pick some cherries in the “Cherry Capital of the World.” Head northwest to Sleeping Bear Dunes, which offers 65 miles of protected Lake Michigan shoreline. Climb the dunes or simply take in the beautiful views.

S.S. Badger Car Ferry can take you across Lake Michigan, with round trips between Ludington and Manitowoc as well as shoreline cruises in either city.

For adventures on the western shore of Lake Michigan, explore the cities. Check out Milwaukee’s craft breweries, the Historic Third Ward, and the Public Market. Delve into the rich history of Chicago through the city's architecture and museums or enjoy an adventure along the Magnificent Mile. The Magnificent Mile's 430-plus retailers and three vertical shopping centers have something for everyone in your group.

If you’re eager to enjoy more sand dunes, check out Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, which features more than 50 miles of trails lead through shifting sand dunes, quiet woodlands, sunny prairies and lush wetlands.

Lake Huron

Start off the adventure along Lake Huron by driving the US-23 Sunrise Coast, ranked one of the top summer solstice spots in the United States. Spanning from Standish to Mackinaw City, the heritage route offers beaches, boating, wineries, lighthouses, and most notably natural beauty.

Stop by Tawas Point State Park in Michigan to visit the lighthouse as well as explore the trails and beaches. Oscoda is home to

Sleeping Bear Dunes in Michigan.

Photo by Danielle Walquist Lynch

Mackinac Island in Michigan is a historic car-free island.

Sleeping Bear Dunes. Photo by Paul Wilkinson

the historic Cooke Hydroelectric Dam and Lumberman’s Monument, an educational opportunity. Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary offers views of many sunken ships in “Shipwreck Alley.”

If you enjoy biking, there are several bike routes along the coast such as the Ocqueoc Falls Cruise, Au Sable Cruise, and more. Cheboygan and Mackinaw City are both popular vacation spots offering many more options.

Lake Erie

Hop on a ferry from Port Clinton to Put-in-Bay. Explore the “Key West of the North” via golf cart, bike, or just stroll around town. Check out the beaches and state parks for more natural views or tour a winery cave. Jet ski rentals are also available to cruise around the lake.

Stop in Cleveland and explore downtown, including a stop at the Rock & Roll Hall of

Fame to learn about legendary musicians. In the same area you’ll find Great Lakes Science Center for a family-friendly interactive experience and International Women’s Air & Space Museum for a history lesson. Spanning 50 miles on the coast, Lake Erie Wine Country is our next stop. The largest grape growing region west of the Rockies, this region is home to 21 wineries offering bottle and glass sales.

Lake Ontario

Sitting north of Lake Erie and south of Lake Ontario lies Niagara Falls. America’s oldest state park offers tours, boat rides, and more.

Cross the border and visit Welland Canal to check out the locks. The canal has eight locks, with Lock 8 being the second longest canal lock in the world. It opened in 1829 as a way to secure western trade across Lake Erie for Canadian merchants. Head up to Niagara-on-the-Lake, a charming town with much to do. Learn about the history of Fort George and Fort Niagara, see a performance at Shaw Festival Theatre, or stroll around the Butterfly Conservatory and Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens

If you want more adventures in the city, enjoy some time in Toronto. Wander around Kensington Market, learn more at the Hockey Hall of Fame, or take a short ferry ride to Toronto Islands

Groups can ride a cable car over Niagara Falls.

Niagara Falls.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio.

Photo courtesy of Cody York for ThisisCleveland.com

Photo courtesy of Destination Cleveland

Beauty and History of Canada’s Rivers

St. Lawrence Cruise Lines is a family built Canadian business with more than 40 years of experience in the cruise industry

CANADIAN EMPRESS IS A ONE-OF-A-KIND CLASSIC RIVERBOAT

River cruises have surged in popularity in recent years and travelers eager to experience this type of voyage can do so aboard the Canadian Empress, a one-of-a-kind small passenger vessel designed and built in Eastern Ontario. These cruises are perfect for travelers who wish to experience the beauty of the St. Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers, as well as learning about the history and culture of the 1000 Islands region, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and the enduring connection between English and French Canada. Cruises range from four to seven nights, with stateroom rates starting at $2234 CAD per person based on double occupancy.

Booking is now underway for 2026 with cruises running from early May to late October with departures leaving from Kingston, Ottawa, and Quebec City. Here are a few options:

Upper River Expedition

This four-night, five-day cruise from Kingston to Upper Canada Village and return celebrates the best of the Thousand Islands region. Groups can enjoy the beautiful and historic St. Lawrence River, whose calm water cruises will carry you in safety and comfort. From the channels and bays of the Thousand Islands to the bustling International Seaway, you will be astonished by the beauty you encounter. There is also plenty of history to savor, from the popular Upper Canada Village to Fort Henry in Kingston. Among the cruise highlights are the Thousand Islands Bridge, freighters and pleasure vessels, the 1000 Islands Heritage Museum, 1000 Islands Boat Museum, Fort Wellington, Brockville’s Fulford Mansion and Upper Canada Village.

Canadian Connection Cruise: East

This six-night, seven-day cruise from Kingston to Quebec City enables groups to enjoy the picturesque beauty of the 1000 Islands, as well as travel the length of the majestic St. Lawrence River from English Canada into French Canada, encountering seven Seaway locks on the journey.

Along your route, you will experience magnificent scenery and numerous historic attractions that tie together the history of French and English North America. Discover the magic of the Thousand Islands, the deep historical roots of “Loyalist Brockville” and the unique living community of Upper Canada Village. Between Montreal and Quebec City groups can appreciate the rich mudflat homes to myriad species of birds. At the conclusion of your cruise, you will reach Quebec City, which is full of the old-world charm and grace of Europe.

ST. LAWRENCE CRUISE LINES

Mona Fox, Reservations Manager 1-800-267-7868 reservations@stlawrencecruiselines.com www.stlawrencecruiselines.com

Photos: Aerial View of Cruise (above), Brockville to Gananoque (left) and cruise sundeck (below).

INTERNATIONAL

WALKABLE EUROPEAN GEMS

Here are four picturesque European Old Towns that blend historic charm with walkable layout, excellent group accessibility, and city tour options—perfect for group travel planners.

BRUGES, Belgium

This UNESCO-listed medieval gem captivates groups with its network of cobbled lanes, historic squares and canal-side vistas. Tours—whether on foot, by canal boat, or even nostalgic retro bike—guide visitors past landmarks like the Belfry, Church of Our Lady, and the bustling Market Square.

TALLINN,

Estonia

Tallinn’s impeccably preserved Old Town—within intact medieval walls—offers groups a fairytale setting full of Gothic spires, cobblestones, and city squares. Group walking tours typically include both Lower and Upper Old Town, covering major sites like Toompea Castle, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and historic pharmacies.

SALZBURG, Austria

Baroque grandeur, fortress views, and cultural cachet define Salzburg’s Old Town—declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Groups can enjoy walking tours that traverse the Mirabell Palace gardens, Mozart’s birthplace on Getreidegasse, and Hohensalzburg Fortress atop the old town.

PRAGUE,

Czech Republic

Prague’s Old Town, Jewish Quarter and Lesser Town offer seamlessly walkable routes interwoven with Gothic churches, Baroque palaces and the iconic Charles Bridge. Group walking tours— ranging from free-paying up to fully guided multi-hour excursions—cover highlights like the Astronomical Clock, St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Jewish Cemetery, and vivid local legends.

THAILAND Tantalizing

Discovering the cultural quirks and intriguing idiosyncrasies of one of Asia’s great travel destinations

By Randy Mink

Festively decorated longtail boats give tourists a look at everyday life along the canals of Bangkok.

RANDY MINK PHOTO

It was only my second day in Thailand, but I knew then I’d want to return someday for more of its vibrant street life—a multisensory medley of hole-in the-wall shops, markets brimming with exotic fruits, and outdoor cooking stalls tucked under canopies of plastic tarps, oversized umbrellas and corrugated metal roofs.

From morning to night, the roads are abuzz with motorcycles, motor scooters and Thailand’s iconic tuk-tuks, those threewheeled vehicles with a bench in back for passengers or a side cart for hauling things.

On this two-week adventure halfway around the world, I wanted to cram in as many authentically Thai experiences as possible— including a tuk-tuk ride—to make every minute count. Major cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, along with rural villages and wilderness areas, provided a well-rounded first-time visit to this popular vacation destination in the heart of Southeast Asia.

TRADITIONAL THAI MASSAGE

I am not a spa person, but the art of massage therapy is part of life in Thailand, so I ended up getting three full-body massages during my trip. A reflection of Thailand’s ancient wellness traditions, massages are available everywhere, from fancy hotels and jungle hideaways to temples, airport waiting areas and no-frills storefront parlors.

The most rigorous treatment was in Chiang Mai at Let’s Relax, a reputable chain. After a foot washing and change into pajamas, I spent the next hour-and-a-half being pummeled, pounded, pulled, pushed and pressed by a young masseuse who expertly stretched my body with knees, elbows and feet, as well as hands, while I lay on my back and then stomach. Had I had wanted gentler pressure, I could have told her, “bow, bow,” as my tour guide had advised beforehand. But I chose to endure the real deal.

AWE-INSPIRING TEMPLES

Gleaming with golden spires and adorned with vividly painted carvings,

Buddhist temples brighten the bleakest urban landscape. Most Thais are Buddhist, and these color-splashed houses of worship are pillars of the community.

In Chiang Mai, my hotel was located next door to Wat Chai Mongkol, a place I visited several times just to watch people come and go as they left offerings and went inside to pray. Not far away, the maze-like alleys of Chiang Mai’s historic Old City, enclosed by a moat and the original walls, contain more than 40 temples.

My favorite temple experience was at the late 14th-century Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched high on a mountain summit overlooking Chiang Mai. Once you arrive at the site of northern Thailand’s most revered temple, a half-hour drive from the city, you can take the funicular railway to the top or, as a true pilgrim would, climb the majestic, 306-step staircase. The vast terrace commands a stunning view of Chiang Mai. We found the orange-robed monks there—and at other temples—to be friendly, and they gladly posed for pictures.

Located inside the Grand Palace complex in Bangkok, Wat Phra Kaew is Thailand’s holiest temple and the home of the Emerald Buddha, the nation’s greatest treasure. Carved from a single piece of jade, the figure is only 26 inches tall.

TANGLED WIRES

Thailand’s cluttered streetscapes are festooned with thickets of black wires stretching for miles from pole to pole and

building to building. A sight to behold and practically a work of art, the slashing lines, whimsical knots, coiled garlands, hanging loops and dangling ends seem to pop up in every picture you take.

Spiderman would have a field day in these tangled webs, which apparently are connected to something that provides power. Instead of going to a museum to see abstract art, just look up and admire the creations of utility workers.

THE WORLD’S STINKIEST FRUIT

Most North Americans have never heard of durian, a fruit common in Southeast Asia. I first encountered the name when checking in to my Chiang Mai hotel. A sign on the front desk indicated that durian was not allowed in guest rooms. I saw a similar sign, with a red slash mark inside a red circle, at a Bangkok subway station.

Durian’s smooth, pale yellow flesh comes in a spiky husk about the size of a honeydew melon. Even when it’s not cut open, the smell is evident as soon as you walk into a small store. The pungent odor is truly awful, to my nose anyway. Some have compared it to raw sewage. To me it has hints of onion and artichoke. Durian is sold everywhere— in supermarkets, convenience stores, outdoor markets and roadside stands. You can buy freeze-dried slices in a bag or sample the taste in cookies, snack chips, cakes, chewing gum and ice cream.

Since my guide knew I was curious about the fruit and its “perfume,” she

Grand Palace Complex, Bangkok.

bought me two pieces of freshly cut durian at a produce market in Chiang Mai. I liked the pudding-like texture, but the overpowering scent was off-putting, to say the least. We kept the leftovers in the van for a while, but eventually the driver told us that it had to go—fumes were escaping from the package and into the air-conditioning.

CHIANG MAI’S NIGHT MARKET

My best memories of Chiang Mai, a tourist magnet of 200,000 in northwestern Thailand, take me back to the stalls of its famous night market. Hundreds of vendors throng sidewalks, open-air plazas and covered spaces for block after downtown block. A favorite of tourists and locals alike, it’s one big party for revelers and curiosity seekers who come to eat, shop and people-watch. Street entertainment could include anything from dance groups to a solo singer belting out 1960s pop tunes. Portrait artists in one passageway add to the festive ambience.

The nightly bazaar, which goes on until midnight, is a good place to pick up a souvenir of Thailand, whether a soccer shirt, batik-print dress, silk scarf or elephant figurine. There are handwoven handbags and pillows, plus jewelry, teas and essential oils.

From one food vendor I bought sticks of chicken satay coated in spicy peanut sauce.

Also tempting were noodle dishes, fried chicken, fried fish, barbecue pork ribs and dumplings filled with pork, crab or shrimp. At a stand griddling up roti (a crepe-like pancake), I treated myself to a double dessert—one roti filled with banana and Nutella, the other with mango. For easy eating, they were cut into squares and came with a pair of little sticks that served as utensils.

Sticky rice (khao niao), the most ubiquitous Thai dessert, is another taste treat worth sampling at the market. The steamed, short-grain rice is flavored with sweetened coconut milk and topped with slices of fresh mango.

Papaya salad (or som tam), a Thai staple, is another big seller at the bazaar. Sweet, sour, spicy and salty at the same time, the refreshing salad mixes shredded green papaya (not the ripe orange flesh commonly served at hotel breakfast buffets) with fresh garlic, chili spices, tart lime, sugar and salty fish sauce (or a pinch of salt). It might be topped with small pieces of green beans and roasted peanuts.

THAI BOXING

Muay thai, a martial art related to boxing and kickboxing but distinct from both, is the country’s national sport, so I thought I should take in a few rounds. I didn’t have to look long for a venue because the Fairtex

Boxing Stadium was located in a pavilion neighboring Chiang Mai’s night market. For about $18 US I bought a ticket and watched some pretty intense fighting in a hot arena cooled only by a big fan.

This wasn’t boxing at the highest professional level, but it satisfied my curiosity, and I witnessed some dramatic knockouts that called for the medical technician to enter the ring. A combat sport for sure, muay thai involves striking with fists and feet, elbows and knees. I was surprised that some of the young competitors hailed from far-flung parts of the world—England, Belgium, United States—as well as from Thailand.

LAND OF ELEPHANTS

A trip highlight was Patara Elephant Conservation, one of many elephant sanctuaries in the mountainous north. At this home to 24 domesticated pachyderms (descendants of beasts of burden in the teak logging industry), I had a chance to bathe one in a muddy creek. From a thatched platform in the forest, our group fed sugar cane, corn and bananas to the thick-skinned giants. Each has a name and its own mahout, or handler.

The number of wild elephants in Thailand has dropped by 70 percent in the last 60 years thanks to poaching and urban encroachment; fewer than 3,000 of the endangered beasts remain. Images of the country’s symbolic animal are found in souvenirs of all kinds, from magnets and

A vendor in Surat Thani, a city in southern Thailand, sells durian, the stinky fruit.

Chiang Mai’s night market.

RANDY MINK PHOTOS

keychains to tablecloths and loungewear. Long ago, kings rode elephants into battle, and the tuskers are still associated with royalty. Elephant statues grace royal parks and the Grand Palace compound in Bangkok. At the beginning of a tropical rainforest hike in southern Thailand’s Khao Sok National Park, we encountered a “Beware of Wild Elephants” sign and had to dodge elephant dung along the path. Later, we learned the trail closes when there’s more than a 60 percent chance of an elephant encounter. That’s reassuring… I think.

On the hike we not only had to contend with rain that made the trail a torrent of orange-red water but with leeches that attached to our skin and sucked our blood. From my sock and then my leg, one of our guides sprayed the wormy creature and removed it with a folded leaf.

VILLAGE LIFE

The Thai government has launched tourism initiatives to help the economies of provincial villages by promoting traditional handicrafts. On a tour from Chiang Mai, our group got a look at how weaving is being revived in a rural community of 460 residents. Under the tutelage of villagers, we had a chance to work with cotton and prepare it for the spinning wheel and loom. Down the road we helped local ladies make a dessert by scraping coconut from the shells and mashing sweet potatoes.

At a town in southern Thailand, our tour group had fun meeting students at a school and learning about natural tie-dyeing using dyes from the nipa palm. Each of us designed our own tie-dyed cotton fabric as a memento to take home.

BUSTLING BANGKOK

Sprawling, sultry and chaotic, this vast megalopolis of 12 million can be overwhelming. It was the last stop on my two-week tour, and I was a little apprehensive about dealing with the heat, pollution and traffic gridlock. But I learned to pace myself and ended up loving Thailand’s capital, wishing I had more than two days to tap into its energy.

Seeing the city from the water provides some relief from the congested streets and a different perspective. At a pier on the Chao Phraya River one morning, I boarded a colorfully striped longtail boat for a touristy canal cruise that glided past wooden houses set on stilts, some of them near collapse. Full of photo possibilities, the tour afforded peeks at temples, workshops, floating vendors cooking up meat, verandas hung with laundry and other slices of daily life. Bangkok was once known as “Venice of the East.”

That evening, I set sail on the Saffron dinner boat, enjoying a multi-course meal before taking in the city lights and river traffic from the top deck. Operated by the Banyan Tree Hotel, the newly renovated Saffron was just one of many such boats plying the Chao Phraya.

The Saffron departed from Iconsiam, one of the largest indoor shopping malls in Asia. These air-conditioned retail refuges, like the boat cruises, offer welcome escapes from Bangkok’s heat and humidity. At Iconsiam, you can shop for typical souvenirs, try Thai specialties in the food court and patronize high-end retailers like Gucci, Cartier and Louis Vuitton. I stocked up on lightweight elephant-print shirts, shorts, pants and table runners. One vendor on the first level sells fried insects in bulk—grasshoppers, scorpions, crickets, beetles and other sources of crunchy protein for snacking.

Another way to ditch the heat and hubbub after dark is relaxing over drinks in one of the city’s high-altitude bars, most of them in luxury hotels like the 5-star Dusit Thani Bangkok, where I stayed for two nights. The hotel’s open-air Spire Rooftop Bar, on the 40th floor, features views of the skyscraper-studded skyline and Lumphini Park, the green lung of Bangkok’s commercial and entertainment district. Offering the same views behind glass one level below, the enclosed 1970 Bar makes cocktails named after people and events that marked the decade when the original Dusit Thani opened. The menu’s Darker Side of the Moon, for example, is a nod to the Apollo 13 mission in 1970, while other drinks are inspired by movies that starred Ronald Reagan, Sophia Loren and Tom Jones. Before the day’s steamy heat took over, I made a point of getting up soon after dawn for a walk around the leafy park, an oasis of lakes and well-tended lawns. More important, central Bangkok’s premier greenbelt provided a window on Thai life, as I encountered happy groups exercising to music, working out at fitness stations, playing badminton and volleyball, and practicing the ancient Chinese art of tai chi. Their activities made for great photos, as did the startlingly large monitor lizards that slithered across lawns and sidewalks on their way to and from the lakes.

For travel information, log on to the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s website, tourismthailand.org

Lumphini Park, Bangkok.

RANDY MINK PHOTO

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND

Bath time at Patara Elephant Conservation.

Unearth the past in North Dakota, where history is woven into the fabric of the land.

Walk in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, Sakakawea, Sitting Bull and Custer as your group discovers shared stories throughout the state. Visit Native American villages and frontier forts, marvel at ancient dinosaur fossils and explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Revisit the stories of the past while making new ones together.