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Aug 21

Magic in the Mountains- Chattanooga, TN area

Prepare yourself for a journey quite similar to how you felt as a child wandering through the magical world of Disney. Sights, sounds, and experiences you almost cannot put in words await for you! Chattanooga is known for its many Civil War museums, Nature Center, Ocoee River rafting, Tennessee Aquarium, and ghost tours. However, if you’re looking for attractions a little off the beaten path, follow me…..

Ruby Falls is great in any weather! Why? Because it’s always 60 degrees and never rains! Ruby Falls is over 1100 feet beneath the surface. At 145 feet tall, it’s the largest and deepest waterfall that is available for public viewing. Located deep inside Lookout Mountain, tours are available 8am-8pm daily. The tour guides are absolutely amazing at pointing out and explaining the different cave formations and interesting facts about the sites around you. You will definitely want to have your camera or phone ready to snap amazing pictures of colors and formations that can only be explained by a visual image! Adult tickets are $18.95 and children (3-12) tickets are $10.95. Lantern Tours are available on Friday nights at 8:30 pm March-September, and during the month of November. Two weeks’ notice is required, no one under age 8, and cost is $26 each.

Next stop on your journey is Rock City Gardens in Lookout Mountain, GA. Prices are much like those for Ruby Falls. Only 6 miles from downtown Chattanooga, Rock City Gardens offers free parking and an experience you will never forget. Prepare to become awe-struck by ancient rock formations, gardens showcasing over 400 native plant species, a 90-foot waterfall, a swing-bridge spanning over 180-feet overlooking the Chattanooga Valley, and one of the most beautiful sights you will ever see—“See 7 States”. Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, Kentucky, and Virginia are all said to be visible from this landing in the sky. Café 7, located at Lover’s Leap, is a great place to enjoy a meal while overlooking the states. Starbucks, ice cream, pizza, and burger options are also available in the area.

Continuing the outdoor adventure, you will take about an 8 minute drive to Incline Railway. Open daily from 9am-7pm, the 15-minute (each way) enclosed trolley car ride offers more scenic views of this historic location. At a grade of 72.7%, be prepared for a unique ride in one of the world’s steepest passenger railways in the world! No worries, though; it’s completely enclosed, travels less than 10 mph, and is very safe! Upon arriving at the top, there is an observation deck overlooking the TN Valley, food options, and gift shops. Within a short walking distance, you will find Civil War attractions including Battles for Chattanooga Electric Map & Museum and Point Park, which is part of the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Parks. There is also a half-price discount offered during the months of December, January, and February.

Although there are many great lodging options, such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and The Read House Historical Inn and Suites, a mountain-view masterpiece named the Chanticleer Inn Bed and Breakfast is in a category all to itself. Conveniently located across the street from Rock City and only minutes away from Ruby Falls and The Incline, Chanticleer Inn offers stone cottage type lodging featuring French country motif, hardwood floors, spectacular views, private patios, home-cooked breakfast, and luxury upgrades for many different occasions. From May 1-November 1, there is a 2-night minimum; however, single night stays are available occasionally. Rooms start around $150/night and are more than worth the price. Military and police discounts are always available. The Chanticleer Inn is a smoke-free and pet-free facility.

Many companies in Chattanooga offer discount packages that include these attractions. To save quite a bit of money, package options are highly recommended, and almost everywhere mentioned above offers group discounts with advance purchase. Many packages that include the three main stops mentioned above price around $48 for ages 13 and up, and $26 for ages 3-12. Package prices can vary greatly depending on group size, tours, catering, special times, etc. However, package pricing is always better than single purchases at each location! Be prepared to be amazed at the sights that you will see on this trip, and the amazing memories you will create with your friends and family!

Jul 22

Colorado Springs, CO – More than you can imagine!

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Located 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. The 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.

Of 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

Music City, USA

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Nashville, 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.

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.

Just 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.

Now 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.

Apr 10

The Benefits of Charter Bus Travel

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For my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move. – Robert Louis Stevenson

Sometimes the best part of traveling is not the destination, but the journey itself. I have often traveled with my family and found myself missing out on things. I cannot recall how many times I heard someone say “wow, look at that” or “that is absolutely beautiful” and there I am with my eyes glued to the road and missing all the beauty. However, it does not have to be that way. Traveling by charter bus is an excellent way to see America and all she has to offer. No matter where you are headed, there is beauty to be found. Let’s take a few minutes and look at some of the benefits of charter bus travel.

As I mentioned the most obvious reason to go by bus is so that you can enjoy the journey. Whether it is the mountains, the plains, the wildlife or the stunning architecture of the big cities, you won’t have to miss a thing. Leaving the driving to someone else leaves you all the time to take in everything if you so choose. Just relax, sit back and enjoy the views. Don’t be in a hurry to get somewhere, but take the time to appreciate the odyssey.

Naturally weather can be a factor as well. Leaving the driving to someone else who happens to be a professional bus driver can give one incredible peace of mind. You see that driving rainstorm coming up ahead? No need to worry because your driver has everything under control. He/she has been trained to handle all sorts of situations and you can leave your worries to him/her. Plus there is very little chance of getting lost as your driver has likely taken this same trip many times.

It’s economical as well. Just add up what you would spend to rent a car and purchase fuel and you will see that going via charter bus will save you money. Once you stop somewhere for the night your lodging is often already included with what you paid for the tour so no worries in that department either. You’re not going to have to think about those no vacancy signs because your room is ready and waiting. In addition it is substantially more economical than airline travel.

When you leave the driving to someone else you have more time for yourself. Maybe you finally want to start reading that novel you’ve had to put off for so long. Well, by taking the bus you have plenty of time. Maybe you have a movie on your tablet you have been dying to see or a series you just want to binge watch. You certainly can’t do that if you’re sitting in the driver’s seat.

These days there are a lot of people that travel alone, not because they particularly want to do so, but rather by necessity. Once you’ve chosen your destination you can hop on that bus and suddenly you are not feeling like you are by yourself. What a great time to meet new people and make new friends. You’re obviously not going to be the only person on that bus and that is a good thing. Everyone has a story and just about everyone loves showing off photos of their family. You will have the opportunity to meet people you never would have met otherwise. I can say for myself that I have made lifelong friends from strangers sitting across the aisle. Maybe you’ll even want to travel together again one day.

Since chartering a bus is less expensive than you probably realize, it is also a fantastic way to get your family together for a special occasion. Whether you are looking to have a family reunion or to celebrate mom & dad’s 50^th wedding anniversary, you can all pitch in together and make chartering a bus your own private party. Pick a destination, pick a starting point and off you go. From a personal standpoint, I have to say that doing this was one of the best ideas we ever had. There is a very good possibility that your driver will become an honorary member of your family as well.

So don’t fear the charter bus. Yes, like everything in this life, it has its pros and cons. But just think of the memories you will bring home after a long journey on the road with someone else doing all the work. I can’t think of a more relaxing way to travel.

Mar 24

Charleston, SC – Something For Everyone In The Group!

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The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page – Saint Augustine

So your group is ready to get together for charter bus tour this spring, but where should you go? You don’t want anything too hot and you certainly don’t want anything too cold which leaves Charleston, SC as the perfect destination.

Charleston is the oldest city in South Carolina and is certainly the most historic. The city’s residents pride themselves on their hospitality and welcome visitors with open arms. It is the kind of place where you will never meet a stranger.

Quite simply, the best place to start any visit to Charleston is with a carriage ride in the historic district. There are several good companies to go with, but I have found the Old South Carriage Company to be the best. The drivers are courteous and incredibly knowledgeable and will tell you more about the city than you ever expected. All tour companies get busy, so an early start is recommended. All carriage tours begin and end in downtown Charleston and due to the unique system the city uses to direct carriage traffic; no two tours are exactly the same. Just sit back, relax and let the horse do all the work as you see beautiful homes, gardens and places of worship in The Holy City. After your tour be sure to take a moment to pose for a photo with your horse.

While on your carriage tour you would have passed by several restaurants, most of which are beautiful homes that have been converted to dining establishments. One such place is Poogan’s Porch. Located on Queen Street in a Victorian home built in 1888, Poogan’s Porch has been serving delicious meals since 1976. The restaurant is named after a dog that used to visit all the porches in the neighborhood looking for table scraps and served as the official greeter until his death in 1979. As far as the food goes you may never want to leave. The buttermilk fried chicken is a big favorite and so is the Ribs & Mac, but to me there is nothing better than the Chicken & Waffles. Crispy chicken breasts served over waffles with blueberry Texas Pete maple syrup? Yes please! Best of all, Poogan’s offers group dining so you can keep your group together for a special brunch.

Take a stroll to the Charleston City Market for some unique shopping. There you will find just about anything you can imagine including antiques, toys, artwork and plenty of souvenirs. The market is quite large and has many vendors, but be sure and take a few moments to watch the ladies weave the Sweetgrass Baskets. Originally used on plantations to free dirt from rice, the baskets are now works of art and make a fantastic collectible from your trip. You will be amazed at the artistry of these baskets and as many times as I’ve seen them made, I still can’t figure out how they do it.

You could literally spend days exploring the beauty of the homes and gardens of Charleston’s historic district, but what if you want to get away and see some other things? Not far from downtown is Fort Sumter, the site where the Civil War began. Just take the ferry to the island and start your tour. You can stand right there on the site where the first shot was fired. If that is not enough history for you, take your group to Patriot’s Point where groups of all sizes are welcome. Tour the USS Yorktown, visit the Medal of Honors Museum or see vintage aircraft all in one place.

More history can be seen in the many plantations that surround Charleston. The Boone Hall Plantation, the McLeod Plantation and the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens are three of the best. All of them are great for tour groups and present a living history of the past. The Boone Hall Farms Market offers a variety of items including their famous jams and jellies plus they have a delightful café where you can enjoy what may be the best Chicken & Sausage Gumbo ever served. The signature sandwich at the café is Crab & Pimento Cheese Melt served with a fried green tomato on whole wheat bread.

If you’re looking for a great burger and a cold beer after that long day of sightseeing then stop in to one of the three locations of Sesame Burgers & Beer. Sesame serves up the best onion rings and hush puppies in all of Charleston, but the burgers are not to be missed. They have about a dozen burgers on the menu, but feel free to design your own delicious concoction. And for the vegetarian out there they serve up a black bean burger just for you.

The spring weather in Charleston cannot be beat. Take your group, hop on that charter bus and make your memories.

Mar 11

Go Motorcoach this Spring in San Antonio, TX

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All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware – Martin Buber

Getting a group together and deciding on where to travel can be a daunting task. In the spring the general consensus among many is to hit the beach, but this may not be the best for everyone. While it may not be foremost in everyone’s mind, one place that is ideal for groups and has plenty to offer is San Antonio, TX. San Antonio is a large city and there is a lot to see so taking your group via a charter bus is a very viable way to go.

Just about everyone has heard of The Alamo, but many are surprised to learn that is right in the heart of downtown and that it was founded in 1718 as the first mission in San Antonio. Four other Spanish colonial missions were eventually built; Concepcion, San Jose, San Juan and Espada. A journey along this mission trail is not only historical, but fascinating as well. Begin with the visitor’s center located in Mission San Jose and travel the trail visiting all of the missions until ultimately ending up at The Alamo. Your bus driver can easily make the stops at each destination allowing adequate time to enjoy them all.

Once you are back downtown you can take in the sights of the world famous River Walk. The River Walk is filled with restaurants, shops, sidewalks and stone bridges. One thing that makes it unique is its location below street level. Riding the Rio San Antonio Cruiser is the best way to get acquainted with the area. The boat ride is 35 minutes long and your tour guide will immerse you in the history of the River Walk and provide a plethora of information.

One of the best times to visit in the spring is during the annual Fiesta San Antonio, which takes place over 11 days each April. The festival consists of over 100 events and with that many to choose from there will most certainly be something the entire group can agree upon. Parades, live music and a 10k run are just some of the many activities taking place.

But what if you want to take your group away from downtown and explore other parts of the area? Have no fear because a multitude of places await your arrival and all of them are well-suited for groups arriving by bus. Just northeast of downtown is the San Antonio Zoo which features over 3500 animals and the Zoo Eagle Train which has been a favorite of children and adults since 1956. A little bit further north is the McNay Art Museum; the first modern art museum in the state of Texas and featuring works from such masters as Picasso and Rivera. The Spanish Colonial style home that is the heart of the museum is a sight unto itself.

If exploring caverns sound like a fun way to spend a few hours with your group then the Natural Bridge Caverns are for you. The caverns are a 30 minute drive north of downtown and contain fascinating geological formations and are a constant 70 degrees inside. They have several tours to choose from, but whichever you choose be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

No trip would be complete without sampling the culinary delights of the region and San Antonio is no exception. When you’re in Texas three items come to mind; barbecue, steaks and my personal favorite, Tex-Mex.

There are several great dining choices on the River Walk where dining outside is the preference. The County Line BBQ is an exceptional choice on the river for real Texas BBQ. Smoked sausage, brisket, ribs and chicken are the specialties of the house and with the large portions you will never leave hungry. Add in the peach cobbler for dessert and you have one spectacular meal.

If a steak is what you are after then head to The Barn Door which has been a San Antonio classic for over 60 years. Using only the finest, aged beef this place is a favorite of both locals and visitors. The chicken fried ribeye is a one of a kind experience and the homemade hot rolls are to die for.

But no visit would be complete without a taste of Tex-Mex and there is no shortage of excellent choices. However two stand out above the rest; La Hacienda de Los Barrios and Los Barrios Continental Mexican Cuisine. Both are owned by the Barrios family, but each has a distinct menu. At La Hacienda be sure to go for the fajitas or try the puffy tacos. At Los Barrios the Classic Enchilada Assortment, featuring five different enchiladas, is simply fantastic.

No matter what sights your group chooses to see or where they choose to dine your San Antonio vacation will be one to remember.

Jul 22

Two Must-Haves for Itineraries

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A good itinerary has two things. First and foremost, addresses for the driver. If your group is traveling to a large city, there may be multiple hotels with the same name. Having addresses for the driver saves time, questions and headaches for everyone on the trip.

The second is activities that appeal to everyone. Sound impossible? It isn’t. With a little research and pre-planning, even the pickiest group can have a great travel experience!

One way you can help make everyone – no matter what their age or interests – excited about the itinerary is to have multiple choices. You could have two to three different activities planned at the same time. Participants would be able to choose what activities they wanted attend, making it easy for everyone to have a good time.

Here are some great ideas of multiple choice activities:

Shopping
Brewery Tour
Historical Site visit
Museum tour
Zoo trip
Winery Tour
Concert
Go Kart Racing
Ropes Course
Cooking class
Craft class

The list can go on and on. You dream it, you can add it to an itinerary if it’s available in the area you plan on traveling! Ask members of your group for ideas of what they may want.

On a trip to Atlanta, GA, our group planner had an array of stops planned – both to and from our destination. We had groups who went whitewater rafting, one group stopped at a race track, and we all enjoyed visiting the Coca-Cola museum. It was a fun trip, with lots of activities to choose from and that made it special.

Planning a large group trip may seem like an impossible task. Don’t fret! Ask your motorcoach sales associate for help! He or she is an expert at group travel and chances are, your group isn’t the first to travel to that destination. Your sales representative may have lots of ideas and area knowledge and can help plan your itinerary.

Mar 27

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:

How much advance notice do you need for our group?
Is convenient tour bus loading/unloading available onsite?
Do you have room to park a charter bus?
Do you have special meal options specifically for large tour groups?
How will we be seated? Is there a banquet room on site?
Do you offer group discounts?
Do chaperones receive a free meal?
Do you require an advance deposit? If so, how much?
Is the deposit refundable?
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!

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