Palm Springs and Lake Havasu
2026 Motor Coach Winter Escape –
February 11-March 2
Joshua Tree National Park
Optional Add On: Grand Canyon National Park
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Come along with Happy Trails Tours as we travel Southwest to Arizona and California on our 20 Day 2026 Motorcoach Winter Escape. We have planned something exciting around every corner of this adventure! SEVEN fabulous nights in Palm Springs and FIVE in Lake Havasu during peak season for snowbirds! From Joshua Tree National Park to the Oasis Camel Dairy Farm, you'll experience all that Happy Trails is known for.... great tours with a few "out of the way" stops to keep you entertained! Add to this 29 meals. Read on to see what our latest winter escape tour has to offer!
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This 20 Day Winter Escape to Palm Springs and Lake Havasu Includes:
- Round-trip Smoke-free Minnesota Coaches Motor Coach Transportation- Northeast, Central & Southern MN
- 19 Nights of Accommodations- Des Moines, IA; Oklahoma City, OK; Albuquerque, NM; (2 nights each in Des Moines & OKC); Lake Havasu, AZ (5 nights); Palm Springs, CA (7 nights); Flagstaff, AZ (1 night) and Tucumcari, NM (1 night)
- While in Lake Havasu: Five Nights at the London Bridge Resort; Jet Boat Tour on the Colorado River;
- Lake Havasu Museum plus a free day to explore the area at your leisure. (We are in a great location)
- OR…take your Free Day while in Lake Havasu choose an optional side trip to the West Rim of the Grand Canyon, to include Lunch while being entertained by a Cowboy Singer and drive through Joshua Forest. $199 Per Person.
- While in Palm Springs: Seven Nights at the Hilton Palm Springs Resort; Joshua Tree NP; 29 Palms Murals; Aerial Tram; Oasis Camel Dairy Farm; Visit Hadley’s Date Orchard with a Date Shake. We have also set aside “Free Day” to explore Palm Springs as per you own agenda. You are within walking distance of shops and dining.
- Musical Theater Performance (yet to be announced) and Dinner prior to the show
- Travel Days include Clines Corner and Buckskin Mountain State Park between Lake Havasu and Palm Springs as well as time in Old Town Scottsdale enroute to Palm Springs.
- Visit to the Big Texan Steak House in Amarillo (Lunch)–and one of Route 66’s favorite icons… “Cadilac Ranch”
- 29 Meals- 19 Breakfasts and 4 Lunches and 6 Dinners (to include a special Valentines Dinner at Little America)
- Luggage Handling, Taxes, Most Tips for the Porters and Included Meals (Tips for Tour Director and Driver not included)
- Fully Guided with a Happy Trials Tour Representative.
- Dress Code: It’s very casual and comfortable. You may pack one main suitcase and bring along a carry-on bag.
- The Schedule: Occasionally changes occur that are beyond our control. If this happens, we'll make the necessary adjustments and let you know.
- The Coach: Our motor coach is chartered through Minnesota Company. They have the newest fleet around. They are equipped with restrooms, air-conditioning, sound-system, reclining seats, seat belts, extra leg room, DVD player, television, large windows, WI-FI and electrical 110 outlets.
- The Hotels: The hotels we use are beautiful properties. (3 and 4 star)! Our properties generally include two beds (Oftentimes one king bed for couples and single travelers unless otherwise noted), non-smoking rooms, breakfast each morning, and provide luggage handling. Tips for the porters are also included. The Drury Suites offer cocktails and a light dinner in the early evening upon our arrival. Also, you’ll need to let us know your room preference or if you have any special needs such as a room nearby an elevator, lower floor, allergies or other special concerns. Many hotels offer free Wi-Fi and some offer indoor pools.
- People with Special Needs: Folks with special needs can easily do this tour as long as they can walk some short distances and stand for short periods of time. If you can climb a few steps into the coach, you’ve got it made! We try to make comfort stops every 2 ½ to 3 hours. We have a restroom on board, if you need it. Let us also know of any allergies (such as; colognes, perfumes, foods, or other concerns). Diabetics should travel with a small amount of snacks on board.
- Special Requests: Let us know if you have any special requests such as seating on the bus, location of rooms at the hotel, one bed or two, or special dietary requests. We want this tour to be a great one. Let us know if you are bringing a wheelchair or walker. We want you to be as prepared as possible so everything runs smoothly. Please note: Happy Trails Tours cannot push wheelchairs. You must have a caregiver along who can assist you with any special needs that you may have. Check with your doctor to be sure you can manage this tour.
- Seat Rotation on the Coach: We do not rotate seats on the bus. We find folks stay healthier and that our groups prefer the same seat throughout the tour. All seats are reserved in advance according to when you registered and what special needs you may have. All first-come, first-serve basis. Thank you and feel free to call if you have a special request or concern about how Happy Trails Tours handles their bus seating.
Wednesday, February 11 - Day 1: Travel Day Beginning in Northeast and Central Minnesota to Des Moines, IA
This day will include boarding in towns throughout the state of MN with our bus charter company, Minnesota Coaches, Duluth, MN. Once everyone is on board, we'll continue our Winter Escape Tour with our first overnight in Des Moines, Iowa. You’ll find the first day will include time to relax and get to know fellow travelers while riding along in a beautiful 56 passenger deluxe motor coach. Boarding will begin in the early hour of 5:00 am in Grand Rapids, Iron Range Cities, Duluth/Cloquet Area. Then another vehicle will be picking folks up around 9 am in the Baxter area with following stops in Little Falls, Rice and Sartell. Together both coaches will blend in Burnsville at the Mall, where we will have lunch (paying on own) continuing on our way to Des Moines, Iowa, our 1st night’s stay.
12:30 am -Arrive to the Burnsville Mall and enjoy time for lunch at your leisure while both coaches blend
(This is an estimated arrival time for both bus groups to the Burnsville Mall) This stop offers a variety of restaurants to choose from...Panera Bread, Food Court (lower level), and Lucky’s Pub. Meal is at travelers personal expense.
1:30 pm- Re-board the coach and continue on to Des Moines, Iowa.
3:00 pm- A mid-afternoon coffee and comfort stop will be made at the MN / IA boarder at the "Top of Iowa"
We'll stay here about 20 minutes and then we'll continue on our way.
5:45 pm- Estimated arrival to Des Moines. Drury Inn 5505 Mills Civic Parkway, Des Moines, IA # 515-457-9500
Tonight is at your leisure. The hotel offers hot & cold buffet between 5:30-7:00 pm with complimentary cocktails. There are also fast food restaurants within walking distance. This property is beautiful! It offers coffeemakers in the rooms, hairdryer, irons & boards, free hot and cold beverages in the lobby, pool and a fitness center. www.druryinn.com Light Dinner & cocktails Included
Thursday, Feb 12- Day 2: Travel Day to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (545 Miles)
7:00 am- Set your luggage outside your doors / 7:00 am - Breakfast is served!
8:00 am –the bus departs for OKC.
After hot buffet breakfast, continue south to Oklahoma. Again…our day will go by quickly as we visit and get to know others on board the coach. Comfort stops will be made as the day goes along. Our lunch stop will be in Kansas City today. We'll
6:00 pm- We'll arrive to OKC. Embassy Suites Oklahoma City - 1905 S Meridian Ave, OKC, OK # 406-682-2080
Tonight's activities are as per your own agenda. This property also offers cocktails in the early evening, and also has a nice restaurant, lounge , swimming pool. The rooms have all the amenities one would need such as; two beds, coffeemakers, hairdryers, irons & boards. www.oklahomacity.embassysuites.com Breakfast Included
Friday, Feb 13- Day 3: Travel Day to Tucumcari, New Mexico (368 Miles)
7:00 am - Enjoy a full hot breakfast (included). (Set your luggage outside your door at 7:00 am)
8:00 am- Wheels Rolling! We are all checked out and on an adventure to see what Day 3 has in store.
We'll continue our journey from Oklahoma to I-40 west to Texas and into New Mexico. We'll be traveling along Historic Route 66 on #1-40 all the way to Tucumcari! A comfort stop and lunch stop will be made as needed.
1:00 pm- Arrive to Amarillo, Texas for lunch, included at the Big Texas Steak for a 5-ounce steak dinner and all the fixings!
We are in TEXAS so we our menu is steak. However, if you cannot eat steak, we will order breaded chicken strips. You must let us know on the registration form with your initial down payment. Thank you.
2:30 pm- Re-board the coach and continue. Tucumcari is another 1 ½ hours along I-40.
But first, we will make a quick stop at Cadilac Ranch to do a bit spray painting! www.holidayinntucumcari.com
5:30 pm- Estimated arrival to Tucumcari -Holiday Inn Express - 2624 South Adams, Tucumcari, NM # 575-461-3333
Our lovely property is the Holiday Inn Express. This property offers all the usual amenities including an indoor pool.
They offer a family style restaurant next door. The evening activities are at your leisure. Breakfast and Lunch Included
Saturday, Feb 14 - Day 4: Travel Day to Flagstaff, Arizona HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY! (494 Miles)
7:00 am - Enjoy a full hot breakfast (included). (Set your luggage outside your door at 7:00 am)
8:00 am- And we are off and headed down Historic Route 66 (I-40). We will make a comfort stop about 2 hours into the day.
1:00 pm- Arrive to Gallup, New Mexico for a lunch break, paying on own.
After lunch we continue crossing the border into Arizona another 2 ½ hours along I-40.
5:00 pm- Estimated arrival to Flagstaff - Little America Hotel - 2515 E Butler Avenue, Flagstaff, AZ # 928-779-7900
Our lovely property tucked in the Northwoods of beautiful Northern Arizona reminds us of the Northwoods of Minnesota. It’s very peaceful surrounded by pine trees. This full-service property offers wonderful staff, a full service restaurant, lounge and a fabulous gift shop. It’s the peaceful surroundings that continue to bring us home to Flagstaff on our travels to the Southwest. www.flagstaff.littleamerica.com
6:30 pm- Happy Valentines Day! Dinner is served and included.
We do not know the menu yet but we will let you know in your final documents. Breakfast and Dinner Included
This day will include boarding in towns throughout the state of MN with our bus charter company, Minnesota Coaches, Duluth, MN. Once everyone is on board, we'll continue our Winter Escape Tour with our first overnight in Des Moines, Iowa. You’ll find the first day will include time to relax and get to know fellow travelers while riding along in a beautiful 56 passenger deluxe motor coach. Boarding will begin in the early hour of 5:00 am in Grand Rapids, Iron Range Cities, Duluth/Cloquet Area. Then another vehicle will be picking folks up around 9 am in the Baxter area with following stops in Little Falls, Rice and Sartell. Together both coaches will blend in Burnsville at the Mall, where we will have lunch (paying on own) continuing on our way to Des Moines, Iowa, our 1st night’s stay.
12:30 am -Arrive to the Burnsville Mall and enjoy time for lunch at your leisure while both coaches blend
(This is an estimated arrival time for both bus groups to the Burnsville Mall) This stop offers a variety of restaurants to choose from...Panera Bread, Food Court (lower level), and Lucky’s Pub. Meal is at travelers personal expense.
1:30 pm- Re-board the coach and continue on to Des Moines, Iowa.
3:00 pm- A mid-afternoon coffee and comfort stop will be made at the MN / IA boarder at the "Top of Iowa"
We'll stay here about 20 minutes and then we'll continue on our way.
5:45 pm- Estimated arrival to Des Moines. Drury Inn 5505 Mills Civic Parkway, Des Moines, IA # 515-457-9500
Tonight is at your leisure. The hotel offers hot & cold buffet between 5:30-7:00 pm with complimentary cocktails. There are also fast food restaurants within walking distance. This property is beautiful! It offers coffeemakers in the rooms, hairdryer, irons & boards, free hot and cold beverages in the lobby, pool and a fitness center. www.druryinn.com Light Dinner & cocktails Included
Thursday, Feb 12- Day 2: Travel Day to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (545 Miles)
7:00 am- Set your luggage outside your doors / 7:00 am - Breakfast is served!
8:00 am –the bus departs for OKC.
After hot buffet breakfast, continue south to Oklahoma. Again…our day will go by quickly as we visit and get to know others on board the coach. Comfort stops will be made as the day goes along. Our lunch stop will be in Kansas City today. We'll
6:00 pm- We'll arrive to OKC. Embassy Suites Oklahoma City - 1905 S Meridian Ave, OKC, OK # 406-682-2080
Tonight's activities are as per your own agenda. This property also offers cocktails in the early evening, and also has a nice restaurant, lounge , swimming pool. The rooms have all the amenities one would need such as; two beds, coffeemakers, hairdryers, irons & boards. www.oklahomacity.embassysuites.com Breakfast Included
Friday, Feb 13- Day 3: Travel Day to Tucumcari, New Mexico (368 Miles)
7:00 am - Enjoy a full hot breakfast (included). (Set your luggage outside your door at 7:00 am)
8:00 am- Wheels Rolling! We are all checked out and on an adventure to see what Day 3 has in store.
We'll continue our journey from Oklahoma to I-40 west to Texas and into New Mexico. We'll be traveling along Historic Route 66 on #1-40 all the way to Tucumcari! A comfort stop and lunch stop will be made as needed.
1:00 pm- Arrive to Amarillo, Texas for lunch, included at the Big Texas Steak for a 5-ounce steak dinner and all the fixings!
We are in TEXAS so we our menu is steak. However, if you cannot eat steak, we will order breaded chicken strips. You must let us know on the registration form with your initial down payment. Thank you.
2:30 pm- Re-board the coach and continue. Tucumcari is another 1 ½ hours along I-40.
But first, we will make a quick stop at Cadilac Ranch to do a bit spray painting! www.holidayinntucumcari.com
5:30 pm- Estimated arrival to Tucumcari -Holiday Inn Express - 2624 South Adams, Tucumcari, NM # 575-461-3333
Our lovely property is the Holiday Inn Express. This property offers all the usual amenities including an indoor pool.
They offer a family style restaurant next door. The evening activities are at your leisure. Breakfast and Lunch Included
Saturday, Feb 14 - Day 4: Travel Day to Flagstaff, Arizona HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY! (494 Miles)
7:00 am - Enjoy a full hot breakfast (included). (Set your luggage outside your door at 7:00 am)
8:00 am- And we are off and headed down Historic Route 66 (I-40). We will make a comfort stop about 2 hours into the day.
1:00 pm- Arrive to Gallup, New Mexico for a lunch break, paying on own.
After lunch we continue crossing the border into Arizona another 2 ½ hours along I-40.
5:00 pm- Estimated arrival to Flagstaff - Little America Hotel - 2515 E Butler Avenue, Flagstaff, AZ # 928-779-7900
Our lovely property tucked in the Northwoods of beautiful Northern Arizona reminds us of the Northwoods of Minnesota. It’s very peaceful surrounded by pine trees. This full-service property offers wonderful staff, a full service restaurant, lounge and a fabulous gift shop. It’s the peaceful surroundings that continue to bring us home to Flagstaff on our travels to the Southwest. www.flagstaff.littleamerica.com
6:30 pm- Happy Valentines Day! Dinner is served and included.
We do not know the menu yet but we will let you know in your final documents. Breakfast and Dinner Included
Sunday, Feb 15 - Day 5: Travel Day to Palm Springs, California ~ Visit Scottsdale Old Town (431 Miles)
7:00 am - Enjoy a full hot breakfast (included). (Set your luggage outside your door at 7:00 am)
8:00 am- Wheels are Rolling for C.A.L.I.F.O.R.N.I.A!!!!
We will take #17 South to “Arizona’s Valley of the Sun” where we will take the next couple hours exploring Scottsdale’s
“Old Town”. We will arrive around 10:00 am and stay until noon. There’s time to get an early lunch, shop a bit and maybe even nail a dollar to the wall at the Rusty Spur Saloon! Shops open at 10 am on Sundays in Old Town on Main Street.
12:30 pm- We are back on the road…. Taking I-10 west to California!!!
We have another 4 ½ hours (278 miles) to go. “Are we there yet?”
6:00 pm-We can say “YES… we are there!” Hilton Palm Springs - 400 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs # 760-320-6868
We'll arrive to our lovely property in the late afternoon. Our resort, Hilton Palm Springs Resort will be our home away from home for the next SEVEN nights. This property is in a great location within a few blocks from Main Street and a block from their convention center. They have a casino across the street and two walking blocks from the famous Palm Canyon Drive where there are a variety of restaurants, nightclubs, and shops. www.hiltonpalmsprings.com Tonight's agenda is at your leisure. Breakfast Included
Monday, Feb 16 - Day 6: Exploring Palm Springs ~ Celebrity Tour, Aerial Tram and Date Orchard
(Breakfast Hours - 7 am - 10:00 am - A full hot breakfast is included
10:00 am-12:00 pm- Board the coach with a local guide.
Get ready for the “Celebrity Tour 360” where we’ll drive by many homes where the movie stars lived, once known as "Hollywood's Playground." We'll drive by the homes of Elvis, Liberace, Liz Taylor, Bob Hope, Marilyn Monroe, Linda Carter, Frank Sinatra and many others.
1:00 pm – After our Celebrity Tour we are going to bring you to the Palm Springs Aerial Tram (Lunch included!)
We've included a great attraction this afternoon. We'll make our way to the desert floor where we’ll board the Palm Springs Aerial Tram which takes 5,873 feet up into the cool climate of the San Jacinto Mountains. This spectacular view brings you to the top of the mountain where you’ll enjoy an 18 minute film on the history and construction of the Tramway.
1:30 pm- Lunch is included today. The menu features two entrees daily, a small green salad, vegetables roll, butter & beverage.
After lunch and once we return to the desert floor where the tour began, we are off to visit Hadley’s Date Orchard! I hope you saved a little room for their famous “DATE SHAKE”, included in our visit today.
4:30 pm- Estimated return to the Hilton Palm Springs with the rest of the day at your leisure Breakfast and lunch are Included
Tuesday, Feb 17th – Day 7 A Desert Adventure! 29 Palms & Joshua Tree NP
(Breakfast Hours - 7 am - 10:30 am) A full hot breakfast is included
8 am - Depart the hotel and travel to "29 Palms" (One hour away).
We'll take a look at the Historical Murals of 29 Palms along with other delightful attractions, as time permits. After lunch, it's on to Joshua Tree National Park, known for its popular rock climbing formations, and of course, the Joshua Trees!
6:30 pm-Estimated return to our "home away from home" with fond memories of a full day in the desert! Breakfast Included
Wednesday, Feb 18- Day 8: A Day at Your Leisure
(Breakfast Hours - 7 am - 10:30 am ) A full hot breakfast is included
By now you have acquainted yourself with your surroundings. A free day to relax is what a vacation is all about!
We'll help direct your steps if you need ideas as to what you might like to do today. Those of you who love to golf... Here's a great opportunity for a day to play on some of the greatest golf courses in the nation! Maybe relax by the pool in the sun or enjoy a day of shopping. Your choice. Enjoy. Breakfast included
Thursday, Feb 19-Day 9: Camel Dairy & the Historic Gold Mine Town of Julien
(Breakfast Hours - 7 am - 10:30 am ) A full hot breakfast is included
8 am- Hop on board the coach and set out for a fun adventure to Ramona and Julien.
Our first stop is going to be in Ramona, California, which offers a beautiful picturesque 2-hour drive. We've got reservations to visit the Oasis Camel Dairy to include an animal show, private tour of the camels and feeding. But wait.... Is anyone up to riding a camel? We've allowed time for a 3 minute camel for those who can get up on one and weigh less than 200 pounds. It requires strong upper body strength so not everyone will be able to do this. BUT the opportunity is there. WE HAVE TO KNOW HOW MANY IN ADVANCE WANT TO RIDE A CAMEL. You can mark it on your registration from. $20 per person and will be added on to your final invoice) Next, we'll travel to historic Julien, a gold mine town with a lazy feel to it that seems to keep bringing people back to visit. Wagon loads of apple trees were planted in the 1880's and so "apple pies" are a signature dish in Julien. We'll be sure to allow time for lunch and shopping before returning to Palm Springs this evening, 2 ½ hour drive (5:30 pm estimated return). Breakfast Included
7:00 am - Enjoy a full hot breakfast (included). (Set your luggage outside your door at 7:00 am)
8:00 am- Wheels are Rolling for C.A.L.I.F.O.R.N.I.A!!!!
We will take #17 South to “Arizona’s Valley of the Sun” where we will take the next couple hours exploring Scottsdale’s
“Old Town”. We will arrive around 10:00 am and stay until noon. There’s time to get an early lunch, shop a bit and maybe even nail a dollar to the wall at the Rusty Spur Saloon! Shops open at 10 am on Sundays in Old Town on Main Street.
12:30 pm- We are back on the road…. Taking I-10 west to California!!!
We have another 4 ½ hours (278 miles) to go. “Are we there yet?”
6:00 pm-We can say “YES… we are there!” Hilton Palm Springs - 400 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs # 760-320-6868
We'll arrive to our lovely property in the late afternoon. Our resort, Hilton Palm Springs Resort will be our home away from home for the next SEVEN nights. This property is in a great location within a few blocks from Main Street and a block from their convention center. They have a casino across the street and two walking blocks from the famous Palm Canyon Drive where there are a variety of restaurants, nightclubs, and shops. www.hiltonpalmsprings.com Tonight's agenda is at your leisure. Breakfast Included
Monday, Feb 16 - Day 6: Exploring Palm Springs ~ Celebrity Tour, Aerial Tram and Date Orchard
(Breakfast Hours - 7 am - 10:00 am - A full hot breakfast is included
10:00 am-12:00 pm- Board the coach with a local guide.
Get ready for the “Celebrity Tour 360” where we’ll drive by many homes where the movie stars lived, once known as "Hollywood's Playground." We'll drive by the homes of Elvis, Liberace, Liz Taylor, Bob Hope, Marilyn Monroe, Linda Carter, Frank Sinatra and many others.
1:00 pm – After our Celebrity Tour we are going to bring you to the Palm Springs Aerial Tram (Lunch included!)
We've included a great attraction this afternoon. We'll make our way to the desert floor where we’ll board the Palm Springs Aerial Tram which takes 5,873 feet up into the cool climate of the San Jacinto Mountains. This spectacular view brings you to the top of the mountain where you’ll enjoy an 18 minute film on the history and construction of the Tramway.
1:30 pm- Lunch is included today. The menu features two entrees daily, a small green salad, vegetables roll, butter & beverage.
After lunch and once we return to the desert floor where the tour began, we are off to visit Hadley’s Date Orchard! I hope you saved a little room for their famous “DATE SHAKE”, included in our visit today.
4:30 pm- Estimated return to the Hilton Palm Springs with the rest of the day at your leisure Breakfast and lunch are Included
Tuesday, Feb 17th – Day 7 A Desert Adventure! 29 Palms & Joshua Tree NP
(Breakfast Hours - 7 am - 10:30 am) A full hot breakfast is included
8 am - Depart the hotel and travel to "29 Palms" (One hour away).
We'll take a look at the Historical Murals of 29 Palms along with other delightful attractions, as time permits. After lunch, it's on to Joshua Tree National Park, known for its popular rock climbing formations, and of course, the Joshua Trees!
6:30 pm-Estimated return to our "home away from home" with fond memories of a full day in the desert! Breakfast Included
Wednesday, Feb 18- Day 8: A Day at Your Leisure
(Breakfast Hours - 7 am - 10:30 am ) A full hot breakfast is included
By now you have acquainted yourself with your surroundings. A free day to relax is what a vacation is all about!
We'll help direct your steps if you need ideas as to what you might like to do today. Those of you who love to golf... Here's a great opportunity for a day to play on some of the greatest golf courses in the nation! Maybe relax by the pool in the sun or enjoy a day of shopping. Your choice. Enjoy. Breakfast included
Thursday, Feb 19-Day 9: Camel Dairy & the Historic Gold Mine Town of Julien
(Breakfast Hours - 7 am - 10:30 am ) A full hot breakfast is included
8 am- Hop on board the coach and set out for a fun adventure to Ramona and Julien.
Our first stop is going to be in Ramona, California, which offers a beautiful picturesque 2-hour drive. We've got reservations to visit the Oasis Camel Dairy to include an animal show, private tour of the camels and feeding. But wait.... Is anyone up to riding a camel? We've allowed time for a 3 minute camel for those who can get up on one and weigh less than 200 pounds. It requires strong upper body strength so not everyone will be able to do this. BUT the opportunity is there. WE HAVE TO KNOW HOW MANY IN ADVANCE WANT TO RIDE A CAMEL. You can mark it on your registration from. $20 per person and will be added on to your final invoice) Next, we'll travel to historic Julien, a gold mine town with a lazy feel to it that seems to keep bringing people back to visit. Wagon loads of apple trees were planted in the 1880's and so "apple pies" are a signature dish in Julien. We'll be sure to allow time for lunch and shopping before returning to Palm Springs this evening, 2 ½ hour drive (5:30 pm estimated return). Breakfast Included
Friday, Feb 20-Day 10: Another Wonderful Day to Explore as per Your Own Agenda
(Breakfast Hours - 7 am - 10:30 am ) A full hot breakfast is included.
Relax and enjoy a fun day at your leisure. Sleep in, take in the sun, sit by the pool, gather with friends or go shopping.
There may be companies that offer boarding at the hotel and will take you out for several hours or a full day of touring if that is something you might be interested in. Let us know at least 8 weeks prior to departure and we will help you make connections to a fun-filled day! Breakfast Included
Saturday, Feb 21-Day 11: Our Last Night Together in Palm Springs- Dinner & Show
(Breakfast Hours - 7 am - 10:30 am ) A full hot breakfast is included.
We are waiting to see how many register for this tour before we announce exactly where our dinner will take place. It may be right at our lovely hotel OR it could be somewhere else in the Palm Springs area. We are also waiting to hear what the performance line up will be at the area theaters. So hang tight while we wait for upcoming announcements for this evening’s entertainment. Breakfast and Dinner Included
Sunday, Feb 22 - Day 12: Travel Day to Lake Havasu, AZ Buckskin Mountain State Park – Parker, AZ
(Breakfast Hours - 7 am – 8:45 am ) A full hot breakfast is included.
7:45 am-Set luggage outside your doors at this time. 8:45 am- AND WE ARE OFF and RUNNING! Arizona Here We Come!
We will travel Southeast on I-10 to Desert Center and then continue through the Colorado Desert North on I-95 to Parker, Arizona. We will enjoy a nice lunch at the Crossroads Café before we enter the Buckskin Mountain State Park. The Colorado River, which forms the border between Arizona and California, bends around this state park on Arizona’s west coast. Craggy desert mountains and canyons surround the park, but the star of the show is the ribbon of blue-green water that flows through the center of it all.
4:15 pm- We’ll have left the park (or earlier depending on how many stops are made along the way).
5:00 pm- Arrive to Lake Havasu City, Arizona HOTEL: London Bridge Resort - 1477 Queens Bay, Lake Havasu # 928-855-0888
6:30 pm- We have a nice plated dinner, included.
For the next FIVE nights we'll settle in to our lovely accommodations at the London Bridge Resort! With a central location, stunning views, stylish accommodations, this full-service resort is the premier destination in Lake Havasu, Arizona. Step beyond our Tudor-style exterior and into a modern yet welcoming lobby, the centerpiece of which is an exact replica of the gold stagecoach used by royalty on special occasions. Some of the perks you can expect to enjoy are free Wi-Fi, three glittering pools, a nine-hole golf course, a marina and incredible nightlife at Kokomo Havasu, the Southwest’s biggest and coolest club. One visit and you’ll agree, this resort is nothing short of extraordinary! www.londonbridgeresort.com
A Little History of Lake Havasu: Geographically isolated from the other cities in Mohave County, Lake Havasu City has become an oasis in the desert that enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine a year. Established in 1963 on the eastern shore of Lake Havasu on the Colorado River border of California and Arizona, the city is now home to over 50,000 people and attracts over 775,000 visitors annually. Lake Havasu, from which the city takes the name, was formed by the construction of the Parker Dam from 1934 to 1938.Originally founded over the river Thames in London, England, it was dismantled in 1967 and relocated to Arizona. Shipped overseas in small blocks and trucked from Long Beach to its current location, London Bridge has become a favourite among Arizona attractions. This 280 meters long bridge is ideally located near downtown of the city and other exciting local attractions. While visiting this magnificent structure, visitors can witness the scars from World War II that mark the bridge’s surface, and enjoy the view over the Lake Havasu with all the kinds of boats anchored in the shadow of this icon.
Breakfast and Dinner Included
Breakfast and Dinner Included
Monday, Feb 23 - Day 13: A Lake Havasu Area Tour & Museum of History
7:00 am – 8:45 am- A hot breakfast is included- Wheels are rolling at 9 am. 8:45 am- We will depart for our area city tour.
We have planned an area tour where you will learn the history of Lake Havasu. We'll begin our tour to the Lake Havasu Museum of History, home to preserving its heritage stretching from archaic peoples to Hispanic settlers, miners, dam builders, dreamers and developers. We'll also learn how the Colorado River and the steamboat era brought trade, miners and entrepreneurs to the area. Afterwards, we'll enjoy a leisure lunch, paying on own before returning to our lovely London Bridge Resort.
2:00 pm- Estimated return to the hotel with the rest of the day at leisure. Breakfast Included
7:00 am – 8:45 am- A hot breakfast is included- Wheels are rolling at 9 am. 8:45 am- We will depart for our area city tour.
We have planned an area tour where you will learn the history of Lake Havasu. We'll begin our tour to the Lake Havasu Museum of History, home to preserving its heritage stretching from archaic peoples to Hispanic settlers, miners, dam builders, dreamers and developers. We'll also learn how the Colorado River and the steamboat era brought trade, miners and entrepreneurs to the area. Afterwards, we'll enjoy a leisure lunch, paying on own before returning to our lovely London Bridge Resort.
2:00 pm- Estimated return to the hotel with the rest of the day at leisure. Breakfast Included
Tuesday, Feb 24 - Day 14: Enjoy a Jet Boat Tour up the Colorado River
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A hot breakfast is included. (Restaurant is open from 7-10 am)
9:45 am-Board the coach and depart for the boat landing for our 10:30 departure. (200 yards away!) Today we've planned to take you on a delightful round-trip Bluewater Jet Boat ride up the Colorado River to the northern end of Topock Gorge. We'll be welcomed aboard a 49-passenger vessel equipped with air-conditioned cabin, first-class seating, snack bar, restroom and outer deck. Our captain will point out the breathtaking views of the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge, jagged rock formations such as Devil's Elbow and 3500 year old Indian petroglyphs as he pilots the boat up the Colorado River and through Toprock Gorge. Be on the lookout for Desert Bighorn Sheep, wild burros, coyotes and other native wildlife along the way. We'll make a lunch stop at Pirates Cove, paying on your own and being there about 1.5 hours. This tour lasts about five-hour round trip tour. |
3:30 pm- We'll return in the mid-afternoon with the rest of the day to enjoy as per your personal agenda. Breakfast Included
Wednesday, Feb 25 – Day 15 Driver’s Day Off – Optional Day Trip to the Grand Canyon National Park
A hot breakfast is included. (Restaurant is open from 7 - 10 am)
Today is our driver's day off! Today you'll have an entire day to explore your surroundings as per your own agenda.
Within walking distance are many things to see and do. After having had the area city tour the day before, you should be orientated and ready to plan out your day. It's also a short walk to the Havasu Landing on Main Street. (The resort offers a shuttle for those with mobility concerns). At the Havasu Landing there is a ferry that will take folks to the Havasu Landing Resort and Casino. Another fun activity would be to just stroll the downtown streets of the English Village (some shopping and restaurants) or perhaps if you are a golfer... you might like to spend the morning golfing on the resort's 9-hole golf course. Maybe you'll prefer to do nothing at all and just relax by the pool or take a relaxing swim. It's your day. You decide.
A hot breakfast is included. (Restaurant is open from 7 - 10 am)
Today is our driver's day off! Today you'll have an entire day to explore your surroundings as per your own agenda.
Within walking distance are many things to see and do. After having had the area city tour the day before, you should be orientated and ready to plan out your day. It's also a short walk to the Havasu Landing on Main Street. (The resort offers a shuttle for those with mobility concerns). At the Havasu Landing there is a ferry that will take folks to the Havasu Landing Resort and Casino. Another fun activity would be to just stroll the downtown streets of the English Village (some shopping and restaurants) or perhaps if you are a golfer... you might like to spend the morning golfing on the resort's 9-hole golf course. Maybe you'll prefer to do nothing at all and just relax by the pool or take a relaxing swim. It's your day. You decide.
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Here’s an opportunity to visit the WEST RIM of the GRAND CANYON. For those of you who have not visited the Grand Canyon or maybe you’ve never been to the west rim…. Here is your chance.
Grand Canyon West Rim is approximately 4,000 feet above the canyon floor where the Colorado River runs through. Walk the Sky on the World-Famous glass Skywalk (optional). Your adventure today also includes scenic Eagle Point then to Guano Point. You will also enjoy the Grand Canyon Western Ranch for lunch with the Singing Cowboy in a Western-style restaurant. As we head back to Lake Havasu, we’ll take a short trip through the Joshua Tree Forest and make a quick stop at Grand Canyon West Art Gallery. Per Person $199 “add-on” to your final invoice. |
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Thursday, Feb 26- Day 16: Historic Ghost Town - Oatman, Arizona
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7 am- 9 am - A hot breakfast is included. Help yourselves.
9:00 am- The coach departs the resort for an exciting day planned with a 54- mile drive to the little ghost town of Oatman, Arizona. Oatman is located along historic Route 66. Its wooden sidewalks and 1880's style buildings recall a time when Route 66 brought gold miners and gunslingers to town. A recreated western shootout only adds to the atmosphere of this quaint little town. But there's more... you'll enjoy antiques, shops, restaurants and of course... a bar. We won't leave hungry! Hey, did we mention one of Oatman's "claim to fame" are the wild burros that roam the streets and come and go as they please. The burros are direct descendants of the pack animals that were brought to the area by the gold miners in the 1880's. With the coming of WWII, the gold mines were shut down and the burros were set free to roam the hills. 5:00 pm- Estimated return to the London Bridge Resort. Breakfast Included |
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Friday, Feb 27- Day 17: Travel to Albuquerque, NM (526 Miles)
7:00-8:00 am- Breakfast is served. 7 AM- luggage outside your doors at this time. 8:00 am - We depart Lake Havasu.
Travel along Route 66 along I-40 east to Flagstaff where we will stop for our lunch, paying on your own. From here we will continue along the way another 325 miles, crossing the border into the Land of Enchantment to Albuquerque, NM.
5:30 pm- Estimated arrival to Albuquerque. HOTEL: Embassy Suites - 100 Woodward Place NE Phone: # 704-454-1768
Our lovely property is Hilton’s Embassy Suites. This property offers all the usual amenities along with a full service restaurant and lounge. They also have a fitness center and an indoor pool for those who are ready to do a work out or just relax in the pool. Breakfast Included
Saturday, February 28 – Day 18 Travel to the Texas Panhandle to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (541 Miles)
7:00 am - 8:00 am - Enjoy a full hot breakfast - (7:00 am- Set your luggage outside your doors.)
8:00 am- Board the coach and begin our journey to OKC
We continue along historic route 66 east. Today is a travel day. Back in the early days when motorist were traveling along the Old Route 66, there was a need for a filling station and café. We are going to make a stop at one of the Route 66 favorites, “Clines Corner” for a quick comfort stop. We will give you about a ½ hour here as it’s cool.
Continue…crossing the border into the Texas Panhandle. We will make a lunch stop at another very fun Travel Plaza this afternoon.
12:45 pm- Arrive to Buckee’s Travel Plaza in Amarillo, Texas. We will be here about 45 minutes.
1:45 pm- We'll continue along our way with a mid-afternoon comfort stop. (259 miles/ 4.5 hours)
6:00 pm- Estimated arrival to Oklahoma City. HOTEL: Embassy Suites - 1815 South Meridian, OKC , OK Phone: # 405-682-6000
We'll be staying at the same lovely Embassy Suites that we used on Day 2 of this tour. They offer cocktails in the early evening, has a nice restaurant, lounge &indoor pool. All the rooms have two beds, coffeemakers, hairdryers, irons & boards. www.oklahomacity.embassysuites.com Breakfast Included
Sunday, March 1 - Day 19 Headed homeward ~ Des Moines, Iowa (546 Miles)
7:30 am- 8:30 am - Enjoy full hot breakfast.
7:30 am - Set your luggage outside your doors. 8:30 am- We'll board the coach.
Board the coach early this morning and begin the last day of our wonderful Winter Escape tour. We’ll make stops along the way as we wind our way northward toward Des Moines -back to the beautiful Drury Inn.
6:00 pm- Estimated arrival to Des Moines. Hotel: Drury Inn 5505 Mills Civic Parkway, Des Moines, IA # 515-457-9500
Tonight is at your leisure. Again....the hotel offers hot & cold buffet between 5:30-7:00 pm with complimentary cocktails. There are also restaurants within walking distance. This property is beautiful! It offers coffeemakers in the rooms, hairdryer, irons & boards, free hot and cold beverages in the lobby, pool and a fitness center. www.druryinn.com
Cocktails, Light Dinner & Breakfast Included
Monday March 2- Day 20 HOME SWEET HOME (400 Miles)
7:00 - 8:00 am- Enjoy a full hot breakfast at the Drury Inn- Set your luggage outside your doors.
8:00 am- Board the coach and we'll begin our journey back to the Minnesota Northland.
On our way.... we'll make a stop at the .Russell Stover’s Candy Outlet store. “Life really is like a box of chocolates”.
Estimated arrival home will be about 5 pm to Duluth area;
6:30 pm to Eveleth/Virginia area; 7:00 pm to Hibbing/Chisholm and 7:30 pm to Grand Rapids.
Estimated arrival home for our folks from Central Minnesota, arrival hours home will be 3:00 pm to St Cloud area;
3:15 pm to Rice; 3:15 pm to Sartell; 3:30 pm to Rice; 4:00 pm -Little Falls; 5:30 pm to Brainerd area. Breakfast Included
7:00-8:00 am- Breakfast is served. 7 AM- luggage outside your doors at this time. 8:00 am - We depart Lake Havasu.
Travel along Route 66 along I-40 east to Flagstaff where we will stop for our lunch, paying on your own. From here we will continue along the way another 325 miles, crossing the border into the Land of Enchantment to Albuquerque, NM.
5:30 pm- Estimated arrival to Albuquerque. HOTEL: Embassy Suites - 100 Woodward Place NE Phone: # 704-454-1768
Our lovely property is Hilton’s Embassy Suites. This property offers all the usual amenities along with a full service restaurant and lounge. They also have a fitness center and an indoor pool for those who are ready to do a work out or just relax in the pool. Breakfast Included
Saturday, February 28 – Day 18 Travel to the Texas Panhandle to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (541 Miles)
7:00 am - 8:00 am - Enjoy a full hot breakfast - (7:00 am- Set your luggage outside your doors.)
8:00 am- Board the coach and begin our journey to OKC
We continue along historic route 66 east. Today is a travel day. Back in the early days when motorist were traveling along the Old Route 66, there was a need for a filling station and café. We are going to make a stop at one of the Route 66 favorites, “Clines Corner” for a quick comfort stop. We will give you about a ½ hour here as it’s cool.
Continue…crossing the border into the Texas Panhandle. We will make a lunch stop at another very fun Travel Plaza this afternoon.
12:45 pm- Arrive to Buckee’s Travel Plaza in Amarillo, Texas. We will be here about 45 minutes.
1:45 pm- We'll continue along our way with a mid-afternoon comfort stop. (259 miles/ 4.5 hours)
6:00 pm- Estimated arrival to Oklahoma City. HOTEL: Embassy Suites - 1815 South Meridian, OKC , OK Phone: # 405-682-6000
We'll be staying at the same lovely Embassy Suites that we used on Day 2 of this tour. They offer cocktails in the early evening, has a nice restaurant, lounge &indoor pool. All the rooms have two beds, coffeemakers, hairdryers, irons & boards. www.oklahomacity.embassysuites.com Breakfast Included
Sunday, March 1 - Day 19 Headed homeward ~ Des Moines, Iowa (546 Miles)
7:30 am- 8:30 am - Enjoy full hot breakfast.
7:30 am - Set your luggage outside your doors. 8:30 am- We'll board the coach.
Board the coach early this morning and begin the last day of our wonderful Winter Escape tour. We’ll make stops along the way as we wind our way northward toward Des Moines -back to the beautiful Drury Inn.
6:00 pm- Estimated arrival to Des Moines. Hotel: Drury Inn 5505 Mills Civic Parkway, Des Moines, IA # 515-457-9500
Tonight is at your leisure. Again....the hotel offers hot & cold buffet between 5:30-7:00 pm with complimentary cocktails. There are also restaurants within walking distance. This property is beautiful! It offers coffeemakers in the rooms, hairdryer, irons & boards, free hot and cold beverages in the lobby, pool and a fitness center. www.druryinn.com
Cocktails, Light Dinner & Breakfast Included
Monday March 2- Day 20 HOME SWEET HOME (400 Miles)
7:00 - 8:00 am- Enjoy a full hot breakfast at the Drury Inn- Set your luggage outside your doors.
8:00 am- Board the coach and we'll begin our journey back to the Minnesota Northland.
On our way.... we'll make a stop at the .Russell Stover’s Candy Outlet store. “Life really is like a box of chocolates”.
Estimated arrival home will be about 5 pm to Duluth area;
6:30 pm to Eveleth/Virginia area; 7:00 pm to Hibbing/Chisholm and 7:30 pm to Grand Rapids.
Estimated arrival home for our folks from Central Minnesota, arrival hours home will be 3:00 pm to St Cloud area;
3:15 pm to Rice; 3:15 pm to Sartell; 3:30 pm to Rice; 4:00 pm -Little Falls; 5:30 pm to Brainerd area. Breakfast Included
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