september 2014 - 2015 volume xxxvi
1819 lynch street saint louis, mo 63118 (314) 771-8300 or (800) 881-8804 travelsunrise.com
Scenic Train Rides
2014 Loyalty Program We’re happy to continue offering the loyalty program again in 2014. So, on your 2nd tour (of four days or more) with us in 2014, subtract $50 off your tour price. On the 3rd tour (of four days or more) with us in 2014, subtract $100 and so on. The more you travel, the more you save! (Program is based on the calendar year, so all eligible tours depart within 2014.)
A train ride is a fantastic way to see the beauty of the country and Amtrak offers several scenic routes. See the Rockies steeped in snow on our Colorado New Year’s Eve tour on page 11 or sun soaked on the California Zephyr tour on page 26. Or enjoy the stunning desert vistas on the Spring in the Southwest on page 24.
Celebrating 20 Years!
2014 marks our 20th year in business! As a celebration, we are giving a $20 gift certificate for every overnight tour you take. These will be mailed to you upon completion of the tour, do not expire and can be used in conjunction with the loyalty discount described above. In addition, if you travel 20 or more days with us within the 2014 calendar year, you will receive a special 20 year anniversary polo shirt at the end of the year.
One Day Tours
be a scenic river cruise on the Hakuna Matata where the colors of fall will be on full display. L $104
Mississippi River & Cruise
Thursday, September 25th, 2014 The Mighty Mississippi River: You’ve heard the stories, crossed its waters and marveled at its size. Take the elevator to the top of the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower for a panoramic view of the joining of two great rivers. See the Locks & Dam system up close at the National Great Rivers Museum. Travel 20 miles along the Great River Road National Scenic Byway to enjoy lunch at the Grafton Winery where you can sample their award winning wines. Today’s highlight will
Oktoberfest River Cruise
Sunday, October 19, 2014 Guten Tag! To celebrate Oktoberfest, known as the largest Volksfest (People’s Fair) in the world, board the Riverboat at the Gateway Arch and enjoy a delightful 2-hour Cruise and delicious German Buffet lunch while being entertained by a charming 3-piece German
TABLE OF CONTENTS One day tours
p. 2-3
SEPTEMBER 2014 Fall Mystery p. 4 OCTOBER 2014 Albuquerque Balloon Fest West Virginia Train Branson Fall Riverboat Festival Ozark Fall Fall in the Smokies
p. 3 p. 4 p. 5 p. 5 p. 6 p. 6
NOVEMBER 2014 Hilton Head & Amelia Island p. 7 San Antonio Holiday p. 8 Branson p. 9 DECEMBER 2014 Biltmore Christmas Kansas City Holiday Homestead Resort Nashville Christmas Colorado New Year’s Eve Rose Bowl Parade JANUARY 2015 Floriday Stay N Play
p. 8 p. 9 p. 10 p. 10 p. 11 p. 12 p. 13
FEBRUARY 2015 Biloxi Winter Break p. 14 MARCH 2015 Caribbean Cruise by coach p. 14 New Orleans & Cajun Country p. 15 Cards Spring Training p. 16 DC Cherry Blossom p. 16 APRIL 2015 Southern Charm North Carolina Spring Chattanooga
p. 17 p. 18 p. 19
MAY 2015 Pella Tulip Festival Creme de la Creme Niagara Falls Georgia on My Mind Made in the USA Arizona Train California National Parks California Zephyr
p. 19 p. 20 p. 21 p. 22 p. 23 p. 24 p. 25 p. 26
JUNE 2015 Spring Mystery “Grand” Michigan Canyonlands and Santa Fe New York City & Long Island
p. 27 p. 27 p. 28 p. 29
Chicago Family Fun
p. 33
JULY 2015 Yellowstone National Park Resorts of Lake Michigan Highway 101, OR & CA Apostle Islands Shores of Lake Erie
p. 30 p. 31 p. 32 p. 33 p. 34
AUGUST 2015 Pacific Northwest Canadian Whale Route Rocky Mountain High The Dakotas Bar Harbor & Canada
p. 35 p. 36 p. 37 p. 38 p. 39
SEPTEMBER 2015 Cape Cod p. 40 Canyonlands p. 41 Policies Booking Forms
p. 42 p. 43
Watch for these blue stars as they indicate the tour includes a “tour manager favorite”.
“All inclusive” Remember, a Sunrise Tour is an inclusive product. All activities, tickets, taxes and typically two meals per day (included meals are indicated in the daily itinerary; b=breakfast, l=lunch, d=dinner, hot apps= extensive appetizers that could replace a dinner) are included so that your only expenses on the road will be meals that are not included, souvenirs and a gratuity for your tour manager, driver and step-on guides if you so desire. On a few tours, 2 meals a day may not be included, and will be indicated as such.
Band. Enjoy reserved indoor main deck seating while you dine on popular traditional German dishes (Guten Appetit!) and enjoy the Omm Pah Pah music, all while cruising along the Mississippi. Gehen wir! (Let’s go!) . L $96
Holiday Brass Concert
Tuesday, December 2, 2014 The best way to begin your Holiday Season is at the 23rd Annual Holiday Brass Concert featuring members of the International Women’s Brass Conference performing traditional carols. They will be joined by adult and children’s choirs, as well as several special guest performers for a memorable holiday experience. Again this year we have reserved the front rows, giving you the best seats in the house to enjoy the concert. After the 10:15 AM morning performance, enjoy a delicious lunch at
The Tavern Kitchen & Bar and find yourself filled with holiday warmth to last the season. L $99
I’ll Be Home for Christmas
Friday, December 12, 2014 Enjoy the glittering gowns and retro fashions along with the melodic harmony as the incomparable Swing St. Louis duo rings in the Holiday Season with timeless classics made famous by such greats as Bing Crosby, The Andrews Sisters and Judy Garland. Sisters Emily and Lacy Miller will have you singing along and tapping your toes as you remember why this is indeed, the most wonderful time of the year! Begin with lunch at Billy G’s in Kirkwood before taking our reserved seats for the 2:00 pm Holiday show. L $89
The following tours are full. If you are interested in joining, please call to be added to the waitlist. Scenic Trains & Cruises of New England Sept. 28-Oct. 4, 2014 Michigan’s Upper Peninsula & the Grand Hotel Oct. 2-9, 2014 New England Fall Adventure Oct. 3-12, 2014
Southwest Grand Adventure
Day 1: Fly into Las Vegas, NV Fly into Las Vegas and check into the four-star Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino. D Day 2: Grand Canyon, AZ Visit the Grand Canyon, with time to enjoy the views at your leisure. Our home tonight is in the park directly on the South Rim at Kachina Lodge! Dinner included at Bright Angel Lodge. B, D Day 3: Wupatki Monument & Flagstaff, AZ After breakfast in the historic El Tovar Hotel, take a scenic drive with photo stops along the magnificent East Rim. Visit both an ancient Native American Pueblo at the Wupatki National Monument and Sunset Crater. Travel to Flagstaff for a twonight stay at Little America Hotel. B, D Day 4: Oak Creek Canyon & Sedona, AZ Pass through Oak Creek Canyon towards Sedona. USA Today called this rugged canyon the “most scenic drive in North America.” Take a narrated trolley ride through Sedona complete with a stop at the Chapel of the Holy Cross. Back in Flagstaff learn about a famous local family at the Riordan Mansion. B, L Day 5: Special Shapes Glowdeo at Balloon Fiesta & Albuquerque, NM Travel to Albuquerque and check into the Drury Inn located near the Fiesta Park for a 3-night stay. This evening’s actvities include the Special Shapes Glowdeo and the AfterGlow Fireworks Show. B, D Day 6: Santa Fe, NM Then we’re off to charming Santa Fe, NM to en-
joy a unique culinary experience. The Santa Fe School of Cooking, as featured on the Food Network, will educate and entertain you while preparing your lunch. Discover the many charms of Santa Fe with our local guide who will explain the history of the area. B, L, Hot Apps Day 7: Balloon Fiesta Mass Ascension & Sandia Peak The glorious mass balloon ascension is a thrilling experience as hundreds of vividly colored hot air balloons rise in the morning sky. Visit the Albuquerque International Balloon Museum before heading to lunch. After lunch board the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway, the world’s longest tram, to Sandia Peak. At the top experience a panoramic vista of the great Southwest. B, L, Hot Apps Day 8: Indian Pueblo Cultural Center & Route 66 Visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and then continue to travel along iconic Route 66, stopping for a unique lunch before arriving in Amarillo, TX for our overnight stay. B, L, Hot Apps Day 9: National Cowboy Museum & Oklahoma City Memorial Today offers you two unique experiences. Tour the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum with more than 28,000 Western and American Indian art works and artifacts. Enjoy a delicious lunch in the museum. We will also visit the well designed and contemplative Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum. Overnight in Oklahoma City. B, L Day 10: Return Home B
Oct. 6-15, 2014 Per person rates* double $2348 triple/quad $2117 single $3042 * Includes airfare from STL.
Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Santa Fe and the Albuquerque Balloon Festival!
Favorite Event: Mass Hot Air Balloon Ascension in Albuquerque, Charlene
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Fall Mystery Tour Join us for an exciting 5-day mystery tour. We can’t tell you where you’re going, but you’re sure to have fun! Same price as 2013!
Sept. 26-30, 2014 Per person rates double $844 triple/quad $754 single $1113
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West Virginia Train Day 1: Lexington, KY In Lexington, KY our step-on guide will give us a behind the scenes look at a horse farm. D Day 2: New River Gorge The Hawk’s Nest and New River Gorge Bridge are first on our list of “must sees.” The Hawk’s Nest is renowned for its overlook of the river New River Gorge and the massive New River Gorge Bridge is the country’s second highest bridge. Then take an exhilarating tram ride to the bottom of the gorge and take in the brilliant views of the fall foliage. Don’t let the name fool you – the New River is among the world’s oldest rivers (second only to the Nile). Its craggy, 1,000-foot deep, mile-wide gorge is a haven for nature and outdoor lovers from around the world. After a colorful afternoon mountain drive, arrive at Snowshoe Mountain, our home for the next two nights. B, D Day 3: Cass Mountain Railway Tour the impressive National Radio Astronomy Observatory Science Center, home to the world’s premiere astronomical telescope. Board the scenic Cass Mountain Railway for a gorgeous trip which includes a stop at Whitacker and a trip to the top of Bald Cass Mountain Railway
Oct. 13-17, 2014 Per person rates double $887 triple/quad $805 single $1091
Same price since 2012!
Did you know?
Knob Mountain, second highest in West Virginia. This evening visit the charming Inn at Mountain Quest for dinner. B, L, D
The Cass Mountain Railway was selected as one of the ten best train trips in North America by National Geographic.
Day 4: Blennerhassett Island & Salt Fork State Park Bid farewell to our mountaintop home and head to Parkersburg, West Virginia where a ferry transports us to Blennerhassett Island State Park. Visit this scenic island on the Ohio River to tour the Mansion and take a wagon ride around the park. Travel to Cambridge, Ohio where the fall landscape of rural Guernsey County appears as a patchwork of forested hills, open meadows and misty valleys. At the heart of this region is Salt Fork State Park, Ohio’s largest state park and Salt Fork Lodge, our home for the night. B, D Day 5: Return home B
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Branson Fall
Join us for a tour to Branson that includes accommodations at the Savannah House, featuring an extensive breakfast each morning and a warm treat each evening. Enjoy breakfast and dinner daily, a tram ride through beautiful fall foliage in Dogwood Canyon, free time for shopping at Branson Mill Craft Village and three great shows! Showboat Branson Belle Featuring a three-course meal, variety show, and sightseeing along Table Rock Lake from an authentic paddle wheel boat.
Oct. 13-15, 2014 Per person rates double $493 triple/quad $463 single $573
The Lettermen The beautiful voices of the singing trio, The Lettermen, first hit the music charts in 1961 with “The Way You Look Tonight”. Their harmony truly is timeless. Dublin’s Irish Tenors and The Celtic Ladies Two great groups of performers; four beautiful ladies with voices like angels, and five of the Emerald Isle’s finest tenors. Music lovers of all ages will enjoy their unique blend of timeless, traditional folk ballads with classical and adult contemporary favorites. Showboat Branson Belle
Centennial Festival of Riverboats! Day 1: Louisville, KY Celebrate America’s rich Southern heritage during Louisville’s Centennial Festival of Riverboats. For the first time ever, nine riverboats from around the country will gather in Louisville to celebrate the 100th birthday of the “Belle of Louisville.” Step back in time to the Great Steamboat Era and tour the Howard Steamboat Museum. This beautiful 1894 home, built by premier steamboat builders, boasts original furnishings, photographs, models and other artifacts unique to the Steamboat Era. See the Centennial Festival of Riverboats Balloon Glow at the Internationally-acclaimed Waterfront Park. D Day 2: Big Birthday Celebration Explore Louisville with a guided historic tour including Churchill Downs, the Cast Iron District and Victorian neighborhoods. Enjoy free time on your own to explore the festival with local artisans, bourbon, music and culture or watch the nine riverboats parade down the Ohio River. Experience bourbon country life as it was in 1783 at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience with a guided tour featuring an operating artisanal distillery and bourbon tasting. Our riverboat adventure is not complete
without a special dinner on the “Spirit of the Jefferson.” Sing Happy Birthday to the Belle as we watch a grand display of fireworks from our front row seat on the Ohio River. B, D Day 3: The road home Visit Dr. Ted’s Musical Marvel’s collection of amazing musical instruments from the 1800’s to the mid-1900’s and arrive home early this evening from a nostalgic “on the river” experience! B
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Oct. 17-19, 2014 Per person rates double $549 triple/quad $499 single $699
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Ozark “Four-Star” Fall
Day 1: Mount Magazine Travel to Arkansas’ highest peak and check into the Lodge at Mount Magazine where each room features views of Petit Jean River Valley and Blue Mountain Lake showcasing autumn’s finest. Enjoy dinner followed by relaxation in the hearth room highlighted with a two-story fireplace. D
Day 2: A&M Railroad Explore Mount Magazine with an expert Ranger guide including a peek beyond closed gates. Tour Subiaco Abbey and Inner-Court with a Benedictine Monk and learn how they follow the 1,500 year old rule as written by St. Benedict. This afternoon, board the A&M railroad and ride in style in their meticulously restored antique passenger rail cars from Van Buren to Springdale. Relax as the train winds through the river valleys and high trestles and hear commentary from the conductor. This evening unpack your bags for a 2-night stay at the AAA 4-diamond Chateau on the
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Lake! Situated on the lakefront, each room of- October 21-24, 2014 fers pristine views of Table Rock Lake! B, D Per person rates double $783 Day 3: Nature’s palette triple/quad $710 Bring your camera to capture the sights in Dogsingle $999 wood Canyon, a 10,000 acre paradise of riotous fall color, established by the founder of Bass Pro Shops. Embark on a specially designed open-air tram and traverse across the canyon with experienced guides. Catch a good sale at the outlet mall National Geographic before boarding the majestic showboat of the magazine lists the 1800’s, the Showboat Branson Belle, for a cruise, Ozarks of Arkansas as one of the world’s dinner and entertainment. B, D greatest driving tours. Day 4: Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds Enjoy a breakfast and then travel to Mansfield, MO home of Baker Creek Heirloom Seed company. Shop the seed collections and learn how the owner’s started the business that now thrives with a magazine and philanthropy. B
Fall in the Smokies
Day 1: Nashville, TN Today we travel to Nashville, TN. Enroute enjoy home-style cooking for lunch at Patti’s 1880’s Settlement Restaurant of Kentucky Lake. Voted #1 restaurant by Southern Living magazine because of its food and #1 for its tourism, take time to enjoy a leisurely meal and shopping in its 8 unique shops. Then it’s off to Nashville, TN our home for the night, to enjoy a performance at the world famous Grand Ole Opry! Tip your hats and stomp your boots along with the longest continually running radio broadcast show in history. L Day 2: Asheville, NC One of our most scenic drives awaits us today as we make the trip east to Asheville, North Carolina. Tonight visit the Biltmore Mansion Estate. From the extravagant mansion and gardens, to the winery, we’ll need to come back in the morning to see it all properly! B, D Day 3: Pigeon Forge, TN After returning to complete our visit to the Biltmore House, we invite a step on guide aboard to educate and entertain us as we wind through the mountains. Absorb the gorgeous fall foliage as we pass through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Arrive in Pigeon Forge, TN for a 2-night stay at the SpringHill Suites by
Marriott. A dinner and an acclaimed country mu- October 21-25, 2014 sic show in Pigeon Forge will cap off a beautiful Per person rates day. B, D double $999 triple/quad $905 Day 4: Gatlinburg and Dollywood single $1282 See the Ripley’s Aquarium, a big hit with past Same price since Sunrise travelers before arriving at Dolly Parton’s Dollywood, home of mountain music and good 2011! old Ozark tradition. Next visit The Island, Pigeon Forge’s newest attraction, where we will rise 200ft on The Wheel for a breathtaking view of Great Smoky Mountain National Park before dinner. This evening you can visit The Christmas Place store Smoky Mountain National Park with your tour Place you need manager or enjoy a relaxing evening at the hotel to see more than while you savor your new mountain memories. B, once: Biltmore D Estate, Deb Day 5: Return home Bid the mountains goodbye and return home enjoying more dramatic fall colors along the way. B
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Hilton Head and Amelia Island Day 1: Nashville, TN We depart mid-day and our first stop on this island journey is Nashville, known as the Music City of the World and home to Nashville’s first celebrity, Davy Crockett, noted frontiersman, Congressman, fiddle player and great story-teller. D Day 2: Hilton Head, SC Venture deeper into the Southern climate with an afternoon arrival at Hilton Head Island, your home for the next 3 nights at the luxurious Omni Oceanfront Resort where all rooms are ocean view! Unpack and relax! The hotel grounds are tropically landscaped and there are 12 miles of white sandy beaches just steps away. The Omni underwent a $17 million renovation in 2013 and boasts some of the largest rooms on the island – elegant décor, mini kitchens with microwaves, mini refrigerators, and separate dining areas as well as private balconies with beautiful ocean views. Tonight dine out at one of the “local favorites”, a hidden gem you will not forget. B, D Day 3: Hilton Head, SC A full day free to explore Hilton Head as you want. There are many options available: Take a walk along Omni’s private white-sand beach, there is an 11-mile lagoon for canoeing and kayaking, tennis or golf. Take a dip in one of their pools or reward yourself and escape to the spa for a treatment. There is great shopping nearby at Shelter Cove Harbor. With an average high temperature of almost 70 degrees in November, you can’t go wrong! B Day 4: Hilton Head, SC Drive north along the coast to the colorful town of Beaufort, SC known as “America’s happiest seaside town”. Discover beautiful pre-revolutionary homes on narrow streets shaded by live oaks trailing Spanish moss. B, D Day 5: Savannah, SC/Amelia Island, FL Travel to the gracious and enchanting coastal town of Savannah for an informative Trolley Tour. See lovely garden squares and unique architecture for which the city is famous. Enjoy lunch on River Street followed by free time to explore.
Continue to Amelia Island, FL, a hidden gem surrounded by Victorian architecture and a taste of island life at its best. Unpack for three nights at the charming Hampton Inn and Suites Harbor Front located in the heart of historic downtown Fernandina Beach, overlooking the Fernandina Beach Marina. B, L
Nov. 1-9, 2014 Per person rates double $1599 triple/quad $1407 single $2175
Just a few spots left!
Day 6: Amelia Island, FL Visit St. Augustine founded by Juan Ponce de Leon in his search for the legendary Fountain of Youth. Explore America’s oldest city on a local guided tour. Lunch is at Barnacle Bill’s, a local tradition since 1981, followed by an afternoon visit to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm and Oak trees often seen in Savannah and Beaufort. evening return to Amelia Island. B, L Day 7: Amelia Island, FL Enjoy a free day on Amelia Island. See historic buildings dating back to the late 19th century, drop by Florida’s oldest saloon, take a carriage ride or stroll down Centre Street for great shopping. We will reconvene late this afternoon to relax on a Sunset Cruise and watch the sun catch the waves on fire in colors of red and gold! B, D Day 8: Atlanta, GA Say farewell to this sunny island and head to the bustling city of Atlanta for a brief city tour, including Centennial Olympic Park. Experience some great southern cooking at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, an Atlanta tradition for over 70 years, before continuing to overnight in northern Georgia. B, D Day 9: Return home Return to St. Louis. B
Most Memorable sunrise: Hilton Head Island, Charlene
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Biltmore Christmas
Day 1: Belle Meade Plantation Arrive in Nashville, TN and visit the Belle Meade Plantation for a guided tour and a peek into how Christmas celebrations have evolved. A “toast” to the holidays with Wassail, complemented with homemade desserts highlight our afternoon. Tonight we overnight in Cookeville, TN. D
Day 2: Biltmore Estate Pull into the gates of the Biltmore Estate and be treated with the same hospitality enjoyed by the Vanderbilt’s guests a century ago at the AAA 4-diamond Inn on Biltmore. Board the complimentary shuttle and enjoy unlimited access to tour the historic Mansion, the Winery, Antler Hill for shopping and dining, the Gardens or simply enjoy the majestic views. This evening, revel in a Biltmore Candlelight Christmas Evening as they did in 1895 after savoring a delicious holiday-inspired meal and light tour. B, D
Day 3: Holiday Spirit This morning, spend more time exploring the Biltmore Estate or relax after the gourmet breakfast served at the Inn on Biltmore Estate. This afternoon, it’s time to explore another Asheville holiday tradition, the creations that compete in the annual National Gingerbread House Competition featured at the historic Grove Park Inn. Enjoy a gourmet seasonal grand lunch in the holiday inspired Dining Room. Travel to Berea, KY to Boone Historic Tavern Hotel, our home for the night, to experience warm hospitality and rich Appalachian culture. B, L
Nov. 18-21, 2014 Dec. 1-4, 2014
Per person rates double $869 triple/quad $815 single $1107
Christmas at the Biltmore Estate is the biggest holiday event in Asheville. Starting early in November, America’s largest home is decked in regal yuletide decorations. Join us as “Guests of the Estate” Day 4: Return home overnighting at the Inn Need another Christmas gift? Look no further on Biltmore Estate and than the local shops offering gifts made by local experiencing full access artisans. Afterwards, board the coach for a fes- to the grandeur of the tive ride home. B estate.
San Antonio Holiday
Day 1: Oklahoma Travel to Muskogee, OK for an overnight stay. Tonight, experience the town’s annual light display with a step on guide. D
Day 2: Hill Country Lighting Trail Our travels take us to the Hill Country of Texas with a visit to Johnson City. Enjoy a lovely dinner before touring downtown to see the lights on the Blanco County Courthouse and a visit to Pedernales Electric Coop’s Headquarters “lighted forest” of over 1 million lights. Overnight near Marble Falls, TX. B,D Day 3: Gruene, TX Visit historic Gruene, Texas, to browse shops, visit the oldest dance hall in Texas and enjoy lunch at the local Gristmill Restaurant. Check into San Antonio’s The Westin, located on the famed River Walk and our home for the next three nights featuring a Spanish colonial feel and high end finishes. Experience “La Merienda” which is the traditional Latin transition into the evening complete with entertainment, before a delightful cruise on the river aglow with holiday lights. B, L Day 4: San Antonio Tour the Institute of Texas Culture, see the stories of immigrants that settled in Texas and contributed to what is the 15th largest economy in the world. Learn the story of the Alamo as we
View the IMAX theatre’s presentation, The Price of Freedom. Explore The Alamo on your own as you take in the historic site where the fateful 13 day battle took place in 1836. Visit the 750-foottall Tower of the Americas which provides a spectacular view of the “Alamo City”. B, D
Nov.30- Dec. 6, 2014 Per person rates double $1359 triple/quad $1197 single $1847
Day 5: San Antonio Our local guide will take us through the city with stops at The Mission San Jose and The Governor’s Palace. Enjoy a wonderful lunch at the renowned Guenther House, located in the 1860 home of the Pioneer Flour Mills’ founding family, and a huge hit with past tour goers. Then, you are free to stroll the River Walk, relax by the pool or do a bit of last minute Christmas shopping in La Villita Historic Arts Village. B, L Day 6: Marshall, TX Today, we begin our journey home. Experience Texan hospitality with a stop at Starr Family Home State Historic Site. Tour the Maplecroft Home complete with period furnishings and costumed hosts who will then serve us a special Victorian Candlelight Christmas dinner in The Blake House. B, D Day 7: Return home Our holiday trip to San Antonio is a collection of sweet memories and a festive spirit to carry on through the holidays! B
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November 4-6
Branson Holiday
Daniel O’Donnell- Daniel O’Donnell has become one of the most successful entertainers in Branson since first appearing a few years ago, selling out nearly every appearance. He teams up with Mary Duff, Irelands’ top female vocalist, and Branson gets a blend of traditional Irish ballads, country favorites, and traditional gospel with an Irish twist! Presley’s- The Presley family is here to entertain audiences with a one-of-a-kind mix of country, gospel, bluegrass and hilarious comedy! Texas Tenors-4th Place finishers of America’s Got Talent, the Texas Tenors bring their unique blend of country, gospel, classical and broadway to the stage with breathtaking vocals, humor and cowboy charm. Pierce Arrow- talent overflows from the World’s lowest bass singer according to the Guinness Book of World Records, to masterful harmonies and expert entertainers, these gentlemen truly love what they do and it shows!
November 17-19
Duttons- NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” Finalists, enjoy a family entertainment experience of a lifetime! Clay Cooper- Clay Cooper is a high energy, country music variety show guaranteed to make you tap your toes, stomp your feet, and even let out a holler or two! Jonah at the Sight & Sound Theatre-A show simply described as “awe-inspiring”, “uplifting” and “amazing” Jonah is a story of extremes we face as we trust in the Lord. Through it all, God reveals his extreme mercy and love not only for Jonah but his love for all. Brett Family- From an amateur “family act” to an internationally known group of seasoned professionals, The Bretts are in a position millions of musicians have tried to achieve, but have never been able to reach. And they are just getting started. “We’ve had to take our hard knocks over the years” says Brydon. “But, we’ve learned, we’ve developed as artists, and now we are polished and poised for huge growth.”
Join us for a holiday tour to Branson that includes accommodations at the Savannah House, featuring breakfast each morning and a warm treat each evening. Breakfast and dinner daily. Per person rates Nov. 4-6, 2014 double $523 triple/quad $498 single $603 Nov. 17-19, 2014 double $510 triple/quad $485 single $590
A Very “Muddy” Christmas
Day 1: Missouri River Runner to Kansas City Board Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner for a morning ride across the state and along the Missouri River, known as “Big Muddy”, the longest river in North America. Arrive in Kansas City’s magnificent Union Station, whose Grand Hall is decked out with trees galore during the holidays. Enjoy an early dinner in Union Station at Pierpont’s, named for railroad baron and banker J.P. (Pierpont) Morgan, which has been called the “culinary jewel” of Kansas City. Board a Sunrise motorcoach and check into the Kansas City Marriott Country Club Plaza for a two-night stay. Opened in 2011, the magnificent Kauffman Center changed Kansas City’s skyline and has become a landmark for artistic productions in the Midwest. Enjoy an annual favorite, the “Christmas Festival” performance by the KC Symphony and Chorus in Helzberg Hall, the 1,600 seat centerpiece of the Kauffman Center featuring world class acoustics and one of the finest concert hall organs in the country. D Day 2: “Christmas along the river” Founded in Atchison KS in 1981, Nell Hill’s has
grown from a single small-town boutique to an empire of interior design products and has been featured in Midwest Living Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, on NBC’s Today Show, and more. Founder Mary Carol Garrity (the store is named after her maternal grandmother, an early KS pioneer) is known for her “elegant, but practical tips on everything from holiday decorating to stylish ways to entertain at home…” After an included holiday lunch, tour a historic mansion in Leavenworth, located on the west bank of the Missouri and the first incorporated city in KS. Next stop, Weston, MO on the east bank of the River, for unique shopping in antebellum buildings. Cap the day with a tour of the famous Country Club Plaza lights display; “a local tradition for nearly 90 years, The Plaza Lights span 15-blocks…featuring thousands of glimmering, jewel-colored bulbs that accentuate every dome, tower and window of the Spanish-inspired shopping district.“ B, L Day 3: Columbia stop, home Stop in Columbia, MO for lunch and free time to explore charming Main Street, whose windows are decorated extensively for the holidays. B
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Dec. 19-21, 2014 Per person rates double $579 triple/quad $523 single $748
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Holiday at the Homestead Resort
Day 1: Galt House Depart for Louisville, KY and the Galt House featuring the Kalightoscope light display with stunning luminaries that tell the story of A Christmas Carol. This evening sit back and enjoy the new Kentucky Christmas Dinner Show featuring Country Music superstar singer and two-time Grammy Award Winner Pam Tillis. Overnight at the Galt House. D
Day 2: The Homestead Travel to one of the world’s finest resorts, the opulent National Historic Landmark Homestead Resort, for a two-night stay. Thousands of sparkling lights, miles of garland, warm crackling fireplaces, endless Poinsettias, and an outdoor wonderland will be sure to get you in the holiday spirit! Since 1766 the Resort has offered an incomparable retreat to its visitors; Princes and Presidents, including Thomas Jefferson, have soaked in its mineral springs. Upon arrival enjoy a wine and cheese reception before a four-course dinner with music and dancing. B, D Day 3: Day at the Homestead An expansive breakfast buffet awaits us before an historical tour of the resort this morning. The rest of the day is at your leisure to enjoy the amenities of the resort which was recently recognized as the #1 resort for Christmas away from home in Southern Living. You may choose to roast marsh-
mallows at the outdoor fire pit, shop the unique NE WT specialty shops, soak in the warm mineral spring OU R! pool, or partake in an endless array of activities. Your tour manager will be available to help you Dec. 8-12, 2014 plan your day. After another dinner in the Main Per person rates Dining Room, you may choose to catch a movie in double $1190 the guest theater or sit around the massive Christtriple/quad $1102 mas tree. B, D single $1527
Day 4: Lexington, KY After a relaxing morning at the Homestead, depart for Lexington, KY for a magical drive through animated holiday light displays at the Kentucky Horse Park’s “Southern Lights” holiday show. Boasting over four miles of lights the show has been named an ABA Top 100 event for 2013 & 2014. Overnight in Lexington. B, D Day 5: Return home Begin our journey home with a stop in Santa Claus, IN at the Santa Claus Museum & Village and Kringle Place which is home to the post office where you can send a post card home with the spe- Homestead Resort cial Santa Claus post mark before returning to St. Louis. B
Let it Be... A Nashville Christmas
Day 1: Tennessee Visit Nashville’s premier 4-star Gaylord Opryland Resort to enjoy a Christmas celebration. You can’t miss the entrance as 2 million twinkling lights and acres of stunning decorations adorn this luxurious resort. Check into your upgraded garden atrium view room featuring a balcony that overlooks sparkling holiday gardens. Refresh before A Season of Harmony Dinner Show featuring delicious food and music rich in soaring harmonies. D Day 2: Christmas in Nashville Nashville sparkles with song and spirit during the holidays. Did you know there is only one full-size replica of the Parthenon (of Greece) in the world? Tour this unique structure, its art collection and the impressive Athena statue. Enjoy lunch at the Wildhorse Saloon, an historic warehouse turned music and restaurant destination and join the group for beginner line dancing lessons
on the biggest dance floor in town! Capture the Cash spirit, Johnny Cash that is, at the newest museum in Nashville focusing on the life of this special man. Explore the ICE! Sculpture display at the resort. This evening arrive at the prized Grand Ole Opry House with reserved seats for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular presenting the award-winning Rockettes which will transport you to a world of irresistible holiday cheer! B,L Day 3: Shopping or Spa After breakfast at the Opryland Restaurant, this morning is yours to relax and recharge. Enjoy the spa at the Opryland Resort (at your own expense), relax on your balcony or Christmas shop at the Treasures for the Holidays festive craft and gift show featuring more than 40 unique merchants from across the country. Travel home this afternoon armed with memories to share and stories to tell of Christmas in Tennessee’s capital. B
Dec. 15-17, 2014 Per person rates double $739 triple/quad please call single $939 Let it Be Christmas was chosen as the 2013 top Country Christmas Song by Alan Jackson because it was instantly timeless. Join Sunrise Tours on a timeless Christmas tour filled with holiday cheer and Christmas memories!
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Colorado New Year’s Eve
Day 1: Kansas City Travel across Missouri and savor a delicious homestyle lunch at The Settlers Inn before spending time shopping and enjoying the holiday light display at Kansas City’s Country Club Plaza. Overnight in Topeka, KS. L Day 2: Aurora CO Continue west and enjoy lunch at Gella’s Diner in Hays Kansas, a frontier town that was once home to Calamity Jane and “Buffalo Bill” Cody. Check into our Denver Colorado hotel tonight. B, L
Day 3: Amtrak to Glenwood Springs CO What better way to welcome the New Year than to experience the breathtaking Colorado vistas that inspired “America the Beautiful.” All aboard the California Zephyr for an adventure from Denver to Glenwood Springs. This route is considered to be Amtrak’s most scenic journey. Pass through snow-covered mountain peaks, crystal-coated pines, glistening streams, quaint mountain villages and awe-inspiring tunnels. Your grand finale to this ride is the spectacular Glenwood Canyon with walls that climb as high as 1,300 feet! Board the Iron Mountain Aerial Tram where you’ll experience the magnificent Rocky Mountain scenery as you skim over the tops of the trees, up to the summit of Iron Mountain. Enjoy panoramic eagle eye views of the striking mountains and Glenwood Springs below. Unpack your bags for a 2-night stay in the lovely mountain community of Glenwood Springs. B,D
Ring in the New Year at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue where comedic skit, songs, dance and Dec. 28-Jan. 3, 2015 laughter are the ingredients for an entertaining Per person rates double $1468 New Year’s Eve celebration. B, D triple/quad $1309 Day 5: AAA Five-Diamond “The Broadmoor Re- single $2027 sort” Happy New Year! Trek to Colorado Springs and Favorite Hotel: unpack your bags for an overnight stay and dinner Broadmoor Hotel at the AAA Five-Diamond Broadmoor Hotel! Nesin Colorado, Virtled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, this dis- ginia tinguished Colorado mountain retreat upholds a legacy of elegance, and impeccable service. Built in 1918, the resort features many grand touches Featuring a ride on that still exist: beams painted with motifs from the California Zephclassical mythology, a marble staircase, ornate yr, one of Amtrak’s chandeliers, and ceiling frescoes by European art- most scenic routes, ists. Dine in the original Tavern Room that has and an overnight been serving its exquisite cuisine since 1938. B, D Day 6: Garden of the Gods, Hays, KS Visit the Garden of the Gods, one of the most photographed natural wonders in the United States. With its spectacular red rock formations against a backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak and brilliant blue skies, the park is truly awe-inspiring. Later, we travel to Hays, KS for the night. B, L
stay at the AAA 5-diamond Broadmoor Hotel!
Day 7: Hays KS to St. Louis Depart for home this morning with many memories of an incredible New Year’s vacation. B
Day 4: Redstone, CO & New Year’s Eve A gem in the Canyon is Redstone, CO, a unique village originally developed as a turn-of-the-century “Camelot” and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Stories will be articulated by a local expert who shares folklore and historical insights. Experience the serenity of the mountains on a horse drawn sleigh ride through the canopy of snowy pine trees in Redstone, CO . Spend time exploring the shops on Main Street in Glenwood Springs or taking a “dip” in Glenwood’s Hot Springs Pool which boasts water around 100 degrees and filled with rich natural minerals that Broadmoor Resort sooth and restore a body (additional expense).
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The 126th Rose Parade and more!
Stop and smell the roses at the 126th Rose Parade in Pasadena, California! Always a favorite with Sunrise Tours travelers, this wonderful New Year’s trip packed with lots of activity is sure to foster many fond memories. Day 1: Fly into Los Angeles Catch a flight into Los Angeles and check into our comfortable hotel for the duration of the trip. D Day 2: Los Angeles sightseeing Spend the day exploring Los Angeles with a local guide. See The Hollywood Bowl, Mann’s Chinese Theatre, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive and so much more! B, D Day 3: Behind the Parade Scenes; Bringing in the New Year Go behind the scenes to see how the Rose Bowl floral floats are actually constructed and decorated. Don’t be shy in asking questions. The volunteers are thrilled to let you discover the final stages of float decorating! Enjoy lunch on your own in Old Pasadena. Visit the Getty Museum which offers ancient to modern art, beautiful, tranquil gardens in a dramatic architectural setting. Enjoy spectacular vistas of the hills and Pacific Ocean in the distance before returning to our hotel. Welcome the New Year on St. Louis time with our own “Midwest New Year’s Eve celebration”, to be ready to rise early the next morning for the 126th Rose Parade! B, D
Dec. 29- Jan. 3, 2015
Per person rates* double $2196 Day 4: “Happy New Year!” triple/quad $2023 Enjoy a great view of the Tournament of Roses single $2715 Parade from your reserved seating - you can’t * Includes roundtrip airhelp but get caught up in the excitement of the fare from STL. crowd as the striking floats and well-rehearsed marching bands pass by! Journey through the Petersen Automotive Museum and explore one of mankind’s greatest achievements and obsessions: the automobile. The museum features the history of cars beginning with a 1901 streetscape and showcases automobiles of glamour and celebrity. Whether you’re an avid car fan or not, Queen Mary you’ll leave this venue filled with nostalgia! Kick off the New Year with an early dinner and time to relax in the hotel Wonderful before retiring for the night. B, D
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Day 5 Reagan Library and Queen Mary Take a scenic drive along the coast and over mountains to Simi Valley for a visit to the Ronald Reagan Library and Museum. This year’s exhibits are designed to honor his accomplishments and patriotic spirit. Tour the museum, view a full-size replica of the White House Oval Office, the office in which President Reagan never took off his suit jacket, and walk onboard the actual Air Force One aircraft, tail number 27000, which flew 7 US presidents. This evening, tour the mystery and history of the Queen Mary before an onboard delicious dinner. B, D
planned trip. I would highly recommend to friends. Ann S., 2012 Rose Bowl Parade
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Best Parade: To u r n a m e n t of Roses Parade, Pat
Day 6: Return flight home Float at the Rose Bowl Parade
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Florida Stay ‘N Play Take a mid-winter break to enjoy warm, sunny days on the white sand beaches of St. Pete Beach, a barrier island community on the Gulf coast of Florida. We will travel by motorcoach (fly option available) spending one night in Georgia on the trip to and from St. Pete Beach and 21 nights at the gulf front Sirata Beach Resort.
also located within easy walking distance. Cost of the tour via motorcoach includes: Coach transportation via luxury motorcoach including Jan. 20-Feb. 12, 2015 the 9 excursions while in Florida, lodging for 24 OR nights, 2 breakfasts en route to and from FloriFly da and 1 breakfast, lunch and dinner during the Jan. 22-Feb. 10, 2015* 3-week stay in Florida. *Includes roundtrip air-
Your three week stay can be as busy or leisurely as you wish. Besides walking the beautiful beach, relaxing in a hammock, and lounging poolside or on the beach with a good book, you can always hop on the local trolley and explore nearby gulf communities. Sunrise will also offer 9 excursions of varying lengths during your stay. These excursions are optional, therefore admission fees are not included in your tour price. Some activities we have offered in the past are bay cruises, theatre, local street festivals and visits to Sarasota, Tarpon Springs, St. Petersburg and state parks. Your Sunrise tour host and fellow Sunrise travelers who have been returning yearly will also be happy to share information that will help you decide what to do on the days no activities are planned.
Cost of the tour via air includes: flight to Florida, transportation to airport from pick-up point and hotel, lodging at the Sirata Resort 19 nights, transportation for 9 excursions, and 1 breakfast and 1 dinner.
We have reserved three room types at the Sirata Beach Resort. In building 1 the Gulf Front suites face the Gulf, have 2 queen beds in the bedroom and a small refrigerator and Sirata Beach Resort microwave in the kitchenette. In building 4, Coach the Gulf View suites do not face the gulf but have January 20-February 12, 2015 an angled view of the beach and gulf and have a Per person rates king bed, a full refrigerator, microwave and cook Gulf Front Room double $3560 top in the kitchenette. The Bay view suites do single $5625 not face the gulf but do have views of the bay, Gulf View Room double $3238 have a king bed in the bedroom and a small re- single $5060 frigerator and microwave in the kitchenette. Bay View Room double $3079 All room types are furnished alike with a queen single $4771 sleeper sofa in the living room, full balcony, cable Fly TV, in-room safe, and utensils, dishes, toaster and January 22-February 10, 2015* coffee maker in the kitchenette. A newspaper is Per person rates delivered daily to your room. As a Sunrise Tours Gulf Front Room double $3798 guest, the Sirata will give a 10% discount on all single $5669 restaurant food purchases at the resort and there Gulf View Room double $3509 is no extra cost for high-speed wireless internet single $5163 access in your room and a beach cabana daily. Bay View Room double $3367 Restaurants, a grocery store and a drug store are single $4855
fare from STL
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Biloxi Winter Break
Day 1: Tunica, MS Leave winter behind as we head south for warmer winds. Overnight in Tunica, MS. D
Day 2: Beau Rivage Travel south through Mississippi and arrive in Biloxi at the luxurious waterfront, four-diamond Beau Ravage Resort and Casino for a 3-night stay! The resort features a dozen restaurants, shopping, a world class spa and salon, and an expansive casino for your enjoyment. B, D Day 3: New Orleans visit Explore New Orleans and its unique and colorful heritage with a local guide. Enjoy music and lunch at the world- famous Court of Two Sisters. Then explore the French Quarter area on your own and browse the shops, boutiques and grab a traditional beignet from the original Café du Monde. B, L
Day 4: Free Day Enjoy a free day to explore on your own (transportation provided, admissions on own). You may visit the renowned Bellingrath Gardens featuring over 250,000 azaleas or possibly visit, Beauvior, the home of Jefferson Davis and it Presidential Library. Also nearby is the Maritime Seafood Industry and Museum, Gulf Marine State Park and the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art. You may also simply choose to relax and enjoy the amenities of the Beau Rivage Resort.
February 22-27, 2015 Per person rates double $873 triple/quad $844 single $960
Same price as 2014!
Day 5: Jackson, MS Depart Biloxi for Jackson, MS to visit the Old Capital Museum. Mississippi’s first capital building, which was built in 1839, has been fully restored to its original state. Return to Tunica for an overnight stay. B, L Day 6: Home Arrive home ready for spring. B
Western Caribbean Cruise by coach
Day 1: Lake Horn, MS A late morning departure begins a relaxing drive to Lake Horn, Mississippi. Tonight you will be treated to renowned Southern Barbeque. D Day 2: New Orleans, LA Travel south through Mississippi to the “City that Care forgot”, New Orleans. Take in 200 years of culture as we visit the French Market, America’s oldest public market before our fine dining experience at a local New Orleans restaurant. B, D Day 3: French Quarter, Embarkation Experience the sights and sounds of the colorful French Quarter as a local guide takes you back in time highlighting the Old World ambiance, history, and architecture of this romantic city. This afternoon you’ll board Royal Caribbean’s the Serenade of the Seas which began cruising from New Orleans in winter of 2013 after a $29 million dollar renovation. Complete with duty free shops, Broadway-style entertainment and lavish interiors the Serenade will be the perfect ship to explore the Western Caribbean. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner provided on ship throughout the cruise. Day 4: At Sea Day 5: At Sea
Day 6: Falmouth, Jamaica NE WT Situated on Jamaica’s North coast, Falmouth is OU R! noted for being one of the Caribbean’s best-preserved Georgian towns. Falmouth was one if the first shipping ports in the Caribbean, with a rich March 12-22, 2015 Inside double $1628 heritage dating back more than 240 years. Outside double $1808 Balcony double $1928 Day 7: George Town, Grand Cayman Grand Cayman is one of a group of three magnificent tropical Islands. Among other attractions, Inside single $2277 visitors to the island can learn about local turtles, Outside single $2637 visit the town of Hell, explore Seven-Mile beach Balcony single $2877 and enjoy the undersea world. Day 8: Cozumel, Mexico Cozumel is home to the ruins of the ancient Mayan City of Tulum, perched above the turquoise Caribbean, along with great duty free shopping. Day 9: At Sea Day 10: Memphis, TN Return to New Orleans for disembarkation and drive to the Memphis, TN area for a one night stay. B, D Day 11: Return home Depart this morning for home with fond memories of a wonderful sunny adventure. An early afternoon return to St. Louis is planned. B
* $500 per cabin deposit Final payment due by 12/12/2014
Sunrise tour manager Pat McKinzie took the 2013 cruise by coach tour on Serenade of the Seas and describes the ship as “big enough to feature all the amenities, but not so big that you can’t find everybody.”
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New Orleans & Cajun Country
Day 1: Fly to New Orleans Today fly to New Orleans where you’ll spend two nights at Hotel Provincial, located in the heart of the historic French Quarter. with private courtyard. This evening, at Tujague’s Restaurant, begin your authentic Creole experience. D
Day 2: French Quarter Experience the sights and sounds of New Orleans as our local guide takes you back in time to another era highlighting the Old World ambiance, unique history and architecture of this romantic city. Walk through a cemetery and see the elegant homes in the Garden District neighborhood, resplendent with columned mansions, mighty oaks and verdant gardens. Enjoy the world-famous Jazz Brunch at The Court of Two Sisters in their delightful French Quarter courtyard. Visit Mardi Gras World, a fascinating place where you can see Mardi Gras Magic in the making. The evening is free for you to enjoy the French Quarter at leisure. B, Brunch Day 3: Cajun Country Enjoy a free morning or an optional visit to The National WW II Museum (admission at your own expense) before departing for Cajun Country. Cruise along the Bayou in a remote cypress swamp as our Cajun Captain points out the unique wildlife and plant life and entertains with tunes played on his Cajun accordion. Visit Greenwood Gator Farm and learn about this fascinating industry and see if you are brave enough to hold a gator! Dinner at the local Bayou Delight and overnight in Houma, LA. B, D Day 4: Avery Island & St. Martinsville Some like it hot! Visit Avery Island for a tour and tasting at McIlhenny Co. Tabasco factory. Visit Rip Van Winkle Gardens for a stroll through this semitropical paradise on Lake Peigneur. In St. Martinville our personal guide will tell the legend of the Acadian Heroine Evangeline and take us to the Evangeline Oak Tree and St Martin de Tours Catholic Church. A short drive finds us
in Lafayette for our two night stay. B, L, Hot Apps
Day 5: Cajun Heritage This morning our local step-on guide take us to a working rice farm to see how two crops, rice and crawfish, are farmed on the same land. Visit a second-generation Cajun accordion maker to see how the instrument used by all Cajun musicians is made and played. Learn the Cajun Waltz and Two-Step at our private Dance Lesson at Vermilionville, a beautiful Cajun heritage and folk life museum. Set on the banks of the Bayou Vermilion, the historic village contains original buildings with artifacts reflecting Acadian life between 1765 and 1890. Costumed interpreters demonstrate traditional crafts. Tonight, enjoy a Fais Do-Do at Pont Breaux’s Cajun Restaurant, featuring delicious food, a live Cajun band and a dance floor for you to demonstrate your Joie de Vivre. B, D
March 15-20, 2015
Per person rates* double $1554 triple/quad $1457 single $1904 * Includes roundtrip airfare from STL
Day 6: Return flight home Travel to Darrow, LA to visit the breathtaking Houmas House Plantation and Gardens. Enjoy a tour of the antebellum estate with our period costumed hostess. This grand Greek revival mansion is surrounded by 500 year old great oak trees, vibrant flowers, ponds, fountains, sculpture and garconniere. Enjoy a delightful lunch at Café Burnside before being transferred to the New Orleans airport for your flight home. B, L
Houmas House Plantation
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Cardinals Spring Training Day 1: Northern Georgia Travel to northern Georgia for overnight stay. D Day 2: Orlando, FL Travel to Orlando, FL and overnight at the highly rated Rosen Center Hotel. Enjoy a deluxe dinner buffet at the hotel restaurant, Café Gaugin. B, D Day 3: Palm Beach Gardens, FL Hear the crack of the bat as we see our first game of the trip! After the game, we will check into our home for three nights, the Hilton Garden Inn (or similar), Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Featuring a hot breakfast each morning and a convenient location from which to visit Roger Dean Stadium and explore Palm Beach County. B, D Day 4: Palm Beach Gardens, FL Today we see the Cardinals take on another opponent in sunny Florida. We will get to the ballpark
early to catch part of batting practice and to enjoy a delicious lunch at the Party Deck of Roger Dean Stadium. B, L Day 5: Palm Beach Gardens, FL Catch another game as the Cards prepare for 2015. After the game enjoy a Sunrise Tours spring training tradition; a catered BBQ on the beach! Return to hotel for the night. B, D
March 11-18, 2015 Per person rates double $1599 triple/quad $1394 single $2214
Same price as 2014! March 17-24, 2015
Rates to be determined
Day 6: Palm Beach Gardens, FL – Orlando area See our final spring training game! Tonight we return for an overnight in Orlando. B, D Day 7: Northern Georgia Now that you’ve seen them in action, what do you predict for the 2015 season? Travel to Georgia for overnight stay. B, L Day 8: Return home, breakfast included
Washington DC Cherry Blossom Festival
Day 1: Ohio Overnight in central Ohio. D Day 2: Washington, DC Continue eastward to visit the historic and famous Arlington Cemetery including a visit to John F. Kennedy’s tomb and the Tomb of the Unknowns. After dinner in DC, check into our hotel for a 4-night stay. Staying in DC proper will afford us quicker access to the many sights of the city we are going to explore. B, D
Day 4: Washington, DC Visit the “Newseum”, a multimedia exploration of the importance and history of journalism in America. Since it’s opening in 2008, the Newseum has become a “must-see” attraction. Afterwards, spend time at the Smithsonian, the world’s largest museum complex. After dinner, enjoy a drive by the memorials lit for the evening. B, D
Day 5: Washington DC After years of repairing damage as a result of a 2011 earthquake, the Washington Monument is reopened. Tour this historical centerpiece which ascends 500 Day 3: Washington DC feet to the top floor observaToday, we are joined by tion deck and museum. This afa local guide to visit the ternoon we will have more time Jefferson Memorial and cherry blossoms historical highlights of to visit the Smithsonian. EmDC. Stand where global events have taken shape bark on a first-class dinner cruise aboard a luxury and view the many historic monuments framed in yacht down the Potomac River featuring magnifithe vivid white and pink blossoms from more than cent views of DC and the Cherry Blossoms, exqui3,000 Japanese cherry trees along the Tidal Basin. site food, dancing and music. B, D Enjoy a guided Capitol Building Tour and a White House Tour this afternoon (based on availability). Day 6: Columbus, OH This evening attend an extraordinary event as the It’s time to begin our journey home. Travel to The historic Ford’s Theater remembers the assassina- Spring House for a step back in time with oldtion of 150 years ago with a special, epic concert- fashioned, homestyle eating! Then, it’s off to Costyle musical performance featuring the words of lumbus, OH for the night. B, L. Abraham Lincoln and rousing music that repreDay 7: Return home sents the spirit of the Civil War. B, D
March 28-April 3, 2015 Per person rates double $1598 triple/quad $1403 single $2183 Most Meaningful Activity: Watching the changing of the guards in Arlington Cemetery, Tammy
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Our first trip, total surprise at the “spare no expense” attitude which prevailed. We booked another trip after this one so Washington DC was a test and you passed with an A+. Beverly E., 2013 DC Cherry Blossom Festival
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Southern Charm Featuring Savannah, GA and Charleston, SC Day 1: Georgia Travel to northern Georgia and visit the historic and beautifully decorated antebellum Grand Oaks Home, Cartersville, GA, for dinner. D Day 2: Savannah, GA It’s off to the “Old South” and “Georgia’s First City” as Savannah welcomes us with southern hospitality. Upon arrival, visit the famous and hauntingly beautiful Bonaventure Cemetery, featured in the “Midnight The Biltmore Estate Sumter. See the ruins of Historic Fort Sumter in the Garden of Good and Evil”, for a guided walking tour. Experience the succulent where the Civil War began and a view of Charlesflavors of southern cooking while dining at Mrs. ton from the Harbor. Enjoy dinner with views of Wilkes Dining Room before we check into the the harbor before checking into our hotel for the Country Inn Historic District for the next 2 nights. next 2 nights. B, D B, D Day 5: Charleston, SC Embrace the history of Charleston as we visit the Day 3: Savannah, GA Board an open-air trolley to tour this enchant- Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, an estate ing and alluring Southern town where we’ll find acquired by the Dalton Family in 1676. Tour the amazing architecture and rich history. Have free gorgeous blooming gardens and home and take time for lunch, where you may want to visit The a tram excursion for a picturesque nature tour of Lady and Son’s Restaurant, owned and operated the plantation’s wetlands and marshes. After enby southern chef Paula Deen. Then enjoy time to joying lunch and shopping time in the exuberant explore the Historic River Street full of shops, Historic City Market area, we will invite a local restaurants, galleries, all in a revitalized historic guide to share her expertise aboard our coach as area located right on the river. This evening we we explore this city steeped in colorful history and quaint landscapes. B, D are off to enjoy dinner riverside at River House Seafood. B, D Did you know? Savannah is called Day 6: Asheville, NC Day 4: Savannah, GA – Charles- ‘America’s First Planned Travel to the Blue Ridge Mountains to disCity’ because Ogletho- cover America’s Largest Majestic Home, ton, SC We never say good-bye so we rpe (who founded it in the picturesque Biltmore Estate. Upon say “we’ll see you later” to Sa- 1733) carefully organized arrival we will gather at the DeerPark Pavannah! Travel to picturesque the town into grids, with vilion for a lunch buffet. Afterwards, you wide streets and 24 pub- will have ample time to tour the VanderWadmalaw Island in the heart of lic squares. 21 of these South Carolina’s Lowcountry to squares were carefully bilt’s home and its surrounding centuryvisit the Charleston Tea Planta- preserved throughout old gardens. Did you know the estate is tion. Take a trolley tour of the the years and still exist still family-owned and operated… yes, since 1895! Eastern Knoxville, TN is our grounds and a tour of the work- today. destination for our overnight stay. B, L ing Tea Factory with time to sample and shop for tea. Then board a cruise boat to visit one of the most his- Day 7: Return home torically significant sites in North America; Fort Having explored some of the South’s most charm-
April 12-18, 2015 Per person rates double $1418 triple/quad $1278 single $1837
Same price as 2014! Known for its elegant charm, cobblestone streets and unique culture, Charleston was named one of the Top Ten places to visit in North America by Conde Nast Traveler Magazine!
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We really enjoyed the trip and it was our first! We will be back soon! Kathy O., 2013 Southern Charm
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Discover the “Old North State” Day 1: Knoxville, TN Travel to eastern TN, spring scenery along the way. D Day 2: Biltmore Estate Visit America’s largest home, the Vanderbilt’s 250-room chateau called the Biltmore Estate. Stroll the Biltmore Gardens awash in bright spring colors including the Walled Garden with colorful symmetrical flower beds, 15 acre Azalea Garden, beautiful tulips, blooming bushes and more! Tour the Mansion, visit Antler Village and enjoy lunch. Overnight in Charlotte, NC. B, L Day 3: Charlotte, NC Discover the life and legacy of a humble farm boy turned international ambassador of God’s love at the impressive Billy Graham Library. In 1919 James Buchanan Duke created a mansion as a place of inspiration and southern charm. Enjoy lunch at the 4-star historical Duke Mansion in the Ray Dining Room and walk through the Nisbet Garden in full bloom. Feel the thrill of the Charlotte Motor Speedway with an up close look at the speedway. Unpack for a 2-night stay in your upgraded ocean view room on the beach in Wrightsville Beach, NC. B, L Day 4: Wrightsville Beach In Wilmington, tour the USS North Carolina a battleship moored in quiet dignity and walk among her decks that saw combat of WWII. See the recreated 1870’s garden’s eye-catching spring flowers prominently displayed at the Bellamy Mansion where a tour includes Victorian history and educational insights into the family and its history. Relax on The Wilmington Boat and cruise the historic Cape Fear River around Eagles Island and along Wilmington’s historic riverfront. Watch for sea turtles, dolphins and alligators! After dinner, there will be time for a leisurely sunset walk to experience why Nicholas Sparks used this area in his novel Message in a Bottle! B, D Day 5: Raleigh, NC Often referred to as the Smithsonian of the South, this capital city is home to incredible state museums. Tour the State Capitol and observe
its unique Greek revival-style architecture. Get a sneak peek at how the governor lives with a tour of the Executive Mansion (subject to availability). Enjoy some of North Carolina’s legendary BBQ during lunch at The Pit, recent winner of a Food Network challenge. See the world’s only Acrocanthosaurus at the Museum of Natural Sciences and enjoy evening entertainment at one of Raleigh’s fine theater houses (performance TBD). Unpack for a 2-night stay in Raleigh. B, L Day 6: Durham, NC World-class Duke University in Durham, NC features a 210 foot high Chapel. Enjoy a docent-led tour of this great collegiate Gothic project followed by a guided tour of Durham including it’s storied neighborhoods, a tasting from Monuts Donuts and a visit to the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, especially brilliant this time of year. See the site of the largest troop surrender of the American Civil War, Bennett Place. Visit Historic Durham Athletic Park to see where Bull Durham was filmed and enjoy dinner in the city recently recognized as “America’s tastiest town” by Southern Living magazine. B, D Day 7: Winston-Salem, NC Travel to Winston-Salem Tour Duke Chapel and experience early American living history at Old Salem Museums. See demonstrations of an early Moravian household work in the garden and the kitchen. Listen to a private performance on the 1800 Tannenberg organ and enjoy lunch at The Tavern where dishes are inspired by Moravian families of the 19th century. Travel to Huntington, WV for an overnight stay. B, L Day 8: Return Home
April 26-May 3, 2015 Per person rates double $1695 triple $1492 single $2305
Explore the three regions of North Carolina as spring blossoms across the state; coastal, Piedmont (plains), and Appalachian.
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Chattanooga in the Spring Day 1: Huntsville, AL Head south and stop to see the largest collection of memorabilia from the “Man in Black” at the Johnny Cash Museum. This exciting new museum has everything from his earliest childhood artifacts to the last song he wrote. Travel to Huntsville, AL for our overnight stay. D Day 2: Space Center Home to the largest collections of rockets and space memorabilia anywhere in the world, the U.S. Space and Rocket Center will be our first stop of the day. Learn about the NASA’s journey toward putting man on the moon and see capsule trainers such as Mercury and Apollo 16 Casper. Travel to Chattanooga, TN, en-route stop at the Unclaimed Baggage Center where you never know what you’ll find at this sprawling store full of unexpected treasures from lost luggage. Enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise aboard the Blue Moon and experience the Tennessee River as the sun goes down on a slow relaxing pace that allows oppor-
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tunities to view the diverse wildlife as well as the April 22-25, 2015 lights of the city upon our return. B, D Per person rates double $719 Day 3: Chattanooga triple/quad $655 Visit Point Park at Lookout Mountain Battlefield single $912 for our Ranger talk learning about the “Battle Above the Clouds”. Head to what National Geographic called one of America’s iconic places, Rock City, home to the legendary “See 7 States” view, 1700 feet above sea level. Visit one of the nation’s top attractions, the Tennessee Aquarium, where you will come face-to-face with sharks, stingrays and sea turtles. Our trip to Chattanooga would not be complete without a Steam Train Ride along one of the original railroad lines in the area, with spring blossoms on display and passing through pre-Civil War Missionary Ridge Tunnel completed in 1858. B, D Day 4: The Road Home Return home with fond memories and pictures to share. B
Dutch Heritage and Pella Tulips Day 1: Moline, IL and German Life Depart St. Louis and learn what it was like on the rails at the Galesburg Railroad Museum. Our guide will show us locomotives from a time where railroad travel was king. In the mid-to-late 1800s millions of German Citizens immigrated to the United States, many to the Midwest region. The German American Heritage Center docents will guide you through the immigrant experience at this National Historic Site before our German dinner for this evening. After dinner travel to the Iowa City area for our overnight stay. D Day 2: Amana Colonies and Austrian Stories The Amana Colonies are known for being one of America’s longest-lived communal societies. A local guide shows us what life was like from 18th Germany to the present with stops at The Amana Heritage Museum and the General Store that is reminiscent of bygone days. Experience old country charm with a stop at Villa Comagena where our hostess will serve Austrian pastries while taking you on an emotionally inspiring “trip to Austria” before we head to Pella, IA for a 2-night stay. B, D Day 3: Pella Tulip Festival
Start off our morning with a guided tour of Pella and Pella’s Historical Village, tour Wyatt Earp’s childhood home, Vermeer Mill the largest working mill in the United States and tour Pella’s founding father’s home, the Scholte House. After some free time to browse the town we will head to the Pella Tulip Time Festival, where we will experience a little bit of Holland. B, D Day 4: Return Home Stop at the American Gothic House and Center to view the exterior of the house that inspired Grant Wood to paint American Gothic, one of the most recognized paintings in the world, create your own unique picture before heading back to St. Louis for early evening arrival. B
May 5-8, 2015 Per person rates double $699 triple/quad $620 single $937
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Creme de la Creme The Great Dames of Canada - Quebec, Ottawa, Montreal and Toronto Day 1: Michigan Travel to mid-Michigan for our overnight stay. D Day 2: Toronto, Ontario Head northeast to trendy Toronto for a 2-night stay in the heart of Toronto. After dinner, board the glass fronted elevator and rise 1,136 ft in 58 seconds to the observation deck of the CN Tower for a bird’s eye view of the skyline and sunset! B, D Day 3: Toronto, Ontario Explore the bustling city of Toronto with a stepon guide from the riverfront to the historic district. Tonight we are in for a treat as we attend a production (TBD) in one of the historic theatres of The Toronto Theatre District, the largest in Canada. B, D Day 4: Ottawa, Ontario Journey to Canada’s beautiful capital city of Ottawa for a stay at the Fairmont Château Laurier, a magnificent limestone edifice with turrets and masonry reminiscent of a French Château. This evening we will visit Canada’s largest and most popular cultural institution, The Canadian Museum of History. B, D Day 5: Canadian Tulip Festival Discover the sites of Ottawa and the Tulip Festival featuring more than three million tulips with our personal step-on guide. Visit the Byward Market, Commissioner’s Park, Parliament Hill, Sussex Drive, view the official residences of the Prime Minister and Governor General and many other Ottawa special sights. Relax at the Afternoon High Tea in the historic Fairmont hotel. B, high tea Day 6: Quebec City, Quebec Get your cameras ready as we approach our hotel for the next three nights. Standing high on a bluff overlooking the mighty St. Lawrence River, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is not merely a hotel located in the heart of Old Québec - it is the heart of Old Québec. B, D Day 7: Quebec City, Quebec Join our local guide for an informative tour of the
most European of North American cities, Quebec City. See the massive stone architecture, the heavily fortified walls and the charm of Old Quebec City. This afternoon enjoy some free time before dining at a restaurant unique to Old Quebec. Enjoy a traditional sugar shack meal, live entertainment and poured taffy on snow for dessert! B, D
May 6-17, 2015 Per person rates double $2758 triple/quad $2449 single $3686
Same price since 2013!
Day 8: Quebec City, Quebec Travel along the St. Lawrence River to St. Anne de Beaupre, with time to experience the basilica and this little town that attracts more than a million pilgrims and visitors each year! We’ll also visit Montmorency Falls and take a memorable cable car ride to the top for lunch and time to enjoy the views of the Isle de Orleans and the Saint Lawrence River. B, L
Crème de la crème “the best of the best” is the perfect description for this tour. Journey with us for 6 nights in 3 luxurious and historic Fairmont hotels of eastern CanDay 9: Montreal, Quebec Enjoy breakfast while overlooking the St. Law- ada and enjoy distincrence River before we travel to Montreal for a tive experiences and stay at the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth. This af- elegance! ternoon, our local tour guide will acquaint us with Montreal’s cultural heritage and cosmopolitan blend of the old and new as we see all the “must see sights”! B, D Day 10: Niagara USA Cross the US border and into the Niagara Falls, NY area for an overnight stay B, D Day 11: Niagara Falls State Park This morning, experience the majestic beauty of Niagara Falls. Did you know Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac 3,160 tons of water flows over the falls every second? Board the world-famous Maid of the Mist for a thrilling boat ride under the falls! This afternoon, travel west to Ohio for our overnight stay. B, D Day 12: Return home Today, we return home. B
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Niagara Falls and Lilac Blooms Day 1: Mid-Ohio Board our comfortable motorcoach and travel east to mid-Ohio for our overnight stay. D Day 2: Niagara Falls After a journey along the shores of Lake Erie arrive in Niagara Falls, NY. Board the Maid of the Mist boat for an up close view of the falls from the Lilac in bloom base. Travel into Canada for dinner at the prominent Skylon Tower revolving dining room located 775 feet above the Falls featuring incredible views! The Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls Resort is our home for two nights and each room features views of the water tumbling over the falls! B, D Day 3: Niagara – Canadian Style Explore the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. Travel the picturesque Niagara Parkway to tour the Botanical Garden and to see the incredible 40 foot Niagara Parks Floral Clock. Our personal guide will educate us about the expansive Spring Gardens and its ecology. Tour one of Niagara’s premier attractions, the Butterfly House featuring over 2,000 colorful tropical butterflies among lush exotic blossoms and greenery. Often called the loveliest town in Ontario, Niagara on the Lake will be our stop this evening for dinner and shopping. B, D Day 4: The award winning Lilac Festival Travel to Highland Park in Rochester, NY to attend the Lilac Festival. Take time for the sights and smells of these gor-
Niagara Falls
geous purple, white, pink and even yellow lilacs. While in Rochester, enjoy a guided tour of the George Eastman House to learn about the father of modern photography and founder of the Eastman Kodak Company. Enjoy a boat cruise and see the picturesque scenery of this charming part of the country. Overnight in Rochester, NY. B, D Day 5: Timeless Covered Bridges It’s time to begin our trek home, but not before we enjoy a visit to beautiful Ashtabula County, OH. The historic covered bridges of Ashtabula were featured in Readers’ Digest Off the Beaten Path travel guide and includes the country’s longest covered bridge. We will travel to central Ohio for our overnight stay. B, L
May 11-16, 2015 Per person rates double $1109 triple $998 single $1441 Over 14 million visitors come to Niagara Falls each year. Join Sunrise Tours as we watch the falls tumble over a 180 foot high wall of rock. We will explore the falls from below and above! Enjoy the ABA top 100 event Rochester Lilac Festival featuring over 1,200 beautiful lilacs. This tour also includes a 2-night stay at the Crowne Plaza in Niagara Falls,Canada!
Day 6: Return Home We travel home arriving early evening. B
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Georgia on my Mind
featuring Jekyll Island, Savannah and more Day 1: Georgia Overnight in Georgia. D Day 2: Charleston, SC Travel to historic Charleston, SC. Upon arrival, dine at a local restaurant before checking into our hotel for the evening. B, D Day 3: Charleston, SC Visit the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, an estate acquired by the Dalton Family in 1676. Tour the gorgeous blooming gardens and home and take a tram excursion for a picturesque nature tour of the plantation’s wetlands and marshes. After enjoying lunch and shopping in the exuberant Historic City Market area, we will invite a local guide to share her expertise aboard our coach as we explore this city steeped in colorful history and quaint landscapes. After our tour, depart for “Georgia’s First City,” Savannah and experience the succulent flavors of southern cooking while dining at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room before we check into our hotel the next 2 nights. B, D Day 4: Savannah, GA Board an open-air trolley to tour this enchanting Southern town where we’ll find amazing architecture and rich history. Have free time for lunch, where you may want to visit The Lady and Son’s Restaurant, owned and operated by southern chef Paula Deen. Then enjoy time to explore the Historic River Street full of shops, restaurants, galleries, all in a revitalized historic area located right on the river. This evening we are off to enjoy dinner riverside at River House Seafood. B, D Day 5: St. Simons & Jekyll Island Continue our journey to the Golden Isles of Georgia as we visit the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation Historic Site. The Plantation was owned and occupied by the same family from 1804 to 1973 until the land was donated to the state. Next visit St. Simons Island to explore the charming shops, restaurants and take a walk on the pier for a gorgeous view of St. Simons Sound. In the late 1800’s, a group of millionaires sent a team of experts to locate an area with great natural beauty,
excellent weather and privacy. They found Jekyll Island and proceeded to build the Jekyll Island Club Hotel, our home for the next two nights. Upon arrival tour the property before dinner in the historic Federal Room. B, D
May 15-23, 2015
Per person rates double $1799 triple/quad $1593 single $2416
Day 6: Jekyll Island Enjoy a leisurely morning on the property before a visit to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center for a guided tour as we explore their interactive exhibit gallery and venture into to the rehabilitation pavilion to meet the patients. After lunch waterside, a tram tour of Jekyll Island takes you throughout the Historic Landmark District and past the grand “cottages” which were the winter getaways for The Rockefellers, Vanderbilts and J.P. Morgan. B, L Day 7: Macon, Hay House in Macon, GA GA Macon, GA is our next stop on our Southern Adventure. Enjoy lunch before being joined by a local guide for an afternoon tour featuring the Hay House, considered the most advanced antebellum building in America for its style, craftsmanship and technological innovations. The house has also been featured on A&E’s “America’s Castles.” Finish our tour with a scenic drive through beautiful neighborhoods that date back to the mid 1800’s. B, L
Spend two nights at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel, named by Travel and Leisure Magazine as one of the top 500 resorts in the world.
Day 8: Atlanta, GA Begin our journey back north as we stop in Atlanta to discover how a newsroom operates and watch behind-the-scenes action as we tour the CNN Studios. Then travel to Chattanooga for dinner and an overnight stay. B, D Day 9: Return Home
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Made in the USA
Day 1: Villages of Van Buren On our journey we discover manufactured products Made in the USA. The trip begins with a visit to the Villages of Van Buren as we are joined by a local guide to tour the Bentonsport National Historic District. This district is home to buildings from the 1800’s including an Artisan Coop featuring local potters and blacksmiths. Visit Milton Creamery to learn how this Mennonite family processes Amish milk into award winning gourmet cheese. Arrive just in time for afternoon milking at Wells’ Organic Dairy where you can also possibly bottle-feed a baby calf. This evening savor a dinner you will not forget in a beautiful Amish home where everything is home-raised and home-cooked. D Day 2: Mid Iowa Get up-close and personal this morning at Bovard Studios and see how beautiful stained glass is created before visiting Creative Edge Master Shop where they will demonstrate the art of water-jet fabrication of floor medallions and tile murals. Started in a basement in 1951, Sig Manufacturing Company has become one of the most widely respected manufacturers and suppliers of products for the model hobbyist in the world. Next visit Kinze Manufacturing* which is one of the largest specialty manufacturers in North America, producing modern agricultural equipment to help farmers meet the challenges of crop production. Travel to the Quad Cities and check into the Stoney Creek Inn for a two-night stay. B, L, D
Antique Archaeology, the shop from the hit show American Pickers
May 18-22, 2015 Day 3: Quad Cities Start our day off at Isabel Bloom Production Per person rates Studio for an interactive tour as you watch the double $840 artisans go through the 4-day process of creat- triple/quad $752 ing a figurine. In 1889 Fred Boetje began making single $1105 stoneground Dutch mustard in his garage and today Boetje’s Mustard is a Quad Cities and national-favorite. Go behind the scenes to see how John Deere’s biggest farm machines are brought to life on their Harvester Works tour. Visit the Mississippi River Distillery where we are able to see their entire process and finish the tour in their tasting room for free samples. Stop at Antique ArchaeolSunrise is the ogy, the home base for the hit TV show American Pickers on the History Channel. See their shop, greatest! It was great some of their latest picks and maybe Mike, Frank to see so many of our or Danielle. B, D traveling friends plus
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Day 4: Peoria – Bloomington Sandy H., Travel to Peoria’s beautiful riverfront to visit the 2014 Made in the USA Caterpillar Visitors Center for a fascinating look at the company and a chance to climb in the seat of a massive two story Cat Mining truck to take a virtual ride onto a job site. Learn how 396 megawatts of affordable, pollution-free wind energy is produced at Twin Groves Wind Farm. Did you know Bloomington is the only city in the world where Beer Nuts are made? Visit their Company Store for a presentation on the making of Beer Nuts and time for samples. Epiphany Farms is a “Farm to Fork” concept that practices sustainable techniques to blend their farm and restaurant in to one self-sustaining entity. After a tour of the farm, dine at Station Two Twenty, their restaurant located in Bloomington’s old firehouse. Overnight in Bloomington. B, D Day 5: Return Home In 1824 the Funk family started producing their maple sirup (local spelling) in Funks Grove, IL, a National Natural Landmark. Today they produce an average of 1,800 gallons of sirup each season and we will take a behind the scenes tour of the grounds and the sirup-making process before we return home. B
* To visit Kinze Manufacturing, you must be 14 years or older and because of the industrial magnets, people with pacemakers will not be allowed to participate in the plant tour.
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Spring in the Southwest
Featuring a nostalgic overnight journey on Amtrak’s Southwest Chief from Albuquerque to Kansas City! Day 1: Oklahoma City Travel to OKC for an overnight stay. D Day 2: Big Appetite Continue west on Route 66 to the panhandle of Texas. Bring your appetite for a friendly Howdy and a mouth-watern’ meal at The Big Texan Steak Ranch, recently featured on Man vs. Food TV show! Unpack your bags for 2-nights at the brand new Drury Inn and Suites in Santa Fe, NM in historic downtown. B,L Day 3: Santa Fe, NM A local expert guides us through the sights of this capital city teeming with spring color. Highlights include Saint Francis Cathedral, San Miguel Mission and the Loretto Chapel. Do you know the mystery that surrounds the construction of the miraculous staircase at the Chapel? Visit the Santa Fe Farmers Market to see the local flavors. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and an evening at leisure. B,L, Hot Apps Day 4: Fred Harvey Continuing our springtime trek along Route 66, arrive in Winslow, AZ for a unique overnight stay. Reach the historic La Posada, the last of the grand trackside hotels, built by Fred Harvey in excess of $2 million in 1929. A greeting and tour by the Winslow Harvey Girls explains the historical significance of this gem! Artwork abounds in this museum hotel featuring individualized rooms named after movie stars and politicians who have visited this historic hotel. B,D Day 5: Grand Canyon Visit the inspirational Grand Canyon as we travel along Rim Drive to the South Rim for time to explore the unique combinations of geologic color that decorate a canyon 277 river miles long and 18 miles wide! At your leisure, enjoy lunch at the historic El Tovar Lodge located on the rim. This evening, travel to Sedona, AZ and unpack for a 3-night stay at the Inn of Sedona. B,L Day 6: Sedona
Take a narrated trolley ride through Sedona complete with a stop at the Chapel of the Holy Cross and views of the renowned red rocks. Enjoy lunch with a view and time to browse local shops and galleries. Just south of Sedona sits Montezuma Castle National Monument where we will learn the legacy of a people who struggled to survive in the Verde Valley 1,000 years ago. These are some of the best preserved cliff dwellings in North America! B,L Day 7: Verde Canyon Railroad The Verde Canyon is full of wildflowers in bloom and lush green springtime growth. Visit the newly opened Copper Art Museum in quaint Old Town Cottonwood. Board the Verde Canyon Railroad for a roundtrip wilderness ride though scenic riparian canyon only accessible by rail (or horse!) on tracks that hug the Verde River. Blazin’ M Ranch welcomes us for dinner, western music show and activities! B,D Day 8: Sky City Travel east to Albuquerque where the sun shines 310 days a year! Enroute, visit the Acoma Pueblo Sky City built atop a 367-foot sandstone bluff. Led by a tribal member, we will visit the mesatop settlement where the tribe lives and attends the mission church. The tour ends with a special private Tribal Dance performance. Overnight in Albuquerque, NM. B, hot apps Day 9: Southwest Chief Train Board the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway, the world’s longest tram, to the Cibola National Forest tree tops for a panaromic view of the great southwest. Mid-day, board Amtrak’s Southwest Chief train and enjoy the region’s mountains and deserts through a sunset and sunrise to arrive in Kansas City 20 hours later. Meals and roomette are included, or you can upgrade to a private cabin (see right for information). B, D Day 10: Return home mid-afternoon Board a comfortable motorcoach for the travels from Kansas City to home. B
May 21-30, 2015 Per person rates double $2178 triple/quad - please call single $3083 Combine this tour with California National Parks on page 25 and take $450 off the combined per person rate! Included in price: Superliner Roomettes: Ideal for one or two passengers, with two comfortable reclining seats on either side of a big picture window. At night, the seats convert to a comfortable bed, and an upper berth folds down from above. Located on the upper or lower level. No in-room toilet or shower Optional Upgrade: Superliner Bedrooms: Ideal for two passengers, but can accommodate three (two passengers must share the lower berth). Each room has a large sofa with two individually reclining sections, and a reclining easy chair. At night, the sofa converts to a comfortable bed, and an upper berth folds down from above. All Superliner Bedrooms feature private, self-enclosed restrooms with toilet, sink and shower. And are on the upper level of our double-decker Superliner train cars. $250 per person double $500 per person single
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California National Parks and more! Day 1: Flight to the West Arrive Las Vegas, NV and The four-star Golden Nugget for a 2-night stay. B, D Day 2: Spirited Las Vegas Today, you have the option to spend the day exploring the “Las Vegas Strip” on your own or see the spirited side of Las Vegas. An optional tour to the Valley of Fire State Park is planned. For those who choose to visit, enjoy the beautiful vistas, unique stone formations, ancient trees and 3,000 year old petroglyphs. Continue the excursion with a visit to Hoover Dam and Museum (additional expense). Return to Las Vegas for dinner. B, D Day 3: Death Valley National Park Death Valley National Park is known as having the lowest point in North America. Enjoy a wonderland that stretches as far as the eye can see as we tour the Valley with a local expert aboard our coach. Take a step back to 1939 and enjoy the living history tour of Scotty’s Castle. Our overnight stay puts us right in the center of the Park at the Furnace Creek Ranch! Take a swim in a spring fed pool and enjoy the stars which blanket the brilliant sky. B,D Day 4: San Joaquin Valley Cross through the park past the edge of the Mojave Desert and north to scenic San Joaquin Valley, for a 2-night stay in Fresno/Clovis, CA. Enroute, visit Seven Sycamores Ranch, a family owned orange grove and learn “the ropes” of operating a large ranch that produces one of the top 5 commodities in Tular Valley. B, D Day 5: Sequoia National Forest & Kings Canyon National Park With a personal guide, tour Kings Canyon National Park valley via the scenic byway and view gorgeous wildflower displays and waterfalls at their peak! After an included lunch next to the picturesque Grizzly Falls, see more of the parks’ mountains, canyons and the 2nd largest living tree in the world, the General Grant Tree. This evening visit Wonder Valley Ranch to enjoy dinner, entertainment, a haywagon ride and relaxing by the campfire. B,L,D
Day 6: Sugar Pine Train The sounds and scenes from the era of steam powered railroad logging come to life aboard the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad. After a delicious BBQ lunch, travel north to Yosemite National Park with such spectacular scenery it’s easy to understand why it is one of the nation’s most photographed parks. Unpack your bags for a 2 night stay on the perimeter of the park in river view rooms. B, L
May 30-June 7, 2015 Per person rates* double $2599 triple/quad $2366 single $3352
* Includes roundtrip airfare from STL
Combine this tour with Spring in the Southwest on page 24 and take $450 off the combined per person rate!
Day 7: Yosemite National Park Spring is a great time to visit Yosemite as thawing snow fills the streams and brings waterfalls to their prettiest flow! Enjoy the blooming dogwoods and lush green scenery and travel into the park to the award winning Ah- Unique landscape of Death Valley National Park w a h n e e Lodge Dining Room in the heart of the Park for a gourmet lunch. Explore the rugged beauty of Yosemite ValLoved the ley on an open-air tram and a local expert who will trip! We were able describe the geology, plant and animal life of the region. Return to our hotel this evening to relax to see so many to the sounds of the river outside our rooms. B, L beautiful places.
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Day 8: Sacramento executed. Travel north to Sacramento, CA. Enroute, in Lathrop, CA, stop at the Ghirardelli Chocolate Outlet and Ice Cream Shop for a cool treat and bargain Ellen V. and Carole chocolate shopping. Tour the California State M., 2013 California Capitol and Museum and learn of the past, pres- National Parks ent and future where information is forged in one site. An enjoyable final dinner is planned before overnighting in Sacramento, CA. B,D Day 9: Return flight home
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California Zephyr Adventure
Day 1: Motorcoach to Osceola/BoardAmtrak Depart St. Louis by motorcoach for Osceola, Iowa to board Amtrak’s California Zephyr. Sleep in your own private roomette (see description in sidebar) as you make your way across the plains. D
Day 2: Overnight/Amtrak in Rockies Wake up to enjoy breakfast on the train in the diner. It’s just like the old days. Then, sit back and relax as the beauty of the Rockies passes by your large viewing window. Head back to the lounge car for a floor to ceiling view of the magnificent San Francisco scenery that unfolds. Enjoy breakfast, Explore the hills of San Francisco with a guided lunch and dinner in the diner during this unbelievtour of the City and discover the architecture, able journey. Your room steward will help prepare Chinatown, Golden Gate Park, Nob Hill, and your cabin for your evening as you ride the rails. many scenic views of the bay. Enjoy free time to B, L, D explore Fisherman’s Wharf – from street entertainers to the world’s largest collection of historic Day 3: Lake Tahoe ships. Next, embark on a Bay Cruise which routes Enjoy breakfast on the train before arriving in around Alcatraz and underneath the Golden Gate Reno where we meet our coach and travel to Bridge. Catch the amazing western sunset while South Lake Tahoe. Board the M.S. Dixie II for a dining at the Fog Harbor Fish House on Pier 39. scenic lunch cruise to enjoy the natural beauty of B, D Lake Tahoe and take in the dramatic splendor of Emerald Bay. B, L Day 6: Monterey – the 17 mile drive Day 4: Napa Valley/San Depart for Monterey via Francisco the spectacular coastal Travel to beautiful Napa Valroute, Highway 1, passley with their rolling hills and ing along the famous picturesque vineyards that 17 mile drive. One of dot the countryside. Enjoy the most breathtaking a tour, tasting & picnic lunch coastlines in the world, at V Sattui Winery in Napa, see the wonders of the which was awarded the Winocean at the Monterey ery of the Year for the third Bay Aquarium. Enjoy year in a row at the annual a dinner and “Stroll the International Winemaker Row” (Cannery Row) this Challenge. Continue to San evening. B, D Francisco for a two night stay in Fisherman’s Wharf. Day 7: Flight Home B, L Board a flight home after a fantastic California Day 5: Streets of San FranZephyr Adventure. B cisco and More Napa Valley
May 31-June 6, 2015 Per person rates* double $2299 triple/quad $2165 single $3018 * Includes return airfare to STL.
Same price since 2013! Included in price: Superliner Roomettes: Ideal for one or two passengers, with two comfortable reclining seats on either side of a big picture window. At night, the seats convert to a comfortable bed, and an upper berth folds down from above. Located on the upper or lower level. No in-room toilet or shower Optional Upgrade: Superliner Bedrooms: Ideal for two passengers, but can accommodate three (two passengers must share the lower berth). Each room has a large sofa with two individually reclining sections, and a reclining easy chair. At night, the sofa converts to a comfortable bed, and an upper berth folds down from above. All Superliner Bedrooms feature private, self-enclosed restrooms with toilet, sink and shower. And are on the upper level of our double-decker Superliner train cars. $600 per person based on double occ.
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Spring Mystery Tour Join us for an exciting 5-day mystery tour. We can’t tell you where you’re going, but you’re sure to have fun!
June 1-5 2015 Per person rates double $899 triple/quad $803 single $1187
Same price as 2013!
“Grand” Vacation to Michigan
Day 1: Mid-Michigan Travel north through Illinois to mid-Michigan for an overnight stay. D
Fun Facts: • At 660 feet, the Grand Hotel’s front porch is the
world’s longest and is visible as you approach the island. • No motorized vehicles are allowed on Mackinac Island. All transportation is provided by horse and carriage or bicycle. Mackinac Island is only accessible by ferry boat or plane. • While more than 1 million people visit Mackinac Island each year, there are only 600 year-round residents. • The Grand Hotel plants one ton of bulbs each fall including 24,000 tulips and 3,000 daffodils. • In 2010, Saugatuck came in fourth in Budget Travel Magazine’s ten coolest towns in America
Day 2: Grand Traverse Bay Browse charming Saugatuck, known as “The Art Coast of Michigan”, and its downtown Village Square area featuring art galleries and shops. Dine on beautiful Lake Michigan before heading to our lakefront hotel, The Parkshore Resort, with beautiful views on the lovely shores of Grand Traverse Bay for a 2night stay. B, D Day 3: Sleeping Bear Dunes and Grand Traverse Bay What a spectacular resort area! Take a scenic drive around Old Mission Peninsula with our local guide where cherry orchards abound, then along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Make a stop to the Cherry Republic and sample some wonderful cherry items direct from the area before we have lunch amidst art at the Old Mission Tavern. Travel to the Chateau Grand Traverse Winery for some local wines before heading back to our resort. B, L
Enjoy some free time in town, and after dinner in the Grand Hotel’s elegant dining room, take time to enjoy a leisurely sunset stroll through the grounds. B, D
Day 5: Mackinac Island and Grand Rapids After a restful night in one of the Grand’s beautiful rooms and breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a horse drawn carriage tour of the island. Before we depart the island, we have our third delectable meal at the Grand Hotel; lunch at the incomparable Grand Buffet! Travel to Grand Rapids area for our overnight stay. B, L Day 6: Return Home Return to St. Louis having had a very “Grand” vacation! B
Day 4: Mackinac Island, overnight Grand Hotel Travel along Lake Michigan this morning and ferry to Mackinac Island. Then be transported by horse and carriage to the world renowned Grand Hotel, the island’s premier luxury resort, where the longest porch in the world overlooks the Straits of Mackinac. Carriage at the Grand Hotel
June 11-16, 2015 June 18-23, 2015
Per person rates double $1224 triple/quad $1118 single $1610
Same price since 2009! According to a recent vote by viewers of Good Morning America, Sleeping Bear Dunes was chosen as “the most beautiful place in the USA”
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We had the time of our lives. A friend asked me how I would rate Sunrise Tours on a scale of 1-10 and I told him at least a 12! Thanks for suggesting the Grand Michigan tour! Carol M., 2014 Grand Michigan
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Canyonlands and New Mexico Day 1: Las Vegas Fly into Las Vegas and check into the AAA 4-diamond hotel The Golden Nugget, which is located in revitalized downtown Las Vegas on historic Fremont Street. B, D Day 2: Zion National Park Travel to The Valley of the Fire State Park where we will see unusual sandstone formations called the Beehives and enjoy beautiful vistas throughout the park. Continue to Zion National Park where you are surrounded by massive canyon walls and a unique landscape of petrified sand dunes. Enjoy a 2-night stay in Cedar City, UT. B, D Day 3: Bryce Canyon Explore spectacular Bryce Canyon National Park, famous for its multi-colored Hoodoos, a unique geological formation, and some of the world’s best air quality. Eat lunch at Bryce Canyon’s The Lodge Restaurant rated one of the area’s best dining experiences, then discover the impressive but often missed Cedar Breaks National Monument, known for a mixture of delicate shades of colors. B, L Day 4: Grand Canyon Less visited than the south rim, but truly as beautiful, enjoy spectacular views from Point Imperial, the highest point on the canyon’s North rim. Send greetings echoing across the Grand Canyon taking in the seemingly unlimited views from the North Rim with our step-on guide. Enjoy dinner just footsteps from the Canyon’s rim during this one night stay inside the Grand Canyon National Park. B, D Day 5: Flagstaff, AZ Cross into Arizona for a cruise on beautiful Lake Powell. This Tour will provide an up-close opportunity to see the stunning Navajo Sandstone geologic formations and the narrow lower end of Lake Powell. Travel to Flagstaff with a one night stay set in 500 acres of the Ponderosa Pine Forest at Little America Hotel. B, D Day 6: Santa Fe
Experience the grace and charm of Old Town Albuquerque where you can stroll the plaza, experience the traditional shops and Spanish architecture before we head to Santa Fe, NM for our 2-night stay at the brand new Drury Plaza Hotel in historic downtown. This 182-room hotel is a 1954 vintage territorial-style building was formally St. Vincent Hospital building located adjacent to the famed St. Francis Cathedral Basilica and steps from the Historic Downtown Plaza. B, D
June 17-26, 2015 Per person rates* double $2385 triple/quad $2154 single $3077 * Includes airfare from STL
Day 7: Blend of food and history Visit one of the most widely recognized markets in the United States, The Santa Fe Farmer’s Market that represents over 150 active vendors and features hundreds of different products. Enjoy a unique culinary experience at the Santa Fe School of Cooking. Featured on the Food Network this school will educate and entertain you while preparing your lunch. Discover the many charms of Santa Fe with our local guide who will explain the history of the area and sites such as the San Miguel Mission and Loretto Chapel. B, L Day 8: Great Sand Dunes The tallest dunes in North America are the centerpiece in a diverse landscape of grasslands, wetlands Bryce Canyon and aspen forests at Great Sand Dunes National Park. Learn how these unique formations were created less than 400,000 years ago. Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs boasts breathtaking views and will be our stop for the evening. B, D Day 9: Kansas Visit the U. S Air force Academy before we travel east into mid-Kansas for our overnight stay. B, D Day 10: Return Home Reflect on the incomparable natural beauty we have explored on our return home. B
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NYC and Long Island Tall Ships
Day 1: Ohio Depart St. Louis for an overnight stay in MidOhio. D Day 2: New York City Travel highway 80 across Pennsylvania passing through Moshannon State Forest and the northern area of the Appalachian Mountains. This evening arrive in at the Marriott Teaneck at Glenpointe, NJ and unpack our bags for a 3-night stay. B, D
Day 3: New York City Explore New York City with a local guide. Spend the day exploring Central Park, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Fifth Avenue, Rockefeller Center and visiting the unique area of Chinatown in lower Manhattan. A highlight of the tour will be a visit to the newly opened and poignant 9/11 Memorial and Museum at Ground Zero. The guide will provide insight into New York’s character and people, enhancing your NYC experience. B, D Day 4: New York City Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Also known as the “MET”, the museum offers over 5,000 years of art. Your tour will include the newest exhibits on display and art to please all palettes. This afternoon take in the fabulous sights of New York 70 stories up from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck! Enjoy some free time in Times Square and dinner before taking in a Broadway Show (TBD) from our orchestra seats. B, D Day 5: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island See NYC from a different perspective as we ferry
to Ellis Island (museum partially reopened) and the Statue of Liberty and enjoy the magnificent view of the New York skyline from across the Hudson River. After disembarking our ferry, travel to Long Island for a 2 night stay. B, D
Per person rates double $2044 triple/quad $1807 single $2755
Day 6: Tall Ships Festival Celebrate 4th of July by traveling up Long Island’s to the town of Greenport for the Tall Ships of America Festival, featuring Hermione, the historically reconstructed 18th Century French Frigate of Liberty, which will be traveling from France. The Revolutionary- era vessel is famed for bringing aid to George Washington in America’s fight for freedom. This unique festival returns to the New York area for the first time since 2012 and will feature interactive demonstrations, live entertainment and a rare chance to catch a glimpse, step aboard and tour some of the grandest ships of yore. After dinner enjoy watching fireworks over the Great South Bay. B, D
From the serenity of St. Patrick’s Cathedral to the bustling activity of 5th Avenue and Wall Street, you will experience the city that never sleeps! Then, enjoy a wonderful contrast just 90 miles east on bucolic Long Island Day 7: Long Island with its windswept AtVisit Old Westbury Gardens, listed on the Na- lantic beaches, and rutional Register of Historic Places. Completed in ral maritime charm. 1906, the magnificent Charles II-style mansion is nestled amid 200 acres of formal gardens, landscaped grounds, woodlands, ponds and lakes. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a local favorite spot before continuing to Harrisburg, PA for our overnight stay. B, L Day 8: Pennsylvania Tour the National Civil War Museum and learn the entire story of the American Civil War as told without bias to the Union or Confederate causes. Afterwards, we stop in Shanksville, PA to pay our respects at the Flight 93 memorial, honoring those who lost their lives on 9/11. Overnight in central Ohio. B, D Day 9: Return Home We arrive home this evening. B
Old Westbury Gardens
June 29-July 7, 2015
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Not only was this my first trip with Sunrise it was also my first bus trip. I’m glad to report I enjoyed it thoroughly. My greatest satisfaction was the day long New York City tour. M. Arnold, NYC Long Island 2007
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Yellowstone National Park & more!
Day 1: Sioux City, NE Travel across Missouri and along the river into Iowa for an overnight stay in Sioux City. D
best of Yellowstone today with our own guide. Old Faithful! Geysers! Paint Pots! All in all, a day of geological wonders and plenty of wildlife! Enjoy dinner in the Old Faithful Inn this evening and time to explore the area afterwards. The Old Faithful Inn is one of the few remaining log hotels in the United States. Highlights include the 65 foot ceiling in the lobby and the rhyolite fireplace. B, D
Highlights: · Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, the magnificent Badlands and Black Hills! · The inspiring Grand Tetons, Rocky Mountain wilderness and Big Horn Mountains. · Yellowstone National Park - a geological wonder teeming with wildlife! · Lively western town of Jackson Hole. · 2-night stay in Yellowstone National Park and scenic float trip on Snake River. · A jeep tour amongst herds of bison.
Day 2: Rapid City, SD Explore the Badlands of South Dakota today and enjoy dinner at the famous Wall Drug Store. Get comfortable for a 2-night stay in Rapid City. B, D
Day 3: Rapid City, SD A local guide will take us to visit Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Monument and the Black Hills. Travel to Custer State Park featuring 71,000 acres of unspoiled land, pristine lakes and roaming buffalo. Enjoy a Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour into one of the largest herds of bison in North America. Enjoy lunch in the historic State Game Lodge where Presidents Eisenhower and Coolidge dined. B, L Day 4: Cody, WY Depart Rapid City this morning and begin our trek to Cody, WY. Along the route, we will see Devil’s Tower and pass through the beautiful Big Horn Mountains. Tonight, we will relax in the comforts of Cody Cowboy Village, a luxury log cabin lodging located in Cody with all rooms attractively appointed with a cowboy/western flair. This is the real thing...real log cabins with open beam ceilings. Cody is surrounded by scenic mountains to be enjoyed from the chairs on your cabin’s porch. Dinner and entertainment at the acclaimed Cody Cattle Company this evening. B, D Day 5: Yellowstone National Park Visit the Buffalo Bill Museum before traveling into Yellowstone Park. Upon arrival in the park, unpack your bags for a 2-night stay inside Yellowstone Park which affords us easy access to the many sites featured in “the first national park in the world”. B, D Day 6: Yellowstone Bring your cameras and be prepared to enjoy the
Day 7: Jackson, WY Head south to Moose, Wyoming and board the boat for a scenic float on the Snake River with the Grand Tetons as the backdrop and a narration about the region’s wildlife, history, and geology. Afterwards, turn your sites to the giant white teepee and follow your nose towards the aromatic campfire smoke to savor a good-old fashioned Dornan’s Chuckwagon lunch. Continue into historic Jackson where you will have leisure time to explore Jackson Square, located in the heart of Jackson, WY. B, L Day 8: Grand Tetons - Salt Lake City, UT After a leisurely morning in Jackson, board the coach and travel south along scenic highway into Salt Lake City. This evening, we will meet our guide for a tour of Temple Square and the Latter Day Saints Community Center and a guided “pin drop” tour. B, D Day 9: Return home Fly home from Salt Grand Tetons Lake City. B
July 8-16, 2015 Sept. 3-11, 2015
Per person rates* double $2499 triple/quad $2218 single $3389 * Includes return flight to STL
Combine the first departure with Highway 101 on page 32 and take $450 off the combined per person rate!
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Our stay at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge was perfect! - B. Melm 2012 Winter in Yellowstone
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Resorts of Lake Michigan Day 1: Grand Rapids, MI Depart north for an overnight stay in Grand Rapids, MI. D Day 2: Castle Farms Nestled against the sandy shores of three lakes, the quaint resort town of Charlevoix is our home this evening. Start our visit with free time to grab lunch and explore Charlevoix’s boutique shopping. Board the Keweenaw Star cruise ship for an evening dinner cruise while taking in the pristine shoreline views of Lake Charlevoix, Round Lake and Lake Michigan. B, D Day 3: Charlevoix, MI A local guide will join us for a guided tour of the houses created by architect, Earl Young, which are often referred to as “Mushroom Houses.” Built in 1918, Castle Farms was home to Albert Loeb who was President of Sears, Roebuck, and Company. View the magnificent soaring stone towers, majestic stone walls, and romantic courtyards before a catered lunch at the Castle. Travel to Glen Arbor, MI and The Homestead Resort for a two night stay, located within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore which was chosen by viewers of ABC’s Good Morning America as Most Beautiful Place in America. B, L Day 4: Sleeping Bear Dunes The Homestead resort features two pools, a spa, salon, and shuttle service around the 500 acre resort which is completely surrounded by the National Lakeshore Park. After a relaxing morning at the resort take a picturesque journey along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, home to the largest freshwater sand dunes in the world and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan’s clear waters. Visit the Cherry Republic, the world’s largest exclusive retailer of cherry food creations, where you can taste their wine and sample some of their creations. B, D Castle Farms
Day 5: Manistee, MI Enjoy a leisurely morning at the resort before departing to visit a working cherry orchard. Did you know Michigan nearly 75 percent of the tart cherries grown in the United States? Travel to Manistee and tour the S.S. City of Milwaukee, which is the last unmodified traditional railroad car ferry afloat upon the lakes, still with her triple expansion steam engine, original woodwork and brass fixtures. Overnight in Manistee. B, D
July 11-17, 2015 Per person rates double $1498 triple/quad $1301 single $2088
Day 6: Lake Michigan Board the S.S. Badger Ferry for an authentic steamship experience as we take the 4 hour journey across Lake Michigan complete with a full hot breakfast buffet on board. The historic American Club Resort in Kohler, WI was built in 1918 to house the Kohler Company’s immigrant workers. Enjoy lunch at the resort before touring the Kohler Design Center and the historical Kohler Village, which is one of the oldest planned garden communities in America. Check into the luxurious Blue Harbor Resort and Spa on the shores of Lake Michigan, featuring breathtaking views from your waterfront room. B, L Day 7: Return Home Get up early to watch the sunrise over Lake Michigan from an Adirondack chair on the shore or from your private balcony, stroll the miles of boardwalk and beach along the waterfront, or visit the award winning spa before we depart for home. B
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West Coast Highway 101 Day 1: Flight into the Northwest Upon arrival, enjoy dinner and check into Portland area hotel. D Day 2: Mount Hood A local guide takes us to see the highlights of the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood national forest, featuring spectacular views. This afternoon we’re in for a treat as we unpack our bags for a gourmet dinner and overnight stay at the National Historic Landmark Timberline Lodge. Situated at 6,000 feet on Mount Hood, the lodge is an architectural wonder featuring an awe-inspiring star-lit sky! B, D Day 3: Newport, OR Take the scenic route on Highway 101 along the coast to Newport,OR, stopping along the way to soak in the sights of beautiful beaches and scenery including the Cannon Beach “Haystack Rock”, and tour the Tillamook Cheese Factory. This evening check into the newly renovated Hallmark Resort and enjoy an oceanview room with a balcony! B, D Day 4: Newport Beach, OR Board the 65’ Discovery for a marine discovery cruise. Whales, sea lions, sea birds, seals, lighthouses and an historic bridge will be visible during our naturalist-led cruise. After the cruise, enjoy lunch at the Oregon Coast Aquarium featuring a view of the Passages of the Deep habitat. Tour the Aquarium where you might even catch a sea lion or sea otter feeding! This evening enjoy a beachfront bonfire. (weather permitting) B, L Day 5: Oregon’s striking Pacific Coast Visit the beautiful Heceta Head Lighthouse, one of nine sentinels on the coast. Arrive Florence, OR and enjoy an exhilarating ride on the dunes in a Giant Dune Buggy! See America’s largest Sea Cave (according to Guinness) and descend over 200 feet to capture intimate views of Sea Lions in their natural habitat. Unpack for a 2-night stay in North Bend’s The Mill Casino offering views of the bay from our rooms. B, D Day 6: Bandon, OR
Travel south to the mouth of the Coquille River and the charming Bandon-by-the-Sea town. Many consider Bandon to be the hidden pearl of the Southern Oregon Coast. Have lunch while enjoying the ocean views! See Bandon State Natural Area featuring Bandon Rocks before a visit to Washed Ashore Project whose mission is to create art from marine debris. Maybe even lend a hand in a project! B,L Day 7: Humboldt Redwoods National Park Continue along coastal Hwy 101 into Northern CA. Grab your camera and feast your eyes on the magnitude of the trees from the trails below and an aerial view on a gondola peaking at 750 feet altitude during the Trees of Mystery tour. Visit Humboldt Redwoods National Park to see the tallest living things on earth which can grow up to 350 feet! Dinner is at the Samoa Cookhouse, the last surviving cookhouse of the West featuring an all you can eat meal, lumber jack style. Afterwards, tour the Historic Logging Museum before overnighting in Eureka, CA. B, D Day 8: Sonoma Wine Country Traveling along 101, arrive in Santa Rosa which sits amid wine and farm country and features a quaint downtown. After lunch in a charming historic restaurant in the heart of the city, tour the Charles Schulz Museum highlighting the largest collection of original Peanuts art work. Tour a Sonoma Valley winery and head south to San Francisco for a 2 night stay. B, L Day 9: San Francisco It’s off to meet our local guide for a “city by the bay” tour. We’ll see the architecture of the city, Chinatown, Golden Gate Park, Nob Hill, Cable Cars and many scenic views of the bay including lunch on your own in Sausalito! Board a comfortable boat for a Golden Gate Bay Cruise featuring breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Enjoy leisure time in Fisherman’s Wharf before dinner and a west coast sunset to complete our day. B, D Day 10: Return home Return flight home from San Francisco. B
July 18-27, 2015 Per person rates* double $2999 triple/quad $2681 single $3950
* Includes roundtrip airfare from STL
Cruise Highway 101 and explore the coastal highlights of Oregon and Northern California!
Combine this tour with Yellowstone on page 30 and take $450 off the combined per person rate!
Favorite scenic drive: Oregon coast, Charlene
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Family Fun in Chicago Day 1: Amtrak to Springfield – Coach to Chicago An early morning departure on Amtrak’s “Texas Eagle” train brings us to Springfield, IL the capital of Illinois and home of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Widely considered the best presidential museum in the country, the Lincoln Museum is an “experience museum” featuring galleries and interactive exhibits that explore Lincoln’s life and presidency; a thrill for history buffs of any age! Travel by coach from Springfield to Chicago and check into the downtown Homewood Suites for a 2-night stay. Your spacious suite features 2 rooms; one bedroom with a king bed and a second living room area (separated by a door) with a sleeper sofa. The Navy Pier Shuttle has a stop on the same block as the centrally located Homewood Suites if you care to explore on your own this evening. Or, relax at the hotel and enjoy the heated rooftop pool A dinner reception and breakfast included each day at hotel. D Day 2: Chicago
Start the day with a thrill at Tilt!, the new observation feature at the John Hancock Tower. The first of its kind, Tilt! offers downward facing views of Chicago’s skyline and the Magnificent Mile from 1,000 feet above ground. Visit Millennium Park and the famous “bean” sculpture. Enjoy general admission to your choice of world class Chicago Museums; the Shedd Aquarium or the Field Museum, followed by a water taxi ride to Navy Pier for free time to explore Chicago’s most popular tourist attraction. Ride the 150-foot high Ferris wheel, visit the Chicago Children’s Museum, or find a bench and enjoy the lake views and some cotton candy! (Navy Pier activities at your own expense) The Navy Pier Shuttle offers a convenient way back to the hotel when you are ready to call it a day. B, D
June 29-July 1, 2015 Per person rates double $539 single $758 * $200 per child under 18, occupancy based on # of paying adults
Day 3: Chicago Leave the bustle of downtown Chicago for a guided visit to the Morton Arboretum, an outdoor preserve of trees, shrubs and plants from around the world. Return home. B
The Apostle Islands of Northern Wisconsin Day 1: Wisconsin Dells Travel to the Wisconsin Dells in southern Wisconsin. Enjoy a wonderful dinner, warm hospitality and special brand of entertainment at the Wisconsin Opry. D Day 2: Ashland on Lake Superior Wake up and enjoy a morning cruise along the striking sandstone cliffs of the Dells. Then, as we travel northward we will take time to wander through the galleries of internationally recognized Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum. Dinner in the north woods at Little Bohemia Restaurant, site of a 1934 gun battle between John Dillinger and the FBI, features great food and real bullet holes in the walls! The Best Western Chequamegon on the shores of Lake Superior in Ashland the next three nights should prove to be a more peaceful setting. B, D Day 3: Apostle Islands Head off to Bayfield and board our boat for a three hour cruise among the Apostle Islands, so named by the missionaries who thought there were 12 islands (there are actually 22). Time will fly by quickly as the sparkling clear waters, stately lighthouses, sandstone sea caves, rocky outcrops,
and the captain’s stories and informative commentary delight our senses! Upon returning to the dock, we’ll enjoy lunch at the elegant Victorian Old Rittenhouse Inn then learn more about the charming town of Bayfield with a local guide. This evening you might consider a quiet evening stroll along the beach to watch a beautiful sunset! B, L
July 20-25, 2015 Per person rates double $1175 triple/quad $1051 single $1539
Day 4: Madeline Island Take a ferry to Madeline Island, the only Apostle Island inhabited year round. We will visit the island’s local museum then explore this lovely island with a local resident who will share the joys and challenges of year round island living – even in the winter! After lunch enjoy some free time before we catch the ferry back to the mainland. B, D Day 5: Southern Wisconsin With over 5,624 mustards from all over the world and a collection of mustard history, the National Mustard Museum is a sight to behold, even for the most avid ketchup lover. Enjoy dinner before our overnight stay in southern Wisconsin. B, D Day 6: Return home B
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Shores of Lake Erie Part I of 5 Great Lakes Series
Day 1: Toledo, OH Depart to explore North America’s Fresh Coast. Lake Erie, famous for its walleye fishing, is the 11th largest lake in the world. Travel to Toledo, OH near the Maumee River. D Day 2: Port Clinton The Marblehead Lighthouse was built in 1821 is still the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on all of the Great Lakes. Known as the most photographed site in the State of Ohio, the lighthouse is gracefully set on the rocky limestone on the shore of Lake Erie. Check into waterfront hotel, the Inn at Spiess Harbor. This newly renovated Victorian style hotel in the town of Port Clinton, OH will be our home for the next two nights. B, D Day 3: Kelley Island and Put-in-Bay Board a ferry from Sandusky, OH for the day to experience Lake Erie first hand. Travel to Kelley’s Island, the largest island in the western basin of Lake Erie and considered the Walleye Fishing Destination of the World. Since 1864 Put-in-Bay has offered a wide variety of Victorian era buildings, variety of shops and beautiful views of the Lake. B, L, D Day 4: Cleveland to Erie Depart for Cleveland to tour the Steamship William G. Mather a 618-foot historic flagship. Walk the decks of the 1925 built Mather to experience the golden era of the Great Lakes freighters. The West Side Market is one of Cleveland’s oldest publically owned market with origins dating back to 1840. Experience the yellow brick interior con-
course and 137 foot clock tower that has stood for nearly a century. Travel along the lake to Erie, PA for a two night stay at the Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel. The Sheraton features sweeping views of Lake Erie’s Presque Isle Bay in the heart of Erie’s Bayfront Marina District. B, D
July 27-Aug. 2, 2015 Per person rates double $1398 triple/quad $1233 single $1891
Day 5: Erie for the Day Depart the hotel with our local guide for the day. Reflect back on the war of 1812 as you enter Port Erie Maritime Museum and learn the history and events of the people of the area. If available, tour the U.S. Brig Niagara the official flagship of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Stop at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center at Presque Isle Park. This unique education center offers interactive exhibits and a unique glass-enclosed tower where you will see breathtaking views of Lake Erie. Stop at the Cook House for an Old Fashioned cookout before our relaxing ride on the paddlewheel boat the Victorian Princess. See the historic streets of Erie and tour Pulako’s Chocolates where they mix yesteryear with state of the art. B, L Day 6: Ashtabula County Enjoy a visit to Ashtabula County for a tour of the historic covered bridges that includes the country’s largest covered bridge. Stop at Ferrente Winery for lunch and wine tasting before traveling to central Ohio for our overnight stay. B, L Day 7: The Road Home Arrive home early evening as we reminisce on a “great” lake tour. B
Marblehead Lighthouse
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Pacific Northwest & Canadian Rockies The Rocky Mountains roll on for a thousand miles with snow-capped peaks, thick forests and clear Aug. 5-16, 2015 glacial lakes. Banff was the first of the Canadian Rockies’ National Parks established in 1885 and Per person rates* still welcomes visitors each day. Join us as we explore this incredibly majestic region. double $3398 Day 1: Arrival in Seattle, WA and its ecology. This relaxing float allows time to triple/quad $3067 Fly into Seattle and overnight just north of the enjoy the grandeur of the Canadian Rocky Moun- single $4391 city. D tains while looking for Beaver, Elk, Osprey and * Includes roundtrip more! Don’t forget your camera! When we return airfare from STL Day 2: Vancouver, BC we will enjoy a gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Travel into Canada to visit cosmopolitan Vancou- Mountain for a bird’s eye view. B, D Same price as 2014! ver and its beautiful parks with a local guide. After our touring, we will check into the hotel for a Day 8: Kootenay Park, BC 2-night stay . B, D Travel through scenic Kootenay Park and Radium Hot Springs, BC for a European luncheon at HelDay 3: Vancouver Island, BC ena’s Stube Restaurant. Arrive in Whitefish, MT Combine this tour with Ferry to Vancouver Island to visit world-famous where we unpack our bags for a 2-night stay. B, L Rocky Mountain High on page 37 and take Butchart Gardens, featuring 55 acres of stunning $450 off the combined and meticulously kept gardens. Enjoy lunch over- Day 9: Glacier National Park looking the beautiful gardens. Afterwards, visit Board the narrated Red Bus, fondly referred to per person rate! the delightful “British-like” city of Victoria for an as “Jammers”, with your personal guide on the afternoon of leisure. B, L Crown of the Continent Tour which follows the glacially carved valley into the heart of Glacier NaDay 4: Revelstoke, BC tional Park. Travel along the breathtaking Going“The ONLY boJourney along scenic roads into the inland moun- to-the-Sun Road to Logan Pass at the Continentanical garden tains of British Columbia and spend the night on a tal Divide, with spectacular photo opportunities outside of STL” – mountain lake hotel near Revelstoke, British Co- along the way. Then ride further to Rising Sun Inn Butchart Gardens, Deb lumbia. B, D on the East side of the Park for lunch. Tonight, relax and enjoy the evening at your leisure. B, L Day 5: Lake Louise and Banff, BC Travel through Rogers Pass, Glacier and Yoho Na- Day 10: Cascade Mountains, WA tional Parks, and into Banff National Park, Can- Our journey takes us through the Kaniksu and ada’s oldest national park. En-route we will visit Coeur D’Alene National Forests, and a scenic Lake Louise, the most photographed spot in the drive along the eastern side of the Cascade Moun…thanks for Canadian Rockies. Take time to walk the edge of tains to bring us to the charming Bavarian-like making the tour of the Lake and take your own pictures, then it’s on village of Leavenworth. Herzlich Willkommen! B, the Northwest and to Banff for a 3-night stay. B, D D
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Day 6: Athabasca Glacier Travel north on the icefield parkway into Jasper National Park. You won’t forget the incredible “snow coach” ride on the Athabasca Glacier, the azure blue of Peyto Lake and the majestic mountains of the Canadian Rockies! A local guide will add commentary as we explore Banff National Park. B, D Day 7: Banff, AB Embark on a scenic float trip on the Bow River, for a different perspective of Banff National Park
Day 11: Leavenworth, WA Visit the Leavenworth Fish Hatchery and learn about the cycle of life for salmon. Next visit the Cashmere Pioneer Village and Museum followed by a stop at Aplets and Cotlets for a tour and samples of their candy. Enjoy leisure time in The Village in Leavenworth for a Bavarian experience before a savory dinner complete with German entertainment! B, D Day 12: Return flight Today, we will fly home from Seattle, WA. B
Canada such a success. The meals and hotels were wonderful. We enjoyed all the beautiful scenery and…look forward to another trip in the near future. - B. and T. Ringer
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Canadian Whale Route
Day 1: Ohio Journey east along interstate 70 to mid-Ohio for dinner and an overnight stay. D
Day 2: Niagara Falls Board the world-famous Maid of the Mist for a thrilling boat ride under Niagara Falls (poncho provided)! Enjoy dinner at 4-star Schimschack’s Restaurant with panoramic views of Niagara County’s orchards and vineyards and warm hospitality. Overnight in upstate New York. B, D Day 3: Garden of the Great Spirit Visit 1000 islands where St. Lawrence meets Lake Ontario. Depart Alexandria Bay, aboard the award-winning Uncle Sam Boat Tours to enjoy a narrated luncheon cruise of the central part of the 1000 Islands stunning scenic region. Catch a glimpse of vacation retreats for some of the wealthiest people in North America! Visit historic Boldt Castle on Heart Island and then travel toMontreal for a 2-night stay. B, L Day 4: Bonjour Montreal! Montreal is renowned for its duality of Old World charm infused with North American energy. A local expert will acquaint us with Montreal’s mustsee sights including spectacular Notre-Dame Basilica, the colorful port area, the modern bustling underground shopping and Mount Royal for panoramic views of this lovely city. B, D Day 5: Val-Jalbert Depart Montreal for Chambord and enjoy the scenery of the Laurentian Mountains along the rocky Canadian Shield. Did you know these mountains consist of Precambrian rocks over 540 million years old? Explore Val-Jalbert Historical Village, an authentic village that recreates and celebrates the 1920’s. Board the old Trolleybus and learn how the village’s Quiatchouan Falls helped this community have the luxury of ultramodern electricity 25 years before anyone else in the province! B, L Day 6: Charlevoix Region The Saguenay Fjord, carved by Ice Age glaciers, is the only navigable fjord in North America. Visit
L’Anse-Saint-Jean and see the statue of Notre Dame du Saguenay, view the white pines, jagged cliffs and taste fresh blueberries. Arrive the charming village of La Malbaie for a 2-night stay at the 4-star Fairmont Manoir Richelieu copper roofed castle, turned luxury hotel. B, D
Day 7: Whale Watching Cruise Parked at the foot of a dramatic fjord sits Tadoussac, a historic town situated where warm fresh waters of the Saguenay mix with the frigid, salt waters of the St. Lawrence River and attract krill, which attracts whales! Board a “croissiers” (cruise) boat for a whale watching cruise. Enjoy a meal at 1870 Hotel Tadoussac, a landmark resort on a beautiful bay and explore the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre. B, L
August 15-24, 2015
Per person rates* double $2549 triple/quad $2267 single $3396 * Includes airfare from BOS to STL
Join us on this incredibly scenic tour featuring 2-nights at AAA four-diamond hotel, a vibrant Quebec landscape, Fjords, European towns and a Whale Watching Cruise in the Estuary and Gulf of the St. Lawrence. In the past, 13 differDay 8: Quebec City ent species of whales On the way to Quebec City, visit the family owned have been spotted in Copper Art Museum and learn how copper ore is eastern reaches of the transformed into beautiful art. A local expert joins Charlevoix region! our coach for an informative tour of the most European of North American cities, Quebec City. See the massive stone architecture and the heavily fortified walls and charm of Old Quebec City. Enjoy a ride on the Old Quebec Funiculaire cable car ride for leisure time to shop and Fairmont Manoir Richelieu, 2 night stay explore the artisanal bakeries, flower markets or lively collectible Combine this tour with shops. Overnight in Quebec City. B, D Bar Harbor on page 39 and take $400 off the Day 9: Au Revoir combined per person Cross the border into the US and travel through rate! the White Mountain National Forest to the eastern shore for an overnight stay in Boston. B, D Day 10: Flight home B
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Rocky Mountain High
featuring Glacier, Yellowstone and Rocky Mountain National Parks Day 1: Spokane, WA Fly into Spokane, WA and travel to the AAA 4-diamond Coeur d’Alene Resort on the shores of beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene for a 2 night stay. D Day 2: Coeur d’Alene, ID Explore downtown Coeur d’Alene, founded in 1888 and located near the waterfront with restored brick buildings in a six-block area. The area is surrounded by lakes left behind by glaciers of the ice age. Board a boat for a narrated scenic cruise on Lake Coeur d’Alene that National Geographic once called one of the five prettiest lakes in the world. B, D Day 3: Whitefish, MT Travel east through Lolo National Forest and along the western shore of Flathead Lake to Whitefish, MT. Take a scenic ride to the Summit of the Mountain before our two night stay. B, D Day 4: Glacier National Park Board the narrated “red bus jammers” to travel the “Going-to-the-Sun-Road”. Senses heighten as we smell the fresh air and soak in the views of Glacier’s pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and spectacular lakes. Then enjoy lunch in the park. Board the DeSmet, a boat built in 1930 and launched on Lake McDonald where she still runs today. Tonight, the evening is at your leisure. B, L
will include Old Faithful, Geysers, Paint Pots and more geological wonders. Enjoy lunch in the Old Faithful Inn Dining Room, a masterpiece of rustic architecture with a 65 foot ceiling and a rhyolite fireplace. This evening, travel to Jackson, WY for a 2-night stay. B, L Day 7: The Grand Tetons and Jackson, WY Enjoy the beauty and majesty of the Grand Tetons as we take a scenic float on the Snake River with the Grand Tetons as your backdrop. Bring your camera as we venture to the top of Rendezvous Mountain via the Aerial Tram gondola for a bird’s eye view of Jackson. This evening enjoy dinner and a broadway style theater production at Jackson Hole Playhouse where you might spot a cast member serving dinner. B, D
Aug. 17-27, 2015 Per person rates* double $2845 triple/quad $2505 single $3863 * Includes flight from STL
Combine this tour with Pacific Northwest on page 35 and take $450 off the combined per person rate!
Day 8: Colorado We will soak in the beautiful views of Bridger and Medicine Bow National Forests before arriving in eastern Colorado. After dinner, unpack our bags for a 2-night stay in the Loveland, CO area. B, D Day 9: Rocky Mountain National Park Visit Rocky Mountain National Park and travel on Trail Ridge Road, Yellowstone National Park “a scenic wonder road of the world” featuring sweeping views of the Rockies before our picnic lunch in the Park. Travel to the Alpine Visitor Center located at 11,796 feet above sea level before exploring downtown Estes Park, CO. B, L
Day 5: West Yellowstone Enjoy the scenic wonders of the area as we travel south to West Yellowstone, MT. Keep an eye out for eagles soaring and other wildlife as we pass through Flathead National Forest, Deerlodge National Forest, and to our overnight stay in West Yellowstone, MT. After dinner, visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery center to experience the unique world of grizzly bears and gray wolves. B, D
Day 10: Mid-Kansas Travel to mid-Kansas for our overnight stay. B, D
Day 6: Old Faithful It’s off to explore one of our nation’s finest national parks. A naturalist will board our coach and lead us through Yellowstone National Park. Sights
Day 11: Home Continue our trek east along I-70 to arrive home ready to share the wonders of America’s Rockies. B
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The Dakotas
Day 1: Sioux City, NE Pack your gear for our Dakota Adventure! Our travels bring us to Sioux City, Nebraska for an overnight along the Missouri River. D
Day 2: Sioux Falls, SD Sioux Falls, the largest city in South Dakota, is our first stop in the Dakotas. See the triple waterfall at Falls Park and do a little exploring in the historic heart of this city. Travel to De Smet, locale of six Laura Ingalls Wilder books, to relive the pioneer days of growing up on the Dakota prairie as we tour two homes of the Wilder family. B, D Day 3: Badlands National Park Stop in the capital city of Pierre on our way to visit the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site. This one-of-a-kind site presents the history and significance of the Cold War arms race. Then see the rugged beauty of Badlands National Park before arriving in Rapid City, for a two night stay at the Grand Gateway Hotel. B, D Day 4: Black Hills Take in spectacular views of the Black Hills of South Dakota as we visit Mt. Rushmore National Monument, Crazy Horse Memorial and take a jeep tour through Custer State Park, amidst herds of buffalo, bison and elk. Visit the Mammoth Site, the world’s largest mammoth research facility. Stand on the edge of discovery
and walk where mammoths, bears, American li- August 23-30, 2015 ons and other Ice Age critters walked at this active Per person rates paleontological dig site. B, L double $1586 triple/quad $1424 Day 5: Medora, ND single $2069 Visit Bear Country USA, a drive through wildlife park where we get an up close view of over 20 species of North American mammals, then head Simply an unfornorth to Medora, North Dakota, an authentic Old West cow town in the midst of the North Dakota gettable tour! Badlands. Enjoy the nationally acclaimed Pitchfork Steak Fondue dinner before we mosey over - Linda H.. to the Burning Hills Amphitheatre where you may 2012 The Dakotas even see some elk amble on stage before the Medora Musical, a musical variety show, takes center stage. Overnight in the newly renovated and historic Rough Riders Hotel in the heart of downtown Medora. B, D
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Day 6: Bismarck, ND As we cross North Dakota from Medora toward Fargo, stop and browse the North Dakota Heritage Center to experience North Dakota’s geologic past of 600 milBear Country USA lion years ago through the present day. Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Missouri River aboard the Lewis and Clark Riverboat in the capital city of Bismarck. B, L Day 7: Fargo, ND A little exploration of Fargo before heading into South Dakota with a stop at Hjemkorst Interpretive Center for a guided tour of the rich heritage of Clay County including a Hjemkorst Viking Ship replica and Hopperstad Stave Church replica. Stop at the Redlin Art Center in Watertown to experience the work of artist Terry Redlin then onward to Sioux City, NE. B, D Day 8: Return home Return with a greater appreciation of the days of yore in the Wild West. B
Badlands National Park
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Little-known jewel: Custer State Park, Deb
Did you know?
- North Dakota has recently been ranked the friendliest state in the U.S., according to Cambridge University. - South Dakota has one of the largest Native American populations, with nine official tribes.
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Bar Harbor & the Canadian Maritime Provinces
Day 1: Fly to Boston area Board a flight for Boston and travel north to Bangor, ME for a two night stay. D Day 2: Bar Harbor Depart this morning for picturesque Bar Harbor, Maine. Nowhere along the Atlantic seaboard is the “stern and rockbound coast” more picturesque than Acadia National Park! Enjoy a delightful lunch at the Jordan Pond House for their famous tea and popovers. A scenic carriage ride through the park caps our visit to this enchanting area. B, L
Day 3: Bay of Fundy Ferry With passports in hand we are off to St. John, NB to board a ferry for a cruise across the Bay of Fundy, one of Canada’s Natural Wonders. Enroute, you may even spot a whale playing in the high tides before arriving in the coastal Digby, Nova Scotia. From there travel across scenic Nova Scotia before arriving in Halifax for a two night stay at the Courtyard by Marriott in downtown. B, D Day 4: Peggy’s Cove and Hailfax Today is full of history and fun, so, bring your cameras and sunglasses! This morning, make the journey to picturesque Peggy’s Cove to visit the rustic charm of this famous fishing village and lighthouse. Afterwards, a local guide will lead us back to Halifax to explore its legacy and charm. B, D Day 5: Baddeck After a leisurely breakfast, take time to explore more of historic downtown Halifax on your own. This afternoon, continue our journey to Baddeck. Spend the next 2-nights at the Silver Dart Lodge, a huge hit from our 2013 tour and experience the warm Cape Breton hospitality. B, D Day 6: Cabot Trail Spend the day on one of Canada’s most famous scenic drives – The Cabot Trail. Stop to visit the “hookers”, and take many photos from viewpoints high above the Atlantic Ocean. B, L
Day 7: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island Visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum before traveling by ferry to Prince Edward Island for a two-night stay in Charlottetown. After dinner, enjoy a performance at the much acclaimed Confederation of the Arts Centre. B, D
Aug. 26-Sept. 5, 2015 Per person rates* double $2998 triple/quad $2744 single $3762 * Includes roundtrip flight from STL
Day 8: Prince Edward Island Explore this intriguing island and visit an Anne of Green Gables site, see some of the famous The food was coastline and travel through the quaint villages. This evening enjoy the Charlottetown waterfront delicious and always before dinner at the Culinary Institute of Canada well presented. All in overlooking the harbor. B, D all it was a fantastic
“ trip!
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Day 9: St. John, NB Cross the Confederation Bridge into New Bruns- - Shirley D. wick where we see two natural phenomena –the 2013 Bar Harbor Reversing Falls and the Hopewell Rocks – you have to see them to believe them! This evening dine at the historic Union Club, which was founded in 1884, before checking into the luxurious Chateau Saint John. B, D Lobster boats on Prince Edward Island Combine this tour with Day 10: St. Andrews Canadian Whale Route Today, visit the charming town of St. Andrews on page 36 and take before we continue on to central Maine. B, D $400 off the combined per person rate or comDay 11: Return flight home bine with Cape Cod on Refreshed from experiencing all of the spectacu- page 40 and take $450 lar scenery, board a return flight home. B off the combined rate!
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Cape Cod and More!
Provincetown. This evening take September 6-13, 2015 in the serene beauty of Cape Cod Per person rates* • A guided tour of historic Boston, including at dinner. B, D double $1879 famous landmarks of the Freedom Trail, Old triple/quad $1708 North Church, USS Constitution, Bunker Hill Day 5: Martha’s Vineyard single $2391 Monument and more! Board the ferry for a ride to the * Includes airfare • Whale-watching cruise and Plymouth Rock timeless and enchanting Mar- from STL to BOS • A visit to Martha’s Vineyard tha’s Vineyard; rich in history, in• Time to shop at Boston’s famous Quincy spiration, creativity, and beauty. Combine this tour with Market Accompanied by a local guide, Bar Harbor on page 39 • A visit to the Breakers, an opulent “cottage” visit the island’s treasures - the and take $450 off the in Newport, RI picturesque whaling community combined per person • A guided tour of Cape Cod of Edgartown, the lacy Victo- rate! Day 2: Boston rian gingerbread cottages of Oak Enjoy a full day with a local guide as we explore Bluffs, the magnificent stone walls surrounding historic downtown Boston. So much history and o c e a n v i e w culture in this city, including the site of the Bos- fields of Chilton Massacre, the Paul Revere House and the USS mark to the Constitution! B, D grand cliffs of Aquinnah Day 3: Plymouth and Cape Cod (Gay Head), Visit historic Plymouth for a look at the “rock” and the rustic feel embark on a half day whale watching cruise! Em- of West Tisbrace Cape Cod for a 3-night stay at the Double- bury, and the Tree Hyannis and dine at a local favorite tonight, port town of Alberto’s Restaurante. B, D Vineyard Haven. Martha’s Day 4: Cape Cod Vineyard has Tour Cape Cod with a local guide, view pictur- something to esque windmills, lighthouses, Cape Cod National offer everySeashore Park and more. There will be plenty of one. B, D Boston, MA time to shop, stroll, and people watch in quaint Favorite chowDay 6: Newport, RI der: Lobster Pot Visit the coastal town of Newport, RI, the in Provincetown, onetime summer home of America’s millionaires. Tour one of these opulent “cottag- Brent es”, The Breakers, which is a symbol of the Vanderbilt family’s social and financial preeminence in turn of the century America. Enjoy some free time in historic downtown Always a good before we begin our journey home. B,D Day 1: Fly into Boston Arrive via air in Boston, MA, check into the Clarion Nantasket Beach Resort Hotel and enjoy dinner while savoring the views of the beach. B, D
Highlights:
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time and well planned diversified itinerary.
Day 7: Eastern Ohio Travel across Pennsylvania and overnight in - Donna J. eastern Ohio. B, D
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2013 Cape Cod
Day 8: Return Home. B Cape Cod, MA
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Canyonlands of Southern Utah Day 1: Cedar City, UT Fly into Las Vegas and travel to Cedar City for a 2-night stay as we begin our tour of the rugged west with dinner and cowboy poetry. D Day 2: Bryce Canyon Visit the impressive but often missed Cedar Breaks National Monument, known for a mixture of delicate shades of colors. Eat lunch at Bryce Canyon’s The Lodge Restaurant, rated one of the area’s best dining experiences, before exploring spectacular Bryce Canyon National Park, famous for its multi-colored Hoodoos, a unique geological formation, and some of the world’s best air quality. B, L Day 3: Capitol Reef and Moab Visit Capitol Reef National Park known for a water pocket fold (a giant wrinkle in the Earth’s crust) and its fruit orchards. Discover the small resort town of Moab, UT located at the center of some of the most stunning red rock landscapes on Earth. Tonight’s treat: a hearty barbeque dinner, then an exhilarating boat ride and the spectacular light show known as “Canyonlands by Night”. Enjoy two nights rest in the heart of this quaint western town. B, L, D Day 4: Canyonlands National Park See the sculpted pinnacles and buttes of Canyonlands National Park and enjoy the commanding views across many miles of very deep canyons in all directions. Marvel at the amazing views of the snaking Colorado River at one of the most photographed scenic vistas: Dead Horse Point State Park. A picnic lunch on the riverside, then discover the red rock landscape of Arches National Monument, the world’s largest concentration of natural stone arches. Enjoy an evening at leisure. B, L Day 5: From Monument Valley to Lake Powell Hear about the Native American heritage of this area as we explore the back roads of Monument Valley, the eighth wonder of the world. A Navajo guide will lead us amid perhaps the most enduring and definitive images of the American West. Cross into Arizona for a cruise on beautiful Lake
Powell. The boat takes us into Navajo Canyon Sept. 20-28, 2015 with its tapestry laden walls and twisting Ante- Per person rates* lope Canyon where we can almost touch the sides double $2559 of the cliffs! B,D triple/quad $2336 single $3229 Day 6: Grand Canyon – North Rim * Includes roundtrip The mysteries of Glen Canyon Dam are explained airfare from STL on a guided tour to the crest and inside the dam before traveling to the north rim of the Grand Favorite national Canyon. Less visited than the south rim, but truly park: Bryce Canas beautiful, enjoy spectacular views from Point yon on CanyonImperial, highest point on the canyon rim. Sit back in the rocking chairs on the front porch of the land tour, Carol Western Cabins at historic Grand Canyon Lodge, just footsteps from the Canyon’s rim during this one night stay inside the Grand Canyon National Park. B, D The hoodoos at Bryce Canyon
Day 7: North Rim Explored Wake up to the still of the Park then send greetings echoing across the Grand Canyon as you explore the park at leisure. Delight in the seemingly unlimited views from the North Rim with a step-on guide before heading to Kanab, UT for the night. B, D Day 8: Zion National Park Follow the lush Virgin River into Zion National Park where you are surrounded by massive canyon walls and a unique landscape of petrified sand dunes. Continue on to Las Vegas to check into the four star Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino. B, D Day 9: Fly Home Reflect on the incomparable natural beauty we have explored as we fly home. B
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This is my 11th year of traveling with Sunrise and I have had no negative experiences. This one was at the top, even better than I expected. Thank you for such a great trip.
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- Edwina T. 2013 Canyonlands
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Policies Cancellations Our refund policy for cancellations varies according to the type of tour. Your deposit is fully refundable up to the final payment due date. On any cancellation made after final payment is due, we reserve the right to withhold monies for non-refundable expenses. All motorcoach: Refund up to the day of departure for medical reasons except for non-refundable expenses to us. Many hotels, restaurants & activities require prepayment. Fly/Coach: The motorcoach portion of the tour is fully refundable (except for nonrefundable expenses incurred by us) up to the day before departure for medical reasons. The refund of the flight portion of the cost is non-refundable. Cruise and International tours: Refund for cancellation of cruises and international tours depend on the cruise line or tour operator. Please call for questions on a specific cruise or tour. Final Payment Your final payment is due 30 days before departure for an all-motorcoach tour and 60 days before departure for tours involving air unless otherwise noted. One-day tour payments are due in full upon reservation. Please call us in reference to cruise payment deadlines. Tour Price Inclusions (and tipping policy) The price of the tour includes all attractions, lodging, motorcoach transportation, breakfast and dinner daily (unless noted otherwise), and tips for hotel, airport, and restaurant personnel. If the tour involves air travel, the cost of the ticket is included unless otherwise noted. Some airlines charge for checked baggage and that is not included in the tour price. Tips for the driver, tour managers, and step-on guides are left to the discretion of the traveler and should be in accordance with services received. Typical gratuities for tour manager and driver are $3-$5 per person, per day. Trip Insurance For 2 main reasons we highly recommend the purchase of trip insurance and can provide information on Berkley Insurance: 1) Trip interruption – There are circumstances that can prevent passengers from fully participating in a tour and may require an early departure or extended stay. For example, if a passenger suffers an injury that prevents the traveler from
continuing on the tour, insurance will cover the cost of the extended stay, the cost of transportation home and the value of the missed tour (subject to claim submission and acceptance by Berkley Insurance). If you do not have insurance, you will personally incur these costs and it can be very expensive. 2) Trip cancellation - If you are forced to cancel a tour for medical reasons (for you or an immediate family member), having insurance ensures a complete refund of monies paid (except for the cost of insurance). Sunrise cannot guarantee this because there are times when monies are paid on your behalf prior to departure. Pick-up points For each trip, we determine the pick-up points used based in part on the number of requests for each point. We have pickup points to service the north, west, south and central areas of St. Louis metropolitan area and St. Charles and Illinois. All pick-up points allow parking for your vehicle. Sunrise’ pick up point partners offer the use of parking spaces during tour as a courtesy to Sunrise travelers. Neither Sunrise Tours nor parking lot owners assume responsibility for incidents occurring to parked cars. You will be notified of which pick-ups we are using for your tour in a letter about 2 weeks prior to departure. If you would like to stay overnight before leaving on the tour, we can provide a hotel room at some of our pick-ups for a reduced rate. If our routing allows, we may pick up along the way in outlying areas. Identification A passport is required on any tour that leaves the United States, including Canada. Photo ID’s are required on all fly tours and recommended on all tours. Singles Requesting Roommates If you would like to go on tour with us, but do not have a roommate for a specific trip, let us know and we will match you with someone else (same sex of course). Just let us know at least 60 days before departure and we will room you with another traveler at the double rate. If there is no roommate available on the tour you request, you will still only have to pay the price of a double. If you decline the roommate assigned, you will be responsible for the single supplement. Of course, if you prefer to travel individually, you can still sign up for the single fare. This offer is not valid on cruises, and some select tours.
Method of Payments For deposits we accept checks or cash. For final payment we accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, check or cash. Seating on the Motorcoach Seating is assigned and will be rotated on a daily basis. Special seating requests are honored on the basis of availability. Paying the single fare does NOT ensure you will have a seat to yourself on the coach, it only ensures you a room by yourself. Responsibility Sunrise Tours is not responsible for any injury, delay, loss or accident due to any act or negligence on the part of any person or company rendering services on any of our tours. We reserve the right to change any itinerary. After You Book A Tour... After you have booked a tour and we have received your deposit, the following is a schedule of correspondences: 1) confirmation of deposit received 2) your final payment is due 30 days before departure for an all-motorcoach tour or 60 days before departure for tours involving air or Amtrak trains(please note you will NOT receive an invoice when final payment is due) 3) you will receive a letter about 2-3 weeks prior to departure that will include your luggage tags and important details such as pick-up times and locations, hotel phone #’s, what to bring etc..It will also include a detailed itinerary (subject to change). Please bring this with you on tour. Groups 1) On scheduled trips, we provide 1 complimentary tour for 20 paid passsengers, or a 5% commission for fundraising efforts. 2) Have an idea? Let us know. We will create a trip just for your groups’ interest and budget. 3) You don’t have to “fill the bus”, because all of our scheduled tours are open to any number of members. If 10 members sign up for any scheduled trip, we come to your location in the St. Louis metro area, pick them up, and show them a great time. Pictures By signing up for and participating in a tour, you are agreeing to have any pictures taken on tour published in Sunrise Tours printed or web material. If you do not wish to have your picture used in any form by Sunrise Tours, please notify us prior to traveling.
Booking Forms & Procedures Name (as it appears on valid ID) Nickname (if applicable) Tour:
Birthdate (required if traveling by air)
Tour departure date:
Address: Phone number: Cell phone: Email address: Roommate (s): Pickup point most convenient for you (actual pickup point may vary by demand): Holiday Inn (old Viking) 10709 Watson Rd., St. Louis, MO 63127 Costco South County, 4200 Rusty Rd., St. Louis, MO 63128 Baymont 5781 Campus Parkway, Hazelwood, MO 63042 Drury Inn 12 Ludwig Dr., Fairview Heights, IL 62208 Comfort Suites 1400 South 5th St., St. Charles, MO 63301
Please check appropriate boxes: single triple double quad smoking non-smoking I have read, understand and agree to Sunrise Tours policies as they appear on page 42.
Name (as it appears on valid ID) Nickname (if applicable) Tour:
Birthdate (required if traveling by air)
Tour departure date:
Address: Phone number: Cell phone: Email address: Roommate (s): Pickup point most convenient for you (actual pickup point may vary by demand): Holiday Inn (old Viking) 10709 Watson Rd., St. Louis, MO 63127 Costco South County, 4200 Rusty Rd., St. Louis, MO 63128 Baymont 5781 Campus Parkway, Hazelwood, MO 63042 Drury Inn 12 Ludwig Dr., Fairview Heights, IL 62208 Comfort Suites 1400 South 5th St., St. Charles, MO 63301
How to Book a Tour:
Please check appropriate boxes: single triple double quad smoking non-smoking I have read, understand and agree to Sunrise Tours policies as they appear on page 42.
1. When you decide on a tour, you are welcome to give us a call to reserve your space and then continue to com- plete the following steps, or you can simply move on to step #2 2. Complete the above booking form. Please include any special requirements (diet, room, no steps etc.) 3. Determine what deposit is necessary for your tour according to the following: motorcoach or fly/coach tours 5 or more days long - $100 per person motorcoach or fly/coach tours less than 5 days - $50 per person cruises and overseas tours - please call (deposits vary) 4. Mail in the form along with the deposit to: (make checks payable to) Sunrise Tours 1819 Lynch Street St.Louis, MO 63118 5. Please take a minute to read our policies and procedures.
1819 lynch street saint louis, mo 63118 (314) 771-8300 or (800) 881-8804 travelsunrise.com
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Celebrating 20 Years
n the fall of 1993, with a son in college and two daughters in high school, our parents cashed in their retirement and started what was to become Sunrise Tours. In 1994, Jim Dalrymple managed (escorted) the first tour; a trip planned by Charlene Dalrymple to New York City and Washington DC taken by a travel group from Shrewsbury, MO. After the initial success of that tour, word spread about a hard-working and creative new family-owned tour company in St. Louis. By 1999, Charlene and Jim were working 7 days a week and in that single year, Charlene planned and Jim managed 275 total days of touring for Sunrise customers. Of course that pace was not sustainable and many fantastic employees, starting with Kristen Dalrymple in 1999 and Shelby Moll in 2000, have joined us over the years. As we celebrate our 20th year in business in 2014, we are as committed as ever to working hard to make your vacation a success. We appreciate the trust you put in us to provide excellent value for your vacation dollars and we pledge to continue to endeavor to be the hardest working, most creative tour company in the country.
Brent and Kristen