Food

Jul 22
0

Colorado Springs, CO – More than you can imagine!

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DSCF8625Located near the base of Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs is one amazing city.  It is a big city with a uniquely small town feel and is the perfect destination for your next charter bus outing.  It is often overshadowed by Denver, the ski resorts and Rocky Mountain National Park; however Colorado Springs is an ideal place to relax and unwind this summer.

Your bus driver can get you safely to one of the most beautiful places in all of Colorado; the Garden of the Gods.  DSCF8688The Garden is a public park and a National Natural Landmark.  The red rock formations that make up the park were created millions of years ago and to this day they astound and amaze every visitor.  The park is used extensively for hiking, rock climbing and horseback riding.  Most people though enjoy taking a day to wander through the natural formations.  Start with a visit to the Visitor’s and Nature Center and then explore at your leisure.  Kissing camels, Gateway Rock and Balanced Rock are some of the more famous geological formations within the park.  Spectacular views of Pike’s Peak are available throughout The Springs (as the locals call it) but are particularly beautiful from the Gardens.

Since Pike’s Peak is right there near The Springs then why not go straight to the top?  Well, your charter bus probably does not want to make that trip, but your bus can easily get you to the Manitou and Pike’s Peak Railway, better known as the Cog Train.  The Cog Railway has been in operation since 1889 and is the highest railroad in the United States.  Your charter coach can drop you off at the Cog Depot and you can take the leisurely climb to over 14000 feet above sea level.  While you ride you will be able to see the splendor and beauty of the mountains.

Depending on when you go you are likely to see various forms of wildlife from the comfort and safety of the train.  Be sure to bring some warm clothes because it will be cold when you reach the top.  And while at the top be sure to enjoy one of the world famous Pike’s Peak donuts at the Summit House.

Now that you have explored two of the most beautiful natural landmarks in the area it is time to take in something uniquely American; the United States Air Force Academy.  The campus is located just north of The Springs and is highlighted by the Cadet Chapel.  When it first opened the design was considered controversial, but now the familiar spires and modernist architecture have become a symbol of the academy.  Let the bus do all the work of getting you there and then enjoy a self-guided tour of the chapel and the nearby visitor’s center.

Well that is a lot to take in and by now if you have not had a good meal you definitely are in need of one.  A great place for groups is the Phantom Canyon Brewing Company.  Not only is this the oldest brewery in The Springs, but Phantom Canyon is known for fantastic meals and big portions.  You can rustle up some really good grub here by starting with the house made pretzel bites served with beer cheese and whole grain beer mustard.  For the main course you cannot go wrong no matter what you choose, but be daring and try the Lemon Tabasco Fried Chicken or the Lamb Belly Tacos.  OF course, Colorado Bison Burgers are available and also delicious.  If you have saved room for dessert the Goat Cheese Cheesecake is to die for.  There is a full billiard room on the second floor and savvy guests know that pool is free on Monday nights with any food purchase.

DSCF8739Of course when a lot of people visit Colorado they want a good steak and there is no place better in The Springs than The Famous Steak House.  The USDA Prime New York Strip with onion rings may well be the greatest steak you have ever tried.  Tender and juicy, it is the steak that put famous in the restaurant’s name.  Filet mignon is also available and also amazing.  Surf and turf options a4re on the menu as well as the rack of lamb.  Reservations are accepted and
necessary.

So when it comes time to charter a bus and head to the great state of Colorado be sure and make a stop for a few days in The Springs.  The beauty of the land, the friendliness of the   people and the dining options are among the best in the nation.  Enjoy!

Jun 24
0

Music City, USA

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Live MusicNashville, TN is one of the great American destinations and is a perfect stop for your next chartered bus tour.  Contrary to popular opinion, Nashville is not just for country music fans. The name “Music City” was earned for the many varieties of music that one can enjoy during a visit.  In addition, Nashville has long been known as one of the most affordable cities to visit in the country.  So what makes Nashville such a great destination?  Let’s start with a visit downtown.
Ryman

Your charter coach can drop you off at the world famous Ryman Auditorium.  Originally built as the Union Gospel Tabernacle, Ryman Auditorium was home for The Grand Ole Opry from 1943 – 1974.  It is still used today for concerts and shows, but you can take a tour and see where history was made.  Take a few minutes and stand on the stage where artists such as Hank Williams, Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton made their Opry debuts.  There are plenty of artifacts from the Opry on display throughout the auditorium.  As you walk around you can really feel the history of this national landmark.

Ernest TubJust steps away from the Ryman is Broadway; however it’s nothing like the Broadway you’d find in New York City.  This Broadway is a street where you can hear music from all manner of artists every night of the week.  You can walk down the street and pass a seemingly endless line of restaurants, shops and bars where live music is always being played.  No matter what your taste you are sure to find something to sit back and enjoy. Another must see place on Broadway is the Ernest Tubb Record Shop.  This shop has been located at the same location since 1947 and still sells vinyl records.  If you are a collector of  vintage vinyl then you will definitely want to visit.  And yes, they too will offer live music.

A couple of blocks away from Broadway you will find the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.  All of the greats in the country music industry have been enshrined here with their own bronze plaques.  You seriously do not need to be a fan of country music to appreciate the talents of the individuals honored here.  The museum itself is filled with all sorts of memorabilia from the artists themselves and tells the history of country music.

You’re going to get pretty hungry wandering around downtown and there is no shortage of  delicious places to eat and, of course, hear live music.  Since you are in Nashville then you may want to partake in a bit of BBQ.  There may be no better place than Rippy’s Ribs & BBQ.  Rippy’s is only one block from Ryman Auditorium and they serve up some of the best BBQ in the city, if not the entire south.  Try a slab of ribs with Rippy’s homemade BBQ sauce with a side of onion rings and coleslaw and you will think you were in hog heaven.  Rippy’s can even organize a private party for you and your fellow bus travelers if you wish.  You can enjoy live music in the main dining area, sports on flat screen TV’s in another or try the open air rooftop patio.  Pulled pork, catfish, baked beans; you seriously cannot make a bad choice here.

HermitageNow that you have enjoyed downtown, let your bus take you to see the home of President Andrew Jackson; The Hermitage.  Located just a short drive from downtown, The Hermitage is a fascinating place to visit.  You can start your tour in the museum and then take a short stroll to the home where President and Mrs. Jackson resided.  The tomb of Andrew and Rachel Jackson is located in the gardens by the home.  Numerous log cabins make up the grounds and tour guides take you through the home and provide you with historical facts.

One of the best things about Nashville and the surrounding areas is that it is easily accessed by bus which will make your visit here all the more comfortable and enjoyable.  Why fight for a place to park downtown when the bus can take you there and pick you up when you are done? Get the group together, get on the bus and head to Nashville this summer.  You will have grand ole time.

Sep 11
0

Must-Have Trip Essentials

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Getting ready for a trip is almost as fun as going.  Everyone has those essentials, things they can’t live without, even for a few days.  We have taken the liberty to put together a short list of items that every road trip must not be without!

1.  SNACKsnackS

Snacks are a must for any good road trip, and there are many ways that groups go about planning their snacks.  Some groups plan a snack pot-luck.  Group members each bring a different treat to share so that everyone can enjoy.  Other groups like to create a snack theme to go along with their trip destination.  Even more groups have an “every man (woman or kid) for themselves” where you eat what you bring and trading with your seat mate is an option only if you both agree it’s a good trade.  No matter how your group decides to handle the snacks we know they are a must-have.

 

2.  ENTERTAINMENT

Every good bus trip needs good movies and music.  Ever get excited to watch a movie on a long plane ride only to be disappointed that you can’t see the tiny video monitor five rows ahead?  This won’t happen on a motorcoach.  New coaches offer large, flat screen monitors, making viewing easy.  Pass the popcorn – it’s time for the show to start!  Do you need any ideas on what movies to show?  Check out our list of great group movies HERE  for ideas.setra

Music is also a necessity for any great bus ride.  It’s easy to lose yourself in thought while looking out the windows and listening to your favorite music.  We have created a great playlist for your next motorcoacch trip.  Click HERE to check it out!

 

3.  CAMERA

cameraThey say a picture is worth a thousand words.  Snapping a few photos and telling your story are a great way to keep the trip going long after you return home.  With a camera on every cell phone, it’s easy to edit and share pictures all along the way.  Make sure you let people know where you were, why this was a great photo opp. and any other important details you can think of.  Don’t forget to take a few good selfies as well!

Although it’s important to take lots of great photos, don’t forget to look up once in a while and just see things with your eyes.  Create photos in your mind.  This is an important part of the travel experience!

Incorporating these few must have items to your trip will not only help make it a success, but also a memory to last a lifetime.  Happy Travels!!

Mar 27
0

Let’s Eat!

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Everyone knows that besides choosing what destinations your group is travelling to, where and what to eat is just as important.

After deciding where you are going, visit that city’s Convention and Visitors Bureau for a listing of what restaurants are group friendly.  They are a great resource and will have lots of suggestions and ideas of what to do and where to eat in their city.

Deciding on where you will dine, is just the beginning.   The National Tourism Association suggests calling the restaurant’s manager and asking some of the following questions:

  1. How much advance notice do you need for our group?
  2. Is convenient tour bus loading/unloading available onsite?
  3. Do you have room to park a charter bus?
  4. Do you have special meal options specifically for large tour groups?
  5. How will we be seated? Is there a banquet room on site?
  6. Do you offer group discounts?
  7. Do chaperones receive a free meal?
  8. Do you require an advance deposit? If so, how much?
  9. Is the deposit refundable?
  10. What is your cancellation and refund policy?

With the answers to these questions, it will be easy to plan your group’s meal!  Now all you need to do is sit down, relax and enjoy the meal!