The Group Travel Leader November/December 2025

KEVIN COSTNER’S ORIGINAL DEADWOOD TOUR

Climb aboard for a Deadwood adventure and be captivated by this historic town’s colorful past. Our 1-hour, live-narrated tour travels down cobblestone streets and up to Mt. Moriah Cemetery. Come hear the history that made the Old West fun! Call for group rates. Additional savings when booking with Tatanka.

⮚ 605.584.5678 • DeadwoodTour.com

KEVIN COSTNER’S TATANKA STORY OF THE BISON

60 million bison once roamed the Great Plains. By 1890, less than 1,000 survived. This is their Story! Learn how the eradication of one animal destroyed the way of life for the Northern Plains people. The spectacular, larger than life bronze sculpture includes 17 pieces creating a “Buffalo Jump.”

⮚ 605.584.5678 • StoryOfTheBison.com

THE MAMMOTH SITE OF HOT SPRINGS

We Dig Big! Discover this indoor active paleontological dig site as you tour the edges of a sinkhole where mammoths and other species became trapped more than 140,000 years ago. Perfect for groups and buses.

⮚ 605.745.6017 • MammothSite.org

IRON MOUNTAIN ROAD VISITOR CENTER & STORE

The Iron Mountain Road Visitor Center & Store, halfway along the 17-mile scenic drive, invites motorcoaches to stop. Shop souvenirs, savor locally roasted coffee, snap a photo by our sign, and come and find out for yourself what makes the Black Hills so special.

⮚ 605.666.4609 • IronMountainRoad.com

DOUBLETREE RAPID CITY DOWNTOWN

Stay downtown at DoubleTree by Hilton Rapid City Downtown Convention Center. Enjoy cozy rooms, on-site dining, multiple meeting space options, a warm cookie, and free motorcoach parking. Conveniently located near Downtown Rapid City, the Monument Event Center, Mount Rushmore, and the airport.

⮚ 605.348.4000 • bit.ly/DoubleTreeRapidCity

PIZZA RANCH

Two convenient Rapid City locations ready to host groups big or small! Our Legendary Buffet has a fresh salad bar, endless variety of pizza, The Country’s Best Chicken® with all the fixins and our delicious dessert pizza with ice cream! We will help you refuel after a day of travel!

⮚ 605-791-5255 • bit.ly/RCSouthPizzaRanch

WHERE THE MOTHER ROAD Meetsthe River Road

Celebrate 100 years of road tripping in the only place in America where the Mother Road of Route 66 meets the scenic beauty of the Great River Road. Follow the neon signs to the It’s Electric Neon Sign Park, dine at historic Route 66 roadside cafes, take a walk through the river bluffs and prairies and relax with a glass of locally crafted wine beside the Mighty Mississippi River.

Your one-of-a-kind adventure begins at www.RiversandRoutes.com.

BY BRIAN JEWELL

Imagine you receive invitations to two different parties scheduled for the same day. You can attend only one. Which will you choose?

In deciding, you might think about where each party will take place, who will be there or what kind of food they’re likely to serve. But along the way, you’re also going to ask yourself a key question: Who is the host?

A host can make or break a party. A skilled and gracious host can make a low-cost, last-minute get-together the highlight of the year. And a disorganized, bumbling host can make even a fancy soiree feel awkward and interminable.

The same is true in travel — hosting is an important part of a travel leader’s job. Here are five habits of great hosts that you should employ on your group trips.

1) Set Expectations

If you have ever arrived underdressed for a formal affair, it may be because the host didn’t effectively communicate what kind of party they were throwing. A good host tells guests what to expect in advance so they can prepare themselves well. This makes the guests more comfortable and the event more enjoyable. In travel, you should not only prepare guests for what to pack, but also help them understand whether a destination is a good fit for them.

2) Make Introductions

For some people, walking into a room full of strangers is invigorating. But for many others, it’s intimidating at best. A good host knows this and works hard to make people feel welcome by introducing them to other guests. Simple introductions are good, but thoughtful ones — in which the host helps guests connect with others who have similar interests or compatible personalities — are ideal. On a group trip, you should make sure every guest finds their place and feels like they have a friend.

EDITOR’S MARKS

3) Keep the Conversation Going

An uncomfortable lapse in conversation can stiffen the mood at a dinner party or even lead guests to gather their things and start their goodbyes. Great hosts avoid this at all costs. They don’t dominate conversations but are prepared to jump in and smooth out rough patches or offer new topics if things get awkward. The same is true on trips. Your guests don’t want to hear you talk all the time, but they do want you to shoulder the responsibility of keeping things social.

4) Anticipate Needs

A great host goes to great lengths to ensure their guests have a great time. To do so, they anticipate needs that are likely to come up, both in the planning process and on the day of the event. They make sure there’s plenty of parking and that every cup is refilled before it runs empty. Excellent trip hosts do the same thing, making contingency plans, keeping supplies on hand and solving problems before their guests are even aware anything is awry.

5) Plan Surprises

For truly memorable events, experienced hosts include treats that their guests don’t know about beforehand — a special food or drink, a surprise musical performance, a thoughtful party favor, etc. Experienced travel professionals do the same thing. Every trip should include elements of surprise and delight. A customer may initially come on a trip because they’re interested in what’s listed in the itinerary, but fun surprises and memorable moments will keep them returning for more.

DON’T MISS SELECT TRAVELER CONFERENCE IN HISTORIC WILLIAMSBURG

SALEM, Ohio The 2026 Select Traveler Conference (STC) is headed to historic Williamsburg, Virginia, February 15-17. Promising to be one of the most dynamic gatherings for upscale group travel planners and travel industry professionals, STC will be hosted at the elegant Williamsburg Lodge. This event blends business, networking and inspiration in one unforgettable setting.

For group leaders and travel planners, the Select Traveler Conference is your opportunity to connect with destinations, hotels, attractions and tour operators eager to host your groups. You’ll gain fresh ideas, discover new travel products and learn strategies to enhance your members’ experiences. From curated educational sessions to one-on-one marketplace appointments, every moment is designed to help you grow your travel program and better serve your travelers.

For travel industry representatives, STC offers unmatched access to qualified group leaders who plan upscale trips for alumni, affinity and bank travel programs from across the country. This is your chance to build relationships with key decision-makers who influence where groups go and how they travel.

Beyond business, attendees will experience Williamsburg’s timeless charm. Colonial history, modern hospitality and genuine Southern warmth make it the perfect host city.

Don’t miss out! Call or email Cassandra Blankenship today at 800-628-0993 or cblankenship@grouptravelfamily.com to secure your spot.

Select Traveler Conference attendees can enjoy the historic sites and modern amenities in host city Williamsburg and nearby destinations in Virginia’s Historic Triangle.

essentialsGroup Travel

BY LENA BLESSING

On group trips, everyone wants plenty of time to enjoy their favorite stop on the itinerary.

There’s only one problem with that — the bigger your group is, the more slowly they move. And that means they’re likely to fall behind schedule. Running a tour on time is not just a best practice; it’s essential to help deliver on the promises you made to every customer. It also makes for a less stressful environment for everyone involved.

Here are five tips for keeping your group trips on time:

Start planning early

Planning out your time before you leave is a great way to prepare your group to get where they need to be, when they need to be there. While it may be tempting to squeeze everything you can think of into your itinerary, this can put you in impossible situations, as delays inevitably occur. Instead, build in buffer time at each location as well as extra time for getting from one stop to the next. This way everyone can enjoy each site, meal and activity to the fullest extent. A good rule of thumb is to add 20%-25% more time for a group itinerary than you would ordinarily spend if you were traveling on your own. And, if you have never been to the destination before, don’t be afraid to rely on local tourism professionals or an external agency for timing guidance.

Build in restroom breaks

When nature calls, there is nothing you can do but accommodate it. Building plenty of restroom breaks into your itinerary will help keep you from falling behind schedule or making unplanned stops. You should allow time for comfort stops when arriving at — and before leaving — each site. On the motorcoach, it’s important to make a stop if you’re traveling longer than an hour and a half. These stops can be attractions in themselves, like a cute shop, a place to grab a snack or a simple rest area on the way to the next activity.

Brief your driver daily

Motorcoach drivers know a lot, but they don’t know everything. That’s why it is important to brief them about the day’s travel plans every morning or even the night before. Doing so gives them time to prepare directions in advance if they need to avoid unexpected delays like traffic jams and road construction. Your driver can also give you an itinerary reality check. Let them know when your group needs to be at each stop so they can tell you if something on the schedule is unrealistic.

Sometimes accidents happen, but if you notice someone in your group is consistently late, it’s important to address the issue in a discreet, diplomatic manner. You should avoid talking to them about this in front of the group. Instead, pull them off to the side or find a moment alone with them to chat. Sometimes the solution is simple, like giving them a new copy of the itinerary or sending them a text when departure time is approaching, while other situations may require stronger measures. Always frame the conversation in a service-based tone and offer a solution to the problem. Asking “would it be helpful if” and giving tips and suggestions can solve the problem without making the customer feel bad. Set expectations with your customers 4 5

As a group leader, it’s your job to create a vision for a great trip, and part of that vision should be timeliness. It’s important to talk to your group about staying on time during the trip. Try to frame this goal in a positive light to avoid making people feel embarrassed or called out. A great time to mention punctuality is during a pre-departure meeting. Set your expectations, distribute the itinerary and allow people to ask questions. Then, once your group has arrived at the trip’s departure point, mention it again. You may want to give reminders via texts throughout the day, and you should make sure every customer has a digital version of the itinerary, too. Most of the time, these simple things will help keep the group on time.

Pay attention to stragglers

“I loved the welcoming, hospitable, friendly atmosphere in all the cities and places we visited. Alabama really surprised me. It was a jam-packed itinerary, and I wouldn’t change a thing.”

— JENNIFER HOLMES JOYOUS JOURNEYS

ONSITE IN ALABAMA

ICONIC VOICES RESONATE WITH GROUPS TOURING THE STATE

IN ALABAMA, EVERY CITY AND TOWN SINGS WITH A VOICE OF ITS OWN.

That’s what 15 tour operator and travel planner readers of The Group Travel Leader discovered during a five-day familiarization tour to some of Alabama’s most popular destinations early this fall. Hosted by the Alabama Tourism Department, this tour showcased the musicians, dreamers, creatives and activists who have given the state its unique character and inspired some of its most important events.

During the trip, participants visited Huntsville, a high-tech city in Northern Alabama, before traveling south to Tuscumbia, Florence and the Muscle Shoals area, which was the epicenter of Alabama music in the 20th century. They ended the tour in Birmingham, exploring the city’s notable Civil Rights heritage, international cuisine and memorable music.

Follow along on this itinerary to start planning an Alabama tour for your groups.

1 Day

• ARRIVAL IN HUNTSVILLE

• THE ORION AMPHITHEATER

• STOVEHOUSE

• CAMPUS NO. 805

• DINNER AT RHYTHM ON MONROE

Tour planners from around the United States flew and drove to Huntsville, the second-largest city in Alabama. After meeting at the Embassy Suites Huntsville, which would be their home for the night, they toured The Orion Amphitheater, a beautiful outdoor performance venue, then explored Stovehouse, a former factory complex that has been repurposed into a hip dining, retail and entertainment district. Next was Campus No. 805, a former school that has also been repurposed for fun and games, followed by a reception at the hotel. They ended the day with a quick stop at Mars Music Hall and a wonderful dinner at the adjacent Rhythm on Monroe.

THE ORION AMPHITHEATER

With more than 33 major concerts and 97 cultural events per year, The Orion Amphitheater is the center of Huntsville’s performing arts scene. The 8,000-seat venue is owned by the city of Huntsville and managed by an organization founded by a Mumford & Sons alum. The group took a behind-the-scenes tour, including a photo op on the stage, and had a chance to sample some of the locally made ingredients used in the venue’s signature cocktails.

STOVEHOUSE

Built in the 1920s as a factory manufacturing kitchen stoves, the area that is now known as Stovehouse went through several industrial uses before being redeveloped by a local couple. Today, it’s home to retail boutiques, a food garden and several lively event spaces. The FAM group enjoyed a sip of sparkling wine and craft coffee from a Stovehouse shop before touring other highlights of the 220,000-square-foot facility.

CAMPUS NO. 805

In 2014, local developers transformed a former middle and high school building into Campus No. 805, a 13-acre site with 19 tenants ranging from bars and a brewery to a music venue, a salsa club and a laser show company. The group toured the space and walked through Straight to Ale Brewery, the campus’s largest tenant, where they enjoyed seeing the beer production area and a signature speakeasy hidden behind a set of school lockers.

2 Day

• U.S. SPACE AND ROCKET CENTER

• HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN

• LOWE MILL ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

• BURRITT ON THE MOUNTAIN

• DEPART FOR TUSCUMBIA

• DINNER AT RATTLESNAKE SALOON

The second day of the trip began with a tour of Huntsville’s U.S. Space and Rocket Center, the most visited attraction in Alabama. From there, the group went to Huntsville Botanical Garden, where they enjoyed a tour of the beautiful grounds and an on-site lunch. Next was a tour and a cigar-box guitar lesson at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment, another industrial reuse venue. The group ended their time in Huntsville with a visit to the historic home and village overlooking the city at Burritt on the Mountain. From there, they made the two-hour journey south to Tuscumbia, where they enjoyed a delicious dinner — and live music from a pair of Muscle Shoals all-star performers — at Rattlesnake Saloon, a unique restaurant located inside a cave. They ended the day at Renaissance Shoals Resort & Spa, a newly renovated property honoring the area’s musical heritage.

U.S. SPACE AND ROCKET CENTER

A 500-foot-tall replica of a Saturn V rocket stands outside the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, the world’s largest space museum. Inside, guests got to see a real Saturn V — one of hundreds of space artifacts on display — during tours guided by former NASA employees. Other highlights include an Apollo lunar landing module, a moon rock and a planetarium with fascinating interactive shows. The center is also home to the world-famous Space Camp program for students.

HUNTSVILLE BOTANICAL GARDEN

Opened in 1986 by a group of 12 local residents who petitioned the city for land, Huntsville Botanical Garden has become one of the most beautiful sites in town. Across its 118 acres, visitors see beautiful floral displays, water features, and gorgeous live oaks and crape myrtles. There’s also a conservatory, a seasonal butterfly house and a rock garden maze with a giant troll created by world-famous Danish sculptor Thomas Dambo.

“Dinner at the Rattlesnake Saloon and lunch at Champy’s were great — I love the local spots!”

—

KATHY READY READY TRAVEL

LOWE MILL ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The area known as Lowe Mill had multiple industrial uses throughout the 20th century. Today, though, it is home to Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment, the largest privately owned artists community in the United States. Visitors can attend workshops specializing in everything from painting to puppets, with opportunities to meet the artists and purchase their creations. After a tour, the FAM group had a wonderful hands-on music lesson with a couple that crafts guitars from old cigar boxes.

BURRITT ON THE MOUNTAIN

In the 1930s, an eccentric doctor named William Burritt purchased 167 acres on top of Round Top Mountain overlooking Huntsville and built a home there. Today, that site is preserved as Burritt on the Mountain, where visitors can tour the one-of-a-kind X-shaped house and a collection of other historic buildings brought to the site. Groups can also see live farm animals, a restored historic schoolhouse and beautiful views of the city below.

3 Day

• FAME RECORDING

STUDIOS

• MUSCLE SHOALS SOUND STUDIO

• ALABAMA MUSIC HALL OF FAME

• LUNCH AT CHAMPY’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN

“The theme ‘Iconic Voices’ rang very true, and I love a theme! The cigar box guitar experience in Huntsville was my favorite.”

— LAURA SCARBOROUGH

ART HENRY TOURS

• W.C. HANDY BIRTHPLACE, MUSEUM & LIBRARY

• HELEN KELLER BIRTHPLACE (IVY GREEN)

• DEPART FOR BIRMINGHAM

• DINNER AND TOUR AT VULCAN PARK & MUSEUM

Music history dominated the morning activities on the third day of the trip. The group made back-to-back visits to FAME Recording Studios and Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, the two major sites where dozens of hits were recorded in Alabama. Next came a visit to the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, followed by a fried chicken lunch. They wrapped up their time in the area with visits to the birthplaces of W.C. Handy, known as the “Father of the Blues,” and Helen Keller. The group then took a two-hour drive south to Birmingham, where they caught sunset views and a private dinner at the city’s famous Vulcan Park & Museum.

FAME RECORDING STUDIOS

In the 1960s and ’70s, music legends such as Aretha Franklin, Etta James, The Osmonds and The Allman Brothers recorded

massive hits at FAME Recording Studios in the sleepy town of Muscle Shoals. Today, the studios are both an active recording space and a destination for music lovers, who can tour the studio spaces and hear the stories of founder Rick Hall and the many legendary artists who recorded there.

MUSCLE SHOALS SOUND STUDIO

After several years of working at FAME, a group of session musicians known as the Swampers moved across town to open Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, where they played on tracks recorded by luminaries such as Cher, Bob Seger and Paul Simon. Though their operation has since moved to other areas, the original nondescript studio building has been restored to its 1970s heyday and offers a detailed took into the area’s music history.

ALABAMA MUSIC HALL OF FAME

More than 80 musicians who were born in Alabama — or who lived at least 30 years there — have been inducted into the Alabama Music Hall of Fame. At the museum in Tuscumbia, visitors can learn about these musicians, ranging from W.C. Handy to Percy Sledge and Hank Williams, and see instruments, gold records and other memorabilia from their careers. The group especially enjoyed walking through one of the museum’s main exhibits: the first tour bus used by the country band Alabama.

W.C. HANDY BIRTHPLACE, MUSEUM & LIBRARY

In 1873, a baby boy named William Christopher Handy was born to a formerly enslaved man and his wife in a two-room cabin in Florence. W.C. Handy grew up to become one of the most prolific musicians and composers of the early 20th century and is now regarded by music historians as the “Father of the Blues.” The group visited that cabin, which is now preserved as a historic site with an adjacent museum, and learned about Handy’s life and legacy.

HELEN KELLER BIRTHPLACE

For decades, young students around the country have been inspired by the story of Helen Keller, the girl born deaf and blind who grew up to become an influential speaker, writer and advocate. Groups traveling in Tuscumbia can visit Ivy Green, the home where Keller was born and lived her early life. During the visit, they’ll see the family water pump and other sites made famous in “The Miracle Worker,” the story of Keller and her lifelong aide and teacher, Anne Sullivan.

VULCAN PARK & MUSEUM

Standing on Red Mountain overlooking the city, a massive statue of the Roman god Vulcan has become an iconic Birmingham landmark. Built in 1904 for the World’s Fair, the 56-foot-tall sculpture is the world’s largest cast-iron statue. In the on-site museum, visitors learn about Brimingham’s history in industrial metalwork, as well as its Civil Rights history. The group enjoyed a private catered dinner in the museum and met an Olympic gold medalist who now works there.

4 Day

• GOSPEL & GRITS AT 16TH STREET BAPTIST CHURCH

• BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE

• KELLY INGRAM PARK AND A.G. GASTON MOTEL

• ALABAMA JAZZ HALL OF FAME

• GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL AT HOLY TRINITY-HOLY CROSS GREEK ORTHODOX CATHEDRAL

• COOKING BY KESSLER AT GRAND BOHEMIAN MOUNTAIN BROOK HOTEL

The entire fourth day of the trip took place in Birmingham. The morning began with an unforgettable musical performance, followed by breakfast and a tour at 16th Street Baptist Church, one of the city’s most important Civil Rights sites. The group then toured the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and explored more Civil Rights history at the nearby Kelly Ingram Park and A.G. Gaston Motel. They then took advantage of a Greek food festival for a traditional meal and a tour at Holy Trinity-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral. After some time to refresh at the Hampton Inn Downtown Tutwiler, they headed to the Grand Bohemian Mountain Brook Hotel for an elegant cooking class and dinner experience.

16TH STREET BAPTIST CHURCH

On a Sunday morning in 1963, white supremacists planted a bomb outside of 16th Street Baptist Church, one of Birmingham’s most historic Black congregations. The bomb exploded, killing four girls. The tragedy caught the eyes of the nation and helped galvanize the growing Civil Rights Movement. During their visit, the FAM group heard a performance by the Birmingham Youth & Young Adult Fellowship Choir, which was fresh from appearing on America’s Got Talent, then enjoyed a catered breakfast and a tour of the sacred site.

BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE

Next door to the church, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute immerses visitors in the issues of the Civil Rights Movement and the role that Birmingham played in the events. Visitors see displays illustrating the injustices of segregation; touch the bars from behind which Martin Luther King Jr. penned his famous “Letter from a Birmingham Jail”; and learn about the leaders and everyday activists from across the state whose courage helped to make civil rights a reality for Black citizens.

“My favorite was the 16th Street Baptist Church, with a second favorite of the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.”

— GLENN FOUNTAIN

AMERICAN HISTORY TOURS

KELLY INGRAM PARK AND A.G. GASTON MOTEL

Just outside the church and Civil Rights Institute, Kelly Ingram Park was the site of a 1963 Civil Rights march that turned violent when police unleashed water cannons and dogs on demonstrators. Today, the park has statues honoring the victims of the church bombing, as well as other sculptures and monuments telling stories of the struggle. The FAM group walked through the park with a guide and visited the adjacent A.G. Gaston Motel, which preserves the site of a business owned by a local Black luminary and Civil Rights supporter.

ALABAMA JAZZ HALL OF FAME

Located in the historic Carver Theatre, the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame memorializes the role that Alabama musicians have played in creating America’s native art form. Inductees include Lionel Hampton, Dinah Washington, Harry Belafonte and Ella Fitzgerald. The museum’s small gallery includes dioramas, instruments and memorabilia, including one of Fitzgerald’s stage dresses and a shirt worn by Belafonte.

• JAZZ BREAKFAST AT UPTOWN JAZZ LOUNGE

• DEPART FOR HOME

The FAM group spent their final morning together enjoying a catered breakfast and a private performance at Uptown Jazz Lounge, a venue known for its exciting schedule of live jazz music throughout the week. The featured artist was Ashley Sankey, granddaughter of pioneering gospel singer Katie Sankey, who performed a mix of jazz classics and original songs with the accompaniment of a keyboard player and drummer. After eating, dancing and enjoying the music, the group members said their goodbyes and began their journeys home with the sounds of Alabama’s iconic voices still ringing in their hearts.

DeckWHAT’S

A rendering of a Celebrity River Cruises balcony stateroom

THERE’S NO END TO INNOVATION IN CRUISING

BY RACHEL CRICK

Wide open oceans, winding rivers with castle views and luxurious onboard amenities put cruises on travel bucket lists everywhere. Many groups choose cruising to pack multiple destinations into one trip — and to cut down on the hotel hopping and room rates.

Because cruising is an ever-evolving industry, adapting to meet the growing demands of passengers, there’s always industry news to keep up with. From shiny new vessels to en vogue itineraries, here’s what’s new in the world of cruising.

AmaWaterways Expanding European Fleet

Thanks to upscale amenities, intimate settings and itineraries featuring multiple countries, river cruising is booming. More groups than ever before are chartering ships for beautiful, culturally immersive trips on the world’s rivers. AmaWaterways, one of the top river cruising companies in Europe, announced in September it would be adding eight additional ships to its European fleet. Founded in 2002, the company is known for its delicious cuisine, tasteful staterooms (many of which include balconies) and onboard programming, including wellness activities that let passengers enjoy active excursions or onboard exercise classes.

The addition of eight new ships will bring the fleet up to 40, more than doubling its size in 2020. In early 2025, the cruise line introduced the AmaMagdalena and AmaMelodia, which will be sailing Colombia’s Magdalena River. The newest European ships are estimated to be delivered by 2030.

AMAWATERWAYS.COM

Royal Caribbean Reveals New Class of Ships

When it comes to large-ship ocean cruising, no one does it bigger than Royal Caribbean. The cruise line, founded in 1969, features 29 ships that have taken over 100 million guests to 300-plus ports around the world. In 2024, it debuted the Icon of the Seas, the world’s larest cruise ship, complete with eight onboard neighborhoods and a capacity for 7,600 passengers and more than 2,300 crew members. Two additional “Icon Class” ships, Star of the Seas and Legend of the Seas, are expected to debut in 2025 and 2026, respectively. But that doesn’t mean Royal Caribbean’s future will exclusively be dedicated to these mammoth ships.

Recently, the company confirmed plans to launch a smaller class of cruise ships, known as the Discovery Class. While specifics about this new class have yet to be released, it’s been hinted that they will focus on “discovering” new, exotic itineraries at smaller ports, which wasn’t possible for the Icon Class. Ports in the South Pacific, Asia, South America and Northern Europe are possible destinations. More concrete information about the Discovery Class is expected to be released in the final months of 2025 or early 2026.

ROYALCARIBBEAN.COM

Celebrity Enters River Cruise Market

One of the biggest names in the cruise industry, Celebrity Cruises, is entering a new market. Owned by the Royal Caribbean Group, Celebrity is known for its chic, modern ships, elevated onboard cuisine and upscale experiences. Now, it’s taking all the hallmarks of its ocean cruises to Europe’s rivers. The cruise line announced in early 2025 that it would be debuting Celebrity River

Cruises starting in the 2027 season with an initial order of 10 ships. Since its original announcement, the brand has released details about the vessels, which will sail on the Danube and Rhine rivers, as well as the overall onboard experience.

Staterooms will be full of natural light and stocked with king beds, and some suites will offer balconies. Up to eight onboard restaurants and bars will give guests plenty of dining options to choose from. The itineraries will be seven nights and will include exclusive cultural experiences. Pre- and post-cruise stays will be available to book in early 2026. Priority booking for the vessels Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker began in October.

CELEBRITYCRUISES.COM

Viking Debuts India River Ship

Known for its river and expedition cruises, Viking is one of the world’s leading small ship cruise lines. Founded in 1997, it is a great option for mature travelers and offers upscale, luxurious ships and excellent service. Viking operates a fleet of 90-plus vessels on trips to all seven continents. Now it’s bringing river cruising to India with the Viking Brahmaputra, a triple-deck, 80-passenger vessel. Each of its 40 staterooms

VIKING IS BRINGING RIVER CRUISING TO INDIA WITH THE VIKING BRAHMAPUTRA, A TRIPLE-DECK, 80-PASSENGER VESSEL. EACH OF ITS 40 STATEROOMS WILL INCLUDE FLOORTO-CEILING SLIDING GLASS DOORS AND A VERANDA.

will include floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors and a veranda; there will be an onboard spa and fitness center, as well as an open-air sky deck on the top level. The eight-day Wonders of India itinerary will begin and end in Delhi and will include hotel stays in Agra and Jaipur. The vessel will sail on the Brahmaputra River, while land excursions will include 13 tours with stops at as many as 10 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Passengers will have the opportunity to see the Taj Majal, India’s Golden Triangle, the Palace of Winds and Old Delhi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions offered include two nights in Delhi, three nights in Dubai, four nights in Kathmandu, or five nights in Cochin and Mumbai. The vessel will sail in late 2027.

Carbon Neutral Cruising Planned with Hurtigruten

Industry trends show a growing preference for sustainable travel, especially among younger generations. From tour operators to large cruise lines, the travel industry is making changes to oblige the eco-conscious traveler. Hurtigruten, a Norwegian company that transports everything from cargo to international visitors across 34 Norwegian ports, is no exception. The company takes travelers along the Norwegian coast onboard 10 custom ships and incorporates culturally authentic

Norwegian experiences for passengers to enjoy. The company is also notable for its sustainability efforts, including Sea Zero, an initiative to sail without emissions. Hurtigruten is making progress on this front with its fleet, which contains four hybrid ships. One of these recently made history by hosting the first-ever climate neutral biofuel sailing in October. The 485-passenger MS Richard With sailed from Bergen to Kirkenes and back, powered by HVO100, a hydrotreated vegetable oil, and shore power. The ship covered nearly 2,500 miles, setting the stage for future biofueled expeditions.

HURTIGRUTEN.COM

Solar Eclipse Itineraries to be Offered by Carnival and Others

Total solar eclipses are a beloved phenomenon worldwide, with travelers flocking to the path of totality (or as close to it as they can get) by the millions. Destinations along that path see a massive uptick in tourism during the projected dates, but one way to conveniently see the eclipse at totality is onboard a cruise. With three total solar eclipses expected in the next three years, many cruise lines are giving passengers the incredible opportunity. Carnival recently added a July 2027 11-day voyage through the Caribbean to view an early August eclipse from its vessel Carnival Miracle. This mid-sized Carnival ship can hold

Carnival Legend docking in Ireland

over 2,000 passengers and features plentiful onboard amenities. But Carnival is far from the only cruise line to add eclipse sailings. Many other big names in the cruising industry are already selling trips for the 2026 solar eclipse that’s going to arc over the Arctic Ocean, Greenland, Iceland and parts of Spain. Royal Caribbean, Holland America Line, Celebrity, Princess Cruises, Virgin Voyages and Oceania Cruises offer multiple itineraries to let guests onboard witness the eclipse. Smaller expedition cruise lines like Aurora Expeditions and HX Expeditions will also offer itineraries.

CARNIVAL.COM

SOUTH DAKOTA

By Diana Bocco

From granite-carved presidents to sweeping prai rie landscapes, South Dakota delivers an unexpected mix of American history, natural beauty and quirky roadside charm.

Groups come for the big names — Mount Rushmore, Badlands, Custer State Park — but end up falling in love with the stories tucked into small towns, the welcome of wide-open spaces and meals that reflect a hearty frontier spirit. Whether it’s watching bison thunder across rolling hills, exploring new cultural attractions or bedding down in historic hotels that whisper tales of the Wild West, South Dakota offers groups a travel experience packed with history, character and wide-open wonder.

Here’s a look at the can’t-miss classics, brand-new experiences, and where to stay and eat along the way.

The Black Hills Pow Wow in Rapid City gathers Indigenous people from throughout North America.

POPULAR DEMAND

MOUNT RUSHMORE NATIONAL MEMORIAL

Few American landmarks are as iconic as Mount Rushmore. The massive granite faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln draw millions each year, and group travelers can explore the visitor center, museum exhibits and scenic trails that give fresh perspectives on the monument. Evening lighting ceremonies add a sense of drama, while ranger talks bring history to life. Many visitors also hike or drive to nearby Black Elk Peak, the highest point east of the Rockies, for sweeping views of the Black Hills. Beyond the photo ops, it’s a powerful reminder of national identity and the sheer scale of American ambition carved right into the mountains.

BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK

Eerie rock spires, rainbow-striped buttes and sweeping grasslands make the Badlands one of the state’s most unforgettable landscapes. The park is rich in wildlife — bison, bighorn sheep and prairie dogs — and equally rich in prehistoric fossils, with ranger-led programs that explore its ancient past. The Loop Road provides easy access for motorcoaches, with overlooks and short trails that make it ideal for groups. Sylvan Lake, about two hours away at Custer State Park, is worth the trip for picnics and day hikes. Visitors can stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to see fossil displays and watch paleontologists at work; walk the Door Trail for close-up views of eroded cliffs; or join a night-sky program to take in the Milky Way under one of the darkest skies in the country.

DEADWOOD’S WILD WEST LEGACY

History comes alive in Deadwood, where Gold Rush legends still echo through its brick-lined streets. Once home to figures like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, the town blends its frontier past with modern-day fun. Groups can tour the Adams Museum for stories of boomtown life; ride the Deadwood Stagecoach; or visit Mount Moriah Cemetery to pay respects to the town’s most famous residents. After dark, live music, gaming halls and old-style saloons keep the spirit of the Wild West going strong.

UP AND COMING

NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

South Dakota’s tourism story is evolving to spotlight Native voices, and groups can now engage in more immersive cultural programs. From visiting the still-developing Crazy Horse Memorial to exploring the Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center in Chamberlain, travelers can gain insight into Lakota heritage through art, artifacts and storytelling. Workshops, traditional crafts and guided tours led by Native interpreters offer authentic connections to the state’s first peoples. Each October, the Black Hills Pow Wow in Rapid City gathers tribes from across North America for three days of music, dance and community.

PRAIRIE ADVENTURES

Beyond the Black Hills, South Dakota’s prairies are emerging as destinations in their own right. Groupfriendly ranch stays, birding tours and prairie hikes introduce travelers to the expansive landscapes that shaped frontier life. Wind Cave National Park, one of the world’s longest and most complex cave systems, pairs underground exploration with opportunities to spot bison and elk roaming the grasslands above. Activities like guided wagon rides, prairie dog town visits and stargazing programs offer new ways to connect with nature in one of America’s last great grasslands.

CRAFT BEER AND CULINARY TRAILS

South Dakota’s food and drink scene has been growing fast, with breweries, distilleries and farm-totable restaurants popping up across the state. Cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City now anchor craft beer trails, featuring local favorites such as Lost Cabin Beer Co. and Firehouse Brewing Co. Both are known for inventive small-batch brews and welcoming tasting rooms. Smaller towns are getting in on the action, too, offering cozy taprooms and locally sourced menus that highlight the region’s agricultural roots. For groups, this means curated tasting tours, brewery hops and culinary experiences that connect local flavor with South Dakota’s growing craft scene.

OVERNIGHT SENSATIONS

HISTORIC BULLOCK HOTEL

Built by Sheriff Seth Bullock in 1895, the Bullock Hotel stands as a monument to Deadwood’s Wild West legacy. Its Victorian architecture, antique furnishings and whispered tales of hauntings create an atmosphere that’s part history, part legend. Groups staying here can walk to Deadwood’s main attractions, including museums, saloons and casinos, while soaking in the hotel’s old-world charm. The Bullock combines convenience with character for an authentic feel of stepping back into the Gold Rush era.

HOTEL ALEX JOHNSON

Since 1928, Hotel Alex Johnson has been welcoming travelers to downtown Rapid City with the building’s mix of Native American design, German heritage and Art Deco elegance. Presidents and movie stars have stayed here, and today it blends vintage character with modern comforts. The rooftop bar offers sweeping views of the Black Hills, perfect for groups winding down after a day of sightseeing. With its prime location, distinctive architecture and legendary guest list, Hotel Alex Johnson makes a stay in Rapid City feel both grand and authentic.

MEMORABLE MEALS

ALPINE INN

Don’t let the historic setting fool you — Alpine Inn in Hill City has a quirky reputation and one of the simplest menus around: steak or vegetarian option for dinner, German specialties at lunch and decadent desserts anytime. Located in a former boarding house, the restaurant has been serving groups for decades, combining old-world charm with no-fuss hospitality. It’s affordable, delicious and uniquely South Dakota, with a setting that feels both like a step back in time and a warm family gathering.

WALL DRUG

What started as a humble roadside stop offering free ice water is now one of the most famous attractions in America. Wall Drug is quirky, kitschy and unforgettable, a sprawling complex of shops, attractions and dining options. Groups flock to Wall Drug’s 500seat Western Art Gallery Restaurant for its hearty fare, especially the homemade donuts and buffalo burgers. Visitors who want an experience full of Americana can stop here for photo ops with giant jackalopes and old-fashioned cowboy decor and to experience one of the most memorable dining spots in the state.

BACK TO SCHOOL

Groups visiting Howard University can enjoy the sights and sounds of Washington’s “Black Broadway” neighborhood.

TREAT YOUR GROUP TO AN HBCU CAMPUS TOUR

The Harvey B. Gantt Center is named for Charlotte’s first Black mayor and is filled with artwork by Black artists.

WANT A GREAT WAY FOR YOUR GROUP TO EXPLORE BLACK CULTURE, PAST AND PRESENT? CONSIDER GOING BACK TO SCHOOL.

Historically Black colleges and universities, or HBCUs, are a treasured pillar of African American history and culture. From Pennsylvania’s Lincoln University, considered the first HBCU in the U.S., to Howard University, Washington, D.C.’s beloved school that has educated countless Black politicians and entertainers, there is no overlooking the influence and legacy of these institutions in Black culture.

There are more than 100 HBCUs in the country, but these are some of the best known. Campus tours offer prospective students an insider’s look into the schools’ rich histories, including their important roles in abolition and the Civil Rights Movement.

LINCOLN UNIVERSITY Pennsylvania

Lincoln University was the first degree-granting HBCU in the country. Located in Chester County, Pennsylvania, the university has been a pillar in the community since 1854. Civil rights lawyer and Supreme Court justice Thurgood Marshall and Harlem Renaissance poet Langston Hughes and are some of the university’s most recognizable alumni.

On the 422-acre campus, groups can participate in Lion Campus Tours, traditional walking tours led by student ambassadors who guide groups through Lincoln’s history, programs and resources. Plan to book at least 14 days before your group’s visit, especially if dining on campus is on the itinerary, as advance coordination is required in partnership with Dining Services.

Kennett Square, a borough located about 13 miles east of the university, was an epicenter of the Underground Railroad. In 2018, the school partnered with a local organization, Voices Underground, to create The Lincoln University Center for Public History, a research and teaching center whose mission is to provide a home for ongoing research of Pennsylvania’s African American history.

Chester County’s Brandywine Valley tourism board suggests the Kennett Underground Railroad Center as an ideal experience for groups looking to learn more about the area’s connection to

BY BRIONA LAMBACK

abolition and important African American history along the Underground Railroad. lincoln.edu

HOWARD UNIVERSITY

Washington, D.C.

Known colloquially in African American culture as “The Black Mecca,” Howard University was founded in 1867 and is one of the most popular HBCUs in the country. Its notable alumni include public figures like former Vice President Kamala Harris and author Toni Morrison.

The university offers student ambassador-led tours for groups of 10 to 55 people. Highlights of the campus tour include Thirkield Science Hall, where Omega Psi Phi Fraternity was founded on November 17, 1911, making it the first Black fraternal organization established on an HBCU campus.

The best time to visit is in the spring during cherry blossom season. Howard’s campus has five cherry blossom trees that the National Cherry Blossom Festival gave to the university in 2018. In the fall, homecoming season is full of unique peeks into student life, including a pep rally, parade and Greek Step Shows.

Howard is located in Shaw, a historically Black community once known as “Black Broadway.” In the 19th century, jazz legends like Cab Calloway performed in neighborhood theaters. Today, it’s full of buzzy restaurants like Doro Soul Food, headed by Michelin-starred Chef Elias Taddesse. Doro serves diasporic-inspired dishes that combine traditional African American soul food flavors with Ethiopian spices.

“As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary next year, D.C. has an excellent opportunity to share with visitors the rich Black culture that is ingrained in the city,” said Elliott Ferguson, president and CEO of Destination DC. “Museums like the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the Go-Go Museum are must-sees. Engaging with D.C.’s culture by eating a half-smoke at Ben’s Chili Bowl or listening to a live show at The Howard Theatre lets you experience the history for yourself. There is so much more D.C. has to offer than meets the eye.”

howard.edu

TAKE HOME A SOUVENIR

FOR YOUR SOUL.

Morgan State University

Marching Band

MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY

Baltimore

Maryland’s largest HBCU, Morgan State University, is located in Baltimore, a city long known for its charm. Groups touring Morgan will be surrounded by incredible Blackowned businesses and cultural experiences in the city, like the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of African American History & Culture. The Lillie Carroll Jackson Civil Rights Museum, owned and operated by Morgan State, is located about 12 minutes from campus in Marble Hill, a neighborhood that was crucial to the Civil Rights Movement.

A 90-minute campus tour at Morgan explains the university’s history and mission. The experience ends with a student-led walking tour highlighting places like the Earl S. Richardson Library and the student center. As an added touch, groups can download the Morgan State Mobile App ahead of time for access to a virtual campus map, news, events and more.

“Baltimore is a city rooted in innovation, community and culture, and Morgan State University is clearly part of that experience,” said Kireem Swinton, interim president and CEO at Visit Baltimore. “While the campus is always great to visit, two standout events that showcase its vibrancy are Morgan’s homecoming weekend in early fall and the CIAA men’s and women’s basketball tournament in late February. Both events offer a unique opportunity to connect with alumni and feel the energy HBCUs bring to our city.

Step into a powerful new chapter of Georgia’s story. As the state’s newest heritage destination, Mulberry Street Cemetery adds depth to LaGrange’s evolving landscape of places to explore. This sacred site is the final resting place of Confederate soldiers, unmarked graves of the formerly enslaved, and Horace King—a formerly enslaved man who became a renowned engineer and legislator. With peaceful walkways, an interpretive pavilion, and one of the last remaining King bridges, it invites reflection and discovery.

“While on campus, be sure to visit the historic Read’s Drugstore lunch counter, a powerful symbol of the Civil Rights Movement and a reminder of the university’s role in shaping history,” Swinton said.

After touring, groups can plan to dine at locally loved restaurants like Rooted Rotisserie, a French-inspired restaurant owned by a husband-wife duo serving delicious rotisserie chicken, or The Urban Oyster, the first Black woman-owned oyster bar in the U.S. morgan.edu

SPELMAN COLLEGE

Atlanta

Founded in Atlanta in 1881 as the Atlanta Baptist Female Seminary, Spelman College became a well-known institution for women of African descent in 1924.

Groups visiting can take tours, which typically last 45 minutes to an hour. Tours are led by Spelman Student Ambassadors, an organization of more than 100 Spelmanites representing a wide variety of majors, interests, hobbies and backgrounds. During the tour, ambassadors share personal stories and insights that bring the Spelman experience to life. Throughout the tour, guests see key landmarks and community spaces on campus, including Sisters Chapel, the Mary Schmidt Campbell Center for Innovation & the Arts, the Alumnae Arch and more.

Groups can align travel plans with some of the college’s fine arts performances and lectures that are open to the public to connect with current students, faculty and staff while gaining a deeper understanding of Spelman’s academic and social environment. spelman.edu

MOREHOUSE COLLEGE

Atlanta

Spelman’s neighbor, Morehouse College, is an all-men’s institution known for producing the highest number of Black men who earn doctorate degrees. For group leaders planning a visit, Morehouse offers reservations for 75-minute guided campus tours.

Logan Doctson, assistant manager of public relations at Discover Atlanta, suggested that groups visiting Spelman and Morehouse plan lunch at Busy Bee Cafe. Located on Atlanta’s Westside, the restaurant once served as a gathering place for the city’s Civil Rights leaders and remains a beloved local spot today.

“Following lunch, groups should explore Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, which features several landmarks, mon-

uments and exhibits honoring Dr. King, a proud Morehouse graduate,” Doctson said. “To round out the itinerary, a stop at the APEX Museum offers powerful insight into the often-untold stories of African and African American history and culture.” morehouse.edu

Kentucky’s African American Story is America’s Story This is a story of resilience, achievement, and transformation. From the frontier era to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond, Black Kentuckians helped shape the Commonwealth — and the nation. Today, this history is alive in museums, neighborhoods, and cultural sites that welcome visitors to explore, learn, and be inspired. Come experience it for yourself. kentuckytourism.com/things-to-do/culture/black-travelers