2021 Group Travel Directory

2021

Great Ideas For Groups,

Coast-to-Coast!

A Premier Travel Media publication • LeisureGroupTravel.com/gtd

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Hundreds of Things To Do REGIONS

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Celebrate the gifts of land and sea with epic Virginia Beach adventures the entire group can enjoy safely. With 400 square miles of wide open space, revel in hands-on experiences and unique access to a group tour that’s as safe as it is memorable.

VISITVIRGINIABEACH.COM/GROUPTOUR

}

CONTENTS REGIONS 4 Northeast 14 Southeast 22 Southwest 24 Midwest 34 West 36 Frontier/Mountain West

SITE INSPECTIONS 10 Colonial Williamsburg 12 Tour AC

WELCOME TO GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS! I couldn’t be more excited about this year’s edition of our annual compendium of top domestic tour destinations. And I think I know the reason. Like you and your travelers, I am itching to travel again, and all the descriptions of fun places filling these pages give hope to the return to normalcy I expect will energize the group travel industry in 2021.

Though I was able to squeeze in a few short editorial trips this past summer and fall, I’m dreaming of bigger things ahead. Maybe it will be a spring trip to Southern plantation homes and gardens blooming with dogwoods and azaleas. Or a summer or fall mountain getaway—to the Rockies, Smokies or Adirondacks. To be honest, any place sounds good at this point in the pandemic that has lingered all too long.

When I travel, I like to prowl around small towns to soak in history, stroll down Main Street, get lost in antiques stores and grab some donuts at the local bakery—there are many examples of such charming towns in Group Travel Destinations. Some of us gravitate to beach and lakeside communities, and you’ll encounter numerous American favorites as you leaf through this guide. With everyone these days yearning for fresh air and elbow room, including outdoor experiences in tour itineraries will certainly rank high on planners’ radar.

People also are hungering for live entertainment—a concert, a play, a festival or any diversion to put us in a happy mood. A number of such options, from timehonored dinner theaters to big-city auditoriums, can be found in Group Travel Destinations.

In the regional sections of this handy deskside companion, dozens of group-friendly suppliers are showcased with profiles and Site InSpections. I’m sure Group Travel Destinations will be an invaluable tool in crafting irresistible itineraries for the coming year.

Happy Traveling, Randy Mink Senior Editor

COVER PHOTO (iStock.com/scibak)

GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

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Groups eager to get outdoors and enjoy the splendors of Mother Nature will discover a panoply of scenic eye-poppers and invigorating activities in America’s diverse Northeast Region. From the beaches of coastal Virginia to the Adirondack Mountains of New York, fun-filled adventures await your travelers. Places like Allegheny National Forest in northwestern Pennsylvania and the mountains of western Maryland beckon those seeking to escape the urban frenzy, but plenty of natural beauty and recreational opportunities also can be found in the countryside right outside of Washington, D.C. Aside from their natural allures, the region offer an abundance of historical sights and cultural treasures.

Jamestown Settlement in Virginia tells the story of the New World’s first permanent English colony in 1607, while groups in Philadelphia will be enthralled as they tour Independence Hall, a hallowed shrine where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were framed. Planners looking to include a show in their itinerary have a number of solid choices, from well-established Pennsylvania dinner theaters to lavish Disney musicals on Broadway.

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Photo courtesy of Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau

NORTHEAST

Kinzua Bridge at Allegheny National Forest

CANADA

railway thrills passengers as it takes them on a dramatic ascent to the summit of Mt. Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast.

With an average grade of 25 percent (some sections approach nearly 38 percent) it’s also the second steepest in the world. With a nod to its steam heritage, the railway also continues to operate a pair of century-old, coal-fired steam engines. Located in the heart of the majestic White Mountains region of northern New Hampshire, Marshfield Base Station is six miles east of Route 302 on the western face of Mount Washington. >> thecog.com

Just over the U.S.-Canada border in the provinces of Ontario and Quebec, St. Lawrence Cruise Lines in 2021 will be celebrating its 40th year of cruising on the scenic St. Lawrence and Ottawa rivers. Four- to seven-night voyages on the 32-stateroom Canadian Empress feature the International Seaway locks and destinations such as Montreal, the Thousand Islands and Upper Canada Village living history museum. The classic riverboat’s Victorian interior mirrors the grace of the early 1900s. >> stlawrencecruiselines.com

MARYLAND

NEW JERSEY

Ocean City, Maryland, oceanside resort is your getaway Atlantic Ocean destination. With free, wide clean beaches and an expansive threemile boardwalk, your group will have plenty of room to span out and enjoy. Whether it is enjoying a beach day in early spring or enjoying the fall air beside the ocean, any season is beach season in Ocean City. Known for the local wild ponies of nearby Assateague Island, Ocean City is your headquarters for mid-Atlantic touring. >> ococean.com Garrett County, tucked away in the mountains of western Maryland, is a natural for outdoor adventure. Deep Creek Lake State Park is home to the state’s largest freshwater lake, a popular playground for boating, fishing and swimming. Other area activities include hiking, biking, horseback riding and whitewater rafting. Quaint towns like Oakland, Accident and Grantsville charm visitors looking for history, nostalgia and local eats. Spruce Forest Artisan Village features historic cabins that serve as studios for artists to display their work. >> deepcreekgroups.com

The world’s first mountain climbing cog railway, the Mount Washington Cog Railway in Coos County, New Hampshire, has been entertaining groups since 1869. The

NEW YORK In New York City, Disney Theatrical Group offers the ultimate Broadway experience

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Photo courtesy of Tour AC

NEW HAMPSHIRE

For casino action, beach fun and nightlife on the East Coast, no place compares to Atlantic City, New Jersey. The iconic Boardwalk runs more than five miles in length and invites visitors to stroll, bicycle or be pushed in an only-in-Atlantic-City rolling chair. An array

of shopping options can be found along the Boardwalk, in the casino-hotels and at Tanger Outlets The Walk, a 15-city-block dining and retail outlet. Sightseeing and dolphin-watching cruises also enhance group itineraries. >> touratlanticcity.com Groups in the New York City area have fun exploring nature, science and technology at the Liberty Science Center. Located in Jersey City, New Jersey, near the State of Liberty, the center has 12 exhibition halls, a 3D theater, giant aquarium and live animal collection with 110 species.

Favorites include the hurricane- and tornado-force simulators, live simulcast surgeries and science demonstrations. In the domed theater of the Western Hemisphere’s biggest planetarium, guests can view distant galaxies. >> lsc.org

GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

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NORTHEAST and excellent group rates for award-winning musicals such as Frozen, The Lion King and Aladdin. Disney’s storytelling tradition, worldclass talent and incomparable production values combine to create a one-of-a-kind experience like nothing your group has ever seen. Disney Theatrical Group’s sales department will craft a customized experience to ensure a magical Broadway visit that is truly unforgettable. >> disneygroupsales.com Clove Creek Dinner Theater in the Westage Mall in Fishkill, New York, serves up a combination of live entertainment and fine dining. Gourmet meals are prepared by chef graduates of the Culinary Institute of America, with guests choosing from four entrees that change with each new production. As a recipient of the Dutchess County Tourism Arts Award of Distinction, Clove Creek benefits the

New York’s Lake George Area

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community by expanding the spectrum of local culture. >> clovecreekdinnertheater.com In the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York, groups can take in beautiful scenery in the Lake George Area, a vacationland situated 50 miles north of Albany. Enjoy a cruise on 32-mile-long Lake George, the Queen of American Lakes; navigate whitewater rapids on the Hudson or Sacandaga river; and drive to the summit of Prospect Mountain for 100-mile views. More thrills await at Six Flags Great Escape and its Hurricane Harbor water park.

Factory outlet malls also keep groups engaged. >> visitlakegeorge.com

PENNSYLVANIA Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center is the starting

point for tours of Gettysburg Battlefield, scene of the Civil War’s bloodiest battle (July 1-3, 1863) and Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.

Guests can learn from interactive exhibits, the film New Birth of Freedom and the monumental Cyclorama painting of Pickett’s Charge. Groups of 16 and more enjoy special pricing, customized programs and tours led by licensed battlefield guides. Boxed meals can be arranged, and there is a dine-in facility. >> gettysburgfoundation. org/group-visits.

One of the best things to do in Philadelphia is explore Independence National Historical Park, which contains some 20 buildings associated with the nation’s founding.

Highlights include the Liberty Bell, National Constitution Center and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were created. The $60 million

Photo courtesy of Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg’s Palace Garden

Faith and Liberty Discovery Center, designed to highlight the relationship between faith and freedom in America from its founding through today, will open on Independence Mall in May 2021. >> discoverphl.com In Allentown, Pennsylvania, Pines Dinner Theatre is the ticket to group fun. The countrystyle playhouse stages a variety of musicals throughout the year; the Christmas show is a much-anticipated event in November and December. Group packages for parties of 20 or more include the show and a hearty American meal that includes salad, bread, entree (such as honey-glazed ham, roast turkey breast, ravioli or fettucine), coffee and iced tea, and dessert. >> pinesdinnertheatre.com For more than 30 years, the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre has been entertaining groups touring the Amish Country of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Musicals slated for 2021 include Happy Days, On Your Feet!: The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Mamma Mia! and Meredith Willson’s Miracle on 34th Street. Groups of at least 16 receive special offers and discounts. The 328seat theater hosts more than 150,000 guests annually. >> dutchapple.com In the Allegheny National Forest Region of northwestern Pennsylvania, visitors can take in panoramic views of the Kinzua Gorge from the Kinzua Sky Walk, an engineering marvel built on six of Kinzua Viaduct’s steel towers remaining after the tornado of 2003. The

skywalk is located in Kinzua Bridge State Park, whose staff members conduct guided nature walks and programs on the bridge’s history or making apple cider. Another area tourist magnet is the Penn Brad Oil Museum, just south of Bradford. >> visitanf.com

Prince William County, only 30 minutes from Washington, D.C., offers countless diversions, from Civil War battle sites to idyllic parks for outdoor activities. In the countryside, visitors can bottle-feed baby goats, hand-pick seasonal fruits, vegetables or flowers, or take a guided tour at a working cattle farm. Shoppers have a field day in Occoquan, one of the most charming small towns in America, and at Potomac Mills, Virginia’s largest outlet mall with more than 220 stores offering big discounts on brand names. >> visitpwc.com One of Prince William County’s prime attractions is the National Museum of the Marine Corps, adjacent to Marine Corps Base Quantico. High-tech, interactive exhibits surround visitors with irreplaceable artifacts

VIRGINIA Groups touring the Washington, D.C. area often make their base of operation in northern Virginia’s Fairfax County, which offers more than 100 hotels for every budget. Besides lots of shopping, dining and outdoor recreational opportunities, there’s a long list of attractions, including George Washington’s Mount Vernon and the brand-new National Museum of the U.S. Army. Turning Point Suffragist Memorial, opening in spring 2021, will feature 19 informational stops and a section of the White House fence where activists picketed. >> fxva.com Summer 2021 marks 50 years of performances at the Filene Center for Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts. Wolf Trap, Washington, D.C.’s premier outdoor amphitheater, is home for the top names in music, from classical, opera and dance to a broad range of popular artists. The wide-open spaces of Wolf Trap are not only perfect for summer concerts, but great for picnicking and taking in nature.

Wolf Trap looks forward to safely welcoming audiences this coming summer in a celebration of this milestone year. >> wolftrap.org

GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

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NORTHEAST and immerse them in the sights and sounds of Marines in action, tracing the corps’ history from the American Revolution to the Vietnam War and beyond. Shown in the giant-screen Medal of Honor Theater, the film We, The Marines follows the journey of Marines from boot camp to training, deployment and finally homecoming. >> usmcmuseum.com Fredericksburg, also in northern Virginia, is rich in American history. High on sightseeing lists are George Washington’s Boyhood Home at Ferry Farm, his mother’s last home, the plantation home of his sister, an 18th century tavern and

apothecary shop, and a museum dedicated to President James Monroe. Driving tours of Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville and other battlefields put the Civil War in focus. Old Town Fredericksburg boasts an array of boutiques, restaurants, art galleries and antiques dealers. >> visitfred.com/group-tours Step back into the 1700s at Colonial Williamsburg, America’s largest living history museum. Costumed interpreters portray real people who lived in Virginia’s colonial capital, including George Washington, Patrick Henry and lesser known figures like Aggy, a slave

fighting for her family’s freedom. Live outdoor theater experiences re-create the struggle for American independence, pioneer crafts are demonstrated, and world-class indoor museums feature American folk art and decorative arts. Colonial-style fare is served in several tavern restaurants on the 301-acre grounds. >> colonialwilliamsburg.com Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, open year-round and adapted for safety, present the story of America’s 17th- and 18th-century beginnings through expansive gallery exhibits,

Photo courtesy of Virginia Beach CVB

Virginia Beach, Virginia

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Photo courtesy of Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation

dynamic films and immersive experiences in outdoor re-creations of a Paspahegh town, three 1607 ships, a 1610-14 fort, Continental Army encampment and Revolution-era farm. Special events and programs are held throughout the year, including a new Jamestown Settlement special exhibition, “FOCUSED: A Century of Virginia Indian Resilience,” opening on January 29, 2021. >> historyisfun.org Newport News, on the southeastern end of the Virginia Peninsula, is packed with things to see and do. Virginia Living Museum, which explores the state’s natural heritage, is part zoo, nature park, aquarium, botanical garden, planetarium and science center. The Mariners’ Museum and Park is all about ships and the sea; its USS Monitor Center brings to life a famous Civil War maritime battle.

Huntington Park, overlooking the James River, is home to the Virginia War Museum, a rose garden and a beach. >> newport-news.org Virginia Beach, at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, is a great place for getting in touch with nature, relaxing at the beach and walking along the festive seaside boardwalk.

Active groups will want to go hiking, biking or kayaking at First Landing State Park. Manmade attractions include the Military Aviation Museum, Old Cape Henry Lighthouse, and Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, which is home to Komodo dragons, sea turtles, crocodiles and 350 other species. Whale- and dolphin-watching cruises are also big. >> visitvirginiabeach.com In southwestern Virginia, the world-renowned Barter Theatre on Main Street in downtown Abingdon presents a year-round program of new Appalachian plays along with time-honored dramas, comedies and musicals. Founded in 1933, the Barter is the official State Theatre of Virginia and one of the country’s oldest professional regional theaters. There are special rates for groups of 15 or more; an actor-led talkback or a behind-the-scenes tour can be arranged for a nominal charge. More than 48,000 group patrons visit the Barter annually. >> bartertheatre.com Abingdon, one of the oldest English-speaking towns in the Blue Ridge Highlands region, boasts a 20-block historic district containing many museums, craft shops, antiques stores, and art

American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

studios and galleries. At William King Museum of Art’s new ArtLab, groups can do a project like Kitchen Lithography (making a lithograph using household objects). White Blaze Outdoors organizes a variety of tours showcasing the mountain scenery; one is a hike followed by wine tasting at Abingdon Vineyards. >> visitabingdonvirginia.com Wytheville, also in the Blue Ridge Highlands, brims with more than 100 historical buildings that can be toured on several themed loops.

The surrounding Jefferson National Forest, Big Walker Mountain Scenic Byway and New River abound with recreational opportunities.

A 100-foot observation tower atop Big Walker Mountain offers stunning views. Other itinerary possibilities include Fort Chiswell Animal Park,

Beagle Ridge Herb Farm and Crystal Springs Recreation Area. Along East Lee Highway, off I-81/I-77, are three antiques malls. >> visitwytheville.com In Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley lies Staunton, whose historic downtown lures visitors to shops and galleries along Beverley Street. A big draw is the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse, the world’s only re-creation of William Shakespeare’s indoor theater in Elizabethan London. Its professional company presents both contemporary and Shakespearean plays, plus musicals and concerts. Also lending prestige to Staunton is the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum. Farm life in early America comes alive at the outdoor Frontier Culture Museum. >> visitstaunton.com GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

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SITE INSPECTION

History Comes Alive at Colonial Williamsburg

Groups can step back in time at this living, breathing Virginia attraction

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ew places provide more insight into early America than Colonial Williamsburg, the world’s largest living museum.

As 21st century visitors stroll the car-free streets of Virginia’s first capital, the 1700s come alive through craft demonstrations, exhibitions, pageantry and talks as costumed interpreters go about their everyday duties.

The 300-acre historical city contains hundreds of reconstructed and restored buildings, some of them housing shops of artisans busy at work creating products like wool, linen, wigs, buckets and bricks.

The Governor’s Palace was the elegant residence of seven royal governors and the commonwealth’s first two state governors. Demonstrations of 18th century cooking are held in the kitchen of the palace complex, and elaborate formal gardens feature flowers, vegetables, arbors and a maze. Other government buildings include the stately Capitol and Courthouse, where guests can take part in a re-enactment of a legal proceeding.

Live outdoor theater experiences throughout the Historic Area re-create 10

GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

the struggle for American independence from 1774 to 1781.

All the cameras come out when the fifeand-drum corps marches down Duke of Gloucester Street.

Interactive experiences encourage visitors to immerse themselves in the past.

For example, you can help the brickmaker by stomping clay with your bare feet, be a soldier taking part in drill practice or try your hand at gardening using tools of yore.

Some of the interpreters encountered on the streets of Williamsburg portray famous people like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry, plus other Nation Builders who made contributions to the American story.

Perhaps you’ll meet Ann Wager, a teacher who taught enslaved AfricanAmerican boys and girls, or James Armistead Lafayette, an enslaved man who earned his freedom as a spy.

Bruton Parish Episcopal Church, dating from 1710-1715, is a well-preserved example of early colonial architecture and one of Colonial Williamsburg’s most treasured landmarks.

Museum-goers will want to see the impressive array of antique furniture on

display at the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum or the excellent collection of American folk art at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum.

Tour groups also get into the revolutionary spirit at mealtimes. Several historic dining taverns furnished in period style and staffed by costumed servers dish up the colonists’ food favorites, including Brunswick stew, peanut soup, oyster fritters and spoon bread. Wandering balladeers may serenade during your candle-lit dinner.

The group sales team at Colonial Williamsburg can set up a guided tour for groups that want a structured experience or may be short on time. It can arrange customized tours focusing on a specific topic, such as government, women or daily customs.

For entertainment after dark, options range from ghost tours to music, drama and dance performances.

COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG

Group Sales groupsales@cwf.org 800-228-8878 ColonialWilliamsburg.com/grouptours

DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FOR GROUPS OF 15 OR MORE Meet America’s founders, dine on world-class fare, and step through lush gardens during a customized tour of Colonial Williamsburg.

Don’t let a historically good time pass you by!

We offer a variety of options for for dining, lodging and tours. Book your group trip today: call 1-800-228-8878, email groupsales@cwf.org, visit colonialwilliamsburg.org/grouptours

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SITE INSPECTION

Excitement Abounds in Atlantic City

The gaming capital of the East Coast welcomes groups with its historic Boardwalk, attractions

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eaturing glamorous casinos, rich history and an iconic Boardwalk, Atlantic City will engage groups of all interests visiting the Mid-Atlantic region. Visitors are encouraged to rediscover a thriving city filled with diverse cuisine, shopping opportunities and outdoor activities along the Atlantic Ocean. The city’s nine casino resorts have all reopened with in-depth health and safety guidelines along with additional protocols implemented by the New Jersey government that ensure comfort for every guest.

Whether you enjoy high-stakes poker or penny slots, there’s action for every price point at Atlantic City’s nine casinos. Place your bets at the city’s largest sportsbook at Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino, try your hand at exciting table games at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and a luxurious poker room at Resorts Casino & Hotel. If your group doesn’t enjoy gambling, Atlantic City’s casinos offer plentiful entertainment options, chic lounges, fine dining and restorative spas to include in your itinerary.

Acquaint your group with Atlantic City’s skyline with a walk along the Boardwalk and beaches. The famous promenade was constructed in 1870 and has since been immortalized by postcards, movies and the iconic board game Monopoly. Take in an ocean 12

GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

breeze or Atlantic sunset while admiring the rows of shops, restaurants and live entertainment venues that populate this iconic wooden way. The Boardwalk’s centerpiece is the Steel Pier, a 1,000-foot-long amusement park constructed in 1898 and populated with midway games, thrill rides and food stalls. The pier’s signature attraction is The Wheel—an illuminated ferris wheel where riders can view the entire Boardwalk in 40 climate-controlled gondola cars. Another popular waterfront attraction is the Absecon Lighthouse. The tallest lighthouse in New Jersey rises to 171 feet and invites groups to ascend 228 steps for a breathtaking view of the Jersey Shore.

Hours of entertainment await in the Orange Loop, a pedestrian-friendly area filled with one-of-a-kind restaurants, coffee shops, craft cocktail lounges and live music venues.

Groups will want to sample the over 40 beers on tap at Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall and enjoy Cajun barbecue cuisine at Bourré. For a sophisticated cocktail club atmosphere and live music experience, make a reservation at Rhythm & Spirits for authentic Italian fare like pizza, pasta and paninis. Savor smallbatch rum and other spirits at Little Water Distillery, which offers educational tours and sample sessions to enjoy craft whiskey, vodka, rum and gin.

Groups seeking excellent outlet shopping

will want to browse the over 100 retailers represented at Tanger Outlets The Walk.

Conveniently located at the foot of the Atlantic City Expressway, this complex houses Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, Nike Factory, Coach, Kate Spade, Loft Outlet, Nautica, J.Crew, H&M, Forever 21, and Puma.

The Quarter at Tropicana, an Old Havanathemed enclosed shopping center near the Boardwalk, houses the Zephyr Gallery, Francesca’s Collections and the Old Farmer’s Almanac General Store.

The ocean looks beautiful from shore, but an Atlantic City Cruises experience will offer groups unique views of the skyline and Boardwalk. Atlantic City’s flagship vessel embarks on a series of themed excursions, including the Dolphin Watching Adventure and Happy Hour Cruise. Near ACC’s dock is Historic Gardner’s Basin, a secluded inlet that provides a contrast to the hustle and bustle of the Boardwalk. Enjoy the site of elegant Bayfront homes, boathouses and a municipal park before walking into the Atlantic City Aquarium.

TOUR AC

1 Convention Way Atlantic City, New Jersey, 08401 609-318-6097 meetac.com

TourAtlanticCity.com

From the Blue Ridge, Great Smoky and Ozark Mountains to the Atlantic Coast and Gulf of Mexico beaches, there’s so much to experience. Regardless of your recreational fitness, there are state and national parks that provide hiking and biking trails. Take in the picturesque scenery, wildflowers, birds and animals at your own pace. Keep those new walking shoes clean on a paved path, or get your best hiking boots dirty. Either way you’ll enjoy the mountains. If water sports are more your group’s thing, you’ll find a plethora of lakes, rivers, streams and brooks in every state. And there’s even more at the coast, including boating, kayaking, canoeing, fresh and saltwater fishing and even shrimping.

Sooner or later, you may want to get off the trail or out of the water and that’s when the South shines. From Civil Rights to the Civil War, there are sites and stories to be told.

Southerners like to cook and share their creations with visitors, including seafood that likely slept off shore the night before. Then there’s the music. So much of our music originated in the South, including old time mountain music, blues, bluegrass, jazz and rock n’ roll. It’s all still being played on the street, and in juke joints, clubs, theaters, concert halls and stadiums in the South.

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Photo courtesy of Arkansas Tourism

SOUTHEAST

Blanchard Spring Caverns in Northern Arkansas’ Ozark-St. Francis National Forest

ALABAMA

Photo courtesy of Carl Zoch Photography

U.S. Space & Rocket Center

Photo courtesy of U.S. Space & Rocket Center

Birmingham is a lovely patchwork quilt with each piece an individual experience. In the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement, Birmingham’s industrial days led it to be known as the Pittsburgh of the south. The food scene is outstanding as multiple food tours might indicate. Whether it’s biking, hiking, or golfing Birmingham is an outdoorsy place.

Art, gardens and music are also in abundance.

Whatever your interest there are Birmingham experiences waiting. >> birminghamal.org Located outside Mobile Bellingrath Gardens and Home is a 64-acre garden paradise and the home of Walter and Bessie Bellingrath until their passing. The gardens opened to the public in 1937. With Mother Nature’s cooperation there is always something blooming. Special events throughout the year showcase the garden’s beauty. Some of the more popular are the Mobile Area Orchid Society’s 43rd Orchid Show and Sale, Rose Bloom Out, 59th Annual Fall Outdoor Cascading Chrysanthemums and the 26th Annual Magic Christmas in Lights. >> bellingrath.org With more than 27,000 pieces of diverse art Birmingham Museum of Art is a leading

southeastern institution. Their collection covers numerous cultures with wide assets of Asian, European, American, African, Pre-Columbian and Native American Art. Visiting exhibitions are always on display. Three exhibitions of notice are on display through Spring 2021, All

Things Bright and Beautiful, An Epic of Earth and Water and Wall to Wall. There are still more to come. >> artsbma.org For student and adult groups of 15+, there are great experiences to explore at U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville. Along with admittance to the Davidson Center for Space Exploration is “Apollo: When We Went to the Moon,” chronicles of the timeline.

Other highlights of the visit include the ISS Science of Orbit, Simulators, Rocket Park, Military Park, Shuttle Park and A-12 Oxcart, the early reconnaissance plane. Customizable Options when available are a movie, Intuitive Planetarium and Apollo 11 Virtual Reality Experience. >> rocketcenter.com

ARKANSAS

Backcountry Aviation tours in Arkansas

The attributes of The Natural State resonate in today and tomorrow’s environment.

Arkansas is ready for travel. Throughout 2021 Arkansas will be sharing stories about mountain biking and cycling, water sports on more than 600,000 acres of lakes and

GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

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SOUTHEAST

Photo courtesy of Ft. Smith Convention & Visitors Bureau

There’s a story why the United States Marshals Museum is in Ft. Smith.

The Power of Science is a new permanent exhibit at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Science Museum.

the newest addition to the outdoor scene, Backcountry Aviation. Although outdoor recreation destinations can be great, the journey can be just as exciting. When you do need to come indoors there are casino expansions in Hot Springs, West Memphis and Pine Bluff. >> arkansas.com The original gateway to the American West inspired the movie “True Grit.” Here is Fort Smith. Discover why The United States Marshals Museum is located here before visiting the historic community’s Fort Smith Museum of History. No visit to Fort Smith is complete without a stop at the Chaffee Military Museum and Chaffee Barber Shop, the site of Elvis’s first military haircut. The Arkansas & Missouri Railroad excursion shows off the beauty of the Ozarks. >> fortsmith.org There’s big news coming from Hot Springs with the much anticipated early 2021 opening of Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort’s luxury hotel, new dining options, spa, and event center and expanded casino gaming area. The 2021 Stakes schedule kicks off January 22 and concludes May 1, 2021. The casino features slot games, table games, baccarat and sports betting. Dining at Oaklawn includes a half dozen restaurant options and five concessions all with great menu selections. >> oaklawn.com

FLORIDA

Photo courtesy of Sprint/Opera

Considered the oldest city in America, St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra Beach is historic with a rich blend of art and culture. Add lovely beaches, shopping, dining and outdoors activity, including golfing and fishing and there’s a wonderful mix for visitors to discover. Begin at the St. Augustine Lighthouse. It’s a great view of the beaches and historic downtown from atop the structure. Go further back in time with a visit to Ponce De Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. More than 50 art galleries stir visitor’s creativity and great

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dining assures a memorable experience. >> floridashistoriccoast.com Winter Park is home to the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art. Fine collections of late 19th and early 20th century American paintings and decorative arts, including a collection of American art pottery and the most comprehensive collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany’s works are exhibited.

Appointments are required for all visits. >> morsemuseum.org With headquarters in Hollywood the Italian company Costa Cruises can take you almost anywhere. Your group will travel in splendor on almost a dozen ships in the fleet. A Costa cruise will take you to more than 70 countries and some of the most beautiful cities in the

world. The Costa experience certainly includes a delightful culinary scene, wonderful on deck pleasures and fabulous ports. >> costacruises.com Located in Downtown Miami, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Science Museum has added a new permanent exhibition, Power of Science. It’s the first permanent exhibition developed since Frost Science opened in 2017. “Power of Science is the result of our continued partnership with the University of Miami, giving our museum visitors direct access to the rich scientific research program, academic expertise and professional skills of the university,” said Frank Steslow, Frost Science President & CEO. Nature’s Superheroes: Life at the Limits is a traveling exhibition organized by the American Natural History

Museum, New York and will be on display through April 11, 2021. >> frostscience.org

GEORGIA From the Atlanta Airport District downtown and midtown Atlanta attractions are easily accessible. Downtown groups can visit the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, National Center for Civil and Human Rights, Centennial Olympic Park and the SkyView Ferris Wheel.

Midtown offers the High Museum, Atlanta Botanical Gardens and Piedmont Park. Closer to home base you’ll want to visit Porsche Experience Atlanta in downtown Hapeville. There are walking, hiking and biking trails at Sykes Park, East Point. Throughout the ATL Airport

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SOUTHEAST

Photo courtesy of Atlanta Airport District

District there are great outdoor murals providing Instagrammable moments for groups. Back in Hapeville do stop at Arches Brewing. >> ATLdistrict.com There’s a Marietta experience waiting for visitors to this Atlanta area destination. The Marietta Museum of History building has its own story to tell. The Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield has activities for all ages. There are magnificent exhibits at the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art. The historic 1850s Williams Root House Museum & Gardens is well worth a stop.

At Six Flags White Water a new Christmas and candy-themed attraction featuring millions of lights and the world’s largest drive-through animated light show should be on your holiday wish list. >> visitmariettaga.com Evening entertainment at Ha Ha Hapeville

KENTUCKY There are some special experiences in Oldham County. It wouldn’t be Kentucky without bourbon and a tour and taste at Kentucky Artisan Distillery’s bourbons is a must. Another Kentucky experience is certainly a Horse Farm Tour and you’ll have a choice of three in the “Farm Tour Capital of Kentucky.”

Only in LaGrange will you see a freight train running right down the middle of Main Street!

Trains On Main is a fun dining and shopping option. The Yew Dell Botanical Gardens is a must, while the new County History Museum delves into the area’s Underground Railroad history. >> touroldham.com

Photo courtesy of Louisiana’s Northshore

LOUISIANA

Entrance to The Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum in Madisonville

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More than 500 years define the history of what is now Ascension Parish. Much of that history is tied to the Mississippi River and the best place to experience that life is the Great River Museum on the grounds of Houmas House and Gardens. Sugarfield Spirits, a locally owned craft distillery is following tradition by working with farmers to incorporate local flavor. That alone is reason to get to the tasting room.

Donaldsonville’s Historic Portal to the Past is comprised of seven wayside exhibits located in the historic district. This is an enjoyable twomile walk, or windshield tour that should be on every itinerary. >> TourAscension.com Less than an hour from New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Mississippi Gulf Coast casinos, St. Tammany Parish aka Louisiana’s Northshore is a delightful group destination that’s adding even more options! Royal Carriages has been offering mule drawn guided carriage tours in New Orleans’s French Quarter for 80-years has expanded their operation to the City of Covington. Middendorf’s (Home of the World Famous Original Thin Fried Catfish) has opened in Slidell to the joy of group planners. Cajun Encounters offers

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educational tours of Honey Island swamp, one of America’s most unique ecosystems. A must stop in the Town of Madisonville is The Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum. >> LouisianaNorthshore.com Known for its charm and history, visitors to Natchitoches also discover unique smalltown shopping and a spectacular Christmas Festival. New last year is the Lost Treasure Mining Company. Also new is the Putt Putt course at the Natchitoches Pecan Orchard RV Park. The food scene is alive with the Mariner’s restaurant recently purchased, remodeled and a new menu presented. A more casual menu is available at the Docks and there’s late night live music and dancing at The Cove. Catch your favorite team and have a unique dining

experience at Jimbo’s Bar & Grill. For a taste of Mexico on the Cane River try El Rio Cantina. >> natchitoches.com From tours for student, leisure, reunions and international expect a one-of-a-kind New Orleans experience. It’s always growing. One11 Hotel opens late 2020 and will be the first new property in the French Quarter in 50 years. JAMNOLA and experiential pop-up takes audiences through 12 exhibits of iconic art, music, food and theatrics of the city. The ARTMAZING Gallery is a pop art interactive exhibit and a new kind of fun. This larger-than-life 6,000-square-foot exhibition and special events space provides an immersive and fun experience. >> neworleans.com

Official N NASA Visitor Center

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ION ATTRACT •

A ALABAM

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See the world’s largest collection of space artifacts and explore the fascinating future of space travel!

Looking to stay a bit longer? Sign up for an inspiring experience at Space Camp! Two- to six-day Camps are available for all ages: children, families, adults and corporate groups.

Huntsville, Alabama • (800) 637-7223 rocketcenter.com

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Photo courtesy of VisitNCSmokies.com

SOUTHEAST

MISSISSIPPI Five Mississippi regions each display a distinct landscape and tour options that tempt planners to stay another day, or two.

Mississippi has its own signature arts and entertainment from fine arts to performing arts to literature. History is certainly abundant from the Civil War to civil rights and much more in our 20th state. There are outdoor thrills regardless of your group’s activity level.

Groups certainly move on their stomachs and where you eat and drink may just be the most important decision when planning your tour. No worries as Mississippi chefs serve an array of cuisine. >> Visitmississippi.org The Capital of Mississippi, Jackson has award-winning attractions, trails, events and cuisine ready for groups to experience. The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum is certainly an uplifting experience and along with the adjacent Mississippi Museum of History are a must see. The Mississippi Blues Trail travels

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through Jackson with a dozen stops, check out Malaco Records. The city has 29 unique museums and attractions from history to arts.

The Mississippi Museum of Art should be on every itinerary. You’ll find good eats throughout the city. >> visitjackson.com Whether you’re a tour, reunion, wedding, sports or meetings group you can connect in Ridgeland. Located on the historic Natchez Trace there are plenty of outdoor activities including miles of walking and biking miles around the Rez. Mississippi art and culture is bountiful. Crafting classes are regular at the Bill Waller Craft Center. The museum of Mississippi History and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum are both located in nearby Jackson. Do save plenty of time for shopping at the Renaissance at Colony Park, but bring your day to a pleasant end on a sunset cruise aboard the Sweet Olive Tour Boat. >> visitridgeland.com Mississippi Museum of Art began in 1911 with a small collection and has grown

significantly and has a particular strength in American art from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Some of the country’s most prominent artists, including Robin Henry, Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol and Radcliffe Bailey and many others have been added to the collection. Half-dozen exhibitions are also on display with more planned in late spring and early summer. Make time for the Art Garden and The Museum Store. >> msmuseumart.org

NORTH CAROLINA With 85 miles of coastline and almost a dozen communities, The Crystal Coast presents an abundance of experiences to fill any itinerary. On the water there are a variety of paddle tours, sailing excursions, saltwater fishing and boat tours. On land the historic double decker bus tour in Beaufort, Fort Macon State Park, Shackleford Wild Horse and Shelling Safari, food tours and a variety of ecology tours

The scenic Blue Ridge Parkway reaches its highest point in Haywood County North Carolina.

Museum features a rare collection of vintage American motorcycles. There’s always been a focus on outdoor dining with the newest addition BearWaters Brewing-Creekside in Maggie Valley. >> visitncsmokies.com Only miles from where Billy Graham in Charlotte sits The Billy Graham Library on 20 landscaped acres. The design and A Journey of Faith tour reveals Graham’s journey from farm boy to an ambassador of God’s love on an international scale. The Billy Graham Library features special displays, events and seasonal celebrations most notably Christmas at the Library. The Graham Family Homeplace on the campus is 80 percent of the original homeplace. Groups of 10 or more require a reservation. There’s no charge for admittance and meal vouchers are available. >> billygrahamlibrary.org

TENNESSEE Just 30 minutes from Nashville Sumner County is an exceptional destination. A great first stop to enjoy Tennessee’s landscape is a visit to Bledsoe State Park. It’s perfect for a scenic hike and wildlife viewing, fishing, and camping.

There’s more outdoors throughout the county with half dozen U-Pick Farms and even more Farmers Markets. There’s golf, mountain biking and whatever you desire to fit your activity level, including a visit to Reese Brothers Mule Farm.

Enjoy the “Best of Johnny Cash” film at The Palace Theatre and old-time Tennessee favorites at Grandpa’s Opry. >> visitsumnertn.com

SOUTH CAROLINA are sure to fill as many days as you desire. >> crystalcoastnc.org Adjacent to I-95 in northeast North Carolina, Halifax County is the first exit and well worth a day, or two-day visit. A must see is the Historic Halifax State Historic Site home to the April 12, 1776 Halifax Resolves the first official action for independence. Others not to be missed are the Roanoke Canal Museum & Trail, Weldon Mills Distillery, Lakeland Cultural Art Center, the Roanoke Valley Rocks art tour, Sylvan Heights Bird Park and the Roanoke Rapids Theatre. >> visithalifax.com Visit NC Smokies has become the destination for groups and families seeking an authentic small-town Appalachian experience.

Well known for 46 miles on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway with its highest elevation in the county and hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Cataloochee Valley is where the elk live and there are sightseeing tours to take you there. The Wheels Through Time

With wide sandy beaches and accommodations overlooking the ocean, world-class nighttime entertainment, a multiple shopping experience and unrivaled dining, Myrtle Beach is a natural for any tour planner. Add to the mix attractions from a magnificent sculpture garden to state parks to saltwater fishing from piers or charters to amusements fit for any age and one very iconic boardwalk and like so many other visitors you’ll likely return and possibly become a local in the not to distant future. >> VisitMyrtleBeach.com In Fort Mill, SC just outside Charlotte, NC NarroWay Productions is providing live Christian performances in a dinner theater setting. Six original Broadway style performances include The Real Christmas Story, The 4th Cross, Anno Domini, Lord of Light, Samson the Last Judge and The Gospel According to Tennessee. Additional shows and events are mixed in throughout the year.

Student and adult groups are welcome. >> narroway.net

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The American Southwest boasts striking desert landscapes, Native American history and photogenic mountain ranges that groups will want to integrate into their itineraries. Diverse landscapes include the Gulf Coast beaches of Galveston, Rocky Mountain retreats of Taos and lush prairies of central Oklahoma.

Group-friendly national parks in this region include the iconic Grand Canyon (which features hiking trails of various lengths), White Sands National Park (an eerie fine-grained desert where visitors can “sled” on undulating dunes) and the cave superstructures in Carlsbad Caverns.

Groups can also combine outdoor adventures with local history at various Native American heritage sites found throughout the American Southwest. Wupatki National Monument near Flagstaff, Arizona offers tours of the Sinagua Pueblo (which contains over 100 rooms), while Aztec Ruins National Monument offers glimpses of the sophisticated masonry work and architecture of the Pueblo people. Whether your group members want to learn about Texas Revolution history at the Alamo or watch roaming bison in Oklahoma’s Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, they will find an activity to excite them in the Southwest.

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Photo courtesy of NPS

SOUTHWEST

Havasu Creek, Grand Canyon

Venture beyond the Grand Canyon State’s bustling cities and experience the solitude and natural wonder of Petrified Forest National Park. Home to fossilized plant life that dates back 225 million years, the park is populated by hundreds of bird species and colorful badlands formations. Also found in northern Arizona is the extraordinary Antelope Canyon, which through millennia of erosion has acquired beautiful red sandstone waves on its walls and openings that allow photogenic shafts of sunlight. The canyon lies on Navajo Nation land, but groups can explore the cave with a guide to learn about the history, geology and culture of the region.

More red-hued sandstone formations await in Sedona, where the spires of the Schnebly Hill Formation reflect a purplish hue in the early evening. Experience the region with guided Jeep tours, horseback trails or scenic stops that offer views of the Verde Valley.

Photo courtesy of Visit OKC

ARIZONA

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

NEW MEXICO Some of New Mexico’s most awe-inspiring sites lie underground. Carlsbad Caverns, a collection of 177 limestone caves beneath the Guadalupe Mountains, offers ranger-led tours for groups comfortable with dark spaces and climbing stairs. Highlights include the Big Room (which is almost 4,000 feet long and the largest subterranean chamber in North America) and the Rookery (a space filled with opaque, spherical “cave pearls”).

Aboveground, groups can hike through the surrounding Guadalupe Mountains and Chihuahuan Desert or arrange a sunset viewing party to witness thousands of bats emerge from the cave’s entrance. Home to the 800-foot Rio Grande Gorge, the Wild Rivers Recreation Area is teeming with exciting outdoor activities. View the convergence of the Rio Grande and Red Rivers at La Junta Point, or embark on a scenic drive along the 13-mile Backcountry Byway.

OKLAHOMA Blending Western swagger with urban flair, Oklahoma City features attractions for groups of all interests. Spend time at the Oklahoma City Zoo, which is home to nearly 2,000 animals and over 50 endangered species. Themed areas include the Great EscAPE rainforest environment (populated by chimpanzees and orangutans) and Oklahoma Trail (where you can find animals native to the state like black bears and bison). Other popular group options include the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum (a sobering monument to victims of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing), the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (which contains incredible memorabilia from the American West) and Stockyards City (an entertainment district brimming with Western clothing outfitters, delicious steaks and the weekly Rodeo Opry). Itineraries should also include the

Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory. Covered with more than 3,000 acrylic panels, this sevenstory structure is a tropical paradise filled with exotic vegetation and over 750 plant varieties. >> visitokc.com

TEXAS Looking for an entertaining and groupfriendly live theater experience in the Lone Star State? Dallas Summer Musicals presents award-winning and family-friendly productions in Music Hall at Fair Park. Acclaimed performances have included The Sound of Music, Peter Pan and The King and I. Groups will receive up to 20% off individual pricing depending on the show. Student and scout rates are also offered, and military veterans and families are also given discounted prices. >> dallassummermusicals.org

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Full of hearty American cities, the Midwest is also awash with stunning natural landscapes that rival any in the country. A visit to northern Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, for example, will bring you up-close to more than 300 waterfalls, while winter enthusiasts can venture to smaller locales like Munising and Miner Falls for top-notch ice climbing. Speaking of chilly weather, Minnesota and Wisconsin are winter havens, but they are also spectacular states to visit when the temperature rises. Minnesota is home to more than 4,000 miles of paved bike trails, 11,000 lakes and 500 golf courses while Wisconsin’s scenic wonders include waterfalls, caves, towering cliffs and distinctive rock formations.

Illinois’ nickname is the Prairie State, but a journey downstate to Shawnee National Forest, replete with sandstone cliffs and formations, shows the state’s landscape is far more complex. A brisk drive across the border to Missouri will land you in the Show-Me State, and it has plenty to show, including caves, waterfalls and, of course, the majestic Lake of the Ozarks, which features more than 1,100 miles of shoreline, more than the coast of California.

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Photo courtesy of Harrison County CVB

MIDWEST

Harrison County in southern Indiana is an outdoor lover’s paradise.

ILLINOIS

Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park in University Park, Illinois

Photo courtesy of The Chicago Southland

A newer attraction for group travelers is the American Writers Museum in Chicago. Opened in 2017, the museum has been educating visitors about American authors with engaging exhibits and events.

Its mission is to celebrate the enduing influence of American writers on our history, identity, culture and daily lives. The museum also features a way for curious minds to experience exhibits and conversations with authors virtually via Zoom, which is free. >> americanwritersmuseum.org One of the best outdoor destinations in the Midwest, Carbondale is home to a variety of attractions and outdoor activities.

This southern Illinois town is a great place for adventurous groups to go rock climbing, hiking, bike riding, hunting, fishing and boating.

Shawnee National Forest is less than 30 miles from Carbondale, and features rolling hills, forests, open lands, lakes, creeks and rugged bluffs. >> carbondaletourism.org Want to do some camping under the stars and catch some of the best views in the state of Illinois? Middle Fork River Forest Preserve in Champaign County was certified as Illinois’ only International Dark Sky Park in 2019 and has become a huge outdoor attraction in the area. Here, visitors can sleep under the stars in the campgrounds and catch the best view of the night sky in the state.

The park is home to hiking trails, a beach, and other amenities for guests to enjoy during the stay, but the starry sky will keep them awed. >> visitchampaigncounty.org The Chicago Northwest is a massive area located conveniently at the crossroads of several major highway systems. Chicago Northwest is home to more than 60 hotels with several major brands and price points and offers nearly 300 stores under one roof at Woodfield Mall. Food lovers will appreciate the area’s excellent dining options, including the Dining Pavilion at Woodfield Mall. Meet Chicago Northwest’s free group assistance

will help your group enjoy a fabulous outing. >> chicagonorthwest.com Adventures abound in the Chicago Southland. Representing 63 municipalities, this bustling area is never short on groupfriendly activities. While your group is at a taproom, they will enjoy a pint of one of the hundreds of signature brews that can be found in the area. Fans of the great outdoors can enjoy 40,000-plus acres of beautiful forestry and trails perfect for hiking and biking. The Chicago Southland is conveniently located 30 minutes from Chicago’s many attractions. >> visitchicagosouthland.com

With a slew of museums, arts, shops, hotels and more than 65 restaurants to explore, Effingham CVB has your group tour experience covered.

Just 3.5 hours south of Chicago, the city at the “Crossroads of America” offers the joy of smalltown life with big-time sights. Don’t miss the 200-foot Cross at the Crossroads, fresh farmto-table meals served at the popular Firefly Grill and memorable performances at the Effingham Performance Center. >> visiteffinghamil.com Lake County is known for its fabulous group tour destinations. Visit Lake County will help your group plan a top-notch itinerary, where you can visit such attractions as the Tempel

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Photo courtesy of Tempel Lipizzans

MIDWEST

Visitors have the rare chance to see Lipizzan horses learning their dance moves in a serene setting in Old Mill Creek, Illinois.

Lipizzans, Cuneo Mansion, Wandering Tree Estate and the Volo Auto Museum. With dining venues like The Shanty, Chessie’s Train Car and more there is enough to keep any group stuffed. >> visitlakecounty.org One of the leading opera companies in America and located in the cultural heart of Chicago, Lyric Opera of Chicago entertains audiences with thought-provoking, dramatic and even humorous opera performances. Lyric Opera’s excellence takes place in a modernized opera house, providing audiences with a beautiful setting for a fabulous experience. >> lyricopera.org The city of Ottawa is home to a variety of agritourism and historic attractions. Its historic downtown is full of nostalgic charm dating back to the 19th century, including the Italianate Reddick Mansion, which was built in the 1850s.

Four state parks reside within 20 minutes of Ottawa and visitors can enjoy its natural beauty from the water as they boat through the Fox and

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Illinois rivers. Groups can also visit the Illinois and Michigan canal that runs through the heart of Ottawa. >> pickusottawail.com Groups looking for history, art and music in motion have the perfection attraction in The Tempel Lipizzans in Old Mill Creek, Illinois, located between Milwaukee and Chicago.

This attraction features the endangered domestic breed of horses, Lipizzans, which are stunningly beautiful. The Tempel Lipizzans are hosting “How a Lipizzan Stallion Learns to Dance” which will run year-round in 2021. With this training session, visitors will have the rare chance to see Lipizzan horses learning their dance moves in a serene setting. >> tempelfarms.com

INDIANA Amish Country of Northern Indiana is offering a new tour experience for groups of all sizes at any time of the year. Called Meet the Amish

Makers and touring in Nappanee and Wakarusa, this tour is an authentic Amish experience that visits backroads with an Amish step-on guide.

The tour takes you to a camel dairy farm and through beautiful backroads dotted with pristine Amish farms and one-room schoolhouses. >> visitelkhartcounty.com/groups Located in College Park on the northwest side of Indianapolis, Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre is one of a handful of full-time dinner theatres in the country. Open year-round, this dinner theater has entertained groups of 20 to 450 for nearly 50 years. Professionally produced plays and Broadway musicals are offered all year. With tiered seating in an intimate setting, you’re never more than six rows from the stage. Enjoy a buffet, freshly prepared in-house, and full bar service is available at your table. >> beefandboards.com One of the oldest professional dinner theaters in the country, Derby Dinner Playhouse in Clarksville is proud to have served the Southern Indiana and Kentucky region for the last 45 years. The playhouse serves up a traditional home-style buffet and plenty of smiles with its famous productions of popular plays and musicals. Show-stopping desserts and a full bar are staples of the culinary experience. >> derbydinner.com Harrison County in southern Indiana is an outdoor lover’s paradise as it is home to an intricate caverns and caves system that can be dated all the way back to the Ice Age. Visitors can take guided tours year-round and explore amazing natural structures. Harrison County is also home to an array of local wineries and microbreweries. >> thisisindiana.org Most notably the home of the University of Notre Dame, South Bend Mishawaka is one of the more popular destinations in Indiana and along the Michigan border. It has a convenient location at the core of the Great Lakes region and is home to a variety of topnotch hotels, eye-catching attractions and a walkable downtown convention district. >> visitsouthbend.com

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Located on the scenic river bluffs of the vast “Mighty MO”, St. Joseph, Missouri is a notable American city with a fascinating heritage, born of the fur trade, nurtured by the “Westward Expansion”, and brimming with a spirit of adventure as thestarting place of the Pony Express, “Ole’ St. Joe is a city you and your group will never forget.

St. Joseph is home to 13 distinctive museums, 12 annual festivals, amazing architecture listed on the National Register of Historic Places and personalized itineraries custom made with home-town hospitality. Also enjoy goodie bags for groups and personal welcome from a St. Joseph representative.

JUST AROUND THE CORNER Located at the crossroads of Interstate 29 and MO Highway 36 and only 30 minutes from North Kansas City puts St. Joseph within easy driving distance of over 17 metropolitan areas.

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For tour ideas, contact: Gracia Pinzino, Group Sales Manager stjomo.com/grouptour | 800-785-0360 | gpinzino@stjomo.com

MIDWEST IOWA

Photo courtesy of Iowa Quilt Museum

Iowa Quilt Museum

Photo courtesy of Catch Des Moines

Get out and enjoy the lovely natural settings of Des Moines, Iowa.

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A hidden gem in the Midwest for groups is Cedar Falls. This city has locally owned shops, plenty of eateries, a vibrant nightlife, tours, and museums that will appeal to the whole family.

With a nationally recognized historic Downtown District, visitors are free to explore the beautiful city and enjoy performances at the GallagherBluedorn Performing Arts Center. Other adventures await at Barn Happy and the Cedar Valley Trails. >> cedarfallstourism.org Offering culture without the cost, Des Moines features world-renowned art and history and one of the top amusement parks in the country.

Adventureland Park features more than 100 rides, shows and attractions and is great for student groups. Known as one of the most significant collections of outdoor sculptures in the U.S., the John & Mary Pappajohn Sculpture is the perfect stop for a motorcoach group. One of the best ways to enjoy Des Moines is by traversing the more than 800 miles of connected trails and its many parks and waterways. >> catchdesmoines.com Home to one of the most heavenly places in sports, Dyersville is where the Field of Dreams movie was filmed and where the famous field is located. Dyersville is also home to the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier, National Farm Toy Museum, Dyer-Botsford House and Doll Museum, Antique Mall, plus wineries, coffee shops, boutiques, specialty shops and family-owned restaurants. >> dyersville.org The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library, located in West Branch, operates not only as a library, but also a museum, and is one of 14 presidential libraries operated by the National Archives and Records Administration.

With self-guided galleries, a scavenger hunt for younger visitors, and events, there is more than enough for all age groups to enjoy.

This presidential library also has its own gift shop, research room, and West Branch has plenty of restaurants to accommodate groups.

The library welcomes an array of groups, including field trips, STEM trips, summer camp and more. >> hoover.archives.gov

Holiday Inn Express in Council Bluffs is a great place to stay as this Midwestern city offers small town hospitality. Each room is equipped with a 32-inch flat panel TV, fridge, work desk and beds with triple-sheeted bedding and four pillows. It also features an indoor pool, a heated indoor pool and a complimentary fitness center featuring treadmills, a stationary bike, weight machine and dumbbells from five to 50 pounds. >> ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/ council-bluffs/cbfrb/hoteldetail Traveling can be complicated, but the Iowa Group Travel Association makes it easy.

This association is made up of highly qualified individuals who will use their expertise and experience to ensure you and your group have nothing short of a great experience in Iowa. Spend a day at museums honoring Herbert Hoover and Glenn Miller, or you can enjoy Prairie Meadows race track. From museums and parks to fine dining, this travel association knows exactly where to send you in Iowa. >> iowagrouptravel.com The Iowa Quilt Museum’s 2021 lineup of exhibits will feature a variety of both historic and contemporary quilts. Exhibits change every three months at the IQM so every visit is an entirely new experience. The year will open with String Theory: String-pieced Quilts from Past to Present. On March 23, a new exhibit will open featuring floral quilts from the collection of New England Quilt Museum in Lowell, Massachusetts. Whether a quilt lover, a history buff, a connoisseur of art and culture, or just an explorer of the world, there’s always something unique to see at the Iowa Quilt Museum in Winterset. >> iowaquiltmuseum.org Beautiful Okoboji is Iowa’s No. 1 vacation destination. Groups can take a tour of the lovely chain of glacier-carved lakes spanning 15,000 acres. Okoboji not only offers a variety of natural adventures, it also features plenty of activities including golf, amusement parks, art, theater, museums, fishing, nightlife, watersports, parks, beaches and trails. Guests can also visit the Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum, the Okoboji

Summer Theatre and the Dickinson County Nature Center. >> vacationokoboji.com Located in historic downtown Council Bluffs, the Union Pacific Railroad Museum is a fabulous

place for family and friends to learn about the famous railroad. At the museum, you can explore more than 150 years of history through unique artifacts, precious photos and several interactive

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MIDWEST The National WWI Museum and Memorial is home to the most comprehensive collection of WWI objects in the world.

displays. The museum is donation-based, so admission is always free. It features a variety of permanent galleries, including America Travels by Rail, The Lincoln Collection and Building America. >> uprrmuseum.org/uprrm/

MICHIGAN Photo courtesy of National WWI Museum and Memorial

Looking for somewhere to watch a professional theater performance or concert?

Tibbits Opera House in Coldwater has been a haven for the arts since it was built in 1882. This intimate 499-seat theater offers nearly-perfect acoustics and great entertainment year-round.

Tibbits produces a professional summer theater program which USA Today calls one of “10 great places to see the lights way off Broadway.” The rest of the year, Tibbits presents professional touring artists, children’s programs, art exhibits and cultural events. >> tibbits.org

MINNESOTA As the 14th largest city in the U.S., Columbus has plenty to see and do.

There are plenty of great cities along the Mississippi River and St. Cloud is certainly one of them. This easy to love city is a favorite destination for groups as they can stroll the Beaver Island Trail along the Mississippi River and through rows of perfectly-tended flowers at Munsinger Clemens Gardens. Guests can also enjoy its lovely golf courses, ride a bike along the Wobegon Trail and hike through the Quarry Park and Nature Preserve. >> visitstcloud.com

MISSOURI Photo courtesy of Experience Columbus

There is an adventure waiting for everyone in Branson. From outdoor fun to amazing live entertainment, Branson has something for every member of the family. Enjoy fishing on Table Rock Lake and scream with delight on the thrill rides at Silver Dollar City. Families can enjoy a myriad of fun attractions including racing in go-karts, playing a round of golf at a local course or engaging in retail therapy with a great day of shopping. >> explorebranson.com

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Residing 100 miles southeast of St. Louis and situated along the bank of the Mississippi River, Cape Girardeau is a spot where groups can enjoy outdoor activities, fabulous dining and great shopping options. Cape is home to multiple museums, historical sites, including some Civil War sites, and a slew of family attractions like Lazy L Safari Park and Trail of Tears State Park. >> visitcape.com Known as America’s Maple Leaf City, Carthage is a unique crossroad of history, art and inspiration. Carthage features a variety of art galleries, museums, theaters, Victorian architecture, boutiques and the world’s only Precious Moments Chapel and Gardens.

Carthage is also home to the Route 66 DriveIn, the last of the original six drive-in theaters still in operation and named after the famous Mother Road. >> visitcarthage.com Southwestern Missouri is home to a number of great places to visit, including Joplin, which offers both a tranquil, small-town lifestyle and an active urban area featuring a slew of entertaining options. Visitors looking to drive iconic Route 66 can explore the Sunshine Lamp District, home to dozens of shops, restaurants and art galleries.

Groups looking for an outdoor adventure can visit Grand Falls, the largest continuously running waterfall in Missouri. >> visitjoplinmo.com America’s official World War I museum and memorial located in Kansas City, the National WWI Museum and Memorial is home to the most comprehensive collection of WWI objects in the world. The museum offers tours, and features a variety of exhibits, events, collections and more. The museum’s Main Gallery holds the permanent exhibition The World War, 1914-1919, which displays original objects, documents, video, recreated trenches and interactive tables. Its newest exhibition, called Silk and Steel: French Fashion, Women and WWI, features original dresses, coats, capes, hats, shoes and accessories from WWI. >> theworldwar.org The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City maintains collections of more than

35,000 works of art and welcomes 500,000 visitors per year. The museum provides free admission to all and delivers unparalleled opportunities to enjoy, appreciate and understand the finest visual arts and varied cultures they represent. NelsonAtkins@Home also offers a virtual museum experience of robust content. >> nelson-atkins.org This historic starting point of the Pony Express, St. Joseph is a popular destination for group travelers as it offers a variety of educational and recreational activities.

Visitors can explore 17 museums, visit a myriad of historic sites, and even enjoy the Kansas City Chiefs’ summer training camp.

This city is also home to 48 parks and contains miles of gorgeous parkway. >> macvb.com/ st-joe One of the crown jewels of the Midwest is St. Louis. It is a place where history and imagination collide and the result is a Midwestern destination like no other. Easy to get to and easy to get around in, the area is filled with an eclectic array of shops and restaurants. The Gateway to the West offers exceptional music, arts and cultural options as well as renowned attractions at the Saint Louis Art Museum, Zoo and Science Center, the Missouri History Museum, Grant’s Farm, Laumeier Sculpture Park and Anheuser-Busch brewery tours. >> explorestlouis.com

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MIDWEST OHIO Groups aiming to enjoy some outdoor entertainment will savor a visit to Akron/ Summit, where they can visit the Akron Zoo, take in performances at the Akron Civic Theatre, and view historic art at the Akron Art Museum. Other notable features in the area include delicious food options at Swensons Drive-in, famous for its old-fashioned car-side service, and Chill Ice Cream, which serves delicious gourmet ice cream. Be sure to stop by the Cuyahoga Valley National Park/Scenic Railroad for an amazing outdoor experience. >> visitakron-summit.org As the 14th largest city in the U.S., Columbus has plenty to see and do. As seen on National Geographic’s Secrets of the Zoo, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is home to more than 9,000

animals representing 650 species from around the globe. The Columbus Museum of Art’s collection spans work from Columbus-born artists like George Bellows and Elijah Pierce to the luminaries of 19th and 20th century art while the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers world-class horticulture, art and nature-based exhibitions. >> experiencecolumbus.com Whether you are looking to immerse yourself in a rich culture, hop on a tour, enjoy some comfort food or find your bliss away from the everyday, you’ll find what you are looking for in Ohio’s Amish Country. Interact with locals at area businesses and get a glimpse of farmsteads and daily chores. Visit one of the area’s museums or go shopping for antiques, arts and crafts, clothing or home goods. >> ohiosamishcountry.com In Eastern Ohio, groups can experience Steubenville and all the activities it has to offer. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in history at Historic Fort Steuben, a fully reconstructed 19th-century frontier fort; the First Federal Land Office, and a number of gorgeous churches that are home to some of most beautiful stained-glass windows in Ohio.

Known as “The City of Murals,” Steubenville has 24 larger-than-life portrayals of people and events painted on downtown buildings. >> www.visitsteubenville.com Home to the first Christian settlement in Ohio (Schoenbrunn Village, founded in 1772) as well as Ohio’s only Revolutionary War fort (Fort Laurens), Tuscarawas County is a historic destination for groups experiencing the Midwest. Tuscarawas County also features the World’s Largest Cukoo Clock in Sugarcreek and the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, a National Historic Landmark. With more than 20 museums and historic sites, the county has something for every budding historian. >> traveltusc.com

SOUTH DAKOTA Home to gorgeous Falls Park, Sioux Falls is

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GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

one of the most popular destinations in the state. Falls Park’s majestic waterfalls cover 123 acres and an average of 7,400 gallons of water drops 100 feet over the course of the falls each second. Sioux Falls also has multiple attractions including the Imagination Studio at the Kirby Science Discovery Center or meet the Great Plains Zoo’s 1,000 animals. >> experiencesiouxfalls.com

WISCONSIN The Fireside Dinner Theatre in Fort Atkinson is one of the Midwest’s most popular entertainment destinations. It is also the only Actor’s Equity dinner theater in Wisconsin.

The Klopcic family is proud to celebrate more than 56 years of hospitality in the charming and historic city of Fort Atkinson. Guests are invited to browse through fabulous gift shops, relax in the lounge with a refreshing drink, enjoy a superb dining experience and enjoy a live professional show in the intimate theater. >> www.firesidetheatre.com The town of Manitowoc attracts thousands of visitors each year. Many want to visit the USS Cobia World War II submarine which is moored along the Manitowoc River. The area is also renowned for its historic Rogers Street Fishing Village, which features relics of famous shipwrecks and a lighthouse that was built in 1886. Groups can also explore 20 miles of incredible Lake Michigan coastline containing stunning parks, beaches, marinas and historic downtowns. >> manitowoc.info Potawatomi Hotel and Casino in Milwaukee, features more than 2,500 of the most popular slot machines, is open 24/7, is home to nearly 100 table games, features bingo, poker, off-track betting, seven restaurants, a Topgolf suite, bars, an elegant 500-seat theater, luxury hotel room, and a full-service spa. This is one of the Midwest’s finest hotel and casinos, so be sure to plan a visit to enjoy some of the best gaming and entertainment. >> paysbig.com

Columbus is a city that’s made for sharing. Tour the stirring National Veterans Memorial and Museum. Explore Adventure Cove, the brand-new sea lion exhibit at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Live it up at Schmidt’s Restaurant und Sausage Haus in iconic German Village. Our partners city-wide have taken the Live Forward Pledge to make health a priority so your group’s visit can be as safe as it is memorable. ExperienceColumbus.com/tours

Photo courtesy of Huntington Library

WEST

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Unmatched natural beauty awaits groups wise enough to venture to the Western region of the country. With a multitude of national parks and a variety of natural wonders, the West is one of the most scenic regions on earth. California alone is home to nine of the country’s 62 national parks, including rugged Joshua Tree (populated by vast stands of Joshua trees); majestic Sequoia (which boasts some of the world’s tallest trees); and the granddaddy of them all: Yosemite, internationally renowned for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, glaciers and incredible sightlines. Not to be outdone, Alaska boasts eight national parks that accompany its wide array of spectacular natural wonders that include snow-capped glaciers, crystal blue waters, exotic wildlife and even volatile volcanoes.

The West is also renowned for its noteworthy cities including Seattle and Portland, two cultural metropolises that combine bustling metro areas with celebrated outdoor scenes.

Lest we not forget Nevada, which sports eye-catching outdoor destinations like Red Rock Canyon and the Ruby Mountains. Nevada, as you probably know, is also home to one of the world’s most popular destinations: Las Vegas, the city that never sleeps, rarely rests and always delivers a memorable outing.

The Huntington Library in San Marino, California recently underwent a huge expansion of its Chinese Garden, Liu Fang Yuan, the Garden of Flowing Fragrance.

This is one of the finest classical-style Chinese gardens outside of China.

CALIFORNIA The Huntington Library, Art Collection and Botanical Gardens in San Marino is one of the largest and most complete research libraries in the nation. The library features a collection of rare books, manuscripts, prints, photographs, maps and other materials in the fields of British and American history and literature. It recently underwent a huge expansion of its Chinese Garden, Liu Fang Yuan, the Garden of Flowing Fragrance. This is one of the finest classical-style Chinese gardens outside of China. Filled with Chinese plants and framed by exquisite architecture, the landscape is enriched with references to literature and art. Visitors will now be treated to an additional 11.5 acres of landscape in the garden, including new pavilions and a penjing court. With the final phases of construction now complete, the garden has expanded from its initial 3.5 acres to 15 acres. >> huntington.org A legendary 57-acre theme park in Buena Park, California, Knott’s Berry Farm is home to dozens of rides, roller coasters and attractions. What once started as a small berry farm now bursts with attractions and entertainment for all ages, including stage shows, interactive experiences, delicious food creations and family-friendly fun featuring Snoopy and the Peanuts gang. Just across the way from Knott’s Berry Farm, you’ll find a virtual tidal wave of fun at Knott’s Soak City, a waterpark with everything from soaring slides to a meandering float on a lazy river. >> knotts.com Your “Must Shop Stop” in Southern California, the Outlets at Tejon is ready to welcome you with your favorite name brands with savings up to 65% at more than 60 upscale fashion, home goods and accessories stores. Conveniently located approximately an hour north of Los Angeles on I-5, you can shop brands like Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Coach, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Nike and American Eagle Outfitters.

Other stores at the outlet include Adidas, Banana

Republic, Express, Guess, H&M, Hot Topic, Levis and Lids. >> tejonoutlets.com The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library is a must-visit attraction in Southern California.

Featuring hundreds of artifacts and dozens of interactive displays for visitors of all ages to explore, the library also offers groups the chance to step aboard the same Air Force One that flew President Reagan. Eighteen galleries pay tribute to America’s 40th president and his many accomplishments. In February of 2021, it is offering a new exhibit called FBI – From Al Capone to Al-Qaeda, a new 11,000-square-foot exhibition which covers the history of the storied agency from inception to its modernday efforts to fight domestic terrorism in the United States. >> reaganfoundation.org

NEVADA In downtown Las Vegas, explore the real stories and actual events of organized crime history through interactive exhibits and one-of-a-kind Mob and law enforcement artifacts. The Mob Museum offers guided tours for guests who want a narrated, interactive history of the exhibits. The tours are available as individualized and custom add-on. Every tour will be unique as each guide brings his or her own personal interpretation and storytelling to the experience. In 2018, the museum transformed the basement into a speakeasy and distillery exhibition. Prohibition-era artifacts and photos are displayed throughout the Speakeasy, which is built around a well-stocked bar serving Prohibition-inspired cocktails. >> themobmuseum.org

PR RESIDE ENTIA AL LIBR ARY & MUSEUM

One of California’s most beautiful and unique destinations!

• Docent-led group tours • Two restaurants with tour group options • For information on FBI: From Al Capone to Al Qaeda and our other great special exhibits visit ReaganLibrary.com

Tour Through Air Force One 27000

View a Full Scale Replica of the Oval Office

Touch an Authentic Piece of the Berlin Wall

Once reopened, the Reagan Library will follow all CDC COVID health guidelines and cleaning procedures.

40 Presidential Drive • Simi Valley, CA 93065 • 805.577.2704 • ReaganLibrary.com

GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

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Spanning the plains of eastern Colorado to the craggy peaks of Utah, the Mountain West region is filled with natural splendors for groups of all ages to enjoy. Many of America’s iconic national parks await your exploration in this region, and many can accommodate large parties with discounted lodging, motorcoach parking and ADA accessibility. Popular destinations include Glacier National Park (which encompasses over one million acres filled with crystal-clear lakes and moraine valleys), Arches National Park (a surreal landscape of sandstone formations) and Dinosaur National Monument (home to over 800 paleontology excavation sites).

The Mountain West region also blends cosmopolitan amenities with easy accessibility to outdoor adventure. In Colorado Springs your group can ascend Pikes Peak and hike through the Garden of the Gods before experiencing the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center, while guests in Coeur d’Alene in Idaho can enjoy world-class resort amenities before a boat excursion on the picturesque lake. From Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming to the Gallatin Range landscapes of Montana, there is rugged beauty for all groups to enjoy.

Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs

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Photo courtesy of VisitCOS

FRONTIER/ MOUNTAIN WEST

Colorado’s boasts a remarkable diversity of experiences for groups to enjoy, from the cosmopolitan amenities of Denver and Boulder to rugged Rocky Mountain adventures. Offering more than 60 local attractions and easy access to Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs is an enticing destination for groups of all ages.

New to Colorado Springs is the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, which features innovative gallery spaces filled with digital projections and interactive screens to learn about America’s greatest Olympians. Other popular group attractions include the United States Air Force Academy, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and the Flying W Ranch Chuckwagon Dinner & Western Show. >> visitcos.com Looking to rejuvenate your spirit and reconnect with family? The YMCA of the Rockies offers an authentic mountain getaway at its two locations (Estes Park and Snow Mountain Ranch). Lodging is affordable, and groups can rent cabins or vacation homes with easy access to scenic valleys, streams and majestic forests. >> ymcarockies.org

activities. Natural wonders include Rock City Park (a collection of “cannonball” boulders spread along a beautiful prairie pathway), Monument Rocks (massive chalk formations that date back to the Cretaceous Period) and the Kansas River (which can host float trips and kayaking expeditions). Groups looking for a hiking addition to their itinerary will want to savor Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, which protects 11,000 acres of wildflower fields, rare grasses and a bison herd.

MONTANA Big Sky Country is a perfect outdoor retreat for groups. No itinerary should be without the Crown of the Continent: Glacier National Park.

A jaw-dropping collection of alpine lakes, waterfalls and Native American history, this gorgeous area offers accommodations ranging from timber lodges to campsites. Be sure to drive down Going-to-the-Sun Road, which

Photo courtesy of Lincoln CVB

COLORADO

Lincoln

stretches 50 miles past glacier-carved valleys and herds of bighorn sheep.

NEBRASKA Commonly known as the best-kept secret in the Midwest, Lincoln is a destination that is sure to exceed your expectations and leave your group wanting to explore. The city of

IDAHO

KANSAS The sweeping prairies of the Sunflower State offer plenty for groups seeking outdoor

Photo courtesy of YMCA of the Rockies

Featuring snow-capped peaks and rolling dunes, Idaho is one of America’s most geographically diverse states. Groups can take advantage of this variety with hiking, rafting and horseback riding expeditions that range from intense adventures to leisurely strolls. Explore the eerie landscape of Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, a protected area the size of Rhode Island filled with otherworldly lava tubes, cinder cones and fissures. Bikers will enjoy the Route of the Hiawatha (a 15-mile trail that passes through train tunnels), while courageous paddlers can attempt the whitewater passages of the Salmon River.

YMCA of the Rockies

GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

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FRONTIER/ MOUNTAIN WEST Lincoln offers a wide variety of experiences and world-class attractions, from sports to arts to museums and more. From the Haymarket to Downtown, Havelock and everywhere in between, your group can explore and enjoy all that Lincoln has to offer. Whether your stay is a day, a week or longer, the tours the Lincoln CVB will put together for you will keep you entertained and coming back for more visits. >> lincoln.org

NORTH DAKOTA Outdoor adventurers will find plenty of

activities in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a 110-square-mile landscape of badlands, prairies and the riverbends. Groups can embark on a scenic drive to Oxbow Overlook in the North Unit, hike the Wind Canyon Trail in the South Unit and tour the remnants of Roosevelt’s private Elkhorn Ranch.

undoubtedly Mount Rushmore, the iconic depiction of four American presidents carved into the granite mountainside. Group activities include ranger programs, the Dakota Heritage Village and laser displays that honor George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt. Other South Dakota attractions include Crazy Horse Memorial (a tribute to the Oglala Lakota warrior), Jewel Cave (an underground cavern of delicate rock formations) and Badlands National Park (a rugged landscape of eroded buttes).

SOUTH DAKOTA Vast landscapes and photogenic monuments abound in South Dakota, a state defined by its frontier spirit. The most essential stop on your South Dakota visit is

UTAH The Beehive State is home to five national parks (Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion), over 40 state parks and several world-renowned ski resorts that all welcome groups. Canyons, Deer Valley, Park City Mountain and Sundance resorts are all located in the hip community of Park City, where your group can visit several sites that hosted downhill skiing events during the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. Mountain bikers will want to experience the famous Slickrock Trail, which offers several easy portions for less-experienced cyclists.

Glacier National Park

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GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Photo courtesy of NPS

WYOMING Yellowstone—America’s most famous national park—is easily accessible for groups and features iconic landmarks such as Old Faithful, Artist Point and Grand Prismatic Spring. Visitors can spend the evening in rustic cabins, the grand Old Faithful Inn or dozens of campsites spread throughout the park. Other awe-inspiring sites in Wyoming include Devils Tower National Monument, the mighty Teton Mountain Range and Hot Springs State Park—the world’s single largest mineral hot spring.

ADVERTORIAL

Get Out and Get Active in Sioux Falls

Travelers seeking to stretch their legs and enjoy fresh air will cherish a visit to Sioux Falls

H

ome to a delicious food scene, fabulous shopping and a majestic waterfall park, Sioux Falls, South Dakota is one of the most popular destinations in the state.

The city’s most beloved attraction, not surprisingly, is awe-inspiring Falls Park, which resides north of downtown Sioux Falls. Covering 123 acres, Falls Park sees an average of 7,400 gallons of water drop 100 feet over the course of the falls each second.

Those looking to savor the falls can visit an observation tower connected to the visitor center, or can enjoy comfort eats at the slightly Falls Overlook Café.

Speaking of tasty eats, Sioux Falls’ dining scene continues to impress as there are more than 700 restaurants who call this vibrant city home. Got a craving for French-inspired pastries? Pay a visit to CH Patisserie and order the famous macarons prepared by Top Chef Winner Chris Hanmer.

Want a bite to eat while you’re exploring the city’s many boutiques? Sanaa’s Gourmet offers Middle Eastern cuisine with glutenfree and vegetarian options. There’s also fine dining with an organic twist at Parker’s Bistro, and so many more food options within walking distance of one another.

Sioux Falls also features a myriad of

fabulous shopping options. Whether your group fancies antiques, the latest in fashion or unique gifts, Sioux Falls offers an exceptional shopping experience. A popular shopping destination is 8th & Railroad, which sits on downtown Sioux Falls’ Eastbank. This center features a variety of local shops and restaurants that specialize in needlepoint, art, interior design, cooking, clothing and accessories. 8th & RR, as it is known to locals, also hosts a Farmers Market on Saturday mornings and even a block party the first Friday of summer months.

Those seeking additional shopping outings can make their way to Phillips Avenue, which provides more in the way of boutiques, restaurants, and space for a stroll through a lively atmosphere.

Groups looking to get active can take advantage of Sioux Falls’ more than 29 miles of paved trails, which are perfect for hiking, walking and biking. You can also stroll from the downtown area to several city parks and also enjoy Sioux Falls’ SculptureWalk, an exciting outdoor art museum that rotates a variety of new sculptures every year.

Sioux Falls also offers multiple attractions including the Kirby Science Discovery Center, one of the region’s best hands-

on science centers, and the Great Plains Zoo, which features more than 1,000 animals from 137 species. Those with an inquiring mind can visit Washington Pavilion, a historic cultural venue featuring art galleries, science exhibits and theater performances. Home to the Visual Arts Center, the Wells Fargo CineDome Theater and the Husby Performing Arts Center, the Pavilion is the place to see a Broadway show, get cozy with interactive and traditional art installations, and take in giant-screen movies.

Getting to Sioux Falls is a snap, as Sioux Falls Regional Airport accepts flights from more than 200 U.S. cities, including direct flights from Minneapolis, Chicago, Atlanta, Denver, Las Vegas, Phoenix/Mesa, Orlando, Clearwater/St. Petersburg and Dallas/ Ft. Worth.

Come explore Sioux Falls, which is the place to be in 2021 and beyond.

EXPERIENCE SIOUX FALLS

200 N PHILLIPS AVENUE, SUITE 102 SIOUX FALLS, SD, 57104 (605) 275-6060 ExperienceSiouxFalls.com/SafeTours

GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

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FOR INSPIRATION IN THE MOST UNEXPECTED PLACES WITH ROOM TO ROAM.

ExperienceSiouxFalls.com/SafeTours