Leisure Group Travel Magazine
February 2025Turn the pages of Leisure Group Travel Magazine and discover a world of possibilities for your next group adventure. Because every journey is better when shared.
Leisure Group Travel Magazine
February 2025Turn the pages of Leisure Group Travel Magazine and discover a world of possibilities for your next group adventure. Because every journey is better when shared.
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Let’s Party Like it’s 1776
Memories from my early days on this planet are few and far between, but one of my strongest childhood remembrances is hearing my parents talking fondly about the United States Bicentennial in 1976.
For years, I envied those who participated in the activities associated with the Bicentennial. I admired the communal spirit and patriotism that accompanied such events as the Delaware crossing re-enactment and the Boston Oil Party. I longed for the days when a unified country saw its residents paint their mailboxes and fire hydrants red, white and blue.
Fast forward 50 years and those of us who missed the Bicentennial are in luck, because now it’s our turn to celebrate.
On July 4, 2026, our nation will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the official start of the nation. The Semiquincentennial is expected to be the largest, most inspired celebration in the nation’s history. To honor these festivities, Rosie Rios, chair of America250, shares her thoughts on what lies ahead and where groups should consider taking a U-S-A-cation.
Faces of food tourism
Traditionally, February is LGT’s culinary month, so we went behind the scenes and shined a spotlight on some of the brightest voices in the food industry with our Faces of Food Tourism profiles. LGT interviews some of the leading culinary minds and learns about some of the best practices they can share along with the latest food industry trends.
Mississippi gets plenty of love this issue as venerable writer Dave Bodle explores this charming Southern state and tells how deep its musical roots run. Dave also explores Mississippi’s iconic trails that honor its impressive musical heritage.
Fans of religious travel will also appreciate this issue as LGT pays a visit to the holiest wonders in the world and highlights some of the best religious attractions for Bible study groups.
So, join us as we count down to 2026 and the many festivities that await us. The Semiquincentennial promises another chance to paint the town red, white and blue—only this time, with considerably more history to celebrate.
Jason Paha, Chief Editor
Leisure Group Travel Features & Columns
America 250 Roundtrips, Road trips and Field Trips
Travel Inspiration to Rediscover America in 2025
2025 Faces of Food Tourism
Leisure Group Travel sits down with six influential figures in the culinary world, each of whom is making an indelible mark on the landscape of food tourism.
Must-See Religious Attractions for Bible Study Groups
In the U.S. and around the world, here are top sites and tips for faith-based travel.
International Religious Destinations: Holy Wonders of the World
Explore sacred sites globally, from Jerusalem to Bodh Gaya, blending faith, culture, and spiritual insight.
Legendary Mississippi Musicians Honored During 2025
The birthplace of America’s music celebrates iconic musicians.
Discover Oregon’s Heritage: Cultural Attractions for Group Travel
From Portland to Eugene to the famed Juneteenth Jubilee, Oregon has what it takes to entertain any tour group.
Explore Mississippi’s Iconic Trails and Musical Heritage
Mississippi is rightfully known as the Birthplace of American Music.
Navigating Change: CEO Discusses Transformative Rebrand
Travel Alliance Partnership’s rebranding aligns legacy and services under a unified banner.
Sample Itineraries
Three Day Itinerary for Philadelphia
Famous as the birthplace of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, Philadelphia has a ton of fabulous things to do.
3-Day Itinerary for Augusta County, Virginia
Augusta County in Virginia is your perfect base for hiking, hunting, bike riding, fishing, camping, golfing and much more.
Three Fabulous Days in Chester County, Pennsylvania
Discover fascinating histories, inspiring arts and hidden countryside gems. Settle into vibrant downtowns lined with local shops, homegrown restaurants and small-town charms as a central hub for your visit.
Niagara Falls USA is Rich in History
Niagara Falls USA is rich in history, from pre-Revolutionary War military might to the rise of clean power and beyond. Take your groups on an adventure and explore the sites that tell the area’s story.
Destination Showcases
Lincoln, Nebraska
Coastal Mississippi
Greenwood, Mississippi
Atlantic City
Pigeon Forge
Queen Anne’s County
Meridian, Mississippi
Starkville, Mississippi
February Edition Special Sections
Circle Wisconsin Tour Planner
Whether you’re enjoying the state’s amazing winter activities, savoring our mouthwatering local flavors or immersing yourself in its many incredible water activities, Wisconsin promises an experience like no other.
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Why Culinary Experiences Matter for Group Travel
Culinary experiences have emerged as a pivotal element of the journey, transcending mere dining to become central to the cultural exploration and bonding moments that define group excursions. Recognizing this shift, Leisure Group Travel is proud to present a special edition dedicated to the burgeoning realm of culinary tourism, aimed at group travel planners seeking to enrich their itineraries with unforgettable taste experiences.
Culinary tourism offers a unique lens through which travelers can connect with the essence of their destinations. It’s not just about savoring exotic dishes; it’s about immersive experiences that weave together the history, culture, and social fabric of locales through their food. This edition delves into why integrating culinary experiences into group travel is not just a trend but a necessity for creating meaningful, engaging, and memorable journeys.
We explore the growing desire among travelers to participate in authentic, local food-related activities – from farm visits and cooking classes to food festivals and street food tours. These experiences provide opportunities for group travelers to bond over shared meals, discover new flavors, and gain insights into the local way of life, making their trip more enriching and enjoyable.
Moreover, this focus on culinary tourism responds to the increasing demand for sustainable and responsible travel options. Culinary experiences often promote local produce, traditional cooking methods, and support for local communities, aligning with the values of modern travelers who seek to travel with purpose and impact.
