April 2025 Leisure Group Travel by Premier Travel Media

Barrier-Free Destinations and Experiences

The Faces of AccessiblE TRAVEL

Leaders share their thoughts on how to make destinations more accessible for disabled travelers.

Leaders share their thoughts on the future of accessible tourism 13

Q&A with Jake Steinman, North American Journeys

The best rail trips and the finest museums and attractions can be found here 51 VIRGINIA GROUP TOUR GUIDE

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic coastline, your group will be awestruck by the state’s views

79 ILLINOIS GROUP TOUR PLANNER

The Land of Lincoln will add some flair to your itinerary

Editorial & Advertising Office

621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527

P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 info@ptmgroups.com

Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk jeff@ptmgroups.com

Chief Editor – Jason Paha jason@ptmgroups.com

Senior Editor – Randy Mink randy@ptmgroups.com

Director, Design & Production – Lisa Hede lisa@ptmgroups.com

Graphic Designer – Romeo Alcantara

Production Coordinator – Kelsey Ledford kelsey@ptmgroups.com

Content Development Specialist – Tyler Drag tyler@ptmgroups.com

Project Coordinator – Theresa O’Rourke

P 563.613.3068 • F 630.794.0652

theresa@ptmgroups.com

Southeast and Midwest – Cheryl Rash

P 563.613.3068 • F 815.225.5274 cheryl@ptmgroups.com

East – Diane Meglino

P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 diane@ptmgroups.com

West – Tom Tobiason

P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 tom@ptmgroups.com

ON MY MIND

Accessible Travel is a ‘Game Changer’

Coming from a family with a pair of disabled uncles, I have first-hand experience witnessing how difficult life was for them on a day-to-day basis. And travel was mostly out of the question.

Thankfully, the world is working on improving accessible travel, and people are taking notice. According to UN Tourism, accessible travel is a “game changer” for destinations as globally, 1.3 billion people experience a significant disability and 1 in 6 of the population is set to be aged 60 and older in five years’ time. So, it makes sense for destinations to work on becoming more inclusive.

This month, Leisure Group Travel reached out to several tourism leaders who are working to make the world more accessible for disabled travelers. They offer valuable advice to destinations on how to be more inclusive and share their thoughts on what the future holds for accessible travel. LGT also interviews Jake Steinman, the founder of TravelAbility, a platform dedicated to advancing accessibility in tourism. Through TravelAbility, Jake has worked to educate destinations, tour operators and industry leaders, advocating for clear information and practical solutions.

This issue also contains the Illinois Group Tour Planner, featuring the best attractions in the Land of Lincoln. From the Japanese Gardens in Rockford to the Great River Road to Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois, this guide has something for everyone. Joining the Illinois guide is the Virginia Group Tour Guide, which spotlights the state’s unparalleled history and heritage. Virginia is at the epicenter for American Revolution 250th Commemoration tours with not-to-miss special events in 2025, 2026 and beyond.

We also feature the 2025 Travel Alliance Partnership Dream Destinations magazine which highlights TAP’s Preferred Destination Guild Member regions, renowned for their distinctive accommodations, exceptional local cuisine and beverages, rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, outdoor explorations and vibrant music and entertainment scenes.

This is a massive issue that covers the tourism industry from front to back. We look forward to educating and entertaining you, as we always do.

Happy travels , Jason Paha Chief Editor

Learning more about destinations featured in our magazine is easy with

Just use your Camera app to scan this QR code. Then tap the screen to open a link to our digital reader service card. Click Submit and your request is immediately sent to that supplier.

By Justine Leavitt

The Faces of

ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL

Leaders share their thoughts on the future of accessible tourism

According to the World Health Organization, approximately one in six people globally live with a significant disability. This encompasses not only mobility impairments but also a variety of less visible conditions, including visual and hearing disabilities, cognitive challenges, neurodivergent conditions like autism, sensory and emotional disabilities, and mental health issues. Two surveys conducted by the Open Doors Organization, a disability-services group based in Illinois, shed light on

the economic potential of this market. In 2024, the global accessible travel market was valued at $35.6 billion, and that number will only grow as time advances. Thus, it behooves destinations across the globe to become more inclusive.

Leisure Group Travel interviewed some of the brightest minds working to improve the state of Accessble Tourism across the globe. They offer us valuable tips on how destinations can become more inclusive and provide advice on how disabled travelers can better explore the world.

ACCESSIBLE TOURISM

Breaking Barriers in Accessible Travel

ABLE EYES:

MEEGAN WINTERS, FOUNDER

How did you become involved in accessible tourism, and what has your journey been like?

My journey began with my background as a special education teacher, working with students on the autism spectrum. I saw firsthand how the unknown often kept families from exploring the world like others.

Beyond my professional experience, my inspiration is deeply personal. My best friend, Jessica, was a wheelchair user, and we lived together in college. Through that experience, I gained a deeper understanding of the challenges individuals with physical disabilities face when navigating unfamiliar spaces.

What are some common misconceptions about accessible travel, and what surprising trends or statistics should more people know?

One of the biggest misconceptions about accessible travel is that it isn’t possible—but in most cases, it absolutely

is. The real challenge is that many businesses don’t know how to accommodate travelers with disabilities. Accessibility isn’t just about meeting basic legal requirements—it’s about creating an inclusive experience that allows everyone to explore the world with confidence.

Accessible travel is a growing market. According to the CDC, 27% of U.S. adults have some form of disability, and with the aging baby boomer population, this number will only increase.

What advice would you give to someone with a disability who is considering their first big trip?

My biggest piece of advice is to work with a travel agent who specializes in accessible travel. These professionals have insider knowledge on accessible destinations, hotels, and transportation options, making it easier to find places that meet your specific needs.

“ ”

One of the biggest misconceptions about accessible travel is that it isn’t possible—but in most cases, it absolutely is. The real challenge is that many businesses don’t know how to accommodate travelers with disabilities. Accessibility isn’t just about meeting basic legal requirements—it’s about creating an inclusive experience that allows everyone to explore the world with confidence.

Be sure to communicate openly with your travel agent or anyone assisting with your trip. Share all of your accessibility requirements, whether it’s mobility, accommodations, sensoryfriendly environments, dietary restrictions, or medical needs.

Which destinations or countries stand out for their commitment to accessibility, and what can others learn from them?

Two standout cities in the U.S. that have gone above and beyond in supporting families with children on the autism spectrum are Mesa, Arizona, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. These destinations have implemented comprehensive accessibility initiatives by educating local businesses and adopting programs such as the Sunflower Lanyard, Autism Travel Club, IBCCES, AbleVu, and more.

Pioneering Inclusive Travel

VISIT MESA:

MARC J. GARCIA, PRESIDENT

AND

CEO

How did you become involved in accessible tourism, and what has your journey been like?

Throughout my 28-year career in Destination Marketing Organizations, I’ve always been mindful of inclusion, working to bring diverse conventions to the city, but it was a personal experience while on a family vacation that really brought home the opportunity to improve travel experiences for all visitors. It became clear that making travel accessible is not just ethically sound, it also makes good business sense.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 27% of adults in the U.S. live with some type of disability, representing a large, underserved market.

What are some common misconceptions about accessible travel, and what surprising trends or statistics should more people know?

One of the biggest misconceptions is the perceived cost for businesses. Many assume that accommodating

guests with disabilities requires expensive renovations. In reality, often the most impactful changes are simple: things like staff training, clear communication, and readily available information about accessible features. These aren’t budgetbusters, but they make a world of difference.

Another misconception is that families with disabilities don’t have the resources to travel. This couldn’t be further from the truth. According to Open Doors Organization, in 2018-19, travelers with disabilities took 81 million trips, spending $58.7 billion on their travel.

What advice would you give to someone with a disability who is considering their first big trip?

My top piece of advice is to do your homework. Many resources are now available to help you research destinations and understand their accessibility features before you go, including accessible-

“ ”

Mesa’s commitment to accessibility has been a journey, and we’ve learned a lot along the way. Our biggest piece of advice to other destinations is simply this: don’t be afraid to get started. Begin by having meaningful conversations with those who can inﬂuence change in your community – local businesses, community leaders, disability advocates.

friendly accommodations, transportation, attractions and restaurants. There are also a growing number of apps and tools designed to support travelers with disabilities, from navigation apps that identify accessible routes to translation apps that facilitate communication. These tools can significantly enhance your travel experience.

Your destination stands out for your commitment to accessibility. What can others learn from you?

Mesa’s commitment to accessibility has been a journey, and we’ve learned a lot along the way. Our biggest piece of advice to other destinations is simply this: don’t be afraid to get started. Begin by having meaningful conversations with those who can influence change in your community – local businesses, community leaders, disability advocates.

Providing Innovative Solutions

PUSH MOBILITY: SHANE HRYHOREC, MANAGING DIRECTOR

How did you become involved in accessible tourism, and what has your journey been like?

I’ve always been passionate about travel, but after a swimming accident left me a quadriplegic, I quickly realized how inaccessible the world can be. That frustration led me to start Push Mobility, which provides innovative mobility solutions, and later Wheel Around the World, where I share travel experiences and accessibility insights. My journey has been a mix of challenges and wins. I’ve faced barriers, but I’ve also found incredible people and destinations committed to inclusion.

What are some common misconceptions about accessible travel, and what surprising trends or statistics should more people know?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that accessibility means the same thing for everyone. People assume that if a hotel or attraction has a ramp, it’s

fully accessible, but accessibility needs vary.

Some people need step-free access, while others need hearing loops, visual guides, or specific support services. A surprising trend is that accessible travel is a massive and growing market. The global spending power of travelers with disabilities is in the hundreds of billions, yet many businesses still overlook this opportunity.

What advice would you give to someone with a disability who is considering their first big trip?

Plan ahead, (don’t be like me) but don’t let fear hold you back. Research your destination, contact hotels and transport providers directly, and connect with others who have been there. Use social media and online communities to get real-world advice. Most importantly, stay flexible and open-minded. Travel with a sense of adventure, because things won’t always go as planned, but the experiences you gain will be worth it.

“ ”

One of the biggest misconceptions is that accessibility means the same thing for everyone. People assume that if a hotel or attraction has a ramp, it’s fully accessible, but accessibility needs vary. Some people need step-free access, while others need hearing loops, visual guides, or specific support services. A surprising trend is that accessible travel is a massive and growing market.

Things often will not work out, but that can be part of the adventure.

Which destinations or countries stand out for their commitment to accessibility, and what can others learn from them?

Countries like Japan, the Netherlands, and parts of Scandinavia have set high standards for accessibility. Their transport systems are well-designed, and there’s a strong commitment to inclusive infrastructure. Australia is making great strides, especially in tourism hotspots like Queensland. One standout is Grenoble in France, where public transport is almost entirely accessible. The lesson is that when accessibility is built into city planning and tourism development, it benefits not just people with disabilities but everyone, including parents with prams and older travelers.

Expanding Travel Opportunities

WHEEL THE WORLD:

ALVARO SILBERSTEIN, CO-FOUNDER & CEO

How did you become involved in accessible tourism, and what has your journey been like?

My journey into accessible tourism started from personal experience. After a car accident left me paralyzed as a teenager, I never lost my passion for travel and adventure. In 2016, I set out to be the first wheelchair user to complete the Torres del Paine trek in Chile, with the support of my friends. That experience opened our eyes to the barriers that travelers with disabilities face. That’s what led me to cofound Wheel the World in 2018 with my friend Camilo Navarro, a platform that empowers people with disabilities to explore the world without limits. The journey has been incredible—we’ve enabled over 25,000 travelers to book accessible trips.

What are some common misconceptions about accessible travel, and what surprising trends or statistics should more people know?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that accessible travel is only for a

small niche market.

In reality, over 1.3 billion people worldwide live with a disability, and they collectively spend over $120 billion per year on travel accommodations and experiences. Surprisingly, 90% of travelers with disabilities research accessibility before booking, but only 50% find the information they need. That’s why verified accessibility details are essential.

backup plan in case something doesn’t go as expected.

What advice would you give to someone with a disability who is considering their first big trip?

My biggest advice is to plan ahead and research thoroughly. Unlike nondisabled travelers, we can’t just “wing it” and hope for the best. Here are some key steps:

• Check verified accessibility information on platforms like Wheel the World to ensure accommodations, transportation, and activities meet your needs.

• Prepare for the unexpected—have a

The United States is the most accessible country in the world and the one investing the most in accessible tourism. Thanks to strong regulations like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and growing awareness from both public and private sectors, many U.S. destinations offer well-developed accessibility features across hotels, attractions, transportation, and public spaces.

Which destinations or countries stand out for their commitment to accessibility, and what can others learn from them?

The United States is the most accessible country in the world and the one investing the most in accessible tourism. Thanks to strong regulations and growing awareness from both public and private sectors, many U.S. destinations offer well-developed accessibility features across hotels, attractions, transportation, and public spaces.

At Wheel the World, we are working with over 100 destinations in the U.S. to verify their accessibility, help businesses improve their offerings, and provide travelers with detailed, reliable information.

ACCESSIBLE TOURISM

Overcoming Numerous Barriers

WHEELCHAIR TRAVEL: JOHN MORRIS, FOUNDER

How did you become involved in accessible tourism, and what has your journey been like?

In 2012, I was involved in a serious motor vehicle accident that left me a triple amputee and wheelchair user. Despite the challenges of navigating the world with a disability, I had always been a traveler and was committed to getting back up in the air. It has not been an easy journey, but I could not imagine my life absent travel and exploration. My career, which involves sharing resources with disabled travelers, leading accessible group tours, and helping companies successfully interact with the accessible tourism market, is truly a dream come true.

What are some common misconceptions about accessible travel, and what surprising trends or statistics should more people know?

The demand for accessible travel in the United States has doubled in just the past decade, outpacing the growth of travel

demand generally.

Improvements in accessibility, the increased availability of travel information, and the retirement of people from the “baby boomer” generation are key to that trend.

What advice would you give to someone with a disability who is considering their first big trip?

As disabled travelers, we must prepare thoroughly to ensure that our care, transportation, accommodation and dietary needs are met. Start with a shorter trip closer to home, just to gain some experience and confidence about the types of barriers you might encounter.

Which destinations or countries stand out for their commitment to accessibility, and what can others learn from them?

Generalizations about countries are difficult, primarily because the development of accessible infrastructure is something that has to be managed at

The demand for accessible travel in the United States has doubled in just the past decade, outpacing the growth of travel demand generally. Improvements in accessibility, the increased availability of travel information, and the retirement of people from the “baby boomer” generation are key to that trend. With the CDC identifying one in four Americans as having one or more forms of disability, travel providers must position to reach this demographic.

a local or even micro level. For first-time, disabled travelers, some cities that I recommend include Boston, Chicago and Washington, D.C. in the United States, and Barcelona, London, and Singapore abroad.

Have you encountered cultural differences in how disabilities are perceived around the world? How has that shaped your travel experiences?

I have spent a decade looking for the perfect, truly accessible city. It doesn’t exist, but I hope that it might one day. The accessibility of a city has a direct, statistically significant relationship with the involvement of disabled people in their communities. Where there is greater accessibility in pedestrian walkways, public transportation, and in the built environment, the visibility of disabled people is much greater

Through TravelAbility, Jake Steinman has worked to educate destinations, tour operators and industry leaders on the importance of accessible travel.

BREAKING BARRIERS in Accessible Travel

Q&A with Jake Steinman, North American Journeys

Jake Steinman’s travel industry career spans more than three decades. As the founder of North American Journeys, he built a reputation for connecting destinations with tour operators, focusing on the inbound market and technology innovations. Through organizing events like the eTourism Summit and the Active America China Summit, Steinman played a pivotal role in shaping how destinations attract travelers. However, after 25 years of working in tourism, he began to notice a critical gap in the industry—one that directly impacted millions of travelers worldwide. After a personal experience in his business, Jake’s perspective shifted and he started to make connections with individuals whose travel challenges were often overlooked. This revelation led him to establish TravelAbility, a platform dedicated to advancing

accessibility in tourism. Through TravelAbility, Steinman has worked to educate destinations, tour operators and industry leaders on the importance of accessible travel, advocating for clear information and practical solutions. His conference has helped bridge the gap between businesses and travelers with disabilities, making travel more inclusive for all.

LGT: Accessibility in travel has been a growing conversation, but there are still so many challenges. What do you see as the biggest issue travelers with disabilities face today?

JAKE STEINMAN: One of the biggest issues is the lack of reliable, standardized information. People with disabilities often

PHOTO

ACCESSIBLE TOURISM

have to act as detectives just to figure out if a hotel, restaurant, or attraction is truly accessible. Businesses will say they’re ‘fully accessible,’ but when a traveler arrives, they find stairs, narrow doorways or inaccessible bathrooms. We need more transparency and standardization in accessibility information to ensure travelers can make informed decisions.

LGT: Some destinations and travel businesses seem to be making progress. What role do DMOs play in improving accessibility?

JS: DMOs are in a unique position to bridge the gap between travelers and businesses. Some, like the state of Oregon and Mesa, Arizona are ahead of the curve. Others are starting to develop accessibility templates and checklists that help hotels, restaurants, and attractions provide clear, detailed information about their accessibility features. If a DMO takes the lead in standardizing and sharing this information, it helps tour operators and travelers plan better.

LGT: What opportunities does accessible travel present for tour operators?

JS: Large tour operators have already discovered that embracing accessible travel extends the lifespan of tour offerings and attracts a growing market. There’s a misconception that accessibility is a niche market, but in reality, it’s a massive opportunity. Think about baby boomers—they have an average net worth of $1.1 million, and there’s an expected $13 trillion wealth transfer happening. If travel businesses don’t adapt to meet their needs, they’re missing out on a significant revenue stream. Plus, influencers in the accessible travel space are driving awareness and pushing for change, which makes this the perfect time for the industry to take action.

LGT: But we often hear that baby boomers are not as interested in group tours as the previous generation. Is that really the case when we factor in accessibility?

JS: The perception is that today’s 65-year-olds are independent travelers, but that may shift as they age and mobility issues arise. Travel remains a high priority for baby boomers, who control much of the wealth. As they age, they’re still willing to spend on travel, but accessible can be an issue. A group tour can provide the necessary support and logistics.

LGT: You mentioned influencers in accessible travel. How are they shaping the conversation?

JS: Social media has given travelers with disabilities a platform to share their experiences. Influencers in the accessible travel space are not just raising awareness—they’re holding destinations and travel businesses accountable. They showcase both positive and negative experiences, and that visibility pressures companies to improve.

LGT: What are some overlooked aspects of accessible travel that need more attention?

JS: One thing that’s often overlooked is how small details can make a huge difference. Something as simple as a trash receptacle blocking an elevator button can make a hotel inaccessible. Attractions and hotels also need to consider travelers with autism or sensory sensitivities. Creating quiet spaces, providing sensoryfriendly experiences, and training staff to be more accommodating can make destinations far more welcoming.

LGT: Where do you see the future of accessible travel heading?

JS: I see a future where accessibility is just part of standard travel planning. Right now, it’s treated as an afterthought, but as demand grows, businesses will need to be proactive. DMOs will need to partner with travel advisors to ensure accurate information is available, and tour operators will need to integrate accessibility into their core offerings.

LGT: Any final thoughts on how the industry can take immediate steps to improve accessibility?

JS: Start small but be intentional. Simple changes—clearer accessibility information, staff training, and minor infrastructure adjustments—can have a big impact. DMOs, tour operators, and hotels need to work together to make sure accessibility isn’t just a checkbox, but a genuine commitment.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JAKE STEINMAN

TravelAbility is a platform dedicated to advancing accessibility in tourism.

Dream DESTINATIONS

YOUR INVITATION TO EXCITING TRAVEL ADVENTURES

For more information on Travel Alliance Partnership’s world of travel options, please visit TAPintoTravel.com.

Greetings, Travel Friends!

On behalf of Travel Alliance Partnership (TAP), I would like to welcome you to our 2025 Dream Destinations magazine. The experiences featured in this magazine highlight our Preferred Destination Guild Member regions, renowned for their distinctive accommodations, exceptional local cuisine and beverages, rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, outdoor explorations and vibrant music and entertainment scenes. We have partnered with Premier Travel Media to bring you an enhanced magazine designed to help you uncover hidden delights and paint the picture of the unique experiences that are at the heart of these captivating destinations. Page through the beautiful photos and inspirational highlights – you are sure to find a remarkable travel experience!

What is a Dream Destination? It is that ideal location, somewhere that checks all the boxes, highlights your interests and aspirations, but has one thing missing. You have not visited yet!

While the definition of a dream destination will vary for each traveler, our TAP Tour Operators have spent the past year meeting with travel experts throughout North America to discover new destinations, each offering unique and unexplored treasures you have not yet discovered!

Whether enjoying a multi course culinary feast featuring local ingredients and live-fire appetizers, experiencing the joyous French Acadian lifestyle, or perusing a European style Christmas Market right here in the United States, you are sure to discover something new in one of our dream destinations!

Explore by region and learn about those destinations chosen for their remarkable offerings. All our “Dream Destinations” partners are listed on pages 40 & 41, along with their website, so you can learn more.

TAP makes planning your trip easy. Our Tour Operators offer Scheduled tours (specific dates), Custom Tours (customized pricing and capacity for groups) or the extremely popular Guaranteed Departures. TAP’s Guaranteed Departures tours are never cancelled due to passenger minimums. TAP tours provide access to high-quality, experienced tour operators who excel in delivering exceptional experiences. Buying from a TAP Partner ensures that you are working with experts with years of incomparable customer service offering superior tours and cruises. Your only challenge is to choose your adventure!

Now is the time to visit your undiscovered Dream Destination. The ongoing commitment of our Preferred Destination Partners in curating the most distinctive experiences is essential to the superior quality of TAP tours.

To the featured destinations in this year’s magazine, we appreciate your support of the TAP network and inspiring our travelers to dream big.

make memories

We’re no strangers to group gatherings.

We once hosted a half-million people at the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair. Our creative, fun-loving spirit is alive and well in our charming small towns. This is where friends— old and new and families— young and old—sing out loud and savor our flavors. Splash around and reel in big fish. Score eagles and watch them soar. Every new experience here makes memories that last a lifetime.

Your Next Dream Vacation Starts Now

In the following pages of Dream Destinations, you’ll discover nearly 100 unique travel experiences throughout four United States regions and Canada

By David Bodle

There are two simple ways to explore our Dream Destinations catalog. Organized by region—Northeast, South, Midwest, West, and Canada—you can easily focus on the areas that interest you most. Within each region, destinations and attractions showcase popular travel experiences: Places to Stay, Restaurants & Dining, Culture, Historical Attractions, Outdoor Exploration, and Music & Entertainment. We’ve designed the catalog so you can easily find exactly what you’re looking for. Here’s how it works.

You’re an adventurous Midwest group who wants to stay close to home but has already ticked off the big-ticket destinations. Then, you spot it—the Michigan Great Lakes Bay Region. Four charming cities, from Bay City to Frankenmuth, Saginaw to Midland. Perfect

for a fresh getaway. So, what’s next? Dive into the experiences they offer. There is enough culture and outdoor adventure to keep your itinerary packed, offering just the right blend of experiences!

The same approach works if you’re a Northeast group looking for a Canadian escape. Again, start in the Canadian Regions and explore the experiences. From the diverse neighborhoods of Canada’s largest city to pristine coastlines and wide-open spaces, Canada serves up an itinerary that’s packed with distinction and flavor! Toronto, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick invite you to explore their rich cultures, history, and cuisine!

From El Paso, TX, to Las Cruces, NM to Oklahoma and the State of Washington

in the West, breathtaking mountain landscapes to locally inspired cuisine are offered. Down South, there’s always something new to discover, from powerful, immersive history to authentic architecture, and the stories of iconic music legends. The Northeast serves up elegant and historic lodging and exhilarating outdoors.

Intrigued? Visit TAPintoTravel.com

There may already be a Travel Alliance Partnership (TAP) tour operator with scheduled tours to the destination that interests you. Several tours are Guaranteed Departure, while others are scheduled or can be customized to your group’s specific interests and availability. Contact TAP directly by emailing hello@tapintotravel.com to turn your dream vacation into reality!

Bay City

Photo courtesy of Great Lakes Bay Regional CVB

Northeast

From quaint small towns to bustling metropolises to amazing natural wonders, the Northeast is a dream destination for any kind of trip.

BOSTON, MA – Boston’s 23 neighborhoods offer diverse artistic and cross-cultural experiences, celebrations, ethnic dining, and unique businesses that reflect the city’s revolutionary spirit. Explore beyond the Back Bay and discover the Fenway Cultural District, Theatre District, Chinatown, Seaport, public art and live music in Allston/Brighton, Roxbury, Cambridge, and so much more.

BOSTON, MA –

Stay in Boston, where history meets modern comfort. From trendy rooms at The Revolution Hotel and Studio Hotel Allston to the cozy Inn at Hastings Park, the region offers lodging for every budget and taste. The harborside Seaport District houses 16 properties, including Hyatt Place, Hampton Inn, Aloft, Element, and Omni®.

3

BOSTON, MA – From the Charles River Esplanade’s scenic trails to the Boston Harbor Islands National Park, the city offers green escapes. Don’t miss walking paths like the Innovation Trail, which blends history and science, the tranquility of Harvard Arboretum, or the lush Rose Kennedy Greenway, perfect for unwinding amid Boston’s urban charm.

4 AUBURN,

NY –

Enjoy everything that Auburn, NY has to offer, from the flavors and culture of the present to the remarkable impact of the city’s past. Stop by the visitor center to immerse yourself in the history of the equal rights movement, while experiencing the vibrant culture of Auburn today.

CULTURE

1. Museum of Fine Arts; photo courtesy of Museum of Fine Arts, Boston 2. The Inn at Hastings Park; photo courtesy of Meet Boston

CULTURE

EXPLORE OUTDOORS

PLACES TO STAY

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

5

AUBURN, NY – The REV is located in the picturesque Finger Lakes wine region of Central New York. Four hours from NYC and situated between Syracuse, Rochester and Ithaca, The REV is one of the largest producing musical theatre organizations in New York State, outside of New York City.

EXPLORE OUTDOORS

7

NIAGARA FALLS, NY – Niagara Falls State Park, America’s oldest state park, open 365 days a year, brings you closer than you ever thought possible to the grandeur of the Falls. Situated on 400 acres of lush terrain, you will find protected wildlife and an array of exciting activities and fantastic attractions.

CULTURE

NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, NY –

The Castellani Art Museum at the center of the Niagara University campus is dedicated to the enjoyment and educational potential of artistic creativity. As a major resource for the visual arts in Niagara County, the CAM’s permanent collection includes over 5,000 pieces of mainly modern and contemporary art.

FAIR HAVEN, NY – Conveniently located less than an hour drive North of Syracuse and an hour East of Rochester, Colloca Estate Winery resides in the Northern most part of New York State’s esteemed Finger Lakes Region. This 900-acre property with stunning views of Lake Ontario features food, entertainment and award-winning wine.

5. The REV Theatre Company; photo courtesy of Goat Factory Media/Ron Heerkens Jr. 6. Colloca Estate Winery; photo courtesy of Cayuga County Office of Tourism

Niagara Falls State Park Cave of the Winds; photo courtesy of Destination Niagara USA

Castellani Art Museum; photo courtesy of Destination Niagara USA

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

YOUNGSTOWN, NY – Old Fort Niagara is a historic site that offers a stunning combination of original 18th century buildings and fortifications enlivened by dynamic living history programs. Explore the grounds where Native Americans, French, British and American soldiers struggled for a continent and experience Niagara as it once was over 200 years ago.

ROCHESTER, NY – Discover an arts and culture hub where history meets innovation. Explore world-class museums like The Strong National Museum of Play and George Eastman Museum, admire masterpieces at the Memorial Art Gallery, and experience the city’s vibrant festivals. From murals to music, Rochester is a cultural gem waiting to inspire your next group adventure!

EXPLORE OUTDOORS

ROCHESTER, NY – Experience the great outdoors in a place where nature and adventure await." Hike scenic trails at Letchworth State Park, kayak along the Genesee River, or chase waterfalls throughout the region. With four seasons of beauty—blossoming lilacs, vibrant foliage, and snowy wonderlands complete with maple sugaring—Rochester is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and explorers.

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

ROCHESTER, NY – Step into history where innovation shaped a nation. Explore Susan B. Anthony’s home, Frederick Douglass’ legacy, and the immersive Genesee Country Village & Museum, New York State’s largest living history museum. Walk Erie Canal paths, visit the Rochester Museum & Science Center, and uncover stories that changed the world—perfect for history-loving groups and curious explorers!

9. Old Fort Niagara; photo courtesy of Destination Niagara USA 10. The Strong National Museum of Play; photo courtesy of The Strong National Museum of Play 11. Cycle the Erie Canal; photo courtesy of Visit Rochester/Matt Baldelli/Yellow House Creative 12. Genesee Country Village and Museum; photo courtesy of Visit Rochester

13 SULLIVAN CATSKILLS,

NY – The charming small towns of New York’s Sullivan Catskills are alive with the sound of music: Outdoor Pavilion shows at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts— the site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival, classical music at Shandelee Music Festival, Opera at Delaware Valley Opera and musicals at Forestburgh Playhouse.

SULLIVAN CATSKILLS, NY – Outdoor enthusiasts love the great outdoors of New York’s Sullivan Catskills. River trips in rafts, kayaks, and canoes on the Delaware River are perfect for groups. Cast a line in the waters where American fly fishing was born. There are also over two dozen hiking trails suitable for all fitness levels.

RESTAURANTS & DINING

SULLIVAN CATSKILLS, NY – The annual Catskills Cuisine food festival draws foodies from all over to see celebrity and local chefs show off their skills using the bounty of farm fresh foods grown in the region. The area is also home to James Beard-nominated chefs and restaurants and a Craft Beverage Trail.

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

NORTH CONWAY, NH – Conway

Scenic Railroad is situated in New Hampshire’s Mount Washington Valley and offers a choice of seasonal heritage rail excursions. Its signature Mountaineer offers a four-hour excursion that recreates the experience of a 1950s streamliner. This climbs through Crawford Notch, across towering trestles and provides stunning views of the White Mountains.

13. Bethel Woods Center for the Arts; photo courtesy of Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association 14. Landers River Trips; photo courtesy of Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association 15. Catskill Cuisine; photo courtesy of Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association 16. The Conway Scenic Railroad’s Mountaineer; photo courtesy of Brian Solomon

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

MANCHESTER CENTER, VT – Step into history at Hildene, the former Lincoln family home. Explore the historic mansion, formal gardens, a 1903 Pullman car, onsite cheese-making, scenic trails, and a Lincoln exhibit. Hildene offers a unique glimpse into the life of the Lincoln family, making it a must-visit destination for history lovers.

STOWE, VT – The von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort offers a unique escape steeped in history from the Sound of Music. Owned and operated by the family, the lodge features mountain views, a Bierhall, and history tours. With winter sports, Heady Topper beer, and year-round charm, it combines relaxation, adventure, and nostalgia.

MONTPELIER, VT – Capitol Plaza Hotel captures Vermont’s charm, history, and culture in the heart of Vermont’s capital, Montpelier. Elegant and newly renovated, the hotel offers fine dining and comfort, located within walking distance of shops, art galleries, and the Vermont State House. Enjoy a refined experience with a dash of small-town magic.

20

ELKINS, WV – The Gandy Dancer

Theatre is the only dinner theatre in West Virginia and it features seven different shows each year. In addition to their regular Musical Legends and their Premier show, they also feature Murder Mystery Dinner shows, Aloha From Elvis, Christmas Shows and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

PLACES TO STAY

17. Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home; photo courtesy of Vermont Tourism Network 18. von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort; photo courtesy of Vermont Tourism Network 19. Capitol Plaza Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton; photo courtesy of Vermont Tourism Network 20. Specialty Shows at the Gandy Dancer Theatre; photo courtesy of Gandy Dancer Theatre

Midwest

Art and history can be found in abundance in the Midwest, along with a slew of great outdoor attractions where groups can stretch their legs.

DETROIT, MI – Detroit’s art scene is a dynamic fusion of history, innovation, and community. The city is known for its vibrant street art, contemporary galleries, and thriving cultural institutions like the Detroit Institute of Arts and The Sheperd Detroit. Artists reflect the city’s industrial past while pushing

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

DETROIT, MI – Detroit, known as the “Motor City,” revolutionized the automotive industry in the early 20th century. Tour museums like The Henry Ford, Pontiac Transportation Museum, Stahl’s Motors and Music Experience and more. Detroit’s automotive legacy shaped global transportation, fueling economic growth and continues to leave an indelible mark on American culture.

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

3

DETROIT, MI – Detroit’s music scene is legendary, known for its contributions to Motown, techno, gospel, and rock. Experience the iconic Motown Museum, music festivals like the Detroit Jazz Festival or Movement Festival. Visit historic venues like the Fox Theatre and Detroit Music Hall. The city has shaped global music through the years.

CULTURE

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – A tribute to the life and times of the 38th president, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum showcases Ford’s rise from a humble Grand Rapids youth to the highest office in the land. Highlights include an Oval Office replica and a multimedia simulation of the Pacific typhoon that nearly ended Ford’s life in WWII.

1. Eastern Market Street Murals; photo courtesy of Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau 2. Henry Ford Museum of Innovation; photo courtesy of Amanda Shaffer 3. Recording Studio at the Motown Museum; photo courtesy of Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau 4. Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum; photo courtesy of Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

boundaries with creative collaborations.

CULTURE

5

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Christkindl Markt, Michigan’s largest European-style Christmas market, is lined with 60+ artisan gift and food vendors, live holiday entertainment and festive fun – all outdoors! Enjoy traditional spiced Glühwein, German-style Christmas beer, hot cocoa and other beverages while you shop and eat your way through the Markt. Mid-November through late December.

EXPLORE OUTDOORS

7

MIDLAND, MI – Midland’s “Tridge”, a three-legged pedestrian footbridge spanning The Forks, the confluence of the Tittabawassee and Chippewa Rivers. The waters flowing to this spot have carried the birchbark canoes of Native Americans, steam boats from Saginaw and billions of board-feet of white pine logs. Kayaks, and strolls along the rivers encouraged!

EXPLORE OUTDOORS

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Explore more than 200 works of art by renowned sculptors set amidst a Japanese garden, Michigan farm garden, English perennial garden, children’s garden, tropical conservatory and other striking horticultural displays at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Ranked among the most-visited art museums worldwide and named America’s Best Sculpture Park by USA Today. Guided tram tours available.

EXPLORE OUTDOORS

8

MIDLAND, MI – The young Mike Whiting explored the forests, fields and ponds of his family’s property in Midland, Michigan, sometimes eyeing it from aloft in its trees. This was his vision for the Herbert and Grace A. Dow’s Canopy walk. The Nation’s largest canopy walk at Dow Gardens in Midland.

5. Christkindl Markt; photo courtesy of DGRI, captured by Shafi Subhan 6. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park; photo courtesy of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Balloons Over The Tridge; photo courtesy

BAY CITY, MI – Bay City’s downtown - Walkable, riverfront where shops and eateries dot the blocks, with cozy stays right near inviting waters. Neighborhoods alive with public art and humming with low-key nightlife, local pours and delicious comfort food. Historic theaters and architecture, pristine art galleries and polished museums.

10 TRAVERSE

CITY, MI –

Traverse City blends small-town charm with big-city culture, thanks to a thriving arts scene. Highlights include the Traverse City Philharmonic, the world-renowned Interlochen Center for the Arts, award-winning authors at the National Writers Series, and the Dennos Museum Center, home to stunning exhibits and one of the world’s largest Inuit art collections.

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS EXPLORE OUTDOORS

TRAVERSE CITY, MI – Shaped by ancient glaciers, Traverse City’s stunning landscapes blend natural beauty with rich history. Explore historic lighthouses, sail aboard a majestic tall ship, and visit the Village at Grand Traverse Commons – one of the largest historic reconstruction projects in the country. Experience a region where the past meets unforgettable adventures.

TRAVERSE CITY, MI – The true allure of Traverse City lies outdoors. Explore the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, hike or ski through vibrant seasons, bike urban trails, paddle along waves, or tee off on lush golf courses. Nature’s energy surrounds you, fueling endless adventures in this breathtaking, year-round destination.

9. Bay City Bandshell; photo courtesy of Great Lakes Bay Regional CVB 10. Dennos Museum Center; photo courtesy of Traverse City Tourism 11. Point Betsie Lighthouse; photo courtesy of Traverse City Tourism 12. Sleeping Bear Dunes; photo courtesy of Traverse City Tourism

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

CORYDON, IN – Corydon, founded in 1808, was the state’s first capital (1816–1825). Located in Harrison County, its historic downtown showcases 19th-century buildings, preserving its rich past. Visitors can explore Indiana’s First State Capitol and the Harrison County Discovery Center to experience over a century of history in this storied town.

HARRISON COUNTY, IN – Harrison County is an outdoor adventure destination with thrilling activities for all. Explore underground wonders in scenic caves, kayak or canoe along winding rivers, hike and bike scenic trails, soar on zip lines, or enjoy a relaxing round of golf. Adventure awaits in this beautiful and diverse natural playground!

HARRISON COUNTY, IN – Harrison County offers vibrant entertainment and music experiences. Enjoy gaming and live shows at Caesars Southern Indiana casino, experience local and regional talent at downtown Corydon’s live music venues or catch a performance at the community theatre. From exciting nightlife to cultural performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

16 JEFFERSONVILLE, INDIANA

–Come together at Abbey Road on the River, the world’s largest Beatles-inspired music festival! Twist and shout to more than 50 bands over Memorial Day weekend. 2025 attendees will be treated to a special performance by an original Beatle, Pete Best! Priority seating and accommodations available for groups.

13. Corydon Capitol State Historic Site; photo courtesy of Corydon/Harrison County, Indiana 14. Squire Boone Cavern; photo courtesy of Corydon/Harrison County, Indiana 15. Southern Indiana Casino & Hotel; photo courtesy of Corydon/Harrison County, Indiana 16. Abbey Road on the River; photo courtesy of SoIN Tourism

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

17 CLARKSVILLE,

IN – Explore the world’s largest exposed Devonian fossil beds when river levels are low at Falls of the Ohio State Park. The Interpretive Center takes groups through an interactive timeline of the people, places and animals of the region from 390 million years ago to today. The site is also part of the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail.

18 BORDEN, IN

–

Sip and savor award-winning wine and spirits at Huber’s Orchard & Winery, Indiana’s largest estate grown winery, and Starlight Distillery. Groups can tour the grounds, winery, still and rick houses, learning about the grapes and grains grown on this 600acre farm run by the same family for seven generations.

PLACES TO STAY

19 FRENCH LICK, IN – Discover French Lick Resort, a premier Midwest destination blending historic charm with modern luxury. Home to two beautifully restored hotels, world-class spas, a casino, championship golf courses, and countless attractions, the resort offers breathtaking scenery and endless activities. Experience elegance, history, and top-tier amenities in this one-of-a-kind getaway.

20 WEST BADEN SPRINGS, IN –

Step into timeless luxury at West Baden Springs Hotel, once hailed as the Eighth Wonder of the World. Its awe-inspiring free-span dome and unmatched ambiance make it a true bucket-list destination. With 123 years of rich history, breathtaking beauty, and world-class amenities, it offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

PAOLI, IN –

Wilstem Wildlife Park offers unforgettable hands-on animal encounters! Bathe an elephant, meet giraffes, sloths, and otters, or take a drive-thru safari where you can feed the animals from a wagon. Enhance your visit with lunch or dinner for a complete experience. Perfect for groups seeking adventure, education, and up-close wildlife fun!

17. Falls of the Ohio ; photo courtesy of SoIN Tourism 18. Huber’s Orchard & Winery; photo courtesy of SoIN Tourism

19. French Lick Resort; photo courtesy of French Lick West Baden 20. West Baden Springs Hotel; photo courtesy of French Lick West Baden 21. Wilstem Wildlife Park photo courtesy of French Lick West Baden

PLACES TO STAY

EXPLORE OUTDOORS

South

Whether you’re exploring historic landmarks, taking in beautiful landscapes, eating incredible southern cuisine or experiencing lively music scenes, there’s something for everyone in the South.

CARTERSVILLE, GA – Immerse yourself in the spirit of the American West at Booth Western Art Museum, the largest of its kind in the U.S. Experience vivid landscapes, dynamic cowboy scenes, and Native American heritage through world-class art. Don’t miss the Presidential Gallery, where history and culture intersect in a uniquely artistic way.

RESTAURANTS & DINING

CARTERSVILLE, GA

– Nestled in downtown Cartersville, Table 20 is an eclectic bistro serving innovative, chef-driven cuisine and craft cocktails. With a menu that changes weekly or monthly based on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, every visit offers a fresh culinary experience in a laidback yet refined atmosphere.

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

CARTERSVILLE, GA – Discover the ancient legacy of the Mississippian people at Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site. These well-preserved earthen mounds, dating back over 1,000 years, reveal a sophisticated civilization. Explore artifacts, a nature trail, and a rich archaeological history that sheds light on one of the Southeast’s most significant Native American cultures.

4

EUREKA SPRINGS, AR – The soul of Eureka Springs is rooted in something distinctly personal with a warm, openarmed welcome to all walks of life. The culture seeker is free to immerse themselves in lively parades, vibrant galleries, world-class dining, or enjoy live music that pours through the charming, brick-lined streets of Historic Downtown.

1. Booth Western Art Museum; photo courtesy of Only in Cartersville/Bartow County 2. Etowah Indian Mounds; photo courtesy of Only in Cartersville/Bartow County 3. Table 20; photo courtesy of Only in Cartersville/ Bartow County 4. Drumming in Basin Spring Park; photo courtesy of Eureka Spring Arkansas

CULTURE

EUREKA SPRINGS, AR – What separates Eureka Springs from other outdoor destinations is that art collides with nature. Where else can you find an all glass chapel nestled in the woods, hiking trails that lead to nature’s sculptors, bigfoot by the lake, and mountain biking trails next to a giant Jesus statue?

PLACES TO STAY

EUREKA SPRINGS, AR – Staying in Eureka Springs isn’t just a place to lay your head after a day of exploration. It’s an authentic experience filled with wonder, charm, and relaxation. From treehouses and hobbit homes to cozy cottages, Victorian BnBs, and historic hotels, the town offers a variety of unique accommodations.

EUREKA SPRINGS, AR – Just 35 minutes from Branson in Eureka Springs, the Great Passion Play is a thoughtful and provoking, massive outdoor production about the life, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ performed on a stage the size of three football fields over 500 feet across. For 2025, the Great Passion Play is introducing a new original musical score performed by the Budapest Scoring Orchestra with Dolby Atmos Surround Sound.

HISTORICAL

BRANSON, MO –

Branson is proud to celebrate the rich history and spirit of the U.S. with festivals and events that honor veterans and the country they love. Over the next two years, Branson will host special tributes leading up to the United States’ 250th anniversary, reaffirming Branson’s reputation as one of the most patriotic cities in America.

HISTORICAL

BRANSON, MO – As the whole world remembers the world’s most famous luxury liner, Titanic Museum Attraction in Branson, lets “passengers” experience what it was like to walk the hallways, parlors, cabins and Grand Staircase of the Titanic while surrounded by more than 400 artifacts directly from the ship and its passengers.

5. Blue Spring Heritage Center; photo courtesy of Eureka Spring Arkansas 6. Enchanted Treehouses; photo courtesy of Eureka Spring Arkansas

Who Will Betray Jesus; photo courtesy of Great Passion Play 8. Fireworks and Celebration on the Branson Landing; photo courtesy of Branson/Lakes Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 9. Walk the $1

exact replica of Titanic’s Grand Staircase; photo courtesy of Titanic Museum Branson

BRANSON, MO

– Known worldwide for their concert and television appearances– The Duttons KNOW entertainment. Bluegrass, Classical, Pop, and Country no matter what style, they personify the wonder of music. Featured on NBC’s “America’s Got Talent,” Nickelodeon’s “America’s Most Musical Family” and on RFD-TV, this production shines through in sheer talent and musicality.

EXPLORE OUTDOORS MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

BRANSON, MO – Branson is a premier destination for live entertainment, offering an incredible variety of worldclass performances that uplift and inspire. From dazzling productions from legendary artists to engaging museums and exhibits, the excitement extends beyond the stage. Visitors can experience thrilling attractions, including Silver Dollar City—America’s #1 theme park—making Branson the ultimate entertainment getaway.

FLORENCE, SC – Immerse yourself in the natural beauty surrounding Florence during memorable nature tours. Explore the serene landscapes of Lynches River County Park, where you can hike scenic trails, go birdwatching, or rent a kayak to paddle along the river. Discover the wonders of Jeffries Creek Park, a hidden gem with picturesque scenery and diverse wildlife.

RESTAURANTS & DINING EXPLORE OUTDOORS

BRANSON, MO – Located in the heart of America, Branson offers charming Ozark Mountain Hospitality, pristine lakes, and rugged beauty. Whether you prefer the excitement of the world-class entertainment district or the tranquility of lakeside resorts, Branson provides a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation for an unforgettable vacation.

FLORENCE, SC – Indulge your taste buds on culinary tours, where you can savor the flavors of Florence. Visit local restaurants and sample delicious Southern cuisine, including mouthwatering barbecue, soulful comfort food, and delightful desserts. Experience the unique blend of flavors that make the culinary scene truly special.

10. Timothy Dutton of the performing Duttons; photo courtesy of The Dutton Family Theatre

Exploring Silver Dollar City; photo courtesy of Branson/Lakes Area Covention & Visitors Bureau

Rock Lake;

Victors; photo courtesy of

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

15 FLORENCE,

– Immerse yourself in Florence’s past with historical tours. Explore landmarks like the Florence County Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of regional art and artifacts. Discover the Florence National Cemetery, a final resting place for soldiers who fought in various conflicts. Knowledgable guides will bring the stories of of the city’s past to life.

RESTAURANTS & DINING

16 DESTREHAN,

LA – Ormond Manor Restaurant, nestled in historic Destrehan, Louisiana, offers a unique dining experience in a beautifully restored historic setting. Guests enjoy Southerninspired cuisine, elegant ambiance, and exceptional service. Perfect for romantic dinners, special events, or casual dining, the restaurant blends rich history with culinary excellence.

17

LAPLACE, LA – The Best Western LaPlace Inn offers comfortable accommodations in the heart of Louisiana’s River Parishes. Conveniently located off I-10, guests enjoy modern amenities, free breakfast, a pool, complimentary WIFI, and friendly service. Perfect for business or leisure, it provides easy access to New Orleans, plantations, and local attractions.

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

18

VACHERIE, LA – Laura Plantation: Louisiana’s Creole Heritage Site in Vacherie, Louisiana, offers an immersive journey into the Creole world. This historic sugar plantation features authentic architecture, an African American museum and captivating guided tours featuring the powerful stories of the people who lived and worked there.

MYRTLE BEACH, SC – Make yourself at home in Myrtle Beach with spacious multibedroom resorts, oceanfront condos, and cozy beach rentals. Enjoy the comfort of full kitchens, private balconies, and plenty of room to relax. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable stay by the shore.

PLACES TO STAY

15. Florence National Cemetery photo courtesy of Visit Florence, SC 16. Ormond Manor Restaurant; photo courtesy of Louisiana’s River Parishes 17. Best Western LaPlace Inn; photo courtesy of Louisiana’s River Parishes 18. Laura Plantation: Louisiana’s Creole Heritage Site; photo courtesy of Louisiana’s River Parishes 19. The beautiful Myrtle Beach Coastline; photo courtesy of John Muse

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

MYRTLE BEACH, SC –

Feel the rhythm of Myrtle Beach with live music, high-energy shows, and unforgettable entertainment. Catch live music under the stars, enjoy dinner and a show, or dance the night away at a lively venue. Whether it’s country, rock, or beach music, the good times are always playing here.

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

BIRMINGHAM, AL – Home to over 1,600 vintage and modern motorcycles, the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum holds the Guinness World Record as the World’s Largest Motorcycle Museum. Beyond bikes, the museum showcases an impressive Lotus car collection. Automotive fans can take the excitement even further at the Porsche Experience Center, where a state-of-theart racetrack offers exhilarating test drives and professional training.

RESTAURANTS & DINING

MYRTLE BEACH, SC – Savor the flavors of the coast with fresh seafood, Southern classics, and international bites in Myrtle Beach. From laid-back beach bars to upscale waterfront dining, every meal is an experience. Indulge in Lowcountry favorites, sip on craft cocktails, and taste why food lovers keep coming back for more.

MYRTLE BEACH, SC – Dive into family fun year-round at Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach! Meet playful sloths, waddle with penguins, and get hands-on with amazing animals. Journey through the thrilling 330foot shark tunnel and explore ocean wonders. Open 365 days a year—unforgettable indoor adventures are always waiting!

CULTURE

MONTGOMERY, AL –

Located in Montgomery, Alabama, The Legacy Museum offers a powerful and immersive journey through America’s history of racial injustice, from enslavement to mass incarceration. Visitors can explore thought-provoking exhibits and firsthand accounts that bring history to life in a deeply moving way.

20. Enjoy live music day and night in Myrtle Beach; photo courtesy of Scott Smallin at The Bowery 21. Make memories at any of our 2000+ restaurants; photo courtesy of Scott Smallin at Big Chill Island House 22. The Dangerous Reef Shark Tunnel; photo courtesy of Ripley’s Aquarium Myrtle Beach 23. Barber Motorsports Museum; photo courtesy of Alabama Tourism Department 24. The Legacy Museum; photo courtesy of Alabama Tourism Department

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

SHEFFIELD, AL – Discover the birthplace of legendary music at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Sheffield, Alabama. This iconic recording studio has hosted legends like Aretha Franklin, The Rolling Stones, and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Step into the very space where timeless hits were created and feel the magic of music history firsthand.

PIGEON FORGE, TN – Classic Southern dishes, international cuisine and elevated American dishes are all on the menu in Pigeon Forge’s more than 140 eateries. Fill your plate at Mama’s Farmhouse, Bennett’s Bar-B-Que, Puckett’s, Country Roads Axe Co. featuring West By God Coal-fired Pizza, Pizza Rio Wine + Bar or combine dinner and a show at one of the fabulous dinner theaters!

PIGEON FORGE, TN – Appalachia’s roots run deep in Pigeon Forge, and the area’s Smoky Mountain heritage comes to life through talented craftspeople. Catch a pottery demonstration at Pigeon River Pottery in the Old Mill Square or explore Dollywood’s artisanfilled Craftsman’s Valley. Visit Old Smoky Distillery and take a sip of history from one of the area’s best makers.

PIGEON FORGE, TN – Dinner shows, all genres of music, comedy, acrobatics, amazing animals and more awaits audiences. Choose from great dinner shows like Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner & Show or Grand Majestic Theater’s Soul of Motown. Enjoy Dollywood’s fabulous show lineup or cheer on lumberjack competitions at Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show.

25. Muscle Shoals Sound Studio; photo courtesy of Alabama Tourism Department 26. Old Smoky Moonshine is adjacent to the Fountain Show at The Island in Pigeon Forge; photo courtesy of Pigeon Forge Dept. of Tourism 27. Puckett’s Pigeon Forge; photo courtesy of Pigeon Forge Dept. of Tourism 28. Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show; photo courtesy of Pigeon Forge Dept. of Tourism

RESTAURANTS & DINING

CULTURE

West

The Western Region of the United States is home to incredible landscapes, alluring natural beauty and bustling cities filled with great food, entertainment and attractions.

RESTAURANTS & DINING

3

1

EL PASO, TX – La

Nube is El Paso’s firstever children’s museum and science center, bringing hands-on, immersive learning experiences to the heart of downtown. This state-of-theart, fully bilingual space offers exciting opportunities for all ages to explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math through interactive exhibits, inspiring curiosity and creativity in both English and Spanish.

EL PASO, TX –

Known as the largest urban state park in the continental U.S., the Franklin Mountains offer breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures within El Paso city limits. Spanning over 27,000 acres, the park features rugged hiking trails, scenic landscapes, rock climbing, and unique wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

EL PASO, TX – Taconeta, a consecutive James Beard Award nominee, is celebrated for its outstanding service, innovative cuisine, and expertly crafted drinks. This popular eatery showcases culinary excellence with fresh, locally inspired flavors, earning national recognition while remaining a favorite among locals and visitors seeking an unforgettable dining experience.

4

LAS CRUCES, NM – New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum is 47 acres packed with real stories about real people. Visitors can stroll along corrals filled with livestock, enjoy several gardens and watch one of the museum’s many demonstrations. The interactive museum brings to life the 4,000-year history of farming and ranching in New Mexico.

1. La Nube STEAM Discovery Center; photo courtesy of Visit El Paso 2. Franklin Mountains State Park; photo courtesy of Visit El Paso 3. Taconeta; photo courtesy of Visit El Paso 4. New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum; photo courtesy of Visit Las Cruces

LAS CRUCES, NM –

Experience the world’s largest gypsum dune field located less than an hour from Las Cruces. Explore the exhibits, walk, sled, or picnic. Knowledgeable rangers help visitors learn about the hardy ecosystem through a variety of interpretive programs, guided hikes and seasonal programs that are suitable for visitors of all ages.

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

– Located on the plaza in Mesilla, the TaylorMesilla Historic Site embodies the rich history and heritage of the Southwest Borderlands. The property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and consists of two storefronts and a large residence that reflects the experiences of a multicultural family and community.

EXPLORE OUTDOORS

ARDMORE, OK – Built in the 1930s as a summer home for Governor William “Alfalfa Bill” Murray, Tucker Tower now acts as a museum and nature center. It can be seen from all over Lake Murray State Park.

CULTURE

CALERA, OK

– Take in the Luksi, or alligator snapping turtle, at the Choctaw Cultural Center while immersing yourself in the 14,000-year history of the Choctaw Nation. Celebrate stories shared from generation to generation with the whole family.

LAS CRUCES, NM

5. White Sands National Park, Las Cruces, NM; photo courtesy of Visit Las Cruces 6. Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site; photo courtesy of Visit Las Cruces 7. Lake Murray State Park; photo courtesy of the Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department 8. Choctaw Cultural Center; photo courtesy of the Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department

ELK CITY, OK – Home of the National Route 66 Museum, the neon sign stands tall to celebrate the history of the Mother Road. Take a trip to see the vast collection of artifacts, antique cars, and historical documents that capture the spirit of Route 66.

WASHINGTON STATE – Explore Washington State beyond Seattle at historic Lake Quinault Lodge, the rustic Sun Mountain Lodge, or the charming Semiahmoo Resort. Visit acclaimed wineries in Walla Walla and Yakima. Enjoy Vancouver’s new waterfront and relax at Riverfront Park in Spokane. Experience the diverse beauty and charm that Washington has to offer.

WASHINGTON

STATE – Discover the magic of Washington State’s temperate rainforests and Pacific Ocean coastline. Marvel at towering mountains, bountiful orchards, wheat fields, hops, or grapevines. Revel in breathtaking sights along the Columbia River Gorge and stand in awe of Mount St. Helens and the glacial wonder of Mount Rainier.

WASHINGTON STATE – Pay a visit to Seattle’s Pike Place Market for local produce and artisanal foods. In Eastern Washington, enjoy farm-to-table experiences, vibrant farms in the Palouse, and premier wineries in Walla Walla and Yakima. Discover U-pick farms, farmers markets, and roadside stands that celebrate local culture and nurture your soul in Washington State.

9. National Route 66 Museum 10. Olympic National Park, Port Angeles, WA; photo courtesy of Jason Hummel / Courtesy of State of Washington Tourism 11. The Lodge at St Edward; Courtesy of Columbia Hospitality/Lodge at St. Edward Park 12. Oysters on Half Shell; photo courtesy of Jason Hummel / Courtesy of State of Washington Tourism

Canada

Canada is an ideal group travel destination with diverse experiences. Its vibrant cities boast rich cultural attractions, including museums and festivals. Food lovers can savor a dynamic culinary scene, while outdoor enthusiasts enjoy national parks and stunning landscapes for hiking and skiing.

1

TORONTO – Toronto is a city where creativity thrives, shaped by diverse voices and traditions. Its cultural scene offers world-class theatre, live music, and exciting festivals year-round. Groups can enjoy Broadway-calibre productions at Mirvish Theatres, marvel at breathtaking performances of the National Ballet of Canada, or explore contemporary masterpieces at the Art Gallery of Ontario.

2

TORONTO – Step back in time and explore Toronto’s storied past, where history comes alive through the city’s iconic landmarks. Stroll the cobblestone streets of the Distillery District, tour the grand halls of Casa Loma, North America’s only authentic castle, or experience 19th-century life at Black Creek Pioneer Village. These must-visit sites bring history to life for groups of all sizes.

RESTAURANTS & DINING

3

TORONTO – Every bite in Toronto tells a story, showcasing the city’s multicultural roots. Perfect for group itineraries, the city’s culinary scene offers everything from MICHELIN-starred restaurants to local gems. Enjoy bold fusion dishes from family-owned spots, sample farm-fresh goods at St. Lawrence Market, or experience Indigenousinspired cuisine at 360 Restaurant.

PLACES TO STAY

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND – Discover Blackbush Beach Resort, a serene getaway on PEI’s north shore, just 15 minutes from Charlottetown Airport. This eco-friendly retreat offers luxury accommodations at The Hotel Acadia and Villas, stunning views of Blackbush Island dunes, and experiences like beach walks, yoga, and fresh local dining at FiN Folk Food. Dog-friendly and open yearround, it’s the ideal base for exploring PEI’s natural beauty.

1. The Royal Alexandra Theatre; © Destination Toronto 2. The historic house museum Casa Loma in midtown Toronto; © Destination Toronto 3. Amsterdam BrewHouse; © Destination Toronto 4. Fin Folk Food, Grand Tracadie PEI; photo courtesy of Paul Baglole

RESTAURANTS & DINING

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND – Chef

Michael Smith’s Fireworks Feast at the Inn at Bay Fortune offers a unique, four-hour culinary experience. Enjoy a guided farm tour, Oyster Hour with live-fire appetizers, and a multi-course feast prepared with local ingredients. End the night with handmade marshmallows over a campfire — an unforgettable experience for food lovers.

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND – Sommo Festival, held in Cavendish on September 13-14, 2025, celebrates music, food, and drink. Enjoy performances from top artists like Hozier, culinary demos with celebrity and local chefs, and stunning views of Cavendish Beach. This two-day event offers a vibrant cultural experience for both locals and visitors

NEW BRUNSWICK –

From pristine coastlines and endless sand dunes to outdoor activities and wide-open spaces, New Brunswick is a travel destination where adventure awaits. Whether that’s kayaking the world’s highest tides, hiking mountainous terrain, or setting out on an incredible whale watching excursion, visitors are invited to come explore the welcoming nature of New Brunswick.

RESTAURANTS & DINING

NEW BRUNSWICK – In New Brunswick, savour some fresh-caught seafood or farm-to-table produce along with a local craft beverage. Or, maybe an East Coast style seafood chowder, Indigenous bannock, or Acadian fricot is more to the visitor’s taste? The flavors are as varied as the cultures that make New Brunswick.

NEW BRU NSWI CK –

Along New Brunswick’s Acadian Coastal Drive, discover a French Acadian lifestyle that has been shaped by the sea and a captivating joie de vivre. The Acadians’ love for life is infectious – come for a visit and find yourself welcomed with open arms into the festivals, gatherings and homes of L’Acadie.

5. Sommo Festival, Cavendish Beach PEI; photo courtesy of Al Douglas 6. Fireworks Feast at Inn at Bay Fortune; photo courtesy of Stephen Harris 7. Kayaking in New Brunswick; photo courtesy of Explore New Brunswick 8. Patio lobster dinner; photo courtesy of Explore New Brunswick 9. Grande-Anse Acadian Lighthose; photo courtesy of Explore New Brunswick

EXPLORE OUTDOORS

CULTURE

alabama.travel

cartersvillemuseumcity.com

experiencegr.com

explorebranson.com

gosoin.com

greatpassionplay.org

lariverparishes.com

ripleys.com

theduttons.com

meetboston.com

stateofwatourism.com

thisisindiana.org

conwayscenic.com

gandydancertheatre.com

iloveny.com

mypigeonforge.com

sullivancatskills.com

titanicbranson.com

destinationtoronto.com

gogreat.com

keukawinetrail.com

niagarafallsusa.com

theadkx.org

tourcayuga.com

traversecity.com

visiteurekasprings.com

visitfrenchlickwestbaden.com

vermonttourismnetwork.com

visitlascruces.com yatesny.com

visitmyrtlebeach.com

Outdoor adventures. Small-town charm. Family fun. Historical sites. Arts and entertainment. Whatever your vision of the perfect small-town getaway, Corydon and Harrison County, Indiana, make it real.

To learn more visit ThisIsIndiana.org/group-travel

Explore the Country

•MEMORABLE ATTRACTIONS FOR ALL AGES•

Leisure Group Travel’s 2025 Attractions Guide is a comprehensive resource filled with an exciting array of destinations and activities perfect for group travelers of all ages. Whether you’re looking to explore scenic railroad trips across the country or immerse yourself in the beauty of Bellingrath Gardens in Alabama, the guide offers something for every interest. From Boys Town in Nebraska to the bustling streets of New York City, this guide highlights a diverse range of experiences. With options that cater to different group sizes and preferences, it’s an invaluable tool for planning memorable trips that create lasting memories.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, in Palm Springs, CA, is the world’s largest rotating tram car.

GET A BETTER VIEW

Subscribers

ARCADE AND ATTICA RAILROAD Arcade, NY

The Iron Horse Returns: All Aboard for Our 2025 Season Opener- Memorial Day Weekend with Steam Engine #18 back on the rails at the Arcade and Attica Railroad running May-Oct.

Step back in time and enjoy your journey aboard the Arcade & Attica Railroad. As you enter the historic station, you’re

surrounded by the history of railroading in America. We’re an authentic short line railroad with the distinction of being one of the last “common carriers” — running freight and passenger trains weekly. We are the the last regular passenger operating Steam Train Excursions in New York state. (www.aarailroad.com)

ALASKA RAILROAD

Anchorage, AK

The Alaska Railroad connects travelers with the heart of Alaska, offering scenic routes to iconic destinations like Anchorage, Seward, Denali, Fairbanks and more. With 500 miles of track to explore, our trains take you through stunning coastlines, pristine valleys, glistening glaciers, and rugged mountain ranges.

Every detail of our onboard service is designed to delight and ensure comfort. Two service choices to suit your clientele: GoldStar Service features bi-level dome cars featuring a private bar, full-service dining, and a second-level outdoor viewing platform — unique to the Alaska Railroad. Adventure Class offers roomy seats, big picture windows, and café dining.

Operating year-round, the Alaska Railroad offers daily departures during the summer, providing easy itinerary planning. In the winter, embrace Alaska’s snow-capped beauty with weekend and select mid-week trips.

The Alaska Railroad is your ticket to adventure and greater commissions. Whether you’re looking for day trips, multi-day packages, or custom itineraries, the Alaska Railroad offers flexibility and adventure.

For information about the Alaska Railroad, becoming a partner or education opportunities, visit alaskarailroad.com/ travel-trade today.

2025 ATTRACTIONS GUIDE

WHITEWATER VALLEY RAILROAD

Connersville, IN

The Whitewater Valley Railroad located in Connersville, Indiana is a heritage railroad museum dedicated to preserving and operating historic rail equipment over a former New York Central branch line. Founded in 1972 the Whitewater Valley Railroad is a 501c3 not for profit organization that is celebrating over 50 years of service

The Whitewater Valley is billed as Indiana’s most scenic railroad. Our trips range from short half hour locals to all day excursions. Our featured trip is the Valley Flyer. On Saturday’s and Sunday’s from May through October passengers depart from Grand Central Station which is our main depot, located in Connersville, Indiana. Trains leave at noon and leisurely travel through the beautiful Whitewater River valley for approximately and hour and a half to Metamora Indiana. Guests can enjoy visiting the shops or restaurants with a two hour layover before the hour and half return to Connersville.

Additional trains throughout the year feature our Wild West Special each third Saturday of the month. October sees the Ghost Train of Metamora with multiple late night trips into the woods that is suitable for all ages. Other seasonal trains include the Easter Bunny Express, Pumpkinliner, and Santa Clause Limited among many others. (whitewatervalleyrr.org)

RAINBOW AIR HELICOPTER TOURS

Niagara Falls, NY

Our new $15 million Tourism Center is set to open in May 2025. It will house several unique and exciting experiences for guests coming as groups, families, or individuals, and it’s less than five minutes from the entrance to Niagara Falls State Park. Rainbow Air is looking to provide something

for everyone, at varying price points and degrees of adventure. Once it opens, the Tourism Center will be open every day of the year except for Christmas, creating plenty of opportunities to explore all that the new Rainbow Air has to offer.

(www.rainbowairinc.com)

PALM SPRINGS AERIAL TRAMWAY

Palm Springs, CA

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway—the world’s largest rotating tram car—travels over two-and-one-half miles along the cliffs of Chino Canyon, transporting visitors to the pristine wilderness of the Mt. San Jacinto State Park and Wilderness Area. During this ten-minute journey, tram cars rotate slowly, offering spectacular vistas of the valley below. At the Tram’s Mountain Station—elevation 8,516 feet and up to 30 degrees cooler than the desert floor—dine in two restaurants, enjoy viewpoints, browse the gift shop, hike over 50 miles of trails, watch two documentary films or visit the natural history museum. Group rates start at just 10 people. Dining packages are available for 15 or more, and banquet space seats up to 136 people. (pstramway.com)

2025 ATTRACTIONS GUIDE

BELLINGRATH GARDENS

Mobile County, AL

The inaugural Gulf Coast Chinese Lantern Festival at Bellingrath Gardens & Home is an extraordinary event that will transform the beautiful 65-acre estate into an enchanting world of light and color, running from April 17 to June 15. This captivating festival brings the art of traditional Chinese lantern-making to the heart of Alabama, with over 40 massive, glowing lantern displays that highlight the beauty of nature, wildlife, and Chinese traditions. Each lantern is meticulously hand-crafted by skilled artisans from China, using centuriesold techniques. These stunning displays are inspired by the vibrant colors and shapes found in nature, featuring animals, plants, and mythical creatures that are brought to life through the combination of steel frames, silk fabric, and LED lighting. (bellingrath.org)

RISE NY

New York, NY

Fall in love with New York all over again with this thrilling immersive adventure! Fly over NYC’s iconic skyline on a soaring flight simulation ride using 4D technology! Enter a replica of the inaugural City Hall subway and journey from 1904 to present day in our NYC short documentary, narrated by

Jeff Goldblum. Explore seven interactive galleries with artifacts and memorabilia from leading museums. Take your group on a breathtaking journey that connects you to NYC’s most famous sites and moments. For more information visit riseny.co/groups or email groups@riseny.co. (riseny.co)

BOYS TOWN

Boys Town, NE

When Father Edward J. Flanagan purchased the Overlook Farm in 1921, it became the new, permanent site of Boys Town. Over the decades, schools, churches and homes were built, and tens of thousands of young lives were transformed.

When you visit the Village of Boys Town, a National Historic Landmark District located in Omaha, NE, you’ll get an unforgettable glimpse into the history of an organization that has given new hope to so many at-risk children for over 100 years.

Highlights of Your Visit

Village Drive: A drive through our community reveals trees, farmland, open spaces, memorial statues, fountains and abundant photo opportunities. You’ll see how our children live, work, play, worship and go to school.

Visitors Center and Café: Start your visit to Boys Town at our Visitors Center and receive tour information, purchase souvenir gifts and visit the “World’s Largest Ball of Stamps.” Our Overlook Café serves breakfast and lunch.

For more than 70 years, Dowd Memorial Chapel of the Immaculate Conception has stood at the center of the Village of Boys Town. Rising from the landscape in the tradition of a 15th-century Gothic church, Dowd Chapel shines as a beacon of hope. The Chapel is home to Father Flanagan’s Tomb and is open to the public every day. (boystown.org)

2025 ATTRACTIONS GUIDE

RONALD REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM

Simi Valley, CA

Perched atop a hill with sweeping views of the southland, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is one of California’s most beautiful and unique destinations. This iconic landmark is more than just a museum - it is a journey through history. Where else in California can visitors walk onboard an actual Air Force One aircraft that flew seven U.S. presidents, touch an authentic piece of the Berlin Wall, or lay a hand on a real steel beam recovered from the World Trade Center after 9-11?

The Reagan Museum boasts a stunning collection of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and even a fullscale replica of the Oval Office. Visitors step aboard and tour through Air Force One 27000 and Marine One to learn how President Reagan changed the face of global diplomacy. Beyond the extraordinary displays, the Reagan Museum offers an opportunity for visitors to truly understand the impact that President Reagan had on our nation and the world.

Visitors may also enjoy the Museum’s outdoor grounds, where you can stroll through replicas of the White House Rose Garden and West Lawn, and reflect at President and Mrs. Reagan’s memorial site. (www.reaganlibrary.com.)

VIRGINIA

VIRGINIA CELEBRATES 250 YEARS OF FREEDOM

Experience Sail250 ® , Virginia’s maritime wonders and VA250’s historic events honoring the nation’s founding

Inclusive Group Adventures A

Welcome to Virginia

On behalf of the Virginia Tourism Corporation and our statewide tourism partners, I invite you and your groups to tour Virginia!

Virginia is at the epicenter for American Revolution 250th Commemoration tours with not to miss special events in 2025, 2026 and beyond. Also, 2025 is the 250th anniversary of the Army, Navy and Marines. From the National Museum of the U.S. Army and National Museum of the Marine Corps to Naval Station Norfolk, there are many attractions to explore and pay tribute.

Virginia is easily accessible, no matter your chosen mode of transportation and destinations are working to ensure they are welcoming to all abilities. In this guide, you will also learn about our vibrant festivals, the beauty of our many caverns and places to unwind in luxury.

Your groups will discover our unparalleled history and heritage, cultural and performing arts, outdoor adventures and scenic vistas, music and artesian trails, culinary and craft beverages to customize an unforgettable tour experience! Customer service, quality tours and partners with years of experience are why groups come back year after year.

We look forward to welcoming your groups to Virginia. For personal assistance, contact me at jjohnson@virginia.org or visit Virginia.org/ groups for information and resources for planning exciting group tour experiences.

Happy travels,

Joni Johnson Director of Domestic Sales & Marketing Virginia Tourism Corporation

Virginia is celebrating several anniversaries this year.

Virginia is a leader in accessible travel and sports.

The live music scene in Virginia is second-to-none.

Photo courtesy of Virginia Tourism Corporation

VIRGINIA

By Billy Stampfl

Billy Stampfl

Justine Leavitt

Billy Stampfl

By Kristen Cerney

THE COMMONWEALTH CELEBRATES MILITARY ANNIVERSARIES IN STYLE

Virginia is Marking 250 Years of the Army, Navy and Marine Corps with memorable events

By Billy Stampfl

Virginia is taking center stage in the nation’s semiquincentennial celebrations, honoring the 250th anniversaries of the Army, Navy and Marine Corps. With a lineup of extraordinary events and activities and a host of incredible museums and memorials, the state is paying homage to its pivotal role in American history.

ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY

ARLINGTON COUNTY

Two major annual remembrance ceremonies take place at Arlington National Cemetery’s Memorial Amphitheater on Memorial Day (last Monday of May) and Veterans Day (November 11). Some 5,000 visitors attend each of these national ceremonies, which are sponsored by the U.S. Army Military District of Washington. All ceremonies and special events are free and open to the public.

WOMEN’S MEMORIAL AT ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY

As the only historical repository documenting all military women’s service, this memorial educates and inspires through innovative and interactive exhibitions, world-class collections and engaging programs and events. Celebrated each year on June 12 in recognition of the anniversary of the 1948 Women’s Armed Services Integration Act signing, 2025 is the 77th anniversary of that groundbreaking legislation for America’s military women, granting women a permanent place and an opportunity for a career in the nation’s military. Visit the memorial for a festive afternoon featuring a special program, recognition, celebration, food and appreciation for the three million women patriots who have served and are serving this nation so proudly and well.

Virginia Tourism Corporation

Virginia is home to a host of excellent military attractions.

MILITARY ANNIVERSARIES

MILITARY AVIATION MUSEUM VIRGINIA BEACH

The Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach will host an airshow in 2025 to celebrate the 250th anniversary of military events. The Flying Proms Symphonic Airshow will take place on June 14. This one-of-a-kind outdoor concert features live music, thrilling aerial displays and dazzling fireworks. Flying Proms promises an unforgettable fusion of history and group-friendly festivities. Bring your picnic basket and soak in the ambiance as you delight in your favorite patriotic tunes and aviation-themed melodies, while enjoying a selection of wines, beers, sodas and water that are available for purchase.

NATIONAL D-DAY MEMORIAL BEDFORD

The National D-Day Memorial is a must visit for anyone interested in World War II or American military history. This year, the Memorial will honor the military on June 6 with a special ceremony. The event will offer free admission until noon.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE MARINE CORPS TRIANGLE

The National Museum of the Marine Corps is a lasting tribute to the commitment, accomplishments and sacrifices of U.S. Marines. Situated on a 135-acre site adjacent to Marine Corps Base Quantico, and under the

command of Marine Corps University, the museum’s soaring design evokes the images of the flag raisers of Iwo Jima and beckons visitors to this 240,000-squarefoot structure. A Marine-related event scheduled for the year includes:

• Nov. 10 and 11: VA250 Marine Corps and Armed Forces 250th Celebration at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY FORT BELVOIR

This museum celebrates 250 years of Army history and honors the country’s soldiers: the Army, Army Reserve and the Army National Guard.

The museum and the Army Historical Foundation are planning multiple events to commemorate the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary in 2025. On May 30, the museum will host a Revolutionary War Symposium. This free, full-day symposium will focus on the first two years of the Revolutionary War. Opening June 14 is the exhibit Call To Arms: The Soldier and the Revolutionary War. This landmark 5,000-square-foot exhibit will include a rare collection of Revolutionary War artifacts from the original colonies, England, France and Canada.

VIRGINIA WAR MUSEUM NEWPORT NEWS

American military history from 1775 to the present is highlighted through weapons, vehicles, uniforms, insignia and more. On June 14, the museum will host The Shipyard Experience: A Trolley and Walking Tour. This tour will feature many sites related to the shipyard, including Huntington Avenue, the tugboat Dorothy, the Apprentice School Dormitory, the Victory Arch and Victory Landing Park, the Yard District, and Hilton Village. 1

Virginia Tourism Corporation

National Museum of the United States Army

VIRGINIA CELEBRATES 250 YEARS OF FREEDOM

Experience Sail250 ®, Virginia’s maritime wonders and VA250’s historic events honoring the nation’s founding

By Bill Stampfl

Virginia is gearing up for an unforgettable celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in 2025 and 2026, blending history, culture and patriotic pride into a host of remarkable events. Sail250® Virginia and VA250 will honor the Commonwealth’s integral role in shaping the nation’s founding ideals and maritime heritage. These festivities promise something for everyone, from breathtaking parades of tall ships and free public concerts to deeply moving commemorations of Virginia’s history and diverse communities. With celebrations spanning the Chesapeake Bay region and key

historical sites statewide, 2026 will be a year to remember.

SAIL250® VIRGINIA

Virginia will play a key role in America’s semiquincentennial celebrations in 2026, hosting Sail250® Virginia from June 12 to June 23. As part of the nation’s Sail250® America tour, Virginia has been selected as one of five official ports, alongside New Orleans, Baltimore, New York and Boston. This milestone maritime festival will transform the Chesapeake Bay region into a vibrant hub of history, culture, and international camaraderie.

The festival will welcome more than 55 of the world’s most magnificent international tall ships and military ships from at least 20 nations, accompanied by 7,000 sailors, officers and dignitaries. The spectacular Parade of Sail, a tradition of maritime pageantry, will usher the fleet into the Hampton Roads harbor on June 19. Norfolk will serve as the main host city, offering free public ship tours, dynamic concerts, dazzling fireworks, and engaging educational programs through June 23. Affiliate harbors across the Chesapeake Bay region, including Smithfield/Isle of Wight County, will enhance the

Sail250 Virginia will honor the Commonwealth’s role in shaping the nation. Virginia

250 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE

festivities. Smithfield will host ships and events the preceding weekend, June 12–15, adding depth to the celebration. Sail250® Virginia is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the grandeur of maritime history while commemorating 250 years of American independence. Keep an eye on sail250virginia.com for event updates and details on how to experience this historic celebration.

VA250

Beyond the beauty and excitement of Sail250® Virginia, the broader VA250 celebrations will commemorate Virginia’s role in the 250th anniversary of American independence, marking this important national milestone by uniting Virginians and inviting groups to explore where so much history has taken place. Visit Virginia.org/groups/ va250 for suggested group itineraries,

attractions and events.

There are numerous high-profile events—spread throughout the state— to mark the semiquincentennial. One example is the Virginia International Tattoo, which will feature an aweinspiring cast of more than 800 civilian and military performers from seven nations. In 1997, the Virginia Arts Festival presented Norfolk with what has now become a staple to Norfolk’s performing arts scene: The Virginia International Tattoo. The Tattoo blends tradition and entertainment in the form of bagpipers, military bands, fife and drum corps and drill teams that make up the hundreds of performers who come to Virginia once a year for the festival.

In 2026, the Tattoo will take place April 16-19 and will again be a spectacle as this Special Edition Tattoo 250 will have an American Revolution theme.

FOURTH OF JULY

Another set of special events sure to evoke patriotic sentiments is VA250’s Fourth of July celebrations, including fireworks on July 3, 2025 at Rivers Edge Park in Roanoke; on July 4, 2025 at Fort Monroe in Hampton; and on July 4, 2026 in Colonial Williamsburg. Is there a better way to mark this country’s birthday than with dazzling light shows? This series of Independence Day events will be spectacular, as evidenced by the success of the July 4, 2024 event at the Virginia State Capitol.

AMERICAN REVOLUTION MUSEUM

Virginia’s upcoming celebrations offer visitors a chance to dive deeper into our national history through other compelling activities—and the American

Revolution Museum at Yorktown stands out as a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Located near the site of the decisive Battle of Yorktown, this immersive museum provides a comprehensive look at the American Revolution’s transformative journey. Indoor galleries feature a wealth of period artifacts, interactive exhibits, and dramatic films, including the 180-degree surroundscreen experience, “The Siege of Yorktown.” Guests can trace the progression from colonial unrest to the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution through exhibits that highlight the diverse personal stories of ordinary citizens and soldiers. The museum’s outdoor living-history areas bring history to life with re-created settings like a Continental Army encampment and a Revolution-era farm.

HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS

Aberdeen Gardens Museum in Hampton is another classic stop: It celebrates the history and heritage of the historic Aberdeen Gardens, built for and by African Americans in 1935. The museum is group friendly as groups of 15-20 can tour the interior of the house while others explore the six historic markers surrounding the property.

The Williamsburg Bray School is the oldest extant building dedicated to the education of Black children in the United States, located in Williamsburg. Established in 1760 by the Associates of Dr. Bray, an Anglican charity based in England, the school’s faith-based curriculum justified slavery and encouraged those that who were enslaved to accept their destinies. In November of 2024, 250 years after

its closing, the school saw a ceremony that commemorates its legacy as the oldest extant building in the United States dedicated to the education of black children.

Another group-friendly destination is the Historic Emanuel AME Church in Portsmouth, the oldest African American church in the area and a moving site to visit.

As the nation reflects on its 250 years of independence, Virginia stands ready to lead the celebrations with a rich blend of historical reverence and vibrant festivities. Mark your calendar for these once-in-a-lifetime experiences that honor the past and embrace the future. Immerse yourself in Virginia’s unique role in the nation’s story. Join the Commonwealth in celebrating the ideals, sacrifices, and triumphs that have defined America since 1776. 1

Immerse yourself in the history of the Charlottesville area, including homes of three former presidents, a Colonial era tavern, a wide variety of culinary options, and worldclass wineries. Add stops at amazing museums, cultural centers and art exhibitions for a memorable visit.

CHARLOTTESVILLE

ALBEMARLE

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Teresa Lamb sales@visitcharlottesville.org (434) 972-4138

visitcharlottesville.org

CHARLOTTESVILLE & ALBEMARLE COUNTY, VA

EXPERIENCE HISTORY, FOOD & WINE IN CHARLOTTESVILLE & ALBEMARLE

COUNTY

DAY 1

Charlottesville and Albemarle County are home to world-renowned historic sites, including the homes of three of the country’s former presidents, making the area the perfect place to visit for the 250th anniversary of the nation in 2026. Visit Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s home, and the University of Virginia, both of which are a single UNESCO World Heritage site. Jefferson was the third president of the United States, author of the Declaration of Independence and the founder of the University of Virginia.

Michie Tavern is a great spot to enjoy lunch and a tour on your way to or from Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. Located just half a mile from Monticello, this historic tavern dates to 1784, giving visitors a glimpse into the past and the chance to enjoy an 18th Century, Southern dining experience. Michie Tavern’s popular lunch buffet features southern fried chicken, hickory-smoked pork barbecue, mashed potatoes and more.

Not far from Monticello and Michie Tavern is James Monroe’s Highland, the home of another U.S. President. Highland was purchased by Monroe in 1793 and home to the Monroe family for nearly 25 years. This historical site was acquired by the College of William and Mary (Monroe’s alma mater) in 1974 and today they host events, offer daily tours, and have a great museum shop. For those looking to continue their immersion in history, James Madison’s Montpelier is just a short drive away.

Enjoy dinner at the Dairy Market, a new group food destination located in the historic Monticello Dairy Building. Located in Downtown Charlottesville, not far from the University of Virginia, the space is home to a dozen merchant stalls of varying cuisines, including a brewery, retail shops, and even a duckpin bowling alley coming in the spring of 2025!

DAY 2

Your group will start the day with a walking tour of the historic Grounds of the University of Virginia See and learn more about the Lawn, the Rotunda and UVA’s Memorial to Enslaved Laborers. This memorial honors the 4,000 to 5,000 enslaved people who lived and worked at UVA between 1817 and 1865.

Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center is an important place where your group can explore a permanent art exhibit, a rotating contemporary art gallery, and a robust calendar of events.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026, the nearby Downtown Mall is a historic, pedestrian mall that is a great spot to enjoy lunch, shop and stroll. Many restaurants offer outdoor dining and groups will be able to choose from a variety of cuisines and price points. The Charlottesville area was recently named Wine Enthusiast’s Wine Region of the Year and features nearly 50 wineries on the Monticello Wine Trail. Experts at one of our regional wine tour companies will plan a customized route suited to your group’s interests.

Photo courtesy of Gene Runion

Welcome to Charlottesville and Albemarle County!

As the 250th anniversary of our nation approaches, the Charlottesville area is the perfect place to discover world-renowned historic sites, nearly 50 wineries along the Monticello Wine Trail, a thriving restaurant scene, and other attractions that draw groups year-round. Many lodging properties are within walking distance of restaurants, entertainment venues and shopping, but you can also retreat to the countryside for quick access to outdoor activities and beautiful scenery.

visitcharlottesville.org

Planning a visit for a larger group? We can help your group secure room blocks at lodging properties through a competitive RFP process, assist with motorcoach parking, provide expert guide referrals, recommend group dining options, and anything else your group may need, ensuring a no-hassle experience your guests will never forget. If you have questions or need more information, please email our Sales Manager, Teresa Lamb, at sales@visitcharlottesville.org or (434) 972-4138. She will be happy to assist you!

AN EXPLOSION OF MUSIC AND CULTURE

Timeless traditions mix with jazz, gardening and military history, making 2025 a dazzling year for the Commonwealth

Virginia is home to a rich tapestry of events that celebrate the state’s vibrant history, diverse culture and creative spirit. From stunning military pageantry to toetapping Americana and soulful jazz performances, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or you’re planning your first trip to the Commonwealth, 2025 offers a packed calendar of unforgettable events.

BRISTOL RHYTHM

& ROOTS

REUNION

Virginia’s deep musical heritage comes alive at the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, a celebration of Americana music that takes place in the twin cities of Bristol, Virginia, and Bristol, Tennessee. This annual threeday festival, set for September 19-21, 2025, transforms a four-block area into a dynamic concert experience,

featuring performances across four main stages, a dance tent and 12 smaller venues in local shops and bars.

Since its inception in 2001, the festival has earned acclaim for its lively atmosphere and commitment to showcasing the best in roots music. From local food vendors to eclectic performances, visitors can immerse themselves in a community-

Virginia honors its rich musical heritage with a variety of festivals and concerts.

Virginia Tourism Corporation

driven event that embodies the spirit of Virginia’s musical heritage.

NEPTUNE FESTIVAL BOARDWALK WEEKEND

Celebrate coastal charm and community spirit at the Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend in Virginia Beach which begins September 26. Known for its lively atmosphere, this event takes over 30 blocks of the iconic boardwalk. Visitors can enjoy free concerts featuring over 20 performances, browse the awardwinning Art & Craft Show, or marvel at the breathtaking sand sculptures at Neptune’s International Sandsculpting Championship.

The festival, a Virginia Beach tradition since 1973, also includes athletic events like an 8K race and volleyball tournaments as well as family-friendly activities such as the Grand Parade and Youth Art Show. Scheduled for late

September 2025, this event promises to be a highlight of the season, combining seaside relaxation with vibrant cultural celebrations.

HISTORIC GARDEN WEEK

Every spring, Virginia transforms into a floral paradise during Historic Garden Week, tapped for April 26 to May 3. Organized by the Garden Club of Virginia, this statewide event provides visitors with a rare opportunity to tour private landscapes, public gardens and historic sites at the peak of spring.

The tradition began in 1929 and has raised over $500 million to support preservation efforts at landmarks like Monticello, Mount Vernon and Montpelier. More than 1,000 exquisite floral arrangements, created by Garden Club members, adorn the tour properties, enhancing the beauty of Virginia’s historic architecture and lush landscapes. Whether you visit for a day

Neptune Festival Boardwalk Weekend in Virginia Beach.

Virginia Tourism Corporation

or the entire week, Historic Garden Week provides an unparalleled glimpse into the state’s rich horticulture.

JAZZ FESTIVALS

Virginia’s love for jazz is evident in a trio of standout festivals, each offering a unique experience for music enthusiasts.

The Hampton Jazz Festival, running from June 27-29, is a longstanding tradition that has delighted audiences since 1968. Hosted at the Hampton Coliseum, the festival features a mix of jazz, R&B, and blues artists, creating a family-friendly atmosphere that feels as much like a reunion as a concert.

In August, the spotlight shifts to the Richmond Jazz Festival, held August 15-18. Renowned for its world-class lineup, this festival blends the best of legendary jazz icons and emerging talent. Attendees can expect an unforgettable experience in one of Virginia’s most scenic venues, not to

mention a fusion of genres.

Rounding out the season is the Norfolk Jazz Festival, set for August 22-23, at Town Point Park on the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront. This festival is the longest-running outdoor jazz event in the area, with a laid-back vibe and stunning waterfront views. Artists such as Boney James and Brian Culbertson will grace the stage, providing the perfect soundtrack to summer evenings.

Virginia’s numerous special events capture the essence of the state’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant community spirit. From the stirring performances of the Virginia International Tattoo to the soulful sounds of its jazz festivals, there’s no shortage of reasons to visit in 2025. Some appreciate the serene beauty of Historic Garden Week; others feed off of the lively energy of the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion. No matter what, Virginia promises dynamic experiences for every traveler. 1

Virginia is home to a variety of renowned jazz festivals.

Virginia Tourism Corporation

Let your group discover the many wonders of Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown. The Historic Triangle offers the perfect blend of storied attractions, exhilarating outdoor adventures, and enriching entertainment for groups of all sizes and interests. Beyond the country’s largest living history museum, find delightful surprises including culinary gems, eclectic boutiques, and gravity-defying roller coasters.

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

Pay a

VIRGINIA’S CAVERNS: AN ADVENTURE FOR ALL

Go underground and see Virginia’s natural wonders

By Justine Leavitt

The natural wonders in Virginia are unparalleled. With countless trees, rolling hills and breathtaking greenery, this picturesque state has long been an ideal destination for travel groups. But some of Virginia’s greatest treasures lie beneath the surface.

Deep below the hills and trees, the caverns in Virginia boast an

extensive network of tunnels and extraordinary rock formations. Offering both an educational and adventurous experience, the caves are perfect for all ages and groups—family reunions, school trips, corporate retreats, etc. Let’s dive into the details and learn why Virginia caverns could be perfect for your next group trip.

LURAY CAVERNS

The largest caverns in the Eastern United States, Luray Caverns in Luray are unlike any place on earth. Take a tour along lighted paved walkways that lead you through cathedral-sized rooms with ceilings 10 stories high, towering stone formations, and natural wonders at every turn.

Virginia Tourism Corporation

visit

one of Virginia’s amazing caverns.

Luray offers an incredible variety of stunning geological formations. Like music? Don’t miss the Stalacpipe Organ—the world’s largest musical instrument—where stalactites are tapped to make the organ’s notes.

With accessibility and group-friendly tours, Luray Caverns are some of the best caverns in Virginia. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast or just your average adventurer, be prepared for a memorable experience.

Benefits for Groups: Do you have 20 or more in your group? Take advantage of the Luray Caverns group tours and get a discount for everyone. Learn the history on a guided discovery tour or consider adding a group food package.

Nearby Attractions: Beyond its underground attractions, Luray plays host to a variety of other destination spots and activities. Visit the Luray Zoo, find adventure at the Rope Adventure Park, or explore the Garden Maze.

SHENANDOAH CAVERNS

During your group tour in Virginia, make sure to hit Shenandoah Caverns, located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. Known for its vibrant, colorful formations, Shenandoah Caverns has been a favorite among visitors for over a century.

Interested in exploring more of Virginia’s history? Book a package tour and visit the nearby American Celebration on Parade. Here, groups can explore a collection of parade floats from past inaugural parades.

Benefits for Groups: The wellmaintained walkways of Shenandoah Valley Caverns make them easily accessible for large groups and those with mobility challenges. Need a room for a conference or event? With its warm wood and twinkling lights, the cavern’s Yellow Barn has the perfect atmosphere

for banquets or ceremonies.

Nearby Attractions: Shenandoah National Park is ideal for groups wanting to hike, view wildlife and take scenic drives. If you need to cool down, spend a relaxing afternoon on the Shenandoah River.

NATURAL BRIDGE CAVERNS

Natural Bridge Caverns in Virginia, located near the famous Natural Bridge State Park, is known for its remarkable rock formations and impressive underground landscape. In fact, this cave system boasts 34 stories of underground tunnels. Enjoy nationally renowned guided tours with experts and a hassle-free journey idea for large groups.

Here, the natural wonders in Virginia are easily recognized both below and above ground. The area surrounding Natural Bridge Caverns is filled with scenic beauty, making it an excellent spot for travel groups who enjoy photography, hiking, or a relaxing outdoor picnic.

Benefits for Travel Groups: Natural Bridge Caverns and State Park are ideal for a full-day group outing. With accessible paths, ample space for parking, and beautiful greenery for picnics, travel groups are in for a relaxing, stress-free afternoon. The advanced knowledge of cave systems allows for the educational experience desired by many tour groups.

Nearby Attractions: Don’t miss gem mining and the cavern’s rock shop as you explore the caverns in Virginia. For above-ground adventure, enjoy hikes at Natural Bridge State Park and the iconic Natural Bridge, a towering limestone arch.

ENDLESS CAVERNS

Endless Caverns, located in the scenic Massanutten Mountain area, is a hidden

gem that offers smaller crowds and a more intimate experience. Despite its more secluded nature, Endless Caverns boasts stunning limestone formations, including delicate stalactites and stalagmites.

Groups visiting Endless Caverns will enjoy many on-site amenities. These include ample parking, a gift shop, and a visitor center—including disc golf, pickle ball courts, a recreation hall, and a camp store. Here is the perfect place to sit back and have some fun as a group.

Benefits for Travel Groups: Endless Caverns is prepared for groups at any time of the year. The many events listed on their schedule would invite socialization and group bonding. If you’re staying a while, look at the promotions offered and get a discount for your whole group.

Nearby Attractions: Don’t stop now. If you’re looking for a little extra fun, consider the nearby Massanutten Waterpark, Shenvalee Golf Resort, or ATV and mountain biking trails. 1

Virginia is home to a variety of natural wonders.

Virginia Tourism Corporation

INCLUSIVE GROUP ADVENTURES IN VIRGINIA

Why the Old Dominion State is a top destination for ADA-compliant attractions

By Billy Stampfl

Accessible travel in the United States is important because it allows everyone—regardless of physical or cognitive abilities—the opportunity to experience memorable group travel experiences. It is about demolishing barriers and creating travel experiences that are inclusive and enjoyable for groups, families, and seniors, among other travelers with accessibility needs. This encompasses

accessible transportation, accommodations, and attractions, altogether making sure that people with disabilities can navigate freely and independently.

Tour groups, which are increasingly recognizing the importance of accessible travel, are working to make their offerings more inclusive. They try to provide accessible transportation options, such as wheelchair-accessible

vans and buses. They work closely with hotels and attractions to ensure that experiences are open to all guests. Additionally, many tour groups employ trained staff who are knowledgeable about accessibility issues and can provide support to travelers with disabilities.

This is where Virginia comes in— the Commonwealth is a leader in accessible travel, striving to activate

Virginia is a leader in accessible travel.

its diverse landscapes and rich history to all. From the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains to historic coastal towns, the state boasts a wide range of destinations, including national parks with boardwalks and accessible trails, museums with audio tours and ramps.

LOUDOUN

Visit Loudoun set out to develop a program that helps industry partners better understand what it means to be truly welcoming to people of all abilities, both visible and invisible. After reviewing proposals, Visit Loudoun awarded funding to the Arc of Loudoun to launch the “You Belong Here” Disability Awareness and Accessibility Training. This two-hour session helps businesses and their staff identify, understand and address the barriers that individuals with various disabilities may face when shopping, staying, or visiting. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate and a window cling, signaling their commitment to inclusion. Businesses also receive sensory kits curated by Visit Loudoun.

RICHMOND

In 2021, Richmond Region Tourism, which promotes Richmond along with six neighboring jurisdictions, established a dedicated focus on accessibility to ensure inclusive and welcoming experiences for all visitors. In collaboration with VisitAble, the organization offers free disability inclusion and awareness training for local hospitality businesses. Richmond’s commitment to inclusivity is further highlighted by its role as the host city for the 2025 Adult and Junior Division Wheelchair Basketball National Tournaments.

FAIRFAX COUNTY

Fairfax County has likewise put in lots of effort to make its attractions

and amenities accessible—and one of the most impressive results is its long list of wheelchair-friendly destinations that make exploring the area both easy and enjoyable.

One prime example is the National Museum of the United States Army, a standout attraction with multiple companion-care restrooms, an accessible seating area in its onsite theater, and interactive exhibits designed for people with limited mobility, including hand controls for those who cannot reach screens.

CHARLOTTESVILLEALBEMARLE COUNTY

Charlottesville and Albemarle County are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible environment for all visitors. Recognized as one of Booking.com’s 2023 “Most Welcoming Places on Earth,” the region takes pride in its diverse and vibrant community. For those who appreciate fine wine, the Monticello Wine Trail features over 40 wineries, many of which offer

accessible tasting rooms and scenic outdoor spaces. Meanwhile, the historic Downtown Mall provides a lively, pedestrian-friendly setting with locally owned shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. In 2025, Rivanna River Company, supported by a Virginia Tourism Corporation DRIVE Outdoor grant, will debut three adaptive kayaks for the spring season.

ALEXANDRIA

Alexandria, nestled along the Potomac River with views of Washington, D.C., welcomes visitors of all abilities, offering a blend of rich history and modern accessibility. This serene town is known for its beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture. Old Town Alexandria’s King Street mile boasts more than 200 independent restaurants, boutiques, and historic museums, making it a must-visit destination. Visitors can explore the scenic waterfront, where new attractions continue to enhance the experience. 1

Virginia boasts a wide range of destinations that feature accessible trails and ramps.

Virginia Tourism Corporation

VIRGINIA’S RESORTS: A BLEND OF LUXURY AND WELLNESS

These premier locations capture Virginia’s tranquility

By Kristen Cerney

Virginia’s boundless charm is reflected in these exceptional destinations. From luxurious resorts with full-service spas to locations boasting thrilling adventures, the state offers something for everyone.

OMNI HOMESTEAD RESORT & SPA

Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains of Hot Springs, VA, the Omni Homestead Resort & Spa offers a peaceful retreat for its guests. With more than 250 years of history, this renowned resort has hosted 24 U.S. presidents and continues to captivate

visitors with its timeless charm. After recently completing a $170 million renovation, the resort blends vintage elegance with modern luxuries. The Great Hall, adorned with elegant seating and grand pillars, creates a welcoming atmosphere from the moment you arrive. The 483 guest rooms feature plush featherbeds and soft down pillows, ensuring a restful stay. Guests can indulge in the soothing bath houses at the historic Warm Spring Pools or explore the two-acre waterpark, complete with a lazy river and winding water slides. Surrounded by the serene mountains, golf enthusiasts will relish their time on one of Virginia’s top courses. After a day of relaxation and adventure, unwind at the full-service spa and enjoy a meal at one of the resort’s eight exceptional restaurants.

SALAMANDER MIDDLEBURG

Set in Virginia’s renowned horse and wine country, Salamander Middleburg provides a serene escape into the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Embracing authentic country charm, the resort’s 168 rooms are designed to feel like elegant residential homes, each featuring an outdoor patio or balcony for guests to enjoy the fresh mountain air. For an adventurous experience, take part in the Treetop Zip Tour, where skilled instructors will guide you through the canopy with ease. A standout feature of the resort is its equestrian center, boasting an impressive 14,000-square-foot stable. The center offers a variety of equestrian activities, including trail rides, riding lessons, and essential horsemanship programs. Don’t miss the chance to meet Cupcake, the resident miniature horse with a big personality. End your visit with a stop at the Gold Cup Wine Bar to pick up a s’mores kit and enjoy a cozy evening by the fire pits.

Virginia Tourism Corporation

Salamander Middleburg features an impressive 14,000-square-foot stable.

Virginia is home to a seemingly endless amount of wellness options.

LUXURY AND WELLNESS

THE TIDES INN

Steeped in a rich history of providing captains and crews with a safe harbor, The Tides Inn invites its guests to embrace ecological sustainability while basking in the resort’s tranquil charm. Nestled along a tributary of the nation’s most iconic estuary, the Chesapeake Bay, the Inn offers an idyllic setting to unwind and foster a deeper connection with nature. The shoreline teems with life, from majestic Blue Herons and Ospreys to Blue Crabs and oysters— all of which guests can learn about through the resort’s resident ecologist. A visit to the Shoreline Trail and oyster reef reveals the intricate ways local flora and fauna coexist in perfect harmony. Celebrating the bounty of the Chesapeake Bay, the Inn takes pride

in serving locally sourced seafood, complemented by the agricultural treasures of Virginia’s Northern Neck.

PRIMLAND RESORT

The Primland Resort is a year-round haven for outdoor adventures. Whether you prefer fly fishing in tranquil streams or horseback riding through lush forests, the resort offers activities to suit every taste. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the estate features enchanting cabins, Lodge rooms or suites and cozy Tree Houses perched above the Dan River Gorge. Begin your day with a revitalizing treatment at the Auberge Spa and end the evening stargazing at the resort’s dazzling observatory. Relish the thrill of off-roading adventures and indulge in

wine tastings from the cellar or elegant cocktail evenings.

WILLIAMSBURG INN

The newly transformed Williamsburg Inn seamlessly blends modern elegance while maintaining its renowned Regency style. This luxurious retreat sits directly across from the historic Colonial Williamsburg, which lends the community an immersive experience into colonial life. Explore historic trades, such as carpentry or blacksmithing, and learn about the excavation of one of the first Black churches in the United States. Engage with history as actors portray prominent historical figures from 18th-century Williamsburg. After a day travelling back in time, indulge in exquisite food and beverages at the Rockefeller Room restaurant at the Inn.

EUPEPSIA WELLNESS RESORT

Dedicated to helping guests connect more deeply with nature, Eupepsia Wellness Resort offers a peaceful sanctuary where you can unwind at your own pace. Nestled in the rolling moors of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the resort boasts a bountiful landscape with scenic overlooks and miles of hiking trails. Immerse yourself in this haven with an invigorating bike ride or a grounding meditation session. The resort’s Wellness Spa features unique amenities, including hydro bikes, hot stone therapy, and its renowned Himalayan Salt Chalet. Additionally, Eupepsia offers a diverse range of wellness retreats tailored to specific goals, such as weight management or stress relief. For dining, the resort emphasizes gourmet, plant-based cuisine, thoughtfully sourced from local farms to ensure freshness and sustainability. 1

Virginia Tourism Corporation

Relax at one of Virginia’s many excellent wellness resorts.

Nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is a wonderful destination filled with history, culture and scenic beauty. From exploring the birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson to strolling the bustling streets lined with shops and delectable dining options, Staunton promises a delightful and immersive travel experience.

STAUNTON, VA

A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY

DAY 1

Start your trip with a guided outdoor tour of the Frontier Culture Museum . Explore authentic farms and buildings from Europe, Africa and early America. This is perfect for groups with plenty of open space to roam and engage with interpreters.

Located in a historic train station, The Depot Grille is a group-friendly restaurant that offers hearty American fare. Its spacious dining area can accommodate larger groups.

Next, pay a visit to Gypsy Hill Park , where you can enjoy a walk or bike ride around the 1.3-mile circular paved trail. Groups can relax by the duck pond, rent picnic shelters, or watch a baseball game at the stadium.

VISIT STAUNTON

Jessica B. Williams

540-332-3865

williamsjb@ci.staunton.va.us visitstaunton.com

For dinner, stop by Mill Street Grill , a beloved local favorite with a diverse menu, accommodating large groups with ease.

DAY 2

Start your day by hiking at Betsy Bell Wilderness Park . This park offers moderate trails with stunning views of Staunton and the surrounding valley. Groups can enjoy nature and some light physical activity.

For lunch, stop by BLU Point Seafood Co., which showcases lobster rolls and seafood baskets, as well as catches straight from the Chesapeake Bay. Private dining areas can accommodate groups of up to 80 people. Next, take a Historic Downtown Staunton Walking Tour where you can explore the charming streets

of Staunton with your group. Visit the famous Clocktower, the Giant Watering Can, and other iconic landmarks.

Many shops and galleries in downtown Staunton are great for group browsing so take your time and have fun.

Another must-visit stop is the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum , where you can explore the grounds and gardens surrounding the 28th president’s birthplace. Unwind with a visit to Barren Ridge Vineyards , which features a wine tasting and vineyard tour, with ample outdoor seating for groups.

DAY 3

Savor a group tour of the world’s only re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theater at the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse

Next, head to Sunspots Studios where you can watch live glassblowing demonstrations and browse unique hand-crafted souvenirs.

Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Stop for group photos at overlooks like Humpback Rocks or Raven’s Roost.

Or pay a visit to the famous Shenandoah National Park, where you can explore one of the most scenic national parks in the U.S., featuring hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife viewing opportunities, ideal for groups seeking adventure.

End your trip with a relaxed meal at Byers Street Bistro which features an outdoor dining area. The menu offers a variety of American dishes, making it group-friendly and versatile.

This two-day itinerary will take you through some of Fairfax County’s most historic and impressive attractions. From George Washington’s iconic home to a winery with a story, your group will be fascinated throughout.

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA

JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY

DAY 1

Mount Vernon, the iconic home and estate of George Washington, America’s first president, offers visitors a full morning of activities. Explore Washington’s estate, gardens, museum, historic buildings, enslaved persons memorial, and the Tomb of George Washington. During April -October weekends, visitors can also explore George Washington’s Distillery & Gristmill where they can meet 18thcentury millers and watch the water-powered wheel grind grain into flour just as it did 200 years ago.

Leading up to America’s 250th Anniversary, Mount Vernon will offer special exhibits and programming including a new Revolutionary War Encampment which opened in March of 2025 where interpreters will be on hand to answer questions while showcasing the way soldiers, officers, and camp followers lived during the American Revolution.

VISIT FAIRFAX

Lori A. Scott , CSTP, CTIS

703-752-9513

lscott@fxva.com fxva.com

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant where you can savor Colonial-inspired dishes including Peanut Soup or Hoecake and be certain to save room for the Apple Pie.

Explore the National Museum of the United States Army, located at Fort Belvoir, the first comprehensive and truly national museum to capture, display, and interpret 250 years of Army history through the eyes of the American Soldier. In the summer of 2025, the museum will unveil a new exhibit titled “CALL TO Arms: The Soldier and the Revolutionary War” to commemorate the Army’s 250th birthday and America’s 250th in 2026. This limited-time landmark exhibition will include a rare collection of Revolutionary War artifacts from the original colonies, England, France, and Canada, accompanied by Soldier stories of our nation’s first veterans.

DAY 2

Start your second day at the Turning Point Suffragist Memorial in Lorton. This nationalin-scope Memorial commemorates the women who fought for the right to vote in the U.S. with tireless activism. Enjoy a guided tour of the site, with a period-dressed docent, which brings to life the stories, struggles, and triumphs of key suffragists. The interactive storytelling will provide insight into how these women helped change American history forever.

Take a stroll through the quaint Town of Clifton , located along the scenic and curvy roads of a Virginia Scenic Byway. The town, a product of the Civil War, has not changed much since its inception and features a tiny two/ three block downtown and a classic Main Street. Here you can find quaint shops including a specialty coffeehouse, Peterson’s Ice Cream, and Trummer’s Restaurant, a sustainable, farm-totable upscale restaurant featuring a vast menu of Virginia wines.

Head to The Winery at Bull Run in Centreville, where you’ll take the “Witness to History” wine tour. This grape-to-glass farm winery is located adjacent to Manassas National Battlefield Park, where the first major battle of the American Civil War took place. The winery offers a unique experience by blending wine tasting with a guided tour of its exclusive Civil War artifact collection in a new Museum located in the Barrel Room. Bask in stunning Virginia vineyard views while soaking in this integral piece of American history and sipping awardwinning wines.

Fredericksburg, Virginia, is the ideal destination for a getaway dedicated to self-care, offering a unique blend of outdoor adventure, restorative relaxation, and mindful activities in a charming, historic setting. Nestled along the scenic Rappahannock River, the city provides a wealth of natural beauty.

FREDERICKSBURG, VA

SAVOR A RESTORATIVE GETAWAY

DAY 1

Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga class at Dragonfly Yoga Studio . This welcoming space offers courses for all skill levels, helping you stretch, strengthen, and find your flow. Walk, jog, or bike the three-mile Canal Path and Heritage Trail loop . This scenic route takes you alongside the Rappahannock River, through historic neighborhoods, and under a canopy of trees perfect for a mindful, relaxing workout.

Refuel at Sammy T’s, a beloved local spot offering healthy and satisfying meals. Choose from hearty salads, wraps, and vegetarianfriendly dishes like falafel, grain bowls, and black bean burgers—all made with fresh, flavorful ingredients.

CITY OF FREDERICKSBURG

Victoria A. Matthews, Tourism Sales Manager (540) 372-1216

vamatthews@fredericksburgva.gov

FXBG.com

Head to Virginia Outdoor Center to rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard for a water adventure on the Rappahannock River . Paddle through scenic stretches of the river, spot wildlife, and enjoy a fun, full-body workout on the water.

DAY 2

Lace up your hiking shoes for a peaceful trek at Motts Run Reservoir . The wooded trails offer a variety of routes for all fitness levels, and the quiet views of the water are perfect for mindful reflection. Treat yourself to a luxurious and relaxing experience at Collage Spa . Choose from therapeutic massages, soothing facials, and rejuvenating body treatments in a serene, modern setting to help you unwind and recharge.

Next, explore Historic Kenmore , the elegant historic Georgian-style brick mansion of George Washington’s sister, Betty, and her patriot husband, Colonel Fielding Lewis. The mansion is known for its ornate plasterwork ceilings. Take a horse-drawn Carriage Ride with Olde Towne Carriages, a Trolley Tour with Trolley Tours of Fredericksburg, or even a Model-A Car with Fredericksburg Model-A Car Tours.

End the day with a delicious farm-totable dinner at Foode , where locally sourced ingredients shine.

DAY 3

Begin your day with a guided tour of the Fredericksburg Civil Rights Trail , now a part of the United States Civil Rights Trail. This trail tells the stories of the local Civil Rights movement and highlights the role of Black residents in the city’s history. Created through a partnership between the City of Fredericksburg and the University of Mary Washington’s James Farmer Multicultural Center, this trail includes sites where Black people created educational, housing, and business opportunities in the midst of Jim Crow era segregation.

Visit the Fredericksburg Area Museum , which highlights exhibits on local history, art, and culture, including artifacts from the colonial era to the present day. Make sure to visit the museum’s newest exhibit, A Monumental Weight: The Auction Block in Fredericksburg, VA, which explores the historical and emotional significance of this complex object.

Step Back in Time. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Newport News, Virginia. From the earliest footprints of Virginia’s Indigenous peoples to the founding of Jamestown and the city’s pivotal role in the Revolutionary War, Newport News has been at the heart of defining moments in American history.

CITY OF NEWPORT NEWS

Danielle Goodman

757-926-1440

goodmandm@nnva.gov visitnewportnews.com

GETAWAY FOR HISTORY BUFFS

DAY 1

Kick off your trip with a fusion-forward brunch at Saté: A New American Experience , where classic flavors are reimagined in dishes like signature shrimp and grits, elote deviled eggs, and sorbet mimosas. This stylish eatery is a must-visit for food lovers.

Afterward, capture a memorable photo at the Newport News Victory Arch , a striking tribute to the city’s role in World War I, located at 25th Street and West Avenue. Then, head to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Plaza to admire the inspiring Unfinished March sculpture by Ed Hamilton, a powerful depiction of Dr. King leading the fight for equality.

Before dinner, enjoy a handcrafted bourbon cocktail at Ironclad Distillery , where smallbatch whiskeys highlight Virginia’s deep-rooted distilling traditions. Then, indulge in a coastal dining experience at Harpoon Larry’s , a lively oyster bar serving the freshest local seafood.

DAY 2

Begin your morning with a delightful breakfast at Indulge Bakery and Bistro , a European-inspired café known for its flaky pastries, artisan coffee, and soothing teas. Next, delve into military history at the Virginia War Museum , where exhibits like Women at War and March Toward Freedom highlight the evolution of the American Armed Forces from 1775 to today.

Continue your exploration at the Virginia Living Museum , where interactive exhibits bring native wildlife, lush botanical displays, and geological wonders to life. Wander the outdoor nature trails or catch a mesmerizing show at the planetarium. Tickets are available online in advance.

For dinner, savor a waterfront meal at Crab Shack on the James , a local favorite dishing out steamed blue crabs, a fresh raw bar, and mouthwatering coastal cuisine.

DAY 3

Ease into your final day with a leisurely brunch at Sage Kitchen at Anderson’s , where farm-fresh ingredients shine in dishes like the baja chicken bowl or smoked reuben.

Then, step into the past at Lee Hall Mansion , a beautifully preserved antebellum home, and Lee Hall Depo t, a restored 19th-century railroad station. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the region’s Civil War history and its transportation heritage.

Wrap up your visit with a memorable meal at Circa 1918 Kitchen + Bar , a cozy yet sophisticated spot known for its creative New American cuisine. Whether it’s Greek-inspired charred octopus, Korean-influenced Ahi tuna, or expertly curated craft cocktails, this restaurant is the perfect way to toast to an unforgettable Newport News getaway.

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

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

Illinois’ Underground Railroad Legacy

Illuminating historic sites and stories of courage from the Land of Lincoln’s role in the fight for freedom

Cruisin’ Down The Highway • By Randy Mink

Discover the joys of Illinois on a themed road trip

Magnificent Architecture in Chicago and Beyond • By Erin Karasewski

Influenced heavily by Frank Lloyd Wright, Illinois is home to a variety of great architectural attractions

Hidden Gems of Illinois • By Randy Mink

Spice up your itineraries with off-the-radar treasures found in every corner of the state

Land of Lincoln, Land of Ghosts

Justine Leavitt

Haunted places to visit in Central Ilinois

Trails to Adventure Winery and Craft

Beer Trails • By Billy Stampfl

Explore the best vineyards and breweries of Southern Illinois, from scenic wine trails to unique beer loops, for a flavorful adventure

Illinois’ Underground Railroad Legacy • By Billy Stampfl

Illuminating historic sites and stories of courage from the Land of Lincoln’s role in the fight for freedom

Hello!

On behalf of the Tour Illinois Committee, we are thrilled to welcome you to the 2025 edition of the Illinois Group Tour Planner. Whether you’re returning to explore even more of what our state has to offer or planning your first visit, we’re excited to show you why Illinois is truly the Middle of Everything.

Illinois is home to a rich tapestry of diverse destinations and unforgettable experiences that will captivate every group traveler. From the vibrant urban heart of Chicago to the charming small towns that dot the state, you’ll find something for everyone. Our state boasts an incredible mix of historic sites, world-class attractions, outdoor adventures and a burgeoning culinary scene—making Illinois the perfect destination for any group.

In this year’s guide, we’re excited to highlight some of Illinois’ best-kept secrets. Discover hidden gems across the state that often go overlooked in favor of the usual crowd favorites. We also take you on a journey through some of Illinois’ most scenic road trip routes, ideal for those who want to see the state at their own pace.

You’ll also find features on Illinois’ architectural treasures in the Chicago and Beyond region, rich history along the Great River Road and its ties to the Underground Railroad, spine-tingling haunted attractions in the Land of Lincoln region, and the best vineyards and breweries in the Trails to Adventure Region, where scenic wine trails and unique beer loops offer flavorful escapes for your group.

We look forward to welcoming you to our great state and hope you have a truly memorable experience in Illinois, where the adventure never ends.

Yours in tourism partnership, Tour Illinois Committee

Learn more about Illinois group travel opportunities!

Illinois Group Tour Planner

Editorial & Advertising Office

Premier Travel Media 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527

P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652

advertising@ptmgroups.com

Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk jeff@ptmgroups.com

Chief Editor Jason Paha, jason@ptmgroups.com

Senior Editor – Randy Mink randy@ptmgroups.com

Contributing Writers –

Billy Stampfl

Erin Karasewski

Justine Leavitt

Director, Design & Production – Lisa Hede lisa@ptmgroups.com

Production Coordinator – Kelsey Ledford kelsey@ptmgroups.com

Published in Partnership with Tour Illinois, a committee of the Illinois Council of Convention & Visitors Bureaus 500 E. Monroe Springfield, IL 62701

The publisher accepts unsolicited editorial matter, as well as advertising, but assumes no responsi -bility for statements made by advertisers or contributors. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, but the publisher makes no warranty that listings are free of error. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited photos, slides or manuscripts.

Illinois Group Tour Planner is published by Premier Travel Media, 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406, Willowbrook, IL 60527. The magazine is distributed free of charge to qualified tour operators, travel agents, group leaders, bank travel clubs and other travel organizations.

Send Address Change to:

Premier Travel Media

621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527

rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced in any form

A classic car cruises down Route 66.

CRUISIN’ DOWN THE HIGHWAY

Discover the joys of Illinois on a themed road trip

By Randy Mink

Illinois was made for road tripping. Its cities, towns and natural areas are packed with fun things to see and do. From metropolitan Chicago to Downstate backwaters, special memories await groups looking for adventure around the next bend.

These are just a few itinerary ideas to get your motor running:

NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE IN ILLINOIS

The story of Illinois begins long before European settlement. Covering 740 miles in four days, this road trip from the state’s northwest corner to its southern extremities spotlights ancient mounds, rock carvings and artifacts left behind by Native peoples.

The journey begins at Casper Bluff Land and Water Reserve near Galena, where walking trails provide panoramic views of the remains of Native American mounds perched above the Mississippi River. Traveling south, you’ll head to Albany Mounds State Historic Site and see burial

and ceremonial mounds dating back more than 2,000 years. Next are Dickson Mounds Museum in Lewistown and Peoria Riverfront Museum , both of which display tools, pottery and other artifacts of Illinois’ first peoples. Focus on prehistoric life in the Illinois River Valley at the Center for American Archaeology Museum in Kampsville.

In Alton, the Piasa Bird Mural on the limestone bluffs along the Mississippi is a modern reimagining of an ancient image that once adorned the cliffs, a striking example of Native storytelling traditions. At the Lewis & Clark State Historic Site in Hartford, learn about the Native American guides and interpreters who were essential to the success of the epic expedition into America’s western wilderness.

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Collinsville preserves the plazas and mounds of what was once the largest settlement in what is now the United States. A hike up the 100-foot-high Monks Mound, the largest earthen structure in the Americas, rewards visitors with a

view of the St. Louis skyline. Cahokia Mounds’ museum is currently closed for renovations.

The final day in Southern Illinois takes you to Piney Creek Ravine State Natural Area near Chester, where sandstone bluffs hold petroglyphs carved centuries ago by Native peoples. Next stop, near the Ohio River, is Kincaid Mounds State Historic Site , once a major center of the Mississippian culture. Finally, visit Shawnee National Forest’s Hamburg Hill, part of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail . Walk a preserved section with deep ruts forged by wagon wheels and countless footsteps on the path taken by thousands of Cherokee people during their forced relocation in the 1830s.

ROAD TO THE WHITE HOUSE

Follow in the footsteps of the four U.S. presidents who hailed from Illinois. Presidential history comes alive at homes, museums and other landmarks associated with our 16th, 18th, 40th and 44th commanders in chief. The route covers about 450 miles and can be done in three to five days.

In the Land of Lincoln, it’s fitting to begin the journey in Springfield, where Abraham Lincoln lived for 17 years before moving to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C. Ranger-led tours of the Lincoln Home National Historic Site reveal details of the only home Lincoln ever owned. It’s part of a four-block historic district that has been returned to its 19th century appearance. The nearby Lincoln Home Visitor Center presents orientation videos.

The highlight for many Springfield visitors is the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum , which offers rare artifacts, state-of-the-art displays and a dramatic presentation that uses holograms to create an immersive experience. Across the street is the Old State Capitol , where Lincoln delivered his famous House Divided speech in 1858 and Barrack Obama announced his presidential campaign in 2007.

Also in Springfield is Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Rubbing the nose on the bronze bust of Lincoln is said to bring good luck.

Costumed interpreters at Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site in Petersburg, 20 miles northwest of Springfield, shed light on Honest Abe’s earlier years. Reconstructed log buildings re-create the village where he lived from 1831-1837 while working as a store clerk, rail-splitter, postmaster and deputy surveyor.

On the Historic Ronald Reagan Trail in northwest Illinois, Eureka College’s Ronald Reagan Museum features items from the 40th president’s student days, film career and presidency. In the farm town of Tampico, Ronald Reagan Birthplace & Museum offers tours of the restored apartment where Reagan was born in 1911. Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home in Dixon paints a picture of the future president’s family life in the 1920s. The nearby Northwest Territory Historic Center is a converted 1908 school building with a President Reagan History Room, a collection of original Reagan movie posters

and the restored sixth grade classroom of “Dutch” Reagan.

At Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site in Galena, tour the home presented to General Grant by the town’s citizens after his return from the Civil War. It contains many of the 18th president’s possessions and original furnishings.

The road trip ends on the South Side of Chicago. Get a glimpse of Obama’s home in the Kenwood neighborhood and University of Chicago Law School, where he taught from 1992 to 2004. Have lunch at Valois Cafeteria, a longtime Obama favorite.

The Obama Presidential Center , opening in 2026, will feature an eightstory museum building in Jackson Park on Chicago’s South Side. Its top-floor Sky Room will offer sweeping views of the city. Other facilities will include an athletic center, test kitchen, restaurant, picnic areas and children’s play area.

AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY

The roots of African American history run deep in Chicago and throughout the state. This 300-mile road trip from Chicago to Alton can be done in three or four days.

Start on the South Side of Chicago and its historic Bronzeville neighborhood. Known historically as the “Black Metropolis,” Bronzeville became a hub of Black life and culture in the 20th century.

Tour the neighborhood with the Bronzeville Visitor Information Center or simply stroll the Bronzeville Walk of Fame , where bronze plaques and monuments honor former residents like

entertainers Nat King Cole and Louis Armstrong.

In Washington Park, visit DuSable Black History Museum, the nation’s oldest independent African American history museum. A few miles south is National A. Phillip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum. Exhibits explore the contributions of the first Black labor union, Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, and life in the South Side’s Pullman neighborhood, once the Pullman Palace Car Works company town and now the federally designated Pullman National Monument

The Obama Presidential Center, under construction on 19 acres in Chicago’s Jackson Park, opens to the public in 2026. The stone facade of its eight-story tower will be engraved with Obama’s speech marking the 50th anniversary of the civil rights marches from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama.

On the North Side, interactive exhibits at the Chicago History Museum show how African American culture is woven throughout the city’s past and present. Student-curated exhibits and performances take center stage at the African American Cultural Center at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), just west of downtown.

Evanston is home to Shorefront Legacy Center . Shorefront collects, preserves and educates people about Black history on Chicago’s suburban North Shore.

For evening entertainment in Chicago, book a performance at the Black Ensemble Theater. Or head to Buddy Guy’s Legends, the city’s premier blues club.

In west suburban Oak Brook, stories of the

DuSable Black History Museum

Photo courtesy of Abel Arciniega

Underground Railroad unfold at Graue Mill, a water-powered gristmill that hid runaway enslaved African Americans in its cellar.

In downtown Springfield, both the Acts of Intolerance Sculpture and 1908 Race Riot Mural, plus various markers, memorialize the dark time when a mob of more than 5,000 white residents lynched Black residents and burned their neighborhoods to the ground. Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum currently is closed for renovations.

Jacksonville had several stops on the Underground Railroad, including Congregational United Church of Christ, known as the “abolitionist church” in the 1830s as it risked fines and prison time for its members by providing shelter, food, transportation and clothing to freedom seekers. Another Jacksonville “rail station” was Woodlawn Farm , which had four small cabins for free Black farmhands and is now a living history museum. The Asa Talcott home is one of seven UGRR sites in Jacksonville built in or before 1833. Asa was a brick maker who assisted slaves escaping from the South along with other local abolitionists.

The Mississippi River town of Alton also harbors Underground Railroad history. Tours of selected sites can be arranged by the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau office. In the Alton Cemetery, the 110-foot-tall Elijah P.

Lovejoy Monument honors the abolitionist and newspaper editor who was shot to death by pro-slavery zealots in 1837.

GREAT RIVER ROAD NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY

From Illinois’ southernmost tip to its far northwest corner, this ribbon of roadway follows the Mississippi River for 540 miles through the historic towns and pockets of natural beauty that grace the state’s western border.

Begin at Fort Defiance State Park in Cairo, the point where the Mississippi and Ohio rivers meet. Traveling north, you come upon Chester, where statues and murals on the Popeye Character Trail remind visitors this was the hometown of the cartoon character’s creator, E.C. Segar. At Fort de Chartres State Historic Site , learn about 18th century French colonial life from re-enactors. Go back further in time in Collinsville at Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site , which preserves ancient Indian mounds and plazas.

The Alton area requires a full day, with one of the highlights being National Great Rivers Museum and a tour of Melvin Price Locks & Dam. Downtown Alton abounds with art galleries, antiques emporiums and other specialty shops. For fine craft brews, stop in at Old Bakery Beer. In nearby Hartford, ascend Lewis & Clark Confluence

Tower to view the meeting of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. Lewis & Clark State Historic Site tells the story of explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, who started their epic westward expedition from here in 1804. North of Alton, your trek continues to the quaint historic village of Elsah and to Grafton, where the Grafton Sky Tour aerial lift at Aerie’s Resort & Winery offers awe-inspiring views of the Mississippi. Save time for a hike at Pere Marquette State Park , Illinois’ largest state park, and a fried chicken dinner at its lodge restaurant.

Historic districts in Quincy hold a vast range of magnificent homes in many architectural styles, from Greek Revival to Queen Anne. The Moroccan-style Villa Kathrine houses the local visitor center and offers sweeping views of the Mississippi.

The town of Nauvoo was the largest Mormon settlement in the country until the Mormons were driven out by an angry mob that killed their leader, Joseph Smith. Mormon heritage is preserved at the Joseph Smith Historic Site .

In Moline, part of the Quad Cities metro area that straddles the Iowa-Illinois border, a popular attraction is the John Deere Pavilion , which showcases equipment manufactured by Moline-based Deere & Company. Then treat yourself to a sundae at nearby Lagomarcino’s , an old-school soda fountain restaurant. For unbeatable views and delicious food, cruise the Mississippi on the Celebration Belle riverboat.

Rock Island is home to Quad City Botanical Garden and Circa ’21 Dinner Playhouse . On an island in the Mississippi, Rock Island Arsenal , a U.S. Army site, has an excellent museum, and Mississippi River Visitor Center offers a bird’s-eye view of river traffic at Locks and Dam 15 . More river vistas await at Mississippi Palisades State Park in Savanna. From there, follow the Great River Road to Galena, a hilly town brimming with 19th century charm. Many groups do their sightseeing with Galena Trolley Tours

GET YOUR KICKS ON ROUTE 66

Travelers looking for heady doses of nostalgia and Americana will find them in abundance on Old Route 66. From the Lake Michigan shoreline of Chicago to the Mississippi River in southwestern Illinois, museums, retro diners, quirky roadside attractions and other nods to yesteryear

Fort de Chartres State Historic Site in Du Rocher.

Photo courtesy of Enjoy Illinois

drive tourism on what John Steinbeck nicknamed the “Mother Road” in his classic 1939 novel The Grapes of Wrath .

Spanning eight states, the asphalt artery symbolized freedom and mobility in the mid-20th century, attracting vacationers, adventurers and those searching for a better life out West.

Many road trippers get their first kicks on 66 at Lou Mitchell’s Restaurant , a diner on Jackson Boulevard in downtown Chicago, just west of the famed road’s starting point. “Serving the world’s finest coffee,” as its sign proclaims, the breakfast/ lunch favorite has been dishing up comfort food since 1923. If you wait for a food stop outside of the city, consider a fried chicken meal at Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket in suburban Willowbrook or White Fence Farm in Romeoville, both filled with Route 66 and other memorabilia. In Joliet, stop at Rich & Creamy for a cold treat or take a tour of the Old Joliet Prison , which appeared in The Blues Brothers movie. In Pontiac , Mother Road enthusiasts flock to the free-admission Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum and ogle classic cars at the PontiacOakland Automobile Museum . The place of pilgrimage for Route 66 fans in Bloomington-Normal is Ryburn Place , a vintage gas station turned gift shop. The town of Atlanta recently unveiled the

American Giants Museum, which chronicles the story of the 20-foot-tall fiberglass “Muffler Men” statues once used as advertising characters by automotive and other highway businesses. Several of these towering figures stand outside the museum.

Across the street is the Bunyon Giant , a fiberglass man holding a hot dog. Another great photo op awaits on Old Route 66 in the town of Lincoln, where a statue of Abraham Lincoln sits in the driver’s seat of the Railsplitter Covered Wagon , the world’s largest covered wagon.

Springfield’s newest Mother Road attraction is the Illinois State Fairgrounds Route 66 Experience, an outdoor walk-through exhibit highlighting businesses and attractions, past and present, in 92 Illinois communities.

For lunch in Springfield, stop at Cozy Dog Drive In , famous for its cornmealbattered hot dog on a stick and loaded with Route 66 lore. Or eat at Motorheads Bar & Grill with its huge collection of vintage advertising and automotivethemed memorabilia. Motorheads’ towering Route 66 shield sign and the Fairgrounds’ installations were done by Springfield’s family-owned Ace Sign Company , which offers free guided tours of its plant/museum.

Litchfield takes pride in the Ariston Cafe , a fine restaurant that’s been around since 1924. Or grab a bite at nearby

Jubelt’s Bakery & Restaurant , a homey cafe on Old Route 66.

The neighboring Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center salutes local businesses that flourished during the roadway’s heyday.

In Livingston, a giant pink elephant visible from I-55, plus other larger-thanlife sculptures, beckons wayfarers to Pink Elephant Antique Mall , housed in a former high school. Next door is the 1950s-style Twistee Treat Diner , whose whimsical ice cream cone-shaped building whets your appetite for burgers, fries and ice cream creations.

West End Service Station in Edwardsville served Route 66 motorists for nearly four decades and recently was transformed into a visitor information center with attractive displays on the road’s lore.

In nearby Granite City, the past comes to life at It’s Electric Neon Sign Park , where three restored neon signs from local businesses, plus two large murals, celebrate the town’s place on America’s Mother Road. The signs are turned on from dusk to dawn.

At the Mississippi River in Madison, the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge marks the end of Route 66 in Illinois. Built in 1929, it is one of the world’s longest bicycle and pedestrian bridges and is open for vehicular traffic during special events. IL

The famous Route 66 mural in Pontiac often draws a crowd.

Photo courtesy of Illinois Office of Tourism

MAGNIFICENT ARCHITECTURE IN CHICAGO AND BEYOND

Influenced heavily by Frank Lloyd Wright, Illinois is home to a variety of great architectural attractions

By Erin Karasewski

Home to one of the best skylines in the world, Chicago’s architecture will leave any visitor in awe. And Chicago isn’t the only place in Illinois that offers worldclass building designs. Northern Illinois is a haven for architecture enthusiasts, offering a treasure trove of stunning structures and architectural tours that will captivate any group. Here are some fascinating destinations for groups to visit.

CHICAGOLAND AREA

The Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) features a collection of permanent and rotating exhibitions that highlight architectural creativity, innovation, and the cultural significance of the city’s architectural designs. Visitors can check out the iconic Chicago City Model (which features more than 4,000 buildings and interactive elements that tell amazing stories of the city) and attend workshops and panels hosted at the center. Through the center, your group has more than 80 different tours to choose from. Most famous though is the CAC River Cruise , aboard the First Lady. It was voted the best boat tour in the country by USA Today. The 90-minute cruise reveals fascinating stories behind Chicago’s majestic buildings and is led by the Chicago Architecture Center’s expertly trained volunteers. Even Chicago natives rave about the rich history and stunning views seen from the First Lady.

DISCOVER CHICAGO’S ICONIC ARCHITECTURE BY WATER

Whether you’re a foodie, a thrill-seeker, or just looking for a relaxing way to take in Chicago’s architectural wonders, City

Cruises has the perfect cruise for you. Its exclusive range of architectural boat tours offers something for every type of traveler, showcasing the best of the city’s skyline and historic buildings from the unique vantage point of the water.

For those looking to elevate their experience, indulge in the Premier Plus Chicago Architectural Brunch or Lunch Cruises. Enjoy a chef-curated menu of plated breakfast or lunch options while cruising along the Chicago River in comfort, with stunning views of Chicago’s most famous landmarks like Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and the Old Chicago Post Office. Complete with bottomless mimosas, a fully stocked cash bar, light architectural narration, and a masterful DJ, this experience combines gourmet dining with spectacular views of the city’s magnificent skyline.

For an adrenaline rush, try the Seadog Architectural Cruise with Speedboat Ride. Perfect for those who love excitement and a quick pace, this thrilling ride takes you through the Chicago Harbor Locks and

the city’s iconic skyscrapers at top speed. As you cruise along the Chicago River and whiz across shores of Lake Michigan, enjoy fascinating narration about the city’s architectural history.

OAK PARK AND KANKAKEE

A short distance from Chicago resides Oak Park, the birthplace of Ernest Hemingway The museum is an ideal place to begin exploring the author’s life and work and itself is an architectural wonder, known as a Queen Anne home. If you have any literature fanatics in your group, this museum recognizing one of the most influential writers of American literature is a must see.

Also in Oak Park is Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio. Wright lived and worked in Oak Park for 20 years, developing the Prairie Style architectural design. Oak Park has the largest collection of Wright-designed buildings and the Home and Studio and Unity Temple are open daily for tours.

Another one of Wright’s well-known designs is located in Kankakee, about an hour south of Oak Park. The B. Harley Bradley House is an iconic example of his Prairie Style. Since its construction, this large residential building has served as a home, office complex, and even an internationally acclaimed restaurant. Fully restored in 2005 with almost all original art glass windows intact, it was converted into a public museum in 2010.

CHICAGO SOUTHLAND

If your group has more time or is trying to see all of what Northern Illinois has to offer, the southern part of the city

Chicago River boat tour

and its suburbs hosts a treasure trove of architectural gems.

Blue Island is home to the Joshua P. Young House. This unassuming two-story house was the home for one of the most influential people in the development of the Southern part of Chicago. Young played key roles in land, housing, and railroad developments.

The house was built prior to 1850 by Carlton Wadhams, designer of the American House Hotel in Blue Island in 1844.

Your group can also make its way to Pullman, which is home to the Pullman National Historical Park National Park Service Visitor Center and Pullman State Historic Site’s Car Works grounds. A story of perseverance, preservation, and pride, the park tells the journey of one of the first planned industrial communities in the United States, the sleeping car magnate who helped create it, and the workers who lived in the carefully designed community surrounding the Car Works.

Pullman is significant for its architectural influence on urban planning and design. Visitors can see the 1881 Pullman Car Works, the heart of this historic planned industrial community, and take part in scheduled tours offered by several historic preservation groups.

Here are a few more stops south of Chicago for the architectural inclined group travelers:

• Peotone’s Windmill (Peotone, 45 minutes south of Chicago), a full-size Dutch-style windmill built in 1872. This is a free tour for the group that’ll take about an hour or two. Donations are always welcome.

• George R. Thorne Summer House (Midlothian, 30 minutes south of Chicago). The architect, Howard Van Doren Shaw, was well known among Chicago’s social elite and was considered a master at adapting historical styles to the design of American Homes.

CHICAGO’S NORTH SHORE

In Evanston, you’ll find the marvelous mansion of former U.S. Vice President, the Charles Gates Dawes House. The chateaulike home is located adjacent to Lake Michigan and has been dubbed a National Historic Landmark. It’s been restored to its 1920s origins and has enhanced exhibits focusing on Evanston history. The Evanston History Center operates walking tours throughout its surrounding neighborhoods featuring homes built by the famed architect Daniel Burnham.

One of the most fascinating architectural buildings in the Chicagoland area, located in Wilmette, is the Bahá’í House of Worship, designed by French-Canadian architect Louis Bourgeois, is one of 13 in the world, and the only one located in North America. Construction began in 1912 but due to several delays, the temple wasn’t completed until 1953. To convey the Bahá’í principle of the unity of religion, Bourgeois (with design feedback from ’Abdu’l-Bahá) incorporated a variety

of religious architecture and symbols. The temple is open to the public and is used as a devotional space for people of any faith.

Just north of these two sites, the group will find the Writers Theatre in Glencoe. Founded in 1992, its new center was designed by the Jeanne Gang and Studio Gang Architects. The Theatre’s deliberately intimate performances bring audiences faceto-face with powerful stories from classics to contemporary works.

In nearby Skokie, the group can find the third largest Holocaust museum in the world. The Illinois Holocaust Museum was designed by renowned Chicago architect, Stanley Tigerman. You can step into an authentic German rail car, visit galleries and immerse yourself in the interactive, holographic Survivor Stories Experience, and travel through history while exploring life before, during, and after the Holocaust.

CHICAGO’S WESTERN SUBURBS

A must see visit to Chicagoland is a stop at Chicago Tribune Founder Robert R

McCormick’s estate in Wheaton/DuPage County. The park and the Greek Revival-style home offers mansion tours that are based on the history of Chicago Tribune, Colonel McCormick’s role in WWI and the interesting people who stayed there over the years. Visitors will be delighted with the garden’s beauty, history and culture. Don’t miss the First Division Military Museum directly in the park. Save time for a round of golf at a top course on the 27-holes managed by Kemper Sports.

ROCKFORD

If your group has time, in Rockford, under two hours west, resides another architectural site that is a must see. The Laurent House is the only Frank Lloyd Wright house that is wheelchair accessible and one of 11 hemicycle Usonians in Wright’s portfolio.

Whether you’re touring grand skyscrapers, elegant Beaux-Arts buildings, or Wright’s distinctive organic designs, Chicago and beyond offers an unforgettable journey for group travelers through architectural history. IL

Hidden gems await in Lake County, Illinois

Create a truly memorable experience for your customers with a completely customizable tour like our Hidden Treasures, Country Pleasures itinerary. From restaurants seen on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives to the Sanfilippo Estate to the Sock Monkey Museum and beyond, we’ll craft an unforgettable tour tailored just for your group. Let’s start planning! Email Jayne@LakeCounty.org or call 847-662-3993.

Wandering Tree Estate

Sock Monkey Museum

Chicago Botanic Garden

Sanfilippo Estate

Illinois Holocaust Museum in Skokie

HIDDEN GEMS OF ILLINOIS

Spice up your itineraries with off-the-radar treasures found in every corner of the state

By Randy Mink

National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture in Chicago.

Photo courtesy of Abel Arciniega

Some of Illinois’ most intriguing attractions are often overlooked in favor of the obvious crowdpleasers. Trips that veer off the beaten path give tour members a chance to make fresh discoveries. Here are just a few of the gems awaiting travelers in the Prairie State’s four tourism regions:

CHICAGO AND BEYOND

Illinois Railway Museum, Union. A few miles off of I-90, this outdoor museum in McHenry County boasts the largest collection of historic railway equipment in America. Several large exhibit barns are packed with antique railcars, including restored Pullman sleeping and dining cars. Guests can board the electric streetcar next to the 50th Avenue ‘L’ station for a ride up to the 1851 East Union Depot, where on summer weekends they can transfer to a main line steam or diesel train for a clickety-clackety roundtrip that takes 35-45 minutes.

Sanfilippo Place de la Musique, Barrington Hills. This museum, housed in a majestic French Second Empire building on the Sanfilippo family’s private estate, showcases the world’s largest collection of restored automatic musical instruments, including music boxes and phonographs, coin-operated pianos, violin machines, and fairground and band organs and calliopes. It also boasts the world’s largest indoor theater pipe organ, arcade and gambling machines, and other mechanical marvels. The spectacular European salon carousel, with a carved, lit-up facade measuring 89’ wide by 42’ tall, possesses 36 horses, several gondolas and chariots, and a spinning lovers tub that all turn around to the sounds of a Gavioli band organ.

Chocolate & Lucy is a new day trip idea inspired by The Making of the I Love Lucy Show. Start with a chocolate factory tour at the Long Grove Confectionery Co. Remember the Lucy & Ethel candy factory episode? Next, visit a restaurant with a Lucy-themed lunch with foods inspired by the show. Then, head over to the stateof-the-art theatre in University Center of Lake County for a one-hour presentation on The Lucy Show by humorist Todd Hunt. Followed by a wine tasting to remember Lucy’s grape stomping antics. Fisher Nuts Store, Elgin. Tour groups love shopping stops, especially when they can bag bargains. Some of the monthly specials are simply irresistible at this store next to the John B. Sanfilippo & Son nut-processing factory, right off of I-90, less than an hour from Chicago. The whole line of Fisher products is available, as are generous free samples.

Billy Graham Center Museum, Wheaton. Located on the campus of Wheaton College in west suburban Chicago, this museum chronicles the history of Christian evangelism in America and spotlights the life and ministry of the Rev. Dr. Billy Graham, a 1943 graduate of the college. Videos recall Graham’s Gospel-spreading campaigns in Los Angeles, New York, London and elsewhere.

B.A.P.S. Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Bartlett. The largest Hindu temple in America dazzles visitors with its luminescent pinnacles, exotic domes and photogenic fountains and gardens. The exhibition Understanding Hinduism sheds light on a religion practiced by one of every seven of the world’s people.

Charles Gates Dawes House, Evanston. Reminiscent of a French chateau, this magnificent 1894 mansion overlooking Lake Michigan was the home of the 30th U.S. vice president, who served under Calvin Coolidge in the 1920s. It has 25 rooms, including a cherry-paneled library, a vaulted dining room with a musicians’ gallery, six bedrooms and 12 fireplaces.

Chicago Ethnic Museums. While big, worldclass museums like the Museum of Science & Industry, Field Museum and Art Institute of Chicago grab most of the attention, smaller museums focus on groups that have contributed to the city’s ethnic diversity. Among them are the Polish Museum of America, Swedish American Museum, Ukrainian National Museum, Chinese American Museum of Chicago, DuSable Black History Museum and National Museum of Puerto Rican Art and Culture.

Bahá’í House of Worship, Wilmette. Better known as the Bahá’í Temple, this landmark along the Lake Michigan shoreline in north suburban Chicago was the first Bahá’í place of worship in the Western Hemisphere (completed in 1953) and is one of only 13 in the world. Crowned with a lacey white 135-foot-high dome, it, like all Bahá’í temples, is circular, has nine sides and is surrounded by fountains and gardens.

Illinois Holocaust Museum, Skokie. The third-largest Holocaust museum in the world is dedicated to teaching the universal lessons of the Holocaust, inspiring all ages to take a stand against hatred, prejudice and indifference. Travel through history as you explore life before, during and after the evils perpetrated by the Nazi regime across Europe. Step into an authentic German rail car and visit impressive galleries filled with artifacts.

The Morton Arboretum, Lisle. Joy Morton from the Morton Salt Company’s family motto was “Plant Trees.” The Morton Arboretum is now a living museum with an engaging 1,700-acre garden that protects trees and other woody plants from around the world. Enjoy the Maze

Garden, art installations, 17 miles of walking and accessible trails, nine miles of roads, or a guided tram tour.

Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe. This horticultural wonderland encompasses 27 gardens and four natural areas situated on 385 acres on and around nine islands, with six miles of lake shoreline. Climb a waterfall garden, find hidden rooms inside an English walled garden, and discover a garden with trains chugging across bridges and trestles.

Chicago Temple, Chicago. Across from City Hall in the Loop, the First United Methodist Church, better known as the Chicago Temple, offers tours of the Sky Chapel, a lofty perch under the spire of the 568-foot-tall Neo-Gothic skyscraper, the tallest church building in the world. The chapel is a gift from the Walgreen family in memory of Charles R. Walgreen, the founder of Walgreen’s drug stores.

The Chopping Block, Chicago. It’s been around for 28 years, but many group travel planners may not be aware of this cooking school in the North Side’s Lincoln Square neighborhood. Groups that book a hands-on cooking party have fun trying out their kitchen skills as they chop, mix and cook their way to a gourmet feast, all while enjoying the satisfaction of teamwork and sense of accomplishment.

Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home, Dixon. Tours are available of the two-story home on Hennepin Avenue where the future president of the United States lived with his parents and brother from 1920-1923. The nearby Northwest Territory Historic Center is a converted 1908 school building

Illinois Railway Museum in Union.

Photo courtesy of Bob Weder/Illinois Railway Museum

with a President Reagan History Room, a collection of original Reagan movie posters and the restored sixth grade classroom of “Dutch” Reagan. A half hour away in Tampico is Ronald Reagan Birthplace & Museum, where groups can tour the apartment where Reagan was born in 1911.

Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford. One of the top Japanese gardens in America, this 12-acre oasis of streams, waterfalls, winding pathways and koi-filled ponds features two gardens, a pond-strolling garden and the contemporary Garden of Reflection. Guided group tours are available.

Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park, University Park. Located on the campus of Governors State University in south suburban Chicago, the “Nate,” as it’s colloquially known, features 30 masterworks of large-scale sculptures across a beautiful prairie landscape. Free of charge and open 365 days a year, it was voted #1 Best Sculpture Park by USA Today Readers’ Choice. Railfan Viewing Sites, Chicago Southland. South suburban Chicago is one of the most densely packed railroad regions in the United States, making it a top destination for rail buffs. Check out the Blue Island Double Diamond or Dolton Junction, or watch trains go by from the Homewood Railroad Viewing Platform or the Park Forest Railfan Park.

Lotton Art Glass Gallery & Studios, Crete. This family business has been around more than 50 years. View artists working with hot glass and shop for hand-blown vases, bowls, sculptures and lamps.

Vintage Purse Museum, Manteno. This new museum, employing special needs adults, showcases thousands of vintage fashions including purses, dresses, hats, and shoes, along with nostalgic comic book, Barbie and World War II exhibits. Opening to the general public soon and ready for group tours now, it is housed in a 1920s building once used for the administrative offices of a hospital, then a bank.

LAND OF LINCOLN

Allerton Park & Retreat Center, Monticello. A treasure trove of art and nature, this sprawling estate and woodland area was donated to the University of Illinois by artist and philanthropist Robert Allerton. More than 50 statues and other artworks are scattered throughout the formal gardens and hiking trails. The mansion’s first floor is available for public viewing, and private tours of the estate can be arranged for a fee.

Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, Lerna. While the Abraham Lincoln sites in Springfield are top-tier tourist attractions, this working farmstead south of Charleston provides insights into the famous Illinoisan’s family history. A two-room cabin replicates the 1840s home of Thomas and Sarah Bush Lincoln, the future president’s father and stepmother. The site offers a variety of interpretive programs, as does the adjacent Stephen Sargent Farm, which was moved to that location to broaden understanding of 19th century rural life in Illinois.

Lincoln Heritage Museum, Lincoln. Groups can see a rare collection of artifacts relating to Abraham Lincoln’s days in Illinois and the Civil War. Besides the first-floor exhibit area, the 75-minute high-tech “Immersion Tour” upstairs features a series of audio-visual displays equipped with captivating graphics. The current exhibit on Mary Lincoln, Clouds and Darkness Surround Us, includes many items owned by the Lincoln family, including a lock of Abraham Lincoln’s hair and Mrs. Lincoln’s jewelry, mourning fan and handbag. Casey, Illinois. Located off of I-70 in eastcentral Illinois, the town of Casey (pronounced “KZ”) is worth a stop for picture-taking at the World’s Largest Barber Pole, World’s Largest Rocking Chair and other supersized roadside attractions. Climb up into the World’s Largest Mailbox or ring the World’s Largest Wind Chime. Have lunch at Richards Farm Restaurant, home to the 60-foot-long World’s Largest Pitchfork.

GREAT RIVERS COUNTRY

Spinach Can Collectibles, Chester. See rare Popeye the Sailor Man artwork and other memorabilia at this museum/souvenir shop. Visitors to Chester, hometown of the cartoon character’s creator, E.C. Segar, will also find murals, picture cut-outs and statues depicting Popeye and friends.

Fort Defiance State Park, Cairo. At Illinois’ southernmost tip you can climb a concrete observation tower and look out over the point where the Ohio River meets the Mississippi. Cairo’s top tourist attraction is Magnolia Manor, a grand Victorian brick house built in 1869.

Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Collinsville. The largest pre-Columbian site north of Mexico preserves the remnants of a city of 20,000 people and more than 70 of the original 120+ mounds, some built for religious ceremonies, others for burials. Cahokia, inhabited from A.D. 700 to 1400, peaked from 1050 to 1200 and flourished as one of North America’s most complex civilizations.

Bishop Hill State Historic Site, Bishop Hill. A number of historically significant buildings, including Colony Church, remain from the utopian religious community founded in 1846 by a Swedish pietist and his followers. The Bishop Hill Museum offers an orientation video. Several shops provide the opportunity to see artisans at work, and the general store sells specialty foods and other imports from Sweden.

TRAILS TO ADVENTURE

Super Museum, Metropolis. This small Ohio River city is the “Home of Superman.” Its shrine to the TV, movie and comic book hero contains one of the world’s largest collections of Superman memorabilia—from toys, food products and lunch boxes to movie posters, paintings and statues, and props and costumes from the old TV show. A 15-foot-tall bronze statue of Superman stands by the Massac County Courthouse.

Giant City State Park, Makanda. Nestled in Shawnee National Forest, the park draws hikers eager to squeeze through the narrow passageways threading the massive sandstone walls lining mile-long Giant City Nature Trail. Giant City Lodge, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, awes first-time visitors with its massive white oak timbers and sandstone blocks.

Illinois Rural Heritage Museum, Pinckneyville. Two cavernous buildings house an outstanding collection of farming implements and other antiques. Catch a demonstration of the rope-making machine, learn about coal mining, see a lard kettle and sausage stuffer, and admire a farmhouse, general store, and doctor and dentist offices from way back when. IL

Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette.

LAND OF LINCOLN,

LAND OF GHOSTS

Haunted places to visit in Central Ilinois

By Justine Leavitt

Do you dare to visit the haunted places in Illinois? Beyond the Land of Lincoln’s presidential past lies a darker history of otherworldly tales—suitable for the most adventurous of travel groups. With eerie mansions, haunted theaters, and spectral sightings, there is no limit to spooky destinations in the Prairie State.

The statue at Abraham Lincoln’s tomb in Springfield is a popular photo spot.

DECATUR: TREACHEROUS TOURS

Decatur has suffered mysterious encounters that cloak the city in secrets. But visitors and tour guides have joined together to uncover the city’s ghostly secrets. One of the best Illinois ghost tours is Haunted Decatur Tours. Led by renowned historian Troy Taylor, this three-to-four–hour tour has become a staple for travel groups. Travelers will visit a variety of haunted hotspots, including old cemeteries, abandoned buildings, and crime scenes that have left a lasting mark on the city’s history.

Another frightening highlight is the Lincoln Square Theater. This historic venue has hosted performers for over a century, but its ghostly residents are just as famous. Reports of apparition sightings, cold spots, and disembodied voices make this a mustsee for paranormal enthusiasts.

JACKSONVILLE: HAUNTS

Illinois College was founded in 1829 and is believed to have several haunted

buildings on campus. Sturtevant Hall and Beecher Hall are two locations where people have reported footsteps, strange noises and apparitions. According to talk around campus, Beecher Hall was once a medical building and the top floor was a space for storing cadavers. Another haunted spot is The Smith House, which is said to be haunted by its original owner’s daughter, Effie, around whom many campus legends have been told. Whipple Hall is known to be the home to a Gray Ghost who has no face. Crampton Hall, the McGaw building and the Rammelkamp Chapel are also on the long list of Illinois College’s haunted places.

JOLIET: CURSED THEATERS

Are you a fan of murder mystery? The Old Joliet Prison is steeped in tragedy. In 1915, the wife of the prison’s warden was murdered on-site. Beloved by the inmates and nicknamed the Angel of Joliet, her death led to riots as prisoners sought justice. However, the murderer was never

discovered. Due to its cryptic background, the prison is one of the top haunted attractions in Illinois for group visits. If you’re interested in ghost hunting in Illinois, your group has to stop at the nearby Rialto Square Theatre. Built in 1926, it’s said to be haunted by the spirits of former performers and tragic souls who died within the theatre’s walls. Some claim the theatre is one of the most haunted places in Illinois.

SPRINGFIELD: SHADOWS

The Land of Lincoln plays host to countless spirits—the most famous being the man who inspired the name. At Oak Ridge Cemetery, visitors have long reported sightings of a tall, shadowy figure believed to be Abraham Lincoln himself, silently watching over his tomb.

While the president is certainly the most famous, he’s not the only spirit who calls Springfield home. A governor’s wife haunts the Illinois Executive Mansion, a vindictive actor terrorizes visitors of the Legacy Theatre, and a family of ghosts still calls the Dana House home. With so many spooky destinations in Illinois, we’ve shared a few of the city’s spine-tingling tours to make ghost hunting easy.

• Springfield Ghosts: For a shorter tour with a more set schedule, take an hourlong visit to some of Springfield’s most chilling spirits.

• Springfield Hauntings: With 25 years of research, the hosts of Springfield Hauntings could be considered expert ghost hunters. This two-hour tour features surprise destinations and dark tales that will leave you petrified.

• Lincoln’s Ghost Walk: Join this 90-minute lantern-lit 10 block walking tour that uses the Lincoln sites as the backdrop for strange and bizarre stories surrounding Lincoln’s life and his death. Among the stops include the Old Capitol Plaza, where you can learn about his final visit to his law office, the phantom footsteps and cigar smoke and his funeral in the old capitol.

Whether you’re a believer or not, it’s time to test your paranormal suspicions. Book a group tour of the haunted places in Illinois and see what you find. IL

Discover Champaign-Urbana’s unforgettable group experiences.

Rich Midwestern agriculture. Sprawling European estates. African American legacies. Amish Country heritage. Oh, and Alaskan reindeer kisses.

TRAILS TO ADVENTURE

WINERY AND CRAFT BEER TRAILS

Explore the best vineyards and breweries of Southern Illinois, from scenic wine trails to unique beer loops, for a flavorful adventure

By Billy Stampfl

Blue Sky Vineyard in Makanda

Southern Illinois is a first-class destination for those who appreciate fine wine and craft beer. This region is home to an array of wineries and breweries that offer unique experiences, from scenic trails to vibrant tasting rooms. Whether you’re sipping wine by the lake or enjoying a cold brew after an outdoor adventure, Southern Illinois is the perfect destination for lovers of fine spirits.

SENSATIONAL SPIRITS

Southern Illinois is home to an array of wineries and breweries, and the Carlyle Lake region offers some of the most unique options for visitors. Hidden Lake Winery in Aviston, one of the largest wineries in the area, spans 92 acres and features guest cabins, event venues, and a banquet center. The winery sits on land known as “Silent Forest,” tied to local folklore about a bootlegger who produced whiskey there in the early 1900s. Guests can enjoy tastings and even bring their dogs.

Nearby Bretz Wildlife Lodge and Winery in Carlyle provides a distinctive experience inspired by South African lodges. Founded in 2008, it has grown from a small tasting room into a full-service establishment featuring fruit wines, an open-air bar, banquet facilities, sand volleyball courts, and live entertainment. Visitors can relax with handcrafted wines while enjoying beautiful sunsets.

Meanwhile, Twelve Oaks Vineyard in Carlyle, established in 2015, carries a family legacy spanning four generations. Known for its award-winning wines, the vineyard provides an intimate setting for tastings. Crooked Creek Winery is similarly intimate: situated in Centralia, it is a first-generation winery and horse farm that embraces community and adventure.

TOP-OF-THE-LINE WINERIES

What started with just three wineries in 1995 has grown to a trail of 12 individual wineries showcasing a variety of awardwinning wine styles and unique experiences.

The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is a mustsee in Southern Illinois, offering a delightful journey through 12 award-winning wineries. Stretching across a 35-mile scenic drive along highways 127 and 51, this trail winds through the stunning Shawnee National Forest. Along the way, visitors can enjoy picturesque picnic spots, peaceful hikes,

charming shops, and inviting B&Bs or cabins for a perfect overnight stay.

All 12 award-winning wineries are just a few minutes from each other. Enjoy 12 unique and different wineries on a day trip or spread out over a long weekend. Several of the wineries serve sandwiches to full meals. Most wineries offer picnic areas for you to bring along picnic baskets and enjoy your lunch or snacks with an award-winning southern Illinois wine. Many wineries host special events during the summer and fall, and the winter passport program offers exciting incentives to visit during January and February.

As you make your way from winery to winery, take time to explore the nearby small towns, local eateries, unique shops, and various outdoor adventures that await. Each winery along the trail offers its own character and charm, inviting you to cozy up in their tasting rooms and savor the local wines that are produced with pride.

At Blue Sky Vineyards, enjoy several wine festivals and other events every year and enjoy a visit with alpacas at nearby Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch. The deck at StarView Vineyard has views of the vineyards, Southern Illinois hills and a pond filled with Koi & turtles visitors can feed; and the tasting room has a gift shop and art gallery that

displays a collection of photographs and mosaics by local artists.

The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, in Southern Illinois is home to even more fantastic wineries, such as Alto Vineyards, Von Jakob Winery, Honker Hill and Owl Creek Vineyard— all along the trail. For those looking to go off the beaten path, Hogg Hollow Winery, Walker’s Bluff, and Cache River Basin Winery provide additional exceptional wine experiences. There are also several antique shops and orchards along the way, and lodging is available at Blue Sky, the Peach Barn Winery as well as several other inns, cottages and cabin rentals.

BREWERIES GALORE

The Southern Illinois Beer Trail is a mustvisit for craft beer enthusiasts, featuring 21 breweries stretching from Alton to Cobden. The trail is divided into three scenic loops, each offering a unique experience. The Red loop includes popular stops like The Old Bakery Beer, Recess Brewing, Excel Brewing, Peel Brewing Co., 4204 Main Street Brewing, and Old Herald Brewery & Distillery. The Blue loop brings you to Stumpy’s Spirits Distillery, Stubborn German Brewing, Hopskeller Brewing, Lieferbrau Brewery, White Rooster Farmhouse Brewery, and Millpond Brewing.

Enjoy some of the finest wines in the state on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail.

Finally, the Green loop showcases Route 51 Brewing, The Hop Brewery, Big Muddy Brewing, Molly’s Pint Brewpub, Apple Knocker Hard Cider, St. Nicholas Brewing, and St. Nicholas Landmark. With so many fantastic breweries to explore, you’ll want to plan your route and see how many you can visit.

The town of Carbondale, home to Southern Illinois University, is another beer lover’s haven. Nearby boasts a range of top-notch breweries, including Route 51 Brewery, St. Nicholas Brewing Company , and Big Muddy Brewing , each putting forth a distinct take on craft beer and a welcoming atmosphere.

And for a unique beer experience, don’t miss Scratch Brewing Company , a farmhouse brewery located just five miles from the Shawnee National Forest in Ava, Illinois. Recognized by Outside Magazine as one of the top four breweries for foraged beer, Scratch Brewing Company specializes in farmhouse ales brewed with homegrown, locally foraged ingredients. With an ever-rotating selection of flavors enhanced by nettle, elderberry, ginger,

dandelion, and more, it’s a perfect stop for those seeking innovation and a beautiful place to enjoy a beer.

A PLACE FOR ENTHUSIASTS

Southern Illinois is an incredible blend of wine and beer experiences, making it a prime destination for beverage enthusiasts. From

the scenic Shawnee Hills Wine Trail to the diverse Southern Illinois Beer Trail, the region showcases unique local flavors and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine at a charming winery or savoring a craft beer at a local brewery, Southern Illinois promises unforgettable moments and a taste of the region’s rich heritage and craftsmanship. IL

Moccasin Creek Festival

Southern Illinois’ many wineries and breweries are perfect destinations for group tours.

LEGACY ILLINOIS’ UNDERGROUND RAILROAD

Illuminating historic sites and stories of courage from the Land of Lincoln’s role in the fight for freedom

By Billy Stampfl

The Underground Railroad—the resistance to enslavement through escape and flight, lasting through the end of the Civil War—refers to the efforts of enslaved African Americans to gain their freedom by escaping bondage. Wherever slavery existed, there were efforts to escape. Initially, many fled to communities in remote or rugged terrain, but over time, these routes extended across state and international borders.

These acts of self-emancipation labeled slaves as “fugitives,” “escapees,” or “runaways,” but in retrospect, “freedom seeker” is a more

Cheney Mansion in Jerseyville featured a basement with a false cistern where slaves were hidden.

accurate description. While many began their journey unaided and completed their self-emancipation without assistance, each subsequent decade of legal slavery in the U.S. saw an increase in organized efforts to help escapees.

This piece explores Illinois’ significant role in this collective process—the Underground Railroad—from early routes in the state’s southern regions to key stops in cities like Alton, Galesburg, and Peoria. Historic sites, museums, and monuments stand today as powerful reminders of these daring journeys and the individuals who risked everything for liberty.

HISTORY OF THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD IN ILLINOIS

The Underground Railroad in Illinois played a vital role in the network of secret routes and safe houses that helped enslaved people escape to freedom. The Illinois and Mississippi Rivers provided natural pathways, with the secret network

stretching from the southern part of the state up to Chicago and beyond.

One of the most important routes followed the Great River Road National Scenic Byway, which traces the Mississippi River. Freedom seekers traveled along the river, using its bends and hidden pockets as cover. Many early Underground Railroad locations were established in Southern Illinois, where abolitionists and free Black communities provided refuge.

DEEP-ROOTED DESTINATIONS

Throughout Illinois, numerous historic sites provide a glimpse into the Underground Railroad’s legacy. These destinations preserve the stories of those who risked everything in the fight for freedom.

ALTON

The Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau offers Underground Railroad shuttle tours, highlighting Alton’s key role. Visitors can explore sites such as Rocky

Fork Church and Alton Cemetery, learning about abolitionists and civil rights leaders who helped shape the region’s history. Tours incorporate storytelling and music to bring the past to life. Groups can also visit the Lovejoy Memorial in Alton City Cemetery. This commemorates the life and contributions of abolitionist newspaper editor Elijah P. Lovejoy, who was killed by a mob while defending his printing press at Alton on November 7, 1837.

JERSEYVILLE

Historic Cheney Mansion is a place where escaping slaves would wait for passage further north. In the basement, there is a false cistern where slaves were hidden, which served as a station for the Underground Railroad.

GALESBURG

At Knox College’s Alumni Hall, the Underground Railroad Freedom Center stands as a testament to Galesburg’s abolitionist history. Founded in 1837 by

Photo courtesy of Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau of Southwest Illinois

The Hamilton Primary School in Otterville, built in 1835, was the first free and integrated school in the United States.

anti-slavery advocate George Washington Gale, the town was notable for its widespread opposition to slavery. The Galesburg Colony Underground Railroad Freedom Station at Knox College is recognized by the National Park Service’s Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program and features exhibits documenting the region’s role in the movement. Additionally, the city played a key role in the Lincoln-Douglas debates, where issues of slavery and freedom were hotly contested. Visitors can also explore Hope Cemetery, where notable abolitionists are buried, further connecting the city’s historical significance to the antislavery movement.

PEORIA

Elmwood, near Peoria, was a significant stop on the Underground Railroad. The Phelps barn, a well-documented refuge, still stands as a symbol of hope. In downtown Peoria, Preston Jackson’s sculpture Knockin’ on Freedom’s Door commemorates the city’s Underground Railroad history, marking the site of the former Pettengill House, an essential station in the network.

PRINCETON

The Lovejoy Homestead, a National Historic Landmark, was a sanctuary for escapees in the 1800s. Princeton’s rich Underground Railroad history extends along the Illinois River Scenic Byway, offering visitors a glimpse into the landscapes that provided safe passage for many freedom seekers. The Owen Lovejoy Homestead, named after the abolitionist minister and congressman, features a hidden compartment used to shelter freedom seekers. Visitors can tour the house and hear accounts of Lovejoy’s defiant stance against pro-slavery forces. Additionally, Princeton’s location along major migration routes allowed it to serve as a crucial midpoint, linking southern Illinois to northern destinations along the Underground Railroad.

QUAD CITIES

In the Quad Cities area, the Geneseo Historical Museum tells the story of Geneseo’s meaningful role in the Underground Railroad. This storied 1855 Italianate mansion served as a “safe house”

for enslaved individuals en route to Canada. Visitors can explore hidden passageways and secret rooms that once provided refuge to freedom seekers.

QUINCY

The Quincy Underground Railroad Museum, housed in the Dr. Richard Eells House, is one of the most significant documented sites in the country. Dr. Eells, a white physician and abolitionist, attempted to help an escapee named Charles but was prosecuted under Illinois law. The museum provides visitors with an opportunity to stand on the threshold where Charles once sought refuge.

Illinois played a crucial role in the Underground Railroad, providing safe passage for freedom seekers and serving as a hub for abolitionist activity. From the river routes of Southern Illinois to the historic sites in Alton, Galesburg, Peoria, and beyond, the state’s legacy is preserved through museums, landmarks, and guided tours. Today, visitors can walk in the footsteps of those who bravely sought freedom, learning about the resilience and courage that defined this chapter in American history. Exploring these destinations offers a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs of those who risked everything in pursuit of liberty. IL

Photo courtesy of Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau of Southwest Illinois

The Elijah Lovejoy Monument in Alton commemorates the abolitionist, Elijah Lovejoy, who was killed by a pro-slavery mob in 1837.

Three Days on the Great River Road in Southwest Illinois

Hartford, Alton, Elsah, Dow, Grafton, Brussels

DAY 1

Begin your journey in Hartford, where you can step back in time at the Lewis & Clark State Historic Site . This attraction commemorates the 1804 expedition and allows visitors to learn about the challenges the explorers faced as they set off to chart the western territories of the United States. The museum offers a variety of exhibits that detail the history of the expedition, including the role of local Native American tribes, the wildlife they encountered, and the tools they used. After exploring the historic site, enhance your knowledge even further at the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower , located nearby. The tower stands at 180 feet tall and offers sweeping views of the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. On a clear day, you can

see for miles in every direction, making it a perfect spot for photos and quiet reflection.

Next, make your way to Alton, a charming city with a rich history tied to the Mississippi River. Once there, visit the National Great Rivers Museum , where you can hear about the river’s importance to the development of the region and the country. The museum is housed adjacent to the Melvin Price Locks & Dam , and you can take a guided tour to learn how the locks help manage river traffic and prevent flooding. More good news: a short drive away is the Robert Wadlow Statue , dedicated to the world’s tallest man. Standing at 8 feet 11 inches and born in Alton, Wadlow remains an iconic figure in the town. For dinner, head to Alton’s Bluff City Grill . This local favorite is known for its delicious chicken stingers and

Grafton Winery at The Vineyards

The Great River Road is one of the best rides in the country.

home-style cooking, offering a great introduction to the area’s hearty cuisine. Castelli’s at 255 is renowned for serving scrumptious fried chicken while also featuring a bar and patio.

DAY 2

Start your second day with a visit to Elsah , a charming village tucked along the Mississippi River. This small town is known for its well-preserved 19thcentury buildings and picturesque river views. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, and you can stop by the local shops or simply enjoy the scenery. If you’re interested in local craftsmanship, head to David Stine Furniture in Dow, where you can watch artisans create custom wood furniture. The showroom is filled with beautiful, handcrafted pieces, making it a great stop for those interested in craftsmanship and design.

Continue your journey to Grafton, a riverside town known for its wineries and outdoor beauty. At Grafton Winery at The Vineyards , you will enjoy a tour of the winery while learning about the wine-making process and sampling some of the region’s best options. The tasting room is a cozy environment with views of the vineyard and the river beyond, making it an ideal stop for wine enthusiasts. Afterward, trek over to Pere Marquette State Park , one of Illinois’ largest state parks, where you can enjoy hiking, picnicking, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the Mississippi River from the park’s scenic overlooks. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers to explore.

For dinner, try Aerie’s Resort , a Grafton gem where you can dine on the patio with a stunning view of the river. The resort boasts a diverse menu with options ranging from sandwiches, flatbreads, and salads, making it a great place for a relaxing meal after a day of exploration. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the view

DAY 3

The final day should begin with a relaxing Hakuna Matata Boat Cruise at Grafton Harbor. The 49-passenger boat offers open-air seating on the upper deck and enclosed seating on the middeck, perfect for a peaceful tour of the Mississippi River. Enjoy River Rambler cruises or themed Sunset and Wine cruises available in the spring, summer, and fall.

Next, head to the Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge via Brussels Ferry. This wildlife haven sits at the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers, attracting over 200,000 waterfowl during migration. Take a walk on the levee trail or simply enjoy birdwatching from scenic overlooks. The area is perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, and seasonal activities like canoeing.

Interested in nature-focused fun?

Visit TreeHouse Wildlife Center in Dow to explore this wildlife rehabilitation center. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this premier attraction offers a chance to learn about local animals and their rehabilitation efforts.

Finish your nature-filled day at the Audubon Center at Riverlands , a sanctuary along the Mississippi River Flyway. The center is an excellent spot for birdwatching, where you can observe over 60 percent of North America’s migratory bird species.

For a scrumptious meal to conclude

your Land of Lincoln travel experience, enjoy family-style dining at Wittmond Hotel in Brussels, where hearty, homecooked dishes are always on the menu. Alternatively, some prefer to indulge in fried chicken and comfort food at Pere Marquette Lodge Restaurant in Grafton.

Lincoln-Douglas Square in Alton.

WHERE THE MOTHER ROAD

Meetsthe River Road

Take a road trip like no other through the only place in America where the Mother Road of Route 66 meets the scenic beauty of the Great River Road. Explore an electric Neon Sign Park, dine at historic roadside cafes, take a walk through the river bluffs and prairies and relax with a glass of locally crafted wine beside the Mighty Mississippi River. Your one-of-a-kind adventure begins at RiversandRoutes.com.

LAND OF LINCOLN CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAUS

CHICAGO & BEYOND

Aurora Area

Convention and Visitors Bureau

43 West Galena Blvd. Aurora, IL 60506-4129

630-256-3190 enjoyaurora.com

Chicago’s North Shore

Convention and Visitors Bureau

8833 Gross Point Road, Suite 307 Skokie, IL 60077

847-763-0011 visitchicagonorthshore.com

Choose Chicago

301 E. Cermak Road Chicago, IL 60616 312-567-8500 choosechicago.com

DeKalb County

Convention and Visitors Bureau 2500 N Annie Glidden Road Community Outreach Building Suite F DeKalb, IL 60115

815-756-1336 dekalbcountycvb.com

DuPage Convention and Visitors Bureau

915 Harger Road, Suite 120 Oak Brook, IL 60523

630-575-8070 or 800-232-0502 discoverdupage.com

Elgin Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

60 S. Grove Avenue, 1st Floor Elgin, IL 60120

847-695-7540 or 855-515-7926 exploreelginarea.com

Greater Freeport Partnership (serves Stephenson County) 110 West Main St. Freeport, IL 61032

815-233-1350 greaterfreeport.com

Heritage Corridor Destinations

701 Essington Road, Suite 100 Joliet, IL 60435

844-944-2282 hcdestinations.com

Kankakee County

Convention and Visitors Bureau

275 E Court St. #102 Kankakee, IL 60901

815-935-7390 or 800-747-4837 visitkankakeecounty.com

Lake County, Illinois

Convention and Visitors Bureau 5465 W. Grand Avenue, Suite 100 Gurnee, IL 60031

847-662-2700 800-525-3699 visitlakecounty.org

Meet Chicago Northwest 1933 N. Meacham Road, Suite 210 Schaumburg, IL 60173

847-490-1010 or 800-847-4849 chicagonorthwest.com

Naturally McHenry County, Illinois 11879 E. Main Street Huntley, IL 60142

815-893-6280 naturallymchenrycounty.com

Rockford Area

Convention and Visitors Bureau

102 N. Main Street Rockford, IL 61101

815-963-8111 800-521-0849 gorockford.com

Rosemont Convention Bureau

9301 W. Bryn Mawr Avenue Rosemont, IL 60018-5201

847-823-2100 rosemont.com

VisitNW Illinois

201 N. Franklin Avenue Polo, Illinois 61064 815-946-2108 visitnorthwestillinois.com

Visit Chicago Southland 19900 Governors Drive, Suite 200 Olympia Fields, IL 60461-1057

708-895-8200 or 888-895-8233 visitchicagosouthland. com

Visit Oak Park

1010 Lake Street, #104 Oak Park, IL 60301

708-524-7800 visitoakpark.com

GREAT RIVERS COUNTRY

Discover Downstate Illinois 4387 N. Illinois St., Suite 200 Swansea, IL 62226

618-257-1488 www.downstateil.org

Galena Country Tourism 101 Bouthillier St. Galena, IL 61036 815-776-9200 visitgalena.org

Galesburg Tourism & Visitors Bureau 2163 E. Main St. Galesburg, IL 61401 309-343-2485 experiencegalesburg.com

Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau 200 Piasa St. Alton, IL 62002 618-465-6676 Riversandroutes.com

Henry County Tourism Bureau 224 W. Third Street Kewanee, IL 61443 309-761-8473 https://visithenryil.com/

Peoria Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 456 Fulton, Suite 300 Peoria, IL 61602 309-676-0303 or 800-747-0302 enjoypeoria.com

Quincy Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 532 Gardner Expressway Quincy, IL 62301 217-214-3700 or 800-978-4748 seequincy.com

Visit Quad Cities - Moline Visitor Center 1601 River Drive, Suite 110 Moline, IL 61265-1472 309-736-6828 800-747-7800 visitquadcities.com

Visit Unforgettable ForgottoniaMacomb Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 120 E. Calhoun St. Macomb, IL 61455 309-833-1315 visitforgottonia.com

LAND OF LINCOLN

Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 101 S. Madison St. Bloomington, IL 61701 309-665-0033 visitbn.org

Danville Area Visitors’ Bureau 100 W Main Street, Room 146 Danville, IL 61832 217-442-2096 or 800-383-4286 visitdanvillearea.com

Decatur Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 202 E. North Street Decatur, IL 62523-1129 217-423-7000 decaturcvb.com

Discover Downstate Illinois 4387 N. Illinois St., Suite 200 Swansea, IL 62226 618-257-1488 www.downstateil.org

Experience Champaign Urbana 17 E. Taylor St. Champaign, IL 61820 217-351-4133 or 800-369-6151 experiencecu.org

Jacksonville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 310 E. State St. Jacksonville, IL 62650-2030 217-243-5678 or 800-593-5678 jacksonvilleil.org

Logan County Tourism Bureau 101 N. Chicago St. Lincoln, IL 62656 217-732-8687 destinationlogancountyil.com

Shelbyville Illinois 315 E. Main Street Shelbyville, IL 62565 217-774-2244 or 800-874-3529 shelbyvilleillinois.net

Visit Effingham 201 E. Jefferson Ave. Effingham, IL 62401 217-342-5310 or 800-772-0750 visiteffinghamil.com

Visit Springfield Illinois 109 N. 7th Street Springfield, IL 62701 217-789-2360 or 800-545-7300 visitspringfieldillinois.com

Discover Downstate Illinois 4387 N. Illinois St., Suite 200 Swansea, IL 62226 618-257-1488 www.downstateil.org

Mt. Vernon, IL Tourism 123 S. 10th St. Suite 503 Mt. Vernon, IL 62864-0049 618-242-3151 enjoymtvernon.com

Rend Lake Area Tourism Council Campbell Government Building 901 Public Square PO Box 1544 Benton, Illinois 62812 630-360-1701 rendlake.com

Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau

Cottage #1 1000 N Main St. Anna, IL 62906-0378 618-833-9928 or 800-248-4373 southernmostillinois.com

visitSI

1602 Sioux Drive Marion, IL 62959 618-997-3690 or 800-433-7399 visitsi.com

Possibilities Uncov

TOUR CENTRAL ILLINOIS’ BEST-KEPT SECRETS.

Central Illinois is brimming with a storied past waiting to be discovered — and in the Jacksonville area, these legends are more than just tall tales. Hear harrowing accounts of those escaping slavery on the Underground Railroad at sites like Woodlawn Farm and the ongoing fight for equality at the African American History Museum. Stand in the presence of our frontier origins at the Governor Duncan Mansion. Step through our history at the Jacksonville Area Museum and see how our most creative minds blossom under a Second Empire-style roof at the David Strawn Art Gallery. Plus, shop and nosh your way through shops, boutiques, and restaurants full of uncommon finds and delectable flavors. No matter how you define a successful trip for your group, creating new experiences comes as easily as discovering a bit of the past.

Louisiana is a bucket-list state for many U.S. travelers. Whether it’s cities with lively jazz and mouthwatering Cajun cuisine or the breathtaking greenery of state parks, there is something for groups of all interests. But did you know travel for people with disabilities in Louisiana is top-tier?

EXPLORE Accessible Travel in Louisiana

Barrier-Free Destinations and Experiences

Your essential guide to accessible travel in Louisiana: Inclusive, adaptive and wheelchair-friendly destinations

By Justine Leavitt

With a community committed to universal access tourism, the Bayou State has made significant strides to ensure barrier-free travel in Louisiana.

Louisiana Is a Great Destination

Paving the way for inclusive travel in Louisiana, ADA requirements and local state policies have ensured that iconic

landmarks and cultural institutions are widely accessible.

Major cities such as New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Lafayette have encouraged travel for people with disabilities by upgrading sites to be more inclusive. The famous French Quarter has even improved its sidewalk accessibility by installing ramps for wheelchair access.

Lake Pontchartrain

Wheelchair-Friendly Attractions

With so many wheelchair accessible attractions in Louisiana, it’s the perfect destination for your group to visit. The inclusive sites in New Orleans are especially worth exploring.

• French Quarter, New Orleans: The famous district, renowned for its music and culinary delights, now features accessible street access through sidewalks and ramps.

• Louisiana State Museum: History enthusiasts will appreciate wheelchair-accessible exhibitions that teach tourists Louisiana’s heritage.

• National WWII Museum: Are you curious about the secrets of WWII? Wander exhibits with ease through a fully accessible museum with wheelchair rental options.

Accessible Outdoor Adventures

Below are just a few of the state’s must-see spots for nature lovers:

• Jean Lafitte National Park: You can’t visit Louisiana without exploring its famous swamps. And with the park’s boardwalks and trails designed specifically for accessibility, it’s never been easier.

• Lake Pontchartrain Waterfront: Do you love to fish or simply want to enjoy idyllic surroundings? Visit Louisiana’s accessible fishing piers and scenic routes for a peaceful retreat.

• State Parks with ADA Accommodations: Louisiana’s state parks offer accessible cabins, trails, and facilities. Parks such as Fontainebleau State Park and Lake D’Arbonne State Park even offer allterrain chairs.

The Best Accessible Hotels

After a day filled with excitement, comfort is key. Here we’ve provided a few ADA-compliant hotels, so you can enjoy barrier-free travel in Louisiana:

• The Roosevelt New Orleans: Nestled

in the city’s heart, this historic hotel offers roll-in showers, braille signage, and an accessible pool to create a luxurious experience for all its guests.

• Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center: With wheelchair-friendly rooms and personalized assistance, this hotel allows for an ideal environment for travelers with all types of disabilities.

• Best Western Lafayette: This hotel’s affordable and accessible amenities make it an excellent choice for any travel group.

Transportation Options

Accessible travel in Louisiana is straightforward thanks to its vast network of transportation:

• Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport: Travel in and through Louisiana is simple thanks to the airport’s many programs. Utilize braille, the Hidden Disabilities Program, wheelchair assistance, and more for all your group’s needs.

• Wheelchair-Accessible Rental Cars & Ride-Share Services: Rental cars in Louisiana are required to be wheelchair-accessible and provide ride-share services to make your journey easy.

• Public Transit: Louisiana offers public transit for all. From buses to streetcars and taxis, there is no shortage of ways to travel and explore.

Dining & Entertainment

Louisiana is famous for its delicious cuisine and endless entertainment, and the state strives to make these attractions accessible.

• TABASCO factory: Head to Cajun Country in southern Louisiana to see the world-famous pepper sauce being made. All tours are self-guided and wheelchair accessible.

• Steamboat Natchez: Do you want to enjoy some traditional New Orleans

jazz as you sail across the river? Hop aboard and relax on an ADAcompliant river boat.

• Antoine’s: This is a restaurant that combines old-world charms with delicious dishes.

• Cafe Du Monde: Have you wanted to try the beignets of New Orleans? Now is the time. This restaurant is accessible, and you can seat yourself when you’ve gotten through the line.

Travel Tips

These tips will allow you to enjoy inclusive travel in Louisiana:

• Plan Ahead: Coordinate with members of your group with disabilities and contact destinations to confirm accessibility features.

• Utilize Resources: Leverage accessible travel guides for Louisiana and local ADA resources.

• Visit During Off-Seasons: If you have group members who become overwhelmed by large crowds, it’s best to visit during the spring or fall for a more relaxed experience.

St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans

Jefferson Parish, a diverse community stretching from the southern shore of Lake Pontchartrain to the Gulf of Mexico, offers visitors an exciting mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine.

JEFFERSON PARISH, LOUISIANA

Jam-Packed Jefferson Parish

DAY 1

The first day begins in Metairie and Kenner, two neighboring towns offering exciting activities and top-tier dining. Start your morning at NOLA Motorsports Park, a state-of-the-art racing venue just 20 minutes from the French Quarter. This premier entertainment complex features one of the largest karting tracks in the country, with high-speed thrills for both beginners and experienced racers.

JEFFERSON CVB

Angela Matherne (504) 731-7083 angela@visitjeffersonparish.com visitjeffersonparish.com/things-to-do/

After an high-flying start, head to Lafreniere Park Disc Golf Course, a free 18-hole course set in a scenic municipal park with slight elevation changes, tree groves, and water hazards. The sprawling 155-acre park is a community favorite, featuring jogging trails, a beautiful lagoon, and picnic areas perfect for a mid-morning break.

In the afternoon, visit the Shrine on Airline, formerly Zephyr Field, a former minor league baseball stadium now repurposed for entertainment. The stadium boasts 16 VIP luxury suites, a swimming pool, and a party deck, making it a great spot for sports lovers. Even if there’s no event happening, you can explore the area and enjoy the nostalgic feel of this historic venue, which has hosted numerous baseball games and community gatherings over the years.

For lunch or dinner, a stop at Drago’s Seafood Restaurant and Oyster Bar is a must. Famous for inventing charbroiled oysters, this Metairie staple serves up fresh Louisiana seafood with bold flavors. The restaurant’s signature oysters are grilled over an open flame, topped with butter, garlic, and cheese, creating a mouthwatering dish.

DAY 2

Your second and final day takes you to Gretna, a charming and historic town located just 20 minutes from Metairie. Begin your morning with a visit to the Kitte Stehle House, an early 19th-century home that provides insight into the region’s architectural history. Next, explore the David Crockett Firehouse, home to the Louisiana State Fire Museum. Gretna’s fire department, which began as a volunteer bucket brigade in 1841, is the oldest continuously operating volunteer fire department in the United States. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Gretna Green Blacksmith Shop, where you can learn about traditional metalworking techniques. Then, stop by the Illinois Central Caboose Museum, housed in a classic red caboose. Here, visitors can step inside a historic railcar and learn about the role of railroads in shaping Louisiana’s economy.

Nearby, the Southern Pacific Freight Depot offers another look into the area’s transportation history, making this district a must-see for history enthusiasts.

And while in Gretna, be sure to visit the Gretna Cultural Center for the Arts, a vibrant venue hosting performances, art exhibits, and cultural events.

For a lunch break among all of this excitement, head to Gattuso’s Restaurant, a favorite among locals for its casual atmosphere and delicious menu. Finally, if you’re in the mood for something sweet, stop by That’s Amore Bakery, which offers decadent desserts that are the perfect treat to end your Gretna adventure.

Southern ITINERARY GUIDE

The South is bursting with charm, history and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for group adventures. Whether you’re a band of foodies craving soulful cuisine or a crew of outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure, the South caters to all interests. To help navigate this treasure trove of experiences, Leisure Group Travel has curated a collection of informative itineraries. These expertly crafted plans showcase the best attractions and activities, ensuring your group has an unforgettable southern escape.

Greensboro, NC, is an ideal destination for group travel, offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, delicious food, and unique attractions. Whether you’re hiking through scenic trails, exploring wildlife at the Greensboro Science Center, or indulging in local food favorites like Modern Southern Classics and International Cuisine, there’s something for everyone.

GREENSBORO CVB

(336) 274-2282

info@visitgreensboronc.com

VisitGreensboroNC.com

GREENSBORO, NC

Scenic Trails and Local Eats

DAY 1

Start your outdoor adventure in Greensboro with a delicious breakfast at Greenfield’s NY Deli and Bagels. Known for its classic bagels and hearty egg and cheese sandwiches, it’s the perfect spot to fuel up for a day of outdoor exploration. Once you’re stuffed, head to Owl’s Roost Trail , a scenic, 5.4-mile loop providing plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and bird watching. You’ll get a taste of North Carolina’s natural beauty as you pass through wooded areas, along the lake, and across the iconic H. Michael Weaver Bridge .

After a morning of fresh-air fun, enjoy a delicious lunch at JakJin Bistro Pho . This Vietnamese eatery is a local favorite for its flavorful pho, sandwiches, and noodle dishes. Don’t miss their famous fried bananas, a dessert that’s become a social media sensation. Then, with your energy renewed, spend the afternoon at Keeley Park.

End your first day with dinner at ‘cille and ‘scoe, where you can enjoy Southern comfort food with a modern twist.

DAY 2

Start your second day with a visit to Dame’s Chicken and Waffles for a Southern-style breakfast. The crispy chicken and fluffy waffles will provide a satisfying start to your day of wildlife exploration—and after breakfast, your next destination is the Greensboro Science Center. This one-of-a-kind facility combines a

zoo, aquarium, and museum, making it an ideal destination for animal lovers and families alike. Spend your morning meeting penguins, otters, and a variety of marine life. Courageous visitors should try SKYWILD, the treetop adventure course that provides a thrilling way to interact with nature. When it’s time for lunch, stop by Bubble Bear for a refreshing bubble tea concoction. Their selection of drinks and sweet treats is perfect for recharging before continuing your travels at Country Park, a sprawling green space that covers over 400 acres. With 13 miles of trails and plenty of opportunities for picnics, it’s a great place to unwind after an active morning.

DAY 3

On your last day, chow on breakfast at Scrambled Southern Diner , a local favorite located in Lindley Park. This hotspot’s Southerninspired breakfast options, such as the loaded biscuits and gravy, will give you the energy you need for another full day of outdoor exploration. After eating, dive into Greensboro’s public art scene. Take a walk around the city to admire the many murals, sculptures, and art installations that dot the urban landscape.

For lunch, head to Café Europa , a Europeanstyle restaurant that offers delicious options ranging from seafood to fresh salads. Its central location in the Arts District makes it a perfect stop to relax before continuing your outdoor exploration. Spend your afternoon taking in more of Greensboro’s beautiful parks and cultural landmarks.

Pigeon Forge offers a variety of activities that cater to all interests and ages. From thrilling attractions like Dollywood and the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel to unique experiences such as dinner shows and zip-lining, there’s never a dull moment. Pigeon Forge ensures that every member of the group can find something to enjoy.

PIGEON FORGE, TN

Attractions and Fine Dining

DAY 1

Arrive in Pigeon Forge and check into your hotel, taking a moment to settle in before embarking on a fun-filled evening.

One top-choice show is Dolly Parton’s Stampede , featuring thrilling horse-riding stunts, dazzling special effects, and an original song performed by Dolly Parton herself. The event’s friendly competition and impressive performances make it a must-see for visitors of all ages. For a more action-packed experience, Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud brings the legendary family rivalry to life with singing, dancing, daring stunts, and even diving hillbillies.

One final exciting option for your first day: Paula Dean’s Lumberjack Feud and Supper Show , featuring resentful, fiery lumberjack families, comic charm, and crowd interaction.

PIGEON FORGE

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM

Mike Gwinn

mike.gwinn@cityofpigeonforgetn.gov PigeonForgeTours.com

DAY 2

Start day two with a hearty breakfast at Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin —consider ordering the sticky bun pancakes or fresh fruit crepes— then embark on a guided tour through the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park , America’s most visited national park. With its rich biodiversity and scenic views, the park offers a perfect blend of nature and history, immersing visitors in the beauty of the Appalachian landscape.

For a deeper dive into local history, consider the Life and Legacy of Dolly Parton Tour: Rags to Riches , which shows off Dolly’s humble

beginnings in Sevier County.

If you’re seeking a thrilling way to explore the mountains, a Smoky Mountain Pink Jeep Tour might be in store. These guided excursions revolve around stunning scenic views, hidden gems, and an off-road adventure.

Puckett’s Restaurant serves up a buffetstyle Southern feast with live music. Mama’s Farmhouse offers a cozy, family-style dining experience featuring fried chicken, meatloaf, and turkey with stuffing.

The Titanic Museum provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to walk through the halls of the iconic ship while engaging with over 400 authentic artifacts. For a different perspective, the Alcatraz East Crime Museum delves into the world of crime and justice with exhibits on forensic science, criminal history, and law enforcement.

DAY 3

No trip to Pigeon Forge is complete without a visit to Dollywood . This award-winning theme park, founded by Dolly Parton, blends thrilling rides, spectacular shows, artisan crafts, and mouthwatering food.

Dollywood can fill a full day, so take a break before your final evening in town. If you missed a dinner show on your first night, now is a great time to experience one of Pigeon Forge’s iconic performances. Alternatively, for a special dining experience, opt for a meal in the Secret Dining Room at the Titanic Museum, followed by an evening tour of the ship.

Greater Birmingham, Alabama is steeped in history, culture and Southern charm. With its fascinating mix of art, history, and modern attractions, it offers a memorable experience for every traveler. From renowned art museums to powerful historic sites, the city boasts landmarks that tell stories of its past while embracing its evolving future.

GREATER BIRMINGHAM CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

800-458-8085

inbirmingham.com

BIRMINGHAM, AL

Southern-Style Fun

DAY 1

Start your day at the Birmingham Museum of Art , one of the finest regional museums in the country. With more than 29,000 works in its collection, the museum offers a diverse range of works, from ancient pieces to modern stunners.

After soaking in the art, head to Automatic Seafood in the Lakeview neighborhood. This upscale restaurant blends fine dining with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The menu features fresh seafood sourced from the Gulf of Mexico and coastal waters from around the country.

Satiated and ready for some baseball? As the sun begins to set, consider catching a Birmingham Barons game at Regions Field. This Minor League Baseball team, affiliated with the Chicago White Sox, plays in a stadium with a seating capacity of 8,500. The Barons offer affordable tickets, making for a fun and affordable afternoon or evening of baseball.

DAY 2

The primary attraction on your second day should be Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum , home to over 1,600 motorcycles. This automotive shrine showcases motorcycles from 220 different manufacturers across 22 countries, including iconic machines like Kenny Roberts’ 1980 Yamaha Championship bike.

After taking in the museum’s impressive exhibits, head to the Irondale Café for lunch, the original Whistle Stop Café made famous by the movie Fried Green Tomatoes. Located in downtown Irondale,

this local favorite serves Southern classics made from fresh, local ingredients.

Once you have enjoyed your meal, take a brewery tour through some of Birmingham’s best craft breweries. Good People Brewing Company, Avondale Brewing Company, Trim Tab Brewing Company, and Cahaba Brewing Company each offer unique local brews.

End your day with a relaxed evening, enjoying one of the beers you picked up during your brewery tour or just exploring the local scene.

DAY 3

Day three should begin—and largely revolve around— Birmingham’s Civil Rights District , one of the most historically significant areas in the city. Here, you will find landmarks like the 16th Street Baptist Church, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, and the Historic Bethel Baptist Church.

At some point during your final day, make sure to try a scrumptious meal at Niki’s West, a Birmingham institution since 1957. Known for its home-cooked Southern fare, Niki’s West serves up mouth-watering dishes like bread pudding, collard greens, and banana pudding.

Once you’ve had your fill of Southern comfort food, head over to Ross Bridge Golf Resort and Spa for some time on the links. Part of the renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Ross Bridge is one of the top golf courses in North America. An added bonus: after your round, you can unwind at the resort’s spa, making it a perfect way to conclude your trip to Birmingham.

WHERE DREAMS MARCHED

A TOUR PLANNER’S GUIDE TO HISTORY THAT CHANGED THE WORLD.

you.

Birmingham’s Civil Rights District has been named a National Monument. Bring your guests to visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute – a comprehensive telling of the struggle for Civil Rights, Kelly Ingram Park – where protesters and police clashed, and the 16th Street Baptist Church, where four little girls were killed in 1963. Walk where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and many other brave men and women stood their ground in the fight for the rights of all Americans. Birmingham’s history is this country’s history. We look forward to sharing it with you.

From leisurely days spent lounging by the ocean to experiencing the area’s natural wonders and lively entertainment, your visit to Myrtle Beach will transform into a special memory filled with laughter, adventure and relaxation.

Adventure and Southern Charm

DAY 1

On your first morning visiting Myrtle Beach, familiarize yourself with Broadway at the Beach . Spanning over 350 acres, this vibrant destination has a variety of specialty shops, unique dining, lively entertainment and hasslefree parking, catering to visitors of all ages. Grab lunch at the newest family-friendly restaurant in Myrtle Beach, The Hangout Indulge in seasonal seafood dishes alongside a selection of burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and appetizers while you enjoy live music on the dual indoor and outdoor stages. Head over to Ripley’s Aquarium and start your afternoon aquatic adventure. Immerse yourself among thousands of aquatic species with interactive hands-on exhibits and face-to-face animal encounters.

VISIT MYRTLE BEACH

Sandy Haines

843-916-7248, sandy.haines@visitmyrtlebeach.com VisitMyrtleBeach.com/Groups

Find dinner at The Original Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood . Choose from 11 unique dining rooms each with their own theme and indulge in the freshest locally sourced seafood provided by the Atlantic Ocean. An exciting evening awaits you after dinner with a worldfamous live tribute show at Legends in Concert Paying tribute to musicians from Elvis, Tina Turner and Jimmy Buffet to Taylor Swift, Frank Sinatra, Shania Twain and many more, this is a must-see show when visiting Myrtle Beach.

DAY 2

Nestled in the coastal beauty of South Carolina, Brookgreen Gardens effortlessly blends art, nature and history. Enjoy a relaxing

morning by taking a self-guided tour of the gardens and observe over 2,000 sculptures, the largest collection in America.

Situated along the Marshwalk, enjoy stunning waterfront views while eating lunch at Drunken Jack’s Restaurant & Lounge . An afternoon at Duplin Winery is a must when visiting Myrtle Beach. Famous for America’s favorite muscadine wine, the interactive experiences showcase the creation of their award-winning wines made from muscadine grapes.

DAY 3

On your final day visiting Myrtle Beach, take a leisurely morning stroll along the 1.2 mile long Boardwalk . Newly renovated with colorful boards made of recycled plastic, the Boardwalk promises durability for years to come. Overload your senses by breathing in the salty air, soak in the warm sun and admire the layers of color that unfold as the sand meets the ocean that blends with the blue sky.

Make your way along the Boardwalk to Riptydz Oceanfront Grille , a pet-friendly restaurant and beach bar. With three separate dining areas and a rooftop bar, this casual open-air space is perfect for those looking for a leisurely lunch with ocean views. After lunch visit The Market Common . Formerly an Air Force Base, historical markers throughout the area share the stories of heroes and former military buildings. The area now consists of boutique shops, meticulous landscaping, musicfilled streets, fountains and playgrounds.

MYRTLE BEACH, SC

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.

and off the water.

Scenic cruises and fishing charters. Endless fun on

Bulldog Nation knows Starkville is Mississippi’s College Town. But it is also a history town, an arts and music town, a shopping and dining town and an outdoor adventure town. Come to town for a great Southeastern Conference game. Stay for the Starkville experience.

STARKVILLE, MISSISSIPPI

Starkville: Historic City Tour

DAY 1

The perfect place to begin your day is the Mississippi State University Welcome Center . Make sure you are on time, because the lobby features a display of more than 400 clocks and watches dating back to the 1700s.

Next stop is MSU’s Mitchell Memorial Library where history springs to life through exhibits at three free museums. Begin at the Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library which is one of only six Presidential Libraries located on a college campus. Don’t miss the Charles H. Templeton Sr. Music Museum and the John Grisham Room , also located at the Mitchell Memorial Library.

You’ve earned some nourishment! Grab lunch at one of our many locally owned restaurants.

VISIT STARKVILLE

Paige Hunt (662) 323-3322 phunt@starkville.org starkville.org

It’s time to check out the Carnegie Hall of college baseball! Head over to MSU’s campus to get a selfie at Dudy Noble Field at Polk-Dement Stadium , home of the 2021 National Champion Diamond Dogs! Football more your speed?

Check out the second oldest on-campus football stadium in the nation at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field .

What trip is complete without a little retail therapy? Historic Downtown Starkville is walkable with a number of unique boutiques Not up for shopping? Take a stroll while you check out Starkville’s fantastic public art offerings.

Time to check in to one of Starkville’s many hotel options.

There are so many options to choose from for dinner! You won’t go home hungry!

DAY 2

Breakfast on your own at your hotel.

Get the day started by strolling through the Historic Cotton District . The Camp family’s award-winning redevelopment of this historic neighborhood, with what would eventually become known as “New-Urbanism”, has served as a model for other cities to emulate. The architectural elements of Greek Revival with Classical and Victorian architecture are a feast for the eyes.

No trip to Starkville would be complete without a stop at the MSU Cheese Store , which is operated by the university and serves as a teaching tool for food science and marketing students. The Edam cheese cannonball is the most popular purchase, but locals know that the Vallagret cheese and muscadine jelly are the best kept secrets – and the most delicious.

It’s time to depart! But before you go, consider adding on another one of MSU’s many museums, or a drive through the beautiful Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge

ATLANTIC CITY is ideal for groups large and small looking to create unforgettable memories together. Our seaside destination has diverse attractions, events, places to stay, and restaurants everyone will love. Atlantic City’s casino hotel properties offer the hottest action in casino gaming and sports betting, exceptional entertainment, first-class accommodations, exciting nightlife and so much more. When you’re ready, our Visit Atlantic City team is on hand to assist you with planning the perfect group getaway.

www.visitatlanticcity.com/group-travel

Absecon Lighthouse

Climb the USA’s 3rd tallest lighthouse in Atlantic City! Take an amazing journey into time and above it all as you ascend the 228 steps of the Absecon Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in the country. You’ll see breathtaking views of the Atlantic City skyline and up top you’ll come face-to-face with the original first-order Fresnel Lens, first lit in 1857. It is open year-round with a museum, gift shop, exhibits, gardens, and free parking.

Resorts Casino Hotel

A one-of-a-kind casino resort located on the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk, this famed hotel boasts a prime location spanning 21 acres. The property has coveted many awards for customer service dining and gaming and features 942 guest rooms and suites in two hotel towers, an 80,000-square-foot casino and two theaters.

Tropicana Atlantic City

Located steps off the iconic beach and boardwalk, Tropicana has remained a premier resort destination for over 40 years, offering endless fun for everyone. The resort features signature Italian restaurant, il Verdi, and The Quarter, a unique entertainment complex with nearly 40 outlets including The IMAX Theatre at Tropicana, home to the largest IMAX viewing screen in Southern New Jersey.

Harrah’s Resort

A Mecca of unparalleled dining, gaming and entertainment, Harrah’s Resort is home to an impressive lineup of celebrity chefs including Buddy “Cake Boss” Valastro; and Atlantic City’s premier nightlife destination, The Pool After Dark. Head to The Pool at Harrah’s during the day to experience an indoor tropical oasis where it’s always 82 degrees.

Caesars Atlantic City

The iconic Caesars boasts a transformed resort experience featuring spectacular hotel rooms, an award-winning spa, and two Gordon Ramsay eateries— Hell’s Kitchen and Gordon Ramsay Pub. Dine with us and stay with us at Nobu Atlantic City to experience Chef Nobu’s signature Japanese cuisine, accommodations designed in sleek, modern touches, and signature spa treatments at Qua Baths & Spa.

Traveling Tribes is a podcast that features an ongoing series of guest interviews and insight into group travel from industry superheroes.

LEARN ABOUT:

• Trends for individual and group travel planning

• Addressing the current status of the travel market

• Advice on how to better market your business or destination

WANT TO HEAR MORE?

Subscribe to our podcast and get new episodes as they become available where you listen to podcasts. Learn more at: LeisureGroupTravel.com/TravelingTribes

Nature, Culture and Culinary Delights

From hiking scenic trails and visiting world-class museums to savoring iconic dishes and wines, New York offers unforgettable group experiences

New York is a world-class destination for group tours, offering a dynamic mix of outdoor attractions, excellent museums and incredible food that will keep any group engaged and excited.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

New York features more than 2,000 miles of hiking and biking trails and numerous waterways great for fishing, sailing, boating and more.

With 215 state parks and historic sites to choose from, there is something for everyone. Allegany State Park is the state’s largest park with 65,000 acres of rugged beauty. Groups can hike, bike, kayak, fish and hunt in a mixed hemlock and hardwood forest with rolling hills, meadows, ponds, and lakes that attract devoted outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Offering 424 campsites and 375 cabins, the Allegany State Park is a campers’ paradise.

Other iconic New York state parks include Central Park: The largest urban park in New York City, and one of the world’s largest and Niagara Falls: The first state park in the United States, established in 1885.

MUSEUMS

of New York, Beneath the City: Albany Archeology, Black Capital: Harlem in the 20s, The Cohoes Mastodon, Fire Engine Hall and The World Trade Center: Rescue, Recovery, Response. There’s also a working full-sized carousel on the 4th floor of the Museum.

New York is home to an incredible array of museums that few destinations can match.

The New York State Museum in Downtown Albany explores the cultural and natural history of New York State. The museum features a variety of history, science and art exhibitions. Within the main exhibit halls are popular longstanding favorites, including Adirondack Wilderness, Birds

CULINARY DELIGHTS

For some of the best food experiences of your life, pay a visit to New York.

New York Kitchen in Canandaigua offers panoramic views of Canandaigua Lake while guests dine on delicious comfort food, from charcuterie boards with New York cheese to classic pizzas. Its Tasting Room features 60 different and ever-changing New York State wines, 10 taps highlighting seasonal craft beers, ciders, distilled spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages. Sip and savor our diverse flights in a fun, relaxing atmosphere.

I LOVE NY

Danae Jones-Persip, (518) 292-5949 grouptravel@esd.ny.gov iloveny.com

Photos: The Culinary Institute of America(above), Old Erie Canal State Historic Park (left) and Corning Museum of Glass (below).

North Dakota: A Land of Scenic Beauty and Rich History

From tranquil Japanese Gardens to the historic Missouri River, North Dakota offers a peaceful escape and unforgettable adventures

North Dakota, with its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, offers a variety of experiences that transport visitors to another time and place. From the rugged beauty of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where visitors can explore colorful canyons and encounter bison in their natural habitat, to the serene Japanese Gardens in Grand Forks, there is something for everyone. Whether cruising the Missouri River aboard the historic Lewis & Clark Riverboat or hiking the picturesque Badlands, North Dakota invites travelers to discover both its natural wonders and cultural treasures, all while enjoying a sense of peace and freedom away from the crowds.

THEODORE ROOSEVELT NATIONAL PARK

Set in the colorful canyons of the western North Dakota Badlands is a national park that deserves to be on your travel list. Without the crowds and waiting lines common to some parks, it’s easy to discover a sense of freedom at Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Park trails and drives take you to scenic vistas with stunning views of the Painted Canyon and the Little Missouri River, a petrified forest and open range populated by bison, horses, elk, prairie dogs, and other wildlife. In addition to the park trails, the Maah Daah Hey Trail offers 144 miles of non-motorized single track through the Badlands and is recognized as one of the top mountain biking trails in the U.S. This land was a favorite spot of President Theodore Roosevelt to hunt bison and other game.

JAPANESE GARDENS - GRAND FORKS

Japanese Gardens in Grand Forks offers visitors a serene and tranquil environment to explore and enjoy. The gardens feature traditional Japanese landscaping elements and provide a peaceful retreat for individuals seeking relaxation and contemplation.

LEWIS & CLARK RIVERBOAT – BISMARCK

The Lewis & Clark Riverboat continues the proud tradition of the Missouri River steamers at the Port of Bismarck. It offers an adventure on the mighty Missouri from May thru September. This grand, doubledecked, 105-passenger riverboat proudly carries 20,000 passengers a year up and down the Missouri River in the BismarckMandan metro area. Lewis & Clark provides passengers with a direct connection to the heritage and history of the Missouri River in central North Dakota.

NORTH

DAKOTA TOURISM

Deanne Cunningham, (701) 328-2502 decunningham@nd.gov www.ndtourism.com/grouptravel

Photos: Theodore Roosevelt National Park (above), Lewis & Clark Riverboat (left) and Japanese Gardens (below).

HELLOOO, ADVENTURERS.

If adventure is what you seek, we’ve got it! Once you experience the unhurried, carefree adventures of North Dakota, you’ll want to stay awhile. It just feels good to be in a place where you can drop everything and take in the beauty that surrounds you. Whether it’s the incredible landscapes, the lakes, trails or the people, life is good here. Come, experience it for yourself!

New for 2025 & 2026

The biggest trend in group travel? Diving deep. With itineraries curated and guided by people who love to travel, groups experience inclusions connecting them with the local culture.

Gems of Greece: Athens, Naxos & Crete

Enjoy The Local Flavor

Visit the sprawling olive groves that have shaped Crete since Minoan times. Enjoy tastings of fine Cretan olive oils and wines at a family-run olive mill and winery.

Japan & South Korea: From Tokyo to Seoul

Connect With History

Talk with an atomic bomb survivor about how Japan preserves the memory of those who were lost during World War II.

Namibia & South Africa: Epic Landscapes & Wildlife

Meet The Locals

It’s the people who carry the culture. Visit a local non-profit in Windhoek empowering women and supporting gender equality through traditional craftwork and skill sharing.

Groups with Collette: •

: no deposits and no minimum group size

• Revenue Stream & Free Travel

• Choice:

tours, 5 travel styles, on all 7 continents