Sat, Oct 11: Depart Indianapolis in the morning for Paducah, Kentucky, on the banks of the Ohio River. Enjoy a welcome lunch at a favorite local restaurant and then get acquainted with this town on a short, guided walking tour of Paducah Wall to Wall, a public art experience that adorns the historic riverfront. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore in the historic riverfront area. Paducah’s quaint downtown is full of shops, art galleries, and unique museums such as the National Quilt Museum and the Paducah Railroad Museum. (Meals: Lunch)

Sun, Oct 12: Enjoy an included breakfast at the hotel before departing for Hot Springs National Park. Unlike most national parks in the United States, Hot Springs is considered an “urban park” due to its location nestled within downtown Hot Springs, Arkansas. Upon arrival, get an introduction to the area at the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center, a historic bathhouse that now functions as the park’s visitor center and museum. Check into the Embassy Suites Hot Springs, dinner is included tonight at the hotel. (B,D)

Mon, Oct 13: Begin the day by joining local guide on a trolley tour of Hot Springs, exploring the history and influence of the natural springs and Bathhouse Row, consisting of eight bathhouse buildings that were constructed between 1892 and 1923. The Row area along with the Grand Promenade was designated as a National Historic Landmark District in 1987 for its storied past and Gilded Age architecture. The rest of the day is yours to explore as you wish! Venture into the park’s trail system for a hike or birdwatching. Soak in the famous thermal waters and let your worries melt away or book a different treatment at one of many spas. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy following the informative Hot Springs Baseball Historic Trail. There are plenty of opportunities for souvenir shopping nearby and in downtown Hot Springs, along with various museums and historical tours to experience! (B)

Tue, Oct 14: This morning, depart for the Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View, a unique park dedicated to the preservation of traditional Ozark culture through music and crafts. Watch demonstrations and peruse the Craft Village for handcrafted items like flame-painted copper jewelry, leather purses and goods, spun yarn, soap, candles, and more. You may also have the opportunity to register for an artisan-led workshop for a hands-on crafting experience! Stroll in the Heritage Herb Garden where medicinal herbs, native plants, and edible herbs are grown and later used in the onsite restaurant. A delicious southern country dinner is included tonight at The Skillet Restaurant. Enjoy live folk music before retiring to your modern, cabin-style accommodations for one night. (B,D)

Wed, Oct 15: Check out and wave goodbye to Mountain View for your next destination: Eureka Springs. Upon arrival board a 1940-era diesel locomotive for a leisurely train ride through the mountains and hills with lunch included; reminiscent of the romance and luxury of the days of passenger trains. After taking in the surrounding scenery arrive back in the historic district for narrated tram tour of Eureka Springs. See charming Victorian-style homes, historic buildings and some of the healing springs that put this city on the map. Admire the Christ of the Ozarks Statue at The Eureka Springs Passion Play site and visit picturesque Thorncrown Chapel, known for its striking architecture nestled in the dense woodlands. The evening is at your leisure after checking in at the historic 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa. Eureka Springs is the heart of the music, art and culture scene in Arkansas so there are plenty of spots to grab a bite to eat or catch a live band tonight! (B,L)

Thu, Oct 16: After breakfast depart for Ridgedale, Missouri where an adventure at Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve awaits! Explore the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum showcasing the American West, civil war, and astounding collections of Native American artifacts at your leisure before an included lunch. Next, get behind the wheel of an electric golf cart and follow the scenic two-and-a-half-mile Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail to stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. The winding trail will also take you through a cave where you’ll have the opportunity to purchase a refreshing beverage to enjoy along the way! Continue to Springfield, Missouri where the afternoon is open to spend some time shopping or simply marveling at the original Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World location, affectionately known as “The Grandaddy of All Outdoor Stores”, located next to your hotel. At nearly 500,000 square feet, this massive store offers immersive shopping fun with one of the largest assortments of outdoor gear, apparel and gifts under one roof. Regroup in the evening for one last shared meal with your fellow travelers at Hemingway’s Blue Water Café. (B,L,D)

Fri, Oct 17: After breakfast continue back to Indianapolis, arriving in the evening. (B)