America’s 250th Birthday Hall of Fame Tour

July 16 – July 25: Concord to Cooperstown: America’s Story Tour

In 2026, the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary — and there may never be a better time to experience the story of America where it actually happened.

Hosted by retired university professor and historian Ross Peterson, this once-in-a-lifetime educational travel experience connects three defining threads of American culture: our national history, our faith heritage, and our love of baseball and sport. From the founding of the nation to the birth of the Restoration and the traditions of America’s pastime, this journey tells the American story through places, people, and unforgettable experiences.

Americas 250th birthday with Ross Peterson.

Walk the Freedom Trail where the American revolution began, Visit Kirtland, OH and Palmyra, NY where early Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day saints’ history unfolded, explore Cooperstown where baseball legends live forever, and sit inside two Major League Baseball games during the nation’s 250th birthday celebration year.

This is not simply a sightseeing trip — it is a traveling classroom and a shared experience guided by expert historian Ross Peterson and professionally organized by Mark Faldmo and the travel advisors of Blue Planet Vacations.

Click here for the full day-by-day itinerary and tour information.

Tour Highlights

  • Freedom Trail Boston, Massachusetts

    Freedom Trail Boston, Massachusetts

    Baseball Hall of Fame – Cooperstown, NY
  • Pro Football Hall of Fame – Canton, OH
  • Basketball Hall of Fame – Springfield, MA
  • The Erie Canal experience and America’s westward expansion story
  • Church history sites in Kirtland, Ohio and Palmyra, New York
  • The Freedom Trail, Lexington & Concord, and Revolutionary War history
  • John F. Kennedy Presidential Library
  • Norman Rockwell Museum — the art that defined American identity
  • Stay at the legendary Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, Massachusetts
  • Cleveland Guardians vs Pittsburgh Pirates MLB game
  • Boston Red Sox vs Toronto Blue Jays MLB game
  • Niagara Falls Maid of the Mist boat experience
  • Amish country dinner experience
  • Private historical commentary and lectures throughout the tour

Historic Highlight — The Red Lion Inn

One of the most memorable evenings of the trip will be our stay at the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, Massachusetts — operating since the late 1700s. The inn has hosted presidents, writers, artists, and travelers for more than two centuries and embodies classic New England Americana. Staying here is like stepping into a living Norman Rockwell painting — which is fitting, since Rockwell himself lived and worked in Stockbridge.

Why this tour is unique:

Most tours show locations. This tour explains America.

Ross Peterson will connect events across places — from Revolutionary War ideals, to religious freedom and migration, to the cultural role of sports in American identity. Guests will come away not only having seen the sites, but understanding why they mattered.

Why travel with Ross Peterson and Blue Planet Vacations?

Experience: Ross Peterson is a longtime university history educator and nationally respected speaker on American history and culture.

Expertise: The tour is professionally designed and operated by Blue Planet Vacations and travel advisor Mark Faldmo, a third-generation travel professional who has personally organized and led educational travel programs and group tours worldwide.

Authority: The program combines academic historical interpretation with professionally managed travel logistics.

Trust: Guests receive guided interpretation, organized transportation, group coordination, and experienced travel support throughout the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a religious tour?
It includes important sites in early Latter-day Saint history, but the experience is educational and historical in nature and suitable for anyone interested in American history and culture.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Moderate walking is expected, especially in Boston and historical areas, but the itinerary is designed for comfort and paced learning.

Do I have to be a sports fan to enjoy it?
Not at all. The Hall of Fames and ballgames are presented as part of the American story — culture, community, and identity — not just athletics.

Will Ross Peterson be with the group?
Yes. Ross will host, teach, and travel with the group throughout the journey.

When will the full itinerary and pricing be available?
The complete itinerary and details will be announced soon. Registration interest lists are now open.

Tour Cost and Registration:

If you want to register for this tour, please click on the register here link and fill out the form or call Blue planet vacations at 801-295-5999.

The tour cost is $3,199 per person plus the cost of airfare. The tour deposit amount is $500 per person of which $250 is non refundable due to the purchase of the nonrefundable baseball game tickets. 

Tour Payment and Cancellation Information:
  • $500 per person at the time of reservation ($250 non-refundable once paid)
  • Final payment is due on or before April 10, 2026
  • Land Tour Cancellation: All cancellations must be in writing and received by Blue Planet Vacations.
    If cancelled:
    • $250 per person is non-refundable after deposit is made.
    • On or after April 10, 2026, 50% of payments made are non-refundable.
    • After May 15, 2026, 100% of all payment made are non-refundable.

Terms & Conditions:  Payment and cancellation penalties are outlined in the full tour brochure.  By paying a deposit on the tour you agree to all terms and conditions including payment and cancelation penalties. For full Blue Planet Vacations terms and conditions visit www.blueplanetvacations.com/tc.

General Terms and Conditions: Blue Planet Vacations is not responsible for errors or omissions. Blue planet Vacations acts as the agents for the suppliers promoted. Pricing and offers are subject to change at any time without notice.  Pricing and offers are capacity controlled and may be withdrawn by the supplier at any time.  Prices include all applicable government taxes and fees. NOTE: Some taxes and fees are not pre-payable and must be paid directly to the local supplier i.e. hotel, rental car etc. See supplier website for full terms and conditions of each trip.

Globus Europe Tour Sale – Save $1,000 per Couple

Tower Bridge London

Ready for a European getaway that wows? Now’s the time: save $1,000 per couple With Blue Planet Vacations on select Globus Europe guided tours! Explore ancient ruins, iconic cities, and hidden gems with ease. What’s more, our experienced tour directors bring local stories to life. And with this special offer, your bucket-list trip just got a whole lot better. Don’t wait—book your escape now!

Limited Time Offer | Call 888-718-7717

Save Up To $1,000 Per Couple

Highlighted Europe Tour Departures:

Italian Treasures
11 days
Venice Italy

August 2026 Dates

Britain & Ireland in Depth
24 Days
London_Big_Ben

July  2026 Dates

The Best of Eastern Europe
14 Days
Budapest

July 2026 Dates

Globus guided Europe tour - Paris, Rome, Venice landmarks

Why Choose Globus Europe Tour?

Choosing Globus for your travel adventures brings numerous benefits, making your journey unforgettable:

  • Expert Tour Directors: With decades of experience, Globus Tour Directors offer in-depth knowledge and insights, ensuring a richer experience.
  • Convenience and Comfort: Travel without the hassle of coordinating logistics. Globus handles it all, providing you with a stress-free journey.
  • Exclusive Access: Enjoy unique experiences and tailored excursions, giving you privileged access to attractions and cultural sites.
  • Value for Money: With all-inclusive packages and exciting discounts, Globus offers outstanding value without compromising quality.

 

Your Dream Europe Tour Awaits—Book Now!

Your European dreams are within reach—and waiting with a $1,000-per-couple discount on Globus tours! Plus, book now and you’ll benefit from expert tour directors, hassle-free planning, and exclusive VIP access. But don’t delay—these limited-time Europe tour deals won’t last forever. Secure your spot today, and get ready to wander through iconic cities, hidden gems, and unforgettable memories!

Terms & Conditions: *Book and deposit a select 2026 Globus tour to save $500 off per person on the land price. Booking must be made and under deposit between July 9, 2025 – September 2, 2025 for travel in 2026. Offer applies to select tours only. Does not apply to Custom Tours, Globus Escapes and Globus Independent single city stays. Offer combinable with all current retail offers, valid Welcome Back Credits and select partner promotions. Applies to new bookings only. The applicable promotional discount will apply to Groups of 8 or more who provide their Group Block Deposit within the promotion’s booking dates and will apply to all individual members of the Group until the due date of the passenger names/non-refundable individual deposits. Offer reliant on space availability. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply. May be withdrawn any time.

General Terms and Conditions: Blue Planet Vacations is not responsible for errors or omissions. Blue planet Vacations acts as the agents for the suppliers promoted. Pricing and offers are subject to change at any time without notice.  Pricing and offers are capacity controlled and may be withdrawn by the supplier at any time.  Prices include all applicable government taxes and fees. NOTE: Some taxes and fees are not pre-payable and must be paid directly to the local supplier i.e. hotel, rental car etc. See supplier website for full terms and conditions of each trip.

Utah Teachers: Spring & Summer Travel Deals + $50 Extra Off

Couple enjoying a vacation.
Caribbean Beach

All-Inclusive Beach Getaway

Utah educators, your next adventure just got even better! You’ve spent your time inspiring students—now it’s your turn to recharge. Blue Planet Vacations adds $50 teacher travel discount for Utah teachers on cruises, tours, and packages. Stack this with up to $550 off Hawaii and All-Inclusive Mexico trips, tour the world with Cosmos Tours, Norwegian Cruise Line perks, and bonus Delta SkyMiles opportunities. With exclusive offers designed for educators, your next spring break or summer escape is closer than you think.

Everyone deserves a break from grading papers—and we’ve got your back. Especially if you’re a Utah teacher/educator eager for spring break trip or a summer adventure.

Limited Time Offer | Call 888-718-7717

How It Works

Here’s the scoop: Blue Planet Vacations adds $50 off to any cruise, river cruise (7+ nights), air & hotel package or tour anywhere in the world (5+ nights)—on top of already available discounts and promotions.

Friendly tip: The $50 may be applied at final payment or as a rebate. Some suppliers won’t allow stacking discounts, so it might go toward airfare or other trip extras.

Oahu Waikiki Hawaii

Waikiki Beach – Hawaii

Offer #1 – Hawaii, Mexico & Caribbean Packages

  • Save up to $550 on flight + hotel packages when paying in full with a credit card at the time of reservation.
  • Booking window: Book by October 23, 2025
  • Travel window: January 1 – December 31, 2026
  • Promotion is a percentage off total trip cost when paid in full at time of reservation up to a $550 discount.
  • OR Earn bonus Delta SkyMiles when you book vacation packages flying on Delta Airlines. Learn more about earning miles – click here.

And don’t forget your teacher travel discount with Blue Planet Vacations $50 off on top—say aloha to huge savings!

Ireland Sunset

Ireland Sunset

Offer #2 – Cosmos Tours (Worldwide Adventures)

  • Get 15% off select land-based tours when verified as a teacher.
  • Teachers and retired educators verify via Cosmos’s 3rd-party system or travel advisor.
  • Great for spring break or summer destinations like Italy, Greece, England, Ireland, and more.

And yes—Blue Planet will add $50 off, making your ultimate field trip even sweeter!

Cruise ship Glacier bay Alaska

Norwegian cruise ship Glacier Bay Alaska

Offer #3 – Norwegian Cruise Line Teacher Discount

  • Verified teachers get 5% off cruise fare, plus $50 onboard credit per cabin.
  • Get an additional 10% off of select Caribbean, Bahamas and Mexican Riviera cruises.
  • Verification via ID.me takes about five minutes. Once approved, your travel advisor will be able to arrange cruises with the NCL discount using your NCL Latitudes number.
  • The $50 onboard credit stacks with Norwegian’s “More At Sea™” perks like open bar, specialty dining, excursions, free airfare, and more.

Bonus: Book through Blue Planet Vacations to add your extra $50 Blue Planet discount on top of everything. Check out current NCL Cruise Deals by clicking here.

Romantic sunset vacationWhat Teachers Must Do

  1. Verify eligibility
    • Cosmos: Submit credentials via third-party or via travel advisor.
    • NCL: Create My NCL account and verify via ID.me.
  2. Book eligible trip (≥7 nights cruise/river cruise or ≥5 nights air & hotel/tour).
  3. Book with Blue Planet Vacations to get additional $50 discount—either at final payment, as a rebate, applied to other services or applied as an onboard spending credit on a cruise depending on cruise line, tour company, or package company rules.

Quick Comparison Table

Offer

Promo Details

Teacher Savings

Blue Planet $50 Extra

Flight & Hotel to Hawaii/Mexico/Caribbean

Up to $550 off when you pay in full at time of reservation

Savings built-in

Yes

Cosmos Tours

15% off verified tours 2025–26 across world destinations

15% off land price

Yes

NCL Cruise

5% off fare + $50 onboard credit after ID.me verification

Cruise fare + $50 credit

Yes

Delta Vacations Bonus Miles

Earn bonus miles on vacation packages booked via Delta Vacations

Additional SkyMiles earned

Yes

Time to Getaway

Ready to pack for paradise—and pocket your teacher travel discount? Spring break and summer 2026 deals are calling. Teachers, grab your credentials, book with us, and let’s make this your best break ever. Contact Blue Planet Vacations today to book, save, and vacation!

Teacher Travel Discounts FAQ

How can Utah teachers save on spring break travel?
Utah teachers get $50 extra off cruises, river cruises, tours, or vacation packages through Blue Planet Vacations. These savings stack with offers from Cosmos, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Hawaii/Mexico promotions. Plus, teachers can earn bonus Delta SkyMiles on select flight + hotel packages.

Do teachers need to verify eligibility for discounts?
Yes. Teachers must verify through Cosmos’s system or ID.me for Norwegian Cruise Line. Once verified, exclusive discounts apply automatically.

What travel qualifies for the $50 Blue Planet Vacations discount?
Eligible trips include cruises or river cruises of 7 nights or longer, plus air & hotel packages or tours of 5 nights or more.

When is the $50 discount applied?
It may be applied at final payment, as a rebate after your trip, toward related services like airfare, or an onboard spending credit on a cruise depending on cruise line, tour company, or package company rules.

Are these discounts only valid for spring and summer?
No. While perfect for spring break and summer vacation, these offers apply to eligible teacher travel year-round.

General Terms and Conditions: Blue Planet Vacations is not responsible for errors or omissions. Blue planet Vacations acts as the agents for the suppliers promoted. Pricing and offers are subject to change at any time without notice.  Pricing and offers are capacity controlled and may be withdrawn by the supplier at any time.  Prices include all applicable government taxes and fees. NOTE: Some taxes and fees are not pre-payable and must be paid directly to the local supplier i.e. hotel, rental car etc. See supplier website for full terms and conditions of each trip.

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