Cross Country By Bus - The Vacation of a Lifetime!

Cross Country By Bus - The Vacation of a Lifetime!

Trip Duration: 27 Days

 

 

Trip Inclusions

• Meals: 24 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 4 Dinners

• Tour Director

• Overnight accommodations

• Deluxe motorcoach transportation

• Baggage handling and related gratuities

• Taxes

 

 

Trip Highlights:

 

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory celebrates the extraordinary role Louisville Slugger baseball bats have played in the sport's past, present, and future. Along with their fascinating bat factory tour, visitors can explore galleries brimming with remarkable memorabilia and entertaining interactive exhibits. Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun outing, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory promises something enjoyable for everyone.

 

Admission includes a free Souvenir Mini Bat after the factory tour.

 

Prohibition Craft Spirits

Step back in time on the Prohibition-themed distillery tour. See the "tools" bootleggers used to make moonshine during the 1920s alcohol prohibition in the U.S. Walk among a captivating collection of historical memorabilia from that era and hear true accounts of the daring and sometimes dangerous activities involved in illicit liquor production, transportation, and sales. You'll also hear shocking stories about government efforts to curb these activities. Experience firsthand how they handcraft their liquor today and uncover the similarities between then and now.

 

After the tour, enjoy a tasting of all five of their award winning spirits.

 

Churchill Downs

Experience the authenticity of Churchill Downs Racetrack's backside with a railside breakfast in the Track Kitchen!

 

Enjoy a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes of Thoroughbred racing at the "World's Most Legendary Racetrack." With over 1,400 stalls bustling during peak season, enjoy breakfast in the Horsemen's Track Kitchen, watch horses train trackside, observe their baths, and learn about life at the track. Bring your camera to capture up-close views of horses, jockeys, trainers, and other racing figures during training sessions!

 

The Backstretch Breakfast Tour also includes admission to the Kentucky Derby Museum. Explore two levels of interactive, family-friendly exhibits, including "The Greatest Race," a thrilling 360-degree immersive sound and visual experience that'll get the heart racing and emotions soaring. Enjoy a Historic Walking Tour of Churchill Downs Racetrack, have a chance to meet their resident thoroughbred and miniature horse, and browse the Finish Line Gift Shop for souvenirs.

 

Grand Ole Opry

Experience the magic of the Grand Ole Opry, where country music legends mingle with today's biggest superstars and emerging voices. As the undisputed home of country music, the Opry draws hundreds of thousands of fans and visitors each year. See an unforgettable performance at the iconic Grand Ole Opry, featuring the best in country, bluegrass, and beyond.

 

Elvis Experience Tour of Graceland

Explore Elvis Presley's Memphis, a cutting-edge entertainment and exhibit complex dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of the greatest entertainer of all time. While the Graceland Mansion Tour offers an intimate look into Elvis's personal life, across the street at the new entertainment complex, guests can immerse themselves in thrilling exhibitions, attractions, and visitor experiences within a 200,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art facility.

 

The Elvis Experience Tour features:

• Mansion Audio-Guided Tour & Orientation film

• Full access to the Visitor Entertainment Complex

• Elvis's two custom airplanes

• Presley Car Museum

• Elvis: The Entertainer Career Showcase Museum

• Elvis Discovery Exhibits

 

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City stands as America's premier institution dedicated to Western history, art, and culture. More than 10 million visitors from around the world have sought out this unique museum to gain better understanding of the West: a region and history deeply ingrained in our national identity. Explore a magnificent collection of classic and contemporary Western art, featuring masterpieces by Frederic Remington, Charles M. Russell, and James Earle Fraser's iconic sculpture, The End of the Trail. The museum's exhibition wing showcases a turn-of-the-century town and interactive galleries highlighting the American cowboy, rodeos, Native American culture, Victorian firearms, frontier military history, and Western performers.

 

Big Texan Steak Ranch

Step into the Big Texan Steak Ranch and you're taking a giant step back to the rowdy, rip-roaring days of the late 1800s. Laughter echoes above the sizzle of steaks on the open grill and the buzz of conversation. The strolling musicians may be strumming "The Yellow Rose of Texas," or "Amarillo by Morning." Mouths begin to water as the savory smell of smoke and good beef fill the air. Eyes open wide as they take in the old-fashioned bar, the giant rocking chair, the Magician entertaining in the lobby and the lure of thousands of intriguing items in the gift shop.

 

Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch sits along the remnants of historic Route 66, a landmark conceived in 1974 by Stanley Marsh III, a helium millionaire who owns the dusty wheat field where it stands. The ten graffiti-covered cars are half-buried, nose-down, facing west. Visitors are encouraged to add their own graffiti to this roadside attraction.

 

Sandia Peak Tramway

Journey aboard the world's longest aerial tramway, spanning 2.7 miles across deep canyons and awe-inspiring landscapes. From the observation deck atop 10,378-foot Sandia Peak in the Cibola National Forest, you'll be treated to a panoramic view spanning 11,000 square miles of the Rio Grande Valley and the Land of Enchantment.

 

International Balloon Museum

Explore the history, science, sport, and art of ballooning and other innovative forms of flight. Learn how human aviation began with ballooning in 1783 and the many advancements that have followed. Through interactive exhibitions and engaging educational programs, visitors can gain knowledge and inspiration, elevating their understanding and appreciation of aviation.

 

Old Town Albuquerque

Old Town Albuquerque has been the vibrant heart of the city since its founding in 1706. Today, it stands as Albuquerque's cultural epicenter, boasting a wealth of history with numerous museums, over 100 shops, galleries, and restaurants that celebrate its rich heritage and charm.

 

Indian Pueblo Cultural Museum

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center's museum stands as the foremost destination to explore the rich history, culture, and artistry of the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico. Its extensive collection showcases thousands of rare artifacts and artworks, including a world-renowned collection of historic and contemporary Pueblo pottery, as well as baskets, weaving, painting, murals, jewelry, and photographs.

 

Petrified Forest National Park & Painted Desert

One of Arizona's most colorful and fascinating places is Petrified Forest National Park. Located in the northeastern part of the state, it's abundant with geological history. The park borders the scenic Painted Desert. For the first few miles, you'll travel through the Painted Desert and have a chance to stop at many of the scenic viewpoints of the multicolored landscape, promising an unforgettable experience!

 

Coyote Canyons Jeep Tour of Sedona

For over 40 years, Pink Jeep Tours has provided unrivaled excitement and adventure with guided Jeep tours through the stunning red rocks of Sedona. Explore the astonishing trails of Sedona's hidden canyonlands where flora, fauna and geological history take center stage. Soaring red rock formations and cobalt-blue skies are the backdrop for this beautiful, information-packed tour.

 

Please note, these tours are not recommended for individuals with back or neck issues, or serious injuries. We advise wearing comfortable walking shoes and outdoor clothing, with sunscreen and hats recommended. Contact lens wearers may prefer to switch to eyeglasses.

 

The Western Spirit Museum

Scottsdale's Museum of the West celebrates the art, history and unique stories of the 19 states comprising the American West. The rotating exhibitions feature hundreds of Western artworks and rare historic artifacts on loan from some of the world's foremost collectors and institutions. The contemporary, 43,000-square-foot building is an architectural gem that meets the highest standards for sustainability and conservation of natural resources. Visitors can also enjoy the informative video kiosks, beautiful outdoor sculpture courtyard, museum store, and inspirational film "Spirit Is."

 

Old Town San Diego

Old Town San Diego is a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike, drawing visitors with its rich history and vibrant culture. This charming area boasts over 25 restaurants within a mile radius, each serving authentic and diverse cuisine that reflects the area's cultural heritage.

 

San Diego Zoo

Established in 1916, the San Diego Zoo has been a cornerstone of the city for almost a century, making it a must-visit attraction in Southern California. Spend the day monkeying around in their tropical oasis as you visit beautiful habitats that are home to gorillas, eagles, tigers, sun bears, Asian leopards, rare reptiles, a palette of colorful birds, and more. Admission includes access to the Guided Bus Tour*, Kangaroo Express Bus*, Skyfari aerial tram*, and all scheduled shows and exhibits (*subject to availability). There are also several dining options available on-site.

 

San Diego Bay Tour aboard Spirit of San Diego

Take in the sights, sounds and stories of the San Diego Bay on a relaxing 2-hour Full Bay Tour. Enjoy a unique perspective on San Diego that you can only get from the water. Your knowledgeable local guide will share fascinating facts and history that helped to shape the city's distinctive waterfront.

 

The luxury ship offers three levels of comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, providing 360-degree views and featuring an onboard snack bar serving snacks, soda, beer, wine, and cocktails. Their North Harbor and South Harbor tours explore unique scenic waterfront architecture, landmarks, sea life and spectacular photo opportunities.

 

Dressing in comfortable layers is advised due to variable temperatures and winds. For daytime cruises, sunscreen and a hat are recommended. While San Diego Bay waters are typically calm, if you're prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication before boarding the vessel.

 

Richard Nixon Presidential Library & Museum

The Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, situated at the burial site of Richard Milhous Nixon, the 37th President of the United States, along with his wife Pat Nixon, encompasses not only the presidential library but also includes serene gardens, Nixon's Birthplace, and the Presidential Helicopter.

 

The presidential museum features 22 unique spaces that incorporate multimedia and interactive technologies. Begin with an orientation film and delve into the "Wave of Change" gallery, exploring the 1960s and the lead-up to Nixon's 1968 election. Journey through Nixon's presidency, including his resignation, and trace his early years in the "Back to the Beginning" gallery.

 

Los Angeles & Hollywood Area Sightseeing Tour

Experience a guided tour of Los Angeles and Hollywood, featuring iconic highlights such as the Hollywood & Highlands Complex, Grauman's Chinese Theatre, and the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. Explore Downtown Los Angeles, enjoy free time for lunch and shopping at the world famous Farmers Market, and discover more exciting sights along the way!

 

Crazy Horse Memorial

The Crazy Horse Memorial is located in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills. This monumental sculpture depicts the Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse on horseback, pointing towards his tribal lands. While here, visit the 3 Museums that tell the fascinating story of this work of art:

• The Indian Museum of North America houses a vast collection of art and artifacts, showcasing the rich histories and cultures of Native American people. Designed to complement the mountain carving, it eloquently conveys the enduring legacy of American Indian life.

• The Native American Educational and Cultural Center offers unique educational opportunities to deepen your understanding of the memorial. Featuring exclusive pieces from the Indian Museum's collection and highlighting Native American Artists in Residence, it hosts special activities and programs to enrich your visit.

• The Mountain Carving Gallery is a visual testament to the memorial's journey, from its inception as a vision of a young man overcoming challenges to fulfill a Lakota Chief's dream of honoring his people. This gallery beautifully encapsulates the story of the Crazy Horse Memorial, a tribute to all North American Indians.

 

Grand Canyon National Park

Nestled in northern Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park spans 277 miles along the Colorado River and surrounding uplands. It stands as one of the most stunning examples of erosion anywhere in the world, boasting unparalleled vistas for visitors. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Grand Canyon captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring landscape—a colossal expanse measuring 277 river miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and plunging a mile deep. Our guided sightseeing tour begins at the Watch Tower on the East Rim and ends in the Village for lunch and free time.

 

Canyonlands by Night Dutch Oven Dinner

Your evening begins along the Colorado Riverside, just two miles north of Moab, Utah. Enjoy a cowboy-style Dutch oven dinner in a dining room overlooking the river. Following dinner, board a flat-bottomed boat for a guided journey upriver. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights and stories.

 

As night falls, experience the main event: a captivating Sound and Light Show. 40,000 watts of natural light illuminate the canyon walls, accompanied by music and narration that bring the area's history to life—from early settlers like the Catholic conquistadors and Native Americans to Mormon pioneers.

 

Dress casually and consider bringing a light jacket, as evenings can be cool. Long pants are recommended for those who get cold easily.

 

Arches National Park

Arches National Park preserves more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch, along with many other distinctive rock formations. Here, nature's forces have revealed millions of years of geological history in an extraordinary display of contrasting colors, shapes, and textures unlike any other in the world.

 

Mt. Rushmore National Memorial

The faces of four great American Presidents—Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt—are carved into a 6,000-foot mountain in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

 

Marvel at the majestic beauty of the Black Hills and learn about the birth, growth, development, and preservation of our country. Mount Rushmore has gained fame over the decades as a symbol of America—representing freedom and hope for people from all cultures and backgrounds.

 

Badlands National Park

This breathtakingly painted landscape of steep canyons, spires, and razor-edged ridges was designated a national monument by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1939 and later established as a National Park in 1978. Formed from soft clays and sandstones deposited as sediments 26 to 37 million years ago by streams originating from the Black Hills, the area was once inhabited with prehistoric creatures like the saber-toothed cat, rhinoceros, and early ancestors of today's camels and horses. The Visitor Center at Cedar Pass features informative exhibits and an engaging audiovisual program.

 

Wall Drug Store

Wall Drug Store, America's beloved roadside attraction, spans 76,000 square feet of wonderland with a plethora of free attractions. Discover the Backyard featuring the Branding Iron Arcade, an animated T-Rex, and panning experiences for fossils and gemstones. Enjoy the Train Station Water Show and fun picture-taking props in the picnic area. Browse the shopping area offering a wide array of Western items, authentic native South Dakota Jackalopes, exquisite fine art, and a unique selection of souvenirs. Indulge in dining options including the Western Art Gallery Restaurant, gourmet coffee shop, and Pizza Parlor.

 

Skydeck Chicago

Experience unparalleled views of Chicago and four surrounding states at Skydeck Chicago. Ride an elevator to the 103rd floor and see the breathtaking panorama. Challenge yourself with "The Ledge," a unique Chicago experience where you can stand on a glass platform extending over Wacker Drive and the Chicago River, 103 floors above ground. Admission includes access to interactive exhibits and signature photo opportunities.

 

Navy Pier

Since its construction in 1916, Navy Pier has stood as a cherished Chicago landmark. This iconic destination boasts dozens of restaurants, shops, special exhibits, entertainment options, and scenic gardens. Visitors can enjoy riding the impressive fifteen-story Ferris Wheel for unparalleled views of the Chicago skyline, and experience the turn-of-the-century style carousel adorned with 36 hand-painted animals.

 

Chicago Double Decker Bus Tour

See all the best Chicago landmarks and attractions on a Chicago double-decker bus tour! Sights include Chicago icons like the John Hancock Center, Adler Planetarium, Soldier Field, Grant Park, and more. Along the way we'll be entertained by an expert virtual guide with fascinating facts and stories about the city's history, architecture and culture.

 

Magnificent Mile

Take a magnificent vacation in just eight spectacular blocks. Explore over 400 exclusive stores and boutiques, and indulge in fine dining at more than 200 restaurants.

 

Chicago River Boat Cruise

Experience Chicago's premier boat tour offering unparalleled views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. This signature tour includes a trip through the Chicago Lock and a live narration featuring an overview of architecture and history. The boat features both open-air and covered seating options, restrooms, and a convenient snack bar. Rain or shine, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure along Chicago's iconic waterways.

 

Gino's East

For 50 years, the original Gino's East has been offering the best deep dish pizza experience in Chicago. Since they opened their doors in 1966, they've shared millions of their signature golden-crust Chicago-style pizzas with Chicagoans, celebrities, and visitors from all over the world.

 

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Explore the world's only facility dedicated to the living legacy of rock and roll music. Designed by I.M. Pei, this impressive $92 million structure towers above Lake Erie's shore at North Coast Harbor. Inside, the Hall of Fame wows visitors with a dynamic multimedia experience, blending film footage, music, interviews, animation, and photography to narrate the stories of rock and roll's iconic legends.

 

An onsite cafe serves light refreshments and food.

 

Hofbräuhaus Restaurant

Hofbräuhaus Cleveland is modeled after the legendary 400+ year-old Hofbrauhaus in Munich, Germany. Guests are able to enjoy many of the traditions from Germany that have made Hofbrauhaus famous. From the traditionally decorated rooms in the building to the beer that is brewed on-site, and of course the excellent German fare, Hofbräuhaus Cleveland is a memorable experience for all!

 

Lorraine Motel Photo Stop

The Lorraine Motel has left an indelible mark on America's collective memory since the tragic assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1968. However, its history extends far beyond that pivotal moment. Originally known as the Marquette Hotel, it served black clientele in segregated Memphis before being purchased in 1945 by black businessman Walter Bailey. Renamed in honor of his wife Loree and the jazz standard "Sweet Lorraine," the motel became a cherished destination listed in the Green Book. This guide provided vital information about establishments welcoming Black travelers during the era of Jim Crow laws, when options for services and lodging were very limited.

 

Oklahoma City Memorial

The Outdoor Symbolic Memorial stands on the hallowed ground where the tragic events of April 19, 1995, unfolded. It now occupies the footprint of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, Fifth Street, the Athenian Building, and the Oklahoma Water Resources Board. These sites have been transformed into poignant features like the Field of Empty Chairs, Reflecting Pool, and Rescuers' Orchard.

 

 

Meal Information:

Day 2 Boxed Lunch at Louisville Slugger - Select from the following choices: Turkey sandwich, Ham sandwich, Vegetarian sandwich

 

Day 3 Backstretch Breakfast at Churchill Downs includes eggs, bacon/sausage, biscuits & gravy

 

Day 4 Lunch Voucher ($15) at Graceland is accepted at Vernon's Smokehouse, Glady's Diner, Minnie Mae's Sweets, and TCB Food Hall

 

Day 6 Lunch is included at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum with a sandwich buffet of: Mesquite Smoked Turkey & Maple Honey Ham on whole wheat bread. Includes pasta salad, picked spear, potato chips & giant cookie, iced tea, coffee & water.

 

Day 6 Dinner at Big Texan Steak Ranch includes 18oz Ribeye Steak (cooked medium) served with Garden Salad, Baked Potato with Sour Cream, Vegetable, Big Texan Dinner Roll, Dessert, and Iced Tea. Chicken or vegetarian can be substituted for those who do not eat steak. Veggie options are Mac & Cheese or a Cheese Quesadilla.

 

Day 9 Boxed Lunch from Panera Choose from the following: Smokehouse BBQ Chicken Sandwich, Bacon Turkey Bravo Sandwich, Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich

 

Day 19 Boxed Lunch from Aspen Deli - Pick from the following local favorites: California Turkey Club Wrap (Turkey Breast, Bacon, Swiss, Avocado, Lettuce, Tomato & Pesto Mayo), Portobello Mushroom Wrap (Marinated Portobello Mushroom w/Quinoa, Roasted Peppers, Housemade Lemon Garlic Hummus & Spinach), The Aspen (Turkey Breast, Avocado, Havarti Cheese, Lettuce, Tomato & Mayo on Honey Whole Wheat Bread), Beaver Street (Black Forest Ham, Bacon, Swiss, Fig Jam, Lettuce & Tomato on Swirl Rye Bread)

 

Day 19 Dinner at Canyonlands By Night features a cowboy-style dinner cooked to perfection and includes BBQ beef, BBQ pork, BBQ chicken, roast beef, roast pork, cowpoke potatoes (cut potatoes with spring vegetables and cheese melted through), sweet baked beans, corn, homemade rolls (regular and garlic), a full salad bar (leafy greens with all the toppings, a pasta salad, and coleslaw), dessert, and bottomless soft drinks. Beer, wine, and mixed drinks are available for purchase at the bar.

 

Day 25 Dinner at Gino's includes Homemade Spinach Sticks, Buffalo Wings, Salad, Baked Penne Marinara, and of course, their famous deep dish style pizza.The feast also includes brownies and choclocate chip cookies for dessert as well as unlimited soft drinks.

 

Day 26 Dinner at Hofbraus House includes a "wunderbar" German fare, opt for one of the following entree selections: Wurstlplatte: Sausage Plate w/One Frankfurter & One Chicken Sausage, Imported Sauerkraut, Mashed Potatoes and Onion Mustard, Gegrillte Haehnchenbrust: Grilled Chicken Breast with creamy Mushroom Gravy, Served with Spaetzle, Pierogies and Mettwurst: Sauteed Cheddar & Potato Pierogies, Sauteed with Mettwurst (Sausage) & Carmelized Onions, Topped with Sour Cream and Green Onions.

Served with Pretzel with Bier Cheese, German Chocolate Cake for Dessert, Coffee, Tea, Soda, or 1 Glass of Beer or Wine.

 

Menus subject to change.

 

 

Need to Know:

Due to the nature of this trip, the long amount of time (and days) you will be on the bus, and the requirements from the National Park Service, it is strongly suggested that tour guests are vaccinated. This trip is not recommended for people who are not able to easily get off and on the bus or have difficulty walking.

 

Coyote Canyon Jeep Tour is not recommended for individuals with back or neck problems or those with serious injuries.

 

San Diego Bay Tour - While the waters of San Diego Bay are typically very calm and seasickness is uncommon, we recommend taking motion sickness medication prior to boarding if you are prone to motion sickness.

 

Canyonlands by Night Dutch Oven Dinner - Dress casually and bring a light jacket, as evenings can be cool. If you tend to get cold easily, consider wearing long pants for extra warmth.

 

Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame - Please note that food, beverages, drugs, cans, glass containers, weapons, and any contraband are not permitted inside the museum. All backpacks, large bags, or luggage must be checked at the coat check or returned to the coach.

 

 

Accessibility:

The Western Spirit Museum - For guests needing assistance, the museum provides two push wheelchairs available for sign-out at the main Visitor Services desk. Wheelchairs are offered free-of-charge on a first-come, first-served basis; guests must present a photo ID to borrow each wheelchair.

 

San Diego Bay Tour aboard the Spirit of San Diego - The vessel and interior main deck are ramp accessible, but please note that the exterior top deck and restrooms are not accessible. Mission San Juan Capistrano - The mission grounds feature rough and uneven terrain. Due to the historic nature of the site, some areas and museum rooms, including the 18th-century South Wing, are not wheelchair accessible. Chicago Boat Cruise - The boat is wheelchair accessible; however, reaching the dock requires descending 25 steps. We must notify the boat staff in advance if you require accessibility assistance.

 

Starr has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

Day 1: Drury Inn South, Grove City, OH

 

 

Day 2: Drury Inn, Louisville East, KY

 

 

Day 3: Hyatt Place Opryland, Nashville, TN

 

 

Day 4: Holiday Inn Downtown, Memphis, TN

 

 

Day 5: Country Inn, Oklahoma City Northwest, OK

 

 

Day 6: Country Inn, Amarillo, TX

 

 

Days 7-8: Drury Inn, Albuquerque, NM

 

 

Day 9: Holiday Inn Express, Sedona, AZ

 

 

Day 10: Drury Inn, Chandler, AZ

 

 

Days 11-12: Best Western Plus Bayside Inn, San Diego, CA

 

 

Days 13-14: Hilton Garden Inn, Burbank, CA

 

 

Days 15-16: New York-New York Hotel, Las Vegas, NV

 

 

Days 17-18: Drury Inn, Flagstaff, AZ

 

 

Day 19: Aarchway Inn, Moab, UT

 

 

Day 20: Drury Inn, Denver, CO

 

 

Day 21: Fairfield Inn, Rapid City SD

 

 

Day 22: Comfort Inn, Mitchell, SD

 

 

Day 23: Holiday Inn, Dubuque, IA

 

 

Days 24-25: Fairfield Inn Downtown, Chicago, IL

 

 

Day 26: Drury Plaza Hotel, Cleveland, OH

Starr Tours Cross Country Presentation