bus trips 2022

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Coach / Bus Tours & Trips in USA

Find a Coach / Bus trip that explores USA. There are 219 adventures to choose from, that range in length from 3 days up to 32 days. The most popular month for these tours is September, which has the most tour departures. For more inspiration, discover our  USA vacation deals  and the best coach/bus tour companies .

211 Coach / Bus tour packages in USA with 3,827 reviews

• Coach / Bus

Best of the American West

Excellent tour! Our guide, Ken Black, was the best tour guide ever. He took us to the best places, made excellent hike recommendations depending on our interests and capabilities, made sure we were safe and had fun at all times!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Dollywood and Nashville Escorted Tour

Road Trippin’ American West

• In-depth Cultural

Wild West, Cowboys and Buffalos (End Denver, 9 Days)

I enjoyed the tour and only wish that the weather was better, but that was the chance we took.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

American Parks Trail (Classic, End Denver, 9 Days)

The Tour Director and driver were first class, keeping us both very amused, and very safe. Some of the downsides were due to the weather, at times, which nothing could be done about, so we got on with it. Some of the main downs were due to my naivety, in thinking some facilities (like cash paying taxis from SLC airport; I persuaded a friendly Uber driver to accept cash!) were what I was used to, and that I wouldn't have to re-enter security when changing planes from LHR to SLC, at PHX, even though I was on a connecting, booked, flight, and my baggage had already been labelled for both airports appropriately, at LHR. Altogether, a very good, and memorable holiday, where I visited some parts of the Parks that I visited before, but saw many more, and different sights in them.

National Park Wonders (Start Jackson, 9 Days)

One of the best tours I have ever been on. My husband and my parents all were on this tour. We met so many nice people from all over the world. Our driver Tim and our tour guide Korie were fantastic. So much knowledge and information. Our ride was safe and so comfortable. The places we visited were awesome. Seeing nature in its beauty was so fantastic. Amazing to see so many diffent natural and man made wonders. I suggest taking all additional tours. The stay before the tour in Las Vegas was at the Tropicana hotel and it was very nice. Highly recommend taking this tour and leave the details to Trafalgar. Relax and enjoy the journey.

Highlights of the Canyonlands

Wonderful locations, wonderful people we got to meet, and the best tour Director, Elli, and bus driver, Dale

Rhythms of the South (11 Days)

The trip was wonderful. The itinerary was excellent and there was a good balance between structured tours and free time. Our tour guide and driver were professional, personable and helpful.

Wonders of the American West (Classic, 10 Days)

Well planned and executed.

Fall Colours of New England (10 Days)

Loved all the places and Scott and Patrick the driver were excellent. Would definitely do again.

Eastern Discovery (10 Days)

It was a great experience

USA Road Trip — Yosemite, Canyons & Camping

• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

Fascinating West, Ending in San Francisco

New York and Washington

Rhythms of the Road

Would’ve loved it to have been longer! An extra night in each main city would’ve been great for extra activities

What people love about Coach / Bus Tours in USA

Comfortable Coach, tour director Erica was fantastic, driver, Kevin was professional and very accommodating. We traveled 1790 miles, great group of people to travel will. Thanks. Gary

The trip was great! The tour director and the driver both were very knowledgeable.

Regions in USA

• Western USA (91)
• Sun Belt (88)
• Eastern USA (62)
• Southwest USA (49)
• East Coast USA (45)
• Southern USA (30)
• Southeast USA (30)
• West Coast USA (29)
• Rocky Mountains (25)
• California (25)
• Northeast USA (24)
• Four Corners (21)
• Mideast USA (16)
• New England (11)
• Northern California (10)
• Mississippi (10)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Coach & Bus Companies (with Reviews)
• USA Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Backpacking Tours & Trips 2024/2025
• Best time to visit East Coast USA (Low & High Season)
• Best Time to Visit the West Coast, USA in 2024/2025 (with California)
• Best USA Vacation Spots for Couples: Parks, Cities and more
• 5 Best Guided Backpacking Trips & Tours
• Best 10 Day USA Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

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Travel your world with us, first-class customized trips, trailways® motorcoach services, charters, and bus tours since 1908..

When it’s time for you or your group to get up and go, there’s nothing quite like traveling with Fullington Trailways. Choose from the list of Fullington tours, customize your own tour, or just arrange motorcoach transportation for your group. Whatever your needs, Fullington Trailways will surpass your expectations!

If you are looking for the efficiency of Trailways® Scheduled Line Runs, or the convenience of Penn State Expresses, Fullington Trailways is your exclusive provider in the Central Pennsylvania region.

We also contract school bus transportation to a number of regional school districts. What’s more, Fullington Trailways can get you from here to there in other ways – luxury limousines, classic old-style trolleys, even round-trip transportation to the cruise you’ve always dreamed of.

You can count on Fullington Trailways to include the “must-see” and “must-do” pleasures in all of our carefully planned tours.

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Daily scheduled departures from Central Pennsylvania to our end point destinations in Pennsylvania & New York.

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Charter your own bus, build your own group bus tour, choose a Fullington pre-planned destination or use Daily Departures.

Rent a limo or trolley. Trust our fully licensed chauffeurs to get you there and back safely, in style and comfort you’ll never forget!

Express Service

We are… your ride! Fullington’s Express Bus Service offers a convenient, safe and affordable option to get there!

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Megabus partners with Fullington for service to 18 cities from State College

STATE COLLEGE — Megabus.com is partnering with Centre County-based Fullington Trailways for service connecting State College to locations in central,…

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Expertly Designed

We get it. You’re not the homebody type. We aren’t either. Your passion, needs, and desires have shaped our business. Destination experts hand-craft transformative experiences designed specifically with you – our fellow traveler – at heart. We wouldn't trust your experience with anyone else.

Guided Touring Reimagined

We know you want to explore and also dive in. We’re curious travelers, just like you, so rest assured, you’ll experience must-sees and connect with the people and culture that define the destination. You’ll eat in locals’ homes, take cooking classes, travel by trains and tuk tuks, explore cities with food tours, and stay in igloos, castles, and chateaus.

Value Beyond Price

Your time is one of your most precious commodities, so you should spend more of it in the destination, not driving between places. We design tours that spend the fewest hours on the coach. One-night stays are a rarity. This is your trip, and you shouldn’t feel rushed. With choice, flexibility, and free time, take it all in – this is your tour.

Confidently Collette

Travel with trust. Because this is your trip - something you've planned for and dreamed about. You should feel confident in your journey every step of the way.

Industry-Leading Travel Protection

Cancel for any reason (bad hair day applies) up to 24 hours before your tour leaves and get a full money-back refund. Collette issued a record-breaking $185 million cash back to travelers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Experience & Expertise

We've been doing this for a long time. Since 1918, in fact. Collette is the most experienced and longest-running tour operator in North America. You choose...

Traveling Well

Our team is on the pulse of world events and protocols, so you are kept fully aware and feel well-prepared for your trip.

Service Rating

Independent

Why Guided Travel

You're a traveler with places to go. We'll take care of the details. You embrace the journey.

Social Connections

Meet a group of people who share your love of travel. Learn from locals. Forge friendships in the coolest places.

Independence

There's plenty of time built into our itineraries, plus optional tours, Choice on Tour excursions, and more. It's your trip, your way.

Expertly Planned

You know what you want to see and do - let a team of experts handle all the details from the must-sees to centrally-located accommodations and local lessons.

The Best Pacing

Don’t rush – this is your time to see the world. Get more time in the destination, and enjoy an ideal balance of included excursions and free time.

Our Best Moments

When you go, capture all those incredible moments, and use the hashtag #GoCollette so that we can share your joy!

Featured Tours

Collette travelers choose from 160 tours across all 7 continents, as well as 5 travel styles including small group touring and destination spotlights. Check out some trending tours for inspiration on your next adventure.

Explorations

$3,824 pp* $4,499 pp

A Taste of the Balkans featuring Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina & Slovenia

$3,144 pp* $3,699 pp.

Majestic Cities of Central & Eastern Europe featuring Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest & Krakow

$3,059 pp* $3,399 pp.

Painted Canyons of the West featuring Utah’s Five National Parks

Flavors of Portugal & Spain: featuring Barcelona

$3,059 pp* $3,599 pp.

Colors of Morocco

$3,399 pp* $3,999 pp.

Essence of France Paris, Provence & the French Riviera

America's Music Cities featuring New Orleans, Memphis & Nashville

$2,779 pp* $3,229 pp.

Discover Croatia, Slovenia and the Adriatic Coast

$6,494 pp* $7,499 pp.

Wilderness of Southern Africa: Safari by Land & Water

$2,879 pp* $3,199 pp, old world sicily & malta, $3,329 pp* $3,699 pp, historical greenbrier featuring washington d.c. & williamsburg, $1,699 pp* $1,999 pp.

Spain's Costa del Sol & Madrid

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Scheduled Tours

Come along with us and join the adventure!  Grab a friend or the whole crew and join us on one of our fun, worry-free trips to popular destinations. Elite Coach offers scheduled departures on a variety day-trips and multi-day trips throughout the year.   With lots of inclusions, interesting sights, great meals, plenty of fun, and enough free time to explore on your own, you are sure to have a great experience on one of our worry-free Elite Coach adventures.

We are actively planning a wonderful slate of tours for 2024!  Check back often for new and exciting additions to our tours line up.

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Your Next Adventure Awaits.

Formerly known as Fun Times Bus Tours Founded in 2018, now Sublime Tours we strive to provide affordable, safe, and fun travel! We are proud to be the only 5-star travel company in the Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia area!

Choose Your Tour Destination

The Best Bus Tours from Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia

We provide affordable bus tours from the Tri-State area of Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia to some of our nation's best destinations including New York City, Washinton DC, Chicago, Nashville, Niagra Falls, and more! All of our trips are taken on luxury motor coaches, including comfortable reclining seats, DVD player, 4G LTE WI-FI, power outlets, and on board restroom.

Bus Tour Services We Provide

Red eye tours.

Our Red Eye bus tours from Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia run into the night. You'll want to bring items that make the ride comfortable for optimal sleeping or at least resting.

Church Tours

Let us provide a tour for your youth group or congregation in Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia to one of many popular religous destinations.

School Tours

We offer a wide arrangement of trips for all ages. Let us take make the students education alot more memorable.

Multi Day Tours

Looking to get out of town for a few days? Our multi day tours are the way to go. We offer multi day trips to popular destinations such as Disney World, New York City, Chicago etc..

Upcoming Bus Trips

Angel Repayment

Nyc christmas red eye (dec 15th – 17th).

December 15, 2023 - December 17, 2023

NYC Christmas Red Eye (Dec 1st – 3rd)

December 1, 2023 - December 3, 2023

Salem, MA (October)

October 20, 2023 - October 22, 2023

New Orleans Red Eye (August)

August 11, 2023 - August 13, 2023

NYC Summer Red Eye (July)

July 21, 2023 - July 23, 2023

Book A Bus Tour With Us Today!

Need Help? Give us a call Today! We have avaliable represenatives ready to assist for our bus trips from Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia to any of our destinstion within the 50 United States.

Shop for Merch and Memorabilia

Purchase apparel and accessories to remember your favorite bus trips with Sublime Tours

Key West Florida Est. 1828 T-Shirt

Fort Lauderdale Est. 1911 T-Shirt

Miami Florida Est. 1896 T-Shirt

What Our Clients Say About Our Bus Trips & Tours

This was our first trip with Sublime Tours. We absolutely loved it. It was a long drive to Salem but Kayla made it enjoyable. She was awesome. We will definitely be booking another trip in the future

Facebook Review

This was our first time riding with Sublime Tours! It was absolutely amazing! Kayla was our bus leader and she was absolutely amazing and hilarious! It was also our first time to Salem and it was absolutely everything I had hoped for! We got to experience everything! I will definitely be going again!

First time going on a bus tour and I was kinda worried, but this was better than I expected!! Movie, charging portals and cup holders on the bus! Hostess Kayla did great and loved her personality! Niagara Falls was on my bucket list and loved it there. Can’t wait to go on another one! Thank you for making this affordable!!

Offering The Cleanest, Safest, Most Kid Friendly Bus Tours from Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia

DOWNLOAD OUR APP

The Sublime Tours USA Mobile App is available for iOS on the Apple App Store! You can manage your upcoming trips, reserve seats for new trips and even track the current trip you are on all in one place. Don't miss out - download the app now and begin booking trips right from your phone.

Experience the Adventure of a Lifetime: Take a Bus Tour

Have you ever found yourself yearning for an adventure? Do you have a thirst for new experiences and a desire to explore new places? If so, then a bus tour may be just the thing for you! Bus tours are an exciting and affordable way to travel, offering a comfortable ride and the opportunity to […]

Explore Fabulous Destinations with a Bus Trip

Do you ever feel like you need to escape the hustle and bustle of your daily life but don’t have the time or budget for an extravagant vacation? Luckily, you don’t have to travel far to have a sublime experience. Traveling is a great way to relieve stress, experience new cultures, and create memories that […]

Escape the Everyday with Our Bus Tours

Life can be monotonous, and it can take a toll on one’s well-being. Breaking free from the routine and exploring new places is a great way to refresh the mind and rejuvenate the spirit. Bus tours are a great way to escape every day and experience new sights, sounds, and cultures. We believe in providing […]

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about Sublime Tours - bus trips and bus tours

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to go on a bus tour? Maybe you have a loved one who loves to travel and you would like to surprise them with the adventure of a bus tour. Instead of packing a suitcase, buying a plane ticket and renting a car, you can hop on a bus and ride it to your destination. A bus tour is a unique and fun way to go on a weekend getaway, a day trip or vacation. 

Bus tours are affordable, easy and convenient. A Sublime Bus Tours is available for all ages and people from all walks of life love adventuring with us. Some bus tours provide meals during the excursion and some book hotels for you at your destination. Read the details of each event so you know what to expect and plan for your upcoming bus tour event. 

Bus tours are an option for people who don’t want to drive long distances themselves or those who don’t like flying. It’s also the best way to see America’s beautiful landscapes and historical landmarks. Bus tours are fun, exciting and educational. You will learn about the history and culture of an area in the United States or regionally in Ohio, Kentucky, or West Virginia. 

We always here there’s safety in numbers, so you’ll be traveling with other people and may even get to know them. Bus tours are also a great way to meet new people and learn some things about the people on your bus tour. People tend to be relaxed and friendly on bus tours. As a result, you might make some lifelong friends.

Need a vacation? Make reservations with our 5-star, affordable, family-friendly bus tours offering excellence in everything we do. Sublime Bus Tours provides affordable vacation opportunities, day trips, multi-day getaways, and red-eye trips. Additionally Sublime Bus Tours provides group transportation, educational field trips, and charter services.

Unlike a bus tour, a bus trip is simply a round-trip on a bus. As a result, most bus trips cost much less than a plane ticket or an automobile rental, and they are much more environmentally friendly.

Bus trips are perfect for trips within a city, regional area or nearby city or state. The amount of time and money you need to spend on a bus trip depends on the bus trip event and destination. Some bus trips last for less than an hour, and others last for a days or a few days. We offer bus trips to various locations and exciting destinations. 

Whether you want a bus trip in Kentucky with one of our planned vacation adventures or you want to take your youth group to Ark Encounter, we’re here to make it happen for you. Adventure awaits with a bus trip in Ohio to go to Ohio’s Amish Country with one of Sublime Bus Tours planned excursions or utilize our charter services for a corporate team building event. A bus trip in West Virginia allows you the opportunity to see the splendor each season offers with beautiful scenery and fun destination points.

A bus tour in Kentucky is an affordable vacation that you can do alone, with a favorite person, with your family, or a group of people. Each bus tour in Ohio provides an opportunity to learn something new or do something different as we see various destinations throughout the nearby Buckeye state. Our bus tour in West Virginia allows us the chance to show you the best of West Virginia, as we discover more exciting places to visit for people of all ages. 

Make plans now to go on a bus trip and share an unforgettable experience with Sublime Bus Tours. We offer the best in affordable vacations and fun travel opportunities. Sublime Bus Tours is confident you’ll be happy with our service, and that you’ll come back and tell your friends.

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• Come see us

Heartland Tours and Travel Tours You’re Going to Love

Come See Us

Our Locations

Bus tours across north america.

Touring across America has never been easier or more comfortable than with Heartland Tours and Travel. We offer a variety of exciting bus tours to sites and events all across the United States in our luxury coach buses.

We carefully curate our destinations and excursions along the way to provide a fun, active, and entertaining experience for our passengers.

With convenient departure locations in Bloomington and Rochester, MN, choose from a variety of motorcoach tours and see the country like never before.

Tour America with Comfort and Convenience

Planning a trip is time consuming, expensive, and stressful, so let us handle the myriad of details so you can enjoy your travels! We handle everything including excursions, events, accommodations, transportation, and more. All you have to do is board our luxury motorcoach, sit back in relaxed comfort, and enjoy.

All of our motorcoaches include an onboard restroom, video systems, reclining seats, footrests, overhead storage, window shades, climate control, individual reading lamps, device charging outlets, and more! And, with advance notice, we can provide wheelchair lifts.

Our tours include accommodations at three and four-star hotels, and you will have a professional escort for the entire tour.

What to Expect on Your Bus Tour

Our coach tours are comfortable, affordable, and offer enriching experiences as we escort you on your travel dreams. For customers of all ages, we work to provide memorable and enjoyable experiences without the stress of planning the details of vacations and family trips. Our fleet of motorcoaches is ready to take you on exciting excursions, relaxing vacations, or delightful tour traditions.

Our tours offer a luxurious and comfortable travel experience. Coaches stop every 2 to 2½ hours for rest breaks, and exciting roadside and town attractions are planned along the tour route.

When you travel with Heartland Tours, your trip experience will be much more than a simple bus ride. Not only are our motorcoaches clean, comfortable, accommodating for all ages, and wheelchair friendly, they are luxury vehicles with onboard bathrooms, video systems with multiple monitors, reclining seats, headrests, fold-down foot rests, climate control, tinted windows, window shades, individual reading lamps, ventilation, and more.

Each seat includes Wi-Fi, extra leg room, 110v electrical outlets, and more. We’ve outfitted our motorcoaches specifically for a comfortable touring experience.

Environmentally Conscious Bus Tours

In addition to comfort for passengers when on the road, you can also take comfort in our environmentally-friendly coaches. Our buses are fueled with a biodegradable, nontoxic, sulfur- and aromatic-free B20 biodiesel fuel. Motorcoaches are also an average of six times more fuel and energy efficient than single occupancy vehicles like cars. When measuring passenger miles per gallon, motorcoaches with over 50 passengers will still have an efficiency of 350 passenger miles per gallon, compared to the 28 passenger miles per gallon of an average car.

Carbon dioxide emissions are reduced by about 85% per passenger mile per person when driving a motorcoach. That’s about three times more efficient reduction of CO2 output compared to commuter trains and cars.

View Our Upcoming  Bus Tours Today!

To learn more about our services and trips, contact Heartland Tours and Travel today at (507) 288-4353 .

Safe & Professional

Wifi Accessible

Climate Controlled

Environmentally Friendly

Plan your tour today, view our upcoming tours and book your spot before it's gone.

Proudly Serving Minnesota Since

Satisfied Customers

New Friends Made on Every Tour

Convenient Pickup Locations

Have a question?

Heartland tours and travel can help.

Call: 507-288-4353 Email: [email protected] Office Hours: M-F 8am - 4:30pm

Heartland Tours and Travel 1825 N Broadway Rochester, MN 55906

• Book a Tour

All in the family A Rich Trio of Family-Owned Businesses

Stress-free and Convenient Senior Citizen Transportation

Charter benefits for senior citizen bus tours.

Renting a charter bus for your senior trip comes with many benefits. Whether you’re going on a short day trip or an extended long-distance tour of an exciting destination, Coach USA buses deliver a premium travel experience. We’ll pick your group up at the location you choose—retirement communities, nursing homes, assisted living apartments or right at your guests’ front doors.

Our fleet includes many buses that are wheelchair accessible. Simply tell our helpful support representatives what accommodations your group needs and we’ll happily update your booking.

Take all of the work out of group travel for seniors and let the professionals at Coach USA take you where you want to go. One of the best parts of charter bus travel is how easy it is to stay coordinated. When everyone is on the same bus and schedule, the whole trip runs more smoothly.

Senior bus trips are better with comfortable, spacey seats and lots of leg room. Our buses are designed to let each passenger relax and enjoy the ride. Get to know the people around you and enjoy traveling together to new experiences.

Climate control keeps the bus at just the right temperature. Each premium seat reclines, perfect for resting after an exciting day of sightseeing. And clean bathrooms are available for your group’s convenience.

Popular Senior Bus Trip Destinations

Our network of buses extends nationwide to give you convenient access to many of the top U.S. destinations for senior citizen bus tours:

• Iconic landmarks
• Historical and educational tours
• Shows and concerts
• Sporting events
• Holiday events

Coach USA does day trips and extended trips, so you can easily book buses for a calm night out to a show or a weekend tour of a city.

Safe, Professional Senior Bus Transportation

With Coach USA, you’re not planning a senior citizen bus tour alone. Our team of friendly representatives is available whenever you need. We handle the details to make senior transportation simple. Just tell us your preferences, list any required accommodations, and we’ll make sure you enjoy the best travel experience possible.

Our support team is available to answer any questions or address any concerns as soon as they come up. We’re dedicated to providing friendly, helpful service for every part of traveling on your senior bus trip.

Our priorities for senior citizen bus trips are comfort and safety. Coach USA professional drivers are CDL-licensed and experienced in all driving conditions. They’re prepared to take you to each of your destinations quickly and safely.

We put the most skilled drivers into our modern buses to ensure that your group enjoys the highest level of service. With a helpful support team behind you, you can plan the other aspects of your senior trip knowing that your transportation will run smoothly.

Call Today to Book Your Bus for Seniors

Coach USA provides the best transportation options for your senior bus trip. Charter bus rentals for senior bus tours include modern amenities and comfortable, spacey seats. We’re prepared to meet your group’s needs with wheelchair-accessible buses and other features. We can accommodate both large and small groups with a variety of options. Plan fun, convenient travel for everyone in your senior group with the experts at Coach USA.

Not what you’re looking for? Try our other Event Charter Services

• Wedding Charter Services
• Convention Charter Services
• Corporate Event Charter Service
• Family Reunion Charter Service
• Church Group Charter Service
• School and College charter Service
• Sports Team Service

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Worldwide Tours and Charter Services

Hello travelers, our 2024 schedule is under development and will add additional tours as they become available. for a list of tours with set dates  click here. more details and pricing on trips soon to follow., upcoming tours, 9 day coastal texas, bluebonnets & solar eclipse: april 02-10, 2024, 5 day charleston and savannah: april 22-26, 2024, 2 day biltmore estates/chihuly exhibit: may 07-08, 2024, 2 day grand ole opry: may 07-08, 2024, 9 day moss mtn. farm & pioneer woman: may 16-24, 2024, charter services, we can take your group anywhere you need to go let us know a little more about your travel needs and we can customize the transportation to make sure your group arrives as safely and as comfortable as possible. .

“I was thrilled to hear that Knoxville Tours has survived the Pandemic and will hopefully begin tours sometime in 2021. I can’t say enough about the great trips (about 6) I have been on. The trips are always well planned. Martha Hooks has been a wonderful and informative director. I have always felt safe with the bus drivers. That hasn’t been the case with some other tour companies. I’m very excited to start traveling again. Wishing all of you a Merry Christmas and “on the road again” in 2021!”

– nina duncan.

“I organized a 2019 tour of the South for 30 Northerners. All the Knoxville Tours staff and our fabulous driver Suzanne Page could not have been more helpful and professional. We had reserved for a 2020 repeat trip when COVID shutdown our plans. We are intending to travel with Knoxville Tours in 2022 when we try our trip again. I can’t imagine using a different tour company.”

– amelie ratcliff, “do you love fun and adventure i do the mystery trips with knoxville tours are one of my favorites. fun, food, friends, food, learning new things, food i love trying to figure out where we will be the next day come travel, have fun, make new friends”, – shirley from chattanooga, tn, “we had never been on a bus tour and decided to travel with knoxville tours on our first trip. we couldn’t have been more pleased we feel like a big part of that was because we had debbie pearcy for our tour director. we took the fall new england tour and it was absolutely gorgeous. the places we visited and the places we stayed were excellent. we can’t wait for our next adventure”, – sherrell and jan from chattanooga, tn, “life is filled with memories, and we have so many good memories with our knoxville tours travels.”, – julie from tellico village, “i miss you all and think about the tours we have been able to take all the time. hope to see you in 2021.”, – sue and john from knoxville, tn, “i really miss traveling with knoxville tours and sure hope we can get back on the road later in 2021.”, – toni, “ralph and i have always enjoyed all the trips we have taken over the past nine years. we have stayed in wonderful places, eaten great food, and seen many terrific sites. we also have enjoyed meeting great people who have traveled with us. we will keep many memories of fun times and look forward to having many more in the future. i guess one of the best trips we took was to mackinac island. we got to spend two nights at the grand hotel which was out of this world. somehow, we were given the beautiful esther williams suite along with our friends ken and martha. we pray that knoxville tours will once again be able to schedule trips in 2021 and that this pandemic will go away. we thank knoxville tours for being the best tour company ever. they have brought a lot of joy and happiness into our lives”, – pat and ralph, “knoxville tours is the best a trip i especially enjoyed was the trip to new york city when i took three granddaughters and their mothers–their first trip to the big city. it was great fun thank you.”, – dana from abingdon, va, “boy, tessa and i sure missed traveling this year so glad to hear knox tours is still in business and planning for 2021. i, too, hope with vaccines, we can travel again in summer 2021.”, – brenda from maryville, tn, “ready to roll when you travel with knoxville tours you become extended family. i have made so many new friends and memories on our trips seeing the world with friends is amazing can’t wait for the next adventure filled excursion.”, – linda and ken, knoxville, tn, office hours.

Monday-Friday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday - Closed

Office Location

4910 Clinton Highway Knoxville, TN 37912 Phone: (865)-688-6232 Email: [email protected]

Charter Service 

Call to request a 2024 Tour List

Everett, PA.

1-800-722-0625

Cumberland, MD.

1-800-296-3330

Now Hiring Motorcoach Drivers

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Bollman Charter Service has been proudly serving the traveling public since 1962. We hope you will join us for your next vacation, day trip, tour trip, or charter trip. For those who have traveled with Bollman Charter in the past, we look forward to providing you with another wonderful experience! Be assured we will do everything necessary to make your vacation or trip as exciting and enjoyable as possible. Welcome aboard!

About Motorcoaches

     Each day with Bollman's is an enjoyable day away from home.  We travel in motorcoaches equipped with restroom, air conditioning, public address system, DVD, electronic outlets, and tinted windows for your viewing convenience. Every seat is comfortable, with a reclining adjustment.   

Boarding Locations

Everett, PA

Chambersburg, PA

Cumberland, MD

     Call and we will explain how your organization, group or school can charter one of our luxury motorcoaches for your next trip or vacation. It's the most convenient way to travel!   Our commitment to your organization, group, or school is based upon professionalism. We will strive to meet your needs, safety, and certainly provide reliability.  

GROUP TRAVEL

     We are waiting to become your GROUP TRAVEL SPECIALIST. If your organization, group or school needs transportation, we invite you to call or visit our offices for courteous and professional assistance.      Our specialties include: School groups, civic clubs, athletic events, church groups, local sightseeing, and more.  We can customize any package to suit your group's needs.  Give us your destination, dates and special needs/requests, and we will do our best to get your group on the road to their dream vacation.  Our knowledgeable staff will give you assistance in planning your trip and providing the best customer service possible.      Bollman Charter can provide you with deluxe motorcoach transportation, arrange hotel accommodations, meals, attractions and sightseeing.  If your group prefers a cruise, air or train travel, we can provide the reservations and tickets.  We can also provide flyers, itineraries or a presentation.  Sit back, relax, and let us do the work for you.  One phone call does it all. Call either the Everett or Cumberland office.  You may also send an email to [email protected].

     Start planning your next vacation with Bollman Charter Service.  We offer a wide range of exciting trips to many marvelous destinations throughout the United States and a few provinces in Canada. Let us do all the planning and preparation for your next well deserved vacation.      Our tours are planned a year or more in advance.  Between the time of planning and the actual tour, we constantly try to improve the tour to your advantage.  Sometimes unforeseen conditions beyond our control arise causing us to alter the itinerary in some way.  We attempt to substitute any changes with equivalent or better value.  If a change must be made, we strive to minimize any inconvenience.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

     Bollman Charter offers Travel Insurance to fit your needs.  We strongly suggest you inquire about this insurance when booking any multi-day tour with us. If purchased within 7 days of making your reservation, it fully covers any pre-existing condition. Insurance can be purchased as late as the day prior to departure: however the pre-existing condition clause will not apply.  Brochures with full details on coverage and exclusions will be provided upon request.

Tour Policies

SMOKING/BEVERAGES

NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ARE PERMITTED on any motorcoach.  Smoking and Vaping is not permitted and is prohibited by Federal Law on any Bollman Tour. Rest stops are made to give those who smoke opportunity to do so.

All expected tipping to porters and waiters on included meals and costs are included in the cost of the tour.  Gratuities to your driver and escort are not included.  If you feel that your tour escort and driver have helped you to enjoy your tour, we suggest that you enclose the traditional end-of-trip gratuity in a separate envelope and present it to each individually at the end of the tour.

FUEL SURCHARGE 

In the event of increased fuel cost, Bollman Charter Service reserves the right to implement an additional fuel charge on all trips to cover these costs. 

13 Passenger

29 Passenger

55-57 Passenger

For any questions, please call: (814) 623-2181  or fill out the following form.

Everett Office

359 Upper Snake Spring Road Everett, PA 15537

Office (814) 623-2181

Monday - Friday 9am-3pm

Cumberland Office

111 South George St.

Cumberland, MD 21502

Office (301) 759-3330

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• Volga River Cruises

Our Best Volga River Cruises of 2022

Imagine visiting beautiful, ancient Russian cities as you cruise along the beautiful Volga River. Our cruises are the most relaxing and also the most budget friendly way to visit Russia. Some of our most popular Russian river cruises are listed below. Please click on the details to learn more or contact us for more information using the form at the bottom of the page.

This Volga cruise covers many cities. You will admire the vibrancy of Moscow, enjoy the quiet atmosphere of ancient Vladimir. You will visit Nizhny Novgorod, the old center of the Volga region as well as Kazan and Astrakhan which occupy the former territory of the Golden Horde.

• Route Moscow - Uglich - Yaroslavl - Kostoma - Nizhny Novgorod - Cheboksary - Kazan - Samara - Saratov - Volgograd - Astrakhan
• Languages English-speaking guide is guaranteed. Other languages are on request.
• Cruise Ship 4-star cruise ships: MS Nizhny Novgorod, MS Nikolay Chernyshevsky
• Group Tour This is a group tour. There will be other people in your group.

With this cruise, you will get a feeling for both the south-eastern Russia with its link to the Asia and the Orient and the European, imperial Russia. You will start your trip in Astrakhan and sail practically the whole length of the Volga River from the edge of the Caspian Sea to Moscow.

• Route Astrakhan - Volgograd - Saratov - Samara - Kazan - Cheboksary - Nizhny Novgorod - Kostroma - Yaroslavl - Uglich - Moscow

This Volga cruise starts in Moscow and goes all the way down the Volga river through ancient town of Vladimir, Nizhny Novgorod, the old center of the Volga region, as well as Kazan which occupies the former territory of the Golden Horde. The cruise finishes in Rostov-on-Don city.

• Route Moscow - Uglich - Yaroslavl - Kostoma - Nizhny Novgorod - Cheboksary - Kazan - Samara - Saratov - Volgograd - Rostov-on-Don
• Cruise Ship MS Korotkov

I LOVED THE CRUISE!!!!! It was amazing and I had the best time. The food/service/cabin were all great and the price was FANTASTIC!!!!! I have mentioned this to my sister and her husband and they are considering going next year. LOVED it. I don't have ONE complaint :). THANKS for an amazing experience.

Thank you for arranging such a wonderful trip for us. we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and found your services to be excellent. the connections and transfers were timely and professional and the apartment was a delight. Everything you said it would be.

Our Volga river cruises give you an excellent opportunity to visit a wide range of Russia’s different regions and to experience first-hand the link between European Russia with its imperial, old world atmosphere and the Asian part of Russia with its Eastern, oriental feel. Express to Russia offers plenty of Volga River cruise routes to fit any taste and budget: from our 8-day Moscow to Kazan cruise to the 20-day St. Petersburg to Rosov-on-Don cruise . Experience the vibrant city life and historical heritage of Moscow , enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of medieval Yaroslavl and delve into Russian village life in the beautiful towns of Kostroma and Uglich. On your all-inclusive Russian river cruise you will see Nizhny Novgorod , the stunning, historical center of the Volga region. The boat will dock at the Eastern cities of Kazan and Astrakhan that occupy the former territory of the Golden Horde . Every city visited on our Volga cruises is of historical significance and full of outstanding sights and monuments. This cruise will take you down practically the entire length of the Volga River and end at the Caspian Sea. This Volga river cruise will leave you with unforgettable memories and truly be a journey of a lifetime!

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

A russian land tour or a river cruise - which is better.

This decision completely depends on your preferred way of travelling. During the Russian river cruise you will not only visit the two largest cities of Russia, but also small towns and villages along the route and you will have a chance to participate in master classes, learn a little Russian language and dive into local Russian culture and hospitality. For those who prefer custom-made programs and more free time in the cities of their choice we recommend a land tour, both are excellent options. To find out more about the differences click here .

Do I need a visa for a Russian River Cruise?

If your citizenship is not on the list of countries with visa-free access to Russia, you will need a valid Russian visa. Please make sure to start the process in a timely manner, so as to avoid any last-minute pressure. More details on Russian Visas can be found here .

What currency and types of the payment are used on Russian river cruises?

The official currency in Russia is the Russian Ruble. You can either pay cash or use your credit card, we always recommend to have both. You can find more information about money and currency in Russia here .

Do you tip on river cruises?

Tips are not included in the cruise price and tipping is at your discretion. If you would like to tip the staff at the end of your cruise, or any local guides/bus drivers then please feel free to do so and bring a little extra cash to cover this. To find out more about tipping in Russia click here .

What type of food is served during on a Russian river cruise? What if I have dietary restrictions?

Russian river cruises include full board: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The meals consist of European and Russian cuisine. Breakfast and lunch on board are served buffet style. Depending on the ship, dinners are either served buffet style or with a special Chef's menu. In case you have any allergies or food restrictions, please provide your reservation specialist with this information, and we will pass the details on to the cruise company. You can learn more about Russian cuisine here .

Is it safe to take a Russian river cruises?

Yes, the cruise operating companies take full responsibility about for the safety of their guests, staff, and fleet. Before every season, the ships are thoroughly inspected. The staff is well trained for any emergency scenario. There is a doctor on each ship. The guests undertake a comprehensive briefing before any of the ships start the cruise.

Our travel brands include

Express to Russia

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Join our own Russian Travel, Culture and Literature Club on Facebook. The club was created to be a place for everyone with an interest in Russia to get to know each other and share experiences, stories, pictures and advice. To join our club, please follow this link .

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23 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

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Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car . Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

Even if you don’t have the time to drive cross-country, there are plenty of road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. There are endless ways to take this legendary trip (including an EV version —but to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime: whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside curiosities, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so you need to park before taking the ferry to this spot.

Photo from Shutterstock

2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations may be required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

• The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
• The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

The seaside town of Monterey was the setting for John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row .

Photo by Denise Lett/Shutterstock

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay make these trips in one or two days.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

Arizona may take its nickname from the Grand Canyon, but the state has far more natural wonders than just that one.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

• The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
• Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
• Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but take at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

• The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
• Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
• 10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
• The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Stop and admire the winding roads of the San Juan Skyway.

Photo by Anh Luu/Shutterstock

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip
• Five Classic Colorado Road Trips To Take This Year

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

• The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
• The AFAR Guide to Denver

Portland may be Oregon’s largest city, but with a population of some 652,000 (or 2.5 million in the larger metropolitan area), it isn’t intimidatingly large.

Photo courtesy of Travel Portland

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

• The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
• The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

• The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

Asheville is one must-stop on a North Carolina road trip.

Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
• Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo
• 8 U.S. National Park Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

• The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

Historic Fort Martin Scott is one of the places travelers can visit to learn about Fredericksburg’s history.

Photo by Mark König/Unsplash

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and consider a stop in Fredericksburg, which is one of AFAR’s best places to go in 2024 ). Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

• The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

• The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
• Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.

Courtesy of Idaho Tourism

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

• The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
• Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

• The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire.

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 34.5-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

• Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

Ogunquit is home to the small, postcard-perfect harbor of Perkins Cove.

Photo courtesy of QualityHD / Shutterstock

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit , with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

• 8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip

• A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach . Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

• The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Stand-up paddleboarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

Shutterstock

21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

• The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

Sun Studio in Memphis was the site of the famous Million Dollar recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock

22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure

If you have about a week to spare and a deep appreciation for music, take a road trip from one side of Tennessee to the other, starting in Memphis and ending in Bristol. The eastbound trip spans genres, including rock ( Graceland ), blues ( Beale Street) and, of course, country (did you really go to Tennessee if you didn’t go to Dollywood ?). Nashville serves as the halfway point on your journey—so consider penciling in an extra 48 hours to fully explore the state capital’s greatest hits.

• The full itinerary: 5 Great American Road Trips For Music Fans

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island

In the minds of many, trips to Puerto Rico bring images of stunning beaches , delicious foods , and maybe a bioluminescent bay or two . But there’s plenty of history to be found here, too, as Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population known as the Taino, a heritage many Puerto Ricans embrace. That history can be explored via a road trip. Starting in the northern town of Arecibo, travel south to Ponce, then back north to Condado—along the way you’ll encounter petroglyphs, Indigenous sites, and breathtaking natural spots.

• The full itinerary: A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Additional road trip planning resources Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

• Best road trip snacks
• Road trip planning apps
• Podcasts and audiobooks to download
• What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 4, 2024, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.

The U.S. might ban TikTok. Record labels are cutting ties. What’s music’s Plan B?

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In November 2022, Isimeme Udu uploaded the song that changed her life. The singer, who performs as Hemlocke Springs, was stressing about her medical studies at Dartmouth when she dropped her synth-pop track “Girlfriend” onto TikTok. Its lo-fi élan immediately found an audience.

Within hours, Grimes commented with high praise, and fans clamored for the new “awkward Black girl anthem,” as many described it. Millions of plays later, Udu finished her degree and became a touring sensation — she opened for Muna at the Greek Theatre and, this summer, will open Doja Cat’s European arena tour.

“When it came to music, I thought it was just unattainable,” Udu said. “People talk about getting a foot in the door, but I didn’t even know what the door was. Days later, people were stopping me on campus asking ‘Are you Hemlocke?’”

Udu is grateful for the opportunity the app offered. “I’ve been so lucky to meet so many cool people who I never thought would know me,” she said. “But that can’t be at the expense of doing the thing that made you popular. I had a viral moment, but I had to say, ‘Don’t lose yourself, because that’s only going to be temporary.’”

She was right. TikTok’s status as music’s hitmaking force suddenly looks less certain.

@hemlockesprings every time I listen to this song, I wonder was I truly sober..girlfriend comes out this Wednesday, november 2nd! Presave link in bio! Thank you so much evryone! #hemlockesprings #presavemysingle #newindiemusic2022 #newindie #newmusic #music #fyp #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp ♬ girlfriend - hemlocke springs

In February, Universal Music Group, the largest record label conglomerate in the world, pulled its catalog from TikTok. Videos using music from Taylor Swift or Bad Bunny suddenly fell silent. After a contentious U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce hearing about ByteDance, the app’s Chinese parent firm, and its potential risks for data security and political influence, the House overwhelmingly passed a bill in March that could force a sale or ban TikTok (President Biden has said he’s open to signing that bill). The Senate has held closed-door meeting on the topic, and TikTok urged its users to contact Congress to protest.

Representatives for TikTok declined to make executives available for an interview. But given the existential threats to the app, musicians are wondering whether they need a Plan B.

“I didn’t start out with connections, and that moment opened up everything for me,” Udu said. “But music is why I’m here. I’m not a TikTok personality.”

TikTok began life as Musical.ly, an app to film oneself lip-syncing to songs. Interacting with pop music was a core function of TikTok. Fans and artists shared music they loved, grafting it onto videos showing their lives and ideas. It was a lifeline to friends and culture during the pandemic.

Though the app is now a source of infinite types of content made by a billion users, countless songs — from Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” to Kylie Minogue’s “Padam Padam” — found new life there. In a new report , TikTok said that 56% of users began listening to a new musician or podcast after watching a TikTok video.

But TikTok’s benefits to the music industry were primarily in exposure, not money. Despite earning around $18 billion annually in ad revenue (in large part through videos that use licensed music), one study estimated that TikTok only pays out $400 million annually to all music rights holders. Unlike Spotify, which pays fixed royalty rates per stream, TikTok pays a flat fee to labels as a kind of blanket license.

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UMG’s dispute with TikTok upended that agreement.

In a January open letter announcing the threat of a pullout, UMG said that “TikTok proposed paying our artists and songwriters at a rate that is a fraction of the rate that similarly situated major social platforms pay …Ultimately TikTok is trying to build a music-based business, without paying fair value for the music. TikTok’s tactics are obvious: use its platform power to hurt vulnerable artists and try to intimidate us into conceding to a bad deal that undervalues music and shortchanges artists and songwriters as well as their fans.”

In a statement to The Times, TikTok said that “It is sad and disappointing that Universal Music Group has put their own greed above the interests of their artists and songwriters. Despite Universal’s false narrative and rhetoric, the fact is they have chosen to walk away from the powerful support of a platform with well over a billion users that serves as a free promotional and discovery vehicle for their talent. TikTok has been able to reach ‘artist-first’ agreements with every other label and publisher.”

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In February, UMG followed through and pulled its enormous catalog — which included songs by Universal Music Publishing Group songwriters in addition to UMG recording artists — from TikTok. The ferocity of UMG’s actions surprised even major-label veterans.

“It was such a ballsy move,” said Sarah Flanagan, a former senior director of digital marketing at Columbia Records (which is not part of UMG). “TikTok hasn’t figured out a way to compensate artists or labels fairly for the amount of music that gets used. As great it’s been for music discovery, I hope this works, because TikTok’s system for compensating artists is either not good enough or they don’t care enough.”

Eugene Lee, the founder of ChannelMeter, a firm that handles payments to musicians and content creators across social platforms, said that TikTok could change the way it compensates musicians, but has little incentive to now.

“YouTube distributes an enormous chunk of its revenue to music rights. TikTok hasn’t prioritized that, so you have to ask, what are they prioritizing?” Lee said. (In 2022, YouTube paid about $6 billion to music rights holders). “Maybe they don’t want to be so dependent on music as an economic factor of their platform. Rights are a complex problem, but every year they say, ‘Oh, we’ll come to a fairer model next year,’ and labels just got fed up.”

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Yet UMG’s sudden about-face, after years of accepting these terms, surprised other tech industry-watchers.

“ByteDance built this multibillion dollar company off of content including music. If UMG had said years ago that ‘you can’t do this,’ I’d say sure, you’re pissed because a company is growing off your music,” said Ed Zitron, a tech marketing executive and host of the insightfully skeptical podcast “Better Offline.” “But this just feels like rich people smacking each other in the face. Music needs TikTok more than TikTok needs UMG. TikTok has the leverage, and the only people suffering are musicians and customers.”

No one disputes TikTok’s importance for reaching younger audiences today. But insiders say the app’s well of instant virality could be drying up.

“The difference in 2024 is that there’s no clear cheat code to work TikTok’s algorithm anymore,” said Chris Berdine, an L.A.-based creative director who has worked on marketing campaigns for acts including Juice Wrld, Peso Pluma and the Chainsmokers. “We know that this platform is extremely important, but no matter what you try to do to hack it now, it’s never consistent. Influencers don’t carry the same weight as they once did.”

Some artists genuinely enjoy the creative tools of TikTok, and Berdine’s sympathetic to young artists’ conundrums around it. “This mandate to constantly churn out content for TikTok — are any of these timeless artists of the past that we admire participating in this? Absolutely not,” Berdine said. “But then you have younger artists that are like, ‘Of course that’s what you need to do’.”

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Imogene Strauss is a creative director working on the rollout for Charli XCX’s album “Brat.” She’d be remiss not to prioritize videos on the digital platform where Charli’s fans gather.

“TikTok is a huge and useful platform for most artists — it works really well for Charli,” Strauss said. “We’re in the middle of a big album campaign now, it would be devastating for our plan if a ban or licensing dispute happened.”

Charli XCX is on Atlantic, so the UMG pullout didn’t affect her. But the demands of cultivating an audience on TikTok take a toll too. Charli XCX recently posted a list of cringey marketing ideas for going viral on TikTok that she claims were sent to her team, like “Charli gets her nipples pierced at Claire’s” and “Charli gets caught shoplifting at a mall and leaks the CCTV footage.”

“TikTok stresses all artists out,” Strauss said. “It’s a constant and ruling platform that you have to feed now in addition to all the other other platforms. The amount of content that artists are expected to make would make your mind explode. She has lot of self-awareness about that, and with that post, she’s trying to not hide those pressures.”

For younger acts who have recently found viral fame there, their relationship to TikTok is as complicated as any romance they write songs about.

In 2022, the singer-songwriter Maddie Zahm released the single “Fat Funny Friend” on TikTok. The song is a painful lament for how she used feel about her body and relationships, and it was an instant smash there.

“When I posted it, my publisher called me and said, ‘Go check TikTok,’ and I saw so many people going through the same things,” Zahm said. The song’s earned nearly 30,000 fan video creations, and Zahm has 1.2 million followers there. In March, she played a packed El Rey Theatre show.

@maddiezahm CANT BE TOO LOUD ♬ original sound - sp33dsongsx

“TikTok directed my music to who it needed to go to,” Zahm said. “That song helped me heal and it resonated. That’s the most fulfilling part of being a musician.”

Yet she admits she’s limiting her time there. “Vulnerability isn’t something I can do all the time,” Zahm said. “I have to take breaks because I’m still growing a lot as a person, and those rushes of want for connection will come, but I never want to force it based on views or likes.”

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Singer Zoë Hoetzel, who performs as Zolita, built a sizable following (500,000 followers) for her pithy quips on queer culture, alongside operatic videos for singles like “Bloodstream” and “Bedspell.” She’s grateful for TikTok’s ability to let her music videos reach “queer 14-year-olds in Kansas, that’s so exciting to me,” she said.

“But it is weird to be like ‘I wrote this powerful, vulnerable thing, and now I have to package it and perform emotion by sitting in my car and crying so that people will see me and listen,’” Zolita admitted. “It’s really interesting what you’ve got to do to get people to pay attention there. It’s hard to keep your sanity when it’s such a numbers game, and to be at the mercy of this platform when you’re promoting art.”

@zolita getting to experience all those firsts again! and actually feeling them!! #wlw ♬ All Girls Go to Heaven - Zolita

So what would happen if no one is at TikTok’s mercy anymore?

A government ban, or a dug-in conflict between the app, labels and publishing companies, would upend assumptions about how to grow an audience.

Such a day may be coming sooner than many expected. “My reaction to this briefing is that TikTok is a gun aimed at Americans’ heads,” Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., told reporters after a classified Senate briefing on TikTok. “The Chinese communists are weaponizing information, but they are constantly, surreptitiously collecting from 170 million Americans and potentially aiming that information, using it through algorithms, at the core of American democracy.”

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Shou Zi Chew, TikTok’s CEO, said in recent congressional testimony that “I understand that there are concerns stemming from the inaccurate belief that TikTok’s corporate structure makes it beholden to the Chinese government or that it shares information about U.S. users with the Chinese government. This is emphatically untrue...Let me state this unequivocally: ByteDance is not an agent of China or any other country.”

For musicians and industry insiders, whose careers now depend on TikTok, they aren’t sure who to root for.

“Artists want their music on TikTok,” Strauss said. “It’s good promotion, and it sucks for those that aren’t there anymore. But artists should also be getting paid, and yet I’m not sure it would change that many things for artists themselves. I’m not saying TikTok is fundamentally good, but the only people suffering here are the artists.”

Zahm agrees. “It’s kind of heartbreaking, I’m friends with people that have worked really hard to write songs, and given that TikTok kind of runs the music industry, it sucks to tell them they’re not allowed to be on it,” she said. “I expected there to be a new thing someday, I just didn’t expect this limbo.”

Whatever TikTok’s ultimate intentions are for music, it is an effective means for artists to reach new fans, and there aren’t many others left.

Labels are trying to catch up — Warner Music Group recently announced its interest in buying Believe Music, the French parent firm of services like TuneCore that distribute independent and emerging artists (though the company later passed). “TikTok is one of the few things that does seem to touch real people,” Zitron said. “But this is a problem for all creative media now. Where do you go to discover new music? The value of a song has been reduced to nothing, and the people controlling the mechanisms are disconnected from the actual creativity.”

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Columbia Records’ Flanagan said that a course correction was overdue.

“Artists should have unlearned having one platform being their main vehicle,” Flanagan said. “I knew people with massive Instagram audiences, and suddenly they change their algorithm and you can’t reach your followers. You have to make sure you have email, texting, Discord, Substack, all of that. Trends change so quickly, you need to be able to transfer your superfans to other platforms.”

“Is TikTok still useful? Of course. But it does make you wonder if it’s waned, or if they just have too much going on right now,” Lee said. “You can’t be completely dependent on one platform to break artists. We have to think of a world where the platform is the artist and fans will follow you.”

For someone like Hemlocke Springs, who used TikTok to succeed beyond her wildest dreams, she said she “feels for emerging artists, especially ones under UMG right now,” she said. “The music biz’s focus is on TikTok, and pulling that away from people sucks. But to solely rely on viral moments to push things off, that feels counterintuitive too.”

For her, the new killer app is a very old one — playing great live shows.

“I feel like touring is going to be an even bigger thing,” she said. “I’m going into these Doja shows assuming no one knows me, and the more I lean on that, the more it lights a fire under me.”

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August Brown covers pop music, the music industry and nightlife policy at the Los Angeles Times.

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