southforkranch.com
Come Experience The World’s
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Southfork Ranch
Explore the Legendary Southfork
Ranch: A Journey into Television History and
Texan Charm
Imagine stepping into a world where
glamour, intrigue, and Texas hospitality con-
verge. Welcome to Southfork Ranch, a place
where the line between reality and fiction
blurs, bringing to life the iconic home of the
Ewing family from the hit television series
"Dallas." Nestled in the heart of Texas, just a
short drive from Dallas, Southfork
Ranch offers an unforgettable experi-
ence for fans of the show and new-
comers alike.
From the moment you arrive at
this legendary ranch, you're transport-
ed back to the glitz and drama of the
1980s, where larger-than-life charac-
ters lived, loved, and battled for
power under the vast Texan sky. As
you stroll through the beautifully
manicured grounds and marvel at the
sprawling mansion, you can't help but
feel a sense of nostalgia for the era
that made "Dallas" a global sensation.
Here, you can explore the very rooms
where J.R., Bobby, Sue Ellen, and the
rest of the Ewing family plotted their
next moves, and perhaps imagine
yourself as a character in your own
dramatic story.
But Southfork Ranch is more
than just a piece of television his-
tory—it's a vibrant destination that
offers something for everyone. Enjoy a guided
tour of the mansion, where you'll hear fasci-
nating behind-the-scenes stories from the
show, or take a leisurely walk around the pic-
turesque grounds, perfect for snapping memo-
rable photos. For those seeking a taste of true
Texan hospitality, the ranch hosts special
events throughout the year, including BBQ
cookouts, trail rides, and music festivals that
capture the spirit of the Lone Star State.
Bus Tours Magazine • www.bustoursmagazine.com
Ph: (815) 946-2341 • Fx: (815) 946-2347
Student & Senior Tours
page 6
The Charming Southeast
page 10
Historical Attractions & Museums
page 33
Volume XLIVII, Number 3 • January/February 2025
FREE ADMISSION Mon.–Sat., 9:30–5:00 | BillyGrahamLibrary.org | 704.401.3200 | 4330 Westmont Drive, Charlotte, NC
Bring your group to discover a powerful story of hope at the Billy Graham Library.
Together, you can retrace Billy Graham’s journey of faith as you explore multimedia
presentations, displays, photos, and memorabilia. Come see what God can
do through a life that is fully surrendered to Him.
©2025 BGEA A MINISTRY OF BILLY GRAHAM EVANGELISTIC ASSOCIATION
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COVER PHOTO
Conway Scenic has expanded its winter
operations for the 2024-2025 season. Guests
may now enjoy a variety of journeys to take
in the winter splendor of New Hampshire’s
White Mountains, including the railroad’s sig-
nature trip over Crawford Notch. BRIAN
SOLOMON.
Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2025 • 3
Guides
STUDENT & SENIOR TOURS
Some locations are particularly appro-
priate for student or senior tour groups.
Here are some you may want to con-
sider for your next student or senior
bus tour.
22
MILITARY & SPACE
Military and space attractions have
always been of interest to both young
and old. In this issue, we explore the
Museum of the American GI that is
located in College Station, Texas.
24
THEATERS & ENTERTAINMENT
Park the bus for a while and give your
passengers a chance to try their luck
at gaming or enjoy some professional
entertainment. Here are some exam-
ples that have been favorites with bus
tours.
28
SHOPPING, DINING & LODGING
While shopping, dining and lodging
are a requirement for every tour, pick-
ing the right locations to eat and sleep
can turn them into a high point of your
Guides (continued)
tour and a reason for your customers
to return for more.
33
HISTORICAL ATTRACTIONS &
MUSEUMS
Bus tour passengers of all ages enjoy
taking a look into past history and the
way things were. Here are some
museums and historical attractions
that are a hit with bus groups.
Features
10
THE CHARMING SOUTHEAST
In spite of recent hostile weather, our
charming Southeast states are again
welcoming bus tours. Here are some
locations that your group will enjoy in
an area that is popular all year long.
And More
BUZZ ON THE BUS
18
TRIVIA QUESTION
38
ADVERTISERS INDEX
contents
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025
Volume XLVII, Number 3
22
28
33
24
10
The editorial staff at BUS TOURS MAGAZINE are always looking for news items and
editorial material on places that want bus tour groups to stop. Please phone (815)
946-2341 or send material to editorial@busmag.com.
The James Museum
St. Petersburg, Florida
The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art has announced the
debut of its katsina (plural “Kasinam”) collection. The new exhibit
features 14 Hopi katsina tithu (dolls) of the 279 katsinam generously
donated to the museum by local collector Sondra Thorson. The display
highlights the time-honored craft and diverse styles of Hopi carvers.
In addition to this debut, The James Museum is announcing the return
of six carvings to their rightful home of the Pueblo of Jemez. This
repatriation effort reflects the museum’s commitment to honoring
the cultural patrimony of Indigenous communities.
Most of the collection consists of katsinam from the Hopi tribe.
The collection also includes approximately 32 A:shiwi (Zuni) katsinam
and carvings from other Southwestern tribes. During the initial
research and cataloging process, six carvings were identified as sacred
objects of cultural patrimony, belong to the Pueblo of Jemez. The
James is working with the Pueblo’s Tribal Historic Preservation officer
and complying with the Native American Graves Protection and Repa-
triation Act (NAGPRA) to return these objects.
Visit the jamesmuseum.org for more information.
Student and Group Tours
Can Discover Philadelphia
As the birthplace of America, Philadelphia will be the focal point
of the United States’ 250th anniversary of independence in 2026.
Home to iconic landmarks such as Carpenters’ Hall and the Fireman’s
Hall Museum, Philadelphia offers a wealth of historical richness, pro-
viding visitors with a unique glimpse into the nation’s founding by
allowing them to experience the sites and stories that shaped Amer-
ican history.
The city’s diverse neighborhoods, from Old City to Kensington,
are filled with a rich arts scene and world-class museums, including
the National Liberty Museum, The Clay Studio and Philadelphia’s
Magic Gardens. From examining the intricacy of freedom of speech
and exploring your inner artist through the craft of clay, to discovering
the magic of mosaics, the city is comprised of must-visit destinations
that are perfect for group, guided and walking tours.
Philadelphia offers a wealth of group tour activities for visitors to
enjoy, ensuring unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Orga-
nizers interested in scheduling group tours or seeking more infor-
mation, contact taylor@enroutemarketing.com.
4 • Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2025
Buzz on the Bus
News and notes for bus tour planners
The James Museum
National
Liberty Museum
Billy Graham Library
Charlotte, North Carolina
Since 2007 people from around the world have heard the Gospel
and made life- changing decisions for Christ at the library.
At the prompting of their teenage son, a Miami family recently
stopped their RV, surprised to play a special part in celebrating the
two millionth visitor.
The Salsteins had visited the library four years ago, but since 17-
year-old Gabriel was reading Just As I Am – Billy Graham’s autobiog-
raphy – he asked to come back.
Walking through the cross-shaped glass doors, the family was
greeted with big smiles and applause from the staff and other
visitors.
To celebrate the milestone, the Salsteins received a complimentary
lunch from the Graham Brothers Dairy Bar and a gift basket that
included books by Billy Graham, a gift card and other tokens of appre-
ciation from Ruth’s Attic bookstore. The family enjoyed a special cake,
and the first 200 guests to arrive after them joined in the celebration
as they received a free treat from the Dairy Bar.
Their final gift was one they will leave behind – to commemorate
their visit and celebrate the impact of the Gospel for years to come.
The family was honored with an inscribed brick paver, which will be
placed in a path on the grounds of the library.
Universal Orlando Resort
Orlando, Florida
Universal Orlando Resort’s highly anticipated fourth theme park –
Universal Epic Universe – will officially open May, 2025.
Universal Epic Universe is the most ambitious theme park Uni-
versal Destinations and Experiences has ever created and will be
the next gamechanger for theme park entertainment. With a total
of more than 50 incredible experiences that range from ground-
breaking attractions to breathtaking entertainment to incredibly
themed dining and shopping and so much more, Epic Universe
will present a level of theme park immersion and innovation that
is unmatched across five themed worlds: Celestial Park, The Wiz-
arding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, Super Nintendo
World, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Dark Universe.
Anchoring the park is Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel –
a majestic 500-room property that will offer one-of-a-kind views of
the park and feature its very own dedicated entrance into Epic Uni-
verse for hotel guests (valid theme park admission required).
The opening of Epic Universe will transform Universal Orlando
Resort into a weeklong vacation destination comprised of four
theme parks that are home to the most innovative theme park
experiences ever created, 11 spectacular hotels that are destina-
tions unto themselves.
Buzz on the Bus
Billy Graham Library
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Billy Graham Library
Charlotte, North Carolina
Whether you are leading a tour group or
student field trip, or are planning a family
day, the Billy Graham Library offers an oppor-
tunity for visitors of all ages to experience
history through the lens of the inspiring life
and ministry of world-renowned evangelist
Billy Graham.
Growing up on a dairy farm outside of
Charlotte, North Carolina, Graham never
imagined how he would be used to share
a message of God’s love with millions
around the world. For more than 80 years,
Graham preached the Gospel to more than
215 million people in live audiences across
185 countries and territories – more than
anyone else in history. Since its opening
in 2007, more than 2 million people have
heard that same message of hope shared
through the interactive displays at the Billy
Graham Library.
Nestled on a serene, 20-acre property –
with plenty of room for parking tour coaches
– the Billy Graham Library brings Graham’s
story to life through the self-guided Journey
of Faith tour. Learn about one of the most
influential voices of the 20th century and be
inspired by his message of God’s love.
Through multimedia exhibits, films and mem-
orabilia, relive the historic moments of his
life and that of his wife, Ruth Bell Graham.
In addition to The Journey of Faith tour,
the Billy Graham Library is home to the Gra-
ham Family Homeplace, Ruth’s Attic book-
store, the Graham Brothers Dairy Bar cafe,
memorial prayer garden (the final resting
place of Graham and his wife, Ruth Bell Gra-
ham) and Billy Kim Hall – an event space that
hosts many groups and seasonal activities
throughout the year.
6 • Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2025
Student & Senior Tours
After touring the Billy Graham Library,
a recent visitor stated, “I appreciate how
many times we were reminded this was
about God and not Billy – although we
appreciate everything he did and his work.”
Another commented, “Love the heart and
message that is echoed in the experience.
It’s great to know that Jesus is at the center
of it all.”
Consistently ranked the #1 thing to do in
Charlotte on TripAdvisor, make sure that the
Billy Graham Library is on your list of
must-see destinations if you are planning to
visit North Carolina. More information, as
well as special event information and
group booking details, are available at
BillyGrahamLibrary.org.
Gateway Arch & Riverboats at the
Gateway Arch
St. Louis, Missouri
Gateway Arch National Park, nestled
along the Mississippi River in St. Louis, is a
stunning park with a unique blend of history,
culture and beauty sure to captivate visitors
of all ages. Make this iconic destination a
must-visit on your tours to offer your group
a truly unforgettable experience.
Standing at 630-feet tall, the stainless-
steel Gateway Arch is the national park’s cen-
terpiece monument. Take the Tram Ride to
the Top of the tallest monument in the U.S.,
for stunning panoramic views of the city and
the surrounding area.
Explore multiple perspectives of westward
expansion and more than 200 years of Amer-
ican history at the Museum under the Gate-
way Arch. The museum features Universal
Design, inviting visitors to wander through
each gallery from multiple angles, with acces-
sible artifacts commemorating America’s
pioneering spirit.
Embark on a riverboat cruise to experi-
ence the majesty of the Mississippi River on
the Riverboats at the Gateway Arch. These
cruises offer stunning views of the Gateway
Arch, Eads Bridge and other iconic St. Louis
landmarks.
Lunch or dinner menus can be tailored to
fit your group's needs dockside or on board
the riverboats. The staff can offer a range of
options from box lunches on a one-hour
Riverfront cruise or an evening of entertain-
ment with a three-course dinner cruise. Live
music and dining options make these cruises
perfect for groups looking for a fun and relax-
ing outing.
Planning a group tour? It is a breeze,
thanks to the dedicated group sales team. The
team specializes in tailoring experiences to
suit the unique needs and interests of your
group. They will assist with your group’s ticket
reservations, itineraries and dining options.
To book your group tour simply contact our
sales team by phone at (314) 923-3080 or
e-mail groupsales@gatewayarch.com.
Gather your group and get ready for a
remarkable journey through St. Louis' iconic
landmarks, history and scenic beauty.
Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2025 • 7
Guide: Student & Senior
Whether you are a history buff, a nature
enthusiast or simply someone looking for a
fun and unique experience, the Gateway Arch
and Riverboats at the Gateway Arch is a trip
you will remember for years to come.
Starved Rock Lodge
& Conference Center
Oglesby, Illinois
Starved Rock Lodge, located in Oglesby,
Illinois, is nestled in the middle of scenic
Starved Rock State Park. Conveniently
located in north central Illinois at the “Cross-
roads of the Midwest,” Starved Rock is just
minutes from the intersection of interstates
80 and 39.Group Tour leaders say this is the
perfect destination for an overnight or two-
night stay.
8 • Bus Tours Magazine / January, 2025
Guide: Student & Senior
Starved Rock Trolley Tours