Bus Tours Magazine Volume XLIV, Number 5 May/June, 2023

MAY/JUNE 2023

Volume XLV, Number 5

STAFF

Editor & Publisher Larr y Plachno

Business Manager Nancy Ann Plachno

Typesetting/Page Layout Sherr y Mekeel

Web site Jake Ron Plaras

Adver tising Charles Hinkle

Bus Tours Magazine 9698 W. Judson Road Polo, Illinois 61064-9015

Phone: (815) 946-2341

Fax: (815) 946-2347

Web site: bustoursmagazine com

Advertising Central/International central@busmag com – (815) 946-2341 West midwest@busmag com – (815) 946-2341

Midwest midwest@busmag com – (815) 946-2341

Guides

4 HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS & MUSEUMS

Historical attractions and museums are exciting places for both young and old They provide an insight into the way things were and how people lived in past generations Here are a few locations that have been a hit with bus tour passengers

12 SHOPPING, DINING & LODGING

Dining and lodging are integral parts of bus tours because passengers need to eat and sleep Shopping can be a great addition because it gives passengers a chance to look for interesting items and bargains These locations can add a great stop to your next bus tour.

20 STUDENT & SENIOR TOURS

Some locations offer a special attract i o n t o s t u d e n t s o r s e n i o r s o r b o t h Here are a couple of places that could add a lot to your next bus tour

Features

18 TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM

Boothbay Railway Village is always a good addition to a bus tour In addition to an historical train ride, you get to see interesting antique cars and are welcomed by a friendly staff that appreciates bus tour groups

24 MYRTLE BEACH, SOUTH CAROLINA

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is always a g o o d l o c a t i o n f o r a b u s t o u r Beaches, boardwalk, dining and attractions will please everyone on your bus It is one place where you can give your group some free time to explore a wide range of options on their own

26 STUDENT TOUR LOCATIONS

Nicole Aspesi, a ninth grade student, writes about WonderWorks as a great locations for student tours

And More

28 20 TIPS FOR TOUR PLANNERS by Larry Plachno

30 ADVERTISERS INDEX

Northeast bustoursmag@gmail com – (815) 946-2341 tourgroups@busmag com – (815) 946-2341

Southeast southeast@busmag com – (815) 946-2341

COVER PHOTO

The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American Experience in the war that changed the world – why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today – so that future generations will know the price of freedom and be inspired by what they learn CouRTESy of THE NATIoNAL WWII MuSEuM

times annually by National Bus Trader Inc 9698 W Judson Road Polo, Illinois 61064 Subscriptions, $15 (in US funds) annually, Canadian & International $20 (in US funds) Printed in U S A Periodicals postage paid at Polo Illinois 61064 and at additional mailing offices

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to BUS TOURS MAGAZINE, 9698 W Judson Road, Polo, Illinois 61064

of Address: Please send old mailing label (or old address and computer number) as well as new address

Advertising: Display advertising rates sent on request Advertising deadline is the last day of the second month preceding publication

Founded in 1979 BUS TOURS MAGAZINE is the oldest independent magazine in the bus and group tour market Circulation includes bus and group tour planners in the United States and Canada regardless of affiliation or whether commercial, private or corporate or group leader The contents of this publication may not be reproduced either in whole or in par t without the written consent of the publisher The name BUS TOURS MAGAZINE and the logo incorporating the passengers, bus and destinations are trade marks of National Bus Trader, Inc

National Watch & Clock Museum

Columbia, Pennsylvania

D i s c ov e r t h e h i s t o r y, s c i e n c e a n d a r t o f timekeeping The National Watch & Clock

M u s e u m h a s b e e n a b e l o v e d L a n c a s t e r County, PA, attraction for more than 40 years, providing kids and adults alike hours of learning and enjoyment The museum was officially opened to the public in 1977 with fewer than 1,000 items Since that time, the collection has increased to more than 13,000 items, a n d t h e m u s e u m h a s u n d e r g o n e s e v e r a l expansion projects Today, it is recognized as the largest and most comprehensive horological collection in North America

As you enter the museum's time tunnel a n d b e g i n y o u r t o u r o f i n t e r n a t i o n a l t i m epieces, you will know you have stepped into something special – all the time in the world

The museum’s collection is international in s c o p e a n d c ov e r s a w i d e v a r i e t y o f c l o c k s , watches, tools and other time-related items

Collections include 19th-century American clocks and watches, early English tall case clocks, public time clocks, timepieces from Japan and China, and timekeeping devices from Germany, France, the Netherlands and Russia

Modern timekeeping is explored with displays on novelty clocks, car and airplane clocks, wristwatches and the Hamilton Watch Co story

The exhibits take you on a tour through the history and wonder of timekeeping

T h e m u s e u m i s a l s o p r o u d t o d i s p l a y a piece of true Americana – the Engle clock

After spending 70 years touring the eastern United States at the turn of the last century, this 1,049-pound marvel disappeared from public view in 1951 After being rediscovered in a barn in the 1980s, the Engle clock was painstakingly restored by museum staff and volunteers It is now run twice each day for museum visitors It features not just timetelling but music, carved moving figures and reminders that time is indeed fleeting

While touring the museum, you will see e v e r y t h i n g f r o m a 1 6 t h - c e n t u r y c l o c k t o a clock that tells the time on Mars, plus pocket watches and wristwatches from around the w o r l d L e a r n w h a t m a k e s a c l o c k t i c k a n d

Histor ic al Attractions and Museums

National Watch & Clock Museum

how clocks revolutionized travel at sea and life on land For movie buffs, there is an impressive collection of watches featured in the James Bond films The exhibit connects the iconic Super Spy to the Quartz Revolution, which changed not only watches but the world

Visiting the National Watch & Clock Museum is truly a journey through time. View at www.nawcc.org for more information.

Swiss Historical Village & Museum

The Swiss Historical Village & Museum presents the unique story of the founding of New Glarus in 1845 and traces the Swiss colony's growth into a dairy farming community that continues to keep alive its ethnic heritage

T h e m u s e u m , i n t h e h e a r t o f " A m e r i c a ' s L i t t l e S w i t z e r l a n d , " i s owned and operated by the New Glarus Historical Society, Inc The society is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of artifacts, records and family histories of the Swiss immigrants. The society is affiliated with the Wisconsin State Historical Society

Each year, the Swiss Historical Village & Museum welcomes a wide range of school groups, history buffs, Swiss enthusiasts, charters, families and sightseers

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n p h o n e ( 6 0 8 ) 527-2317 or view swisshistoricalvillage org

Crawford County, Pennsylvania

For those wanting to spend a rainy aftern o o n o r a w h o l e w e e k e n d i m m e r s e d i n unique history, Crawford County has a number of amenities that connect the region to n o t j u s t r e g i o n a l h i s t o r y, b u t m a j o r e v e n t s a n d i n d i v i d u a l s w h o s h a p e d o u r n a t i o n ’s past Explore everything from timeless architecture to the history of the underground railr o a d a n d t h e m a n t h a t h e l p e d g e t A n d r e w

Jackson elected President

While every town in America, it seems, has their own house museum that relays the h i s t o r y, i n C r a w f o r d C o u n t y, t h e h o u s e m u s e u m w a s o w n e d b y a U n i t e d S t a t e s Supreme Court Justice – and he is responsible for helping to acquire Florida, the Missouri

Compromise and many of the nation’s tariff laws

T h e B a l d w i n - R e y n o l d s H o u s e M u s e u m w a s t h e f o r m e r h o m e o f U n i t e d S t a t e s Supreme Court Justice Henry Baldwin, who served on the bench from 1830 through 1844 after spending time in Congress and helping Andrew Jackson get elected President Baldwin lived in the house a relatively short time (dying within a year of its completion), but his descendants (and future Mount Hope residents) were major figures in the Atlantic & Great Western Railroad as well as much of the development of this region The house is o p e n a s a m u s e u m f r o m M e m o r i a l D a y through Labor Day every Wednesday through Sunday from 12-4 p m

Another unique tour spot, serving as the m a i n g r a v e y a r d f o r t h e C i t y o f M e a d v i l l e

Crawford County

s i n c e 1 8 5 2 , G r e e n d a l e C e m e t e r y i s m u c h more than its name implies The cemetery i s a s m u c h a p a r k o r a r b o r e t u m a s a b u r i a l ground It features the landscape design of Herman Munz, an architect who helped lay out much of the older section of the cemetery as well as planted thousands of rhododendrons on the property These blossoms a r e e n j o y e d b y v i s i t o r s a n d l o c a l s a l i k e each spring The cemetery features walking t r a i l s n e a r a w a t e r f a l l a s w e l l a s t h e f i n a l resting places of the inventors of the zipper, t h e w i f e o f a S u p r e m e C o u r t J u s t i c e, t h o s e involved in the Underground Railroad and m a n y m o r e H o u r s a r e d aw n t o d u s k , a n d r e s p e c t f u l v i s i t o r s a r e w e l c o m e

For more information or to see upcoming events, visit VisitCrawford org

Tri-State Museum and Visitor Center

Belle Fourche, South Dakota

S m a c k - d a b i n t h e m i d d l e o f t h e U n i t e d States is Belle Fourche, South Dakota – and t h a t i s w h e r e y o u w i l l f i n d t h e Tr i - S t a t e M u s e u m a n d Vi s i t o r C e n t e r T h e c o m p l e x i n c l u d e s n o t j u s t t h e m u s e u m a n d v i s i t o r c e n t e r b u t a l s o t h e b e a u t i f u l g r a n i t e c o mpass rose Center of the Nation monument, n o t i n g t h e t o w n ’s d i s t i n c t i v e s t a t u s , a n d

the fully furnished Johnny Spaulding Cabin, one of the few two-story pioneer cabins to h a v e s u r v i v e d s i n c e t h e 1 8 7 0 s

Surrounded by lawns dotted with flower gardens and only steps away from the city’s R i v e r W a l k i n f r o n t o f t h e h i s t o r i c B e l l e Fourche River, the Tri-State Museum and Vis-

itor Center is a great place to stop on the road between Mt Rushmore and Devil’s Tower, for a tour of sites as well as a picnic lunch

The museum proper includes exhibits on pioneers, ranching, rodeos, the sheep industry and local business history. Natural history exhibits include geologic and archaeological fi n d s , a s w e l l a s s o m e d i n o s a u r f o s s i l s unearthed from nearby paleontological dig sites S i g n i f i c a n t e x h i b i t s i n c l u d e p h o t o s a n d i n f o r m a t i o n o n B e l l e F o u r c h e W W I I h e r o

Don Smith, one of the pilots in the Doolittle

R a i d T h e m u s e u m a l s o i n c l u d e s t h e l e s s than heroic story of the most bungled bank r o b b e r y e v e r, w h i c h o c c u r r e d i n 1 8 9 7 a n d i n v o l v e d a n e x t r e m e l y i n e b r i a t e d To m O ’ D a y.

In addition to permanent collections, the m u s e u m a l s o f e a t u r e s t h r e e t e m p o r a r y e x h i b i t s a n d t h r e e m i n i e x h i b i t s w h i c h change throughout the year Exhibits for the 2023 season include ones on the history of cosmetics, westerns in film and TV, the ori-

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g i n s o f b a s e b a l l p l u s q u i l t i n g a n d m o d e r n homesteading

The town of Belle Fourche is a little one big in history The name comes from the river that flows here, visited by the famed French fur trappers of the early 1800s. The town itself was founded by Seth Bullock, a larger-thanlife western character who was featured in the TV series, “Deadwood ” It soon became the place for the internationally-known Black Hills Roundup, now in its 103rd year of showcasing classic rodeo action

The Old West lives on in the middle – and at the Tri-State Museum and Visitor Center For more information phone (605) 723-1200 or view at thetristatemuseum com

George Bush Presidential Library and Museum

Texas A&M University

The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum at Texas A&M University is a premier destination for visitors from around the world Included in the museum’s exhibits are items ranging from a 1925 film of Bush’s first s t e p s i n K e n n e b u n k p o r t , t o r e c o r d s a n d memorabilia from his tenure as the 41st presi d e n t . S e e B u s h ’s C a m p D a v i d o f fi c e a n d W h i t e H o u s e S i t u a t i o n R o o m , a n d h a v e your picture taken in the replica Oval Office Learn about President Bush’s leadership and public service

In addition to the permanent galleries, the Bush Library and Museum hosts temporary exhibits that cover a wide variety of topics This summer, you will be able to enjoy a new exhibit entitled Honor, Courage, Commitment: Marine Corps Art, 1975-2018 which features powerful works of art from 15 Marine combat artists The result is a rich commentary on the men and women of the Marine Corps and their engagements around the world This e x h i b i t w i l l b e o n d i s p l a y f r o m M a y 2 6 through September 4

Just in time for fall, the exhibit A Spirit Can Ne’er Be Told A Century of Aggie Football will o p e n A u g u s t 2 8 i n t h e A n s a r y G a l l e r y o f American History For more than a century,

Texas A&M football has shaped traditions, forged camaraderie for generations of fans and embodied a spirit that even Presidents of the United States embraced

The Bush Library and Museum also hosts numerous free events throughout the year, s u c h a s a S u m m e r F i l m S e r i e s , t h e B u s h

May

June

August

September 8 Rudy

George Bush Presidential Library and Museum

h o u r s o f e n t e r t

i n m e n t i n

r t i n s b u r g , Berkeley County, West Virginia The area's rich history links to events from before the R e v o l u t i o n a r y Wa r t h r o u g h t h e C i v i l Wa r Martinsburg is surrounded by historical sites and provides the perfect picturesque downtown for hub and spoke tours or good oldfashioned shopping sprees

It is time to park the bus and let tour passengers explore The peaceful and delightful town of Martinsburg has great finds at every turn With innumerable shopping opportun i t i e s , t h e q u a i n t N o r m a n R o c k w e l l e s q u e downtown will charm visitors. The store windows shine with artisan décor, unique finds, spa-worthy luxuries and antiques only availa b l e i n s u c h a h i s t o r i c p l a c e Wo r d t o t h e wise: pack an empty suitcase to carry all the new treasures one will find at the downtown shops

Photo: Jenny DiCola Photography

A r e y o u f e e l i n g p e c k i s h a f t e r s h o p p i n g ? G r o u p s f i n d a s e l e ct i o n o f t a s t y e a t s a t M a r t i n s b u r g ' s l o c a l l y - o w n e d r e s t a u r a n t s C h o o s e b e t w e e n w o r l d c u i s i n e s o r g o s t r a i g h t t o d e s s e r t Vi si t i n g D e F l u r i ' s F i n e C h o c o l a t e s a n d E v e r y t h i n g C h e e s e c a k e w i l l s a t i s f y a n y o n e ' s s w e e t t o o t h

For more eclectic shopping and eateries, groups head 15 minutes east to Shepherdstown, the oldest town in West Virginia Groups visiting Shepherdstown find that hospitality is the only thing more alive than the local arts scene

I t i s e a s y t o m a k e a g r o u p t o u r h i s t o r i c a l i n B e r k e l e y C o u n t y Historic sites like Morgan Cabin – the home of the area's first white s e t t l e r s ; G e n e r a l A d a m S t e p h e n H o u s e - t h e f o u n d e r o f M a r t i n sburg, and The George Washington Heritage Trail pull history from the past and into today Groups can even see George Washington's o u t d o o r b a t h t u b i n n e a r b y B e r k e l e y S p r i n g s T h e r e i s a n a m p l e amount of Civil War sites, as well Groups can visit the Martinsburg

B & O R o u n d h o u s e t o s e e t h e p l a c e o n c e d e s t r o y e d b y S t o n e w a l l J a c k s o n ' s t r o o p s i n 1 8 6 1 M e n , o f c o u r s e, a r e n o t t h e o n l y p a r t i cipants in the war Check out the Berkeley County Museum, located i n t h e h o m e o f C o n f e d e r a t e s p y B e l l e B o y d , a t t h e a p t l y n a m e d

B e l l e B o y d H o u s e

T h e s e o p p o r t u n i t i e s a n d m o r e w a i t f o r m o t o r c o a c h t o u r s i n

B e r k e l e y C o u n t y F o r i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t t r a v e l w v c o m o r p h o n e

Shopping, Dining and Lodging

Pickens County South Carolina

Located in beautiful Upstate South Carolina, Pickens County is home to countless hidden historical gems. One such treasure y o u w i l l n o t w a n t t o m i s s i s t h e P i c k e n s County Museum of Art and History Built as the county “gaol” (jail) in 1902 by B E Grandy, the original structure served as a detention center through to the 1970s until it re-opened a s a m u s e u m i n 1 9 7 6 I t h a s s e e n s e v e r a l u p d a t e s s i n c e t h e n , i n c l u d i n g a m a s s i v e expansion in 2006

N o w i t o f f e r s t h r e e r o t a t i n g l o c a l f o c u s galleries and four diverse exhibit spaces representing the rich heritage of Pickens County, from prehistory to modern events All three focus galleries were dedicated to Youth Arts M o n t h i n A p r i l a n d f e a t u r e d m i x e d - m e d i a p i e c e s f r o m e l e m e n t a r y, m i d d l e, a n d h i g h school students across the Pickens County School District

Other notable exhibits include the Browning Bryant collection which boasts a lifetime of artifacts from one of Pickens’ most memo r a b l e m u s i c a l t a l e n t s , a n i n t e r a c t i v e r eimagining of local historic “Doodleville” busi-

nesses, tributes to the county’s Fallen Heroes, and a replica of Fort Prince George along with several important artifacts recovered during its excavation in the 1960s

S p r i n g v i s i t o r s c a n l o o k f o r w a r d t o t h e l u s h n a t i v e g a r d e n s o n d i s p l a y a r o u n d t h e m u s e u m c o u r t e s y o f a n d c a r e d f o r b y t h e P i c k e n s G a r d e n C l u b T h e r e i s s o m e t h i n g h e r e f o r e v e r y o n e, w h e t h e r y o u a r e a h i story buff, a true-crime fanatic, an avid arts e n t h u s i a s t o r s i m p l y l o o k i n g t o e x p l o r e s o m e t h i n g n e w ( t o y o u ) L o c a l s s a y y o u m a y e v e n s e e a g h o s t o r t w o i f y o u k n o w w h e r e t o l o o k

The Pickens County Museum is located at 307 Johnson Street in Pickens, at the corner of Johnson Street and U S Highway 178, two b l o c k s s o u t h o f M a i n S t r e e t T h e M u s e u m i s o p e n t o t h e p u b l i c Wednesday -through Friday from 9 a m to 5 p m and Saturday from 10 a m to 2 p m

Groups are welcome to contact the museum’s director, Tabitha Johnson, at (864) 898-5963 to discuss private appointments outside of these hours as coverage allows Follow them on Facebook at https://www facebook com/PickensCountyMuseum for weekly historical content and regular updates about museum happenings

Best Western Greenfield Inn

Allen Park, Michigan

The Best Western Greenfield Inn in Allen Park, Michigan is a great place for bus tours This unique Victorian-themed hotel is endearingly known as “The Pink Palace.” It is conveniently located just south of Detroit adjacent to Interstate 94 not far from the major Detroit attractions It is a great place for hub-and-spoke tours in the Detroit area

N e a r b y a t t r a c t i o n s i n c l u d e G r e e n fi e l d Vi l l a g e, t h e H e n r y F o r d Museum, Dearborn Historical Museum, the Automotive Hall of Fame, the Michigan Science Center, Detroit Zoo, the Ford Rouge Factory Tour, IMAX Theater and Westland Historic Village Park The hotel is

only 15 minutes from downtown Detroit, General Motors World Headquarters, Commerce Park, Ford Field, Little Ceasars® Stadium, Fox Theater, TFC Convention Center and four major casinos Both Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor are only a short drive away.

T h e B e s t We s t e r n G r e e n f i e l d s t a f f l ov e s c o a c h e s a n d h a s b e e n h o s t i n g b u s g r o u p s f o r m o r e t h a n 3 5 y e a r s I t p r o v i d e s s e v e r a l a m e n i t i e s i n c l u d i n g Wi - F i , a n i n d o o r p o o l , a f i t n e s s c e n t e r a n d a n on-premise restaurant and lounge Mugley’s Food and Spirits offers breakfast, dinner, take-out and room service The lounge is a great place to meet for conversation, watch the big game or relax before

Best Western Greenfield Inn

or after dinner Premium cable includes an H B O ® a n d C i n e m a x ® p a c k a g e t o k e e p y o u i n f o r m e d a n d e n t e r t a i n e d B r e a k f a s t i s o p t i o n a l l y a v a i l a b l e B u s t o u r c o a c h e s a r e w e l c o m e d a n d a r e p r o v i d e d w i t h t h e u p s c a l e s e r v i c e s t h e y e x p e c t .

For information and to book your group, Best Western Greenfield Inn at 3000 Enterp r i s e D r i v e , A l l e n P a r k , M i c h i g a n 4 8 1 0 1

P h o n e ( 3 1 3 ) 2 7 1 - 1 6 0 0 o r e - m a i l bwgisales@greenfieldhospitality com

Bubba’s Fish Camp & Smokehouse

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

B u b b a ’s F i s h C a m p & S m o k e h o u s e i s D i v i n e D i n i n g G r o u p ’s n e w e s t r e s t a u r a n t c o n c e p t t o h i t t h e M y r t l e B e a c h a r e a . T h i s truly divine family of restaurants includes the award-winning concepts of River City Café, U l t i m a t e C a l i f o r n i a P i z z a , N a c h o H i p p o ,

Bubba’s Fish Shack and Pawley’s Raw Bar

Bubba’s Fish Camp & Smokehouse brings to the lineup new smokehouse flavors courtesy

of “Sally” the smoker, new fish camp vibes showcasing eclectic décor, as well as a flavorful menu marrying the best of land and sea

Located across from Broadway at the Beach

o n 2 1 s t h

Bubba’s Fis

S m o k e h o u open for bus ness seven

d a y s a w e e k f r o m 1 1 a m to 10 p m a n d o f f e r s b o i n d o o r a n d d o o r d i n i n

v a r i e t y o f m e n u o p t i o n s t o choose from, Bubba’s Fish Camp & Smokehouse is the perfect place for a date night, a scrumptious meal with the kiddos, a venue to hang out and enjoy crafty cocktails, or even a

large party destination to accommodate an entire bus group Feast on Camp Bite favorites such as Loaded Brisket Fries featuring ‘Bama white sauce, Bubba’s famous Fried Pickle Nicke l s , H o m e m a d e C r a b C a k e s , o r e v e n F r i e d b k ib all of which acking good ve into their f f t h e H o o k P l a t t e r s f o r “ r e e l g o o d f o o d ” t o i n c l u d e l o c a l s e a f o o d v o r i t e s l i k e o u C a n E a t F r i e d G u l f

Shrimp and Blackened Grouper or Mahi Mahi, just to name a few For the land lovers, “put some south in your mouth” and try Sally’s Smokehouse Platters which feature a v a r i e t y o f s m o k e d m e a t s s u c h a s p u l l e d pork bbq, chicken, baby back ribs and brisket, all dry brined with signature house seasoni n g s a n d s m o k e d l o w a n d s l o w J u m p o n t h e s e f a v o r i t e s f a s t b e c a u s e w h e n t h e y ’ r e gone, they’re gone.

With more than 35 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Jack Divine and his talented team have created yet another unique restaurant for locals and tourists alike The Company’s mission “to share our passion for the perfect dining experience with every guest, every day” speaks volumes of their true love for the business

Atlantic City

A t l a n t i c C i t y w e l c o m e s o n e a n d a l l t o the seaside destination, where local spirits a r e c o n n e c t e d a n d t h e c e l e b r a t i o n s a r e u n f o r g e t t a b l e

N e s t l e d b e t w e e n t h e l a n d a n d s e a , Atlantic City is the perfect location for visitors to travel to in the comfort of a car or airfare

Located within a few hours’ drive of nearly one-third of the nation's population, Atlantic

Guide: Shopping, Dining & Lodging

Atlantic City

C i t y i s e a s i l y a c c e s s i b l e f r o m m a n y c i t i e s along the Northeast

Wi t h m o r e t h a n 1 7 , 5 0 0 fi r s t - c l a s s h o t e l rooms, Atlantic City is an exceptional place to lodge Whether in the Marina District or situated on the world-famous Atlantic City

Boardwalk, a stay at one of the nine casino resorts will guarantee a memorable experience Along with precise guest services and waterside elegance, each casino resort showcases panoramic views of Atlantic City from every angle

Guide: Shopping, Dining & Lodging

Atlantic City is ready to celebrate life’s greatest moments with thrilling year-round events and attractions Stroll the Atlantic City Boardwalk and discover endless family-centric fun at historic Steel Pier and Lucky Snake Arcade & Raceway, the largest indoor arcade along the East Coast For live entertainment, score front row seats at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall as entertainment’s biggest and most successful acts take the stage Endless excitement continues at Atlantic City’s casino resorts where nightlife and late-night experiences are always celebrated

Relax and unwind at one of Atlantic City’s world-class spas Treat yourself and your group to illuminated spa services for a journey of peace and relaxation Being pampered at Atlantic City’s spas is not only a luxury, but a necessity to recharge and enjoy the many energetic events during your visit

Known for its thriving culinary scene, Atlantic City welcomes all to explore the city’s famous dining establishments Ranging from celebrity chef restaurants to locally-owned eateries, Atlantic City’s restaurants are well equipped to accommodate special events for l a r g e o r s m a l l g r o u p s W h e n v i s i t i n g A t l a n t i c C i t y, c o m e h u n g r y because the diverse cuisine selections will surely satisfy those tastebuds

Atlantic City awaits your arrival as strides to celebrate and let loose continue to live every day in the vibrant city q

Boothbay Railway Village Museum

Boothbay, Maine

Step back in time for a peek at Maine and the way life used to be Nowhere else in New England can you ride the rails behind vintage steam or diesel locomotives, surrounded by historic Maine buildings preserved in a recreated village, and view a superb collection of more than 60 antique automobiles

Spend a fun-filled day discovering 35 acres of Maine history brought to life. The Boothbay Railway Village Museum features more than two dozen historic buildings and structures, including Boothbay Town Hall (1847), Freeport Station (1911), Thorndike Station (1871) and Spruce Point Chapel (1927)

The Village structures are open for visitors to stroll through and experience real life history Each building is filled with unique collections, some of which are original to the

Transpor tation Museum

building The Village exhibits surround a fouracre Village Green, offering a scenic place to r e l a x , h a v e a p i c n

around and play

The extraordinary Model Railroad display is a sight to behold for all ages, with ever growing and intricate detail representing railroading in Maine during the 1950s & 60s housed in a replica of a historic Maine freight station The d i

d turnouts, both standard and narrow gauge, on 3 5 scale mile main line and a 46x 20 layout

The Antique Auto Museum features more than 60 vehicles on display, dating from 1902

1962, illustrating technological advances and engineering feats that helped make cars accessible to the masses The collection also includes vintage gas pumps, oil cans, service manuals, and other automotive ephemera

The Iron Horse Antiques & General Store is located at the museum entrance, featuring h

museum is located just 10 minutes from one of Maine's most picturesque Harbor villages, offering endless opportunities for shopping, dining and boating The museum offers special rates for groups, as well as steam shop tours and customized packages

So much more than a spectacular train ride – come explore early village life in Maine and all the unique museum collections q

For a PEEK AT MAINE + THE WAY LIFE USED TO BE

RA ILWAYVILLA GE.ORG

Student and Senior Tours

Anderson and Madison County Anderson, Indiana

by Cheryl Shank

A n d e r s o n a n d M a d i s o n C o u n t y h a s become synonymous with racing The roar of engines and the thunder of hooves can be heard from spring to late fall at two of Anderson’s best known venues, Anderson Speed-

way and Harrah’s Hoosier Park Racing and Casino

Anderson Speedway has reached a new m i l e s t o n e i n 2 0 2 3 h o s t i n g t h e i r 7 5 t h L i t t l e 500 The track is renowned as the fastest high b a n k q u a r t e r m i l e ov a l i n t h e w o r l d To u r groups can arrange for use of the pavilion or suites that are available and catering can be a r r a n g e d f o r t h r o u g h S p e e d w a y C a t e r i n g

F o r m a j o r r a c e e n t h u s i a s t s p i t p a s s e s a r e a v a i l a b l e f o r p u r c h a s e C o n t a c t k s l o a n @ a n d e r s o n s p e e d w a y c o m f o r m o r e

information

Known for sprint car and midget racing, e x c i t i n g c o n t e s t s a l s o t a k e p l a c e w i t h l a t e m o d e l s , s t r e e t s t o c k s a n d , o c c a s i o n a l l y, school buses as they race through the exciti n g F i g u r e 8 s T h e r a c e s e a s o n i s A p r i l ‘ t i l

Anderson and Madison County

October, with races nearly every weekend R e v y o u r e n g i n e s a n d h e a d t o A n d e r s o n Speedway, 1311 Dr Martin Luther King, Jr Boulevard, Anderson, Indiana

For horsepower of a different sort, visit H a r r a h ’s H o o s i e r P a r k R a c i n g a n d C a s i n o , 4500 Dan Patch Circle, Anderson, Indiana

Guests can enjoy exciting standardbred horse racing in the Grand Terrace and many other venues on-site From March through midDecember, your guests can enjoy live racing, witness special events or even see a concert

If racing is not your passion, the casino is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week to satisfy your wagering needs Awaiting you a r e 2 , 0 0 0 s l o t m a c h i n e s , t a b l e g a m e s , t h e Pegasus Bar, The Big Deli and, if you wish for a memorable meal that is truly special, enjoy the upscale Home Stretch Steak House For more information visit caesars com/harrahs-hoosier-park

After busy days “racing” around, head to the Fairfield Inn and Suites, 2400 E 64th Street,

Anderson, for a pleasant stay just minutes from the tracks Enjoy free Wi-Fi, relax by the indoor pool, get a workout in the Fitness center, have a good night’s sleep, then wake to a full hot breakfast and be ready for a new day

St. Louis Symphony Orchestra

St. Louis, Missouri

Celebrated as a leading American orchestra, the St Louis Symphony Orchestra is the second-oldest orchestra in the country, marking its 144th year with the 2023-24 season a n d i t s fi f t h w i t h M u s i c D i r e c t o r S t é p h a n e Denève The SLSO is committed to artistic excellence, educational impact and commun i t y c o l l a b o r a t i o n s – a l l t o e n r i c h l i v e s through the power of music. In addition to the Grammy Award-winning orchestra, the r o s t e r o f t a l e n t a l s o i n c l u d e s t h e S t L o u i s Symphony Chorus, the IN UNISON Chorus and the St Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra

Experience live music in the best way –b y s h a r i n g i t w i t h o t h e r s F r o m c l a s s i c a l

repertoire to the collaborations with the leading artists of our time, and from iconic films with live score to beloved holiday specials, the SLSO’s versatile programming makes the orchestra a must-visit destination for groups of all interests. You are invited to share the p o w e r o f l i v e o r c h e s t r a l m u s i c w i t h y o u r group and receive special benefits designed to enhance your experience with the SLSO For the 2023-24 season, the St Louis Symphony Orchestra will perform at Stifel Theatre in downtown St Louis and Touhill Performing Arts Center on the University of MissouriSt Louis campus, as the historic Powell Hall u n d e r g o e s a n e x t e n s i v e r e n o v a t i o n a n d expansion These “home away from home” v e n u e s w i l l s h o w c a s e t h e u n p a r a l l e l e d artistry of the orchestra and choruses in new and exciting ways

In addition to thrilling musical experiences and incredible surroundings, your group can expect outstanding hospitality from the entire SLSO team – from the ticket booking expe-

Guide: Student & Senior Tours St. Louis Symphony Orchestra

rates for students, seniors, tour groups and more

Myr tle Beach, South Carolina

Boardwalk

When you are planning a group trip, there is no better place than Myrtle Beach Beautiful sandy beaches, warm Southern hospitality and endless attractions and activities are just a few of the many advantages to planning group travel to South Carolina’s G r a n d S t r a n d M y r t l e B e a c h b o a s t s a warm subtropical climate with pleasant year-round weather and 60 miles of uninterrupted Atlantic coastline

The 1 2-mile-long, award-winning oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade is filled with shops, entertainment, dining, beach access, a pier and the 200foot-high SkyWheel.

Groups looking for adventure – especially those younger travelers –absolutely love Myrtle Beach’s water parks, parasailing advent u r e s , w a t e r s p o r t s a n d o t h e r similar attractions Two Tanger Outlet centers along with Barefoot Landing, Broadway at the Beach and Coastal Grand Mall o f f e r g r e a t v a r i e t y a n d v a l u e, while boutiques at The Market C o m m o n a n d T h e H a m m o c k Shops Village offer local products and specialty items

T h e r e a r e m o r e t h a n 2 , 0 0 0 a r e a eateries offering some of the best feelg o o d f o o d , i n c l u d i n g t h e C a r o l i n a c o a s t a l c u i s i n e t h a t M y r t l e B e a c h i s k n o w n f o r. F r o m b o a r d w a l k c l a s s i c s , f a r m - t o - t a b l e f a r e, f r e s h s e a f o o d a n d more, your group will have their mouths full of options Plan some meals featuring Calabash or Lowcountry cuisine to g i v e y o u r g r o u p a t r u e t a s t e o f t h e region, including dishes like shrimp & grits and hushpuppies

Anyone who loves live entertainment will definitely enjoy an evening spent at o n e o f t h e a r e a ’s t h e a t e r s C h e c k o u t award-winning shows at the Alabama T h e a t r e, T h e C a r o l i n a O p r y T h e a t e r ,

Legends in Concert and Broadway

Thea t e r O r e n j o y a l i t t l e m a g i c, M o t o w n and fun in an intimate setting at the GTS Theatre You can also travel back in time a n d e x p e r i e n c e k n i g h t s o r p i r a t e s a t either Medieval Times Dinner & Tourn a m e n t o r P i r a t e s Vo y a g e D i n n e r & Show Many of these shows also offer spectacular holiday entertainment that b e g i n s e a c h y e a r i n N ov e m b e r. F r o m time-honored classics to new traditions, the Myrtle Beach area offers a beachy winter wonderful that dazzles

S p e n d y o u r d a y s t a k i n g a d v a n t a g e o f m o r e t h a n 5 0 0 , 0 0 0 s q u a r e f e e t o f pristine facilities for conferences, performances, tournaments and sporting e v e n t s , w h i l e n e v e r t r a v e l i n g too far from our sandy shores t o e n j o y a q u i c k s t r o l l o n t h e b e a c h o r w a t e r f r o n t m e a l i n b e t w e e n e v e n t s O f c o u r s e , t h e b e s t p a r t o f g r o u p t r a v e l i n M y r t l e B e a c h a r e t h e a c t i vities you can experience when your events are done, such as e x p l o r i n g B r o o k g r e e n G a rd e n s , t h e A f r i c a n A m e r i c a n H i s t o r y M u s e u m s o r s h o r t t r i p s t o h i d d e n g e m s a c r o s s

The Carolina Opry Theater

t h e 1 4 c o m m u n i t i e s o f t h e M y r t l e B e a c h a r e a

Last but not least, the Myrtle Beach area offers more than 425 great hotels and resorts with excellent amenities and group services Choose between suites with plenty of space to spread out or class i c h o t e l r o o m s w i t h s t u n n i n g o c e a n views. If a little rest and relaxation is what

your group is looking for, they can indulge at one of the Grand Strand’s many luxur i o u s s p a s a n d r e l a x p o o l s i d e – t w o amenities of several area resorts

Your group deserves an unforgettable experience The Beach, with its eclectic and ever-growing mix of activities and accommodations, can deliver The helpful sales team has put together guides

that allow you to explore the many facets of our beautiful coastal destination and h i g h l i g h t h o w T h e B e a c h c a n b e s t accommodate the needs and priorities of your group Contact Group Sales Manager Sandy Haines at (843) 916-7248 or sandy haines@visitmyrtlebeach com for more information on accommodations, trip itineraries and more. q

Myrtle Beach Skywheel

Pier 14 Beach

My n a m e i s N i c o l e A s p e s i I a m a ninth grade student at Indian Land High School in Lancaster, South Carolina I’m back again to bring you a n o t h e r a t t r a c t i o n t h a t y o u s h o u l d b r i n g y o u r s t u d e n t g r o u p s t o

WonderWorks is an entertainment venue that introduces kids to the wonderful world o f s c i e n c e i n a w a y t h a t m a k e s i t s o m u c h fun

On approaching the venue the first thing you see is an upside down house WonderWorks tells us that Professor Wonder, who will lead you on your journey of exploration, w a s c o n d u c t i n g e x p e r i m e n t s o n a n i s l a n d near the Bermuda Triangle when he created a man-made tornado which took his lab and brought it to six locations throughout the US.” Once inside you will be given a booklet that allows you to check out the highlights it tells you about- and you will even get to see the professor's lab

O n e t h i n g t h a t i s w o n d e r f u l a b o u t t h i s place is that there are so many interactive exhibits and things to see and do that it would

Student Tour Locations

be hard not to find something for everyone

From a teacher's point of view, the exhibits f o l l o w S T E M g u i d e l i n e s a n d c a n e a s i l y b e integrated into one 's curriculum WonderZ o n e s i n c l u d e N a t u r a l D i s a s t e r s , P h y s i c a l

by Nicole Aspesi

C h a l l e n g e s , a S p a c e D i s c o v e r y Z o n e, t h e Imagination Lab, Light & Sound and a Far Out Art Gallery that focuses on optical illusions There is also a 4D XD motion theater at each

You need a minimum of four hours for a good experience and you could easily s p e n d t h e d a y. A r r a n g em e n t s c a n b e m a d e f o r m e a l s E a c h f a c i l i t y h a s people who will work with you for any special needs or requests you might have If i t c a n b e d o n e , t h e y w i l l make it happen

L o c a t i o n s a r e i n P i g e o n F o r g e, Te n n e s s e e ; M y r t l e B e a c h , S o u t h C a r o l i n a ; Branson, Missouri; Panama C i t y B e a c h , F l o r i d a ; Orlando, Florida and Syrac u s e, N e w Yo r k I f y o u d o tours east of the Mississippi, t h e r e s h o u l d b e a v e n u e easily reachable

For more information go t o w o n d e r w o r k s o n l i n e com q

360 Bike

4D Theater

20 Ti ps For Tour Planners

20 Tips on Chartering a Bus for Your Next Bus Tour

We have heard this question several times since the pandemic Some bus operators have g o n e o u t o f b u s i n e s s w h i l e o t h e r s h a v e changed There are also new bus tour planners or new personnel at ongoing companies Not every situation is the same, but here are o u r s u g g e s t i o n s o n 2 0 Ti p s o n c h a r t e r i n g a bus for your next bus tour

Know what you are looking for?

The best place to start is for you to determine exactly what it is you want and are looking for This not only makes searching easier but also makes sure you have answers ready that the bus company will probably ask you anyway In addition, going through initial planning and options may suggest other possibilities or alternatives

1. Type of Bus. What type of bus do you w a n t t o u s e f o r y o u r t o u r ? Ty p i c a l o p t i o n s i n c l u d e s c h o o l b u s e s , c o a c h e s , t r a n s i t t y p e buses and body-on-chassis or cutaway buses. Each has their advantages and disadvantages

A t y p i c a l s c h o o l b u s m a y b e p r a c t i c a l f o r a short, one-day student tour, but I would not recommend it for adults or longer tours I have u s e d t r a n s i t - t y p e b u s e s f o r s h o r t , o n e - d a y adult bus tours because they have better seats and suspension than school buses, but again I would not recommend it for longer trips since they typically do not have restrooms

The cutaway or body-on-chassis buses are typically smaller and can be used with smaller groups on shorter trips but are not generally r e c o m m e n d e d f o r l o n g e r t o u r s T h e r e a r e some larger versions of these that may have higher capacity, a restroom and luggage space Most of the bus tours we deal with use motorcoaches because they have restrooms, underfloor luggage space and a good suspension system

2 . S i z e / L e n g t h . I f y o u p l a n t o u s e coaches, you should know that they typically come in lengths of 30-, 35-, 40- and 45-feet and can range in capacity form 34 to 60 pass e n g e r s H o w m a n y s e a t s d o y o u a c t u a l l y need? Local tours with smaller groups somet i m e s u s e t h e c u t aw a y t y p e b u s e s , b u t y o u need to take into consideration that they may not have restrooms or higher quality suspension systems

3. Special Make or Model? Some of the bigger tour planners have had specific requirements that their tours must use a particular m a k e o r m o d e l o f b u s f o r v a r i o u s r e a s o n s Others insist that their tour coaches cannot be older than given number of years

4. Handicapped Accommodations? Will your bus tour carry anyone who requires using a mobility device? If so, it is best to mention this in advance and let the bus company know you will need a bus with a wheelchair lift or a way to accommodate them You should note t h a t m o s t c h a r t e r a n d t o u r b u s e s f a l l u n d e r the federal 48-hour rule that requires them to

by Larry Plachno

provide a bus or coach that can accommodate the handicapped if you advise them at least 48 hours prior to departure.

5. Seating. What kind of seating do you want for your tour? Coaches used on longer t o u r s t y p i c a l l y h a v e h i g h - q u a l i t y r e c l i n i n g seats However, other buses may have seats that are less comfortable but suitable for short t o u r s A l t h o u g h r a r e l y s e e n o n t y p i c a l b u s tours, some bus companies do have coaches with executive or party coach interiors that can be used with smaller groups

6. Luggage Space and Restrooms. Most coaches come with underfloor luggage space, overhead parcel racks and restrooms These are pretty much required on overnight tours You may find some cutaway buses with some of these features There are double-deck buses with a higher passenger capacity, but use caution because they most likely will have less luggage space

7 . M o d e r n F e a t u r e s . Wi - F i , e l e c t r i c a l outlets and USB plugs are increasingly stand a r d o n m o d e r n c o a c h e s S o m e t o u r p l a nn e r s i n s i s t o n t h e m b e c a u s e t h e y h a v e p a ss e n g e r s t h a t w a n t o s t a y c o n n e c t e d w i t h t h i e r o f f i c e o r f a m i l y w h i l e t r a v e l i n g T h e y have two interesting advantages One is that it makes your tour guide’s job easier in prov i d i n g e n t e r t a i n m e n t s i n c e p a s s e n g e r s c a n now entertain themselves by bringing a cell p h o n e , i P a d o r l a p t o p T h e s e c o n d i s t h a t t h e s e f e a t u r e s m a y i n c r e a s e t h e n u m b e r o f passengers booked since some people want

to keep connected with their loved ones or o f f i c e

8 . O t h e r A m e n i t i e s a n d F e a t u r e s . What other amenities and features do you require? A working PA system is often first on the list so the tour guide can communicate with the passengers Some tour planners ask for a portable microphone Do you want an entertainment system with monitors so you can show videos? I might note that many of the newer coaches do have various safety systems to make travel safer and more relia b l e Yo u c a n a s k t h e b u s c o m p a n y a b o u t these if you are interested

9. Pick Up Location(s). The bus comp a n y w i l l a s k w h e r e y o u w i l l p i c k u p y o u r group. Will it be one location or more than one location? They will prefer an off-street l o c a t i o n w i t h s u i t a b l e s p a c e f o r t h e b u s i n order to make boarding and existing as safe as possible

1 0 I t i n e ra r y / M i l e a g e The bus company will ask for your itinerary so they know the details of what they need to do Many if not most bus companies charge by the mile T h e y m a y a l s o b e r e l u c t a n t t o c h a n g e t h e itinerary once underway unless there is an emergency.

1 1 . D e p a r t u r e a n d Tr a v e l D a t e s . While some bus companies may be willing t o q u o t e t h e i r b u s r a t e w i t h o u t d a t e s , t h e y s o o n e r o r l a t e r w i l l w a n t t o k n o w y o u r d e p a r t u r e a n d t r a v e l d a t e s s o t h e y c a n s c h e d u l e a p a r t i c u l a r b u s f o r y o u r t r i p I f y o u p l a n t o r u n t h i s p a r t i c u l a r t o u r a g a i n o r s e v e r a l t i m e s i n t h e f u t u r e, t h i s w o u l d b e a g o o d t h i n g t o t e l l t h e m

12. Special Signs or Decorations. Do you have a need for special signs or decorations? Some tour companies want to see their name on the bus if possible You may also want to lightly decorate the interior for special events or themed tours

13 Requested Staff Some bus planners will request a particular driver for some or all of their groups because he has done well i n t h e p a s t o r b e c a u s e h e w o r k s w e l l w i t h specific groups If you are interested in this,

you might want to book your bus as early as possible to make sure that your special driver is available

14. Price and Quality Balance. Tour lanners often vary on this I knew a tour plann e r w h o f e l t t h a t t o p - q u a l i t y d r i v e r s a n d buses were so important that he ended up buying his own buses and training his own d r i v e r s O n t h e o t h e r h a n d , t h e r e a r e t o u r planners who simply take the lowest price Where are you on this question? If is often said that you only get what you pay for, but your passengers may enjoy your tour more if you pay a little more

Recommendations

15. Recommendations. If you are not familiar with a bus company, the best thing you can do is to find companies and organizations that have chartered from them in the past and ask for their recommendations Typical questions include: Were you happy with their service? Were you happy with the bus driver? Did the bus meet your requirements? Did the bus show up on time? Were there any problems along the way? How were communications between you and the bus company? Would you charter from them again? Often, just asking basic questions will bring up items of importance

Looking for a Bus Company

If you have taken the time to go through the questions listed above, you are probably ready to start reaching out to bus companies to see what they can offer you While you can contact these companies by mail, e-mail or phone, I highly recommend that you start by u s i n g t h e p h o n e D o e s a h u m a n b e i n g answer their phone? Were you able to reach and speak to a knowledgeable staff member? If not, you may want to go elsewhere While they may not be able to provide an immediate price and quotation, did they get back to you r e a s o n a b l y p r o m p t l y ? We r e t h e y a b l e t o answer all your questions?

1 6 . W h e re t o l o o k ? I f y o u w e r e l u c k y enough to get good recommendations, you can start with those first IF you want addit i o n a l n a m e s , y o u c a n c h e c k t h e y e l l o w pages, the chamber of commerce or just try t h e I n t e r n e t ( b u s c o m p a n i e s n e a r y o u r town?)

17. Endorsements. If you like what you hear but do not know the company, ask for a list of satisfied customers you can phone While the list they give you may be the customers least likely to complain, it is still worth the time to phone them and ask questions

18. Payment arrangements. Make sure you understand their payment arrangements Some companies may want deposits or payments in advance to reserve a bus for you. Do they want a company check, a credit card or something else? Do they require a deposit for damage?

19. Contract or quote. Do they provide a contract or a quote? What are the provisions if you cancel the trip prior to the depart u r e d a t e ? A r e t h e r e p r ov i s i o n s f o r a p a nd e m i c o r s i m i l a r c r i s i s ? W h o h a n d l e s t h e driver’s accommodations? Does the bus company have any special ruels or regulations? Make sure you go over this with the bus company if you have any questions

20. Communication. Do you have an account executive or someone in the charter d e p a r t m e n t y o u c a n e a s i l y c o m m u n i c a t e with? Did they give you an emergency number so you can reach the bus company office at any time in the event of an emergency?

Regardless of all the prior work and effort, M u r p h y ’s L a w s u g g e s t s t h a t s o m e w h e r e, sometime, something will go wrong Being able to easily reach the bus company office at any time can mean the difference between a problem and a crisis q

MOVING?

P l e a s e l e t u s k n o w a t l e a s t 6 0 d a y s i n a d v a n c e t o e n s u r e t h a t y o u r n e x t i s s u e o f B U S T O U R S

M A G A Z I N E r e a c h e s y o u r n e w address

The National WWII Museum

Looking for a place guaranteed to move a n d e d u c a t e y o u r g r o u p ? T h e N a t i o n a l W W I I M u s e u m i s a r e m a r k a b l e m u s t - s e e a t t r a c t i o n i n N e w O r l e a n s t h a t i l l u m i n a t e s the American experience during World War II Ranked the #1 attraction in New Orleans o n Tr i p A d v i s o r a n d r e c i p i e n t t h r e e y e a r s i n a r o w o f t h e Tr a v e l e r s ’ C h o i c e Aw a r d , the Museum brings history to life with movi n g p e r s o n a l s t o r i e s a n d p o w e r f u l i n t e r a ct i v e d i s p l a y s C o n v e n i e n t l y l o c a t e d i n d o w n t o w n N e w O r l e a n s , o n l y n i n e b l o c k s f r o m t h e F r e n c h Q u a r t e r a n d C a n a l S t r e e t a n d j u s t o n e b l o c k f r o m t h e S t . C h a r l e s S t r e e t c a r l i n e , t h e M u s e u m i s a p e r f e c t c h o i c e f o r g r o u p t o u r s , s t u d e n t t o u r s , o r m i l i t a r y r e u n i o n s T h e N a t i o n a l W W I I M u s e u m ’s e x h i b i t s a r e s e l f - g u i d e d a n d c o v e r t h e e p i c a n d g l o b a l s c a l e o f t h e w a r t h a t c h a n g e d t h e w o r l d , i n a v o i c e t h a t i s i n t i m a t e a n d p e r -

s o n a l , r i g h t i n t h e h e a r t o f N e w O r l e a n s Museum exhibit halls are arranged around central themes of the war, offering visitors a n o p p o r t u n i t y t o e x p e r i e n c e t h e w a r t h r o u g h t h e e y e s o f t h e m e n a n d w o m e n w h o l i v e d i t

Make sure your group also sees Express i o n s o f A m e r i c a , T h e N a t i o n a l W W I I M u s e u m ’s n e w o u t d o o r s o u n d a n d l i g h t s h o w E n j o y a n u n f o r g e t t a b l e e v e n i n g o f m u s i c, s p e c i a l e f f e c t s , a n d e n t e r t a i n m e n t a s p r o j e c t i o n s 9 0 f e e t t a l l t r a n s p o r t y o u b a c k i n t i m e A n i g h t t i m e s p e c t a c u l a r f o r all ages, Expressions of America brings history to life on a grand scale Stunning visuals transform the exterior of the Museum’s b u i l d i n g s a s a c t o r G a r y S i n i s e n a r r a t e s a n i n s p i r i n g g l i m p s e i n t o w h a t l i f e w a s l i k e f o r t h e m e n a n d w o m e n w h o s e r v e d o u r c o u n t r y i n e v e r y w a y i m a g i n a b l e

Group rates are offered for groups of 10 o r m o r e f o r v i s i t s t o t h e M u s e u m a n d B B ’s S t a g e D o o r C a n t e e n B o x l u n c h e s a r e a l s o a v a i l a b l e w i t h a d v a n c e d n o t i c e

To s c h e d u l e y o u r v i s i t , p l e a s e c o n t a c t G r o u p S a l e s a t l e a s t o n e w e e k i n a d v a n c e t o d e t e r m i n e i f y o u r d e s i r e d v i s i t d a t e a n d a r r i v a l t i m e i s a v a i l a b l e P e a k m o n t h s f o r groups are March, April, and May. For tour groups, the Museum offers complimentary admission for tour escort and driver Youth groups are required to have one chaperone f o r e v e r y 1 0 k i d s

We s u g g e s t a m i n i m u m o f t h r e e h o u r s to view Museum galleries Groups may also v i e w t h e 4 D c i n e m a t i c e x p e r i e n c e B e y o n d All Boundaries, and perform as crew members in Final Mission: USS Tang Submarine

E x p e r i e n c e b y a d d i t i o n a l f e e s u b j e c t t o availability. Group Sales will also be happy to assist you with BB’s Stage Door Canteen group reservations and/or group lunch and d i n n e r o p t i o n s a t t h e M u s e u m

To p l a n y o u r g r o u p v i s i t o r f o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t n a t i o n a l w w 2 m u s e u m o r g / g r o u p s , c a l l

5 0 4 - 5 2 8 - 1 9 4 4 x 2 2 2 ( t o l l f r e e 1 - 8 7 7 - 8 1 3 -

3 3 2 9 x 2 2 2 ) , o r e m a i l g r o u p s a l e s @ n a t i o na l w w 2 m u s e u m o r g q

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Moving Ahead With 2023 Tours

9698 W. Judson Road, Polo, Illinois 61064 May/June, 2023