APPALACHIAN BACKROADS & AMERICAN PATRIOTS – SEPTEMBER 7 – 12, 2023

OPTIONAL PURDUE FOOTBALL GAME AT VIRGINIA TECH

THURSDAY – TUESDAY

SEPTEMBER 7 – 12, 2023

Depart Lafayette at 8:00 AM, Lebanon at 8:30 AM and Indianapolis at 9:00 AM.

Includes motorcoach transportation, 5 nights lodging, luggage handling, 8 meals (5 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner), admissions per itinerary and Imperial Tour Guide.

BEDFORD, VA

Bedford, Virginia tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a world away from the beaches of Normandy, but the Allies’ June 6, 1944, invasion of Europe touched this quiet town in a dramatic fashion.  Nineteen “Bedford Boys” died that day, meaning tiny Bedford, population 3,000 in 1944, suffered proportionally the nation’s worst D-Day losses. 

The 50-acre National D-Day Memorial explains the importance of the invasion and subsequent campaign across Europe to defeat Nazism. 

Learn more about the Bedford Boys during a guided tour at the Bedford Boys Tribute Center.

Overnight at the Peaks of Otter Lodge, set into a beautiful bend of the iconic national scenic byway, with views of tranquil Abbott Lake.

Floyd, VA

Located atop the magnificent Blue Ridge Plateau in southwestern Virginia, Floyd is a haven of natural beauty renowned for their hospitality and for a vibrant culture of music, arts and local foods. 

The Floyd Country Store – For over a century has played a central role in the culture and community of this small Appalachian town.  You’ll find a unique and quirky collection of merchandise at the country store.   Enjoy their Famous Appalachian Jamboree and lunch. 

BECKLEY, WV

Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine – Travel 1,500 feet below ground alongside an experienced coal miner and explore the life of a coal miner of days gone by.  In addition to the Coal Mine Tour, enjoy the Coal Camp, which includes a restored coal camp house, miner’s shanty, church, school and more. The Coal Mine also has a museum and gift shop.

Tamarack Marketplace -Discover thousands of handmade crafts, unique works of art and one-of-a-kind gifts all crafted in West Virginia. 

Tour the Wildwood House Museum, the historic home of Beckley’s founder General Alfred Beckley.  The home is generally known to have a double log structure built in 1836 and is recognized as Beckley’s most famous historical attraction. 

Optional Purdue Football Game – See our Purdue Boilermakers take on the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium in Blacksburg, Virginia.  Ticket cost additional.  Transportation to the game is included.