Select Traveler July August 2017

THE MAGAZINE FOR BANK, ALUMNI AND CHAMBER TRAVEL PLANNERS

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MACON MUSIC

|

A SALUTE TO MUSEUMS

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T H E AT E R ’ S B I G T H R E E

life’s a watercolor THEATER and

in the

CAROLINAS

ENTERTAINMENT

MAR QU VEL S H O EE WC

TRA

ASE

JULY/AUGUST 2017

AMISH ACRES, home to the ABA Top 100 Arts & Crafts Festival, features an all inclusive $99 2-Day, 1 Night package with guided tours of the historic Amish farm, professional Broadway musical theatre, famous family style Threshers Dinner, quaint lodging with breakfast and specialty shops. Book and sell a minimum of 25 rooms and each person in your group receives a free hand-made fudge sampler from Amish Acres Fudge Shop.

DAS DUTCHMAN ESSENHAUS $98, 2-Day, 1-Night package combines a peaceful night’s stay at the

Essenhaus Inn complete with luggage handling, generously-sized guest rooms with Amish-crafted furniture, indoor pool, fitness center, in-room coffee, all taxes and a deluxe hot breakfast. Take in a live theatre production at Heritage Hall and dine at the world famous Restaurant with a family-style dinner.

SHIPSHEWANA AUCTION & FLEA MARKET, the Midwest’s Largest, is open Tuesdays & Wednesdays, May thru the first Saturday in October. Vendors offer everything - fresh fruit, handcrafted furniture, clothes and more! Enjoy Free bus parking and admission. While here, stay in one beautiful location and fall in love with the Farmstead Inn while enjoying experiences at the market & auction. Auctions and special events held year-round.

The QUILT GARDENS ALONG THE HERITAGE TRAIL ... an ABA Top 100 Event! Experience 19 eye-popping quilt patterned gardens (with over 1 MILLION blooms!) and 21 gigantic hand-painted quilt art murals that blanket seven Amish Country communities. Viewable free of charge ANNUALLY May 30 thru October 1!

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IT’S AMAZING WHAT’S INCLUDED EmeraldACTIVE guided biking and hiking tours | Extra special included excursions courtesy of EmeraldPLUS | A refined selection of wine, beer and soft drinks to accompany lunch and dinner | Innovative onboard features like our indoor pool that transforms to a cinema* | All airport transfers to and from your ship | Gratuities are included on and off the ship | 2018 Sailings now available

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THE MAGAZINE FOR BANK, ALUMNI AND CHAMBER TRAVEL PLANNERS

THEATER and

select ENTERTAINMENT

T R A V E L E R

VOL.25 NO.4

JULY/AUGUST 2017

THE CAROLINAS:

MOUNTAIN HIGHS AND OCEAN DEPTHS Courtesy Biltmore Estate

contents

ON THE COVER: The historic downtown of Cary, North Carolina, comes to life each August for the Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival.

Watercolor painting by Tesh Parekh.

14 theater 34 guide H A V E N S

checking in:

toolbox:

BONNIE MCCOWN

FRIENDLY FOLLOW-UP

musical marketing: MACON

PHOTOS 101

career: THEATER TOURS

10 12 26 44 46 MAC T. LACY CHARLES A. PRESLEY BRIAN JEWELL ELIZA MYERS HERBERT SPARROW DONIA SIMMONS DAVID BROWN ASHLEY RICKS CHRISTINE CLOUGH SAVANNAH OSBOURN KELLY TYNER

4

STACEY BOWMAN

888.253.0455

ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR

STACE Y@ BANK TR AVELMANAGEMENT.COM

Founder and Publisher Partner Executive Editor Associate Editor Senior Writer Creative Director Art Director Circulation Manager Copy Editor Staff Writer/Marketing Coordinator Director of Sales & Marketing

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THE MUSEUM

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Select Traveler, the Magazine for Bank, Alumni and Chamber Travel Planners, is published bimonthly by The Group Travel Leader, Inc., 301 East High Street, Lexington, Kentucky 40507 and is distributed free of charge to qualified travel program directors throughout the United States. All other travel suppliers, including tour operators, destinations, attractions, transportation companies, hotels, restaurants and other travel-related companies, may subscribe to Select Traveler by sending a check for $49 for one year to: Select Traveler, Circulation Department, 301 East High Street, Lexington, Kentucky 40507. 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.

NAME OR ADDRESS CHANGES: If your copy of Select Traveler should be mailed to another manager in your organization, or if you personally know another travel director who is not receiving Select Traveler, please send your correction to: Select Traveler, 301 East High St., Lexington, Kentucky 40507, or call (859) 2530455.

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perspective P U B L I S H E R ’ S

R

ecently, I glanced at an article on the popular travel commentary website SKIFT titled “Strong U.S. Dollar Means Little to Outbound Tourists.”

SKIFT is a relatively new travel industry think tank whose observa-

tions can be followed online at no charge at www.skift.com. Its staff do extensive research on topics of interest to the industry and publish ar-

ticles and entire reports for those who want more detail. They also host forums that produce top-level content on industry issues.

I sent a link to this article to a few colleagues with a note saying that we already knew this about international travelers. In fact, we had already published the finding. The same observation, with much less detail, appeared in this column in our March/April issue.

That’s because at our buyer breakout session at the Select Traveler Conference held last February, many of you gave us a heads-up on this. You said your international travelers are not making decisions based on exchange rates or the strength of the dollar. You said they’re traveling overseas based on their preference for traveling in smaller groups and enjoying a high level of service.

My point is that we have access to some of the most practical, wheels-on-the-ground travel knowledge available due to our communication with all of you. Select Traveler planners are on the front line of figuring out what travelers want and what they are willing to pay. As such, you know things before many of the rest of us.

Such knowledge of travel preferences develops over years in the trenches and allows you to know what many of the rest of us must figure out — including the researchers at SKIFT. If those folks ever want to assemble a focus group to examine issues and trends in the group travel industry, they should start with a few of our Select Traveler readers and delegates.

Have a great summer.

Email me anytime with your thoughts at maclacy@grouptravelleader.com.

Mac Lacy 6

selecttraveler.com

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BRING YOUR GROUP TOUR TO LIFE. Fall in love with the rhythm of the waves with hands-on experiences and uncommon access offered exclusively for groups.

Plan your group’s Live the Life Adventure at VisitVirginiaBeach.com/GroupTour.

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P L A N N E R S

T A L K

B A C K

what was a standout festival or event your group attended?

CATE ECKENRODE RECREATION COORDINATOR | CITY OF FORT COLLINS FORT COLLINS, COLORADO “In the fall of 2016, our travel program took a trip to the Norsk Hostfest in Minot, North Dakota. As my first extended trip as the new recreation coordinator, I couldn’t have asked for a more memorable experience. We took photos with Grandma Schotz, shopped for handcrafted treasures and attended hands-on presentations. We also ate a decadent six-course feast. At Norsk Hostfest, there is so much to see, do, taste and experience.”

BARBARA HAHL OWNER AND GROUP LEADER | BARBARA’S BUNCH ROSCOE, NEW YORK “Two years ago, I took my group to the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California. Through the years, I had been asked if I would ever do this trip and always said no because I didn’t think people would want to travel during the winter holidays. Was I ever surprised when 28 people signed up. It was an absolute thrill to see the floats being prepared the day before, and the excitement of actually being there was amazing. As wonderful as the parade looks on TV, my travelers loved being there and asked when we can go again.”

LAURA BARKER DIRECTOR, SENIOR PROGRAMS AND TRAVEL CITIZENS TRI-COUNTY BANK DUNLAP, TENNESSEE “A favorite with my group is always the Grand Ole Opry. This year, we attended while the Opry was at the Ryman. We enjoyed a backstage tour [and] dinner and had wonderful seats for the show. My group really enjoyed hearing the stories about what happens backstage and the history of the Ryman.”

SHANE FRANKS RECREATION SUPERVISOR | SALEM PARKS SALEM, OHIO “We went to Louisville, Kentucky, last October, and our first visit was to the Louisville Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular. The name is well suited. The display of over 5,000 pumpkins was truly spectacular. Everyone in our group commented on how amazing the displays were and how it was more entertaining than they could have possibly imagined.”

MARIA ELENA MCCALL VICE PRESIDENT | MONTECITO BANK AND TRUST SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA “Our group enjoyed the Cherry Blossom Festival with Overseas Adventure Travel in the Mount Fuji Five Lakes region in Japan. It was enjoyable to shop for charming handmade arts and crafts along the lakeshore and enjoy cherry blossom desserts.”

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In Oklahoma, you’ll have

ONE ELEPHA TIME. Commune with gentle giants at the Endangered Ark Elephant Sanctuary. Behold a thundering therapod at the Museum of the Red River. Visit vibrant vistas on a fiery Talimena foliage tour.

Then join a jumpin’ jamboree at the Beavers Bend Folk Festival and craft show.

Pack your trunk for Oklahoma, where jumbo-sized adventures await!

Find adventures and itineraries at TravelOK.com/Group.

BONNIE MCCOWN ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT

checking in W I T H

B O N N I E

M C C O W N

FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF PULASKI

The Heritage Club prepares for a swamp tour together.

FAYETTEVILLE, TENNESSEE Opened in 1938, the First National Bank of Pulaski has expanded over the years from Pulaski, Tennessee, to include 12 locations in Tennessee and Alabama. The bank’s Heritage Club started in 1987 and now boasts 2,800 members. Customers 50 years or older with balances of at least $5,000 can join.

Born: Fayetteville, Tennessee Employment: In 1974, McCown accepted her first banking position at the Union National Bank in Fayetteville.

She left for a new First National Bank branch opening in Fayetteville in 1991.

Family: McCown has been married to her husband, Larry, for 46 years. The couple has one son and one grandson, with a second grandbaby due in October.

Hobbies: McCown enjoys spending time with family and traveling.

BY ELIZA MYERS

B

onnie McCown started her career in banking not because of a well-thought-out career path but rather in response to her father’s disapproval.

“I was driving back and forth to Huntsville for my job at SCI Technology,” said McCown, assistant vice president of the First National Bank of Pulaski. “My dad didn’t want me driving that far. You know how fathers are. It’s an hour’s drive.”

To help pacify her father, McCown took a job at the Union National Bank in Fayetteville, Tennessee, in 1974. Despite the unorthodox reason for taking the job, McCown built a career around her fondness for customer service, which eventually enabled her to travel extensively with First National Bank of Pulaski’s Heritage Club.

“I love my customers,” said McCown. “I love to help people. Our travelers love to be spoiled, and we love to spoil them. Travel is just a minor

10

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part of my job, but it’s also a really fun part.”

McCown may not have foreseen her career trajectory, but she revels in discovering new hidden gems for her constantly growing Heritage Club.

HUM BL E B E G I NNIN GS When McCown joined First National Bank of Pulaski in 1991, not only did she not have a corner office, there wasn’t even a building.

“They had just opened the new branch in Fayetteville when I transferred,” said McCown. “We started out in a trailer, so there weren’t very many of us. Needless to say, we grew very fast.”

Soon McCown began traveling with the Heritage Club on the invitation of Melinda Hughey, now owner of a bank marketing and communications firm called the RH Factor. Hughey was the bank’s marketing director at that time.

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“She thought I had the personality for it because she knew I loved people and I loved adventure,” said McCown. “I traveled a few trips with her, and then she decided to start her own business shortly after. That’s how I got pushed into it.”

McCown and Hughey still work together, as the RH Factor helps craft the Heritage Club’s itineraries.

“Melinda’s great,” said McCown. “We’ve been friends since I started traveling with her. We’re still the best of friends. I know I can trust her.

She’s not going to decide anything without me finalizing it.”

Leaning on a trustworthy travel planning partner allows McCown to oversee the club while also accomplishing her numerous other tasks.

On any given day, McCown might work on the bank’s Student Advisor Board, hosted events and community relations. She also spends every spare second with her new grandson.

“It’s crazy busy,” said McCown. “I tell people I don’t know if I could have nothing to do all the time. I’m so used to being busy. If I sit down, I’ll go to sleep.”

from day trips to international vacations.

Whatever the destination, McCown strives to bring a sense of fun to each outing. It served her well on a trip to the Grand Canyon in 2013 when the government shut down during the trip.

“Who would think that in all the years that people have been going to the Grand Canyon that it would be shut down? You can panic, or you can go with plan B. It turned out fabulous. We thought it was our worst nightmare, but it ended up a great adventure.”

T R A V E L

tips

UPWAR D M O M E N T U M Since the Heritage Club began in 1987, the group has attracted 2,800 members, all aged 50 or older. Though the club has remained popular over time, its growth has reached new heights recently.

“I think sometimes bank travel clubs may fall into a lull period and stop growing,” said McCown. “Ours went through that, but we have really started building our Heritage Club over the last few years. We have some great travelers going on trips with us numerous times a year.”

McCown believes that some of the growth comes from the First National Bank of Pulaski’s new offerings, such as rewards accounts and mobile banking. The other reason McCown credits for the club’s jump in members is attracting the attention of some boomer travelers, who typically prefer traveling on their own.

“I think a lot of the baby boomers are beginning to want to travel with us,” said McCown. “We’ve got a foot in the door with a group of boomers that would rather us put the trip together and all they have to do is step on the coach and relax. They leave the rest to us. That is really what is building our club now.”

Word of mouth from these new boomer travelers spreads quickly to draw even more members.

McCown also discovered that allowing noncustomers on the trip pays off, since they inevitably sign up for an account after a successful group trip.

• Don’t rely on cookie-cutter trips. Always customize, research and don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path.

• Make sure travelers get more than their money’s worth. Always throw in a surprise or two.

• Always have a plan B. Creativity is king.

i i a w a H

CONSTAN T D I S C O V E R Y Finding bucket-list destinations to tempt your travelers can prove easy at first. However, continuously offering dynamic trips over the years becomes more difficult as the group checks off the obvious places.

“As long as I have been with the club, we’ve just about been there and done that or are going back again,” said McCown. “There are places not really big on the map right now, but that’s great for us because that gives us off-the-beaten-path destinations. You want to give them something they haven’t thought about.”

McCown attends several travel conferences, including the Select Traveler Conference, to continue to learn about emerging destinations that range

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our ‘2-for-14’ Comp poliCy

Islands in the Sun Cruises & Tours, Inc. bankclubs@crus-sun.com www.crus-sun.com

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T R A V E L

T O O L B O X

it pays to finish a trip strong

BY BRIA N JE W EL L

Y

ou spent months planning the perfect trip and then dedicated more than a week of your life to accompanying your travelers on the road to make sure they had a great time. Now that everyone has returned from a successful adventure, it’s time to finish strong with some strategic post-trip follow-up.

Afte a group trip, which can be both rewarding and exhausting, it’s tempting to close the chapter on that tour and move on to other things. But the days immediately after you return home present opportunities to seize on the success of the trip and boost your travelers’ loyalty, make a statement to your senior leadership and tweak your processes to make the next trip even better.

Don’t miss these five vital follow-up actions when you return from a trip with your group.

GET FEEDBACK AND SUGGESTION S Even on the best trip, your travelers are likely to have some valuable feedback about what they liked most, as well as what elements of the tour they could have done without. If you don’t already have them fill out evaluations during the trip, send an email asking for feedback in the day or two after the trip to give them an opportunity to share their thoughts. This is also a good time to ask about where they’d like to go in the future, which can help you select destinations that will be popular.

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SHAR E PHOT OS AN D V IDEOS Back in the day, savvy group leaders would hold photo-sharing parties after returning home so participants could swap prints of the pictures they took during the trip. Now, thanks to digital photography and smartphones, people don’t print hundreds of pictures from their travels; but that doesn’t mean you should stop sharing. Use a website like YouTube, Dropbox, Flickr or Shutterfly to upload and share your best pictures and videos from the trip, and encourage your travelers to upload their favorites to share with the group as well.

STR IKE WH ILE THE IR O N IS HO T

CONNECT WITH YOUR LEADER S

Immediately after a trip, when your travelers are

If you plan affinity travel for a

still basking in the warm glow of their experiences, is

bank, a university alumni group or

a good time to entice them to think about their next

a chamber of commerce, you likely

trip. If you have planned your group’s travel sched-

report to someone in senior leader-

ule for several months, you can reach out to partici-

ship with that organization. So when

pants from your most recent trip and ask them to join

you return from a trip, keep those

you on an upcoming adventure that still has open

leaders apprised and appreciative

seats. You might even offer them a special repeat-

by preparing a brief report with trip

traveler discount or incentive, or even come up with

highlights, feedback from custom-

a referral program that rewards them for bringing a

ers and any revenue or profits from

new friend or family member on the next trip.

the trip. This helps ensure that your supervisors continue to value your travel program and understand how it is connected to your organization’s

HA N D L E C O MPL IME NT S A ND CO MPL AI NT S

mission.

Every trip has some high and low points, and you might encounter some situations that merit your attention after the trip. If you had customers who complained to you about experiences they had, circle back around to them and see what you can do to make sure they are satisfied. This is also an appropriate time to bring up both compliments and complaints with the tour operators, hoteliers, bus companies and other vendors with whom you work. If a company isn’t interested in addressing your concerns after a trip, that’s a good indication that you shouldn’t do business with them in the future.

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YOUR THEATER BUFFS DESERVE THIS

TRIPLE crown

BY RACHEL CARTER

The bright lights of Broadway still draw the crowds in New York City.

By Tagger Yancey, courtesy NYC and Company

THEATER and ENTERTAINMENT

l

theater’s grand dame

T

hey’ve done their research, and based on the number of theaters and ticket sales, “London is the biggest theater capital in the world,” said Julian Bird, chief executive of the Society of London Theatre.

Why London is so well known for its live theater is “partly heritage, partly funding, partly that we have these historic buildings,” he said.

In the United Kingdom, the theater tradition dates to William Shakespeare and before, and central London is home to theaters that can be traced back hundreds of years.

That culture has only grown in contemporary times. Today, London’s famed West End theater district is home to 52 main theaters, and there are many more throughout the city. Theaters range from small operations to large opera houses, and the buildings range from 200-year-old historic landmarks to modern theaters with flexible spaces.

WEST END

In the West End, the two biggest and oldest theaters are the Theatre Royal Drury Lane and the London Palladium. The 1812 Theatre Royal Drury Lane, which is now showing “42nd Street,” is “absolutely an extraordinary building,” Bird said. It’s also one of the most famous because it’s owned by Andrew Lloyd Webber, who had the front-ofhouse areas extensively restored in 2013. Although the current building is 205 years old, it is the fourth theater to be located on that site; the first dates to 1663 but was destroyed in a fire in 1672.

The 1910 London Palladium opened a new production of “The Wind in the Willows” in June, but the theater also puts on a range of concerts and other performances.

World War I delayed the opening of the St. Martin’s Theatre until 1916, but the St. Martin’s claim to fame isn’t its building. It holds the world record for the longest continually running show in the world: Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” opened there in 1974 and is still going strong.

“It’s an extraordinary production and hugely popular, even today,” Bird said. “It’s kind of amazing, really, that it’s still there.”

The Dominion Theatre, another large house, is showing “An American in Paris,” and “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” opened at the 1891 Palace Theatre in July 2016.

INVESTING IN THEATER

In London, old theaters are being restored, and new theaters are being built because of “investment both in refurbishment and in new theaters,” Bird said.

In the West End, the 1911 Victoria Palace Theatre is being completely renovated, and the hugely popular U.S. hit “Hamilton” will make its U.K. debut there in November.

The brand-new Bridge Theatre is due to open October 18 with “Young Marx.” The theater’s main entrance is on Potters Fields Park, overlooking the Thames River at the base of the iconic Tower Bridge.

HTTP://SOLT.CO.UK

chica

cond to none

T

The Chicago Shakespeare Theater put on its first production, “Henry V,” in 1986.

Above a bar. The Steppenwolf Theatre Co. got its start in the mid-1970s with three friends performing in the basement of a church.

Part of the reason Chicago is such a haven for live theater is that the city has always championed “these small, storefront theaters,” said Deb Clapp, executive director of the League of Chicago Theatres. But, at the same time, Chicago “had some really excellent institutional theaters develop,” she said.

Chicago has more than one theater district, among them the Belmont Theater Dis-

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trict and another in Edgewater, but many of the city’s best-known theaters are in the downtown theater district.

DOWNTOWN THEATER DISTRICT

Broadway in Chicago operates five theaters in the city, and three of them are historic: the Bank of America Theatre, the Cadillac Palace Theatre and the Oriental Theatre. Although the 1906 Bank of America Theatre is the oldest, the 1926 Oriental is a crowd favorite.

The Oriental’s elaborate architectural details make it a Taj Mahal of theaters, and the Indian-inspired interior, which boasts statues of Buddhas and lions, has been described as “hasheesh-dream décor.” When it originally opened as a movie picture house, turban-wearing ushers showed guests to their seats.

Broadway in Chicago offers Saturday morning tours of its three historic theaters for groups of up to 70 people, though the tour may include only two theaters if one is dark. Guides talk about each theater’s history, the unique architecture and former shows that played there.

The theaters most often host touring Broadway productions but occasionally get concerts or a pre-Broadway premiere. The Oriental will once again have “Wicked” over the holidays, and Broadway in Chicago will bring back “The Color Purple” next July.

The Chicago Theatre, with its iconic marquees, and the elaborate 1889 Auditorium Theatre, which mostly features dance performances, concerts and speakers, are both “amazing,” Clapp said, and both also offer behind-the-scenes tours. Also in downtown, the Goodman Theater, Chicago’s oldest and largest nonprofit theater, will remount “Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters’ First 100 Years” next summer.

EXPANDING PRODUCTIONS

Chicago Theatre

When the Chicago Shakespeare Theater moved from its space above the bar to its home on Chicago’s famed Navy Pier, it also expanded from Shakespeare to include musicals, new plays and international productions. The theater company is expanding again, adding a third, year-round performance venue called The Yard to its existing two-theater campus. The covered outdoor venue will feature movable towers with audience capacities of 150 to 850. Producers will be able to arrange the towers, each with three levels of seating, around the stage

By Adam Alexander, courtesy League of Chicago Theatres

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Photo by Lindsey Best © 2017 Blue Man Productions, LLC.

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Celebrating our 40th Theatre Season!

in a ring, a horseshoe, a box or another configuration.

“It’s unbelievable,” Clapp said of the venue’s design. “They’re basically making it a blank canvas for theater.”

The Steppenwolf Theatre Co. outgrew the church basement and today has about 50 ensemble members and three theaters: the 515-seat Downstairs Theatre, the 299-seat Upstairs Theatre, and the company’s newest, the 1700 Theatre, a flexible, intimate 80-seat space dedicated to showing work of ensemble members and emerging local theater companies.

WWW.LEAGUEOFCHICAGOTHEATRES.ORG

new y leading l ady

’s

N

ew York City may today be considered the leading lady of live theater in America, but theater didn’t establish itself in the city until the 1750s and didn’t arrive on Broadway for another century. Today, the lights of Broadway are shining as bright as ever. The 2016-2017 season, which ended in May, brought in audiences of more than 13.2 million, and Broadway shows grossed nearly $1.5 billion.

July 27 - Sept 10

Sept 14 - Oct 29

Nov 2 - Dec 23

2018 Season On Sale Now!

PHANTOM • NEWSIES • 42ND STREET CHURCH BASEMENT LADIES 2 - A Second Helping Disney’s THE LITTLE MERMAID • GREASE ELF THE MUSICAL

OPENING NIGHT

On Broadway, there’s something for everyone: Groups will find long-running staples of live theater and debuting newcomers that aim to shake up the world of theater.

“The Phantom of the Opera” opened in January 1988 at the Majestic Theatre, where it is still playing, with more than 12,200 performances to date. “Chicago” comes in second, with more than 8,500 performances since its opening in November 1996, although in that time, it has been housed in three theaters. It is now playing at the Ambassador Theatre.

Along the Great White Way, several new Broadway productions have opened or will be debuting this year, among them “Miss Saigon” at the Broadway Theatre, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, “Anastasia” at the Broadhurst Theatre and “Hello, Dolly!” starring Bette Midler at the Shubert Theatre.

This fall will bring the Tony Award-winning “M. Butterfly” to the Cort Theatre in the play’s first Broadway return, and “Junk” will premiere in New York at the Vivian Beaumont Theater.

Spring 2018 will see the opening of “My Fair Lady,” “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” and “Escape to Margaritaville.”

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Superb Musicals | Memorable Dining Family Hospitality | Spectacular Shops 1131 Janesville Ave, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 800-477-9505 | www.firesidetheatre.com 18

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Off-Broadway is both a proving ground for aspiring Broadway stars and a training camp for future Broadway hits. The term “offBroadway” started gaining popularity in the 1950s to describe theaters that were located on a side street intersecting Broadway.

On 42nd Street’s Theatre Row, the Theatre Row Building houses six smaller studio theaters. The Laurie Beechman Theatre showcases singers, comedians, burlesque and drag shows, and Playwrights Horizons is dedicated to the work of up-andcoming writers.

WWW.NYCGO.COM

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New York City and North American Tour

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New York City and North American Tour

Contact a Group Sales Representative today to book your group!

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from the mountains to the sea NORTH CAROLINA OFFERS URBAN EXCITEMENT AND OUTDOOR WONDERS

BY BRIAN JEWELL

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all it a triple threat: North Carolina boasts a beautiful mountain region, a thriving and sophisticated city set, and a seashore that many other destinations would envy.

Groups that travel through the state can plan stops in these three distinctive regions to experience and enjoy the diversity of North Carolina.

Biltmore Estate is an icon of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains.

MOUNTAINS: BILTMORE AND MORE The forested mountainous region of North Carolina is spectacularly scenic. The Blue Ridge Mountains dominate the landscape in this part of the state, providing ample opportunities for driving tours, adventure activities and other outdoor pursuits. The area also has plenty of history and other points of interest that allow it to offer complete tour experiences.

Asheville has become one of the state’s most popular tourist destinations, and nearly everyone who visits makes a point of seeing the Biltmore Estate. Built by George Washington Vanderbilt III and completed in 1895, Biltmore’s 250 rooms include 34 bedrooms, 42 bathrooms, 65 fireplaces, three kitchens, an indoor swimming pool and a bowling alley. After 35 years as a private home, the Biltmore House opened to the public in 1930.

Today, there are a variety of tours of the massive estate, among them overview tours, tours of the servants’ quarters and others that offer “behind the scenes” views of areas of the house not often seen by the public. Groups visiting the estate can also enjoy 250 acres of gardens; shop or dine at Antler Hill Village; and do a tour and tasting at the Biltmore Winery.

Groups traveling in the western part of the state should also plan time to visit Cherokee, which sits just across the state line from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, in North Carolina’s portion of the Great Smoky Mountains. As its name suggests, the area boasts a strong Cherokee heritage, which visitors can explore at Oconaluftee Indian Village, a historic interpretive site. And an outdoor drama, “Unto These

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Hills,” explores the story of the Cherokees with music, lights, costumes and elaborate staging.

CENTRAL: THE CITY SCENE The largest cities in North Carolina can be found in its central region, sandwiched between the mountains and the coast.

With numerous high-profile universities and high-tech industries, these destinations enjoy a sophisticated attitude that upscale travelers will appreciate.

In addition to being one of the financial centers of the South, Charlotte is home to some of the state’s most notable museums.

NASCAR got its start in North Carolina, and today, the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte gives visitors a detailed look at one of the most beloved sports in the country. Visitors see nu-

merous historic race cars and hear stories of the teams that raced them to victory.

Another popular attraction for groups, the Billy Graham Library, tells the life story of America’s most famous preacher. Visitors learn about Billy Graham’s childhood and family life, his early years in ministry and the series of evangelistic crusades for which he became famous.

Along the way, exhibits display artifacts from his career and many of the gifts he has received from dignitaries worldwide.

The theme continues in Winston-Salem, a city about 80 miles northeast of Charlotte, where historic structures have been repurposed as museums.

The Reynolda House Museum of American Art, once the home of local tobacco barons, now houses one of the South’s preeminent collections of American art, with pieces dating to 1755.

Also in Winston-Salem is the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art, which is housed in a 1929 English Tudor home.

It features contemporary works by regional and national artists.

COAST: BEACHES AND HISTORY Coastal North Carolina attracts plenty of beachgoers, but

Cape Hatteras in the Outer Banks Courtesy Biltmore Estate

Courtesy Outer Banks VB Courtesy Visit Dorchester, by Jill Jasuta

NASCAR Hall of Fame

there is more to this destination than sun and sand. Groups that visit the area can enjoy the ocean views while also learning about the region’s distinctive history.

On the northeastern edge of the state, North Carolina’s Outer Banks is a 200-mile stretch of barrier islands in the Atlantic Ocean, and the area has a story to tell about some of America’s first settlers.

In 1585, Sir Walter Raleigh and a group of settlers arrived on Roanoke Island and established the first English settlement in the New World. The 166 settlers later disappeared, earning Roanoke Island the name “the Lost Colony.”

At Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, groups can see where these early settlers lived. The site also has information and programming that details the roles Native Americans, European settlers and African slaves played in the area until the Civil War. For more of the story, many groups attend a performance of “The Lost Colony.” The production is the longest-running outdoor drama in the United States and recounts the events leading up to the disappearance of the Roanoke colony.

Wilmington, a town near the Atlantic Coast, is famous for its historical charm. At the heart of this is the 230-block National Register Historic District, which features hundreds of beautiful historic homes.

Many of the homes in the district are still private residences, but some of the most impressive mansions in town serve as house museums. One of the oldest, the BurgwinWright Museum House, was built around 1770 and features classic Colonial architecture and period lifestyle demonstrations.

Wilmington also has a pair of mansions from the middle of the 19th century: The Latimer House Museum was built in 1852 and features Victorian period furnishings and artwork. Another antebellum home, built in 1859, serves as the Bellamy Mansion Museum of History and Design Arts.

A Wilmington boardwalk

selecttraveler.com Courtesy NASCAR HoF

Courtesy Wilmington & The Beaches CVB

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a culture of charm SOUTH CAROLINA ENTICES WITH HOSPITALITY AND RESPLENDENT BEAUTY

BY BRIAN JEWELL

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Charleston Culinary Tours highlight the history and gastronomy of the city.

outh Carolina’s coastal area boasts some of the most popular vacation destinations on the Eastern Seaboard, but there’s more to the Palmetto State than the ocean and the low country. In the northwestern part of the state, the mountainous landscape makes for great outdoor activity and hides a few surprising group experiences. And Columbia, the capital city in the center of the state, is a hub of cultural activity.

MOUNTAINS: BLUE RIDGE AND BMWS In the northwest corner of South Carolina, Greenville combines its mountainous surroundings with a hip urban environment and progressive outlook.

Visitors can get their fill of mountain beauty at the Blue Ridge Escarpment, the area where the Blue Ridge Mountains descend toward the Piedmont of eastern South Carolina. The escarpment is home to more than 300 species of wildlife and 50 waterfalls. The best place to visit the escarpment near Greenville is Table Rock Mountain, part of the 11,000-acre Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area.

The Reedy River runs through Greenville’s Historic West End, and in 2004, the city built the beautiful Falls Park around the stretch of the river in the urban area. The park serves as an oasis in the city and is used for public art displays and as a jumping-off point for river exploration.

It’s no surprise that there’s lots of outdoor activity to enjoy in Spartanburg, a town about 30 miles east of Greenville.

But what may be surprising is that it is also home to the Performance Center, a one-of-a-kind BMW plant that manufactures more than 300,000 cars a year. Groups can tour the adjacent BMW museum called Zentrum.

Courtesy Charleston Culinary Tours

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and the Clemson 372, the first airplane in the United States built by college students. Its Cotton Mill Exchange is the largest museum store in the Southeast.

The Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens is a 170-acre site with more than 2,000 animals, as well as botanical gardens. The zoo features scenic river vistas, natural animal habitats and views of significant Columbia historical landmarks.

CENTRAL: CULTURAL COLUMBIA About halfway between the mountains and the coast in central South Carolina, Columbia serves as the state’s capital in a variety of respects. In addition to being the seat of government, Columbia is home to the University of South Carolina and is a cultural hub for the state.

One of the best ways for groups to discover Columbia’s intellectual and political power is by visiting the South Carolina State Museum, the largest museum in the state.

This 210,000-square-foot institution features four floors of exhibits, a digital dome planetarium, a 4-D interactive theater and an observatory.

Exhibits at the museum cover four areas: art, history, natural science and technology.

Among the highlights are a lifesize reproduction of the Confederate submarine the Hunley

COAST: HISTORY AND ENTERTAINMENT

Falls Park in downtown Greenville Courtesy Visit Greenville

Charleston cuisine

Myrtle Beach’s Brookgreen Gardens

Courtesy Charleston Culinary Tours

Courtesy Myrtle Beach Area CVB

GOODSPEED MUSICALS Home of the American Musical

Low country cuisine, historic architecture, hundreds of miles of coastline and dozens of energetic entertainment options come together to make the cities of the South Carolina coast some of the most popular travel destinations on the Atlantic Ocean.

With expansive stretches of beaches and a booming amusement and entertainment scene,

Enjoy large-scale musicals featuring Broadway actors in a space so intimate no seat is more than 16 rows from the stage.

•Group-friendly restaurant next door—packages available • FREE onsite bus parking

OKLAHOMA! July 14 - Sept 23

RAGS

Oct 6 - Dec 10

A CONNECTICUT CHRISTMAS CAROL Nov 17 - Dec 24

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CONTACT KATE MICARI-MILLER: 860.615.0316 groups@goodspeed.org

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Myrtle Beach has long been a favorite destination for Southerners seeking sand, surf and sunshine. An array of attractions and activities beyond the beach will keep visitors of various interests occupied.

Tour groups may or may not spend time on the beach, but every group that visits the Myrtle Beach area spends some time taking advantage of the area’s rich entertainment scene. Numerous venues, including the Carolina Opry and Legends in Concert, offer musical revue shows, with both afternoon and evening performances available.

There are also immersive and themed comedy shows. Medieval Times features a full meal and medieval equestrian tournament, and Pirates Voyage includes dinner and an inventive aquatic show.

About 100 miles down the coast, Charleston is about as different from Myrtle Beach as could be. This historic city oozes

Southern charm and has stories to tell that range from its Colonial founding through the Civil War and into the modern era. The city has also become known as a hot spot for new Southern art and cuisine.

No matter what side of Charleston you want to explore, there is a walking tour designed to showcase it. Numerous companies offer guided tours through the historic district that last for about two hours and give participants an overview of the city’s history, culture, antebellum homes, architecture and gardens. Ghost tours and pirate tours offer popular variations on the historical theme.

Beyond history, niche walking tour companies cater to special interests. Groups can choose from photography tours, food tours, immersive historical tours and even outings that include high tea in a private home.

BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg

Courtesy Spartanburg VCB

GIVE BETTER TOGETHER

Join forces with 170 member companies and 13,000+ travel professionals to amplify your giving and marketing, and inspire your employees.

Find out more at TourismCares.org

Ad space generously donated.

a f a m i ly o f br a n d s

200 Tourism Cares donors gave nearly $100,000 to social enterprises to help rebuild Nepal after a tragic earthquake.

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EXPERIENCE TIMELESS INSPIR ATION

Inspire your group with a visit to Biltmore, America’s largest home®, featuring acres of historic gardens, the nation’s most-visited winery, and two distinct hotels.

Join us for two exciting new exhibitions in 2018: Glamour on Board: Fashion from Titanic the movie: February 9–May 13, 2018 Chihuly at Biltmore: May 17–October 7, 2018

ASHEVILLE, NC

866-851-4661 groupsales@biltmore.com

BLUE SKY Y O U ’ R E

M Y

BY ELIZA MYERS

THEATER and ENTERTAINMENT

Guitar at the Allman Brothers Band Museum All photos courtesy Macon-Bibb County CVB

macon is all about the music

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o matter what song is playing in your head when you arrive in Macon, Georgia, you will soon find yourself tapping your feet to “Rambling Man,” “Tutti Frutti” and “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay.” The sounds of soul, rock and blues music still ring out in the city, now legendary for the number of musicians who have lived and performed there.

Groups can discover how Macon preserves its rich music history with stops at the house where the Allman Brothers lived, a site dedicated to Otis Redding and the theater where Little Richard and other influential African-Americans performed.

Tours of Macon not only highlight the classic hit songs associated with the town, but also relate captivating stories about the musicians, such as Redding’s start as a 15-year-old dropout who performed at talent shows for prize money.

Your group can sing along to some of the innovative tunes that changed American music forever on a trip to Macon’s music attractions.

DOUGLASS THEATRE In 1921, the son of a former slave opened a music venue that attracted an astonishing amount of talent to the small Georgia town.

The Douglass Theatre, founded by Charles Douglass, hosted early jazz and blues giants, among them Ma Rainey, Cab Calloway and Little Richard.

Though it looked like the end for the theater after it closed its doors in 1972, it reopened in 1997 following an extensive renovation.

Today, groups can take a guided tour through the opulent structure and listen to the stories about those who worked and performed there.

“The Douglass Theatre has a history of famous African-American performances, such as Otis Redding when he was a teenager,” said Valerie Bradley, vice president of marketing for the Macon-Bibb County Convention and Visitors Bureau. “He started his musical career there.”

SOUL SOUNDS. Follow the sounds of Macon and you’ll discover our vast musical heritage. Our legends defined the sounds we know so well today. Learn about the music and stories when you book a group trip to visit.

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The Big House Museum selecttraveler.com 27

After dropping out of school, Redding began competing in the theater’s Teenage Party Talent Contest, which he won for 15 weeks until officials banned him so others would have a chance to win. Redding became the first person honored on the theater’s walk of fame.

Guides talk about other famous performers who lived in the town for a while, including Little Richard, whose songs like “Tutti Frutti” helped birth the sound of rock ’n’ roll. Groups can also add a performance or film to their tour experience.

OTIS REDDING FOUNDATION Redding’s music plays in Macon 24 hours a day at the “Otis Redding Sittin’ On The Dock of the Bay” statue on the banks of the Ocmulgee River. Unveiled in 2003, the statue is typically part of a tour of the nearby Otis Redding Foundation, which presents a minimuseum on the beloved singer.

Redding grew up in Macon, where he learned to sing and play music at a local Baptist church. His gruff vocals and inspiring lyrics produced many American classics, such as “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” and “Try a Little Tenderness.” Days after recording his most famous hit, “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay,” Redding died in an airplane crash. The song became the first posthumous No. 1 record on the Billboard Hot 100 and ensured Redding’s music legacy would never be forgotten.

The museum’s exhibits provide a glimpse into the talented musician’s life and works. The collection spans his career, which yielded 12 albums and 15 Top 10 hits.

“The Otis Redding Foundation is a minimuseum that the Redding family runs,” said Bradley. “Though the museum is small, groups have a great experience looking around and purchasing Otis Redding souvenirs, like CDs and shirts.”

The Allman Brothers

Douglass Theatre

Allman Brother’s guitar

THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND MUSEUM The Allman Brothers’ Berry Oakley, living with his wife, child and sister in a one-bedroom loft in 1970 Macon, needed more space.

He and his bandmates ended up renting a three-story Grand Tudor house that would become the center of the band’s activities from 1970 to 1973.

The elegant home became known as “The Big House.” Today, groups can tour the home, restored as the Allman Brothers Band Museum to showcase the rock band’s guitars, clothing, photos, posters, gold records and vast collection of memorabilia.

“The Allman Brothers lived and wrote some of their most famous songs there,” said Bradley. “It was turned into a museum, and now there is memorabilia all over the place.”

Tours reveal the larger history of the Allman Brothers and their impact on the rock genre, as well as the more focused image of a typical day in a house full of musicians, family and friends.

Groups see the rooms where the band composed “Ramblin’ Man,” “Ain’t Wastin’ Time No More” and “Midnight Rider.” Handwritten lyrics are on display in the living room, and the Fillmore East Room re-creates the setup of the band’s jam sessions.

ROCK CANDY TOURS Since the buildings and sidewalks of Macon can’t talk and tell the stories of the music legends who lived there, Rock Candy Tours stepped in. The music history tour company showcases the hotel where Little Richard lived, the restaurant where the Allman Brothers

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Statue of Otis Redding

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frequently dined and other homes, rehearsal halls and recording studios that played a part in Macon’s music connection.

“Rock Candy Tours allow participants to see the homes and offices of the important musicians that lived and recorded there,” said Bradley. “The tour is a really great way to become acquainted with Macon’s music heritage and history.”

Rock Candy Tours helps groups discover the favorite haunts of Macon’s musicians in a variety of ways. Groups can choose from step-on guides, walking tours, trolley tours or shuttle tours. Tours last between one and a half and two and a half hours, depending on how many times the group would like to disembark for tours and photos.

The Rock ’n’ Roll Stroll walking tour focuses on Macon’s historic Intown residential and Cotton Avenue business districts, where many of the most famous artists lived and made their mark. Tours end at the famous H and H Restaurant, where the Allman Brothers frequently dined. Visitors learn how “Mama Louise” would serve the band even when they were too broke to repay her.

The Free Birds and Night Owls Tour highlights the downtown Macon commercial and nightlife district. Beginning at the Rookery, guests stop at various Macon restaurants and clubs. The tour ends at Grant’s Lounge, which boasts a long history as an influential Southern rock venue. Guests can end their tour with a drink and free admission to listen to some toe-tapping rock music.

www.maconga.org

Rock Candy Tours

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known

BY RACHEL CARTER

F O R

FESTIVALS KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVAL

EVERY CITY HAS ITS “THING.” SOME ARE KNOWN FOR MOUNTAINS ON THE HORIZON OR SKYSCRAPING SKYLINES, SOME HAVE REPUTATIONS AS HIPSTER BASTIONS, AND SOME ARE RENOWNED FOR HISTORIC SITES. BUT OTHERS ARE KNOWN FOR KNOWING HOW TO HAVE A GOOD TIME. THESE CITIES HOST ICONIC FESTIVALS EVERY YEAR, AND WHETHER IT’S TO CELEBRATE JAZZ OR TULIPS, HOT-AIR BALLOONS OR HORSE RACING, THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY GETS IN THE SPIRIT. 30

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LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY

By Jamie Rhodes, courtesy Louisville CVB

THE KENTUCKY DERBY is called “the fastest two minutes in sports,” but the Kentucky Derby Festival may be the liveliest two weeks in celebrations. The festival kicks off two weeks before the Derby with Thunder Over Louisville, a bombastic fireworks display and air show over the Ohio River.

The event is free, but it can be tough to find a spot with such large crowds. Groups staying at the riverfront Galt House Hotel have a perfect spot to watch the shows, said Susan Dallas, senior communications manager for the Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau. Visitors can also buy tickets to be aboard Belle of Louisville and on the water beneath the action.

The weekend before Derby Day, the U.S. Bank Great BalloonFest features three days of ballooning. The Wednesday before, groups can board the Belle of Louisville or the Belle of Cincinnati as they face off during the Great Steamboat Race. The Pegasus Parade marches down Broadway on Thursday, and Fest-a-Ville and the Chow Wagon festival grounds feature daily concerts, entertainment, activities and vendors.

Groups don’t have to be at the Derby to experience live horse racing at Churchill Downs, Dallas said. Racing starts at the track a week before, and guests can reserve outdoor box seats, book private suites or dine in the Millionaire’s Row and Skye Terrace dining rooms. Dawn at the Downs allows groups to have breakfast at the track and watch morning workouts, including those of Derby hopefuls.

WWW.GOTOLOUISVILLE.COM

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FRENCH QUARTER FESTIVAL

NEW ORLEANS

By Jay Combe, courtesy New Orleans CVB

THERE’S THE NEW ORLEANS JAZZ AND HERITAGE FESTIVAL, the VooDoo Music and Arts Experience, the French Quarter Festival, the Essence Festival, the Beignet Fest, the Bourbon Festival and the Fried Chicken Fest. And don’t forget Mardi Gras. There are so many festivals in New Orleans, even locals have a hard time keeping up but they do their best.

Large ticketed events such as Jazz Fest, VooDoo and Essence draw headlining acts and huge crowds, but “there’s always something going on; it’s just a matter of finding out what it is, and chances are you can incorporate that into your trip,” said Rachel Funel, tourism sales manager for the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The free French Quarter Festival every spring features 20 stages and nearly 100 food vendors, most local and selling signature dishes like Funel’s favorite: crawfish bread.

“Everywhere you walk, there’s a table or a booth or a stage,” she said. “They walk right out of their hotel, left or right — there’s likely something taking place.”

The Bayou Boogaloo music festival is a hidden gem that showcases an undiscovered-by-tourists part of town: Bayou St. John in Mid-City. The vibe is relaxed, and there are no crowds to fight. Other local favorites include White Linen Night, when everyone wears white linen and wanders among art galleries in the warehouse district, sampling food and wine along the way.

The next day is the Red Dress Run, when racers jog through downtown wearing red dresses.

WWW.NEWORLEANSCVB.COM

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LIVE ON GREEN

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA

TULIP TIME

HOLLAND, MICHIGAN

By Jamie Pham, courtesy Pasadena Center Operating Company

NEW YEAR’S EVE is all about the ball drop, but New Year’s Day is reserved for the Rose Bowl. An estimated 700,000 people from around the world gather in Pasadena in the days leading up to the Tournament of Roses Parade and Rose Bowl game.

“There’s a lot of energy in the week leading up to the parade,” said Melissa Perez, marketing manager for the Pasadena Convention and Visitors Bureau — and there’s a lot for groups to do.

The CVB has a list of float-decorating companies and individual associations that need people to work around the clock in the days just preceding the event to put the finishing touches on floats, something visitors are welcome to do. If groups don’t want to decorate, they can head to Rosemont Pavilion at the Rose Bowl Stadium to watch as workers apply seeds, bark and grasses to floats. After the parade, floats are displayed along Sierra Madre and Washington boulevards.

Live on Green is an annual three-day celebration that coincides with the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl. For three decades, the free festival has entertained visitors from morning to night with live music, performances, activities, contests, food booths and more at the Pasadena Convention Center.

Groups can also arrange for guided tours of the 1922 Rose Bowl Stadium or explore Pasadena’s local food scene with Melting Pot Food Tours.

WWW.VISITPASADENA.COM

Courtesy Holland Area Visitors Bureau

SPRING IS WHEN THE TULIPS BLOOM across Holland, Michigan, but autumn is planting season for roughly 6 million bulbs. Sometimes groups will participate in the fall community planting, “then come back in the spring and say, ‘I planted that,’” said Sally Laukitis, executive director of the Holland Area Visitors Bureau.

The annual Tulip Time Festival has been a citywide celebration since 100,000 tulips imported from the Netherlands bloomed in 1929. Although Tulip Time highlights the best of Holland’s Dutch culture, it kicks off in May with Fiesta!, a celebration of Holland’s Latino culture.

The two-day festival, held at the Shops at Westshore, features live music, traditional dancers, crafts and a car show.

Many groups arrive midweek to catch the main events, including the festival’s three parades. Groups can enjoy dance performances and concerts and sign up for hands-on programs, such as stenciling Delftware patterns on dishware. The festival also offers step-on guides and a docent program for groups.

Guests can make Dutch pastry at Nelis’ Dutch Village or enjoy an organ concert at the 1856 Pillar Church. At Windmill Island, groups can watch a demonstration of the working flour mill in the 255-year-old DeZwaan windmill, which was imported from the Netherlands in 1964.

At the DeKlomp Wooden Shoe and Delft Factory, groups can watch craftsmen carving wooden shoes, chat with artists or visit the Holland Bowl Mill to watch craftsmen make wooden bowls.

WWW.HOLLAND.ORG

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THE POPULATION OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO is a little over 2 million residents. That lends perspective to the fact that about 1 million people visit Albuquerque during the nine-day Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, so “there’s a lot of activity,” said Brenna Moore, public relations and communications manager for Visit Albuquerque.

“It’s quite exciting; everybody loves that time of year,” she said. “You see balloons right outside your window every morning.”

Every October, teams from around the world descend on the city to ascend from the 360-acre Balloon Fiesta Park, the launching place for balloons and the stomping grounds for visitors. Daily events include mass ascensions, races, competitions, “glowdeos,” laser shows and fireworks displays. The adjacent Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum just opened a new 4-D theater and will soon open an interactive weather lab, Moore said.

Some balloons can hold more than a dozen people, although rides should be reserved well in advance. On the ground, groups can sign up to help inflate balloons or be part of a chase crew.

Several other events coincide with the Balloon Fiesta. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center’s two-day Albuquerque American Indian Arts Festival features 50 Native American artists, and the Rio Grande Arts and Crafts Festival runs during both fiesta weekends. Old Town Albuquerque becomes its own festival with live music and daily walking tours of the historic quarter.

A L B U Q U E R Q U E I N T E R N AT I O N A L B A L LO O N F I E S TA

ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO

WWW.VISITALBUQUERQUE.ORG

Courtesy MarbleStreetStudio.com

SHAKE, RATTLE AND EAT! JUST WEST OF INDY

Take your group back to the 1950s at the historic Oasis Diner. With tenderloins as big as your head and made-from-scratch biscuits and gravy on the menu, it’s a crowd pleaser. This Indiana Landmark is one of just a handful of diners remaining on the Historic National Road!

FOR MORE ON THIS AND OTHER GROUP-FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS: Groups@VisitHendricksCounty.com | 800-321-9666 VisitHendricksCounty.com/Groups J U LY / A U G U S T 2 0 1 7

TO THOSE

WHO’VE SERVED

BY SAVANNAH OSBOURN

THESE MUSEUMS HONOR AMERICA’S VETERANS

Courtesy National World War I Museum

A

merica’s military museums are some of the most prestigious and inspiring museums in the nation. Whether you are planning a trip for veterans or history buffs, these locations are sure to impress and educate any visitor.

NATIONAL INFANTRY MUSEUM

Courtesy National World War I Museum

Top: The National World War I Museum carries one of the most extensive collections on the war in the world.

Bottom: The Paul Sunderland Glass Bridge and Poppy Field pays tribute to the fallen at the National World War I Museum.

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COLUMBUS, GEORGIA Located near Fort Benning, the official training base of the United States Infantry, the National Infantry Museum commemorates the triumphs and sacrifices of America’s foot soldiers throughout history.

Visitors can trace the footsteps of these brave individuals in the “Last 100 Yards” exhibit, from the Army Rangers who scaled Pointe du Hoc on D-Day to the paratroopers who dropped into the Philippines during the Recapture of Corregidor.

After touring the nation for more than 20 years, the Dignity Memorial Vietnam Wall has finally taken residence at the National Infantry Museum, joining three other memorials in the Vietnam Memorial Plaza.

The Wall is a replica of the monument in Washington, D.C., and carries

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the engraved names of more than 58,000 Vietnam War heroes.

In the Cold War gallery, groups can experience one of the museum’s most interactive exhibits: a Vietnam War jungle display where the voices of real Vietnam War veterans recount their stories while simulated gunfire, explosions and rainstorms sound in the background. “Uncovering the Holocaust,” a special World War II exhibit, recognizes the plight of 8 million Jews in Europe, the soldiers who fought to liberate the Nazi concentration camps and the women who led the workforce back in the States.

Groups can enjoy a savory snack of Infantry Chili Cheese Fries or Big Benning Burgers in the Fife and Drum restaurant, or stop by the museum’s big-screen theater to see a 3-D documentary or feature film.

WWW.NATIONALINFANTRYMUSEUM.ORG

NATIONAL WORLD WAR I MUSEUM AND MEMORIAL

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI Groups will learn why the first Great War was not the last at the National World War I Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, which has one of the most comprehensive collections of World War I artifacts and documents in the world.

The museum brings in new exhibitions every year, so returning visitors will always find something fresh to experience. One of the latest displays is a photography collection by Michael St Maur Sheil, who spent almost a decade documenting the sites of World War I battles.

“Nearly 100 years after the war, you can still see remnants of these battle-scarred areas,” said Mike Vietti, director of marketing and communications. “Trenches, artillery shells and bullet casings still litter the ground. It’s very striking and moving.”

The “Posters as Munitions” exhibit explores the way France, Germany, Italy, the United States, Great Britain and other countries used posters as a propaganda tool. Another new exhibit, “Vive L’Amérique,” has drawings and essays from 1917 French schoolchildren who were asked to articulate how they felt about the Americans joining the war effort.

“The symbolism and imagery is absolutely fantastic, the way they were able to express these challenging emotions,” said Vietti.

Other highlights include life-size trenches; a Renault FT-17 tank; a 450-foot-long cyclorama painting; and a glass bridge over 9,000 red poppies, which commemorate the 9 million lives lost during the war.

WWW.THEWORLDWAR.ORG

NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MUSEUM

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is the A tankjumping-off at the National perfect pointWorld for a War I Museum visit to Grand Tetons.

Courtesy Jackson HoleWorld Mountain Courtesy National War resort I Museum

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA Based in the heart of New Orleans, the National World War II Museum provides an in-depth look at everyday life during one of history’s most defining wars, challenging guests to consider some of the moral dilemmas members of society faced at the time.

“It can be very emotional,” said Michelle Moore, assistant director of communications. “Most people have connections to the war in some kind of way.”

Inside the Campaigns of Courage pavilion, “The Road to Berlin” takes visitors on an immersive experience through the European Theater of the war, and “The Road to Tokyo” explores the Pacific Theater. This past June, the museum opened an exhibit called “The Arsenal of Democracy,” which centers on the American homefront.

“Now people can get an even bigger picture of what it was like to be an American during that time,” said Moore.

Groups can step into a 1940s-era living room with a ration book and a radio, as well as a kitchen where Americans would have prepared fruits and vegetables from their Victory Garden. Other sections shed light on

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National WWII Museum exhibit

racial divisions in the country, women in the workforce and the development of the Manhattan Project.

The museum offers an exceptional 45-minute 4-D film called “Beyond All Boundaries” that was produced by Tom Hanks. Groups can take advantage of a Behind the Lines tour for a trip inside a Sherman tank as well as exclusive access to artifacts in storage.

WWW.NATIONALWW2MUSEUM.ORG

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE U.S. AIR FORCE

DAYTON, OHIO The history of aviation comes alive at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Dayton, Ohio. The museum houses over 360 aerospace vehicles and missiles, from the fledgling models of the Wright Brothers to modern designs like the B-12 stealth bomber, the only one of its kind on permanent display in the world.

Many of the galleries examine the role of the U.S. Air Force in global conflicts such as World War II, the Cold War and the Korean War. With dozens of authentic aircraft positioned throughout the exhibits, groups will encounter planes that once Photos courtesy National WWII Museum helmed crucial military campaigns, like Operation Rolling Thunder in Vietnam.

One of the best features of the museum is the interactive quality of the displays and simulations. Guests can enter a 140-foot-tall silo to survey the Missile Gallery or step inside a full-scale NASA space shuttle in the Space Gallery. In the I-360 simulation, players take on the roles of pilot and gunner in a simulated air battle; the Morphis MovieRide takes up to 12 passengers on a virtual journey through outer space.

During the Behind the Scenes tour, groups are taken by shuttle to hangars where aircraft restoration projects take place. Dining services are available in the Valkyrie Café or the newly renovated Refueling Café.

1940s-era living room at the National WWII Museum

National WWII Museum’s U.S. Freedom Pavilion

WWW.NATIONALMUSEUM.AF.MIL

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CIVIL WAR MEDICINE

FREDERICK, MARYLAND As the bloodiest war in U.S. history, the Civil War forced medical professionals to find innovative and sometimes brutal techniques to care for the thousands of wounded soldiers left in its wake. Groups can learn about these practices in detail at the National Museum of Civil War Medicine in Frederick, Maryland, which offers new insight into a dark and desperate passage in America’s history.

The museum’s comprehensive collection includes invaluable Civil War artifacts, like the diary of a young Union soldier and Clara Barton’s roster of missing men. Visitors can take a self-guided tour, or schedule a guided tour accompanied by a group activity or scholar-led discussion.

Special programs such as a white glove tour or an amputation demonstration are available upon request.

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Guests can choose from a variety of educational activities to enhance their visit. During Telling Tales, a resident storyteller regales listeners with colorful Civil War folklore, reminiscent of the way soldiers once gathered around campfires for conversation. Artifact Investigation reveals some of the methods that historians use to uncover secrets of the past.

Groups of 10 or more are asked to schedule tours at least two weeks in advance.

National Museum of Civil War Medicine

WWW.CIVILWARMED.ORG

By C. Kurt Holter, courtesy National Museum of Civil War Medicine

National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Curtesy National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

No matter where you’re coming from – or where you’re going to, odds are you’ll be passing through the Chicago Southland. We’re the perfect place to stop or stay.

Contact Tobie Fitzpatrick to plan your next Chicagoland tour.

888-895-3211 GroupTour@VisitChicagoSouthland.com TourChicagoSouthand.com

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SPAM

UNFILTERED

BY SAVANNAH OSBOURN

VISIT THESE QUIRKY MUSEUMS JUST FOR FUN

Courtesy Spam Museum

T

ravelers are certain to stumble upon an oddball museum occasionally, with such wide-ranging subjects as voodoo dolls, aliens and funeral history. While these gems provide an unforgettable and often humorous experience, groups might be surprised to discover what they learn as well. Here are five unusual destinations to consider adding to your next itinerary.

INTERNATIONAL BANANA MUSEUM

By Mark Davidson, courtesy International Banana Museum

Top: The Spam Museum reveals the intriguing history of the canned mystery meat.

Bottom: Everything glows bright yellow inside the zany International Banana Museum.

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MECCA, CALIFORNIA In the desert community of Mecca, California, near Eastern Coachella Valley’s Salton Sea, the International Banana Museum is one zany attraction groups will not want to miss. It came to fruition in 2010 when local Fred Garbutt noticed a Guinness World Record collection of “bananabilia” for sale and decided to install a banana museum in the bar adjacent to his family’s liquor store. The collection has since grown to more than 20,000 banana-themed items, with visitor favorites such as a 1970s banana-shaped record player, a banana phone, banana hats and banana blazer jackets.

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“It skyrocketed to popularity faster than I ever thought it would,” said Garbutt. “People often see the sign and pull over, expecting it to be some cheesy thing with some dusty bananas in a cabinet. But the look on people’s faces when they walk in the door, like they just walked into this banana utopia—they totally don’t expect it to be so colorful and enchanting. It’s really fun to see.”

The Banana Museum also doubles as the local ice-cream parlor.

On a hot summer day, guests can sit on a barstool shaped like a banana tree or a trio of monkeys, and savor cool treats like homemade banana ice cream or banana soda ice-cream floats.

“Everybody raves about my banana shakes,” said Garbutt.

Tour groups are advised to call in advance for museum hours.

WWW.INTERNATIONALBANANAMUSEUM.COM

ANDY WARHOL MUSEUM

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA Few artists had as much of an impact on the postmodern and pop art movement of the 1960s as Andy Warhol. Groups can learn about his prolific and unconventional career at the seven-story Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, which houses 900 paintings, 1,000 original prints, 4,000 videos, 60 feature films and much more from his life work.

Inspired by the aesthetic of comics and ads, Warhol developed a technique called photographic silk-screen printing to create his iconic pop paintings, and this technique enabled him to replicate the same image with slight variations of color. Most visitors will recognize his multicolored portraitsNational of celebrities likeentrance Marilyn Blues Museum Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor and Elvis Presley, as well as the reproductions of mainstream products like Coke and Campbell’s Soup cans.

Due to his fascination with moving images, Warhol experimented extensively with film throughout his life, and groups can watch some of his most famous pieces, such as “The Chelsea Girls” and “Sleep.” Other series on display include “Death and Disaster,” “Mao” and “Time Capsules,” a collection of 569 cardboard boxes full of mementos such as photographs, fan letters and newspaper clippings.

On the lower level, visitors can take silk-screen-printing classes and other artistic programs in an education lab called the Factory, named after Warhol’s New York studio.

WWW.WARHOL.ORG

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is the perfect jumping-off point for a visit to Grand Tetons.

Andy Warhol Museum

Courtesy Jackson Hole Mountain resort

By Abby Warhola, courtesy the Andy Warhol Museum

Don’t Miss Out on GROUP ADMISSION DISCOUNTS Call 423-573-1927

Tour SOUTHEAST INDIANA

Mustard exhibit

Twilight Tour Progressive Mansions Dinner

Venture down the Ohio River Scenic Byway to tour and dine in historic Aurora, Indiana’s landmark estates – Hillforest Victorian House Museum and Veraestau Historic Site.

“Great Hospitality, Great Dining!”

- Tours for You, Bardstown, KY

Entrance to the National Mustard Museum

Guides in costume, Hillforest

Photos courtesy the National Mustard Museum

Delicious desserts, Veraestau

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

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NATIONAL MUSTARD MUSEUM

MIDDLETON, WISCONSIN When people think of museums, condiments are usually not the first thing that comes to mind. But the National Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin, draws anywhere from 30,000 to 40,000 visitors each year.

“Our goal is to let people know the story of mustard,” said Barry Levenson, owner and curator of the museum.

Levenson began collecting mustard jars in the 1980s and has since amassed nearly 6,000 brands of mustard from over 70 countries. In the museum, visitors will find everything from vintage mustard ads to the French’s Mustard mascot and antique mustard pots. There are also many tongue-in-cheek displays, such as mustard jars added into famous paintings using photo-editing software and a “Poupon University” section, named after the Poupon mustard brand. A museum guide will often lead groups in singing the “Poupon U” fight song.

“It’s a really fun time, but people learn something, too,” said Levenson.

Any food-themed attraction is bound to make visitors hungry, so after the tour, guests often flock to the gift shop to sample dozens of mustard brands on pretzels, as well as purchase a “Poupon U” hat or sweatshirt as a souvenir for the road.

The first Friday in August each year, the museum celebrates International Mustard Day with live music and fresh hot dogs from Vienna Beef, one of the sponsors of the holiday.

Admission to the museum is free.

WWW.MUSTARDMUSEUM.COM

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SPAM MUSEUM

AUSTIN, MINNESOTA With an entreaty of “Please don’t eat the exhibits,” the Spam Museum in Austin, Minnesota, takes visitors on a journey into the world of mystery meat.

“Over the past 80 years, we have created quite the relationship with families, not only in the U.S. but internationally as well,” said Savile Lord, manager of communications.

As groups wander through the museum’s seven galleries, they will learn about the founding of Spam’s parent company, Hormel Foods; how Spam is made with six key ingredients; and how Spam products are used in cuisine across the globe in countries like Japan, the United Kingdom and the Philippines. Some highlights of the exhibits include the classic Monty Python “Spam” skit; bluegrass instruments made from Spam cans; and a 12-foot, 60-pound Spam rocket. A 390-foot Spam conveyor belt runs throughout the museum, displaying 20 assorted flavors of Spam.

“The Spam Museum is very much a kitschy museum, but it’s informative as well,” said Lord.

There are also plenty of opportunities to sample Spam, with varieties like teriyaki, oven-roasted turkey and real Hormel bacon. Before leaving, visitors are encouraged to stop by the indoor children’s play area or the 1,400-square-foot gift shop.

WWW.SPAM.COM

Spam Museum photo op

Courtesy Spam Museum

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NEON MUSEUM

A yoga class at the Neon Museum

Photos courtesy Neon Museum

A wedding at the Neon Museum

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LAS VEGAS Most people who have traveled to Las Vegas remember the glittering neon lights that characterize the city, but few consider what happens to the electric signs and logos that line the streets after businesses close or replace them. The Neon Museum opened in 2012 after more than a decade of collecting and restoring some of Sin City’s most iconic signage. Now displaying a colorful, outdoor assortment of some 200 signs, the Neon Boneyard features pieces from historic casinos like Stardust, Sahara, Flamingo, Golden Nugget and Aladdin.

As groups explore this whimsical setting, they will learn about the unique histories of the signs, from the intricate yucca flower design of the Yucca Hotel to the animated Steiner Cleaners happy shirt. One famous item is the Moulin Rouge sign from the Moulin Rouge casino-hotel, designed by the late artist Betty Willis. Willis was also responsible for producing the legendary “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign on Las Vegas Boulevard.

The Neon Boneyard is a popular spot for selfies and engagement photos, particularly in front of the restored “Wedding Information” sign. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance, since tours are limited in size.

WWW.NEONMUSEUM.ORG

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A colorful sign at the Neon Museum

Neon Museum

let’s meet

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marketing Y O U R

P R O G R A M

GOOD PHOTOGRAPHY IS

BY ELIZA MYERS

W

hen you visualize a trip, you recall the many postcard-worthy vistas. But sometimes, when you return home and upload your photos, they all look dark and too small to print in your newsletter.

Taking good photos can feel like the least of your concerns during a busy trip. However, pausing to frame a stunning photo of a group member looking out over the mountains can prove well worth the time. That same photo might help convince that group member or another potential traveler to join the next trip.

Learn to harness the power of photography for your next group tour by thoughtfully composing pictures that make viewers say, “I wish I was there.”

COMPOSING THE SHOT Rather than randomly aiming the camera at what’s happening during the trip, strive to capture intentional and appealing photos. For starters, most group leaders organize at least one group photo during the tour.

Though it might be easier to orchestrate a group photo while everyone is together during a mealtime or on the motorcoach, avoid making an indoor shot your one group picture. Instead, look for a backdrop that represents the area. For example, on a trip to Peru, pose the group in front of Machu Picchu.

If you are unfamiliar with the best group photo opportunity, ask the tour operator for some ideas. Once you have your plan, inform the group when and where you would like to take the photo, so you aren’t chasing after them during the tour.

But don’t limit yourself to one perfect group photo. Try to take diverse types of photos during the tour for a dynamic representation of the entire trip.

Look for some landscape shots with interesting elements in the foreground to provide a three-dimensional look. Also keep an eye out for opportunities to take photos of group members enjoying the trip.

PHOTOGRAPHY 101 Striving to reach National Geographic photography standards might prove more of a time commitment then necessary, since it is easier than ever for amateurs to take quality photos.

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First, cameras with high resolutions are cheaper than they used to be, and many smartphones can capture print-worthy shots.

Determine the resolution of your camera. The higher the resolution, the better. As a rule, resolutions over 1,000 pixels work well online and in print. For example, a 20-inch print would require a resolution of at least 1,600 by 1,200 pixels.

A more expensive SLR camera allows you to customize your shot with high-caliber lenses and manual settings, but if you don’t have a lot of technical knowledge, a simple point-and-shoot camera can take quality photos using an automatic setting. Just keep in mind three basic things when taking photos: stability, light and the rule of thirds.

A shaking camera will ruin the best photos, so try to keep your hands as still as possible. Buy a camera with an image stabilizer or a lightweight travel tripod. For light, photographers love the tones during the hour before and after sunrise and sunset. The middle of the day can produce dark shadows and harsh lighting, and should be avoided whenever possible.

Unless you purchase a high-tech flash, avoid using the flash whenever possible. Most photos taken with a basic flash cast ugly shadows, so it’s better to choose the automatic setting to disable the flash, which is the symbol of a zigzag arrow with a line through it. This ensures that your flash won’t automatically turn on when the camera detects darkness.

The rule of thirds breaks images into thirds, both horizontally and vertically, and places the photo subject along the right or left side of the image rather than in the center. This creates an image that is pleasing to the eye. An easy way to keep this in mind is to turn on your camera’s grid feature, which displays the grid of thirds on your screen.

PHOTOGRAPHY PROMOTION After you take photos, don’t leave them in your camera; send them out as

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AN ACQUIRED SKILL printed photos or in memory books to help sell future trips. Loyalty group travel programs rely on the bond created on the road, which encourages members to continue traveling with them rather than someone else. Danielle Young and many other group leaders foster this bond with their photography.

“We always take a group photo with an Oberlin banner,” said Young, executive director of the Oberlin College Alumni Association. “We try to make sure our trips feel like Oberlin trips. We print out the group photo and send it out after the trip.”

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Even if you didn’t have time to take the photos, call upon the talents of your travelers to gather gorgeous travel photos to share with the group in an online photo-sharing site like Dropbox.

Many group leaders will send a link to everyone’s email so that all members can see and add to the photo database.

With members’ permission, tag travel photos of members on social media so friends and family can follow along on the trip.

Who knows? That tagged photo in front of the Taj Mahal may encourage a new traveler to sign up for one of your future trips.

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C A R E E R

THEATER and ENTERTAINMENT

C O R N E R

THEATER TRIPS

SPECIAL

interest tours

do broadway the right way

BY BRIAN JEWELL

T

he lights shine bright on Broadway, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Groups flock to New York’s theater district every year to see world-class musicals and plays, making theater-themed tours a staple of many successful affinity travel programs.

Whether you use a ticketing agency to get seats for exciting shows or work with a full-service receptive tour operator that handles every element of your trip, here are the essential things you need to know before taking your group to Broadway.

1) BE SMART ABOUT YOUR DATES.

New York City is full of visitors and activity throughout the year, but groups planning Broadway trips should keep several factors in mind when planning the timing of their trips.

Shows play year-round on Broadway, but the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the busy Christmas shopping season make late fall and early winter pricey times to be in the city. And during summer, the area is packed with family tourists.

“I think the best times for adult groups are the end of September and October,” said Eric Gordon, owner of tour company Beyond Times Square. “The weather is really comfortable. April and May are also great, and you’re getting good prices, but there are also more student groups in the city that time of year. In September and October, there aren’t nearly as many student groups.”

Gordon also said fall trips allow groups to find out which new shows have been nominated for Tony Awards, which are announced in May; they can then focus on getting tickets to those productions.

2) THINK SEASONALLY.

The bad news is that you’re probably not going to see “Hamilton” — the hit show is still sold out, and the Broadway production doesn’t even offer group tickets. But the good news is that pretty much every other popular show is available for groups that book far enough in advance.

“Our average booking time is about three or three and a half months out,” said MaryCatherine Sughrue, group sales director for Your Broadway Genius, a ticketing agency. “But really popular shows book almost a year in advance. ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ is already selling out for April through June next year. The sooner you know what you want to see, the better. I would jump on getting the Broadway tickets. And if there’s a certain show you want to see, I would check into the availability before making other travel plans, because you might need to change your dates to get tickets.”

Even if you don’t score seats for “Dear Evan Hansen,” there are dozens of other critically acclaimed shows playing on Broadway.

3) PLAN AHEAD.

There may be a certain production you can’t wait to see in New York, but don’t let that be the limit of your group’s Broadway experience. Local theater experts can help you identify additional shows that would be a good fit for your travelers or even find ways of satisfying multiple interests at the same time.

Sughrue said many groups will try to fit two or three shows into a New York trip, and her agency specializes in help-

Top: “Dear Evan Hansen,” by Matthew Murphy Bottom: Federal Hall, courtesy Beyond Times Square Opposite Page: “School of Rock,” by Matthew Murphy

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ing them identify the best ones.

“We like to call ourselves Broadway geniuses because we know everything and anything about the shows that are on Broadway,” Sughrue said. “We see every single show on and off Broadway, and we love to know what type of group you’re bringing because then we can help select shows that would be better for your group.”

Beyond Times Square helps groups arrange tickets for various shows in the same evening, allowing individuals to choose the option that sounds best to them.

“The first night we might do a group show that everyone is going to see, with a nice dinner beforehand,” Gordon said.

“Then the next night might be a choice of shows.”

4) ADD INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCES.

There’s a lot of magic on Broadway, both in the history of the theater district and in how talented people come together to create over-the-top performances. During the day, when they’re not seeing shows, groups can learn about other elements of the theater during Broadway tours, cast meet-andgreets and theater workshops, all of which are offered by both Beyond Times Square and Your Broadway Genius, as well as similar organizations.

“Our Broadway walking tour is like a historical gossip tour,” Gordon said. “There are so many funny, weird stories. You take an hour-and-a-half walking tour along the lower part of the theater district. You learn about the shows that were there and maybe hear a crazy story about how they found a lead actor.”

Broadway workshops have been growing in popularity with groups as well.

“Our most popular one is a song and movement workshop,” Sughrue said. “You go into a studio with a teaching artist and a cast member from the show of your choice. You do some team building and learn some songs and choreography.”

AMERICAN~ HISTORY Mississippi Music ~ Southern Charm

5) SEARCH FOR CREATIVE IDEAS.

No matter how much your travelers love the theater, it’s important to make sure they can experience other parts of New York, both classic and less-publicized attractions.

“In a city like New York, people have to have free time to pursue their own interests,” Gordon said. “And we also include some of the basics, like seeing the landmarks or going to One World Observatory and the 9/11 Museum. Those will always be part of the program.”

Sughrue said groups should make a point to get outside of the theater district and Times Square.

“See as much of New York as possible,” she said. “It’s a wonderful city that has a lot of hidden gems that most people don’t see.”

Contact Ashley Gatian, Sales Manager for planning assistance.

800-221-3536 • ashley@visitvicksburg.com

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/VisitVicksburg

Scan this QR to visit our mobile site and get your keys to Vicksburg.

D-DAY

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MARQUEE 2017

TRAVEL SHOWCASE

Select Traveler magazine asked these great companies and destinations to share their Marquee travel ideas for the coming year with our readers. Find the right one for your group today!

50 TOUR OPERATORS 55 DESTINATIONS 63 ATTRACTIONS

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M A R Q U E E T O U R O P E R AT O R S

COLLETTE

COLLETTE GIVES YOU MORE VALUE IN EVERY WAY Enjoy our one-of-a-kind blend of inclusive touring and first-class guest service. We seamlessly handle each element of your tour from start to finish so you can focus on what’s important — having fun!

ICELAND’S MAGICAL NORTHERN LIGHTS Spend your days surrounded by natural wonders - waterfalls, geysers, icebergs, and volcanic beaches - and your nights in search of the spectacular Northern Lights.

SHADES OF IRELAND Set out on our most popular Irish adventure. Experience all of the charms of this enchanted country, including its welcoming people.

CANADIAN ROCKIES BY TRAIN Discover lush green western Canadian coast and the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies on a tour featuring VIA Rail’s overnight train journey.

PACIFIC NORTHWEST & CALIFORNIA Travel to the Pacific Northwest and discover the best of California while exploring the natural beauty from Seattle to San Francisco.

ALASKA DISCOVERY This is Alaska as you always imagined. Boat cruise through northern splendor and relax as you tour past epic scenery including the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay.

COLLETTE 800-762-5345 • www.collette.com Contact: Business Development Representatives • inquiries@collette.com

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M A R Q U E E T O U R O P E R AT O R S

EMERALD WATERWAYS

AWARD WINNING - BEST RIVER LINE FOR VALUE Experience the real deal on one of Europe’s newest, best designed, most advanced river cruise fleets.

Voted 2 years in row as Cruise Critics’ Best River Line for Value, our ships are perfect for groups.

THE CHARMS OF HOLLAND & BELGIUM After in-depth exploration of Amsterdam, set sail for Dordrecht & the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kinderdijk Windmills. Enjoy tours of Antwerp, the fortified city of Maastrict, Edam or Volendam.

THE CLASSIC RHINE The Classic Rhine itinerary will sail from Amsterdam to Frankfurt (with a detour down the Moselle River) and explore new ports — including the German towns of Xanten, Cochem and Bernkastel.

THE MAJESTIC RHINE Sailing from Frankfurt to Basel, guests visit the spa town of Baden-Baden in the Black Forest, and enjoy two excursions to the Alsace region of France. This itinerary also visits Strasbourg & Colmar.

SENSATIONS OF SOUTHERN FRANCE Explore Lyon, known as the gastronomic capital. Taste the renowned wines of Beaujolais & Burgundy. Visit Macon, Chalon-Sur-Saone, Tournon, & Avignon on your way to Arles. All on our new star ship!

OBERAMMERGAU PASSION PLAY 2020 Experience the history, theater & pageantry of the Oberammergau Passion Play!

Performed every 10 years since 1634, 2020 is the next showing. Add on to a 7night river cruise for the trip of a lifetime!

EMERALD WATERWAYS 844-857-6021 • www.emeraldwaterways.com Contact: Michelle Arigo • michelle.arigo@emeraldwaterways.com M A R Q U E E

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ISLANDS IN THE SUN CRUISES & TOURS, INC.

WE SELL WHAT WE SAIL AND GIVE YOU THE WORLD!

We sail the ships, and travel to the destinations that we sell - to assure the best quality and experience for your club. We customize each group and provide personal service and expert knowledge!

CUBAN CULTURAL IMMERSION CRUISE-TOURS SAILING DIRECTLY FROM MIAMI Explore Cuba’s cultural heritage and meet its people while on a luxury ship.

Visit colorful Havana and — on some cruises — other cities too!

AWESOME ‘HEART OF ALASKA’ CRUISE-TOURS ISLANDS IN THE SUN CRUISES & TOURS, INC. 800-278-7786 www.crus-sun.com • info@crus-sun.com Russ and Susan Rosenberry

Everyone dreams of going to Alaska — the Great Land — and the best way is by both Land & Sea. Our custom fully-escorted cruise-tours highlight the glaciers, mountains, wildlife and unique heritage.

HAWAIIAN ISLANDS ‘SHARE THE ALOHA’ CRUISE-TOURS Embrace the ‘Aloha Spirit’ with a cruise-tour that sails smoothly through these idyllic islands. Enjoy the sand, sea, and hospitality. It is popular with first-timers and gains many repeaters too!

TRIPS

TRAVEL — THOUGHTFULLY DESIGNED — DELIGHTFULLY EXECUTED Looking for something special? Look no further than TRIPS! From domestic tours and cruises to Europe and beyond, TRIPS always puts that special spin on each and every departure. It’s the TRIPS way!

QUINTESSENTIAL CAPE COD You haven’t done Cape Cod until you’ve done it the TRIPS way! Find out why it’s the all time favorite tour of group leaders. Lobster clambake on the dunes, Nantucket, wine tasting & Martha’s Vineyard!

ULTIMATE SCANDINAVIAN CAPITALS FEATURING 2 DAYS IN ST. PETERSBURG TRIPS 888-55-TRIPS www.gotripsinc.com • mikki@gotripsinc.com Mikki Walker

Travel with a TRIPS representative as you visit Berlin, Helsinki, Tallinn, Copenhagen & Stockholm. Experience TRIPS private shore excursions and see why customers rave abut our cruises!

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA RAIL ADVENTURE Experience four iconic rail journeys from the Napa Valley Wine Train to Yosemite! See San Francisco and 17 Mile Drive, wine tasting, the Monterey Aquarium and the redwoods all with TRIPS on this new tour!

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THE NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MUSEUM TOURS

BRINGING HISTORY TO LIFE The National WWII Museum provides insight into the “war that changed the world,” and nothing tells the story more dramatically than a visit to the places where victory was fought for and won.

D-DAY 75TH ANNIVERSARY: AN ICONIC JOURNEY OF REMEMBRANCE This journey honors the 75th anniversary of “the climactic battle of WWII.” Sail aboard the 6-star Regent Seven Seas Navigator with historians, authors and veterans for an unforgettable journey.

D-DAY: INVASION OF NORMANDY AND LIBERATION OF FRANCE The turning point of WWII began in the predawn hours of June 6, as the fate of the continent hung in the balance. Over 7 days, walk beaches of Normandy and hear personal stories that changed everything.

EASY COMPANY: ENGLAND TO THE EAGLE’S NEST Over 12 days, Walk in the “Band of Brothers” (Easy Company) footsteps through the hedgerows of Normandy, down Hell’s Highway, and through the last line of defense at Bastogne, to the Eagle’s Nest.

EAST MEETS WEST: THE LINK-UP ON THE ELBE On the partially destroyed bridge over the Elbe River, Soviet & American soldiers met as comrades-in-arms and built a new one. This 8-night cruise Berlin to Prague remembers this historical link-up.

THE RISE AND FALL OF HITLER’S GERMANY A 12-day journey led by historian Dr. Alexandra Richie, exploring Germany & Poland through the lens of the rise and fall of the Third Reich, highlighted by those with personal recollections of the war.

THE NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MUSEUM TOURS 1-877-813-3329 • www.ww2museumtours.org/home/ Contact: Michelle Bell • michelle.bell@nationalww2museum.org M A R Q U E E

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SCENIC LUXURY

CRUISES AND TOURS

TRULY ALL-INCLUSIVE, LUXURY RIVER CRUISES When we say all-inclusive, we mean it. From our state-of-the-art Space-Ships to our unparalleled personal service and our exclusive shore events, Scenic provides an unmatched luxury travel experience.

8 DAY RHINE HIGHLIGHTS - AMSTERDAM TO BASEL See the highlights of the Rhine on an 8-day river cruise from Amsterdam to Basel. Take in Strasbourg, explore Heidelberg Castle, visit Koblenz and venture on to the port city of Amsterdam.

8 DAY GEMS OF THE DANUBE - NUREMBERG TO BUDAPEST Explore Nuremberg, famous for so many landmark events in history; Vienna, with its remarkable array of elegant buildings; or Budapest, so often cited as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

15 DAY JEWELS OF EUROPE - AMSTERDAM TO BUDAPEST A region steeped in the history of ancient trade routes, today the rivers of the Rhine, Main and Danube meander through forested hillsides, idyllic vineyards and romantic towns.

15 DAY ROMANTIC RHINE & MOSELLE - BASEL TO AMSTERDAM Your all-inclusive luxury cruise will take you through beautiful stretches of the Rhine & Moselle, punctuated by timeless little towns that still exude the romance of days long past.

8 DAY ICONIC DANUBE - PASSAU TO BUDAPEST Enjoy an 8-day cruise from Budapest to Munich along the Danube River. See some of the most beautiful places that Germany, Austria and Hungary has to offer.

SCENIC LUXURY CRUISES AND TOURS 844-424-2920 • www.scenicusa.com Contact: Heather Lemire • heather.lemire@scenicusa.com

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CHICAGO SOUTHLAND

JUST BEYOND THE CITY LIMITS

Chicago Southland offers accessibility, affordability and versatility, all with a full complement of services.

Conveniently accessible via Interstates 80, 94, 294, 355, 55 & 57.

LOTTON ART GLASS GALLERY Experience the thrill of watching magnificent works of art being created daily out of hot glass. Meet the world famous Lotton family. Groups can tour the gallery & studio.

NATHAN MANILOW SCULPTURE PARK CHICAGO SOUTHLAND CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 888-895-3211 www.TourChicago Southland.com Tobie Fitzpatrick GroupTour@VisitChicagoSouthland.com

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Explore the nature of sculpture. Sited across 100 acres of rolling prairie landscape, this 29-piece collection features monumental works by di Suvero, Hunt, Puryear and others.

HITS BALMORAL PARK Experience international level hunter/jumper horse shows at historic Balmoral Park. There are 12 competition rings and a schedule that lasts May - September.

WELCOME TO EUREKA SPRINGS Discover Victorian elegance. Indulge in culinary delights. Enjoy unique shopping and exciting attractions. Great itineraries are made in Eureka Springs, Arkansas!

HISTORIC TRAM TOUR This guided tour through our Historic Distract will offer an up close and personal view of how Eureka Springs began.

TTHE GREAT PASSION PLAY EUREKA SPRINGS, ARKANSAS 479-253-7333 • www.eurekasprings.org Karen Pryor, CTIS • karen@eurekasprings.org

This outdoor amphitheater takes you back more than 2000 years ago to witness the majesty of Jesus Christ’s life, betrayal, death and resurrection.

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DISTRICT An attraction in itself, our downtown area has more than 100 buildings on the National Register. Experience our one-of-a-kind specialty shops, boutiques & art galleries.

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SEASONS OF FUN Whether it’s the season for a sun hat or a stocking cap, your group will have a great time discovering one of our themed tours!

THE GREEN SPREE This trip is perfect for travelers who have a green thumb, or wish they did. Tour can include Frazee Gardens, Avon Perennial Gardens and Beasley’s Orchard.

ARTS AND CULTURE VISIT HENDRICKS COUNTY 1-800-321-9666 www.visithendrickscounty.com tracy@visithendrickscounty.com Tracy Whetstone

LINCOLN, N E B R A S K A

Consider a stop with Indiana Artisan glass artist Lisa Pelo, experience a pottery demonstration at Monrovia Mudworks, and enjoy culinary joy of Zydeco’s authentic Louisiana cuisine.

HO HO HOLIDAY TOUR Put travelers in a festive mood with our popular shopping tour, including Gingerbread Christmas Show, one of Indiana’s best Juried Craft Shows and Martinsville Candy Kitchen.

EXPERIENCE LINCOLN The tours in Lincoln will keep you entertained with the excitement of the big city and the serenity of the countryside all in one place.

EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS IN LINCOLN Let the Agritourist in you come out while hiking in Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center or visiting the variety of other experiences Lincoln has.

EXPERIENCE LINCOLN THROUGH YOUR PALATE Explore Lincoln through food and drink by visiting a craft brewery or vineyard or eating at one of Lincoln’s unique restaurants.

LINCOLN CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 402-434-5335 • www.lincoln.org/visit/tour dfeyerherm@lincoln.org

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A MUSEUM FOR EVERYTHING IN LINCOLN Museums celebrating telephones, roller skating, quilts, tractors and many other unique items are plentiful in Lincoln. Come travel back through time by touring these museums.

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COLUMBUS, O H I O

WHAT’S NEW IN COLUMBUS Columbus is full of unforgettable experiences, distinct neighborhoods and one-of-a-kind tours. Take our advice on these marquee must-dos in Ohio’s capital city.

NATIONAL VETERANS MEMORIAL & MUSEUM Set to open mid-2018, this new museum will be the only place where the stories of our veterans, their families and the Fallen across all branches of service will be told together.

DINOSAURS AT COSI COSI enters a first-of-its-kind partnership with the American Museum of Natural History to bring a dinosaur gallery, including a life-sized Tyrannosaurus Rex model to Columbus in fall 2017.

COLUMBUS CITY ADVENTURES This tour engages groups with themes as diverse as local history, architecture and the development of German Village and reveals the city’s best sights, tales and lore.

GARDENS AGLOW Visit Franklin Park Conservatory to view elegant displays of poinsettias, seasonal foliage and twinkling lights enhanced by sleek and bold mid-century modern design elements during the holiday season.

EXPERIENCE GRANDVIEW Tour Grandview and pour your own candle at the brand new Candle Lab location, make your own beer soap at Glenn Avenue Soap Company and then taste bourbon, gin and vodka samples at Watershed Distillery.

EXPERIENCE COLUMBUS 614-222-6136 • www.experiencecolumbus.com Contact: Roger Dudley • rdudley@experiencecolumbus.com

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M A C O N , G E O R G I A

MACON “WHERE SOUL LIVES” With our central location, breathtaking architecture and rich musical heritage, Macon is a city with historic soul. You can feel our soul through our attractions, food, festivals, culture, and people.

ALLMAN BROTHERS BIG HOUSE MUSEUM The house, now a museum and venue space, is where members of the band, lived, worked and played. The band’s memorabilia and artifacts is the most extensive in the world. More than a museum. It’s an experience!

HAY HOUSE MACON-BIBB COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 1-800-768-3401 www.visitmacon.org • info@visitmacon.org Steven Fulbright

Feel like royalty when you step through the doors of this National Historic Landmark mansion. It was referred to as “Palace of the South” upon its completion in 1859. Magnificent detail and luxuries far ahead of its time make it a must-see, as featured on A&E’s “America’s Castles.”

OCMULGEE NATIONAL MONUMENT Step back in time to enjoy the beauty: View downtown Macon from the top of the Great Temple Mound, bicycle on the park, picnic on the grounds and visit the museum. This prehistoric American Indian site is a must see!

MURFREESBORO, T E N N E S S E E

MEET IN THE MIDDLE Enjoy Middle TN where heritage and hospitality shine! Civil War history, southern cuisine, shopping, live music and unique agritourism make a memorable trip for all. Only 30 min. south of Nashville.

MILLER’S GROCERY Antique filled, charming country cafe in Christiana, TN serving up award-winning home-made desserts and southern home cooking.

Love music on Friday and Saturday nights. Make reservations!

OAKLANDS MANSION RUTHERFORD CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 800-716-7560 • www.readysetrutherford.com Dklempnow@rutherfordchamber.org Donna Klempnow

A true southern plantation that was the largest in the county at the time of the war. Soak in the rich history and story of the mansion caught in the cross fire between sides.

SHORT MOUNTAIN DISTILLERY Take the scenic drive up on the mountain where making Moonshine is a way of life. Take a tour of the distillery, sample a taste of real TN Moonshine and grab a wonderful meal at the cafe.

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AMISH COUNTRY OF NORTHERN INDIANA

AUTHENTIC & QUALITY Visit this popular group-friendly destination and the third largest Amish area in the nation. Delight in scenic backroads, peaceful people and local products that make Amish Country so memorable.

AMISH ACRES, NAPPANEE, INDIANA 80-acre Old Order Amish Farm listed on the National Register of Historic Places offering guided tours, farm wagon rides, family-style meals in historic barn, professional Broadway theater and a country inn.

DAS DUTCHMAN ESSENHAUS, MIDDLEBURY, INDIANA A peaceful escape in the country and Indiana’s largest restaurant, serving 31 kinds of pie, buffet or family style. Beautiful country inn, weekly classic car cruise-in, family friendly theater and 5 shops .

SHIPSHEWANA FLEA MARKET, SHIPSHEWANA, INDIANA A do-not-miss Hoosier tradition with nearly 900 booths in an open-air market covering 100-acres open 8:00 am-5:00 pm every Tuesday and Wednesday, May through September. Food vendors. Lodging available.

QUILT GARDENS ALONG THE HERITAGE TRAIL, NORTHERN INDIANA ABA Top 100 Event annually May 30-Oct 1 featuring 19 gardens planted in the shape of quilt patterns along 90-mile scenic Heritage Trail. Only place in the nation.

Master Gardener step-on guides.

AUTHENTIC AMISH BACKROADS & BROWN BAG TOUR, NORTHERN INDIANA Step-on guided tour of Amish backroads. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Amish buggies are made, visit a one-room-schoolhouse, peek inside an Amish coffin, eat in an Amish home. Brown Bag Tour fun!

ELKHART COUNTY, INDIANA 1-800-262-8161 or 574-903-1148 • www.AmishCountryTours.org Contact: Sonya Nash • sonya@amishcountry.org M A R Q U E E

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SAINT CHARLES, MISSOURI – HISTORICALLY AWESOME SINCE 1769 Our Group Travel Staff is happy to help you create your custom itinerary, let us illustrate the hospitality of Saint Charles as it continues ever-flowing as the Missouri river itself.

HISTORY WITH HATS Discover our history, from 1769 to 1904, through a hands-on program that brings the characters that helped shape St. Charles to life.

WALKING TOUR GREATER SAINT CHARLES CONVENTION & VISITOR BUREAU 636-949-7776 • www.discoverstcharles.com gsccvb@historicstcharles.com

Discover Missouri’s oldest and largest Historic District when you step back in time as you’re guided through the rich history of our bustling city.

FIRST MISSOURI STATE CAPITOL STATE HISTORIC SITE Discover the original seat of the newly organized State of Missouri Legislature when you tour the building that played a role in Missouri’s statehood.

VICKSBURG, M I S S I S S I P P I

VICKSBURG: THE KEY TO THE SOUTH Vicksburg is a great place to bring your groups to learn about American history, enjoy educational museums and check out the wonder of the Mississippi River. #visitvicksburg VICKSBURG NATIONAL MILITARY PARK The Vicksburg National Military Park commemorates the campaign, siege and defense of Vicksburg in 1863. The park includes over 1,340 monuments and the USS Cairo gunboat and museum.

OLD COURT HOUSE MUSEUM VISIT VICKSBURG 1-800-221-3536 • www.visitvicksburg.com ashley@visitvicksburg.com Ashley Gatian

Vicksburg’s crown jewel both architecturally and historically towers above the city on a hill hallowed by history. Museum is filled with items reflecting Southern heritage and Civil War memorabilia.

BIEDENHARN COCA-COLA MUSEUM This is where Coca-Cola was first bottled in 1894. The museum contains reproduction bottling works with coca-cola memorabilia and a 1990 soda fountain. Bring your group and enjoy a coke float!

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OKLAHOMA CITY, O K L A H O M A

LAND OF LEGENDS, HISTORY & MYSTERY Venture to Oklahoma, where bold-blooded pioneers settled the windswept vastness of Indian Country.

Experience proud indigenous heritage amid the glory of the genuine Wild West.

STANDING BEAR PARK In the shadow of Standing Bear’s 22-foot-tall statue, explore a museum dedicated to the contributions of native cultures and this Ponca civil rights pioneer.

WOOLAROC The exotic estate of Philips Petroleum’s founder features hundreds of mounted animal heads, civil war weaponry, prehistoric artifacts, a 50,000-square-foot museum and thundering buffalo herd.

OKLAHOMA CITY NATIONAL MEMORIAL Visit hallowed ground commemorating the Oklahoma City bombing. Outside the museum, wander the Field of Empty Chairs, 168 empty chairs surrounding a 318-foot reflecting pool.

LAKE MURRAY LODGE Sculpted from stone and towering glass panels, the new Lake Murray Lodge is perched on pristine, sun-kissed shoreline. Every guest room offers stunning lake views.

ROUTE 66 MUSEUM Revisit America’s Golden Age. See quirky knick-knacks and gleaming vehicles. Groove to big band tunes at a genuine 1950’s diner — nostalgic Americana at its finest.

OKLAHOMA TOURISM & RECREATION DEPARTMENT 405-990-1087 • www.TravelOK.com/Group Contact: Todd Stallbaumer • Todd.Stallbaumer@travelok.com

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VIRGINIA BEACH, V I R G I N I A

“LIVE THE LIFE” IN VIRGINIA BEACH! Famous for its iconic boardwalk, beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, energetic downtown, abundant parks, waterways and mild weather, Virginia Beach offers unforgettable group tour itineraries.

CAPE HENRY LIGHTHOUSE Climb 191 steps to the top of the first federally funded lighthouse in the United States for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay.

MILITARY AVIATION MUSEUM View one of the largest collections of flying WWI and WWII military aircraft in the world. Meet Rosie the Riveter or a Mustang Fighter Pilot and enjoy lunch or dinner with high-flying songs.

UNDER THE BOARDWALK- OCTOBER 9-12, 2018 This event features the music of Jimmy Buffet, The Beach Boys and a LIVE concert by The Drifters. The program offers three nights in an oceanfront hotel, two dinners and optional daytime excursions.

DOLPHIN WATCHING BOAT TRIP Experience a chance to see bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat and learn about the area’s large population of these majestic and playful sea mammals.

COASTAL HARVEST FEAST Celebrate Coastal Virginia’s culinary traditions in a multi-day tour of Virginia Beach and the surrounding area to sample great food and meet those who grow, catch and cure the region’s finest fare.

VIRGINIA BEACH CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 757-385-6642 • www.visitvirginiabeach.com/summer Contact: Jim Coggin • jcoggin@visitvirginiabeach.com

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DISCOVER A STORY OF AMERICAN MUSIC

BIRTHPLACE OF COUNTRY MUSIC MUSEUM

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he Birthplace of Country Music Museum, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, tells the story of the 1927 Bristol Sessions recordings, explores how evolving sound technology shaped their success and highlights how this rich musical heritage lives on in today’s music.

Through text and artifacts, multiple theater experiences and interactive displays – along with a variety of educational programs, music performances, and community events – the exciting story of these recording sessions and their far-reaching influence comes alive.

BOOK NOW AND SAVE ON GROUP DISCOUNTS BIRTHPLACE OF COUNTRY MUSIC MUSEUM Bristol, Virginia • 423-573-1927 www.birthplaceofcountrymusic.org Kim Davis • kdavis@birthplaceofcountrymusic.org

THE FIRESIDE D I N N E R T H E AT R E

The Birthplace of Country Music Museum offers group tours to adult, motor coach and student groups.

Book today and save.

FIND MORE THAN YOU’D EVER EXPECT AT THE FIRESIDE!

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xperience the magic of The Fireside Dinner Theatre, Wisconsin’s #1 year-round motorcoach attraction. Celebrating 53 years and three generations of family hospitality, the Klopcics treat you to superb dining, beautiful gift shops and professional Broadway musicals in a state-of-the-art theatre-in-the-round. The Fireside is a complete destination in itself or the perfect complement to any Wisconsin tour, located near Milwaukee, Madison, Lake Geneva and Wisconsin Dells.

Wednesday through Sunday performances year-round. Allow 5.5 hours for the entire experience. Fully accessible to guests with disabilities and there is plenty of safe, free parking on-site.

THE FIRESIDE DINNER THEATRE Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin 800-477-9505 • www.firesidetheatre.com Jean Flynn • jean@firesidetheatre.com

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2018 SEASON ON SALE NOW!

Our 2018 Season includes Yeston & Kopit’s PHANTOM, Disney’s NEWSIES, 42ND STREET, CHURCH BASEMENT LADIES - A SECOND HELPING, Disney’s THE LITTLE MERMAID, GREASE, and ELF - The Musical.

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HOME OF THE AMERICAN MUSICAL!

GOODSPEED M U S I C A L S

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irthplace of the original productions of Man of La Mancha, Shenandoah and Annie, and the first regional theatre to receive two Special Tony Awards for its outstanding achievements, Goodspeed produces America’s musical treasures to delight, inspire, and entertain you. Set along the tranquil Connecticut River, our two intimate theatres bring you closer to the excitement of live musicals. The beautiful surrounding countryside is brimming with restaurants, shops, and galleries for a get-away so perfect, you’ll want to make it a Goodspeed day!

GOODSPEED MUSICALS East Haddam & Chester, Connecticut 1-860-615-0316 • www.goodspeed.org Group Sales: Kate Micari-Miller groups@goodspeed.org

Combine stunning views of the Connecticut River and a charming historic building with the best musicals you’ll see outside of NYC.

GIVE BETTER TOGETHER

Join forces with 170 member companies and 13,000+ travel professionals to amplify your giving and marketing, and inspire your employees.

Find out more at TourismCares.org

Ad space generously donated.

a f a m i ly o f br a n d s

200 Tourism Cares donors gave nearly $100,000 to social enterprises to help rebuild Nepal after a tragic earthquake.

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B I LT M O R E

BILTMORE’S 2018 GLAMOROUS EXHIBITIONS GLAMOUR ON BOARD: FASHION FROM TITANIC THE MOVIE FEBRUARY 9 - MAY 13, 2018 he stylish fashions and luxurious travels of the Vanderbilts launch at Biltmore with a new exhibition, Glamour on Board: Fashion from Titanic the Movie.

More than 45 dazzling costumes from the iconic film—representing the extensive wardrobes required by transatlantic travelers like George and Edith Vanderbilt in the early 1900s—will be displayed in the grand rooms of Biltmore House. This is the first large-scale exhibition of fashion from Titanic, which won a record 11 Oscars including Best Picture and Best Costume Design. Learn more about the Vanderbilts’ extensive travels while marveling at the exquisite detail meticulously recreated for these award-winning fashions—included in Biltmore admission.

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CHIHULY AT BILTMORE MAY 17 – OCTOBER 7, 2018 his garden exhibit will feature glass sculptures by world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly. Exhibit will feature 10 installations in Biltmore House & Gardens and two in Antler Hill Village & Winery. Pieces will be illuminated during Chihuly Nights at Biltmore. Guests will walk through an exhibition of Chihuly installations created to complement Biltmore House & Gardens.

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INSPIRE YOUR GROUP WITH A VISIT

Your group can experience a world of breathtaking beauty and timeless hospitality with exclusive custom guided tours of the Biltmore®—America’s largest home®—in Asheville, NC. BILTMORE Asheville, North Carolina 828-777-9474 • www.biltmore.com/groups Contact: Leslie Brewer • lbrewer@biltmore.com

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BLUE MAN G R O U P

DARE TO LIVE IN FULL COLOR.

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lue Man Group performances are a celebration of human connection.

Mixing art, music, comedy and state-of-the-art technology, the show encourages audiences to reconnect with their inner (and outer) child and see the world through a new perspective. Three bald and blue men explore our cultural norms with wide-eyed wonder, poking fun at our collective quirks and reminding us how much we all have in common. Backed by a live rock band, the Blue Men unify the audience for the show’s celebratory climax—an unforgettable, euphoric dance party.

Blue Man Group is continually refreshed with new music, fresh stories and custom instruments. It’s a joyful, multi-sensory experience that has performed in over 20 countries and has captivated more than 35 million people of all ages and cultures worldwide.

Incredible benefits are available for groups at our resident shows in New York, Las Vegas, Orlando, Boston and Chicago, with exclusive discount ticket rates, behindthe-scenes experiences, transportation and dining packages and so much more.

NEW BLOCKS OF TICKETS AND GROUP EXPERIENCES AVAILABLE IN ALL OF OUR CITIES!

Blue Man Group will rock your world, blow your mind and unleash your spirit. 35 million people of all ages, languages and cultures know what Blue Man Group is really about.

Now it’s your turn.

BLUE MAN GROUP New York, NY 1-800-BLUEMAN • www.blueman.com Contact: Joe Tropia • jtropia@blueman.com

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DISNEY THEATRICAL S A L E S

BRING THE MAGIC TO YOUR GROUP

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isney’s storytelling tradition, creative imagination, world-class talent and Broadway production values combine to create a one-of-a-kind, shared experience like nothing your group has ever experienced. From 20 to 1,000 people, Disney Theatrical Group Sales specialists will customize a program designed to satisfy your group’s unique needs while in New York City.

Group benefits can include discounted ticket pricing, block seating, access to special Disney on Broadway experiences, savings on souvenirs and complimentary tickets.

Disney Theatrical Sales also offers additional experiences including the Behind the Magic Theatre Tour of the historic New Amsterdam Theatre, interactive team-building Broadway Workshops and post-show Talkbacks with select member of the cast.

ALADDIN AND THE LION KING ON BROADWAY

Book your tickets to ALADDIN or THE LION KING on Broadway today and begin planning your group’s unforgettable day in New York City!

DISNEY THEATRICAL SALES New York, NY 212-703-1040 • www.disneytheatricalsales.com Contact: Suzanne Gregory • dtg.group.sales@disney.com

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FREE TO HOLD GROUP SPACE AND

NO

MINIMUMS

With its colorful art, history and culture, Spain is the destination your travelers are looking for. Imagine indulging in an authentic “paella experience,” feeling the energy of flamenco dancing and exploring architectural treasures… all the while being accompanied by a knowledgeable and friendly Tour Manager. On Spain’s Classics, Collette delivers an unforgettable experience for all the senses.

a treat senses for all the

Flamenco Show

Offer the world to your travelers with journeys to all seven continents.

Call 800.762.5345 now or your local Travel Agent to learn about our booking discounts!

CST# 2006766-20 UBN# 601220855 Nevada Seller of Travel Registration No. 2003-0279