Cross Country By Bus - The Vacation of a Lifetime!

Trip Duration: 27 Days/26 Nights + 1 Pre-night

Meals Included: 24 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 4 Dinners

Tour Director: Yes 

 

 

Join Starr Tours on the trip of a lifetime!

Rate includes a September 2nd shuttle and hotel stay in Bensalem, PA where the Main Starr Bus will depart from on September 4th.

 

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, they have galleries filled with remarkable memorabilia and entertaining interactive exhibits. "You don't have to be a big baseball fan to enjoy Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory." There's something fun here for everyone. Admission includes free Souvenir Mini Bat after the factory tour.

 

Prohibition Craft Spirits

Take a step back in time in the Prohibition-themed distillery tour! See the "tools" bootleggers used to make moonshine in the early '20s when alcohol was prohibited in the U.S. and walk among a collection of historical memorabilia of the era. You'll hear true accounts of the crazy and often dangerous things that were done to illegally produce, transport, and sell liquor, as well as the shocking things our government may have done to try and stop them! Experience how they handcraft their liquor today and the similarities between now and then. After the tour, you will enjoy a tasting of all five of our award winning spirits.

 

Churchill Downs

Experience the authenticity of the backside of the race track during a rail side breakfast in the Track Kitchen...

 

There's no experience quite like a once-in-a-lifetime chance to spend a morning on the backside at Churchill Downs Racetrack where you can get a behind the scenes view of Thoroughbred racing at the "World's Most Legendary Racetrack." Along with more than 1,400 stalls that are mostly full during the peak season, enjoy breakfast in the Horsemen's Track Kitchen, see the horses training rail side, catch them during a bath and learn about life at the track. Be sure to bring your cameras because on any given day of training, visitors will get an up close and personal view of the horses, jockeys, trainers, and other connections who live the sport of horseracing!

 

The Backstretch Breakfast Tour also includes admission to the Kentucky Derby Museum where guests can access two levels of family-friendly interactive, permanent, and temporary exhibits, "The Greatest Race": a 360-degree immersive sound and visual experience that'll get the heart racing and emotions soaring, daily Historic Walking Tour of Churchill Downs Racetrack, a chance to meet their resident thoroughbred and miniature horse, and access to the Finish Line Gift Shop.

 

Grand Ole Opry

Take country music's greatest legends, mix in today's biggest superstars, add the hottest new voices on the charts & you have the world-famous Grand Ole Opry. Known as the undisputed home of country music, the Opry is an attraction for hundreds of thousands of fans & visitors every year.

 

See a fabulous performance at the world famous Grand Ole Opry, showcasing the best in country, bluegrass and more.

 

Elvis Experience Tour of Graceland

Elvis Presley's Memphis, A state-of-the-art entertainment and exhibit complex, offers a fully-immersive Elvis and pop culture experience to celebrate the most popular entertainer of all time. While the Graceland Mansion Tour continues to present the personal side of Elvis's life, across the street at the all-new entertainment complex, guests can enjoy exciting and engaging exhibitions, attractions and visitor experiences in a 200,000 square foot, state-of-the-art, climate-controlled facility.

 

Elvis Experience Tour includes:

Mansion Audio-Guided Tour & Orientation film, full access to the state of the art Visitor Entertainment Complex, Elvis's two custom airplanes, Presley Car Museum, Elvis: The Entertainer Career Showcase Museum, and Elvis Discovery Exhibits.

 

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City is America's premier institution of Western history, art and culture. Founded in 1955, the museum collects, preserves and exhibits an internationally renowned collection of Western art and artifacts.

 

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 a history that permeates our national culture. The museum features a superb collection of classic and contemporary Western art, including works by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell, as well as sculptor James Earle Fraser's magnificent work, The End of the Trail. The exhibition wing houses a turn-of-the-century town and interactive history galleries that focus on the American cowboy, rodeos, Native American culture, Victorian firearms, frontier military 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.

 

As you cross the threshold you will feel the excitement shared by thousands of visitors each year. 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 is located along the tatters of historic Route 66. Built in 1974 it was the brainchild of 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.

 

Sandia Peak Tramway

A trip on the world's longest aerial tramway transports you above deep canyons and breathtaking terrain over a distance of 2.7 miles. See some of nature's more dramatic beauty unfold before you. From the observation deck atop 10,378 foot Sandia Peak in the Cibola National Forest get an 11,000 square-mile panoramic view of the Rio Grande Valley and the Land of Enchantment.Located on the eastern edge of Albuquerque in the Sandia Foothills at the end of Tramway Road.

 

International Balloon Museum

Explore the history, science, sport, and art of ballooning and other innovative forms of flight. Discover how human aviation began with ballooning in 1783 and the many advancements that have followed. Achieve new heights by gaining knowledge and inspiration from visiting their interactive exhibitions or participating in their many educational programs.

 

Old Town Albuquerque

Historic Old Town has been the heart of Albuquerque since the city was founded here in 1706. Today, Old Town is the city's cultural center, with numerous museums and more than 100 shops, galleries, and restaurants.

 

Indian Pueblo Cultural Museum

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center's museum is the preeminent place to discover the history, culture, and art of the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico. Their permanent collection houses thousands of rare artifacts and works of art, 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 the most colorful and fascinating places to be found in Arizona is the Petrified Forest National Park. Located in the northeastern part of the state, it is abundant with geological history and can offer you the chance for an experience of a lifetime.

 

The Petrified Forest is next to 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.

 

Coyote Canyons Jeep Tour of Sedona

For more than 40 years, Pink Jeep Tours has provided unrivaled excitement and adventure with guided Jeep tours over and around the beautiful red-rocks of Sedona. Escape to 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. Tours are not recommended for persons with back or neck problems, or persons with serious injuries.

Wear comfortable walking shoes and outdoor clothing. Sunscreen & hats are recommended. Contact lense wearers may wish to switch to eyeglasses. Feel free to bring cameras & camcorders.

 

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 also will enjoy the informative video kiosks, beautiful outdoor sculpture courtyard, museum store, and inspirational film "Spirit Is." Located in downtown Scottsdale's arts district.

 

The museum has two push wheelchairs on-site that guests can sign out at the main Visitor Services desk. The wheelchairs are free-of-charge and available on a first-come, first-served basis. A photo ID is required to sign out each wheelchair.

 

Old Town San Diego

One of the most visited San Diego attractions is Old Town San Diego by both residents and tourists. What attracts so many to this small area of San Diego is the history and culture that remains a part of old town. There are over 25 restaurants in a mile radius all offering authentic and cultural cuisine.

 

San Diego Zoo

Founded in 1916, the Zoo has been an icon in San Diego for nearly 100 years - and an absolute must-see 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.

Included in Admission: Guided Bus Tour*, Kangaroo Express Bus*, Skyfari aerial tram*, and all regularly scheduled shows and exhibits.

*Subject to availability

 

There are several eateries on the property.

 

San Diego Bay Tour aboard Spirit of San Diego

Take in the sights, sounds and stories of the 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 professional local guide will share entertaining facts and history that helped to shape the city's distinctive waterfront.

Luxury ship features three levels with comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, 360-degree views, and 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 recommended. Temperatures and winds can often be unpredictable. For daytime cruises, don't forget sunscreen and a hat.

 

San Diego Bay waters are usually very calm and seasick incidents are not common, but if you are prone motion sickness, it is recommended you take any medication before boarding the vessel.

 

Richard Nixon Presidential Library & Museum

The Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum is the presidential library and burial site of Richard Milhous Nixon, the 37th President of the United States, and his wife Pat Nixon. The Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum is also home to the gardens, the Birthplace of Richard Nixon, and the Presidential Helicopter. The presidential museum features 22 unique spaces that incorporate multimedia and interactive technologies. Enjoy an orientation film before entering the permanent galleries in the "Wave of Change" gallery, which covers a period of great upheaval throughout the 1960s and during the months leading up to the November 1968 presidential election. Travel through President Nixon's presidency and resignation and return to his origins in the "Back to the Beginning" gallery.

 

Guided Tour of Los Angeles & Hollywood Areas

To include Hollywood, a stop at Hollywood & Highlands Complex, Grauman's Chinese Theatre, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Downtown Los Angeles, a stop at Disney Concert Hall, a stop at Olvera Street, drive by LA Live & Staples Center, time for lunch and shopping on own at the world famous Farmers Market, and more!

 

Grand Canyon National Park

Located entirely in northern Arizona, the park encompasses 277 miles of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands. One of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world, Grand Canyon is unmatched in the incomparable vistas it offers to visitors on the rim. Grand Canyon National Park is a World Heritage Site. A powerful and inspiring landscape, the Grand Canyon overwhelms our senses through its immense size; 277 river miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and 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 on the Colorado Riverside, two miles north of Moab, Utah. You will be served a cowboy-style Dutch oven dinner in a dining room overlooking the Colorado River. After dinner, you will board a flat-bottomed boat and head up river with a knowledgeable and entertaining guide who will point out things of interest and ignite your imagination.

 

Once darkness settles in, the formal part of the evening begins with 40,000 watts of natural light illuminating the canyon wall. Lights, shadows, music, and narration make the stories of the canyon's formation, creation, and history come to life on the walls above the river - as learned from the early settlers of the area (the Catholic conquistadors, Native Americans, and Mormon pioneers).

 

The Canyonlands by Night and Day Sound and Light Show is a not-to-be-missed unique experience and a great end to a perfect day in Moab.

 

Dress casually and bring a light jacket as it does get cool in the evenings. If you get cold easily, you should consider long pants.

 

Arches National Park

Arches National Park preserves over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, like the world-famous Delicate Arch, as well as many other unusual rock formations. In some areas, the forces of nature have exposed millions of years of geologic history. The extraordinary features of the park create a landscape of contrasting colors, landforms and textures that is unlike any other in the world.

 

Mt. Rushmore National Memorial

The faces of 4 great American Presidents; Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt, stand out on a 6,000 foot mountain in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Marvel at the majestic beauty of the Black Hills of South Dakota and learn about the birth, growth, development and the preservation of our country. Over the decades, Mount Rushmore has grown in fame as a symbol of America - a symbol of freedom and a hope for people from all cultures and backgrounds.

 

Badlands National Park

This fantastic, painted landscape of steep canyons, spires and razor edged ridges was made a national monument by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1939 and became a National Park in 1978. Soft clays and sandstones deposited as sediments 26 to 37 million years ago by streams from the Black Hills created vast plains which were inhabited by the saber-toothed cat, the rhinoceros, and ancestors of the present day camel and horse. The Visitor Center at Cedar Pass contains exhibits and an audiovisual program.

 

Wall Drug Store

America's Favorite Roadside Attraction, Wall Drug Store is a 76,000 square foot wonderland of free attractions including the Backyard with its Branding Iron Arcade, animated T-Rex, panning & mining experience for fossils and gemstones, Train Station Water Show & fun picture-taking props in a picnic area. Browse the shopping area to find a great selection of Western items, authentic native South Dakota Jackalopes, exquisite fine art and a unique assortment of souvenirs. Western Art Gallery Restaurant, gourmet coffee shop and Pizza Parlor.

 

Skydeck Chicago

Skydeck Chicago offers an unsurpassed view of Chicago and 4 surrounding states. Take an elevator to the 103rd floor and see the breathtaking panorama. "The Ledge" dares visitors to attempt a new Chicago experience: stand on The Ledge and feel the city from 103 floors over Wacker Drive and the Chicago River. Admission also includes interactive exhibits and signature photo opportunities.

 

Navy Pier

Navy Pier has been a treasured Chicago landmark since its construction in 1916. It boasts dozens of restaurants and shops, special exhibits, entertainment, and gardens. Activities can include a ride on the incredible fifteen story Ferris Wheel, giving one of the best views of the Chicago Skyline and the turn of the century style carousel which features 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. Enjoy fine dining at over 200 restaurants.

 

Chicago River Boat Cruise

Chicago's most comprehensive boat tour. This signature tour of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River includes a trip through the Chicago Lock and a live narration featuring an overview of architecture and history. Boat includes open air and covered seating, restrooms, and a snack bar.

 

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

The world's only facility dedicated to the living heritage of rock and roll music. Designed by I.M. Pei, the $92 million structure towers above Lake Erie's shore at North Coast Harbor. The Hall of Fame wows visitors with a high-impact multi-media production combining film footage, music, interviews, animation and still photography to tell the stories of inducted rock and roll legends. An onsite cafe serves light refreshments and food.

 

Hofbrauhaus Restaurant

Hofbrauhaus 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, Hofbrauhaus Cleveland is a memorable experience for all.

 

Lorraine Motel Photo Stop

The Lorraine Motel was forever etched in America's collective memory with the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1968, but even before that fateful day, the property at 450 Mulberry Street had a fascinating history in its own right. Before it was the Lorraine, it was the Marquette Hotel that catered to black clientele in segregated Memphis. Then, in 1945 black businessman Walter Bailey purchased the hotel, which he re-christened the Lorraine after his wife Loree and the popular jazz song, "Sweet Lorraine." The motel became a destination for blacks and appeared in the Negro Motorists Green Book or "Green Guide," which identified establishments that welcomed black travelers when Jim Crow restrictions offered limited options for services and lodging.

 

Oklahoma City Memorial

The Outdoor Symbolic Memorial stands on the now-sacred ground where the events of April 19, 1995, unfolded. What was once the footprint of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, Fifth Street, the Athenian Building and Oklahoma Water Resources Board are now the Field of Empty Chairs, Reflecting Pool and Rescuers' Orchard.

 

Need to Know:

-Due to the nature of this trip, the long amount of time (and days!) you will be on the bus we HIGHLY recommended that every one of our tour guests is vaccinated and brings proof with them while on tour-but it is not required.

 

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 - Tours are not recommended for persons with back or neck problems, or persons with serious injuries.

 

Spirit of San Diego - San Diego bay waters are usually very calm and seasick incidents are not common, but if you are prone to motion sickness, it is recommended you take any medication before boarding the vessel.

 

Canyonlands by Night Dutch Oven Dinner - Dress casually and it's a good idea to bring a light jacket as it does get cool in the evenings. If you get cold easily, you should consider long pants.

 

Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame - No food, beverage, drugs, cans, glass, containers, weapons, or any kind of contraband are allowed into the museum. All backpacks, large bags or luggage must be checked in at coat check or taken back to the coach.

 

Taliesin West - National Historic Landmark built in the early 20th century, Taliesin West was not designed to meet contemporary accessibility standards. Buildings at Taliesin West are terraced into the landscape, resulting in gravel walkways, steps and uneven surfaces. Narrow ramps are available for guests to use at their own discretion throughout the tour. Guests who wish to use walkers should be aware that Taliesin West has steps, gravel walkways, and uneven surfaces.

 

Spirit of San Diego - The vessel and interior main deck are ramp accessible but the exterior top deck and restrooms are not.

 

Mission San Juan Capistrano - Mission grounds are rough and irregular. Due to the historic nature of the site, some areas and museum rooms are not wheelchair accessible including the 18th century South Wing.

 

Chicago Boat Cruise - Boat is wheelchair accessible, but you must go down 25 steps to get to the actual dock. Must notify boat if accessibility is needed.

 

Eyre 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.

Pre trip Stay: Best Western, Bensalem, PA

 

Day 1: Drury Inn & Suites South, Grove City, OH

 

Day 2: Drury Inn & Suites, Louisville East, KY

 

Day 3: Hyatt Place Opryland, Nashville, TN

 

Day 4: Doubletree Hotel, Memphis, TN

 

Day 5: Hampton Inn, Oklahoma City Northwest, OK

 

Day 6: Country Inn & Suites, Amarillo, TX

 

Days 7-8: Drury Inn & Suites, Albuquerque, NM

 

Day 9: Holiday Inn Express, Sedona, AZ

 

Day 10: Drury Inn & Suites, 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 & Suites, Flagstaff, AZ

 

Day 19: Aarchway Inn, Moab, UT

 

Day 20: Drury Inn & Suites Denver Stapleton, 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