Leisure Group Travel April 2023

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APRIL 2023

Visit These Captivating Historical Spots

Momentous places provide insight into our cultural fabric

THE

History anD and Festival FestivalS Festivals + ISSUE

INSIDE

Get Festive in Louisiana

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34.80459° N, 111.76865° W

At the center of the best time you’ve had in years.

Visit a new state of mind.

H E RE YOUA RE A Z .CO M

Vol. 33, No. 2 April 2023

CONTENTS 11

ON THE COVER:

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta PHOTO COURTESY OF MARBLESTREETSTUDIO.COM / VISIT ALBUQUERQUE

The gardens behind the Governor’s Palace, Colonial Williamsburg

SPECIAL SECTIONS

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2023 SCENIC RAIL GUIDE Each of these railways will take you on a fabulous journey

21 IMAGE BY DAVID M. DOODY FOR THE COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG FOUNDATION

2023 CRUISE GUIDE Relax on board these magnificent ships

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VIRGINIA GROUP TOUR GUIDE

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

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ILLINOIS GROUP TOUR PLANNER

The Land of Lincoln will add some flair to your itinerary

FEATURES

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As Tourism Rebounds, Challenges Still Remain Heritage tours and festivals are again drawing big crowds, but operators must adjust to a different world post-2020

BY JASON PAHA

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APRIL 2023

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American Destinations Every History Buff Should Visit Historical places provide insight into our cultural fabric and how it was woven at these 10 attractions

BY HEATHER DALE

COLUMNS 5 7

ON MY MIND

BY DAVE BODLE

ON TOUR

BY MITCH BACH

Vol. 33, No. 2 April 2023

ON MY MIND

Editorial & Advertising Office 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 info@ptmgroups.com

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History is High on My List

L

ike many travelers, I’m a history nerd. Maybe I’m a little worse than most of your groups, but nonetheless, history has a place on almost every tour you run. I cannot link my history fascination to my 8th grade history course, or for that matter, any other course through college.

It was a simple board game that hooked me on history.

Gettysburg is a board game introduced by Avalon Hill in 1958. I was fascinated by the day-to-day strategy by both sides and how the final outcome was affected. You can probably guess my first visit to a battlefield was Gettysburg National Military Park. During the (many) years that followed, the history bug has drawn me to countless American Revolution and Civil War battlefields and historic sites.

The history nerd in me is also fascinated by state capitol buildings. They have so many stories to tell. My first visit to the Colorado State Capitol had a memorable quilt exhibit that covered every floor and was a Colorado history lesson in itself. The Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge still has the bullet holes in the marble walls from the day Senator Huey P. Long was shot. In Columbia, South Carolina, bronze stars point to where Union artillery struck the under-construction capitol building. It’s understandable the majority of state capitol buildings do not have bullet holes, but it’s always worth looking.

The beauty of any historic place is it provides an introduction to the people and their stories that impacted the local community, state or our nation. As most history nerds admit, we haven’t even scratched the surface of what we don’t know. I’m still focused on American history and want to learn more about the west. The British drove out the Roman Catholic French Canadians from Arcadia, now Nova Scotia, in the 18th-century. These farmers and fishermen crossed all the way to the Louisiana Bayou. Had they heard of the abundant fishing and fertile farmland of the bayou? That’s what’s on my mind.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF MARBLESTREETSTUDIOCOM PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LOUISIANA OFFICE OF TOURISM

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PHOTO COURTESY HONG KONG TOURISM BOARD

PHOTO COURTESY THE MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS

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WEST

TRENDING ONLINE

103 The Sky’s the Limit

The West Coast is home to a variety of colorful and engaging festivals

BY NICOLE PARTIS

CENTRAL 97

South Shore/ LaGrange County Itinerary Guide

SOUTH 24

et Festive in G Louisiana F rom frogs to shrimp to pecans, Louisiana is home to some of the finest festivals

2023 MINNESOTA ITINERARY GUIDE Welcome to the start of your next Minnesota adventure. leisuregrouptravel.com/ minnesota-group-planner

BY QUINN VALDIVIA

EAST 106 Experience Magic at the Museum of Illusions Philadelphia T ranscend into mind-bending reality at this fascinating museum

BY HEATHER DALE

108 Five Fabulous New England Festivals ttend one of these lively A fests to enhance your East Coast adventure

BY CADY PRICE

INT’L 113 Asia Travel on the Rebound After a pandemic pause,

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pent-up demand has begun to fuel a recovery

BY RANDY MINK

EXCLUSIVE ON

LeisureGroupTravel.com • A new Scenic ship debuts • New York’s Museum of Broadway • Salamanca, Spain

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ON TOUR

Tips for Communicating History Effectively

Y

MITCH BACH is

the co-founder of TripSchool, a learning organization that helps tour guides, tour operators and other travel professionals grow their skills and pursue their travel career dreams.

ou’re passionate about history. You can’t stop reading books about your favorite time periods, events, cities—you name it. You devour documentaries. And now, you’re leading a group on a history-themed trip. History tours can be invigorating learning experiences, but they can also be overwhelming and forgettable for travelers trying to digest what they’re learning.

Here are five tips for ensuring your historyfocused travel experience connects with travelers:

1. Remember your audience doesn’t know as much as you do

This might seem obvious, but it’s crucial to avoid Expert Blindness: the phenomenon in which someone knowledgeable on a subject assumes their audience knows more than they do. Remember, everyone has different levels of understanding. Are you using specialized terminology, like putti, Doric, or antebellum? Are you introducing individuals with their full names and roles in an event or are you assuming people know who a well-known general is?

2. Find a theme and edit mercilessly

What’s truly important about the story you’re telling? Remember that communicating with a group that’s traveling is the opposite of reading a long book at home. Every word counts and you have to hold their attention. Ask yourself, what is truly important for my travelers to understand about this place or event? What’s the point I’d like to convey here? Connecting the various sights you visit with a thematic link helps travelers understand how everything fits together.

3. De-emphasize dates

Dates are helpful anchors in your mind for understanding the flow of history. However, when

you’re sharing with an audience, they’ll go in one ear and out the other, and without content they don’t mean a lot. Instead of starting your talk with a date, start with a hook that gets someone thinking. If you’re talking about the history of the Statue of Liberty, don’t share when it was built, but say: “When the idea of this statue was floated, it was a pipe dream: no one knew how to build it, or how they would raise enough money.”

Now you have their attention, and along the way, you can provide context. Start by connecting with the audience.

4. Find the personal angle

Historical events can feel impersonal. When talking about large, complex events like World War II, it’s easy to stay zoomed out and talk about large numbers of people, famous names, and the general flow of an event. But to an audience, we connect most with the individual stories of real people, fleshed out with their personality, their hopes, aspirations, and motivations. The more you include individuals and make them real people to an audience, the more travelers will care about the larger scale.

5. T hink about the emotion behind the story

Rudyard Kipling said, “If history were taught in the form of stories, it would never be forgotten.” A good story connects us on a very human level. And more than facts and figures, humans remember and connect through our senses and emotions.

Universal human emotions like struggle, love, hope, and fear are emotional anchors that allow an audience to connect with the story on a human level. The more you anchor your communication in our shared humanity, the more you’ll make an impact with your audience.

Mitch is an international speaker, author, tour guide trainer and consultant for the group tour industry. Find more of his insight at www.thetripschool.com. www.LeisureGroupTravel.com

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As Tourism Rebounds,

Challenges Still Remain

Heritage tours and festivals are again drawing big crowds, but operators must adjust to a different world post-2020

Historical attractions are popular tour choices as the global heritage tourism market revenue is expected to reach $657 billion by the end of this year.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF CONSTANTINOS KOLLIAS

BY JASON PAHA

A

s the negative effects of the pandemic fade further into the distance of life’s rearview mirror, each day brings a newer sense of normalcy.

The tourism market, as an example, sees stronger numbers with each passing month as travelers continue to return to the roads and skies in droves.

Two markets in particular: History and heritage tours and festivals, are seeing attendance significantly growing after being essentially shuttered in 2020. Still, while operators are basking in the glow of increased business, they are facing challenges that didn’t necessarily exist prior to 2020.

History and Heritage Tours

Overcoming Obstacles

While increased tourism is, of course, superb news, the industry’s infrastructure hasn’t been able to fully

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEX AZABACHE

According to the latest findings of Future Market Insights, a provider of market intelligence, the global heritage tourism market revenue is expected to reach $657 billion by the end of 2023.

This is a considerable uptick from the conclusion of 2021 when the market size was valued at $557 billion. The longterm outlook says the heritage tourism market is estimated to grow to around $1.3 trillion by 2033.

“We are so busy because people really want to travel again,” said Michelle Pino, founder and owner of Northeast Unlimited Tours. “We went 15 months with no business. We were lucky enough to start June of 2021 and it’s been nonstop ever since.

“In terms specific to COVID and the industry as a whole, the suppliers have really upped their level of cleanliness,” Pino added. “We are finding hotels taking on a new approach and attention to cleanliness than perhaps before. In terms of COVID, I’m finding the traveler isn’t as hypersensitive toward the virus itself. Everyone now just wants so

badly to travel and to get out there that we’re busier than we’ve ever been.”

Historical or heritage tourism is important to the tourism industry because travelers often merge their appreciation of historical sites with other tourism staples like shopping, restaurants, attractions and resort stays. Destinations that claim a rich heritage tend to draw considerable tourism dollars.

“Among our customers, historically significant sites and tours are typically given a higher priority than more modern tours,” said Mitchell Jensen of Travel with Friends. “Given that our customers are mostly interested in bringing color to what they have read or heard, on-site experiences with historically significant places are a big selling point. Many of our customers are excited to see places like Beit She’an, The Old City of Jerusalem and the Temple Mount as well as Petra in Jordan, and the Great Pyramids in Egypt.”

The Great Sphinx of Giza may have been created around 2500 B.C.

Historical or heritage tourism is important to the tourism industry because travelers often merge their appreciation of historical sites with other tourism staples like shopping, restaurants, attractions and resort stays. keep up with the renewed demand.

Worker shortages and supply-chain struggles have been widely reported and operators are finding staffing shortages are hindering the number of days their tours can visit certain stops. Operators are coping with these obstacles by adding flexibility and individual choice within their itineraries.

“The challenges we are facing are with our vendors. Asking our travelers to be flexible,” Pino added. “Moving into 2023, we are still seeing restaurant staff shortages and some attractions we deal with are still choosing to close down a couple of days per week when they used to be open seven days a week. I think the staff shortages are across the board and it’s a ripple effect. Even hotels are still having staff shortages. As far as we are with tour operators, we expect hotel rooms to freshen up a room each day, but some hotels still can’t provide that.

As a result, we need to make changes to our itineraries.”

“The biggest problem now is getting an answer from vendors,” said Suzanne Slavitter owner of Sports Empire Inc. “Getting a hotel to return the call. They are just too busy. It used to be much easier to

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TOURISM CHALLENGES REMAIN

get an answer. That’s probably the biggest change since COVID is service. You are paying more money for less service.”

“I’ve been hearing from hundreds of tour operators I work with that drastically increasing costs are changing how they do business,” said Mitch Bach, co-founder of TripSchool. “From increased operational costs such as vehicle fuel to the increases in everything from restaurant meals to museum entrances, operators are watching their bottom lines get squeezed.

As a result they’re trying to increase their tour prices during a time when customers are increasingly price-sensitive.”

While much has changed with regard to prices and service since 2020, some operators also opted to alter the way they present their tours.

“The pandemic was an eye-opening experience for many tour operators and guides,” Bach added. “In particular, the murder of George Floyd and subsequent national reckoning was a major catalyst for many to re-examine the stories they

were telling on their tours. Tour guides found that they hadn’t been telling the complete story of the historical sights they were visiting, and the full truth required digging deeper and re-working their tour’s content to include the often pivotal role of marginalized groups in the formation of the country and the sights they visit regularly.”

Festivals

On the festival front, music festivals have returned to pre-pandemic levels, proving to be a considerable boost for destinations relying on those events to stimulate their tourism recovery.

Meanwhile, events like the annual Rose Parade in Pasadena, California are also seeing optimistic figures. This year’s parade was themed “Turning the Corner,” and that appears to be the case as reports say this year’s parade featured significantly larger crowds than last year’s event. The parade presented 39 floats and 21 marching bands, which

“One of the biggest new challenges is trying to predict what health- related conditions will exist when the event actually occurs.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF STANLEY NDUA

— Jim Warren, Anderson Vacations

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was essentially equal to the 2020 parade which took place before the pandemic swung into high gear. The 2021 parade was canceled because of the pandemic.

Still, problems persist when booking tours that lead to festivals and sporting events. Aside from the aforementioned staff shortages, the significant increase in prices have been difficult for operators and travelers to cope with.

While some clients aren’t concerned with rising prices, operators say the higher prices have led some travelers to delay or scale down their travel.

“Some festivals are limiting capacities and some are running on reduced hours,” said Jim Warren, director of business development, USA, of Anderson Vacations. “This may be more a result of challenges getting enough people to work rather than direct COVID-related issues.

“One of the biggest new challenges is trying to predict what health-related conditions will exist when the event actually occurs,” Warren said. “Will we need to wear masks? Will capacities be restricted?”

As operators navigate these challenging waters, they can take solace in the fact that, barring another pandemic, the festival market will continue to grow.

The most recent data presented by Festicket and Event Genius, companies that joined forces in 2019 and worked with hundreds of festivals, revealed the post-pandemic recovery for the live events industry has been booming. The company said fans are spending almost three times more on event tickets than they were pre-pandemic. Along those lines, the Annual ICE Report estimates event-related costs will increase by 83 percent in 2023. This is a bad news, good news scenario in that it is partially based on inflation but is also a sign of returned confidence in event planning.

The crowds have returned. Normalcy grows ever closer.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DESTINATION GETTYSBURG

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AMERICAN DESTINATIONS EVERY HISTORY BUFF SHOULD VISIT

Historical places provide insight into our cultural fabric, how it was woven and from whose yarn it was made at these monumental attractions • BY HEATHER DALE The 6,000-acre hallowed Gettysburg grounds feature 1,300 monuments, markers and memorials dedicated to the soldiers and their efforts in the Civil War.

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AMERICAN HISTORIC DESTINATIONS

Williamsburg, VA A fascinating historical American destination is Jamestown, Virginia, where the first permanent English settlement in North America was established. Thirteen years prior to the Pilgrims’ landing at Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts, 104 Englishmen made it to Jamestown in 1607 after a treacherous sixteenmonth-long high seas voyage.

Explore a living museum at the Jamestown Settlement, where 17thcentury Virginia heritage comes to life. Take guided tours and hear stories from knowledgeable interpreters on the significance of Jamestown and the difficulties between colonists and Native Americans. Take part in interactive exhibits and life-size replicas of the three ships that carried the colony overseas.

2 PHOTO COURTESY OF JAMESTOWN SETTLEMENT

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JAMESTOWN SETTLEMENT HISTORY

New York, NY In the late 19th century, the United States became the epicenter of the largest mass human migration in the history of the world. Immigrants from Northern European countries and elsewhere flocked to America to escape religious persecution, political unrest and financial instability.

By 1890, Manhattan was overwhelmed by the massive surge of people, creating the need for a new facility. In 1892, Ellis Island recorded the first family from Ireland to come into America through the new station. Over the next 62 years, they would process more than 12 million immigrants. View the preserved melting pot history of our national identity through artifacts, stories and essential collections at this American destination.

IMAGE BY DARNELL VENNIE FOR THE COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG FOUNDATION

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Farmers plow a field behind the Prentis Store.

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ELLIS ISLAND

COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG

Williamsburg, Virginia Sitting on 301 acres with 500 public buildings, homes, stores and taverns restored to their original appearances, Colonial Williamsburg revives the spirit of life from the 18th century. More than just a city, Colonial Williamsburg is a recreation of life as it was during some of the most formative years of our nation’s history. Stories of brave individuals and groundbreaking events are recalled through guided and self-guided visits to Colonial Williamsburg, which help paint a vivid picture of this period in history. There are more than 50 sites to visit within the city which include merchant shops, government buildings and religious sites. Among Colonial Williamsburg’s many attractions is the Bruton Parish Church, an Episcopal church that was established in 1674, making it one of the oldest Episcopal churches in America.

The building was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970 and is a well-preserved early example of colonial religious architecture.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BOB HOWEN

Washington, D.C. The museum operates three facilities in D.C., Maryland and New York City and is a component of the Smithsonian Institution. At the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) in Washington, step into a multifaceted world full of fascinating culture, artifacts, photographs, media and more.

View one of the most extensive collections of Native American history in the world and explore the heritage of Indigenous peoples. Visit Nation to Nation: Treaties Between the United States and American Indian Nations to understand the prolific impact Native American diplomats and leaders had on the relationship between Indian nations and the U.S.

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THE ALAMO

San Antonio, TX The Alamo, known for being the site of the historic battle for Texas’ independence from Mexico, was originally a Catholic mission founded in 1716 to aid in the Christianizing of American Indians.

Then, after being abandoned at the turn of the century, the disheveled edifice would sporadically be used as a refuge by Spanish

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE KENNEDY SPACE CENTER VISITOR COMPLEX

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NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN INDIAN

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER

Cape Canaveral, FL History encompasses many aspects of human existence. The Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Cape Canaveral, Florida, highlights decades of innovative technological advances

by NASA and their discoveries.

The KSC offers a gamut of spacethemed attractions for early space travel pioneers and wonders of the

universe. Interact with real astronauts in the Universe Theater or explore NASA’s operational facilities on a KSC Bus Tour.

Discover Apollo mission artifacts like Alan Shepard’s space suit still covered in Moondust. Feel the rush on the immersive Shuttle Launch Experience.

With more than 30 space attractions, the opportunities are endless at a truly out-of-this-world American destination.

troops. To help showcase its 300-year history, the Alamo just opened the new Ralston Family Collections Center, a exhibition space with more than 500 artifacts including items donated from musician Phil Collins’ private collection.

Upcoming is the Alamo Visitor Center and Museum, estimated to launch in 2026, which will include a 4D theater, event space, restaurant and more.

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AMERICAN HISTORIC DESTINATIONS

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ALCATRAZ

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MOUNT RUSHMORE NATIONAL MEMORIAL

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Gettysburg, PA The turning point in the Civil War occurred at the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863. Three days of intense fighting between the Confederate and Union armies cost more than 51,000 lives. Today, the battlegrounds are considered one of the most haunted

Absorb the dramatic scenery of the historical faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln along the Presidential Trail. Expansive photo-op views await through pine forests and granite outcroppings. Along the trail, stop at the Lakota, Nakota and Dakota Heritage Village, highlighting the many traditions and customs of local Native American tribes.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TRAVEL SOUTH DAKOTA

Black Hills, SD History is carved in stone at one of the most impressive American destinations with historical significance. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, etched into the Black Hills of South Dakota, is a jawdropping example of American pride and patriotism.

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GETTYSBURG BATTLEFIELD

places in the world, an American destination fit for haunted history buffs.

Battlefield Bus and Car Tours offer unique battlefield tours exploring the Gettysburg National Military Park.

The 6,000-acre hallowed grounds feature 1,300 monuments, markers and memorials dedicated to the soldiers and their efforts.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DESTINATION GETTYSBURG

San Francisco, CA Located off the coast of San Francisco, is a museum full of haunted history. The island offers insight into the treatment of incarcerated individuals and Native American civil rights. Alcatraz served many purposes, including the site of California’s first lighthouse, an army garrison in 1859 and a military prison in 1861.

During the 20th century, the federal prison housed some of the most deranged criminals in the country, including the legendary Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly.

Today, visitors can take a ferry and explore the dark history of the prison.

Visitors can also learn about the 1969 occupation of Alcatraz by the Indians of All Tribes, which lasted a whopping 19 months.

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NATIONAL CIVIL RIGHTS MUSEUM

Memphis, TN A pivotal moment in American history was the violent civil upheaval in the nation’s protest for fundamental human rights. The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee, captures centuries of prejudicial turmoil African Americans endured in the US and worldwide.

This groundbreaking American destination touches hearts and leaves an unforgettable impression. Learn about the Atlantic Slave Trade and look into early slavery and its global impacts. The black community’s powerful voice is heard through oral histories of the Jim Crow era and the establishment of the “Separate but Equal” law. Become part of the legendary Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955 on a replica bus complete with 3D statues as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. speaks to the crowd on that first night of protest.

2023 SCENIC RAIL GUIDE

Railroad Outings

ARCADE AND ATTICA RAILROAD

Arcade, NY

Step back in time aboard a vintage World War ll-era diesel train excursion in New York State. Arcade & Attica Railroad is an authentic short line railroad with the distinction of being one of the last “common carriers” — running freight and passenger trains weekly. Your journey aboard the Arcade & Attica Railroad begins before you board the train. As you enter the historic station, you’re surrounded by the history of railroading in America. Then you embark on a scenic journey through the countryside and farmlands that have remained virtually unchanged since the line was originally laid in the 1880s. Throughout the year, special excursions are offered. Regular excursions run every weekend from Memorial Day Weekend until the last full weekend of September. (www.aarailroad.com)

•STUNNING TRAIN RIDES FOR GROUPS•

For more information about the great railways listed in this guide, scan this QR code!

Arcade and Attica Railroad in New York

PHOTO COURTESY OF ARCADE AND ATTICA RAILROAD

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s your group looking to enjoy a relaxing, scenic ride through the many different landscapes our country has to offer? If so, the 2023 Scenic Rail Guide has you covered. Each of these railways will take your group on a journey unlike any they have experienced before. Groups can enjoy the country’s beauty through one of its oldest, and most relaxing, modes of transportation.

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2023 SCENIC RAIL GUIDE

WHITEWATER VALLEY

Connersville, IN

The Whitewater Valley Railroad in eastern Indiana will take you back in time on a train full of vintage machinery and locomotive nostalgia. Sit back, relax and enjoy several excursions Whitewater Valley Railroad offers from April through December. How about a Wild West train adventure or festive holiday-themed trip? Feel the seat rumble underneath you as the Whitewater Valley Railroad chugs along on a memorable journey. Plan your next adventure on the heritage railroad that offers one-of-akind views of Indiana’s beautiful natural landscape. (whitewatervalleyrr.org)

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BLUEGRASS SCENIC RAILROAD AND MUSEUM

Versailles, KY

The Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum operates a picturesque 11-mile, 90-minute train ride Saturdays through the rolling central Kentucky countryside past thoroughbred horse farms to the Kentucky river. Airconditioned first-class cars and exciting open-air cars are available. In addition to

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train rides every Saturday, the museum maintains an outdoor collection of historic railroad locomotives and railcars and an indoor museum of railroad artifacts. The museum, model train layouts, and gift shop are open noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays. (bluegrassrailroad.com)

CUMBRES & TOLTEC RAILROAD

Antonito, CO and Chama, NM

Chugging along at 12 miles an hour, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad isn’t in a hurry. And that’s a good thing when you’re traveling off the grid through spectacular scenery that ranges from alpine meadows and rocky gorges to deep forests of evergreens.

Covering 64 miles and crossing between the two states 11 times, C&T is also the longest steam railroad on the continent as well as the highest, climbing almost two miles above sea level.

For their full, half-day and express excursions, riders can board in either Chama, New Mexico, or Antonito, Colorado.

For the full-day trips, riders return to their cars by the railroad’s bus. Passengers also have an option when it comes to deciding which of the meticulously restored cars to ride in.

But whether they opt for the Parlor, Deluxe or Coach car, the stunning scenery is the same. Unless, that is, they head to the all-passenger, open-air Gondola, which provides unobstructed views and even better photo opportunities. Depending on the car, breakfast or lunch is included, with snacks and a full bar part of the onboard concessions. And should you have a question about the history, legends or lore of this region and the railroad, the onboard docents are more than happy to help. (www.cumbrestoltec.com)

Experience the Authentic West With 64 steam-driven miles of untouched history, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad transports you back in time to 1880. Don’t miss your chance to see the 700' deep gorge, cross 100' tall trestles, see the light at the end of our tunnels and enjoy the splendor in between. Group rates are available.

book now at cumbrestoltec.com 1-877-890-2737

America’s most historic scenic railroad

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2023 SCENIC RAIL GUIDE

KENTUCKY RAILWAY MUSEUM

New Haven, KY

It’s always fun to step back in time and when you visit the Kentucky Railway Museum, that’s exactly what you get to do.

The museum, which originated in Louisville, Kentucky in 1954, is one of three tourist railroads in Kentucky. Many families visit the museum and take a train excursion especially grandparents who bring their grandkids to let them see and feel that piece of history they experienced during their youth. Each year they welcome thousands of visitors to enjoy one of the train rides, visit and stroll through the museum or attend a special event. (kyrail.org)

CONWAY SCENIC RAILROAD

Conway, NH

Conway Scenic Railroad is unusual among North American tourist railways because it offers a variety of excursions and railroad experiences.

Our premier scenic excursion is the streamlined Mountaineer, which offers a 4 hour 20 minute trip through New Hampshire’s White Mountains over Crawford Notch. This train consists of 1940s and 1950s vintage cars, including Budd-built glass topped Vista Domes that offer panoramic views of the scenery. This train runs from the end of May until Mid-November.

Our Conway and Sawyer River Valley Trains are classic heritage train rides that feature vintage railroad passenger cars from the 1920s and offer the pastoral experience of traveling by train from town to town.

Enjoy an old-fashioned railroading experience with all trains departing from an 1874 train station in North Conway Village. Whether you choose one of the Heritage Valley Excursions on the Valley Train or take the Mountaineer to Crawford Notch, this is a journey back in time the

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whole family is sure to enjoy.

There are a variety of fun outings to choose from. The Easter Bunny Express allows guests and their families to enjoy a photo opportunity with the Easter Bunny at our historic North Conway rail station built in 1874, along with a special goodie bag from the Easter Bunny himself. This event also includes a train ride to Conway with a scavenger hunt along the way.

Travel back in time on the Sawyer River Excursion.

You’ll enjoy riding along this historic rail route in vintage passenger cars from our 1874 train station in North Conway Village to Sawyer River and back again.

Our main station is located in historic downtown North Conway in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire.

The classic Victorian station plus the adjacent freight house and roundhouse are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offer one of the most authentic 19th century railroad environments in New England. (www.conwayscenic.com)

ALASKA RAILROAD

Anchorage, AK

The Alaska Railroad believes the journey should be as spectacular as the destination. And with places like Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward, Talkeetna and more, the railroad will transport you through some of Alaska’s most pristine and remote landscapes on your way to sites and communities where you are sure to make memories.

Built to link the Pacific seaport of Seward with the interior before there were highways, the railroad offers 500 miles of track. The flagship train, the Denali Star, operates daily between Anchorage and Fairbanks, but there are also trains such as the Coastal Classic, Hurricane Turn and Glacier Discovery. By traveling aboard the railroad, visitors can discover the “real” Alaska in the comfort of a railcar, enjoying dining and drinks while seeing dramatic Alaska landscapes out of expansive windows.

Whether traveling in a group, as a family or solo, the Alaska Railroad does the driving so passengers can relax, enjoy and connect with those around them. It’s a unique opportunity to make in-state travel between destinations a highlight of the itinerary. (alaskarailroad.com)

Creating unforgettable client experiences – and benefits for you, too.

We’ll help you turn the vastness of Alaska into a unique, once-in-a-lifetime memory on the iconic Alaska Railroad.

• Inland rail land tours offer a unique complement to the coastal experiences that come from a multi-day ocean cruise • Commissions on rail, lodging & activities • Popular destinations like Anchorage, Seward, Fairbanks and Denali National Park © Riley Stefano

• Multi-day packages and custom itineraries for the solo traveler to the active family • Glass-dome windows and onboard dining options

© Glenn Aronwits

© Frank P. Flavin

© Ron Neibrugge

• Knowledgeable, Alaska-based agents

TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

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AlaskaRailroad.com/TravelTrade

SPECIAL TRAVEL RATES

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COMMISSIONS

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A Choice of Train Rides!

• 1-hr, 2-hr & 5-hr excursions • Tour groups welcome!

• One way group fares available • Train charter options • Culinary Choices

All Aboard!

All trains depart from our 1874 station in the center of North Conway Village.

The Mountaineer offers a supremely scenic journey over Crawford Notch.

Please contact: Sandra Needham at: 603-986-7327 or by email at sandraneedham@conwayscenic.com 38 Norcross Circle | North Conway, NH

2023 SIGHTSEEING CRUISE GUIDE The Celebration Belle

PHOTO COURTESY OF CELEBRATION RIVER CRUISES

Live the Good Life on a Cruise

For more information about the great cruises listed in this guide, scan this QR code!

Relax on board these magnificent ships that feature fabulous food, glorious amenities and incredible views

CELEBRATION RIVER CRUISES ~ THE CELEBRATION BELLE

Moline, Illinois

Cruise the Mississippi River aboard the group friendly Celebration Belle! Family owned, the Celebration Belle is a 750-passenger riverboat offering several cruise options: Lunch, Dinner, Daylong Cruises Quad Cities to Dubuque, IA, Music Themed Cruises including: Classic Oldies, Hits of the Decades, Tribute to Piano Men, Jazz, Fall Foliage & many more! Fall Cruises Dubuque, IA to Prairie du Chien, WI. Come hungry. All food is freshly prepared onboard along with fabulous entertainment. Celebration River Cruises offers multiple all-day cruises including a round-trip Alton to St. Louis cruise, a fivehour Dubuque to Savanna option, Dubuque to Moline, LeClaire to Dubuque, a Moline to Clinton fall round-trip cruise and more. Ask Susan for sample itineraries and tour planning assistance. (celebrationbelle.com) www.LeisureGroupTravel.com

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2023 SIGHTSEEING CRUISE GUIDE LAKE GENEVA CRUISE LINE

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Your group will love the comfort and amenities aboard Lake Geneva Cruise Line’s fleet of classic boats, offering a wide variety of narrated boat tours and meal cruises. Step aboard the paddleboat named the Lady of the Lake as you view multimillion-dollar historical mansions, some built as early as the late 1800s by wealthy families fleeing the great Chicago Fire.

Watch the mail jumpers deliver the mail from a moving boat to the mailboxes on the piers on their US Mailboat Tour.

For over 100 years, they have been delivering the mail to lake homes from June to September.

Take the Fall Foliage Tour to see the beautiful leaves surrounding the lake. Or start a new holiday tradition aboard their Santa Cruise. For those groups looking for more, Lake Geneva Cruise Line also offers meal cruises such as Sunday Brunch, weekday Luncheon Cruise, and Dinner Cruises.

Founded in 1873, Lake Geneva Cruise Line, along with its parent company Gage Marine, has more than 50 years of group tour experience. The team at Lake Geneva Cruise Line will make planning and executing your group outing a breeze.

Lake Geneva Cruise Line offers discount rates for groups of 10-19 and 20+ plus. (cruiselakegeneva.com)

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SOUTHERN REGION FIVE FAVORITE SOUTHERN FESTIVALS Let your hair down at these fun-filled fests.

MARDI GRAS (LA) Mardi Gras is a massive celebration each year that features huge crowds, amazing floats, marching bands and masked revelry.

SPOLETO FESTIVAL USA (SC) For 17 days, this fest fills Charleston with performances by renowned artists and emerging performers in opera, theater, dance and music.

Memphis in May hosts large events like the Beale Street Music Festival and the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest.

BONNAROO ARTS AND MUSIC FEST (TN) Held every year on a 700-acre farm, Bonnaroo features a diverse group of 150-plus acts set on some of the most iconic stages in the world.

INTERNATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL (GA) With more than 350,000 Yoshino cherry trees, the 10-day festival in Macon turns the city pink. There are also concerts, shopping, food and more.

Mardi Gras World, in New Orleans, offers an intimate look at this popular festival.

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<< APRIL 2023

PHOTO COURTESY OF LOUISIANA OFFICE OF TOURISM/NEWORLEANS.COM

MEMPHIS IN MAY INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL (TN)

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Get Festive IN LOUISIANA

From frogs to shrimp to pecans, Louisiana is home to some of the finest festivals • BY QUINN VALDIVIA

L

ouisiana has a rich history of tradition and celebration that contributes to the creation of exciting events across the state.

Check out these festivals if you’re looking for some unique Louisiana fun.

Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival

Ponchatoula, LA Since 1972, April’s Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival has attracted visitors from near and far to celebrate local strawberry farmers, non-profits, flourishing into the largest free harvest festival in the state of Louisiana. It features three days filled with time-honored traditions, amazing food and drinks, live music, rides, and loads of family fun.

Cochon de Lait Festival

Mansura, LA French for a roast suckling pig, Cochon de Lait is a May festival all about celebrating

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Cajun traditions by sharing good food.

Originating in 1960, this festival grew from the town gathering to roast small pigs to several 200-pound hogs being roasted for 14 or 15 hours. Aside from the roasting and eating, this festival has several other events.

These include hog calling, crafts, a pageant, boudin eating (pork sausage) and a 5K run on the second day. Perhaps most interesting are the competitions in the Greasy Pig Arena. If you’re able to catch a pig, you can take it home with you.

Rayne Frog Festival

Rayne, LA Help Rayne and Acadia Parish celebrate their agricultural industry with this frogthemed festival, scheduled for May 11-13 this year. This will be the 51st festival that Rayne has held, celebrating culture, memory and traditions with music, food and other attractions. Highlights of this weekend celebration include frog racing and jumping, a frog eating contest, and a “paint the town” movement where everyone is decorated with frogs.

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Louisiana Corn Festival

Bunkie, LA Taking place the second full weekend of June, from the 8th to the 10th this year, the Louisiana Corn Festival honors the agricultural impact of corn with a few days of fun. You can expect live bands, games, contests, corn cooking, a street dance, parade, pageant and much more.

All proceeds go back to the community, helping to keep the area thriving.

Delcambre Shrimp Festival Delcambre, LA Twenty miles southwest of Lafayette, you’ll find Delcambre, Louisiana, the site of the famous Shrimp Festival.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LOUISIANA OFFICE OF Tourism

1947 now provides live concerts from local artists and a carnival with a wide selection of rides. This festival also has its own 5K run/walk, a rice eating contest, frog derby, a classic car show, and a parade. The 86th annual festival is scheduled to take place from the 19th to the 22nd of October this year, anticipating thousands of guests to join their celebration.

Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival

Louisiana Pecan Festival

This festival is longer than the others, typically lasting five days at the end of October. What began as a fundraiser in the 1950s has grown into one of the top 10 festivals in the state. Over the course of the week, you can go to a fais-do-do (a Cajun dance party) and experience what a traditional public dance is like; accordion, fiddle and all.

with exciting events like a parade and the election of the Cotton Queen and King, along with a fais-do-do of its own. Other opportunities include a 4-H contest, cook off, contradance, and an event where knights on horseback will battle the “seven evils of cotton.”

This is an experience you can’t get anywhere else.

Louisiana Cotton Festival

International Rice Festival

Ville Platte, LA Another celebration of agriculture, October’s Cotton Festival is intended to further and support the prosperity of a crop that the community was built on.

This festival wants to spread goodwill

Crowley, LA Originally the “National” Rice Festival, the International Rice Festival was created to celebrate another prominent industry and its hardworking farmers.

This once small festival that began in

Colfax, LA This festival is another long-standing community celebration featuring the pecan crop that’s native to Colfax as the star of the show. The first festival began in May 1968, with the next one taking place during the first full weekend of November this year (the 3rd to the 5th).

The weekend begins with a Children’s Day that features family-friendly fun like games, a petting zoo, fun jumps, and a rock wall. All of which are free to the public. The next two days will feature carnival rides, arts and crafts, food, and a street dance. Stop by the festival’s Country Store for homemade jams, jellies, and pies, along with other goods.

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SHOWCASE

Explore Mississippi’s Rich History Here are a few can’t-miss stops for groups exploring this great state

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t’s hard to talk about Mississippi without mentioning any number of the important historic and cultural events that have taken place in this southern U.S. state. Even its moniker has historic significance: Named after the river that flows along and defines its western boundary, Mississippi comes from the word for ‘great river’ in Ojibwe, the ancient indigenous language of North America. Below, we spotlight a few of the not-to-be-missed places to visit on your next Mississippi adventure.

MUSEUM OF MISSISSIPPI HISTORY AND MISSISSIPPI CIVIL RIGHTS MUSEUM With a theme of “One Mississippi, Many Stories,” these two adjacent museums, located in the heart of downtown Jackson, encourage the exploration of more than 15,000 years of state history through eight permanent galleries and special exhibits. The Museum of Mississippi History tells the story of the state from the prehistoric era to the present day, while the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum chronicles the struggle for equality and civil rights in the state from 1945 to 1976. From a 500-year-old Native American dugout canoe discovered submerged in mud on the bank of a Mississippi lake and a recreated Delta juke joint that shakes to the sounds of Mississippi Blues greats to artifacts from the Civil Rights Movement, visitors to the museums have the opportunity to explore the complex stories that have defined this history-rich state. Save time for a visit to the Mississippi Museum store, which features one of the state’s finest collections of folk art and books.

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Photos: Museum of Mississippi History (left), Mississippi CIvil Rights Museum (above) and the Vicksburg National Military Park (below).

VICKSBURG NATIONAL MILITARY PARK This park commemorates one of the Civil War’s pivotal campaigns, the site of the American Civil War Battle of Vicksburg, waged from March 29 to July 4, 1863. Packed full of attractions, Vicksburg National Miliary Park includes more than 1,400 memorial monuments, tablets and markers dotting the 1,800acre park honoring soldiers who served on both sides of the Civil War. Equally impressive are the 20 miles of trenches and earthworks that have been reconstructed to reflect days gone by.

VISIT MISSISSIPPI Karen Gates Matlock, 601-359-3528, kmatlock@mississippi.org, www.visitmississippi.org

Take your group on a world tour of Mississippi’s musical legacy.

For music lovers, there’s no better place to explore the history and future of popular music than Mississippi, “The Birthplace of America’s Music.” Here, African and European musical traditions collided and were crafted into a new form of music, the blues, and its rock, gospel, and country offshoots. View a sample itinerary of music museums, attractions, and stages at VisitMississippi.org/MusicTour. #WanderMS

GRAMMY Museum® Mississippi | Cleveland

SHOWCASE

Season’s Greetings Myrtle Beach is the place to be during the holidays with plenty of festive shows and events.

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ith its 60 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, mild subtropical weather and activities to please a variety of tastes, South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach is an ideal spot for groups to visit any time of the year. But during the holiday season, Myrtle Beach goes above and beyond when it comes to special festive events, making this popular beach destination a must-visit spot even more.

NIGHTS OF A THOUSAND CANDLES This beloved holiday event features more than 2,7000 hand-lit candles and millions of sparkling lights decorating the already stunning gardens of Brookgreen.

Stroll the paths with a warm cup of cider in hand and the sounds of live holiday music and carolers in the background as you take in this spectacular light show, which starts at the end of November and runs through the entire month of December.

LIVE HOLIDAY THEATER PERFORMANCES At The Alabama Theatre enjoy “The South’s Grandest Christmas Show,” an annual production that features beautiful scenery, exquisite costumes and incredible special effects. Over at The Carolina Opry, “The Christmas Show of the South” has been entertaining theater goers for some 36 years with its beloved show. At the “Christmas Show” at Pirates Voyage, travel along with Captain Scrooge as he discovers the true meaning of Christmas along with a comical castaway and her sea lion friend.

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Photos: Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens (left), enjoy a show at the Carolina Opry (above) and The Dickens Christmas Show & Festivals (below) in Myrtle Beach.

THE DICKENS CHRISTMAS SHOW & FESTIVALS Get a head start on your holiday gift giving and tap into the festive spirit at this award-winning event held November 9-12, combines shopping and entertainment options. At the Victorian Holiday Marketplace visitors will find some 300+ periodclad vendors selling a variety of unique items, including jewelry, crafts, toys, holiday décor and gourmet foods. Strolling Victorian musicians, tea leaf readers, a life-sized historic Santa through the ages exhibit, and tree, wreath and stocking displays add to the festive vibe in the 100,800-square-foot exhibit hall of the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.

VISIT MYRTLE BEACH Sandy Haines, 843-916-7248, sandy.haines@visitmyrtlebeach.com, VisitMyrtleBeach.com/Groups

SHOWCASE

A Louisiana Treat Jefferson Parish is diverse in its landscape and communities.

Adventure and experiences abound, a treat for the senses

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efferson Parish is a diverse community sprawling the southern shore of Lake Pontchartrain and ending 60 miles later on the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico.

With a famous city as a neighbor, looking at you, New Orleans, Jefferson Parish is an enticing mix of exciting nightlife, historic districts, coastal cuisine and Mother Nature galore!

HISTORIC DISTRICTS In downtown Gretna, one of Louisiana’s largest national historic register districts, you’ll find plenty of landmark architecture along with history and intrigue befitting an area settled by German immigrants in 1836. There’s the David Crockett Firehouse, the oldest volunteer fire company in the U.S., and its Louisiana Fire Museum.

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JEFFERSON PARISH NATIONAL & STATE PARKS Barataria Preserve is one of six sites comprising the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, which includes the 23,000acre Louisiana Wetland Preserves. Grand Isle State Park includes the last wild beach in Louisiana along with terrific local fishing, while Bayou Segnette has outdoor activities galore, including camping, boating and swimming in a wave pool.

Enjoy an airboat ride in a swamp in Jefferson Parish.

JEFFERSON CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Angela Matherne, 504-818-1258, Angela@visitjeffersonparish.com, www.visitjeffersonparish.com

VIRGINIA 2023/2024 EDITION

GROUP TOUR GUIDE INSIDE:

Explore Picture-Perfect Natural Beauty From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic coastline, your group will be awestruck by the views

Eat Your Way Through Virginia Virginia Botanical Gardens are Blooming Dinner Theaters

Photo courtesy of Gretchen Henninger

Welcome to Virginia!

Dark Hollow Falls cascades 70 feet over greenstone in the Shenandoah National Park.

Photo courtesy of Todd Wright

T

he Virginia Tourism Corporation and our statewide tourism partners invite you and your groups to tour Virginia!

We are excited to share with you, in this guide, a few of the many reasons your groups will love touring in Virginia. April is a wonderful time of year to start planning a tour of our botanical gardens; to whet your appetite on a culinary trail; to explore nature and view wildlife and to learn about the many new attractions.

Virginia is easily accessible, no matter your chosen mode of transportation. Travel along major highway systems or scenic byways.

Tour via the passenger rail services of Amtrak, Virginia Railway Express or Metrorail from Washington, D.C. to Northern Virginia and now including the Washington Dulles International Airport. Or perhaps a flydrive combination. Virginia offers nine commercial airports with major and low-cost carrier service.

Once you arrive, Virginia offers unparalleled history and heritage, cultural and performing arts, outdoor adventures and scenic vistas, music and artesian trails, an exciting culinary scene and craft beverages to customize an unforgettable tour experience! Our commitment to customer service, safe travel, quality tours and partners with years of experience are a few reasons why groups come back year after year.

Visit Virginia.org/groups for more information, resources and inspiration to plan unforgettable group tour experiences. We look forward to welcoming your groups to Virginia. For personal assistance, contact me at jjohnson@virginia.org.

Merroir, a gourmet oyster tasting house, features oysters from Rappahannock Oyster Company.

Joni Johnson, Director of Domestic Sales & Marketing Virginia Tourism Corporation

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Learn more about Virginia group travel opportunities!

Photo courtesy of Aaron Sutten

Safe travels,

Barefoot in the Park at Virginia Repertory Theatre

VIRGINIA 2023/2024 EDITION

GROUP TOUR GUIDE

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden offers year-round beauty on a historic property with more than 40 acres of spectacular gardens, dining and shopping. Photo by Matt Long

CONTENTS FEATURES

34 Virginia Botanical Gardens Abloom for Tour Groups

By Heather Dale

Springtime is blossoming at Virginia gardens and arboretums, offering radiant horticultural displays and year-round outdoor group activities

VIRGINIA 2023/2024 EDITION

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Eat Your Way Through Virginia

By Dave Bodle

From luscious country ham and Chesapeake Bay blue crab to oysters like no other, Virginia is a food-lover’s paradise

GROUP TOUR GUIDE INSIDE:

Explore Picture-Perfect Natural Beauty

Eat Your Way Through Virginia Virginia Botanical Gardens are Blooming Dinner Theaters

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

Fine Dining And Fun Entertainment At These 42 Enjoy 5 Dinner Theaters

By Lisa Shames

Experience the magic that happens when live theater meets up with delicious food

46 Explore Picture-Perfect Natural Beauty in Virginia

ON THE COVER: Big Meadows Photo courtesy of Gordon Lau

By Isabella Wilkes

Groups can visit this hidden gem in the Appalachian Mountains

50 T he Best-tasting Dishes Are Made in Virginia

By Randy Mink

Specialty food businesses give travelers a chance to indulge in, learn about and even make mouthwatering treats

Has Much For Groups To Love 52 Virginia

By Lisa Shames

From a scenic railway to a lush 250-acre botanical garden, Virginia is feeling the love — and you will too

ITINERARIES 44 CHARLOTTESVILLE 54 LYNCHBURG 56 STAUNTON

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VIRGINIA BOTANICAL GARDENS ABLOOM FOR TOUR GROUPS Springtime is blossoming at Virginia gardens and arboretums, offering radiant horticultural displays and year-round outdoor group activities

Edith J. Carrier Arboretum

By Heather Dale

V

irginia botanical gardens provide expansive greenspaces for group gatherings and school field trips, perfect for a naturally unique experience. Learn about horticulture and conservation through diverse flowers, cacti, shrubs and trees on your group garden tour.

History is blooming at the Gunston Hall Riverside Garden Restoration

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in Mason Neck, Virginia. Considered The Home of American Rights, George Mason’s exquisite estate welcomes groups to tour the historic Virginia garden and grounds.

The Riverside Garden Restoration combines history and horticulture to create a vintage Virginia botanical garden designed with fruit trees, historical plants and perennials to

reflect the 18th century period.

This Virginia garden offers a Gardens Pass for self-guided tours of the flourishing grounds. General admission covers access to the museum, the Mason grounds, and a guided tour of the mansion for an especially spectacular view of the Riverside Garden Restoration.

Stop into the Gunston Hall Museum Shop on your way out and peruse

artisanal souvenirs, local artwork, exhibit merchandise and plant-themed gifts.

Education and research-driven, The National Botanic Garden in Chantilly is a unique 250-acre Virginia botanical garden constructed of mostly reclaimed materials. Rocky waterfalls and gorgeous vegetation fill the Kyoto Sculpture Gardens, which can be booked for private events of up to 100 people. Although not yet open to the public, they will offer several indoor and outdoor spaces for group gatherings.

Private bookings for group tours will be available.

Island-hop through the 50-island bamboo maze at the lake or take a family photo at the impressive mountain overlook area. The beautifully manicured landscape also showcases an arboretum, expansive views and five miles of lake coastline teeming with waterfowl and other native species.

The botanical garden also boasts the Stone Barn, which can accommodate groups of up to 250 people in a charming and rustic setting. See the most extensive water-wise garden on the East Coast at the Xenic Gardens.

This desert botanical garden features glorious cactus blooms and an array of unusual spikey specimens.

At the Norfolk Botanical Garden explore 175 acres of extraordinary plant species among new innovative surroundings. The mission of this Virginia garden is to connect people with nature and bring awareness to conservation efforts.

Tour the 26,000-square-foot Perry Conservatory with four separate biomes.

Groups can discover plant life from the rainforest to the desert in a space dedicated to housing some of the world’s most endangered plant species. Take the elevated skywalk for an aerial photo op of one of the most extensive rose gardens in the East.

Slated to open in 2024, The Garden of Tomorrow will welcome guests with a new entry pavilion and parking garden. The unique parking garden sets the standard for sustainability with new pervious pavement. The 26,000-square-foot conservatory will focus on conservation, including some of the world’s most threatened plants.

Sitting along the waterfront near the new entrance, the garden is both an education center and rowing events hub.

The Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond features a whopping eight vibrantly one-off gardens, two arbor walks, an Asian Valley and a classical glass-domed conservatory unlike any in the eastern U.S. World-class flowering displays welcome visitors, and themed gardens amaze groups with dynamic plant

collections bursting with color. Grab a bite with your group at the Garden Café and pick out a few souvenirs at the oneof-a-kind Garden Shop before you leave.

This spectacular Virginia botanical garden boasts a children’s group tour and an adults group tour for an exceptional and engaging time.

At the center of the 172-acre Blandy Experimental Farm in Boyce stands the Virginia State Arboretum. Groups are invited to freely roam the diverse forestry, where you’ll feel transported to faraway lands.

In this Virginia garden, witness the brilliant yellow display of some 300 Ginko trees every fall. Immerse in the lush greenery through the Conifer Forest, the largest of its kind in the Southeast. Many of the labeled tree and shrub collections date back to

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VIRGINIA BOTANICAL GARDENS the 1930s. Discover specimens like the Virginia State Champion, Cedar, Lebanon and boxwood trees.

The Virginia arboretum offers 1-to-2 hour guided group tours for parties of six or more. Four seasonal tours include Blandy’s History and Arboretum Collection, Garden Tour, Native Plant Trail and Conifer Collection.

Located on the James Madison University campus in Harrisonburg, the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is an urban garden and forest sanctuary free and open to the public. This Virginia arboretum is open from dawn until dusk, providing outdoor space for learning opportunities and those seeking time with nature.

ONE DESTINATION.

COUNTLESS ADVENTURES.

Visit FXVA.com to plan your trip.

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They welcome youth groups for educational field trips and others for guided and self-guided tours. Docent-led tours include Woodlands Wildflowers, Notable Arboretum Trees, Stream Riparian Plantings and a General Guided Tour for modest fees.

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is an ornamental plant and animal wonderland in Vienna. At this Virginia garden, youth groups can enjoy a colorful outdoor classroom abundant with koi fish, frogs, birds and more.

In support of the International Agenda for Botanic Gardens in Conservation, Meadowlark showcases three diverse horticultural exhibits: Potomac Valley Collection (PVC), Virginia Native Wetland Collection (VNW) and Virginia Native Trees Collection (VNT). Glimpse creative garden sculptures, part of the continuing Art Naturally Exhibit, with artists from around the country featured throughout the grounds.

Absorb the floral fragrances as your group meanders through various blooming species, depending on the season. Have your next family reunion among the delicate aroma at the Lilac Pavilion or schedule your school field trip or group gathering for a memorable guided Virginia garden tour. 1

The National Botanic Garden in Chantilly features lovely natural scenery.

EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH VIRGINIA From luscious country ham and Chesapeake Bay blue crab to oysters like no other, Virginia is a food-lovers’ paradise

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hen it comes to U.S. history, it’s hard to top the state of Virginia.

There’s a reason after all it’s known as “the birthplace of a nation.” But this southeastern state is much more than its historical landmarks. Virginia’s food scene is equally noteworthy with everything from Southern-style fare — think country ham, barbecue and homemade biscuits — to a seafood bonanza courtesy of its location on the Eastern Seaboard. Then there are the many celebrated wineries and breweries that add their own unique spirit (literally!) to this iconic state from deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic Coast. Here, we spotlight 7 delicious ways to explore Virginia’s culinary scene with options as varied as the state itself.

FIELDS OF GOLD FARM TRAIL The Central Shenandoah Valley, once known as the breadbasket of the Confederacy, has deep agricultural roots. No matter if you’re visiting for

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a week or a just a day, your trip should include stops on the Fields of Gold Farm Trail. What began in 2010 as a way to promote the Shenandoah Valley’s agritourism sites and activities, the Fields of Gold Farm Trail now includes more than 230 locations on the trail as it winds through eight counties and their communities.

There is fruit to be picked, tours of working farms to experience, trout fishing to be done and countless farm festivals. Additionally, there are a number of restaurants specializing in locally sourced food as well as on-farm lodging should the need arise. Don’t forget to save time for visits to the many farms stands you’ll encounter on the trail.

VIRGINIA OYSTER TRAIL Oysters are a big deal in Virginia. So much so that in early 2011 a group of eight oyster lovers gathered 18 times to taste the beloved bivalves from Virginia’s different waters.

Their results identified eight regions,

Photo courtesy of Virginia Tourism

By Lisa Shames

Sample some fabulous oysters on the Virginia Oyster Trail.

each with slightly different levels of saltiness and sweetness. (Insider tip: To best taste each flavor, chew your oyster a few times.) The Virginia Oyster Trail, situated in the area surrounding the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the country, offers visitors a taste of each at restaurants, seafood companies, oyster farms and tours. Notable stops include Rappahannock Oyster Company, the Virginia Oyster Academy at Tides Inn and Dog & Oyster Vineyard, the latter combining two of the most beloved terroir- and merroircentric products, wine and oysters.

VIRGINIA BBQ TRAIL With cooking methods that date back to the earliest settlers, Virginia barbecue is an historic food culture like no other. Smoked meats are still prepared with traditional open-fire cooking methods, continuing in the style of cooking that has endured for hundreds of years. From Appalachia to Coastal Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley to Southern Virginia there are hundreds of barbecue restaurants and a festival almost every weekend in Virginia’s 10 regions. In its simplest terms, the Virginia BBQ Trail connects pitmasters whose passion is making

barbecue with barbecue lovers and includes more than 250 listings.

Looking for a tasty souvenir? Virginia is well known for its four signature barbecue sauces: Southside (slightly tangy with a vinegar/tomato base), Central (slightly sweet and zesty from the sweet spices in it), Shenandoah Valley (herbaceous with a vinegar base) and Northern (sweet tomato base).

THE SALTY SOUTHERN ROUTE Head to the southeast region of Virginia and you’ll be rewarded with some of the best salt-cured ham, pork products and peanuts in the U.S. The Salty Southern

Route allows you to experience these culturally significant products first-hand.

In Smithfield, you’ll find Smithfield Foods, the world’s largest pork producer and creator of the legendary Smithfield Ham. Only ham from peanut-fed pigs that are cured and smoked within the city limits can be labeled genuine Smithfield hams. In nearby Suffolk is the world headquarters of Planter’s Peanuts and the birthplace of the dapper Mr. Peanut.

In the surrounding areas, you’ll discover a number of other peanut-focused places, such as the Virginia Peanut Company Gourmet Market, Plantation Peanuts and Wakefield Peanut Company. Additionally,

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VIRGINIA CULINARY TRAILS there are dozens of restaurants in which to experience a true taste of the region.

THE VIRGINIA FARMERS MARKET LOVERS TRAIL As any food lover knows, one of the best ways to experience the true, of-the-moment flavors of a place is by visiting farmers markets. The Virginia Farmers Market Lovers Trail, a collaboration between the Virginia Farmers Market Association, Virginia Tourism Corporation and Virginia State University, lets you eat like a local, whether it’s Hanover tomatoes, Virginia peanuts or apples from the Shenandoah Valley. Added to the tasty experience is the opportunity to meet with the farmers, chefs, bakers, cheese makers and more who unite at the markets.

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BREW RIDGE TRAIL Virginia’s original beer trail, the Brew Ridge Trail is a self-guided tour that features some of the nation’s best craft breweries and cideries with plenty of awards to prove it. Combine that with the stunning sights and sounds of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains and it’s truly an experience not to be missed. For first-time visitors as well as long-time locals, the trail offers a range of activities and entertainment, from foods trucks and live music to special events. In Nelson County, be sure to visit Blue Mountain Brewery, Devils Backbone Brewing Company and Blue Mountain Barrel House. Newest on the scene breweries include Brewing Tree Bear Company and Wild Man Dan’s Beer Centric Brewery in Lovingston and

Afton, respectively. Hard-cider lovers will appreciate the current American cider revival in Virginia, with many styles of the beloved beverage available at places such as Bryant’s Cider and Bold Rock Hard Cider.

VIRGINIA WINE TRAILS With nearly 300 wineries and dozens of scenic wine trails Virginia truly is a wine destination. Conveniently, if you plan a stop along any of the food trails, you’ll inevitably find a wine trail stop overlapping. Even the Brew Ridge Trail runs past wineries on the Nelson 151 and the Monticello Wine Trails. Live music and festivals are important parts of Virginia’s wine culture and there are multiple events taking place almost every weekend. 1

Discover

TIMELESS MOMENTS

AT THE WORLD'S LARGEST AMERICAN HISTORY MUSEUM.

Bring the past to life with a Colonial Williamsburg experience.

Take a tour. Enjoy an interactive evening program. Dine at an 18th-century tavern. Visit our two world-class art museums.

Relax and play at our award-winning spa, golf club, tennis club, and four pools. At the end of the day, retire to one of our five hotels, just steps away from the Historic Area. Spending time together has never been easier.

Discounts available for groups of 15 or more.

BOOK YOUR GETAWAY TODAY For more information, please call 1.800.228.8878 or email groupsales@cwf.org.

ENJOY FINE DINING AND FUN ENTERTAINMENT AT THESE 5 DINNER THEATERS Experience the magic that happens when live theater meets up with delicious food

By Lisa Shames

W

Here, we celebrate five places in Virginia that let your group have their cake, er dinner, and theater too.

WOHLFAHRT HAUS DINNER THEATRE, WYTHEVILLE Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of southwest Virginia, Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre offers Broadway-style musicals paired with traditional German dishes and classic American fare.

Audiences are seated in comfy lounge-

Swift Creek Mill Theatre in South Chesterfield.

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style chairs and are served a four-course meal prepared by their in-house chef.

Following dinner, guests can take in a lively musical featuring large production numbers and intricately choregraphed dance routines. Upcoming shows include Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Coat, Million Dollar Quartet and Fiddler on the Roof.

SWIFT CREEK MILL THEATRE, SOUTH CHESTERFIELD

Photo courtesy of Kieran Rundle

hether we like it or not, we live in a world where multitasking has become the norm. The practice of doing multiple things simultaneously, however, can have benefits beyond the inevitable saving of time.

Take, for example, dinner theater, where two wonderful forms of entertainment converge in one glorious and delicious evening. The dinner-and-ashow twofer has come a long way since its early beginnings in the Middle Ages.

Since 1965, Swift Creek Mill Theatre has been offering its unique take on dinner theater in a historic grist mill turned distillery turned playhouse.

The Mill, a not-for-profit organization, has become an important member of the community through its youth theater, educational programs, utilization of local talent and engaging entertainment. Upcoming shows include musical Keep It on the Sunny Side and The Sweet Delilah Swim Club.

Head to the Cabaret for a variety of live musical performances. Swift Creek Mill is celebrated for its soul-soothing comfort food as well as menus inspired by their corresponding performances.

Pre-show dining is offered in the Mill Room or Granite Room.

RIVERSIDE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, FREDERICKSBURG Since it opened in 1998 with a performance of Oklahoma!, Riverside Center for the Performing Arts has featured more than 100 mainstage musical and dramatic productions and more than 120 musical adaptations of popular children’s stories for their Children’s Theater. The space offers 36,000 square feet of dinner theater and conference center and has attracted performers from Broadway stages and national tour casts, earning multiple awards in the process. In 2023, look for lively, professional performances of Ragtime The Musical, 42nd Street, The Bridges of Madison County and Miracle on 34th Street.

VIRGINIA REPERTORY THEATRE AT HANOVER TAVERN, HANOVER Part pub, restaurant, historic center and home of the 155-seat Bradley Theater, there’s a lot going on at Hanover Tavern. Licensed in 1733, Hanover Tavern has since led many lives, including as part of a plantation and lodging to several big-name visitors.

In 1953, six New York actors founded Central Virginia’s first professional theater, Barksdale Theatre, and went on to present plays from the era’s most progressive writers. In its current iteration, Hanover Tavern is home to a merger between Barksdale Theater and Theatre IV becoming Virginia Repertory Theatre. Enjoy Southern-style cooking and a quaint setting in the pub before heading to the theater.

THE DINNER DETECTIVE MURDER MYSTERY DINNER SHOW, VIRGINIA BEACH At America’s largest interactive comedy murder mystery dinner theater anyone, and that includes guests, are part of the show and fun. From the start of the evening at The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show, actors are hidden in the audience adding to the mystery part of the evening’s events.

Throughout the night, a crime occurs, hidden clues will be revealed, and the “detectives” will help everyone try and crack the case. Solve the case and win a prize.

All that sleuthing is accompanied by a stellar three-course meal with a wide selection of beer, wine and cocktails available for additional purchase. 1

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ITINERARY

Charlottesville & Albemarle County, Virginia

SCAN FOR INFO

Immerse yourself in the history of Charlottesville and Albemarle County, including homes of three Founding Fathers and a colonial era tavern, a wide variety of cuisine and top 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 www.visitcharlottesville.org

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 Founding Fathers.

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. Hundreds of thousands of visitors tour Monticello each year and learn about Jefferson’s legacy and complicated history.

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, black-eyed peas, buttermilk biscuits, cornbread and more. Lunch is served daily from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. If you save room for dessert, don’t miss out on the delicious peach cobbler.

Not far from Monticello and Michie Tavern is James Monroe’s Highland, the home of another U.S. President and Founding Father. 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.

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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 18 merchant stalls of varying cuisines, a brewery, restaurant, bar, and several retail shops.

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.

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. These exhibitions and events highlight Charlottesville and Albemarle County’s African American history and culture of the African diaspora.

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.

A visit to the Charlottesville area isn’t complete without a stop at one of the 40+ 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 and safely transport you from winery to winery.

EXPLORE PICTURE-PERFECT NATURAL BEAUTY IN VIRGINIA Groups can visit this hidden gem in the Appalachian Mountains

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Photos courtesy of Kyle LaFerriere

Waterfalls can be found throughout the heart of Appalachia.

By Isabella Wilkes

T

he natural beauty of Virginia is hard to compare to any other region in America. Driving along Blue Ridge Parkway, every turn around the winding bends will open up to picture-perfect views of rolling hills, lush forests, calm estuaries, or stunning coastline, all enveloped by the aweinspiring Blue Ridge Mountains. If your group is looking for an unforgettable opportunity to immerse yourselves in scenic experiences, you’ve definitely come to the right place.

VIRGINIA’S DARK SKY PARKS OFFER CRYSTAL-CLEAR VIEWS OF THE NIGHT SKY

a glimpse of migrating whales as they make their way north. Many whaling tours can easily accommodate large groups on their tour boats. Groups will be taken off the coast to try and catch a glimpse of whales feeding or breaching, all while keeping a safe distance from these endangered creatures. Dolphins are in the coastal

waters from the spring through Fall.

For groups looking to take part in Virginia’s legendary fishing scene, there are a multitude of fishing boat charters located along the coast that can accommodate groups.

Another costal staple in Virginia is the state’s fabulous oysters. Groups will have no problem locating a

Big Meadows is a recreational area of Shenandoah National Park located on the Skyline Drive.

Dark Sky Parks are few and far inbetween, with about 60 located across America. The state of Virginia alone has four parks as designated locations where light pollution is so low, visitors can view much of the galaxy’s wonders with a naked eye. Staunton River State Park, James River State Park, Natural Bridge State Park, and Sky Meadows State Park are all located in different regions of the state. Groups can participate in guided stargazing and planet viewing nights, led by local astronomers who come equipped with high-power telescopes, at any one of these parks throughout the year. Or, plan your group trip around a peak day for observing meteor showers, as designated by park astronomers.

Virginia’s 70-mile Atlantic coastline is the backbone of the state, providing much of the cuisine, culture, and biodiversity that makes this state a must-visit. During the winter months, Virginia is the peak location to catch

Photo by John Plashal

THERE’S A SEA OF POSSIBILITIES FOR GROUP EXPERIENCES ALONG VIRGINIA’S COAST

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Photo by Bill Crabtree Jr.

EXPLORE NATURAL BEAUTY

Wild ponies from Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge on Assateague Island on Virginia’s Eastern Shore has captured the hearts and minds of visitors for years.

VIRGINIA

ARTSFESTIVAL

VIRGINIA

INTERNATIONAL

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APRIL 20-23, 2023 / APRIL 18-21, 2024 / SCOPE ARENA, NORFOLK, VA

AWE-INSPIRING SPECTACLE OF MUSIC AND MIGHT!

restaurant to slurp up these delicacies throughout the state, but for a more immersive experience, groups have to head to the tributaries where these oysters are harvested. Pleasure House Oyster Farm Tours allows groups to see the inner workings of oyster farming. Groups can choose from three experiences of various interaction. The least interactive will have you taking a brief tour with a tasting. Another tour has your group standing in waders, knee-deep in the Lynnhaven River at a table set up in the water at the oyster farm. The most interactive group experience allows groups learning from the farmers to pick their own oysters, ending with a tasting.

WATERFALLS VIEWS TO TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY Virginia’s rolling hills and mountainous landscape have created the conditions to host an array of breathtaking waterfalls. However, hiking to these cascades doesn’t have to entail a challenging multi-mile trek into the deep forest. In Virginia, waterfalls are so abundant that there are plenty of easilyaccessible waterfalls for groups of all ages and abilities.

Waterfalls designated as easy access by Virginia state parks - with hikes under one-mile round trip with relatively flat terrain - include Statons Creek Falls, Falling Spring Falls and Dismal Falls. For groups with more extensive ability, there are, of course, a multitude of waterfalls in Virginia with challenging hikes and equally rewarding views.

SPOT RARE WILDLIFE IN VIRGINIA’S NATURAL PARKS

TICKETS: VAFEST.ORG OR CALL 877-741-2787

GROUPS 10+ SAVE! CALL 757-282-2819 FOR INFORMATION.

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Virginia is home to more than 4.18 million acres of protected land, and many have been developed with walking trails and other amenities

to increase accessibility to the state’s most scenic views. Many of these trails are designated as ideal locations to view an array of the state’s protected species. Groups can increase their chances of seeing a bald eagle at Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, or Caledon State Park.

For avid birders, there are multiple state parks located along the Atlantic flyway, including Matthews Birding & Wildlife Trails and the Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve. At the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, visitors will get incredible coastal views alongside wild pony sightings.

For a guided group experience, Breaks State Park offers elk tours, where groups can hope to spot

these majestic creatures, hear their powerful and haunting bugle calls, and learn about the state’s tireless efforts to restore the elk’s natural population levels. For active groups, there are an abundance of guided kayak tours to choose from in natural parks across the state.

UNWIND WITH A GLASS OF WINE AND AMAZING VIEWS AT VIRGINIA’S VINEYARDS Virginia’s vineyards are located across the state, no longer confined to the well-known and historic wine regions of Shenandoah Valley and Central Virginia. Groups can book a private vineyard bus tours that are available in every region of the state.

Tour leaders will guide your group to

a number of vineyards in the area, leading to a relaxing afternoon of taking in the breathtaking views while enjoying world-class wine.

For groups looking for self-guided tours of Virginia’s wine country, there are a few vineyards in particular that go above and beyond to deliver an experience that immerses you in the natural beauty of the region.

Chatham Vineyard offers a relaxing 45-minute paddle tour that includes a wine tasting as you float down Church Creek. Greenhill Winery offers carriage rides through their vineyard and often hosts polo matches. Glass House Winery hosts a stunning tropical conservatory on their vineyard, which transports visitors from Virginia to a tropic oasis during their tasting. 1

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THE BEST-TASTING DISHES ARE MADE IN VIRGINIA Specialty food businesses give travelers a chance to indulge in, learn about and even make mouthwatering treats

By Randy Mink

C

ulinary experiences are often among the highlights of a group trip, and when tour members can get a peek at how things are made, the experience becomes extra-special. Some makers offer classes in the kitchen, providing hands-on fun with fresh insights on crafting the final product.

Here are some places that will add a tasty twist to your next tour in Virginia:

Taste some of the finest chocolates at River-Sea Chocolate Factory.

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RIVER-SEA CHOCOLATE FACTORY CHANTILLY Krissee and Mariano D’Aguiar started making chocolate in 2017 in northern Brazil and today operate a thriving beanto-bar business.

Mariano grew up in a cacao-growing region of Brazil where the Amazon River meets the Atlantic Ocean, and is passionate about preserving the rainforest and its ecosystem. Ecofriendly practices and sourcing product from small cocoa farmers drive the couple’s business ethics. They work with producers from countries around the world, including Brazil, Nicaragua, Tanzania, India, Colombia, Vietnam, Thailand and Peru.

On the 60-minute Private Tasting Flight and Tour, group members get to sample five pieces of chocolate (milk, dark, white), observe the chocolate making process and learn how to do a proper tasting. In the Chocolate Bomb Making class (up to 10 persons), everyone gets to make four bombs using ingredients like marshmallow, fruit powders, sprinkles and spices. Another session involves pairing chocolates with wines. (riverseachocolates.com)

fame as being the home of the original waffle cone. The cones are made right before your eyes on the original four-iron waffle machine built in 1904.

Besides ice cream treats, Doumar’s sells hamburgers, hot dogs and North Carolina-style barbecue, offering both dine-in and curbside service. Limeades and orange freezes are other popular items.

Now in the fourth-generation of family ownership, Doumar’s has been at the same location since 1934. But its story starts with the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair when traveling salesman Abe Doumar, an immigrant from Syria, conceived the idea of putting ice cream in cones when an ice cream vendor there ran out of paper dishes, the primary way of selling ice cream to go. He bought a waffle from a waffle maker at the fair, rolled it into a cone and topped it with ice cream. Abe diplomatically proposed that the ice cream vendor and waffle salesman collaborate. For the rest of the fair, Abe sold ice cream in the world’s first waffle cones. He then built the four-iron machine and in 1905 started a string of ice cream shops on the East Coast, opening up in Norfolk in 1907. (doumars.com)

DOUMAR’S BARBECUE AND CONES NORFOLK

LEBANESE TAVERNA MARKET ARLINGTON

A beloved local institution in downtown Norfolk, Doumar’s stakes its claim to

This Lebanese-owned food and gift store offers cooking classes that include

four or five recipe demonstrations and hands-on instruction. While learning about Eastern Mediterranean cuisine, participants enjoy tastings and Middle Eastern wines.

Featured foods might include chicken shawarma, artichoke and lamb stew, and tabbouleh (bulgur wheat, tomato, finely chopped parsley and other herbs). Guests likely will start with a typical Middle Eastern appetizer like hommus (ground chickpeas) or the creamier baba ganoush (made of roasted eggplant) with pita. The dessert could be baklava or Lebanese rice pudding with a hint of rose water.

The Lebanese Taverna Group, started by a Lebanese immigrant family in 1979, operates 12 locations in the Washington, D.C. area. (lebanesetaverna.com)

The Lebanese Taverna Group was started by a Lebanese immigrant family in 1979 and features incredible dishes and offers cooking classes.

BALLERINO CREAMERY STAUNTON In an old creamery building that had not been used for milk processing in half a century, owner and head cheesemaker Louella Hill crafts a variety of fresh and ripened cheeses with milk from grass-fed cows. The stream running alongside the creamery is called Buttermilk Creek.

Tasting sessions encourage participants to discover how and why

cheeses are so different from one another. The final tasting is accompanied by wines from Ox-Eye Vineyards.

Hill has taught hundreds of cheesemaking classes and has worked on dairy farms and in cheese factories in the U.S. and abroad. Her book on home cheese making, Kitchen Creamery, describes the process of transforming milk into cheese, yogurt and butter. (ballerinocreamery.com) 1

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Enjoy a peaceful ride aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway.

VIRGINIA HAS MUCH FOR GROUPS TO LOVE

By Lisa Shames

O

f all the state slogans over the years, “Virginia is for Lovers” is perhaps the most iconic with a 50-year track record (and still going strong) and, in fitting with its sentiment, the most beloved.

While Virginia has always had plenty to offer visitors, it’s upped its game even more with a slew of openings that appeal to a variety of tastes. And this year shows no signs of slowing down with a bounty of exciting endeavors on the horizon throughout the state.

From a scenic railway that calls a modernized 1940s passenger home to a lush 250-acre botanical garden, Virginia is feeling the love — and you will too.

LEGO lovers and their parents have reason to celebrate with the midsummer opening of LEGO Discovery Center at Springfield Town Center, the first Virginia location of the iconic brand. The 32,000-square-foot indoor attraction, billed as the ultimate LEGO playground, will feature millions of LEGO bricks as well as multiple attractions.

Spring 2023 on the Alexandria Waterfront is the opening of the

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Senator John Warner Maritime Heritage Center, Home of Tall Ship Providence. Student STEM programs are offered and adult visitors will experience the floating museum and education center.

What’s the best way to take in some of Virginia’s prettiest scenery, including the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains? From a beautiful 1940s passenger car of a leisurely rolling train that also includes a modernized ambiance.

Virginia’s newest tourist rail excursion from Virginia Scenic Railway debuted last fall and quickly became a hit. Departing from the Amtrak Staunton station, the 3-hour round-trip excursion includes a meal, dessert and beverage served in a complimentary souvenir glass.

The American Revolution has always been felt more deeply by Virginians, whose inspired ancestors brought to a fledgling nation the thoughtful words that helped guide leaders to declare liberty as the right of Americans. To commemorate the

Photo courtesy of Katie Simon

From a scenic railway to a lush 250-acre botanical garden, Virginia is feeling the love — and you will too.

250th anniversary of the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and the independence of the United States in the Commonwealth of Virginia, The Virginia American Revolution Commission will host a variety of events starting in 2023 and continuing through 2026, ranging from a 4th of July celebration like no other in Yorktown to an afternoon tea in Dublin to learn about love stories of local Revolutionary War soldiers.

North America’s first all-indoor straddle coaster makes its debut this year at Busch Gardens Williamsburg.

On DarKoaster, riders travel on snowmobiles across 2,454 feet of track in total darkness with King Ludwig’s abandoned fortress looming in the background. Founded to celebrate the African American journey to freedom,

The Black Heritage Museum of Arlington recently marked the grand opening of its new home along Columbia Pike.

The new facility provides a focal point exhibit on Arlington’s Freedman’s Village and contributions made by its residents and their descendants to local and national history.

While the lineup had yet to be finalized at press time, the announcement of the dates of the multi-day Something in the Water Festival led by Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams is still exciting news. To be held April 23-30, the event includes art and cultural experiences in addition to what will be a star-studded mix of musicians.

Opened in January of this year, Rivers Casino in Portsmouth is a big deal — literally. At 400,000 square feet and with a price tag of $340 million, the complex

includes 1,448 slot machines, 57 tables games, 24 poker tables, 10 restaurants, a 25,000-square-foot event center, movie theater, retail stores and a hotel.

After a two-year renovation, the all-new Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) Museum re-opened. A new innovative learning environment includes interactives, artifacts and displays that engage visitors in the science and history of drug misuse prevention.

With more than 5,000 objects, 40,000 photographs and an online video archive, the Museum’s collection brings the history of drug law enforcement to life.

Ever dream of sitting at a bar with a “water wall” underneath? Head to the revamped Crystal City Water Park when it opens this year to experience that as well as other treats. Located in Arlington, the park will include

new restaurant kiosks, a full-service restaurant, a stage and plenty of public art installations.

If you still haven’t gotten your fill of water-centric adventures, visit Williamsburg’s Water Country USA, which is debuting Virginia’s first dueling pipeline this summer. Riptide Race water slide pits teams against each other as they take off from the 54foot tower and race through 520 feet of slide. Hanging out in Richmond’s Diamond area recently became a lot more fun with the opening of The Park RVA, new entertainment and food venue. The $8 million project features a 55,000-square-foot entertainment space that includes indoor mini golf, virtual golf, 18 lanes of duckpin bowling, karaoke, a comedy club and a sixrestaurant food hall. 1

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ITINERARY

Lynchburg, Virginia

The Ultimate LYH Experience SCAN FOR INFO

Also known as the Hill City, our view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the James River makes LYH a unique destination for travelers seeking new adventures while being immersed in a historic downtown setting, and surrounded by natural beauty. Here are just a few of our must-see experiences in LYH, we can’t wait to host you!

Day 1

Begin your experience as you arrive in Lynchburg with lunch at the Depot Grille in Historic Downtown. This railroad-themed restaurant overlooking Riverfront Park and the James River is housed in a former freight station and a local favorite.

Next, get introduced to and explore the rich history of Lynchburg and Central Virginia at the Lynchburg Museum at the Old Courthouse. The museum shares stories about the people and fascinating events that shaped the region through exhibits including antique toys, military items from all wars, furniture & silver made here, and much more. Curious about the history of Lynchburg? Join Lynchburg’s own Curious History Walking Tours for a stroll down Main Street to discover comedic stories about Lynchburg’s interesting past dating back to the 18th century.

After checking in to your hotel of choice for the next two nights, journey downtown for your Lynchburg Dining Experience, a foodie’s paradise.

Day 2 CITY OF LYNCHBURG, VIRGINIA

Andrew Marks, Sales Manager Office of Economic Development & Tourism Andrew.Marks@Lynchburgva.gov (434) 485-7298 (o) www.lynchburgvirginia.org

Day two begins after a nice breakfast at your hotel by visiting the home of the internationally acclaimed poet who was part of the Harlem Renaissance, the Anne Spencer House & Garden Museum. Anne Spencer was the only Black woman and the only Virginian included in the Norton Anthology of Modern American and British Poetry. Established in 1806, the restored Old City Cemetery and Arboretum is a Virginia Historic Landmark on the National Register of Historic places. Walk through the

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cemetery that features a Civil War section, significant African-American history, and four small museums equipped with push-button audio. Next, visit Seaquest, an interactive petting zoo aquarium where you can experience earth’s majestic wonders while interacting with the innumerable species with which we share this planet. Enjoy lunch at Charley’s Restaurant, which has grown into one of Lynchburg’s favorite restaurants with steaks, seafood, salads and more. A short drive from the restaurant, walk the grounds and take in the secluded retreat of Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, now a National Historic Landmark.

Head back to your hotel to freshen up for your evening on the town. Offering fine cuisine in an upscale industrial setting, Shoemakers American Grille is located in the Craddock Terry Hotel and treats guests to big city dining in the heart of downtown Lynchburg. Next, enjoy an evening of entertainment at The Historic Academy of Music Theatre before calling it a night.

Day 3 Your final day begins after breakfast with a visit to Point of Honor. Discover the charm and surroundings of life in the early 1800’s as you explore the house and grounds of the original owner and builder, Dr. George Cabell, whose patients included American patriot Patrick Henry. A tour of this remarkable Federal-style home, with its classic architecture and rich furnishings, echoes true grace and southern hospitality. Visit the Lynchburg Community Market, the third-oldest farmer’s market in the country or dip in to one of the many local shops that feature local artisans and craftspersons, where you’ll find special reminders of your trip to Lynchburg.

Anne Spencer House & Garden Museum

LYH WELCOMES YOU We invite you to get a feel for the Hill City, a unique destination for travelers seeking new adventures, surrounded by natural beauty.

LYNCHBURGVIRGINIA.ORG

ITINERARY

Staunton, Virginia

SCAN FOR INFO

Teeming with art galleries, live performance venues, and a notto-be-missed dining scene, this creative community is a feast for the senses.

Staunton’s celebrated Main Street appears to have sprung to life from a Norman Rockwell painting with its striking variety of architectural styles.

VISIT STAUNTON

Jessica B. Williams Sales & Marketing Manager williamsjb@ci.staunton.va.us 540-332-3865 www.visitstaunton.com

Staunton Shines Bright With Arts, Culture & Cocktails Day 1

Staunton is one of the oldest cities west of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Step back in time at the livinghistory Frontier Culture Museum to learn about the daily life of the region’s earliest settlers.

Next, discover the life and legacy of the country’s 28th president in the city where he was born at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum. An exclusive ‘Behind-the-Scenes” guide tour provides a fuller picture of his complex life and legacy.

Love nostalgic rail journeys? Set aside three hours to relax and sightsee aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway, round-trip excursions depart twice daily (Thursday-Sunday).

Day 2 Shakespeare is serious fun at the American Shakespeare Center. So is the Blackfriars Playhouse Tour, where you’ll go on-stage, behind the stage, and even under the stage as guides tell the story of England’s first indoor theater and describe how the staging conditions of 17th-century London shaped the works of Shakespeare and his fellow playwrights.

Art enthusiasts are invited to step inside GothicRevival Trinity Episcopal Church and marvel at 12 Tiffany stained glass windows, which date from 18981936. Contemporary artworks are produced daily via live glass-blowing demonstrations at Sunspots Studios. Interested in acquiring original works from

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regional artists? The CoArt Gallery and the R.R. Smith Center for History & Art display some of the best.

The Shenandoah Valley is known for its agricultural bounty, and farm-to-table restaurants are the norm. Chef Boden of The Shack is a two-time James Beard Award semifinalist. Zynodoa offers inspired Southern cuisine with a menu that emphasizes local ingredients.

Day 3 For something truly memorable, opt for a masterclass in cheese and wine in a beautifully restored tasting room. Ballerino Creamery’s head cheesemaker Louella Hill and master vintner John Kiers of Ox-Eye Vineyards join forces to help you taste your way through the Valley’s freshest flavors.

Pick up a copy of the self-guided walking tour and get acquainted with Staunton’s preservation success; six historic districts are independently listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Refresh yourself at the Ciders From Mars taproom, where you can enjoy a full flight or a single glass of their flagship Hellas Dry Cider. It’s made with a blend of modern and heirloom apples, grown locally.

BLU Point Seafood Co. showcases lobster rolls and seafood baskets, as well as catches straight from the Chesapeake Bay such as rockfish, blue crab, and oysters. Private dining areas can accommodate groups of up to 80 people. Gorgeous mountain scenery surrounds Staunton. Two national parks, Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway are close by and make an easy destination for sunset views.

Love,

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Celebrate the gifts of land and sea with epic Virginia Beach adventures the entire group can enjoy safely. With 400 square miles of wide open space, revel in hands-on experiences and unique access to a group tour that’s as safe as it is memorable.

VISITVIRGINIABEACH.COM/GROUPTOUR

}

CENTRAL REGION GREAT AMERICAN HEARTLAND STOPS

Lincoln Boyhood Home National Memorial

The Midwest abounds with underthe-radar historical sites that tell the stories of great Americans.

LINCOLN BOYHOOD HOME (IN) The living history farm at this national memorial sheds light on the president’s youth in Southern Indiana.

JOHN WAYNE BIRTHPLACE (IA) In Winterset, tour the humble birth home and recently expanded museum honoring this Hollywood hero.

MARK TWAIN SHRINE (MO) The boyhood home/museum in Hannibal is dedicated to the literary giant who wrote about life on the Mississippi.

MCKINLEY MEMORIAL (OH) PHOTO COURTESY OF NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

Canton remembers its native son, President William McKinley, with an impressive tomb and adjacent museum.

CHARLES LINDBERGH HOME (MN) In Little Falls, tour the boyhood home and museum enshrining the first person to fly solo across the Atlantic.

www.LeisureGroupTravel.com

<< APRIL 2023

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SHOWCASE

Journey to Joplin From an iconic American highway to a famed African American scientist, Missouri’s Joplin offers historic marvels

J

oplin, Missouri, located in the Ozarks region of southwestern Missouri, is home to an intriguing mix of people, events and happenstance that have come together to create this charming city. Here are three uniquely Joplin places to visit.

Route 66 Corridor: As famous roads go, they don’t get more renowned than Route 66 — and Missouri is home to more than 280 miles of the “Mother Road,” featuring some of the route’s most historic tourist attractions. Running through Downtown Joplin’s historic Main Street, not-tobe-missed features include a Route 66 Mural Park, local restaurants, and shopping, as well as public art.

Joplin History & Mineral Museum: Founded to help preserve and record Joplin’s history, this museum tells the story of Joplin and the Tri-Sate Mining District through its Smithsonian-quality mineral collection and historical

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<< www.LeisureGroupTravel.com

exhibits. Visitors can explore the town’s rich past while enjoying an eclectic variety of exhibits, such as the National Cookie Museum, a Bonnie and Clyde exhibit, and a miniature circus room.

George Washington Carver National Monument: One of the most prominent African Americans of his time, Carver was born in Missouri.

The Monument preserves the birthplace and legacy of the famed scientist, educator and humanitarian.

VISIT JOPLIN CVB Kerstin Landwer, (417) 625-4790, klandwer@joplinmo.org, www.VisitJoplinMO.com

Route 66 Mural Park murals produced by Joplin’s Images in Tile

2 0 2 3

Meet the Illinois Makers

Travel Around the World in Illinois Add a dash of international flair to your itineraries

There’s something for everyone in Illinois from delicious food to exquisite art

Group-Friendly ENJOYILLINOIS.COM

Tour Ideas

IT’S TIME TO GET AWAY

A dventure Starts Here

Plan a Winter Getaway to Southern Illinois and sip locally foraged beers while cozied up next to a bonfire.

Bundle up and hike to Inspiration Point to watch the sunrise and wander among the endless trails of the Shawnee National Forest. Start your mornings with warm festive 618-529-4451 esspresso from a local cafe and wind carbondaletourism.org down your evenings nestled in a cabin in the woods. Adventure starts here.

2 0 2 3

Meet the Illinois Makers

Travel Around the World in Illinois Add a dash of international flair to your itineraries

There’s something for everyone in Illinois from delicious food to exquisite art

ON THE COVER

Yoga at Anderson Japanese Gardens, Rockford (Photo courtesy of Enjoy Illinois)

CONTENTS

Group-Friendly ENJOYILLINOIS.COM

Tour Ideas

68

71 74

77 FEATURES

SAMPLE ITINERARIES

to Yesteryear • By Lisa Shames 68 Return Explore Illinois history with visits to homes of beloved presidents,

80 Chicago and Beyond

buildings by famous architects and a drive on a road like no other

Around the World in Illinois • By Randy Mink 71 Travel Add a dash of international flair to your Illinois itineraries with visits to

Chicago’s ethnic neighborhoods and other pockets of foreign culture

the Illinois Makers • By Lisa Shames 74 Meet There’s something for everyone in Illinois from delicious food to exquisite art

77 Illinois Entertainment Venues Wowing Crowds

82 Land of Lincoln

85 Great Rivers Country 88 Trails to Adventure

Statewide • By Heather Dale

Venues range from the expansive open-air Illinois State Fairgrounds to opulent theaters and arenas for spectacular live performances

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All itineraries are samples and can be customized to fit your group’s needs

Hello!

On behalf of the Illinois Office of Tourism, I’m proud to invite you and your group to enjoy the many wonderful destinations to be found here in Illinois.

Jan Kemmerling, Acting Deputy Director

Illinois Office of Tourism

Illinois puts you in the middle of everything, and is an ideal destination for group travel. For a big city experience, Chicago offers world-class museums and culture, award-winning dining, and a spectacular skyline. For those looking for a slice of small town hospitality, head to one of our quaint towns and enjoy charming main streets, local delicacies and uniquely Illinois-style locally made goods.

Throughout the state, you’ll also find not-to-be-missed experiences—take in a show at Broadway in Chicago, hike to sandstone canyons decorated with waterfalls, experience Big Things in a Small Town in downstate Casey. And explore our endless wonders—from scenic bluffs and dark skies to vast nature preserves and recreational lakes, Illinois has it all.

Of course, there’s no shortage of historic sites, water parks, zoos, amusement parks, and kid-friendly activities for the whole family.

Architectural wonders also abound here in Illinois, home to the Frank Lloyd Wright Trail, which includes two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Follow Abraham Lincoln’s footsteps through the state capital of Springfield and see where he lived and made history. And you won’t want to miss Route 66, the 300-mile stretch of America’s most famous roadway featuring quirky and nostalgic stops you won’t soon forget.

Illinois is a year-round destination. Our winter eagle watching season offers unique views of one of the largest eagle migrations in the nation. Spring and summer are a prime opportunity for travelers to enjoy Illinois’ beautiful byways, beaches, and parks. Autumn brings with it the fall colors and provides some of the most amazing hues and landscapes to be found anywhere in the country.

For more information on group itineraries and all the travel opportunities Illinois has to offer, be sure to visit our website at tourillinois.org.

We hope to see you soon.

Learn more about Illinois group travel opportunities!

Jan Kemmerling Acting Deputy Director Illinois Office of Tourism

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 –

Lisa Shames, lisas@ptmgroups.com Heather Dale, heatherdale.ptm@gmail.com

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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

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

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.

A

publication

All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher.

2023 ILLINOIS GROUP TOUR PLANNER

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RETURN TO YESTERYEAR

Land of Lincoln re-enactment in Springfield Photo courtesy of the Illinois Office of Tourism

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Explore Illinois history with visits to homes of beloved presidents, buildings by famous architects and a drive on a road like no other

I

By Lisa Shames

t’s hard to get very far in Illinois without seeing some reference to its most revered native son. The memory of Abraham Lincoln is alive and well here — and for good reason. But while our 16th president deserves all the accolades and then some (see Where to Experience Lincoln’s Legacy below), there’s so much more to Illinois history than Honest Abe. From a Native American city and iconic architecture to a spooky prison, Illinois is chockfull of exciting experiences around every corner that depict times gone by.

Leave the history books at home.

WHERE TO VIEW HISTORIC ILLINOIS ARCHITECTURE

Photo courtesy of the Illinois Office of Tourism

From towering modern skyscrapers to charming decades-old buildings, Chicago is home to a range of architecture that is sure to please a variety of design tastes. To get a lay of the land, head to the Chicago Architecture Center, located in a beautiful new building just off Michigan Avenue and next to the Chicago River. In addition to a variety of boat and walking tours, the Center offers the Chicago City Model Experience,

featuring more than 4,000 buildings and interactive elements that tell amazing stories of the city and its historic design.

Armed with your new knowledge, head out to visit some architecture up close. Noteworthy buildings to view all within walking distance include Frank Lloyd Wright’s The Rookery, a light-filled marble and glass masterpiece; the Art Deco Chicago Board of Trade; and the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, a one-time private men’s club that opened in 1893 and has been lovingly restored inch by inch to its previous grandeur.

Looking for more Wright wonders? A trip to Oak Park is in order, where you’ll find the Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio, along with 30 more structures from the famed Illinois architect scattered through this lovely neighborhood.

In Southern Illinois, the Centralia Area Historical Society Museum in downtown Centralia features two floors of a former wholesale grocery warehouse filled with railroading, mining, oil industry, agricultural and Civil War artifacts. In Carlyle, Ten Pin Antique Mall is home to thousands of items

Frank Lloyd Wright’s The Rookery is a marble and glass masterpiece in Chicago.

for sale in a repurposed bowling alley that still has the old signage, bowling lanes and scoring monitors.

NOT-TO-BE-MISSED HISTORIC ILLINOIS SITES

In southwestern Illinois in Collinsville lies a UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing more than 2,000 acres of archaeological remains. Cahokia Mounds Historic Site is the location of a pre-Columbian Native American city and includes several natural trails, a walk to the top of the 100-foot Monk’s Mound (the largest man-made mound north of Mexico) and 70 burial mounds.

To glimpse one of the oldest remaining municipalities in the world that began as a French outpost, head to the city of Prairie du Rocher, where you’ll find Fort de Chartres State Historic Site. A former major hub for 18th century French merchants, the reconstructed fort is now open to visitors, who can walk the garrisons and learn about colonial life from historic reenactors.

In Hartford, Camp Dubois served as the winter camp and launch-point for the exploration of the Louisiana Purchase by the Lewis and Clark Expedition. View a replica of the 1803 winter fort the duo called home before heading off on their westward journey. Visitors can also climb the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower, which rises over 150 feet tall for a terrific view of the Missouri and Mississippi river confluence.

In the far northwest corner of Illinois, you’ll find some of the Midwest’s best-preserved 19th century towns, including Galena, where you’ll find the Ulysses Grant Home State Historic Site. It’s here the Civil War hero and 18th U.S. president lived after returning from the Civil War. The two-story brick house includes some of Grant’s possessions and original furnishings. Also in Galena, groups can enjoy a walk down the city’s historic Main Street, featuring specialty stores and boutiques along a curving pathway first paved in the 1840s. You can also embark on a Galena Trolley Tour to pass

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Photo courtesy of the Illinois Office of Tourism

Pontiac boasts nostalgic murals and the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum.

famous buildings like the DeSoto House Hotel (where Abraham Lincoln delivered a speech from the balcony in 1856) and the Dowling House (one of the state’s oldest surviving buildings and a fabulous example of Galena’s limestone-based architecture).

Looking for some spooky vibes to go along with your Illinois history? Old Joliet Prison, which once housed famous criminals such as Leopold & Loeb and Babyface Nelson, now welcomes non-criminals to check out its castle-like guard towers, wrought-iron gates and some cellblocks.

Nestled between Springfield’s brick-paved streets and the State Capitol, the Illinois Governor’s Mansion is the third-oldest state governor’s residence in the United States and the oldest gubernatorial residence in the Midwest.

WHERE TO EXPERIENCE LINCOLN’S LEGACY

A history-focused Illinois trip wouldn’t be complete without a visit to some of the many Abraham Lincoln-centric sites. There’s a reason, after all, Illinois is called the Land of Lincoln.

And Springfield, the capital of Illinois, is the city where America’s 16th president spent much of his life. At the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum you’ll see rare artifacts as well as exhibits and theater shows.

At the Old State Capitol, you can see where Lincoln delivered his famous House Divided speech and where his body lay in state after the assassination. Pay your respects to his final home with a visit to Lincoln’s Tomb in Springfield’s Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Near Petersburg, you can get an idea of Lincoln’s stomping grounds as a young adult with a visit to Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, a log-cabin village.

AN ILLINOIS ROAD LIKE NO OTHER

A trip along “The Mother Road,” as Route 66 is affectionately called, is always a fun adventure in American history and trends.

In Pontiac, you’ll find the home of the freeadmission Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum, which celebrates the people and businesses that served motorists traveling the fabled national highway.

Next door is the free Livingston County War Museum, a repository of gear, uniforms and other U.S. military mementoes from World War I up to current Middle East conflicts. The nearby Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum, another gratis experience, spotlights the popular Pontiac brand and the development of early car travel in America. IL 70

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TRAVEL

AROUND THE WORLD IN ILLINOIS Add international flair with visits to pockets of foreign culture

W

By Randy Mink

ithout crossing the borders of Illinois, travelers can immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and tastes of far-flung lands.

Just by including a visit to a museum, historical site or lively retail corridor, savvy tour planners spice up their trips by

whisking their groups, at least vicariously, from the heart of the Midwest to Mexico, Europe or Asia.

Of Chicago’s many ethnic neighborhoods, Chinatown is the favorite of tourists. Group members enjoy perusing the gift shops and tasting cuisine from all parts of China. Foodies can further immerse themselves in the culture by dropping into

Anderson Japanese Gardens Photo courtesy of the Illinois Office of Tourism

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bubble tea shops, sampling bakery treats and checking out grocery stores where little English is heard.

The picturesque Chinatown Gate heralds the entrance to South Wentworth Avenue, the main drag. Another photo op awaits at the pedestrian-friendly Chinatown Square mall, where 12 bronze animal statues in the plaza represent the signs of the Chinese zodiac. A mural depicts the history of Chinese immigrants in America.

At the Chinese American Museum of Chicago, exhibits include Great Wall to Great Lakes: Chinese Immigration to the Midwest, Chinese Cuisine in America: Stories, Struggles and Successes and My Chinatown: Stories from Within, the latter with video interviews of Chinatown residents. Idyllic Ping Tom Memorial Park, its entrance adorned with four pillars carved with dragon designs, provides great skyline views of the Loop, a short distance to the north.

For a trip to South Asia, groups can head to the West Ridge neighborhood on Chicago’s far North Side, home to Chicago’s Indian and Pakistani communities. A mile-long stretch of Devon Avenue, the main thoroughfare of

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the area commonly called Little India, is lined with dozens of South Asian businesses.

Guided “Taste of India” food walks offered by the National Indo-American Museum provide samplings of Indian street foods and tell how Indian Americans have revitalized the historic, formerly Jewish neighborhood, a melting pot also populated by people from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and countries outside of South Asia. Metro Chicago claims the second-largest Indian American population and the fourth-largest Pakistani American community in the country.

Andersonville, another lively North Side community, is historically Swedish, though it now is a mosaic of multi-ethnic shops and restaurants. Those searching for its Swedish roots will find them at the Swedish American Museum, a treasure house of art and artifacts with a focus on Swedish immigration.

Docent-led tours are available at the Polish Museum of America in West Town, which encompasses what was once Chicago’s “Polish Downtown,” a commercial area centered at Division Street, Milwaukee Avenue and Ashland Avenue. Located in the headquarters of the Polish Roman Catholic

Union of America, the museum boasts the biggest collection of Polish artifacts outside of Poland. A trip to the Old Country features exhibits of folk costumes, crafts and military paraphernalia, plus paintings and sculptures.

The metropolitan area has the largest Polish population of any city outside of Warsaw.

Reminders of Chicago’s Eastern European heritage also are found in Ukrainian Village, a neighborhood northwest of the Loop. Named for the influx of immigrants who began settling there in the late 19th century, it has become trendy with young professionals but maintains evidence of its Slavic identity. With Russia’s war on Ukraine raging, Ukrainian Village has been grabbing national attention. Of special interest are Ukrainian shops, three major Ukrainian churches and two museums.

The Ukrainian National Museum of Chicago displays religious and military artifacts, folk costumes, artwork, crafts, richly woven and embroidered textiles, and has an impressive collection of Ukrainian Easter eggs (pysanky). Another gem is the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art. The Ukrainian Village Landmark District includes early 20th century workers’ cottages and churches like the 1903 Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral, a building designed by famous Chicago architect Louis Sullivan and distinguished by gilded cupolas; group tours are available. Also worth a look are the 1915 St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral and 1973 Sts. Volodymyr and Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church. All have beautiful iconic paintings, mosaics, stained glass and chandeliers. For tastes of Ukrainian Village, Shokolod Pastry and Cafe offers traditional foods like borshch (beet soup), varenyky (pierogis, served with sour cream) and Ukrainian cheese pancakes.

Greektown, once home to Chicago’s Greek community, is now a lively commercial strip along a five-block stretch of South Halsted Street in the West Loop. Both tourists and locals come to indulge at restaurants dishing up Greek favorites like gyros, braised lamb in tomato sauce, moussaka (layers of eggplant, zucchini, potato and bechamel sauce) and saganaki, a flaming appetizer of pan-fried kaseri cheese delivered to the table with great flourish. The Greek language is still heard in the neighborhood, and the community comes out in full ethnic pride during the annual Greek Independence Day parade, the Taste of Greektown open-air summer festival and the days surrounding Greek Easter.

Photo courtesy of Sts. Volodymyr and Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church

Sts. Volodymyr and Olha Ukrainian Catholic Church features beautiful paintings and mosaics.

The National Hellenic Museum, a modern building on Halsted, is the only museum of Greek culture in the United States. Exhibits trace Greek heritage back to ancient times and tell the story of the immigrant experience in America.

During the holidays at Daley Plaza in the Loop, Christkindlmarket transports merrymakers to the festive Christmas markets of Germany. From mid-November to Christmas Eve, candy cane-striped tents manned by some 50 vendors from Germany, Austria, Poland and other countries brim with high-quality, handcrafted imports— ornaments, wooden toys, nutcrackers, Nativity sets, jewelry, cuckoo clocks, the list goes on. Food and drink stands offer German beer and spiced wine, fresh pretzels, roasted nuts, gingerbread, apple strudel, sausages, sauerkraut and potato pancakes. Other Christkindlmarket locations are Wrigleyville and RiverEdge Park in downtown Aurora, west of Chicago.

Another Chicago holiday tradition is Christmas Around the World, the Museum of Science and Industry’s grand exhibition of 50-some Christmas trees decorated by groups according to their ethnic traditions.

Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, southwest of the Loop, showcases MexicanAmerican culture through the lens of bold, color-splashed street murals and a thriving art scene. The prime retail strip, 18th Street, abounds with Mexican restaurants, bakeries and grocery stores. Art galleries and studios along several blocks of Halsted Street make up what is known as the Chicago Arts District. The free-admission National Museum of Mexican Art, the largest Latino museum in the country, has everything from ancient artifacts and folk art to textiles and photography. October programming features traditional Day of the Dead altars

from artists around the nation.

Authentic slices of Mexican-American life also mark Little Village, a neighborhood adjacent to Pilsen. The bustling 26th Street corridor is one of the busiest shopping districts in all of Chicago. Little Village, or “La Villita,” also has a burgeoning arts scene.

Monumental iron Puerto Rican flags on bustling Division Street serve as the gateway to Paseo Boricua, the cultural heart of Humboldt Park, home to Chicago’s Puerto Rican community. The street is lined with public art and ethnic eateries where visitors will want to try a jibarito, a plantain sandwich invented in the neighborhood.

Paseo Boricua Tour Company offers walking tours led by a lifelong resident, and lunch can be included. The National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture is housed in the former horse stables of Humboldt Park, a peaceful greenspace with gardens and lagoons.

In west suburban Bartlett, groups can take an imaginary trip to India by visiting BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, the largest Hindu temple in North America.

Built in 2004 with more than 7,000 tons of

Turkish limestone and Italian Carrara marble, it 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.

Travelers get a taste of Dutch culture in the Mississippi River town of Fulton, where a major attraction is De Immigrant Windmill.

Manufactured and partially assembled in the Netherlands, it produces stone-ground buckwheat, corn, rye and wheat flours that are sold in the gift shop at the Windmill Cultural Center, which features more than 20 European windmill models.

Groups can commune with the spirit of the Land of the Rising Sun at Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford. Recognized as one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan, the 12-acre oasis includes a tea house, ponds, decorative bridges, stone sculptures, coin basins, examples of Japanese carpentry and a waterfall made of 700 tons of boulders. At Japan House on the University of Illinois campus in Urbana, groups can walk through the gardens and arrange a traditional tea ceremony or flower arranging workshop among other cultural experiences.

In western Illinois, a utopian colony founded by a group of Swedish religious dissenters has been preserved for its historical significance. Bishop Hill State Historic Site includes buildings dating back the 1840s, when the prairie community thrived economically. Groups can tour the Colony Church and Bishop Hill Museum, shop for Swedish-themed items at the old-fashioned general store, pop into stores to see artisans making brooms and pottery, and enjoy Swedish meatballs and noodles at P.L Johnson’s. The entire village of Bishop Hill is a National Historic Landmark. IL

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MAKERS MEET THE ILLINOIS

There’s something for everyone in the Land of Lincoln from delicious food to exquisite art

I

By Lisa Shames

Optimo hats have become legendary around the world for their uncompromising quality. The beautifully made hats defy trends.

Photo courtesy of Optimo Hats

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llinois is nothing if not diverse.

From the towering skyscrapers of Chicago to the centrally located agricultural heartland, this Midwest state aims to please. The same can be said of the variety of products that those who call Illinois home create, whether it’s food, spirits or works of art.

To highlight some of these extraordinary professionals, the Illinois Office of Tourism formed a program called Illinois Made, featuring those who craft, design and invent. Illinois Made gives an intimate glimpse into the creation process

of artisans across the state on the Enjoy Illinois website by providing a behind-the-scenes view on what makes each maker exceptional. Here are a few of the hundreds of Illinois Made businesses that can be found throughout the state.

ALTON

The showroom at Mississippi Mud Pottery, which offers views of the iconic river in its name, abounds with one-of-a-kind stoneware items handcrafted by husband-and-wife owners Chad Nelson and Felicia Breen, who took over the shop and

Photo courtesy of Eshelman Pottery

gallery from the original owners Ken and Brenda Barnett in 1983. Family-owned and -operated is a big deal here. Tours feature a demonstration at the pottery wheel in front and a look in back at the kilns and glazeapplying process. Merchandise ranges from mugs, magnets and wind chimes to honey pots, garlic keepers and olive oil pourers.

CHICAGO

Even before you step inside Optimo Hats located in the historic Monadnock Building in Chicago’s Loop, you’ll be mesmerized by the beautiful hats that seem to be floating in its windows (credit the thin metal bars supporting them for this magical special effect). Founded in 1996 by Graham Thompson, who has spent his career recovering and advancing the lost art of fine hat making, Optimo has become legendary around the world for its uncompromising quality when it comes to its beautifully made hats that defy trends. Even if you’re not a hat-wearer, consider a visit to this shop a lesson in craftsmanship.

Among food-obsessed Chicagoans, Katherine Anne Confections is legendary — and for good reason. All of her sweet treats are impeccably made using pristine ingredients that add to the flavor — think Jersey cream from local farmers, seasonal Midwest fruit — as well as the world (fairtrade cacoa, anyone?). Katherine began making caramels and truffles back when she was a kid, and that passion comes through loud and clear in her extensive selection of handcrafted truffles, marshmallows and caramels all these years later.

DEKALB

The folks at Whiskey Acres Distilling Co. take their tagline “from seed to spirit” very seriously, creating the only bourbon, whiskey and vodka made in the state from grain seeds sown, grown, harvested, distilled, barreled, bottled and sold on the same lot of Illinois farmland. Heck, even the water used is naturally filtered by the limestone aquifer found deep under their land. Whiskey Acres is one of two certified “on-farm” craft whiskey distilleries in the U.S. and the first estate distillery in Illinois. A fifth-generation farm family, the Walters know their DeKalb land inside and out, and it shows in their pristine spirits. Learn about their craftsmanship with a tour. Live music and food trucks add to the friendly atmosphere.

Find creative contemporary stoneware at Eshelman Pottery in Elizabeth.

EFFINGHAM

Celebrated chefs around the world use hardwood cutting boards and butcher blocks made by John Boos & Co., the oldest business in Effingham, with a history going back to 1887. Its flagship product is the Boos Block (4 to 16 inches thick), which takes three days to individually craft from hard-rock maple. While their products are available in many locations, a visit to their Effingham showroom and outlet means access to exclusive items offered only there as well as special prices on factory seconds.

The company also makes counter tops, worktables and islands, and rolling pins.

ELIZABETH

Located in the countryside of northwestern Illinois, Eshelman Pottery is where Paul and Laurel Eshelman create contemporary, red stoneware utilizing glazed and unglazed surfaces for a visual and tactile contrast. These functional masterpieces range from cups to plates to serving dishes and are inspired by Paul’s vision of bringing people together around a dinner table. In line with that theme, all of the pottery glazes are lead-free and the ware may be safely used in the microwave, dishwasher and conventional oven.

GALENA

Great American Popcorn has been a staple in Galena since 1994. Family-owned and -operated, this beloved shop has earned many fans for its variety of popcorn made from the highest quality ingredients and the best non-GMO popcorn sourced entirely from American family farms. Handcrafted

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in small batches daily, Great American Popcorn flavors range from the classics to more inventive ones, such as Cheezy Garlic Bread, Churro Puffs and Honey Garlic. Over the years, they have created more than 350 different popcorn flavors and offer nearly 70 flavors daily in their downtown Galena shop.

For decision-phobes, staff is happy to offer as many samples as needed.

There are two ways to experience firsthand the award-winning wonders of Galena Cellars: Stop by the downtown Galena shop located inside a historic building that features three floors of seating to enjoy their wine and small bites or travel a short distance to Galena’s countryside and enjoy wines at the vineyard.

MONTICELLO

The modest town of Monticello in Central Illinois is home to Prairie Fire Glass, one of the foremost glassblowing shops in the country. Complete with roaring furnaces, Prairie Fire allows visitors to watch molten glass transformed into beautiful and practical works of art in the gallery’s working studio. Owned and operated by glass artist

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Jim Downey, Prairie Fire Glass opened in 2002 and features functional artworks such as vases, bowls, jewelry and ornaments. The unique shop also stocks mixed-media work from local artists, including greeting cards, paintings, sculpture and photography.

ROCKFORD

How much does print shop Rockford Art Deli — or RAD as locals call it — take pride in the city it calls home beyond including in its name? Through their participation in 1% For the Planet and collab shirts with local and regional organizations, RAD has donated thousands of dollars each year to supporting local businesses, nonprofits and artists. A passion for high-quality prints, designs and vibes, RAD focuses on curating only ethically made, eco-friendly products, including its uber-popular 815 line of T-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, hats and mugs, which pays homage to Rockford’s area code.

ROCK ISLAND

At his workshop in historic Rock Island, Wild Cherry Spoon Co.’s Tim McGuire crafts a variety of high-quality wooden spoons,

spatulas, pizza cutters and other utensils and home products. Utilizing raw, ethically harvested urban lumber, each piece is hand chiseled before being finished with organic olive oil and beeswax. With a distinct style all his own, McGuire’s pieces can be found all over the world, including at a nationally recognized art museum as part of an esteemed culinary feature.

UTICA

The Midwest might not be the first place you’d think of when it comes to stellar sparkling wines, but thankfully the couple behind Illinois Sparkling Co. did. Through arduous craftsmanship and an in-depth knowledge of the soil, Mark and Teri Wenzel have crafted a line of award-winning sparkling wines that range from Brut Ombré Rosé and Extra Brut to Demi Sec Rosé.

While their wines can be found in a number of shops, the best way to experience them is to visit their downtown Utica Tasting Room, where you can enjoy everything from flights to small bites. Additionally, their seasonal Wine on the Hill and Cave Tastings are held at their winery and vineyard in Peru. IL

VENUES ILLINOIS ENTERTAINMENT

WOWING CROWDS STATEWIDE

I

Venues range from the expansive open-air Illinois State Fairgrounds to opulent theaters and arenas for spectacular live performances

By Heather Dale

llinois is home to a gamut of impressive entertainment venues that provide a kaleidoscope of live shows, music concerts, theatrical performances and cultural events. Whether your group is visiting the southeast, northwest or somewhere in between, there are plenty of entertainment places throughout Illinois for an unforgettable experience.

Tucked away on the quaint Rock Valley College campus in northern Illinois is a structural work of art. Since 1967, the Starlight Theatre in Rockford has been providing live performances for the community and beyond.

The theater was formed by a group of Rock Valley College students in the 1960s who wanted

to create a culture-rich performing arts program to showcase the community’s talents.

What started as modest acts performed outside on the beautiful campus grounds grew into a striking one-of-a-kind theater in 2003. Designed by world-renowned architect Jeanne Gang, the 135,000-square-foot edifice has a 200-foot retractable star-shaped roof that opens like a blossoming flower. Performances have wowed over one million audience members over the decades, including Finian’s Rainbow, the first show held in 1967, to classics like Little Shop of Horrors.

Groups can also enjoy a show at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, which has

Cloud Gate in Millennium Park Photo courtesy of Enjoy Illinois

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Photo courtesy of Enjoy Illiknois

The Coronado Performing Arts Center in Rockford has been entertaining audiences since 1927.

Get immersed in the culture in Illinois’ Amish Country, ride the rails in Monticello, and kiss a reindeer at Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch.

Request a custom itinerary for your group!

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hosted artists, shows, concerts and events since 1927. This iconic Rockford venue is a place where history and entertainment merge.

Rebuilt in 1927, the Illinois State Fairgrounds Grandstand in Springfield hosts a unique variety of live events. Some artists who have graced the stage include Willie Nelson, Demi Lovato and Jason Aldean. If your group is looking for thrills, the Grandstand also presents horse and automobile races.

The historic Wildey Theatre in downtown Edwardsville is a reinvented 1909 opera house putting on musical concerts, classic films, dance performances and theatrical shows. In its original form, the Victorian-style Illinois theater was designed with lavish plaster ornamentation, stately balconies and two 50-person viewing boxes, one on each side of the stage. In 1937, the Wildey received an art deco makeover showcasing a vibrant lighted marquee with red, orange and yellow stripes, and neon lighting inside.

Today, audiences can enjoy live concerts of all types, comedy shows, classic movies shown on the Wildey Big Screen, Dueling Pianos concerts and much more.

Old Mill Creek is home to the spectacular Tempel Lipizzans. The Tempel Lippizans’ history spans more than six decades while the story of the Lipizzan and classical riding spans more than five centuries. Each performance is set to music and is a study in classical horsemanship and amazing athleticism.

Since 1921, the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts (BCPA) has been known by many names, including Bloomington’s Scottish Rites Temple and The Consistory. Since then, BCPA has undergone a large-scale renovation. This exciting Illinois entertainment venue hosts many performing and visual arts and arts education events. The BCPA proudly provides a diverse range of entertainment for all audiences and holds more than 500 gatherings each year. Former big ticket names include renowned musician Duke Ellington, the Bloomington Symphony and the Boston Pops Orchestra.

Bloomington-Normal is home to numerous theaters including the Community Players Theatre and the Historic Normal Theater. The area also hosts multiple festivals including the Sugar Creek and Arts Festival in Normal where more than 170 arts and crafts vendors display their impressive

creations. Lively music and delicious food accompany the art displays.

A summer staple in BloomingtonNormal is the Illinois Shakespeare Festival. Drawing nearly 10,000 visitors each year, this professional repertory company produces work by Shakespeare and contemporary plays created in his spirit. Enjoy family-friendly entertainment, behind-the-scenes tours and live music.

The new multi-million-dollar Fox Pointe outdoor arena in Lansing is a state-ofthe-art entertainment venue that hosts many diverse events. Fox Pointe features an outdoor amphitheater, an ample concessions building, an open-air pavilion and climate-controlled restrooms. Combine that with high-grade acoustics and modern amenities, and this Illinois entertainment venue has it all. Besides amazing concerts, they also organize holiday events like tree lighting with Santa and spooky Halloween activities for kids.

Millennium Park in Chicago is an award-winning cultural space that hosts an array of live entertainment, community events, music concerts, group tours and other cultural activities. More than 20 million people visit this expansive Illinois entertainment venue annually. The park offers docent-led and self-guided walking tours of the comprehensive campus, including a half-mile exploration of seven public artwork displays from April through October. View “live” art at the Crown Fountain and view the famous Bean sculpture in the Cloud Gate section of Millennium Park.

While at the park, catch a concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, an impressive outdoor amphitheater that can accommodate 11,000 fans and often features free performances. Memorable past shows include acts from the comical music duo Flight of the Concords and the talented female rock group Sleater-Kinney.

In East Moline, the former 1900s Moline-Knight Automobile Company’s manufacturing plant is the newest addition to the unique Quad Cities entertainment venue space. The Rust Belt is an entertainment place that hosts music concerts, wrestling events, house music festivals, comedy acts and big-name musicians. World-renowned artists who have performed here include Bon Iver, Jimmy Eat World and Nathaniel Rateliff. This 22,000-square-foot arena can hold 3,500 fans and has hosted more than 50 bands and musical performances.

Savor a tasty meal and a magnificent theater performance at Circa’ 21 Dinner Playhouse. Once a grand movie house, this lovely Art Deco space offers a delectable buffet and Vegas-style seating for groups to enjoy Broadway-caliber musicals and murder mysteries.

Before the Marion Cultural and Civic Center (MCCC) in south central Illinois was destroyed by fire in 1997, it was the place to go for live entertainment. The flagship theater of the Orpheum Play House circuit was host to many notable performers and

vintage entertainment during the turn of the century. Beginning as a vaudeville and silent movie theater, the Orpheum put on live shows from world-renowned performers like Harry Houdini and Anne Case, “The American Soprano” from the Metropolitan Opera.

With extensive rebuilding and renovations completed in 2004, along with a name change, MCCC hosted its first community event, the Marion High School prom. Today, MCCC puts on over 200 events annually, including music performances, concert events and theatrical plays. IL

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All photos courtesy of Enjoy Illinois

CHICAGO AND BEYOND ITINERARY There’s more to Chicago and its surrounding suburbs than an incredible skyline and a beautiful lake.

CHICAGO

Activities Aplenty Await Groups in Illinois Chicago, Aurora, DeKalb, Lake County, Joliet, Utica, LaSalle

DAY 1 One day isn’t enough to properly explore the City of Big Shoulders, so consider this a preview for your next trip. Start where it all began in Chicago’s Loop. Admire the historic buildings on State Street, including Macy’s, formerly Marshall Field’s, as you make your way to the Art Institute of Chicago and its world-renowned collection of masterpieces. Afterwards, head to nearby Millennium Park, where you’ll find “The Bean,” as locals call Cloud Gate, and other Instagram-worthy sites.

AFTERNOON Hungry? We thought so. Stroll the short distance to the Riverwalk, where you’ll be rewarded with plenty of outdoor cafes as well as stunning views of the bustling Chicago River. For more breathtaking views, 80

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visit the Willis Tower or Michigan Avenue’s John Hancock Center, the latter of which neighbors shopping galore. Or consider one of the many Chicago River architectural boat tours, a great group activity. Chicago’s theaters are famous around the world for the high-caliber performances they feature as well as their historic architecture.

EVENING For dinner, get a dose of history as well as delicious locally brewed craft beers and American heartland food with a visit to Chicago Southland’s Flossmoor Station.

Housed in a turn-of-the-century building that was formerly a train station, this award-winning brewery attracts locals and visitors alike.

If handcrafted spirits are more to your liking, head to Thornton Distilling, located in the in the oldest standing brewery in Illinois and the home of Drop Dead Spirits.

Book a tour to see their on-site artesian

well and modern distillery production floor while you learn about the rich history of the building and, yes, taste some of their stellar craft spirits. If you want to stay in the big city, enjoy a Broadway-style show in Chicago at a variety of theaters including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, which has been entertaining audiences since 1926, and the James M. Nederlander Theatre (which also opened in 1926), which offers a variety of entertaining theater shows.

DAY 2 MORNING For an up-close view of an iconic home created by one of the world’s most influential architects, head 58 miles southwest of Chicago where you’ll find the Edith Farnsworth House in Plano.

Designed by Mies van der Rohe, the home represents the fullest expression of modernist ideals that had begun in Europe but was finished in Plano. Another great option is to travel northwest to the Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, one of the top Japanese gardens in North America. This 12-acre oasis features two gardens, a pondstrolling garden and a contemporary Garden of Reflection. Another excellent outdoor option is the Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center in Willow Springs. This interpretive center features sustainable design, a sensory garden, live native animals, exhibits about local natural history, a nature play area and an accessible trail.

EVENING Enjoy a show at the Coronado Performing Arts Center in Rockford. This iconic venue has hosted artists, shows and concerts since 1927. Another great theater option is the historic Paramount Theatre in Aurora. Opened in 1931, the theater presents Broadway shows, concerts, comedy and more in a classic setting. Another historic place to savor a night out is the historic Genesee Theatre in Waukegan. This legendary theater that opened in 1927, hosts concerts, shows and events and has seating for 2,403.

AFTERNOON Check some gifts off your list with a visit to More Polish Pottery in Aurora.

At this family-run business, you’ll find an extensive selection of pottery stoneware and handmade products imported directly from Poland.

Add more Illinois architecture knowledge to your experience with a visit to the Ellwood House Museum. Located on 10 acres of parkland in the heart of DeKalb, the museum campus includes seven historic structures, including the 1879 Ellwood Mansion and 1899 ElwoodNehring House, four gardens and 6,000 square feet of exhibit space.

For a look into the everyday life of a sailor, head to the National Museum of the American Sailor. Horse-lovers won’t want to miss the Tempel Lipizzans. The history of these brilliant horses spans more than six decades while the story of the Lipizzan and classical riding spans more than five centuries.

Groups looking for a shopping outing can visit Aurora’s Chicago Premium Outlets, an outdoor center that sports more than 170 stores including Adidas, Coach, Nike, Kate Spade and more.

Another nearby shopping destination is Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg. One of the largest shopping destinations in the country, Woodfield Mall houses more than 2 million square feet of shops including Aveda, Coach, H&M, Macy’s and more.

MORNING Do some time-traveling with a visit to LaSalle where you’ll board the Volunteer, a mule-pulled 1840s replica of the canal boats that once traveled along the I&M Canal. Each hour-long tour begins with Mule Tending 101 presentation before it gently coasts up and down the Illinois and Michigan Canal. History lessons continues with a tour of the Hegeler Carus Mansion in La Salle. Designed by a noted architect and completed in 1897, the mansion, which has seven levels, 57 rooms and some 16,000 square feet of interior space, offers five different tours, including ones for groups.

DAY 3

EVENING Those seeking to savor quality entertainment in a fabulous locale can visit the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet. Opened in 1926 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the beautiful theater offers behind-thescenes tours in addition to hosting bigname performers.

DAY 4 MORNING Tap into the greener side of Illinois with a visit to Starved Rock State Park, located on the Illinois River near Utica.

One of Illinois’ most-visited state parks, it features 13 miles of hiking trails, canyons and waterfalls. Groups can also fish, boat and even relax and picnic while savoring extraordinary views.

AFTERNOON Thirty-five miles southwest of Chicago, Joliet is a city steeped in history, including the Old Joliet Prison, which once housed famous criminals and now offers tours of its castle-guard towers. Groups can visit the Joliet Area Historical Museum to learn about the prison’s history. Looking for something less spooky? Head to Sue Regis Glass Art, where you can get a hands-on experience of the centuriesold craft. Another option is to travel 25 miles west of Chicago to the city of Lisle, home to the Morton Arboretum. This 1,700-acre public garden and outdoor museum protects more than 100 rare and endangered tree species and the grounds include more than 4,100 different plant species.

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LAND OF LINCOLN ITINERARY Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Springfield

In the Footsteps of Abraham Lincoln

All photos courtesy of Illinois Office of Tourism

Effingham, Casey, Charleston, Arthur, Arcola, Champaign, Rantoul, Springfield, Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum, Springfield

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DAY 1

automobile memorabilia, from neon signs to antique gas pumps.

MORNING Start your East-Central Illinois adventure at a peaceful spot in Effingham, a city conveniently situated at the crossroads of Interstates 57 and 70. The Cross at the Crossroads, an engineering wonder of white steel soaring 20 stories into the sky, welcomes those of all faiths and backgrounds. Its base is ringed by polished granite tablets representing the Ten Commandments, with audio messages at each station.

The visitor center shows a short video on the Cross’s construction and dedication in 2001. Then hop over to Mid America Motorworks’ MY Garage Museum, which houses vintage Corvettes and Volkswagens, plus all kinds of

AFTERNOON Head east on I-70 and get off at the town of Casey (pronounced “KZ”).

Lunch is at Richards Farm Restaurant, housed in a 1930s barn and home to the 60-foot-long World’s Largest Pitchfork. Downtown, devote at least an hour to taking pictures of more of the monumental installations that have put Casey on the map. You’ll find out why its motto is “Big Things Small Town” as you witness supersized roadside attractions like the World’s Largest Barber Pole, World’s Largest Teeter Totter and magnificent, 56-foot-tall World’s Largest Rocking Chair...you get the idea. Climb up into the World’s Largest Mailbox or ring the World’s Largest Wind Chime.

You’ll also find lots of other Big Things— the Big Pencil, Big Birdcage, Big Taco, for example—that are not record holders.

All but two of the oversized items were made by local businessman Jim Bolin and his crew from Bolin Enterprises Inc.

DAY 2 MORNING Begin the day at the Lincoln Douglas Debate Museum in Charleston. Through film, audio, artifacts and interactive displays, learn about the 1858 senatorial debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas, a series of seven that brought Lincoln to national prominence.

There’s time to shop, admire the seven murals and have lunch on and around Charleston’s Downtown Square, a historic retail district dominated by the Romanesque-style Coles County Courthouse, where a young Lincoln practiced law in a previous version of the building.

AFTERNOON In nearby Lerna, go back in time at Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site, the 1840s home of Thomas and Sarah Bush Lincoln, father and stepmother of the future president. The working, living history farmstead, developed around a replica of the family’s two-room cabin, offers an array of interpretive programs, as does the adjacent Stephen Sargent Farm, which has been moved to the site to broaden understanding of 19th century rural life in Illinois. Down the road are the Moore Home State Historic Site, the home of Lincoln’s stepsister, and Thomas Lincoln Cemetery, the burial site of his father and stepmother.

World’s Largest Wind Chime, Casey

DAY 3 MORNING Head north to Arcola and Arthur, the center of Amish life in Illinois. A step-on guide will take you down backroads

Clip-clopping through Illinois Amish Country

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LAND OF LINCOLN ITINERARY populated by Amish farm families who travel in horse-drawn buggies and eschew modern ways. Some groups may wish to tour the collection of historical buildings at the Illinois Amish Heritage Center. Stock up on bakery goods, candy, nuts, spices, noodles, salad toppings, and homemade jams, jellies and pie fillings at Beachy’s Bulk Foods, a favorite with groups touring Amish Country. Shops in downtown Arthur purvey crafts and antiques.

AFTERNOON For lunch in Arthur, arrange a meal in an Amish home or indulge in Amishand Mennonite-style home cooking at the buffet stations of Yoder’s Kitchen.

Next, travel north to Champaign for an educational tour of Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery. In addition to meeting with the goats that produce milk for the farmstead’s cheeses and gelato, your travelers will walk through the vegetable garden and orchard, and taste some of the products.

At Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch in nearby Rantoul, take a tractor-driven tour that focuses on the resident Alaskan reindeer and Christmas tree farm. Have your picture taken kissing a reindeer.

that this building served as the backdrop of the 2007 launch of Barack Obama’s presidential campaign.

AFTERNOON For lunch in Springfield, a good choice is Cozy Dog Drive-In, home to the original hot dog on a stick. Enjoy hearty helpings of nostalgia at this shrine to Route 66, the iconic highway that passed through town. Then head to the Lincoln Memorial Garden Nature Center.

Dedicated to preserving the Midwestern landscapes Abe knew and loved, this 100-acre garden features hiking trails

amid the woods and prairie. Tear yourself away from the serene scenery and head to the Lincoln Home National Historic Site for a ranger-led tour of the only home Lincoln ever owned.

Head northeast on I-55 for the aptly named town of Lincoln. There you’ll find Railsplitter Covered Wagon, a roadside attraction that bears a familiar face.

Designated the world’s largest covered wagon by the Guinness Book of World Records, it features a seated fiberglass Lincoln reading a law book and is a perfect spot to start making some notes for your next Illinois visit.

EVENING For dinner at Hardy’s, schedule a chuckwagon BBQ dinner with entertainment in the Western-style banquet facility.

DAY 4 MORNING Next up is Springfield, the capital of Illinois and the city where America’s 16th president spent so much of his life. The must-visit Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum blends scholarship with showmanship and 21st technology to immerse visitors in the 19th century.

Not far away is the Old State Capitol, where Lincoln delivered his famous House Divided speech and where his body lay in state after the assassination.

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President Lincoln and General Grant chat at the Old State Capitol in Springfield.

GREAT RIVERS COUNTRY ITINERARY

A River Runs Through It in Great Rivers Country

Photos courtesy of Galena Country Tourism

Galena Cellars vineyard

Galena, Rock Island, Moline, Quincy, Alton, Collinsville, Hartford, Nauvoo

DAY 1 MORNING Begin your day with a walk down Galena’s Historic Main Street to browse specialty stores and boutiques along curving streets that were first paved in the 1840s. Give your feet a rest and hop on a Galena Trolley Tour, which leisurely rolls by famous buildings like the DeSoto House Hotel (where Abraham Lincoln delivered a speech from the balcony in 1856) and the Dowling House (one of the state’s oldest surviving buildings and an exceptional example of Galena’s limestone-based architecture).

Pay a visit to the Ulysses S. Grant State Historic Site in Galena.

AFTERNOON Add some local history to your group’s itinerary with a visit to the Ulysses S.

Grant State Historic Site. The famed Civil War general lived and eventually retired here before and after his presidency, and a docent can offer a thorough tour of this Italianate-style manor that retains its 1865 furnishings.

Continue the time-traveling vibe with a visit to Old Blacksmith Shop, an authentic 1897 blacksmith shop with working forges and filled with historic tools and equipment. Head to the gift shop for a Galena-forged item made by one of their blacksmiths. Quench your thirst with a tour and tasting at Blaum Bros. Distilling Co. Established by two brothers in 2014, the business allows groups to learn about the distilling process, walk through the barrel aging room, and sample small-batch whiskey, bourbon and rye. Or if fermented grape juice is more your speed, opt for a visit to the serene Galena Cellars, a family-fun 2023 ILLINOIS GROUP TOUR PLANNER

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vineyard and winery where you can enjoy a tour followed by a wine tasting.

EVENING End your day with dinner at Fried Green Tomatoes in Galena, a famous restaurant on Main Street that serves steaks, fresh seafood and a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list.

DAY 2 MORNING Fuel up for your busy day with a visit to Galena Bakehouse, which features made-from-scratch pastries, egg-filled empanadas and coffee. Not too far from Galena is Elizabeth, where you’ll find Apple River Fort, the site of one of the battles fought during the Black Hawk War, one of the so-called Indian Wars, in 1832. The family-friendly site includes

both an interpretive visitor center and a reconstruction of the long-vanished fort modeled upon findings of a 1995 archaeological dig.

AFTERNOON From there, continue your journey south until you arrive at Quad Cities, an area that blossomed in the 19th century as a steamboat trade hub and includes two Illinois cities, Rock Island and Moline, that retain thriving entertainment districts and historic downtowns. Visit the John Deere Pavilion in Moline to learn about how a modest blacksmith began to sell handmade shovels and developed America’s premier agricultural equipment company. This glass-enclosed space houses vintage equipment, interactive tractor exhibits and previews of 21st century farming innovation. Nearby is the downtown area, known as Moline Centre to locals, a great spot for antique shopping and dining.

For some in-depth river knowledge, head to the Mississippi River Visitor Center. Located on historical Rock Island Arsenal Island, a 946-acre island that includes the Rock Island Arsenal Museum (which houses weapons used in the Battle of Little Bighorn) and the Colonel Davenport House at Lock & Dam 15, this is a great spot for watching barges lock through.

Or connect with Mother Nature with a visit to the Quad City Botanical Center in Rock Island. Indoors you’ll find exotic tropical flowers, a 14-foot waterfall and reflecting pools with koi, while outside are the lovely conifer gardens and interactive Children’s Garden.

EVENING Savor a tasty meal and an excellent theater performance at Circa ’21 Dinner Playhouse in Rock Island. Once a movie house, this lovely theater serves a delectable buffet and Vegas-style seating for groups to enjoy Broadway-caliber musicals and murder mysteries.

DAY 3 MORNING Begin the day with a stop at Underbrinks Bakery in Quincy, which has been supplying locals with the best made-from-scratch baked goods — think gooey pecan coffee cake, flaky chocolate croissants — since 1929.

Plenty of architectural jewels await Quincy, whose historic district includes beautiful examples of Queen Anne, Gothic and Arts & Crafts architecture. The city’s Greek Revival highlight is the John Wood Mansion, home of Quincy’s founder and the twelfth governor of

Apple River Fort in Elizabeth is the site of one of the battles fought during the Black Hawk War.

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Illinois. Visitors can walk through a preserved log cabin built in 1837 and a parsonage building that houses Adams County artifacts that date back centuries.

AFTERNOON Get an intimate look at some of Quincy’s finest mansions, with a Private Home Tour. More than 20 homeowners are participating in this unique tour that allows groups of 20 or more inside magnificent homes and gardens throughout Quincy.

A great place to explore Quincy’s Underground Railroad history is Dr. Richard Eells House, the oldest standing two-story brick house in town. Back in the 1840s, Quincy was the first stop for fugitives this side of the Mississippi and Dr. Eells is credited with helping several hundred slaves make their way to freedom. Housed in a historic 1890s home, the Quincy Museum features everything from the history of the Mississippi River to dinosaurs and Native American artifacts.

Be sure to pause to admire the restored 14-karat gold woodwork.

EVENING The city of Alton welcomes groups to the Old Bakery Beer Company. Located in a former bakery that dates back to the 19th century, this industrial space offers groups a behind-the-scenes look at the organic brewing process and samples of local favorite flavors.

DAY 4 MORNING Pay a visit to the famous Cahokia Mounds Historic Site in Collinsville, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers more than 2,000 acres of archaeological remains and 70 burial mounds. Group tours can include the interpretive center (which houses a recreated Cahokia village),

several natural trails and a walk to the top of the 100-foot Monk’s Mound (the largest man-made mound north of Mexico).

AFTERNOON The region east of St. Louis is where famous explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark stopped before continuing to the Pacific Ocean. The Lewis & Clark Historic Site in Hartford reconstructs Fort Dubois, where the Corps of Discovery made its final preparations during the winter of 1803-1804. Exhibits replicate 1803 U.S. Army designs and daily interpreters explain the harsh Midwestern winters the crew endured.

Another option is to visit Nauvoo, which was established by Joseph Smith and his followers and was the world’s original Mormon settlement until religious intolerance forced more than 100,000 to flee to Utah in 1844. The city still retains much of its picturesque 1840s character.

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Photos courtesy of Enjoy Illinois

TRAILS TO ADVENTURE ITINERARY Relax and enjoy the view at Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest.

Cultural, Historic and Natural Southern Illinois Attractions Mount Vernon, Centralia, Du Quoin, Ava, Makanda, Carbondale, Goreville, Marion, Metropolis

DAY 1 MORNING Your Southern Illinois adventure starts in the morning in historic Mt. Vernon.

Fuel up at the Farmhouse Bakery & Café for delectable scratch-made pastries and rich caffeinated beverages. Your group sojourn commences at the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, a magnificent pastiche of culture and art spanning more than 80 acres. Marvel at over 70 striking works of art on your group tour through the Goldman Kuenz Sculpture Park and immerse in the diverse styles and media.

Afterward, head to the 33,000-squarefoot heritage center and explore its four galleries and performance hall.

AFTERNOON Grab lunch at Aneil’s Restaurant, 88

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serving the most tender smoked BBQ, burgers, catfish, ribs and other Southern favorites. If BBQ isn’t your jam, share a pie at Joe’s Pizza & Pasta for classic Italian American cuisine.

Groups can make a short drive to the Centralia Area Historical Society Museum in downtown Centralia.

It features two floors that are filled with railroading, mining, oil industry, agricultural and Civil War artifacts. Groups can also travel west to Carlyle and stop at Ten Pin Antique Mall, where thousands of items are for sale in a repurposed bowling alley that still has the old signage, bowling lanes and scoring monitors.

There’s more history to be had at the Jefferson County Historical Village, where your group can take a self-guided or docent-led walking tour of this unique Mount Vernon attraction. Explore a true

community-inspired and -built showpiece based on life in the 1800s. Over several decades, generous monetary donations, gifting of historic and other buildings, land contributions, and thousands of local artifacts collected have made the village a popular Southern Illinois attraction.

Breathe in the calming aroma of lavender when your group explores the vibrant purple fields of Lavender Falls. This family-owned U-Pick farm has everything your group needs to unwind, like essential lavender oils, sprays, soaps, honey, lavender bundles and more.

EVENING A tasty option is St. Nicholas Brewing Company in Du Quoin, a brewpub housed in a former hotel dating from 1879. Menu favorites include catfish with hushpuppies and fries, gourmet mac & cheese and barbecue pork.

DAY 2 MORNING Venture out on a tasting tour at some of the finest local vineyards and breweries in Southern Illinois. Start in Ava at the Scratch Brewing Company, a farmhouse microbrewery located five miles from the pristine Shawnee National Forest. Stop in for lunch and a hand-crafted beer that will awaken your taste buds.

AFTERNOON Travel 30 minutes southeast to Carbondale and walk off those liquid calories at the University Museum at Southern Illinois University (SIU).

Opened in 1874, the museum represents the whole of humanity through stories, history, cultural arts and science with a focus on Southern Illinois heritage.

Just 10 minutes away at Kite Hill Vineyards in the Shawnee Hills, relax with a glass of local wine and enjoy the postcard views. Plan a visit to their tasting room by appointment for a unique group activity. Located along the Ponce Wine Trail, Monte Alegre Vineyard/Cellars invites guests to tour the impressive wine cellar and enjoy a glass of their red or white. Sold exclusively from their vineyard, Monte Alegre wines are a true taste of the area. Both vineyards offer relaxation for something to do in Southern Illinois.

cabins or lodge accommodations specializing in Southern hospitality.

Once your group is settled, make your way to the Makanda Boardwalk in the charming downtown area.

Those who wish to stretch their legs and explore can visit Shawnee National Forest, which abounds with wilderness recreation areas across the state’s southern tip. A group visit to Giant City State Park, located within Shawnee National Forest near Makanda, can include a hike on the one-mile Giant City Nature Trail, known for the narrow passageways threading through huge sandstone walls.

Explore natural outdoor Illinois attractions on the Red Cedar Hiking Trail Twin Falls or the Giant City Nature Trail.

Enjoy a scenic drive to the eastern side of Shawnee National Forest, where the more adventurous can explore the Garden of the Gods, the region’s most popular recreation site. Observation Trail, a quarter-mile stone path, weaves through massive boulders affording spectacular overlooks of the pristine woodlands.

AFTERNOON It’s time to relax and refuel with a glass of wine and lunch at Blue Sky Vineyard, a few miles southeast of the park. Share a pizza, order a deli sandwich from the café and savor hand-crafted vintages surrounded by a grape paradise.

DAY 4 MORNING Wake up refreshed and grab a warm breakfast at the lodge before exploring Goreville and Marion. Both towns boast unique Southern Illinois attractions that will keep your group entertained.

AFTERNOON Pack the water bottles before you leave Makanda and head southeast to Goreville and the magnificent Ferne Clyffe State Park. Take the Bork Falls Waterfall Trail for spectacular photo opportunities and breathtaking scenery.

Spend a few hours enjoying the pristine natural surroundings before heading to the Longhorn Café in Goreville for lunch.

They serve classic Southern staples like okra, pork fritters, catfish and fried chicken.

Another option is a visit to Metropolis, which is known as the “Home of Superman.” Pay a visit to the Super Museum, which contains one of the world’s largest collections of memorabilia relating to the TV, movie and comic book hero. Across the square, pose with the 15-foot-tall bronze Superman Statue by the Massac County Courthouse.

Drive to Marion and see a live show like standup comedy, a tribute band and dance performances at the Marion Cultural & Civic Center (MCCC).

EVENING While in Carbondale, enjoy a robust dinner at Flame, serving up char-broiled steaks, Southern-style catfish, slow-cooked prime rib and more comfort cuisine, including an extensive beer and wine menu. After dinner, head down the street for an evening show at The Varsity Center, a performance arts venue originally home to the historic Varsity movie theater, before ending your night.

DAY 3 MORNING Check into the historic Giant City Lodge in Makanda and enjoy quaint

A visit to Giant City State Park, located within Shawnee National Forest near Makanda, features beautiful surroundings.

2023 ILLINOIS GROUP TOUR PLANNER

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LAND OF LINCOLN CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAUS Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau 2701 Black Road, Ste. 201 Joliet, IL 60435 844-944-2282 heritagecorridorcvb.com Kankakee County Convention and Visitors Bureau 143 N. Schuyler Ave., Floor 2 Kankakee, IL 60901 815-935-7390 or 800-747-4837 visitkankakeecounty.com Meet Chicago Northwest 1933 N. Meacham Road, Suite 210 Schaumburg, IL 60173 847-490-1010 or 800-847-4849 chicagonorthwest.com

CHICAGO & BEYOND Aurora Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 43 West Galena Blvd.

Aurora, IL 60506-4129 630-256-3190 enjoyaurora.com Blackhawk Waterways Convention and Visitors Bureau 201 N. Franklin Avenue Polo, Illinois 61064 800-678-2108 visitnorthwestillinois.com Chicago Southland Convention and Visitors Bureau 19900 Governors Drive, Suite 200 Olympia Fields, Illinois 60461-1057 708-895-8200 or 888-895-8233 visitchicagosouthland. 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 800-217-5362 exploreelginarea.com

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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 Greater Freeport Partnership (serves Stephenson County) 110 West Main St. Freeport, IL 61032 815-233-1357 greaterfreeport.com Visit Lake County, Illinois Convention and Visitors Bureau 5465 W. Grand Avenue, Suite 100 Gurnee, IL 60031 847-662-2700 800-525-3699 visitlakecounty.org Visit McHenry County 11879 E. Main Street Huntley, IL 60142 815-893-6280 visitmchenrycounty.com Visit Oak Park 193 N. Marion St. #208 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 & Routes of Southwest Illinois 200 Piasa Street Alton, IL 62002-6271 618-465-6676 or 800-258-6645 visitalton.com Henry County Tourism Bureau 224 W. Third Street Kewanee, IL 61443 309-761-8473 visithenrycounty.com Macomb Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 120 E. Calhoun St. Macomb, IL 61455 309-833-1315 visitforgottonia.com

Effingham Convention and Visitors Bureau 201 E. Jefferson Ave. Effingham, IL 62401 217-342-5310 or 800-772-0750 visiteffinghamil.com 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 Shelby County Office of Tourism 315 E. Main Street Shelbyville, IL 62565 217-774-2244 or 800-874-3529 lakeshelbyville.com

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

Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau 109 N. 7th Street Springfield, IL 62701 217-789-2360 or 800-545-7300 visitspringfieldillinois.com

Quad Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau 1601 River Drive, Suite 110 Moline, IL 61265-1472 309-736-6820 800-747-7800 visitquadcities.com

Visit Champaign County 17 E. Taylor St. Champaign, IL 61820 217-351-4133 or 800-369-6151 visitchampaigncounty.org

Quincy Area Convention and Visitors Bureau 532 Gardner Expressway Quincy, IL 62301 217-214-3700 or 800-978-4748 seequincy.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 or 800-331-4479 decaturcvb.com Discover Downstate Illinois 4387 N. Illinois St., Suite 200 Swansea, IL 62226 618-257-1488 www.downstateil.org

TRAILS TO ADVENTURE Carbondale Tourism 126 S. Illinois Avenue Carbondale, IL 62901 618-529-4451 carbondaletourism.org Discover Downstate Illinois 4387 N. Illinois St., Suite 200 Swansea, IL 62226 618-257-1488 www.downstateil.org Mt. Vernon Convention and Visitors Bureau 200 Potomac Boulevard P.O. Box 1708 Mt. Vernon, IL 62864-0049 618-242-3151 enjoymtvernon.com Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau P.O. Box 378 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

Seasons change.

The fun never stops.

In Lake County, you find four spectacular seasons of beauty, history, refreshment and joy.

And we’ll partner with you to create the perfect tour they’ll be talking about long after they get home. Contact our group tour specialist, Jayne Nordstrom at Jayne@LakeCounty.org or call 847-662-2700. Find helpful planning resources at VisitLakeCounty.org/touritineraries-list.

Lake County

Lake Michigan

Milwaukee

Chicago

Lake County Libation Trail

Richardson Christmas Tree Farm Tour

The Tempel Lipizzans

SHOWCASE

Explore Lovely North Dakota With a rugged national park and an enchanting peace garden, this state will delight all members of your group

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s U.S. states go, North Dakota has more than its fair share of nicknames. There’s “The Flickertale State,” which refers to the abundance of Richardson ground squirrels known for their characteristic flick of their tails while running. Then there’s its official nickname “The Peace Garden State” referencing the beautiful International Peace Garden that straddles the boundary between North Dakota and Canada’s Manitoba. Below, we spotlight three not-to-be-missed places.

THEODORE ROOSEVELT NATIONAL PARK Conservation was a big deal to former President Theodore Roosevelt. We can thank him, in fact, for preserving so much of our nation’s natural beauty with the formation of the National Park Service. Roosevelt was also a big fan of North Dakota’s Badlands, which is now known as Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The park consists of three areas — the North Unit, the South Unit and Elkhorn Ranch — each offering its own distinct experiences.

INTERNATIONAL PEACE GARDEN Encompassing 2,300 acres of nature’s beauty, two pristine freshwater lakes, scenic hiking and driving trails, wildflowers, waterfalls, and a large variety of North American birds and animals, International Peace Garden is one of the country’s most symbolic and scenic attractions. Established in 1932, the garden is a tribute to the peace and friendship between the people of the U.S. and Canada. The formal garden area includes hundreds of thousands of perennials, flowering shrubs and annuals filling the mosaic-like beds and along

Photos: Scandinavian Heritage Park, Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the International Peace Garden

walkways. Adding to the serene atmosphere are the flowing waters found throughout the garden.

SCANDINAVIAN HERITAGE PARK The five Nordic Countries — Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden — take centerstage in Scandinavian Heritage Park, which was created in 1989 to honor their individual cultures and contributions to North Dakota through the many Nordic immigrants who called this state home. This outdoor museum features a homage to each of the five countries, including a 240-year-old log house from Norway, a replica stabbur (a traditional, handcrafted log building that was a feature of all old farmsteads in rural Norway), 27-foot-tall Swedish Dala horse, a Finnish sauna and a Danish windmill.

NORTH DAKOTA TOURISM AND MARKETING Deanne Cunningham, 701-328-2502, decunningham@nd.gov, www.ndtourism.com/grouptravel

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Charming Oasis in the Heart of Illinois In the heart of the state, ChampaignUrbana is filled with timeless offerings

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hen you talk to someone about Illinois, inevitably Chicago dominates the conversation. But there’s much more to this Midwest state than the Windy City. Located in the heart of the state — East Central, Illinois, to be exact — Champaign-Urbana is centrally located between Indianapolis, St. Louis and, yes, Chicago. Here, we offer a small taste of what this area offers.

AMISH COUNTRY OF ILLINOIS With modern technology a constant part of our daily lives, the lure of escaping all that and traveling back in time, if even for a few hours, sounds like a dream. In the micro-urban cities of Champaign-Urbana that dream becomes a reality in Amish Country. Nearby Arthur is a quaint Midwest destination that’s home to the state’s largest and oldest Amish community. From shopping for beautiful handmade wood furniture and eating the perfect slice of apple pie to watching the Amish horse-drawn buggies roll by, Arthur offers a variety of activities to refresh and revive even the most hardened city slickers.

JAPAN HOUSE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS Located at the University of Illinois, Japan House offers a way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture in the heart of the Midwest. Experience a traditional tea ceremony, Way of Tea, which is at the heart of the teachings of Japan House. Three tea rooms, each built by a Japanese master carpenter, represent three different styles of tea rooms. Nearby is a garden, which features a waiting bench and a tsukubai, or stone water basin.

Refresh yourself and wash your worldly cares goodbye.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE JAPAN HOUSE AND SCOTT WELLS (ALLERTON MANSION)

SHOWCASE

Photos: The Japan House, Amish Country and the Allerton Mansion

ALLERTON PARK & RETREAT CENTER A 1,517-acre park, nature center and conference center, Allerton Park and Retreat Center is surrounded by vast gardens decorated with timeless pieces of art. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, this private residence from artist and philanthropist Robert Allerton was donated to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 1945 and today the park is an ideal destination for adventurers and is considered one of the seven wonders of Illinois.

VISIT CHAMPAIGN COUNTY Caitlyn Floyd, 217-351-4133, caitlynf@visitchampaigncounty.org, www.visitchampaigncounty.org

Experience the Champaign-Urbana Area Immersive experiences await your groups in the Champaign-Urbana area.

From visits to Illinois’ largest Amish community to reindeer kisses to Japanese tea ceremonies to historic train rides, your guests will be sure to have an Outside of Ordinary experience that will last a lifetime.

We’ll help you build a custom itinerary to suit your group’s needs.

Contact Caitlyn today to get started!

caitlynf@visitchampaigncounty.org

800.369.6151|tourchampaign.com

NEBRASKA TOUR IDEAS

Lincoln’s Haymarket District is a Must-visit Stop Historic Haymarket specializes in unique shopping options

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incoln’s Historic Haymarket District located near downtown is a must-visit as it features a variety

of dining, shopping and arts and entertainment options. In the early days of Lincoln, the Haymarket was a small

square drawn by locals and immigrants eager to build a community. The saloons, restaurants, and hotels brought to life by locals and newcomers turned the Market Square into a star on our nation’s map. Today, its historic red-brick buildings hold some of the best bites, boozes and sites in Nebraska.

The Historic Haymarket District houses a variety of unique shopping options including Burlington Antiques, which has sold quality antiques and collectibles for 35 years; From Nebraska Gift Shop, which specializes in products made and grown in Nebraska; and Ten Thousand Villages, a fair-trade retailer of artisan-crafted home décor, personal accessories and gift items from around the globe.

Historic Haymarket District

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SHOWCASE

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South Shore, IN

Begin your journey in the 1920s along historic Cedar Lake, Chicago’s playground. The Museum at Lassen’s Resort and The Dewey Line Steamboat Ride take you back to the Roaring ’20s.

At Fair Oaks Farms glance into the future at what farming will look like and how the world will be fed. The amazing Shrine of Christ’s Passion is an experience of a lifetime.

The 1920s, Farming’s Future and a Faith-Based Experience DAY 1

Your South Shore experience begins at The Museum at Lassen’s Resort to discover how Cedar Lake enriched the region and touched countless lives. Step into the 1920s Lassen’s Resort Hotel for an experience that’s filled with creative, fun exhibits sure to capture your imagination.

Departing from the pier at Lassen’s Resort you’ll experience steam on The Dewey Line Steamboat Ride. The authentic 1915 steamboat offers guided tours sharing the past life on the lake that during the 1920s boasted more than 50 resorts. There are four historic routes highlighting northern resorts, southern resorts, Monon railroad route and a combination of all four. Dinner tonight is at Teibel’s Restaurant, Northwest Indiana’s premier family restaurant serving the same homecooked goodness for more than 90 years.

DAY 2

SOUTH SHORE Candace Nowak 219-301-7753 cnowak@southshorecva.com alongthesouthshore.com/groups

Begin your day at Fair Oaks Farms a 2018 ABA Best of the Best. There is more than one adventure awaiting your group. The Crop Adventure begins in the Garden at Fair Oaks Farms and reminds us that one of every three bites we take is created with the help of pollination. You’ll take a look at the future of farming and go deep underground and view life from a bug’s perspective. Meet Diva Mooreau in The Dairy Adventure. The 4D movie welcomes you to Diva’s world on the farm.

Take a break for lunch. The Farmhouse Restaurant at Fair Oaks Farms has unparalleled hospitality and food made with ingredients sourced on their farm or farms in the region.

There’s one more adventure to discover. Last, but certainly not least is The Pig Adventure to see the modern practices of a working pig farm.

In Merrillville a must stop is ChicagoLand Popcorn with more than 250 varieties of gourmet popcorns. Group tours are welcomed with a memorable popcorn sampling. If one snack stop is good, two must be great. There’s no disappointment at Albanese Candy Factory where the world’s best gummies have been crafted for 40 years. Dinner tonight will be at Four Corners Winery, a rustic and beautiful setting in the country.

DAY 3

The Shrine of Christ’s Passion in St. John is a not to be missed group favorite. Forty life size bronze sculptures placed in a tranquil garden setting tell the story of the crucifixion and resurrection with music and an audio presentation.

Recently completed, one of the newest features of The Shrine of Christ’s Passion is Moses and Mount Sinai. Music, voice overs, lighting and sound effects enhance the experience for visitors. Opened May 2022, Our Lady of Guadalupe Plaza has become a favorite of visitors. A limited number of club cars with guides are available by reservation. Do allow time for the expansive gift shop.

Nearby Morocco also offers an opportunity to view the Bison at Kankakee Sands. From 23 bison introduced in 2016 by the Nature Conservatory, the herd has grown to more than 90. A viewing area provides a natural platform for viewing these magnificent animals.

Shipshewana, IN

Enjoy a slower pace that beckons you to unplug and unwind in the third largest Amish community in the US. Traverse tranquil farmland as you learn the history and culture of the Amish.

Experience the finest homemade goods, amazing handicrafts, culinary feasts and conversations with the Amish makers.

Amish Farms & Country Roads of Shipshewana DAY 1

Roll your own soft pretzel at Jo Jo’s Pretzels made from the King family secret recipe perfected by generations. In a flash, your pretzel will be hot out of the oven and served with your beverage of choice.

Following your pretzel break, take a ride back in time on the full-size Carousel, home to multiple handcarved and -painted farm animals. Complete your afternoon shopping in the multiple floor complex of Davis Mercantile filled with home décor, apparel, fabrics, candles, furniture and shoes.

Next, head to Farm Fun & Dinner at Meadow Brook Farm for a country feast complete with homemade donuts. After dinner, tour the 1860 vintage home constructed during the Civil War. Enjoy hands-on fun with a homespun donkey craft followed by and the story of the Jesus Donkey.

DAY 2

VISIT SHIPSHEWANA/ LAGRANGE COUNTY IN, CVB Sonya Nash, Executive Director CTIS, CTP 260-768-4008, 574-344-0943 Director@lagrangecountycvb.org VisitShipshewana.org

Meet your local step-on guide after breakfast at your hotel.

Country Roads Off the Beaten Path Backroads Guided Tour is a memorable journey into the heart of Amish Country. Meet business owners in their cottage shops as they demonstrate their artisan goods. Craft your own souvenir to take home. Your guide will share insights along the way. Choose from a variety of fun farm experiences, including Carolyn’s Jams and Jellies, an Amish Toy Maker, an Authentic Amish Harness Maker, Ben’s Pretzels demo & tasting, Menno-Hof Amish Mennonite Interpretive Center, an Amish School, a

Workshop for special needs Amish Adults or Dutch Country Market.

Take a hay-wagon ride with your local expert guide into the pasture to hand feed the great American Bison as you learn the intricacies of raising, feeding and managing this wild animal.

Lunch is an old-fashioned chuck-wagon barbecue at Cook’s Bison Ranch featuring bison and pulled pork, plus all the fixings, including dessert and beverages. Enjoy some of the best Amish/Mennonite cooking with outstanding entertainment, plus shop for locally crafted furniture and more at downtown Shipshewana’s Blue Gate Restaurant, which features three retail stores, restaurant, bakery, and theater.

Tonight, sit in the 1,200-seat Blue Gate Restaurant and enjoy buffet or family-style dining.

DAY 3

Enjoy shopping and a unique experience as you hunt for “Fleas” on The Flea Bag Scavenger Trail at the Shipshewana Flea Market, the largest flea market in the Midwest.

Experience the Flea Bag Trail with a handy map.

Shop, people watch and scout for pictures of “The Fleas” in specified locations. Tour Dutch Creek Animal Farm on a guided horse-drawn wagon ride and feed the animals. See where cows, llamas, monkeys, camels, deer, ostriches, kangaroos and porcupine make their home on this alternative farm.

Take part in a once-in-a-lifetime event as you experience a traditional Amish Wedding Feast in the charming setting of “The Carriage House.”

Unique experiences await your group

in the South Shore, located in Northern Indiana.

Fair Oaks Farms

Museum at Lassen’s Resort Albanese Candy Factory

Call or e-mail to book your itinerary today!

219.301.7753 · cnowak@southshorecva.com

Shrine of Christ’s Passion

visitshipshewanain.com

Get your FREE Visitors Guide!

800.254.8090

Shipshewana VISIT

AT THE

OF AMISH COUNTRY, INDIANA

AMISH DINING BUGGY RIDES OUTDOOR ADVENTURE ENTERTAINMENT

WESTERN REGION EXPLORE THESE NATIVE AMERICAN EXPERIENCES The United States is a rich destination for exploring indigenous culture.

PUEBLO OF ACOMA AND THE SKY CITY CULTURAL CENTER (NM) Enjoy Pueblo-guided tours of the oldest continuously inhabited Native American Community in the United States in Pueblo, New Mexico.

LITTLE BIGHORN BATTLEFIELD NATIONAL MONUMENT (MT) This monument memorializes the U.S. Army’s 7th Cavalry, Crow and Arikara scouts and the Lakotas, Cheyennes and Arapaho in one of the American Indian’s last armed efforts to preserve their way of life.

LODGEPOLE GALLERY AND TIPI VILLAGE (MT) Lodgepole Gallery is a place of gathering for those from all over the world for an authentic venture into the life of the Blackfeet Indian.

MONTEZUMA CASTLE NATIONAL MONUMENT (AZ) Montezuma Castle was important to the Sinagua people starting more than 800 years ago. The castle is a stunning, well-preserved, five-story cliff structure with 20 rooms.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF AIANTA TOURISM

Pueblo of Acoma Pottery

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PHOTO COURTESY OF RAYMOND WATT/ VISIT ALBUQUERQUE

THEFORSKY’S THE LIMIT WESTERN FUN The West is home to a variety of colorful and engaging festivals • BY NICOLE PARTIS

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estivals are a great way to celebrate a shared interest and spread not only culture, but knowledge. Throughout the country, many festivals are held with a wide range of celebrations that touch on lofty topics, like Shakespeare, or are just full of hot air, like the balloon fiesta in New Mexico. Here are some fun Western festivals that will appeal to all ages.

ALBUQUERQUE INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FIESTA

Albuquerque, NM In the big open space of New Mexico, from Oct. 7-15, one can find the wondrous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This is a yearly hot air balloon festival which creates an enchanted world filling the New Mexico skies with colorful hot air balloons. They hold events from 6:30 a.m. with balloons rising with the sun until 8 p.m. with a night glow event. Not only that, but the fest has competitions, rodeos and even chainsaw carvings. (balloonfiesta.com)

OREGON SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

Ashland, OR The town of Ashland each year hosts the Shakespeare Festival. Well-known plays such as Romeo and Juliet are shown which are a big hit. There are options for live inperson showings, digital stage showings and other engaging plays and activities. The festival is group friendly, ranging from student groups to church groups and even corporate affiliate groups. (osfashland.org)

COACHELLA VALLEY MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Indio, CA Coachella is widely known as one of the most popular music festivals not only on the West Coast, but in the whole United States. Located in the desert of California in Indio, the www.LeisureGroupTravel.com

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WESTERN FUN

festival attracts some of the best bands in the world. Headliners this year include artists such as Bad Bunny, Gorillaz, Rosalía and Frank Ocean.

With so many artists performing on eight different stages, there is a wide variety of tastes represented. Also, there are activity tents and food and drink stands and other things to experience. (coachella.com)

FIESTA SAN ANTONIO

San Antonio, TX For the 2023 season, Fiesta San Antonio is being held in late April. The city’s signature event, it revolves around representing and honoring the memory of the heroes in the battle of the Alamo and San Jacinto.

Overall, it is a fiesta for celebrating diversity and the unique culture,

heritage, and spirit of the city. It can also be described as a big banquet for families and friends to get together and celebrate their rich culture.

There are a host of different events and activities over these days. Some big ones include parades; including a popular parade. (fiestasanantonio.org)

SAN FRANCISCO CHINESE NEW YEAR PARADE

SAN FRANCISCO, CA The Chinese New Year Parade and Festival will take place in February of 2024 in San Francisco.

This event is a celebration of the Year of the Rabbit and the parade moves throughout the streets of Chinatown and attracts a crowd of more than three million spectators.

It is a fun, free event. (chineseparade.com)

OVER 700 POWERFUL, ORIGINAL ARTIFACTS Opening March 24, 2023 - Sellouts Expected

Group tickets can be purchased at visitorservices@reaganfoundation.org Tickets include admission into the Reagan Museum and Air Force One Pavilion

40 Presidential Drive Simi Valley, CA

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Exhibit made possible thanks to presenting underwriter Ambassador Gordon Sondland

EASTERN REGION Washington Monument in Washington, D.C.

TOP HISTORICAL TRAILS IN THE EAST These trails share the history that has helped shape this country.

FREEDOM TRAIL (MA) This 2.5-mile path that runs through the historic city of Boston passes 16 locations including the Old State House and the Paul Revere House.

PEACE TRAIL ON THE NATIONAL MALL (WASHINGTON, D.C.) The Peace Trail on the National Mall enhances the experience of visiting our nation’s capital by tracing a path to a dozen sites including the Washington Monument.

VERMONT AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE TRAIL (VT) This trail takes groups to museums and sites where exhibits, films, tours and personal explorations illuminate the lives of historical Vermont African Americans.

MILITARY HISTORY TRAIL (PA) This trail maps a comprehensive tour of forts, battlefields and training grounds.

HISTORIC PINES TRAIL (ME) This trail features pristine unchanged scenic vistas along the banks of the Kennebec River and features markers that tell about the area’s history.

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EXPERIENCE AT THE MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS PHILADELPHIA

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Transcend into mind-bending reality at this fascinating museum • BY HEATHER DALE

ocated in the heart of Old City, Philadelphia, a magical place called the Museum of Illusions Philadelphia (MOI) invites you to question your perceptions of reality. What’s real, and what has the mind altered to see something that’s not there? That is for you to decide as your group immerses

in transformative exhibits that challenge your brain, eyes and perspective.

MOI celebrated its one-year birthday in March of 2023. The concept for the museum started in Croatia in 2015 and was eventually franchised in more than 35 cities globally, including Milan, New Delhi, Chicago, New York, Houston and Miami. It was Philly’s time to bring illusory magic to

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their neighborhood. Opened to the public in March of 2022, the Museum of Illusions Philadelphia offers a unique experience to learn about the concepts of optical, spatial and classic illusions with behind-the-scenes advantages. Friendly and knowledgeable staff help visitors with questions about the more than 60 visual and educational displays and how they work.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS

The Museum of Illusions Philadelphia (MOI) invites you to question your perceptions of reality.

MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS PHILADELPHIA BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

According to Philadelphia native and founder of LOL Entertainment, the parent company of MOI, Rob Cooper, “We had a terrific turnout during our first year in Philadelphia.” He adds, “We are so very grateful for the thousands of visitors who have come to experience our illusions first-hand, and we look forward to providing an engaging, educational, and above all, fun experience for many, many more in the coming years.”

SNAP PICTURES TO REVEAL EXHILARATING TRICKS OF THE EYE

Ask the staff for tips on capturing the best Instagram-worthy photos, mainly because most of these illusions only work in this way at the Museum of Illusions Philadelphia.

The Ames Room gives the illusion that a person on one side of the room is much smaller or larger than their companion on the other side. This illusion was developed by an American ophthalmologist and psychologist, Adelbert Ames, and is a classic example of a depth perception optical illusion.

The Ames Room gives the illusion that a person on one side of the room is much smaller or larger than their companion on the other side.

Another example can be found at the Beuchet Chair, an exhibit that gives the impression that the person standing behind the chair is a giant towering over the smaller seated person. The creator of this illusion is French psychologist Jean Beuchet; hers is a well-known favorite.

Have your group pose in the Antigravity Room, where the laws of physics are debated. A 90-degree angle gives the impression that everyone is hanging upside down!

Have an out-of-body experience at the Head on the Platter exhibit showcasing the tricks of a hidden body using mirrors.

NO CAMERA NEEDED TO SEE THESE ILLUSIONS

Learning is fun in this immersive environment.

Learn the evolution of holograms, the pairing of a photograph and a 3D image, and witness some of the best holograms in the world. You have to see them to believe them.

Test your eyes and mind along the hall of Optical Illusions. Each installation challenges you to see things differently,

revealing a little about how the human brain interprets reality.

Tease your brain in the Infinity Room, where mirrors surround you transforming the place into infinite space.

LEARNING IS IMMERSIVE IN A FUN MUSEUM ENVIRONMENT

Thought of as a “one-of-a-kind edutainment destination,” the Philadelphia museum believes that learning should be fun and proves that it can be. Visitors will ascertain how the illusions work, specifically the mechanics behind them, like a magician revealing their magic trick secrets.

Melding visual and spatial illusions with education about the process allows for a deeper understanding of how the mind can be manipulated. Learn the mechanics of viewing with binocular vision (viewed with both eyes) and monocular vision (viewed through a single camera lens) and how both can morph perception.

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FABULOUS NEW ENGLAND FESTIVALS Attend one of these lively fests to enhance your East Coast adventure

Enjoy delicious lobster in Rockland, Maine

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BY CADY PRICE

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MAINE LOBSTER FESTIVAL

NEW ENGLAND TOUR IDEAS

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CAPE COD HYDRANGEA FESTIVAL

Cape Cod, MA If you find yourself on the East Coast this summer, the Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival is well worth the stop. This July, breathtaking hydrangea gardens are on full display.

The gardens are designed by local homeowners and may include a myriad of other beautiful blooms. The proceeds benefit several local nonprofits.

Along with garden tours, the festival hosts workshops and lectures. Learn how to cultivate gardens by professionals, or how to properly prune and care for hydrangeas. Festival goers can also opt to view painting demonstrations by talented local artists.

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MYSTIC OUTDOOR ART FESTIVAL

Mystic, CT The Mystic Outdoor Art Festival in Mystic, Connecticut is truly a fun-filled, worthwhile adventure. The festival, which

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MYSTIC OUTDOOR ART FESTIVAL

1

MAINE LOBSTER FESTIVAL

Rockland, ME The Maine Lobster Festival is a great New England attraction for those who want to enjoy inviting games and food and activities. The festival, which takes place the first weekend of August, is host to some of the world’s best lobster dishes.

To complement the divine food, revelers can try beer, wine, and spirits, from local wineries and distilleries. The event features activities for attendees of all ages such as parades, cooking contests, crate races, cod fish carries, eating contests and more.

The festival also provides live music each day and artworks from local artists.

The Mystic Outdoor Art Festival in Connecticut features artists from across the country. takes place every August, features 200 artists from across the United States who use a wide variety of mediums. The art is spread across a two-mile route in downtown Mystic.

There are also activities and a children’s art park, at the Mystic Seaport Shipyard, so people of all ages can enjoy themselves.

MOAF also puts on a performing arts stage that includes performances of dancing, music and theater.

Local nonprofits will be selling food and drinks to raise money for their organizations.

4

CHARLESTOWN SEAFOOD FESTIVAL

Charlestown, RI The Charlestown Seafood Festival is home to an abundance of delicious seafood dishes.

Vendors create their own menus and use a wide variety of seafood such as: oysters, clam, lobster, shrimp, crawfish, salmon, scallops, and more. They also have other options for non-seafood lovers.

This renowned festival begins in early August. Along with delectable food, Charlestown also hosts a series of fun events and activities during the three-day festival. There is continual live music or a DJ all day, every day.

Several different local and regional bands will play, creating a fun and lively atmosphere. Along with live music, the occasion also has a brilliant firework show on Saturday.

A kid zone with arts and crafts are available for younger patrons. A lively carnival is open each day, from opening to closing, featuring exciting rides and amusing games, perfect for attendees of all ages. On Sunday, an antique car and bike show takes place, which is always a crowd favorite.

5

HAMPTON BEACH MASTER SAND SCULPTING CLASSIC

Hampton, NH Sand sculpting is a unique talent and the Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic is the perfect festival to spend some time at the beach and enjoy viewing the epic pieces.

The classic features a Master Group Carve and solo sand sculptors who will be working to create eye-popping masterpieces.

The event is a competition, there are prizes and a ceremony for those who compete, and voting for patrons who are there for the art. The sculpting classic concludes with a magnificent firework display.

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SHOWCASE

The Charms of Atlantic City

L

ong before Atlantic City became the popular tourist destination it is today, its first European settlers knew they were on to something. With its location hugging the Atlantic Ocean between marshlands and islands, Atlantic City was viewed as prime real estate with the potential of becoming a hot resort spot by early developers as far back as 1850.

Today, Atlantic City is full of glitzy casinos, award-winning restaurants and dazzling hotels, to say nothing of its historic boardwalk, amusement parks, and wide, beautiful beaches. Here, we spotlight three not-to-be-missed places to help get your Atlantic City trip planning started.

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF VISIT ATLANTIC CITY

With so much to do here, you won’t know where to start your outing

ATLANTIC CITY EXPERIENCE Looking for way to get an introduction to the rich history of Atlantic City? Head to the Atlantic City Experience at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, a multimedia exhibit that includes photographs, memorabilia and videos tracing the city’s development. From its days as a fledgling tourist destination after the Civil War to its rise as a gambling and nightlife center, Atlantic City is home to many first and historic events, many of which are documented at the Atlantic City Experience, which replaces the Atlantic City Historical Museum and offers a more central location for visitors.

ATLANTIC CITY BOARDWALK As boardwalks go, they don’t get much more historic than the one in Atlantic City, which is the first one in the U.S. Stretching five miles along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, the wooden boardwalk is Atlantic City’s most iconic attraction.

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Photos: Atlantic City Boardwalk (above), Atlantic City Experience (left) and Absecon Lighthouse (below)

Home to lively artists and musicians, as well as boutiques, local restaurants and tasty regional specialties (saltwater taffy, anyone?), the Atlantic City Boardwalk serves as the main artery of the city, offering easy access to the area’s casinos and hotels.

ABSECON LIGHTHOUSE First lit in 1857 as a beacon to Atlantic Ocean seafarers, the Absecon Lighthouse is the tallest one in all of New Jersey and the third tallest in the U.S. Decommissioned in 1933, the beautiful black-and-white structure still draws plenty of visitors who enjoy taking in the views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Boardwalk. While there, be sure to visit the onsite museum and the replica Lighter’s dwelling.

ATLANTIC CITY GROUP TOURS Heather Colache, 609-318-6097, heatherc@visitatlanticcity.com, www.visitatlanticcity.com

A PICTURE TELLS A STORY, MAKE YOURS AN

ADVENTURE IN ATLANTIC CITY, NEW JERSEY

#W or ldFamousB oa rdwalk

#DeluxeRoomAccomodat ions

#SandyBeaches

Dining #AwardW inning

#TaxFreeShopping

Explore the excitement of Atlantic City, New Jersey!

To book your Atlantic City Escape contact Heather Colache at 609.318.6097 or hcolache@meetac.com and get ready to have some fun.

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

TourAtlanticCity.com

INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL CELEBRATIONS ACROSS THE GLOBE

Alpine descents in Switzerland

These traditional observances honor each destination’s heritage

ALPINE DESCENTS (SWITZERLAND) The alpine landscapes in Switzerland are home to families that ensure cattle and sheep herds graze in the Alps during the summer before returning downward to the villages for the cold seasons. This event is celebrated across Switzerland.

YI PENG LANTERN FESTIVAL (THAILAND) The skies of Chiang Mai glow as thousands of lanterns are released throughout the city during the fest.

Each spring, people across India celebrate the Hindu festival Holi by throwing colored water and powders on one another in celebration.

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS (MEXICO) The Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday where families welcome back the souls of their deceased relatives for a brief reunion that includes food, drink and celebration.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF SWITZERLAND TOURISM

HOLI FESTIVAL OF COLOR (INDIA)

ASIA TRAVEL on the Rebound

After a pandemic pause, pent-up demand has begun to fuel a recovery • BY RANDY MINK Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kyoto, Japan

RANDY MINK PHOTO

W

ith the reopening of top Asia-Pacific destinations in 2022 and flight schedules returning to normal, all signs point to a big bump in travel to the region this year and next. Some countries will see a slow but steady stream of travelers, while others are readying for a dramatic surge as the flood gates open up.

Speaking of his company’s tours and river cruises, Steve Born, chief marketing officer of the Globus family of brands, remarks, “Overall, Asia has yet to fully recover to pre-pandemic levels. While other regions are up over 2019 levels, Asia is half the volume. The exception is Japan, which is surging....Our Globus and Cosmos Japan bookings for 2023 are poised to surpass pre-pandemic levels.”

Japan has also been a bright spot for Goway.

“Since Japan reopened in October, we’ve seen a huge surge in demand that hasn’t slowed down,” says Brittany Banks, product manager, Asia. “February was our biggest booking month ever for Japan. Our Goway exclusive small group ‘Japan Cherry Blossom Odyssey’ sold out in only three weeks for 2023, and we already have a waitlist started for 2024 with two spring departures planned.”

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ASIA TRAVEL ON THE REBOUND

to Southeast Asia are forecasted to break records as early as 2023.

Collette shares that its popular “Kingdoms of Southeast Asia” small group Explorations tour was a hit with travelers in 2022. It received the highest rating in 82% of reviews.

Highlights of the 19-day swing through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam include a walking tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, navigating tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the Vietnam War and meeting a Vietnamese war veteran to get his perspective. Collette travelers also attend a class in Vietnamese cooking, tour Angkor Wat in Cambodia, visit a traditional Hmong hill tribe village in Laos and enjoy a farewell dinner cruise in Bangkok.

Says Goway’s Banks, “Thailand and Maldives continue to be in high demand for our globetrotters, with bookings booming. Both are in Goway’s Top 10 list of the most booked countries across all our destinations. Many clients will combine these destinations with other regions in Asia and the Middle East,

On Japan’s Miyajima Island, fried oysters catch the eye of Goway’s Brittany Banks.

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especially the UAE, which has had tremendous growth at Goway.”

“Recently, Hong Kong has eased entry requirements and is slowly emerging,” Banks adds. “It was one of our most popular stopover destinations in the past and has the potential to rebound quickly.”

Hong Kong lifted its mandatory mask rule on March 1 and has been stepping up promotions, including large-scale special events, to welcome back travelers. The Hong Kong Tourism Board has gained attention for its aggressive “Hello Hong Kong” campaign, which has involved giving away 500,000 free air tickets.

Its “Hong Kong Goodies” program has handed out vouchers redeemable at shops and restaurants.

Regarding group business to Asia, Globus’ Born comments, “We are planning to restart group sales to Asia for 2024.

Our 2023 group business was off to a late start, which impacted volume for the year.....All 2024 dates and prices are available now, and space can be reserved with just a single deposit. Our group benefits start at just eight guests, and we have a full-service groups division to help with making a group vision a reality.”

Born advises that now is the time for group leaders to plan Asia business in 2024. “Pent-up demand can materialize, and space might even become an issue in the coming year. An early start means early success.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF HONG KONG TOURISM BOARD

The Star Ferry plies Hong Kong’s magnificent harbor.

RANDY MINK PHOTO

Dan Sullivan Jr., chief executive officer of Collette, is bullish on Asia and all international destinations the company markets.

“Japan’s come back after recently opening up again, and so has the South Pacific, he says. “We’re getting strong demand pretty much across the board.”

Sullivan adds, “Clients, because they haven’t traveled in three years, have more money to travel and they’re doing that.

They’re saying, ‘I want to go on a trip of a lifetime’ and have that bucket-list trip.”

Kayak, referencing search traffic on its site, sees the Asia-Pacific region as a trending destination for 2023. It reports that searches for Ho Chi Minh City are up 769% year over year, 289% percent for Tapei City, 271% for Auckland and 201% for Singapore.

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) predicts that healthy increases in international visitor numbers to the region will continue each year through 2025, with annual growth rates anywhere from 71 to 104 percent.

Economic data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reveals that revenue from inbound travel in East and Southeast Asia soared by more than 70 percent in 2022, with further growth predicted for 2023 and 2024. According to Destination Asia, traveler numbers

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