Norfolk, Virginia is the place to be in 2026 to ring in America’s 250th year! Groups of all kinds will find a bounty of options for marking the momentous occasion and enjoying all the Norfolk area has to offer. Come along as we explore some thrilling opportunities groups won’t want to miss!
Sail250® Virginia
For seven days as part of Sail250® Virginia, 4,000 officers, cadets, and crews of more than 55 ships from 20 nations will engage with residents and visitors across the Chesapeake Bay region in events and programs symbolic of the bonds of international goodwill. As the official host city of Sail250® Virginia, Norfolk will be the place to see this fleet of the world’s most magnificent international tall ships, historic character vessels and modern military ships as they once again sail into the ports of Virginia. A special five-day itinerary allows groups to visit all of Norfolk’s best sites and experience the fun firsthand.
Groups can see the Sail250® Virginia fleet officially arrive in the Hampton Roads harbor with the traditional Parade of Sail on Friday, June 19, 2026, followed by ships docking in downtown Norfolk and several other Virginia locations. Sail250® Virginia’s 2026 schedule will also coincide with the national Juneteenth celebration and the 50th annual Norfolk Harborfest.
From Thursday, April 24 through Sunday, April 27, 2025, the Virginia International Tattoo is an annual celebration of patriotism and international goodwill that groups return to year after year. Established in 1997 and a signature event of the Virginia Arts Festival, the Tattoo welcomes over 800 performers from all over the world in a display of military bands, drill teams, massed pipes and drums, Celtic dancers, choirs and more.
This well-loved blend of tradition and entertainment is not to be missed. This Tattoo-specific itinerary makes it simple for groups to see the Norfolk sights, engage with Tattoo happenings and tours, and more.
Celebrate the Navy’s Birthday
Groups can celebrate the Navy’s birthday in a variety of ways—one of which allows them to see the city of Norfolk from a whole new perspective. A cruise aboard the City Cruises Norfolk Spirit vessel allows for incredible views of the Norfolk harbor and the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet, along with delicious menus and specialty drinks. Lunch, brunch, dinner, cocktail and moonlit cruises are just some popular choices to choose from.
Another can’t-miss option is a Victory Rover Naval Base Tour. Cruising the smooth waters of the Elizabeth River and Hampton Roads Harbor, the Victory Rover began operating Naval Base Cruises in 2001 from Nauticus, Home of the Battleship Wisconsin. The ship’s captains provide groups with fascinating and entertaining commentary, while the ship itself offers a climate-controlled main cabin with large picture windows, ample comfortable seating, an open-air bow and top deck, a fully stocked ship store and bar and more.
However you choose to celebrate America’s 250th year, Norfolk has something waiting for you!
Learn more at Visit Norfolk.
Courtesy of Visit Norfolk.
Photo Courtesy of Visit Norfolk and Heiko DeWees.
Travel is about discovery—the excitement of new sights, the thrill of new experiences, and the joy of new sensations. When planning a group trip, discovering a destination that can deliver a range of emotions is key. Ottawa is just that place. From thrilling adventures to calming escapes, this vibrant city offers an abundance of experiences that will make your group go from "Oh!" to "Ah!"
Oh! memories in Ottawa
Get ready for surprises at every turn. Whether it’s spotting a vibrant street mural tucked away in a neighborhood or being awestruck by the incredible architecture of Parliament Hill during a bike tour, Ottawa is full of moments that make you say, "Oh!"
Canada’s capital is also home to seven of Canada’s nine national museums, offering visitors the chance to dive into everything from history and nature to culture and science. Ancient artifacts and beautiful works of art await your discovery.
For something a little wilder, head just outside the city to Parc Omega in Montebello, Quebec. This 12-kilometre drive-through safari park lets you experience Canadian wildlife up close. Just remember to pick up a bag of carrots at the entrance, because you’re sure to say “Oh!” if a curious deer pops its head into your car window.
Ah! memories in Ottawa
In Ottawa, soaking in those “Ah!” moments comes naturally too. Explore the city’s spooky side on a Haunted Walk, a lantern-lit walking tour guided by engaging storytellers who point out creepy locales and share ghostly tales. Or groups might prefer their hearts racing in another way: with the world’s only interprovincial zip line, Interzip. The zip line soars you across the Ottawa River, offering stunning views and an irreplaceable memory.
For a more intense "Ah!" experience, try some world-class whitewater rafting. Feel the thrill as your experienced guide takes you through the powerful rapids of the Ottawa River.
Prefer a more laidback approach to vacation? Visit Nordik Spa-Nature, and treat yourself to an exceptional indoor-outdoor experience. The largest spa in North America lets you indulge in unforgettable Scandinavian-style experiences such as hot and cold pools, a variety of saunas and relaxation areas — as well as the only salt-water floating pool in America. The ultimate “Ah!” is just 10-minutes north of downtown Ottawa in Chelsea, Quebec.
Ottawa offers something for everyone. Whether your group is looking for thrill or tranquility, the city is guaranteed to deliver those "Oh!" and "Ah!" moments that make any trip unforgettable.
Photos courtesy of Ottawa Tourism and Wilderness Tour Rafting Resort
Are you a travel professional looking to understand more about planning group travel and how it can grow your business and income?
Groups Today, the resource for everything group travel, is here to help!
There are many benefits to offering group travel planning services. From earning more commission to growing your network of clients, it can quickly become a key component of your business' success! Download FREE resources aimed to educate you on the industry at large and how to market effectively. PLUS, join a community of 20,000+ group travel planning professionals by subscribing to the FREE Groups Today bimonthly magazine and daily eNewsletter.
Let's explore the benefits of planning group tours and travel!
Greater opportunity.
Because there are often so many different elements of a group trip, consumers realize early in the process how the knowledge of a professional would ease stress and help execute a successful experience.
More income.
More travelers and components (i.e. airfare, service fees, lodging, excursions, etc.) mean more opportunities for higher commissions.
Referral business.
When travel professionals do an excellent job planning all the details and remembering "the little things," travelers will tell others, which can significantly grow a professional's opportunity for referrals.
Repeat travelers.
When planning a trip for several people at once versus one unit, it opens the door for you to significantly expand your network, foster more relationships and build opportunity for repeat business.
Types of group travel:
Groups Today, the resource for everything group travel, is here to help!
There are many benefits to offering group travel planning services. From earning more commission to growing your network of clients, it can quickly become a key component of your business' success! Download FREE resources aimed to educate you on the industry at large and how to market effectively. PLUS, join a community of 20,000+ group travel planning professionals by subscribing to the FREE Groups Today bimonthly magazine and daily eNewsletter.
Let's explore the benefits of planning group tours and travel!
Greater opportunity.
Because there are often so many different elements of a group trip, consumers realize early in the process how the knowledge of a professional would ease stress and help execute a successful experience.
More income.
More travelers and components (i.e. airfare, service fees, lodging, excursions, etc.) mean more opportunities for higher commissions.
Referral business.
When travel professionals do an excellent job planning all the details and remembering "the little things," travelers will tell others, which can significantly grow a professional's opportunity for referrals.
Repeat travelers.
When planning a trip for several people at once versus one unit, it opens the door for you to significantly expand your network, foster more relationships and build opportunity for repeat business.
Types of group travel:
- Baby Boomer/Senior travel
- Students
- Family reunions
- Destination weddings
- Faith-based
- LGTBQ+
- Hobby travel
- Sports travel
- Niche travel
- Special needs
Join a community of 20,000+ group travel planning professionals by subscribing to the FREE Groups Today bimonthly magazine and daily eNewsletter. Both offer education, inspiration and professional development with timely group travel industry updates, business tips and more.
Subscribe to Groups Today magazine and the Groups Today eDaily.
At Top of the Rock Observation Deck in New York City, groups will find themselves immersed in an unforgettable setting: 360-degree unobstructed views of all of NYC’s most notable landmarks and iconic skyline, all from 70 floors up!
Offering three indoor and outdoor observation decks, Top of the Rock is ideal for groups who are looking for a way to see NYC from a whole new perspective. With terraces facing east, west, north and south, Top of the Rock delivers panoramic views of the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, Central Park and all five boroughs—a spectacular sight unseen anywhere else.
In addition, groups can enjoy having some space to spread out while enjoying the view, with Top of the Rock’s outdoor viewing space clocking in at 9,500 square feet—the largest of any observatory in New York City.
While visiting, groups won’t want to miss Top of the Rock’s current exhibition, aptly named New Frontiers, which embodies what Rockefeller Center was founded on: Innovation based on a dream to breathe new life into midtown Manhattan. This limited-time, must-see exhibit invites groups to experience a cultural offering of contemporary New York art via a dynamic exhibition representing innovative kinetic sculpture and interactive art.
By spotlighting installations from emerging artists of today, New Frontiers continues the mission of Abby Aldrich—wife of John D. Rockefeller Jr.—for Rockefeller Center to be a symbol of creative innovation. Each artwork is interactive, making each individual its subject, demonstrating how our future is shaped by having you in it. It reminds those who visit that they are the new frontiers, the makers, the shapers, the dreamers, the observers, the thinkers, the travelers.
New Frontiers can be experienced throughout your group’s time at Top of the Rock and is included with all tickets. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. Contact the Top of the Rock group sales team at 877.692.7625 or [email protected].
Learn more at Top of the Rock Observation Deck.
Courtesy of Top of the Rock.
Photo Courtesy of Top of the Rock.
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