Community Education Travel Extended Tours

Are you ready to take the vacation of a lifetime?

Join CET on one of our overnight trips! Ranging from shorter domestic trips and vacation destinations throughout North America to multi-week tours around the world, we promise that you’ll be taken care of every step of the way when you book your next trip through CET. We make lifelong learning through travel a reality while having great fun and making memories to last a lifetime!

For more information about our CET extended tours including pricing and to make a reservation, call us at 847-718-7709, or email us at cetravel@d214.org.

Summertime Mystery Tour
July 7 - 11

July 14 - 18

Get ready for the most creative, fun trip ever - the Summertime Mystery Tour - where you won't know where you will be going from one event to another. Not only will you be visiting interesting places, but you'll be doing so amidst a special theme complete with witty clues, giveaways, games, & more! This tour is of the first class quality you've come to expect from and trust in American Classic Tours, Inc. Excellent dining, deluxe hotel accommodations, fascinating attractions, fine services of a professional American Classic Tour Director, and all the added themed mystery extras make this tour a great value. Download the brochure

North Dakota
July 24 - 30

August 7 - 13

August 21 - 27

September 10 - 16

A sparsely populated land of big sky with wild horses and roaming bison, North Dakota celebrates its remoteness as one of America’s last frontiers. From Fargo and the rolling prairies of the East to Medora and the rugged terrain of the West, you will be amazed at the variety of attractions – some historic and traditional while others modern and zany! If you have never visited North Dakota, this is the perfect time to do so! This specialty trip has limited space available so early reservations are recommended. Download the brochure

Pacific Northwest
August 1 - 9, 2026

Cool off next summer with a visit to America’s Pacific Northwest featuring Washington, Oregon and northern California. Mountain vistas, scenic river gorges, cascading waterfalls, giant redwood forests and the Pacific Ocean coastline await you on this magnificent trip. Visit Seattle, Portland and San Francisco. Highlights: Mt. St. Helens, Columbia River Gorge, Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Rogue River hydroplane jet boat ride, Sonoma Valley wine country, world-famous Avenue of the Giants (Redwoods), San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf, Golden Gate Bridge and more! Download the brochure

Alaska
June 7 - 20, 2026

August 16 - 29, 2026

Join American Classic Tours as we embark on this special journey to America's last frontier - Alaska. The first part of this trip will be by land as we fly into Fairbanks and travel to Denali and Anchorage. The second part of this trip will be by sea as we cruise on Holland America's MS NieuwWesterdam through Alaska’s Inside Passage. Download the brochure

Mackinac Island
May 28 - June 2, 2026

May 30 - June 4, 2026

August 24 - 29, 2026

Experience a landmark of Victorian elegance and charm – the Grand Hotel of Mackinac Island. Listen to the harpist at afternoon tea. Unwind in a rocking chair on the magnificent porch lined with giant American flags and cheery red geraniums. Savor fine dining while a stringed ensemble provides pleasant background music. Relish the tradition of horse drawn carriage rides around the island. Download the brochure

Cape Cod
May 30 - June 5, 2026

September 5 - 11, 2026

September 12 - 18, 2026

Come along with us as we visit beautiful Cape Cod. A guided tour of this pine-scented peninsula will highlight bustling harbors, sea captain homes, and the Cape Cod National Seashore with its pristine beaches and windswept dunes. Visit Hyannis, home of the Kennedy family. Approach land’s end at Provincetown, a haven for artists and fishermen. Enjoy a Dune Excursion Ride. Treat your taste buds to a lobster dinner in Hyannis. Join us on this American Classic Tour to Cape Cod and Boston! Download the brochure

Southwest National Parks
May 14 - 22, 2026

September 24 - October 2, 2026

October 15 - 23, 2026

Marvel at the natural beauty of the American Southwest on this exceptionally designed, well-paced trip. Take in the beauty of the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Monument Valley, Lake Powell, and Dead Horse State Park. Around every bend is a picture postcard scene more breathtaking than the last. Download the brochure

Wisconsin Cranberry
September 29 - October 1

From the Thanksgiving feast to breads, sauces, coffees and teas, cranberries are one versatile fruit. Experience the annual autumn harvest of one of America’s native berries – the cranberry. See cranberry marshes ablaze in shades of scarlet with colorful fall foliage all around. Come join us on this beautiful autumn getaway to Cranberry Country – you’ll be “berry” glad you did! Download the brochure

New Mexico
October 4 - 12, 2026  

Wide open deserts and deep canyons. Rugged mountains and pine forests. Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in the heart of the American Southwest! From wide open deserts and dramatic canyons to rugged mountains and fragrant pine forests, New Mexico is a land of breathtaking contrasts and timeless beauty. Step back in time as you explore ancient cliff dwellings and charming adobe pueblos. Stroll through historic Spanish plazas and soak in the vibrant energy of southwestern art, folklore, and legend. A true highlight of this unforgettable getaway is the world-famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta — where hundreds of colorful hot air balloons rise into the crisp blue skies in a dazzling display of color and light. Download the brochure

Rocky Coast of Maine
October 14 - 21, 2026

Autumn sweeps like wildfire across the beautiful state of Maine. The landscape lights up with garnet-red maples turning forests into sparkling treasure chests of color. Along the rocky Atlantic coast from Portland to Bar Harbor are charming New England scenes of seaside villages, lighthouses and lobster fisherman. Download the brochure

French Lick
October 20 - 22

Embrace elegance on this autumnal getaway to one of America’s most beautiful, historic landmark resorts – the West Baden Springs Hotel in the quiet village of French Lick in southern Indiana. Lavish guest rooms, grand ballrooms, superb cuisine, fine amenities, afternoon tea, artfully designed landscaped grounds and the awe-inspiring, domed grand atrium await you.  Pamper yourself in the lap of luxury! Download the brochure

Nashville Christmas
November 29 - December 3

Get in the holiday spirit as we visit the Music City-Nashville, Tennessee! A major highlight of this trip is a four-night stay at the Opryland Hotel. Enjoy great entertainment including: Grand Ole Opry Show, General Jackson Showboat and Opryland Hotel Christmas Dinner Show! Marvel at the exciting Fantasy in Ice which is an incredible exhibit of carvings out of one million pounds of ice! Take some time out to experience the joy of the Christmas season on this festive American Classic Tour to Nashville! Download the brochure

Hallmark Christmas
December 1 - 5

Kansas City Christmas Lights

Do you celebrate Christmas watching the Hallmark Channel?  Come and enjoy the fun and merriment first-hand on American Classic Tours’ Hallmark Christmas and Kansas City Holiday Lights trip.  Experience the heartwarming sentiments of Christmases past and present with a visit to the Hallmark Visitors Center and corporate headquarters which features exhibits about the company's history including historic greeting cards and postcards, Christmas ornaments, exhibits from the company's art collection, and displays about the Hallmark Hall of Fame programs. Download the brochure

Amish Country Christmas
December 3 - 5, 2026

Join us next holiday season as we visit the heart of Amish Country. View beautiful Christmas decorations throughout. Relax at the charming Blue Gate Inn of Shipshewana, Indiana. Marvel at the Shipshewana Lights of Joy featuring more than 2 million LED lights and specialty displays viewed from the comfort of the motorcoach. At the Menno-Hof Interpretive Center learn the history of the Amish, Mennonites and Hutterites and their journey from Europe to the New World. Shopping stops will feature Amish cheese, bakery, noodles, jams & jellies, quilts and more. In an Amish farm home enjoy a Christmas cookie making demonstration and a hearty dinner. Merry Christmas Everyone! Download the brochure

Amish Country Traditions
July 9 - 11, 2026

Journey back to a simpler time in the heart of Amish Country. View beautiful floral gardens planted in Amish quilt patterns. Relax at the charming Essenhaus Country Inn, Middlebury, Indiana. At the Menno-Hof Interpretive Center learn the history of the Amish, Mennonites and Hutterites and their journey from Europe to the New World. Tour the peaceful rolling countryside of the Crystal Valley with its small Amish country schools, neat Amish farmsteads, Amish folk in plain dress and black buggies. Shopping stops will feature Amish cheese, bakery, noodles, jams & jellies, quilts and more. Top it all off with a hearty, homemade meal in an Amish home. Download the brochure

Michigan Shores
July 27 - 31

Escape next summer on this refreshing trip to the Michigan shores. Sparkling blue waters, gigantic ancient dunes, quaint lakeside villages and abundant summer sunshine combine to make this trip a quintessential Great Lake getaway. Set sail with us as we cross Lake Michigan on the S.S. Badger from Manitowoc, Wisconsin to Ludington, Michigan. Highlights include: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Traverse City, charming Stafford’s Perry Hotel in Petoskey’s historic Gaslight District, Charlevoix, Castle Farms, the “Mushroom Houses,” Gerald Ford Presidential Museum, DeGrandchamps Blueberry Farm, Saugatuck Dune Buggy Ride and more! Download the brochure

Mr. Lincoln’s Hometown
August 3 - 5, 2026

Discover the Legacy of Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois and journey to the heart of the Illinois prairie to uncover the rich tapestry of American history in Springfield — the beloved hometown of Abraham Lincoln. This guided tour highlights key landmarks including the Old and New State Capitols, the elegant Governor’s Mansion, Lincoln’s Tomb, and his cherished family home. A special highlight of the tour is an immersive visit to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. This world-class museum takes you on a powerful journey — from Lincoln’s humble beginnings in a frontier cabin to the solemn halls of Ford’s Theatre, and a stunning re-creation of the House Chamber where his casket lay in state. Download the brochure

National Parks
August 23 - 30, 2026

September 2 - 9, 2026

September 8 - 15, 2026

Yellowstone, Grand Tetons & Glacier

Marvel at the rugged beauty of America's majestic national parks: Yellowstone, Grand Teton and Glacier. View snow-capped mountains, wildlife, dramatic waterfalls, and landscape sculpted with canyons, cirques, craggy peaks, clear alpine lakes, winding rivers and virgin forests. Cruise the Snake River and Gates of the Mountains, and see the famous geyser, Old Faithful. Take one of the most magnificent drives in the world along "Going to the Sun Road." Join us on this unforgettable trip! Download the brochure

Black Hills and Badlands
September 4 - 10, 2026

Saddle up for an adventure to America’s Old Wild West – the Black Hills of South Dakota. Rugged hills covered with pine forests, grasslands with herds of pronghorn and buffalo, desert canyons with dramatic rock formations, cowboy songs and Native American legends – this is the romance of the Old West that still lives on. A special feature will be a four night stay at the historic Custer State Park Game Lodge. Download the brochure

Oktoberfest in Frankenmuth
September 16 - 19, 2026

Willkommen to Frankenmuth - Michigan's Little Bavaria. This charming village is known for its well tended flowers, lush greenery, Bavarian architecture and its annual Oktoberfest. Celebrate German culture with German food, German dancing, live bands playing German music and of course, plenty of beer! Other highlights: Guided tour of Frankenmuth, pretzel making demonstration, riverboat cruise, Bronner's Christmas Wonderland-the world's largest Christmas store and more. Download the brochure

Colorado Trains
June 13 - 22, 2026

September 26 - October 5, 2026

This special getaway features not one, but FIVE spectacular train excursions throughout Colorado’s Rocky Mountains & Utah’s Red Rock Country: Durango & Silverton Railroad; Cumbres & Toltec Steam Rail, Royal Gorge Train; Pikes Peak Cog Railway and the Rocky Mountaineer Train. Join us for a refreshing Rocky Mountain High on board these spectacular train excursions! Download the brochure

Classic New England
October 3 - 11

October 10 - 18

Quaint little villages with white-steepled churches, colonial houses, village greens, rock fences and great American historic sites – this is the perfect getaway to Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. From scenic mountain drives to endless ocean views, the natural landscape of New England refreshes and inspires. A special feature is a 2-night stay at the beautiful Mt. Washington Hotel with its traditional porch offering stunning views of the White Mountains. Join us on this amazing trip to the birthplace of American Liberty. Download the brochure

Door County
October 6 - 8

Door County is known as the "Cape Cod of the Midwest" due to its picturesque lakeside villages, extensive shoreline and rolling woodland. Guided tour of Door County will highlight the charming communities of Sister Bay, Ephraim, Bailey's Harbor, Egg Harbor, and Fish Creek. Special visits made to Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant, Bjorklünden Norwegian Chapel, Cave Point, Seaquist Farm Orchard, Door Peninsula Winery, Door County Maritime Museum and the legendary fish boil. Come see the colors of autumn on this 3-day getaway! Download the brochure

Great Trains and Grand Canyons
October 17 - 24, 2026

When you first see the stunning Red Rock Country mountain peaks appear on the horizon, you will remember it forever! This amazing trip features: 3 night stay at the Hilton Sedona Bell Rock Resort, Pink Jeep Tour through the Red Rocks, Chapel of the Holy Cross built into the side of a mountain, Grand Canyon, and Crater Meteor and a Stargazing Program. Special feature: 2 scenic train excursions on the Grand Canyon Railroad & Verde Canyon Railroad. Download the brochure

Branson’s Christmas
November 17 - 21

Branson is America’s Music Showplace and is especially fun and festive during the holiday season. Highlights include Christmas shows: Sight and Sound Theater, Showboat Branson Belle, and more! This trip features a two-night stay at the Hilton located at the area’s Branson Landing Promenade – a festival marketplace complete with shops, eateries and a dazzling water, sound & light fountain show along scenic Lake Taneycomo. Also included: Ozark Mountain scenery and a ride to the top of the St. Louis Gateway Arch. Download the brochure

Smoky Mountain Christmas
November 30 - December 6, 2026

Experience a Smoky Mountain Christmas as Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg transform into a festive wonderland of twinkling lights during the Winterfest Lights Festival. Celebrate Christmas - Dolly Parton style - at her DreamMore Resort! Marvel at her Dollywood theme park - rated America’s #1 theme park - featuring holiday lights & decorations, music shows, mountain craftsmen, and more. Celebrate Christmases past in elegant style at the Biltmore Estate of Asheville, North Carolina. This 250-room mansion is adorned with incredible Yuletide decorations and hundreds of colorful poinsettias. Visit Music City USA - Nashville Tennessee - including a 2-night stay at the amazing Opryland Hotel. Merry Christmas! Download the brochure

Christmas in Newport, Boston, and NYC
December 2 - 8

Celebrate Christmas like the Vanderbilts and Astors in toney Newport, Rhode Island - legendary haven for the rich and famous, fabulous seaside estates, world-class yachting and breathtaking views on Atlantic Ocean Drive. This tour will also visit Boston’s historic Freedom Trail, Lexington, Concord and the Boston Pops Orchestra Holiday Concert. For the Grand Finale, arrive in New York City for a Broadway Show and the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes! ‘Tis the season to be jolly. Merry Christmas Everyone! Download the brochure

Rose Parade and Los Angeles
December 28, 2026 - January 2, 2027

California: it’s full of sunshine, movie stars and the annual Tournament of Roses Parade! An American New Year’s Day tradition, the Tournament of Roses Parade has all the bells and whistles – magnificent floral floats, high-stepping equestrians, spirited marching bands, celebrities and more! The day before the parade you will visit the pavilions to witness how each rose is put into place and how other natural elements are assembled to make the intricate floats. Then experience all the excitement of the parade from reserved seating. Other highlights: guided tour of Los Angeles & Hollywood, Catalina Island, Warner Brothers Studio Tour, Santa Monica Pier, Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum and more. So take a break from our cold winter by joining us in sunny, warm Southern California! Download the brochure