2022
Great Ideas For Groups,
Coast-to-Coast! A Premier Travel Media publication • LeisureGroupTravel.com/gtd
6
Hundreds of Things To Do REGIONS
REDISCOVER ATLANTIC CITY
The Story Continues Excitement awaits in Atlantic City, including miles of sandy beaches, our world-famous Boardwalk and the thrilling Steel Pier. Enjoy tax-free shopping, award-winning dining, live entertainment and other great attractions. Here you can experience the ultimate getaway and create a lifetime of memories.
Atlantic City Expert Heather Colache is available at 609-318-6097 or hcolache@meetac.com to make sure you enjoy Atlantic City as it was meant to be experienced.
Meet AC received funding through a grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism.
TourAtlanticCity.com
WELCOME TO GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS!
CONTENTS REGIONS 4 Northeast 7 Southeast 12 Southwest 14 Midwest 24 West 26 Frontier/Mountain West
Photo courtesy of Visit the USA
Mount Rushmore National Monument
It has been a year of recovery and refocused efforts in the group travel industry. Growth has returned to many sectors—especially family travel and sports tournaments—but there is a long journey ahead before we return to a pre-2020 footing. The steady return to normalcy and leisure group travel among our friends, family and readership has inspired the content for this year’s Group Travel Destinations, which emphasizes the unique experiences that venturing away from home can bring. Our editors have scoured the nation to seek out new and enjoyable experiences for motorcoach groups of all ages, ability and interests, and we’re proud to present six features that highlight America’s six district regions. Whether you want to hike along the craggy coast of the Pacific Northwest or relax on the sandy beaches of Virginia, there are terrific group activities from coast to coast. Through our research, we’ve noticed an explosion of interest in outdoor activities. From record-breaking national park attendance to the surging popularity of sports like golf, it’s clear that travelers feel safer and more comfortable in a natural setting. We agree with this sentiment and spotlight beautiful parks and outdoor recreation activities in every region to inspire your next itinerary. Another major draw for groups is America’s worldclass cities. In this edition we profile the engaging museums, delicious restaurants and walkable cultural districts that bring millions of tourists a year. Continue to learn what’s new in these locations and group-friendly stops for your next visit. We hope that Group Travel Destinations will be a helpful companion as you plan your unforgettable 2022 adventure, and we look forward to bringing our Leisure Group Travel readers more industry news and location profiles for years to come! Happy Traveling, Miles Dobis Associate Editor
COVER PHOTO (iStock.com/scibak)
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
3
Groups eager to get outdoors and enjoy the splendors of Mother Nature will discover a panoply of scenic eye-poppers and invigorating activities in America’s diverse Mid-Atlantic region. From the beaches of coastal Delaware to the Adirondack Mountains of New York, fun-filled adventures await your travelers. Places like Allegheny National Forest in northwestern Pennsylvania and the mountains of western Maryland beckon those seeking to escape the urban frenzy, but plenty of natural beauty and recreational opportunities also can be found in the countryside right outside of Washington, D.C. Aside from its natural allures, the region offers an abundance of historical sights and cultural treasures. The District of Columbia contains hundreds of monuments and museums, while groups in Philadelphia will be enthralled as they tour Independence Hall, a hallowed shrine where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were framed. Planners looking to include a show in their itinerary have a number of solid choices, from well-established Pennsylvania dinner theaters to lavish Disney musicals on Broadway.
4 24
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
Photo courtesy of Visit Philadelphiaf
NORTHEAST
Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Photo courtesy of Visit Hudson Coutny
Photo courtesy of Meet AC
Photo courtesy of Ocean City CVB
Atlantic City, NJ
Statue of Liberty
Ocean City is your getaway Atlantic Ocean destination. With free, wide clean beaches and an expansive three-mile boardwalk, your group will have plenty of room to span out and enjoy. Whether it is enjoying a beach day in early spring or feeling the fall air beside the ocean, any season is beach season in Ocean City. Known for the local wild ponies of nearby Assateague Island, Ocean City is your headquarters for mid-Atlantic touring. >> www.ococean.com
dolphin-watching cruises also enhance group itineraries. >> www.touratlanticcity.com Only 4.7 miles from Manhattan with spectacular views of the New York City skyline, Hudson County offers direct ferry service to the Statue of Liberty and over 35 top quality hotels. Visitors can reach New York City in minutes by ferry, train, bus or car and can easily visit the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Liberty Science Center (the largest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere). Liberty State Park has 1,200 green acres of park directly across from New York City. >> visithudson.org
NEW JERSEY
NEW YORK
For casino action, beach fun and nightlife on the East Coast, no place compares to Atlantic City, New Jersey. The iconic Boardwalk runs more than five miles in length and invites visitors to stroll, bicycle or be pushed in an only-in-AtlanticCity rolling chair. An array of shopping options can be found along the Boardwalk, in the casinohotels and at Tanger Outlets The Walk, a 15-cityblock dining and retail outlet. Sightseeing and
Dubbed “The World’s Most Famous Arena,” Madison Square Garden is the perfect location to watch a concert or sporting event during your visit to New York City. In addition to being the home venue for the New York Knicks NBA team and the New York Rangers NHL team, Madison Square Garden welcomes musicians in multiple genres, wrestling matches and private events. If you’re visiting New York during the holiday season, book
tickets for the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. Starring the world-famous Rockettes, this production will lift your spirits with hundreds of dancers and choregraphed routines to classic Christmas songs. >> msg.com Embark on a leisurely excursion through New York’s Catskill Mountains on the historic Delaware & Ulster Railroad. Round trips are 24 miles between Arkville and Roxbury and take approximately two hours to complete. Themed experiences include the Great Train Robbery (which includes a dramatic shootout between a team of deputies and the Catskills Bushwackers and a Western-style barbecue) and Twilight on the Rails (an evening of live blues music aboard the train). >> durr.org
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
PENNSYLVANIA The Keystone State features dramatic state parks, bustling cities and engaging historic sites to explore on your next group visit. The city of Philadelphia traces its origins to the 17th century and is home to popular attractions like the Liberty Bell,
Delaware & Ulster Railroad
Photo courtesy of Visit Fairfax
Photo courtesy of Madison Square Garden
MARYLAND
Photo courtesy of Delaware & Ulster Railroad
Ocean City, MD
Mount Vernon
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
5
Photo courtesy of Visit Williamsburg
VIRGINIA
Newport News
folk art and decorative arts. Colonial-style fare is served in several tavern restaurants on the 301acre grounds. >> colonialwilliamsburg.org Newport News, on the southeastern end of the Virginia Peninsula, is packed with things to see and do. Virginia Living Museum, which explores the state’s natural heritage, is part zoo, nature park, aquarium, botanical garden, planetarium and science center. The Mariners’ Museum and Park is all about ships and the sea; its USS Monitor Center brings to life a famous Civil War maritime battle. Huntington Park, overlooking the James River, is home to the Virginia War Museum, a rose garden and a beach. >> newport-news.org Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, open yearround and adapted for safety, present the story of America’s 17th- and 18th-century beginnings through expansive gallery exhibits, dynamic films and immersive experiences in outdoor recreations of a Paspahegh town, three 1607 ships, a 1610-14 fort, Continental Army encampment and Revolution-era farm. >> historyisfun.org
Virginia Beach, at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, is a great place for getting in touch with nature, relaxing at the beach and walking along the festive seaside boardwalk. Active groups will want to go hiking, biking or kayaking at First Landing State Park. Manmade attractions include the Military Aviation Museum, Old Cape Henry Lighthouse, and Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, which is home to Komodo dragons, sea turtles, crocodiles and 350 other species. Whale- and dolphin-watching cruises are also big. >> visitvirginiabeach.com With 144 miles of shoreline along the Chesapeake Bay, Atlantic Ocean and several rivers, Norfolk offers countless waterfront activities for groups of all interests. Enjoy a craft cocktail at a downtown bar, embark on a sunset cruise or be energized by a worldclass art scene. Popular attractions include the Battleship Wisconsin, delicious seafood eateries along sandy beaches and the Barry Art Museum at Old Dominion University. >> visitnorfolk.com
6
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
Photo courtesy of Visit Virginia Beach
Photo courtesy of Jamestown Settlement
Groups touring the Washington, D.C. area often make their base of operation in northern Virginia’s Fairfax County, which offers more than 100 hotels for every budget. Besides lots of shopping, dining and outdoor recreational opportunities, there’s a long list of attractions, including George Washington’s Mount Vernon and the brand-new National Museum of the U.S. Army. Turning Point Suffragist Memorial features 19 informational stops and a section of the White House fence where activists picketed. >> fxva.com Step back into the 1700s at Colonial Williamsburg, America’s largest living history museum. Costumed interpreters portray real people who lived in Virginia’s colonial capital, including George Washington, Patrick Henry and lesser known figures like Aggy, a slave fighting for her family’s freedom. Live outdoor theater experiences re-create the struggle for American independence, pioneer crafts are demonstrated, and world-class indoor museums feature American
Colonial Williamsburg
Virginia Beach
Photo courtesy of Visit Norfolk
Independence Hall and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where Sylvester Stallone made his famous Rocky pose. Groups can also tour and enjoy a meal at Reading Terminal Market, a former train station that houses hundreds of stalls that sell everything from Amish donuts to spicy stir fry. Continue west to Lancaster county to learn about the Mennonite community and embark on a buggy ride.
Jamestown Settlement
Photo courtesy of Newport News Tourism
NORTHEAST
Norfolk
SOUTHEAST
Photo courtesy of NPS
From the Blue Ridge, Great Smoky and Ozark Mountains to the Atlantic Coast and Gulf of Mexico beaches, there’s so much to experience. Regardless of your recreational fitness, there are state and national parks that provide hiking and biking trails. Take in the picturesque scenery, wildflowers, birds and animals at your own pace. Keep those new walking shoes clean on a paved path, or get your best hiking boots dirty. Either way you’ll enjoy the mountains. If water sports are more your group’s thing, you’ll find a plethora of lakes, rivers, streams and brooks in every state. And there’s even more at the coast, including boating, kayaking, canoeing, fresh and saltwater fishing and even shrimping. Sooner or later, you may want to get off the trail or out of the water and that’s when the South shines. From Civil Rights to the Civil War, there are sites and stories to be told. Southerners like to cook and share their creations with visitors, including seafood that likely slept off shore the night before. Then there’s the music. So much of our music originated in the South, including old time mountain music, blues, bluegrass, jazz and rock n’ roll. It’s all still being played on the street, and in juke joints, clubs, theaters, concert halls and stadiums in the South.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
7
SOUTHEAST
Photo courtesy of Oaklawn
The Alabama Civil Rights Trail highlights attractions and points of interest in Montgomery, Birmingham, Marion, Selma, Tuskegee and other smaller communities along the way. The subhead of the guide says it all: “What happened here changed the world.” As you travel the Civil Rights Trail, bring your appetite. Whether it’s fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood or wonderful Alabama BBQ, awardwinning chefs are creating works of art. There’s more art than what’s in the kitchens. Birmingham, Huntsville and Mobile each have world-class art galleries. Just outside Mobile, Bellingrath Gardens & Home is a 54-acre garden paradise and home of Walter and Bessie Bellingrath until their passing. There’s always something blooming throughout the year with
Photo courtesy of Bellingrath Gardens
ALABAMA
Bellingrath Gardens
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort
special events showcasing the garden’s beauty. Popular events include the Mobile Area Orchid Society’s 44th Annual Orchid Show and Sale, Rose Bloom Out and the 60th Annual Fall Outdoor Cascading Chrysanthemums. >> bellingrath.org
games. The hotel offers a wide variety of room choices and suites, many overlooking the historic track. >> oaklawn.com
FLORIDA Located in Pensacola, National Naval Aviation Museum is one of the world’s largest military and aerospace museums. More than 150 beautifully restored Navy, Marine and Coast Guard planes are on display, along with 4,000 artifacts. There are flight simulators to test your skills and a Giant Screen Digital Theater. Grab lunch at the Cubi Bar Café and make sure to grab a memento at the Flight Deck Store. >> navalaviationmuseum.org The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art in Winter Park houses the most comprehensive collection in the world of
ARKANSAS
National Naval Aviation Museum
8
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
Photo courtesy of Charles Hosmer Morse Museum
Photo courtesy of National Naval Aviation Museum
Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort opened in April 2021 after a $1 million expansion with its newly expanded, state-of-the-art casino and hotel & spa. Oaklawn is Arkansas’s only thoroughbred racetrack, and the racing and luxury themes are carried throughout the renovations. The casino offers live craps and blackjack along with popular slot games, live music, Silks Bar & Grill and a sportsbook area that’s perfect for wagering and watching the
Charles Hosmer Morse Museum
Photo courtesy of Visit Mississippi
Photo courtesy of Visit West Baton Rouge
Photo courtesy of Kentucky Tourism
Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate
West Baton Rouge Museum
Mississippi Music Tour
the works of Louis Comfort Tiffany. Those works include the artist and designer’s jewelry, art glass, leaded glass lamps and windows, paintings and pottery. Many of the art and architectural objects from his Long Island country estate—Laurelton Hall—are included. Other museum holdings feature American art pottery, late 19th and early 20th century American paintings and decorative art. >> morsemuseum.org
have been commissioned in honor of Clay’s estate, and in 1964 the USS Henry Clay (a nuclear-powered Polaris Missile submarine) was commissioned. >> henryclay.org
Parishes, Cajun Country and New Orleans. Your perfect Louisiana Hub & Spoke location. >> westbatonrouge.net
LOUISIANA Following the winding Mississippi River, you’ll discover West Baton Rouge Parish just across the river from the Louisiana state capital. A full day begins at the Mighty Mississippi River Overlook followed by exploring West Baton Rouge’s history and food scene. Plan to stay for a few day trips to explore Baton Rouge, Lafayette, the North or South River
KENTUCKY In Lexington, Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate tells the story of the politician and the love for his farm and the land that surrounded the stately home. Tours of the estate tell of its history, the women and enslaved residents of Ashley, the Civil War and Ashland and the Foodways of Ashland. Two U.S. Navy vessels
MISSISSIPPI Mississippi has so much to offer groups of all sizes and interests. There are Civil War and Civil Rights sites worth more than a moment’s silence. So much of America’s music was born and raised in Mississippi, and there are still hot spots to hear your favorite sounds. There are antebellum homes with their own history and a Writers Trail with its own history to share. There are world-class casinos, and when you’re ready
Photo courtesy of Visit the USA
Photo courtesy of Visit Jackson
LeFleur’s Bluff State Park, MS
Jackson, MS
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
9
Photo courtesy of Crystal Coast Tourism Authority
Photo courtesy of Harrah’s
Photo courtesy of Visit Ridgeland
SOUTHEAST
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
Crystal Coast
to step outside there are beaches, lakes, golf courses and nature trails to discover. >> visitmississippi.org The City of Jackson will be celebrating its bicentennial in 2022. In preparation, the Museum Trail first phase has been completed to connect the Mississippi Farmers Market with access to three parks and six museums. Phase 2 will get started in 2022, and “The Great Migration” exhibit is coming to the Mississippi Museum of Art in April. The Robert St. John Helmed Capri theater/bowling alley/tiki bar project will get underway in 2022. >> visitjackson.com Located in Metro Jackson, Ridgeland is a wonderful community with a crowd-pleasing mix of amenities, attractions, accommodations and experiences. Those Ridgeland signatures combine to something for every group, whether it’s a tour, reunion, sports tournament
or extended family getaway. Whether it’s a Reservoir (The Rez!) Weekend, Exploring Wine, Food & Art, a Girlfriends Getaway, or a Two Wheels Weekend, Ridgeland has it all. >> visitridgeland.com
culinary offerings highlighted by signature seafood dishes. Throughout the 11 communities there is plenty to see and do and an abundance places to just lay back and enjoy your time at the beach. >> crystalcoast.org
NORTH CAROLINA
SOUTH CAROLINA
Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel is the perfect place to get away and play, and it’s located in Murphy, NC – a short, easy drive from Atlanta and Chattanooga. It offers 60,000 square feet of the hottest slots and traditional table games like blackjack, roulette, baccarat and craps. >> caesars.com/ harrahs-cherokee-valley-river Considered the Southern Outer Banks of North Carolina, the Crystal Coast is 85 miles of beautiful beaches dotted with towns offering a blend of history, nature, water sports and
Myrtle Beach offers visitors more than 60 miles of wide, sandy beaches. There is a wide variety of entertaining options to be found at Visit Myrtle Beach. Seven live theaters will keep you entertained, while a beautiful sculpture garden will satisfy your craving for art. The dining is superb with hundreds of restaurants offering a taste for every palate. If one outlet mall is good, two must be even better, along with three malls and the new urban village: Market Common. >> visitmyrtlebeach.com
Myrtle Beach
10
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
NarroWay Productions
Photo courtesy of Visit Clarksville
Photo courtesy of Visit Myrtle Beach
Photo courtesy of NarroWay Productions
Ridgeland, MS
Cumberland River, TN
TENNESSEE Plan a fun, memorable tour to Clarksville. Begin in the downtown historic district with its significant architectural elements, restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques and entertainment at the Roxy Theater. Tour and taste at Beachaven Vineyard & Winery, Tennessee’s oldest single-family winery. The fascinating Customs House Museum & Cultural Center is the state’s second-largest history
Photo courtesy of Fifth + Broadway
museum and possibly its most-photographed. >> visitclarksville.com With eats and entertainment for all ages, Fifth + Broadway is changing the way Nashville lives, works and plays. Enjoy premier shopping and ridiculously good food at Apple Store, Ariat, Free People, Cava, Hattie B’s, Shake Shack, Slim & Husky’s and much more all while taking in the downtown views. From lunch breaks to post-concert hangs, this multi-level mecca is a place to see. >> fifthandb.com Whether your group is looking for a do-itall fun or a relaxing getaway, Pigeon Forge is waiting with Great Smoky Mountain views and plenty of ways to make it a trip to remember. Enjoy down-home dining experiences and take in show-stopping theatrical performances. Visit Dollywood, go to museums, shop and so much more. >> mypigeonforge.com
Fifth + Broadway
Photo courtesy of Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism
In Fort Mill, SC just outside Charlotte, NC NarroWay Productions is providing live Christian performances in a dinner theater setting. Upcoming productions for 2022 will include Anno Domini, The Fourth Cross, Jesus the Teacher, Lord of Light, and The Gospel According to Tennessee. >> narroway.net
Pigeon Forge
ACTUALLY, YOU CAN PLEASE ALL THE PEOPLE ALL THE TIME.
Inspire miles of smiles for your tour group with hundreds of unique attractions conveniently located in one beautiful mountain town. Stunning views, shows, Dollywood, down-home cooking, arts, crafts and much more make us a destination to remember.
PigeonForgeTours.com
1-800-285 -7557
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
11
SOUTHWEST
Deer Creek Narrows, Grand Canyon
12
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
Photo courtesy of NPS
The American Southwest boasts striking desert landscapes, Native American history and photogenic mountain ranges that groups will want to integrate into their itineraries. Diverse landscapes include the Gulf Coast beaches of Galveston, Rocky Mountain retreats of Taos and lush prairies of central Oklahoma. Group-friendly national parks in this region include the iconic Grand Canyon (which features hiking trails of various lengths), White Sands National Park (an eerie fine-grained desert where visitors can “sled” on undulating dunes) and the cave superstructures in Carlsbad Caverns. Groups can also combine outdoor adventures with local history at various Native American heritage sites found throughout the American Southwest. Wupatki National Monument near Flagstaff, Arizona offers tours of the Sinagua Pueblo (which contains over 100 rooms), while Aztec Ruins National Monument offers glimpses of the sophisticated masonry work and architecture of the Pueblo people. Whether your group members want to learn about Texas Revolution history at the Alamo or watch roaming bison in Oklahoma’s Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, they will find an activity to excite them in the Southwest.
ARIZONA A color-splashed mosaic of blazing red rocks, majestic mountain ranges and cactus-studded desert landscapes right out of the movies, Arizona wows visitors with its scenic beauty and geological diversity. National parks, state parks, national forests and tribal lands beckon those looking to feast on the wonders of nature. As for the Grand Canyon, there’s simply nothing like it anywhere else in the world. Flowing through the mighty canyon, the Colorado River offers whitewater thrills, and other mighty bodies of water—such as lakes Powell, Mead and Havasu—provide refreshing recreation as well. Besides mile after mile of scenic splendor gracing its wide-open spaces, Arizona brims with cultural treasures. Favorite tourist destinations highlight Native American heritage and rip-roaring reminders of the Wild West. Dynamic cities like Phoenix, Mesa and Tucson are flush with urban amenities, and character-rich towns like Wickenburg, Tombstone and Bisbee bristle with Western flair. Throughout the state, groups will enjoy shopping for Native American arts and crafts, cowboy kitsch and other wares distinctive to the region. And tour planners will want to spice their itineraries with meals featuring Southwestern flavors. >> visitarizona.com
OKLAHOMA Visitors to Oklahoma can experience Route 66 history, Native American heritage and diverse entertainment options. Blending Western swagger and urban flair, Oklahoma City features attractions like the Oklahoma City National Memorial & War Museum (a sobering monument to the victims of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing), the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (which contains incredible memorabilia from the American West) and the Stockyards City entertainment district. Groups
can also enjoy a meal in the Route 66 Museums authentic 1950s diner, admire beautiful paintings at the Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa and discover a new historical perspective at the Cherokee Heritage Center.
TEXAS From cosmopolitan urban centers to beautiful beaches and mesas, Texas contains diverse settings for an unforgettable group vacation. The Lone Star state has a rich heritage of cowboy culture, live music and delicious barbecue that can be integrated into your itinerary, and bountiful outdoor activities are appealing to visitors of all ability levels. Popular attractions include Space Center Houston (where you can tour the Johnson Space Center and Mission Control), the Stockyards National Historic District in Fort Worth and the awe-inspiring football stadiums in Austin and College Station. Unforgettable outdoor adventures await in Big Bend National Park (which boasts dramatic scenery along the Rio Grande), Padre Island National Seashore (a massive barrier island containing sand dunes and migratory bird sanctuaries) and Guadalupe Mountains National Park (where you can spot majestic golden eagles). If you are visiting San Antonio, stop by the Alamo to learn about the Texas Revolution or cruise on a riverboat along the colorful River Walk.
Photo courtesy of Visit San Antonio
Photo courtesy of Visit Arizona
Downtown Phoenix
Mountains, offers ranger-led tours for groups comfortable with dark spaces and climbing stairs. Highlights include the Big Room (which is almost 4,000 feet long and the largest subterranean chamber in North America) and the Rookery (a space filled with opaque, spherical “cave pearls”). Aboveground, groups can hike through the surrounding Guadalupe Mountains and Chihuahuan Desert or arrange a sunset viewing party to witness thousands of bats emerge from the cave’s entrance. Home to the 800-foot Rio Grande Gorge, the Wild Rivers Recreation Area is teeming with exciting outdoor activities. View the convergence of the Rio Grande and Red Rivers at La Junta Point, or embark on a scenic drive along the 13-mile Backcountry Byway.
NEW MEXICO Some of New Mexico’s most awe-inspiring sites lie underground. Carlsbad Caverns, a collection of 177 limestone caves beneath the Guadalupe
San Antonio River Walk
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
13
MIDWEST
Hitchcock Nature Center, IA
14
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
Photo courtesy of Travel Iowa
Full of hearty American cities, the Midwest is also awash with stunning natural landscapes that rival any in the country. A visit to northern Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, for example, will bring you up-close to more than 300 waterfalls, while winter enthusiasts can venture to smaller locales like Munising and Miner Falls for top-notch ice climbing. Speaking of chilly weather, Minnesota and Wisconsin are winter havens, but they are also spectacular states to visit when the temperature rises. Minnesota is home to more than 4,000 miles of paved bike trails, 11,000 lakes and 500 golf courses while Wisconsin’s scenic wonders include waterfalls, caves, towering cliffs and distinctive rock formations. Illinois’ nickname is the Prairie State, but a journey downstate to Shawnee National Forest, replete with sandstone cliffs and formations, shows the state’s landscape is far more complex. A brisk drive across the border to Missouri will land you in the Show-Me State, and it has plenty to show, including caves, waterfalls and, of course, the majestic Lake of the Ozarks, which features more than 1,100 miles of shoreline, more than the coast of California.
Photo courtesy of Chicago Southland
Bloomington-Normal
Chicago Southland
Photo courtesy of Enjoy Illinois
Cross at the Crossroads, Effingham
Photo courtesy of Riverboat Twilight
With a slew of museums, arts, shops, hotels and more than 65 restaurants to explore, Effingham CVB has your group tour experience covered. Just 3.5 hours south of Chicago, the city at the “Crossroads of America” offers the joy of smalltown life with big-time sights. Don’t miss the 200-foot Cross at the Crossroads, fresh farmto-table meals served at the popular Firefly Grill and memorable performances at the Effingham Performance Center. >> visiteffinghamil.com Looking for a truly authentic piece of Americana? What better way to experience the majesty of the country’s mighty Mississippi River and its iconic sights than to hop on board the Riverboat Twilight. Groups can book discounted tours ranging up to two full days, all of which travel within Iowa and offer incredible sights at every turn. For those looking for a multi-day excursion, the two-day cruise is chock full of onboard entertainment and delicious meals and is sure to provide a relaxing experience for guests of all ages. >> riverboattwilight.com Climb aboard Celebration River Cruises’ Celebration Belle, a 770-seat cruise ship that travels through Moline, Illinois (Quad Cities), Dubuque, Iowa and north to Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. Whether or not it’s your final destination, the Celebration Belle will bring on the fun with themed, dinner and holiday cruises. The Captain’s Cruise invites you to dine with fellow passengers. Dance the night away to Motown hits and live bands on live entertainment-themed cruises. Capture the Midwest’s natural beauty from the ship’s decks. >> celebrationbelle.com The shores of Lake Michigan sit right at the doorstep of Lake County, Illinois, where the outdoors await. Visitors can soak up the sun along the lake and go for a dip in its cool waters or experience adventure on land by grabbing bikes or hiking boots and hitting the trails for a chance to catch a glimpse of local wildlife and the gorgeous foliage that changes with the seasons. And if that wasn’t enough, Lake County offers a flourishing arts and entertainment scene that welcomes Broadway-caliber shows year-round. >> celebrationbelle.com
Riverboat Twilight
Photo courtesy of Enjoy Illinois
Photo courtesy of Visit Bloomington-Normal
Bloomington-Normal is proud of its Midwestern hospitality and is home to plentiful Route 66 history, vibrant downtowns and exciting outdoor activities. Visitors can learn about Abraham Lincoln’s friend at the Judge David Davis Estate, experience an animal encounter at the Miller Park Zoo and browse the storefronts of Uptown Normal. >> visitbn.org Adventures abound in the Chicago Southland. Representing 63 municipalities, this bustling area is never short on group-friendly activities. While your group is at a taproom, they will enjoy a pint of one of the hundreds of signature brews that can be found in the area. Fans of the great outdoors can enjoy 40,000-plus acres of beautiful forestry and trails perfect for hiking and biking. The Chicago Southland is conveniently located 30 minutes from Chicago’s many attractions. >> visitchicagosouthland.com
Celebration Belle
Photo courtesy of Visit Lake County
ILLINOIS
Six Flags Great America
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
15
Photo courtesy of Great Rivers & Roads
Chicago Northwest, just on the edge of O’Hare Airport, is home to some of Chicagoland’s most renowned attractions. The diversity is astounding. Cheer on a knight while feasting medieval style, feel like a kid again building artful creations with LEGOS, or enjoy a relaxing day at a charming winery. >> chicagonorthwest.com The Great Rivers & Routes Region, located at the convergence of the Mississippi River, Missouri River and Route 66 east of St. Louis, is brimming with attractions for groups of all ages. Honor the Corps of Discovery Expedition at the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower, tour the Old Bakery Beer Company in Alton and walk the preserved streets of Elsah—“the village where time stood still.” An unforgettable view of the Mississippi River Valley awaits at Aerie’s Resort, which offers a scenic SkyTour and easy access to Pere Marquette State Park. >> riversandroutes.com Encompassing dozens of unique communities bonded by their proximity to Route 66 and waterways like the Des Plaines and Illinois rivers,
Photo courtesy of Meet Chicago Northwest
MIDWEST
Meet Chicago Northwest
Great Rivers & Roads
the Heritage Corridor offers plentiful outdoor experiences. The region’s signature attraction is Starved Rock State Park, where groups can walk among 13 miles of hiking trails and learn about local history at the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center. Other attractions include Midewin Tallgrass Prairie, the Heeler Carus Mansion and the opportunity to ride a replica of an 1840s canal boat on the I&M Canal. >> heritagecorridorcvb.com
A two-state region united by the Mississippi River, the Quad Cities boast outdoor activities and indoor attractions that reflect the region’s manufacturing and engineering history. Follow technological innovation across two centuries at the John Deere Pavilion in Moline, stop by for a sweet treat at Lagomarcino’s Confectionary and enjoy peaceful birdwatching at Black Hawk State Historic Site. Groups can also tour the Rock Island
Joplin History & Mineral Museum Historic Murphysburg
Red Oak II
Keltoi Winery Northpark Mall
800.657.2534 VisitJoplinMO
VisitJoplinMO
VisitJoplinMO
#TrekJOMO #JoplinRocks
16
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
Photo courtesy of Enjoy Illinois
Photo courtesy of Visit Quad Cities
Photo courtesy of Heritage Corridor
John Deere Pavilion
Old State Capitol, Springfield, IL
Arsenal, which contains museums dedicated to military history and the largest roller dam in the world. >> visitquadcities.com If your group is interested in world-class historical sites, lively shopping and fresh farm-to-table cuisine, Springfield is an ideal destination. Discover beautiful Prairie School architecture at the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Dana-Thomas Home, learn about centuries of history at the Illinois State Museum and walk in the footsteps of Abraham at the Lincoln Home, Old State Capitol and Oakridge Cemetery. >> visitspringfieldillinois.com
experience that visits backroads with an Amish step-on guide. The tour takes you to a camel dairy farm and through beautiful backroads dotted with pristine Amish farms and one-room schoolhouses. >> visitelkhartcounty.com
Dreams movie was filmed and where the famous field is located. Dyersville is also home to the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier, National Farm Toy Museum, Dyer-Botsford House and Doll Museum, Antique Mall, plus wineries, coffee shops, boutiques, specialty shops and family-owned restaurants. >> dyersville.org The Bell Tower Theater, Dubuque’s Hometown Theater, performs comedies and musicals year-round, and with an emphasis on new works, you are sure to find shows your group has not already seen. The theater is located in a beautiful 100+ year-old building and has ample free parking for buses. Its intimate 160-seat space has large comfortable chairs and lots of legroom making it the perfect place to experience quality live theater. >> belltowertheater.net Quilts are both an iconic part of American culture and history and a vibrant artform. The Iowa Quilt Museum is located in iconic Madison County, home of the famous covered bridges. The museum,
IOWA
INDIANA
Photo courtesy of Amish Country of Northern Indiana
Amish Country of Northern Indiana is offering a new tour experience for groups of all sizes at any time of the year. Called Meet the Amish Makers and touring in Nappanee and Wakarusa, this tour is an authentic Amish
Photo courtesy of Cedar Falls Tourism & Visitors Bureau
A hidden gem in the Midwest for groups is Cedar Falls. This city has locally owned shops, plenty of eateries, vibrant nightlife, tours and museums that will appeal to the whole family. With a nationally recognized historic Downtown District, visitors are free to explore the beautiful city and enjoy performances at the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center. Other adventures await at Barn Happy and the Cedar Valley Trails. >> cedarfallstourism.org Home to one of the most heavenly places in sports, Dyersville is where the Field of
Quilt Gardens
Photo courtesy of Dyersville Area Chamber of Commerce
Heritage Corridor
Cedar Falls
Field of Dreams Home, Dyersville
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
17
MIDWEST Beautiful Okoboji is Iowa’s No. 1 vacation destination. Groups can take a tour of the lovely chain of glacier-carved lakes spanning 15,000 acres. Okoboji not only offers a variety of natural adventures, it also features plenty of activities including golf, amusement parks, art, theater, museums, fishing, nightlife,
watersports, parks, beaches and trails. Guests can also visit the Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum, the Okoboji Summer Theatre and the Dickinson County Nature Center. >> vacationokoboji.com Create memories in Fort Dodge and Webster County. Unique visitor opportunities include wandering through history at the Fort Museum, enjoying the arts at the Blanden Art Museum, tantalizing your taste buds at Tea Thyme, Community Orchards, River Hops Brewing, Shiny Top Brewing, and Soldier Creek Winery, shopping at the small specialty stores downtown or attending community festivals and concerts. Have fun with family and friends at Fort Frenzy Entertainment Center and Rosedale Rapids Aquatic Center. >> fortdodgecvb.com
Photo courtesy of Bell Tower Theater
located in downtown Winterset in a former JCPenney storefront, is just steps away from two quilt shops in an award-winning shopping district. Featuring rotating exhibits of both historic and contemporary quilts, each visit is a new experience, so schedule your groups to visit again and again. >> iowaquiltmuseum.org
Photo courtesy of Iowa Quilt Museum
Bell Tower Theater, Dubuque
Iowa Quilt Museum, Winterset
18
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
Photo courtesy of Travel Iowa
Photo courtesy of Travel Iowa
Photo courtesy of Vacation Okoboji
Blanden Memorial Art Museum, Fort Dodge
Kalona Historical Village
Kalona Historical Village, a collection of museums and restored buildings spotlighting Amish and Mennonite culture, occupies a block in the heart of Kalona, 80 miles east of Pella. It consists of an 1879 rail depot, Mennonite museum, quilt galleries, one-room schoolhouse and other reminders of days gone by. The 90-minute “Amish By-Ways Tour” into the countryside sheds light on the largest Amish population west of the Mississippi. >> kalonaiowa.org The John Wayne Birthplace & Museum is a shrine to the movie actor who was born Marion Robert Morrison in a modest white house in 1907. The modern museum, located on the same block, is a treasure trove of Wayne artifacts—original movie posters, film wardrobe items, letters, photos, artwork, a customized car—and shows a documentary film about The Duke’s career. >> johnwaynebirthplace.museum
Beyond the natural beauty of Clear Lake and Mason City, the North Iowa area is legendary as it was the site of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson’s final concert. Mason City is also home to Prairie School Architecture with several buildings in the community designed by Frank Lloyd Wright including the only remaining hotel in the world designed by Wright. >> travelnorthiowa.com
go-karts, playing a round of golf at a local course or engaging in retail therapy with a great day of shopping. >> explorebranson.com With a skyline that includes the majestic Missouri River and Missouri State Capitol, Jefferson City is “America’s Most Beautiful Small Town,” boasting beautiful nature and history. Groups can stop by Lewis & Clark Trailhead Plaza to learn about the duo’s expedition to the Pacific, browse the charming storefronts on High Street and discover Missouri’s natural history at the Runge Nature Center. Be sure to arrange a State Capitol tour to admire the murals of Thomas Hart Benton and explore the Missouri State Museum. >> visitjeffersoncity.com Southwestern Missouri is home to a number of great places to visit, including Joplin, which offers both a tranquil, small-town lifestyle and an
MISSOURI
John Wayne Birthplace Museum, Winterset
Photo courtesy of Travel Iowa
Photo courtesy of Travel Iowa
There is an adventure waiting for everyone in Branson. From outdoor fun to amazing live entertainment, Branson has something for every member of the family. Enjoy fishing on Table Rock Lake and scream with delight on the thrill rides at Silver Dollar City. Families can enjoy a myriad of fun attractions including racing in
Photo courtesy of Explore Branson
Arnolds Park, West Okoboji Lake
Stockman House, Mason City
Branson
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
19
Photo courtesy of Visit Perry County
Photo courtesy of Visit Joplin
Photo courtesy of Jefferson City CVB
Jefferson City
William Picher House, Joplin
American Tractor Museum, Perryville
active urban area featuring a slew of entertaining options. Visitors looking to drive iconic Route 66 can explore the Sunshine Lamp District, home to dozens of shops, restaurants and art galleries. Groups looking for an outdoor adventure can visit Grand Falls, the largest continuously running waterfall in Missouri. >> visitjoplinmo.com Eighty miles south of St. Louis on I-55 is charming Perryville and the surrounding county. Visit the American Tractor Museum for an appreciation of the equipment that feeds America and pay respect to the veterans that defended our nation at Missouri’s National Veterans Museum. Groups can also enjoy a wine pairing dinner, stroll through the grottos of the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal & Rosary Walk and discover religious history at the Lutheran Heritage Center & Museum. >> visitperrycounty.com Looking for an unforgettable group visit or day trip? Gather with friends, family or
colleagues, and a knowledgeable friendly guide will walk with you through the thrilling years of the Pony Express at the Pony Express Museum in St. Joseph. Spend an hour and hear the personal stories of the businessmen who gave all they had to finance and support the Pony Express national historic site, and learn about the daring riders and their historic rides. Self-guided tours are available, as is a new video tour. >> ponyexpress.org The historic starting point of the Pony Express, St. Joseph is a popular destination for group travelers as it offers a variety of educational and recreational activities. Visitors can explore 17 museums, visit a myriad of historic sites, and even enjoy the Kansas City Chiefs’ summer training camp. This city is also home to 48 parks and contains miles of gorgeous parkway. >> stjomo.com
Springfield is known as the crossroads of many historic trails including the Trail of Tears, the Butterfield Overland Stagecoach route, the Old Wire Road and, of course, Route 66. From pristine parks and trails and boutique shopping to diverse wineries, breweries and distilleries and family-friendly (and even pet-friendly) activities, Springfield offers something for every traveler. >> springfieldmo.org
As the 14th largest city in the U.S., Columbus has plenty to see and do. As seen on National Geographic’s Secrets of the Zoo, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is home to more than 9,000 animals representing 650 species from around the globe. The Columbus Museum of Art’s collection spans work from Columbus-born artists like George Bellows and
August Nunning House, St. Joseph
Photo courtesy of Visit Missouri
Photo courtesy of St. Joseph CVB
Photo courtesy of Americasroof
Pony Express National Museum, St. Joseph
OHIO
Springfield, MO
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
21
Photo courtesy of Tuscarawas County CVB
Photo courtesy of Travel Butler County
Photo courtesy of Experience Columbus
MIDWEST
Downtown Hamilton, OH
Sugarcreek, OH
Elijah Pierce to the luminaries of 19th and 20th century art, while the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens offers world-class horticulture, art and nature-based exhibitions. >> experiencecolumbus.com Butler County, Ohio features nine unique communities with distinctive attractions, comfortable hotels and bed & breakfasts and hidden historical gems. Groups can experience the world’s largest train-themed entertainment center at the EnterTRAINment Junction, see beautiful creations at the BeauVerre Riordan Stained Glass Studio and shop for a diverse selection of exotic spices and hot sauces at Jungle Jim’s International Market. You can also enjoy the quaint coffee shops and boutiques in Downtown Hamilton and Uptown Oxford. >> gettothebc.com Home to the first Christian settlement in Ohio (Schoenbrunn Village, founded in 1772) as well as
Ohio’s only Revolutionary War fort (Fort Laurens), Tuscarawas County is a historic destination for groups experiencing the Midwest. Tuscarawas County also features the World’s Largest Cukoo Clock in Sugarcreek and the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, a National Historic Landmark. With more than 20 museums and historic sites, the county has something for every budding historian. >> traveltusc.com
incredible Lake Michigan coastline containing stunning parks, beaches, marinas and historic downtowns. >> manitowoc.info The Lake Geneva area is your destination for a fun vacation. Whether your definition of fun is relaxing at the spa, cooling off at the lake, zip lining through the forest, or just spending time with family and friends, Walworth County has it all. From the beaches of Williams Bay to the shops of Lake Geneva, the shores of Fontana to the unique history of Delavan, fun is everywhere in Walworth County. >> visitwalworthcounty.com Located in northwestern Wisconsin, Washburn County is home to over 950 lakes, incredible museums and attractions, outdoor activities, great lodging, dining and more. Groups can embark on an elegant dinner aboard the Great Northern Railroad, create their own art at the Potter’s Shed and sip delectable samples at Clover Meadow Winery. >> washburncounty.org
WISCONSIN
Photo courtesy of Manitowoc Area CVB
Photo courtesy of Visit Walworth County
The town of Manitowoc attracts thousands of visitors each year. Many want to visit the USS Cobia World War II submarine, which is moored along the Manitowoc River. The area is also renowned for its historic Rogers Street Fishing Village, which features relics of famous shipwrecks and a lighthouse that was built in 1886. Groups can also explore 20 miles of
Wisconsin Maritime Museum
22
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
Photo courtesy of Washburn County Tourism Association
Columbus Commons
East Troy Electric Railroad, Walworth County
Washburn County
Where epic reunions happen. Rediscover Arizona RediscoverAZ.com
Unmatched natural beauty awaits groups who venture to the Western region of the country. With a multitude of national parks and a variety of natural wonders, the West is one of the most scenic regions on earth. California alone is home to nine of the country’s 62 national parks, including rugged Joshua Tree (populated by vast stands of Joshua trees); majestic Sequoia (which boasts some of the world’s tallest trees); and the granddaddy of them all: Yosemite, internationally renowned for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, glaciers and incredible sightlines. Not to be outdone, Alaska boasts eight national parks that accompany its wide array of spectacular natural wonders that include snow-capped glaciers, crystal blue waters, exotic wildlife and even volatile volcanoes. The West is also renowned for its noteworthy cities including Seattle and Portland, two cultural metropolises that combine bustling metro areas with celebrated outdoor scenes. Lest we not forget Nevada, which sports eye-catching outdoor destinations like Red Rock Canyon and the Ruby Mountains. Nevada, as you probably know, is also home to one of the world’s most popular destinations: Las Vegas, the city that never sleeps, rarely rests and always delivers a memorable outing.
24
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
Photo courtesy of NPS
WEST
Crater Lake
NEVADA
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library is a must-visit attraction in Southern California. Featuring hundreds of artifacts and dozens of interactive displays for visitors of all ages to explore, the library also offers groups the chance to step aboard the same Air Force One that flew President Reagan. Eighteen galleries pay tribute to America’s 40th president and his many accomplishments. In February of 2021, it is offering a new exhibit called FBI – From Al Capone to Al-Qaeda, a new 11,000-square-foot exhibition which covers the history of the storied agency from inception to its modern-day efforts to fight domestic terrorism in the United States. >> reaganfoundation.org The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway—the world’s largest rotating tram car—travels over two-and-one-half miles along the breathtaking cliffs of Chino Canyon, transporting riders to the pristine wilderness of Mt. San Jacinto State Park. During your approximately ten-minute journey, tram cars rotate slowly, offering picturesque and spectacular vistas of the valley floor below. Once you reach the Mountain Station— elevation 8,516 feet—enjoy two restaurants, observation decks, a natural history museum, two documentary theaters, gift shop and over 50 miles of hiking trails. >> pstramway.com
The Silver State is filled with iconic sites like the Hoover Dam, the Las Vegas Strip and Lake Tahoe, which welcomes groups of all ages. In downtown Las Vegas, learn about the history of organized crime at the Mob Museum, which offers guided tours through exhibits filled with Prohibition-era artifacts. Other Las Vegas attractions include the National Atomic Testing Museum (where you can learn about Cold War history and nuclear science), the Bellagio Conservatory (which features rotating seasonal displays) the brand-new Allegiant Stadium (home to the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders). If your group prefers outdoor activities, you can embark on a boat excursion on Lake Mead, hike through the rust-colored formations in Red Rock Canyon or walk amongst ancient forests in Great Basin National Park.
OREGON
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
and an internationally renowned dining scene that emphasizes local agriculture.
WASHINGTON Photo courtesy of Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Photo courtesy of Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
Home to forward-thinking cities, a rugged coastline and millions of acres of pine forests, Oregon is a striking place for your next group tour. Popular sites include Crater Lake National Park (where you can ride a boat across the result of an ancient volcanic eruption), Columbia River Gorge (the site of beautiful waterfalls) and Cannon Beach (a landscape of jagged coastal rocks bordered by charming seaside villages). Portland, the state’s largest city, is home to Japanese-inspired gardens, trendy art galleries
Portland, OR
Photo courtesy of Travel Portland
CALIFORNIA
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Visitors will want to spend time in Seattle, a dynamic city with cultural attractions such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and Pioneer Square. Venture outside the city to experience Mount Rainier National Park, where you can hike along the Carbon River admire Myrtle Falls and enjoy lunch at the historic Paradise Inn. Another region popular with groups is the Olympic Peninsula—home of the state capital and rugged coastline in Area’s like Ruby Beach. Beyond Pugent Sound are the San Juan Islands—a landscape dotted by lighthouses built by early European settlers, schools of playful dolphins and coastlines of pristine spruce trees available for hiking.
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
25
Spanning the plains of eastern Colorado to the craggy peaks of Utah, the Mountain West region is filled with natural splendors for groups of all ages to enjoy. Many of America’s iconic national parks await your exploration in this region, and many can accommodate large parties with discounted lodging, motorcoach parking and ADA accessibility. Popular destinations include Glacier National Park (which encompasses over one million acres filled with crystalclear lakes and moraine valleys), Arches National Park (a surreal landscape of sandstone formations) and Dinosaur National Monument (home to over 800 paleontology excavation sites). The Mountain West region also blends cosmopolitan amenities with easy accessibility to outdoor adventure. In Colorado Springs your group can ascend Pikes Peak and hike through the Garden of the Gods before experiencing the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center, while guests in Coeur d’Alene in Idaho can enjoy world-class resort amenities before a boat excursion on the picturesque lake. From Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming to the Gallatin Range landscapes of Montana, there is rugged beauty for all groups to enjoy.
26
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
Photo courtesy o North Dakota Tourism
FRONTIER/ MOUNTAIN WEST
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
COLORADO
IDAHO Featuring snow-capped peaks and rolling dunes, Idaho is one of America’s most geographically diverse states. Groups can take advantage of this variety with hiking, rafting and horseback riding expeditions that range from intense adventures to leisurely strolls. Explore the eerie landscape of Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, a protected area the size of Rhode Island filled with otherworldly lava tubes, cinder cones and fissures. Bikers will enjoy the Route of the Hiawatha (a 15-mile trail that passes through train tunnels), while courageous paddlers can attempt the whitewater passages of the Salmon River.
Photo courtesy of Colorado Tourism
Colorado boasts a remarkable diversity of experiences for groups to enjoy, from the cosmopolitan amenities of Denver and Boulder to rugged Rocky Mountain adventures. Offering more than 60 local attractions and easy access to Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs is an enticing destination for groups of all ages. New to Colorado Springs is the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, which features innovative gallery spaces filled with digital projections and interactive screens to learn about America’s greatest Olympians. In Denver, groups can attend a concert in the unique Red Rocks Amphitheatre, admire abstract art at the Clyfford Stills Museum and enjoy craft beer at the metro area’s over 100 breweries. Pass through the Rocky Mountains to arrive in Grand Valley, which is famous for its orchards and vineyards. Sample creations from nearly two dozen wineries after an invigorating hike through the colorful canyons of Colorado National Monument, enjoy an outdoor picnic in the shadow of the region’s mesas and admire the plentiful public art along Main Street. Pagosa Springs, CO
researches and educates on the art and life of America’s cowboy artist Charles M. Russell. The museum contains more than 3,000 pieces
MONTANA The award-winning C.M. Russell Museum in Great Falls, Montana, collects, preserves,
C.M. Russell Museum
of Western art in a complex that covers two city blocks and encompasses 16 exhibition galleries, an outdoor sculpture garden, and Russell’s home and artist studio. With nearly 1,000 Russell creations, the museum presents Russell’s authentic reflection of Western history. >> cmrussell.org Authentic Montana experiences and adventures beckon in Glacier Country with its rugged mountains, pristine waters and bustling downtown main streets. With places to explore like Glacier National Park, the Bob Marshall Wilderness, two Indian reservations—the Flathead and Blackfeet—and blue-ribbon trout streams, including the Blackfoot, Bitterroot and Clark Fork rivers, you’ll be planning your next visit before your first one is over. The region is also
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
27
FRONTIER/MOUNTAIN WEST
Photo courtesy of North Dakota Tourism
Lincoln, NE
North Dakota State Heritage Center
28
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
the wildlife that is indigenous to the region. If you want to check out something unique, the Butterfly House & Aquarium is a fantastic place to visit. >> experiencesiouxfalls.com
NORTH DAKOTA Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center
Photo courtesy of Experience Sioux Falls
Possibility is as endless as the horizon in North Dakota. Adventurers can experience plentiful outdoor opportunities in the 700,000acre Theodore Roosevelt National Park, hike on the legendary Maah Daah Hey Trail and view wildlife at the White Horse Hill National Game Preserve. Groups also enjoy the cosmopolitan amenities of Fargo, historic sites in the state capital of Bismarck and the beautiful displays at the International Peace Garden. >> ndtourism.com
SOUTH DAKOTA American Indian history comes to life at the Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center located on the campus of St. Joseph’s Indian School in Chamberlain, South Dakota. The museum is devoted to preserving and promoting the arts and history of the Northern Plains Indian people. View beautiful exhibits of contemporary art and historical artifacts. Your group will leave enriched in Northern Plains Indian history. Free admission. Open year-round. >> aktalakota.stjo.org Sioux Falls is the perfect getaway for people who want to escape their busy life and explore the scenic beauty of the United States. Visit the Falls Park, a picturesque location with natural waterfalls or explore the Great Plains Zoo to see
Sioux Falls, SD
Photo courtesy of Travel South Dakota
Photo courtesy of Visit the USA Photo courtesy of Lincoln CVB
Glacier Country
Commonly known as the best-kept secret in the region, Lincoln is a destination that is sure to exceed your expectations and leave your group wanting to explore. The city of Lincoln offers a wide variety of experiences and world-class attractions, from sports to arts to museums and more. From the Haymarket to Downtown, Havelock and everywhere in between, your group can explore and enjoy all that Lincoln has to offer. Whether your stay is a day, a week or longer, the tours the Lincoln CVB will put together for you will keep you entertained and coming back for more visits. >> lincoln.org
Photo courtesy of Travel South Dakota
NEBRASKA
home to grand mountain lodges, six downhill ski resorts, natural hot springs, legendary cultural events and lively arts scenes, just to name a handful. >> glaciermt.com
Badlands National Park
WYOMING
Scenic views and memorable moments await groups on every turn in South Dakota’s Black Hills and Badlands region. The area’s highlights include Badlands National Park (where there are beautiful drives and hikes through an unforgettable landscape) and the world-famous Mount Rushmore National Memorial (where a ranger can explain presidential history). Groups can also enjoy a meal at Wall Drug, tour Custer State Park and pan for precious metal at the Broken Boot Gold Mine. >> blackhillsandbadlands.com
Yellowstone—America’s most famous national park—is easily accessible for groups and features iconic landmarks such as Old Faithful, Artist Point and Grand Prismatic Spring. Visitors can spend the evening in rustic
cabins, the grand Old Faithful Inn or dozens of campsites spread throughout the park. Other awe-inspiring sites in Wyoming include Devils Tower National Monument, the mighty Teton Mountain Range and Hot Springs State Park— the world’s single largest mineral hot spring.
UTAH
Zion National Park
Photo courtesy of Visit Utah
The Beehive State is home to five national parks (Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion), over 40 state parks and several world-renowned ski resorts that all welcome groups. Canyons, Deer Valley, Park City Mountain and Sundance resorts are all located in the hip community of Park City, where your group can visit several sites that hosted downhill skiing events during the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. Mountain bikers will want to experience the famous Slickrock Trail, which offers several easy portions for less-experienced cyclists.
GROUP TRAVEL DESTINATIONS
29
Stockyards Ag Experience
Sioux Falls enjoys four beautiful and distinct seasons. It is one reason our city is unique—unique seasons means unique places to explore. Start Planning Today | ExperienceSiouxFalls.com/Tour
