OUR STORY & OUR TEAM
We are family
“ This family owned business puts you 1st, from the moment they pick you up at your door to the return to your home. I love that you never have to think about tipping, because the company pays all of them, including drivers, luggage handlers, tour guides, wait staff, etc. The local tour guides are full of local history, funny anecdotes, etc. We loved the summer beauty of the Canadian Rockies and were overwhelmed by the fall color on their Rocky Coast of Maine trip!”
1981
JOE DISCOVERS HIS PASSION
Joe attended the University of Notre Dame and graduated with a degree in American Studies. He enjoyed learning about the American Experience as reflected in its history, culture, architecture, art, music, flora and fauna. He was fascinated by America’s dramatic founding, its revolutionary ideals, system of government, and the historic figures who have put their imprint on our nation’s story.
JOE ENTERS THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY In 1981 Joe landed a job as a tour director. Leading tours throughout North America, Joe realized the best way to learn about the American Experience is through travel — to witness in-person places only described in history books. Travel makes history comes alive.
1988
AMERICAN CLASSIC TOURS IS FOUNDED Joe founded American Classic Tours to design, market and operate upscale, all-inclusive tours throughout America. The tours are infused with an historical perspective in relation to the broader American Experience. The first trip was in May of 1988 to Nashville, Tennessee with Minnie Pearl and Roy Acuff at the Grand Ole Opry!
1989
— Sue, October 2019
F IRST HIRE AT AMERICAN CLASSIC, MARY PELC! After interviewing Mary for 10 minutes, Joe hired her on the spot! With her outgoing personality and great sense of humor Mary was a perfect fit for American Classic Tours. For 30 years Mary has charmed thousands of travelers as a tour director. Mary also is head of our Reservations Department.
1991
JOE MARRIES SHEILA Joe married Sheila, the love of his life, in 1991. While Sheila was primarily focused on raising their four children, she has always been involved in operations at American Classic Tours and has been the supportive backbone to Joe and the team. Sheila has been working full-time at American Classic Tours since 2016.
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