The Group Travel Leader Summer 2020

FA B U LO U S FA LL TR A I N S

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OKLAHOMA OUTDOORS

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AN ILLINOIS SAMPLER

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SUMMER 2020

Other historical attractions explain the what.

We also shine a light on the why.

COMIN G 2021 PH ILAD EL PHIA , PA To learn more, call 215.309.0316 or visit faithandliberty.org/grouptours.

Handheld lamp guests receive to interact with immersive American history exhibits, giving visitors an experience that’s informed, inspired and personalized like never before.

M6ake Waves2

in Myrtle Beach

MyrtleB80ea0.4ch88.Groups.com 8998

Fresh Itineraries | Diverse Accommodation | Live Entertainment | History & Nature Coastal Carolina Cuisine | Incredible Shopping | Southern Hospitality

CONTENTS

GROUP TH E

TRAVEL LEADER

CHARTING THE EVOLUTION OF GROUP TR AVEL

COLU M NS

N EWS

6 Editor’s Marks

8 Family Matters 10 Travel Recovery Survey

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O N T H E COV E R

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Illinois Spotlight

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Myrtle Beach

VOL 30 | ISSUE 6

Fall Trains

America’s group travel influencers are anxious to hit the road again, and we hope you’ll join us.

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O UTDO O RS IN O KL A H OMA

Get off the beaten path to discover these Volunteer State treasures.

These scenic spaces and outdoor attractions will scratch your travel itch.

K E LLY T Y N E R 888.253.0455

MAC T. LACY CHARLES A. PRESLEY BRIAN JEWELL HERBERT SPARROW DONIA SIMMONS KELLY TYNER

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BAC K ROAD T EN NES S EE

Founder and Publisher Partner VP & Executive Editor Senior Writer Creative Director VP, Sales & Marketing

KYLE ANDERSON ASHLEY RICKS ELIZA MYERS MELISSA RILEY CHRISTINE CLOUGH

kelly@grouptravelleader.com

Director of Advertising Sales Graphic Design & Circulation Associate Editor Accounting Manager Copy Editor

The GROUP TRAVEL LEADER is published ten times a year by THE GROUP TRAVEL LEADER, Inc., 301 East High St., Lexington, Kentucky 40507, and is distributed free of charge to qualified group leaders who plan travel for groups of all ages and sizes. THE GROUP TRAVEL LEADER serves as the official magazine of GROUP TRAVEL FAMILY, the organization for traveling groups. All other travel suppliers, including tour operators, destinations, attractions, transportation companies, hotels, restaurants and other travel-related companies may subscribe to THE GROUP TRAVEL LEADER by sending a check for $59 for one year to: THE GROUP TRAVEL LEADER, Circulation Department, 301 East High St., Lexington, KY 40507. Phone (859) 2530455 or (859) 253-0503. Copyright THE GROUP TRAVEL LEADER, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of editorial or graphic content in any manner without the written consent of the publisher is prohibited.

different times call for different destinations.

W h e n yo u d i g a l i t t l e d e e p e r i n t o

O u t h e re , g r e a t f o o d a n d m u s i c

looking to escape the crowds and

the culture and history of this

abound. Amazing architecture and

discover something they can call

re g i o n , i t l e a d s t o s o m e i n t e re s t i n g

p r i m o rd i a l w i l d l i f e m a ke i t f e e l l i ke

their own. So check us out, and see

p l a c e s — l i ke Ne w O r l e a n s P l a n t a t i o n

yo u’v e l e f t t h e c o u n t r y w i t h o u t e v e r

w hy t h i s “d i f f e r e n t ” d e s t i n a t i o n i s

Co u n t r y. A s h o r t d r i v e o u t o f t h e

l e av i n g yo u r c a r. B u t w h a t ’s m o s t

o n e yo u’ l l b e r av i n g a b o u t f o r ye a r s .

hustle and bustle changes everything

d i f f e re n t i s o u r p a c e a n d s p a c e .

yo u t h o u g h t yo u k n e w a b o u t t h e

Everything is slowed down, spread

immerse yourself #outhere

t y p i c a l Ne w O r l e a n s v a c a t i o n .

out and custom-tailored for those

visitnopc.com

EDITOR’S MARKS

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BY BRIAN JEWELL

t’s only halfway over, but 2020 has already given people plenty of reasons not to travel. But considering the challenges we are all facing — individually and collectively — I think staying home right now is exactly the wrong thing to do.

Here are 10 compelling reasons why you and your groups should be traveling in 2020 and beyond.

Travel helps your mental health.

Sometimes, your brain just needs a break from daily routines and familiar surroundings. If you’ve spent the past few months at home, that’s truer now than ever.

Travel breaks the news cycle.

When you’re in the middle of a great trip, it’s hard to keep up with the headlines. In a year full of negative press, we could all use a bit of distance from the news.

Travel supports communities.

Cities and towns all over the country depend on travel and tourism to provide jobs. Traveling is one of the best ways to help our economy recover.

Travel restores the soul.

Getting away to beautiful places helps center you and remind you that the world is full of good, especially when you’ve spent too much time surrounded by bad.

Travel creates memories.

Chances are the first part of this year has left you with a lot of bad memories. It’s time to start replacing them with better ones.

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Travel fosters friendship.

After months of isolation, we’re all sorely in need of human interaction. FaceTime and Zoom don’t hold a candle to taking a trip with people you love.

Travel breaks down barriers.

As Mark Twain famously wrote, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness.” It makes us all better people.

Travel builds bridges.

The more time you spend visiting unknown people and faraway places, the more you’ll come to realize there is far more uniting us than dividing us.

Travel makes you grateful.

Seeing how other people live will also help you see your life in a new light. At the end of any trip, you’ll realize that Dorothy was right — there really is no place like home.

Travel is worth the risk.

We all want to be safe and healthy. But safety is never a guarantee — on the road or at home. The best things in life always come with some amount of risk. And the risks of travel are far outweighed by its rewards.

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WHEN YOU’RE READY TO RALLY,

WE’RE HERE TO HELP.

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A M E R I C A’ S C A S T L E S

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W H E R E T H E W E S T WA S WO N

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888-253-0455

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MAY 2020

FAMILY M AT T E R S

J UMP START YO UR PRO GR A M

PHOTOS BY DAN DICKSON

AT A G R E AT C O N F E R E N C E

Group travel planners can restart their programs with education and networking at Select Traveler Conference and Going On Faith Conference in Wichita this August. of the travel they provide.”

SALEM, Ohio — It goes without saying that this has been the most trying time of our lives, The best way to get your group back on the road inside tourism and out. Now it is up to us — the is through networking with fellow travel planners drivers of group tourism — to chart our futures, and travel industry members. Our company orgaas well as the future of group travel. nizes four gatherings that focus on helping group Group leaders and travel planners, you have the leaders, and they all are scheduled to meet this year; we invite you to join them. responsibility of keeping travel as part of your communities’ quality of life. It is not enough that you The Select Traveler Conference will be held this think of yourselves as travel planners. Now, more August in Wichita, Kansas, and we invite all travel than ever, you must recognize that you provide an planners of bank clubs, alumni groups, chambers CHARLIE PRESLEY invisible and valuable service to your members: of commerce and other upscale travel groups to human interaction. attend. Also held this August in Wichita will be the Going On We at The Group Travel Family know 25,000 group travel Faith Conference for church and faith-based groups. Together, planners who improve and influence the lives of over 5 million over 400 travel planners and travel industry delegates will attend. group travelers. Group leaders have a community of travel folBoomers In Groups will bring together travel planners for lowers that need them. So now is the time to ramp up your efforts mature groups at its meeting, held this November and hosted by and get your group back on the road, for the good of the travel Explore Gwinnett in the Atlanta Metro area. It will be joined industry and the good of your members. by the African American Travel Conference. Between the two conferences, 300 are expected to register.

“I speak with group leaders daily who are amazed at the Make the commitment to attend one of these travel meetings positive response of their members and the welcome response received when it is announced that a new trip is scheduled,” said today. Your community members are looking to you for leadership; Charlie Presley, founder of The Group Travel Family. “Most attending a travel conference will get you started. group leaders are volunteers and focus on the travel aspect while Register today toll-free at 800-628-0993 or honeywell@ not giving themselves enough credit for the psychological value grouptravelfamily.com.

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START YOUR COMEBACK WITH OUR BUYER’S GUIDE The Group Travel Leader will publish its annual Buyers Guide issue in September as many travel groups begin reasserting their travel independence.

For more than 25 years, this annual planning resource has defined travel opportunities and options for groups for the year ahead.

“The timing could not be better for this huge undertaking this year,” said vice president and executive editor Brian Jewell. “The fall of 2020 is being looked at by many observers as a realistic launch point for Americans’ reentry into the realm of travel. It’s an exciting time for all of us in this great industry as we begin our journey toward travel recovery.”

The Buyers Guide will include in-depth interviews with major trade association leaders, suggestions for travel options that will play well with reemerging travelers, issues to be confronted as groups travel again, and other key topics. Thousands of travel planners look to this issue each year for guidance.

“Hopefully, many travel companies and destinations can begin to recover what they’ve lost these past several months,” said sales and marketing vice president Kelly Tyner. “We have all been impacted in what began as a remarkable year for travel and travel destinations. I look forward to working with anyone and everyone who is able to begin marketing to groups again.”

For advertising information contact Kelly Tyner or Kyle Anderson by email at kelly@ grouptravelleader.com or kyle@grouptravelleader.com or call 888-253-0455.

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G R O U P T R AV E L L E A D E R . C O M

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Groups Plan to

travel again in 2020 I N D U S T RY

Most travel planners expect to resume operating group trips in 2020, a new survey by The Group Travel Leader finds, and most travel industry organizations believe they will be ready to welcome groups to their destinations by late summer or early fall.

The survey was completed the week before Memorial Day by about 80 travel planners and more than 65 travel industry organizations.

The survey asked group travel planners, “When do you expect to begin taking groups on trips again?” Just over half of respondents said they expect to resume traveling in the summer or early fall: 19% said they plan to travel in July or August, and 34% said they expect to take trips in September or October.

Another 20% of travel planners said they plan to travel in November or December, which brings the total of groups planning to travel in 2020 to 73%. Only 27% said they didn’t expect to begin traveling again until 2021.

“I’ve maintained all along that the travel industry as a whole will be much more resilient than many observers have projected,” said Mac Lacy, president and publisher of The Group Travel Leader. “So, too, will the group travel industry. We’re all familiar with the term early adopters.

We will see a similar dynamic take hold in the coming months for travel in general and for group travel. Our early adopters will be back on group trips much sooner than some others will. I think these responses reflect that.”

The survey asked a similar question of travel industry professionals at destination marketing organizations (DMOs), attractions and other tourism supplier organizations. When asked “When do you expect your destination to be ready to welcome groups again?” 87% of respondents said they would be ready in summer or early fall, 70% answered that they could host groups in July or August, and an additional 17% said they would be ready in September or October.

Only 8% of travel industry respondents said they wouldn’t be able to host groups until 2021.

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WHEN DO YOU EXPECT YOUR DESTINATION TO BE READY TO WELCOME GROUPS AGAIN? NOVEMBER OR DECEMBER

8.5%

5 .1 % 2021

16.7%

SEPTEMBER OR OCTOBER

6 9.7% JULY OR AUGUST

Data Reveals Different Perspectives Though the overall survey results paint an optimistic picture for the return of group travel in 2020, variations in the data reveal differences in perspective among various constituencies in the tourism community.

Comparing responses from travel planners and tourism organization representatives reveals a significant discrepancy between when communities will be ready to welcome group visitors and when groups will be ready to travel. Nearly 70% of travel industry respondents said they would be ready for groups in July or August, but only 19% of group leaders said they would be taking trips in those months. And while 92% of industry respondents expect to be ready for groups sometime in 2020, 27% of travel planners expect to hold off on traveling until 2021.

“These results reveal that DMOs have their work cut out for them,” said Brian Jewell, vice president and executive editor of The Group Travel Leader. “Though destination representatives are confident they will soon be able to accommodate groups, they need to do much more work to communicate that confidence to travel planners and consumers. The onus is on DMOs and their local partners to demonstrate the health and safety measures they have implemented and make travelers feel comfortable venturing out to their destinations.”

Another wrinkle in the data sheds some light on how business and revenue considerations might be affecting the return to travel.

Among travel planners, professional tour operators were the most eager to restart trips, with 23% planning to restart in July or

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Tour

SOUTHEAST INDIANA

BUYERS WHEN DO YOU EXPECT TO BEGIN TAKING GROUPS ON TRIPS AGAIN?

27.1 % August and 43% planning to resume traveling in September or October. Volunteer group leaders, who don’t make money on the trips they operate, are somewhat more hesitant to get going. About 14% of group leaders expect to take groups out in July or August, with another 29% venturing out in September or October. An additional 29% of group leaders said they won’t travel until 2021, compared to only 20% of professional tour operators.

“It’s not surprising that professional tour operators with businesses to maintain are eager to start running trips and bringing in revenue,” Jewell said. “We expect them to lead the way, albeit with smaller groups than normal. And as these professionals develop best practices and demonstrate how tours can operate with high health and safety standards, affinity groups and other nonprofit travel organizations should begin to follow their lead.”

Comments Add Context Comments submitted along with survey answers reinforced how much travel planners are depending on destination partners to provide necessary information for restarting trips.

“Everything is unknown from state to state, so it’s hard to stick to a schedule,” said one tour operator respondent.

“The biggest problem is finding open welcome centers, rest stops and restaurants en route to our destination,” said another.

A third tour operator echoed the sentiment: “Although we might be ready sometime between July and August, we will be very dependent upon the attractions, hotels and restaurants being open and available.”

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2021

20% NOVEMBER OR DECEMBER

18.6 % JULY OR AUGUST

3 4. 3 % SEPTEMBER OR OCTOBER

Comments from travel industry respondents indicate they are working hard to fill in those information gaps.

“Our restaurants and hotels have already or are in the process of implementing the new guidelines recommended by the CDC, national associations and other entities by committing to the Alabama Restaurant Promise and the Safe Stay programs,” said one DMO respondent from Alabama. “Our attractions have already [opened] or are in the process of opening under the social distancing guidelines as well. Our hospitality partners are doing all that they can to reassure future travelers.”

Several DMOs indicated they are working to provide local partners with guidelines and recommendations for welcoming visitors.

“We are implementing more citywide suggestions and trying to say uniform in what we are promoting, showing the safety behind it, what is requested at different venues, etc.,” one said. “Most events through July have been canceled, so we’re focusing on what is up and running safely.”

“Hotels, restaurants and bars have reopened with the specific guidelines and restrictions,” said another DMO representative. “Most of the attractions are now open. We are ready.”

Ready When You Are If you’ve visited us in the past, or plan to visit us in the future, thank you.

When you’re back on the road again, remember, we are ready with history and hands-on fun adventures!

Hillforest Victorian House Museum

McCabe’s Greenhouse

OHIO Indianapolis

INDIANA

1

Cincinnati

KENTUCKY

Louisville

Lexington

South of I-74 & west of I-275, 20 minutes west of Cincinnati

www.TOURSoutheastIndiana.com 800-322-8198

G R O U P T R AV E L L E A D E R . C O M

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Restart Your Travel With a Fall FAM

A

re you tired of staying home and ready to start traveling again? Would you like to discover new places to take your groups in 2021?

Do you have time this fall to visit some of America’s favorite group travel destinations?

If so, we have a trio of great opportunities for you.

The Group Travel Leader Inc. will be organizing three familiarization trips this fall, and we’d like you to be part of them. Our OnSite program will take groups of our readers to New Orleans Plantation Country; Louisiana’s No Man’s Land; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Each trip is hosted by a local convention and visitors bureau or state tourism office, and they all promise to be entertaining and educational experiences.

Here are details and highlights for each of our FAM programs this fall: • New Orleans Plantation Country (September 13-17) — Discover the history and architecture of plantation homes between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, as well as swamp tours and one-of-a-kind culinary experiences.

• Louisiana’s No Man’s Land (October 25-29) — Join hosts from Louisiana Travel as we explore Lake Charles, Natchitoches and other parishes in the western Louisiana area known as No Man’s Land.

• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina (December 6-9) — Celebrate the season on the Grand Strand as we attend holiday performances at theaters such as the Carolina Opry and the Alabama Theatre and enjoy festivities at other area attractions.

On each trip, The Group Travel Leader staff will work closely with local hosts to ensure guests can travel safely.

“We’re already having conversations with our FAM partners and reviewing their health and safety plans,” Tyner said. “We’re confident our hosts will show us all a great time while keeping everyone’s safety a top priority.”

All accommodations, sightseeing and meals

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Group Travel Leader FAMs this fall will take readers to Louisiana’s No Man’s Land (top), New Orleans Plantation Country (bottom left), and Myrtle Beach (bottom right).

are included during the OnSite FAMs. Participants will be responsible for covering their own transportation to and from the host cities.

To apply for any of these familiarization trips, visit grouptravelleader.com/fams and fill out the registration form. Each trip is limited to 20 travel planners, so don’t delay. And check back frequently for new FAM opportunities, including trips to Alabama and Louisville, Kentucky, in 2021.

Jump-start your travel planning by attending one of our fantastic OnSite FAM trips this fall.

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APPLY TODAY FOR THE FAMS YOU’D LIKE TO ATTEND!

All FAMs are limited to 15-20 qualified travel planners. You will be responsible for your travel costs to the host city, but all attractions, meals and hotels will be covered while you are on the FAM. To apply for a chance to attend any of these complimentary FAMs, go to www.grouptravelleader.com/FAMs.

WITH THE GROUP TRAVEL LEADER

NEW ORLEANS PLANTATION COUNTRY FAM: SEPTEMBER 13-17 If you have always wanted to learn about the history and architecture of the riverfront plantation homes, take a swamp tour on a bayou and enjoy delicious creole and cajun food, join us in the region known as New Orleans Plantation Country that lies between New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

LOUISIANA NO MAN’S LAND REGION FAM: OCTOBER 25-29 Join us for a tour of Southwest Louisiana, including Lake Charles and Natchitoches. You’ll discover Melrose Plantation, Natchitoches National Historic Landmark District, Cypress Bend Golf and Conference Resort and the stunning Creole Nature Trail.

MYRTLE BEACH HOLIDAY FAM: DECEMBER 6-9 Celebrate the holidays at the beach! Attend Christmas-themed shows at area theaters, enjoy delicious seafood and be inspired by Brookgreen Gardens’ Nights of a Thousand Candles.

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If you have any questions, please contact Kelly Tyner at:

888-253-0455 KELLY@GROUPTRAVELLEADER.COM

e d i R THE

Groups can enjoy beer trains and other themed excursions with the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.

RAILS COURTESY DSNGR

Adirondack Scenic Railroad

BY STEVE OHLSON, COURTESY ADIRONDACK SCENIC RAILROAD

An observation car on “The Cog”

COURTESY MWCR

Mount Washington Cog Railway COURTESY MWCR

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Tracks climbing Mount Washington

FA L L C O LO R S S E E M BRIGHTER FROM A TRAIN

BY BRIAN JEWELL

I

f you’re planning to get away from it all this fall, there may be no better way to do it than on a scenic railroad.

Autumn has always been the most popular travel season for many groups. But in a year marked by travel disruption around the world and civil unrest at home, going out exploring this fall might be more important than ever. Seeing the beauty of changing leaves reminds us that life is always changing, too, and gives us hope for the future.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy fall foliage, but few offer the charm and relaxation of a train trip.

Around the country, heritage railroads offer groups the chance to sit back and discover pristine scenery while reliving the pleasures of a simpler time.

As you prepare for your group’s fall travel, keep these scenic railroads in mind.

Mount Washington Cog Railway

COURTESY MWCR

M O U NT WAS H I N GTO N, N E W HAM P S H I RE

When he stepped off the train in 1869 and surveyed the surrounding scenery, legendary circus performer P.T. Barnum called the summit of Mount Washington “the second greatest show on earth.” Now, for more than 150 years, the Mount Washington Cog Railway has been taking travelers up the hillside to see the beautiful scenery of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. The first mountain-climbing cog railway in the world and the only one in North America, “the Cog” uses a pair of coalfired steam engines to climb grades much steeper than traditional trains could traverse.

The White Mountains are a popular destination year-round, but fall color makes the train trips especially popular in late September and throughout October. Three-hour round-trip excursions include an hourlong layover at the Mount Washington summit. Groups get plenty of time for views of autumns landscapes, as well as occasional wildlife sightings.

T H E C O G .C O M

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad B RYSO N C IT Y, N O RTH C A RO LI N A

For generations, the Smoky Mountains have been among the favorite fall destinations in the South. And though many travelers are familiar with the popular tourist towns in eastern Tennessee, there’s more beauty and adventure over the North Carolina border, where the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad operates.

Groups can choose from two different train excursions, both about four hours long. The Nantahala Gorge Excursion travels from Bryson City, across historic Trellis Bridge, to Fontana Lake and the Nantahala Gorge, where visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and peaceful autumn views by the water.

The Tuckasegee River Excursion features a peaceful ride through the countryside to the small town of Dillsboro, where visitors will find more than 50 shops, restaurants and other businesses. Group dining options are available on both routes, and there are several classes of service to choose from.

G S M R .C O M

Adirondack Scenic Railroad

Since the 1890s, the railroad has connected towns such as Utica, Thendara and Lake Placid in northeastern New York. In the early 1990s, a group of preservationists came together to create the Adirondack Scenic Railroad. Using track still owned by the state, the railroad highlights the scenic beauty of the Adirondack Mountains, as well as the railroad history of the area.

The railroad operates from four historic stations in the region, and groups can arrange excursions from any one of the stations to the next. The trains use historic equipment, including a vintage 1955 Union Pacific Dome Car and a 1948 dining car. Sightseeing and dining excursions are available, as are private charters. During the fall, special events include the Family Halloween Train and the Pumpkin Train.

A D I R O N DAC K R R .C O M

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Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

A Durango and Silverton cowboy poetry experience

BY ROBERT GEORGE, COURTESY CVSRR

COURTESY DSNGR

Mount Hood Railroad H O O D R I V E R , O R EGO N

Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

COURTESY DSNGR

GET LOST IN

DAYS GONE BY. When the time is right, visit Greater Lima, Ohio. #WeAreInThisTogetherOhio

visitgreaterlima.com 16

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Destinations in the eastern part of the United States tend to get the lion’s share of the press when it comes to fall foliage. But there are plenty of scenic spots to find autumn color in the West, too. A case in point is Oregon, where Mount Hood stands as a symbol of environmental beauty. Groups can experience a distinctive West Coast fall on a train excursion aboard the Mount Hood Railroad.

All trains depart from the Hood River Depot, a 1911 Craftsman-style station listed on the National Historic Register. From there, they follow a 17-mile route that winds through the Columbia River Gorge to the Hood River Valley and the scenic town of Odell. Along the way, visitors pass through colorful woods, as well as local orchards and vineyards. Beer, wine and concessions are available for purchase on board M T H O O D R R .C O M

Big South Fork Scenic Railroad

STE A R N S, K E NTU C K Y

At the beginning of the 20th century, logging and coal mining were big business in southern Kentucky — so big the Kentucky and Tennessee Railway was built to transport goods from the small town of Stearns to other parts of the country. This 25-mile short-line railroad discontinued service in the 1950s when area coal mines began closing. Today, though, it is operating again as the Big South Fork Scenic Railroad.

Named for the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River, this railroad delivers historic experiences and beautiful views of unspoiled Kentucky wilderness. The train travels through Daniel Boone National Forest,

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Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which was founded in 1881 to haul silver ore between the two towns and which now serves as a tourist train. Historic steam engines pull the trains on these tracks, specially designed at a narrower width for traversing rugged mountain terrain.

During the three-and-a-half-hour journey, the train cuts through narrow rock passages and hugs the edges of cliffs perched 400 feet above the floor of the Animas River canyon. As it climbs from Durango to Silverton, the landscape begins to change, and visitors may spot elk, bear and bighorn sheep among the aspen and pine trees.

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad’s Brecksville Station

D U R A N G OT R A I N .C O M

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad PE N I N S U L A , O H I O COURTESY CVSRR

usually brilliant with fall colors in late October and early November. The three-hour journey takes passengers to the Barthell Coal Camp, which was established in 1903, and optional tours of the camp and mine are available.

B S F S RY.C O M

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

CU M B E R L A N D, MA RY L A N D

Maryland might be more famous for its coast than for its topography, but the western part of the state features forested mountain landscapes that come alive in brilliant color during the fall. Groups traveling through the area en route to Pennsylvania, West Virginia or the Atlantic Coast can enjoy views of the mountains during a ride on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad.

The railroad’s most popular excursion, the Frostburg Flyer, is a three-and-a-half-hour ride from Cumberland to the town of Frostburg. Along the way, the train climbs more than 1,300 feet in elevation, through a breach in the Allegheny Mountains, over an iron truss bridge and through a 914-foot-long mountain tunnel. The train offers four classes of service, two with dining and beverage service. The railroad also operates several themed excursions, including a murder mystery train and a moonshine train.

In northeast Ohio, Cuyahoga Valley National Park enjoys a notable distinction: It’s the only national park in the country with a nonprofit heritage railroad running through it. The tracks were first laid more than 100 years ago to move people and freight between Cleveland and Canton, Ohio. In 1989, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad was restructured as an excursion train to showcase the natural environment of the surrounding national park. And one of the best times to take the ride is autumn, when the valley and forest are blanketed in color.

Through a partnership between the park and the railroad, park staff provide educational programming for riders. The railroad offers an array of experiences for groups, including scenic excursions, breakfast and dinner trains, and themed departures such as Ales on Rails and Cocktails on Rails. Groups can also arrange for boxed lunch packages and private car rentals.

C V S R .O R G

#1 Scenic Train Ride!

W M S R .C O M

Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad D U R A N GO, CO LO R A D O

In Colorado, fall brings a distinctive beauty, as the changing colors of aspen trees paint the mountains in a bright golden color. One of the best ways to take in the scenery is aboard the

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Season runs Memorial Day weekend to mid-Oct Departs Antonito, CO and Chama, NM daily at 10:00am Group Pricing Available 1-877-890-2737 ~ www.cumbrestoltec.com/groups G R O U P T R AV E L L E A D E R . C O M

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S TAT E S P O T L I G H T

ILLINOIS

T

here’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Illinois.

With a major metropolis, presidential history and the beauty of the Mississippi River, the state gives groups reasons to return year after year. From world-class museums in Chicago to Route 66 history and outdoor adventure in scenic national forests and state parks, the menu of travel experiences in Illinois is built for diversity. Consider some of these travel experiences, notable hotels and memorable meals for your next group visit.

ARTWORK BY DONIA SIMMONS

By Brian Jewell

Friends enjoy a walk in the 385acre Chicago Botanic Garden.

PHOTOS COURTESY IL OFFICE OF TOURISM UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

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Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest COURTESY TUPELO CVB

POPULAR DEMAND ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

One of several world-class museums in the Windy City, the Art Institute of Chicago features the largest collection of impressionist paintings outside of Paris. Visitors will see works by such luminaries as Monet, Renoir, Seurat and Van Gogh. The modern wing has masterpieces by Dali, Matisse, Picasso and Pollock. Groups can arrange for gallery tours, performance programs and other special experiences.

Art Institute of Chicago

CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN

A half-hour’s drive from the city, in the North Shore region, the Chicago Botanic Garden offers over 385 acres of wide-open space and horticultural beauty. Among the 27 themed areas await experiences such as climbing a waterfall garden, discovering hidden rooms inside an English walled garden and walking bridges across sparkling lakes. Other highlights include a Japanese garden and a model railroad garden.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN’S SPRINGFIELD Illinois Route 66 Museum

The 16th president began his political career in Springfield, and several attractions around town are dedicated to telling his story. The Lincoln Home National Historic site preserves the place where Lincoln and his wife lived during their time in the city. And the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum uses state-of-the-art exhibit technology to help visitors connect with Lincoln and his legacy.

ILLINOIS ROUTE 66 MUSEUM

Route 66 famously began in Illinois, and today visitors to Pontiac, a small town in the center of the state, can relive some of the glories of traveling the Mother Road at the Illinois Route 66 Museum. Exhibits inside the museum detail the history of the iconic highway, and groups love taking photos in front of the Route 66 mural on the building’s brick exterior.

A Lincoln interpreter at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

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SHAWNEE NATIONAL FOREST

Nestled in the southern tip of Illinois, Shawnee National Forest is an excellent destination for groups that love the outdoors. It sits between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers and is known for dramatic rock walls and hiking paths that meander through canyons under forest canopies. One of the most popular trails leads to Garden of the Gods, an overlook with views of towering sandstone cliffs.

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Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery

MEMORABLE MEALS

The Horseshoe Sandwich — an open-face sandwich topped with a beef patty, cheese sauce and french fries — originated in Springfield. Hungry visitors can try this local specialty at Obed and Isaacs Microbrewery and Eatery, located in one of the city’s historic neighborhoods not far from Lincoln’s home. The laid-back environment also features a beer garden with bocce ball, dart games and more.

BY ADAM ALEXANDER

OBED AND ISAACS MICROBREWERY AND EATERY

AERIE’S RESORT AND WINERY

Aerie’s Resort and Winery

BY ADAM ALEXANDER

On the Mississippi riverfront in central Illinois, Pere Marquette State park sits on 8,000 acres of hillside wilderness. Visitors can climb aboard an air-lift gondola and ride up to Aerie’s Resort and Winery, which features wine, food and live music on an outdoor patio overlooking the river.

After a meal and a drink, patrons can make their way back down the hill on a series of nine zip lines.

A beer break in Springfield

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O V E R N I G H T S E N S AT I O N S With a giant Ferris wheel, dining and other entertainment options, Navy Pier has long been one of Chicago’s most popular tourist attractions. This fall, the pier will get its first hotel: the Curio Collection by Hilton at Navy Pier. The 222-room property will feature floor-to-ceiling windows designed to showcase the views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.

CHESTNUT MOUNTAIN RESORT

In the northwestern reaches of Illinois, the city of Galena sits on the banks of the Mississippi River. Groups overnighting in Galena can find lots of scenery and activity options at the Chestnut Mountain Resort, a rustic lodge with three restaurants and great riverfront views. A popular ski destination in winter, the resort offers boat cruises, Segway tours, scenic hiking and an alpine slide during warmer weather.

Curio Collection by Hilton at Navy Pier COURTESY FIRST HOSPITALITY GROUP

CURIO COLLECTION AT NAVY PIER

The alpine slide at Chestnut Mountain Resort

ENJOYILLINOIS.COM

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Surrounded by Tennessee farmland, Discovery Park of America is a 50acre museum campus.

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TWO-LANE TENNESSEE L E AV E T H E L I G H T S AND FIND THESE GEMS

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BY ELIZA MYERS

ot every treasure in Tennessee makes a marquee.

Though everyone knows where to find the Country Music Hall of Fame and Graceland, not everyone knows the story of the famous author Alex Haley. Tennessee’s version of Mayberry in Granville is also a quieter attraction than some, but just as memorable for many visitors.

Whether groups are interested in Johnny Cash, science exhibits, historic penitentiaries or Appalachian crafts, these Tennessee hidden gems will pleasantly surprise visitors.

A L E X H A L E Y M USEU M A N D I N T E R PR E T I V E C E N T E R

H E N N I NG When Alex Haley sat on his front porch as a child, his grandparents’ stories of Kunta Kinte captured his imagination. Haley later turned these accounts of Kinte and other family ancestry stories into the famous book “Roots: The Saga of an American Family.”

Groups can stand on that porch at the Alex Haley Museum and Interpretive Center in Henning. The site offers tours of Haley’s boyhood home, his burial place and a museum with exhibits on Haley’s life and works.

The museum details Haley’s unlikely life. He started his career as a penniless freelance writer, sometimes surviving on nothing but canned sardines. After gaining some recognition writing articles about prominent African Americans such as Malcom X, Haley embarked on an ambitious retelling of his ancestors’ journey from Africa to America as slaves, as well as their rise to freedom.

The 1976 novel caused a national sensation and won the Pulitzer Prize. In 1977, the “Roots” television miniseries capture a record-breaking 130 million viewers.

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY TN DEPT. OF TOURIST DEV. G R O U P T R AV E L L E A D E R . C O M

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The museum’s exhibits chronicle his remarkable career, with artifacts including Haley’s handwritten family tree, his director’s chair from the set of “Roots” and a full-size replica of a slave ship. The museum sits next to the original 1920 home in a $1.2-million facility with a theater room that plays a documentary about the author.

A L E X H A L E Y.C O M

DISCOV E RY PA R K OF A M E R IC A

U N ION C I T Y At the end of a winding road lined with fields of cotton, corn and soybeans, an architectural wonder emerges from the horizon. The Discovery Park of America in Union City seems out of place in a small Tennessee town; normally, a museum of this caliber would appear in a major city.

Founders Robert and Jenny Kirkland wanted to give back to their community, which is why a Southern town with 10,000 residents is now the home of this $100 million museum. Described as a miniature Smithsonian, the 100,000-square-foot museum and 50-acre outdoor heritage park focuses on topics like science, space, technology, the military, natural history, regional history, art and transportation.

Groups can explore the hands-on exhibits with docents.

An extensive dinosaur collection, an earthquake simulator, an observation tower and a replica of the Rosetta Stone are some of the most popular exhibits.

The museum’s military gallery honors those who have served with affective artifacts, such as handwritten letters from a son to a mother during the Civil War. The War Remembrance Theater features oral histories of local residents who fought in World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam.

The Native Americans gallery displays over 4,500 arrowheads and spearpoints. The exhibit contains a 12,000-yearold woolly mammoth excavated from a riverbank in Russia.

Outside, visitors can find a working gristmill, a full-size antique train and landscaped gardens.

D I S C OV E RY PA R KO FA M E R I C A .C O M

Discovery Park of America

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Enjoying a milkshake at T.B Sutton Store

S TORY T E L L E R S M USEU M A N D H I DE AWAY FA R M

BON AQUA When the spotlights darkened after a concert tour ended, Johnny Cash retreated to his home in Bon Aqua. For 30 years, Cash lived in this quaint town 40 miles southwest of Nashville.

Opened for visitors in 2016, the Storytellers Museum and Hideaway Farm lets groups get closer to the real Cash with exhibits and memorabilia about his life. The site preserves his home, which he called “the center of my universe.”

After Cash bought the 107-acre farm, he soon began holding weekly concerts at the nearby general store. The general store now serves as the Storytellers Museum. The museum displays artifacts from the Man in Black, such as handwritten song lyrics, letters, guitars and a Cadillac inspired by Cash’s song “One Piece at a Time.” It also hosts live musical performances that carry on Cash’s tradition of community concerts.

Brian and Sally Oxley bought the Cash farm and general store in 2015. The Oxleys teamed up with the Cash family to restore the two buildings and honor Cash. Guests can watch rarely seen footage of the Cash family that the Oxleys found in the two-story farmhouse.

Groups can learn how Cash purchased the farm in the 1970s when his accountant used the singer’s money

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Browsing exhibits at Alex Haley Museum and Interpretive Center

to buy several properties, including the Bon Aqua farm.

When Cash discovered the fraud, he sold all of the properties except for Bon Aqua, which became his songwriting sanctuary.

S TO RY T E L L E R S H I D E AWAY FA R M .C O M

T. B . SU T TON S TOR E

GR A N V I L L E

Alex Haley Museum and Interpretive Center

People love “The Andy Griffin Show” partially for the nostalgia of a simpler time. Visitors claim they feel that same contentment when they visit historic Granville, known as Tennessee’s Mayberry.

Though it has fewer than 400 residents, Granville was saved from obscurity when an effort was made to preserve the history of the riverboat town. Groups can purchase a ticket to tour the town’s various historic attractions, including the T.B. Sutton General Store.

Built in the 1800s, the country store was recommended

by Southern Living Magazine as the No. 1 store to visit in 2018. The charming shop showcases 20th-century light fixtures, museum-quality furnishings and memorabilia.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the store sells handmade items that recall times gone by, such as

Downtown Granville

T.B. Sutton Store A lifetime of memories waits for you at the #1 iconic American attraction. Explore 120 acres dedicated to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll and walk in the footsteps of a true legend.

© EPE. Graceland and its marks are trademarks of EPE. All Rights Reserved.

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Memphis, TN

800-238-2010

Graceland.com

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Touring Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary

antique toys and old-fashioned candles. Its second floor houses the Arts and Cultural Center for local art and a quilt shop.

The store’s ice cream counter serves hand-dipped ice cream, root beer floats and milkshakes. Inside the store, groups can enjoy a country-style meal with cobbler for dessert.

A small corner of the general store has garnered the most attention. Known as the World-Famous Corner Stage, the small stage hosts Tennessee bluegrass bands broadcast every Saturday night on the “Sutton Ole Time Music Hour” program.

From the general store, groups can explore the Granville Museum to learn more about the river town’s history with the military, religion and schools. A more intimate portrait of the past comes from the Sutton Homestead. The 1880 home contains original furnishings along with a grist mill shop, a pioneer cabin and a blacksmith shop.

Tickets to tour the town also include the Pioneer Village, the Car Museum, and the Mayberry and I Love Lucy Museum.

G R A N V I L L E T N .C O M

H IS TOR IC B RUSH Y MOU N TA I N S TAT E PE N I T E N T I A RY

PE T ROS Fear and curiosity go together on a trip to Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary in Petros. The prison began as a convict-lease program where inmates worked in coal mines or farmed.

The original wooden prison was replaced in the 1920s with a castlelike building constructed from quarry stone on the property. It became a maximum-security prison that housed criminals such as James Earl Ray, the assassin of Martin Luther King Jr. The prison closed in 2009 before reopening for tours in 2018. Guides who were former guards at the prison frequently give tours to lend some personal insight into prison life.

During the tour, groups watch an 18-minute documentary to delve into the history of the penitentiary. A museum on the property displays old record books, photos and contraband artifacts confiscated from prisoners.

Visit the Home of the Tours last between 60 and 90 min7th President utes. Groups can see the cell blocks, the gymnasium, the exercise yard and • Specialized tours the “hole,” where the most trouble• Interactive guest experiences some inmates underwent isolation for • All-new wine tasting room 30 days in complete darkness.

Warden’s Table serves Southern food, such as barbecue and cheeseburgers. The restaurant can accomgrouptours@thehermitage.com | 615-277-4945 | thehermitage.com

Presidential History in Nashville’s Backyard

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Museum of Appalachia modate large groups with cafeteria-style dining.

The once-illegal practice of making moonshine is now part of the prison experience. The End of the Line Tennessee Moonshine legally distills spirits at the prison, and it is free to visit. A tasting bar is located in the gift shop.

TO U R B R U S H Y.C O M

M USEU M OF A PPA L AC H I A

C L I N TON The historic buildings left behind by the proud, hardworking people of Appalachia tell a story. The Museum of Appalachia in Clinton saved 30 log cabin structures from decay to give voice to that story.

The living-history museum brings to life the struggle for survival that pioneer and early 20th-century Appalachian residents endured. Groups can explore the 63-acre museum to wander through a rare cantilevered barn, a chapel and a schoolhouse. The Mark Twain Family Cabin on the site was once inhabited by Mark Twain’s parents.

The museum also contains over 250,000 pioneer relics.

The gardens grow crops typical of the period, while goats, chicken and turkeys roam the grounds freely.

The setting for rural Appalachia remains so authentic

that the museum has been used in several television shows, such as “The Heartland Series,” “American Pickers” and “Young Dan’l Boone.”

The outdoor museum contains one of the nation’s largest folk art collections in the People’s Building. Woodcarvings, mugs, jugs and furniture made in the region show the variety of mediums used by Appalachian artists.

The Restaurant at the Museum of Appalachia serves regional cuisine such as casseroles, hearty entrees and homemade desserts.

M U S E U M O FA P PA L AC H I A .O R G

THE GOOD WORD on a great getaway.

If you’re looking for the perfect destination for your next faith gathering, this is it. We’re proud to be nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains and built on wholesome fun for all. With facilities suited for groups from 20 to 12,000, we’re well-versed in making every event a joyful one. Enjoy more than 100 experiences including attractions, museums, shows, shopping, dining, Dollywood and more.

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D E S T I N AT I O N

HIGH TIDE MYRTLE BEACH IS READY WHEN YOU ARE

BY ELIZA MYERS

I

f dreary weather seems to follow your group everywhere, there is always a Plan B at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

With an average of 218 sunny days a year, the beach town typically offers clear skies and a mild climate. However, those occasional rainy days are no problem for Myrtle Beach, since the town offers a variety of indoor activities.

Groups visiting the Grand Strand can choose from a night of theater, laughter-inducing attractions, informative fun or just a place to unwind and dine. Your group doesn’t need a rainy-day excuse to explore Myrtle Beach’s indoor attractions.

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY MYRTLE BEACH AREA CVB

THEATER G T S T H E AT R E

Instead of shushing singing audience members, GTS Theatre encourages them. The theater welcomes audience participation during shows that dish out one catchy hit song after another.

The 140-seat theater provides an up-close experience with the performers that feels personal.

“GTS Theatre is a great experience,” said Sandy Haines, group tour sales manager at the Myrtle Beach Chamber and Convention and Visitors Bureau. “It is a more intimate theater than some of our others. Groups like that smaller feel.”

GTS fosters its close-knit feel with the motto “Consider yourself part of the family.” Staff interact with groups before, during and after the show. Groups can book preshow entertainment or extended time with the entertainers for a question-and-answer session.

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GTS staff transformed the theater, originally a Westernthemed building, into a 1920s style Parisian cabaret. The theater hosts a variety of shows that change with the seasons.

One of the theater’s most popular shows is “Motor City Musical.” Audience members relive the 1960s and 1970s with Motown numbers from the Four Tops, the Jackson 5, the Supremes and more.

Other favorite shows include “Beach Party: A 60s Tribute Show,” “Neon Lights: Celebrating Decades of Country Music,” “Michael Bairefoot: Comedy Magician” and “Elvis Live.”

OTHER OPTIONS: For a blockbuster theater experience, groups can watch the famous Carolina Opry at the Calvin Gilmore Theater. The talent-filled show features powerful vocal and instrumental performances.

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ENTERTAINMENT HOL LY WOOD WA X M USEU M A N D E N T E R TA I N M E N T C E N T E R

Sharks, octopus and sea turtles are among the more than 10,000 marine creatures at Ripley’s Aquarium in Myrtle Beach.

FOOD DAV E A N D BUS T E R ’ S

Planners looking to elevate their group meal to a memory-making outing can opt for Dave and Buster’s.

The restaurant and entertainment complex is a popular dining spot for groups, with private event spaces and optional add-ons.

“Groups have done team-building experiences here,” said Haines. “We’ve also done scavenger hunts, which are a lot of fun.”

Headquartered in Dallas, Dave and Buster’s operates over 120 restaurants throughout North America. The Myrtle Beach location offers a large selection of food with state-of-the-art virtual games and simulators. There are more than 200 games, including Connect 4 Hoops, the World’s Largest Pac-Man and the virtual reality Jurassic World Expedition.

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Visitors come face-to-face with Will Smith, Marilyn Monroe and Tom Hanks at the Hollywood Wax Museum and Entertainment Center. The museum presents lifelike figures that people can admire, and visitors can have their pictures taken with them.

These famous movie star figures often stand in front of themed backdrops, such as a pirate ship scene behind Johnny Depp dressed as Captain Jack Sparrow in “Pirates of the Caribbean.” Groups pose next to their favorite movie stars, often using props. Guests can put on a wedding dress for a nuptial photo with George Clooney, grab a bow staff with Bruce Lee or hold a bottle of Vitameatavegamin next to Lucille Ball.

The Hollywood Wax Museum ticket also provides admission to Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors and Outbreak: Dread the Undead.

“The Outbreak: Dread the Undead is a zombie experience,” said Haines. “People come out screaming and saying ‘Oh, that is so much fun,’ every time.”

While the zombie experience offers thrills and chills, Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors causes plenty of laughs while participants bump into reflecting walls trying to rescue Princess Hannah.

OTHER OPTIONS: Swashbuckling stunts wow visitors to the Pirates Voyage Dinner and Show. This entertaining spectacle includes a full-size pirate ship, live animals and a four-course feast. Another amusing act, “Le Grand Cirque 2.0,” debuted recently at Myrtle Beach’s Broadway at the Beach. The jaw-dropping tricks and choreographed movements test the limits of human ability.

GTS Theatre

Hollywood Wax Museum

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EDUCATION R I PL E Y ’ S AQUA R I U M

Far from a simple afternoon diversion, Ripley’s Aquarium is a world-class aquarium that features 1.4 million gallons of water and over 10,000 sea creatures. Groups can pet a stingray, hold a horseshoe crab and watch hourly dive shows while learning about underwater life.

Among the highlights are a 300-pound sea turtle, 12-foot sharks, a giant octopus and 14,000 fish. The aquarium’s 330-foot moving path takes visitors through an underwater glass tunnel.

“There is so much to do at this aquarium,” said Haines. “The brand-new African penguin exhibit has a 360-degree tunnel you can crawl through to get up-close to the penguins.”

Ripley’s Penguin Playhouse features a 5,550-square-foot expansion, the largest in the aquarium’s 20-year history. Groups can add a Paint With the Penguins program, where participants can pal up with a penguin and take home a piece of penguin-made art.

OTHER OPTIONS: Student groups or those looking for an educational stop will find plenty of facts at WonderWorks. Billed as “an indoor amusement park for the mind,” the attraction offers 100 interactive exhibits, such as a hurricane-force wind simulator, a virtual roller coaster and a bed of nails. Another staple for youth groups, Edventure Myrtle Beach, teaches science concepts to children through hands-on exhibits centered on flight and space exploration.

Duplin Winery

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Live music, events, shopping and plenty of wine help groups unwind at the Duplin Winery.

Opened in 2015, the North Myrtle Beach winery boasts a 15,000-square-foot venue that can accommodate more than 200 people, making it the largest wine-tasting station on the Grand Strand.

The winery offers tastings of at least 10 preselected Duplin wines while a staff member walks participants through the flavors and history of each wine. The winery focuses on muscadine and sweeter wine varieties.

“Groups can bottle a wine if it’s prearranged,” said Haines. “That is a fun souvenir for groups to take home.”

The site also houses a retail shop for gifts and souvenirs, such as homemade fudge.

OTHER OPTIONS: House of Blues also offers dining for groups at its 59,000-squarefoot site. Groups can listen to live music while enjoying Southern-inspired cuisine.

VISITMYRTLEBEACH.COM

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SPEC I A L SEC T ION

Oklahoma Outdoors

THE SOONER THE BETTER FOR THESE ICONIC STOPS

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BY ELIZA MYERS

rom bugling elk on a wilderness walk to the vibrant colors of a well-tended garden, the outdoors of Oklahoma can’t help but lift the spirits. The Sooner State offers abundant outdoor attractions.

No matter their fitness level, groups can find some sunshine at attractions like the Myriad Botanical Gardens in Oklahoma City or the Horn Canna Farm in Carnegie. Those looking to explore the wilder side of the state can take a guided hike through the Wichita Mountains or ride a horse at Beavers Bend State Park.

Fresh air and natural beauty abound at these five Oklahoma outdoor attractions that welcome groups.

MYRIAD BOTANICAL GARDENS AND CRYSTAL BRI DGE TROPICAL CONSERVATORY

Ok la hom a Cit y

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OKLAHOMA TOURISM

At the Myriad Botanical Gardens and Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory, the serene sound of waterfalls can make guests forget for a moment they are in one of the largest cities in the country. The Oklahoma City urban garden offers a landscaped outdoor garden, a children’s garden, a working carousel and the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory.

“Myriad Gardens is focused around the conservatory, which is an area full of tropical plants and orchids,” said Todd Stallbaumer, consumer and trade marketing director for the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department. “It introduces guests to plants that live in a tropical climate all the way to the desert plants.”

The 224-foot-long living oasis keeps a balmy temperature yearround so guests can wander through a junglelike interior with towering tropical plants and a 35-foot-high waterfall.

Groups exploring the 15-acre park can also book a class in container gardening, herbs or wreath-making.

Not far from Myriad Botanical Gardens lies another urban park

The Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory is part of Myriad Botanical Gardens, an urban oasis in Oklahoma City.

BY LORI DUCKWORTH

that just opened in 2019. Scissortail Park’s 40 acres of natural space will eventually extend from downtown to the shore of the Oklahoma River for an additional 30 acres.

Trails, boat rentals and an outdoor concert venue draw locals and visitors alike to the $132 million park. The Oklahoma streetcar service runs by the park and connects parkgoers to attractions across the city.

O K L A H O M AC I T Y B OTA N I C A LG A R D E N S .C O M

The refuge offers one of the largest environmental education programs in the National Wildlife Refuge System; about 8,000 students participate each year. Hands-on activities and classroom instruction are typically followed by a wilderness adventure.

Groups can choose from 15 miles of designated hiking trails fit for both novice and seasoned hikers. The views change as visitors move through the park from scrub oak forest to rocky mountain terrain and grass prairie.

W S .G OV/ R E F U G E / W I C H I TA _ M O U N TA I N S

WICHITA MOUNTAINS TH E GATH ERING PLACE

Med ici ne Pa rk

When people picture the landscape of Oklahoma, they often imagine flat farm landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see. The dramatic and rocky Wichita Mountains prove this image a major misconception.

The 59,000 protected acres of the Wichita Mountains are accessible to groups through their proximity to Medicine Park. The resort town’s naturally occurring red granite cobblestones form many of the town’s structures.

“Medicine Park is an artist community with places to shop and snack,” said Stallbaumer. “It is a gateway to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, which was the first refuge founded by President Theodore Roosevelt.”

Bison, elk, longhorn cattle, bald eagles and prairie dogs are among the hundreds of frequently spotted animal species. Groups can take a driving tour through the refuge to spot many of these animals or book a guided hike with a naturalist for a closer view.

T u l sa

George Kaiser started with a goal of improving Tulsa’s quality of life. He also wanted to improve race relations in the city. The 77-yearold billionaire decided the best way to achieve both goals was to fund a magnificent city park.

Called The Gathering Place, the 66-acre park opened to the public in 2018. The George Kaiser Family Foundation and 80 other private contributors donated more than $465 million to fund the park’s construction, the largest private donation to a public park in United States history.

The investment gained the park many accolades, including Best New Attraction in 2018 by USA Today Readers’ Choice Awards, and inclusion in National Geographic’s list of 12 Mind-Bending Playgrounds Around the World.

A sculpture at the Gathering Place in Tulsa

A scenic overlook in the Wichita Mountains

BY LORI DUCKWORTH

The Gathering Place

BY LORI DUCKWORTH

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Beavers Bend State Park

BY SHANE BEVEL

A driving tour in the Wichita Mountains

BY LORI DUCKWORTH

BY LORI DUCKWORTH

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SOCIAL MEDIA SENSATION AT THE NATIONAL COWBOY AND WESTERN HERITAGE MUSEUM

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hen the pop culture website company Bored Panda first featured the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum’s social media posts, Seth Spillman felt excited for the coverage. But when he watched the number of followers continue to tick up, Spillman and other staff members knew they had a viral phenomenon on their hands.

“We had celebrity tweets from Patton Oswalt, Sarah Silverman and Toby Keith,” said Spillman, chief marketing and communications officer for the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

The massive social media following originated in an unexpected place: the museum’s cowboy-hat-wearing security guard.

“About a week before we closed our doors, our marketing team got together and talked about what we might do to respond if we closed,” said Spillman. “We wanted to keep communication with people. Someone thought of reaching out to our security staff, since they are essential staff that would be in the building no matter what.”

Tim Tiller, the museum’s head of security, was tapped to take over the museum’s social media account during the pandemic shutdown. In his first post, he shared how he was new to social media and joked about his inexperience. He soon started using “#hashtag” to poke fun at his inexperience.

Readers found his authenticity endearing.

“I don’t think we realized how much his voice was going to resonate with people,” said Spillman. “All of us have been thrown into a new reality with the pandemic. Tim is a lighthearted example of that.”

When Tiller took over social media, Spillman and other staff members worked with him to provide direction on what to post while allowing Tiller to keep his original voice in the post.

Once the national attention started, Spillman’s phone began to ring from news outlets all over, including NPR and the Wall Street Journal.

“People were rooting for him and still are,” said Spillman. “We have no intention of stopping Tim’s posts even though we are now open.”

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The whimsical five-acre playground looks like a dream from a child’s imagination. The playground design mimics fanciful European structures with a three-story wooden castle, a zip line, a pirate ship and climbing mazes made from twisty tree trunks.

Other park features include free boat rentals, trails and a $1.2 million garden.

“The park has a living-room-style lodge where people can come inside, take a break and enjoy a view of the entire garden,” said Stallbaumer. “There is also a full-service restaurant onsite.”

Snacking in Bayfield A canoe put-in at Beavers Bend State Park

G AT H E R I N G P L AC E .O R G

BY SHANE BEVEL

BEAVERS BEND STATE PARK

Broken Bow

Once groups arrive at Beavers Bend State Park in Broken Bow, they have one big question to answer: What should we do first? The park and adjacent Hochatown State Park offer accommodations and enough activities to fill even the busiest itinerary.

Guests can sit on a private deck overlooking a tranquil lake at Hochatown State Park. The park’s Lakeview Lodge offers a 40-room lakeview retreat with a stone fireplace and free continental breakfast.

Groups can also opt for cabin rentals at Beavers Bend State Park in a wide range of sizes and styles throughout the resort area.

“There are lots of deer that are often visible early in the morning

and late in the evening at the park,” said Stallbaumer. “You can also see great vistas each sunrise and sunset.”

The Forest Heritage Center introduces guests to the area’s creatures and topography. Other recreation opportunities include hiking, biking, volleyball, tennis, canoeing and guided horseback rides.

Golfers can play on an 18-hole course, and novices can putt at the park’s miniature golf course. Many visitors also enjoy exploring the area by lake on a paddleboat, canoe or river float trip.

The 3,482-acre park also offers scenic drives past winding roads through forests and stunning shoreline.

T R AV E LO K .C O M /S TAT E - PA R K S

HORN CANNA FARM

Ca r neg ie

In the 1920s, Frances Horn received six canna bulbs from her sister in Arkansas. The family was so shocked by the bold color and plentiful blooms of the canna that they eventually turned the family garden into a family business that has lasted almost a century.

Groups can now tour the resulting Horn Canna Farm in Carnegie.

America’s only exclusive canna farm grows more than 30 varieties of canna bulbs on 150 acres.

Canna’s blooming period ranges from July through the first frost of the season; peak season often occurs in September. The farm hosts the annual Canna Festival the last Saturday in September.

Tours demonstrate how easy cannas are to grow and maintain.

Every bulb on the farm is hand selected as has been the practice for four generations.

“In the fall they will be planting sunflowers for even more photo opportunities and flower cuttings,” said Stallbaumer. “Their gift shop is a greenhouse where you can purchase plants and other items.”

CANNAS.NET

Lakeview Lodge in Broken Bow T R AV E LO K .C O M

BY SHANE BEVEL

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Get Wild About Oklahoma Your morning begins with a stack of pillowy flapjacks at the cozy Lake Murray lodge.

All fueled up, you embark on a magical train ride through Beavers Bend State Park near Broken Bow. Then the good times roll on at Tulsa’s Gathering Place — where you don’t have to be a kid to monkey around. And speaking of animals … you swing by the Oklahoma City Zoo to say hello to thousands of fascinating creatures, like mighty Asian elephants and sleek jaguars. A group tour through Oklahoma? It’s a roaring good time!

Discover more delightful destinations at TravelOK.com/Group.

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SPEC I A L SEC T ION

Come Ashore MISSISSIPPI RIVER TOWNS ROLL WITH THE BEST OF THEM

Sunset over downtown Galena

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BY ELIZA MYERS

eople like to bring their troubles to the Mississippi River.

The subject of songs like “Old Man River” or classic fiction like “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” the river is seen as a constant in a world of change and uncertainty. Towns once seen as vital river ports now use the river mainly as a gorgeous viewing point for citizens to enjoy on riverside walks, restaurants and attractions.

Groups can enjoy top-tier attractions, discover fascinating history and feel the pull of the river at these engaging Mississippi River destinations. .

L a Crosse, Wi scon si n

COURTESY GALENA COUNTRY TOURISM

In a region known for its flat prairies, the immense bluffs of La Crosse, Wisconsin, tower unexpectedly over the Mississippi River.

The grandeur of the scenery gives La Crosse a mountain town feel that groups can enjoy on walks through the vibrant downtown and accessible parks.

Groups can take in the river views of this former fur trading hub from Riverside Park. The 1911 downtown park hosts many of the town’s events, such as Riverfest, Oktoberfest and the Rotary Lights.

La Crosse serves as an art haven with over 30 active arts organizations, for example, the Pump House Regional Arts Center. The arts center hosts visual arts exhibits throughout the year, plus its own jazz, folk and blues performers. Local sculptor Elmer Petersen created many sculptures located throughout the downtown area, including “Eagle” in Riverside Park.

The Waterfront Restaurant and Tavern offers groups river views and modern American dishes. Some of its most popular dishes are cheese curds, crab cakes, fresh oysters and St. Joe’s ham melt.

A major draw for the city, the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe

Groups can enjoy scenic Mississippi River cruises aboard the La Crosse Queen in Wisconsin.

COURTESY LA CROSSE COUNTY CVB

Galena’s historic Main Street

The grandeur of the scenery gives La Crosse a mountain town feel that groups can enjoy on walks through the vibrant downtown and accessible parks.

COURTESY GALENA COUNTRY TOURISM

features stunning Italian Renaissance architecture and landscaped grounds. The Catholic shrine was dedicated in 2008 and has a visitors center, a rosary walk, a Stations of the Cross walk and a votive candle chapel.

For classic car fans, the Dahl Museum is a family-owned museum that displays some of the oldest known classic cars.

ON THE RIVER: Passengers can look up La Crosse’s striking bluffs aboard the 149-person paddle wheeler La Crosse Queen. The modern-day replica of a 19th-century grand riverboat offers sightseeing cruises, lunch, dinner and private party charters.

E X P LO R E L AC R O S S E .C O M

Ga len a , I l l i noi s

Ulysses S. Grant first arrived in Galena, Illinois, in 1860 as a lowly store clerk. When the Civil War broke out a year later, he advanced in the ranks to lead the Union army, and in 1865, he reentered Galena as a war hero celebrity. In response, a group of Galena citizens presented Grant with an elegant house in the town.

The gifted home opened to the public in 1904 as the U.S. Grant Home Site Historic Site. The 30-minute tours showcase the home’s original furnishings and tell stories of Grant’s time in Galena and as president shortly after the war.

Galena’s Main Street looks much like it did when Grant first saw it in the late 1800s. The downtown has more than 125 independent businesses inside its historic buildings.

On a walk downtown, groups can smell freshly popped gourmet popcorn, hand-dipped chocolates and chargrilled burgers from the town’s various eateries. Tours can combine dinner and river views at Timmerman’s Supper Club. The riverside restaurant offers steak-

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house cuisine, a dance floor and DJ entertainment on the weekends.

Groups can find photo ops of the river at the 10-acre Gramercy Park, an Illinois Natural Heritage Landmark. To explore the city’s past, Galena Trolley Tours offers daily narrated tours through the town’s historic streets. Other Galena tours vary in focus; they include a winery tour and a haunted history tour.

ON THE RIVER: The Chestnut Mountain Resort runs cruises aboard the Mississippi Explorer. The summer resort hotel offers hiking, biking, golf and pools, as well as one-and-a-half-hour wildlife cruises.

To reach the boat, passengers ride down a 2,000-foot track to the banks of the Mississippi. The resort’s Scenic Chair Lift can take guests back up the embankment for a three-state view of the surrounding area.

V I S I TG A L E N A .O R G

Ha n n i ba l , M i ssou r i

Born Samuel Clemens, Mark Twain saw the world from a unique perspective. His childhood in Hannibal, Missouri, shaped much of his later fiction, and many of his characters were inspired by real people he knew growing up.

Groups can learn about Twain’s childhood that shaped his works “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” in seven historic properties at the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum complex. The boyhood home re-creates Twain’s child-

Timmerman’s Supper Club in Galena

hood, down to the original white picket fence.

In the museum, guests can examine many artifacts from the celebrated American author, such as his white suit coat. Other attractions include the Becky Thatcher House, the Huckleberry Finn House, the J.M. Clemens Justice of the Peace Office and Grant’s Drug Store.

Hannibal has a long history of preserving its historic buildings. The town saved Rockcliffe Mansion days before its scheduled demolition in 1967. Completed in 1900, the Victorian and Art Nouveau mansion now hosts guided tours to show the home’s antique furnishings, highend lighting fixtures and period artifacts.

Groups can learn about another historic Hannibal character at the Molly Brown Birthplace Museum. Known as the “Unsinkable Molly Brown,” Brown was born in poverty and rose to riches. She became widely known after surviving the sinking of the Titanic.

Hannibal has several restaurants that welcome groups. One, the Ole Planters Restaurant, is a local favorite that offers hickory-smoked barbecue, pork tenderloin and homemade pie.

ON THE RIVER: Visitors can see the rolling Mississippi from the same vantage point as Huck Finn did on the Mark Twain Riverboat.

Groups can choose between a one-hour narrated sightseeing cruise or a two-hour dinner cruise for a buffet meal and live music. Built in 1964, the boat is 120 feet long with a 350-passenger capacity.

V I S I T H A N N I B A L .C O M

Shopping in a Vicksburg gallery

COURTESY GALENA COUNTRY TOURISM

Pastries at Pearl in La Crosse

Hannibal’s Mark Twain Riverboat COURTESY LA CROSSE COUNTY CVB

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COURTESY VICKSBURG CVB

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Vick sbu rg , M i ssi ssippi

Most American students learned about Vicksburg, Mississippi, in history class as the location of the pivotal Siege of Vicksburg. Today, the city honors that past and welcomes visitors to its charming downtown, historic attractions, art galleries, restaurants and riverscapes.

The Jessie Brent Lower Mississippi River Museum demonstrates the power of the mighty Mississippi with interactive exhibits such as a choose-your-own-river-adventure simulation. Other exhibits include stories about historic floods, a 1,515-gallon aquarium and the M/V Mississippi IV towboat.

To discover the significant role the city played during the Civil War, groups can explore the Vicksburg National Military Park. More than 14,000 memorial monuments and markers dot the 1,800-acre park to honor soldiers who served on both sides of the Civil War. Groups can also explore nine historic fortifications, the Vicksburg National Cemetery and the USS Cairo Gunboat and Museum.

More history awaits at the Old Court House Museum. Tours of the striking building reveal stories of Union shelling during the Civil War and Jefferson Davis’ time at the courthouse and an extensive collection of artifacts.

Since Vicksburg contains so much history, many groups opt for a Historic Vicksburg City Tour. Groups can also choose from the city’s numerous antebellum homes, such as the Jacqueline House Museum.

Vicksburg residents love their local restaurants, among them the

A rooftop bar on Vicksburg’s waterfront

Vicksburg National Military Park

Vicksburg’s Old Court House Museum

PHOTOS COURTESY VICKSBURG CVB

AFTER YOUR TRIP, IT’S TIME FOR A RIDE.

CIRCLEWISCONSIN.COM

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414-545-1100

DUCKS & DELLS BOAT TOURS

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unlock the

History

A model of the lower Mississippi at the LSU Center for River Studies in Baton Rouge COURTESY VISIT BATON ROUGE

family-owned Walnut Hills Restaurant. The restaurant hosts groups and is especially known for its fried chicken, homemade biscuits and from-scratch cornbread.

ON THE RIVER: Those looking to experience the wild power of the Mississippi River can rent a canoe or a kayak from the Quapaw Cone Company. Guided half- or full-day tours drift past towering bluffs, forests and sandbars, with abundant wildlife often visible from both sides of the coast.

V I S I T V I C K S B U R G .C O M

Bat on R ou ge, L ou i sia n a

Baton Rouge, Louisiana, beats its own drum. The capital of Louisiana’s history has an unusual mix of French, Spanish and Creole cultures that show up in the city’s cuisine and history. Home to Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge also enjoys a collegiate energy.

Groups can explore the 300-year-old city’s downtown blues music joints, local shops and top attractions by foot. The great expanse of the Mississippi River is visible from various vantage points, including the Louisiana State Capitol’s observation deck. The 350-foot-high building is the tallest capitol in the country.

For local Louisiana seafood and all-American favorites, groups can try the riverfront Capital City Grill. Other options for groups include Tsunami Sushi and Little Village Downtown.

The Capitol Park Museum dives into state history with two permanent exhibits: “Grounds for Greatness: Louisiana and the Nation” and “Experiencing Louisiana: Discovering the Soul of America.” Both highlight the state’s cultural hallmarks, such as Mardi Gras, as well as famous residents such as Louis Armstrong and Huey P. Long.

Baton Rouge continues to surprise at Louisiana’s Old State Capitol. Though the Gothic castle looks more fit for fairy tales than a state government building, the National Historic Landmark offers tours with exhibits and architectural marvels, such as a cast iron staircase and a stained-glass cathedral dome.

Other top attractions include the LSU Rural Life Museum and Windrush Gardens, the USS Kidd and the Louisiana Art and Science Museum.

ON THE RIVER: Several larger river cruise ships stop at Baton Rouge including the 400-passenger American Queen, the 166-passenger American Duchess and the 150-passenger Queen of the Mississippi. American Cruise Lines’ 187-passenger American Harmony began cruising from New Orleans to Memphis, Tennessee, in May 2019, with stops in Baton Rouge.

V I S I T B ATO N R O U G E .C O M

T h e Key to t h e S o u t h

@VisitVicksburg 2 02G 0 .C O M V 40 I S I TJUN V E/JULY/AUG I C K S BUST UR

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INSPIRED BY HISTORY. DRIVEN BY ADVENTURE.

Staff Sound-off

WHAT MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES HAVE YOU HAD WITH ANOTHER CULTURE WHILE TRAVELING?

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PUBLISHER MAC LACY

have developed quite an appreciation for the ethereal beauty of the Muslim calls to prayer. As a Christian, I have little real understanding about these melodic prayers that are broadcast across cities, but in several trips to places like Jordan and Egypt, I have always been captivated by them. Typically, I hear morning prayers around dawn while I’m still in bed and evening prayers near sunset while I am out somewhere in a city.

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VP, SALES & MARKETING KELLY TYNER

y parents lived in Korea and Japan for two years each while I was in college. I was fortunate to be able to go visit them during the summers and at Christmas and meet many of my mother’s college-aged students that she taught English to. Many of them gave me tours around Seoul or Tokyo so I could see their favorite attractions, learn about their culture, try new cuisines and, of course, let them practice their English skills with me. I have traveled all over the world, but to this day, my most fond travel memories are of these experiences with her students. They were the kindest people and offered me local experiences I would never have as an average tourist.

I

DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING SALES KYLE ANDERSON

n Greece, on the island of Ikaria, the locals didn’t have a lot of money, and they were all farmers. The group I was with went to a party they have almost every week, and they were all so happy. It didn’t seem to matter how much money they made.

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SALES & MARKETING EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT CAROLINE DAVIS

y family and I spent the holidays in Chicago a few years ago. What I came to realize is that while Chicago is one of the most diverse cities in the United States, it is also one of the most segregated — distinct neighborhood microcosms of varying cultures. So, unfortunately, I realized that diversity does not equate with inclusion.

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VP & EXECUTIVE EDITOR BRIAN JEWELL

spent a semester in Mexico in college and lived with a host family. They were among the kindest, most generous people I have ever met.

They took me everywhere with them — to weddings, baptisms, parties and holiday celebrations. I got to experience Mexican culture in a way most tourists never do and grew a deep love for the country and its people. I got to visit them a couple more times when my travels took me back to Mexico.

And if I ever get the opportunity to see them again, I’ll jump at the chance.

EDITOR’ S NOTE Welcome to Staff Sound-Off, the monthly column where our staff members answer questions about their travel practices and preferences. We hope you enjoy these tips. If you have a question you’d like to see us answer, send it to me and it may appear in a future issue.

BRIANJ@GROUPTR AVELLEADER .COM

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