“An American in Paris” – Washington, D. C.
Wednesday – January 3
The Kennedy Center presents . . . “An American in Paris,” the new Tony Award® winning musical about an American soldier – Jerry, a mysterious French girl – Lise, and the indomitable European city, each yearning for a new beginning in the aftermath of World War II. Acclaimed director/choreographer and 2015 Tony Award® winner Christopher Wheeldon brings the magic and romance of Paris into perfect harmony with unforgettable songs from George and Ira Gershwin in the show that earned more awards than any other musical in the 2015 season! Plated lunch included at Tony and Joe’s Seafood Restaurant located in Georgetown on the Potomac River.
“A Chorus Line”
Riverside Theatre – Fredericksburg, VA
Wednesday – August 1
The Riverside Centre for the Performing Arts presents . . . “A Chorus Line.”
When Zach and his assistant Larry hold auditions for an upcoming Broadway show, a large, diverse group of dancers, all desperate to get a job, try out for a place in the chorus line. After the first cut, seventeen people remain. Zach then tells those auditioning that he wants to know more about each of them before making the final cut. Though they’re reluctant to share, the dancers are faced with the all-too-serious consequences of unemployment if they’re not selected, so each, in turn, sings about events that shaped their lives and their decisions to become dancers.
As their personal stories are revealed, the individuals gradually begin to become a cohesive group. When one of them is seriously injured during a tap sequence and is taken to the hospital, they all stand in shock and disbelief, realizing that their own careers could also end in an instant. Zach asks what they will do when they can no longer dance. Together they reply that whatever happens, they will be free of regret, having pursued their dancing aspirations in their own way.
This Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning musical, which also received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and became one of the longest-running shows on Broadway, is a “must see” for every theatre lover!
The Crooked Road – Southwest Virginia
August 3-5, 2018
Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail is a driving trail stretching 333 miles through some of the most scenic areas in Southwest Virginia. It’s “Where America’s Music Was Born . . . And Lives On!” Here, you will find the roots of American music . . . roots that run deep. This region is home to the World’s “Old Time Mountain Music,” and as you’ll come to know – the Birthplace of Country Music!
Your experience begins in the small Virginia town of Floyd, home of the “Friday Night Jamboree.” Enjoy old-time and bluegrass music and dancers filling the streets. More than a music venue, the Country Store is a gathering place for musicians, dancers, and visitors from around the world. In fact, the entire street comes alive with authentic Southwest Virginia’s old-time and bluegrass traditions. Before the festivities, enjoy “Dinnertime” that showcases the best in “Down Home Country Cooking.”
Next, travel to Abingdon for a delightful show at the famous Barter Theater. A delicious dinner precedes a ride on the truly “Crooked Road” as you travel through the countryside en route to Hiltons, Virginia, home of the Carter Family Fold. “Sweet Mountain Music” fills the air with sounds of the best “Old-Time” country and bluegrass music! Bring along those dancing shoes & clog or flat-foot to the country music. The Carter Family Fold recorded over 300 songs, laying the foundation for what we know today as “Country Music.”
Your last day on “The Crooked Road” begins with a fascinating Guided Tour of Bristol, Virginia, designated by Congress as the official “Birthplace of Country Music®” along with lunch and entertainment by a local personality. Your tour includes a visit to the Birthplace of Country Music Museum! An affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, the museum tells the story of the 1927 Bristol Sessions recordings, explores how evolving sound technology shaped the success and highlights how this rich musical heritage lives on in today’s music. Bristol’s influence on Country Music continues to play an important and influential role in the region, and around the world.
This three-day tour is packed full of musical entertainment, history, food, fun and more!
Treasures of Solomons Island, Maryland!
Thursday, August 16, 2018
Solomons Island, MD is a place of charm and beauty, where the Patuxent River meets the Chesapeake Bay in Southern Maryland. Cruise on a historic “bug-eye” boat, the William B. Tennison, which sails past Solomons Inner Harbor.
Enjoy lunch in the waterfront downtown area. Next, tour the Lore Oyster House, a 1934 seafood packing house, designated a National Historic Landmark.
Last stop is a tour of the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum, which preserves the history and heritage of Naval Aviation. The Museum includes a Flight Line consisting of one-of-a-kind aircraft unique to the Naval Test Center.
Cruise to Tangier Island
Reedville, VA
Friday – August 17
Tangier Island, located in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay between Virginia’s Northern Neck and the Eastern Shore, is a small, largely unspoiled, fishing village lined with quaint narrow streets. It is considered the “soft crab capital” of the nation. Although modernization has come to the Island, it still has not lost its charm. The people of Tangier, who speak with a lingering trace of an Elizabethan accent, are warm, friendly and proud of their Island.
Arrive in Reedville and board the Chesapeake Breeze for a “Sightseeing Cruise” to Tangier Island. Once there, a short walk from the dock finds you at the Chesapeake House where you’ll enjoy a fantastic, family-style lunch (including crab cakes and oyster fritters) at this favorite island restaurant. Your “Island” visit is two and a half hours, allowing plenty of time to stroll along the small roads and to visit the unique gift shops. For a small fee, hop aboard one of the local resident’s golf carts and take your very own up close and personal tour around the island.
9-Night New England/Canada Royal Caribbean’s
Grandeur of the Seas
September 13-22, 2018
Set sail from Baltimore and cruise north to New England aboard the Grandeur of the Seas! Arrive in Boston, Massachusetts and discover Boston’s Freedom Trail, cradle of the American Revolution. The city’s history, charm, and sophistication give visitors a fascinating experience. Arrive in Portland, Maine and discover a unique combination of history and culture. Local artisans display their handiwork along the streets of the Arts District and Old Port Exchange. Your next port of call is Bar Harbor, Maine. Surrounded by Acadia National Park, this rock-bound coast with its soaring granite cliffs, feature some of the most spectacular scenery on the Eastern Seaboard. Founded by loyalists escaping the Revolutionary War, Saint John, New Brunswick (Bay of Fundy) is famous for the Reversing Rapids as well as its restored historic waterfront and natural beauty. Last and certainly not least, Halifax, Nova Scotia is known as the “City of Trees” and offers the warmth and charm of a small town with the excitement of a large city. Peggy’s Cove, Citadel Hill, and Acadian Country are just a few of the sights you’ll get to know here! Back at sea, enjoy the ship’s optional amenities. Schedule your visit at the Vitality Spa, and plan to do as many of the other onboard activities as you like. Oceanview Cabin: $1710/pp dbl.
Niagara Falls Sojourn – Niagara Falls, Ontario
September 4-7, 2018
Niagara Falls is actually the collective name for three individual waterfalls . . . the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. One of North America’s 18 “Natural Wonders,” the Falls straddle the international border between Canada and the United States and were formed when glaciers retreated during the last ice age. Water flowing over the Falls originate from five of the six great lakes that combine to form the Niagara River. This river and the water within has an impressive journey that eventually makes its way to the Atlantic Ocean. The powerful falls with all their beauty and might, attract more than “30 Million Visitors” a year!
Your Niagara Falls Sojourn includes a Comprehensive Niagara Falls Tour or as your Professional Canadian Guide might say . . . your “All Things Fall” Tour! Witness Table Rock, famous for the thunderous roar of its fast-moving water rushing over the brink at Horseshoe Falls. Visit Floral Clock, a unique exhibit featuring over 16,000 carpet bedding plants and a 10-foot wide water garden and clock tower housing Westminster Chimes that ring on the quarter hour. Tickets are also included for the incredible IMAX Theatre and their showing of . . . “Niagara-Miracles, Myths & Magic.”
One of the highlights of your “Falls” tour is a sightseeing cruise aboard the Hornblower. Onboard you’ll get an “up-close and personal view” of Niagara Falls! Feel the mighty power of the water as the Niagara River pounds the lake below sending cold clouds of water and mist high into the air . . . Raincoat Provided! You’ll have a chance to “Experience the Magic” at Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, a tropical paradise full and lush vegetation, trickling waterfalls and thousands of vibrantly colored butterflies.
While at the Park, take a breathtaking stroll along White Water Walk, and experience the raw power and peril of the Niagara River’s Class 6 white-water rapids.
A visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake is also included where you can visit the shops, and stroll through one of the loveliest towns in Ontario.
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention – “Oh Canada Eh? Dinner Show,” Canada’s Longest Running Dinner Musical!
Last and certainly not least is The Skylon Tower, your host for a delicious farewell dinner in their “Revolving Dining Room,” overlooking the Falls. Spectacular views of the beautiful landscape can be seen in every direction. We couldn’t think of a more incredible way to end the tour!
Passport Is Required!
The Rocky Coast of Maine
September 16-22, 2018
A spectacular 7-day excursion to the Rocky Coast of Maineawaits you as we travel to beautiful New England.
After an overnight stay in Danbury, Connecticut, we explore the historic city of Salem including travel through Marblehead(the Yachting Capital of the World).
After a visit to The House of Seven Gables, our tour continues to the Pine Tree State of Maine and our first stop on the Rocky Coast is the charming village of Ogunquit. Be sure to take a walk on the beautiful Marginal Wayoverlooking the coastline with exquisite views. Get your cameras ready as we head to the photographer’s mecca of the Nubble Light, one of the most well-known of the painted lighthouses in New England. Touring continues in the seaside town of Kennebunkport followed by a Harbor and Lobstering Cruise!
Day Four takes you to Boothbay Harborfor a memorable cruise with many photo opportunities. We continue to Bar Harborwhere another wonderful cruise awaits you along with a riding tour of Acadia National Park followed by a Bar Harbor Lobster Bake!
The beauty of Maine remains for you to enjoy as we travel to Camden Hills State Parkand a drive to the peak of Mount Battle. The breathtaking views from this summit provide the perfect opportunity for stunning photographs. Don’t put your cameras away as we head to the Portland Head Light, the oldest lighthouse in Maine.
A final stop in the quaint village of Sturbridgewill leave you wishing you could stay another week!
Travel back to Richmond with memories of a lifetime of wonderful landscapes, lighthouses, cruises, great meals and new friends!
Destination: 18th Century
Fredericksburg, VA
Thursday – September 13
George Washington grew up in Fredericksburg, Virginia, one of America’s most historic and intriguing cities. Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe and even Abraham Lincoln all lived or visited here.
New this year is a replica of the home Washington grew up in at Ferry Farm – which was built “suspended” over the original house location (it is still an active archeological site). Enjoy a guided tour of the home and time in the Visitor Center which gives fascinating insight into the site both in colonial times and during the Civil War. You are in for a luncheon treat at the Bavarian Chef followed by a tour of Kenmore, one of the most elegant colonial mansions in America. Kenmore was built by Fielding Lewis for his wife, Betty, the only sister of George Washington. A colonial “gentry” home, Kenmore is famous for its intricate plasterwork ceilings, some of the finest of the colonial period. Tours through Kenmore’s rooms highlight its elegant architecture and history. There will be time in the quaint downtown area for shopping and a not to be missed stop for some delicious Carl’s Ice Cream!
Virginia Beach Neptune Festival
– Virginia Beach, VA
Saturday – September 29
2018 marks the 45th anniversary of the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival! Every year, hundreds of thousands of people celebrate the festival’s many offerings! You can enjoy the parade on Atlantic Avenue as a special treat before venturing to the boardwalk, where you can find over 250 artisans displaying handmade work from paintings and sculptures, to photography and glass-work. Mosey your way through the tents and displays and find a piece of the show to bring home with you! Enjoy a juried Art & Craft Show that has been ranked #22 out of 200 Fine Art and Design Shows across the country. Head out onto the beach to find 22 magnificent sand sculptures created by world-renowned international sculptors at Neptune’s International Sandsculpting Championship (ticket included).
OBX – Outer Banks “X”traordinaire!
Featuring Ocracoke Island
September 25 – 27, 2018
Last year’s tour was so successful we’ve decided to add an extra night! Join us as we travel back to the popular and beautiful Outer Banks of North Carolina. We’ll have the same great guide who will be with us throughout this 3-day tour, sharing with us the history of this area and pointing out interesting landmarks along the way. This tour is quite unique as it showcases something very important to the island’s existence – its Lighthouses. This tour includes four so get your camera ready! The first night will be at the oceanfront Hilton Garden Inn in Kitty Hawk and the second night will be on historic Ocracoke Island at the Anchorage Inn. Yes – the motorcoach does get on the ferry! We have many meals included that for some just might be the highlight of the tour – including a fantastic family-style dinner at the popular Lone Cedar Café. If you missed our tour last year – don’t miss this one! Weather will still be great and the summer crowds will be gone!
“Jesus” at Sight and Sound – Lancaster, Pennsylvania
October 2-3, 2018
Sight and Sound Theatre in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, has presented stories of the Bible in a magnificent setting for over forty years and the premiere of their newest presentation “Jesus” is destined to be one of the most miraculous productions to date! The incredible performances are sure to touch your heart like no other with the amazing staging, scenery, actors, and animals utilized in this beautiful venue which will transport you back to the times and life of Jesus. Our spring tour to Lancaster is almost at capacity and this is a tour that you don’t want to say, “I wish I hadn’t missed this one!” The surrounding area of Lancaster County provides the perfect environment for this tour which also includes time at the Kitchen Kettle Village, “Songs of the Silver Screen” at the beautiful American Music Theatre and time at the Bird In Hand Farmers Market where you can purchase local cheeses, jams and jellies, pastries, pretzels and Amish memorabilia. You might even want to take home some homemade peanut butter – YUM! A stay at a beautiful hotel in the heart of Amish country and a tour which includes four meals makes for the perfect two-day journey in the beautiful Autumn season. $450
47th Annual Shenandoah Fall Art Show
Waynesboro, VA
Saturday – October 13
This fall, treat yourself to an invigorating getaway to beautiful Waynesboro, Virginia, where nature inspires artists, and artists inspire community. For this one weekend, the downtown area is transformed into this impressive outdoor fine arts festival. Showcasing their works, 150 artists, and artisans, hand selected by the festival’s standard committee, bring high-quality arts and crafts to this festival. Their works include painting, printmaking, wood, pottery, glass, jewelry, sculpture and more. While there, don’t forget to visit the P. Buckley Moss Gallery (good chance she will be there to sign prints.) The festival also features gourmet food trucks, craft beer, and great local music. (Lunch is on your own.) From street art to woodwork, this year’s art festivals are sure to bring color and spunk to your autumn! We’ve also added a few other fun stops to round out the day including The Cheese Shop in Stuarts Draft as well as Chile’s Peach Orchard in Crozet featuring apples of the season.
Carry Me Back to Ole Virginny
– Nelson County, VA
Tuesday – October 23
Pharsalia is a place where History never gets old. Step back in history when you walk through the doors. It was built in 1814 in the Tye River Valley and sits on the shoulder of DePreist Mountain in Nelson County, Virginia. The fall color should be perfect at this time! At its height, Pharsalia’s working farm was part of a family owned tract in excess of 10,000 acres. Descendants of the original owners still own the home and work hard to preserve this historic house. Enjoy a tour of the home and grounds by the owner – a special treat since it is only open to groups and for special events. While here enjoy a catered lunch consisting of such items as quiche, homemade soup, and chicken salad on a croissant. Next, travel a short distance to Oak Ridge Estate, a 5,000-acre plantation estate first built in 1802 and acquired at the turn of the 20th century by Thomas Fortune Ryan, who had become one of the 10 wealthiest men in the nation. He made impressive alterations to the building and grounds-adding a formal Italian garden, rotunda greenhouse, and railroad station, among other features. Also included is a stop at a favorite Apple Orchard in this area, Drumhellers Orchard,… plan to bring some delicious apples home with you!
Annual Fall Foliage Spectacular
– Peaks of Otter Lodge
Saturday – October 27
Back by Popular Demand . . . travel southwest towards Bedford and the Blue Ridge Mountains for one of the most popular fall lunch and tourist destination in the State of Virginia – Peaks of Otter Lodge! Enjoy their special “Octoberfest” Buffet – featuring several hot entrees, vegetables, and sweet desserts. Enjoy incredible fall scenery as we travel. A visit to this part of Virginia is not complete without a stop at a local Orchard Farm for fresh picked “Grown in Virginia” apples, homemade cider, apple butter, jams, and jellies. Spend the afternoon at the Appomattox Court House National Historic Park. On April 9, 1865, the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia in the McLean House in the village of Appomattox Court House, Virginia, signaled the end of the nation’s largest war. Two important questions about its future were answered. Could the nation survive a civil war intact, and would that nation exist without slavery? The answer to both was yes and a new nation was born. See the McLean House and the impressive visitor center and take part in a Ranger Talk.
Las Vegas Getaway!
Las Vegas, Nevada
May 21-25, 2019
Be a part of a new “Spring Tradition” by joining SignaTours on a four-night tour to “Glitzy” Las Vegas! You may have thought you have arrived in “Ancient Egypt” when checking into the beautiful Luxor Resort and Casino! Built for the ancient pharaohs but on loan to us for a short time, the Luxor is more than just a hotel. Live like a pharaoh and enjoy exalted splendor where service is “fit for royalty.” The Luxor boasts a 10-story sphinx, the World’s largest atrium and the most powerful beam of light in the world. It has more than 5,000 rooms, 9 restaurants, a shopping mall, a fabulous showroom and best of all, more than 100,000 sf of casino space! Located on the Las Vegas Strip, you are minutes away from many other Iconic Las Vegas Casinos and Landmarks. Believe it or not, Las Vegas is not all about gambling, as there are so many other things to do. For example, from your hotel lobby, tours can be arranged to Death Valley, Mount Charleston, Hoover Dam, the Grand Canyon, Colorado River, and many other outdoor adventures! Nearby, there are countless Broadway shows, musical acts, comedians, magicians and so much more! Join us for four fun-filled nights, non-stop action and entertainment in Las Vegas. This tour is all about you, so you are on your own to spend time in “Sin City” any way you wish. You will have five full days in Las Vegas with an early arrival on September 25th and a red-eye departure on September 29th. And always remember… “What happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas!”