Embrace the holiday spirit with a group trip to a cathedral that will nourish the soul and elevate your senses. A Trailways bus can take your group all over the U.S., Canada and Europe to your destination of choice. See one of these stunning architectural marvels, ethereal decorations and perhaps hear heavenly song while there.

East
Where is the first cathedral built in America? It’s on the East Coast in Baltimore, Maryland. It is theBaltimore Basilica of the Assumption. Towering over downtown Baltimore, this cathedral is not only beautiful, but monumental as the first cathedral in America. As the oldest cathedral in the country, there are many artifacts to view, including the chasuble that Pope Saint John Paul II wore during his 1995 visit to Baltimore. To check this site off your bucket list, tours are available 3 times a day and require no admission. (Groups of 10 or more must make reservations.) The cathedral garden, called the Pope Saint John Paul II Prayer Garden is one of the few green spaces in this bustling city. For the historically minded group, the Basilica Museum is a must see. 

Washington D.C. also has something for everyone in your group — not only famous monuments and museums, but also one of the most stunning cathedrals on the east coast. The Washington National Cathedral is in the upper Northwest section of the city, atop a hill overlooking the city. Your group can learn the secrets with acathedral tour that is included with admission. For a special holiday touch, purchase tickets to “The Joy of Christmas“, a concert and sing-a-long that is sure to lift the spirits of everyone in your group. Large groups need to make reservations for accommodations. The walls of this cathedral hold important stories as they watched history unfold at many inaugurations and funerals. Make sure you take note of the Space Window that contains a piece of lunar rock from the Apollo XI mission.

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Central
Another basilica is a stop your should make when visiting St. Louis, Missouri. The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis is the spiritual home of the Gateway City. The architecture blends two styles with a Roman style exterior and a Byzantine interior. There is much to see, so plan your visit around the busy Christmas schedule and if you’ve got the time, catch a concert with your group bus tour. The highlight of your group’s visit will be the mosaic collection, which is one of the largest in the world and covers 83,000 square feet. For the art-loving group, there is a museum on the lower level dedicated to the construction of the Basilica and the mosaic itself.

Another special city, the Big Easy, is a great place for a group bus tour. In New Orleans, you must visit St. Louis Cathedral. In fact, it’s hard to miss. The steeples rise above the historic neighboring buildings and is a perfect backdrop for photos in St. Louis square. With residents worshipping on the grounds since 1727, there is lot of history to discover. A stark difference from the plain exterior, the inside of the church is ornately decorated and will take your breath away. Impromptu tours are available thanks to dedicated volunteers. If you want to learn even more, the Old Ursuline Convent Museum is the perfect location to take your group to learn all about what makes the cathedral so special.

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West
If your group bus trip takes you west, make a stop at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco, California. A part of the city since 1910, it is now the third largest Episcopal Cathedral in the country and many have worshipped within its walls. For a special holiday treat, buy tickets for “Christmas at Grace Cathedral”, a concert that will help your group ring in the season. Some of these include Mark Twain and Martin Luther King, Jr., and your group can count yourselves among them after taking a tour. This gothic revival structure also has some unique features including a labyrinth and the AIDS Interfaith Memorial Chapel.

For those venturing to southern California, Wayfarer’s Chapel in Rancho Palos Verdes should be on your list! With something for nature, archtiecture and reality TV lovers — your entire group is sure to enjoy the cathedral. Nestled in a redwood grove not far from the ocean, architect Frank Lloyd Wrightdesigned the cathedral to embrace the natural scenery rather than shut it out. The natural beauty and close proximity to the city made this location an obvious wedding choice for Bachelorette favories Desiree Hartsock and Chris Siegfried. The grounds are open daily during business hours, but may be closed for special events.

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Toronto, Canada
If you’re looking to take your group bus tour to the Great White North, there are still plenty of cathedrals worth a visit. The Cathedral Church of St. James is a Toronto Heritage site. From design and stained glass, there is a lot to see here, but one of the special things can’t be seen — but heard. The “Bells of Old York” are made up of 12 bells named after all the parishes in Old York, and are the only such bells to ring in North America. For groups interested in the history of the cathedral it has a volunteer-run archives and museum. To plan your group tour, call aheadto arrange for accommodations. The original wooden structure was built in 1807 and served as a hospital during the War of 1812. Although it has been replaced with more sturdy and elaborate structures, the now Gothic Revival cathedral is at the center of worship and history for many Anglicans in Toronto.

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If you look to the heavens during the holidays, plan a getaway that’s a perfect remedy to your busy holiday season. A group bus tour with Trailways is a great way to take a break with your friends. No worries about driving or getting there on time, so you can enjoy the experience of your destination. These great cathedrals and many more keep the holidays at the heart of your vacation. Book your trip!

This winter plan the ultimate fun grup bus trip both men and women can enjoy equally! What’s the perfect combination for everyone to enjoy? A trip to an outlet mall combined with a casino hotel stay. In recent years, many casinos and shopping outlets have been built near each other, and it’s no wonder — that combination is fun for everyone. Let Trailways help you plan your itinerary. All you need to do is organize your group and go! Your group is ensured a smooth ride with plenty of room aboard to spread out, plus free bag storage, on-board lavatory and Wi-Fi, movies, foot rests and cushioned seats. Who knows, with your winnings, someone might buy everyone dinner! Many of the casinos and attractions in this issue are Trailways partners.

Seattle, WA
The great Northwest is a beautiful and fun location. To get your group to Seattle, take Northwestern Trailways. En route, enjoy the mountains and perhaps stop for the local seafood. Head to the Seattle Premium Outlets to treat you and your friends to a much-needed shopping binge. The outlets feature many designers from Armani to FOSSIL and much more for you to spend the whole day shopping. Once your group has seen it all, head to the Tulalip Resort Casino for a night you won’t soon forget. Learn a new game, place your bets or dance the night away with your group.

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Myrtle Beach, SC
During the long, cold days of winter, a trip to the beach could be the perfect remedy. The Myrtle Beach Seaside Resorts is a great location to host your group. Overlooking the ocean, you’re sure to feel refreshed a get some Vitamin D during the winter months. Myrtle Beach is not just about the surf and sand, there is plenty of other fun to be found. The Tanger Outlets on Highway 17 will suit everyone’s shopping needs. There is a great selection, you’ll be able to find a new signature scent or splurge on a designer item for yourself. Combine the shopping with a trip to the great show at The Carolina Opry.

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National Harbor, MD
Our nation’s capital is an obvious choice for all types of groups. From museums to sightseeing, there is something for everyone. Your group will be living the high life with a stay across the Potomac River at the MGM Resort & Casino at National Harbor, a walkable town center with the massive Ferris wheel with heated, glass enclosed compartments. Just behind the resort are the Tanger Outlets with Coach, Tahari, J. Crew and more. Plan your group to stay on Jan. 9th, and you’ll have a chance to see Dancing with The Stars Live!

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Atlantic City, NJ
Atlantic City, New Jersey, is a location known for its non-stop fun, so your group will never have a dull moment. Relax and enjoy the beach or boardwalk, visit lighthouses, and warm up with some authentic clam chowder. The Resorts Casino and Hotel is right off the boardwalk, so you can play a variety of games with your friends without ever leaving the action. Take your winnings to the Tanger Outlets for stylish warm coats and glvoes. With the exceptional deals, your newfound cash will go the extra mile!

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Green Bay, WI
If you love the winter weather and football, Green Bay, Wisconsin should be your desination. Enjoy the snow from the warmth of your room at the Radisson or Wingate hotel. Gather the troops for a game night like no other at Oneido Casino. Your group will have a blast at slot, table games, poke and bingo! When you need to refuel, Vince Lombardi’s Legendary Sports Bar & Grill is the obvious choice. Lombardi Family memorabilia throughout the restaurant make an authentic Green Bay experience, without leaving the casino! For those who love football or wnat the full Packers’ experience, Lambeau Field offers tours. If that’s not your style, no worries, The Bay Park Square Mall will keep you entertained. As you wander with your friends, you’ll find all your favorite stores and maybe a secret gem. Even catch the latest flick at the cinema!

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Ft. Lauderdale, FL
For some mid-winter fun, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is sure to brighten your spirits. Load everyone up in a Trailways bus and head for the sunny south. Everyone in your group will love exploring the city with ease on a riverfront cruise! The sea breeze will welcome you as you venture to Sawgrass Mills Mall for a unique shopping experience. Take your group along to one of the few Amazon pop-up stores in the country or exclusive luxury brands. Keep the fun rolling by hosting your group at the Seminole Casino Coconut Creek/ Prove you’re the best at poker or blackjack, or try your hand at something new. The variety of dining and nightlife options ensure that there is somethign for everyone’s tastes. Your group will be talking about this trip for months!

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A getaway complete with a new wardrobe, games and concerts is the perfect thing to get your year off to a great start or shake off the winter blues. The deal is even sweeter, as many of these locations offer group rates — including TrailwaysTanger and Simon outlets also have extra incentives and deals for group bus trips! So don’t delay, find your travel buddies and book a trip with Trailways.