The 5 BEST Group Travel Options for Independent Travelers
Discover the top ideas for group travel. From budget-friendly options to safety precautions, this guide has everything you need to know.
For independent travelers exploring the vast landscapes of America, group tour options present a unique opportunity to enhance their journey while still enjoying the freedom of solo exploration. These tours cater to a diverse range of interests, from cultural immersions in bustling cities to breathtaking adventures in national parks, allowing travelers to connect with like-minded individuals while benefiting from the expertise of knowledgeable guides. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended road trip, group tours often include carefully curated itineraries that highlight must-see attractions, hidden gems, and local experiences that might otherwise be overlooked. Additionally, the camaraderie formed with fellow travelers can enrich the experience, providing a sense of community and shared adventure that complements the thrill of discovering new places. Lets explore the various options for group tours and travel for independent travelers.
Go on a Mansion Tour
This is a great group travel experience as you are often provided with a guide who is extremely knowledgeable about the mansion and the history of the mansion. Many of these tours consist of both small and large groups and generally include attendees from all over the world. The best guides I have ever worked with are incredibly knowledgeable and pleasant, and you come away learning something every time. You can often book these directly with the venue, and often times same day with no reservation required.
Some of my experiences with Mansion tours:
Take a Tour of the City with a Hop On-Hop Off Tour
This is definitely the “touristy” thing to do, but when you enter a city for the first time, or want to explore a city like a local, there’s truly nothing better than starting your trip with a sightseeing tour with a local guide, especially one who stops at various destinations around the city. For a small fee, you book the tour in advance or same day, and you can simply “hop on” and “hop off” as several buses or cars are running at the same time. There are numerous examples, including Viking Trolley Tours in cities large and small like Boston and Newport. Another great company that does “hop on/hop off” is Big Bus Tours, mostly focusing on large cities such as Las Vegas, New York City, Chicago and Miami among others. Some tours are more expansive than others, and some are more expensive than others, but you will want to search and look for “hop on/hop off” tours when you research online. Also, pay attention to reviews! Some tours are also tied in with a “city pass” that is available in many large cities, and that’s also a great way of getting around and a great value. Hop On/Hop Off Tours are a terrific way to explore the city for the first time, or learn about a city you might already know, as the guides live in or near the city. These can also act as good connecting stops for the train and subway lines as well, making it easier to get around the city you’re visiting.
Some of my experiences with Hop-On/Hop-Off Tours:
Explore an Attraction through Group Travel with a Sightseeing Tour
If you’re looking to explore popular attractions like the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, or even the National Parks, there are tours available that cater to your needs. Viator and GetYourGuide are great resources to start your search and even book your tour. If you're staying at a local hotel, check out the brochures for more information on sightseeing tours. These tours usually pick up passengers at designated hotel sites and transportation is provided via coach bus. Depending on the tour, snacks or meals may be included and there's usually a bathroom on board. However, I recommend using the facilities at the site or hotel beforehand. Tours can range from half-day to full-day experiences, and while longer tours may require some consideration due to accommodation expenses, they can offer a more immersive experience. Keep in mind that these tours generally have an itinerary, and that certain destinations only allow exploration through group tours for safety reasons.
Consider Concert Travel and Sports Travel through Group Travel
Looking for a cost-effective and convenient way to attend concerts, sporting events, or special events while traveling? These group tours might just be the answer you've been searching for. Whether you're a die-hard fan of college or NFL teams, or if you're interested in attending a thrilling NASCAR event, these tours take away all the headaches of planning and attending such events. Companies like Sports Traveler and On Location Exp specialize in sports events but also offer large-scale concerts. They even provide hotel pickups, and some packages even include hotel nights. Alternatively, you can opt for companies that offer transportation and event tickets without hotel accommodations. I've personally experienced group travel to NFL games that included event tickets, transportation, and a fun tailgate cookout, all for a single fee. The only downside is that you'll have a set schedule and itinerary, but the upside is the camaraderie you'll share with fellow fans, which can be an absolute blast, especially if your team wins! Have you ever wanted to attend a concert but your favorite artist or group is not touring in your home area? Traveling opens up opportunities to see your favorite artists and bands live while connecting with like-minded fans. These experiences create a sense of community, and you might even make lifelong friends along the way.
Travel and Meet with other Independent Travelers
For independent travelers who want to travel while leaving the planning to someone else, this is an excellent choice. These group tours typically focus on a specific region and span over 7-10 days, providing transportation, accommodation, meals, and sightseeing. However, you'll have a fixed schedule to follow. If you're comfortable with that and eager to explore new destinations alongside fellow travelers, this option is perfect for you. It's also a great way to embark on your first adventure across different continents. Keep in mind that these tours can be a bit pricey and may or may not include all expenses. I highly recommend Go Ahead Tours for an authentic and unparalleled experience designed specifically for travelers seeking hassle-free planning.
