Adrenaline Adventures

Ideas for planning educational travel

StudentGROUP TOUR ADRENALINE ADVENTURES

Dare to experience wild thrills, from serene to extreme

Quad Cities, Illinois/Iowa Providence, Rhode Island Niagara Falls, New York Huntsville, Alabama Santa Clara, California , Québec SPRING 2018 Laval GroupTour.com Kamakura, Japan THE ONLY MUSEUM of the U.S. CONSTITUTION

Independence Mall Ì Philadelphia, PA BOOK YOUR GROUP EXPERIENCE TODAY!

Independence Hall

Contact Gina RomanelliIndependence at [email protected] Mall Ì Philadelphia, PA or 215.409.6695 More Than A Trip, It's a Transformation YOU DON’T KNOW THE HALF OF IT

History comes alive for students when they not only visit, but experience the BOOK YOUR rich heritage of Philadelphia. Visitors can VISIT TODAY! Shockingly see, touch, hear, and walk the places [email protected] that were home to the founders of our awesome nation, like Elfreth's Alley, the oldest viewS! AMREVMUSEUM.ORG continously occupied residential street Open Daily: Morning, Noon & Night PhillyFromTheTop.com 3RD & CHESTNUT STREETS in the United States. For more information or to Book your school group: PHILADELPHIA Contact Diane Meglino at [email protected] or 215-845-4160.

For Customized Itinerary Planning, contact: Jim DePhilippo at 215-636-3312 or [email protected] Explore the possibilities at discoverPHL.com

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. THE ONLY MUSEUM of the U.S. CONSTITUTION

Independence Mall Ì Philadelphia, PA BOOK YOUR GROUP EXPERIENCE TODAY!

Independence Hall

Contact Gina RomanelliIndependence at [email protected] Mall Ì Philadelphia, PA or 215.409.6695 More Than A Trip, It's a Transformation YOU DON’T KNOW THE HALF OF IT

For Customized Itinerary Planning, contact: Jim DePhilippo at 215-636-3312 or [email protected] Explore the possibilities at discoverPHL.com

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Group Tour / STUDENT What’s inside Spring 2018 • Vol. 14 / No. 1 Departments

Charged News& Lounge News& 6 7 8 Notes 74 Notes

Features 12 70 Adrenaline Kon’nichiwa adventures: Kamakura: Dare to experience wild Spend an afternoon with thrills, from serene to the Great Buddha extreme

GREAT LAKES REGION

16 5 Stops: Quad Cities 22 Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory, 18 Itinerary: Cleveland, Ohio Michigan 19 Center of Science and Industry (COSI), 23 Silver Beach Carousel, Michigan Ohio 20 Mill City Museum, Minnesota 21 Beaver Creek Reserve, Wisconsin 16

NEW ENGLAND REGION

24 5 Stops: Providence, Rhode Island 28 Yale Peabody Museum of Natural 26 Itinerary: New Hampshire’s northern History, Connecticut region 29 Biomes Marine Biology Center, 27 Museum of Science, Massachusetts Rhode Island

24 On the cover: ArborTrek Canopy Adventures, Stowe, Vt. Photo: ArborTrek Canopy Adventures

4 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com MID-ATLANTIC REGION

30 5 Stops: Niagara Falls, New York 41 One Liberty Observation Deck, 32 Itinerary: Roanoke Valley, Virginia Pennsylvania 34 Carnegie Museum of Natural History, 42 Group Sales Box Office Pennsylvania at Broadway.com 35 Edgar Allan Poe Museum, Virginia 43 One Location Tours, 36 Erie Maritime Museum, Pennsylvania New York/Massachusetts 38 Museum of the Bible, Washington, D.C. 30 40 Modern Pinball NYC, New York

SOUTHEASTERN REGION

44 5 Stops: Huntsville, Alabama 51 Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, 46 Itinerary: Atlanta, Georgia South Carolina 47 Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, 52 Alcatraz East Crime Museum, Tennessee Kentucky 54 Vicksburg National Military Park, 48 The Dali Museum, Florida Mississippi 50 Whitney Plantation, Louisiana 44

WESTERN REGION

56 5 Stops: Santa Clara, California 60 National Cowboy & Western Heritage 58 Itinerary: Boise, Idaho Museum, Oklahoma 59 Safari West, California 61 Pacific Science Center, Washington

CANADA REGION 62 5 Stops: Laval, Québec 68 Copper Art Studio & Museum 64 Itinerary: Montreal, Québec Albert Gilles, Québec 65 Carleton University, Ontario 69 Skylon Tower, Ontario 66 Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, Ontario 75 Advertiser Index 62

Apr • May • Jun • Jul 5 800-767-3489 fax: 616-393-0085 GroupTour.com Publisher Action-packed Elly DeVries I President Editorial education Mary Lu Laffey I Editor David Hoekman I Managing Editor Each year on this date, my hometown newspaper prints Courtney Birchmeier I Web Editor an April Fool’s Day photo on page one. The editor still calls it Cortney Erndt I Associate Editor Kelsey Smith I Associate Editor “lirpa-loof.” By spelling the words backwards and dissecting via Steph Lulofs I Associate Editor syllables, he tries to fool some of the people some of the time. EDITOR’S Art And, for a nanosecond each year, he does. LETTER Fast forward to today; it’s April 1 all over again, but we don’t Mark Dryer I Art Director Gabrielle Aleman-Gordon I Graphic Designer have any lirpa-loof surprises inside. Just lots of terrific news for student groups. Audience Development I hope you like our new approach to itineraries — we call Cindy Fish I Audience Development Director them Itinerary Planners. Each is packed with suggestions to help Bethany Vander Kolk I Circulation Coordinator you flesh out your favorite stops or to find new ones. Marketing Associate editor Cortney Erndt’s cover story about adrenaline Ben DeVries I Marketing Director adventures includes high-energy stops fueled by learning com- Brittni Miller I Graphic Designer ponents; see page 12. She also spoke with Dave Martinson at Administration PhotoVision about his company’s Group Travel Videos app that Jim Bowser I Webmaster helps reinforce the educational purposes of travel; see page 7. In Advertising The Lounge, Riley Banks-Snyder, founder of Generation Next, shares her philanthropic experiences. See page 74. Eric C. Lutey I Director of Sales 800-767-3489 x111 [email protected] I invite you to check out our 5 Stops selections. We touched AB, BC, MB, NB, NL, NS, PE, QC, SK, YT, base on Niagara Falls, New York; the Midwest’s Quad Cities; AK, ID, KS, MT, ND, NE, WY Providence, Rhode Island; Huntsville, Alabama; and Laval, On- Allison Howard I Sales Assistant tario, Canada. Take off for Tokyo and beyond to the suburb of 800-767-3489 x110 I [email protected] Kamakura for a visit with the Giant Buddha. Jim Holthaus I [email protected] 616-283-1816 I IA, IN, MN, MI, WI, OH, TN, ON

Greg Jones I [email protected] P.S. Remember to join us on Aug. 1 to splash right into the 859-327-6417 I DC, DE, MD, NJ, NY, PA, CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, VT world of aquariums. Until then, for a daily dose of student travel ideas, please visit studentgrouptour.com. Alan Lininger I [email protected] 717-778-8056 I IL, NC, SC, VA, WV, KY, MO, TX, SD

Marlene Smith I [email protected] 231-499-1408 I AR, AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, CO, OK

Tom Ward I [email protected] 530-621-1235 I AZ, CA, HI, NM, NV, UT, OR, WA Mary Lu Laffey [email protected] @MaryLuGroupTour

Group Tour Media is a proud member of the American Bus Association • California Travel Association • Circle Michigan • Destinations International • Florida Attractions Association • Louisiana Travel Promotions Association • National Tour Association • New Mexico Hospital- ity Association • Ohio Travel Association • Ontario Motor Coach Association • Southeast Tourism Society • Student & Youth Travel Association • Virginia Motorcoach Association

6 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Charged

Make memories last for generations

By Cortney Erndt PHOTO: GROUP TRAVEL VIDEOS TRAVEL GROUP PHOTO: Student takes photo, Washington, D.C.

With a passion to teach youth the with titles, special effects and music. send messages to the entire group at value of memories, Group Travel Vid- Performance groups frequently provide once or to individual travelers, elimi- eos creates storytelling keepsake videos their own music to add to the video. nating the need for educators to give made from pictures taken by travelers The video becomes available to view out their personal phone numbers. during student trips. on students’ devices with the app, and Documents like itineraries, pas- “Educators love the way it reinforces each student is provided with a DVD senger lists, trip highlights and other the educational purpose of the trip,” keepsake. documents can be made available for all said Dave Martinson, founder and “Students get to relive their experi- travelers through the app. president of PhotoVision, Inc. “Stu- ence with the video we create and the Martinson said group leaders often dents can relive their experience for a shared photos,” Martinson said. “Both use last year’s video during recruit- lifetime, and parents can see how their can easily be shared on Facebook, Twit- ment meetings, and music directors use child benefited from their investments.” ter and Instagram, and emailed directly the video as a tool to help recruit new The free Group Travel Videos app is with the app.” students into their programs. available on Apple and Android devic- The new mapping, messaging and “Prospects will see people they es. Each group has a unique username document feature provides a great know, which creates an emotional ap- and password that all members share. convenience for travelers, plus a new peal that cannot be duplicated,” Mar- Email addresses and phone numbers element of safety and communication. tinson said. “For tour operators, every are not required, making the photo “Everyone traveling who is using the video we create is like a commercial of sharing experience easy and private. app will appear on the map,” Martin- your trips. Video is hot! Tour operator Students upload their favorite son said. “This can be helpful to locate logos appear everywhere, including in photos from their smartphones while someone if they have been separated the app and the final videos we pro- they travel, and parents back home can from the group, and give peace of mind duce. It really works for tour operators virtually follow along on the trip. Trav- for family at home.” in many different ways.” S elers have a full week after their return The mapping feature turns on at 5 to continue sharing photos. a.m. the date of departure, and shuts Group Travel Videos When the group is finished, Group off at midnight the day they return 888-533-7637, ext. 204 Travel Videos creates a fun video home. Messaging allows the leader to grouptravelvideos.com

Apr • May • Jun • Jul 7 News& News& Notes Notes Artist tackles Great Lakes at Grand Rapids Art Museum

A multi-faceted exhibition by New in the Great Lakes region. York-based artist Alexis Rockman exam- The exhibition will subsequently ines the forces – past, present and future appear at the Chicago Cultural Center — shaping the Great Lakes. from June 2–Oct. 1; the Museum of “Alexis Rockman: The Great Lakes Contemporary Art, Cleveland, from Cycle” is organized by the Grand Rapids Oct. 19 through Jan. 27, 2019; the Art Museum in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Haggerty Museum of Art, Milwaukee, and is on view through April 29. The Feb. 8–May 19, 2019; the Weisman Art project features all new work by the artist: Museum, Minneapolis, from Oct. 5,

five mural-sized paintings; six vibrant, 2019, through Jan. 5, 2020; and the Flint GALLERY O’HARA COLLECTION OF JONATHAN large-scale watercolors; and a selection of Institute of Arts, Flint, Michigan, May Upper Peninsula, 2017. Watercolor, ink, and acrylic on paper, 74 x 52 inches. monochrome field drawings based on his 9–Aug. 12, 2020. travel, interviews and extensive research 616-831-1000, artmuseumgr.org

WonderWorks marks 20 years in Orlando

WonderWorks in Orlando, Florida, worked in attractions during college tional purpose to challenge the mind celebrated its 20th anniversary in and observed all of the moving parts it and spark the imagination. March. Attorney John Morgan found- took to make a successful theme park. In addition to Orlando, Wonder- ed the first of what would become a I knew an educational element, along Works has locations in Pigeon Forge, chain of science-focused educational with affordability, could bring some- Tennessee; Myrtle Beach, South Caro- indoor amusement parks in Orlando thing original to tourism in Orlando.” lina; Panama City Beach, Florida; and in 1998. WonderWorks locations have four Syracuse, New York. WonderWorks “To say I am proud to have reached floors of nonstop “edu-tainment,” Orlando also is home to The Outta the 20-year mark with WonderWorks with over 100 hands-on and interac- Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show. is an understatement,” Morgan said. “I tive exhibits that serve a STEM educa- wonderworksonline.com

Titanosaur coming to The Field Museum

The Field Museum in Chicago is a new gallery, the titanosaur won’t be experiences, and we want that to start remaking its main Stanley Field Hall. lonely — it will be joined by life-size, right when visitors first enter Stanley In May, the museum will unveil a cast detailed replicas of giant flying rep- Field Hall,” said Richard Lariviere, of the largest dinosaur ever discov- tiles, as well as state-of-the-art hang- Field Museum president. ered. ing gardens. These additions mark the Sue will be off display until spring The 122-foot-long titanosaur will beginning of a transformation of the 2019. At that time, the fossil debuts in take up a third of the hall with its iconic hall for the museum’s 125th an- a brand-new gallery as part of the mu- head peeking over the 28-foot balcony niversary this year. seum’s permanent “Evolving Planet” to the second floor. And while Sue the “Our goal as an institution is to of- exhibition. T. rex will be moving from the hall to fer visitors the best possible dinosaur 312-665-7300, fieldmuseum.org

8 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Newseum exhibit features news photography On April 6, the Newseum in Wash- of the best news images from Pictures liams Babic, director of photography ington, D.C., will open “Pictures of of the Year International (POYi), one and visual resources at the Newseum. the Year: 75 Years of the World’s Best of the oldest and most prestigious “This exhibit includes work by early Photography.” photojournalism contests in the world. masters of photojournalism such as The exhibit showcases images of the The exhibit is made possible with sup- Alfred Eisenstaedt as well as today’s top people and events that have defined port from Nikon USA, and it will be on photojournalists. These images will re- the times, capturing war and peace, di- display through Jan. 20, 2019. mind visitors of the power photographs saster and triumph, and the social and “We are thrilled to provide a show- have to provoke wonder, spark move- cultural shifts that have shaped the past case for this unparalleled collection of ments and bring about social change.” 75 years. The photos are a selection news photography,” said Indira Wil- 202-292-6650, newseum.org, newseumed.org

The Henry Ford to host student invention convention

Hundreds of award-winning K–12 neurship Expo (NICEE) presented by estimated 1,200 family and friends, inventors from across the United United Technologies Corporation. as well as the student entrepreneurs States and around the world will NICEE was held at the U.S. Patent participating in NICEE’s Entrepre- gather at The Henry Ford Museum of and Trademark Office Headquarters neurship Expo. American Innovation in Dearborn, in Alexandria, Virginia, in 2016 and Students earn the opportunity to Michigan, on June 1. 2017, but the number of students, advance to the invitation-only NICEE The students will compete for top judges and families participating in by winning regional and state inven- awards in youth invention at The the event outgrew the space. Over tion competitions across the United STEMIE Coalition’s annual National 400 NICEE inventors will be joined States and around the globe. Invention Convention and Entrepre- at The Henry Ford by 150 judges, an thehenryford.org, stemie.org

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 9 News& Exhibition highlightsNews& Notes artwork of Rube Goldberg Notes “The Art of Rube Goldberg,” an The Rube Goldberg tour experi- exhibition at The Contemporary Jewish ence for students combines “Contrap- Museum helps Museum in San Francisco, California, tion” and “The Art of Rube Goldberg,” explores the career of the celebrated and and brings together Goldberg’s whim- students influential cartoonist and illustrator. sical chain reaction machines with a The exhibition is on view through behind-the-scenes look at Goldberg’s July 8. It chronicles all aspects of the life, his early work, his cartoons and explore San Francisco-born artist’s 72-year his enduring legacy. Interactive tours career, from his earliest published may be combined with a hands-on ballooning drawings and iconic inventions to experience building a chain-reaction his Pulitzer Prize-winning political machine. School trips to the Anderson-Abru- cartoons and beyond. Goldberg died 415-655-7857, zzo Albuquerque International Bal- in 1970 at the age of 87. [email protected], thecjm.org/tours loon Museum in Albuquerque, New Mexico, allow students to explore and discover the world of ballooning. Visits now include the museum’s two newest exhibitions, “The Weather Lab” and “Arctic Air: The Bold Flight of S.A. Andrée.” Student trips during the school year are conducted Tuesday through Friday. Guided tours and learning activities are subject to availability. Learning activities use the museum’s exhibitions, which include artifacts, personal stories and interactive technology. Independent or guided museum exploration allows students to view items of special interest and to make connections between history, science, society and the natural world. Unique perspectives teach students what it means to achieve, innovate or advance technology. Other activities provide students with experiences that add to their knowledge, abilities and Rube Goldberg, Rube Goldberg Inventions United States Postal Service Stamp (included on sheet of confidence in order to apply what they “Comic Classics” stamps), date unknown. Sheet of USPS stamps. Artwork Copyright © Rube Goldberg Inc. All rights reserved. RUBE GOLDBERG ® is a registered trademark of Rube Goldberg Inc. learn to the world around them. All materials used with permission. rubegoldberg.com Learning activities and guided tours are limited to groups of 20 (minimum) to 50 (maximum) students. The museum will provide resources for a self-guided tour or Spyscape opens in New York information about other programs for groups that do not meet this size Spyscape, a new espionage muse- active experiences include lie detection in requirement. The museum always wel- um, has opened in Midtown Manhat- interrogation booths and cracking codes. comes groups interested in exploring tan in New York City. A profiling system allows visitors to see the museum independently and can The contemporary museum features if they are an analyst or agent, hacker or provide scavenger hunts and activity spy stories, devices and characters from handler, spycatcher or spymaster. sheets to all groups. World War II codebreakers to the teen- 212-549-1941, [email protected], 505-768-6020, cabq.gov/balloon ager who hacked the CIA’s website. Inter- spyscape.com

10 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com ‘Waterfront’ opens at Brooklyn Historical Society DUMBO

In January, Brooklyn Historical fill beneath Empire Stores in the 1970s. Society (BHS) opened “Waterfront,” an A centerpiece of the exhibition is a 14- immersive, multimedia exhibition that foot reproduction of an 1879 litho- brings the vibrant history of Brooklyn’s graph of Brooklyn’s waterfront. Nearby, coastline to life. At BHS DUMBO in visitors can explore the sights, sounds, Brooklyn, New York, the story is told and smells of Brooklyn’s 19th-century through interwoven stories of workers, warehousing district and learn about industries, activists, innovators, families, hidden stories of Brooklyn’s coastline – neighborhoods and ecosystems. from Walt Whitman’s waterfront trysts “Waterfront” is the first major exhibi- to hidden graves near the present-day tion on the history of Brooklyn’s coastline. Brooklyn Navy Yard. The culmination of four years of develop- BHS DUMBO is the only history ment and research, “Waterfront” blends museum in the DUMBO neighborhood BHS’s acclaimed approach to historical and the Brooklyn Historical Society’s interpretation with forward-thinking second location. Opened in 2017, the design to feature 12 concept areas that will 3,200-square-foot satellite space is engage students of various interests. housed inside Empire Stores, a renovat- Upon arrival, visitors encounter a ed 19th-century warehouse in Brooklyn floor-to-ceiling sculptural installation Bridge Park. of more than 80 archaeological artifacts 718-222-4111, brooklynhistory.org/dumbo and fragments excavated from the land- Student Group Tour empowers educators Smithsonian to revitalize planning student National Air and Space Museum travel by providing: • Original, youth-oriented The Smithsonian Institution has an- exhibitions that merge modern technol- itineraries nounced plans to revitalize the National ogy and design to highlight legendary • Regionally focused content Air and Space Museum in Washington, aircraft and spacecraft.” D.C., and transform its exhibitions. Dividing the work into two separate • STEM, performance and The project, which will take about stages beginning this summer, with sports destinations seven years, will be done on a phased se- part of the building operational at all • Tips for headache-free quencing schedule that will keep many times, will allow the museum to remain travel planning exhibitions open during the construc- open to the millions of people who tion process. The building will undergo visit every year. Get your 100% FREE complete refacing of the exterior clad- airandspace.si.edu subscription to Student ding, replacement of outdated mechani- Group Tour magazine! cal systems, and other repairs and im- provements. The visitor experience also Subscribe online at will change when all of the museum’s grouptour.com/educators 23 galleries and presentation spaces are updated or completely redone. “Transformation of exhibitions begins a new era for the museum,” said Gen. J.R. “Jack” Dailey, the John and Adrienne Mars director of the National Air and Space Museum. “We’re devel- Ideas for planning educational travel oping innovative ways to experience Rendering: National Air and Space Museum, America’s favorite museum through Smithsonian Institution

Apr • May • Jun • Jul 11 AdrenalineBy Cortney Erndt adventures It’s time to buckle in. A pursuit of learning from new speeds has spawned an abundance of adventure activities designed specifically for students, from the heights of some of the world’s tallest roller coasters to the depths of whitewater below a raft. Not only does the edge of students’ comfort zones keep them engaged, but it’s one of the best ways to learn subjects like math and physics, and how to work together as a team. If the group is ready for some action-packed excitement, strap on some safety gear. Kick thrills and fun into over- drive with the following four adrenaline adventures.

Dare to experience wild thrills, from serene to extreme

Top to bottom: Zip lining, ArborTrek Canopy Adventures, Stowe, Vt., Photo: ArborTrek Canopy Adventures, Rafting, Whitewater Excitement, Lotus, Calif., Photo: Whitewater Excitement, Magnum XL-200, Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio. Photo: Cedar Point, Out- door Gravity Park, Pigeon Forge, Tenn., Photo: Outdoor Gravity Park

12 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Adrenaline adventuresshared sense of community, improved self-confidence, ArborTrek Canopy Adventures personal accomplishment and shared vision.” Jeffersonville, Vermont A second ArborTrek location is located at Fall Creek Falls State Park near Spencer, Tennessee. Every day, up to 200 participants seek thrills at ArborTrek Canopy Adven- ArborTrek Canopy Adventures tures, located at Smugglers’ Notch 802-644-9300 Resort. The adventure-based arbortrek.com company offers a series of student-friendly challenges designed for all abilities Cedar Point and grade levels. “Students can soar through Sandusky, Ohio a northern hemlock forest on our award-winning zip line canopy tour, Cedar Point is home to 71 rides, including 18 of the where they’ll learn about local ecology and world’s most noteworthy roller coasters, like the new the lore of the Notch,” said Michael R. Smith, world-record-breaking Steel Vengeance. At 205 feet tall president of ArborTrek Canopy Adventures. “Or, and speeds up to 74 mph, Steel Vengeance is the world’s they can be challenged on more than 90 elements on tallest, fastest and longest “hyper-hybrid” roller coaster. our treetop obstacle course and climbing adventure.” It’s expected to open this year. The Zip Line Canopy Tour is a 2 ½- to 3-hour guided But there’s so much more than coasters. Cedar Point adventure with eight zip lines, two bridges and two rappels. is home to some of the biggest adrenaline-inducing The Treetop Obstacle Course & Climbing Adventure thrill rides in the world, including Skyhawk, the world’s tackles more than 90 elements ranging from easy to ex- largest swing ride. treme. The course includes tree climbs, wobbly bridges, “It doesn’t matter what your adrenaline level is — swings and zip lines. there’s something for every thrill-seeker,” said Marcie There’s also Adventure-Based Team Building, where Sandine, youth sales representative at Cedar Point. students engage in a series of real and imaginary “Cedar Point offers a variety of youth programs to suit obstacles designed to test their communication, all ages. From educational days, such as Engineering Day, planning and ability to create a shared vision. and Physics, Science, & Math Week, to performance op- Half-day and multi-day custom programs tions for school musical groups, to senior class trips and can be tailored to meet a variety of after-prom outings, or just a class field trip for any grade group goals. level, we offer something for everyone.” “ArborTrek specializes in Performance options are available for marching delivering novel adventure bands, concert bands, symphonic bands and choirs. experiences designed to These groups have the opportunity to play in front of educate, entertain thousands of park guests, whether that’s on a perfor- and inspire,” Smith mance stage or while marching down the midway. “... soar through a said. “Program “It’s a great way for students to practice their craft, outcomes entertain guests and then enjoy a day of fun with each commonly other,” Sandine said. “We’re happy to work with you to northern hemlock include a customize a student trip of any type. The memories students make here together are unforgettable.”

forest ...”-Michael R. Smith Cedar Point 800-448-2428 cedarpoint.com

Apr • May • Jun • Jul 13 Whitewater Excitement Lotus, California

For nearly 40 years, Whitewater Excitement has been leading California rafting trips. With the help of trained staff, students can take on trips ranging from a half day to two days, with camping and meals included. “While paddling, rafters must work as a team to successfully complete each rapid,” said Phillip Schoenhoff, operations manager for Whitewater Excitement. “Students may step out of their comfort zone, but we believe that this, mixed with having fun on the river and sitting around a campfire in the company of others, are all ingredients for a great bonding experience they will never forget.” Trips are designed to encourage participation, inspire confidence and challenge students to explore their full potential. The outfitter offers a private camp area with amenities on the banks of the South Fork of the American River. “Students have the opportunity to swim certain rapids, play games and even try their hand at steering the raft,” Schoenhoff said. Several different trips are offered to student groups, described on Whitewa- ter Excitement’s website. Student groups are offered reduced rates. “We strive to have each guest at Whitewater Excitement come away with a new understanding, love and knowledge for rivers and the outdoors,” Schoenhoff said. “We hope each experience is unique and positive, and we want to show that the outdoors can be a fantastic learning environment.”

Whitewater Excitement 800-750-2386 whitewaterexcitement.com “... a great bonding

Top to bottom: Rafting, White- experience they water Excitement, Lotus, Calif. Photo: Whitewater Excitement, Outdoor Gravity Park, Pigeon Forge, Tenn. Photo: Outdoor Gravity Park, Top Thrill Drag- ster, Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio. Photo: Cedar Point. will never forget.” Last two photos: zip lining, ArborTrek Canopy Adventures, Stowe, Vt. Photo: ArborTrek -Phillip Schoenhoff Canopy Adventures

14 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Outdoor Gravity Park Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

At the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Outdoor Gravity Park features zorbing, an adventure activity that began in New Zealand. Zorbing involves climbing inside an OGO, an 11-foot transparent sphere constructed from plastic, and then rolling down a hill inside of it. “Outdoor Gravity Park is an exciting place to visit because it’s super fun and unique,” said Jesse McGhee, general manager at Outdoor Gravity Park. “A lot can be learned in physics, momentum, math, relativity, and of course, gravity. It’s a great opportunity to combine learning with fun.” H2OGO is wet and wild, and the most popular way to roll down the hill. About 10 gallons of water is added to the OGO — cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The water makes the OGO slippery, so the riders slide around inside while the sphere revolves around them. “We have four tracks to choose from: two straight tracks built for speed, one Extreme Zig Zag track, and a combo-track we call the FUNnel,” McGhee said. “It has elements of the other tracks combined into one track — it’s by far the most popular.” Students should bring their swimsuits and towels. Dry zorbing is available in the fall, winter and early spring, but only for rolls on the Speed Demon (straight track). “We hope students take away some unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime — with a better understanding of physics and better perspective of relativity,” McGhee said.

Outdoor Gravity Park 865-366-2687 outdoorgravitypark.com

Apr • May • Jun • Jul 15 5 STOPS Quad Cities

The Quad Cities is a bit of a misnomer. on the Mississippi River for an edu- This area along the Mississippi River cational and fun student group tour,” Fun Facts Fun Facts Fun Facts is actually made up of five cities, two said Nicki Ellis, sales manager for the counties, two states and numerous Quad Cities Convention & Visitors outlying areas. Bureau. “The Quad Cities Convention Ronald Reagan began his career at Major cities include Rock Island, & Visitors Bureau will help customize WOC, the first radio station west Moline and East Moline in Illinois, and itineraries, and have step-on guides and of the Mississippi River. Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa. new opportunities for students.” The Quad Cities region is on the The Quad Cities is the major met- One of the early entrepreneurs of only section of the Mississippi ropolitan area on the upper Mississippi the area was John Deere. In 1848, he River running east to west. River between Minneapolis, Minnesota, opened a factory in Moline, Illinois, A section of the Government and St. Louis, Missouri. A variety of to produce the first steel plow. Today, Bridge in the Quad Cities can turn learning experiences are waiting for several John Deere attractions teach 360 degrees in either direction. visiting student groups. students about agricultural history and “The Quad Cities is a great location innovation. Fun Facts Fun Facts Fun Facts PHOTO: COURTESY OF QUAD CITIES CVB COURTESY PHOTO:

16 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Modern Circa ’21 Celebration Belle Quad Cities Woodmen Park Dinner Playhouse PHOTO: SEAN FLYNN PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF COURTESY PHOTOGRAPHY SEAN FLYNN PHOTO: QUAD CITIES CVB 2 QUAD CITIES CVB PHOTO: QUAD CITIES CVB COURTESY PHOTO: 1 Located along the Mississippi The building in Rock Island, 3 Explore the majestic Missis- River, USA Today and 10Best.com Illinois, has been refurbished to look sippi River — one of the five top recog- have called Modern Woodmen Park in as it did in 1921 when it opened as the nized attractions in the world — aboard Davenport, Iowa, “the best minor league Fort Armstrong Theatre, a vaudeville a riverboat. Experience the power and ballpark in America.” In addition to the and silent movie house. This profes- mystique of the river that captivated baseball, there is a myriad of fun rides sional dinner theater is one of the only writer Mark Twain as it sweeps around and entertainment. Check out the view theaters in the country with performing the great river bend and flows east to from the 105-foot-tall Ferris wheel — wait staff. Guests enjoy a buffet-style west through the Quad Cities area. The the only one in Minor League Baseball dinner while watching a professional Celebration Belle is a 750-passenger — or see everything upside down from Broadway-style show. Students can paddlewheel boat, and is the largest the new Wind Up. Ride Iowa’s only learn from the actors in the show with non-gaming luxury excursion vessel on double-decker merry-go-round. an educational program in conjunction the upper Mississippi River. with the performance.

The Putnam Museum 5 STOPS John Deere & Science Center Quad Cities GO Celebration Belle 800-297-0034, ext. 4 celebrationbelle.com

Circa ’21 Dinner Playhouse 309-786-7733, ext. 312 circa21.com

PHOTO: COURTESY OF QUAD CITIES CVB COURTESY PHOTO: 4 5 OF QUAD CITIES CVB COURTESY PHOTO: John Deere John Deere entered the farm The Putnam Museum & Sci- visitjohndeere.com tractor business 100 years ago in 1918 ence Center in Davenport, Iowa, was through the acquisition of the Water- one of the first museums established The Putnam Museum & Science Center 563-336-7290 loo Gasoline Engine Company. Learn west of the Mississippi River. Take a putnam.org more about John Deere and Deere & walk through time and explore the Company at the John Deere Pavilion in Quad Cities’ history. Try the Science Quad City River Bandits Moline, Illinois, or on a factory tour. At Center with 45 hands-on interactives 563-324-3000 the pavilion, students can see vintage to test the strength and stability of a riverbandits.com machines and climb aboard new ones; student-built bridge. See the power of tours are available for school groups of pressure at the tennis ball launcher. ASK all ages. Then complete the trip with Learn the advantage of leverage at a tug- Quad Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau a visit to a family farm and a farm-to- of-war station. 800-747-7800, ext. 828 table meal. visitquadcities.com

Motorcoach Dining parking options

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 17 ITINERARY PLANNER OhiO Cleveland

Attractions in Cleveland, Ohio, make learning fun. As a mid- sized Midwestern city, Cleveland is large enough to generate big- city excitement, yet small enough to easily navigate. “In Cleveland, groups can enjoy Broadway-caliber productions, tour the nation’s most concentrated square mile of arts and culture institutions, and explore unique venues like the NASA Glenn Visitor Center at the Great Lakes Science Center,” said Jane Tougouma, group tour sales manager for Destination Cleveland. “Students can even have a one-of-a-kind musical experience with the Classical Music Rocks program, which showcases the award- winning Cleveland Orchestra and the world’s only Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.”

Destination Cleveland 216-875-6607 thisiscleveland.com

SEE ENJOY DO CRUISE Visit the Cleveland The Rock & Roll Hall of Travel to Cedar Point Take a Nautica Museum of Art, where Fame and The Cleveland Amusement Park in Queen dinner cruise on admission is free, and Orchestra join together Sandusky, Ohio, which the Cuyahoga River and students encounter to offer Classical Music offers live shows and 71 Lake Erie. The student- interactive displays and high- Rocks. Students listen rides, including 18 roller friendly vessel features two tech learning opportunities. to a performance by The coasters. New this year enclosed decks, open-air Activities can be tailored to a Cleveland Orchestra at is Steel Vengeance — the observation decks and student group’s curriculum. Severance Hall. Then they tallest, fastest, longest and musical entertainment. On ArtLens Exhibition, ArtLens explore the seven levels steepest hybrid coaster in the the Nautica Queen, the Studio and ArtLens Wall offer of the Rock & Roll Hall of world. Marching bands and food is prepared fresh on innovative and immersive Fame and its numerous choral groups can schedule board. The dinner buffet has digital experiences to explore interactive exhibits. Two performances. Dance groups something for every student. the museum’s collection in stages are available for can take a master class with Group rates are available for new ways. groups that would like to Cedar Point performers. 25 people or more. give a performance. Cleveland Museum of Art Cedar Point Nautica Queen 216-707-2656 The Cleveland Orchestra 800-448-2428 216-696-8888 clevelandart.org 216-231-7493 cedarpoint.com nauticaqueen.com clevelandorchestra.com

Top to bottom, left to right: Photos: Cody York for ThisisCleveland.com, Courtesy of Cleveland Museum of Art, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Courtesy of Cedar Point, © Nautica Queen

18 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. GREAT LAKES

Dinosaurs arrive at COSI

Students can get up close to dino- olds said. “Scientists now know that ample, Extreme Weather can be chosen. saurs at COSI, the Center of Science dinosaurs never really fully vanished Add-on experiences include 21st and Industry in Columbus, Ohio. from Earth. Modern birds are, in fact, Century Learning Labs and Generation COSI’s new American Museum of their living descendants.” Rx Labs. Natural History Dinosaur Gallery is the The center’s goal is to inspire inter- A lunch room is available. result of a partnership with the famed est and excitement around all things COSI has a drop-off and pick-up zone New York City museum. science, technology and engineering. and a motorcoaches parking area. S “It is a one-of-a-kind partnership,” said “We hope students get excited Jaclyn Reynolds, director of communica- about science, learn more about the COSI tions at COSI. “The gallery has casts of world and explore careers in STEM or 614-228-2674 dinosaur skeletons as well as real fossils.” STEAM fields,” Reynolds said. cosi.org Installations of world-class dinosaur STEAM covers the STEM subjects exhibits from AMNH include a full-size of science, technology, engineering and cast skeleton of the massive Tyranno- math, but also incorporates the arts. saurus rex. Students can stand beside an COSI offers hands-on interactive 8-foot-long cast femur of a titanosaur exhibits. Educators can add a state-of- — one of only two in the world. the-art planetarium show or a film in Interactive exhibits relate the latest the National Geographic Giant Screen scientific findings about dinosaurs. Theater. Teacher’s Choice allows edu- “The gallery exhibits really go into cators to select a film from National the evolution of dinosaur biology and Geographic’s vast library. If a class is the research of paleontologists,” Reyn- working on a unit about weather, for ex- American Museum of Natural History Dinosaur ROBB MCCORMICK PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO: Gallery, COSI, Columbus, Ohio

Drama Queen? Perfect.

“#1 Midwest destination for group travelers” — Groups Today Join in at This isCLEv e l a n d.c o m | #This isCLE

Contact: Jane Tougouma | Destination Cleveland | Group Tour Sales Manager Tel: 216.875.6607 or 800.321.1001 | Fax: 216.621.5967 | Email: [email protected]

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 19 GREAT LAKES

Mill City Museum tells story of Minneapolis

From 1880 to 1930, Minneapolis, dents learn about the test kitchens that can be preordered from the on-site Minnesota, was known as the “Flour became an important part of the devel- restaurant. The museum provides a Milling Capital of the World.” opment and marketing of food prod- motorcoach drop-off and pick-up zone Mill City Museum shares the story ucts. Participants bake chocolate chip at the main entrance. S behind the title. cookies with different types of flour, Located on the Mississippi River then use their creativity to promote and Mill City Museum waterfront in Minneapolis, the muse- “sell” their cookie to the rest of the class. 612-341-7555 um is part of the Minnesota Historical A lunch area is available. Lunches millcitymuseum.org Society’s statewide network of museums and historic sites. David Stevens, interim site manager, said the museum is built within the ruins of Washburn A Mill, once the world’s largest flour mill. The museum chronicles the flour milling industry that fueled the growth of Minneapolis and the region. The story comes to life through the eight- story Flour Tower, Water Lab, Baking Lab and other hands-on exhibits. “We want to engage students and have them learn something about the community they’re visiting,” Stevens said. “It’s a great story, and they gain an understanding of why the city is here on one of the world’s great rivers. And it’s because of the St. Anthony Falls and the water power the falls generated.”

A typical school trip lasts three to 3 MUSEUM CITY MILL PHOTO: ½ hours. Included is a guided lesson, Water Lab, Mill City Museum, Minneapolis, Minn. self-guided time in the exhibit gallery, the Flour Tower multimedia show, ninth-floor indoor-outdoor observation deck and the movie Minneapolis in 19 Minutes Flat. A number of lessons are offered in the Baking Lab. In Kitchen Tested, stu- PHOTO: MILL CITY MUSEUM CITY MILL PHOTO: MUSEUM CITY MILL PHOTO:

Mill City Museum, Minneapolis, Minn. Students, Mill City Museum, Minneapolis, Minn.

20 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. GREAT LAKES

Beaver Creek Reserve encourages environmental connections PHOTO: BEAVER CREEK RESERVE BEAVER PHOTO:

Nature study, Wildlands Charter School, Beaver Creek Reserve, Fall Creek, Wis.

Beaver Creek Reserve in Fall Creek, 9 miles of trails and 400 acres,” he said. fire and excitement in students so they Wisconsin, connects people with “We love the energy and excitement do things,” Markin said. nature. The nature and environmental that school trips bring to the reserve. Student groups can stay overnight education center is located a short Whether conducting a stream study, at the reserve and make arrangements drive from Eau Claire in northwest dissecting an owl pellet or hitting the for meals. Motorcoach parking is Wisconsin. archery range, there are tons of options available. S Erik Keisler, executive director, for middle school and high school said local citizens founded the reserve students. Having the Wildlands Charter Beaver Creek Reserve in 1947 because they saw a need for School right here on our property is 715-877-2212 environmental educational and camp another great resource as well.” beavercreekreserve.org experiences for young people. The reserve features upland woods, Since then, a hands-on nature cen- river bottom forests, wetlands and sa- ter, observatory, citizen science center vannah areas. Two small trout streams Great location... and seasonal butterfly house have run through the property, which offer been added. an abundance of flora and fauna. Excellent service... The reserve’s electricity needs are A naturalist can help educators plan completely met by solar energy. Up- activities. Snowshoes and ski rentals are ward of 6,000 students visit the reserve available in the winter. annually. Keisler said educators can Connecting students with nature Thousands of choose from dozens of nature-based can take place at the reserve or at delighted guests. education options for their students. students’ homes, said Brianne Markin, Proudly serving the Group Tour market in “Whether coming for the day, over- marketing and development coordina- Detroit for over 25 years. night or a whole week, students of all tor. 3000 Enterprise Dr., Allen Park, MI 48101 • 1.800.342.5802 • 313.271.1600 p/f ages will find much to explore on our “Part of our mission is lighting that www.bestwesterngreenfield.com Each Best Western hotel is independently owned and operated.

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 21 GREAT LAKES

Taste fun at Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory

While in Jackson, Michigan, make a sweet detour to the Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory. “We started getting requests for student field trips and came up with a fun-filled experience,” said Susan Franck, marketing director for the Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory. Besides being able to sample various sweets that are made at the store, student groups will get the chance to observe treats being made in the open kitchen and participate in hands-on-activities. “We divide the (student) groups

into three stations and then rotate & FUDGE FACTORY JACKSON CANDY PHOTO: PHOTO: JACKSON CANDY & FUDGE FACTORY JACKSON CANDY PHOTO: Student at gumball machine, Jackson Candy & when ready,” Franck said. “One staff Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory, Jackson, Mich. Fudge Factory, Jackson, Mich. person helps them in the kitchen dip- ping fruit in fudge, another staff person is giving them tastes of fudge and caramel corn, while another staff person gives them tokens to the gumball machine and helps them take turns spinning the wheel to win that color of wrapped candy and a lollipop.” Student groups don’t leave Jack- son Candy & Fudge Factory empty- handed. “Students are also given a small bag to pick out five pieces of taffy and one stick candy to take home with them,” Franck said. If a group is large, there is the option of having half the group participating in the activities at the candy store, while the other half is eating lunch or relaxing at a park within walking distance to the store. There is a spot next to the store for a motorcoach to park. Coordinate time of arrival with Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory, so they can reserve the parking space. Four days’ notice for a visit is appreciated. S

Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory 517-998-7070 jacksoncandycompany.com PHOTO: JACKSON CANDY & FUDGE FACTORY JACKSON CANDY PHOTO: Visitors, Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory, Jackson, Mich.

22 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. GREAT LAKES

Hop on the Silver Beach Carousel GROUP SALES

Save some time for relaxation in St. their mark by chalking the cement.” Joseph, Michigan. Lake Michigan, the Schalon recommended planning for lighthouse and the Silver Beach Carousel, a minimum of an hour to visit Silver revived in 2010, combine to make for a Beach; the length of visit depends on the NOW PLAYING fun afternoon stop for student groups. size of the group. There is a Silver Beach The carousel and other activities Amusement Park Museum that offers within the Silver Beach Center provide interactive exhibits and memorabilia. the perfect opportunity for a little fun. Snacks like freshly spun cotton candy, A Saucy New Musical “(Students love) riding the carousel Dippin’ Dots (ice cream) and popcorn From Betty Crocker to Betty Friedan MARCH 20 — APRIL 29 and taking selfies with their friends,” said are available at the concession stand. Suz Schalon, president of the Silver Beach Next door, the Curious Kids Mu- Carousel Society Board of Directors. seum contains 15 water activities, a All figures and chariots on the car- climbing wall and virtual reality fun. ousel are hand-carved and painted, and “We are only one block from Silver dance among the lights. The carousel Beach County Park located on beauti- APRIL 27 — MAY 6 has 48 figures, six of which are repli- ful Lake Michigan with its soft white cas of horses from the original 1910 sand and view of our historic light- carousel. It has rounding boards at the house,” Schalon said. “Across the street top that display 18 different historical from the carousel is the Whirlpool themes using a montage of historic Compass Rose Fountain with synchro- APRIL 10 — 15 MAY 29 — JUNE 3 photographs to share the rich stories of nized water jets and water cannons the St. Joseph area and its people. for a cooling drench on a hot summer “They can sit down and play check- day. And it’s free! Next to the fountain ers, chess or cards, and make an old- is Silver Beach Pizza, one of the most S school memory photo in our photo popular restaurants in town.” FIVE WEEKS ONLY! JUNE 12 — JULY 15 booth,” Schalon said. “Our fun house mirrors guarantee laughs and students Silver Beach Carousel also challenge each other to corn hole 269-932-1141 games outside our building or make silverbeachcarousel.com

JUNE 30 — SEPTEMBER 9

JULY 3 — 22

JULY 17 — 29

FIVE WEEKS ONLY! SEPTEMBER 11 — OCTOBER 14 PHOTO: SILVER BEACH CAROUSEL SILVER PHOTO: Carousel riders, Silver Beach Carousel, St. Joseph, Mich.

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 23 Fun Facts Fun Facts Fun Facts 5 STOPS Providence

Founded in 1636 by a religious exile, performances.Fun Facts Fun Facts Fun Facts Providence is one of the oldest cities in “As home to seven college campus- Rhode Island and the most populous es, Providence has a vibrant, youth- with over 179,000 residents. Providence ful energy that appeals to students,” The city was originally named Providence Plantations. has the sophistication and culture said Elise Swearingen, leisure sales that comes with a big city, but also the and visitor center manager for Provi- Providence has a population friendliness and welcoming charm of a dence Warwick Convention & Visitors of nearly 180,000 people and is small town. Bureau. “The city is known for its great the second-largest city in the New Students can explore history in one food, colorful public art and diverse England region. of the oldest cities in the United States, culture. Yet, it also has a rich history as Providence is the birthplace of uncover culture through museums, ob- one of the 13 original colonies founded the musician, George Michael serve and learn about various animals on the tenets of religious freedom and Cohan, who wrote “I’m a Yankee at one of the nation’s best zoos, and freedom of speech. There’s lots to see, Doodle Dandy” and “You’re a Grand Old Flag.” take on an adventure through sports or do and learn in Providence.” PHOTO: GOPROVIDENCE.COM PHOTO:

24 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. The Providence Providence Performing Rhode Island School Athenaeum Arts Center (PPAC) of Design Museum PHOTO: NICHOLAS MILLARD PHOTO: PHOTO: N.MILLARD/GOPROVIDENCE.COM PHOTO: PHOTO: THE PROVIDENCE ATHENAEUM THE PROVIDENCE PHOTO: 1 Book lovers will enjoy what 2 The 3,100-seat venue, on the 3 Walk through exhibit after they see and experience in the 19th- National Register of Historic Places, is exhibit of contemporary and ancient century Providence Athenaeum build- located in the middle of the entertain- art pieces and objects while thinking ing — literature is sprawled everywhere. ment and arts district of Providence. creatively and engaging in the artis- The Providence Athenaeum has a Watch a Broadway show or listen to a tic process at the RISD Museum. Art 150-piece eclectic art collection with musical. The spring season includes and objects at the museum come in paintings and sculptures from the 18th Something Rotten! and Celtic Woman: categories like costumes, textiles and century. Groups can take an eight-point, Homecoming Tour. Hamilton is sched- decorative arts. There are galleries that self-guided tour or a choice of three uled on the 2018/2019 roster. Students have pieces in European, Asian, Ancient different staff-guided tours of varying can particiapte in post-show special Greek and Roman categories. Both self- lengths. A quick 20-minute drop-in events, such as talkbacks with the cast. guided and guided tours are options for guided tour is also offered. student groups.

Roger Williams Park WaterFire 5 STOPS Zoo & Carousel Village Providence Providence, Rhode Island GO Providence Athenaeum 401-421-6970 providenceathenaeum.org

Providence Performing Arts Center 401-421-2787 ppacri.org PHOTO: N.MILLARD/GOPROVIDENCE.COM PHOTO: PHOTO: N.MILLARD/GOPROVIDENCE.COM PHOTO: 5 RISD Museum 4 Covering a 40-acre space, Roger WaterFire Providence will 401-454-6534 Williams Park Zoo & Carousel Village it capture students’ attentions. Flickering risdmuseum.org is one of the oldest zoos in the country. lights, the scents of wood smoke, over Roger Williams Park Zoo & Carousel Village From birds and insects to mammals 80 sparkling bonfires, torch-lit vessels 401-785-3510, ext. 496 and reptiles, there are plenty of animals traveling down the river and enchanting rwpzoo.org students can observe. There is a chance music will get all of the senses in motion. to walk the 1/4-mile path through WaterFire Providence shares the impor- Waterfire Providence Rhode Island’s endangered wetlands tance of art by creatively transforming 401-273-1155 waterfire.org habitat. Students of any age will enjoy urban communities. Held in public the carousel — be sure to stop for a ride spaces, groups have to walk through the ASK or two. A new tropical rainforest exhibit art to get the full experience. Providence Warwick Convention will open this summer. & Visitors Bureau 401-456-0200 goprovidence.com

Motorcoach Dining parking options

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 25 ITINERARY PLANNER New Hampshire Northern Region

New Hampshire was the first vacation destination in the United States that flourished with the dawn of train travel. Stately resorts, and lakeside and mountain towns, dotted the northern half of the state. Famous stories, such as Pollyanna and Curious George, were written while their creators lived and vacationed in New Hampshire. Although these authors enjoyed the natural assets, there was a whole other group who were turning the state into an adrenaline playground by chiseling the first hiking and ski trails in the country. The following itinerary ideas were provided by the New Hampshire Division of Travel & Tourism Development.

New Hampshire Division of Travel & Tourism Development visitnh.gov

VIEW DO SEE RIDE Take a ride to the top Experience how the Take a historical train Turn up the tempo with of the 4,080-foot summit Shakers lived at Canterbury excursion on the world’s an afternoon or sunset ride of Cannon Mountain with Shaker Village. Immerse in first mountain-climbing along the river with Raft Cannon Mountain Aerial the historical setting of the cog railway train, Mount NH. The company offers Tramway. At the summit, village while learning about Washington Cog Railway. summertime whitewater students get a bird’s-eye a unique American religious The ride will take three rafting and year-round view of New York, Canada, society that was formed in hours, which includes an dog sledding experiences. Maine, Vermont and New the 18th century. Student hour of exploration time Rafting trips range from Hampshire. Riders enjoy groups can participate in at the mountain’s summit. mild class II to wild class a 360-degree observation hands-on activities and Students will experience IV. Students also have the deck and scenic walking explore the village’s 25 360-degree views of opportunity to interact with paths at the summit. restored buildlings. Allow surrounding states, Canada and help harness the sled two to three hours to and the Atlantic Ocean. dogs. Groups of 10 or more Cannon Aerial experience the village. receive a discount. Mountian Tramway Mount Washington 603-823-8800 Canterbury Shaker Village Cog Railway Raft NH cannonmt.com 603-783-9077, ext. 284 800-922-8825 603-545-4533 shakers.org thecog.com raftnh.com

Top to bottom, left to right: Photos: New Hampshire Division of Travel & Tourism Development, Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, Canterbury Shaker Village, Mount Washington Cog Railway, Raft NH

26 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. NEW ENGLAND

Museum of Science, Boston sparks curiously

Get ready for a day of explora- a fan favorite “Yawkey Gallery on the drop-off and pick-up can occur in the tion. From animals to energy and a Charles River.” This exhibit explores driveway. S journey through the human body, the connection between nature and Museum of Science, Boston offers fun engineering on the river. Museum of Science for student groups. “One classic experience that always 617-723-2500 “Students love Boston’s Museum excites students is the Theater of [email protected] of Science and exploring its 130,000 Electricity,” Sillari said. “At the live mos.org square feet of gallery space, attending lightening show, viewers see real indoor Teach.Travel-SalemWitchMuseumAd_Layout 1 12/19 live presentations from enthusiastic lightning bolts produced by the world’s educators, and viewing captivating largest air-insulated Van de Graaff shows in the planetarium and five- generator. A member of the audience story-tall IMAX® Theater,” said Liz is even chosen to participate in this Sillari, program manager of group ‘shocking’ presentation!” Salem s Most sales and marketing. Group discounts are available With more than 700 interactive ex- to groups of 15 or more students. ’ hibits, presentations, temporary exhib- Timed tickets must be booked two Visited Museum its, planetarium shows and IMAX films, weeks in advance. there is always something going on. “Museum of Science field trip We’ll Teach You A Lesson! “Students can find offerings that experiences excite, empower and connect to every aspect of their cur- engage all students to practice STEM riculum and are encouraged to ask habits of mind and to see themselves provocative questions to learn how the as scientists, engineers and innova- concepts they studied in the classroom tors,” Sillari said. “Unique, hands-on relate to the real world,” Sillari said. investigative opportunities spark The “Hall of Human Life” takes curiosity, creativity and confidence student groups on a journey through as students explore the wonder and the human body via 70 interactive relevancy of science and engineering components. Other exhibits include in our rapidly changing world.” a mind-boggling optical illusion op- There is no designated motorcoach portunity in “Seeing is Deceiving” and parking on museum property, but

19 1/2 Washington Square North Salem, Massachusetts 01970 Translated into French, German, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Cantonese & Mandarin 978.744.1692 salemwitchmuseum.com PHOTO: MICHAEL MALYSZKO/MUSEUM OF SCIENCE, BOSTON MALYSZKO/MUSEUM MICHAEL PHOTO: Open Year Round i Hall of Human Life, Museum of Science, Boston, Mass.

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 27 NEW ENGLAND

Natural history captivates at Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History

The Yale Peabody Museum of Natu- and artifacts from our collections and and paleontology.” ral History in New Haven will amaze 150 million-year-old dinosaur skeletons The museum offers before- and and educate students of all ages. in the Great Hall of Dinosaurs,” said after-resources for select programs. “Students are going to see and touch Melanie Brigockas, public relations and Resources include scavenger hunts, ac- things at the Peabody that they won’t marketing manager. tivities, study guides and lesson plans. find anywhere else — hands-on fossils Groups can participate in a docent- There also is a discovery room, led program or a self-guided visit of the which is a popular destination at the museum’s three floors. The Peabody museum. It is packed with touchable Museum of Natural History offers a specimens and hands-on-activities and highlights tour or school programs houses animals from all around the based on specific topics. world. Students can observe poisonous “Students will learn about natural dart frogs, hissing cockroaches, leaf- history from the prehistoric past to the cutter ants and a bearded dragon.

The present day,” Brigockas said. “Each tour Motorcoaches can park on Sachem can have a general focus or delve more Street. S deeply into an area of interest selected in advance by the group. There are 22 Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History different pre-designed programs of- 203-432-3775 fered in each of five categories: anthro- [email protected] pology, art, life science, earth science peabody.yale.edu Blending comfort & convenience with affordability! THE MOUNT WASHINGTON

Within walking distance of many of American’s most esteemed colleges and universities, The Midtown is located in Boston’s historic Back Bay and features:

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28 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. NEW ENGLAND

Go seaside with Biomes Marine Biology Center

Familiarize students with sea student groups learn about different for groups. life from the Narragansett Bay and habitats, feeding behaviors and tropi- Motorcoach parking is available in Atlantic Ocean at the Biomes Marine cal strays. There also is the opportu- the parking lot. It is recommended that Biology Center in North Kingstown, nity to touch tide pool creatures such motorcoaches park across the street at Rhode Island. as eels, sea stars and even sharks in the the strip mall in the afternoon. S “Two big things stand out with petting stations. visitors,” said Mark Hall, founder of the “To help guide the field trips Biomes Marine Biology Center center. “The first is when they real- through the animals of the center, we 401-885-4690 ize that nearly all the animals we have have them do scavenger hunt activities biomescenter.com here at Biomes are locally caught. Even to get them to explore all the exhibits,” lifelong fishermen and scuba divers Hall said. “Especially the non-touch are surprised at the variety of marine ones that might not seem as interest- animals we have living in Narragansett ing at first. The level of difficulty of the Bay. The other is the amount of hands- activities is based on grade level.” on activities we offer. Sharks, stingrays, Fields trips are customized by grade skates, horseshoe crabs, eels and many level, with a maximum number of 65 other animals in our exhibits can be students. The facility offers an indoor touched, giving visitors a real personal picnic area; food is not available for connection with the marine life.” purchase. The center features more than The biology center is open to the 100 species of local marine life in 80 public daily, noon to 4 p.m., but private exhibits. Through various stations, tours can be scheduled in the morning Puffer, Biomes Marine Biology Center, CENTER BIOMES MARINE BIOLOGY PHOTO: North Kingstown, R.I.

The Greater Merrimack Valley is Great for Groups! Just 30 minutes northwest of Boston, Massachusetts!

Visit the region where Liberty Ride Lowell National The UMass Lowell freedom began – Let us customize your visit Historical Park Inn & Conference Center along the historic Battle Road Discover the continuing revolu- The only hotel in the heart of scenic guided tours of through Lexington and Concord tion. Lowell’s water-powered downtown Lowell. Lodging historic Lexington and as costumed guides recount the textile mills catapulted the features 31 year-round rooms events of April 19, 1775 and nation – including immigrant and 150+ seasonal summer Concord MA, guided the literary legacy that defined families and early female factory rooms located close to historical boat tours through American identity and culture. workers – into an uncertain new landmarks, major event venues, Lowell’s hand-dug Rich in cultural activities from industrial era. Nearly 200 years museums and a bustling concerts to historic reenact- later, the changes that began in downtown. Easy travel to Boston canals that powered ments, today’s Lexington offers Lowell make it a living monu- and New Hampshire makes us the mills in the 19th something for everyone. Trolley ment to the dynamic human ideal for tours of any size or and step-on guide service story of the Industrial Revolution. season. Complementary Wi-Fi century, art exhibits available year-round. Departs Call us today to customize your and continental breakfast and galleries, cultural from 1875 Massachusetts Ave, hands-on, educational group included. cuisine, ethnic festivals, Lexington, MA. tour to bring the park to life. 50 Warren Street Lowell, MA 01852 www.uml.edu/icc live entertainment and 339.223.5623 www.libertyride.us 978.970.5000 www.nps.gov/lowe 978.934.6920 New England charm await you in the Greater For the latest itineraries and educational Merrimack Valley! group packages call 978.459.6150 or visit www.merrimackvalley.org.

Group Tour 2017.indd 1 2/16/17 3:21 PM Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 29 5 STOPS Niagara Falls USA

History, culture, adventure — and the American, Horseshoe and Bridal millions of gallons of flowing water Veil falls, natural wonders formed more — instill a love of learning in Niagara than Fun12,000 years Factsago. A visit to Niag- Fun Facts Fun Facts Falls USA. ara Falls State Park is a must for every “Niagara Falls USA is an ideal des- student visit. The park was established Niagara Falls is capable of tination for student groups,” said Tina in 1885 and designed by America’s first producing more than 4 mil- Mt. Pleasant, director of leisure group landscape architect, Frederick Law Ol- lion kilowatts of electricity. sales at Destination Niagara USA. msted, also known for New York City’s About 3,160 tons of water “They will be immersed in history, cul- Central Park. flows over Niagara Falls ture and adventure while exploring our Beyond the 400-acre state park, every second. region. We have a wide variety of in- students can explore acres of trails, The American & Bridal teractive and educational activities that outdoor activities, historic sites, agri- Veil Falls were turned off in encourage and support fun, hands-on tourism and cultural attractions. The 1969 by the U.S. Army Corps. learning for youths of all ages.” endless options in Niagara Falls USA of Engineers. The Western New York region is create memories and stories students best known for the roaring rapids of will share for a lifetime. Fun Facts Fun Facts Fun Facts PHOTO: NEW YORK STATE OFFICE OF PARKS, RECREATION AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION AND HISTORIC RECREATION OFFICE OF PARKS, YORK STATE NEW PHOTO:

30 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Niagara Falls Niagara Power Vista Old Fort Niagara State Park Niagara Falls USA PHOTO: DESTINATION NIAGARA USA NIAGARA DESTINATION PHOTO: PHOTO: DESTINATION NIAGARA USA NIAGARA DESTINATION PHOTO: PHOTO: DESTINATION NIAGARA USA NIAGARA DESTINATION PHOTO: 1 The interactive exhibits at New 2 Niagara Falls State Park offers 3 Overlooking Lake Ontario, Old York Power Authority’s Niagara Power visitors awe-inspring scenery and a Fort Niagara takes students back in time Vista energize inquisitive minds. The variety of attractions. Students can soak with original 18th-century buildings, Power Vista shares the history and opera- in the views aboard the iconic Maid of incredible views and living history pro- tions of hydroelectric power in the Ni- the Mist, or enjoy a thrilling walk at the grams. Reenactors and history experts agara region. Students take a virtual ride Cave of the Winds and feel the rush- work tirelessly to bring this fort to life. across the landscapes of New York state ing torrents of the Bridal Veil Falls. The Students can witness musket-firing and see electricity titans Tesla and Edison Niagara Scenic Trolley gives a historic demonstrations, take a guided tour, see battle over AC and DC power. Simulated overview of the United States’ oldest state artisans at work and learn about life on challenges allow students to build a dam, park. Finish off a visit with the nightly il- the Niagara Frontier while walking in the operate a power plant and control the lumination or seasonal fireworks display footsteps of British, French and Ameri- state’s transmission network over the falls. can soldiers.

Niagara Falls 5 STOPS Becker Farms Culinary Institute Niagara Falls, New York GO Becker Farms 716-772-2211 beckerfarms.com Niagara Falls Culinary Institute 716-210-2525 nfculinary.org PHOTO: DESTINATION NIAGARA USA NIAGARA DESTINATION PHOTO: 5 KARMEN OSEI PHOTO: Niagara Falls State Park 4 Niagara Falls Culinary Becker Farms is a fifth-genera- 716-299-0822 Institute, a 90,000-square-foot, mixed- tion, family-owned farm that offers U- niagarafallsstatepark.com use facility, offers guided tours and pick fruits and vegetables, a bakery and Niagara Power Vista hands-on cooking classes for students. educational school tours. Staff members 716-286-6661 Chefs teach class participants the basics greet student groups upon arrival. The nypa.gov to healthy cooking that will foster a tour begins in Becker Farms’ 100-year- lifetime of learning in the kitchen. The Old Fort Niagara old barn, where owner Mindy Vizcarra 716-745-7611 pizza class teaches students about flavor shares the site’s rich history. Students oldfortniagara.org profiles and how to make dough and learn how the farm functions, meet the sauce. In the stir fry class, students learn animals, and pick their own fruits and ASK about combining colors and textures, vegetables. Each tour is geared to the and making a delicious sauce. appropriate grade level. Destination Niagara USA 716-282-8992, ext. 331 niagarafallsusa.com

Motorcoach Dining parking options

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 31 ITINERARY PLANNER Virginia Roanoke Valley

The Roanoke Valley in Virginia’s Blue Ridge offers a variety of options for student groups. “Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains are alive with the kind of hands-on adventure and rich history that students and groups of all ages will have a blast discovering,” said Taylor Spellman, public relations manager for Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge. “From galleries and shows to sports and shopping, there’s always an unforgettable experience just moments away.” Don’t miss a stop at the Roanoke Star, which sits atop Mill Mountain and overlooks the entire region. The 100-foot-tall neon star makes for a great photo op.

Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge 540-362-7848, ext. 127 visitroanokeva.com

VISIT EXPLORE LEARN PLAY Located in the heart Uncover outdoor thrills Located in downtown The Roanoke Pinball of downtown Roanoke, with a stop at Roanoke Roanoke’s century-old freight Museum is an interactive Taubman Museum of Art is Mountain Adventures, a station, Virginia Museum of museum dedicated to the home to artwork in various full-service outfitter offering Transportation represents science and history of pinball. mediums, including paintings, both guided and self- all aspects of transportation Students will learn about sculptures and photographs. guided activities. Choose from the commonwealth. The science, art and history With 11 galleries, the from mountain biking, road stars are two locomotives through pinball while learning museum averages 15–20 cycling, hiking, stand-up from the golden age of about its role in American exhibits per year. Permanent paddleboarding, kayaking steam: the Norfolk & Western culture. The museum has collections include works and tubing. Guided trips Class J 611 and Class A more than 50 machines from John Cage and Petah are tailored to each group’s 1218. Museum staff can produced from 1932 to 2016. Coyne. Grade-appropriate preferences and skill levels. design a field trip to meet the Educational materials are student tours are available. group’s needs. available. Roanoke Mountain Taubman Museum of Art Adventures Virginia Museum of Roanoke Pinball Museum 540-204-4131 540-525-8295 Transportation 540-342-5733 taubmanmuseum.org roanokemountain 540-342-5670 roanokepinball.org adventures.com vmt.org

Top to bottom, left to right: Photos: Star City SkyCams/Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, Taubman Museum of Art, James Revercomb, Group Tour Media/Cortney Erndt, Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge

32 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. YOU WANT TO SHOW THEM AMERICA.

START AT THE BEGINNING.

The past comes alive at the world’s largest living history museum, Williamsburg, VA Colonial Williamsburg. Travel back in time with your students to was ranked #6 in the 18th century, and experience the dawn of America. Learn how the Top 10 Student things were made, discover what the culture was all about and Travel Destinations feel the passion of the people who turned a colony into a country. by SYTA SPECIAL SAVINGS FOR GROUPS OF 15 OR MORE.

To begin planning your journey to the past, call 1-800-228-8878, [email protected], or colonialwilliamsburg.com/grouptours • TAKE TIME TO GO BACK •

Relive the past at Carnegie Museum of Natural History

As one of the top natural history “Carnegie Museum of Natural His- objects for students to examine. About museums in the United States, the tory houses an amazing collection of 75 percent of the objects are original Carnegie Museum of Natural History specimens, objects and artifacts that fossils, and most of the dinosaur skel- generates new scientific knowledge and document the history of the earth,” etons are real, instead of replicas. inspires students to discover their pas- said Laurie Giarratani, director of “Groups can also book special ex- sions for nature, science and culture. education at the museum. “Through periences in the Earth Theater includ- scientific research, exhibitions and ing live animal encounters, and a new programs, we use this collection to immersive theater program, Expedition broaden understanding of evolution, Antarctica, which follows the real-life conservation and biodiversity. On a adventures of museum paleontologist field trip to the museum, students will Matt Lamanna on his most recent fos- BOOK YOUR be asked to think like scientists — in- sil hunting expedition to Antarctica,” vestigating real specimens and artifacts Giarratani said. GROUP NOW that are on display in dynamic exhibi- Motorcoaches can drop students off tions to explore how the earth’s history at the museum’s entrance, and parking & SAVE can help us understand the present and is located nearby in Schenley Park. S have a positive impact on the future.” Located in the heart of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Museum of Natural History Pennsylvania, the museum offers 412-622-3289 hands-on tours for students to examine carnegiemnh.org specimens or artifacts. On 90-minute tours, students can participate in in- depth experiments that take place in a museum classroom, in addition to a guided tour. SINGLE-DAY TICKET “In Fur, Feathers, and Scales, students spend time in the museum’s lab- $ *per person oratory classroom using microscopes 47(Save $43) to look at the detailed structures of real mammal, bird and reptile specimens,” Giarratani said. Get ready for an The museum’s signature exhibi- unforgettable trip in 2018 tion, and one of the most popular, “Dinosaurs in Their Time” features real HISTORY CARNEGIE MUSEUM OF NATURAL PHOTO: with thrilling rides, Hands-on exhibit, Carnegie Museum of shows, animal encounters dinosaur fossils and shares over 230 Natural History, Pittsburgh, Pa. and educational programs for all ages. Explore Your History! Discover Your Story!

and Park FOR BOOKING, CALL 757-253-3404 OR VISIT 1 (800) 581-SAIL BUSCHGARDENS.COM/BGWGROUP Newport News, VA I-64, Exit 258-A *Savings based on $90 front gate admission. Offer valid for student groups of Just 20 minutes from 15 or more. Please book 30 days prior to visit. Offer valid on regularly scheduled operating days March 24 – Oct. 28th, 2018. Additional savings available with a Williamsburg, VA meal. Prices, products and park schedule are subject to change. Please verify park schedule prior to booking. ©2018 SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Inc. All rights reserved. MarinersMuseum.org

34 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. MID-ATLANTIC

Explore the life of a literary icon at Edgar Allan Poe Museum

For literature-loving students, the Pendulum.” buildings, as well as a garden. Edgar Allan Poe Museum in Richmond, Artifacts at the museum include On-street parking is available in Virginia, is an important stop. There, stu- Poe’s boyhood bed, his trunk and his front of the museum. S dent can explore writer Edgar Allan Poe’s clothing. Many of these objects surprise life, his contribution to world literature groups that visit, Knight said. Edgar Allan Poe Museum and his famous works through artifacts “One of (the objects) is our lock 804-648-5523 and guided tours. of Poe’s hair, taken from his corpse,” poemuseum.org “We have the largest collection of ar- Knight said. “Another is his walking tifacts related to Poe’s life and work any- stick, with his last name etched on the where in the world,” said Dean Knight, end. Many people enjoy our garden as education coordinator. “We’re located in well — it was landscaped with Poe’s his hometown of Richmond, Virginia, in poetry in mind, incorporating flowers, the neighborhood where he grew up.” plants and objects found in his poems.” Famously known for transform- The museum’s complete collection ing the horror story genre, Poe’s tales stretches from first editions, manu- are filled with psychological depth and scripts and letters, to movie posters and insight. Popular works falling under this action figures. genre include: “The Tell-Tale Heart,” “The Guided tours last about an hour Cask of Amontillado,” “The Masque of and guide students through Poe’s life the Red Death,” and “The Pit and the chronologically through exhibits in four ALLAN POE MUSEUM EDGAR PHOTO: Edgar Allan Poe Museum, Richmond, Va.

Fill their

and

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 35 MID-ATLANTIC

Sail through history at Erie Maritime Museum

In Erie, Pennsylvania, students can of the Battle of Lake Erie in that war, One of the most popular options rewind time and travel back to the War the life of a 19th-century sailor and among students is a day sail on U.S. of 1812 at the Erie Maritime Museum. the life lived by a sailor today,” said Ed Brig Niagara. “We hope that students will gain an Tonkin, volunteer coordinator at the “Sailing on Niagara is an education- understanding of the War of 1812, the Erie Maritime Museum. al experience for all ages and grades,” points of view of the Americans, Brit- On a museum tour, students learn said William Sabatini, captain of U.S. ish Canadians and the Native Ameri- about Lake Erie’s role in Great Lakes Brig Niagara. “Not only is actively sail- cans regarding the war, the importance history, facts about the Battle of Lake ing on any type of tall ship a rare and Erie, and Lake Erie’s lighthouses and unique experience in the 21st century, fishing industry. but Niagara is one of a few wooden - Student groups also can explore the square-rigged vessels remaining.” U.S. Brig Niagara, a replica of the relief Because the U.S. Brig Niagara is out flagship of naval commander Oliver of port frequently during the summer Hazard Perry. The ship doubles as a sailing season, educators are encour- historical artifact and vehicle for sail aged to book sailing trips from Novem- training. ber through March. A hands-on tour of the museum Motorcoach parking is available at and ship includes sail handling, gun- the museum. S nery and knot tying. During all-day living history programs, students Erie Maritime Museum interact with 19th-century uniformed 814-452-2744, ext. 209 PHOTO: JOHN BAKER, COURTESY OF ERIE MARITIME MUSEUM/PENNSYL JOHN BAKER, COURTESY PHOTO: VANIA HISTORICAL & MUSEUM COMMISSION HISTORICAL VANIA interpreters that teach naval skills. flagshipniagara.org Student group, U.S. Brig Niagara, Erie, Pa.

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36 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. ARLINGTON VIRGINIA

American Treasures. Memorable Moments.

Whether you’re gathering for a student tour, family reunion, or any other group visit to the nation’s capital, Arlington welcomes you with open arms! Step outside your hotel and discover our unique mix of history, culture and fun! Arlington’s vibrant neighborhoods are home to national treasures like Arlington National Cemetery, world-class shopping, diverse dining and more. To plan your adventure in Arlington and Washington, D.C., visit www.stayarlington.com. MID-ATLANTIC

Museum of the Bible brings sacred text to life

Located just steps from the Na- Bible, makes up an entire city block. complementary Digital Guide, a hand- tional Mall and U.S. Capitol, Museum A visit to Museum of the Bible begins held personal touring system. The Digi- of the Bible is a new museum that uses in the grand lobby, which welcomes tal Guide allows students to plot their cutting-edge technology to bring the student groups with its 140-foot-long entire experience on the mobile device. Bible to life. LED digital ceiling displaying biblical Seven large touch tables, located in the The 430,000-square-foot Washing- art and scenes. museum’s orientation area, allow stu- ton, D.C. museum, dedicated to the Before traveling through the mu- dents to configure their Digital Guides history, narrative and impact of the seum, students are equipped with a to personalize their museum tour.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 39

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38 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. MID-ATLANTIC

“The digital guides are in beta test- ing in limited quantities and in specific areas of the museum, with a wider rollout coming in spring of 2018,” said Jeremy Burton, director of communications for Museum of the Bible. From there, visitors can explore three central exhibit floors: History, Narrative and Impact of the Bible. “Each exhibit floor of the mu- PHOTO: MUSEUM OF THE BIBLE MUSEUM OF PHOTO: seum has something for every age ‘The History of the Bible’ exhibit floor, Museum of the Bible, Washington, D.C. group,” Burton said. “Middle and high school students rank the Hebrew Walk-Through experience, Washing- ton Revelations, and the Impact floor — as well as numerous opportunities for them to interact with exhibits THE BEST CLASSROOM throughout the museum — as high- HAS SAND ON THE FLOOR AND AN OCEAN VIEW. lights of their visit.” On the History Floor, students see some of the greatest discoveries associated with the biblical text, including some of the earliest known New Testa- ment writings, numerous historical manuscripts and first-edition Bibles. The 50,000-square-foot Narrative Floor More culture. More nature. More education. is dedicated to telling the stories of the Experience more in Ocean City, MD. Bible and connecting today’s audiences to those stories. The Impact Floor expresses the Bible’s immense influence on cultures and individuals’ lives. The museum also offers a rooftop Biblical Garden, a cafe and the 472- HARRIET TUBMAN VISITOR CENTER DELMARVA DISCOVERY CENTER ASSATEAGUE seat World Stage Theater. Guided student tours and programs are available. S BOOK YOUR TRIP NOW! Call Norma Dobrowolski Museum of the Bible CVB Destination Sales & Marketing Manager | 800.626.2326 202-848-1553 ococean.com group-travel museumofthebible.org /

OCO-2018-23634 Student_Group_Tour-April.indd 1 2/15/18 11:04 AM

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 39 MID-ATLANTIC

Modern Pinball NYC shares iconic pastime through hands-on science lessons

Dozens of vintage and contemporary STEM concepts to student groups. pinball machines line the walls of Mod- “Back in 2013, it was our mission ern Pinball NYC in Kips Bay Manhat- and our passion to create a New York tan. While the pinball machines might City destination where people of any appear to be solely for entertainment, age, gender, ethnicity or nationality they serve a greater purpose of teaching could connect with, learn about and have fun interactively experiencing the wonders of America’s own iconic leisure time entertainment art form

One of the Top Ten NYC MODERN PINBALL PHOTO: Science Centers in the U.S. — pinball,” said Steve Zahler, owner of Student program, Modern Pinball NYC, – Parent’s Magazine Modern Pinball NYC. New York, N.Y. Zahler took that passion a step further by developing an education pro- Pinball EduFun program presents an gram at the center’s Museum of Modern opportunity for educators and students Pinball. The museum’s curriculum to observe the inner workings of real, offers creative ways to reinforce study live (powered-on) pinball machines. topics with real-world examples. Educa- They learn how over a half mile of wire tion programs offer engaging dem- and more than 2,000 parts work to- onstrations of open pinball machines gether to power and operate a complex complete with magnets, electromagnets, electromechanical system. switches, linkage, pulleys, gears, target During a student visit, all the games Three ﬂoors of hands-on exhibits, banks, motors and semiconductors. are set on Unlimited Free Play for maxi- live science, digital planetarium “Middle and high school students mum fun during play sessions. There’s no and IMAX ﬁlms all under one roof. always have an amazing time here and need for quarters, tokens or swipe cards. I think a lot of it has to do with the “We recommend up to 60 students uniqueness of the learning experience,” per visit for maximum learning and Zahler said. “Here, we use a very differ- fun,” Zahler said. ent approach — pinball — versus the Modern Pinball NYC is located in the conventional means of smart boards, heart of New York City, so motorcoach Maryland Science Center smartphones, tablets and distance- parking isn’t available on-site. Drop-off/ 601 Light Street at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor based learning. We use fun and social pick-up is the most popular option. S www.marylandsciencecenter.org gaming machines to demonstrate Call for Group Rates 410.545.5929 complex systems, physics, mechanics, Modern Pinball NYC

engineering and design.” 646-653-0839 The museum’s 90-minute, staff-led modernpinballnyc.com/education

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40 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. MID-ATLANTIC

Let imaginations soar at One Liberty Observation Deck

Educators can take classroom les- Band and choir groups can perform sons to new heights at One Liberty downstairs in the rotunda at The Shops One Liberty Observation Deck Observation Deck, located in the heart at Liberty Place. 215-845-4160 of Center City Philadelphia. Motorcoaches can load and unload phillyfromthetop.com Students step inside state-of-the-art groups just a few steps away at 1650 elevators to climb 57 stories above the Market St. S city to Philadelphia’s tallest enclosed observation deck. They’re met with sweep- ing, 360-degree views and top-down looks at iconic sights like City Hall, the Ben Franklin Parkway, the Ben Franklin Bridge, the stadium complex, University City and the rest of Philadelphia. “While on-site, kids are introduced to our larger-than-life Ben Franklin, beginning with his feet on the second floor, they’ll hear thunder and see lightning that represents Ben’s quest to conduct electricity with a kite and key,” said Jessica Blank, marketing manager at One Liberty Observation Deck. “After a group photo and 90-second elevator ride to the top, they’ll meet Ben himself, see stunning views of Philadelphia and learn about points of interest and neighborhoods with our interactive touch screens.” By default, student experiences are self-guided. Touch screens and audio chairs complement the 360-degree views. For an additional fee, student groups of up to 50 can book a guided tour with a tour guide who explains Philadelphia’s past and present. “With options for grades K–12, student groups are encouraged to down- load our Sky School Student Planners that have suggestions for pre-visit, during and post-visit activities,” Blank said. Student lessons range in topic and cover a variety of school subjects including science, geography and art. “As the highest accessible vantage point in the city, regardless of age levels, teachers can find ways to plan and craft their lessons around each subject utilizing our features and assets, taking the lesson out of the classroom and into the clouds, creating a more exciting way to learn.”

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 41 MID-ATLANTIC

Spring ushers in Broadway debuts and revivals

From exciting debuts to sprawling to end Regina’s reign, she learns the com has it covered. For group tick- revivals, the spring 2018 Broadway hard way that you can’t cross a Queen ets to these shows and more, call season has something for everyone. Bee without getting stung. 1-800-BROADWAY, ext. 2 today. S Mean Girls is now a ferociously The most beloved musical of all funny new musical from director time, Lerner and Loewe’s My Fair Lady, Group Sales Box Office at Broadway.com Casey Nicholaw (Aladdin, The Book of returns to Broadway this spring. Tony 1-800-BROADWAY, ext. 2 Mormon), composer Jeff Richmond (30 Award winner Bartlett Sher (The King broadway.com Rock, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt), and I, South Pacific and Oslo) directs lyricist Nell Benjamin (Legally Blonde) this incomparable musical masterpiece. and book writer Tina Fey (30 Rock, Boasting such classic songs as “I Could Bossypants). Cady Heron may have Have Danced All Night,” “The Rain in grown up on an African savanna, but Spain,” “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly,” and nothing prepared her for the wild and “On the Street Where You Live,” My vicious ways of her strange new home: Fair Lady was hailed by The New York suburban Illinois. How will this naïve Times as “one of the best musicals of newbie rise to the top of the popular- the century.” ity pecking order? By taking on The Whether students are looking to go Plastics, a trio of lionized frenemies led to high school with Tina Fey or take by the charming but ruthless Regina speech lessons from Henry Higgins, George. But when Cady devises a plan Group Sales Box Office at Broadway. IMAGE: GROUP SALES BOX OFFICE AT BROADWAY.COM AT SALES BOX OFFICE IMAGE: GROUP My Fair Lady poster IMAGE: GROUP SALES BOX OFFICE AT BROADWAY.COM AT SALES BOX OFFICE IMAGE: GROUP Mean Girls poster

42 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. MID-ATLANTIC

Film like the pros with On Location Tours

Take to the streets of New York City cially those in media and film studies,” New York City. and walk in the path of students’ favor- Locher said. On Location Tours run year-round ite TV shows and Hollywood block- Students’ hard work is given a final and also are available in Boston and buster hits. On Location Tours gives video edit by the professionals at On Washington, D.C. S groups an unforgettable experience Location Tours, and then it’s uploaded with a two-hour bus ride paired with a to YouTube. Students can share their On Location Tours three-hour Make A Movie workshop. work with family and friends, and keep 212-683-2027 “Most people’s first experience of a unique souvenir from their visit to onlocationtours.com New York city is through TV shows,” said Alan Locher, senior director of public relations for On Location Tours. “They are the impetus that makes people want to come to the Big Apple.” #NYWATERTAXI On Location Tours gives students the opportunity to see iconic New York City filming locations up close and gives them a chance to walk in their favorite characters footsteps. For students, On Location Tours takes its popular NYC TV & Movie tour and customizes it into a two-hour experience. All of the great and most recent productions, like Marvel’s Dare- New York’s Favorite devil and Jessica Jones, as well as classics like Ghostbusters, Seinfeld and Friends Hop On, Hop Off are included in the tour. The bus tour includes stops for photo opportunities. After the bus tour, students can take Sightseeing Cruises part in a three-hour Make A Movie workshop, the only one of its kind in New York City. The workshop allows Midtown, students to write, direct, act and edit Downtown, their own movie on the city streets. South St. Seaport Students use professional equipment and experience the excitement of film- & Brooklyn ing on location. “This is a great, immersive experience for all student groups and espe-

Contact us to book your next tour or charter! nywatertaxi.com | 212.742.1969 PHOTO: ON LOCATION TOURS ON LOCATION PHOTO: Make a Movie workshop, On Location Tours, New York City, N.Y.

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 43 Fun Facts Fun Facts Fun Facts 5 STOPSFun Facts Fun Facts Fun Facts Huntsville Nestled at the bottom of a towering name given by landowner and early settler mountain in northern Alabama, Hunts- LeRoy Pope. ville sprawlsFun with rich Facts Civil War history “HuntsvilleFun is the Facts perfect destination Fun Facts and shares close ties with United States for student and youth travel,” said Pam space missions. Williams, tourism sales manager at the Packed with rich history, Huntsville Huntsville adopted its nickname Huntsville/Madison County Convention is home to the largest collection of the “Rocket City,” in the 1950s when & Visitors Bureau. “Nowhere else can you pre-Civil War homes. aerospace engineer Wernher von Braun immerse yourself in urban and rural life Huntsville is built over a vast net- moved to Huntsville to begin work on of the antebellum South and then a few work of 240 known caves. Before Army missiles and rockets. minutes later encounter the past, present Wernher von Braun brought rocket During the Civil War, Huntsville’s and future of space exploration. We are research to Huntsville, it was buildings were mostly saved from fortunate in that all of our attractions have known as “Cave City.” destruction, revealing one of the largest an interactive, educational focus.” Huntsville was Alabama’s first concentrations of antebellum homes in Williams encourages teachers, parents, English-speaking city. the South. student travel planners and student The historic district is known as Twick- groups to mix fun with education at the enham, named after the city’s original following five stops. HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CVB HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY

Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com 44 Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendlySpring 2012 destinations • April/May/June and businesses. Alabama HudsonAlpha Institute Huntsville Constitution Village for Biotechnology Museum of Art PHOTO: HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CVB HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY PHOTO: PHOTO: HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CVB HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY PHOTO: CVB HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY PHOTO: 1 Part of the EarlyWorks Family 2 The HudsonAlpha Institute 3 For over 40 years, the Huntsville of Museums, Alabama Constitution for Biotechnology has become a global Museum of Art’s Museum Academy has Village takes students on a journey back leader in biotechnology and genomic offered engaging, hands-on art classes for to the past. Students are transported research. HudsonAlpha innovates on students. During classes, students have the back to 1819 and get a chance to stand four different platforms: research-driv- opportunity to visit the Stender Family in the same spots where 44 delegates of en discovery, education, genomic medi- Interactive Education Galleries, composed the constitutional convention gathered cine and entrepreneurship. on-site edu- of ART LAB and A Walk Through Time. on July 5, 1819, to organize Alabama as cation programs train future scientists ART LAB shares hands-on activities in- the 22nd state in America. The village through digital learning and hands-on structing on the basic elements of art, and is currently undergoing an extensive classroom modules. Laboratory-based A Walk Through Time takes students on restoration and is scheduled to reopen programs put high-tech biotechnology a trip through the major events in art his- in spring of 2019. in the hands of students to have them tory, and even includes replicas of famous engage in scientific thinking. works of art.

Lowe Mill ARTS U.S. Space 5 STOPS & Entertainment & Rocket Center Huntsville, Alabama GO Alabama Constitution Village 256-564-8100 earlyworks.com HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology 256-327-0400 hudsonalpha.org

PHOTO: HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY CVB HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY PHOTO: DENNIS KEIM PHOTO: Huntsville Museum of Art 4 Within this thriving, creative 5 256-535-4350 Home to Space Camp, hsvmuseum.org community, Lowe Mill ARTS & Enter- Aviation Challenge Camp and Robotics tainment provides an environment of Camp, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment working studio spaces for artists and is the largest spaceflight museum in the 256-533-0399 makers. Lowe Mill is the largest pri- world. From America’s first satellite, lowemill.net vately owned arts facility in the United Explorer 1, to next-generation space ve- U.S. Space & Rocket Center States, and it houses 148 studios for over hicles, the center shares the past, present 256-837-3400 200 artists, six galleries, performance and future of human spaceflight. On a rocketcenter.com venues and a theater. On a visit to Lowe guided tour, students navigate through Mill, students can participate in differ- over 1,500 artifacts, see an IMAX® or ASK ent classes and workshops covering a National Geographic Theater Experi- Huntsville/Madison County Convention wide range of interests. ence, and participate in a hands-on & Visitors Bureau STEAM lab with an instructor. 256-551-2230 huntsville.org

Motorcoach Dining parking options

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 45 ITINERARY PLANNER Georgia Atlanta

There are endless events and things to do in Atlanta for student groups. Explore Atlanta’s beautiful parks, trails and playgrounds by visiting student group-friendly museums and popular attractions. Enjoy neighborhood festivals and events that offer activities and entertainment for students of all ages. “Atlanta is the perfect destination for student group tours,” said Kristen Childers, small meetings manager at Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Students have the unique ability and opportunity to mix education, adventure and culture across several of Atlanta’s attractions and museums.”

Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau 404-521-6600 atlanta.net

SEE TOUR EXPLORE DO Georgia Aquarium Center for Civil and Atlanta History Center Stone Mountain Park is home to thousands of Human Rights is an is a 33-acre experience is one of Georgia’s most animals, over 100 exhibits, attraction that connects featuring award-winning popular attractions and seven major galleries and the American civil rights exhibitions, historic houses, features a wide variety of more than 10 million gallons movement to today’s global enchanting gardens, outdoor activities for students of water. With one of the human rights movements. interactive activities and to enjoy. Ride a cable car to most expansive aquatic The center creates a safe a variety of year-round the top of Stone Mountain varieties anywhere, students space for students to explore student programs. Inside for amazing views of the can connect with whale the fundamental rights of and out, the center reveals city, take a scenic train ride sharks, beluga whales and all humans. Students leave the magic, meaning and around the base of the African penguins to foster a inspired and empowered to context that gives rise to a mountain, trek through the deeper understanding of their join the ongoing dialogue multidimensional, shared treetops on SkyHike, and play environments and gain an about human rights. understanding of Atlanta. in the spray or stay high and appreciation for them. dry on the Geyser Towers. Center for Civil and Atlanta History Center Georgia Aquarium Human Rights 404-814-4000 Stone Mountain Park 404-581-4121 678-999-8990, ext. 4 atlantahistorycenter.com 770-498-5636 georgiaaquarium.org civilandhumanrights.org stonemountainpark.com

All Photos: Atlanta CVB

46 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. SOUTHEASTERN

Take a full swing at Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

In Louisville, Kentucky, it’s impossible of baseball’s biggest stars and examine the sport is such a big part of American to miss the “The Big Bat.” Leaning against more than 6,000 autographs from major history and culture, even visitors who the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory league players. Interactive experiences don’t consider themselves big fans find at 120 feet in the sky, the steel bat weighs allow guests to take on Bud’s Batting something here that resonates with 68,000 pounds and is a replica of Babe Cage, named in honor of Bud Hillerich, them.” Ruth’s Louisville Slugger bat. who made the first Louisville Slugger Motorcoach parking is available. S Celebrating the role of the famous bat in 1884. Visitors perfect their throws Louisville Slugger in baseball history, the with a simulated pitching experience. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory Tours also get groups up close to 502-588-7227 offers memorable, interactive exhibits the bat production line, where they can sluggermuseum.com and tours for students to navigate. see how the famous Louisville Sluggers “Along with our fascinating bat fac- are made, with the added bonus of tak- tory tour, we have galleries filled with ing home a souvenir mini bat. Student remarkable memorabilia and enter- programming can be customized to taining interactive exhibits,” said Anne include a stronger focus on American Jewell, vice president and executive history, skills used in the manufactur- director of Louisville Slugger Museum ing process of bats, or civil rights and & Factory. baseball. On tours, students can hold bats “Baseball connects generations; we previously used in games from some see it here every day,” Jewell said. “Since HILLERCH & BRADSBY/LOUISVILLE PHOTO: SLUGGER MUSEUM & FACTORY Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, Louisville, Ky.

OUrGRouPWeNt To THe CoLLegEFooTBaLL HaLLOf FaME AnD aLL We gotWeREThese BaDGes ... and GueST SPots On ESPN...AnD FiELd GoaLs...aND 30-yArDTouRS 360 DegrEE StaDiUM AND OUr FaCes aND DigitaLLY PaiNTeD... OUR tEaM KARAokErEcORDeD... anD OuRsMiLEs WiD NEDe ... AndOuRHaIR rAisED ...... AnD OuR miNDS BLown.

College football is more than a game. And the College Football Hall of Fame and Chick-fil-A Fan Experience in downtown Atlanta is much more than a museum. For group tickets and information, call (404) 880-4841. www. cFBHaLL . CoM

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 47 SOUTHEASTERN

The Dalí Museum evokes inspiration through surrealism

Situated in the heart of downtown joy a unique and unforgettable experi- learning and tranquility. The museum St. Petersburg, Florida, The Dalí Mu- ence,” said Kathy Greif, chief market- store features artfully inspired jew- seum pays homage to the life, legacy ing officer at The Dalí Museum. “In elry, apparel and books. Cafe Gala and work of world-renowned surreal- addition to the galleries, visitors to offers Spanish-themed light fare and ist artist, Salvador Dalí. The Dalí enjoy the museum’s Avant- beverages. A theater plays an intro- “Groups visiting The Dalí will en- garden, an outdoor environment of ductory film on Dalí and the museum throughout the day.” Dalí was a prominent Spanish artist, known for his fierce, yet unusual and bizarre paintings and sculptures. The museum’s collection boasts more than 2,100 of Dalí’s works spread ® across different mediums, including prints, sculptures, photos, drawings, manuscripts and oil paintings. It is the largest collection of Dalí’s work outside of Europe. “The Dalí protects and displays an unparalleled collection of Salvador Dalí artworks,” Greif said. “We welcome the public, educate and promote enjoyment. In a larger sense, The Dalí is a place of beauty dedicated, as is Dalí’s art, to understanding and transformation.” The museum’s building is an intri- cate work of art on its own. Featuring 1,062 triangular-shaped glass panels, it’s nicknamed the “Enigma” for giving an unrivaled view of St. Petersburg’s gleaming waterfront. Tours of The Dalí last about one hour, and discounted rates are offered for a maximum of 30 students, which includes three free adult admissions. Complimentary docent-led tours are provided based on availability for Book your Space Camp student groups, and customized tours are offered. group experience today! School lunches are available for Enjoy out-of-this-world astronaut training simulations purchase from the museum’s cafe and in the internationally-renowned Space Camp program. can be ordered prior to visits. Motor- coaches may drop students off at the Two-day, three-day and six-day overnight programs are available. entrance of The Dalí. Parking is avail- Spend a day or spend the week! able at the east end of the museum’s There’s something here for every group! parking lot. S

The Dalí Museum 727-623-4708 thedali.org

48 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. IT WAS A NATIONAL MOVEMENT. NOW IT’S A NATIONAL MONUMENT.

The Civil Rights Movement that helped galvanize the nation is now being recognized on a national level. But the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument does more than just acknowledge where we’ve been. It offers visitors a chance to celebrate where we’re going. Book your next tour in a place rich with history. Book your next tour in Birmingham.

inbirmingham.com | #INBirmingham | 800 - 458 - 8085 SOUTHEASTERN

Whitney Plantation gives new perspective on Louisiana’s slavery story

The Whitney Plantation, known as restored buildings and hundreds of The Allées Gwendolyn Midlo Hall Habitation Haydel until 1867, is located first-person slave narratives. memorial bears the names of the 107,000 less than an hour from New Orleans in “The slave narratives discuss dif- people documented on the Louisiana Wallace, Louisiana. Three years ago, the ferent aspects of daily life, including Slave Database. The memorial is named plantation began offering guided tours living conditions, religion, food, work, after historian Gwendolyn Midlo Hall to traveling students for the first time in punishment, and general memories in recognition of her contribution to the the property’s 265-year history. and reflections,” said Ashley Rogers, history of slavery in the Americas. Ambroise Heidel, a German im- director of museum operations. The Field of Angels is a memorial migrant, established the plantation in While the 90-minute guided tour for the 2,200 enslaved children who 1752. His slaves specialized in indigo does take visitors through the Antioch died in St. John the Baptist Parish cultivation until switching to sugarcane Baptist Church, a slave cabin and the between 1823 and 1864; 39 of those in the early 1800s. After Heidel’s death, Big House, most of the tour is spent perished on the Whitney Plantation. his descendants carried on the business outside at three memorials. Motorcoach parking is available for three generations. The Wall of Honor, made of verti- on-site. S While visitors do learn about the cal granite slabs, is dedicated to the Haydel family, the plantation’s real 350-plus people who were enslaved at Whitney Plantation purpose is to retell the story of slavery Habitation Haydel. On the slabs are 225-265-3300 in the South, including those enslaved. names and personal information relat- whitneyplantation.com Students learn the history through ing to the men, women and children museum exhibits, memorial artwork, who worked on the plantation.

r wld cng y rs

Brg y r Schl et Ours! audub Z, Aquium e ic, gÞn & Insectium at, bu fהtgy git sc T AudubonNatureInstitute.org 800-774-7394 | [email protected] New Orleans, LA

50 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. SOUTHEASTERN

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden demonstrates conservation and career paths

From elephants to sharks and formal Riverbanks’ food and retail contrac- Motorcoach parking is available on- gardens to natural woodlands, Riv- tor. Available Monday through Friday, site. S erbanks Zoo & Garden in Columbia, scheduled Jungle Meal lunches are South Carolina, promises new discover- delivered to the sheltered Safari Camp Riverbanks Zoo & Garden ies around every corner. Each year, more picnic pavilion when booked at least 803-602-0803 than 100,000 students visit the zoo and two weeks in advance. riverbanks.org garden for a carefully crafted program. “We want students to understand why zoos and aquariums exist,” said Elizabeth Clemens, director of education. “There was a period of time when zoos and aquariums were looked at as strictly entertainment venues, but we are so much more than that. All student programs are designed to fit South Carolina Science Aca- demic Standards and are developed to involve students in active, student- centered learning. “Middle and high school groups visiting Riverbanks are not looking for a classroom-based program, but rather one that might be more relevant to what they are studying,” Clemens said. “Dependent on the tour topic, we guide them through different aspects of the zoo or garden.” Balancing Act shows students how interdependence keeps ecosystems running; Animal Behaviors teaches groups how behaviors help animals survive; Animals Around The World focuses on the world’s biomes; and The List: A Conservation Challenge demonstrates the importance of keep- ing animals off the endangered list and what Riverbanks is doing to help. “Most groups are looking for a career-related program and the one that does that best is our Zoo and Garden Careers tour,” Clemens said. “The big focus of this, that most people don’t realize, is that almost any job you can imagine is required to operate a successful zoo and garden. Our jobs range from horticulture to maintenance, education, marketing and information STAY LAFAYETTE technology.” Plan your escape to the Happiest City in America. Visiting groups should consider LAFAYETTETRAVEL.COM/Groups 800 346 1958 adding on a Jungle Meal through

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 51 SOUTHEASTERN

Alcatraz East showcases America’s crime history

Ted Bundy’s Volkswagen Beetle, O.J. Crime Fighting and Pop Culture. A motorcoach drop-off area is Simpson’s white Ford Bronco — these Twenty-eight topics are featured in the available at the sidewalk next to the controversial automobiles are just a galleries, with more than 500 authentic museum, and parking is available in couple of the notable pieces students artifacts and 100 interactives. a municipal lot next to The Island in can examine at the Alcatraz East Crime In the Crime Scene Investigation Pigeon Forge. S Museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. gallery, students can learn how detec- “Alcatraz East is excited about of- tives solve crimes through fingerprint- Alcatraz East Crime Museum fering groups an in-depth look into the ing, ballistics, DNA and blood analysis, 865-453-3278, ext. 603 history of American crime,” said Janine and facial reconstruction. The History alcatrazeast.com Vaccarello, chief operating officer of of Crime gallery shows the evolution Alcatraz East Crime Museum. “The of criminals and crime, from pirates to museum features hundreds of artifacts today’s criminals. capturing notorious moments from the On display through August, “Sca- birth of prohibition to the O.J. Simp- malot: Conquering the Con” is a son Trial and infamous chase. Alcatraz temporary exhibit focused on helping East houses the largest collection of seniors recognize, refuse and report crime and law enforcement-related scams. The museum has collaborated artifacts in the United States.” with the AARP Foundation to feature Five different galleries spread over information on IRS scams, tech sup- two floors showcasing American crime: port scams and sweepstakes scams, and Crime Scene Investigation, The Con- stories on notable fraudsters, including

sequence of Crime, History of Crime, Charles Ponzi. SMITH MEDIA/KELSEY TOUR GROUP PHOTO: Alcatraz East Crime Museum, Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

Chattanooga loves students and we have the expertise to plan your next educational (and fun!) field trip. Check out the great student combo rates with the Lookout Mountain attractions; Ruby Falls, Rock City Gardens and the Incline Railway. Then enjoy TN Valley Railroad train rides or Lake Winnie Amusement Park nearby. We know your students will love a greet and meet educational program at the Chattanooga Zoo. Order your FREE Field Trip Planner by contacting Shelda S. Rees, Director of Tourism. ____ ChattanoogaFun.com [email protected] 800/322-3344 x 3039

52 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Billy Graham preaches in front of his largest-ever crowd— more than 1 million people— in Seoul, South Korea, 1973.

“Every synonym for amazing!” —KRISTA, MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER

Bring your students and come discover how God used a humble farmer’s son to share His love with millions, from integrated crowds during the Civil Rights Movement to thousands trapped behind the Iron Curtain at the height of the Cold War. Free, downloadable resources enrich students’ experience before, during, and after your visit— and each grade level lesson plan meets North Carolina and federal standards.

Monday to Saturday, 9:30–5:00 To plan your visit or find out more, BillyGrahamLibrary.org • 704-401-3200 go to BillyGrahamLibrary.org/ Reservations required for groups of 10 or more; email [email protected] Students. or call 704-401-3270. 4330 Westmont Drive • Charlotte, NC A ministry of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

Vicksburg National Military Park teaches site’s Civil War significance

Vicksburg National Military Park the site’s role in the campaign, the Siege visual media. While on-site, groups preserves the site of the American Civil of Vicksburg, the Civil War overall and can see the Shirley House; 20 miles of War Battle of Vicksburg and commem- the National Park Service. historic trenches and earthworks; and orates the Vicksburg Campaign, a series Visiting students are offered school a Visitor Center that displays exhibits of battles in the Western Theater. programs, guided tours, Junior Ranger and a 20-minute orientation film. At At the park, students learn about activities, printed materials and audio/ the USS Cairo Gunboat and Museum, rangers tell the story of Union sailors. “Vicksburg National Military Park is one of just a couple of National Park Service sites that can interpret both the Union and Confederacy,” said Will Wilson, park ranger. “One thing we always strive to do is connect visitors to this place.” Motorcoach parking is available on-site. S

Vicksburg National Military Park 601-636-0583 nps.gov/vick

A true day in the life of a musician—from songwriting and performing to professionalism in the music industry—this program covers it all.

Co-write and produce a song from scratch with Nashville recording artist Meghan Linsey and record producer Tyler Cain, who will help your group compose a beat and write accompanying parts to your Student Rates and Performance Space Available original track.

Featuring an All-New, Immersive FIND YOUR VOICE Entertainment Experience 800.852.6437 NOW OPEN!

#PressPlayRecord • @CountryMusicHOF CountryMusicHallofFame.org/Groups • Downtown Nashville GRACELAND.COM/STUDENT • 800-238-2010 © EPE. Graceland and its marks are trademarks of EPE. All Rights Reserved. Elvis Presley™ © 2017 ABG EPE IP LLC

54 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. 800.488.8998 | MyrtleBeachGroups.com

Educational Opportunities|Performance Venues|Student Friendly Accommodations Fun Attractions|History and Nature|Beautiful Beaches

StudentGroup.indd 1 2/16/16 12:38 PM 5 STOPS Santa Clara

California’s oldest operating institu- to stop at Levi’s Stadium for a selfie in tion of higher education was founded in front of the playing field and a visit to 1851 atFun Santa Clara Facts College, now Santa severalFun premium club Facts spaces, as well as Fun Facts Clara University.Fun Facts access toFun the Verizon Facts Press Level, NRG Fun Facts The city’s heritage can be experi- Solar Terrace and the field level. enced with a visit to Mission Santa Clara “The combination of a theme park, Santa Clara will host the de Asís, located on Santa Clara Univer- high-tech museum, world-class stadium College Football Playoff Championship game in 2019. sity’s campus. It’s the eighth of Califor- and California mission make Santa nia’s 21 missions, and is adjacent to de Clara both a fun and educational desti- The city is headquarters for Saisset Art Museum, which features an nation for student groups,” said David the world’s leading early California history display. Andre, vice president of marketing and computer chip maker, Intel. The city’s abundance of sunshine communications at Visit Santa Clara. The sun shines in Santa Clara makes it an ideal location for Califor- The following five stops, suggested more than 300 days annually. nia’s Great America theme park, which by Visit Santa Clara, highlight some of includes a water park, Boomerang Bay. the city’s most exciting student-friendly Students who love sports will want attractions. Fun Facts Fun Facts Fun Facts Fun Facts Fun Facts Fun Facts PHOTO: VISIT SANTA CLARA SANTA VISIT PHOTO:

56 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. California’s Intel Museum Levi’s Stadium Tours Great America PHOTO: VISIT SANTA CLARA CLARA SANTA VISIT PHOTO: PHOTO: VISIT SANTA CLARA SANTA VISIT PHOTO: CLARA SANTA VISIT PHOTO: 1 Performance opportunities 2 Students are introduced to the 3 Students can go on a 90-min- for bands, choirs and dance groups are world of micro-miniature computer ute guided tour of Levi’s Stadium to available at California’s Great America. chips at Intel Museum. Interactive learn about how the stadium is a show- Students become the center of atten- exhibits and hands-on labs let stu- case for technological innovation and tion as they march down the midways dents explore concepts and conduct environmental sustainability. Groups or perform below the iconic two-story their own experiments. A group visit also may tour the 49ers Museum Carousel Columbia. The park also includes a guided tour and an interac- presented by Sony, which connects, offers Physics, Science & Math Days, tive lab led by a museum instructor. inspires and engages students through when students and teachers can enjoy For groups of 35 or more, the museum interactive experiences. Its education hands-on learning. Visitors experience provides self-guided tours and activ- program uses football as a platform kinetic energy and the science of G ity books that guide students through for teaching content-rich lessons in forces firsthand. exhibits and engaging exercises. STEAM and invaluable life skills.

Mission Santa 5 STOPS Westfield Valley Fair Clara de Asís Santa Clara, California GO California’s Great America 408-986-5853 cagreatamerica.com Intel Museum 408-765-5050 intel.com/museum

PHOTO: VISIT SANTA CLARA SANTA VISIT PHOTO: 5 FAIR WESTFIELD VALLEY PHOTO: Levi’s Stadium Tours 4 Founded in 1777, Mission Students can shop or eat at sev- 415-464-9377 Santa Clara de Asís is the eighth of the eral locations in Santa Clara, includ- levisstadium.com 21 California missions and is often ing Westfield Valley Fair. Westfield is Mission Santa Clara de Asís considered the spiritual heart of Santa one of northern California’s largest 408-554-4023 Clara University. After a tour, students indoor shopping malls and is currently scu.edu/missionchurch can see the surrounding gardens. The undergoing a multi-million-dollar pale yellow barksia rose and purple Westfield Valley Fair enhancement. Over 200 stores are open 408-248-4451 wisteria date to the 1800s, as do the during construction. Students can westfield.com/valleyfair olive trees. Visit the adjacent de Saisset have lunch at Westfield’s international Art Museum to see a California history food court, featuring a wide variety of ASK collection displaying relics from the choices. More than a dozen restaurants early mission days. Visit Santa Clara and upscale shops at Santana Row are 408-454-1254 located directly across the street. santaclara.org

Motorcoach Dining parking options

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 57 ITINERARY PLANNER Idaho Boise

Idaho may be known for its potatoes, but its capital city offers so much more. Located in the high desert at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Boise combines outdoor fun with urban attractions. New and revamped hotels and an exploding culinary scene make it a convenient and student-friendly destination filled with educational opportunities. There are many cultural aspects to be explored as well; Boise has the largest concentrated population of Basque people outside of Spain. The Basque Museum and Cultural Center, located downtown, is a great place to begin exploring. Boise Convention & Visitors Bureau suggested the following four stops to help students continue the journey.

Boise Convention & Visitors Bureau 208-344-7777 boise.org

TOUR SEE RIDE DO Student groups are invited Freak Alley Gallery is a The 25-mile Boise River A popular spot for student to tour the Idaho State venue for murals and graffiti Greenbelt weaves along the surfers and kayakers, Boise Capitol through a Guided located in and adjacent to river and is an excellent place Whitewater Park has Tour Program. The historic a downtown service alley. to ride bicycles, like Boise two state-of-the-art wave capitol building houses the The venue, now extending to Green Bikes. The path leads shapers that are highlights state legislature, and the a gravel parking lot, began students through downtown along the Boise River. A central rotunda is filled with in 2002 with a painting of and links several city sites. pneumatically-operated educational panels. Staff a single alley doorway. The The path is open from sunrise system allows controllers to strongly recommends a current plan allows assorted to sunset. Stop at the MK elevate and lower stainless- maximum of 50 students extant murals to be painted Nature Center to learn about steel flashboards. These per tour. Tours must be over and replaced by new local wildlife and Idaho’s create custom-shaped waves scheduled a minimum of two murals every two years. many landscapes. and a consistently changing weeks in advance. adventure for whitewater Freak Alley Gallery Boise River Greenbelt enthusiasts. Idaho State Capitol 208-703-5966 208-608-7600 208-332-1012 freakalleygallery.org parks.cityofboise.org Boise Whitewater Park legislature.idaho.gov/ 208-608-7688 capitol/tours boisewhitewaterpark.com

All Photos: Boise Convention & Visitors Bureau

58 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. WESTERN

Safari West continues conservation education after wildfires

Since opening in 1993, Safari West creatures around.” overt mission is to teach young minds in Santa Rosa has pursued three criti- Long before Safari West opened its about animals and ecosystems, Safari cal goals: conservation, education and gates to the public, staff was hard at West’s utmost mission is to inspire a exploration. After last year’s California work establishing conservation breed- love of wildlife and wild places. S wildfires, the site now shines with re- ing protocols for some of the most siliency. Its owner, Peter Lang, kept the endangered species. Safari West preserve’s 1,000-plus animals safe from “Guests to Safari West will almost 800-616-2695 imminent danger. always see baby animals here and more safariwest.com Two vehicles used for student visits, often than not, these will be repre- the expansive African Queen and the sentatives of an endangered species,” Nairobi minibus, were unfortunately Paddock said. lost in the blaze. However, the vehicles The Safari West Trek program caters are making a comeback this year with to traveling students. Groups of 15 to brand-new looks. 25 individuals head out in the company “Safari West offers something truly of a trained naturalist to explore the unique,” said Jared Paddock, marketing Safari West collection. and communications for Safari West. In general, students will return “While many people may visit a mu- home having been introduced to topics

nicipal zoo at some point in their lives, in biology, ecology, and perhaps most WEST SAFARI PHOTO: few will experience a wildlife safari. importantly, conservation. While the Giraffes, Safari West, Santa Rosa, Calif. We’re doing all we can to change that. We hope to play a role in inspiring and nurturing the much-needed conserva- tionists of tomorrow.” With 400 acres and massive, Your Bay Area Fun Starts Here! mixed-species enclosures, Safari West Six Flags Discovery Kingdom – showcases naturalistic behaviors and Open Year Round! interspecies relationships that many NEW in New Arts & Entertainment District other facilities cannot. Spring 2018! Tour Historic Mare Island “Rather than wandering from one BATMAN and all related characters and elements © & ™ DC COMICS (S18) Ferry to/from San Francisco enclosure to the next, our guests climb Minutes from Napa/Sonoma aboard a custom safari vehicle in the World-Class Golf (4 courses) company of an especially trained FREE Visitors Guide: Affordable Lodging naturalist,” Paddock said. “We venture 800.4.VALLEJO Diverse Events/Shopping or VisitVallejo.com Vallejo & Mare Island Museum out in search of some of the wildest Mare Island Golf Club Santa Clara

LIKE/SantaClaraCA

SantaClara.org/StudentTours

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 59 WESTERN PHOTO: NATIONAL COWBOY & WESTERN HERITAGE MUSEUM & WESTERN HERITAGE COWBOY NATIONAL PHOTO: Exhibit, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City, Okla. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum tells cultural story

In Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, a The exhibition wing houses a turn- the 19th century, as well as understand museum brings together stories of all of-the-century town and interactive his- the scope of the American cowboy and people related to the American West. tory galleries that focus on the American its regional differences. Students and educators who visit the cowboy, rodeos, Native American cul- “America’s West, with its unique National Cowboy & Western Heritage ture, Victorian firearms, frontier mili- blend of cultures, open terrains and Museum are in awe as they discover tary and Western performers. Outside, awesome vistas, is a source of inspira- objects ranging from fine art, pop cul- beautifully landscaped gardens flank the tion around the world,” Wolins said. ture and firearms to Native American Children’s Cowboy Corral. “We invite students to come and expe- artifacts and historical cowboy gear. “A visit to the museum ignites rience the West with us as we explore “This is America’s premier institu- students’ curiosity and enhances the people, places and history.” tion of Western history, art and culture classroom curriculum,” Wolins said. Groups are encouraged to schedule with an internationally renowned “Students engage with unique works of a visit around of the museum’s many collection of Western art and artifacts,” art and artifacts through lively, inquiry- festivals and events. A Calendar of said Inez Wolins, the museum’s chief based conversations that challenge Events is available online. S public experience officer. them to examine, explore and share The campus includes 200,000 throughout the museum, and back at National Cowboy square feet of galleries, gardens and school or at home.” & Western Heritage Museum trails, and the museum features a su- The Best of the West program helps 405-478-2250 perb collection of classic and contem- students compare and contrast Native nationalcowboymuseum.org porary Western art. American and non-Indian lifestyles of Experience Upstate California Located in the heart of Upstate California, the picturesque city of Redding serves as an outdoor adventure playground for all group travel. The many national and state parks can be enjoyed under Redding’s 300+ days of sunshine.

Jennifer Fontana | Group Coordinator | (530) 225-4010 VisitRedding.com/GroupsAndMeetings | [email protected]

60 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. WESTERN

Pacific Science Center promotes exciting, hands-on learning PHOTO: PACIFIC SCIENCE CENTER PACIFIC PHOTO: Students, Pacific Science Center, Seattle, Wash.

As the first United States museum founded as a science and technology center, the Pacific Science Center originally began as the United States Science Pavilion during the 1962 Seattle World’s

Fair. And this year, the center is celebrat- SCIENCE CENTER PACIFIC PHOTO: ing making science fun for 55 years. IMAX theater, Pacific Science Center, Seattle, Wash. “Our mission is to ignite curiosity in every child,” said Lauren Koontz, educa- New in the fall, the center now offers tion marketing coordinator at the center. content-rich, workshop-style Explo- LYNNWOOD WASHINGTON “When students visit us, we have the ration Labs on topics ranging from opportunity to give them exciting, hands- engineering to the human body. Coming to �e Paciﬁc on learning opportunities they may not “We hope that students discover get in a traditional classroom setting.” that learning is fun and that science N��west? Students can explore a variety of is all around us,” Koontz said. “Our subjects at the Seattle-based center, goal at the science center is to encour- Plan to Stay in Lynnwood including health and wellness, environ- age students to think of science as a Aﬀordable mental and earth science, physical sci- timeless process of inquiry, discovery Accommodations ence and engineering, and living science. and problem-solving, and inspire them “Students can learn how impor- to ask questions, develop hypotheses, Free Breakfasts conduct experiments and evaluate evi- tant getting enough sleep is and how Outdoor Adventures nutrition makes a difference with your dence in all aspects of their lives.” health in our ‘Professor Wellbody’s Tours are self-guided, and the History and Culture Academy of Health & Wellness’ exhibit, education staff can assist and plan explore the solar system in a live and programs for groups prior to visiting. Performance Venues interactive planetarium show, walk Programs should be booked at least Night Time Activities among hundreds of butterflies in our two weeks in advance, and discounted Tropical Butterfly House, or discover tickets are offered for groups of 10 or Youth Friendly the effect of earthquakes on build- more students. A motorcoach drop- Restaurants ings in our Tinker Tank maker space,” off and pick-up zone is located on the Koontz said. west side of the center’s campus, with In addition to exhibits, the center limited parking nearby. S offers educational experiences and programs for students. Programs include Pacific Science Center LynnwoodTourism.com live demonstrations on combustion, 206-443-2001 Or Call (800) 662-2044 freezing temperatures and snakes. pacificsciencecenter.org

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 61

2.25” x 4.75” print ad

Lynnwood Tourism Student Group Tour Magazine Ads 8/2015 Fun Facts Fun Facts Fun Facts 5 STOPS Fun Facts Fun Facts Fun Facts Laval, Québec

The choice of a destination for to learn while having fun. We have student travel is often difficult, as many combined some of our unique tourist considerations come into play. Is the attractions with several notions taught Fun Facts Fun Facts Fun Facts destination easily accessible? What does in class that are part of the educational the destination have to offer in terms of program. An island city, Laval student accommodation and student- “For example, students can conduct occupies two islands. friendly dining? Are there interesting, some lab experiments while having fun and educational things to do? fun as part of an ‘edutainment’ mu- Ten languages are According to Geneviève Roy, presi- seum exhibition they will visit in the spoken in Laval. dent and chief executive officer of Laval company of a guide, or they can fly like Tourism, the answer lies 35 minutes parachutists and defy the laws of grav- from Montréal in Laval, Québec. ity,” she said. Laval is named after the first Bishop of Quebec, “We are very pleased to present our Students discover it is easy to make a Francois Montmorency brand-new product for school groups: direct link with all they learn in class at de Laval. ‘Laval, First in Class,’” Roy said. “In Laval’s exciting attractions. Laval, we truly believe it’s possible PHOTO: LAVAL TOURISM LAVAL PHOTO:

62 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Centre D’interpretation Parc de la Cosmodome de L’Eau Rivière-des-Mille-Îles PHOTO: TOURISME LAVAL TOURISME PHOTO: LAVAL TOURISME PHOTO: PHOTO: TOURISME LAVAL TOURISME PHOTO: 1 The Centre D’interpretation 2 The Cosmodome is Canada’s 3 The most important protected de L’Eau (water interpretation center) only museum dedicated to space scienc- wildlife sanctuary in the Montréal highlights the importance of water in es. In addition to touring the impressive region also is a student-friendly attrac- daily life, water on the planet and water exhibition featuring a scaled reproduction. A natural oasis in the heart of an in the human body. Using interactive tion of the solar system and the planet’s urban center, the Parc de la Rivière- exhibits, groups follow the path of ecosystem, activities can be designed for des-Mille-Îles provides a habitat for drinking water from production to dis- individual groups. Students can partici- rich diversity. Students discover the tribution up to wastewater sanitation. pate in three different space missions. river or the labyrinth of nautical paths Discover the issues associated with wa- Each encompasses virtual animations in a canoe, kayak, pedal boat, rowboat ter consumption and water treatment. and interactive games. One mission is or rabaska — a tree-bark canoe. All Students can arrange to visit a drinking the launch of a space probe, another educational activities are developed water plant that adjoins the center. consists of time travel, and another exclusively for school groups. takes part in a mission to planet Mars.

Musée 5 STOPS SkyVenture Armand-Frappier Laval, Quebec, Canada GO Centre D’interpretation de L’Eau 450-963-6463 cieau.qc.ca Cosmodome 450-978-3600 cosmodome.org PHOTO: TOURISME LAVAL TOURISME PHOTO: 5 LAVAL TOURISME PHOTO: Musée Armand-Frappier 4 SkyVenture is a center equipped At the Musée Armand-Frappier, 450-686-5641 with a vertical recirculating indoor free student groups learn about present and musee-afrappier.qc.ca fall simulator. It reproduces the free-fall future issues in human health research. Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles portion of a parachute jump. School The museum is a leading center for the 450-622-1020 groups have the opportunity to put exploration of life science. Each year, parc-mille-iles.qc.ca theory into practice during a fun educa- it presents new activities to encourage tional activity. An introduction package SkyVenture learning while having fun. On a group 514-524-4000 includes an instructor-led observa- tour, students have the opportunity to skyventuremontreal.com tion and theoretical training session, slip into a lab coat. Under the watchful a practical training period, and one or eye of scientific instructors, students ASK two flights. The vertical wind tunnel has conduct lab procedures like an actual Laval Tourism a dimeter of 14 feet (4 meters) and is 45 scientific researcher. 877-465-2825 feet (14 meters) high. tourismelaval.com

Motorcoach Dining parking options

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 63 ITINERARY PLANNER Québec, Canada Montréal

Whether students are time traveling in Old Montréal, embarking on a sensory journey via the ecosystems at the Biodôme or pursuing a passion for the arts, the city is full of surprises. With its elaborate public transit network, Montréal is easy to navigate. The city’s museum culture continues to thrive. Located at the city’s center, the Quartier des spectacles, an entertainment district, is a terrific spot for a performance opportunity or free time with a buddy. Tourisme Montréal produces a School Group Guide to aid in planning. The guide includes sections on student- friendly dining, attractions, activities, education institutions, guided tours, performance venues, charter-bus services and accommodations.

Tourisme Montréal 514-844-6074 tourisme-montreal.org

VISIT PLAY EXPLORE SEE A prestigious residence Located in the heart of At Space for Life in Explore Montréal’s from the 18th century, downtown, Quartier des Biodôme de Montréal, oldest chapel, known as Château Ramezay is spectacles is regarded as students embark on an the Sailors’ Church, and a Montréal’s portal to its Montréal’s cultural heart. Find immersive and sensory captivating history museum. past and the first building more than 80 cultural venues journey through five Marguerite-Bourgeoys in Québec classified as offering an exceptionally ecosystems of the Americas. Museum and Notre-Dame- a historic monument. diverse array of activities: Listen to the sounds of the de-bon-Secours Chapel Château presents more festivals, movies, plays, Tropical Rainforest, search for are performance venues, too. than 500 years of history. Its dance performances, art lynx in the Laurentian Maple Visit the 18th-century stone collections are intermingled exhibitions, technological art Forest and say “hello” to crypt and climb the tower to with multimedia portrayals of displays, music concerts, penguins in the Sub-Antarctic admire the view. historical figures recounting operas and comedy shows. Islands. their lives at the manor. Marguerite-Bourgeoys Quartier des spectacles Biodôme de Montreal- Museum and Notre-Dame- Chateau Ramezay 514-879-0009 Space for Life Complex de-bon-Secours Chapel 514-861-3708 quartierdesspectacles.com 514-868-3000 514-282-8670 chateauramezay.qc.ca montrealspaceforlife.ca marguerite-bourgeoys.com

Top to bottom, left to right: Photos: Tourisme Montréal, Société des musées du Québec, Robert Baronet, Tourisme Montréal, Tourisme Montréal, Marguerite-Bourgeoys Museum and Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel

64 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. CANADA

Overnight on campus at Carleton University

Even during summer months, student groups head back to school when visiting Ottawa, Ontario, the capital of Canada. Located near the center of the city, Carleton University provides close proximity to Ottawa attractions. The campus offers accessible and welcoming accommodations for student groups. “During the summer months, Carleton is proud to be the home away from home for school and tour groups, sports teams and language camps visiting Ottawa,” said Kendra Reay, assistant PHOTO: CARLETON UNIVERSITY CARLETON PHOTO: director, conference services. “With Residence Commons, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada over 3,000 beds, we are Ottawa’s largest hotel from May to August.” sharing a kitchenette and a private tour schedules. Buffet-style breakfast is The in-town campus sits on unced- washroom. included as is complimentary motor- ed Algonquin territory adjacent to the Dormitory lounges double as meet- coach parking. S Rideau River and the Rideau Canal, an ing spaces. The university provides official UNESCO World Heritage Site. 24/7 reception service, free wireless Carleton University It is close to major attractions includ- internet, on-campus convenience stores 613-520-2600, ext. 1487 ing Parliament Hill, Byward Market and box meal service to adjust to group carleton.ca and Gatineau Park. Founded in 1942, Carleton Univer- sity’s 154-acre (62 hectares) campus offers visiting groups a variety of dining CANADIAN MUSEUM OF NATURE services, athletic facilities and meeting spaces. Three miles (5 kilometers) of tunnels connect campus buildings. NATURE Group stays include a traditional double room of two single beds that share a washroom with the adjoining room. All rooms are air-conditioned, smoke-free and furnished with two desks, chairs, a vanity and a sink. The university also offers a suite-style that consists of two private bedrooms

NEED A PLACE TO STAY IN OTTAWA? UP CLOSE AND experience PERSONAL the diefenbunker 240 McLeod Street, Ottawa, Ontario ROOMS STARTING AT JUST 1.800.263.4433 | [email protected] A National Historic Site of Canada $37 A NIGHT! nature.ca 613-520-5611 | [email protected] diefenbunker.ca | 3929 Carp Rd, Carp, ON | 613-839-0007 conferenceservices.carleton.ca

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 65 CANADA PHOTO: CBHC PHOTO:

PHOTO: CREATIVE COMMONS/ROYALBROIL CREATIVE PHOTO: Forest firefighting exhibit, Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada Salute airborne firefighters at Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre

When students enter the Canadian Agawa Canyon Train Tour depot, the er gets the raging fire under control. Bushplane Heritage Centre (CBHC), Sault Ste. Marie Museum, the Old Stone The second feature is Wings Over they step into the lives of modern-day House and the Art Gallery of Algoma. the North, which is shown exclusively firefighters. The centre offers interactive and at the CBHC. It tells the story of forest Located in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, hands-on exhibits. Those in the group fire fighting in the north with Captain the CBHC is only minutes from the willing to climb an actual fire tower Ron and his canine co-pilot. Each mov- have the opportunity to go up a 30- ie lasts 20 minutes, which leaves time foot model. for exploring the center. When planning a visit to the Bush- Other highlights include a working plane Museum, a minimum of two hours lightning strike recorder, a reproduc- 2018 is recommended. While tours of the tion of a 1940s bush camp used by for- center’s exhibits and collection are self- est firefighting crews and an extensive guided, floor rangers are on hand to help. collection of vintage fire pumps and Season The two-hour time allows the floor railway speeders. 14 plays including rangers on duty to respond to ques- Canada’s leadership role in water- The Magician’s Nephew — tions and to help pick and choose based aircraft for fighting forest fires C.S. Lewis’ prequel to which exhibits and films to see. has its own exhibit area. The Province The Lion, the Witch and Wildfires: A 3-D Adventure takes of Ontario was an innovator in devel- the Wardrobe, the musical viewers to a raging forest fire. Students oping water bombing systems. Grand Hotel and The Hound are able to experience the sights, smells A flight simulator provides a choice of the Baskervilles, a and sounds as the CL-415 water bomb- of three four-minute flights over On- Sherlock Holmes mystery. tario, all from a five-seat cockpit. The CBHC “Women in Aviation” exhibit is dedicated to the story of female aviators, from early days of flying to space travel. The exhibit recounts the careers of many pilots from barnstorm- ers and bush flyers to Amelia Earhart and Dr. Roberta Bondar, Canada’s first female astronaut. There is ample parking on site for Tim Carroll, Artistic Director Tim Jennings, Executive Director motorcoaches. S Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON 1.800.511.SHAW Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre SHAWFEST.COM 705-945-6242 GregFrewinTheatre.com bushplane.com Client: SHAW FESTIVAL Publication: Group Tour Magazine Insertion Date: April Issue Size: 4.75 in x 2.25 in 66 SpringContact: 2018 [email protected] • GroupTour.com - Key Gordon Communications Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses.

CANADA

Witness rare art forms at Copper Art Studio & Museum Albert Gilles

Explore the dying art of repousse de-Beaupré, located 15 minutes from work at Copper Art Studio & Mu- Quebec City, to see the copper doors seum Albert Gilles in Chateau-Richer, and silver tabernacles that were created Quebec. by the Gilles family after visiting the Repousse (copper embossing) is a museum. technique involved in metalworking The company was founded in that shapes metal by hammering and 1927 by Gilles’ father, Albert. Albert’s working on the reverse side. creations can be found throughout “Student groups will be immersed Canada and the United States. It has into our copper world,” said Palmyre been a family-run operation since Gilles, vice president of public relations his death in 1979. Palmyre, her mom, and marketing for the museum. “We sisters, aunt and niece all work to keep invite them to participate in a copper his memory and work alive. art workshop, to feel and experience Springtime can get busy with our craft.” student groups visiting. Gilles recom- Exhibits in the museum share the mends contacting two–three months in atmosphere of a copper mine and dif- advance during this time. S ferent artifacts from around the world. Between the guided tour, copper Copper Art Studio repousse demonstration and the work- & Museum Albert Gilles shop, groups can expect to be there for 418-824-4224 PHOTO: COPPER ART STUDIO & MUSEUM ALBERT GILLES ALBERT STUDIO & MUSEUM ART COPPER PHOTO: one hour. Entry to the museum and the albertgilles-copper-art.com Copper Art Studio & Museum Albert Gilles, guided tour are free, but the workshop Quebec, Canada has a small fee that includes the cost of the copper sheet and tools. “Our Copper Art Workshop is a must for students,” Gilles said. “They go back home with unique memories and their own copper art creation. The visit is combined with the guided tour of our museum, giving information on copper and how it has worked in other countries.” PHOTO: COPPER ART STUDIO & MUSEUM ALBERT GILLES ALBERT STUDIO & MUSEUM ART COPPER PHOTO: Gilles recommends that groups stop GILLES ALBERT STUDIO & MUSEUM ART COPPER PHOTO: Copper Art Studio & Museum Albert Gilles, Copper Art Studio & Museum Albert Gilles, to visit the Basilica of Sainte-Anne- Quebec, Canada Quebec, Canada

68 Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. CANADA

Get a birds-eye view of the TORONTO Falls from Skylon Tower THEATRE

MAKING ITS TRIUMPHANT RETURN TO TORONTO

FEB 13 OCT 21 JUN 7 30 Royal Alexandra Princess of Wales Theatre Theatre

® WINNER OF 4 TONY AWARDS INCLUDING BEST MUSICAL REVIVAL Jose Llana and Laura Michelle Kelly in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The King and I. Photo by Matthew Murphy. & Hammerstein’s in Rodgers Jose Llana and Laura Michelle Kelly

PHOTO: SKYLON TOWER SKYLON PHOTO: JUN 20 AUG 5 JUL 10 AUG 12 Skylon Tower, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada Ed Mirvish Princess of Wales Theatre Theatre Student groups will be amazed by Skylon Tower has both indoor and Niagara Falls from atop the Skylon outdoor observation decks that give Tower. guests the opportunity to see 8,000 “Skylon Tower is the perfect stop square miles of Canada and the United for student group tours,” said Anita States. Witness the Falls, the Great Pang Hrepic, director of sales for Gorge, as well as skyline views of Buf- Skylon Tower. “We meet the guidelines falo, New York, and Toronto. of many school boards safety crite- The two dining options are the ria and the excursion is considered Revolving Dining Room and the Sum- AUG 9 19 BEGINS MAR 2019 Ed Mirvish Royal Alexandra an extension of their regular school mit Suite Restaurant where buffet-style Theatre Theatre program. From our observation decks, meals are served. our student groups will experience the Besides dining and the observation ENHANCE YOUR VISIT! power and majesty of Niagara Falls deck, Skylon Tower has other activities Educational Enrichment from 775 feet above the Niagara gorge. available. Opportunities They can explore the construction of “Student groups enjoy ending their Historical Theatre Tours our tower, read up on famous guests we visit with a stop on our amusements Workshops have welcomed to our Revolving Din- level, complete with rides, high-tech Study Guides Performance Opportunities ing Room over the years and uncover video games, air hockey tables and (For Choral Groups) other towers that are members of the mini bowling alley,” Pang Hrepic said. SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. World Federation of Great Towers from If students dine in the tower, the ADDED FEES MAY APPLY. our information panels located on our elevator ride and admission to the observation level.” observation deck are free. Groups take a 52-second ride to the Motorcoach parking is available at 416.593.4142 top in a glass enclosed exterior elevator Skylon Tower. S known as the “Yellow Bug.” After getting 1.800.724.6420 off the elevator, groups can eat a meal at Skylon Tower one of two on-site restaurants or head 905-356-2651 for a complete line-up of shows! directly to the observation decks. skylon.com

Visit grouptour.com/student-group-tour/previous-issues/ for more info about student-friendly destinations and businesses. Apr • May • Jun • Jul 69 - - is about a about is when he was 6 years old. Report old. 6 years was when he Less than an hour by train from from train by hour an Less than the area’s explore to arrive Visitors Shogunate under was the area When During a trip in 2010, President During in 2010, President a trip trip. Obama first visited Daibutsuthe visited first Obama trip. hat time, it had a population of 200,000 of a population had it time, hat Tokyo, Kamakura is a convenient day day a convenient is Kamakura Tokyo, Daibutsu The groups. for trip station. the train walk from seven-minute as well as the Zen temples sites, historic the for Others come Buddha. the Giant a Bay, Sagami on is beach. Kamakura youth. Japanese for spot surfing favorite con was it 12thrule century, in the late and was the fourth-largest city in the city the fourth-largest was and built the streets of Six world. known still in use. are theShogun under and Kamakura visited Obama Barack a return was It temple. the Kōtoku-in sidered the de facto capital of Japan. At At Japan. of the de facto capital sidered t - - - . The area’s architectural heritage is is heritage architectural area’s The This iconic Daibutsu Bud iconic This Great or carefully restored. st of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. Sites. Heritage World UNESCO’s of st f 1923, damaged temples and shrines shrines and temples f 1923, damaged hat have come to represent Japan in the Japan represent to come have hat founded centuries ago have since been since have ago centuries founded world’s collective imagination. The great The great imagination. collective world’s treasure. a national considered is bronze Great the Five to also home is Kamakura Kamakura or Gozan Zen Temples dev was the area of much Although astated in the Great Kantō earthquake earthquake Kantō in the Great astated o almost unmatched; the city has pro has the city unmatched; almost posed many locations be the added to locations posed many li ton Buddha did not. did Buddha ton the images few among arguably dha is t the 121- the tsunami, but but tsunami,

the forces of 15th-century of 15th-century forces the

Spend an afternoon with the Great Buddha the Great with afternoon an Spend

Located south of Tokyo, Japan, Japan, Located south of Tokyo, Kon’nichiwa Kamakura Kon’nichiwa Kōtoku-in temple. The structure fell to to fell structure The temple. Kōtoku-in Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com

Kamakura is a seaside city that doubles doubles that city is a seaside Kamakura festivals, its for Famous town. as a resort center political the once was Kamakura home the remains It Japan. of medieval The Buddha. Great the or Daibutsu to century, 13th the in cast was Buddha of rule for center the was area the when feet, 43-plus Rising class. samurai the the inside rested once likeness bronze the Kon’nichiwa Kamakura Kon’nichiwa Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka,70 Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, 71 Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Apr • May • Jun • Jul n Many dignitaries and heads of of heads and dignitaries Many

sculptor of the model for the Buddha is is the Buddha the model for of sculptor unknown. still in Buddha the Giant visited have state left have must They 800 years. the last did — revitalized, group my as feeling awestruck an like much and regrouped boy. 6-year-old Japan National Tourism Organization jnto.go.jp has appears Another , By MaryLu Laffey By Goroueman Ohno With the exception of a few spots spots a few of the exception With the at information to According name, among the records of the temple. He He the temple. of the records among for responsible the craftsman was the Daibutsu. of the casting in also appears lore. temple But the late afternoon sun. Its light filledIts light the sun. afternoon late I moved, as and the robe, of crevices then the face and across casted shadows hiding before shoulders its blanketed clouds. behind late-afternoon the gold ears, 6-foot the Buddha’s near the 43.8-foot covered once that leaf a second After away. worn had statue in the 15th century destroyed tsunami the Daibutsu temple, the physical now is it Weathered, outside. remained in color. verdigris more Hisatomo Tanji the name site, - - - - ne of the five the five of ne , o . The size of the size . The The Buddha is hollow and it is it pos and hollow is Buddha The My tour group arrived at the same the same at arrived group tour My The enormous bronze is a represen is a bronze enormous The People can read about the Buddha, the Buddha, about read can People Until I followed the meticulously the meticulously I followed Until ther. Like millions who have visited the visited whohave Like millions ther. wo doors into the interior. I chose to to I chose the interior. into doors wo tinerary when visiting Tokyo. Many go go Many tinerary Tokyo. when visiting Left Photo: Buddha, The Great Kamakura, Japan walk around the Buddha, following a following the Buddha, walk around Amida Buddha Amida of tation of the openness The Buddhas. wisdom such to the access and gardens, temple quite is symbol, religious and a historic — even rejuvenating. moving for curiosity, but at the end of the day, the day, of the end at but curiosity, for more. depart much with Their school children. of a group time as they as came a hush to quieted chatter the Daibutsu of in sight Buddha intimidates, but the gentleness the gentleness but intimidates, Buddha time. the same at the repose welcomes of site over the past eight centuries, I didn’t I didn’t centuries, eight the past over site expect. to what know invari and the setting of see images dha, I didn’t know why I was there there I was why know dha, I didn’t ei an on Kamakura to trip a day list ably i look through to a platform climb to sible t ers covering the visit weren’t certain if weren’t the visit covering ers or reminisce to there was the president personal thoughts on dwell to perhaps woodedin the tranquil setting. the Bud toward walkways landscaped Spend an afternoon with the Great Buddha the Great with afternoon an Spend Kon’nichiwa Kamakura Kon’nichiwa Kon’nichiwa Kamakura Kon’nichiwa Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, -

Built to commemorate Emperor Meiji Meiji Emperor commemorate to Built Step onto a Lake Ashi cruise to cruise a Lake to Ashi onto Step nd magnificent views of Mount Fuji Fuji Mount views of magnificent nd and his empress, the Meiji Shrine is one one is Shrine the Meiji empress, his and in shrines Shinto important the most of various bring festivals Yearly the country. Treasure and iris garden its to groups the Seven-Five-Three including House, arrive children in which young Festival in mini kimonos. dressed Mount Komagatake and into the misty the misty into and Komagatake Mount water Japanese a traditional of beauty make Hakone one of the prettiest the prettiest of one Hakone make city-weary Tokyoites. for destinations the once was Hakone point: History the to visitors for checkpoint feudal stay to all required with guns capital, all females and the borders outside in. stay to required Hang around for Hang around for Hakone excursion color. Peaceful lakes, stunning gardens gardens stunning lakes, Peaceful color. a - - - -

dinner. dinner.

tudents can burn off their own their off burn can tudents

The guided Tokyo sightseeing tour tour sightseeing Tokyo guidedThe temples, meets tranquil neon Jarring S Start with a whiff of miracu a whiffthe with Start Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Based Massachusetts, in Boston, cense smoke is said to have curative curative have to said is cense smoke nd museums provide a glimpse into into a glimpse provide museums nd ee what all of the buzz is about with a a with about is the buzz all of ee what rain to the arts capital of Kyoto to to Kyoto of the arts capital to rain o the emperor and his family and is is and family his and o the emperor includes a temple, palace, shrine, a tour a tour palace, shrine, a temple, includes tempura. and quietly with live choices radical fashion sprawling, Japan’s practiced traditions. cutting-edge combines capital chaotic culture, age-old technology an with grace energy a directed and generating but much of the surrounding gardens gardens the surrounding of much but a Japan Photo: Tokyo, Nightlife, therefore closed to the public, closed the public, to therefore as well (as Japan the imperial history of history. pop its of some local licensed guide. sacred where the Senso Temple, at lous in the Impe onto moving before powers, Say hello to Tokyo home is The palacerial complex Palace. t When in Japan, say hello to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka and Kyoto say Tokyo, to hello in Japan, When a attend and Temple the Kinkakuji visit 16th- Osaka’s then tour show, Kimono a traditional on dine castlecentury and Okonomiyaki to tours student several offers Explorica this one. including Japan tional tempura dinner, race on a bullet a bullet race on dinner, tempura tional t energy when exploring Japan’s neon- Japan’s energy when exploring a tradi Sample Tokyo. of filled capital ful drive unique to Tokyo. Students can can Students Tokyo. to ful unique drive s Spring 2018 • GroupTour.com 72 73 Apr • May • Jun • Jul - - sauce, akin sauce, n Photo: Castle, Osaka, Osaka Japan Okonomiyaki Osaka’s 16th-century the castle is Osaka’s

For dinner, students make their make students dinner, For ty of the temple. End the day with a with the day End the temple. ty of iew of Osaka.iew of to Inari, the main shrine of the god of the god of of shrine the main Inari, to red of see and the thousands business, their snake that gates, Japanese or torii, The the hill shrine. the inner to up way an visitors offers Temple Sanjusangendo main Its sight. unbelievable and unusual hallstatues filled is 1,000 life-size with Kan Armed the Thousand of soldiers of single most visited site in Japan. The The in Japan. site visited most single past historic the city’s castle maintains move buildings space-age even as Sky the Umeda At the future. Osaka into the Float to 550 feet climb Building, to Worcestershire. Add meat, shrimp shrimp meat, Add Worcestershire. to and flakes fish with Top octopus. or (dried seaweed). aornori Explorica, Inc. 888-310-7120 [email protected] explorica.com very own Japanese meal — a crispy and and meal — a crispy very Japanese own with topped pancake, cabbage savory mayonnaise, Kimono Show. Show. Kimono to Osaka On landmarks non, which stand to protect the main the main protect to which stand non, dei ing Garden Observatory for a bird’s-eye Observatory a bird’s-eye Garden ing for v

- - - Kyoto and OsakaKyoto Jump on the fastest train in the world in the world train the fastest on Jump With over 2,000 Buddhist temples temples 2,000 Buddhist over With Nara can be an eye-opening experi eye-opening be can an Nara isit the famous Zen Buddhist Temple Zen Temple Buddhist the famous isit uddha statue in Todai-ji was dedicated dedicated was in Todai-ji uddha statue ses aviation technology to decrease technology to ses aviation nd painting them in (the original painting nd and zip to Kyoto. The Shinkansen “bul Shinkansen The Kyoto. to zip and let” train can travel up to 200 mph and and 200 mph to up travel can train let” u Kinkakuji, or Golden Temple. It gets gets It Golden Temple. or Kinkakuji, that gold leaf the pure from name its floors. two Continue the top covers paintbrush remains at the temple). the temple). at remains paintbrush brush allowed the off dangling Strings hang to the ground on the dignitaries in the The action. participate and on at continues better” is “more sense of bronze a thousand where Shrine, Kasuga the building. from hang lanterns the of one as shines Kyoto shrines, and in A.D. 752 by having a priest symboli a priest having 752 by in A.D. ence. The enormous 50-foot bronze bronze 50-foot enormous The ence. B up scrambling by eyes” his cally “open a in Japan. best-preserved cities Imperial V wind resistance and noise, ensuring a ensuring noise, and resistance wind — ride. fast — and comfortable safe, Off to Kyoto via Shinkansen train bullet

Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, Hai, Arigatou, Sayounara, Sumimasen, Doko, desuka, When in Japan, say hello to Tokyo, say Tokyo, to hello in Japan, When Lounge RILEY Generation Next founder BANKS-SNYDER changes lives in East Africa

Riley Banks-Snyder has touched more lives in 21 years than most do in a lifetime. She owns a nonprofit organization, Generation Next, that has supplied thousands of backpacks and hygiene kits to students in Kenya. She also founded a Kenyan primary school; runs a thrift store in Branson, Missouri; won the 2015 Visionary Award from the Student & Youth Trav-

el Association; and wrote a published BANKS-SNYDER RILEY PHOTO: book, Riley Unlikely, about starting Riley Banks-Snyder with students, Kenya her own nonprofit. It all began at age 13, when Banks- Q. How did you become interest- hygiene and school kits. In the near Snyder saw her aunt and uncle serv- future, I plan on living in Kenya with ing with Doctors Without Borders in ed in serving Kenyan students? my husband. Kenya. She and her father fundraised A. When I first visited Kenya, I was We own a 5,000-square-foot com- to serve alongside them, and spent a baffled at the lack of learning equip- munity center with a small apartment week at Mosop Orphanage, where they ment. Every student at a table shared one upstairs, where we plan to live. The taught English to elementary students. stubby pencil. School in Kenya is not free, community center has 6 acres to farm Her vision for East African students has so even if a family is lucky enough to for feeding programs, as well as sewing only soared from there. scrape up the money to send their child programs for single women. Associate Editor Cortney Erndt and to school, many don’t have enough left Banks-Snyder discussed Generation for the supplies needed to be successful. Q. How can educators inspire Next and its plans to continue support- So, Generation Next started after students to participate in ing Kenyan education. my first trip, founded on the idea of collecting school supplies. However, it philanthropy? grew far more than I ever dreamed it A. Teachers have so many resources at would. Pamoja school now provides their disposal to help students figure free education to 103 students! out ways to get involved. Educators should get excited with them and let Q. What is your vision for stu- them know they are rooting for them. dents in developing countries? I was the quiet, shy girl no one expected anything from. The unknown is A. I really have a vision of hope. I feel scary, but having someone walk along- that with programs and strategies like side you during the process helps ease we are doing, we can help this genera- the anxiety of trying something new. tion of kids have a leg up. The process Be willing and able to step out of keeps growing exponentially with your comfort zone; it is a good place to each new generation becoming more be every now and again — you learn a independent and more stable than the lot about yourself, as well as the rest of last; that is where the name Generation the world. S Next came from.

We are already working to expand Generation Next Pamoja school so we may have the ca- 417-365-0084

PHOTO: RILEY BANKS-SNYDER RILEY PHOTO: pacity to allow more students to come, [email protected] Riley Unlikely cover and we are continuing to hand out our generationnextcares.org

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Apr • May • Jun • Jul 75 Enjoy Eagan Minnesota

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