Overnight Tour Summary Report – Cross Country 2025
Date: August 31 – September 26, 2025
Tour Director: Gene Gray
Driver: Sean Hatch
Starr Bus #: 211
For your reading pleasure, here are Days 15-27.
EASTBOUND
Presenting the second half of our 2025 Cross Country Adventure recap by Starr Tour Director Gene Gray! (Click here to read about their Westbound journey.)
Day 15: Sunday, September 14, 2025
We were on our way to Las Vegas! During the drive, I reviewed the handout I’d given everyone titled “Things to Do in Las Vegas.” Many guests planned to take the Hoover Dam Tour, see a show, or simply stroll the Las Vegas Strip. I answered questions and encouraged everyone to carry their packets with them.
To set the mood, I played “Viva Las Vegas” by Elvis Presley and “The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers, followed by a History Channel documentary called Las Vegas. It described the city’s transformation in the 1930s, the influence of organized crime, and the entertainers who turned Las Vegas into the adult playground we know today.
We stopped for lunch in sun-baked Baker, California (95°!), then continued toward Vegas. About ten miles out, I pointed out Seven Magic Mountains—seven brightly colored stone totems rising from the desert floor.
After checking into New York-New York Hotel & Casino for a two-night stay, I gave a short orientation covering dining, attractions, and transportation tips. Everyone was then free to enjoy the city on their own schedule.
As the saying goes, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas! My report will pick up again on Tuesday.
Day 17: Tuesday, September 16, 2025
- Zip-lining over Fremont Street
- Touring the Hoover Dam
- Attending Las Vegas shows
- Walking the Strip and visiting themed hotels
- Dining at celebrity restaurants
- Enjoying the “Wizard of Oz” experience at the Las Vegas Sphere
- Visiting Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum and the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
- Riding gondolas at The Venetian
- Experiencing Universal Horror Unleashed and Area 15
- Seeing the Titanic Exhibit at Luxor
- Listening to dueling pianos at New York-New York
- Shopping, relaxing, catching up on sleep—and even a few brave souls who went bungee-jumping!
In short, everyone made the most of their Vegas time.
Departing Las Vegas, we headed east into Arizona, passing the shimmering waters of Lake Mead and the towering electrical lines powered by the Hoover Dam. I showed The Angel of Route 66, a documentary about Angel Delgadillo, a 98-year-old Arizona barber credited with helping to preserve Route 66 after its 1986 decommissioning. Later that day we’d visit his hometown and gift shop.
Traffic flowed smoothly all day. We arrived in Seligman, Arizona, where guests enjoyed a two-hour stop for lunch and shopping on historic Route 66. Some dined at the Roadrunner Café, others at Snow Cap Restaurant, and many browsed local gift shops filled with Route 66 souvenirs. Angel’s daughter, who now runs his store, proudly told us her father was doing well and was touched that we’d watched his film.
A short drive brought us to Williams, Arizona, another Route 66 gem where friendly volunteers at the Visitors Center provided maps and suggestions. Just a block away, Main Street buzzed with charming restaurants and boutiques.
We continued on to Flagstaff, Arizona, known as the Gateway to the Grand Canyon, where we would spend the next two nights.
Day 18: Wednesday, September 17, 2025
We boarded the bus for one of the grandest experiences of the entire trip — our full-day visit to Grand Canyon National Park, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
As we departed Flagstaff, I shared an overview of what we’d see throughout the day. The Grand Canyon stretches an astonishing 277 miles from the Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell in Page, Arizona to the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead outside Las Vegas, Nevada. Along with the Northern Lights, Mount Everest, the Great Barrier Reef, Rio de Janeiro’s Natural Harbor, the Twin Volcanic Peaks near Mexico City, and Victoria Falls in Africa, the Grand Canyon proudly holds its place among Earth’s seven great natural wonders.
To prepare everyone, I played a short introductory film that beautifully explained how the Canyon was carved over millions of years, described the wildlife that calls it home, and showcased the many ways visitors can experience this immense landscape. The documentary set the perfect tone for the day ahead.
We soon passed Navajo trading posts scattered along the roadside, surrounded by vast open desert and vivid rock formations. Entering through the Eastern Entrance of Grand Canyon National Park, we were greeted by a smiling park ranger welcoming us to one of America’s most extraordinary places.
Our first stop was Desert View Overlook, providing our initial—and utterly breathtaking—panorama of the Canyon. The immensity and layered colors left everyone momentarily speechless. Nearby stood The Watchtower, designed by famed architect Mary Colter in 1932. Rising 40 feet high yet blending perfectly into its surroundings, the tower offers sweeping views of the Canyon and the Colorado River far below. Many guests climbed the 44 steps to the top for an even more spectacular perspective.
Our second stop was Lipan Point, often called a geologist’s paradise. Here, the Canyon walls reveal billions of years of Earth’s history—distinct layers of rock ranging in age from 200 million to 1.2 billion years old. Seeing those visible timelines of our planet’s evolution was a humbling experience. Lipan Point also boasts far-reaching, colorful vistas in every direction, and its rugged but walkable terrain made it ideal for remarkable photos blending travelers with the Canyon’s grandeur.
We continued to Moran Point, named for 19th-century landscape artist Thomas Moran. Moran spent over two decades of winters in the Southwest, painting the Grand Canyon’s dramatic colors and vastness long before the automobile era. His art introduced the Canyon’s majesty to Americans nationwide, and many of his works hang today in museums such as the Smithsonian National Gallery and the Bright Angel Lodge itself. Our guests loved this stop, taking countless photos of the magnificent scene that inspired so many of Moran’s masterpieces.
Our next destination was Grand Canyon Village, a vibrant hub perched directly on the rim. The Village features two historic lodges — the El Tovar and the Bright Angel Lodge — along with charming gift shops, scenic overlooks, and the Bright Angel Trail, where adventurous hikers can begin their descent into the Canyon. The Grand Canyon Railway delivers visitors daily right into this area, creating a lively, bustling atmosphere. Guests enjoyed exploring on their own, shopping, snapping photos, and soaking in the incredible views from the rim.
Following our visit to the Village, we stopped at the Yavapai Point Geology Museum. From this overlook, we could see Phantom Ranch — the historic camp nestled along the Colorado River — and even spot the delicate steel bridge that spans the river below. The museum’s exhibits clearly illustrated the Canyon’s complex layers and their geological timeline, helping us appreciate the scale of what we were seeing.
Our final stop within the park was the Grand Canyon Visitor Center Complex, home to the iconic Mather Point. Mather Point offers one of the most dramatic “last looks” into the Canyon, with vast, sweeping views that seemed to stretch endlessly toward the horizon. Many travelers lingered here, taking quiet moments to absorb the immensity and beauty of this masterpiece of nature.
As the day drew to a close, we departed the Grand Canyon exhilarated but tired. The altitude of roughly 7,000 feet and hours of awe-inspiring scenery had left many guests contentedly weary. By the time we returned to Flagstaff, most had drifted off to sleep — a perfect ending to a perfect day at one of the world’s greatest wonders.
Day 19: Thursday, September 18, 2025
We departed Flagstaff this morning and began our journey north through Navajo Country, an area filled with spectacular desert scenery and deep cultural history. As we rolled along at an elevation of over 7,000 feet, I reviewed the day’s itinerary and then showed the IMAX film Grand Canyon: The Hidden Secrets. The documentary captivated everyone with thrilling footage of white-water rafting on the Colorado River, aerial views of the Canyon, and glimpses of its hidden wonders.
We continued along Arizona Route 89, surrounded by wide-open desert landscapes framed by distant mesas. Along the way, our devices automatically jumped ahead one hour as we entered Mountain Time.
Our first stop was at the Shonto Marketplace, a welcoming Navajo rest area where local hosts greeted us warmly. Guests stretched their legs, browsed handmade crafts, and picked up refreshments. Afterward, we continued to the Sand Island Recreation Area along the San Juan River, where we enjoyed the boxed lunches we’d picked up earlier from Aspen Deli in Flagstaff. The scenery was magnificent — sandstone cliffs and desert vegetation surrounded our picnic spot, creating a peaceful break in the middle of the day.
During the drive, I played music requested by the tour guests — everything from classic country to rock favorites — and we celebrated a few upcoming birthdays with sing-alongs and laughter. The relaxed, fun atmosphere perfectly matched the scenery outside.
Following lunch, we resumed our travels toward Moab, Utah, where we’d spend the next two nights. As we neared town, I showed the National Park Service film Arches National Park, which introduced the stunning formations and geological features we would be exploring the next morning.
Upon arrival in Moab, we checked into the Aarchway Inn to rest briefly before our evening excursion. Dinner was served at Canyonlands by Night, beginning with a hearty buffet featuring a salad bar, potatoes, pulled pork, chicken, beef, and corn. Guests enjoyed the meal and conversation as anticipation built for the evening’s main event.
After dinner, we boarded an open-air boat for a two-hour light and sound show on the Colorado River, surrounded by the towering red sandstone cliffs of Canyonlands. Our entertaining guide pointed out whimsical rock shapes—ET, Winnie the Pooh, an alligator, Frankenstein, and more—each brought to life by imagination and floodlight.
As dusk turned to darkness, the stars began to appear overhead, and the real show began. A synchronized audio program, accompanied by powerful lights projected from vehicles on shore, illuminated the canyon walls as a recorded narration told the story of Utah’s beginnings: the ancient geological forces that shaped the land, the lives of the Ute Native Americans, and the westward journeys of Brigham Young and the Mormon pioneers.
The dramatic lighting, music, and storytelling combined to create a spellbinding experience. Periodically, the lights dimmed completely, revealing an immense canopy of stars that drew gasps from everyone onboard. The stillness of the desert night, the reflection of the cliffs on the water, and the sense of history woven into the narration made this a truly unforgettable evening.
When the show concluded, we cruised quietly back to the dock under the glow of the moonlight. Everyone agreed that Canyonlands by Night had been one of the most unique and memorable experiences of the trip.
Back at the hotel, guests went straight to bed—satisfied, inspired, and ready to wake early tomorrow for our sunrise adventure in Arches National Park.
Day 20: Friday, September 19, 2025
After an early breakfast, we departed the hotel and traveled into Arches National Park.
We watched the sunrise from the La Salle Mountains Viewpoint, one of the best locations to see the morning light sweep over the park. Although the clouds played tricks with the sun, muting its full brilliance, we still caught beautiful glimpses of color on the magnificent reddish monoliths surrounding us. From this vantage point, we could clearly see the Courthouse Towers area — massive, free-standing formations such as Three Gossips, Tower of Babel, and The Organ — a perfect first stop in Arches National Park.
A short ride brought us to Balanced Rock, one of the park’s signature landmarks. This enormous boulder teeters precariously atop a slender pedestal of stone. Many of us circled the formation, joking about whether it might fall, and took plenty of iconic photos.
We spent the most time exploring the Windows Section of the park. A “Window” is a geological feature where wind and water erosion carve an opening completely through a massive rock. Here there are three Windows, each reachable by hiking trails of varying difficulty. Many guests made the climb for exercise, adventure, and spectacular photos. This was one of the most exhilarating stops of the day and a clear favorite among our travelers.
Next came Delicate Arch, the undisputed “rock star” of Arches National Park. To reach it up close requires a 1.5-mile uphill hike — about a three-hour round trip — but those who preferred a gentler option viewed it from the Lower Viewpoint, reached by a short trail from the parking area. Even from a distance, seeing this elegant natural arch framed against the sky was extraordinary.
Leaving Arches behind, we continued east through Utah toward Colorado and began our climb into the Rocky Mountains. The landscape shifted from desert foothills to increasingly taller ridges as we rose above 5,000 feet, stopping at a scenic rest area over 7,000 feet for photos and fresh mountain air.
Interstate 70 wound through the mountains, offering one stunning vista after another. I played a selection of John Denver songs — culminating, of course, with “Rocky Mountain High” — as we reached our highest elevation of 10,560 feet. The beauty of the Ponderosa pines surrounding us was breathtaking.
Our final ascent took us through the Johnson Tunnel, completed in 1979 and crossing the Continental Divide at more than 11,000 feet — the highest tunnel in the United States. Emerging on the eastern side, we began our descent into Denver, arriving at the Drury Inn in time for guests to enjoy the hotel’s Kickback dinner.
It was a long and exhilarating day — the vastness and variety of America’s natural geography on full display. Tomorrow we would trade nature’s wonders for two magnificent man-made achievements: Crazy Horse Memorial and Mount Rushmore.
Day 21: Saturday, September 20, 2025
We departed Denver early, traveling northeast toward South Dakota.
I began the day by reviewing our itinerary. Because large lunch stops are difficult to coordinate on this route, we planned three shorter ones: Little America in Cheyenne, Wyoming; the Stinker Stores in Lusk, Wyoming; and finally the Crazy Horse Memorial.
Our first rest stop at Little America went smoothly — they were expecting us thanks to a call ahead — and guests stocked up on snacks and drinks, though sandwiches were not available. Back on the bus, I played the short documentary “What Is Crazy Horse Memorial?” detailing the life of the Lakota leader and the origins of the ongoing monument.
Our second stop, the Stinker Stores in Lusk, turned out to be a small grocery with two single restrooms, so there was a bit of a line. Some guests bought sandwiches or snacks from the refrigerator case before we continued.
As we approached the Black Hills, I showed a History Channel documentary on Mount Rushmore, explaining why sculptor Gutzon Borglum was chosen and how he and later his son Lincoln Borglum brought the project to life between 1927 and 1941. Though never completed to its original plan, Mount Rushmore remains one of America’s most majestic achievements.
At the Crazy Horse Memorial, we entered an expansive Visitors Center housing a museum, information exhibits, and large gift shops. A boardwalk connected the building to the Laughing Water Restaurant, Veranda Stage, and the main viewing area. A bronze model showed what the completed sculpture will one day look like. From the overlook we could see one side of Crazy Horse’s face and the newly finished finger pointing forward. For $5, visitors could take a bus tour closer to the monument — one passenger did so and highly recommended it.
We attended a fascinating talk and dance presentation by a Lakota mother-daughter team. The elder spoke about modern-day Lakota traditions, while her teenage daughter performed two graceful dances symbolizing good health and strength. It was an inspiring cultural experience. Many guests chose to make additional donations toward the continuation of the Memorial’s work.
A short ride brought us to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The first sight of Washington, Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Lincoln carved into the granite cliffs took everyone’s breath away. We posed for a group photo from the far end of the Grand View Terrace. Some guests tackled the Presidential Trail, which winds closer to the base for unique perspectives, while others browsed the gift shop or treated themselves to ice cream. Seeing Mount Rushmore in person was a moving experience — a true “bucket-list” moment for all.
We ended the day in Rapid City, checking into the Fairfield Inn for a well-earned night’s rest after an unforgettable day of sightseeing.
Day 22: Sunday, September 21, 2025
On our way to the Badlands of South Dakota, I played Bruce Springsteen’s “Badlands” followed by the National Park Service video “Badlands: Land of Stone & Light.”
We entered the park through the Northeast Entrance, stopping first at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Guests browsed the museum, bought souvenirs, and stamped their National Park Passports.
Our drive through the twisting park roads included four scenic overlooks — Panorama Point, Prairie Dog Town, Homestead Overlook, and Pinnacles Overlook — each showcasing the Badlands’ ever-changing shapes and colors. Along the way, we spotted a lone bison and countless prairie dogs darting into their burrows. As we exited the park through the Pinnacles Entrance, a herd of buffalo grazed peacefully on both sides of the road, providing fantastic photo opportunities from the safety of the bus.
Next, we arrived at the famous Wall Drug Store for lunch and shopping. This sprawling attraction includes a 530-seat cafeteria known for quick, hearty meals, plus 23 themed shops selling everything from leather goods and jewelry to souvenirs and shiny “gem” rocks. Everyone enjoyed lunch and the lively atmosphere.
An hour after leaving Wall Drug, our clocks jumped ahead one hour as we crossed into the Central Time Zone. To pass the time, I played the film “La Bamba,” the story of musician Ritchie Valens, whose short but brilliant career ended tragically in the 1959 Iowa plane crash that also took Buddy Holly and the Big Bopper.
That evening we checked into the Comfort Inn in Mitchell, South Dakota, where everyone appreciated a comfortable night after a day of natural wonders.
Day 23: Monday, September 22, 2025
A short ride took us to the Mitchell Corn Palace, one of South Dakota’s most beloved landmarks. Our knowledgeable guide explained how the enormous outdoor mosaics are redesigned each summer with a new theme, created entirely from colored corn niblets stapled to large panels. Birds often enjoy these mosaics during the winter months! Inside, permanent murals — also made of corn — line the auditorium walls and stage area, unchanged for over 25 years. Guests were amazed by the artistry and charm of this “corny” attraction. We snapped a group photo with Cornelius, the Corn Palace mascot, before exploring the fun gift shop.
After a rest stop in Sioux Falls, we crossed into Minnesota, the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” In preparation for tomorrow’s visit to the Willis (Sears) Tower, I showed the History Channel documentary “Sears Tower,” which chronicled why Sears Roebuck commissioned such a massive building and how it was constructed.
Lunch followed at the Ranch Restaurant, and then we crossed into Iowa. As we approached Dyersville, home of the Field of Dreams movie site, it was only fitting to watch “Field of Dreams” on the bus. Afterward, I played a mix of Chicago-themed and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame music as we continued east.
We arrived in Dubuque, Iowa, and checked into the Holiday Inn, ready for a restful night before our big city adventure.
Day 24: Tuesday, September 23, 2025
Leaving Dubuque, we crossed the mighty Mississippi River into Illinois as Frank Sinatra’s “My Kind of Town” played. I reviewed our Chicago itinerary for the next two days, shared travel tips, and fielded plenty of great questions.
Our first stop was Navy Pier, where guests enjoyed free time for lunch and shopping. Dining options reflected Chicago’s rich food scene — Harry Caray’s, Margaritaville, Italian Beef stands, and the iconic Billy Goat Tavern, home of the legendary “Cheezborger” made famous by Saturday Night Live. Some travelers sampled Garrett’s Popcorn for dessert, while one brave passenger rode the Centennial Ferris Wheel for panoramic views of the city and Lake Michigan.
Next came the Willis Tower, where we toured the exhibits celebrating Chicago’s history — from the Great Fire of 1871 to the city’s cultural icons like Michael Jordan, Oprah Winfrey, and the Obamas. The one-minute elevator ride whisked us to the 103rd floor, where clouds occasionally rolled through the observation deck before clearing to reveal dazzling views. Many guests stepped onto The Ledge, the glass-floor balcony extending over the city — a thrilling and memorable moment.
After checking in at the Fairfield Inn, we still had daylight to spare, so I led a walking group to Millennium Park to see the famous “Bean” sculpture and the “Begin Route 66” sign on South Michigan Avenue. Everyone then enjoyed an evening on their own exploring Chicago’s many restaurants and attractions.
Day 25: Wednesday, September 24, 2025
We enjoyed a leisurely morning — and a well-deserved rest day for Sean. Some guests took early walks to see the Bean again before boarding the Big Bus for our guided tour.
Using headphones synced to the driver’s route, we toured the heart of Chicago, passing landmarks such as the Hancock Building (with its 3-D Tilt Ride), the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and Soldier Field, home of the Bears. We captured countless photos of the skyline reflecting off turquoise Lake Michigan.
After the tour, we were dropped on Michigan Avenue for lunch — with choices from Nordstrom’s Café and Shake Shack to Panda Express, Chick-fil-A, and, of course, the Billy Goat Tavern.
In the afternoon, we boarded the Wendella Boat Cruise for a breathtaking architecture tour along the Chicago River. Our knowledgeable guide, Tess, shared fascinating stories about the city’s buildings and history. We passed through the Chicago Lock, which raised us three feet to Lake Michigan’s level, then cruised out onto the lake for sweeping skyline views. The wind was brisk and temperatures dropped sharply, adding excitement to the adventure. After returning through the lock, we docked and walked back to the Fairfield Inn.
Dinner was at Gino’s East, where we indulged in mozzarella sticks, wings, salad, garlic bread, ziti, and the restaurant’s legendary deep-dish pizza. Dessert was a cookie or brownie — the perfect sweet ending to a delicious evening.
Day 26: Thursday, September 25, 2025
After an early breakfast, we departed for Cleveland, our final major stop before heading home. I played “My Kind of Town” one more time, a fitting farewell to Chicago, and then we celebrated several birthdays on board.
Crossing the border into Indiana, we re-entered the Eastern Time Zone, our devices automatically springing ahead one hour. After a rest stop, I played a few songs with local connections — including “Gary, Indiana” from The Music Man and several hits by Michael Jackson, whose family hailed from the Hoosier State. Before long, we were officially in Ohio.
I provided an orientation for our visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, offering a suggested schedule to help everyone make the most of their time: roughly 90 minutes in the Ertigen Room (the main museum on the lower level), 15 minutes on the third floor to browse the plaques of inductees, and another 15 minutes in the gift shop.
During the final hour of our drive, I played a medley of songs by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees — beginning, of course, with The Beatles — setting the mood perfectly for our arrival.
Situated along the shores of Lake Erie, the museum welcomed us with its iconic glass pyramid façade. Inside the Ertigen Room, it felt like stepping into Saturday Night Live’s Studio 8H at 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Video clips of SNL’s musical guests since 1975 played on a giant screen while displays showcased costumes and props from famous sketches. Guests eagerly took photos pretending to host the show. We learned that Billy Preston was the very first SNL musical guest on October 11, 1975.
The museum’s exhibits are ever-changing, filled with memorabilia, videos, and artifacts that trace the history of rock and roll. Displays celebrated the British Invasion (London and Liverpool), Motown, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Philly Soul. Since 2025 marks the 40th anniversary of Live Aid, the main theater was featuring continuous highlights from that legendary 1985 concert held simultaneously in Philadelphia and London. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the experience — it was a perfect stop for music lovers and a nostalgic journey through decades of pop culture.
A short drive through downtown Cleveland brought us to our Farewell Dinner at the lively Hofbräuhaus, a replica of Munich’s famous beer hall. We were seated at four long wooden tables, the air filled with German music and laughter as we celebrated the conclusion of our 27-day adventure.
Dinner began with warm pretzels and dip, accompanied by our choice of beverage. I raised a toast, thanking everyone for making this such a special trip — for their kindness, punctuality, humor, and spirit of camaraderie — and wished all continued good health and future travels.
For our main course, guests chose between chicken, pierogies, or sausages, followed by a slice of decadent German Chocolate Cake for dessert. The music played on, and before long, two guests broke into spontaneous dancing, to everyone’s delight.
After dinner, we traveled a short distance to the Drury Inn Cleveland, our home for the night. This unique property — a beautifully restored former elementary school and board of education building — made for a memorable and fitting final stop of our cross-country adventure.
Day 27: Friday, September 26, 2025
We departed Cleveland to the familiar sounds of Simon & Garfunkel’s “Homeward Bound.” I followed it with a set of songs themed around friendship, farewell, and reflection — then replayed many of the tunes that had accompanied us throughout our trip, each one sparking smiles and memories of the incredible places we’d visited.
Before long, both Sean and I took turns addressing the group. We expressed our sincere gratitude to everyone for being such a wonderful, cooperative, and enthusiastic team of travelers. Over 27 days and more than 7,000 miles, the group had moved in perfect rhythm, keeping to schedule and embracing every moment with good humor and positivity.
I then distributed the 2025 Cross Country Awards, each one personally signed by Sandy, Sean, and me. As I announced each name, the group applauded and cheered — a joyful celebration of both the trip and the friendships formed along the way.
Guests took their time completing their trip surveys as we crossed into Pennsylvania, making our first rest stop of the day soon after.
Back on the road, I played a final playlist featuring music that reflected our journey — from the West Coast’s spirit of adventure to the heartland’s beauty and the East Coast’s familiar comfort. Many guests sang along, their voices mingling with laughter. Knowing that our Maryland travelers would be departing later in Somerset, I ended the playlist with a medley of uplifting songs wishing everyone good health, happiness, and many travels ahead.
We arrived at Eat’n Park in Somerset, Pennsylvania for lunch, where the shuttle for our Maryland travelers was already waiting. Pierre, their driver, joined Sean and me for lunch after helping the guests settle in.
As a thoughtful thank-you for a flawless Cross Country adventure, Sandy treated everyone to lunch — a kind gesture that meant a great deal to the group. Before we departed, each guest received one of Eat’n Park’s signature “Smiling Face” sugar cookies — a sweet and cheerful token of appreciation.
After many hugs, photos, and heartfelt goodbyes, the two groups departed — Pierre’s shuttle heading toward Maryland and our bus continuing east toward home.
Later, during a quiet stretch of highway, I took music requests and played several songs connected to past Starr Tours, prompting more smiles and sing-alongs. After one final rest stop at the Highspire Service Plaza, we began the last leg of our journey.
When we pulled into Bensalem, we were greeted with a joyous surprise — Sandy and the entire Starr office team were waiting for us with welcome signs and cheers. Jen, Kat (holding baby Edythe), and Caroline joined Sandy in the celebration. As Sandy took the microphone to welcome us home, Jen, Kat, and Caroline walked down the aisle waving colorful signs, to the delight of all.
It was a heartwarming and emotional homecoming — the perfect ending to an unforgettable trip. After more hugs, smiles, and well-wishes, everyone departed for home, filled with gratitude and happy memories.
The 2025 Cross Country Trip was officially complete — a flawless, 27-day coast-to-coast adventure that truly lived up to its promise as “The Trip of a Lifetime.”
