Compare Made in Carolina: Our History and Culture That Helped Shape America by Road Scholar vs America's Magnificent National Parks 2023 End Denver Classic Group by Insight Vacations

Day 1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Isle of Palms, Charleston County, SC D Coastal Retreat Center
Afternoon: Registration begins in retreat center lobby at 4 PM, with coffee, tea, water, fruit, snacks provided upon arrival. As is customary in many retreat centers, please make your bed upon arrival. Let our staff know if we can help you in any way!

Dinner: At 6 PM, start your week of southern cuisine! Tonight enjoy a specially selected dinner that reflects the local culture. For the rest of the week, participants may choose from two entrées for evening meals after the first day. Please let us know in advance of dietary restrictions!

Evening: Road Scholar host and resident manager offer you a warm Southern welcome, along with orientation to the retreat center and program schedule. Enjoy fellowship with other participants.

Day 2
Revolutionary War, Downtown Bus Tour, Sweetgrass Baskets
Isle of Palms, Charleston County, SC B,L,D Coastal Retreat Center
Breakfast: Your day begins with a delightful southern breakfast at 8:15 am. Self-serve coffee is available for early risers.

Morning: Gain new insights on the Revolutionary War from a historian and re-enactor wearing a different period uniform each day.

Lunch: The lunch menu usually consists of soups, sandwiches, and salads, with fresh fruits always available.

Afternoon: Receive a comprehensive overview of historic Charleston by a licensed guide on a bus tour. Learn about sites such as The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, and the Charleston Visitors Center, with rest stops at these sites. Group will also view historic St. Michael's Episcopal Church at the famous "Four Corners of Law" in downtown Charleston. This excursion will whet your appetite for sights to see during free periods.

Dinner: Dinner is at 6:00 PM at the Coastal Retreat Center. Our chef knows how to please!

Evening: Together we will enjoy a Sweetgrass basket demonstration. This craft came to the SC Lowcountry from the enslaved West Africans who used the baskets as tools for working in the rice fields. Today the baskets are elaborate works of art that have been deemed the SC "state craft." Learn the history of sweetgrass baskets and see a basket maker demonstrate this unique craft that was handed down from her parents.

Day 3
Revolutionary War & Walking Tour, Historical Homes, Gullah
Isle of Palms, Charleston County, SC B,L,D Coastal Retreat Center
Activity note: Comfortable shoes will make this active day more enjoyable as we walk the historic streets of Downtown Charleston. This is a very active walk over cobblestones and uneven sidewalks. Much energy will be required to fully enjoy this program.

Breakfast: A delicious breakfast will be ready at 8:15 am. Early risers can enjoy self-serve coffee and a walk on the beach!

Morning: Continue your exploration of the Revolutionary War with our re-enactor as we resume our journey through Charleston's history.

Lunch: Our light lunches include soups, salads, sandwiches. Fruit available.

Afternoon: Guided by an expert historian, participants will walk for approximately two hours in the lower peninsula of Charleston viewing exteriors of elegant colonial and antebellum homes that attract visitors world-wide! Touring the inside of some of the homes is a highlight of this active days events.

Dinner: Enjoy more low country favorites from the amazing Chefs who cater our meals at the Coastal Retreat Center.

Evening: Discover the culture and history of the Gullah/Geechee people from a descendant of former enslaved West Africans who reside in the low country islands. Learn of the fascinating connection between the culture and rituals of West Africans and the Gullah people and how these connections continue today. You will learn stories of "the ancestors" through stories and song by a gifted artist.

Day 4
Revolutionary War, Free Time, Sounds of Charleston
Isle of Palms, Charleston County, SC B,L Coastal Retreat Center
Activity note: The Revolutionary War and the impact on Americas foundation becomes more evident through the expert lectures. Free time downtown for the afternoon allows you to personally pursue your own sightseeing, enjoy supper on your own, and the day concludes with a rousing presentation from THE SOUNDS OF CHARLESTON, as local artists present our history through song at the historical Circular Church.

Breakfast: As you have become accustomed, breakfast will be ready at 8:15 am and coffee whenever you are ready!

Morning: Learn of the Revolutionary War in SC from the British perspective with our expert. After, we will head to downtown for lunch, then free time for you to explore on your own.

Lunch: The NOISY OYSTER will provide delicious fresh entrees for our lunch enjoyment.

Afternoon: Explore the Market Area and Lower Peninsula of Charleston at your own pace.

Dinner: Dinner on your own will allow you to select from the many delectable offerings available downtown.

Evening: Experience the sounds that define Charleston, South Carolina and its unique southern charm — jazz, gospel, Gershwin, Gullah, spirituals, Civil War songs — coming to life in historic Circular Congregational Church.

Day 5
Revolutionary War, Local History Field Trip, Graduation
Isle of Palms, Charleston County, SC B,L,D Coastal Retreat Center
Breakfast: Start your morning with a delicous breakfast! Of course, we have grits!

Morning: This morning we'll continue learning about the Revolutionary War as our expert discusses the impact of the War on SC.

Lunch: Enjoy a light lunch. Yes, we have sweet tea!

Afternoon: This afternoon we'll have an educational trip to historical Fort Sumter. Park Rangers share their expert information and exhibitions with explorers to this militarily reinforced island, A Highlight of this trip is the amazing Harbor Tour, allowing Scholars to see a very similar view of Charleston to that of British Invaders!

Dinner: This evening, we will venture to Sullivans Restaurant on Sullivans Island for delicious local fare you will thoroughly enjoy!

Evening: A Closing Celebration brings us together for fun and fellowship. Enjoy the folk music of local artist Bart Saylor. Please be certain to turn in your hearing devices this evening too!

Day 6
Revolutionary War Lecture, Turtle Team Talk, Conclusion
Isle of Palms, Charleston County, SC B,L
Activity note: Weather Permitting, we will venture on to the beach to take a closer look at the nesting habitat of the Loggerhead Turtle.

Breakfast: Enjoy your last breakfast of the program. We hope you have enjoyed our southern cuisine!

Morning: Final presentation by Revolutionary War expert. All participants check out of rooms by 10:00 AM. Please remember to return your room keys. For those using public transportation, a secure area is provided for luggage until your departure. The 10:30 AM class is a presentation by the Island Turtle Team who help protect the nests of the endangered loggerhead turtles. The Isle of Palms is one of the barrier islands of the SC Lowcountry where the Loggerhead Turtles, one of five species of endangered Atlantic Sea Turtles, make their nests. Due to human development of the coastline, nesting areas are becoming more and more dangerous. The Island Turtle Team is a preservation team focused on protecting these endangered and adorable sea turtles. Enjoy this touching presentation and learn about the team's mission and experiences with adult and baby Loggerhead turtles!

Lunch: You may enjoy lunch in the dining room, or prepare a "To Go" box for your journey. "To Go" boxes will be available beginning at 11:30 AM.

Day 1: Arrive in Phoenix and Travel to Scottsdale

Welcome to Arizona, famous for its scenic road trips, towering Monument Valley, and of course the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. Your airport transfer will whisk you to your hotel in Scottsdale where you can enjoy the facilities and grounds of this striking desert oasis. Why not head out and explore Old Scottsdale, a vibrant and unique urban downtown area that introduces you the best of the state? Here, you’ll be surrounded by retro wooden buildings, rodeo inspired artwork and a selection of local stores, all radiating a classic Southwestern flair. At 18:00, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Dinner at Zuzu, where you will have the opportunity to mingle and get to know one another.

Day 2: Sedona and the Wonders of the Mighty Grand Canyon

Travel through world-renowned Red Country along the Red Rock Scenic Byway, one of only 20 designated All-American Roads nationwide. Explore bohemian Sedona with its shops and galleries, or simply take in the exceptional beauty of Red Rock Country before you make your way to the Grand Canyon. Follow Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Byway through Coconino National Forest, a breathtaking stretch of road recognized by Rand McNally as one of the Top Five Most Scenic Drives in America. On arrival, you can take an optional flightseeing tour over the Grand Canyon. Whether you prefer a helicopter or a fixed-wing plane, you'll enjoy magnificent scenery with aerial views from above. Meet your Local Expert Canyon Tim at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon to discover its wonders. You'll learn all about the origins of the five-million-year-old canyon, its rock formations and the human impact on this natural masterpiece. He'll also talk to you about the local flora and fauna, and where you might be able to spot them.

Day 3: Monument Valley and Lake Powell

Early risers will take advantage of the lodge location to witness one of Mother Nature's grandest shows on earth: a sunrise over the Grand Canyon. Travel along the South Rim Desert View Drive, skirting the South Rim of the canyon. We will stop at Desert View Point to see the historic Watchtower built by Mary Colter in the Puebloan style, the Colorado River turning north and the Painted Desert extending towards Navajo and Hopi Indian lands. Make Travel Matter as we will be supporting the Grand Canyon Conservancy and making a donation to support the development of the Desert View Inter-tribal Heritage Center. Head to the Cameron Trading Post, on of the oldest and most historic general stores in Arizona. Enter Monument Valley Tribal Park, where you'll join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet your Navajo Local Experts and board all-terrain vehicles with open sides for a private, off-the-beaten path exploration of this magical valley. Learn about Navajo history, culture and heritage from your expert as you travel deeper into the natural wonders of this unique landscape. Enjoy a Navajo cookout amid the giant buttes and mesas of this unique landscape. Spend the rest of the day relaxing at your lakefront resort.

Day 4: Leisurely Lake Powell Relaxed Start

Today is entirely yours to do as you please. Partake in one of our popular optional experiences, explore on your own, or simply relax by the resort swimming pool with views of Lake Powell. As an optional activity this morning, let yourself be tempted by a gentle float trip down the Colorado River. Calmly float down the Colorado, past some of the most awe-inspiring sites, like the iconic Horseshoe Bend and Petroglyph Beach. In the evening, enjoy dinner with wine at the Red Heritage as you get the opportunity to watch local dancers talented in colorful powwow dancing, flute playing, and live drum music and enjoy a traditional dinner at this Navajo owned Native American Performing Arts Theater.

Day 5: Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks

Journey across a wide-open landscape punctuated by colorful sandstone cliffs, sagebrush-covered flats, and high ridges dotted with piñon pine and juniper. Travel through Bryce Canyon Country on a portion of the Scenic Highway 89, recognized by National Geographic as the No. 1 Driver's Drive in the world. You will be struck by the beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park, an otherworldly landscape of red rock pillars known as hoodoos, pink cliffs, and endless vistas. Follow the Rim Trail from Surprise Point to Bryce Point. Stops will be made at the major viewpoints and there will be time for a leisurely walk along Sunset Point or a more physical hike down the canyon. Either way, you will be spellbound by the beauty and majesty of this dramatic natural landscape.

Day 6: Zion National Park Relaxed Start

After a leisurely breakfast and a Relaxed Start, we will tour the canyon aboard a privately chartered open-air vehicle, with live commentary from a Local Expert to show you the many scenic highlights of the canyon such as the weeping rock, the hanging garden and the fauna and flora of the park.Then choose between a Travel Director guided hike to the Emerald Pools for beautiful scenery of the canyon, waterfalls and green pools surrounded by red sandstone or visit the Zion Nature Center at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. The afternoon is free after that. In the evening enjoy a Celebration Dinner hosted at the lodge, and a last chance to share travel memories with your new friends.

Day 7: Salt Lake City

This morning you make your way out of Zion National Park and will transfer to Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah. Your hotel is short walk away from Temple Square, which is the headquarters of the Mormon church. In the evening join for a dinner with wine at the hotel.

Day 8: Jackson and the Tetons

Before leaving Salt Lake City, take in the State Capitol building. Drive along the scenic Logan Canyon, over the Wasatch Mountain Range, and up to the Bear Lake Summit. Stop for lunch at Garden City, Utah while enjoying views of the beautiful turquoise waters of Bear Lake. You will then head north across the Oregon Trail to historic Jackson. Have your cameras ready for the famous elk antlers the central square, while eager shoppers will find a number of charming traditional boutique galleries to browse. Enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure, with your hotel located only a short walk away from Jackson's Town Square.

Day 9: Yellowstone National Park

Wake up to a mountainous view like no other and witness the striking Grand Tetons thrust skyward 6,562 feet (2,000 metres) from the valley floor. This morning, you have the opportunity to partake in an optional scenic float down the Snake River (signed waiver required) inside Grand Teton National Park. In keeping with today’s rustic country charm, you’ll enter Yellowstone, the world’s first National Park. Known for its unique geothermal activity, spectacular landscapes and abundant wildlife, you’ll experience Wyoming in all its glory. Keep an eye out for black bears or wolves. Tonight you’ll stay in the National Park Lodges, allowing you to experience the park after hours, in its natural habitat.

Day 10: Geysers and Colourful Mudpots Relaxed Start

Savour the surreal surroundings of Yellowstone with a relaxed start. Walk among the rainbow tinted hot springs and watch the erupting geysers as you take in the history of the park on an informative stroll with your Travel Director. Catch the renowned colourful bubbling mud pots and observe Old Faithful geyser shooting water over 120 feet (37 metres) into the air. In the afternoon, enjoy the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone as you take in stunning natural wonders. While driving through Hayden Valley, famous for its wildlife, keep an eye out for wolves, bears, elk and hundreds of bison. The rest of the evening is at leisure for you to relax.

Day 11: The Ranch at Ucross Relaxed Start

Set off on your travels through the stark Shoshone Canyon and Absaroka Rocky Mountains, leading you to the Wild West Town of Cody. Channel your inner showman and learn more about America’s great Western legends at the Buffalo Bill Centre, known for its Western art collection, firearms, and natural history. Travel through the Bighorn National Forest to the Ranch at UCross. Take in the rustic charm as you're hosted at a traditional Wyoming Family ranch. Start off the evening with a cocktail hour in the historic Ranch House bar. After a home-cooked dinner, enjoy a fire pit with live entertainment, including country, folk and bluegrass music.

Day 12: Devils Tower into the Black Hills

Live the American frontier dream and begin your day with a scenic country horseback ride (8) accompanied by a Ranch Hand. If playing cowboy isn’t your thing, perhaps go fishing or merely relax and take in your beautiful surroundings, the choice is yours. Make your way to Devils Tower, an astounding geological feature that protrudes out of the surrounding Black Hills. This symbolic landmark is considered sacred to the Lakota and other tribes. Experience Spearfish Canyon, a favoured spot among wildlife enthusiasts and one famous for its elvish woodland beauty. The limestone palisades of this creek-carved gorge are more ancient than the Grand Canyon itself.

Day 13: Custer and the Wild, Wild West

A day for those looking to explore the Wild West, try to spotting the fastest mammal in North America, the pronghorn antelope as you cross the great high plains to the Black Hills of South Dakota. We visit Badlands National Park in South Dakota, 244,000 acres of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles and spires blended with the largest protected mixed grass prairie in America. Without a doubt, a hidden gem in the national park system, the unique beauty of the Badlands landscape is like no other. Sightseers as well as scholarly scientists are attracted to the area for its astounding beauty and the opportunity to peek into an ancient world. Continue on to Custer State Park, renowned for its beautiful landscape and abundant wildlife.

Day 14: Mountain Monuments of the Black Hills Relaxed Start

Travel to the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Here, carvings of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt overlook the landscape. Next, head  to Crazy Horse Memorial, which is dedicated to protecting and preserving the culture, tradition and living heritage of the North American Indians. An exclusive Insight Experience awaits as you are taken up to stand face-to-face with this impressive sculpture. At 641 feet (195 metres) long and 563 feet (172 metres) tall the piece takes the record for the world’s largest mountain carving.Join your Travel Director and newfound friends for a Celebration Dinner with wine, as you reflect on your adventure across the wide-open spaces of America's national parks.

Day 15: Depart Denver

Travel south from Custer State Park where your trip ends on arrival in Denver. A transfer is available to Denver International Airport. Airport arrival in Denver will be at 16:30 or choose to extend your stay in Downtown Denver.