Bus Charter and Leisure Blog Archive

Trinity Church

Newport is the perfect destination for historical tours of palatial homes and estates, public buildings and notable churches which tell the story of the birth of religious freedom in the United States. Trinity Church is one of these must see destinations, an attraction that you will be very pleased to make part of your tour through Newport. Rhode Island may be our smallest state but it is rich with the largest concentration of National Historic Landmarks, many are in walking distance or a very short drive from one another.

Trinity Church is one of the finest historical buildings in America. The parish was founded in 1698 and the Trinity Church was built in 1726 it is said that George Washington worshipped here in Pew 81. The original organ is still in place brought from England, the world famous composer and musician Handel played on this organ before its arrival in America. The Church's claim to fame is the presence of the only three tiered, center aisle wine glass pulpit, the only one of its kind in America.

You will look skyward to the majestic steeple enjoying all the 18th century gables, pinnacles and extraordinary stained glass that you would expect to find in a truly historic church. Attending the Episcopal services here is an unforgettable event.

Newport is very proud of its heritage for many reasons Trinity Church is just one of their favorite jewels amongst many. Church services are still held here and you can't help but feel overwhelmed and entranced by this Newport treasure, a must see on your tour in this culturally rich city.

Touro Synagogue, Newport

The Touro Synagogue can be found along the streets of Newport, Rhode Island. Built in 1762, the Touro Synagogue is the oldest Synagogue in America. Whether you are religious or not, you are sure to be able to appreciate the architectural beauty of this historical building. Built and designed by the famous architect Peter Harrison, the Touro Synagogue is considered by many to be one of his finest achievements. The design of the building itself is fascinating, with it's high arched ceilings and large glass windows. The insides of the shrine look even better than the exterior, with it's neat and clean white interior design with massive support columns and beautiful candelabras and chandeliers that hang from the buildings enormous ceiling.

The Touro Synagogue is an ageless testament to the beauty of architecture, and it is one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture ever created. Many people from all over the world, anywhere from hundreds to thousands, come to see this beautiful piece of religious architecture every year. For some it is an annual spiritual experience, but for others it is simply a way to experience a beautiful aspect of the past that is still remaining with us today.

The Touro Synagogue is one of the most important buildings in both Rhode Island and in America in general, because it has become much more than a building. It has become a symbol of religious tolerance and freedom, and it is a great reminder of the fundamental ethics of freedom that this country is based on. The Touro Synagogue is simply essential viewing for those who are traveling in the Newport area.

The Breakers, Newport

Located in Newport, Rhode Island, The Breakers is by far the most outstanding and impressive of all the mansions in the area. This historical estate spans a whopping 13 acres, and the mansion contains 70 rooms. Originally a mansion made of wood bought in 1885 by Cornelius Vanderbilt II, the current Italian Renaissance style of the building was constructed in 1893 after a large fire destroyed the bulk of the previous building.

Vanderbilt contracted the best of the best to build this masterpiece of a building, bringing in Italian architects and artists to design and decorate the mansion is the best of 16th century italian style. The end result is a beautiful building that resembles a true Italian palace.

As previously stated, the Breakers was owned by the Vanderbilts, who were one of America's most wealthy and prosperous families during the turn of the century. The family originally obtained their wealth through Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt's pioneering in the steamboat industry, and then later as a founder of the New York Central Railroad, which was an essential turning point in the growth of the area's journey towards industrialization.

As time went on the family retained it's wealth, but it lost control of the railroad company in the early 1950's. To truly experience the breakers, you have to see it in person. This massive building is simply not something that can be full appreciated in pictures, and you really do not get a grasp of how large and magnificent it is through this medium. Be sure and bring your camera or favorite video cam as seeing the Breakers in person is an experience you will not soon forget.

The Redwood Library and Athenaeum

Are you a book lover? Or do you thoroughly enjoy visiting truly unique treasures of historical significance? If you answered yes to either then a perfect venture for your visit to Newport would be The Redwood Library and Athenaeum.

The Redwood Library and Athenaeum's claim to fame is being the oldest library building in use today and also the oldest lending library in America. Also it is the only library in America that has been used consistently as a library since being built for that purpose since the Colonial period. You cannot help but admire this Roman temple like building but looks can be deceiving it is actually made of wood but in 1747 that was not quite fashionable so they overlaid with exterior paint mixed with sand to make it resemble cut stone.

Once inside you will be awed by the historical richness that surrounds you, after all The Redwood Library and Athenaeum was built and established even before the United States was born. Briefly during the Revolutionary War it was used as a British officer's club and many of it's original volumes were stolen or got lost along the way but right after the war the library made it a mission to get back all their collection by placing ads everywhere. Their mission was highly successful they regained 90% of the original collection of approximately 750 books and they are still looking for the other 10%.

You will find more than books here, you can admire an outstanding collection of 18th and 19th century portraits, sculptures, antique furniture and more for you to enjoy.

The International Yacht Restoration School

While you are enjoying your day in Newport you may be very interested to find that The International Yacht Restoration School is a great stop to add to your itinerary. Did you know that Newport has been the yacht capital of the world since the 1800's? Thousands of people like to make this one of their stops when touring Newport. All agree the smell of the fresh wood and the spectacular view of the harbor is worth the trip.

Visitors are welcome to tour along the mezzanine and watch as the students restore the old, classic wooden boats and stroll along the stone docks to get closer to inspect the many yachts that are harbored there. There are also many gallery exhibits to see. Currently the 1885 yacht The Coronet, which is America's most historic yacht is being renovated to begin sailing once again as a floating museum. The International Yacht Restoration School is located right in the middle of Newport's historic waterfront. It serves as a fully functioning and accredited school dedicated to teaching the history, preservation, restoring and maintaining of yachts. The teaching of woodwork is of course very important in recreating these treasures.

The campus is located on a 2 acre waterfront site in downtown Newport. Classes are held in the historic Restoration Hall, originally built in 1905 as an electric generating station for the Newport Street Railway Company. Another building on the campus was built in 1831 as a steam-powered cotton mill and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Once you visit you will come away with a new appreciation for the art of boat building and how much care and skill is involved in restoring these historical vessels.

The Elms: Garden of Trees

During your tour of Newport's magnificent Bellevue Avenue you'll surely see some impressive architecture and stately gardens. None, however, will impress the budding tree-lover more than the specimen grove standing at The Elms. As with other mansions on this seaside street, The Elms was built to be a summer home. As grand as these homes are, it's hard to imagine that they were merely summer get-always for New York society matrons and their dutiful husbands, but they were. And, like some other mansions on the block, it was modeled after a grand French palace --this time it was an eighteenth-century Paris extravaganza, Chateau d'Asnieres that inspired Mr. and Mrs. Edward Julius Berwin to such architectural opulence.

Much of Mrs. Berwin's astonishing collection of exotic ceramics, Venetian paintings and Chinese jade remain in The Elms for viewing. What really makes this mansion stand apart from the other are the magnificent gardens that Mr. Berwin so loved. He was especially fond of exotic trees and had dozens of them planted on the grounds of this estate. Gardens punctuated with incredible bronze sculptures, marble statuary and antique birdbaths are a delight to wander through. Even in winter, there's a special silence except for the occasional sea breeze whispering through the bare trees.

Still, winters in Rhode Island can get chilly, so you'll be wanting to tour inside The Elms, as well. Tours are self-guided. Pick up a small MP3 player at the entrance, hang it around your neck by a lanyard and begin. You'll find many places along the tour where you can input a special 'more info' code and hear additional narration about whatever it is you're investigating. Taking just the general-info tour takes about a half-hour; listening to every 'more info' extends the tour to about ninety minutes. And every minute is well worth it.

Rough Point, Newport

The Rough Point mansion is located in Newport, Rhode Island. The Rough Point mansion is a very important and fabulous piece of the area's architectural history. Built in 1889 by Frederick W. Vanderbilt of the prosperous Vanderbilt family, the Rough Point overlooks the constantly turning waves of the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. The Cliff Walk trail stretches alongside the back yard of the mansion, and the ocean view from both the mansion and the trail is nothing short of breathtaking.

The mansion was bought by James B. Duke in 1922. Duke was a multi millionaire who made his money from electricity and tobacco. Duke passed away in 1925, leaving his twelve year old daughter Doris with both the mansion and $80 million dollars to her name. Doris spent and invested the money wisely, and by the time she had passed on in 1993 she had earned more than a billion dollars, as well as a large collection of various art and other collectible items which she kept in the mansion. Now her collection and the Rough Point mansion are open to tours, and it also serves as somewhat as a history museum.

The tour of the mansion is very in depth and it is recommended for those with specific interest in the area's history and the life of Doris Duke. All tours must be scheduled by reservations, and the tours last a little over an hour. The tour begins with a quick view of the main rooms of the mansion and then focuses on two rooms that serve as more or less galleries of the various art and pieces of history that Doris Duke acquired during her lifetime. This is an essential experience for those who are interested in the area's past.

Lovely Waterplace Park and Riverwalk

See Providence transformed at Riverwalk. These 4 acres of prime riverside walks are home to the famous Waterfire exhibit that has drawn over half a million visitors each season.

The Riverwalk at Waterplace Park recalls another time and place. Venetian foot bridges provide beautiful crossings at many points along the three rivers that run through lovely downtown Providence, Rhode Island. The charming cobblestone walks lead you past street vendors selling ice creams, savories and souvenirs. You'll find plenty of street entertainment and other revelers just like yourselves out for an evening of merriment.

Imagine gathering at the water at dusk. On just 12 magical nights each year, 100 braziers silently rise from the river. Logs of cedar and pine are piled by shadowy attendants on torch lit gondolas, and the bonfires are lighted. The smell of wood smoke begins to drift lightly upon the gentle breeze. You take your sweetheart by the hand and begin to stroll the pathways that wind lazily along the Moshassuck, Providence, and Woonasquatucket Rivers, while music designed to enhance the vent gently pulls you further and further into this other world.

Eventually you come to a glorious outdoor amphitheater that encircles a tidal pond. You take your seats, and who knows what entertainment may be in store tonight? It could be a play, it could be a concert, but whatever it is, it's compliments of the city.

If such an evening appeals to you, bring yourself and someone you care for to Boat House Clock Tower, 2 American Express Way, Downtown, Providence, RI, for an experience you'll never forget.

For more information about Riverwalk activities call 401-751-1177.

Experience Awe At The State House In Providence

A tour of the State House reveals so much more than busy politicians and law makers scurrying back and forth. It is an amazing construction filled with artifacts from Rhode Island's and our nations past.

Constructed in 1900, this monumental wonder was designed by the firm of McKim, Mead and White of New York. The architecture itself is a marvel to behold. The domed ceiling is the fourth largest of it's kind anywhere in the world, and considering it is in the same company as the dome of the Taj Mahal, this is no slight feat.

Atop this majestic dome stands the "Independent Man", a sculpture that represents Rhode Island's state motto. The exterior is a thing of beauty, constructed of gleaming Georgian marble which underwent a thorough cleaning back in the 1990's.

Inside, the house is filled with historical artifacts and artwork. The dome itself becomes a mural dedicated to Roger Williams, considered the state's founding father. A portrait of George Washington is also prominently displayed, having been painted by native son Gilbert Stuart. True history buffs will enjoy viewing the original Rhode Island Charter of 1663 and other items preserved from the Revolutionary War.

If you wish to pay a visit to Rhode Island's magnificent State House, you will find it at 82 Smith Street, Providence, R.I. Guided tours can be scheduled by prior appointment and are available Monday through Friday from 8:30AM until 12:00PM. To make your reservations call 401-277-2357. Admission is free to the public.

John Brown Museum: A Slice Of Colonial History

A gem in the crown of the Rhode Island Historical Society, a visit to the The John Brown Museum gives one a fantastic glimpse into Providence's past.

This glorious mansion was originally the home of prominent businessman John Brown, as famous for pioneering the China Trade as he was for being a patriot. As a politician, Brown helped forge out a new nation through his participation in debates with some of the greatest minds of his time. Unfortunately, Brown also has a darker side to his history, having been a slave trader in his day.

The John Brown House passed on to his daughters and eventually fell into the hands of some of Providence's richest and most influential citizens, most notably business mogul Marsden Perry.

Today, this elegant Georgian mansion has been turned into a museum and is open for public tours. The home is still filled with artifacts from Brown's days in the China Trade, and many pieces of antique furniture, textiles and china. Each of the famous citizenry who once lived there have left a little something of themselves behind. If you take a moment to stand in silence, you can almost hear old conversations around the dinner table. It's a wonderful window into what life must have been like for Providence's elite.

Touring arrangements can be made for schools and private groups by calling 401-273-7507. The museum is located at 52 Power St., Providence, Rhode island, and hours are as follows:

January-April
Fridays and Saturdays, 10:30AM-4:30PM

May-December
Tuesday through Saturday, 10:30AM-4:30PM

Ticket prices range from $7.00 for adults, $5.50 for Seniors and College Students. Children 17 and under are given free admission.

Is It Little Italy or Federal Hill?

When you come to Providence, Rhode Island, come to the hill. Federal Hill that is. This scenic walk is the heart of the city's Italian district.

A grand stone archway at Atwells Avenue welcomes our arrival. Parking is ample, so take advantage of it. The only way to truly experience the hill is on foot, or your going to miss a lot.

As you progress, you'll realize you have landed in a heaven of Italian culinary delights. Dine al fresco at one of the many outdoor cafes, or delight in the aromas of freshly baked breads and sweets at the Italian bakeries. Delis tempt you with their wonderful selections of real Italian cured prosciuttos and cheeses. How will you be able to resist?

But food isn't the only attraction at Federal Hill. There are many boutiques, each with their own unique character and filled with all kinds of treasures to bring home from your journey. You can buy your sweetheart flowers from one of the local florists or street vendors that dot the avenue as you stroll along.

There's also plenty of entertainment available. Imagine siting next to a water fountain and listening to live music while you sip on a glass of fine wine. Is there any better way to cap off your evening? As you stroll the walk back to your car, you stop and pick out some sweet rolls for the morning, a little morning after memory of an exquisite evening.

So come to Providence, Rhode Island and discover the other city that never sleeps.

Culinary Archives and Museum: The Ghost of Dinners Past

If you're a true foodie, then a visit to the Culinary Archives and Museum at Johnson and Wales University is not to be missed. Often referred to as the Smithsonian of the food industry, this museum is a treasure trove of the last 500 years worth of cooking history.

The first stop on your tour might be the 'Art of Pastillage' exhibit. Created exclusively for the museum by Chefs David Ricci and Charles Armstrong, it's nearly impossible to believe that sugar, cornstarch and gelatin could be combined to create something so elegant. A sugar sculpture is filled with intricate details of lace, fruits and florals, and looks reminiscent of ornate plaster work found in the homes of the elite. This is just one of many examples of wedding cake artistry displayed at the museum.

Another exhibit entitled 'Kitchen Gadgets: Everything But The Kitchen Sink' is an awesome collection of kitchen tools from the distant past to the current day. Some items are so archaic, it's fun to try and guess what they might have been used for before you read the explanation.

Other exhibits also include antique dining cars, a history of inns and taverns as well as some of the most famous chefs through history.

The museum is located at 315 Harborside Boulevard, Providence, Rhode Island.

The museum's operational hours are:
Tuesday through Sunday
10:00AM-5:00PM
The museum is closed on Mondays.

Admission for adults is $7.00,
Seniors are $6.00
College Students with ID are $3.00
Children ages 5 through 18 are $2.00

Group rates are also available and may be arranged by calling (401)598-2805.

Visit Brown University, Providence

Brown University is a distinguished member of the Ivy League colleges that populate New England. situated in the center of an historical residential neighborhood near Providence's downtown, the school is only a few minutes away from many of the historic attractions the city has to offer.

This university is actually the seventh oldest college in the nation, having been founded in 1764 and original construction completed around 1771. The campus itself is a beautiful collection of Gothic stone, wrought iron, and greenery. The ornate gates to the university are only ceremonially opened twice a year, in the autumn to welcome new students, and in the spring to send graduates out into the world.

The campus is also home to several of the country's finest libraries including The John D. Rockefeller Jr. Library dedicated to the social sciences and The John Carter Brown Library which houses an impressive collection of Americana circa 1825.

Brown has long been renowned for it's impressive medical school, but also offers other academic fields to pursue. The university perceives it's mission to be serving the world by preserving and passing on knowledge and the spirit of freedom of inquiry to it's many students. Brown has long been noted as a very experimental institution as compared to it's other Ivy League Companions.

You may visit Brown University at 64 College Street, Providence, Rhode Island. To schedule a tour with the admissions office call 401-863-1000.

Hourly tours are provided from November through September at 10:00AM, 11:00AM, 1:00PM, 3:00PM, and 4:00PM. Tours are free.

The Providence Athenaeum

The Providence Athenaeum greets you with all the majesty a 250 year old Greek Revival structure has to offer. This historic landmark is no fossil, but a living, breathing entity that has served the citizens of Providence faithfully through the years.

The Athenaeum was constructed under the direction of the town fathers to be one of the first membership libraries in the country. The collection of books within range from European treasures to the best America has to offer. Members pay an annual fee to support the library and gain borrowing rights.

The mission of the Athenaeum is this: To provide books and other reading materials to anyone who loves reading and wants to stretch their intellectual boundaries. As such, the Athenaeum has vowed to conserve it's collection and preserve the original architecture for generations to come.

The library also serves as a gathering place for the community to enjoy cultural programs and social celebrations.

If you would like to visit the Athenaeum and browse through it's amazing collection of literature, here are the hours it is open to the public:

September through May
Monday through Thursday: 9:00AM to 7:00PM
Friday and Saturday: 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Sundays: 1:00PM to 5:00PM

June through Labor Day
Monday through Thursday: 9:00M to 7:00PM
Fridays: 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Saturdays: 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Closed Sundays

Holiday Closings
Martin Luther King Day:
January 15-16th
President's Day: February 19-20th

Location: 251 Benefit Street Providence, RI 02903
Phone: 401-421-6970

International Tennis Hall of Fame, Newport

Located in Newport, Rhode Island, the International Tennis Hall of Fame is a museum and historic establishment that is dedicated to archiving the history, events, and remarkable players in the game of Tennis, featuring shrines to players of both the past and today. The Hall Of Fame is hosted at the historical Newport casino, where it has been since the museum's inception in 1954.

The Hall of Fame was founded by tennis guru James Van Alen. Alen chose the Casino mainly due to it's historic context, as it hosted the first ever national U.S. Tennis championship game in 1881. The hall of fame has been in successful operation ever since those beginning days in the fifties, and it is constantly undergoing expansion.

The Casino was a very fitting choice for the Hall of fame, as it is a building with a lot of history and character. Built in 1883, the Newport Casino had it's own heyday, as it was the center for the town's commerce and activities. it was somewhat like the 19th century equivalent to a modern day mall in that it had various shops, restaurants, sports, a ball room, and other activities that were available to the community.

It is very fitting indeed that such a historically relevant building be the home of a Hall of Fame documenting some of the very history that was made between it's walls. The International Tennis Hall of Fame is a great place to go to learn some new history, and it is an essential experience for Tennis fans, or for those who simply want to know a little bit more about the history of Newport.

Honolulu- Planning a Corporate Event in Paradise

Honolulu, Hawaii and US Coachways, all you will need to make this the corporate event of the year.

Ok, this is your year. You are in charge of planning the company's annual event and it's in Honolulu, Hawaii. Sounds like it will be a breeze, huh? Actually it probably sounds a little over-whelming. After all, it's in Honolulu, everyone will expect great things and you have no idea where to start. Relax; US Coachways prides itself on making you look good.

When you make the call to one of our corporate event planning experts you have just completed the most difficult part of the event. Everything else will fall into place, we guarantee it.

We can take you from the Honolulu International Airport to any one of a number of luxurious hotels on the islands. US Coachways will assist you with scheduling and coordinating your event details. Honolulu has exceptional business meeting accommodations, from large banquet rooms to auditorium style conference rooms available.

Of course, in Honolulu, you will have to make time for some leisure activities and US Coachways has plenty of suggestions. You may want to visit the Hawaii Nature Center, with over 30 "hands-on" exhibits relating to Hawaiian culture and history. Perhaps you are looking for something a little more exotic, like the Polynesian Cultural Center, featuring Pacific Island Villages with an authentic luau. If history is what you are looking for, be sure to visit the USS Arizona memorial that offers educational information on the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Whatever it is that you seek, US Coachways will help you find it and that journey will be made from the comfort of our reclining seats and air conditioned charters. Go ahead, let US Coachways make you look good.

Planning Your Denver Corporate Event

Need help with planning your corporate event in the Mile High City? Let US Coachways make you look good in Denver.

Whether you are thinking about having your event at the Cherokee Castle with its expansive grounds and large rooms or the more business-like atmosphere of the new Colorado Convention Center, with its 63 fully equipped meeting rooms, US Coachways can make the difference between adequate and outstanding. Our always-professional staff will work with you to get it right.

US Coachways will assist you with all aspects of your function. Need to have people picked up from the Denver International Airport or from the hotel to the Convention Center? No problem, we can handle it. Perhaps you need to fit in a little leisure time between meetings and need a few suggestions. US Coachways employees are prepared to help plan your day trip to The Rocky Mountains National Park or how about a trip to Winter Park, one of Colorado's largest ski mountain resorts owned by the city of Denver. After a long day on the slopes or walking the park, sit back and relax while US Coachways takes you back in comfort and style and will be there bright and early the next morning to get you to your breakfast meeting or seminar.

Remember, US Coachways is the only event planning assistance you will need. We will make sure this is the corporate event they will be talking about around the office for years. Let us make you look good.

A Corporate Event In Chicago - No Sweat!

Planning a corporate event in the Windy City, but have no idea how or where to start? US Coachways is all you need to know, because we know Chicago, Illinois inside and out.

Our corporate account specialists will discuss several possible scenarios with you prior to your event, to make sure that all of your company's needs are met. We realize that there are some things that will come up and for that reason US Coachways is very flexible. If your group was to have flown into O'Hare Airport, but some of them ended up at Midway Airport, relax; US Coachways will make sure that each and every person gets our undivided attention and personalized service so that we can get them where they need to be and when they need to be there.

Should the Chicago Blues Festival that is held in Grants Park be in full swing when you arrive in Chicago, then by all means feel free to change your itinerary. If your group decides they want to see the famous Cloud Gate sculpture in Millennium Park, visit the Sears Tower Skydeck or perhaps they are feeling lucky and want to visit the Horseshoe Casino, whatever the destination US Coachways will pleasantly and efficiently get you where you want to go.

We pride ourselves on the fact that we have the most knowledgeable, dependable and friendliest staff you will find. From the first moment you speak with a US Coachways account specialist until you are safely delivered home, rest assured you are in the best possible hands with US Coachways.

Corporate Event Planning in Boston Made Easy

So, the boss has given you the dubious honor of planning the company's next event and its in Boston, Massachusetts. All you can think about is "I don't know a thing about Boston and hey, whatever happened to the guy that planned last years function?" Relax, US Coachways has got you covered.

One of our experienced account specialists will personally assist you with all of your travel needs in Boston, Massachusetts. US Coachways employees take the time to listen to you and will offer suggestions for the most efficient and cost effective travel possible.

US Coachways drivers begin preparation long before your trip. This ensures that when you get to Boston, Massachusetts and decide you want to watch a performance of the Boston Pops Orchestra, your driver will be familiar with the area and rather than having to get directions and missing part of the performance, you will be able to enjoy the entire performance.

Want to see Boston's famous Fenway Park? No problem, US Coachways drivers will get you there and back with no effort on your part. If a little bit of Boston, Massachusetts history is what you crave US Coachways will deliver you to The Freedom Trail where you can take a two and a half mile walking tour through history. When the tour is over, US Coachways will be there to take you and your tired feet back home.

Your satisfaction is of the utmost importance to US Coachways. Our agents and drivers will all work together with you to make this an enjoyable and memorable event for your company.

Planning a Corporate Event and More in Atlanta Georgia

Ask anyone who has ever been in charge of planning a corporate function if they would do it again and most would respond with a resounding "No". Trying to please everyone, whether it is 5 employees or 500 employees, can be a daunting task. US Coachways realizes this and is dedicated to making your function go as smoothly and effortlessly as possible.

Planning an event in Atlanta, Georgia? Give US Coachways your itinerary, relax and let us do the rest. If you have guests arriving at the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, US Coachways will get them to their destination in the most professional, friendly and efficient manner possible. All of US Coachways drivers are equipped with everything they need to accomplish this prior to your arrival in Atlanta, Georgia.

Plan to have a little free time while in Atlanta, Georgia but not sure what there is to do? US Coachways staff are always up to date on events in the area and can offer suggestions that fit your needs. Take a tour of the Atlanta Aquarium, the world's largest aquarium, with 8 million gallons of water and representing over 500 species of animals. Looking for something a little more historic? US Coachways can get you to the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum, where you will find rare personal items from the Carter administration. Or for a more cultural outing, let US Coachways get you to the High Museum and check out the $130 million renovation, including an open-air piazza.

No matter what your needs may be, US Coachways is committed to making your event as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.

Visit Hunter House

You simply can't go to Newport and not visit the mansions of days gone by you would be missing out on some spectacular and beautiful architectural treasures. So if you decide to go on this wonderful adventure of sight seeing do not miss Hunter House.

Back in the 1700's it was expected of the prosperous and wealthy to live in opulence overlooking the harbor of Newport. The one half of Hunter House was constructed between 1748 and 1754 by Jonathon Nichols a very successful and prosperous merchant and colonial deputy. Then it was acquired by Colonel Joseph Wanton, Jr., a deputy governor of the colony and a wealthy merchant. He added on a south wing and a second chimney, turning the house into a formal Georgian mansion with a huge central hall.

Through the years the mansion was passed on to many different owners until the 1940s. A group of concerned citizens decided to buy it out of concern for keeping its history and treasures intact in doing so they formed The Preservation Society of Newport County. Hunter House is a National Historic Landmark famous for its superbly carved and grained woodwork and a fine collection of 18th century furnishings. It is an outstanding example of Colonial architecture featuring a gambrel roof and inside you will find furnishings with pieces by Townsend and Goddard, famous 18th-century cabinet makers and collections of antique furniture and art.

The rich and prosperous of Newport in the 1700s enjoyed their elaborate homes and loved to show them off, you will love touring them.

Enjoying Explore and More

When you are taking your children to Pennsylvania, you really should think about making the trek over to a great place called Explore and More. This is a wonderful hands-on museum experience just for kids located right in Gettysburg. Pretty much everywhere you turn in this wonderful environment you will find great activities that are just perfect for children ranging in age from 3 to 8. But, of course, everyone enjoys a visit here!

Once you walk into the art room, you can almost feel a rush of fun artistic flow. Children are encouraged to dive into glitter, feathers, pipe cleaners and more to experience the creation of their very own original art project. Kids also love to step right up to the easel so that they can paint away just like a famous artist.

The nature area is a special place just dedicated to all of the wonders of the wild. Children can head right in and get an up close and personal look at everything from mice to hermit crabs. This is a truly marvelous way for children and parents alike to learn all about the beautiful creatures and natural elements around us.

Cost of admission to Explore and More is only $6 for children ages 2 through 14 and $4 for adults. You will find the building conveniently located at 20 East High Street in Gettysburg. For questions or information on the current hours of operation, you may call (717) 337-9151. You may also want to inquire about the Birthday Party Package offered at Explore and More.

Come Visit Belcourt Castle

Belcourt Castle located in lovely Newport is the only Newport Mansion where the owners still live in residence. They keep their home available for the public to share in this historical Richard Morris Hunt masterpiece. The tour is thought to be by many, the best guided tour that Newport has to offer. It is totally unique to those who are touring around the mansions of Newport.

The 52 room structure rests on a four foot thick slab of concrete and the walls are 42 inches thick with indirect lighting designed by Thomas Edison himself. The stain glass windows of this beautiful castle date back to the 13th century and are quite an amazing sight to see being that it is the largest collection in America. The original owner had the entire first floor designed to be able to ride his horses and carriage right into the house, like a huge built in garage.

Every room is packed with opulent treasures for your viewing pleasure such as huge, sparkling chandeliers,silks,gold and silver articles from the earliest days of the castle to the present.

You may also be very interested in checking for dates and times of the castles more exclusive tours. There is the Ghost Tour, because of course the castle is said to be haunted. There is also the Candlelight Tour which is considered the very best guided tour that Newport has to offer.

If you are going to be in Newport this is definitely not one of the sights you would want to miss. Everyone walks away enchanted by the grandeur and history of Belcourt Castle.

Step Lightly on Cliff Walk, Newport

Newport, Rhode Island's Cliff Walk is a very scenic shoreside walkway that spans 3.5 miles of the area's historic terrain. Built in 1975, the Cliff Walk is one of New England's most famous national recreational trails, and it was the first ever built in the area. As you walk along the Cliff Walk, you will see much of the historic architecture in the area, such as the back lawn of the Breakers mansion, and various mansions and buildings that have been around for ages.

When walking along the trail you will also be treated to a rather breathtaking view of the shore. You will be able to watch the waves dance back and forth as you hike across the walkway, and you may see some of the many wildflowers in the area as well as the occasional bird and other assorted forms of wildlife.

When you are hiking along the rugged terrain of the Cliff Walk, remember to be careful. The southern part of the walkway is is very rocky and rugged, and at certain points there are drops over 70 feet long.

Many of these drops are obscured by weeds and bushes, but if you fall down here you will likely face severe injury, so stay on the trail at all times, and remember to be careful. At certain points as the trail gets more rugged you will be climbing on rocks. To do this you must wear a pair of good shoes that will not slip easily. The rocks can be very slippery at times, and even good shoes can slip, so please exercise the utmost amount of caution while on the trail.

The Appalachian Brewing Co.

You simply cannot make a trip to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania without scheduling a stop to visit the wonderful Appalachian Brewing Co. This was actually the very first brewery ever in the state capital city of Pennsylvania, getting its start way back in 1951. Since that time, this amazing brewery has been producing some of the tastiest ales around.

To start off with, the Appalachian Brewing Co. is set up in a gorgeous historical building right in the middle of the downtown area. You would be amazed at this wonderful structure, which happens to be complete with stunning antique brick walls and extraordinary hardwood flooring. The ambience is just perfect to sit back and relax while enjoying a delicious cold beer or a great meal.

Yes, the Appalachian Brewing Co. also offers some of the best cuisine in all of Pennsylvania. Just a few of the delicious items on the menu at the brewery include lamb chops, crab cakes and gourmet pizzas. If you are looking for something light to go along with a tall frosty one, there are also many delights available for an appetizer or two. Choose from cheesy spinach dip, saucy squares and even pretzel logs. Because, of course everyone knows how wonderful pretzels and beer go together!

The Appalachian Brewing Company opens up every single day of the week at 11:00AM so it is just the right place for you to go in the middle of a day of sightseeing in the area. If you have any questions, you can give them a call at (717) 221-1080.