Heartland Beat Fall 2014 by Ohio Travel Association

Heartland www.heartlandtravelshowcase.com

Beat

Fall 2014

The Official Publication of the Heartland Travel Showcase

Act Like A Kid Again Licking County, Ohio

Having Fun Down on the Farm Bob Evans Farm

EXCLU

FAM T IVE! ours

Gorgeous Gorges & More Ithaca, NY

50 Years

The Fireside Dinner Theatre

30 Years

INSI 2014 H DE: e Travel artland Showc ase

Showcasing Heartland Group Experiences for

Hyatt Regency Chicago. Everything you expect. More than you imagined. We dedicated $168 million into enhancing all aspects of our hotel, inclucing updated guestrooms, a welcoming lobby, and new restaurant concepts. Located in the heart of downtown with over 228,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, let the new Hyatt Regency Chicago build the perfect meeting for you. We can’t wait to see you in Chicago in 2015. Hyatt. You’re More Than Welcome.

HYATT REGENCY CHICAGO 151 East Wacker Drive Chicago, IL 60601

2 HEARTLAND BEAT | Fall 2014

CONTENTS

Fall 2014

In This Issue 18

Greater Cleveland Aquarium

Licking County Convention and Visitors Bureau

Mahoning County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Nautica Queen Dayton Convention & Visitors Bureau

Lisle Convention & Visitors Bureau

23 24

Visit Lake County, Illinois

Ross-Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau

20 Illinois

Indiana 10 Amish Country of Northern Indiana

Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitors & Convention Bureau

Ohio

Visit Madison

Michigan 12 Detroit Zoo

26 27

The Bob Evans Farm

Ontario, Canada ACT Tours

Pennsylvania

Indiana County Tourist Bureau

Rivers of Steel Heritage Tours

Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay

Eat’n Park

Muskegon County

Ramada Greensburg Hotel

Pennsylvania’s Great Lakes Region

Frick Art & Historical Center

Missouri 15 The Dutton Theater New York 16 Destiny USA 17

Wisconsin

The Fireside Dinner Theatre

Ithaca Convention & Visitors Bureau

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We have it All At Heartland Over the past few months I’ve heard from so many of you who are excited to join us at the Hyatt Regency in Chicago, Feb. 20-22 for the 2015 Heartland Travel Showcase. Chicago promises to be an electrifying host and in addition to an amazing showcase floor, we are planning great networking and social opportunities to immerse you in the experience of this All-American city. Through my conversations with tour operators, I am always impressed with the creative and innovative tours Heartland tour operators put together. It gives me a great sense of pride every time I hear about new partnerships our tour operators developed and maintained with destinations at a previous Heartland Travel Showcase. In this competitive market, I recognize how important it is for tour operators to continue to identify new and unique itineraries to attract customers, while also maintaining relationships with existing destinations. The 2015 Heartland Travel Showcase is a great opportunity to learn about and meet new destinations, as well as reconnect with some of your favorite contacts. These meaningful relationships will help you grow your group tour business. That’s why I’m so excited about the 2015 Showcase. We are seeing interest from so many new and diverse exhibitors from across the region. If you’re looking for unique and fun destinations for your future itineraries, look no further than the Heartland Travel Showcase! See you in Chicago! Jeremy Myers, Tour Operator Experience Manager (800) 896-4682 x5 | jeremy@ohiotravel.org Heartland Travel Showcase

This would be a perfect place for a sleepover. As a matter of fact, it is. No matter where you’re coming from - or where you’re going to, odds are you’ll be passing through the Chicago Southland. With dining for all budgets and cuisines, hundreds of attractions that make lively day trips and over 5,000 hotel rooms, we’re the perfect place to grab a bite, see a sight and snag some shuteye. • Incentives & Services • FREE PARKING at all facilities • Just 30 minutes to Chicago’s Loop The next time you’re crossing the country, north to south or east to west, plan a sleepover in the Chicago Southland. It’s the perfect place for you.

Group Tour Specials

Jane Bushong 888-895-3211 GroupTour@VisitChicagoSouthland.com TourChicagoSouthland.com

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HEARTLAND BEAT Fall 2014 Volume 2, Issue 1 PUBLISHER Ohio Travel Association 800-896-4682 SHOWCASE MANAGER Janet Johnson jjohnson@ohiotravel.org TOUR OPERATOR MANAGER LAYOUT/DESIGN Jeremy Myers jeremy@ohiotravel.org EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Tiffany Gerber Heartland Beat is published quarterly by Ohio Travel Association, 130 E. Chestnut St, Suite 301, Columbus, OH 43215 and is provided as a service of Heartland Travel Showcase. Sponsorship and advertising opportunities are available. Contact Janet Johnson, by calling 800-896-4682 x2

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HEARTLAND Illinois

Lisle is Chicago’s premier western suburb, home to outstanding hotels specializing in group tour services, such as Hilton, Hyatt and Sheraton. Lisle promises extraordinary experiences like exceptional shopping and dining options and enriching cultural activities and nature-based outings, just 25 miles from O’Hare and Midway airports. Discover Lisle’s refreshing recreational amenities including River Bend Golf Course, the popular annual Eyes to the Skies Hot Air Balloon Festival and The Morton Arboretum, an internationally recognized 1,700-acre outdoor museum that provides group workshops and educational opportunities for unique group outings. Whatever your group’s leisure interests may be, Lisle is sure to please!

GROUP SERVICES • Welcome Bags • Itinerary Assistance • Attraction Contacts • Site Visit for Tour Planners • Discounted/ Complimentary Rooms • Group Rates with Breakfast Buffet • Welcome Reception • Bus Parking and Local Shuttle

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Itinerary Spotlight

There are many things to see and do in Chicago, and Lisle offers your group a centralized location to take in all the attractions. Here are samplings of what to see and do in the Lisle area. Day 1: Enjoy outdoor natural and historical splendors of the Morton Arboretum - a 1,700-acre outdoor museum with natural landscapes and beautiful gardens; Cantigny Park & Gardens/First Division Military Museum – a 500-acre estate of Col. Robert R. McCormick featuring his mansion, 10 acres of landscaped gardens, and a military museum featuring life-sized dioramas showcasing America at war; or the only outdoor living history complex at Naper Settlement, a 13-acre Victorian village with time-period buildings and reenactors. After a full day of nature and history, find some evening entertainment at a local performing arts venue, such as The McAninch Art Center (MAC), The Paramount Arts Center, or at the Fine Arts Center at North Central College. All of these venues feature entertainment from professional and local performers.

Diane Homolka homolka@stayinlisle.com (630) 769-1000 www.staylisle.com

Day 2: Explore Downtown Chicago where there are plenty of attractions to choose from. Check out the Chicago Museum Campus options – Adler Planetarium, The Art Institute, The Field Museum, Museum of Science and Industry, and the John G. Shedd Aquarium among others. Also consider Navy Pier and its many shops, restaurants, Ferris wheel, and other entertainment. Other options may include the Hancock Observatory, Willis Tower or the Chicago Riverboat Architecture Tour. If your group needs a local tour receptive, we can put you in touch with some great options. While downtown, catch a matinee or evening performance at Broadway in Chicago. Throughout the year there are a variety of theatrical productions that your group will enjoy.

Visit Lake County, Illinois

Serving the group tour market for 30 years, Lake County, Illinois is full of hidden and wellknown treasures. Perfectly located between Milwaukee and Chicago, your coaches have easy access from I-94. Whether it’s a student group visiting Six Flags Great America, Keylime Cove Indoor Waterpark Resort and Gurnee Mills, or an adult group visiting the Sanfilippo Estate, performances at Tempel Farms, or Ravinia Festival plus a fun culinary crawl, we can create an itinerary that suits your clients’ interests. We have more than 20 themed itinerary suggestions to try and more than 60 hotels, including three resorts and limited service favorites!

HEARTLAND Illinois

Itinerary Spotlight of Historic Homes. Lunch at Hidden Treasures and

Sullivan’s Steakhouse or Lambs Farm, and then enjoy afternoon wine tasting at Illinois’ oldest winery’s satellite location Day One Lynfred Winery. New hidden Visit the beautiful Tempel treasures keep popping up like Lipizzans, dine in the train the Train Lady, Copper Fiddle car of Chessie’s Restaurant, and North Shore Distilleries, take an exclusive group tour several microbreweries and of the Sanfilippo Estate also known as Place de la Musique, new hotels. enjoy a musical at Marriott Heartland: FAM Offer Theatre, and overnight at the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort. We offer an annual FAM with a Country Pleasures of Lake County

Day Two Explore Armour Family’s Elawa Farm & Wildlife Discovery Center, tour The Popcorn Factory stop and shop, lunch at Keylime Cove (and maybe partake in some pampering at Paradise Mist Spa), tour the movie palace - Genesee Theatre, visit the unusual Gold Pyramid House and enjoy a catered dinner by the Triple D Restaurant - The Shanty. Day Three Experience 100 years of history at the Great Lakes Naval Museum and Historic Fort Sheridan. Visit the Adlai Stevenson Home, recently added to the National Register

nearby CVB. Slated for May 2015, watch for news from Chicago’s North Shore CVB and Visit Lake County! It’s three days of fun and a peek at some of our amazing venues. We also offer private site tours when you can break away from the office. Just ask!

CONTACT Jayne Nordstrom jayne@lakecounty.org (800) 525-3669 visitlakecounty.org

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FA RMS

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HEARTLAND FAM TOUR 2015

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christ’s passion

FEBRUARY 18 - 20, 2015

Day Two:

Day One: Pick up at 10:00am Hyatt Regency

11:15am Tour Lange’s Old Fashion Meat Market 218 W 7th Street Michigan City, IN 46360 219-874-0071 www.langesmeatmarket.com The little devil Pete, aka “The Butcher,” sure can smoke ‘em... beef, pork and chicken of course! 11:45am Tour Barker Mansion 631 Washington Street Michigan City, IN 46360 219-873-1520 A founding father of the rail car industry, John H. Barker, built this mansion in 1855. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. “The house that freight cars built!” 12:45pm Drive By Boxed Lunches provided by: Lucrezia’s Good to Go Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets 601 Wabash Street Michigan City, IN 46360 219-874-2915 premiumoutlets.com/lighthouseplace Always worth the trip! Name brands with extraordinary savings of 25% to 65%. Receive a free VIP Coupon Book for your group of 15 or more.

1:30pm Tour Hoosier Bat Company 4511 Evans Avenue Michigan City, IN 46384 800-228-3787 www.hoosierbat.com Tour a manufacturer of wood baseball bats for Major and Minor league, college and high school players. Watch and learn how professional bats are made! 2:45pm Drive by Chapel of the Resurrection Valparaiso University Valparaiso, IN 46384 219-464-5093 www.valpo.edu/chapel/ Tour the largest collegiate chapel in the country. See the Brandt Campanile that houses 12 bronze bells, the largest of which weighs over 17,000 pounds. 3:45pm Tour Shrine of Christ’s Passion 10630 Wicker Avenue St. John, IN 46373 216-365-6010 www.shrineofchristspassion.org An interactive half mile winding pathway that begins with the Last Supper and Garden of Gethsemane. Featuring 40 life-size bronze statues and narration by Bill Curtis, journey through the Passion of Christ as never before. 6:00pm Dinner Teibel’s Restaurant 1775 Route 41 Schererville, IN 46375 219-865-2000 www.teibels.com Known for their famous fried chicken and perch, this family owned business has been serving up delicious meals for decades. With banquet space and a large parking lot, group tours are always welcome at Teibel’s. 8:00pm Arrival hotel Unwind from the busy day in the comfort of your room or take the bus to Horseshoe Casino.

8:30pm (Optional) HORSESHOE CASINO Try your luck at the many slot machines, table games or get acquainted with Horseshoe’s nightlife. Either way, you’re sure to enjoy your evening.

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Breakfast 6:00am-8:00am hotel Depart at 8:15am 9:15am Arrival Tour and Lunch Fair Oaks Farms 856 N 600 E Fair Oaks, IN 46312 219-394-2025 www.fofarms.com This operating dairy farm offers interactive exhibits, farm tours, birthing barn, cheese factory, pig adventure and more. Learn about the farming industry with a first-hand look at practices. Enjoy the freshest grilled cheese sandwiches! 1:30pm Arrival Albanese Candy Factory 5441 East US 30 Hobart, IN 46342 219-947-3070 www.albanesecandy.com World’s Best Gummi and Gold Label Chocolate is manufactured at Albanese! Watch the products being made before your eyes and gaze upon the chocolate 30 foot waterfall. 3:00pm Arrival John Dillinger Museum 7770 Corinne Drive Hammond, IN 46323 219-989-7979 www.dillingermuseum.com Public Enemy #1, John Dillinger, is followed throughout his years. See what 1930’s depression era gangsters were doing and why crime doesn’t pay. Arrive at 4:00pm Depart at 5:30pm hotel

6:00pm Arrival Dinner and Show Tommy Gun’s Garage 2114 S Wabash Chicago, IL 60616 312-225-0273 www.tommygunsgarage.com Be transported to the 1920’s with da gangsters, da flappers and da hooch. The only Chicago “speakeasy” with a musical revue, food and laughs! 10:00pm Arrival hotel

Day Three: Breakfast 6:00am-8:00am hotel Depart at 8:15am Arrive at 8:30am Community Veterans Memorial Calumet Avenue & Superior Avenue Munster, IN 46321 219-836-3392 www.communityveteransmemorial.org Dedicated to those who fight to preserve our freedoms. Memorials for WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam and Desert Storm, set amidst landscapes of war-torn lands, linked by a memorial brick pathway and history trail. Arrive at 10:00am Hyatt Regency

Tour the Top

GRAND RAPIDS Lonely Planet named Grand Rapids the Top US Travel Destination for

MICHIGAN

2014. Bring your group here to experience the best of the top:

Culinary Arts Farm-to-fork restaurants, 38+ craft breweries and more.

Milwaukee

ArtPrize Top 5 worldwide festival.

AQS QuiltWeek™ Mecca for quilters and quilt enthusiasts.

Grand Rapids Detroit

Chicago

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Top 30 “must-see” museum.

Tulip Time Festival Lake Michigan One of the Celebrating Dutch culture. world’s top 25 shorelines.

Browse Tour Itineraries at

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As a heritage tourism destination, Amish Country of Northern Indiana provides groups with friendly Middle-American hospitality. The total experience blends a unique culture with attractions, unusual specialty shops offering handcrafted goods, distinctive restaurants, step-on guides, scenic countryside and inviting accommodations that include country inns. Home to one of the nation’s largest Amish communities, the area provides countless opportunities to learn about the Amish. The hearty meals, complete with steaming bowls and delectable desserts, are served family-style in tidy Amish homes or award-winning restaurants. Family-operated shops welcome groups. Unique is the annual ABA Top 100 Event, Quilt Gardens.

HEARTLAND Indiana

CONTACT Sonya Nash sonya@amishcountry.org (800) 517-9657 From a fun stop-over to a multi-day stay, you can’t beat the beauty and variety of Northern Indiana Amish Country, home to the third largest Amish community in the nation. One of the most popular for groups in the Midwest, Amish Country is accessible from the Interstate 80/90, State Road 120, State Road 19, US 6 and US 20. Your group can arrive with less than a day’s journey from the Midwest’s major metropolitan areas. Excite quilt- and flower-loving groups with customized itineraries featuring the

10 HEARTLAND BEAT | Fall 2014

Quilt Gardens along the Heritage Trail, designated an ABA Top 100 Event for six consecutive years. This one-of-its-kind experience showcases 20 gigantic quilt patterned gardens stitched with hundreds of thousands of blooms combined with 21 handpainted quilt art murals creating a tapestry of color in seven welcoming communities in Indiana. And it’s on view free of charge annually from May 30 to Oct. 1. Treat quilters to a customized quilt program and trunk show in Nappanee. See an impressive display of quilts, then sit down with a noted quilt designer. The Elkhart County Historical Museum offers groups an exceptional opportunity to see, handle and hear the stories behind rare quilts from the museum archives.

to “hop” to four fabulous quilt/ fabric shops. Cap off an exciting day with a hearty family-style meal and cooking class on an Amish family farm, and/or visit an Amish camel farm, or school house. Enjoy wine tasting and the Threshers Dinner at Amish Acres, followed by a lively Broadway musical production in the Round Barn Theatre, or dine on family-favorite recipes at Das Dutchman Essenhaus.

FAM Opportunities A Tour Operator FAM Tour through Amish Country of Northern Indiana and the Quilt Gardens along the Heritage Trail will take place July 2015. This is a 3-night tour, and deadline to register is June 15, 2015. Personalized FAM tours are also offered. Call and ask for details and arrangements. Free Groups wild about quilting are wild about the “Pieces Pies & Posies Tour” customized itinerary planning is available any time. where they join a local expert guide

Madison, Indiana is located on the Ohio River Scenic Byway in Southern Indiana, within two hours of Cincinnati, Louisville and Indianapolis. With more than 133 blocks of outstanding architecture, Madison’s downtown business district is one of the country’s largest National Historic Landmark Districts. Three National Historic Landmarks and eight other house museums are available for touring. Main Street and the downtown shopping district are lined with a wide array of shops, restaurants and cafes. Also available are three award-winning wineries and Clifty Falls State Park, featuring 70foot gorges, plunging waterfalls, and a stunning inn with on-site restaurant.

and wild ride includes slides, fishtails and heart-pounding spins. This option is seasonal and subject to weather and river conditions. Cost is $34/person, $29/person with discount coupon. The next stop on this frightful journey is the Lanier Mansion. Two friendly apparitions are said to haunt this structure and grounds. Young John James Lanier, the six-year-old son of JFD Lanier, met his untimely death by drowning in the river. The mysterious Lady in Red is believed to be the ghost of Elizabeth Lanier, who died CONTACT in the home. Tours are $6/person, $5/ Linda Lytle seniors, $2/children ages 3-12, with linda@visitmadison.org one guide’s admission complimentary (800) 559-2956 Tour the old county jail. Built in Meet your lively (g)hosts at the Madison 1849-1850, this dungeon-like fortress was fabricated with native limestone Visitors Center for a ghostly tour of some of Madison’s most spirited spots. and boasts walls that are 2-feet thick. It is one of only a few 19th century This tour can be done as a one-hour jailhouse structures still standing. step-on tour or a 90-minute walking tour. Step-on tour is $150/motor coach; Past offenders incarcerated in the jail walking tour is $15/person (minimum often reported they were not alone six people, maximum 30). Dine at The in their cells. Then, partake in spirits of another kind. Select from either a Historic Broadway Hotel and Tavern, wine tasting or craft beer tasting. For Indiana’s oldest hotel, restaurant and tavern. It’s purported to be haunted. For the teetotalers among you, a coffee and sweet treat may be just the thing to a fright of a different kind, experience The Rockin’ Thunder Jet Boat. This wet chase away any lingering specters.

HEARTLAND Indiana

FAM Opportunities Visit Madison for two days during March or April 2015 on a Madison FAM. Qualified Tour Operators will receive one overnight, meals, and free guided tours of local attractions and historic sites. FAMs will be held Monday – Thursday, with a limit of 20.

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HEARTLAND Michigan

The Detroit Zoo, one of Michigan’s largest family attractions, is situated on 125 acres of naturalistic habitats, providing a home for more than 2,600 animals representing 265 species. The Zoo includes animals from aardvarks to zebras and features award-winning habitats such as the National Amphibian Conservation Center, Great Apes of Harambee and Arctic Ring of Life, named the second best zoo exhibit in the U.S. by the Intrepid Traveler’s guide to “America’s Best Zoos”. The Zoo is open 362 days a year; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

CONTACT Jenise Collins jcollins@dzs.org (248) 336-5841

Make your visit truly memorable with a visit to the Wild Adventure Zone, where your group will “see, feel and experience” our 4-D Theater and see the world through the eyes of animals on the Simulator Ride. For lunch, dine at one of the Zoo’s restaurants, or let us enhance your group’s dining experience with customized meal options that include picnic packages, boxed lunches or private Zoo events. Next, take a spin on a sea lion, revolve on a rabbit and twirl on a T. rex

12 HEARTLAND BEAT | Fall 2014

on our 36-foot custom-made, wood- Group Services • Complimentary tour and-brass Carousel. At the end of the operator admission day, give your tired feet a rest while enjoying a train ride on the Tauber • Full-service catering Family Railroad to the front of the Zoo. Zoo admission required. • Handicap accessibility See the Zoo in a Whole New Light • Wheelchair rentals The Detroit Zoo lights up the holiday nights with Wild Lights, a spectacular • Zoofari Market gift shop light display. For 24 nights, more than five million LED lights • Hotel Accommodation illuminate trees, buildings and animal sculptures throughout the front half Partners of the Zoo. Experience the magic • Motorcoach parking as your group takes in the lights and the sights, and enjoys holiday • Zoo +2 and ZooMORE! entertainment and special activities for guests of all ages. Carolers, arts Admission and Attractions Packages and crafts, storytelling, ice carving and the Wildlife Photographer of the • Dinosauria Year exhibition add to the festivities. Carousel rides and photos with Santa May- September, 2015 “Paws” are available for purchase.

Explore Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay Region, where you can make the most of every motorcoach moment! Spend time in a region where a group tour isn’t about the stops you make, but the experiences you’ll talk about forever. All are within 15-30 minutes of one another.

HEARTLAND Michigan

CONTACT Herb Zellinger herb@gogreat.com (989) 752-7164

Autumn Color in the Great Lakes Bay Region (3 days/2 nights) Day 1: • Arrive in Frankenmuth • Pretzel rolling at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant • Step-on guided city tour of Frankenmuth • Stroll along Frankenmuth’s Main Street for shopping and lunch • Shopping at Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland • Travel to Frankentrost • Shopping at Pride and Country • Johnson’s Giant Pumpkin Farm • Dinner at Krzysiak’s House Day 2: • • • •

FAM Tour Opportunities The Great Lakes Bay Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau of Michigan hosts a Regional Familiarization (Fam) Tour annually. Various group-friendly destinations for motorcoach tour groups, student groups, church groups, and social clubs are showcased. Also, off-thebeaten-path and new attractions are included in the itinerary to give tour planners some ideas or twists to new or existing itineraries.

Visit the Antique Toy and Fire Truck Museum in Bay City Antiquing in Bay City Cruise and catered lunch aboard the Tall Ship Appledore Shopping at Warmbier Farms home and outdoor decorating center in Auburn

Day 3: • Tour Dow Gardens

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Muskegon is a beautiful beach town on Michigan’s west coast, featuring 26 miles of unspoiled, sugar-sand beachfront and a multitude of attractions and activities to keep your tour group entertained! Some of our most popular attractions include our world class Muskegon Museum of Art, the Hackley & Hume Historic Sites, the White River Light Station Museum, the USS Silversides Submarine Museum, the USS LST 393 Veterans Museum and, coming in the fall of 2015, Hilt’s Landing, a village demonstrating how the Native Americans and early settlers lived. We are also home to Michigan’s only major amusement and waterpark, Michigan’s Adventure!

HEARTLAND Michigan

CONTACT Jenise Collins jcollins@dzs.org (248) 336-5841

Maritime Itinerary There’s a reason Muskegon is the “Port City”. As one of the deepest ports in the Great Lakes, we have a rich maritime history with lighthouses, a working harbor and celebrated historic ships filled with artifacts and open for you to explore. Begin your day with a tour of the USS LST 393 Veterans Museum. This veteran of Omaha Beach earned three battle stars in World War II and is one of only two Landing Ship Tanks that remain in the

14 HEARTLAND BEAT | Fall 2014

United States. Visit the USS Silversides Submarine Museum. Tour a restored deco interiors, a soda fountain, WWII submarine, a Prohibitionballroom and movie theater. Era Coast Guard Cutter and the Naval Museum. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience what it was Group Tour Services • Proposal Preparation really like to sail a sub trolling the • FAM tours waters of the South Pacific 60-plus • Personal Site Tours years ago. • Itinerary development • Assistance in securing Take a dinner cruise aboard the Port accommodations City Princesss. A sunset dinner cruise Step-on Tour Guide on Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan • service is the perfect way to end your day. The • Supply of brochures, Port City Princess offers a wonderful maps and additional menu and a variety of themed cruises promotional material for you to enjoy. Tour the White River • Use of photos and slides Light Station Museum. Located on for promotional use the shore of Lake Michigan, the White • Welcome Bags River Light Station was built in 1875 • Information/Registration by Captain William Robinson, and it Booth now serves as a physical reminder of the rich nautical history of Michigan. Then tour the S.S. Milwaukee Clipper, Muskegon’s original ferry featuring art

Centrally located in Branson on the 76 Strip, The Dutton Theater and Inn provide a package with comfortable rooms equipped with pillowtopped beds, frig, microwave, a full hot breakfast, and tickets to The Dutton Show. Groups love our ability to package 10 more shows from our Neighborhood of Stars. We also have tickets for Silver Dollar City and White Water as well as many other attractions and shows. Catered meals on-site keep your group well fed and moving efficiently. An Ice Cream Social after the Dutton Show features a meet and greet opportunity with the stars.

HEARTLAND Missouri

CONTACT Diane Barnes diane.b@theduttons.com (417) 332-2772 www.theduttons.com Itinerary Spotlight Starting with a full hot breakfast each morning, days can include activities such as Our Neighborhood of Stars, with five theaters and 10 Shows within walking distance. Shows include The Duttons, Mickey Gilley, SIX, IT, AYO, Barry Williams, #1 Hits of the 60’s and 70’s, Liverpool Legends, George Dyer, DuDu Fischer and Jerusalem. We can put together meals and activities, and can add morning shows (such as The Bretts; Red, Hot and Blue; Buck Trent; or the Country Music Show); afternoon shows (such as Chinese Acrobats; Sons of the Pioneers; Joseph Halls Elvis; Jonah at Sight and Sound; Legends in Concert; Texas Tenors; Larry Gatlin; Billy Dean; Paul Harris and the Cleverly’s) or evening shows (such as Dixie Stampede, The Branson Belle, Haygoods, and Clay Cooper. )

Group Tour Services & Discounts Group pricing is available for 15 or more, with two comps after 20 paid adult tickets with a $100 deposit. The final count and payment are due two weeks prior to the show. For the Inn/ Theater Combo, 10 rooms are required for group pricing, with 15 paid rooms required to receive a comp room and a driver’s room discount. Full hot breakfast is provided. Ice Cream Social Meet & Greet after the show is provided complimentary. Catered $14 lunch and $15 Dinner, inclusive of tax and gratuity.

Change things up during the day with Silver Dollar City, and White Water, shopping and free time at the landing, kayaking, miniature golf, wine tasting, the Military Museum, and College of the Ozarks with lunch at the Keeter Center. Among the free things to do are touring Old DownTown Branson with a free shuttle, especially Dick’s Five and Dime, The Fish Hatchery, The Dewey Short Center. The Tanger Outlet Mall provides a free coupon book to members of coach service. www.heartlandtravelshowcase.com | 15

HEARTLAND New York

Destiny USA is a 2.4 million-square-foot travel destination located in Syracuse, near the intersection of I-90 (NYS Thruway) and I-81, between Niagara Falls and New York City. We offer more than 260 brands to choose from, including department stores, luxury outlets, factory stores, popular retail shops, a wide array of entertainment venues, 15 fine dining options and an extensive food court. All are fully enclosed under one roof. We are also the largest LEED® Gold certified commercial property in the world and are ranked as the sixth largest retail attraction in the USA ( largest in NY).

CONTACT Rose Hapanowich rmh@destinyusa.com (314) 466-6000 www.destinyusa.com

Destiny USA is a “must experience” gem perfect for families, couples, weekend getaways, group travel, student trips and more! We offer an unparalleled mix of options for everyone to enjoy, from great dining at the most sought-after restaurants to fun-filled entertainment venues, plus world class shopping all in one fully enclosed location.

Group Services With Advance Reservations: • Passport of Savings filled with special offers • Gift cards for the group escort and driver • Dedicated motorcoach parking • Private lounge available for drivers and escorts. 16 HEARTLAND BEAT | Fall 2014

Stunning waterfalls, unique views, and unexpected beauty. Your group will discover these and more when visiting Ithaca in NY’s Finger Lakes. The Ithaca CVB simplifies your tour planning with customized mid-week itineraries and accommodations.

HEARTLAND New York

Enjoy discovering dramatic waterfalls and vibrant gardens within minutes of a lively downtown. Taste along the nation’s first organized wine trail. Ithaca’s a culinary oasis where fresh, local and organic are daily specials. A college town for lifelong learners, Cornell University and Ithaca College foster a connected city with energetic hilltop campuses.

Ithaca, New York Itinerary Spotlight Tour an extensive arboretum and gardens lead by a floriculture specialist, experiencing living showcases of botanical diversity. Featuring a panoramic view of Ithaca and Cayuga Lake, the university art museum offers a collection spanning six millennia and most world cultures. Take a photo at a 150-foot waterfall in the heart of the city, one of the region’s most powerful and impressive. Stroll through one of the only surviving pedestrian malls left in the country. The centerpiece of a Nationally Registered Historic District, Ithaca has diverse shopping and eclectic dining. Revel in the sound of roaring waters as it descends in a series of plunging cascades, converging into a beautiful swimmable basin. Enjoy dinner at a world-famous restaurant emphasizing healthy, natural cuisine. A driving force in

vegetarian cooking, this restaurant offers your groups a chance to take the culinary adventure home with one of its cookbooks. Enhance birding skills at the worldleading lab in the appreciation and conservation of birds. Birding is best enjoyed with a group! Journey through time, exploring the history of the Earth, through a unique hybrid of natural history, science, and exhibitions. With abundant views and awardwinning wines, taste your way through the nation’s first organized wine trail. Stop by the Overlook to view a plunging 215-foot waterfall. Three stories taller than Niagara Falls, it’s the highest in the state. Learn from a park naturalist how the gorges were formed. Enjoy a unique downtown dine-around. From upscale bistros to casual cafes, Ithaca’s diverse dining scene has something for everyone.

From sun-up to sundown, there’s always something to explore and share in Ithaca. After all, “Ithaca is Gorges”!

CONTACT Sarah Imes sarah@visitithaca.com (607) 272-1313 www.visitithaca.com Meander a tranquil Victorian Farm and gardens overlooking Cayuga Lake. As the farm is a renowned maker of exquisite hand-painted ceramics, leave time for the gift shop. Wander through one of the largest herb and perennial growers in Central New York before savoring a homecooked meal in the café. Group Tour Services As a CVB, we are your one-stop shop to make bringing your group to Ithaca a breeze. We are here to assist with customized itineraries and help in finding overnight accommodations to meet the needs and budget of your tour. www.heartlandtravelshowcase.com | 17

Located in Southeast Ohio, Cambridge/Guernsey County offers exciting and affordable experiences for your groups. Take a safari adventure at the Wilds, or a handson tour through a glass museum or factory. Marvel at the pageantry of the Living Word Outdoor Drama, get your cowboy on at the Hopalong Cassidy Museum or stroll through Dickens Victorian Village.

HEARTLAND Ohio

CONTACT Dixie Wyler groups@visitguernseycounty.com (800) 933-5480 www.visitguerseycounty.com

Quakers Meeting has Begun Itinerary Between 1802 and 1809, approximately 7,000 members of the Quaker Society flooded the Northwest Territory. Your group will learn about the Quaker culture and other ethnic cultures that settled in this part of Ohio during this riveting journey.

to “get its cowboy on.” Hoppy or a character from the old west greets and guides your group. Following dinner, enjoy a performance at The Living Word Outdoor Drama. Take a back-stage tour before the passion play performed in the largest outdoor set in the United States. Other evening options are available.

Day Two Depart for a tour of the Mosser Glass Factory where your group can experience glass-making and enjoy shopping. Visit the Great American Steam Locomotive Museum, Cambridge Wooden Toy Company, Day One Begin the day at The Old Mercantile and the John and Annie Glenn Historic Sites. Then drive through Bank in Quaker City, where the Muskingum University with a docent owners will welcome your group revealing how ministers and students with history and highlights of the historic building and area. Explore were given higher education at the first Presbyterian College west of the a bulk foods store and an Amish Appalachian Mountains. fabric shop. After lunch, go to the head of the class at the Guernsey Other itineraries include Go To The County Historical Museum. Have Head Of The Class (Delve into a one fun learning the three Rs while room school house and enjoy tasty a school marm leads your group tidbits created by Kennedy’s Bakery in a lesson. A stop at Scott’s 10th Street Antique Mall and Hopalong and Nothing But Chocolate), Get Cassidy Museum allows your group Your Cowboy On (Discover TV 18 HEARTLAND BEAT | Fall 2014

western legend Hopalong Cassidy), Lights, Camera, Action! (What did Clark Gable and Mary Pickford know? How is fine glass made? Better book this tour to find out!) and the Saints & Demons Tour. (Architecture and heritage combine with the presentations at Living Word Outdoor Drama set against the hell on earth experiences of the coal miner’s life at the Byesville Scenic Railway Display and presentation.)

Your groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next destination is the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, the only independent aquarium in Ohio. The Greater Cleveland Aquarium features 70,000 square feet of aquarium exhibits and related uses, including nearly half a million gallons of water and the SeaTubeÂŽ, an exciting underwater walk-through experience.

HEARTLAND Ohio

The Greater Cleveland Aquarium adds a new and exciting dimension to tourism and educational outreach in Cleveland. The Aquarium is conveniently located in the FirstEnergy Powerhouse located on the West Bank of the Flats in downtown Cleveland.

Itinerary Spotlight Consider the Greater Cleveland Aquarium a portal; a portal that will take you all over the world without ever leaving Cleveland. Visit Australia, South America, Africa and the Indo-Pacific; discover CONTACT aquatic life native to the lakes and Joe Prada rivers of Ohio, and exotic aquatic jprada@greaterclevelandaquarium.com life native to the Red Sea, Eastern (216) 862-8803 Asia, Indonesia, Fiji and Hawaii. www.greaterclevelandaquarium.com

Group Tour Services Available Group discounts are available for groups of 15 or more! Group ticket prices are Adults $15.95, Kids $9.95. All groups must be paid in full at least 24 hours before their planned visit. Parking is free for buses.

Learn about our animals, how we care for them, when they eat, what they eat and the personalities each one has developed during their time spent here with us. Located in The FirstEnergy Powerhouse, which is considered an historical building, the Greater Cleveland Aquarium spices up the old brick building with fresh colors and playful aquatic creatures with a fun and educational setting. Visit greaterclevelandaquarium.com for more information. www.heartlandtravelshowcase.com | 19

Licking County offers rural charm with a sophisticated flair -- the perfect escape for your next group tour. Just east of Columbus, you’ll find natural beauty, uncommon hospitality, fine dining and accommodations, unique attractions, and more. Escape your world. Find yourself in ours.

HEARTLAND Ohio

Nearby attractions include Velvet Ice Cream at Ye Olde Mill; Longaberger Basket; Cranberry Bog Tours on Buckeye Lake; National Heisey Glass Museum; The Dawes Arboretum; Historic New England Village of Granville; The Works, Ohio Center for History, Art and Technology; Historic Midland Theatre; and Newark Earthworks Mounds.

CONTACT Carol Thress cthress@escapetolickingcounty.com (740) 345-8224 Act like a Kid Again Enjoy the Glass Blowing Studio of The Works, a Smithsonian affiliate museum of history, art and technology. Enjoy glass-blowing demonstrations, try your hand at it, and enjoy making glass jewelry yourself. Or, perhaps learn and play with science toys and tools for hours of childhood fun and fantasy. There’s nothing like ice cream to bring out the kids in all of us. At Ye Olde Mill – Home of Velvet Ice Cream, discover the history of the Velvet Ice Cream Company.

20 HEARTLAND BEAT | Fall 2014

Visit the company headquarters and take a free tour of the ice cream factory and museum. Also enjoy lunch at their ice cream parlor restaurant where you will enjoy classic parlor food with delicious Velvet Ice Cream for dessert. Check into one of our unique Inns, famous lodges, beautiful B&Bs, or wellknown national brand hotels. Chocolates! Chocolates! Chocolates! Goumas Candyland has been the best place to find the most delicious candies in Licking County for generations featuring a wide variety of chocolates and other mouthwatering candies from chocolate creams and truffles, to caramels, fudge and fresh roasted nuts. After a mouth-watering chocolate stop, go back to days of yesteryear at the Greater Buckeye Lake Historical Society. Start by taking a cruise on the Queen of the Lake, see and hear the history of Buckeye Lake and explore the 10,000-year-old

Cranberry Bog. Afterward, visit the Buckeye Lake Museum displaying old rides and photos from the Buckeye Lake Amusement Park. Grab a bite at T’s Cones and Coney’s and eat a meal the kid inside all of us will enjoy. See movies the way they were originally shown, on the big screen in the beautiful Midland Theatre. Choose one of three classic movies for a matinee showing. FAM Opportunities FAM tours and guided tours are available. Please call 800-5898224 to create your own tour.

Located in northeastern Ohio, midway between Cleveland and Pittsburgh, and New York and Chicago, Youngstown is an ideal destination for your next group tour. Whether you’re looking for a multiday tour or a simple daytrip, there is plenty to do, see and enjoy. We are also an ideal “hub” location to explore a wide variety of attractions in our region. We offer many exciting and affordable attractions your groups will love, including the Butler Institute of American Art, Fellows Riverside Gardens, and Lanterman’s Mill & Covered Bridge. Group-dining options abound, and we offer many group-friendly accommodations.

CONTACT Tara mady tmady@mahoningcountyoh.gov (330) 740-2130 www.youngstownlive.com

HEARTLAND Ohio

Your group can relax at Mastropietro Winery, enjoying wine tastings in their beautiful Tuscan style tasting room. Afterward, check into one of our many group-friendly hotels. An evening entertainment option is the brand new Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course. Racing on the adjacent one-mile thoroughbred race course starts Nov. 24, 2014.

Day two begins strolling through lovely Fellows Riverside Gardens, a 12Best of the Mahoning Valley acre public display garden in beautiful Day one begins at The Valley Mill Creek MetroParks. Spend time Marketplace, Ohio’s only indoor Amish in the Davis Visitor Center wandering Market. Next, visit world-renowned through the gift shop, art gallery, and Butler Institute of American Art, known climbing the observation tower for as “America’s Museum”, dedicated to spectacular views. Next, tour historic works created solely by American Lanterman’s Mill, a working gristmill artists. Enjoy lunch at Das Dutch constructed in 1846. Your group can Haus where your group will enjoy leave with a souvenir bag of flour or wonderful Pennsylvania Dutch-style corn meal. Enjoy a delicious lunch at home cooking, gift shop and bakery. Overture Restaurant, located adjacent Then visit White House Fruit Farm. to historic Powers Auditorium where This fantastic Ohio Century Farm your group will tour “the finest theater Market has much to offer including ever built”, by the Warner Brothers in their famous blueberry donuts. We can 1931. Visit the Youngstown Historical arrange for your group to have a donut, Center (Steel Museum) for a unique cup of cider and bag of apples on the look into the steel industry and how bus. it shaped the Mahoning Valley. A trip

to Youngstown is not complete without a taste of Handel’s Ice Cream - a Youngstown tradition, rated “one of the 10 best places to stop for ice cream” by USA Today. Group Tour Services Available Free step-on guide service and itinerary assistance. www.heartlandtravelshowcase.com | 21

The Nautica Queen, Cleveland’s luxury cruise dining ship, features lunch, Sunday brunch, and dinner cruises from April through New Year’s Eve. Our unlimited buffets offer something for every palate and all food is prepared fresh onboard. The menu features a variety of salads; entrees including beef, fish and chicken; sides including potatos, pasta and vegetables; deserts, tea, and iced tea. In addition to our elaborate buffet, cruises feature a DJ provided by Abracadabra...It’s Music. Spinning family-friendly music throughout the cruise, your group can feel free to hit the dance floor (or enjoy watching!) after they have finished their meals.

HEARTLAND Ohio

CONTACT Colleen Grey c.grey@nauticaqueen.com (216) 696-888 The Nautica Queen can accommodate 300 people on our two enclosed climate controlled decks. The third deck is an

of water and the SeaTube®, an exciting underwater walkthrough experience. The Greater Cleveland Aquarium adds a new and exciting dimension to tourism and educational outreach Theme cruises are offered throughout in Cleveland. our season. Themes include Oldies Complimentary motorcoach (Wed. Lunch), Tropical (Wed. parking is available. Stairs are Dinner), Legends of Lake Erie required to move throughout the (Friday Lunch) and Wine on the boat and to access the restrooms. Water (Friday Dinner). open air observation deck that is available to all guests. This is a great spot to watch the sunset or enjoy the sparkling lights of downtown Cleveland.

Special event cruises are offered for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, July 4th Fireworks cruise, Labor Day weekend Airshow cruises, Halloween, Holiday parties and New Year’s Eve (or “Noon” Years Eve if you are looking for something earlier in the day!). Packages are available that include admission to the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, located right next to us in the FirstEnergy Powerhouse. The Greater Cleveland Aquarium features nearly half a million gallons 22 HEARTLAND BEAT | Fall 2014

Group Tour Special Offers • A 15% Tour & Travel Discount will be extended to Tour Operators. • Two complimentary passes (driver and escort only) per motorcoach. • Complimentary lighted and secured motorcoach parking.

Welcome to Dayton, the birthplace of aviation and so much more! Dayton is where Wilbur and Orville Wright lived, worked and made their dream of manin-flight a reality. Located at the intersection of I-75 and I-70, the “Crossroads of America.” Dayton is where opportunities for discovery, learning and fun await.

HEARTLAND Ohio

CONTACT Dawn Mader dmader@daytoncvb.net (937) 226-8211 www.daytoncvb.com Looking for a tour friendly destination? If your group is interested in arts and culture, include a visit to the Schuster Dayton has several group-friendly Center, home of the Dayton Ballet, attractions. The National Museum Dayton Philharmonic and the Dayton of the US Air Force is the largest and Opera. oldest military aviation museum on the globe...and it’s free. The Carillon Special Broadway shows are on stage Historical Park has the original 1905 throughout the year. Contact Dawn Wright Flyer III, Dayton-made cash Mader at the Dayton Convention registers, train cars, automobiles and and Visitors Bureau to receive a bicycles, and the largest Carillon in customized itinerary with your Ohio. Ride the Carousel of Dayton favorite attractions for your next 2- or Innovation. America’s Packard 3-day tour. Museum is home to more than 50 restored automobiles, including vintage Group Tour Special Offers Packards, and artifacts from 1899-1956. Contact Dawn Mader at the Dayton Would you like to tour a famous Convention and Visitors Bureau to mansion while in Dayton? They receive a customized itinerary for are currently doing tours through your next 2- and 3-day tours as well Hawthorn Hill, Orville Wright’s 1900’s as welcome bags for everyone on the homestead with some of the original tour that include a Dayton memento furnishings. Your group could also at no charge when you book hotel tour the 1816 Federal style home that accommodations in Montgomery belonged to many generations of the County. Pattersons, an influential Dayton family, two of which co-founded the National Cash Register Company.

www.heartlandtravelshowcase.com | 23

The Bob Evans Farm in Southeastern Ohio was home to Bob Evans, founder of Bob Evans Farms Inc., his wife Jewell and their six children for nearly 20 years. The Farm’s Bob Evans Restaurant (group seating available) is open throughout the year and can be reached by calling (740) 245-5324.

HEARTLAND Ohio

The Evans’ home has been transformed into the Homestead Museum and is open free of charge for visitors April 1 through Dec. 23 from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. In addition to exploring the museum, guests may visit the farm for special events, including the Bob Evans Farm Festival.

CONTACT Ray McKinniss ray.mckinniss@bobevans.com (740) 245-5305 www.bobevans.com

The Bob Evans Farm Festival is an annual celebration of the harvest season that attracts thousands with its entertainment, traditional arts and crafts, farm contests, food, children’s activities and demonstrations. A threeday weekend of fun for friends and family of all ages, the Bob Evans Farm Festival offers a taste of yesteryear each October (beginning the 2nd Friday of the month). Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (Fri.-Sun.) and evening concerts on Friday and Saturday nights. For a full schedule of events and times, visit www.BobEvans.com/FarmFestival. Bus parking is available. Admission is $5 per person. Dates for 2015 are Oct. 9, 10 and 11. It’s not the only tradition down on the farm. Consider bringing a group to our annual Quilt Show, Bean Dinner, Emancipation Celebration and Christmas Down on the Farm event. Call (800) 994-3276 for details. When you bring your group to the Bob Evans Farm, consider booking a wagon ride ($1/person), available Memorial Day through Labor Day, Monday through Friday at 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

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Also on the farm is The Village of Adamsville, commemorating the life in the area as it was during the early to mid-19th century. The log cabin village includes a one-room school house, Ohio & the Underground Railroad display, a pioneer family home, Appalachian crafts and a mercantile.

The Bob Evans Farm is located on State Route 588 just of Route 35. From U.S. Route 35, take the State Route 325 exit. Go south on State Route 325 to State Route 588 and turn left. The farm is less than one mile ahead on State Route 588. For those using GPS systems, input the farm’s physical address as 791 Farmview Dr., Bidwell, OH 45614. Group Tour Services Bus drivers and escorts receive a $5 Bob Evans gift card at the gate when entering the Bob Evans Farm Festival.

HEARTLAND Ohio

Ross County & Chillicothe, Ohio is located less than an hour south of Columbus and is home to many historical sites including Adena Mansion & Gardens, “Tecumseh” Outdoor Drama, Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, Lucy Hayes Heritage Center, and the David Nickens Heritage Center. These tours allow you to “meet” historical figures with special hands-on activities. CONTACT

Dinner with the Worthingtons and Path to the Promised Land Day 1 During this group tour, you will get to tour the estate of Thomas Worthington, known as the “Father of Ohio Statehood” and meet his family. Tour the visitors center, mansion, spring house, barn, tennant house, and gardens of Adena Mansion and Gardens. After the tour, join Mr. Worthington and his family for a special dinner.

Melody Young info@visitchillicotheohio.com (740) 707-7677 www.visitchillicotheohio.com

Day 2 Explore tunnels used by runaway slaves seeking freedom at the David Nickens Heritage Center. Learn about the history of the Underground Railroad, then be joined by some “Underground Railroad” conductors at lunch at the Old Canal Smokehouse. www.heartlandtravelshowcase.com | 25

ACT Tours provides individual customer service and develops unique itineraries for groups visiting Canada and northern USA. We specialize in guaranteed departures, NASCAR, agricultural tours, historical tours, culinary tours, sightseeing tours, and Quebec shrines and pilgrimages.

HEARTLAND Ontario

Our tours can range from multi day to multi week. We love to showcase the local venues, as well as the major cities. Our top priority is make certain our guests don’t miss experiencing memories that are important to them.

CONTACT Jennifer Wilson jenw@acttours.com (519) 748-8700 www.acttours.com Calgary & Banff Sample Itinerary DAY 1 – Arrive in Calgary DAY 2 - Calgary We have reserved seats for the crown jewel of the rodeo world. This afternoon, your group will see the world’s top cowboys in a head to head tournament style competition. Calgary Stampede offers excellence for agriculture with more than 40 world-class agricultural events. The Stampede Midway includes

26 HEARTLAND BEAT | Fall 2014

DAY 5 - Homeward Bound Inclusions: Arrive and depart from Calgary, YYC; reserved superior seating at Chuckwagon Races, Grandstand Show & Rodeo; entrance to the Stampede DAY 3 - Banff Traveling the Trans-Canada Highway, grounds (two days); 2 daily multiuse pass on Calgary rapid-transit we head west into the Canadian connecting venues; gondola ride Rockies to Canada’s first National to summit of Sulphur Mountain Park, Banff. A tour of the Banff in Banff. area includes a photo stop at the HooDoo’s, Bow Falls and scenic Group Tour Specials lookouts. Take in beauty of Lake Louise along with the impressive We are happy to arrange a Chateau built on its shore We spend personalized FAM for any Tour Operator visiting the area. two nights in Banff. Our evening Any Tour Operator booking entertainment is a comical musical. on our tours will receive 12% commission if they mention DAY 4 - Banff Heartland. Ride the gondola to top of Sulphur Mountain for stunning views of the mountain ranges. Walk along the boardwalk to the many lookouts. Lunch at Banff Springs Hotel is always magnificent. Enjoy some free time in Banff. live entertainment on stage featuring today’s hottest music and Indian Village with its vibrant colours and sounds.

HEARTLAND Pennsylvania

CONTACT Janine Johnson jjohnson@eatnpark.com (412) 461-2000 Www.eatnpark.com

Group Tour Specials Make a reservation between now and Dec. 31, 2015 and receive 10% off your groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s meal! Just mention the code: GOHTS15.

Our convenient highway locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, Northeast Ohio, and West Virginia provide a convenient and satisfying meal stop. Or, find us near your favorite attractions and destinations including the Flight 93 Memorial, Grove City Outlet Shops, The Meadows Casino, Cleveland International Airport, Erie, Pennsylvania attractions, and the Winter Festival of Lights at Oglebay Resort in West Virginia.

Greensburg, PA (724) 836-6060

www.ramada.com

Greensburg

CONTACT Diane Heshizer diane.heshizer@ramadagreensburg.com (724)552-0612 www.ramadagreensburg.com Proud to be the premier hotel in Greensburg, the Ramada Greensburg Hotel is nestled in the foothills of the Laurel Highland. We are centrally located to a wide variety of activities, including Idlewild Park and Soak Zone. Westmoreland Mall, Seven Springs Ski Resort, St. Vincent College, Seton Hill University. The Palace Theatre, and University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg. Group Tour Specials All rates include a full breakfast buffet. The hotel has all newly renovated bathrooms, meeting, lobby, and lounge including new carpet, wall vinyl, flooring, lighting, and furniture.

100 Ramada Drive, Greensburg, PA 15601 724-836-6060 http://www.ramada.com/hotel/46405

www.heartlandtravelshowcase.com | 27

Nestled in western Pennsylvania, Indiana County offers a small-town flavor to a variety of senior-friendly and educational tours! Leave your groups talking about the Jimmy Stewart Museum and our “Jimmy” impersonator. Enjoy an Amish Wedding Feast in the quaint Amish community of Smicksburg, with specialty, artisan, and wine-tasting shops.

HEARTLAND Pennsylvania

Visit the Freedom From Slavery Trail at the historic Blairsville Underground Railroad Museum. The outdoor recreational paradise boasts great golf, seven parks offering year-round recreation, and more than 64 miles of rails to trails. Captivate entertainment at the IUP Lively Arts or the Kovalchick Convention and Athletic Complex.

www.VisitIndianaCountyPa.org 1-877-746-3426

Senior-friendly itineraries are available year-round, including the”It’s a Wonderful Life” Tour featuring a visit to a Christmas tree farm, Yarnick’s Farm Market, Covered Bridges and the Jimmy Stewart Museum/ Hometown Tour. A Heritage Delight Tour begins at the Blairsville Underground Railroad History Center exhibiting the life of children and adults who escaped slavery during the 1800’s. Also included is a flashback to history distillery tour, covered bridge photo ops, and the historic Victorian Clark House/Museum.

CONTACT Maria Jack mjack@visitindianacountypa.org (724) 463-7505 www.visitindianacountypa.org Horse and buggies welcome Our Amish Smile-Day in Smicksburg, with a ride through Amish countryside, an Amish Wedding Feast, artisan/ gift shops, a winery tour and a cheese making factory. Hollywood Glamour/Amish Simplicity blends Jimmy Stewart with the Amish for an interesting day! Journey to Punxsutawney to Meet Our Famous Neighbor Phil. Start at Gobbler’s Knob with the Inner Circle, move onto The Weather Center, shop downtown with 32 whimsical groundhog replicas and end with a gourmet lunch in the countryside. Our famous mystery tour is the “It’s a Wonderful Life” Parade Festival in mid-November where your group rides in the parade and shares grand marshal duties with famous visiting stars like Rich Little and Jimmy’s

28 HEARTLAND BEAT | Fall 2014

daughters! This trip includes the Jimmy Stewart Museum/ Hometown Tour, gourmet lunch near our Historic Mansions, a sleigh ride at a local Christmas Tree Farm, group photos at a Covered Bridge, dinner with a Jimmy Impersonator, parade activities, viewing the actual movie at a local vintage theater and tree decorating with a visit from Santa in your hotel lounge! Our Group Tour Associate can ensure your plans with six months lead time and guaranteed bus friendly, free services! FAM Opportunities FAM tours and guided tours are available. Please call 800-589-8224 to create your own tour.

Experience the culture and refinement of the Gilded Age at the Frick Art & Historical Center, located on beautifully landscaped gardens in Pittsburgh’s East End.

HEARTLAND Pennsylvania

The museum and its multiple collections are the legacy of Helen Clay Frick, daughter of Henry Clay Frick, one of America’s greatest industrialists and art collectors. One Museum. Many Experiences.

CONTACT Syliva Ehler sehler@TheFrickPittsburgh.org (412) 342-4070 www.thefrickpittsburgh.com There is much to see and do on our 4.5-acre site. We welcome groups of all sizes.

Orientation Center. This is a must-see destination during your visit. Plan time to browse a unique collection of items that offer a snapshot of all that Enjoy a tour of the historic home of the the site features. Henry Clay Frick family. Experience local history and Victorian social Visit our working Greenhouse and customs in the family’s home, where stroll the grounds and gardens. Come visit our new exhibition more than 90% of the furniture and space, featuring turn-of-the-century artifacts on display are original. automobiles and carriages, opening in fall 2015. Enjoy The Frick Art Museum, with a permanent collection featuring early Renaissance Italian paintings and 18th- Large tours are divided into groups of century French paintings and decorative 10-12 each with its own docent for a more personal experience. arts. Find the perfect souvenir at the new Frick Museum Store located in the

Group Tour Special Offers Free bus parking. Please contact me for a free personal tour of our site and all we have to offer.

www.heartlandtravelshowcase.com | 29

HEARTLAND Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s Great Lakes Region is conveniently situated along the shores of Lake Erie and the I-79, I-90 and I-80 corridors. Enjoy Pennsylvania’s Great Lakes Region’s beaches at Presque Isle State Park, and explore the region’s many offerings: boat tours, dinner and performance theater, wineries and breweries, lighthouses, casino, amusement parks, world’s largest display of American flags, a unique metal gift shop, a world class country inn and more. The region is a shopper’s paradise featuring tax-free shopping on clothes and shoes. Full service to economy accommodations. Great for hub and spoke tours, 1 ½ hours max from end to end. Group tour manual available.

Erie County Main Attractions: • Presque Isle State Park: A 7-mile peninsula reaching out into Lake Erie, with natural beauty, beaches, fishing, biking, swimming and sailing. • Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort: Pennsylvania’s largest Indoor Water Park featuring nine Slides, Wave Pool, Arcade, Surf Shop, and Lazer Tag. • Waldameer Park and Water World: Amusement and waterpark with more than 75 rides, slides, and attractions including the incredible Ravine Flyer roller coaster. • Presque Isle Downs and Casino: Slots, table games, live Thoroughbred and simulcast racing, and three restaurants. CONTACT • Erie Playhouse: One of the oldest and largest community theatres in the nation. Emily Beck • Lake Erie Wine Country: 24 wineries on southern shore of Lake Erie. Award-winning ebeck@visiterie.com wines, gift shops, and special events. (800) 524-3743 www.pagreatlakes.com • Erie Maritime Museum, U.S. Brig Niagara: Learn of Erie rich maritime history and its role during the Battle of Lake Erie FAM Tours, Customized • Millcreek Mall: Newly renovated with more than 160 stores and restaurants, tax free shopping on clothes and shoes. Itineraries and Step-OnGuide Services available. • Mercer County Outstanding Group Attractions • Watch skilled craftsmen create one-of-a-kind giftware at Wendell August. • See North America’s largest animated woodcarving and elegant handcrafts at SlovakFolk Crafts. • Tour the Avenue of 444 Flags, the world’s largest permanent display of American Flags. • Tour Kraynaks Christmasland and Easter Bunnylane. • Experience Tara, a world class inn offering 27 luxurious guestrooms, and tour Tara’s sister property, Buhl Mansion for a glimpse into the life of an industrial age steel baron. • At WaterFire Sharon, thrill to amazing fine and performing arts and 50 bonfires on the Shenango River. • Tax-free shopping at Grove City Premium Outlets with 135 brand name stores including the world’s largest stores - Reyers Shoes and The Winner. • Two family-owned chocolate shops: Daffin’s Candies or Philadelphia Candies. 30 HEARTLAND BEAT | Fall 2014

It was a magical mix that made Pittsburgh the steel-making capital of the world – legendary industrialists, thousands of immigrants and a wealth of natural resources. Rivers of Steel Heritage Tours shares the rise and fall of Pittsburgh steel and the immigrant experience on the popular Babushkas and Hard Hats Tour. Included in the book “1,000 Places to See in the USA and Canada Before You Die,” this Rivers of Steel tour includes guided tours of the Carrie Blast Furnaces, the site of the 1892 Battle of Homestead and the mansion of Henry Clay Frick.

CONTACT Corinne Bechtel cbechtel@riversofsteel.com (412) 423-8687 www.pittsburghtours.org Itinerary Spotlight 9:00 a.m. Start your day at the Bost Building, former headquarters of the Amalgamated Association of Iron and Steel Workers, now the visitor center and steel heritage museum for Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area.You’ll enjoy an interactive presentation about the rise and fall of steel in Pittsburgh and what it would have been like to work in a mill. 10:30 a.m. Have your camera ready for a unique tour led by a former steel worker of the Carrie Blast Furnaces. Visitors will explore Pittsburgh’s iron and steel heritage on-site at a former blast furnace – one of the last pre-World War I blast furnaces left standing in the United States!

HEARTLAND Pennsylvania

12:30 p.m. Stand on the site of the 1892 Battle of Homestead, one of the biggest events in U.S. Labor History, at the Historic Pump House. Tour the Pump House and then enjoy a delicious catered lunch with regional specialties such as stuffed cabbage rolls, pierogies and the beloved cookie table! 2:30 p.m. We’ll leave the mill towns behind and whisk you off to visit one of the finest Victorian homes in the country, Clayton, the family home of famed industrialist Henry Clay Frick, located at The Frick Art & Historical Center. 4:30 p.m. Enjoy a ride on the Duquesne Incline, a century-old funicular, one of the few left in the nation! Take in one of the best views in the country and visit the interior of the incline to learn about the operation of the gears and machinery. 5:30 p.m Arrive for dinner at nearby Tin Angel restaurant atop Mt. Washington (formerly called Coal Hill) overlooking the three rivers and beautiful downtown Pittsburgh!

Group Tour Services Available Rivers of Steel Heritage Tours is happy to offer free admission and FAM tours to tour operators. Rivers of Steel provides full-service tour planning for all of Western Pennsylvania with detailed, timed itineraries, entertaining and knowledgeable step-on guides, and dozens of tour themes. Choose from one of our popular day-trips or overnight tours or have us create a customized itinerary just for your group. www.heartlandtravelshowcase.com | 31

Since opening as a small, unique restaurant in 1964, The Fireside Dinner Theatre has grown into one of the Midwest’s premiere visitor attractions. As we celebrate our 50th Anniversary year, our philosophy remains the same; that people will come to where they have been invited and will return to where they have been made to feel welcome.

HEARTLAND Wisconsin

We invite you to experience the magic of The Fireside for yourself, Wisconsin’s #1 year-round motorcoach attraction, either as a complete one-day adventure or the perfect complement to any Wisconsin tour.

CONTACT Jackie Brisko jackie@firesidetheatre.com (800) 477-9505 www.firesidetheatre.com

Your group’s visit to The Fireside begins with a personal greeting and escort to your tables to enjoy a memorable dining experience with warm, friendly service. Before or after dining, browse our charming specialty gift shops or enjoy a cocktail in the lounge. Then, enter our 652-seat theatre-in-the-round for a professional theatre experience that features Equity actors, singers and dancers from across the country. The Fireside’s 2015 Season includes our original live band revue THE SENSATIONAL 70’S, Fireside premiers of THE WIZARD OF OZ, ALL SHOOK UP and A WONDERFUL LIFE - The Musical, the hilarious Wisconsin ice fishing musical comedy GUYS ON ICE, and the return of two audience favorites – PUMP BOYS AND DINETTES and WEST SIDE STORY. Our menus, which vary by show and performance time, are all served dinners except for our Signature Buffet on Thursday evenings and our Brunch Buffet on Sunday matinees. Executive Chef Michael Scott and his staff use only the highest quality ingredients as everything from the soups and sauces to pastries and desserts are prepared from scratch in our kitchens.

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Located on Business Hwy 26 South in Fort Atkinson, The Fireside is within 1.5 hours of Wisconsin Dells, The House on the Rock, Milwaukee, Madison, Lake Geneva, Racine, Kenosha, Beloit, Janesville, and the Horicon Marsh. We run performances Wednesday through Sunday year-round. Allow 5.5 hours for the entire experience. The Fireside is fully accessible to guests with disabilities and there is plenty of safe, free parking in our own lot.

Group Tour Specials Group benefits start with 13 or more guests with the best group rates for 18 or more on Wednesday and Thursday matinees. We also offer a DVD, pictures, show logos, escort notes and itinerary ideas to assist in promoting your group tour.

North America’s North America’s

HEARTLAND Travel Showcase tion a m r ll info ter, ca r o l F is mai reg e o r t 82 o l.org. and 6 4 . 96 ave r 8 t . o 0 i h 80 @o y m jere

FEBRUARY 20-22, 2015 Hyatt Regency, Chicago Heartland Travel Showcase is one of the nation’s largest regional meeting spots for tour operators and tourism suppliers. Its compact format means you’ll do business with far less time out of the office than most shows. And, its regional location is close to home for many tourism suppliers whom you may not see elsewhere. Join us for a powerful few days of booking travel in the heart of America! www.HeartlandTravelShowcase.com www.heartlandtravelshowcase.com | 33

Heartland Travel Showcase 2015 Tour Operator Application Feb. 20-22, 2015 | Hyatt Regency Chicago Is this your company’s first time attending Heartland Travel Showcase?

 Yes  No

1. Company Information:

Internal Use Only:

Company Name: Company Address: City |State | Zip | Country: Telephone Number:

(

)

Fax:

(

)

Paid:



Insure:



Add:



Qual:



Tax Payer ID (Required):

2. Qualified Tour Operator Status: Heartland Travel Showcase is committed to producing a quality, professional experience to cultivate and produce more business for our attendees. To ensure that we maintain the level of professionalism you deserve a qualified Tour Operator represents an established organization that arranges tours/charters. In order to attend the Heartland Travel Showcase, the organization must meet the criteria.

Please answer: A. Did you attend the 2014 Heartland Travel Showcase?

 Yes  No

B. Are you a member of NTA, ABA, or OMCA?

 Yes  No

If yes, please provide your Member ID#: If you have answered Yes to questions A. or B. and provided your membership ID# please skip to Section 3 If you have answered No to both questions, please complete section 2 below.

C. Does your company schedule trips and purchase travel products out of your business area?

 Yes  No

D. Do the delegates that will be attending Heartland Travel Showcase on behalf of your organization actually develop and plan the tours/charters for your organization?

 Yes  No

E. Has your company been in business for at least two years?

 Yes  No

F. Has your company registered with the appropriate state and federal government as a corporation, limited liability corporation, or sole proprietorship?

 Yes  No

G. Does your company maintain at least a $1 Million Liability insurance policy?

 Yes  No

Heartland Travel Showcase reserves the right to request proof of $1 million liability insurance.

3. Primary Appointment Taking Delegate Registration: All primary delegates are required to make appointment requests, receive pre-scheduled appointments and conduct appointments during the Heartland Travel Showcase. Any delegate that will not be available for appointment-taking must register as an additional delegate in Section 4. Primary Delegate Name: Telephone Number:

(

)

Fax:

(

)

Email Address (Required):

Primary Delegate Registration & Lodging Selections Primary Delegate Registration  Early Registration (By 10/31/14)

$99

 Full Registration (After 10/31/14)  Pre-FAM South Shore, Indiana  Post-FAM Chicago Southland

$230 $60 $60

+ + +

$ $ $

$170

Primary Delegate Lodging – Hyatt Regency  Two Nights – 2/20/15 – 2/22/15 Need lodging before or after the show? Discounted lodging ($145/night) is available for Heartland Attendees from Feb. 16 – 25, 2015 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago - http://bit.ly/HTSLodging

Primary Delegate Registration Subtotal:

4. Additional Delegate Registration: Will an Additional Delegate from your company be attending?

 Yes

 No

(If No, please skip to Section 5, Payment) Additional Delegates may elect to make their own appointment requests, receive separate pre-scheduled appointments and conduct their own appointments during the Heartland Travel Showcase or the Additional Delegate may elect to attend the same appointments as the Primary Delegate Please select one:

 The Additional Delegate will request a

 The Additional Delegate will attend appointments with the Primary

separate appointment schedule.

Delegate. (Not eligible for Early Registration Discount or hotel subsidy)

Additional Delegate Name: Telephone Number:

(

)

Fax:

(

)

Email Address: (System Requirement: Email address must be different than Primary Delegate.)

Additional Delegate Registration & Lodging Selections Additional Delegate Registration  Early Registration (By 10/31/14)

$99

 Full Registration  Pre-FAM South Shore, Indiana  Post-FAM Chicago Southland

$230 $60 $60

+ + +

$ $ $

$0 $170

+ + +

$ $ $

(Appointment Taking Delegates Only)

Additional Delegate Lodging Optional  None/Share with Primary  Appointment-Taking  Non-Appointment Taking

Need additional lodging before or after the show? Discounted lodging ($145/night) is available for Heartland Attendees from Feb. 16-25, 2015 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago - http://bit.ly/HTSLodging

$240 Additional Delegate Registration Subtotal: +Primary Delegate Registration Subtotal (From Section 3):

$ +

Contract Total:

$ $

5. Application Submission & Payment Information: Please submit applications, along with full payment and proof of at least $1 Million in Liability Insurance coverage to: By Internet:

By Fax or Email:

Heartlandtravelshowcase.com Payment Method:

Fax: (614) 572-1937 Email: jeremy@ohiotravel.org

Heartland Travel Showcase 130 E. Chestnut St., Suite 301 Columbus, OH 43215

 Credit Card

 Check (Make checks payable to: Heartland Travel Showcase)

 Visa

 American Express  Discover

 Mastercard

Name on Card: ___________________________________________ Billing Address: ___________________________________________ Card Number: ___________________________________________ Cancellation:

By Mail:

Security Code: _______ City | State | Zip: ___________|____|_______ Expiration Date: ____ / _______

Cancellation deadline for a refund is Dec. 17, 2014. No refunds will be issued after the deadline. Only substitutions will be permitted.

Qualifications: Show management reserves the right to deny the application of any person/company that does not meet requirements. Providing incorrect information regarding show qualifications may result in disqualification and forfeiture of registration fee. Requirements: Show participants are required to submit an online profile and appointment requests, fill all open appointments through the direct request process and attend all required Showcase events. Failure to meet these requirements may result in disqualification. By signing, you indicate you have read and understand the show policies and agree to abide by the terms of the show. Signature______________________________________________________

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Kankakee County - See whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new in 2014! See whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new in Kankakee County in 2014! Our redesigned website includes a section just for travel groups. See the sample itineraries to enhance your visit and take advantage of all of the wonderful things to see and do in Kankakee County. Our newest publications are designed with group travellers in mind and include activities for a range of participants. Outdoor adventures, cultural activities, family recreation, dining and shopping await you less than an hour south of Chicago. With more than 900 hotel/motel rooms, Kankakee County has the accommodations you need to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Kankakee County is an affordable lodging, dining, and entertainment stop for tour groups traveling to or through the Midwest. Kankakee County is located just 50 miles south of Chicago, off of Interstate 57. State routes 45/52, 50 and 17 also run through the area.

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