Sight and Sound Theatre’s epic production “David” tells the biblical story of Israel’s shepherd king. Photo courtesy Sight and Sound.
Personal encounters make this Indiana destination a hit. These attractions add to America’s faith-based lineup.
DEPARTMENTS
going on
host city The Cincy Region of Kentucky and Ohio will thrill Going On Faith Conference delegates.
Mac T. Lacy Founder and Publisher
Charles A. Presley
Brian
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Located minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
Near-perfect weather with 300+ sunny days for outdoor activities and exploration
Award-winning hotels at a variety of costs and price points to fit your budget
How do you VALUE Measure ?
BY BRIAN JEWELL
Sometimes value is about much more than money. Whenever you plan travel, you likely keep one eye on the bottom line. And when you’re planning for a group — especially a church group — price can grow in importance, because making your trips as accessible as possible is part of your core mission.
But price shouldn’t be the only thing you consider when choosing destinations, activities or travel vendors. There are many ways to think about value, and each one can impact the success of a trip.
Here are five key measures of value you should consider when planning travel for your church group.
community building
One core component of many church travel programs is to strengthen fellowship among church members — and to attract newcomers from the community around you. So when you consider the time or money members will invest in a trip, evaluate how well that trip will advance your community-building mission. A trip that costs more than normal may be worth the money if it has potential to supercharge friendships among your travelers.
t the end of the day, everything your church does should be about ministry — helping people grow closer to God. A trip is never just a trip but an opportunity to create space for people to have spiritual experiences. Often, those experiences don’t come at any financial costs but do require an investment of time, attention and empathy. Regardless of how else you judge the value and success of a trip, remember to keep ministry impact front and center in your mission. ministry impact
use of time
Idon’t believe time is money, but I do believe time has unique value. After all, you can always earn more money, but you can never get more time. So as you evaluate destinations, itineraries and other travel options, ask yourself whether the opportunity in front of you will be a fruitful use of time for your travelers. For example, an attractively priced trip that uses lots of transit time to keep costs down may not be as good a value as it seems at first blush. Itineraries that make great use of time may be worth a higher price.
service opportunities
The idea of voluntourism has become very fashionable over the past decade or so, but church groups were volunteering on vacation before it was cool. If you have ever been on a mission trip, you know how fulfilling a service-oriented trip can be. And while not every church trip can be a mission trip, every travel excursion could present an opportunity for your group to make a positive impact. Whether it’s volunteering for a morning or simply investing some of your travel dollars in a local organization with a community-minded mission, serving the people and places you’re visiting creates value for host and guest alike.
dream fulfillment
Ibelieve the things we dream about are more than just flights of fancy they can be windows into our hearts that reflect our hopes, values and aspirations. Helping people fulfill their dreams is a sacred privilege. There are likely people in your community that have dreamed of a certain trip — perhaps a Holy Land pilgrimage or a Caribbean cruise — and your church travel program might provide the opportunity for those dreams to come true. Dream trips cost more, but the rewards of helping fulfil someone’s dreams are innumerable.
TWO One RegionStates , Join us for
BY RACHEL CRICK
The Cincy Region spreads between two states and comprises a handful of small communities that provide endless opportunities for faith-based travelers.
Across the Ohio River from Cincinnati and connected via a historic pedestrian bridge, northern Kentucky is a region with 40 communities, including the small towns of Covington, Newport and Florence. The 2025 Going on Faith Conference will take place in the Cincy Region from August 6–8. The official conference hotel will be the Marriott Cincinnati
Airport, a 302-room hotel in Hebron, Kentucky. Delegates to the conference will get to network with other faith travel planners and travel industry suppliers, but they’ll also get to experience the Cincy Region’s attractions, including one of the most popular faith-based attractions in the country.
Two States, Many Communities
The benefit of a regional destination is the variety that multiple communities offer visitors. “We like to say it’s a unique destination because
we are a collection of two states that are easily accessible through one destination,” said Amanda Johanneman, director of destination marketing and communications for meetNKY. “Outside of being a two-state destination, it’s also a collection of small cities that have their own charm.”
In this case, all the accessibility of Cincinnati comes with the signature attractions of northern Kentucky’s small towns and communities.
One such town, Florence, home to the “Florence Y’all” water tower, also features some distinct attractions, including the Full Throttle
The Cincy Region, which includes destinations on the Kentucky and Ohio sides of the Ohio River, will host the 2025 Going On Faith Conference.
Adrenaline Park, which offers everything from axe-throwing to go-karts. Covington, sometimes referred to as the Brooklyn to Cincinnati’s Manhattan, contains a historic downtown, riverfront hotels and chic neighborhoods to explore. And Newport is home to a handful of riverside attractions sure to delight any group. Cincinnati, meanwhile, is known for its arts, culture and sports scene, as well as its metropolitan feel. The benefit to the Cincy Region is access to both sides of the river, and the guarantee they will provide groups with plenty to do.
“We like to say it’s a unique destination because we are a collection of two states that are easily accessible through one destination. Outside of being a two-state destination, it’s also a collection of small cities that have their own charm.”
— AMANDA JOHANNEMAN, MEETNKY
Northern Kentucky scenes, clockwise from left: St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington; Newport on the Levee; Newport Aquarium
BB Riverboats
One of northern Kentucky’s most popular group attractions is BB Riverboats, a riverboat cruise company that lets passengers glide along the Ohio River while enjoying views of the Cincinnati Skyline, great cuisine and onboard entertainment.
“It’s a great way to see the skyline and take in the riverfront cities that make up the Cincy Region on both the Ohio and Kentucky side,” Johanneman said.
Since its first cruise set sail in 1980, BB Riverboats has been a hit with locals and visitors to the Cincy Region. Its flagship riverboat, the Belle of Cincinnati, is a sternwheel riverboat with three decks, including an open-air upper viewing deck perfect for enjoying sunset views or sunny days.
In addition to the Belle of Cincinnati, BB Riverboats has another smaller boat, the River Queen, which features two climate-controlled decks and a covered open-air deck. It’s perfect for private charters, including weddings and events.
Dining cruises offer a full bar and a buffet with delicious, seasonal menus. BB Riverboats even accommodates passengers who follow glutenfree and plant-based diets with a delicious plated option at mealtimes. Dining cruises include brunch, lunch, dinner and ice cream social cruises, and may include onboard entertainment, such as live jazz music. Sightseeing cruises and other themed cruises are also available.
Group rates apply for groups of 15 or more.
In October 2025, an event is coming to the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky riverfronts. America’s River Roots Festival, a festival designed to celebrate the heritage of America’s river towns and their culture, will be held in the region October 8–12. This festival will involve a total of nine riverboats, including the beloved BB Riverboats fleet, as well as other iconic riverboats from other destinations across the country. The festival will offer more than 70 cruises to visitors.
Newport on the Levee
Newport on the Levee is an entertainment district on the banks of the Ohio River in northern Kentucky’s small town of Newport. Once known for its Vegas-style nightclubs and gambling halls and its fair share of shady activity, now it’s a site for wholesome fun, as well as plentiful shopping and dining options.
The top attraction on the Levee is the
Newport Aquarium, which has received numerous accolades and nominations from organizations like Reader’s Digest and USA Today. The 100,000-square-foot facility has exciting experiences throughout for visitors, such as walking through 85 feet of tunnels while marine life like sharks and sting rays swim overhead. There’s also a suspended rope bridge above the shark tank for daring visitors to cross and a gift shop where guests can get nautical souvenirs.
Other popular animals at the aquarium include an assortment of penguins, jellyfish and a giant pacific octopus.
A newer attraction on the Levee is Par 3, a mini-golf venue with an interactive 27-hole course. It also has a restaurant that serves comforting pub fare, including flatbreads, burgers, tacos and even platters for groups.
The Levee also has an esports lounge with new and classic games and a Lego-themed café, as well as plenty of additional dining options. These include classic bar, an ice cream shop, grills and even a food hall.
BB Riverboats sailing near the Cincinnati bank of the Ohio River
Downtown Covington
The Ark Encounter
Located in Williamstown, just a short drive from Cincy Region, is the Ark Encounter, a lifesized Noah’s Ark. It’s one of the top faith attractions in the country, bringing in an estimated 1.5 million visitors each year.
Built to specifications mentioned in the Bible, the massive wooden ark measures in at 510 feet long, 51 feet tall and 85 feet wide with three decks. Inside, it’s a museum with exhibits modeling the biblical story of Noah.
The first deck provides information about the size of the ark and the kinds of animals Noah is believed to have cared for; the second deck focuses on the world before the flood and the events leading up to it; and the third deck features a depiction of Noah’s living quarters and more information about the post-flood world. Groups of 15 or more will enjoy group rates for a visit.
The Ark Encounter encompasses much more than just the recreation of the ark.
“The Ark Encounter has a variety of experiences, lots of family-friend experiences too,” Johanneman said. “It has resident concert performances, ziplining and dining options on-site.”
These additions to the campus make great stops for travelers of all ages. The Ararat Ridge Zoo is home to a variety of animals. Additional animal encounters, such as the behind-thescenes sloth and kangaroo experiences, as well as camel rides, let guests interact with the animals and are available as add-ons.
The ziplines are part of an aerial adventure park that lets guests see the ark’s campus from a new perspective. There’s also a challenge course and a freefall experience — think a bungee jump without the recoil.
The campus also includes the Truth Traveler, a virtual-reality experience that lets visitors explore the past to see what the time of the flood may have been like via virtual reality.
The Ark Encounter and its sister attraction, the Creation Museum, are both part of the Kentucky Faith Trail, which contain numerous sites across the Bluegrass State that are significant to the Christian faith. St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington is also on the trail.
SHIPSHEWANA
Indiana
TRAVEL SNAPSHOT
BY ROBIN ROENKER
For groups seeking authentic and unique, local experiences, Shipshewana, Indiana, delivers in a big way. Here, groups can revel in the talents and craftsmanship of the area’s Amish Country artisans, enjoy some of the region’s best antiquing, or soak in the sights and flavors along curated arts and culinary trails.
Visitors get the opportunity to shop locally and experience the quality of Amish handmade products firsthand, from leather goods, baskets and furniture to Amish peanut butter and pies.
Shipshewana offers visitors a place “to escape and connect and to rejuvenate and refresh,” said Sonya Nash, executive director of the Visit Shipshewana/LaGrange County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Groups can explore Indiana’s Amish Country with experienced hop-on guides provided by Visit Shipshewana — or follow their own route using provided maps and audio guides.
The CVB’s Off the Beaten Path tour weaves across roughly 100 miles of working farms and scenic countryside, with stops marked for more than 120 Amish cottage shops. Groups can explore visitor-favorite locations like Yoder’s Rug Weaving, Silver
Star leatherworking, B Honey and Owl Toy Craft, maker of handmade wooden toys. The route also includes locations for more than 80 Amish Barn Quilts, whose pops of color and artistry add another layer of beauty to the picturesque rural landscape.
“Along these stops, groups can experience Amish craftsmen and women selling their wares directly to the public,” Nash said. “They’ll get to meet the maker, and their kids and grandkids will see, on a personal level, the craftmanship and artisanship and history that goes into the creation of these leather belts, purses and other handmade items.”
Visitors can also sample an array of delicious Amish treats — like pies, pretzels, jams and candies — at many of the area’s Amish shops. Often, groups can meet the makers and bakers to hear their stories and learn about their recipes. At one stop, groups even have the option to make their own Amish peanut butter as a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
“We love welcoming people here,” Nash said. “Our hospitality partners are extremely open to doing all they can to facilitate truly unique experiences for our guests. We’re always open to ideas, so if groups have a special interest or a need, we’re happy to work with them to create their own customized itineraries.”
Amish communities, farms and shops around Shipshewana offer visitors a look into this fascinating culture.
All photos courtesy Visit Shipshewana
ANTIQUING
As the Midwest’s largest outdoor flea market, the Shipshewana Flea Market includes more than 700 vendors spread across a lot the size of 30 football fields. Booths there operate Tuesdays and Wednesdays from May through September, featuring everything from memorabilia and collectibles to tools, clothing and craft décor.
The flea market is also home to a popular antique auction each Wednesday, where antique vendors from throughout the region bustle to grab bargains in six to nine simultaneous, live bidding rings.
Visit Shipshewana has developed multiple ways for groups to dive into the fun of the flea market, from providing scavenger hunts that encourage booth exploration to a hands-on class called Bidding and Bargains, which teaches groups about the cadence of auctions and how to bid — so they can head into the weekly event feeling prepared and unintimidated.
DINING
At mealtime, groups can work with the CVB to schedule authentic, inhome Amish meal experiences at area working farms. Two local-favorite diners, the Blue Gate Restaurant and Bakery and the Shipshewana Auction Restaurant, also offer full menus stocked with both Amish homestyle specialties and other group favorites, from fried chicken and meatloaf to salads and sandwiches.
LaGrange, the county seat, offers a variety of additional dining options — including pizza and barbecue — just a 15-minute drive from Shipshewana.
LODGING
“Shipshewana specializes in locally owned, boutique hotels,” Nash said. The Blue Gate Garden Inn and Farmstead Inn — with 150 rooms each — are skilled in working with larger groups. Both offer free Wi-Fi, bus parking and complimentary buffet breakfasts. The Van Buren Hotel, while smaller in scale, also offers group rates and a deluxe continental breakfast.
For groups focused on antiquing and shopping experiences at the Flea Market, both the Blue Gate and Farmstead are in easy walking distance — allowing visitors the freedom to come and go easily between their hotel room and vendor browsing.
An auction at the Shipshewana Flea Market
Classic Amish fare
A family-style meal at Blue Gate Restaurant
Relaxing by a fire pit at the Blue Gate
CURATED EXPERIENCES
“We have so many customized experiences we can offer groups — from Meet the Makers Tours to Taste of Shipshewana,” Nash said.
The CVB’s curated Once Upon a Farm tour, for example, offers guests the opportunity to explore Amish businessman Mervin Yoder’s vast collection of restored antique tractors and other farm equipment. Guests can see how Yoder uses traditional equipment to churn butter before visiting with a nearby Amish hay farmer to learn how a blend of modern and antique farming methods and equipment supports his day-to-day field operations. The tour ends with a stop at a working Amish dairy farm, where groups can sample the farm’s fresh whole milk.
FARM LIFE
Groups looking for a hands-on farm experience have lots of options as well. Shipshewana’s Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park offers safari-style wagon rides, a petting zoo, and up-close opportunities to feed exotic animals, including zebras, camels, lemurs and more.
At Cook’s Bison Ranch, guests can enjoy a wagon ride to see and feed the farm’s bison herd. Not far away, the Stutzman Dairy Farm — a sixth-generation family farm — allows guests to watch dairy milking in action, meet and bottle-feed baby animals, and experience the farm’s pigs and cows up close.
CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT
Menno-Hof, an attraction in Shipshewana, offers a museum-like exploration of the Amish-Mennonite culture and heritage in the region. Groups can explore displays featuring replicas of a traditional Amish meeting house, a 17th-century sailing ship and more. Guided tours are available.
For evening entertainment, the 1,500-seat Blue Gate Performing Arts Center books a rotating schedule of popular artists and shows — from Beatles and Simon and Garfunkel tribute groups to headliners like ventriloquist Terry Fator, comedian Jay Leno and singer Rhonda Vincent. High-impact visual shows — including iLuminate, Peking Acrobats and The Wizard of Oz on Ice — offer engagement for visitors of all ages.
An Amish farm near Shipshewana
A concert at Blue Gate Performing Arts Center
A hands-on basket weaving experience
VISIT INDIANA’S TOP GROUP DESTINATION
From the authentic and engaging to the quirky and creative, Northern Indiana’s Amish Country o ers memory making experiences for groups of all ages and sizes. Wander scenic backroads along the Heritage Trail enjoying the popular Meet the Makers Amish Tours. Learn how to make Cinnamon Rolls from Elaine, ride in Carolyn’s horse drawn buggy, and laugh at Laverne’s crazy jokes in his basket shop. You’ll have fun and love every minute of these authentic group exclusive experiences in Northern Indiana!
Top o your experience with true Hoosier Hospitality at Das Dutchman Essenhaus. Enjoy delicious Amish-style dining and peaceful carriage rides. Find unique shopping at the Village Shops. Relax in generously-sized guest rooms with complementary deluxe hot breakfast and baggage handling.
See FREE, one-of-a-kind super-sized Quilt Gardens along the Heritage Trail annually May 30 - September 15.
Scan the QR code with your phone to learn more.
SOAKING SPAIN in
SUNSHINE AND CULTURE
MAKE THIS COUNTRY A JEWEL OF THE MEDITERRANEAN
PASSPORT
STAMPS
BY DIANA BOCCO
Spain is a country that pulses with life. Its history is written in grand Moorish palaces, Gothic cathedrals, and sun-drenched plazas where life moves at an unhurried pace. But Spain is not just a place to see — it’s a place to feel. It’s the rhythmic stomp of flamenco echoing through Seville’s streets, the laughter of friends gathered over tapas late into the night, and the quiet awe of standing before a masterpiece by Velázquez or Dalí.
There is a rhythm to life in Spain that is both exciting and relaxed, where time slows down in the afternoon sun but celebrations stretch long into the night. Sun-seekers can enjoy the golden beaches of the Costa del Sol, while adventurers can trek through the peaks of the Pyrenees or surf the wild waves of the Basque coast.
More than just a destination, Spain is an experience — one best savored slowly. It invites visitors to embrace a way of life that celebrates passion, beauty and the joy of the moment.
The ornate Cathedral of Cordoba reflects Spain’s mixed Andalusian and Moorish heritage.
Enjoying paella in Valencia
All photos courtesy Spanish
Essential
DESTINATIONS
MADRID
Spain’s capital is a cultural powerhouse, home to world-famous museums like the Prado and Reina Sofía, where masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez and Picasso can be found. Visitors can explore the grand avenues of the city center, relax in Retiro Park or experience the electric atmosphere of Plaza Mayor. The Royal Palace offers a glimpse into Spain’s regal past, while neighborhoods like La Latina and Malasaña offer lively nightlife, charming cafés, and a mix of historic and modern architecture. Football fans can visit Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, while food lovers can indulge in traditional tapas at Mercado de San Miguel or savor churros at the iconic Chocolatería San Ginés.
BARCELONA
A city of art and innovation, Barcelona is famous for Gaudí’s whimsical architecture, from the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia to the colorful Park Güell. Groups visiting can stroll down La Rambla, take in the sights of the Gothic Quarter or enjoy the city’s golden beaches. For a touch of local flavor, food lovers can explore the Boqueria Market, which offers fresh seafood, cured meats and local delicacies, while soccer fans won’t want to miss a match at Camp Nou. For panoramic views, groups can head to Montjuïc or Tibidabo, and explore neighborhoods like El Born and Gràcia, known for their unique blend of history, local culture and nightlife.
IBIZA
Although often associated with party culture, Ibiza is also home to stunning beaches, charming villages and a rich history. The island’s UNESCOlisted Dalt Vila offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into its past, with cobbled streets and ancient fortifications. Groups can relax on pristine beaches like Cala Comte or explore hidden coves along the coast. Ibiza has a thriving food scene, with seaside restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Balearic dishes. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, snorkeling or boat trips to the nearby island of Formentera for the perfect Mediterranean escape.
Santiago de Compostela is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in the world. The Camino de Santiago, a historic walking route spanning over 500 miles, culminates at the city’s magnificent cathedral, where the remains of St. James are believed to rest. Pilgrims from around the world travel this sacred path for spiritual reflection and personal growth.
Córdoba’s Mezquita is one of Spain’s most remarkable historical landmarks, a place that showcases the city’s rich past as a Roman settlement and later a powerful Moorish caliphate. This UNESCOlisted site blends Islamic and Christian influences, with its iconic red-and-white arches and an ornate cathedral at its center, reflecting centuries of cultural evolution.
Rooted in Valencia’s culinary tradition, paella is Spain’s most iconic dish. From the classic seafood version to the rich chicken variant or one with a modern twist, paella reflects Spain’s love for bold, fresh flavors and communal dining. Other regional specialties include Basque-style cod, Madrid’s cocido stew and the simple but irresistible patatas bravas.
Flamenco, a deeply rooted Spanish tradition, is more than just a dance — it’s a centuries-old art form blending music, movement and storytelling. Groups can experience the raw emotion and energy of flamenco through a live performance, open dance classes or an authentic tablao show. The rhythmic footwork, soulful singing and powerful guitar melodies create an electrifying atmosphere.
SpiritualExperiences
THESE MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS HONOR STORIES OF FAITH
BY ERIN GIFFORD
For faith-based groups, travel can be an opportunity to explore history, engage with sacred texts and experience biblical stories in new ways.
From the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibition at the Reagan Presidential Library to immersive biblical theater at Sight and Sound, here are five must-visit destinations that offer profound insights into religious history and traditions.
Courtesy Lake Mead Cruses
At the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library’s Dead Sea Scrolls exhibition, visitors can see pottery used to preserve the scrolls in Judean caves for centuries.
Courtesy Museum of the Bible
Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C.
Dead Sea Scrolls Exhibition
Reagan Presidential Library and Museum
SIMI VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
At the Reagan Presidential Library and Museum in Simi Valley, California, the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibition is a rare opportunity to view eight authentic Dead Sea Scrolls, ancient Jewish manuscripts discovered in caves near the Dead Sea. Dating back more than 2,000 years, these papyrus parchments shed light on the Second Temple period and the evolution of biblical texts, making them among the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century.
“This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime exhibition,” said Melissa Giller, chief marketing officer for the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute. “Some artifacts have never left Israel. These artifacts give you this understanding of the culture and history and the religious practices of ancient Judaism and the formation of Christianity.”
The opening gallery delves into the shared heritage of Judaism and Christianity through more than 200 artifacts. Highlights include ancient pottery pieces once used for cooking and storing food, even protecting the sacred scrolls in the Judean caves. A two-ton section of Jerusalem’s Western Wall, believed to have fallen in A.D. 70, is also featured in the exhibition.
Interactive touchscreens allow visitors to explore the origins and significance of these texts in greater depth. The exhibition runs through September 2, with guided tours and group discounts available for parties of 25 or more. An on-site café is open daily for lunch, and a pub welcomes guests on weekends. Groups can take advantage of organized dining options that range from boxed lunches to a sit-down experience that replicates a White House meal.
REAGANLIBRARY.GOV
Truth Traveler
BRANSON, MISSOURI AND PIGEON FORGE, TENNESSEE
Opening this summer in both Branson, Missouri, and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Truth Traveler is a state-of-the-art attraction designed to transport guests back in time to key moments in biblical history, including the Great Flood and the birth of Jesus Christ. Using advanced sensory effects, haptics and motion benches, the experience bring these stories to life for visitors.
Building on the success of A Flood of Reality, a virtual reality-based attraction that debuted in 2020 at the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky, Truth Traveler promises an even more dynamic and engaging experience.
“We’re excited to come to both Pigeon Forge and Branson,” said Eddie Lutz, director of sales for Truth Traveler. “These destinations have huge faith-based followings, and we believe this immersive attraction will really connect with these communities.”
In Pigeon Forge, guests can experience The Reality of the Promise, an 18-minute VR ride preceded by an animatronic-enhanced preshow. A 20-minute planetarium show follows that explores the wonders of creation and the universe.
Temple artifacts on display at Reagan Library
Reality of the Promise props at Truth Traveler in Pigeon Forge
Courtesy Truth Traveler
Courtesy Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute
Meanwhile, in Branson, Truth Traveler will be housed in the former Andy Williams Moon River Theater. Instead of a planetarium, guests will continue their journey in a 1,200-seat theater with Fear Not, a 15-minute projection-based show that expands on the VR experience, focusing on the moment God stepped into time as Jesus Christ. Discounts are available for groups of 15 or more.
TRUTHTRAVELER.COM
Museum of the Bible WASHINGTON, D.C.
In Washington, D.C., just two blocks from the National Mall, the Museum of the Bible offers visitors an in-depth look at the history, impact and stories of the Scripture. Spanning 430,000 square feet, this museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts covering 4,000 years of history, including handwritten scrolls, early printed Bibles and even Elvis Presley’s personal Bible.
“We want people to experience the transformative power of the Bible,” said Matthias Walther, chief marketing officer for the Museum of the Bible. “We hope that people don’t just get smarter, but that they experience something that changes the way they look at the world, the way they look at God, the way they live their lives.”
Permanent exhibits include a 30-minute immersive experience that guides guests through narratives of the Hebrew Bible, as well as a collection of global Bible translations. A long-term special exhibit explores the archaeology and history of ancient Israel. The 472-seat World Stage Theater hosts concerts, musicals and guest speakers throughout the year.
Visitors can also tap into premium experiences at the Museum of the Bible. All Creation Sings is a 45-minute immersive worship experience, while Explore! is a nine-minute virtual reality journey that transports guests to 19 biblical sites in Israel, from flying over the Sea of Galilee to climbing the steps of the Temple Mount.
Groups of 10 or more receive special admission rates and can request an arrival host for expedited museum entry. Private group tours are available, including one led by costumed interpreters that takes visitors into a first-century Nazareth village, offering a glimpse into daily life from that era. Boxed lunches can be arranged for groups.
MUSEUMOFTHEBIBLE.ORG
“We want people to experience the transformative power of the Bible We hope that people don’t just get smarter, but that they experience something that changes the way they look at the world, the way they look at God, the way they live their lives.”
— MATTHIAS WALTHER, MUSEUM OF THE BIBLE
Sight and Sound Theatres LANCASTER, PENNSYLVANIA AND BRANSON, MISSOURI
Sight and Sound Theatres brings biblical stories to life on stage with large-scale productions in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and Branson, Missouri. The theaters captivate audiences with faith-based performances that feature elaborate sets, original music and live animals.
“Our productions are extremely immersive,” said Kortney Neal, marketing and community relations manager for Sight and Sound. “So when you come to our theater you’re going to feel like you’re part of these biblical productions. We have a 300-foot wrap-around stage, a huge super-talented cast and the sweetest animal friends that will be running through the aisles.”
In Lancaster, audiences can experience “Noah” (March 13–December 31), a dramatic retelling of the flood story. The production features a towering four-story ark, mesmerizing visual effects and more than 40 live animals, from camels and donkeys to skunks and geese.
Meanwhile, in Branson, “David” (March 8–January 3, 2026) follows the rise of the shepherd-turned-king, featuring battle scenes, Philistine soldiers and wild animals, along with dramatic special effects and original music. A highlight of the show is Goliath, a 14-foot-tall animatronic giant weighing 800 pounds. As a special touch, David plays a custom-made harp live on stage.
SIGHT-SOUND.COM
A view of the U.S. Capitol from the Museum of the Bible
Museum of Biblical Art DALLAS
The Museum of Biblical Art invites visitors to explore faith, history and artistic expression through its three distinct museums, including the National Center for Jewish Art and the Museum of Holocaust Art, the first institution dedicated to teaching the Holocaust through artwork.
Inside, visitors will find an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, rare books and lithographs that depict biblical stories from both the Old Testament and New Testament. Notable artists such as Salvador Dali, Marc Chagall and Michelangelo offer personal interpretations of religious themes.
Beyond the galleries, the museum’s outdoor spaces offer an equally compelling experience. The Spirit of Abstraction sculpture garden showcases modern industrial and abstract works, while the Via Dolorosa sculpture garden presents larger-than-life bronze statues depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross, offering a visual journey through Christ’s path to crucifixion.
For those eager to dive deeper, self-guided audio tours are available for an additional fee, providing insights into key exhibitions and sculptures. Docent-led tours can be arranged for groups of 15 or more, offering a 15- to 30-minute introduction to the museum’s collections. Discounted group admission is available at $15 per person for access to all three museums. The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
BIBLICALARTS.ORG
Courtesy Sight and Sound
Courtesy Museum of the Bible
“Little David” on stage at Sight and Sound Theatre in Branson
GUIDED
DISCOVERIES
THESE TOURS SHOWCASE TREASURES OF THE SMALL-TOWN SOUTH
BY PAULA AVEN GLADYCH
The South is home to more than just famous cities and well-known historic landmarks. Scattered across its rolling hills, riverbanks and cobblestone streets are small towns brimming with history, mystery and charm. These places tell their own stories — of boomtowns, battlefields, literary legends and ghostly pasts — offering visitors a rich, immersive experience unlike any other.
For groups that want to go beyond the well-trodden paths, these small-town tours provide a deeper connection to Southern heritage. Whether it’s walking through underground tunnels, following in the footsteps of Mark Twain or driving past Creole plantations, each experience offers a glimpse into a forgotten or hidden past.
Courtesy Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum
Groups visiting Hannibal can walk in the footsteps of a celebrated American author at the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum.
Underground exhibits in Eureka Springs Courtesy Main Street Eureka Springs
UNDERGROUND WALKING TOURS
EUREKA SPRINGS, ARKANSAS
Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is a town built on mystery, magic and the promise of healing waters. Hidden beneath its Victorian-era buildings and winding streets lies a network of underground pathways that tell the story of its boomtown days in the late 19th century.
The Downtown-N-Underground Tour peels back the layers of this historic town, taking visitors beneath the sidewalks and into a world of secret passageways, Prohibitionera speakeasies and forgotten storefronts. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour shares how Eureka Springs’ natural hot springs attracted visitors seeking miracle cures.
“This tour runs year-round and offers an exclusive look beneath the surface — both literally and historically — into the hidden world of Eureka Springs’ underground springs, architecture and legends,” said Jackeline Wolven, director of Main Street Eureka Springs.
Visitors hear tales of con artists selling bottled “healing” water, the engineering challenges of building a town on a mountainside, and the hidden stories of outlaws and drifters who once passed through. In addition to learning how shifting street levels turned first-floor storefronts into today’s underground passageways, Wolven said there are plenty of stories to be told about outlaws, Prohibition-era secrets and the resilience of a town built into the Ozark hills.
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EUREKASPRINGS.COM
CIVIL WAR-INSPIRED TOURS
VICKSBURG, MISSISSIPPI
Few towns in the South are as steeped in Civil War history as Vicksburg, Mississippi. Known as the “Key to the South,” Vicksburg was the site of a crucial 47-day siege that turned the tide of the war. Today, visitors can step into the past with tours that explore its battlefields, antebellum homes and Civil War-era landmarks.
The Vicksburg National Military Park Tour takes visitors through the preserved battlefields, where more than 1,300 monuments and markers tell the story of the Union siege. Groups can arrange guided tours with historians who bring the battle’s strategy, sacrifices and turning points to life. The park also features the USS Cairo, a restored Civil War ironclad that was sunk by Confederate torpedoes and later recovered from the Yazoo River.
For a different perspective, the Old Court House Museum Tour offers a look into the social and political climate of the time, showcasing artifacts from Jefferson Davis, Ulysses S. Grant and other Civil War figures.
VISITVICKSBURG.COM
A memorial at Vicksburg Military Park
Courtesy Vicksburg CVB
By Megan Kirk, courtesy Main Street Eureka Springs
Exploring Eureka Springs
MARK TWAIN-THEMED TOURS HANNIBAL, MISSOURI
Few American writers are as beloved as Mark Twain, and the town of Hannibal, Missouri, preserves his legacy with immersive, interactive tours. As the birthplace of Samuel Clemens (who took the pen name Mark Twain), Hannibal is the setting that inspired Twain’s most famous novels.
The Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum Tour lets visitors step inside the home where Twain grew up, wander through the Becky Thatcher House, and explore interactive exhibits featuring handwritten manuscripts and personal artifacts.
“We have eight properties that are included in the price of admission,” said Mark Schneider, development and marketing manager for the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum. “Visitors can tour the home and other historic properties that inspired the iconic stories ‘The Adventures of Tom Sawyer’ and ‘Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.’”
Guests can also tour the homes of the real-life people who would eventually be depicted as Becky Thatcher, Huckleberry Finn and Aunt Polly in the American classics.
“The interpretive center and museum gallery have interactive exhibits for everyone in the group,” Schneider said. “Visitors can step into Twain’s beloved books by exploring a cave with Tom, catching a raft with Huck and Jim, and serving as a knight in King Arthur’s Court. Guests can even step behind the captain’s wheel and be the pilot of a Mississippi riverboat.”
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CANE RIVER NATIONAL HERITAGE TRAIL NATCHITOCHES, LOUISIANA
The oldest town in Louisiana, Natchitoches, is rich in Creole culture, plantation history and Southern charm. One of the best ways to experience its heritage is by driving the Cane River National Heritage Trail, a scenic route that winds through historic plantations, Creole churches and breathtaking landscapes. For groups, this can be done with step-on guides who offer indepth insights into the area’s history and culture.
One of the most fascinating stops along the way is the Melrose Plantation, where visitors can walk through
beautifully preserved rooms, hear stories of its Creole owners and learn about the famed artist Clementine Hunter, who once lived and worked there. The site offers guided tours that focus on plantation life, Creole culture and Hunter’s celebrated artwork.
Other highlights along the trail include the Cane River Creole National Historical Park, which showcases preserved homes, former slave quarters and historical exhibits detailing Louisiana’s complex past. Groups can arrange private tours at many of the plantations for a more in-depth experience.
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CIVIL WAR, LEGENDS AND GHOST TOURS FRANKLIN, TENNESSEE
Franklin, Tennessee, is a town with a past that refuses to fade. Known for its pivotal role in the Civil War, it also carries a reputation for eerie legends and ghostly encounters. Groups can explore both sides of its history through a range of walking tours that bring its stories to life.
“Our most popular public tour is our nightly Grim and Ghostly,” said Alicia King Marshall, owner of Franklin Walking Tours. “This covers our true crime and haunted history. Private group versions of this can be arranged with
By Thomas Meredith, courtesy
CRNHT
Louisiana’s Cane River National Heritage Trail
Mark Twain Boyhood Home in Hannibal
Courtesy Franklin Tours
Franklin Walking Tours cast
Courtesy Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum
A SACRED SPACE IN GEORGIA.
A Significant Historic Landmark.
This historic cemetery is home to Confederate soldiers� unmarked graves of those thought to be formerly enslaved� as well as Horace King� a former slave who rose to become an accomplished engineer� bridge builder� and state legislator� This memorial honors the lives of those laid to rest there and features an interpretive pavilion� walkways� seating areas� and one of only five remaining King covered bridges� The significance of the site in our collective history is not to be understated� Come explore some of the stories that helped shape our future� VisitLaGrange.com/Mulberry Oh, The Stories You’ll Tell
Mulberry Street Cemetery, Coming in 2025
tamer content, a visit to our historic cemetery or a less scary day walk.”
Groups can also book specialized tours, such as the Legends and Lore tour, which explores local myths, famous residents, and forgotten tales from Tennessee’s past.
“We tailor our private tours to fit each group,” King Marshall said. “That said, most visitors want an overview of the Battle of Franklin with a walk down our charming Main Street. We don’t hold back. We not only tell our guests what happened on that fateful day in 1864, we also walk them past the houses that were turned into field hospitals where soldiers were lost and saved.”
For first-time visitors who want to discover the “lighter” side of Franklin, King Marshall said their guides love leading the VIP History and Shopping Spree.
“It’s pretty much a party walk through our historic district,” she said. “Local shop owners offer our guests special perks, discounts and gifts with purchases. We share bits of history as we go. Your group can expect to go home with unique books, clothing, jewelry, art and treasured photos, too. There’s a reason so many films, music videos and commercials have been shot here — we have the best backdrops.”
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HISTORIC AND NATURE TOURS FRONT ROYAL, VIRGINIA
Tucked away in the Shenandoah Valley, the town of Front Royal, Virginia, offers a mix of historical walking tours and nature excursions, making it a perfect destination for history lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The past comes alive with tours that explore its Civil War history and architectural heritage. Groups can explore significant sites such as the Warren Rifles Confederate Museum and historic Main Street buildings dating back to the 18th century. These tours highlight key locations where battles were fought, spies operated and soldiers marched, offering a vivid glimpse into the town’s role during the Civil War.
Beyond its war-torn past, Front Royal also serves as the gateway to Shenandoah National Park, and guided nature tours lead groups to stunning overlooks, waterfalls and wildlife-filled trails.
DISCOVERFRONTROYAL.COM
INSPIRATIONAL
FIGURES
WALK IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THESE SOUTHERN LEGENDS
BY PAULA AVEN GLADYCH
The South has produced some of the most courageous and influential figures in American history. Their lives were filled with resilience, vision and a determination to shape the world for the better. Today, their legacies are preserved in museums, historic homes and landmarks where visitors can walk in the footsteps of greatness.
Whether it’s standing at the pulpit where Martin Luther King Jr. preached, touching the famous water pump where Helen Keller first understood language or exploring the fort tied to John Brown’s raid, each stop brings history to life in an unforgettable way.
Here’s a look at some of the most inspiring figures from the Southern states and the places where their remarkable stories unfold.
Courtesy Mary Todd Lincoln House
Groups can tour the restored home of a former first lady at Lexington’s Mary Todd Lincoln House.
An exhibit at the Billy Graham Library Courtesy Billy Graham Evangelistic Assoc.
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK
ATLANTA
Atlanta is often called the cradle of the Civil Rights Movement, and no place embodies this history more than the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. This 35-acre site preserves the places that shaped Martin Luther King Jr., from his humble beginnings to his rise as one of the world’s most influential leaders.
The park encompasses several key sites, starting with King’s childhood home, a modest two-story house where he grew up learning the values of faith, equality and perseverance. Tours of the home, led by National Park Service rangers, transport visitors back to the 1930s and ’40s, offering an intimate glimpse into the environment that shaped King in his younger years.
Just a short walk away, visitors can sit in the pews where King once preached alongside his father at the Ebenezer Baptist Church. Other highlights include the King Center, where visitors can pay their respects at the final resting place of King and his wife, Coretta, and the Freedom Hall exhibition, which displays artifacts from King’s life, including personal letters, speeches and photographs from pivotal moments in the Civil Rights Movement.
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BILLY GRAHAM LIBRARY CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA
A towering figure in modern evangelical Christianity, Billy Graham spent decades preaching to millions around the globe. His simple yet powerful message of faith and hope transcended denominations, making him one of the most influential religious leaders of the 20th century.
The Billy Graham Library in Charlotte offers an immersive look into his life and ministry. Designed to resemble a dairy barn in honor of Graham’s humble beginnings, the library is part museum, part spiritual retreat.
Visitors can explore multimedia exhibits, including rare footage of Graham’s crusades, personal letters and memorabilia from his travels. The Journey of Faith tour takes guests through significant moments in his life, from his calling to his meetings with world leaders. Outside, guests can visit the peaceful prayer garden, where Billy and Ruth Graham were laid to rest.
Group visits are welcomed, with guided tours, private event spaces and special screenings available for church groups and organizations. Seasonal events, including Christmas celebrations, draw thousands of visitors each year.
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IVY GREEN (HELEN KELLER BIRTHPLACE) TUSCUMBIA, ALABAMA
Helen Keller’s story is one of resilience, determination and triumph over adversity. Born in 1880 in the small town of Tuscumbia, Alabama, she lost both her sight and hearing as an infant. With the guidance of her devoted teacher, Anne Sullivan, Keller shattered expectations, learning to communicate and becoming a trailblazing advocate for people with disabilities.
Visitors to Ivy Green, her childhood home, can explore the beautifully preserved 19th-century white clapboard house, which contains original furniture, family belongings and rare photographs of Keller’s early life. The museum also showcases her Braille books, writing slates and other personal effects.
The most famous spot on the property is the water pump, where Anne Sullivan helped Helen Keller realize that the word “water” represented something real. It remains a powerful symbol of learning and resilience.
Tour groups can reserve guided experiences. During the summer, the site also hosts “The Miracle Worker” outdoor play, a reenactment of Keller’s early years, performed in the very place where her journey began.
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Photos courtesy Explore Georgia
Exploring exhibits at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
Martin Luther King Jr.’s historic Ebeneezer Baptist Church in Atlanta
Courtesy Ivy Green
Helen Keller’s Ivy Green
Invite your group to discover a powerful story of hope at the Billy Graham Library. Together, you can retrace Billy Graham’s journey of faith as you explore multimedia presentations, displays, photos, and memorabilia. Come see what God can do through a life that is fully surrendered to Him.
MARY TODD LINCOLN HOUSE
LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY
Behind every great leader stands a strong partner, and for President Abraham Lincoln, that was Mary Todd Lincoln. Raised in a wealthy Kentucky family, Mary Todd Lincoln was known for her intelligence, political insight and complex personality.
Her childhood home, the Mary Todd Lincoln House in Lexington, provides a window into the life of one of America’s most influential first ladies. The restored 14-room house features period furnishings, family heirlooms, and exhibits detailing her life before, during, and after the White House years.
“This is the first historic site dedicated to a first lady and tells the story of Mrs. Lincoln’s entire life — one that was full of triumphs and tragedies,” said Gwen Thompson, executive director at the Mary Todd Lincoln House. “She was intelligent and vivacious, devoted to her husband and children, and in the national spotlight during the most tumultuous time in our nation’s history. From the deaths of three children to her family being divided during the Civil War, her life was full of drama.”
Guided tours take visitors through Mary’s world, exploring her role in politics, her personal struggles and her lasting impact.
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JOHN BROWN’S FORT HARPERS FERRY, WEST VIRGINIA
Tucked into the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, Harpers Ferry is a quiet West Virginia town that was once the site of one of the most defining events leading up to the Civil War. It was here, in 1859, that John Brown, a radical abolitionist, led an armed raid on the federal arsenal, hoping to ignite a rebellion against slavery. Though his plan ultimately failed, his actions shook the nation, hastening the divide between North and South.
Perhaps the most famous landmark of the raid is John Brown’s Fort, a small brick firehouse that became the site of his last stand. Today, it serves as a museum and interpretive site for visitors looking to understand Brown’s impact on American history. In addition to exhibits detailing Brown’s raid, its aftermath, and its legacy, the building also offers artifacts, including period weaponry and letters from Brown himself.
For groups and history buffs, ranger-led tours and storytelling programs provide a deeper understanding of Brown’s motivations and the significance of the raid. National Park Service rangers regularly lead walking tours that explore not only the fort but also other key locations tied to the 1859 insurrection, including the armory grounds and the site of Brown’s trial and execution.
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MODJESKA MONTEITH SIMKINS HOUSE
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA
A champion for social justice, Modjeska Monteith Simkins was a driving force in the Civil Rights Movement in South Carolina. As a teacher, public health advocate and NAACP leader, she fought tirelessly against racial and economic injustice. She played a pivotal role in the South Carolina NAACP and was instrumental in Briggs v. Elliott, a landmark school desegregation case that helped lay the foundation for Brown v. Board of Education.
Her home, a simple yet significant one-story house in Columbia, South Carolina, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, served as a hub of activism and a safe space for those fighting for equality, where she strategized legal battles, hosted civil rights leaders, and fought for justice in an era of profound racial inequality. Today, groups visiting the Modjeska Monteith Simkins House can learn about the pivotal role she and other South Carolina activists played in the early Civil Rights Movement.
“Before Montgomery, Birmingham or Selma became synonymous with the movement, Columbia, South Carolina, and in particular Simkins’ home, played host to organizers and attorneys seeking a legal path to break Jim Crow,” said Kat Allen, director of education and interpretation at the Modjeska Monteith Simkins House.
In addition to original furnishings, historical documents and personal artifacts, the house also showcases personal letters, media interviews, newspapers and boycott flyers that contextualize the courage needed and sacrifices made by Black citizens in hopes of a more equal society.
Guided tours of the house look deep into Simkins’ activism, her collaborations with national civil rights leaders and her impact on South Carolina politics.
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Courtesy
NPS
Exploring the Modjeska Monteith Simkins House
Courtesy Modjeska Monteith Simkins House
Harper’s Ferry National Historical Park
CATHEDRAL BASILICA OF THE ASSUMPTION, COVINGTON
YOUR VOYAGE AWAITS
Add an unforgettable destination to your tour. Prepare for a thrilling adventure through biblical history at our life-size Noah’s Ark, located just south of Cincinnati.
