OCTOBER 2021
Wellness Resorts Wave ‘Bye-Bye’ to Stress
These destinations prioritize health for mind and body
The Growing Demand for Women-Only Tours
Female-focused journeys cater to the interests of women travelers
Missouri Group Tour Guide
A Premier Travel Media publication • LeisureGroupTravel.com
The Show-Me State is filled with culture, entertainment and fine dining
{
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.
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}
CONTENTS
October 2021 Vol. 31 No. 5
FEATURES 8
THE GROWING DEMAND FOR WOMEN-ONLY GROUP TOURS By Nancy Schretter
Empowering female-focused journeys cater to the interests of women travelers, providing opportunities for learning, bonding and transformational change
SPECIAL SECTION 21
MISSOURI GROUP TOUR GUIDE The Show-Me State is filled with culture, entertainment, nightlife, sports and all the fine dining you expect from Missouri
DESTINATIONS 12
SOUTH THREE REASONS I FELL IN LOVE WITH MOBILE, ALABAMA By Dave Bodle Once in a while, you’ll visit a place and you’ll know a return trip is necessary. That’s Mobile
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A MEMORABLE EVENT AT THE EDGEMONT HOUSE By Vanessa Day This historic home will transport you to another time
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NEW, EXPANDED ARKANSAS CASINOS BOOST TOURISM By Dave Bodle With the casinos come luxury hotels, resort accommodations and world-class dining
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HELENA, ARKANSAS: THE HISTORIC BIRTHPLACE OF THE DELTA BLUES By Isabella Wilkes
This charming city is a must-visit to trace its musical past and celebrate modern-day blues
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EAST 10 GREAT MUSEUMS IN NEW YORK STATE By Randy Mink These treasure chests, some a bit off the beaten path, will educate, entertain and enchant your group
WEST TAKE FIVE IN THE WEST By Mary Lu Laffey Wellness resorts wave “bye-bye" to stress effect
COLUMNS 6 ON MY MIND B y J eff G ay duk
7 ON TOUR B y M arty S ar bey
de
S o uto
11 ON DIGITAL MARKETING B y L a nce H arrell
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>> LeisureGroupTravel.com
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Stunning examples of contemporary glass dazzle visitors to The Corning Museum of Glass in Corning, New York. Photo courtesy of The Corning Museum of Glass
COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER 2022
T
his edition will take you on a tour full of history, culture and outdoor adventure. You will learn about an exciting new train service, Colorado scenic byways, the “Care for Colorado” program and more! There is always something exciting around the next corner. We look forward to sharing our beautiful state with you and helping you plan your next tour.
Check out the online version or download a print copy at: https://leisuregrouptravel.com/colorado-group-tour-planner
VISIT LEISUREGROUPTRAVEL.COM STILL HUNGRY FOR MORE GREAT CONTENT? Check out more recent articles on leisuregrouptravel.com • What Should You Look for in a Casino Destination? • Islands of Adventure: Groups Find Their Fun in the Florida Keys • Experience Hartville Offers a Plethora of Group-Friendly Options
G
et weekly digests of all the best online content with InSite, our free Friday e-newsletter, at: bit.ly/2nhxPvY
LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
ON THE COVER: Paddleboard yoga classes held lakeside at Lake Austin Spa Resort. Photo courtesy of Lake Austin Spa Resort
October 2021 ■ 5
ON MY MIND
By Jeffrey Gayduk
Vol. 31, No. 5 October 2021 Editorial & Advertising Office 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 info@ptmgroups.com
On the Road Again
I
t started out with a couple of “what the …” moments. A 2 ½ hour flight delay out of Chicago, dodging overnight construction workers in the back of a cab on the side streets of Las Vegas while the driver was half-watching a fiery political speech on YouTube. As I checked into the hotel at 1:30 a.m., I remembered what I loathed about business travel. IPW was my first official post-COVID conference. This event typically brings 6,000 international travel buyers and media together with DMOs, receptive tour operators, hotels and attractions at the host destination. I didn’t count heads, but the show flow was noticeably lighter. Booths were spread out to not shrink the footprint in the massive Las Vegas Convention Center, but appointment books were by and large full. Meal functions were muted, lunches split into three groups and evening entertainment was next to nil. Masks were mandatory, plus all attendees were vaxed or tested negative. Daily temp checks, COVID apps and wristbands. It felt safe in this new reality. Considering most have not had significant business in over 19 months, international buyers made a massive financial and time investment during unprecedented times. Those that made the commitment to be there were rewarded by suppliers eager to build back international inbound business. On the first official day of appointments, the U.S. government announced the reopening of international borders, and the news was received like helium lifting the convention center floor. With the biggest question out of the way, people got down to how they could make it happen. As I worked my way through three days of appointments, I would walk down aisles and see ghosts of friends and colleagues who used to represent those businesses. Where I’d normally stop by to say hi and catch up, a stranger now manned that booth. As my mind balanced with today’s employment reality, it felt like both a gut punch and heartache at the same time. The other thing that struck me is how unfair this recovery has been. If a destination, hotel or attraction is near water, National Park or mountains, they’ve seen business recover fast, sometimes better than ever. If they have skyscrapers, dense population and a gateway international airport, they’re still holding their breath and looking for answers. The return of international inbound travel will be a slog, but early adopters will buoy destinations that badly need visitors this winter - that’s a start. Recovery has to begin somewhere, and IPW did a good job in welcoming back international travel trade. Kudos to those that showed up to make it happen! Happy traveling,
Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk jeff@ptmgroups.com
Associate Publisher – Dave Bodle dave@ptmgroups.com
Managing Editor – Jason Paha
jason@ptmgroups.com
Senior Editor – Randy Mink randy@ptmgroups.com Associate Editor – Miles Dobis
miles@ptmgroups.com
Chief of Content & Technology – Lance Harrell
lance@ptmgroups.com
Director, Design & Production – Lisa Hede lisa@ptmgroups.com
Vice President – Theresa O’Rourke Midwest, Frontier/Mountain West P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 theresa@ptmgroups.com
Regional Business Development Managers Midwest, Mid-Atlantic/New England – Tom Tobiason P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 tom@ptmgroups.com
South/West Coast – Cheryl Rash P 563.613.3068 • F 815.225.5274 cheryl@ptmgroups.com
The publisher accepts unsolicited editorial matter, as well as advertising, but assumes no responsi bility for statements made by advertisers or contributors. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, but the publisher makes no warranty that listings are free of error. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited photos, slides or manuscripts.
Leisure Group Travel (ISSN-1531-1406)
is published bi-monthly by Premier Travel Media, 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406, Willowbrook, IL 60527. The magazine is distributed free of charge to qualified tour operators, travel agents, group leaders, bank travel clubs and other travel organizations. Other travel-related suppliers may subscribe at the reduced rate of $12.00 per year. The regular sub scrip tion price for all others is $18.00 per year. Single copies are $4.95 each.
Send Address Change to: Premier Travel Media 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 A
Jeff Gayduk Publisher 6
■ October 2021
publication
All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher.
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ON TOUR
Felix Rostig via Unsplash
By Marty Sarbey de Souto, CTC
Bring Back Fun to Your Group Trips
P
erhaps, before COVID-19 became a household word, you had a thriving travel program or at least had ideas for a future program of trips that you could organize for local organizations in your community. Then bang! Along came COVID-19, and your plans were shelved as you waited for the pandemic to end. Well, what if it’s never totally over, but life returns to a modified and livable version of “normality?” Is travel never going to return? Are group trips going to disappear forever? Or are we going to gradually come out of our shell and begin traveling once again, but perhaps in a modified format based on safety and compliance with future health protocols, whatever they may prove to be? Let’s start thinking not of what we can’t do, but what we can do. How about beginning by building a program of oneday trips to nearby, primarily outdoor destinations - perhaps to view the autumn leaves changing color, priced to allow for LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
adequate spacing on the coach and with the windows wide open for fresh air. How about a “bring along a new friend” policy to build camaraderie on the trip and experience enlarging our circle of travelers. Of course, we’ll want to require that our past travelers and the new friends they may invite are all fully vaccinated and willing to follow all required protocols on the trip. Perhaps you’ll want to limit your group to a specific market such as families or womenonly or those interested in a certain sport or activity. For example, it might be to attend a fashion show, view an arts and crafts exhibit or perhaps attend a weekend market, meeting expert growers and chefs, tasting samples as you go and taking home ideas you might implement in your own kitchen. Maybe your visits can give your clients an opportunity to explore an interest in arts and crafts, seeing weavings, quilting, pottery and glazing, watching workmen and women do their crafts - not just buy them. One of the unsung successes of a trip of this nature is to bring back old-fashioned
FUN into one’s life. It can bring fun back into focus, not feeling guilty about doing so. It can help foster the feeling of “I’ve worked hard in my life and have been through some miserable times these last few months, and now I deserve some fun!” All-day trips can lead to weekend excursions and ultimately to longer trips away from home. Perhaps you can develop face masks with your program colors and name for your trip members to wear on tour, thus building name recognition of your travel product as you grow. Remember, the goal is to bring back fun and return to travel in a safe but enjoyable way.
Marty is a Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) with a long history in the travel/tourism industry. She has been a tour operator, worldwide trip leader, college tourism instructor and textbook author. Her consulting firm is Sarbey Associates (sarbeyassociates.com)
October 2021 ■ 7
GROUP TOURS FOR WOMEN
CONNECTING T THROUGH TRAVEL: THE GROWING DEMAND FOR WOMEN-ONLY GROUP TOURS Empowering female-focused journeys cater to the interests of women travelers, providing immersive experiences and opportunities for learning, bonding and transformational change
Photo courtesy of Wild Women Expeditions
By Nancy Schretter
here’s a special kind of magic in women-only group tours. While these trips offer a wide array of options for women to travel the world, the inherent benefits are far greater. These purpose-driven journeys provide opportunities for women to form an inspirational sisterhood while traveling, interact with women from around the globe, and find kinship through shared experiences. On a deeper level, these tours give women the opportunity to reconnect with themselves and discover their unique physical and inner strengths. Women are a powerful force in the travel world – and in consumer markets as a whole. According to Catalyst, women were responsible for an estimated $31.8 trillion in consumer spending globally and $6.4 trillion in the United States in 2019. The majority of leisure travelers are women, and multiple sources reveal that women make 70-85% of all travel decisions as well. Given recent cultural and societal changes and women’s strong interest in travel, female-centric travel is experiencing significant growth. A 2019-20 Travel Trends Survey conducted by Internova Travel Group (formerly Travel Leaders Group) found women-only travel was one of the top five specialty travel trends along with active/ adventure travel. Solo Traveler’s late 2020 survey results based on a sample with 83% female respondents showed 53% of all solo travelers are likely to take escorted tours post-pandemic. JourneyWoman’s 2021 research also found that post-pandemic, women are more likely to travel for longer periods of time and choose to travel with a group or tour. Tour operators surveyed for this story are reporting huge growth in interest in women-only group travel in 2021 and Google searches for women-only travel are skyrocketing.
THE RISE OF WOMEN’S GROUP TRAVEL
Wild Women Expeditions began in 1991 with small group all-women canoe trips.
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Women-only travel isn’t a one-dimensional market sector – it comprises multiple specialized niches. Although female-centric travel has become mainstream, that wasn’t always the case. It took years for women-only >> LeisureGroupTravel.com
LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
Photo courtesy of Women Travel Together
group travel to develop a league of its own. When Susan Eckert started AdventureWomen in 1982, adventure travel was in its early days, and women-focused group travel was relatively non-existent. Eckert used her life savings to launch AdventureWomen’s rugged adventure trips for women seeking exhilarating outdoor experiences. Wild Women Expeditions began in 1991 with small group all-women canoe trips in Ontario, Canada. “From the very start the company grew like wildfire!” said Jennifer Haddow, founder & owner of Wild Women Expeditions. These companies offer adventure-seeking women opportunities to travel in a supportive all-female environment, connect with other like-minded women and learn new skills. Additional trailblazing female entrepreneurs entered the market in the 90’s, focusing on travel experiences outside of strenuous adventure tours. Debra Asberry, founder and president of Women Traveling Together, built her company solely to serve the travel needs of unaccompanied women seeking reliable female travel companions, offering a way to travel solo together and explore the globe. “If a woman wanted to travel at that time, her most obvious choice was to join a tour that catered to couples and families as a single traveler, in a single room – or plan her own trip and go alone,” said Asberry. The company now offers more than 100 small-group tours during normal years to destinations worldwide. Phyllis Stoller started as a women-only tour operator during the same decade. “My catharsis to start my company was five weeks of vacation as a corporate banker, unable to get friends to travel,” said Stoller. As a result of this inspiration and entrepreneurial savvy, the Women’s Travel Group was born. In addition to scheduled small group female-only departures, the Women’s Travel Group also arranges private group tours for women as well. These firms and others formed the cornerstones of the women-only group travel movement. Over the years, a growing number of tour operators have launched collections of immersive women-focused group tours, including Insight Vacations, Intrepid Travel, REI Adventures, Damesly, MT Sobek, Wild
As interest in women’s travel expanded, properties began catering to women-only groups.
Terrains and WanderTours. In addition, some companies have initiated one or two womenfocused trips a year focused on a single destination, such as Global Heart Journeys’ Women’s Journey to Kenya. Insight Vacations launched its Wander Women tours created by all female teams and featuring women in key roles, and their first trips sold out. These empowering trips include special experiences highlighting local women’s achievements and inspiring female entrepreneurs. “Our Wander Women itineraries are selling very well, and we expect to see women-only group travel grow significantly with Insight Vacations,” commented President Guy Young. Intrepid Travel’s Women’s Expeditions began in 2018 and proved to be the most popular group of trips in Intrepid’s more than 30-year history, visiting destinations including Iran, Morocco and Jordan. “In just a few months, the demand for the tours was so high that we increased the number of departures by 800%,” said Matt Berna, Intrepid Travel’s Managing Director of North America.
NUMEROUS FACTORS FUELING GROWTH Multiple dynamics have played into this surging demand for women’s group travel. “The biggest driver behind women-only travel is the financial independence achieved by women over the last several decades,” said Women Traveling Together’s Debra Asberry. “Solo female travel has also become far more socially acceptable than it was 25 years ago when I started Women Traveling Together,” Asberry added. AdventureWomen President Heather Heverling also finds the increase in solo
travel is helping drive demand. “We see a rise in solo travel – nearly 70% of travelers who join AdventureWomen trips are solo,” said Heverling. “There is also a growing interest in multi-generational travel, as women are traveling with their daughters, granddaughters, aunts and cousins,” Heverling added. The global pandemic has also generated a stronger interest in seizing opportunities to travel and living life to the fullest. “In 2021, we’re seeing a massive growth in interest in our women-only tours,” said Wild Women Expeditions’ Jennifer Haddow. “I think that the pandemic was a wake-up call on so many levels and women are telling us they don’t want to put off those big bucket list adventure travel dreams any longer.” Pandemic-related concerns may also make women more likely to take group tours to provide peace of mind and eliminate travel planning stresses. Wellness and demographic trends are contributing to growth as well, as physically fit women ages 75-80+ are traveling quite frequently. “More women are single, living longer and are healthier, and want to learn and connect with the world,” said The Women’s Travel Group’s Phyllis Stoller. “Connecting with the world has become more significant as we hear about female leaders in our own and other countries.”
POWERFUL BENEFITS ARE KEY While societal shifts and increases in female solo travel are contributing to surging demand, there’s another significant factor at play: women-only group travel is addictive. A number of the women-only tour operators October 2021 ■ 9
GROUP TOURS FOR WOMEN surveyed have high repeat guest rates of 70% or more. Friendships form quickly on women-only group trips. Women feel a strong sense of community, camaraderie and support while traveling with other likeminded women on female-led tours. When no men or children are along, gender and family roles are eliminated and women travel differently. The deeply immersive experiences shared as sisters provide a powerful way to connect and find kinship. On women-only group tours, guests have opportunities to bond and honestly share female insights and experiences. Guests develop lasting relationships with fellow tour members and with local women around the globe. “Women have been waiting a long time for this kind of meaningful ‘woman to woman’ immersion,” said Linda Higdon, President of Global Heart Journeys, Inc. and Tour Host for Women’s Journey to Kenya. “The traveler and the local women are encouraged to be authentic guides and teachers to one another beyond labels or inequities,” Higdon added. As one guest said,
“These trips keep on giving long after you return home through new friendships.” In some destinations, guests on womenonly trips may have access to female-only spaces, culturally-sensitive experiences and communities that would be off-limits on mixed gender departures. They can have more genuine interactions and delve into provocative female-focused topics, providing a deeper understanding of women’s lives and roles in these countries. Women’s priorities on these trips may also be more purpose-driven, focusing on how travel can be a potent force for good. The benefits of spending time on a women-only group tour can be deeply personal as well. Guests have described these trips as inspirational, transformative and life-changing. Traveling in a supportive all-female community and learning new skills boosts confidence, self-awareness and inner strength. In making time for themselves while traveling, women also have the opportunity to reflect on their lives and what they want to build going forward. Guests
come away feeling stronger, empowered and more resilient.
A BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD Travel providers surveyed for this story unanimously forecast phenomenal growth for women-only group travel. Companies project wider product and destination options including expedition travel, more intimate cultural connections and expanding leadership roles for women. A greater emphasis on purpose-driven travel and giving back to local communities is foreseen as well. As demand continues to increase, tour operators that have traditionally catered to couples and families are spotting the segment’s potential and launching new offerings. “The travel industry is just waking up to the needs of women traveling unaccompanied and the diversity represented in women-only travel,” said Debra Asberry, who will be the chair of the National Tour Association’s Board of Directors next year. “There is a tsunami of growth still to come in this market niche.”
ABA Can Help You Get Back to Business! Americans are ready to travel. The American Bus Association can help you be the first person they call. Latest news is that Americans want to travel again and there is a leisure boom occuring. Are you reaping those rewards? The American Bus Association can help you get back to business. Through our respected educational offerings, numerous marketing opportunities and the renown ABA’s Marketplace, we are focused on you and your business.
Being a member of the most trusted motorcoach, group travel and tourism association gives you access to:
“There are so many different aspects of ABA that I love… the Marketplace, where I build new business relationships and deepen existing relationships with clients, the year-round educational opportunities, the legislative arm that fights hard for the entire membership base and the sense of community like none other. My ABA membership has been a constant for over 12 years in my current position and years before that with previous companies.” Amanda Thibeau Director, National Accounts,Aimbridge Hospitality
1,200 motorcoach and tour operators who want to bring their groups to you. ABA’s Marketplace, where you can hold business appointments and book business on the spot. Education that focuses on business marketing, back office tips and trends to help you stay ahead of the competition. Publications that give you the news of the day and can promote your business.
Join the ONLY association you need to help your business at www.buses.org/join or call 202-218-7234 111 K Street NE, 9th Floor I Washington, D.C. 20002 I 202-218-7234 / 1-800-283-2877 I ABAinfo@Buses.org I www.Buses.org
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ON DIGITAL MARKETING
Are You Failing to Create Effective Content?
A
fter 20 years as a search engine optimization specialist & content strategist with more than a decade in the travel industry, I can say with a fair amount of confidence that you are failing to create effective content. To be fair, creating content that captures readers’ attention and drives them to continue reading is not easy, so it is understandable that you are struggling.
“Compelling content is the most important determinant to your success. You may have an amazing destination or a lifechanging tour but you can’t sell that with poor photos, lackluster video and Wikipedia-like descriptions.” However, even in our world of information overload, it is possible to craft content that rises above the flotsam and buys you a little of your reader’s precious daily attention. If you’re still reading this, then I’ve proven my point. Granted, whether you are a destination, attraction, travel agent, tour operator LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
or other participant in the travel industry, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to creating powerful, captivating and engaging content. We are talking about travel after all, not trying to sell shipping boxes. Our products are the stuff of which dreams are made. Far from being a dream, however, is the stark reality that our industry is highly competitive and I would go so far as to say that compelling content is the most important determinant to your success. You may have an amazing destination or a life-changing tour, but you can’t sell that with poor photos, lackluster video and Wikipedia-like descriptions. I am not going to try and teach you how to become a master of creating content. You have enough hats to wear, as it is and the last thing you need is another Fedora. In this new column for Leisure Group Travel, I will, however, strive to provide you with a useful framework through which you can structure and evaluate your content and those that are producing it for you. Speaking of beginnings, we need to start somewhere, and regardless of whether you have a decade’s worth of content or have yet to publish your first piece, the following four guidelines will serve you well. We will dive deeper into each, and others, in upcoming installments.
KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE
Creating audience profiles is nothing new, but is surprisingly skipped over by many in our industry. Different demographics consume content differently, have varying expectations and use different language styles. Personas inform and guide your content creation process to help you fine-tune your message and appropriate delivery channel.
By Lance Harrell
RESEARCH TWICE, WRITE ONCE
Keyword research is critically important because it informs you not only what topics your audience is searching for, but also the potential likelihood of you creating content that can compete in that topic space. It helps refine and narrow your topics, sometimes in surprising directions, but it also tells you what not to write about, so you don’t waste resources.
LAY OUT THE PLAN
You now know your travelers and have your topics, but before you begin the first piece, use a tool like Airtable or Monday to organize and schedule out your content. You’ll likely be dealing with multiple writers and various types of content, spread across numerous distribution channels. This will not only keep you publishing regularly, but will serve as a historical record of what you have written and make later analysis easier.
ANALYZE, REFINE & IMPROVE
Publishing your content is not the end of the journey. Check in on each piece every three months and see how it is performing. Is it ranking for the right keywords? If so, how well is it ranking? What isn’t it ranking for and why? Is the content converting? How can the piece be improved to increase its effectiveness? Remember, you may not be good at creating effective content, but that isn’t important; it isn’t your job. What is important is understanding what goes into the process so that you can effectively manage its production and properly analyze its performance.
Lance Harrell is an SEO & Content Consultant for Premier Travel Media and is owner of Digital Consilience, an agency specializing in search engine optimization and content strategy.
October 2021 ■ 11
SOUTH
REGION
The Mobile Museum of Art overlooking Langden Park
THREE REASONS
I FELL IN LOVE WITH MOBILE, ALABAMA
Springtime at Bellingrath Gardens and Home
Once in a while, you’ll visit a place and you’ll know a return trip is necessary. That’s Mobile
Welcome to the Mobile Carnival Museum
T
ravel has taken me to numerous places that I’ve thoroughly enjoyed. Mobile is one of those rare places that makes me want to pick up and leave home for a month just to enjoy the Port City experience. Here are three reasons why: MOBILE’S HISTORY INTERESTS ME In a 300-year-old community, you don’t need to look far to discover a rich history. French, Spanish, Creole, Catholic, Greek and African cultures have each had an impact on Mobile’s history. You can see it in the architecture and taste it in the food. A great place to begin is the History Museum of Mobile. The National Historic Landmark building is located in the Southern Market. One of the six permanent exhibits
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a visitor must view is the “Faces of Mobile.” Make sure you allow time for the exhibits “Old Ways New Days Part I” and “Old Ways New Days Part II.” The oldest Mardi Gras Carnival celebration in the United States is in Mobile. The place to discover all the details of the Mardi Gras birthplace is the Mobile Carnival Museum. There’s the history and traditions to explore along with the crowns, scepters, robes and costumes of Mardi Gras’ monarchs. Check out float construction and videos of parades and balls. Architecture certainly contributes to the history of Mobile. The Richards-DAR House Museum is a gem. This historic landmark is an 1860s Italian townhouse with unique lace ironwork that tells a story. Bragg-Mitchell
All photos courtesy of Visit Mobile
By Dave Bodle
>> LeisureGroupTravel.com
Mansion is Mobile’s finest antebellum mansion. Built in 1855, this Greek Revival was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. Conde-Charlotte Museum was Mobile’s first courthouse and jail before being renovated in 1855. The Bellingrath Home at Bellingrath Gardens and Home was completed in 1936. The original furnishings and extensive collections of art, silver, china and crystal are on display. Each of these home museums offers tours. The blending of four cultures in a Southern port city is certainly the recipe for outstanding dining. Gulf shrimp, crabs, oysters and fish are all fresh. Enjoy some soul specialties including Southern fried chicken, greens and grits, or slow-cooked pit BBQ. From contemporary southern and seafood to BBQ restaurants and pubs, there are endless choices with the majority practicing farm-to-table. WATCHING IT GROW FASCINATES ME As a kid growing up, trips to my aunt and uncle’s farm were always mesmerizing. The fields that surrounded the farmhouse seemed massive to this youngster. The family garden and flowerbeds provided plenty of goodies to take home. Fast-forward to the present and one of my hobbies is keeping an extensive array of potted plants on my patio. It’s understandable I’d be drawn to Bellingrath Gardens and Home, the 65-acre estate garden. Alabama’s oldest public garden opened in 1932 and has something blooming year-round. There are azaleas in the spring, a magnificent cascading chrysanthemums display in the fall and the Magic Christmas in Lights after Thanksgiving that continue through year’s end. Two miles of pathways through the gardens are perfect for a self-guided tour at your own pace. To tell you what’s in bloom during a visit, go to bellingrath.org for a monthly listing of what you can expect to see. A must-visit is the 100+ acre Mobile Botanical Gardens. The website mobilebotanicalgardens.org has a thorough presentation of what’s in bloom throughout the year. A map and guide to the gardens is a needed addition to a walking tour. Guided tours are welcome with a request in advance. The city of Mobile and the surrounding county are placed in the middle of the LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
richest biological part of North America. In addition to the Bellingrath Gardens and the Mobile Botanical Gardens, Langdan Park and numerous private homes and public building keep Mobile in bloom. ART IS HIGH ON MY LIST There’s no attempt to fool you. My artistic skills and knowledge are at best minimal. I just like art museums and galleries and have seldom met one I didn’t enjoy. Along the Gulf Coast, the Mobile Museum of Art is the largest art museum between New Orleans and Tampa. The art begins with the scenic views of Langan Park. The museum provides a permanent collection of more than 6,400 pieces. There are paintings, sculptures and decorative art highlighted by a 19th-century American landscapes collection, paintings from the WPA era and international contemporary glass, turned wood and ceramics. Special exhibitions are on display throughout the year. Local and regional artists as well as collections of international artists on loan from other museums are featured. One of the purposes of a museum is to provide a refuge of calm for the community. Mobile Museum of Art is just such a place, and that’s what attracts me to it. Throughout the facility there’s seating available where you can quietly take in the beauty of your setting. The American Sport Art Museum is considered the largest collection of sport art in the world. The museum’s collection has more than 1,800 works in a variety of media from paintings and sculptures to prints and photographs. Whether you’re a casual sports fan or cannot get enough regardless of the sport, this is a must-visit. Located on the campus of the United States Sports Academy, the museum is open to the public at no charge. Group tours are welcome. Located in the heart of Mobile’s historic downtown, Alabama Contemporary Art Center has come a long way since its founding in 1999. Committed to the works of living artists, they initiate 10 to 12 exhibitions per year. Through various programs, they’ve created opportunities for artists to make their work known worldwide by taking risks and exploring
different paths. Add this to your list of must-see stops in Mobile. For more than 65 years Mobile Arts Council has made art of all sectors available to the community. The free gallery exhibitions are open for viewing TuesdayFriday and change monthly. Plan to join the council the second Friday of each month during LoDa ArtWalk to meet the artists at an exhibition reception. Held downtown, the ArtWalk is an amazingly popular event and features local art, music and food. Although focused on visual art, we certainly appreciate symphony, ballet and opera and plan to attend one or more on my next Mobile visit. There are my big three reasons, but those that know me realize I won’t be leaving home without my golf clubs. More than 25 courses are in the Mobile area, including three at Magnolia Grove on the legendary Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Learn more about magical Mobile at mobile.org/groups
October 2021 ■ 13
ARKANSAS TOUR IDEAS
Event at the
Edgemont House This historic home will transport you to another time By Vanessa Day
Photos courtesy of The Edgemont House
A Memorable
The famous Edgemont House was initially designed in 1927.
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>> LeisureGroupTravel.com
I
t takes a special place to make someone stop in their tire tracks and take notice. But nestled at the edge of the Park Hill Historic District in North Little Rock, Arkansas, is a structure that is just that. The Edgemont House has been a gem of the neighborhood for almost a century, and when it caught the eye of local landscape designer Chris Olsen, it would soon become a whole lot more than just a beautiful historic home.
SEEING THE POTENTIAL The Edgemont House was initially designed in 1927 by a well-known Little Rock architect named Max F. Mayer. Mayer often used traditional styles in his buildings like English Revival or French Eclectic. But he also enjoyed creating structures in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, and the Edgemont House was the perfect example of that type of design. With its white stucco exterior, terracotta shingles, small porches and wrought-iron railings, it was a site to behold. Several residents have occupied the house over the years. In the 1960s, the homeowner was a decorator who really played up the Spanish style. She placed awnings over the upstairs windows and shaded the front door with an awning held by wrought iron spears. The interior was tastefully decorated and well maintained, and the courtyard was a lovely, quiet place to entertain. But as the home changed ownership and years sped by, it began to lose a little of its luster. When Chris Olsen stumbled upon the house a few years ago, it was clear it had seen better days. But potential was emanating from all corners, and Chris took on the challenge of reviving the Edgemont House in his own vision. He was not a stranger to big projects. As the owner of Botanica Gardens in Little Rock and Plantopia Home & Garden Center, Chris has managed several large landscape developments. He’s even been the recipient of the People’s Choice Award and other honors at the Arkansas Garden Show for over 15 years. On top of his gardening skills, he is an acclaimed interior designer, with his work featured in many publications. To say Chris could handle a revival of this impressive home was an understatement. Renovations kicked off in July 2016, LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
The Edgemont House is picturesque both inside and out.
and over the next few months the house transformed into a stunning venue. Chris brought his distinctive style into every element of the home while maintaining its classic look and historic feel. While Chris calls this place home, he also opens it up to visitors all year round, inviting them to experience the unique energy he felt when he first discovered it.
EVENTS AT EDGEMONT HOUSE Chris designed the home with entertaining in mind, and the Edgemont House has become a popular location to host all kinds of events, from intimate weddings and private brunches to large receptions and fancy dinners. Guests can even rent it out for a photo session, perfect for family portraits or senior pictures. For groups visiting from other cities or states, the Edgemont House is open to bus tours (with a minimum of 30 people). Groups can spend two hours walking the interior and exterior of the estate, discovering all the little touches Chris considered during the renovation. Wondering what time of year is best to visit? There’s no bad time. Every season is celebrated at Edgemont House. From March to October, the gardens are brimming with lush plants and colorful flowers, offering a lovely oasis for groups to explore. In the fall (from October to mid-November), the crew decorates the home with over 700 pumpkins and tons of fall foliage. For something truly spectacular, book a tour around the holidays, when the entire house is dressed to the nines with twinkling
lights, Christmas decorations, thousands of ornaments, and festive candles.
ADD TO THE HISTORIC SPLENDOR Tour groups interested in history and architecture will want to make a stop at the Edgemont House to admire the Spanish Colonial style and beautiful landscaping. And for a little extra history, they can mix in a visit to the Old Mill. Completed in 1933, the Mill was constructed to look like an old waterpowered grist mill. The concept, thought up by developer Justin Matthews, was a tribute to Arkansas’s pioneers. The Mill was even featured in the opening scene of the film Gone with the Wind. Over the years, it has become a staple of the neighborhood and an important part of the system of recreational lakes and open spaces. Groups of 10 or more people can take a 30-minute tour of the Old Mill. They’ll learn about the initial design of the structure, how it was built and why it looks the way it does. In addition, they’ll get to see some actual relics within the Mill, some dating back to the early 1800s.
BOOK A VISIT The Edgemont House embodies the one-of-a-kind style and spirit of the Park Hill Historic District. It’s an ideal venue for any group hosting a gathering. It doesn’t matter the occasion, the Edgemont House provides a warm, welcoming environment for all guests. So, if your group is planning a trip to North Little Rock, Arkansas, consider reserving some time to explore this architectural jewel. October 2021 ■ 15
Photo courtesy of Saracen Casino Resort
ARKANSAS TOUR IDEAS
New, Expanded Arkansas
Casinos Boost Tourism With the casinos come luxury hotels, resort accommodations and world-class dining By Dave Bodle
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■ October 2021
Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff features fabulous food options.
P
hase I of the Saracen Casino Resort in Pine Bluff opened in October 2020 as Arkansas’s largest construction project of the year. It was the first purpose-built casino in the state’s history. Saracen’s gaming floor is 80,000 square feet with more than 2,000 slot machines, 45 table games, sports betting and Arkansas’ only live poker room. “It’s great having the casino in Pine Bluff,” said Sheri Storie, director of Explore Pine Bluff. “They are doing a wonderful job bringing visitors to our community, and we are very pleased with our casino/Pine Bluff partnership.”
When it’s time to eat, Saracen will not disappoint. Quapaw Kitchens is an open kitchen, Las Vegas-quality buffet and is sure to be a group favorite. The menu hits all the culinary high points from international to regional specialties and all your favorites. It features Southern specialties, seafood, a carving station with all the sides, plus Italian and Asian menus. Red Oak Steakhouse, the flagship restaurant, is a reason in itself to visit the casino. Red Oak combines wonderful flavors and an attentive staff in comfortable elegance for an evening to remember. Kobe beef, certified by the Japanese beef council, highlights the menu. Red Oak is the first restaurant in >> LeisureGroupTravel.com
the southern United States and only 38th to be certified nationwide. For the sports enthusiast, Legends Sports Bar is the place to be. There’s the sportsbook and a 25-foot video wall to catch all the action and a fully operational in-house brewery. The Legends Sports Bar menu features Legendary Burgers and so much more. Phase II of the Saracen Casino Resort is in the final planning stages. When completed, it will include a 300-room hotel and 1,600-seat concert venue. (saracenresort.com) Hot Springs celebrated the Grand Opening of Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort’s $100 million expansion in April of 2021. As Arkansas’s only thoroughbred racetrack, racing along with luxury are the design themes throughout the property. With horse racing, casino action and elegant accommodations, there’s nothing like Oaklawn in the state. There’s no doubt Oaklawn is first a racetrack then a hotel and casino. Most of the hotel room views are of the actual
racetrack, while bed frames take on the refined design of a horse stall with racing art decorating the walls. Even Oaklawn’s fine dining restaurant, Bugler, offers its guests a view of the track. Along with overlooking the legendary racetrack, Bulger features a wide variety of American cuisine. Regional classics and selected fish and steaks are prepared with many ingredients harvested in Arkansas. Located next to the Bugler, the First Turn patio bar is a great place to watch the races in season, or simply relax on a comfortable evening. Grab a coffee and pastry at Percs or enjoy the 1950s-style eatery Big Al’s Diner in the hotel food court. Enjoy the “Best Burger in town” along with 30 large screen TVs at Silks Bar and Grill in the casino. One thing you’ll notice throughout the renovated hotel and casino is the use of natural light. Entering the concourse, there’s an abundance of natural light, which is a far cry from the dimly lit casinos of the past. Inside the casino, smoking has been taken away, with designated smoking areas eventually planned for the future.
The purpose is to provide arriving guests a feeling of luxury. The casino expansion features more square footage with natural light, 1,500 slot machines (including video poker) and 32 table games on the floor. Bet your favorite games at Oaklawn’s Sports Book in the casino. The High Limits casino area is designed for the player that favors a VIP service experience, high denomination slot machines and blackjack. The expansion also includes a luxury spa and fitness center and event center. The latter can entertain 1,000 guests for a plated dinner or 1,500 for a concert. (oaklawn.com) The COVID-19 pandemic has delayed the opening for the $250 million expansion at Southland Casino Racing in West Memphis. The completed project will add 500 gaming machines and 60 live table games to Southland. A 20-story hotel with 300 rooms is also part of this project. The new casino and restaurants will open mid2022, and the hotel will open a few months later. (southlandcasino.com)
e p a c s E ROOM FOR MORE
ARKANSAS’ ONLY CASINO RESORT!
Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700.
LIVE RACING DECEMBER–MAY
LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
HOT SPRINGS, ARKANSAS
CASINO • HOTEL • SPA • EVENT CENTER
OAKLAWN.COM October 2021 ■ 17
ARKANSAS TOUR IDEAS
Helena, Arkansas: The Historic
Birthplace of the Delta Blues This charming city is a must-visit to trace its musical past and celebrate modern-day blues
Photos courtesy of Arkansas Tourism
By Isabella Wilkes
Helena, Arkansas has a rich musical history and is an excellent spot to enjoy the blues.
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>> LeisureGroupTravel.com
H
elena, Arkansas is a quaint town located on the eastern border of the state, settled on the banks of the Mississippi River. Helena is known for many things, like being the site of one of the deadliest Civil War battles and an ideal location for avid birders. But the most remarkable thing about Helena is this town’s role in the creation and spread of the Delta blues. This particular style of blues is heavily influenced by the religious music of the enslaved African-American community of the South and became beloved through musicians like Ma Rainey and Robert Johnson. For fans of this soulful and melancholy music, Helena is a must-visit to both trace the past of Delta blues music to its roots as well as celebrate the blues in its modern-day embodiment.
KING BISCUIT RADIO SHOW “King Biscuit Time,” broadcast from Helena, is the longest-running blues radio show in the nation. This renowned broadcast had its first show on November 21, 1941, and has since grown to feature live audiences, live performances and even host its own annual music festival. This music station has seen the likes of blues superstars come through its broadcasts for decades, like The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Lightnin’ Hopkins and B.B. King to name a few. Now broadcast from the Delta Cultural Center, visitors to Helena have the opportunity to be a live studio audience during a King Biscuit Time show, hosted by Thomas Jacques.
LEGENDARY BLUES FESTIVAL Another festival that brings blues fans together is the Legendary Blues Festival, a one-night event hosted every year in September. This event takes place at Cherry Street Pavilion, flanked by historic buildings in downtown Helena, making for a picturesque background for an evening you won’t soon forget. The Legendary Blues Festival also invites local comedians to showcase their chops in between band sets.
DELTA CULTURAL CENTER The Delta Cultural Center is not only the broadcasting home of the King Biscuit Radio Show, but a home to the preservation of culture unique to Arkansas’ Delta region. With free admission, this center welcomes anyone to visit its permanent exhibits. “A Heritage of Determination” describes the hardships of the people of the Delta though the events of slavery, the Civil War, Reconstruction and more. The “Delta Sounds” exhibit goes in great detail about the history of Delta blues and the great names in the genre that made their way through Helena. While visiting Helena, it would be a shame if your group did not visit one of many town-favorite restaurants that will top off your dive into Delta culture.
LACEY’S Lacey’s Restaurant is located just beyond the city, tucked away in a quaint, homey building set to bring you all the comforts of Southern eating. Try breakfast classics like chicken and waffles, homemade biscuits and gravy or grits. Other menu favorites served all day include fried catfish, butterfly shrimp or one of their many classic burgers.
PASQUALE’S ORIGINAL TAMALES Pasquale’s is a famous concession stand only open on Fridays and Saturdays, offering up handmade tamales, tamale plates, muffulettas, chili pies and more. The owner, Joe St. Columbia Jr., was inspired by his Italian immigrant grandfather who settled in the Delta region as a merchant. He began swapping recipes with the Mexican immigrants he met and began making the “Delta tamales” that these men and women took with them to work every day. St. Colombia Jr. promises that his homemade, all-natural tamales that soak for six hours in a spicy broth will “taste so good you’ll suck the shuck.” This well-kept promise has kept locals and tourist coming back to this location for years. The demand is so high that Pasquale’s is fulfilling and shipping out online orders for their tamales.
KING BISCUIT BLUES FESTIVAL The King Biscuit Blues Festival is held every year in Helena, hosted over a four-day period in October. As one of the largest showcases of blues music in the nation, this event attracts thousands of fans to Helena for a weekend of fun and amazing music from the best blues musicians in the nation. Each day has its own unique attractions. The VIP Biscuit Bash is hosted on Thursday and features a meal of biscuits and gravy and samplings of the best craft beer in the state. There is also the Flour Power 5K run and the Tour Da’ Delta Bike Ride, both hosted on Saturday. LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
The Delta Cultural Center is dedicated to preserving the Delta’s heralded history.
October 2021 ■ 19
let’s get the party started
Must be 21 or older to enter the casino floor and to gamble, and must present a valid state or federal photo ID upon request. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-522-4700. An Enterprise of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. ©2021, Caesars License Company, LLC.
www.harrahscherokee.com
M I S S O UTourRGuideI 2022
UNWIND AND PLAY AT LAKE OF THE OZARKS
Group Tour Guide
There’s plenty of fun for groups of all ages
SMALL TOWN MUSEUMS WITH BIG STORIES These museums will educate and entertain you
Missouri Steps Up to the Plate
Take your group out to a ball game
Stephen Foutes Director, Missouri Division of Tourism
Welcome to Missouri! No matter where your travels lead, the Show-Me State is the ideal place for a fun, memorable experience for your group’s big adventure. And when we say big, we mean big! Big like the 630-foot-tall Gateway Arch (the tallest national monument in the U.S.) in downtown St. Louis and the world’s largest shuttlecocks (badminton birdies) on the lawn outside the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City. Then there’s the big, ship-shaped façade of the Titanic Museum in Branson, where an equally big depiction of King Kong is seen scaling the exterior of the Hollywood Wax Museum. About 40 minutes to the north, the world’s largest Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World offers 500,000 square feet of retail, dining and entertainment space in the heart of Springfield. Missouri’s small towns also offer opportunities for big fun. Hermann, which has a rich German heritage, is noted for its wineries, while Hannibal celebrates Mark Twain, whose writings were inspired by life in the historic Mississippi River town. And speaking of famous folks, Missouri has connections to Walt Disney, Laura Ingalls Wilder, George Washington Carver and Jesse James, to name a few. Whether your travels take you indoors, outdoors, to small towns or major metros, big adventure awaits in Missouri.
Travel safely, we look forward to seeing you soon.
Stephen Foutes Director www.VisitMO.com
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M I S S O UTourRGuideI 202 20
Group Tour Guide
FEATURES 6 Missouri Steps Up to the Plate Take your group out to a ball game, hall of fame and nearby attractions • By Randy Mink
10 Unwind and Play at Lake of the Ozarks There’s plenty of fun for visitors of all ages and interests • By Christopher Silbernagel
14 Treat Yourself to a Trip to Amish Country This charming community is a perfect spot to get away from it all • By Isabella Wilkes
16 Small Town Museums with Big Stories These Missouri museums will educate and entertain groups • By Dave Bodle ON THE COVER: A great view at Kauffman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals Photo courtesy of Visit KC
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Missouri Driving MISSOURI Distances
DRIVING At a glance, this handy chart DISTANCES shows distances At a glance, this handy chart in miles between shows distances in miles between popular tourist cities popular tourist cities
Branson Cape Girardeau Charleston Columbia Hannibal Hermann Independence Jefferson City Joplin Kansas City Rolla St. Charles Ste. Genevieve St. Joseph St. Louis Sedalia Springfield
Branson 0 275 256 201 275 217 205 170 107 211 144 254 286 264 251 156 43
Cape Girardeau 275 0 35 225 217 185 342 220 321 350 158 126 61 408 115 279 255
Charleston Columbia Hannibal 256 201 275 35 225 217 0 258 249 258 0 98 249 98 0 214 65 86 375 119 192 252 31 106 319 227 302 382 126 201 198 94 151 166 108 99 101 175 165 448 184 194 147 125 117 67 163 313 255 162 237
2 2 MIS S O UR I G R GUIDE O UP TO UR GU ID E 4 62 0MISSOURI TOUR
Hermann Independence Jefferson City Joplin 217 205 170 107 185 342 220 321 214 375 252 319 65 119 31 227 86 192 106 302 0 181 48 250 181 0 142 154 48 142 0 202 250 154 202 0 188 9 148 157 72 204 62 178 60 225 117 284 129 290 168 297 243 63 208 211 81 242 122 284 61 175 107 82 182 163 133 70
Kansas City Rolla St. Charles Ste. Genevieve St. Joseph St. Louis Sedalia Springfield 211 144 254 286 264 251 156 43 350 158 126 61 408 115 279 255 382 198 166 101 448 147 313 255 125 67 162 126 94 108 175 184 201 151 99 165 194 117 163 237 188 72 60 129 243 81 107 182 9 204 225 290 63 242 82 163 148 62 117 168 208 122 61 133 157 178 284 297 211 284 175 70 0 210 233 298 55 252 87 167 210 0 108 112 269 106 123 110 233 108 0 66 290 22 173 220 112 66 0 354 54 232 298 227 269 290 354 0 307 219 55 144 252 186 106 22 54 307 0 215 87 173 118 123 227 144 186 0 110 220 232 219 215 0 167 118
TRAVEL TIPS FOR YOUR MISSOURI TOUR Local information to get you on your way to the Show-Me State
Official Missouri Welcome CentersMissouri Official taffers at Official Missouri Welcome Centers are ready Welcome to assist youCenters with information about the surrounding area and
S
S
the entire state. Picnic areas, vending machines and playtaffers at Official Missouri Welcome Centers are ready ground equipment are available at most Official Welcome Centers. to assist you with information about the surrounding area (industry.visitmo.com/about-the-division/welcome-centers) and the entire state. Picnic areas, vending machines and playground equipment areCenter available at most Official Welcome Conway Official Welcome Centers. (industry.visitmo.com/about-the-division/welcome-centers) 110619 Interstate 44 West Conway, MO 65632
Conway Official Missouri Welcome Center 417-589-0023 Tourism.ConwayW@ded.mo.gov 110619 Interstate 44 West, Mile Marker 110 EaglevilleMO Official Missouri Welcome Center Conway, 65632 11687 Interstate 35 South 417-589-0023 Eagleville, MO 64442 Tourism.ConwayW@ded.mo.gov 660-867-5566 Tourism.Eagleville@ded.mo.gov
Eagleville Official Missouri Welcome Center Hannibal Official Missouri Welcome Center 1700 Highway 61 South 11687 Interstate 35 South, Mile Marker 112 Hannibal, MO 63401 Eagleville, MO 64442 573-248-2420 Tourism.Hannibal@ded.mo.gov 660-867-5566 Tourism.Eagleville@ded.mo.gov Hayti Official Missouri Welcome Center Interstate 55 North, Mile Marker 20 Hayti, MO 63851 Hayti Official Missouri Welcome Center 573-359-0330 Interstate 55 North, Mile Marker 20 Tourism.Hayti@ded.mo.gov
Hayti, MO 63851 Joplin Official Missouri Welcome Center 573-359-0330 Interstate 44 East, Mile Marker 2 Rest Area Joplin, MO 64803 Tourism.Hayti@ded.mo.gov 417-629-3030 Tourism.Joplin@ded.mo.gov
Out-of-State OUT-OF-STATE DRIVING DISTANCES Driving Distances From Chicago Dallas Minneapolis Memphis
To St. Louis Kansas City Branson St. Louis
Miles 297 508 643 283
Joplin Official Missouri Welcome Center Kansas City Official Missouri Welcome Center 2481 Interstate 44 East, Mile Marker 2 4010 Bluff Ridge Cutoff Kansas City, MO 64133 Joplin, MO 64804 816-889-3330 417-629-3030 Tourism.KansasCity@ded.mo.gov Tourism.Joplin@ded.mo.gov
Rock Port Official Missouri Welcome Center 23181 Interstate 29 South Rock Port Port, MO 64482Missouri Welcome Center Rock Official 660-744-6300 23181 Interstate 29 South, Mile Marker 109 Tourism.RockPort@ded.mo.gov
Rock Port, MO 64482 St. Louis Official Missouri Welcome Center 660-744-6300 Interstate 270 at Riverview Drive Tourism.RockPort@ded.mo.gov St. Louis, MO 63138 314-869-7100 Tourism.StLouis@ded.mo.gov
2022 MI S S OURI G ROUP TOUR G UIDE
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Game day Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City Photo courtesy of Jason Hanna and Visit KC
MISSOURI
STEPS UP TO THE PLATE Take your group out to a ball game, hall of fame and nearby attractions By Randy Mink
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The Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum is housed in Cardinals Nation, a restaurant/bar in St. Louis’ Ballpark Village. Photo courtesy of Missouri Division of Tourism
F
rom the Mississippi River to the western edge of the state, Missouri has its bases covered when it comes to offering baseball experiences for sports-minded groups. Game tickets can be a big plus when marketing a tour, but even if a team’s home-game schedule doesn’t jive with trip dates, planners can still sprinkle their line-up with baseball museums, stadium tours, and sports-themed restaurants and bars. The St. Louis Cardinals, holder of 11 World Series titles and 19 National League pennants, is one of the most storied teams in Major League Baseball. The city’s beloved Redbirds play at Busch Stadium, whose tiers of red seats lie just blocks from the riverfront’s iconic Gateway Arch. Adjacent to the field is the Ballpark Village entertainment district, a great place to hang out before, during and after a game – or even when the team is away. During a stadium tour guests can visit a suite, walk on the warning track (on non-game days) and view World Series trophies and souvenir scorecards displayed in the exclusive UMB Bank Champions Club. The one-hour tour, offered yearround, is wheelchair-accessible. In the plaza outside the park gates, bronze statues of Cardinal legends (Stan Musial, Bob Gibson, Lou Brock, Rogers Hornsby and others) make good photo opportunities. The current Busch Stadium, with capacity for 46,000 fans, replaced the one that existed in the same location from 19662005. Though St. Louis-based Anheuser-Busch sold the Cardinals in 1996 to concentrate on the beer business, it retains naming rights to the ballpark.
The Cardinals Hall of Fame and Museum is housed in Cardinals Nation, a Ballpark Village restaurant and bar. In the museum’s “Holding History” area, you can view a World Series ring up close or slip on plastic gloves to pose with a bat that was swung by players such as Ozzie Smith and Yadier Molina. A radio broadcast booth lets you call the play of your choice from six historic games and then listen to the recording. One exhibit recalls the Mark McGwire-Sammy Sosa home run race of 1998, and you can sit in a stadium seat to watch a video of McGwire’s 70th homer. Stadium tour tickets include admission to the museum. Bally Sports Live!, a cavernous sports bar featuring a 40-foot-wide video screen, is a prime gathering place at Ballpark Village. Thanks to a 100-foot-long retractable glass roof, one of the largest of its kind in the country, fans can enjoy fresh air during warmer months. Sports & Social St. Louis, also at Ballpark Village, offers a laid-back outdoor space with a huge videoboard, fireplaces, Cardinal red chairs, live music and games like Jenga and cornhole. PBR St. Louis, a country-western bar, has a mechanical bull and large dance floor. At Anheuser-Busch Brewery, just south of downtown, 75-minute tours include the historic Brewhouse, Beechwood Aging Cellars, packaging facilities and grand stables of the Budweiser Clydesdales. Grant’s Farm, the ancestral home of the Busch family, lies 13 miles southwest of St. Louis. The free, family-friendly attraction is home to Clydesdales and a menagerie of other animals, from camels and goats to zebras 2022 MI S S OURI G ROUP TOUR G UIDE
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Uniform of the legendary Kansas City Monarchs at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Kansas City Photo courtesy of Visit KC
and bison. Warm Springs Ranch, near Boonville in the rolling hills of central Missouri, is the breeding and training farm for the Clydesdales and offers onehour walking tours. In Kansas City, Major League action takes place at Kauffman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals. The “K,” as locals call it, is part of the Harry S. Truman Sports Complex, which includes the Kansas City Chiefs’ Arrowhead Stadium. In Kauffman Stadium’s outfield area, the Water Spectacular features a 322-foot-wide gallery of colorful fountains that activate before and after the game and in between innings. The Outfield Experience is a family-friendly area with a carousel, playground, mini golf and music stage. It also encompasses the two-story Royals Hall of Fame, which game day guests can visit until the top of the eighth inning. The Plaque Gallery honors Royals greats like George Brett, Bret Saberhagen and Frank White. Another gallery has an impressive collection of player bobbleheads. Artifacts in the Hall of Fame include the baseball and bat from Brett’s 3,000th hit and trophies from championship
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seasons. Items on loan from the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum in Cooperstown, New York, are on display as well. A 15-minute film in the Dugout Theatre spotlights the history of professional baseball in Kansas City. Interactive features let you design your own ballpark or call plays at an announcer’s booth. Tours of Kauffman Stadium, available year-round, provide a behind-the-scenes look at the ballpark and may include stops at the press box, visitors’ dugout, a suite, the Outfield Plaza and Hall of Fame, depending on scheduled activities. Fans looking for a taste of Kansas City barbecue may want to try the stadium’s classic Rookie Sandwich— smoked chopped brisket or pulled pork smothered in barbecue sauce and served on a bun with pickles. Or they can chow down on corn tortilla chips topped with brisket, BBQ baked beans, cheesy corn, coleslaw and barbecue sauce. In Kansas City’s historic jazz district at 18th and Vine, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum tells the story of organized baseball played by AfricanAmericans during the many decades they were denied the opportunity to
compete in the majors. Exhibits feature jerseys, gloves, signed baseballs and other memorabilia. Statues pay tribute to Negro Leagues greats like catcher Josh Gibson and pitcher Satchel Paige. Jackie Robinson, who broke the color barrier when he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947, played for the Kansas City Monarchs, the longest-running franchise in the history of the Negro Leagues. The team was a charter member of the Negro National League, which was founded in 1920 at a YMCA within walking distance of the museum. Located in the same building, the American Jazz Museum pays tribute to Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Charlie Parker, Ella Fitzgerald and others who pioneered the uniquely American music genre. The story is told through videos, listening stations and artifacts. The Blue Room, designed to look like a 1930s jazz club, offers concerts and jam sessions on select days. A combination ticket for the two museums at 18th and Vine is available. The best place for entertainment in downtown KC is the Kansas City Power & Light District, an eight-block area packed with bars, music clubs, restaurants and shops. Called the “P&L” by locals, it’s a good place to gather after a ball game or a show at the nearby T-Mobile Center arena. A covered courtyard hosts free and ticketed summer shows by rock and country acts. Minor league baseball offers a more intimate setting but can be just as much fun as big-league games. In Missouri’s third-largest city, the Springfield Cardinals, a Double-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, play at downtown’s Hammons Field, a fine venue for watching future stars. More than 100 players who’ve made it to the major leagues got their start in Springfield. Food promotions, giveaways, theme nights, on-field contests and entertainment, along with quality baseball, keep crowds engaged. Springfield is home to Bass Pro Shops’ mammoth flagship store and the neighboring Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium. Both are wonders themselves and deserve as much time as you can give them.•
A wonderful sunset over Lake of the Ozarks Photo courtesy of Lake of the Ozarks Convention & Visitor Bureau
UNWIND AND PLAY AT
LAKE OF THE OZARKS There’s plenty of fun for visitors of all ages and interests By Christopher Silbernagel
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A
visit to Missouri’s serpentine-shaped Lake of the Ozarks is guaranteed to be a fun-filled trip that will please laid-back travelers and adventure seekers alike. From fishing and boating to golfing and live music, there truly is something for everyone.
Recreational activities With a surface area stretching across 54,000 acres, the Lake of the Ozarks has plenty of space for fishing and water sports. For a relaxing outing, grab a pole and cast a line to see what you can catch. Fishing guide services are available to help you find specific species such as bass, crappie and more. If you’re looking for an aquatic adventure, rent a paddleboard, kayak, personal watercraft or boat at one of the lake’s many marinas. Any person born after 1984 must successfully pass a Missouri Boater Education class/test before operating any motorized vessel on the lakes of Missouri. Out to hit the links? The area has golf courses designed by some of the sport’s biggest names, including Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Tom Weiskopf. Old Kinderhook Resort in Camdenton provides sweeping vistas and a championshiplevel layout that makes full use of the terrain for 18 unique holes. You can’t go wrong with either of the two courses at Margaritaville Lake Resort. Known for lush fairways and beautiful scenery, the courses are ideal for golfers of all skill levels. The stunning Cove Golf Course at the Lodge of Four Seasons delivers a challenge to test your skills. The serene lake makes the perfect backdrop as you focus on your game.
State parks and other natural attractions Lake of the Ozarks State Park offers groups plenty to experience. Cycling, hiking and horseback riding provides scenic lake views along paths running through shaded woodlands and sunny glades.
Visit one of Missouri’s famed caves – Stark Caverns – to witness geologic wonders. Choose from a variety of tours, including an old-fashioned lantern expedition and a modern black light display that features the cave’s fluorescent minerals. Prehistoric fossils and Native American artifacts give visitors a glimpse into the cave’s rich history. Paths through the cave are paved, making most of it wheelchair accessible.
Music and amusements Take a comfortable guided tour with Celebration Cruises. In the afternoon, a narrated lake cruise covers the history of Bagnell Dam, Lake of the Ozarks and the surrounding landscape. The evening cruise package focuses on the gorgeous sunset, while the candlelight dinner package provides a special dining experience with an upscale menu. After your cruise, head to the Bagnell Dam Strip to peruse gift shops, candy stores, arcades and more. For the over-21 crowd, Ozark Distillery is a family-owned business that produces handcrafted, small-batch spirits using traditional methods. Stop by the tasting room for a sample or take a tour to get a behind-the-scenes look at the operation. If wine is more to your liking, Shawnee Bluff Winery offers tastings and panoramic views of the lake in addition to live music events. There are plenty of music and entertainment options within a short distance of the lake. Main Street Music Hall is great for guests of all ages with performances from topnotch singers and musicians. Classics and country favorites paired with comedy and impersonations make for a feelgood show – no matter your musical tastes. The Ozarks Amphitheater hosts world-class performers such as the legendary Willie Nelson and the Christian rock band Skillet. Start planning your trip at funlake.com. •
Lake of the Ozarks waterfront dining Photo courtesy of Lake of the Ozarks Convention & Visitor Bureau
2022 MI S S OURI G ROUP TOUR G UIDE
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ITINERARY
Perry County, Missouri
Explore Faith, Freedom and Heritage SCAN FOR INFO
Eighty miles south of St. Louis on I-55 is charming Perryville, Missouri and the surrounding county. Visit the American Tractor Museum for an appreciation of the equipment that feeds America. Pay respect to the veterans that defended our nation at Missouri’s National Veterans Museum.
PERRY COUNTY HERITAGE TOURISM Trish Erzfeld trish@perryvillemo.com 573-517-2069 visitperrycounty.com
Day 1:
Check in at one of Perryville’s four group-friendly hotels. This evening is a Beer/Wine Pairing Dinner. Let Chef Matt prepare you a dinner of amazement that pairs multiple courses of your meal with the perfect craft beer or wine experience. Take a food journey customized for your group with Matt Ruesler of food locally grown and prepared.
Day 2: Continental breakfast at your hotel before departing. American Tractor Museum: Opened in 2020, this museum celebrates the iconic machine and backbone of America. Tour this amazing collection walking you through the evolution of the machine that plowed, planted and harvested the American dream for centuries. See one of the most unique and largest collections of its kind featuring rare manufacturers such as Rumely, Waterloo Boy, Case, Illinois, Indiana, Huber, Plymouth, Avery and many more. Guided tour available. Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial: If you have never had the opportunity to visit the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C., here is your chance. This awe-inspiring EXACT full-scale sister wall to the Vietnam Wall in Washington, D.C. offers veterans, civilians and those currently serving a place in the Midwest to reflect on the sacrifices of all service men and women. A museum and gift shop are on site. Guided tour available. Lunch- Preordered buffet lunch or bag lunch at the previous site. The Lutheran Heritage Center & Museum
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professionally interprets and beautifully preserves the history of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod religion and the German descendants of the Altenburg and Frohna area since 1836. It highlights their quest to get here and their trials, tribulations and triumphs. The historic Log Cabin College was the first college west of the Mississippi. Tour the museum, college site and more than 100-year old Trinity Lutheran Church. Dinner in Altenburg. Enjoy an authentic German home-cooked meal featuring several German favorites of the area. This meal is served family style with a food guide telling you about the dishes, their traditions and how they became favorites. Learn how to spread cooked cheese on homemade baked bread the way it was meant to.
Day 3: National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal & Rosary Walk: Nationally recognized, the Shrine and church have welcomed visitors since 1818. It’s designed as a 1/3-scale replica of the motherhouse in Cistrio Rome that serves as the historic seat of the American Vincentians. The shrine is decorated with beautiful paintings and intricate design work on the walls and ceiling to make it a masterpiece. Don’t miss the candle room of thousands of lighted candles in prayer. Rosary Walk is a 35-minute walk option for visitors. Easy stroll, flower gardens, natural areas, WWI grotto, plenty of benches, shade and breathtaking marble and bronze statues from Italy. • All meals/menus can be arranged through Trish Erzfeld, Director of the Perry County Heritage Tourism.
Jamesport downtown shopping Artwork done by Charity Trotter with Clicks By Charity Photography
TREAT YOURSELF TO A TRIP TO
AMISH COUNTRY This charming community is a perfect spot to get away from it all By Isabella Wilkes
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L
ocated in northwest Missouri just 25 miles from Chillicothe, Jamesport is home to the largest Old Order Amish Settlement west of the Mississippi River. The tranquility of the town serves as the perfect backdrop for a relaxing getaway where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Spend the day strolling along the streets and visiting some of the many shops along the way – like Downhome Collectibles, Sue’s Soft Stuff and Sherwood Quilt & Craft. Gather inspiration for your next home renovation project from the Amish craftsmanship on display at Country Heritage Furniture. If you own horses, pick up beautifully crafted supplies and gear at Elmer Beechy Harness and Supplies or Abie Hostetler Running Gear – if you have room left in your suitcase. Jamesport also boasts an abundance of good eats and sweet treats. Country Cupboard Restaurant and Jamesport Tavern are two great sit-down places for traditional American cuisine. The town’s bakeries are a must for fresh bread and pastries made daily. Local favorites include Anna’s Bake Shop and Gingerich Dutch Bakery. When visiting Jamesport, embarking on a tour is the best way to get to know the area. The local chamber of commerce offers guided group tours catered to your interests. A truly unique experience is Murder Mystery Weekends, hosted at the Country Colonial Bed and Breakfast. This weekend package for six requires three couples and participants in this staged event must explore Jamesport to find clues surrounding a recent “murder.” The event is perfect for curious, competitive groups. Murder Mystery
A Jamesport buggy is a common sight. Artwork done by Charity Trotter with Clicks By Charity Photography
Weekends includes some meals and your stay at the B&B. The area surrounding Jamesport also provides ample activities to explore. Green Acres Riding Stables offers 17-mile guided tours though the natural beauty of Poosey Conservation Area, which is worth a visit on its own. Located southeast of downtown Jamesport, the area has numerous hiking trails. Green Hills Golf Course is only a 30-minute drive away in Chillicothe. Also in Chillicothe is the Sliced Bread Innovation Center, which is located in the historic location of the bakery that invented and sold sliced bread. It even houses one of the original bread slicers and features several interactive exhibits and a documentary on Chillicothe and sliced bread. Learn the story behind the phrase “The greatest thing since sliced bread” in the very building where sliced bread was invented in 1928. To top it all off, Jamesport’s local population is welcoming to visitors who pass through. All of these factors make a trip to Jamesport an unparalleled experience in Missouri.•
Joplin History & Mineral Museum Historic Murphysburg
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A few of the classics at Karlock’s Kars and Pop Culture, Hannibal Photo courtesy of Visit Missouri
SMALL TOWN MUSEUMS WITH
BIG STORIES These Missouri museums will educate and entertain groups By Dave Bodle MI SSSOOUR U RII GGR R OOUP UP TO TOUR UR GU GUID IDEE 16 22002222 MIS
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useums in small communities often reveal significant historical or cultural tidbits about the area. It’s particularly enjoyable to discover something of special interest when visiting one of these spots. Here’s a sampling of small town museums you can find in the Show-Me State.
The National Stars and Stripes Museum and Library Located about 45 miles south of Cape Girardeau in Bloomfield, the museum is dedicated to celebrating the importance of the Stars and Stripes newspaper to the United States military and citizens. The museum documents the history of Stars and Stripes, beginning with the first issue – published during the Civil War by Union troops in November 1861 – and continuing through the wars of the 20th and 21st centuries and into the modern era. With more than 7,000 square feet of multimedia exhibits, the museum gives visitors the opportunity to explore America’s military history from another viewpoint. The comprehensive exhibits begin in the Civil War Room. Learn how Iowa and Illinois troops, after defeating a pro-South Missouri State Guard, set up camp in deserted Bloomfield and began an American military heritage. Entering the World War I Room via a replica trench, visitors are introduced to the publication’s editors, cartoonists and Doughboy poetry. After the end of World War I, Stars and Stripes did not publish again until World War II. Exhibits in the World War II Room share the story of the Normandy Invasion, Battle of the Bulge and famous Stripers (former staffers of the paper). The Korean War, Vietnam War and Modern Era sections also feature former Stripers. Guided tours are available. There’s no charge to visit, but donations are appreciated. Start planning your visit at nssml.org.
A WWI replica trench at The National Stars and Stripes Museum and Library, Bloomfield Photo courtesy of The National Stars and Stripes Museum and Library
Karlock’s Kars and Pop Culture You’ll discover three museums in one at a former produce warehouse in historic downtown Hannibal. The architecture is certainly part of this interesting attraction. Built in 1860 by Robert Elliott, a native of England, the building has since undergone a major restoration. The clean lines, brickwork, arches and timber posts and beams remain as a reminder of the workmanship Elliott put into his building. Set among the neon signs, collectibles and pictures of a bygone era are beautiful classic cars and one-of-a-kind American muscle cars. You don’t have to be a fan of antique cars or motorcycles to thoroughly enjoy the experience. However, if you do appreciate this type of exhibit, this is the place for you. Among the vast collection of pop culture items are toys, models, classic pinball machines and arcade games. Perhaps you’ll remember stand ups from classic movies and posters from the “Golden Age” of film. Music lovers will be transported back in time by the extensive jukebox collection and posters of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley and other notables. Find more information at karlockskars.net.
Missouri Meerschaum Corn Cob Pipe Museum For many men – and possibly a few women – who grew up in rural America, it’s likely the corn cob pipe crossed your path at one
Relax at the Missouri Meerschaum Corn Cob Pipe Museum, Washington Photo courtesy of Missouri Meerschaum Corn Cob Pipe Museum
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time or another. There’s a history to those corn cob pipes, but you’ll need to travel to Washington, Missouri, the “Corn Cob Capital of the World,” for the details. The town is home to the oldest and largest corn cob pipe manufacturer in the world. It all began with a Dutch immigrant woodworker in 1869 who began making and selling corn cob pipes. He was soon producing more pipes than anything else. In 1907, he established the Missouri Meerschaum Company and developed a national distribution system. In 1925, there were a dozen corn cob pipe manufacturers in Franklin County, most located in Washington. Today, Missouri Meerschaum is the only remaining manufacturer and celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2019. Step into the past and allow your museum guide to share the unique story of how corn cob pipes came to be manufactured in Washington by local resident Henry Tibbe. You’ll see historical documents and photos of literary personalities and U.S. military leaders who enjoyed Missouri Meerschaum pipes. There are rocking chairs for relaxing and a shop to browse for memorabilia of your visit. For more information, visit corncobpipe.com.
Nicholas-Beazley Aviation Museum The sole mission of a museum located in Marshall, approximately halfway between Columbia and Kansas City, is to expand visitors’ knowledge of aviation. That mission is accomplished through exclusive collections, temporary exhibits, custom tours and special events. The featured exhibits begin with the NB-3, the “new day airplane.” This two-seat training aircraft was designed by Walter Barling, manufactured by Nicholas-Beazley Airplane Company and first flown in February 1928. Only 20 of the aircraft were built. The two-seat NB-8G on display has wings that could be folded back. These private-owner planes were introduced in 1931, and only 57 were built. The Young Aviators exhibit is an interactive setting where children can begin to learn how planes fly. The next
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Exhibits tell the story at Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home & Museum. Photo courtesy of Visit Missouri
step is the Dream to Fly flight simulator – perfect for kids and adults. A hands-on area for students has numerous STEM opportunities. Begin your planning here: nicholasbeazley.org.
Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home & Museum About an hour’s drive east of Springfield, Missouri, on U.S. 60, you’ll discover the home where the author of the Little House on the Prairie series lived and began writing. Laura Ingalls Wilder was truly a pioneer girl who had lived the life she depicted in her books. The museum tells her story – from her birth in 1867 in Wisconsin to her arrival at Rocky Ridge Farm in 1894, where she lived until her death in 1957. The museum inspires curiosity and promotes learning about the American pioneer experience. Rocky Ridge Farm held a special place in Laura’s life. It was the homestead where
she wrote the books that made her a world-famous author and where she began giving back to her community. The historic farmhouse remains as it was in 1957. Efforts to conserve Laura’s furniture began in 2018 and continue to the present. Another completed restoration is the Wilder Family Walking Trail, where you can follow in the footsteps of the Wilder family. The trail was originally the path from the farmhouse to the Rock House. Known for its custom rock masonry, the Rock House was given to Laura and her husband, Almanzo, by their only daughter, Rose Lane. Visitors can tour the house where Laura – at 65 – wrote the first four Little House on the Prairie books. Learn more at lauraingallswilderhome.com. There are dozens of other special interest museums to be found in Missouri’s small towns. Discover more at VisitMO.com.•
Add some flowers and giggles to your next tour.
Richardson Adventure Farm
Tulip Fest at Richardson Adventure Farm is just one of the colorful, historic and entertaining stops on our new Flowers & Giggles group tour itinerary. Contact our group tour specialist, Jayne Nordstrom at Jayne@LakeCounty.org or call 800-525-3669. Find helpful planning resources at VisitLakeCounty.org.
Lake County
Lake Michigan
Milwaukee
Chicago
Vigneto Del Bino Winery
Historic Downtown Long Grove
See all of our itineraries, including Flowers & Giggles, at VisitLakeCounty.org/TourItineraries.
Chicago Botanic Garden
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10
GREAT MUSEUMS IN NEW YORK STATE These treasure chests, some a bit off the beaten path, will educate, entertain and enchant your group By Randy Mink
Hot Glass Demos showcase the magic of glass-making at The Corning Museum of Glass .
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Photo courtesy of The Corning Museum of Glass
W
hether your tour itinerary includes the Big Apple, touches the Hudson River Valley or traverses central or western New York, there’s a museum waiting to impress your travelers. While big-time Manhattan repositories like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and American Museum of Natural History tend to grab the spotlight, smaller museums in New York City and elsewhere lurk under the radar. Some of them will appeal to history buffs, others to dog lovers, baseball fans or art aficionados. Here is a look at 10 cultural gems across New York State:
West Point Museum West Point Opened to the public in 1854, America’s oldest federal museum preserves memorabilia pertaining to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Army and history of warfare. The extensive weapons collection,
dating back to antiquity, includes pieces that belonged to men such as George Washington, Napoleon I, George Patton, Dwight Eisenhower and Adolf Hitler. The American Wars gallery displays the armor of colonial militiamen, muddy jungle fatigues of a Vietnam soldier, field glasses used at the Battle of Gettysburg and last message sent by Lt. Col. George A. Custer at the Battle of Little Big Horn. Visitors also learn about the opening of the American frontier, Buffalo Soldiers, construction of the Panama Canal, the secret Manhattan Project that built the atomic bomb and U.S. Army aviation, from balloons to space exploration to the Gulf War of 1991. (https://history.army.mil)
The Corning Museum of Glass Corning Established in 1951 by Corning Glass Works (now Corning Inc.), this museum in western New York’s Finger Lakes region October 2021 ■ 43
boasts one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive glass collections, with pieces going back as far as ancient Egypt. Hands-on exhibits explain the science and technology of innovations in glass. In a 500-seat auditorium, the Hot Glass Demo presents narrated glassblowing demonstrations by master glassblowers who transform molten glass into vases, bowls and sculptures. Novices can test their aptitude in the “Make Your Own Glass” experience in The Studio. The Contemporary Art + Design Wing is the largest space anywhere devoted to the display of contemporary art in glass. (https://home.cmog.org)
FDR’s Ford Phaeton. “Confront the Issues” are 10 touch screens strategically located throughout the exhibition that let visitors explore digital “flipbooks” containing documents, photographs and excerpts from historians related to controversial issues during Roosevelt’s presidency. Topics include “Japanese American Internment,” “FDR and the Holocaust,” “FDR’s Health” and “Did the New Deal Really Work?” Fireside Chat environments with a radio and period furnishings invite visitors to sit and listen to FDR’s radio messages to the public. After the Chat audio concludes, visitors can hear readings from letters about how Americans felt about his leadership. (fdrlibrary.org)
Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum
AKC Museum of the Dog
Hyde Park The library and museum is located next to Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, which preserves FDR’s birthplace and life-long home overlooking the Hudson River. Immersive audio-visual theaters, photos and artifacts, including gifts from admirers and heads of state, chronicle FDR’s presidency, from its beginnings in the depths of the Great Depression through the New Deal and World War II. Interactive exhibits include touch screen experiences at the Oval Office Desk and
New York City The American Kennel Club’s Museum of the Dog, a short walk from Grand Central Terminal in midtown Manhattan, boasts one of the finest and largest collections of canine-related art and artifacts in the world. On display are paintings, drawings, prints, ceramics and bronzes. Interactive stations include “Find Your Match,” a digital board that matches your face to a dog breed, and “Meet the Breeds,” a touch screen that lets guests explore the history and traits of different breeds. At the Working Dog station, guests learn to train a working dog (i.e. police, therapy or search & rescue dog) with a series of commands and hand signals, testing what they’ve learned with an on-screen virtual dog that responds to the signals and commands in real time. The special exhibit “9/11 Remembered: Search & Rescue Dogs” runs through January 2, 2022. Dog lovers will like the gift shop. (museumofthedog.org)
Photo courtesy of Randy Mink
National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum
Ruth and Williams, National Baseball Hall of Fame
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Cooperstown This place of pilgrimage in central New York State, along with baseball souvenir shops up and down Main Street, spells nirvana for fans of America’s national pastime. The hallowed hall is a bucket-list destination that avid devotees of Major League Baseball, no matter their team, want to see before they die. From artifacts and play-by-play videos, to stats, facts and plaques, there is much to
absorb. Fans can individualize their visit in “The Locker Room,” where clubhouse exhibits on each team feature bats, balls, jerseys, video highlights and other memorabilia representing current players and recent events in team history. The “Shoebox Treasures” exhibit explores the history of baseball cards and features 10 of the rarest ones. Other exhibits salute contributions to the game by women, Hispanics and AfricanAmericans. The Hank Aaron Gallery of Records’ “One for the Books” exhibit honors all-time leaders in categories like home runs, hits, strikeouts and RBIs. The Hall of Fame’s Plaque Gallery is the heart and soul of America’s shrine to baseball’s immortals. Affixed to the oakpaneled walls in the Rotunda are plaques bearing bronze-relief likenesses of the chosen few. Side-by-side statues of Babe Ruth and Ted Williams provide a good photo-op in the Rotunda. (baseballhall.org)
Fenimore Art Museum and The Farmers’ Museum Cooperstown The Fenimore’s outstanding array of American fine art and folk art includes paintings by Grandma Moses and Thomas Cole, quilts and weather vanes, plus carved wood sculptures like ship figureheads and an 1870 cigar store Indian. The Clare E. and Eugene V. Thaw Collection of American Indian Art, one of the finest such collections in the world, has masks, woven blankets, moccasins, war clubs, necklaces, baskets and pottery; some objects date back as far as the 1600s. Rare artifacts include Chief Black Hawk’s drawing book, a Tlingit wooden chest and war helmet from Alaska, and a magnificent eagle feather headdress from a Plains tribe in the Dakotas. Across the road, the Farmers’ Museum, the Fenimore’s sister institution, is a historical village and farmstead depicting 19th century life. The museum’s 1917 fieldstone dairy barn, owned by gentleman farmer Edward Clark and original to the site, has a vast collection of antique tools and farm implements, from a hop press and butter churn to maple syrup- and cider-making equipment. Clark was the brother of art connoisseur Stephen C. Clark, whose trove of treasures formed the basis for the Fenimore, originally built >> LeisureGroupTravel.com
Photo courtesy of National Comedy Center
as his home. The Clark family, heirs to the Singer Sewing Machine Co. fortune, started the National Baseball Hall of Fame, and their foundation still plays a big role in the life of the community. Combination tickets to the Cooperstown museums are available. (fenimoreartmuseum.org, farmersmuseum.org)
Jell-O Gallery LeRoy Original advertising art, molds, recipe books, toys, collectibles and other memorabilia tell the story of the popular gelatin dessert, a product born in LeRoy in 1897. Jell-O was manufactured in LeRoy (30 miles southwest of Rochester) until 1964 and today is made by Kraft/General Foods in Dover, Delaware. An item of trivia: the first four Jell-O flavors were orange, lemon, strawberry and raspberry. The museum gift shop sells a wide variety of souvenirs bearing the Jell-O logo, from aprons and chef hats to stuffed animals, potholders, boxers and golf balls. (jellogallery.org)
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Lucy-Desi Museum in Jamestown, New York
National Comedy Center Jamestown Plenty of laughs are in store in the hometown of Lucille Ball. Located in southwestern New York, the world-class National Comedy Center, which opened in 2018, offers an interactive journey through comedy history. More than 50 exhibits showcase great minds and voices of the art form, from Charlie Chaplin to Dave Chappelle. Also in Jamestown, the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, founded in 1996, explores the personal lives, careers and legacy of
the “First Couple of Comedy.” Operated by the National Comedy Center, the LucyDesi museum features exact re-creations of studio sets from “I Love Lucy,” the classic 1950s TV show that continues to entertain new generations in reruns today. Through the generosity of Luci Arnaz and Desi Arnaz Jr., the museum maintains a significant collection of their parents’ personal belongings, including costumes, gowns, photographs, letters, scripts and awards. One ticket grants admission to both museums. (comedycenter.org)
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10 Cities to Plan Your Next Girls Getaway
These Arizona destinations have plenty of food, fun and shopping for your trip
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t’s decided: After the exhaustion of this past year, you and your girlfriends need a vacation. And there is no better place to plan a girls’ trip than Arizona.
PHOENIX As one of the fastest-growing cities in America, Phoenix is a trendy city full of aesthetically pleasing places to eat, drink and socialize. A G.N.O. in downtown Phoenix will take you to places like the Monarch Theatre, Gypsy Bar, CityScape and Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour.
SCOTTSDALE In Scottsdale, you can’t throw a stone without hitting an award-winning spa and resort. The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Boulders Resort & Spa by Hilton, JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa, and The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician all have breathtaking views of the desert landscape.
MESA If your group of girlfriends happen to be avid golfers, Mesa is home to some of the best golf courses in the entire country. Dobson Ranch Golf Course in an 18-hole professionallevel course and Las Sendas takes you through a desert scape. 46
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CHANDLER Chandler is not a place to miss out on during your girls trip, as this suburb offers culture and entertainment that is distinctly its own. Aerogelic Ballooning is a hot air balloon ride that takes you on a tour of the Phoenix area.
TUCSON Tucson, located in southern Arizona about 90 minutes from Greater Phoenix, is the second-biggest city in the state. Surrounded by the Sonoran Desert and ringed by mountains, there are countless companies dedicated to the exploration of this stunning desert landscape like Sonoran Rovers.
GLENDALE Situated nine miles north of Phoenix is Glendale, home to the Arizona Cardinals. You and your girlfriends are sure to avoid an inclement weather delay going to a game in this sunny city.
you will have unlimited plates to post to your Instagram story with its cutting-edge culinary scene.
LAKE HAVASU CITY Lake Havasu City, 3.5 hours northwest of Greater Phoenix, is an oasis within the desert: a pristine lake surrounded by a bustling city filled with plenty of activities for a girls’ trip.
TEMPE Tempe has offerings completely unique to its suburban neighbors. Tempe’s restaurants are next-level and offer a multitude of delicious vegan and vegetarian options with places like Green New American Vegetarian, Café Lalibela and Healthy Italian Kitchen.
FLAGSTAFF Known as the “City Of 7 Wonders,” there are amazing natural spaces within a short drive that will take your breath away, including the Grand Canyon and the San Francisco Peaks.
GILBERT Gilbert is another town located in Phoenix’s metropolitan area. One unique experience to mark your girls’ trip is Right on Target Clay Guides, a shooting range where you can shoot clay targets, or “skeets.” Gilbert guarantees
ARIZONA OFFICE OF TOURISM info@tourism.az.gov rediscoveraz.com
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REGION
IN THE WEST Wellness resorts wave “bye-bye” to stress effect By Mary Lu Laffey
ITERATIONS OF “I didn’t know how much I really needed this until now,” appear on evaluations at wellness resorts all over the world.
A guest room at the Golden Door
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Photo courtesy of Lake Austin Spa Resort
Stephane Beaucamp, executive chef at Lake Austin Spa Resort.
Cindy Present, Fitness & Activities director at Lake Austin Spa Resort in Austin, Texas, makes a point to read each and every one that is left by guests. Lately, a theme of commitment stands out: “Two days is not enough. I didn’t start ‘coming down’ until day two, then I could really relax.” And a favorite, “I’m planning on coming here every three months to stay true to myself.” Clients, it appears, want to return home ready to handle whatever life is throwing their way. Wellness resorts prioritize health for mind and body, and clients have noticed. Repeat guests and more and more new ones seek active escapes. They may arrive on their own or with small groups in tow. Having men around the house isn’t news for the storied Golden Door Wellness Resort in San Marcos, California. It celebrates an 80 percent return rate among its guests. When
Photo courtesy of Lake Austin Spa Resort
Kayaking on Lake Austin
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attendees at a recent men’s week added up the number of times they previously visited, the total neared the 100 mark. In April, McKinsey & Co. forecasted the staying power of wellness and its spinoff effect on wellness travel. It reported that the future of the $1.5 trillion (global and overall) wellness market (including products) is here to stay and that consumers worldwide plan to increase spending on health, appearance and fitness. Other data shows wellness tourism to be a $420 million slice of the broader wellness pie. “If the pandemic has taught us one thing,” the McKinsey report concluded, “it’s that physical and mental health will remain a priority for millions of people across the globe for a long time to come” At a wellness resort, the means to achieve personal goals starts with an attitude adjustment for both the resort and its guests. Clients are more savvy and are expecting the option of proactive schedules
as well as pampering. Trend spotters say to watch for interest in both indigenous practices and high-tech approaches. It’s time to embark on new ground to de-stress and to regroup resources. Relaxation? Yes, but action that is unexpected as well.
For example, for those seeking the benefits of yoga, there’s plenty to discover. Guests at Cal-A-Vie Health Spa in Vista, California can enjoy crystal yoga to find inner strength and focus in a serene, quiet 400-year-old chapel or out-of-doors during golden hour at the resort’s vineyard. Or, enter aerial yoga at Hyatt’s Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa in Catalina, Arizona. Consider paddle board yoga classes held lakeside at Lake Austin Spa Resort. Red Mountain Resort near St. George, Utah makes certain there is a mindfulness component to any of its offerings and that includes yoga. At the Golden Door, guests experience a “Yoga for Everyone” attitude that pushes boundaries for strength and flexibility — in the studio or among a strand of bamboo. All five wellness resorts have developed exertion and meditation programs to help guests relax the mind and develop physical strength.
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Cal-a-Vie Health Spa Vista, California
What to expect: European-style s pa dedicated to customizing guest experiences for self-care.
Culinary: Daily cooking classes with c hef and dietician using ingredients from the garden. Accolades: Top 10 Best Spas in the W orld, Conde Nast Travel Reader’s Choice cal-a-vie.com
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Photo courtesy of Cal-a-Vie Health Spa
Surprise! Create personalized spa days with choices that include stretches at 6:15 a.m, mid-morning Tread and Shed through afternoon hikes and Chakra Yoga or Letting Go Vinyasa. Plus, stargazing at the L’Orangerie.
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Golden Door Spa & Resort San Marcos, California
What to expect: At California’s first d estination spa, the practicing philosophy is to help guests reposition themselves by tending to their bodies, minds and spirits. Surprise! Leisurely seven-day p rograms designed to recharge body, mind and spirit with a four-to-one staff ratio.
Accolades: 2019 #1 Spa in the World, Conde Nast Traveler goldendoor.com
Lake Austin Spa Resort
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Austin, Texas
What to expect: “Where wellness meets the water” is fitting tag for this lakeside resort in the middle of Texas Hill Country. The location provides a perfect backdrop for new beginnings, relaxation and rejuvenation. Surprise! Use a water taxi to access resort located in Lake Austin, a sure way to leave stress behind. The restorative power of water ripples through and impacts personalized programs. Photo courtesy of Lake Austin Spa Resort
Culinary: The chef says the cuisine is conscientious and uses French influences to create healthy and flavorful menus.
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Accolades: Conde Nast Traveler’s #1 Destination Spa Resort in North America and #2 in the World, also recognized by Southern Living, Travel & Leisure and on 10 Best USA Today list. lakeaustin.com
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Photo courtesy of Golden Door
Culinary: Meal plans designed for d ietary needs created from produce grown on spa’s bio-intensive farms. Cooking classes, too.
Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa Catalina, Arizona
What to expect: Sonoran sunsets, l uxury villas and personalized schedules enhance stays on a physical and spiritual level. Not to miss: Life in Balance Spa.
Accolades: 2021 U.S. News & World R eport Best Hotels, in 2020 World Spa Arizona’s Best Wellness Retreat, 2020 Top 10 Destinations Spas in U.S. Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards miravalarizona.com
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Photo courtesy of Miraval Arizona Resort and Spa
Surprise! Guests are invited to step into b liss with Indigenous healing practices and the simple joy that a trail ride can offer.
Red Mountain Resort & Spa Ivins, Utah
What to expect: Expect the unexpected as in outer worldly outdoor adventures individually tailored to each guest plus healthy life classes and personal discovery activities. Surprise! Use the Red Mountain app to create an essential adventure retreat designed just for the client.
Photo courtesy of Red Mountain Resort
Culinary: Clean, whole foods and pasture raised meats with sustainably harvested seafood and seasonal fruits and vegetables are prepared in-house. Accolades: Top 100 Spas of America 2020 plus 2020 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice recipient redmountainresort.com
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Arizona Office of Tourism Madison Square Garden, New York, NY Bellingrath Gardens & Home, Theodore, AL O aklawn Racing Casino Resort, Hot Springs, AR H arrah’s Cherokee Resort and Casino, Cherokee, NC Virginia Beach CVB, VA Lake County CVB, IL
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Missouri Group Tour Guide
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