Despite their name, forts throughout the West were not always used for protection against potential enemies. Many contained life, not death, as travelers stopped to trade goods or stock up on supplies. Even military forts often never saw battle, but still hold stories about the soldiers who lived and worked there. Consider taking a journey through American history on your next group adventure out West. Notable forts in California, Texas, and Wyoming offer a glimpse into the many reasons why settlers fortified America.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, the U.S. military built a slew of forts in the shadow of where the Golden Gate Bridge now stands in California. Soldiers at stations like Fort Baker and Fort Point were charged with protecting military and commercial activities near San Francisco Bay. At Fort Baker, built in the early 1900s, guests can do a self-guided walking tour of the parade grounds, with stops at the gymnasium, hospital, and barracks. At Fort Point—constructed in the mid-1800s—visitors can indulge in a candlelight tour to explore all four levels of the historic structure at night.
About two hours north of San Francisco, in Sonoma County, travelers can also tour Fort Ross, a Russian settlement that was active between 1812 and 1841. A colony of Russians and Native Alaskans built the fort as a commercial outpost, allowing them to hunt and live along the California coast. Groups can explore a reconstructed version of the colony’s Russian chapel, as well as the Rotchev House, where the fort manager once lived and is now its only remaining original structure.
In the Lone Star State, soldiers built a line of army forts, creating a Texas Frontier that would stand guard against the lawless nature of the Wild West. Fort Davis, a military post built to protect immigrants, mail coaches, and freight wagons, overlooks the Davis Mountains in West Texas. Visitors can explore more than 100 different buildings and ruins, with opportunities during the summer months to learn from knowledgeable history interpreters stationed at the site.
Fort Bridger, Wyoming; Credit: Wyoming Office of Tourism
San Antonio’s Fort Sam Houston, built in 1845, was named after the first president of the Republic of Texas, who held office before the region became a state. The site houses two museums: the Fort Sam Houston Museum and the U.S. Army Medical Department Museum. As the only museum of its kind in the nation, the U.S. Army Medical Department Museum documents medical equipment, care, and treatment progress from 1775 to present day.
During America’s westward expansion in the 1800s, settlers on wagon trains would stop for supplies at a string of forts across Wyoming. Fort Bridger, established in Uinta County in 1843, served as a fur trading post and welcomed customers who were traveling on the Oregon, California, and Mormon trails. Today, visitors can take an interpretative tour of the fort’s 27 historic structures and several replica buildings, including homestead cabins and a Pony Express Barn.
Farther east, Fort Laramie in Goshen County was a popular business destination for thousands of traders, missionaries, ranchers, and homesteaders. The National Park Service offers an audio tour that re-creates the sounds of life at the fort and features readings from residents’ diaries. Here, groups can see Old Bedlam, the former living quarters for bachelor officers and the oldest building in Wyoming.
By Ta’leah Van Sistine
Main Image: Fort Ross, Sonoma County, California; Credit: Sonoma County Tourism
The National Park Foundation (NPF), the official nonprofit entity of the National Park Service, has been selected to receive a $100 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., based in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Working with the National Park Service and park partners, NPF will allocate the funds to four key priority areas, according to a news release. Focus areas include stewardship, conservation and preservation, visitor experience, and historical narrative.
“The National Park Foundation is inspired by, and incredibly grateful for, this extraordinary gift from Lilly Endowment,” says Will Shafroth, president and CEO of the NPF. “For over 50 years, private philanthropy has played a vital role in bridging the gap between park needs and available funding. This grant will allow us to supercharge our efforts to ensure our national parks are for everyone, for generations to come.”
The grant contributes to The Campaign for National Parks, NPF’s $1 billion fundraising campaign that will help address the urgent needs of America’s 430 national park sites. N. Clay Robbins, chairman and CEO of Lilly Endowment, says NPF’s campaign “will enhance the programming in and promote the future vibrancy of our country’s marvelous system of parks, monuments, and historic sites.” Chuck Sams, director of the National Park Service, says the impact of the grant will be felt at park sites and communities for decades. “This is a truly visionary investment,” Sams says, “and an example of how the power of philanthropy can amplify this crucial work that we all believe in so much.”
Main Image: Yellowstone National Park; Credit: Adobe/htrnr
Valley Forge embodies Pennsylvania’s rich American history. Here, groups will encounter an abundance of dining choices, fascinating tours, and exciting outdoor adventures. Visit Bryn Athyn’s Historic District to see some of the area’s most remarkable architecture, including religious buildings built by the community’s earliest residents. See the encampment site of the Continental Army during the winter of 1777 at Valley Forge National Historic Park. Here, groups can also explore 3,500 acres of meadows, woodlands, and monuments commemorating the Revolutionary War.
EXPLORE
Valley Forge is a great place to get your group outside. Connect with nature and discover the sounds, traits, and habits of birds at the new John James Audubon Center, where the artwork and legacy of the famed naturalist is on display. Stop by Green Lane Park for year-round activities, including fishing, boating, picnicking, or horseback riding. See soaring trees, expansive vistas, and displays of native plants at Stoneleigh Gardens. Here, groups can learn of the importance of biodiversity and participate in a celebration of the natural world.
DINE
Shop and eat at the King of Prussia Center, the largest mall in Pennsylvania and the third-largest shopping destination in the U.S. At City Works Eatery & Pour House, a spot locals consider a “great place with great eats,” visitors can choose from 90 craft beers and eight wines on tap. Or, groups can enjoy an elegant Italian meal at Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse. Other popular dining locations include Paladar Latin Kitchen & Rum Bar and the fast-casual Choolaah Indian BBQ. For something sweet, stop by Kilwins and the local Founding Farmers First Bake Cafe & Creamery, famous for house-churned ice cream.
LEARN MORE
Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board valleyforge.org
Main Image: Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board
Imagine heading to the warm climate of Nashville, Tennessee, from your much colder home city on a frigid day in January. You were looking forward to packing lightly, but a few days before your trip, you hear rumors that a winter storm is heading toward your destination. Now, locals are suggesting you bring your winter boots and prepare for colder temperatures. So much for packing lightly.
As annoying as it might feel to bring boots to a place that hardly ever sees any snow, once it starts falling in Nashville, you feel glad you prepared accordingly. Even with just a dusting of snow, the precipitation turned the streets slick with ice and slush, and your boots came in handy when it came to maintaining your balance and keeping warm during your trip.
You might have had this very experience if you attended the American Bus Association (ABA) trade show at Music City Center in downtown Nashville earlier this year. And through the experience, you might have learned a few valuable lessons: Weather watching is an important part of preparedness when traveling, and thorough preparedness is key to helping make trips safe and productive. You might not have needed your boots the entire time you were in Nashville for the conference, but—odds are—you were extremely happy to have them for the times when you traversed the busy, frozen streets at night during the anomalous winter storm.
This scenario might seem like a small detail, but that’s the thing about proper planning—it involves both the big and little things. Trade shows are big events to prepare for, often taking organizers months and, in some cases, even years of planning. But even for those who attend as guests, planning is paramount. Of course, not everyone plans the same. Every organization has its own agenda, the things it wants to promote or inform about, the destinations it wants to market. Not all planning is created equal, but there are some initiatives from which everyone attending a trade show might benefit. Industry experts share their professional insights.
Plan Early
When Pam Williams prepares for a trade show, she tackles it from many angles. In August, Williams, vice president of tourism with the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitor Bureau, attended the Student Youth Travel Association conference in New York City and then geared up for her next event: The National Tour Association Travel Exchange Nov. 17-20 in her home city of Huntsville, Alabama. She appreciates what all trade shows offer organizations such as hers—the opportunity to gather and share common bonds with other tourism professionals. Not only is there energy at such gatherings, but there’s also a sense of synergy as like-minded people work toward similar goals.
A main goal of destination marketing organizations (DMOs) such as Williams’ is, as the title suggests, to market destinations. Trade shows are a great way to do that, because they get DMOs and potential clients together. “The face-to-face opportunities at shows cannot be beaten,” she says. “As a DMO, it is difficult, if not impossible, to cold call-sell a destination, no matter how good your marketing efforts are.
For Williams, planning for an upcoming trade show starts early. “When requesting appointments, I utilize the filter tools available through the appointment scheduling platform,” she says. “I search for my city and broaden my search from there to include Alabama, other cities/states in my region, and then specific interests.” She also makes “random requests, because it is always nice to meet new people,” noting, “you never know what can come from a good conversation!”
After an appointment has been set, Williams researches the client and reviews the company’s website. She takes copious notes, saving them for future reference so if she meets with the same client later, she can pick up the conversation where they left off.
One suggestion she has for show organizers: “I understand the reasons for having operator-only sessions/events, etc.,” she explains, “but the more time we can all be together, the better. If an association wants to schedule appointments by supplier type, that is great; however, please schedule over more than one day. Two is preferrable.”
“Preparing for a trade show is critically important,” says Sara Brish, program manager with Travel Wisconsin’s Office of Group Travel. “We start by determining the trade shows that are going to give us the highest return on our investment based on feedback from partners and our own experiences. We put extensive thought and preparation into the shows we attend, from researching our appointments and planning the booth design to building out the activation at our booth. Each of these components is essential to building relationships that will last for years into the future.”
Brish says Travel Wisconsin partners with Circle Wisconsin for all its group tour efforts. Her organization plans to attend the NTA Travel Exchange in Huntsville and the Ontario Motor Coach Association Marketplace, both in November. “These shows are part of our ongoing commitment to promote Wisconsin to the group travel industry—domestically and internationally,” she explains. “On average, we participate in over 10 group travel shows annually to showcase our state’s attractions and services.”
She says trade shows are a “cornerstone strategy to selling Wisconsin to the group market,” hence the importance of proper planning. “Our job at Travel Wisconsin, in partnership with Circle Wisconsin, is to increase awareness and improve perceptions about Wisconsin’s unexpected tourism offerings. By connecting directly with tour operators, we make the case Wisconsin should be at the top of their travel itinerary list. Trade shows are very helpful; they’re a key component of our sales strategy.”
The next trade show for Dawn Hopper, managing director of tourism and market development with Dutchess Tourism in Poughkeepsie, New York, is ABA. “ABA is most helpful as it is my annual one-on-one meetings with operators I know and those new to my destination,” she says. “We no longer attend large group leader shows.”
She prepares by partnering with ILNY (I Love New York), researching operators, and recruiting tourism partners to attend. A successful trade show for Hopper? “Attention to supplier needs as well as tour operators,” she says. Also, it is important to have a balance “between networking opportunities and business meetings,” and she suggests events lasting no more than three to four days.
Ontario Motor Coach Association Marketplace; Credit: Ontario Motor Coach Association
Have the Long View
Jennifer Grundy, coordinator of convention and visitor services with Tourism Thunder Bay in Ontario, Canada, has a knack for networking and says she uses every tool at her disposal, including social platforms. “To prepare for a successful trade show or event, I start by figuring out what my mission is, like meeting new people and getting leads,” she explains. “Spreading the word using social media, sending out emails, and trying to reach out to my network to get people excited to meet with me.” She preselects appointments and familiarizes herself with who she is scheduled to meet. “Getting materials ready is important, too,” she explains, “so I make sure to pack plenty of business cards, brochures, and other promotional items. Sorting out logistics, like con!rming location details, travel plans, and necessary equipment, would be a priority.”
All the above might be well and good, but Grundy’s efforts would in large part be in vain if she didn’t have the long view in mind. “Planning for follow-up is very important,” she says, “so I plan for reaching out to leads and contacts after the event. Finally, keeping track of how things go and gathering feedback will help me improve for next time.”
Grundy appreciates what trade shows offer her—the chance to meet other people in industry, see the newest trends and products, and make new business connections. “It’s a chance to chat with potential clients and partners, build relationships, and stay on top of what’s happening,” she says. “A successful trade show is all about having a great plan, a standout booth, and really connecting with people.” For organizers, she offers this advice: Make sure “all logistics runs smoothly, and get the word out using social media and gathering feedback afterward.”
By Andrew Weeks
Main Image: ABA Marketplace 2024, Nashville, Tennessee; Credit: Nathan Zucker
Each region of the United States carries with it a unique spirit. The Midwest conjures images of sprawling farmland and industrious cities. The Northeast is bursting with colonial history and maritime charm. The Southeast is a place of vibrant culture and sunny beaches. And the West … well, we’ll get to that. With each unique region comes an array of bucket list destinations that epitomizes these individual spirits. And the West—with its cultural, climatological, and geological diversity—is no exception. In fact, it can be a real challenge sifting through the possible tour stops your group might want to make.
Perhaps most commonly associated with the Great Plains and cowboy culture, the West offers so much more than that. Breathtaking natural wonders, eclectic communities, and unforgettable cultural attractions set the West apart as a region just begging to be explored. No matter where your group chooses to wander, there will always be something new to discover among the endless mountains, towering forests, rolling deserts, and coastal communities.
The West, a veritable haven for distinct natural formations and breathtaking bodies of water that attract millions of visitors each year, is home to 46 of the country’s 63 national parks—that’s almost three-quarters of the entire park system! Mother Nature’s handiwork doesn’t end with the national parks, though.
According to National Geographic, Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park attracts the most visitors annually, with an estimated 4.7 million people (second only to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee). One of the largest canyons in the world, the Grand Canyon is a mile deep and reaches up to 18 miles in width. There are several tour options available to groups looking to experience this massive park, including bicycle tours with Bright Angle Bicycles, motorcoach tours, mule tours of the North and South rims, guided hikes with the Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute, helicopter tours, and more.
In Montana, Glacier National Park is another iconic destination in an area overflowing with popular group attractions. “Western Montana’s Glacier Country is the ultimate destination for group tours seeking soft adventure and scenic beauty,” says Debbie Picard, director of sales for Western Montana’s Glacier Country. “Nestled in the American Rockies, it offers unforgettable experiences like Red Bus Tours on the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, scenic boat rides, and endless photo opportunities.”
Flathead Lake, Montana; Credit: Andy Austin
Other attractions in the area include Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the West; Whitefish Mountain Resort; Lake McDonald, known for its colorful pebbles; Bigfork Village, a local arts community; CSKT Bison Range; Travelers’ Rest State Park, the only archaeologically verified campsite of the Lewis and Clark Expedition; Garnet Ghost Town; the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas; and several Indigenous cultural sites.
“Beyond the stunning landscapes, our region offers rich history, unique wildlife, and vibrant arts communities,” Picard says, noting the region’s offerings in live theater, an annual music festival, and even rodeo. “With diverse activities ranging from outdoor adventures to cultural tours, paired with exceptional lodging and culinary options, Western Montana provides an unforgettable experience.”
Other popular national parks include the Mighty Five of Utah: Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, and Zion National Park; California’s Redwood and Yosemite national parks; Crater Lake National Park in Oregon, located nearly six hours south of the similarly popular Cannon Beach; Mount Rainier National Park in Washington; Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona; Badlands National Park in South Dakota; and Yellowstone National Park, mostly situated in Wyoming.
On the border between California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe—while not a national park—certainly has the beauty and prestige of one. The largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe is known for its crystal-clear waters and majestic scenery. Its Emerald Bay is one of the most photographed locations in the world. Of Lake Tahoe, Mark Twain once wrote, “As it lay there with the shadows of the mountains brilliantly photographed upon its still surface, I thought it must surely be the fairest picture the whole earth affords.”
“Lake Tahoe is a stunning year-round destination that offers unparalleled beauty, outdoor adventure, and a range of amenities tailored to group experiences,” says Juraj Sojka, director of tourism for Visit Lake Tahoe. “Whether your group seeks a serene escape or outdoor thrills, Lake Tahoe provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable trip. Known as the ‘Jewel of the Sierra,’ Lake Tahoe’s mountain air and serene waters are truly awe-inspiring. There are accommodations for every budget, as well as convenient access from major airports.”
Popular activities for groups include riding the Heavenly Gondola, which takes guests on a nearly 2 1/2-mile ride up to an observation deck that offers panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains; year-round lake cruises; clear-bottom kayaking; biking; snowshoeing; and attending shows at the Tahoe Blue Event Center. According to Sojka, many businesses around the lake offer discount rates for groups of 10 or more.
For many, bucket list destinations often hold some sort of cultural or historical significance. Another national park that best embodies this concept is Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado, home to 5,000 known Indigenous ancestral sites, including mesa-top villages, farming terraces, reservoirs, pictographs and petroglyphs, towers, and cliff dwellings like the famous Cliff Palace.
Popular with groups are the Mesa Verde Museum and the “Mesa Top Loop” audio tour that covers 700 years of history. Different tours at the park can accommodate a range of 10 to 50 tourgoers. As an International Dark Sky Park, the grounds are also great for stargazing. Kristy Sholly, chief of interpretation and visitor services, says, “There is something for everyone—an amazing drive, beautiful Southwest desert scenery, dark skies, rich cultural history, opportunities for hiking, and shopping for site-specific items.”
More cultural hot spots popular on bucket lists throughout the West include South Dakota’s Mount Rushmore; OZ Museum in Wamego, Kansas; the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Pearl Harbor National Memorial in Honolulu County, Hawaii; and Space Center Houston in Texas.
For some people, a bucket list goes beyond only one attraction. Myriad cities across the West sit high on travelers’ lists, as they offer no dearth of cultural institutions suitable for groups of all shapes and sizes.
For groups seeking those trademark “Wild West” vibes, towns like Tombstone, Arizona; Fort Worth, Texas; Deadwood, South Dakota; and Cody, Wyoming, offer a slew of attractions centered on cowboy culture, from iconic saloons to live reenactments of notorious standoffs.
Cities like Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; Seattle, Washington; Portland, Oregon; Austin, Texas; and San Francisco, California, offer a combination of urban life and scenic surroundings. Groups traveling to these world-class cities will be met with unique culinary offerings, impactful museums, and unforgettable attractions. Seattle’s Space Needle, San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, and the beautiful Portland Japanese Garden are prime examples.
Planning for a few more thrills? Las Vegas, Nevada, is a must-visit for a trip filled with glamour, gaming, and fun. Or, go with a more laid-back approach with a visit to Fairbanks, Alaska, where several area hotels offer Northern Lights tours.
With a region as large and diverse as the West, it can be challenging to list all the places that truly define its unique spirit. A true western bucket list could be a mile long, and your group might still be missing something they don’t even know is out there. So, why not start here, with the iconic places that hold a special place in the heart of millions?
By Madeline Fuerstenberg
Main Image: Space Needle, Seattle, Washington; Credit: Adobe/Adonis Abril
North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum
Photo courtesy of North Dakota Tourism
Discover
Nestled in the central plains of North Dakota, the Bismarck-Mandan area is where history and heartland charm converge. Bismarck, the state capital, and its neighboring city, Mandan, are steeped in a vibrant blend of Native American heritage, stories of exploration by Lewis and Clark, and the traditions of settlers from across the globe. The cities are a treasure trove of cultural attractions, local cuisine, and shopping experiences that capture the spirit of the Midwest.
“Visitors will find local restaurants and cafes that bring fresh, homegrown flavors to the forefront,” says North Dakota Tourism, “as well as charming downtown boutiques, alleys filled with art, shopping centers, and hidden gems that offer unique finds.”
Located in Bismarck, the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the state’s deep history and cultural heritage. This modern museum showcases exhibits on everything from prehistoric fossils to Native American heritage and pioneer history. With its engaging displays, interactive exhibits, and artifacts, this center offers a journey through time that’s ideal for all ages. Coffee, sandwich options, and a gift shop are ready for business.
North Dakota State Capitol building
Photo courtesy of North Dakota Tourism
Learn
Also in the state capital, North Dakota’s Gateway to Science is an interactive science center offering hands-on experiences that delight all ages. With a range of exhibits covering topics like physics, biology, and environmental science, the center makes learning fun and accessible. The wraparound outdoor patio provides scenic views of the river and surrounding area.
Known as the “Skyscraper on the Prairie,” the North Dakota State Capitol building is North Dakota’s tallest structure and an architectural marvel. Guided tours reveal the history of North Dakota’s government and give visitors a chance to see the Hall of Governors, the House and Senate chambers, and incredible views of Bismarck from the observation deck on the 18th floor. The cafe has group seating and daily specials.
“What guests will notice is that the State Capitol, North Dakota’s tallest building, stands proudly over the city, a landmark visible for miles around,” says North Dakota Tourism. “Bismarck-Mandan’s communities are clean, walkable, and safe. It radiates pride.”
Lewis and Clark Riverboat
Photo courtesy of North Dakota Tourism
Explore
Perfect for a relaxing group outing, the Lewis and Clark Riverboat is a paddle wheeler that cruises the Missouri River on scenic 75-minute tours. This unique experience offers seating for up to 110 guests, with views of the riverbanks and nearby landscapes. The riverboat tour provides a blend of history, nature, and leisure, making it an ideal choice for groups of all sizes. The Huckleberry House restaurant and gift shop are nearby.
Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
Photo courtesy of North Dakota Tourism
Located a short drive from Mandan, historic Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park offers a glimpse into North Dakota’s past. Visitors can experience a guided tour of the reconstructed home of General George Custer and his wife Libby, explore the historic Mandan Indian Earthlodges at On-A-Slant Village, and see the Fort McKeen blockhouses and cemetery. The park’s trails and historic sites make it a great spot for group exploration and outdoor recreation.
Tour operators have a unique opportunity to create memorable itineraries in the Bismarck-Mandan area, where history, culture, and community come alive against the stunning North Dakota landscape.
Known for its wild ponies, Saltwater Cowboys, “Ole Salt” oysters and clams, and the famous novel “Misty of Chincoteague,” this Virginian island is the perfect place for group tours seeking adventure in a quaint, seaside village bursting with small town charm. Take a boat tour around the entire island with Captain Dan’s Around the Island Tours, during which you will have the chance to see wild ponies, dolphins, and birds of all kinds. In this peaceful and tranquil town, your group can indeed take a step back in time. Wander with Chincoteague Step Through Time Tours and learn of the village’s history with pirates, shipwrecks, ponies, and even ghosts on a guided walk through its historic downtown.
LEARN
Whether your group’s interest lies in space exploration or marine biology, Chincoteague is the place to be. Discover Chincoteague’s bountiful sea creatures and wildlife conservation efforts at the Herbert H. Bateman Educational Center through hands-on exhibits and programs. Or, learn of the area’s 75-year spacecraft and technology history on Wallops Island at the NASA Wallops Flight Facility. Visit the Museum of Chincoteague Island to hear stories of island life throughout the years, including the famous story of Misty of Chincoteague—which the novel by Marguerite Henry is based on—and the Beebe family at the Beebe Ranch.
IMMERSE
The annual Chincoteague Pony Swim and Auction offers an unforgettable experience for group tours. Each July, visitors can see the wild ponies of Assateague Island swim across the channel to Chincoteague Island, followed by an auction where select ponies are sold to benefit the local fire department. Next year will mark the 100th anniversary of this event and will be the perfect time for groups to immerse themselves in the century-old, unique Virginian tradition.
LEARN MORE
Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce chincoteaguechamber.com
Main Image: Chincoteague Pony Swim and Auction; Credit: Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce
Over the course of her two decades in commercial strategy and revenue optimization, Rhonda Khabir has quite literally traversed the country to get to where she is today. Having previously served as senior vice president of sales and marketing for a hotel management company in Hawaii, Khabir says her experiences in strategic planning, business growth, and aligning organizational goals with revenue performance have resulted in a natural progression to her current role.
As vice president of commercial for The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, Khabir says she today gets to combine her professional expertise with her admiration for the foundation’s mission. “I was drawn to Colonial Williamsburg for its remarkable blend of historical significance and present-day commercial opportunities,” Khabir tells Group Tour. “I am excited to apply my expertise to drive the foundation’s growth, contribute to its mission, and deliver exceptional value to both our visitors and stakeholders.”
With the United States’ 250th birthday nearing in 2026, a lot is in store for the world’s largest living history museum. We spoke with Khabir to learn more about all the historic landmark has planned for the upcoming celebration.
Q. With the approach of the U.S. Semiquincentennial, what will The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation do to celebrate? A. The year 2026 marks two notable anniversaries: the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America and the 100th anniversary of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. This institution—envisioned by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in 1926—began as an idea to restore the 18th-century town of Williamsburg, creating a center for educating the public about our history. Today, it stands as the world’s largest U.S. history museum and a hub for education, preservation, and research.
As the world’s largest U.S. history museum, Colonial Williamsburg is leading the country in the planning for 2026. We are convening the nation’s museums, scholars and educators, and civic leaders to plan a celebration and commemoration that will inspire millions to explore America’s past, reflect on its legacy into the present, and understand their role in safeguarding the nation’s future. At the same time, we are dramatically expanding our efforts in the areas of preservation, education, and civic engagement—the core pillars of our work to discover and share a more complete history of America’s founding.
Q. Does the foundation have any upcoming projects or initiatives our planners should look out for? A. Yes, Colonial Williamsburg has several exciting projects and initiatives on the horizon that planners should definitely keep an eye on. We are preparing to launch a series of enhanced experiences and special events in celebration of the U.S. Semiquincentennial, which will offer unique opportunities for groups to engage with American history in new and meaningful ways.
Additionally, our educational programs and interactive exhibits provide even more enriching and immersive experiences for visitors. These initiatives are designed to offer diverse and engaging content that will appeal to a wide range of interests and group sizes.
We encourage planners to stay tuned for updates on these developments, as they promise to add significant value to any group visit and ensure an unforgettable experience for all participants.
Q. What is your favorite thing about promoting Colonial Williamsburg as an ideal group tour destination? A. My favorite aspect of promoting Colonial Williamsburg as an ideal group tour destination is showcasing its unique ability to offer an immersive and educational experience that brings history to life. The combination of authentic historical settings, interactive programs, and engaging storytelling creates a dynamic environment that captivates and educates groups of all sizes. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how Colonial Williamsburg’s rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere foster a deeper connection with America’s past, making each visit memorable and impactful for every group tour.
Q. Why is it important to preserve historical sites like Colonial Williamsburg, and what can we learn from these sites today? A. Preserving historic sites like Colonial Williamsburg is essential because they serve as living reminders of our collective heritage. These sites allow us to walk in the footsteps of those who shaped our nation’s history, providing invaluable lessons in governance, resilience, and community. By experiencing Colonial Williamsburg firsthand, we connect with the ideals and challenges of the past, fostering a deeper understanding of how far we’ve come and what we can learn to guide the future. It’s a way of ensuring that the stories, struggles, and triumphs of those who came before us are never forgotten, and that they continue to inspire future generations.
Q. What is something you’d like to share with our readers? A. For me, one of the most compelling aspects of Colonial Williamsburg is the continuous discovery of new insights that illuminate our shared history. Every day, our team unearths new findings that deepen our understanding of this significant place where Europeans, free and enslaved Black individuals, and Native Americans first came together.
These discoveries not only enrich our historical narrative but also highlight the diverse and complex interactions that shaped early American history. By sharing these revelations, we aim to provide a more inclusive and nuanced perspective on our past, honoring the contributions and experiences of all groups involved.
By Madeline Fuerstenberg
Main Image: Colonial Williamsburg; Credit: Colonial Williamsburg
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Manitowoc has a rich maritime history that can be explored at its many museums and other venues. Start your group tour at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum to view exhibits that teach about the region’s seafaring history, including some focused on World War II. Manitowoc, designated an American World War II Heritage City by the National Park Service in 2022 because of its contributions during the war, continues to share its heritage at the museum with annual events such as Subfest. Here, visitors can step aboard a real submarine, the USS Cobia. After visiting the museum, stop by nearby Shipbuilders Park and have pictures taken by the metal arbor and fountain.
GET ARTSY
Other museums to put on your list are the Rahr-West Art Museum, which features work by Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso, and Georgia O’Keeffe. Visit the Manitowoc County Historical Society, which, according to Visit Manitowoc, oversees 25 historic county buildings and 60 acres that make up the Pinecrest Historical Village. Workshops and other events are held throughout the year. At the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center, visitors can see a cow give birth or walk among 10,000 square feet of interactive exhibits that tell about the origins of food and the technologies that keep it safe.
ENJOY LOCAL EATS
Ensuring your group won’t go hungry, Manitowoc has more than 100 restaurants. Enjoy the comfort food at Bud Willman’s, which has been described as an old-fashioned diner. It is popular for its breakfasts, brunch, and burgers. Don’t forget to try its homemade jam. Other places perfect for groups include Brick’s Downtown Bar & Grill, also popular for its burgers, or enjoy award-winning cheese curds at Courthouse Pub. For the pizza lovers in your group, consider Grizzly’s Pub and Grill or Luigi’s Italian Restaurant.
LEARN MORE
Visit Manitowoc visitmanitowoc.com
Main Image: Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center; Credit: Visit Manitowoc
