great western bus tour

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A summer camp for teens who love to travel.

Climb aboard our deluxe motor coach and cruise comfortably across the U.S. to national parks and iconic cities like San Francisco, Las Vegas, and New Orleans. And, with plenty of outdoor adventures along the way, you’ll never be bored.

View Detailed Itinerary

• 14-16 year olds

The Grand Western Tour gave our daughter the opportunity to step outside of her comfort zone and meet a whole new group of friends. We have spent a lot of time traveling as a family, but seeing the United States, with your peers, through a bus window, is something special!

About the Tour

• Itinerary 2024

Day 0 Greensboro, NC Pre-trip dinner at Greensboro Country Club

Get excited, the journey is about to begin! To kick off our upcoming adventure, students and their families are invited to a get-acquainted dinner to meet the other students and the Grand Western Tour team.​ Students will grab one last night with their parents before embarking on the road trip of a lifetime, so rest up!

Day 1 Louisville, KY Churchill Downs & the Kentucky Derby Museum

​And we’re off! First stop–a visit to the most famous and iconic racetrack in America! Our trip to Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum typically includes the exciting spectacle of watching a horse race in action. The trip continues on to a family farm in Indiana for a delicious, home-cooked dinner.

• Hampton Inn, New Albany, Indiana

Day 2 St. Louis, MO Gateway Arch

Our next stop is St. Louis, one of the oldest settlements in the Mississippi Valley. After viewing a movie chronicling the construction of the Gateway Arch, we’ll tour the famous archway and soak in the amazing views from the top. From St. Louis we head to Kansas City, the perfect place for us to catch our breath after an eventful start to the trip, and a chance to enjoy some famous Kansas City Bar-B-Que at the original Arthur Bryant's!

• Double Tree, Lawrence, Kansas

Day 3-4 Colorado Springs, CO U.S. Air Force Academy, Garden of the Gods & Pikes Peak

We continue on to Colorado Springs, a resort city at the base of the Rocky Mountains known for its magnificent views and geological marvels. Our two action-packed days spent in Colorado Springs include a tour of the U.S. Air Force Academy, a visit to the Garden of the Gods, and a trip to the top of Pikes Peak, 14,110 feet above sea level.

• Fairfield by Marriott, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Day 5-6 Durango, CO & Mesa Verde Whitewater Rafting & Mesa Verde National Park

Get pumped for a thrilling white-water rafting trip along the the Animas River. Experience Class III whitewater while learning about Durango’s rich history along the way. Enjoy a tour of Mesa Verde National Park and the preserved cliff dwellings of the Pueblo Indians who lived here for over 700 years.

• Best Western Plus, Durango, Colorado

Day 7 Salt Lake City, UT Canyonlands & Arches National Parks

The trip to Salt Lake City takes you by Canyonlands National Park and includes a visit to Arches National Park. In Salt Lake City, view the famous Great Salt Lake and Temple Square, the center of Mormon activities and Utah's most celebrated historical spot. Students will also have the opportunity to hear the famous Tabernacle Choir.

• Fairfield by Marriott Downtown, Salt Lake City, Utah

Day 8-10 Swan Valley, ID The Ranch

We’ll spend three nights at the Hansen Guest Ranch. Each day is packed with fun things to do, and highlights include a horseback ride, a variety of outdoor activities, including our annual costumed volleyball tournament.

• Hansen Guest Ranch, Swan Valley, Idaho

Day 11-12 Jackson Hole, WY Rodeo & Grand Teton National Park

Get your cowboy hats ready for the Jackson Rodeo on our first nigh in this colorful resort town that serves as the southern entrance to the Grand Teton National Park. No trip to Jackson Hole is complete without a hike (or gondola ride) to the top of Snow King Mountain where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Grand Tetons. Students will have free time to explore this quaint town – a perfect spot for souvenir and t-shirt shopping — before enjoying a lively reenactment of frontier justice on the Jackson Town Square in what is the longest, continuously running shootout in the country!

• Antler Motel, Jackson, Wyoming

Day 13 West Yellowston, MT Yellowstone National Park

Enjoy an all-day excursion through Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, traveling along the Snake River at the base of the majestic Grand Teton Mountains. Explore legendary Yellowstone, where you can view the lakes, the volcanic pools, and the geysers, including Old Faithful, of course. Be prepared to see buffalo, elk, wolves and bears, if we’re lucky! You will also have time to explore West Yellowstone after our day in the Park.

• Brandin Iron Inn, West Yellowstone, Montana

Day 14 Coeur d'Alene, ID Downton Coeur D'Alene

Coeur d’Alene has become known as the Lakeside Playground of the Pacific Northwest in a stunning natural setting. Explore this quaint town while admiring the beautiful surroundings with your friends.

• Days Inn, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Day 15-16 Seattle, WA The Space Needle & Pike Place Market

A drive through Montana, Idaho, and Washington leads us to bustling Seattle. The stop includes a visit to The Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), the famous Pike Place Marketplace and the Space Needle. A tour of the city takes you to unique sites of Seattle, followed by dinner at Ivar's Salmon House, a beautiful cedar replica of the Northwest Indian Longhouse filled with native artifacts and historical photographs.

• Four Points by Sheraton, Seattle, Washington

Days 17-18 Gold Beach, OR Jet Boat & Birthday Celebration

Enjoy the phenomenal views as we travel down the quintessential highway along the Pacific coastline of Oregon to Gold Beach. We will take a world class jet boat excursion on the Rogue River along the Southern Oregon Coast. We’ll also spend an evening enjoying a barbeque, karaoke, and dancing on a beautiful outside area overlooking the Rogue River and the Pacific Ocean. At the stop, we celebrate those students who have birthdays during our trip with an epic party.

• Jot's Resort Hotel, Wedderburn, Oregon

Day 19-20 San Francisco, CA California Redwoods, Alcatraz & Fisherman’s Wharf

The drive to San Fran includes a trip through the California Redwoods and a visit to the Grieg-French-Bell Grove. We’ll walk this scenic trail and take in the remarkable landscape that is often featured in movies and TV commercials before continuing through the wine valleys of Northern California and on to San Francisco. In San Francisco, we’ll spend two nights in the Fisherman's Wharf area, touring the city with a walk across the Golden Gate Bridge. Other highlights include a Major League Baseball game and a visit to Alcatraz Island, once America's premier maximum-security prison.

Students will have free time to go shopping or sightseeing in specified areas, where they can ride cable cars, stroll down the world’s crookedest street (Lombard Street), or visit China Town, Fisherman's Wharf, or Ghirardelli Square.

• Marriott Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, California

Day 21 Pismo Beach, CA Day at the Beach

You will have time to explore this classic beach town located on California’s famous central coast, halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles along Pacific Coast and 101 Highways. Swim in the ocean, stroll through the shops and restaurants or just enjoy a day of soaking up rays.

• Agrarian Best Western, Arroyo Grande, California

Days 22-23 Anaheim, CA Disneyland & Hollywood

Along the way on our scenic drive to Anaheim, we will stop and have free time to enjoy the fabulous Hollywood Farmer's Market and Downtown Disney District. Get your cameras ready because we’ll also enjoy a guided tour of Hollywood, and who knows what celebrities you might spot. The next day includes a full day and night in Disneyland, of course!

• Embassy Suites Anaheim South, Garden Grove, California

Day 24 San Diego, CA San Diego Zoo & La Jolla

Our trip to San Diego includes a visit to the San Diego Zoo, one of the largest and most well-renowned zoological parks in the world. We’ll enjoy dinner on a beautiful beach in La Jolla and watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

• Best Western San Diego Zoo, San Diego, California

Day 25 Las Vegas, NV The Vegas Strip

Viva Las Vegas! Enjoy a popular magic show that has Las Vegas written all over it. After the show, we’ll drive down the strip and enjoy the city’s spectacular lights and sights from the fountains of the Bellagio to the Eiffel Tour at the Paris Hotel.

• Hampton Inn, Las Vegas, Nevada

Day 26 Sedona, AZ The Grand Canyon & Pink Jeep Tour

One of the highlights of the tour is our visit to the Grand Canyon, one of the world's most remarkable, awe-inspiring spectacles. The canyon, more than one mile deep in certain spots, stretches from 4 to 14 miles from rim to rim, and is definitely something everyone should experience. After spending the day exploring the Grand Canyon, we’ll head to Sedona, Arizona, a charming resort town nestled among towering red rock monoliths that have served as the backdrop for many western movies. Have a blast riding in the jeeps on the Pink Jeep Scenic Rim Tour, a tour of Arizona’s diverse landscape. The trip takes you 1,500 feet above Sedona along the Mogollon Rim, where majestic red rock formations blaze the trail for scenic beauty and rugged exploration.

• Arabella Hotel, Sedona, Arizona

Day 27-28 Tucson, AZ Luxury Resort & Spa

After Sedona, it’s off to a beautiful resort/spa for a little R&R in Tucson to enjoy some swimming, tennis, hiking, the fitness center, or simply gazing at the desert night stars.

• Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa, Tucson, Arizona

Day 29 Alamagorda, NM White Sands National Park

Rising from the heart of the Tularosa Basin is one of the world's great natural wonders - the glistening white sands of New Mexico. Great wave-like dunes of gypsum sand have engulfed 275 square miles of desert, creating the world's largest gypsum dune field. Wax your sled and prepare to sled down these majestic dunes.

• Holiday Inn Express, Alamagorda, New Mexico

Day 30 Fort Stockton, TX Balmorhea State Park

Saddle up the horses and get ready for a trip back to the Wild West in historic Fort Stockton. Located deep in the heart of West Texas, the city is a living tribute to frontier life, when Comanche Indians, cattle rustlers, and American soldiers came to find water, buffalo and the freedom of the American West. On the way to Fort Stockton, we will stop at Balmorhea State Park. Here you can dive into the crystal-clear water of the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool. Swim, snorkel, or just relax under the trees at this historic park in arid West Texas.

• Best Western Plus, Fort Stockton

Day 31 San Antonio, TX The Alamo

After our visit to San Antonio, you will surely remember The Alamo! An IMAX movie about the historical impact of The Alamo, will set the stage for our visit to this notable site. Students will have free time to explore the historical spots of San Antonio and discover unique shops specializing in southwestern themes.

• Menger Hotel, San Antonio, Texas

Day 32 New Orleans, LA The French Quarter

Laissez les bon temps rouler! Our last stop is definitely a memorable one. Our visit to New Orleans includes a trip through the famous French Quarter to explore the city’s rich history and exquisite architecture. Dinner at Coterie Restaurant serves as the perfect ending to our trip to reminisce and laugh about all the amazing experiences we shared over the past several weeks. We'll also stop by Cafe du Monde for some legendary Beignets

Day 33 Atlanta, GA & Greensboro, NC The Varsity & Home

Our trip home includes a detour for lunch at one of Atlanta’s most iconic restaurants, The Varsity, which opened in 1912 and is known as the world’s largest drive-in restaurants (be sure and try the famous ‘Frosted Orange’). After an unforgettable 33 days of action-packed excitement, the bus is expected to arrive in Greensboro between 8:00-8:30pm.

Roommates and seatmates are assigned and changed for each stop.. Assignments are varied as much as possible to encourage making new friends. Our experience has proven that the fairest method is "the luck of the draw" to ensure that all students have the opportunity to get to know each other. We do not accept rooming or seat assignment requests from students or their parents.

Students experience a variety of lodging during the trip, from rustic cabins in Wyoming to the comfort and luxury of a resort & spa in Arizona. Most accommodations allow for four students per room. To encourage interaction between all students, roommate assignments are rotated at each hotel so everyone has the chance to get to know each other!

In some locations, students are allowed to go shopping and explore in groups of three or more. They will not always be accompanied by a staff member. In these situations, the students are given a limited amount of time and specific instructions on where they can go and when they must return.

We do allow students to bring their cell phones, but do limit their use during some meals and activities.

Once the first session and first session waitlist are filled, you must apply for the second session. If we receive insufficient interest to run a second session, you will receive a full refund of all amounts paid. You will be notified by January 10, if there is insufficient interest to run a second session.

When your student’s application is accepted and he or she is enrolled on the tour, a $1,000 non-refundable deposit and the premium for any travel insurance you have selected during enrollment is due. The balance of the trip cost is due January 10 of the year the tour departs.

Please contact us to discuss your child’s specific allergies and to make sure we can accommodate their needs during the trip.

If a student becomes ill and requires medical treatment, a member of the tour staff will stay behind and obtain the appropriate care and assistance. If the student is unable to return to the tour, the staff member will stay with them until a parent or guardian arrives. All medical expenses and the expenses of the staff member while with the student as well as any expenses incurred to rejoin the group, are the responsibility of the student’s parents. The tour is generally within 30 minutes from a medical facility, except for while at the ranch where the closest facility is an hour away.

Students are only allowed to leave the group to visit a friend or relative if their parents have provided written permission before the tour begins. A telephone call is not acceptable, it must be given in writing.

We suggest students bring a credit or debit card and expect to spend between $100 to $150 a week for meals not included, souvenirs, snacks and other miscellaneous expenses.

GWT was a summer that my daughter, Laura (2012), and I will never forget! The tradition of the tour for us was so special in that friendships were cultivated that transcend generations. Rarely do we travel anywhere together that one of us doesn’t make a connection leading back to the summers on the bus!

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Yellowstone National Park

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Grand Teton National Park

Casual Meals or Elevated Picnics With a Grand Teton backdrop.

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Snowshoe to our private Igloo with delicious snacks and hot chocolate by the fire pit.

Wildlife & Wild West Expeditions

Explore Wyoming’s Cowboy towns steeped in history and rich in landscapes.

Yellowstone | Grand Teton | Jackson Hole | Guided | Wildlife Tours

Two national parks, historic western towns, a handful of hot springs and a dinosaur dig. our private group experiences are like no other..

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Custom designed experiences, whether it’s a day or a week, we’ll create the perfect experience for your family, group or special occasion..

If it’s your first visit to Jackson Hole, we’ll take you to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Ready to explore further? Wyoming offers small western towns rich in history and lore. Step back in time in Cody, WY, explore Devil’s Tower, or participate in a real dinosaur dig. Whether you’re on a family adventure , a corporate retreat , or celebrating a special occasion , our perfectly curated tours provide unforgettable experiences.

Welcome to Great Western Expeditions

Sharing the beauty of our state is what inspires us..

Our love for Wyoming is the inspiration behind our nearly 30 years of sharing it with people like you. From the spectacular Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks to the nearby cowboy towns, hot pots, deserts and sand dunes, our experiences are custom-crafted and allow you to immerse yourself in the landscape while your professional guide shares our history and wildlife. Welcome to the cowboy way. ~ Rob & Stacey Caesar

Great Western Expeditions was so helpful from the planning process of my group trip to the details the day of the trips. We visited Jackson with 31 people and they ... read more helped me plan our national park excursions and provided transportation for our group around town. They are knowledgable, reliable, and overall wonderful people to work with and spend your day with. Special thanks to Laurie for all her help leading up to the trip and her expert guiding on our Grand Teton visit, Vinnie for being such a energetic and great guide on our Yellowstone adventure and Gail for being a rock star bus driver!

If there were a way to give Great Western Expedition Company and our Yellowstone/Grand Teton National parks trip host Anna Rode more than 5 stars, we would be very happy ... read more to do so . Her expertise, knowledge and friendly attitude made our recent trip with them a most enjoyable experience. If you really want to see and enjoy Yellowstone and Grand Teton parks and get the most out of the experience, you can’t go wrong booking with them.

We did a 3 day Yellowstone and Grand Teton tour with the most amazing guide, Ana. She was so knowledgeable and helpful. She made the whole experience the ... read more best vacation we’ve ever had. She took such great care of us - always had plenty of drinks and snacks and wonderful lunches. She was so familiar with the parks so was able to show us things most people didn’t see. I highly recommend this tour and especially Ana. You won’t regret it.

Some of the best tour guides our family has ever had.

Had a tremendous experience on this 4 day tour. David B. was very knowledgeable of both parks and had a great personality to make the entire experience very fun and ... read more informative. Trying to think of any minor complaints or suggestions but cannot think of any. We saw all the major attractions and he took us to some good offline spots too. Food, logistics, vehicle, equipment and facilities were all great! Thanks to David for making this trip one to always remember!!

We had a wonderful experience with this organization! From planning through execution of our 4 day, 12 passenger trip, Laurie and her team were excellent. We were very ... read more lucky to have both a guide and driver who were each experts in all things Yellowstone and Grand Tetons. Not to mention just great guys who love what they do. True professionals all the way around. If we could give 10 🌟 we would!

Our private tour of Yellowstone with GWE far exceeded our expectations (which were already high)! Thanks to our knowledgeable and passionate guide our experience was exceptional -and one that we ... read more will remember for many years to come. The level of service and attention to detail provide by GWE was above and beyond; we can't recommend them enough.

We had a magical day seeing wild life, private sleigh ride through the elk refuge , and snow shoe igloo dinner ! Everything was perfectly detailed down to the amazing ... read more homemade marshmallows ! David was a wealth of knowledge and a great guide 10/10 would recommend !

My family booked a 3 day tour in Yellowstone. Laurie helped me plan the perfect itinerary for 4 teenage boys who are very hard to impress! It was a complicated ... read more task because we were flying into one airport and flying out of another in the busiest month of the year- August. She knew exactly what we needed and the best guide for our group. David was a wealth of knowledge. There is no way we would have seen the park or wildlife he showed us if we tried to do it on own own. I was hesitant to hire a guide due to the cost but honestly David made out trip! Yellowstone is a lot of driving. We were all able to sit back, enjoy the scenery, eat snacks and quickly hop on and off to get a quick picture of bison, wolf, elk or a waterfall. Being from LA, we loved not having to worry about driving, parking or traffic. David took care of it all! We left Yellowstone wanting to come back for more ! I can't say enough about Laurie and David. They were very accomodating, service oriented and professional. Thank You!

The sundowner dinner experience was spectacular. The dinner site was secluded and had a great view of the mountains. Laurie, Rob and Stacey were very knowledgeable about the area and ... read more were a delight to talk to. Highly recommend.

Our tour guide was very informative and super friendly. She made extra stops for us to capture the beauty of the tetons and wildlife. Highly recommend!

We had an absolutely fantastic time on our tour with Great Western Expeditions! We were a group of 11 people ranging in age from 10 to 78 and they ... read more did a fantastic job balancing all of our needs. Both Laurie, our guide, and Larry, our driver were so knowledgeable, kind and accommodating. We saw so much in just one day and never had to worry about a thing! They also provided an elevated picnic lunch which was delicious-- we had to eat it on the bus because of rain but they were somehow able to make even that feel special. Thanks so much to Great Western Expeditions for a perfect bucket-list worthy day!

We had such a great experience! Planned a surprise proposal with a nature tour and dinner in Grand Teton National Park. Our tour guide Laurie was amazing and Rob ... read more and Stacey did a phenomenal job with the dinner and staging. Everyone played along to keep the surprises coming throughout the evening until I popped the question!

Laurie was our organizer for our Yellowstone/Teton expedition. She was prompt at replying and answering questions and made everything go smoothly. She also listened to our hopes and expectations of ... read more the trip and really helped get it organized. Having her set up the lodging, the itineraries, and just her overall knowledge of where to go and what time to be there was exceptional. I cannot recommend our guide, David Buth, enough! What a terrific person to have led our trip. He was professional, kind, practically a “professor”, and very knowledgeable about everything and everywhere we went. It’s obvious that he enjoys his work and does it very well. He is a true educator, and we were so pleased with his expertise and fun personality. The only thing I didn’t like, was that the first couple days we were in a mini bus that was very uncomfortable to sit in, hard to see out of, and generally not great. Luckily, we were then transferred to an Escalade, which we had been promised and was much more appropriate and so much more comfortable. Thanks again, Theresa and Vince Trujillo

Had a wonderful tour with Dave! Everything went smoothly and we saw plenty of wildlife.

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Great Western Expeditions is no regular tour company. We specialize in crafting innovative tours and custom vacations for those looking for a truly unique experience. Relax and enjoy the scenery and wildlife while we tour in one of our comfortable vans, enjoy a specially prepared meal served in the field, and learn about the flora and fauna from our knowledgeable guides. Give us a call or click on the CUSTOM EXPEDITIONS link below to get started!

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Western United States

Welcome to the region of evergreen giants, painted deserts, and pink-hued stone citadels. Our Western USA tours immerse you in lands woven with legend and lore, cowboy culture, and steaming National Parks.

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Welcome to the West

Here legends larger-than-life loom over landscapes sculpted in sand. Rivers tunnel through time leaving cavernous canyons in their wake. Geysers steam like clockwork precision and rocks balance, arch and bridge in whimsical formations. Go west with Tauck and you'll find evergreen giants, painted deserts, pink-hued stone citadels as you ride with cowboys, hike with naturalists and raft with guides passionate about the places they roam. 

Yellowstone national park, seriously... there's no other place on earth like it – yellowstone national park.

There's everything else, and then there's Yellowstone; it's truly like no other place on Earth. Why? Because it sits atop the largest "supervolcano" on the North American continent – one of the hottest spots on the planet. It's called the Yellowstone Caldera, and it lurks beneath the surface, giving rise to Yellowstone National Park's host of gushing geysers, steaming fumaroles, hot springs, mud pot and more – nothing less than the largest concentration of geothermal features on Earth, spectacular in winter or summer. In an amazing setting such as this, pretty much anything you do – from a wildlife safari in the summer, to a snowcoach ride in the winter… or hike, climb, horseback ride, ski, snowshoe, watch a sunrise or a sunset – is something you'll never forget.

Yosemite National Park

Through a lens, brightly and darkly – yosemite national park.

What a young Ansel Adams saw through his lens as he trekked into the California wilderness more than 100 years ago – as John Muir did a half-century before him – has inspired countless visitors to explore its chiseled landscapes. Celestial bodies trump electricity. Running water falls from rocks. Residents are furred, finned or feathered. And skyscrapers with names like Half Dome and El Capitan are nature-made. Adams iconic photographs need no words or explanation. Even in black and white, they capture what he felt about places now immortalized for future generations.

Grand Teton National Park

Big sky, big mountains, big picture... grand teton national park.

Out here in the Great American West, everything is "big." For starters, Wyoming comprises part of "Big Sky Country"... where the heavens ranging above the region's vast grasslands, winding rivers and jagged mountain peaks do indeed appear to stretch on forever and ever. Then there are the mountains themselves – in this case the Tetons, crowned by Grand Teton (that's the "big" one that gives the national park its name; other peaks in the range include Middle Teton, South Teton, Mount Owen and Teewinot) – seemingly bursting right up out of the floor of the glacial valley we call Jackson Hole, to loom majestically over everything below.

Grand Canyon National Park

Coming to grips with the impossible... at grand canyon national park.

Surely you have stumbled upon some other planet... or at least it feels that way at Grand Canyon National Park. Your first glimpse of the enormous Grand Canyon strains credulity. What giants have been playing with the rock here? Or what cataclysmic force of the universe? Then the drama starts. Clouds, shadows, and the shifting sun keep transforming the landscape. As the sun flames in the west, canyon walls turn red while the giants paint the sky, creating masterpieces so beautiful they freeze you in your tracks. The Grand Canyon sprawls wide open, carved out by the Colorado River, revealing two billion years of Earth's history; here is where air meets land, where you meet what feels like destiny, with just the white-tailed Kaibab squirrel, only found here, as witness.

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Treasures of the American West

Our passion for and experience in the national parks of the West goes back generations; we pioneered air-land tours to the Western parks in the 1960s and haven't looked back since. In Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Grand Teton and more, we stay at coveted inside-the-park lodges, know the best places to visit and explore, and the best ways to share our passion with you.

America's canyonlands, california's gold coast, yellowstone & grand teton national parks, majestic california: san francisco, yosemite & the pacific, traveling with tauck, never settle for ordinary.

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Harris and Walz swing through western Pennsylvania in pre-convention bus tour

MOON TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Vice President Kamala Harris joined her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, and their spouses on Sunday for a bus tour across a crucial part of this state, in a political show of force and call to action before Democrats kick off their national convention in Chicago.

The four shook hands and took selfies at an airport hangar, handed out baked goods to firefighters, dropped in on a high school football practice, met with volunteers and stopped at Sheetz, a popular Pennsylvania-based convenience store. During a stop at a Democratic office in Rochester, they joined volunteers in a phone-banking session before delivering remarks aimed at rallying supporters for the journey ahead.

“You’ve got a lot of work, Pennsylvania, on your shoulders right now that you’re carrying,” Harris said. “And we’re going to get it done.”

“Let’s leave it all on the field,” Walz, a former football coach, told the group of volunteers.

“I ’ m asking you to go ring some doorbells and knock on some doors,” Gwen Walz said. “Let’s talk to our neighbors.”

Sunday’s multi-city tour is the first such swing for Harris, whose entrance into the presidential race four weeks ago has upended the 2024 contest against Republican nominee Donald Trump. Harris and Walz have often appeared together at rallies, but the bus tour also includes second gentleman Doug Emhoff and Gwen Walz .

In a statement announcing the bus tour, Harris’s campaign said it would “focus on meeting voters where they are in community settings.”

Two buses formed the backdrop as Air Force Two landed at Pittsburgh International Airport. One bus was emblazoned with the words “A New Way Forward.” At one point during the airport event, the crowd of a few hundred people broke into chants of “We’re not going back!”

The campaign buses stopped in Allegheny County, home to Pittsburgh and a large cache of Democratic voters, and visited Beaver County, a more Republican-leaning area that Trump carried in 2020. The football practice visit and the firehouse stop were both in the town of Aliquippa, a Democratic-leaning enclave in the Trump-friendly county.

Pennsylvania has become the most hotly contested battleground in this election, with both candidates seeing its 19 electoral votes as crucial for most paths to victory . When the crowd erupted into applause during Gwen Walz’s speech in Rochester, she responded: “Gosh, I really like Pennsylvania. I think I might want to spend a lot of time here.”

Polls have shown a competitive race, with Harris improving on President Joe Biden’s numbers but not fully pulling away from Trump. A Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll released Sunday shows Harris with a narrow lead over Trump. But Harris’s lead among registered voters is not considered statistically significant, given the margin of error for the poll, which measured only national support.

“I very much consider us the underdog,” she said when asked about the polling.

In a sign of the central role Pennsylvania is playing in the race, Trump traveled to Wilkes-Barre on Saturday for a rally. During that speech he attacked Harris’s appearance. “I am much better looking than her,” he said. “I’m a better-looking person than Kamala.”

He also mocked an illustration of Harris on the cover of Time magazine, suggesting without evidence that the artist made the vice president look more attractive after photographers didn’t get a satisfactory photo of her. He said the drawing looked like actresses Sophia Loren or Elizabeth Taylor.

And on Sunday, Trump took to social media to post an ad attacking Harris over her record as a prosecutor.

Harris’s campaign did not respond directly to the personal attacks, calling Trump’s performance the “same old show” — echoing the comments Harris made after Trump falsely attacked her racial identity in an interview with the National Association of Black Journalists last month.

Speaking Sunday in Rochester, Harris did not mention Trump but criticized the “perversion” of believing that “the measure of the strength of a leader is based on who you beat down” rather than lifting people up — a refrain she has previously directed at the former president.

“Anybody who cares about beating down other people is a coward!” she said. “This is what strength looks like.”

Trump’s campaign said Sunday that he would be visiting several swing states in the coming days, as the four-day Democratic National Convention is held this week in Chicago. On Monday, he plans to visit York, Pa., for a speech on the economy, while his running mate, Sen. JD Vance (Ohio), plans to visit Philadelphia.

He will also give speeches in Michigan, North Carolina, Arizona and Las Vegas, according to campaign officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss plans that have not been made public. Vance also plans to travel extensively, and top Trump campaign surrogates will hold daily press briefings in Chicago during the convention.

Harris plans to attend the opening of the convention on Monday, when Biden is set to speak. She has another rally scheduled for Tuesday in Milwaukee, and she plans to give her convention speech in Chicago on Thursday.

Candidates typically receive a bump in polling after their conventions, but Republicans have sought to make the case that Harris’s momentum has already begun to wane. Trump campaign officials have described Harris’s recent rise as a “honeymoon period” and asserted Sunday that it was over.

Speaking on “Fox News Sunday,” Vance said the vice president’s support has “leveled off” since she launched her campaign last month.

“There are a lot of polls that actually show her stagnating,” he said, referring to “internal data” without providing evidence.

The bus tour is Harris’s first campaign event since she began laying out her economic agenda , including proposals to eliminate medical debt, provide a $25,000 subsidy for first-time home buyers and create a child tax credit that would provide $6,000 per child in the first year of a baby’s life. She did not spend much time delving into policy specifics during the tour, which consisted of impromptu, informal meetings.

Trump’s campaign has zeroed in on Harris’s proposal to ban price gouging on food and groceries, likening the proposal to a “communist” plan.

“Comrade Kamala announced that she wants to institute socialist price controls,” Trump said Saturday. “Never worked before.”

Hannah Knowles in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., and Dan Diamond in Washington contributed to this report.

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Western USA Tour Companies

List of western usa travel companies & tour operators with 190224 reviews.

Bindlestiff Tours

• Excellent - 1,537 reviews for Western USA tours

Extraordinary! This tour was very well organized. The views and the scenery were spectacular. I can't praise enough for Haley, our tour leader for a job well done. Thank you for making this trip extra special.

Wild life and scenery was amazing. Our guide was organized fun and professional. Camping was what expected from description.

Southwest Adventure Tours

• Excellent - 109 reviews for Western USA tours

This was my 1st solo group trip & felt safe & comfortable. The tour guide was so friendly, warm & knowledgeable! I really enjoyed my little Mighty 5 adventure!

Our group had a great time exploring the Mighty 5. Our Guide Greg, made sure to keep our group informed and entertained. The vehicle was comfortable for all of the riding that our trip entailed. We really feel like we did and saw the Mighty 5, except, we really thought that we were going to hike the "Narrows." Once we got over that, everyone was good. It was nice that there were separate hiking options based on experience. Even though we were made aware, several times, that we picked the cheapest tour that you all offer, we had no regrets. The motels were basic, but all of the staff were hard working and excellent, and the rooms were clean. I would strongly reccomend this tour if the Might 5 is on your list.

BrushBuck Wildlife Tours

• Excellent - 25 reviews for Western USA tours

Neil our guide was amazing, my husband and I had a great time.

Although the tour was very expensive- over $2000 for 3 days is over the top- it wss a great experience, saw lots of wildlife and the guide was outstanding

• Excellent - 1,012 reviews for Western USA tours

Friendly guides with a lot of exciting places to see (sometimes briefly). Hotels were also decent except one

We had a very good experience with the Wild West tour. The itinerary was great given the limited time at each location. Special thanks to our tour guides Brenda and Roberto and the driver from LV to LA, whose quick thinking saved us from a 24 hr pile-up.

G Adventures

• Excellent - 22,546 reviews for Western USA tours

Great time and experience

We are happy and satisfied

Intrepid Travel

• Excellent - 11,794 reviews for Western USA tours

THis was our first touring experience and it was great. With the exception of a cancelled flight going to the tour and some miss communication in the beginning of when we would get there, it was fantastic. Our guide was great and well organized.

The trip on it self is awesome. The parks we visit were stunning. However as I booked with Tour radar, it was not mention anywhere the level of the trip. I knew during the trip that this same trip is advertised as a compfy trip with intensity 2/5 on intrepid website. I found my self with 65 Y+ while Im 35 Y and for the hikes it was inconvenient. Hope it will change on the marketplace.

Bamba Travel

• Good - 1,697 reviews for Western USA tours

The itinerary provided by tour radar was not exactly how the tour was set up. One of our stops said we would be doing a cruise on lake Powell. That was not provided with the tour. Also the hotels that they said we would be staying at did not line up.

Overall, the tour was very fun and we'll put together. The tour guides were all friendly, and seemed to work well as a team. Accomodations were not bad, but there were better options directly adjacent. Food options were pretty much all fast food, which makes sense for the tour concept. However, dinner options could have been a bit better. We really would have appreciated a little more hiking and exploring time, and a couple of the guides did the best to accommodate that. However, 20 minute stops are just not enough time to get "out and experience" the areas.

• Excellent - 5,707 reviews for Western USA tours

This was an amazing tour! Emily was brilliant she had loads of recommendations in all of the places we stopped in and made sure that everything always ran smoothly! Thank you for a fab tour!

Emily was amazing! She was organized and fun and always a step ahead to ensure things ran smoothly. She made the trip easy and enjoyable. I’m incredibly grateful I was able to have a stress free vacation!

• Excellent - 1,963 reviews for Western USA tours

Would like to have walked down the main street of Chinatown. We're very disappointed in the side street we walked on. If you are going to offer snacks, please make sure all can participate. Found it a little offensive that even after the second day of not being able to receive a snack, all the same snacks were continually offered.

The trip as a whole was great. Our Tour Director and bus driver were awesome. Our tour director was knowledgeable about the history, geography, flora and fauna of the areas we visited. The itinerary was a good mix of cities and scenery. My only complaint is that I thought the communication with the company before the trip left something to be desired. I spent several hours on the phone in the days immediately before the trip trying to straighten out some things that had gone sideways.

• Excellent - 30 reviews for Western USA tours
• This operator has no Western USA reviews

• Excellent - 13,479 reviews for Western USA tours

Great trip & guide Anthony. Saw twice as much in half the time that I could do myself. Perfectly timed for sunrise & sunset views. Optimal site to view eclipse, accompanied by 2 astronomers & 2 telescopes. Enjoyed the optional helicopter ride over Grand Canyon.

This would be an excellent "off the beaten path" itinerary even without the eclipse. The scenery is spectacular.

Insight Vacations

• Excellent - 651 reviews for Western USA tours

The 40 seat luxury coach broke down at the end of day 1 of our 9 day Insight Vacations Wonders of the American West coach tour in May. It was replaced for the rest of our tour by a 56 seater coach with significantly less legroom, and seatbelts that didn’t have the side adjuster that enables you to stop the belt rubbing into your neck if you’re a certain body shape. For us, the reason for choosing Insight was their luxury coach, so every day on the 56 seater was a reminder that (to use a flying analogy) we had paid for business class and were getting economy class. We had booked through a travel agent because we’d read the online reviews warning of Insight’s poor communication. The travel agent Freedom Destinations, who supported us, put forward our complaint to Insight. Insight sympathised but cited their terms and conditions that don’t require them to replace the luxury coach with one of the same quality. To an extent I understand that they need to cover themselves for an instance where a luxury replacement isn’t available on the day of the breakdown, but not to provide one at any stage of the remainder of our tour feels like either poor contingency planning or cost-saving. Insight refused our request for a cash payment as compensation. Instead they offered a discount voucher for use on a future trip. We declined the voucher as we do not believe it to be fair to only offer compensation that is dependent upon customers re-using a service, and our faith in their organisation and their coach suppliers Holiday Motor Coach has been broken. Such a shame, because the sights on the trip were wonderful, as were the people we travelled with. 1 star to highlight the risks associated with a breakdown to other potential customers for whom the luxury coach is important.

Overall it was a good experience. Excellent tour director and driver. The food was inconsistent as to quality and service. The lodgings were fine for the type of trip. Too much time was spent at Monument Valley/Mystery valley and not enough time at Grand Canyon.

Europamundo

• Good - 4,362 reviews for Western USA tours

Wonderful tour! Highly recommend

Bucket List Group Travel LL…

• Good - 17 reviews for Western USA tours

leider entsprach der Reiseverlauf nicht ganz der ursprünglichen Ausschreibung. Die kurzen Wanderungen in die Canyons waren gestrichen worden, was insbesondere für das Bryce canyon sehr schade war. Der Ersatz (Death Valley) war dafür lohnenswert. Die Toursprache "only in english" stimmte nicht, Englisch war nachrangig. Ein Großteil der Gruppe sprach kein Englisch, so dass man sich wie ein Aussenseiter fühlte.

Had a wonderful time - a lot of hiking, seeing the sites in Alaska and viewing the Northern Lights.

Receptivo Aborigen Tours

• Good - 100 reviews for Western USA tours

We have chosen the tour specifically because it was in German and also in other languages shown. Also on our voucher was again confirmed the tour with professional, German-speaking tour guide. Unfortunately, the tour guides did not speak German. We were able to help ourselves a bit with the translation app but we also missed a lot of information. We are very disappointed about this and expect compensation. The tour guides have tried and were very nice also the tour was very nice.

List your company on TourRadar

Best of Western USA

10 days | hit the best of the west on this usa road trip to national parks, canyons and glitzy cities.

Take a ten-day road trip from the glitzy hub of Las Vegas to the trendy San Francisco, stopping at national parks, deep canyons, fascinating landscapes and small towns along the way. Start with Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon hikes, kayak across Lake Powell, discover the iconic Monument Valley with a Navajo guide then hit the famed Grand Canyon for an epic sunset and a walk along the rim. Visit the towering sequoias – some of the oldest trees on Earth! Your last stop is the incredibly diverse lands of Yosemite National Park, where you’ll stargaze with a local naturalist and walk the best trails with an expert trip leader.

Trip overview

• Marvel at one of the nation’s greatest national parks, The Grand Canyon, and walk along the rim, hike into the canyon or just soak up the expansive views.
• Kayak across the waters of Lake Powell, weaving your way past fascinating rock formations as your leader shares stories of the lake’s history.
• Hike through the varied landscapes of Zion National Park, taking in views of massive canyon walls and red sandstone cliffs as you go.
• Learn about the culture and history of Monument Valley during a Navajo guided tour, followed by a traditional homecooked, family-style Navajo lunch.
• Experience world-famous Yosemite National Park, taking in the breathtaking scenery as well as the pristine night sky as you go on leader-led walks both day and night.   
• Walk among the towering timber of Sequoia National Park and see General Sherman, the world’s largest tree by volume, along with the other soaring sequoias that make up the Giant Forest.   
• Some of the best scenery in Yosemite, Zion and Sequoia is found on hikes. So, while this trip doesn't require a high level of fitness, it’s essential to be at least moderately fit if you want to partake in all activities. You’ll also need to be prepared with hiking shoes, a water bottle and a day pack. 
• You’ll be travelling to desert and mountainous regions where the temperature can vary greatly from day to night. Make sure you pack the appropriate clothing for all weather. 
• This trip includes time spent travelling in a vehicle with your group. Extra space can be tight, and conditions may feel a little cramped. It’s all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates. 

Welcome to Las Vegas! The real wild west is home to some of the USA’s most incredible scenery. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 8 am. Then, you’ll hop aboard a private van. Get to know each other over a picnic lunch, then venture into the stunning landscapes of Zion National Park. Join your leader for a guided hike, then spend the night in Springdale – known as the gateway to the park.

• Hotel (1 night)
• Zion National Park - Walks

Please make your own way to the hotel lobby to meet your leader at 8 am this morning. It’s recommended you append an extra day or two in Vegas so you have plenty of time to get there.

Your total travel time today is approximately 3 hours.

The exact trail we hike in Zion will depend on the group's interest and ability, and will typically be either the Emerald Pools trail, or the Watchman trail. The hiking is easy to moderate with a distance of approximately 3 miles/4.8 km with 350 ft/107 mt of elevation gain.

After breakfast this morning, it’s time to make tracks for Bryce Canyon National Park – make sure your camera is ready to go, as some of the views you’ll come across today are truly out of this world! Take a short drive in your private vehicle, then spend the morning hiking through the epic landscapes of the park. Walk along the canyon rim and marvel at hundreds of unique sandstone towers, known as hoodoos, that jut out from the natural amphitheatre. Relax while you enjoy a picnic lunch and take in your magnificent surroundings, then hike down into the canyon for a closer look at the fascinating hoodoos. Then, drive on to the town of Page, where you’ll spend the night.

• Bryce Canyon - Leader-led Walk

Your total travel time today is approximately 5 hours.

Today's hiking distance is 3 miles (4.8 km) with 450 feet (137 m) of elevation gain.

Bryce Canyon is situated at 8000 ft (2440 m) above sea level. You can expect cooler temperatures, thinner and dryer air than elsewhere on this trip. Make sure you stay hydrated while hiking in the park.

Journey south this morning, driving through more spectacular scenery before arriving at Lake Powell. This gorgeous reservoir is certainly a sight to behold from the shore but to really appreciate it, you’ve got to get on the water. Jump in a kayak and paddle across the water’s surface, weaving your way through remarkable rock formations while your leader regales you with stories of the lake’s history. Back on dry land, set out for a gentle walk along Horseshoe Bend, taking in beautiful views with every step. This afternoon there is an option to visit Antelope Canyon before returning to Page for the evening.

• Horseshoe Bend Visit
• Lake Powell - Kayaking
• Page - Antelope Canyon Tour - USD70

You will get wet during the kayaking excursion, therefore we recommend wearing a swimsuit and water shoes/sandals, or bring a change of clothes and shoes with you on this day.

During November and December, you may be unable to kayak on Lake Powell. There will be a local slot canyon walk included when kayaking is not possible. This hike does involve soft sand, stairs and ramps, so it’s best to wear closed-toe shoes.

ANTELOPE CANYON: Since this tour is very popular and tends to sell out, we recommend you pre-book your space. You can book any time slot 2pm or later. Please book the Lower Antelope Canyon Hiking Tour here: https://www.antelopelowercanyon.com/tours/

Start the day with a drive to Monument Valley – one of the world’s most iconic sights. If this landscape dotted with towering sandstone buttes looks familiar to you, it’s no surprise – Monument Valley has been the filming location for many famous Western films. More importantly, this is the native land of the Navajo. When you arrive, you’ll transfer from your vehicle to a 4WD and enjoy a Navajo-guided tour of Monument Valley, where you’ll have the chance to learn more about their rich culture and history in the area before sitting down to a traditional homecooked, family-style Navajo lunch. Continue your journey onto the iconic Grand Canyon for some awe-inspiring walks along the rim.

• Monument Valley - Navajo guided 4x4 Jeep tour including traditional lunch

We aim to experience either sunset or sunrise at the Grand Canyon rim, depending on season. During spring and fall when the sun sets earlier and rises later we typically visit for sunrise on Day 5. During the summer months we visit for sunset on Day 4.

This morning it's time to return to Las Vegas, but first we'll make a stop along Historic Route 66. You’ll have another welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your new group and leader. Later, maybe head out for dinner with the members of your new group to get to know each other.

Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.

This is a combination trip, meaning your trip leader and group will most likely change today.

Leaving Sin City in your dust, you’ll road trip across state lines and through the Mojave Desert today, then around the southern Sierras to Sequoia National Park. Settle into your accommodation near the park and head out for an included dinner at a local restaurant.

Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.

Today is simply about seeing the best of the USA’s Sequoia National Park. You’ll embark on leader-led walks around Sequoia, driving from stop to stop as you get to feel small next to the staggering size of General Sherman, the Giant Forest and other specimens of Sequoia’s towering timber. You may even drive through a tree at Tunnel Log, peer into Tharp’s Log and spot marmots, black bears and recently re-introduced bighorn sheep.

There are no meals included on this day.

• Sequoia National Park

After breakfast, you’ll hit the highway headed for the world-famous Yosemite National Park. To start, get acquainted with the awe-inspiring Yosemite Valley during a guided hike. Strewn with dramatic waterfalls, gigantic granite outcrops and lush meadows, this is one of the most spectacular spots in the country. Your leader will also teach you about the ecologically diverse landscape along the way. After sunset, you’ll join a Naturalist from the Yosemite Conservancy for a guided stargazing program. The park’s minimal light pollution makes it an excellent place to see the stars while learning about astronomy, constellations and local lore.

• Yosemite National Park - Stargazing with Yosemite Conservancy Naturalist
• Yosemite National Park - Entrance Fee
• Yosemite National Park - Leader-led hike

Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Today, Yosemite is all yours to explore! In the morning there’ll be leader-led walks around some of the park’s best trails. If it’s a clear day you may also drive up to Glacier Point for a view you won’t soon forget, looking down over the valley and across to the iconic Half Dome. The afternoon is yours to fill how you’d like. You might choose to hike along the breathtaking Mist Trail with its many fabulous views, hire a bicycle and pedal along some of the 12 miles of designated (and flat) path or immerse yourself in the park’s history at the Ahwahnee Hotel. Once you’ve seen the sights, the day will be capped off with a pizza picnic in the park for dinner.

• Yosemite - Pizza Picnic Dinner

After saying fond farewells to Yosemite, you’ll head west to vibrant San Francisco. After stopping to do a walk over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, your adventure finishes in San Francisco. No accommodation is provided for tonight, but if you do wish to spend extra time in the City by the Bay, just speak to your booking agent. There’s plenty to keep you busy, whether it’s shopping along the funky Haight Street or making your own escape over to Alcatraz Island.

• San Francisco - Golden Gate Bridge walk

This trip doesn't allow time to visit Alcatraz, so you'll need to make your own arrangements if you want to see the island prison. Tickets must be booked in advance, as they sell out quickly and numbers are limited.

4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners

Private vehicle

Hotel (9 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 8 am on Day 1 in Las Vegas. Please make your own way to the Joining Point listed in the Essential Trip Information for this itinerary. 2. On the final day, this trip finishes at approximately 3 pm on arrival in San Francisco. You will be dropped at the location listed in the Essential Trip Information. If departing this day, please do not book any flights before 8 pm. 3. There is no accommodation included in Las Vegas the night before the trip starts. If you wish to spend more time in Las Vegas, we'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Speak to an Intrepid booking agent for more information. 4. There is no accommodation included in San Francisco on this trip. If you wish to spend more time in San Francisco, we'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Speak to an Intrepid booking agent for more information. 5. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights on your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 6. During the months of November and December we are often unable to kayak on Lake Powell. Instead we will explore Peekaboo Canyon or Antelope Canyon by foot instead.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Harris launches bus tour of western Pennsylvania from Pittsburgh

Vice President Harris launched her bus tour of western Pennsylvania from Pittsburgh on Sunday — just one day before the Democratic National Convention kicks off Monday.

Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D), arrived Sunday at Pittsburgh International Airport, where they greeted supporters alongside their spouses, according to The Associated Press (AP). They held hands and raised their arms in front of cheering supporters who were holding signs for their campaign, according to AP.

The AP said they then boarded a blue bus that had “Harris Walz” written across it in white letters. They then took off to meet with voters across the Pittsburgh area.

The Harris campaign announced last week that it would be courting western Pennsylvania voters ahead of the Democratic National Convention on Sunday. Harris, Walz, second gentleman Doug Emhoff and Minnesota’s first lady Gwen Walz will be making several stops across the region Sunday.

The AP reported that the four of them made their first stop visiting local volunteers at a campaign office in Beaver County. Former President Trump carried that county in 2020.

Harris, Walz and their spouses sat down at a few tables to make some calls to voters, according to AP.

“We’re all in this together,” Harris said at one point, the news service reported.

“He’s all in,” Walz said at one point after hanging up the phone and giving a thumbs-up.

Walz also posted a photo on the social media platform X of him, his wife, Harris and Emhoff with the caption, “Road trip.” The four of them were posing for a selfie in front of the tour bus.

Harris has gained momentum in recent weeks as many national and swing-state polls show her closing the gap with Trump. According to The Hill/Decision Desk HQ’s  national polling average , she has a 1.8 percentage point lead over Trump based on an aggregate of 120 polls.

The Associated Press contributed.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.

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Harris-Walz to kick off 'Road to Chicago' bus tour from Pittsburgh Sunday

Vice President Kamala Harris and running mate Gov. Tim Walz will kick off a bus tour from Pittsburgh Sunday, stopping in multiple Western Pennsylvania spots.

The tour, dubbed "on the Road to Chicago," comes the day before the Democratic National Convention kicks off in Chicago, the Harris-Walz campaign told USA TODAY Wednesday.

The candidates' spouses Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff and Gwen Walz will join them on the tour, the first time all four are campaigning together. The group will focus on meeting voters in their communities, stopping at volunteer canvass events and local retailers.

This will be Harris' eighth visit to Pennsylvania this year. The tour is scheduled after Harris is expected to make her first policy-centered speech in Raleigh, North Carolina Friday.

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Sign-up for Your Vote: Text with the USA TODAY elections team.

Pennsylvania is a key battleground state

Pennsylvania provides 19 electoral votes (one less than it did in 2020). It was one of a handful of states that switched its vote from Donald Trump in 2016 to the Democratic Party in 2020.

In 2016, Trump won the state by less than 50,000 votes, beating Hillary Clinton with 48.6% of the vote compared to 47.9% of the vote for Clinton.

In 2020, President Joe Biden won 50% of the votes, beating Trump who won 48.8% of the vote.

Harris has already made several campaign stops in Pennsylvania, including her first appearance with running mate Walz. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro was another top contender for vice president.

When is the Democratic National Convention?

Harris' western Pennsylvania tour comes as many others in the party are headed to Chicago for the DNC.

The DNC is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 19 through Thursday Aug. 22.

Harris and Walz launch their 1st bus tour through western Pennsylvania

Just a day away from the Democratic National Convention , Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz and their spouses, Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff and Gwen Walz, will kick off their "On the Road to Chicago" bus tour in the key battleground state of Pennsylvania. It will be the first time all four hit the trail together.

Sunday's tour is set to launch from Pittsburgh with multiple stops in Beaver and Allegheny counties located in western Pennsylvania. The campaign hopes to "meet voters where they are in community settings." The stops will range from canvass kick-offs to local retail stops.

The stops will be right after former President Donald Trump's Saturday rally in Wilkes-Barre located in the northeastern region. The former president will also be stopping in York on Monday and his vice presidential pick, JD Vance, will deliver remarks in Philadelphia on the same day as well.

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MORE: President Biden and first lady to make 'strong case' to elect Harris at DNC on Monday night

Harris' campaign is looking to make inroads in the heavily conservative Beaver county where she will highlight labor unions while Trump is looking to appeal to the blue collar voters in Wilkes-Barre which is not too far from President Joe Biden's hometown of Scranton.

At his rally, Trump claimed that Harris' economic policies would be the "death of Pennsylvania," a state that has heavy ties in the energy and steel industries.

“We're going to get your energy prices down by 50% the Kamala presidency will mean death for Pennsylvania energy. Remember that it'll mean death of Pennsylvania,” said Trump.

The dueling events highlight how critical the state is in reaching the coveted 270 electoral votes needed to win November's election. The state, which not only holds significance to Biden but for First Lady Dr. Jill Biden as well, was a regular stomping ground for the president. He made 9 stops this year before leaving the ticket. This will be both Harris' and Trump's 8th visit to the state this year.

Trump won Pennsylvania's 19 electoral votes in 2016, but Biden was able to reclaim the state along with two other Rust Belt states, Wisconsin and Michigan, by a narrow margin of just over 1% in 2020.

MORE: How to watch, what to know about the 2024 DNC

The momentum Harris has seen since Biden stepped down has injected a much-needed enthusiasm into the campaign that has helped to give the candidate a bump in swing state polling. Currently Harris is polling nearly two points ahead of Trump in Pennsylvania, according to 538's average .

The Harris-Walz campaign is betting on the heavy investments they've made in the state to keep their edge. The campaign has nearly 300 staffers across 36 offices in the Keystone State. On Saturday they announced a $370 million ad investment with a promise of twice of the investment in TV in Pennsylvania than made in 2020.

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Election Updates: Harris and Walz Tour Pennsylvania Ahead of Convention

Kamala Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz, embarked on a bus tour of the critical battleground state a day before Democrats open their national convention in Chicago.

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Simon J. Levien Michael Gold and Jazmine Ulloa

Here’s the latest on the presidential race.

On the eve of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, rallied volunteers during a bus tour in Pennsylvania, a critical swing state that could decide November’s election. Ms. Harris and Mr. Walz, along with their spouses, greeted supporters in Pittsburgh before a stop in Rochester, where Ms. Harris thanked volunteers for their efforts.

Both campaigns are focusing intently on Pennsylvania. Former President Donald J. Trump — who won the state by a slim margin in 2016 but lost it to President Biden in 2020 — visited Wilkes-Barre on Saturday , attacking Democratic policies as “fascist” and calling illegal immigrants “savage monsters.” Mr. Trump and his running mate, Senator JD Vance of Ohio, will also be in Pennsylvania on Monday, making separate campaign stops in York and Philadelphia.

Here’s what else to know:

Democratic convention: Delegates and party leaders will begin to fete Ms. Harris and Mr. Walz as the Democratic Party’s nominees on Monday, when the convention’s first day will include a speech by Mr. Biden . The party on Sunday announced the themes for each of the convention’s four nights .

Republican messaging: Mr. Vance suggested in an interview on Fox News that he didn’t believe the recent polls showing Ms. Harris ahead or newly competitive in swing states, and said putting her in charge of inflation policy would be like “giving Jeffrey Epstein control over human trafficking policy.” Two prominent Republicans, Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Gov. Chris Sununu of New Hampshire, expressed frustration with the campaign’s focus on personal attacks on Ms. Harris. “Every day we’re not talking about her policy choices as vice president and what she would do as president is a good day for her and a bad day for us,” Mr. Graham told NBC’s “Meet the Press.”

Walz goes home: Mr. Walz represented the Democratic ticket at a rally in his native Nebraska on Saturday, playing up his roots as the Harris campaign courts rural, working-class and moderate voters. Although solidly Republican, Nebraska is one of two states (along with Maine) that award an electoral vote to the winner of each congressional district. The state’s Second District, which encompasses Omaha and is known as Nebraska’s blue dot, is a swing region that voted for Barack Obama in 2008 and Mr. Biden in 2020.

More helicopter fallout: Willie Brown, the former mayor of San Francisco, threatened to sue Mr. Trump if the former president continued to say falsely that they once nearly died together in a helicopter ride. Mr. Trump has not spoken about the helicopter incident since Nate Holden, a former Los Angeles city councilman who, like Mr. Brown, is Black, said he took a rocky helicopter ride with Mr. Trump in 1990 and speculated that the former president might have confused the two men. Mr. Brown said he wanted to make sure that Mr. Trump stayed quiet.

Swing states back in play: Four diverse swing states that seemed to be drifting toward Mr. Trump when Mr. Biden was in the race are now in play for Democrats, according to polling from The New York Times and Siena College . In Arizona, Ms. Harris has established a four-percentage-point lead on Mr. Trump, the surveys found, while she leads by two points in North Carolina; Mr. Trump has a one-point lead in Nevada and a four-point lead in Georgia.

Nicholas Nehamas

Reporting from the Democratic National Convention in Chicago

Democrats unveil their convention platform, with familiar themes.

Follow the latest news on the Democratic National Convention .

Democrats released their party platform on Sunday, unveiling a document that offers plenty of political comfort food for a newly energized party ahead of its convention in Chicago.

As a sign of what Democrats believe will mobilize their forces — and the head-spinning transformation that has remade their presidential ticket — the document mentions former President Donald J. Trump’s name 150 times.

Vice President Kamala Harris, the new nominee who has brought her party back together after a bruising internal fight over President Biden’s candidacy, is mentioned by name just 32 times.

The platform seems intended to avoid stirring any controversy that could derail that fresh feeling of unity.

At the top of the list of issues that could threaten the party’s cohesiveness is the war in Gaza. Thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters are descending on Chicago, and roughly 30 delegates representing the Democratic primary voters who opposed Mr. Biden, mostly in protest over Gaza, will attend the convention, which begins on Monday.

The platform repeats a traditional Democratic message supporting Israel, condemning the brutal Oct. 7 assault by Hamas and backing “an immediate and lasting cease-fire deal” that will return hostages still being held by the terrorist group and address “the displacement and death of so many innocent people in Gaza.”

Democrats will vote to approve the platform on Monday evening. It was passed by the party’s platform committee, a group of party insiders, with wider input from “community leaders from coalitions across the Democratic Party,” according to the Democratic National Committee.

On other issues, the platform represents a predictable collection of Democratic policy priorities, including calls to make investments in infrastructure and manufacturing; to cut taxes on working families while making big corporations and the wealthy “finally pay their fair share”; and to fight climate change.

Another section addresses efforts to lower costs on everyday items like food, housing and health care, in similar terms to the economic agenda that Ms. Harris rolled out last week . And there are also calls to protect abortion rights, restore democratic norms and combat gun violence.

On the other side, Mr. Trump took a direct hand this summer in reshaping — and shrinking the size — of the Republican platform, which focuses more on his own priorities than on a traditional laundry list of policies.

The Democratic platform says that Mr. Trump’s vision for the country is one of “revenge and retribution,” a reflection of the party’s attempt to make the 2024 election a referendum on the former president.

And demonstrating the dramatically changed circumstances of the race since Ms. Harris took over the ticket, the party’s former presumptive nominee, Mr. Biden, is mentioned by name 287 times.

The platform also contains 19 references to his “second term.”

Lisa Lerer , Reid J. Epstein , Shane Goldmacher and Chris Cameron contributed reporting.

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Rebecca Davis O’Brien and Nicholas Nehamas

Rebecca Davis O’Brien reported from Pittsburgh, and Nicholas Nehamas reported from Washington.

Harris and Walz venture into less-friendly terrain to court Pennsylvania voters.

Before their convention this week that will signal the final sprint to November, Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, headed out on a brief bus tour on Sunday to fire up voters in perhaps the most crucial battleground state in the 2024 election.

As they toured western Pennsylvania, their play for support beyond the state’s more liberal cities was apparent at the team’s first stop, a field office in Rochester, Pa., in the largely conservative Beaver County: Ms. Harris picked up a volunteer’s cellphone to speak with a resident from Erie, a northwestern city in one of the state’s swingiest counties, which Hillary Clinton lost in 2016 but Joseph R. Biden Jr. won four years later.

“I love Erie,” Ms. Harris said. “At some point we’ll get to Erie.”

Ms. Harris and Mr. Walz were joined on the outing by their spouses, Doug Emhoff and Gwen Walz, traveling in two new campaign buses from the Pittsburgh airport, where they arrived on Air Force Two to greet a small group of supporters.

The Pittsburgh and Philadelphia areas are the two main drivers of Democratic support in Pennsylvania, a state whose 19 electoral votes could decide the presidency. Recent polling shows a neck-and-neck race there between Ms. Harris and former President Donald J. Trump, with some surveys showing Ms. Harris gaining a narrow edge recently.

Mr. Trump is also increasing his presence in Pennsylvania: On Saturday he held a rally in Wilkes-Barre and another is set in York on Monday, while Senator JD Vance of Ohio, his running mate, campaigns in Philadelphia.

Both candidates have used their trips in the state to make attacks.

Speaking to a crowd of supporters outside the Rochester campaign office on Sunday, Ms. Harris appeared to suggest that Mr. Trump was a “coward” — just a day after he had called her a “radical” and a “lunatic” in Wilkes-Barre.

“Over the last several years there’s been this kind of perversion that has taken place, I think, which is to suggest that the measure of the strength of a leader is based on who you beat down,” Ms. Harris said — though she did not name Mr. Trump. “Anybody who’s about beating down other people is a coward.”

President Biden often preferred to campaign in Philadelphia, by far the state’s largest metro area. The city is easily reached from Washington and close to his home state of Delaware, nestled in friendly territory surrounded by counties he carried in 2020 .

Outside Allegheny County, where Pittsburgh sits, western Pennsylvania is less hospitable to Democrats, and Ms. Harris’s visit there suggests she may branch out more than Mr. Biden did.

“God bless them, they need to,” Nancy Cannon, a retired teacher who showed up at the Pittsburgh airport, said of the campaign’s planned visits. She described a landscape of Trump supporters, where she knew of Democrats who were afraid to put out their own lawn signs. “Maybe they would feel more supported,” she said, if Ms. Harris and Mr. Walz showed up.

Ms. Cannon said Ms. Harris’s swift ascent to the top of the Democratic ticket had given a jolt of energy to her family and friends. “I love Joe. But I am happier to see a younger person. I feel like this is an Obama moment.”

The trip points to the Democratic hopes that Mr. Walz can help the party reach working-class voters outside the big cities. The suburbs and small towns surrounding Pittsburgh resemble areas in Minnesota where Mr. Walz has performed well in his previous races.

One campaign stop on Sunday was also a clear effort to tap into Mr. Walz’s personal history: a football practice at Aliquippa High School in a former steel town with many Black residents that has struggled economically for decades. Mr. Walz’s own experience as a high school football coach has been a touchstone of the campaign so far, with Ms. Harris occasionally referring to him as “Coach Walz.”

Mr. Walz told the team he “remembered every single call” from his team’s state football championship. He and Ms. Harris were joined at the event by Jerome Bettis, the Hall of Fame running back who won a Super Bowl with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Mr. Bettis, nicknamed The Bus, was a surprise, if appropriately named, addition to the Harris-Walz motor coach tour, which also made short stops at a nearby firehouse, a Sheetz gas station and Primanti Bros., a beloved chain of sandwich shops founded in Pittsburgh.

“The way you win elections in Pennsylvania is literally going everywhere,” said Lt. Gov. Austin Davis of Pennsylvania, a Democrat who is from the Pittsburgh area. “Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, but all the small communities in between.”

Mr. Davis also said that Ms. Harris would find a welcome audience in the working-class region for the economic agenda she rolled out last week that focused on lowering the costs of everyday life and cutting taxes for working families.

Conor Lamb, a Democrat who once represented a congressional district outside Pittsburgh, said Mr. Biden had become well known to many Pennsylvania voters, thanks to his decades of service as a senator in neighboring Delaware, an advantage Ms. Harris does not possess.

Mr. Lamb said that the bus tour reflected the fact that Democrats had learned their lesson from Mrs. Clinton losing the state after focusing most of her campaign on the major cities.

“You can’t just do Philly and Pittsburgh and rely on social media,” Mr. Lamb said.

And he agreed that Ms. Harris’s economic plans would be popular in places like Rochester, a small town once known for its glassmaking factories that sits in his old district.

“Some of the things that she laid out in that speech — the child tax credit, extending health care subsidies — all that kind of stuff is just universal,” Mr. Lamb said. “That should do as well in Rochester as it does in the heart of the city of Pittsburgh. And I’ve felt in the past that Democrats were a little bit afraid to go on the offense in those areas.”

Vice President Kamala suggested that former President Donald J. Trump was a “coward” during a stop on her campaign bus tour through western Pennsylvania on Sunday. Without naming Trump, Harris said that some people believe “the measure of the strength of a leader is based on who you beat down,” a point of view she labeled a “perversion.” And she countered that “the real and true measure of the strength of a leader is based on who you lift up. Anybody who’s about beating down other people is a coward.”

Ken Bensinger

Social media influencers will have guest spots, and choice seats, at the Democrats’ convention.

A speaking slot at a national party’s nominating convention is among the most coveted prizes in American politics, offering veteran officeholders and up-and-comers alike the chance to speak to — and be seen by — an entire nation.

At the Democratic National Convention this week in Chicago, five of those rare slots will go to a group that most likely would be unfamiliar to previous convention planners: social media influencers.

Convention officials said each night would include at least one influencer. The speakers are Deja Foxx, Nabela Noor, Carlos Eduardo Espina, Olivia Julianna and John Russell, a group of millennial and Gen Z influencers who, collectively, have well over 24 million social media followers.

They will speak on the same podium as President Biden; the Democratic nominees, Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota; and party luminaries, including two former presidents, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, among others.

“This feels very affirming,” said Ms. Foxx, 24, a reproductive rights activist from Arizona who worked on Ms. Harris’s first presidential campaign. She’ll speak about abortion rights on Monday night in a program that will also feature Mr. Biden. “I don’t take it lightly that I’m speaking on the same night as the president of the United States,” she said.

These speakers represent a significant shift for the convention and underscore the Democratic Party’s efforts to speak to voters whose news diet exists outside traditional media. Last month, a conservative influencer, the actress and model Amber Rose, spoke on the first night of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

The speaker roster at conventions tends to mix elected officials with entertainment figures and regular citizens who can speak to particular policy issues. The Republicans’ convention last month featured a number of people the party called “Everyday Americans,” who discussed topics including immigration, inflation and crime.

A study by the Pew Research Center last year found that almost half of Americans get some of their news from social media and that a third of adults under 30 get their news from TikTok.

To help chase those potential voters, the D.N.C. has, for the first time, granted credentials to more than 200 influencers, offering them the kind of wide-ranging access to events and people traditionally provided only to the press. It’s also giving them a special “creator platform” within the convention venue in Chicago, the United Center: a special V.I.P. box directly above the arena floor.

Providing influencers time onstage gives them the chance to repost clips of their speeches to their own social media accounts as well as the feeds of other influencers watching the show, all in pursuit of the modern media era’s most valuable prize of all: virality.

“ Content creators are a vehicle to reach new audiences, not just through their content, but through their unique ability to speak authentically to their own communities,” said Emily Soong, a spokeswoman for the convention.

Ms. Foxx said she was first approached by organizers a few weeks ago and has since worked with a campaign speechwriter to hone her presentation. “I was pretty nervous but now I’m feeling really ready,” she said. “I’ve been running through my speech every day.”

The lineup on Tuesday night will include Ms. Noor, a Muslim American known for her makeup tutorials, cooking videos and frank talk about her challenging journey to motherhood. With more than 11 million followers spread across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, she will speak on a night whose theme, “A Bold Vision for America’s Future,” is meant to draw contrasts between the Harris-Walz ticket and their Republican rivals, Donald J. Trump and Senator JD Vance of Ohio.

For Wednesday’s program, Mr. Espina, the son of Latin American immigrants who has amassed a huge following on TikTok with his videos about news, politics, food and soccer, will talk about immigration. Although he normally posts in Spanish, he is expected to deliver his remarks in English.

That night will also include Ms. Julianna, who has called herself “a plus-size queer Latina from rural Southeast Texas” and gained a following from her involvement in Gen-Z for Change , a youth-oriented political activism group. Her top issues include climate change and, like Ms. Foxx, abortion access.

“Peer to peer organizing is one of the most powerful tools we have in our democracy,” said Ms. Julianna, whose speech topic will be “freedom.” For years I’ve spoken directly to my fellow young Americans through my social media pages, knocking doors for Democratic candidates, and rallying for fundamental freedoms across the country.”

During the convention’s final night, which organizers are describing, thematically, as a narrative about how the 2024 election is a fight “for our future,” Mr. Russell, a self-described “dirtbag journalist” will have a chance to speak.

Based in West Virginia, he worked on rural policy and engagement for Senator Elizabeth Warren’s presidential campaign in 2020, ran unsuccessfully for Congress, and has built a following on his progressive coverage of the industrial Midwest and his strong support of labor unions. In his social media bios, he describes himself as “biased for the working class.”

Maggie Astor

Spotted on the streets of downtown Chicago as Democrats gather for their convention: huge circular decals on the sidewalk, of the sort that marked six-foot distances early in the pandemic, with a QR code and big lettering that reads “Are You a Disappointed Dem?” The fine print says they’re paid for by American Values 2024, a super PAC supporting Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s presidential campaign.

Jazmine Ulloa and Chris Cameron

Jazmine Ulloa reported from Washington, and Chris Cameron reported from Milwaukee and Northern Kentucky.

Vance defends his unsubstantiated claims about immigration and crime.

Senator JD Vance of Ohio, the Republican vice-presidential nominee, on Friday defended his past unsubstantiated claims about immigration in which he suggested that early waves of Italian, Irish and German immigration led to higher crime and interethnic conflict, by citing the movie “Gangs of New York.”

At a campaign event before the Milwaukee Police Association, Mr. Vance was asked about the comments — which have resurfaced in recent days — from a 2021 interview with the far-right podcaster Jack Murphy, and whether he would have prescribed the kind of mass deportations then that he and former President Donald J. Trump have made central to their platform now.

Mr. Vance mostly skirted the question on removals, but he stood by his comments on crime and ethnic and interethnic conflict, pointing to the Martin Scorsese film that depicts gang violence between Irish migrants and nativist Protestant Americans.

“Well, first of all, I also said there were a lot of benefits to that wave of immigration, but has anybody ever seen the movie ‘Gangs of New York’? That’s what I’m talking about,” he said. “We know that when you have these massive ethnic enclaves forming in our country, it can sometimes lead to higher crime rates.”

Later, he added: “What happens when you have massive amounts of illegal immigration? It actually starts to create ethnic conflict. It creates higher crime rates.”

Asked to provide evidence for the claims, a campaign spokeswoman pointed to a report from an anti-immigration think tank that argues crimes committed by immigrants are underestimated because many crimes go unreported, and to a rise in violence in Minnesota that the authorities have attributed to a rivalry between East African gangs in St. Paul and Minneapolis.

Since the nation’s founding, nativist politicians and anti-immigrant activists have sought to conflate immigration with crime. But historians and criminologists say there are no empirical studies to support claims like those made by Mr. Vance. The studies that do exist have repeatedly concluded that immigrants are less likely to commit crimes than people born in the United States. A 2023 study by researchers at Stanford, Princeton and other major institutions found that, since 1880, immigrants have not been more likely to be imprisoned than people born in the United States. And as immigration into the United States has increased, crime has decreased in recent years.

Tyler Anbinder, a historian who wrote the book “City of Dreams: The 400-Year Epic History of Immigrant New York,” and served as a historical adviser for the movie “Gangs of New York,” said immigrants in New York during the film’s time period and since have not committed crime disproportionate to their population numbers and have almost always been arrested at lower rates than natives.

“Immigrants are so happy to be in America,” Mr. Anbinder said, adding that one of the main reasons immigrants commit less crimes than natives is “because they don’t want to be deported.”

Alex R. Piquero, a criminology professor at University of Miami and a former director of the Bureau of Justice Statistics, said Mr. Vance was also wrong to raise concerns about “ethnic enclaves.” Immigrants — regardless of the time period or ethnic background — tend to cluster in neighborhoods where they have relatives, know others who can speak their native language and can feel secure in their new environment.

“What’s very peculiar about these statements is that those ethnic enclaves do not breed crime,” he said of Mr. Vance’s stance, adding that “they actually serve as a protective buffer from crime.”

In his remarks, Mr. Vance also argued for a return to early 20th-century thinking when he said the United States was “welcoming country to immigrants” but Americans realized that the nation “could only take so many people,” arguing that deportations would benefit the country.

“I think that will promote assimilation and a common American culture that’s in the best interest of everybody,” he said.

But in arguing that more immigrants lead to higher crime and ethnic conflict, historians said, Mr. Vance was echoing arguments that American nativists have used since at least the 19th century to classify and marginalize some demographic groups as racially inferior, genetically predisposed to crime and unable to be assimilated.

Those negative stereotypes and misconceptions — once centered on certain Europeans but more recently focused on Mexicans and Latino migrants — have fueled prejudice and led to more extreme treatment of immigrants by government officials, police, the courts and the press.

In “Gangs of New York,” the most ruthless killer is the nativist who disdains immigrants, Mr. Anbinder said. But Mr. Vance appears to associate the Irish immigrants in the movie with the violence, he added.

“Throughout American history, those who fear or hate immigrants have always wanted to speak of them and scapegoat them as bringing crime to America,” Mr. Anbinder said. “What Vance is doing is not much different now.”

Anushka Patil

Harris, Walz and their spouses gave brief remarks to campaign workers and joined phone banking efforts during a stop in Rochester, in Beaver County, on their way through western Pennsylvania. “Hopefully I’ll see you in Erie at some point,” Harris told one person on the phone. Gwen Walz told volunteers that she loved the state — “I think I might want to spend a lot of time here,” she quipped.

Rebecca Davis O’Brien

Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota walked a line of supporters for several minutes here in Pittsburgh, shaking hands and taking selfies, then boarded one of the new campaign buses waiting for them without making remarks. This will be quite an unmistakable caravan through western Pennsylvania.

Air Force Two has pulled up to the hangar here in Pittsburgh, emerging from the low fog and the pouring rain that set in moments after the plane landed. The rain was brief, however, and the sun has returned.

A small crowd of supporters has gathered here at the Pittsburgh airport, where Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz will land, speak, and set off in two new campaign buses for an afternoon of small campaign stops around western Pennsylvania. Outside Pittsburgh and the rest of Allegheny County, this is Republican territory. But the trip suggests that Democrats feel they can pick up support here, particularly with Walz on the ticket.

Neil Vigdor

A campaign adviser for Cornel West, the long-shot independent presidential candidate, said that West’s team would be going to court to fight his disqualification from the ballot in Michigan, where state election officials said his nominating paperwork had several omissions. The adviser, Edwin DeJesus, said the oversights, flagged by a former Michigan Democratic Party chairman, were “trivial technicalities” raised in “a desperate move by the D.N.C. and their affiliates.”

Mayor Brandon Johnson of Chicago told ABC News that city officials were ready for the convention and that he expected pro-Palestinian protests to remain peaceful. “This is a party that can handle protest and protecting the First Amendment right, which is fundamental to our democracy, while also strengthening our democracy and speaking to the future of our country,” he said.

Maya C. Miller

Senator Lindsey Graham, Republican of South Carolina and the top Republican on the Judiciary Committee, said on NBC’s “Meet the Press” that Donald Trump’s campaign should focus far more on Kamala Harris’s policy choices — like backtracking on her opposition to fracking — rather than personal attacks about her race, gender and intelligence.

“I don’t look at Vice President Harris as a lunatic,” Graham said. “A nightmare for Harris is to defend her policy choices. Every day we’re not talking about her policy choices as vice president and what she would do as president is a good day for her and a bad day for us.”

Graham also walked back a previous criticism of the G.O.P. policy platform, which excluded a national abortion ban for the first time in 40 years. Instead of standing behind his assertion that Republicans would be “net losers” if they weakened their support for such a ban, Graham tried to downplay the role that abortion and reproductive rights — widely seen as winning issues for Democrats — would play in the election.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, a Democrat, said on NBC’s "Meet the Press" that she thought people were “reading too much into” Kamala Harris’s proposal to ban price gouging . “I think it speaks to Kamala Harris’s values, that she wants consumers to keep more money in their pockets,” she said, adding: “We know we have to have business growth in this country, small-business growth, big-business growth, for good-paying jobs. But we also know that you can’t gouge and hurt the American consumer just to pad your bottom line, and I think there’s a balance there.”

Whitmer said she would not “second-guess” Kamala Harris’s curt response to pro-Palestinian protesters at a recent rally in Detroit. Harris told the demonstrators: “If you want Donald Trump to win, then say that. Otherwise, I’m speaking.” Convention organizers are preparing for mass demonstrations this week in Chicago.

“I can tell you this: Kamala Harris cares about every person,” Whitmer said. “You can both want peace in the region and a cessation of violence, and the return of hostages. We are a country that continually falls into these false choices. You can do both, and I think that’s why we need a leader like her.”

JD Vance, who has been leaning into the claim that Harris has controlled the Biden administration from the start, told Shannon Bream on Fox News: “The most absurd thing that Kamala says at her rallies is, ‘On Day 1, I’m going to tackle the food and housing affordability crisis in this country.’ Shannon, Day 1 for Kamala Harris was three and a half years ago.”

Senator Tammy Duckworth, Democrat of Illinois, said on ABC’s “This Week” that she was “comfortable” with adding $1.7 trillion to the federal deficit through Vice President Harris’s new economic proposal, because Congress could close the budget gap by letting Donald Trump’s 2017 tax breaks expire. “What we need to do is get rid of Trump tax cuts for the wealthy,” Duckworth said. “We need to go after the wealthiest of Americans who don’t pay their fair share.” Harris has promised to provide up to $25,000 for first-time home buyers, cancel student debt, extend the child tax credit and cut taxes on service workers’ tips.

Michelle Obama, the former first lady, will deliver a speech at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago this week, according to a statement from its organizers. The statement did not specify on what night she would speak. Former President Barack Obama is also expected to give remarks.

Fox News asked Senator Chris Coons of Delaware, a co-chair of the Harris campaign, whether Kamala Harris’s proposal to ban price gouging was “communist in nature.” He responded: “Presidents of both parties have tried to use the power of the F.T.C. to rein in high prices at the pump, high prices at grocery stores. I think picking this one proposal of the many she’s put out misses the broader point, which is that Vice President Harris is continuing the work of President Biden in reducing costs faced by working Americans.”

Senator JD Vance of Ohio, the Republican vice-presidential nominee, suggested on Fox News that he didn’t believe the recent polls showing Kamala Harris ahead or newly competitive in swing states because polls overestimated support for Democrats in 2016 and 2020. (He didn’t mention the 2022 midterms, when the opposite was true .)

Vance said on Fox News: “Giving Kamala Harris control over inflation policy, it’s like giving Jeffrey Epstein control over human trafficking policy. The American people are much smarter than that. They don’t buy the idea that Kamala Harris represents a fresh start. She is more of the same.”

Gov. Chris Sununu of New Hampshire, a Republican who has criticized Trump but is now supporting him , expressed frustration that Trump was attacking Harris’s intelligence instead of her economic proposals. “Almost any other Republican candidate would be winning this race by 10 points,” he said on CNN. “If you stick to the issues, if you stick to what matters, this should be an easy race for Donald Trump. It really should.”

Gov. JB Pritzker of Illinois said on CNN's “State of the Union” that he believed Vice President Kamala Harris had “energized the party in a way that I haven’t seen certainly since ’08.” He added: “I’ve been to every convention since I was able to vote, and I can say I’ve not felt this kind of energy and electricity at any convention other than the one for Barack Obama.”

Pritzker said he wasn’t worried about a repeat of the 1968 Democratic convention in Chicago, where ideological divisions split the party and the police attacked protesters. He said the party had “coalesced” around its candidate in a way it hadn’t in 1968, and he said of pro-Palestinian protesters: “If there are troublemakers, they’re going to get arrested and they’re going to get convicted. But the fact is that the vast majority of people who are protesting, and we’ve seen this before, are peaceful protesters. They want to have their voices heard. They’re going to be heard, no doubt about it, and we’re going to protect them.”

Here are the themes for the Democratic convention.

Democrats will raise the curtain on their national convention on Monday in Chicago, punctuating weeks of extraordinary volatility in the presidential race that included a reset at the top of the party’s ticket.

Vice President Kamala Harris clinched the party’s nomination this month in a virtual roll call held after President Biden had withdrawn from the race. She then selected Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota as her running mate.

On Sunday, the party revealed the themes for each of the four nights of the convention:

Monday : “For the People” — President Biden and the first lady, Jill Biden, are scheduled to speak on the opening night of the convention, one that party officials said would focus on the record of the Biden-Harris administration and the president’s decades of public service. Organizers said the program would lean into a narrative that Mr. Biden has put the American people’s interest ahead of his own. On July 21, he became the first sitting president since Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968 not to seek a second term.

Tuesday: “A Bold Vision for America’s Future” — Democrats will seek to draw a contrast between what they said was the party’s optimism and the drumbeat from Republicans who say that the country’s best days are behind it. They will also try to make former President Donald J. Trump and his running mate, Senator JD Vance, take ownership of Project 2025, a right-wing playbook for reshaping the federal government that the Republican ticket has sought to distance itself from.

Wednesday: “A Fight for Our Freedoms” — Mr. Walz will formally accept the Democratic nomination for vice president on the penultimate night of the convention, when the party will argue that Mr. Trump, if elected, would continue to strip away fundamental rights.

Thursday : “For Our Future” — Ms. Harris will accept the party’s nomination, becoming the second woman, and the first woman of color, to lead the Democratic ticket, and Democrats will seek to cast Mr. Trump as a danger to the nation whose second term would be even more extreme than his first.

An earlier version of this article misstated the day that President Biden dropped out of the race. It was July 21, not July 23.

How we handle corrections

Simon J. Levien and Michael Gold

Simon J. Levien reported from Wilkes-Barre, Pa. Michael Gold reported from New York.

Urged to focus on the economy, Trump leans into attacks on Harris.

Former President Donald J. Trump in a campaign speech on Saturday bounced among complaints about the economy and immigration, wide-ranging digressions and a number of personal attacks on Vice President Kamala Harris, including jabs at her appearance and her laugh.

At a rally in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., Mr. Trump swung from talking points on inflation and criticisms of Democratic policy as “fascist” and “Marxist” to calling illegal immigrants “savage monsters” and saying that rising sea levels would create more beachfront property.

Mr. Trump blamed Ms. Harris for high prices, in what was effectively an inversion of her remarks at her rally in Raleigh, N.C., on Friday, where she said Mr. Trump’s proposed import tariffs would amount to a “Trump tax” on groceries. The former president argued that she had placed a “Kamala Harris inflation tax” on average Americans over the course of her term as vice president and that, if elected, he would lower prices on consumer goods, just as she has said she would do.

“Yesterday, she got up, she started ranting and raving,” Mr. Trump said of Ms. Harris’s explanation of her economic agenda in North Carolina. He mocked her remarks that, he said, suggested he would tax “every single thing that was ever invented.”

Mr. Trump’s advisers have urged him to emphasize his economic policy plans, which, according to polling, many voters trust more than Ms. Harris’s , and some Republicans have hoped he would leave behind his characteristic personal attacks, including his frequent insults of Ms. Harris’s intelligence and appearance.

But at two events earlier this week — a speech in Asheville, N.C., and a news conference in Bedminster, N.J. — both billed as opportunities to discuss the economy, Mr. Trump veered into personal attacks against Ms. Harris, which he said he was “entitled” to do .

Mr. Trump opened his rally in Pennsylvania, his final one before the Democratic National Convention begins in Chicago on Monday, by addressing inflation and the economy. But he quickly said, “You don’t mind if I go off teleprompter for a second, do you?” adding of Ms. Harris, “Joe Biden hates her.”

He went on to attack Ms. Harris for having a “crazy” laugh and said that he was “much better looking than her,” a line that drew cheers from the thousands of rallygoers gathered in the Mohegan Sun Arena.

In a statement, a Harris campaign spokesman, Joseph Costello, said that Mr. Trump was trying to distract from his “dangerous” agenda by resorting “to lies, name-calling and confused rants.”

Mr. Trump also said that Democrats would be hosting a “rigged convention” next week because of Ms. Harris’s entry into the race after a primary season in which millions of voters cast their votes for President Biden. Mr. Biden dropped out of the race in July and endorsed the vice president, who moved quickly to unite delegates behind her.

Mr. Trump repeated his campaign promise to increase oil and gas production, and then attacked Ms. Harris for calling for a ban on hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, during her 2020 presidential campaign.

Ms. Harris’s campaign has said that she no longer supports such a ban. Pennsylvania, a large producer of natural gas, could see an economic benefit from increased fracking even as the process risks air and water pollution. And Mr. Trump’s calls to “drill, baby, drill” were particularly salient in Wilkes-Barre, in a region of northeast Pennsylvania that was historically defined by anthracite coal mining.

Mr. Trump also continued his effort to try to peel off American Jews, a substantial majority of whom are liberal, from the Democratic Party. He claimed that Pennsylvania’s Democratic governor, Josh Shapiro, was not chosen as Ms. Harris’s running mate because of his religion.

“They turned him down because he’s Jewish,” Mr. Trump said, adding, “I don’t think he’s a good person.”

As Ms. Harris was choosing her running mate, Mr. Shapiro faced a pressure campaign from activists who considered him too sympathetic to Israel. Mr. Shapiro has rejected the idea that his religious identity played into Ms. Harris’s decision.

Still, Mr. Trump, who during his presidency was accused of emboldening white supremacists, invoked the Holocaust as he warned of broad antisemitism in America and insisted, as he has before, that Jews who vote for Democrats “should have their head examined.”

Both Mr. Trump and Ms. Harris are particularly focused on Pennsylvania, a swing state with the potential to decide the election. Mr. Trump won the state by a slim margin in 2016, but he lost it to Mr. Biden in 2020.

Both campaigns are holding events in the state in the coming days. On Sunday, Ms. Harris and her running mate, Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, will embark on a bus tour of western Pennsylvania. On Monday, Mr. Trump and his running mate, Senator JD Vance of Ohio, will make separate campaign stops in York, Pa., and Philadelphia.

Heather Knight and Shawn Hubler

Reporting from San Francisco and Sacramento

Willie Brown to Donald Trump: Mention my name again and get sued.

Willie Brown, the former mayor of San Francisco, had a message for former President Donald J. Trump on Saturday afternoon: Keep my name out of your mouth or get sued.

He stood with his longtime lawyer, Joe Cotchett, on a sidewalk in downtown San Francisco, outside John’s Grill, the Saturday spot on Mr. Brown’s lunchtime rotation, and told reporters that he would sue Mr. Trump for slander and defamation if he repeated his concocted helicopter story one more time.

“He’s never brought a lawsuit in his life,” Mr. Cotchett said of Mr. Brown. “But you know who’s pushing him to it? A guy by the name of Trump.”

Mr. Trump and Mr. Brown have been verbally sparring since Mr. Trump falsely claimed at a news conference on Aug. 8 at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida that he had once nearly died in a helicopter ride with Mr. Brown .

Mr. Trump also said that Mr. Brown, who dated Vice President Kamala Harris in 1994 and 1995, said “terrible things” about Ms. Harris just before they almost plummeted to their deaths.

“He was not a fan of hers very much, at that point,” Mr. Trump said.

Mr. Brown promptly called the tale a lie — saying he had never ridden in a helicopter with Mr. Trump and had never told him disparaging things about Ms. Harris. In fact, he repeatedly told reporters that he respected her and desperately hoped that she would beat the man with whom he had never ridden in a helicopter.

Mr. Trump repeated his claims on his social media site, Truth Social, and threatened to sue The New York Times for reporting that the helicopter story was made up. “Now Willie Brown doesn’t remember?” Trump wrote.

That’s when Nate Holden, a former Los Angeles city councilman and state senator, said he had taken a rocky helicopter ride with Mr. Trump in 1990 and speculated that the former president might have confused him with Mr. Brown. Both California politicians are Black.

Mr. Trump has not spoken about the helicopter incident since Mr. Holden came forward. But Mr. Brown and Mr. Cotchett said they wanted to make sure that he stayed quiet.

Asked whether he wanted an apology from Mr. Trump, Mr. Brown said he would rather not hear from him at all.

“No, I don’t want his apology,” Mr. Brown said. “I don’t want him to mention my name.”

When asked to comment, a spokesman for Mr. Trump pointed to the former president’s threat to sue The Times but did not address what Mr. Brown said.

Mr. Holden on Saturday applauded Mr. Brown’s legal threat.

“If he’s propagating a lie, he should be held accountable,” Mr. Holden said of Mr. Trump in a telephone interview on Saturday from his home in Los Angeles. “I’m 95 years old, and Willie is 90, and he made the assumption we wouldn’t be here anymore, and nobody would challenge it. Well, we’re alive and well.”

Maggie Haberman contributed reporting.

Jazmine Ulloa

Reporting from La Vista, Neb.

Tim Walz plays up his Nebraska roots at a rally near Omaha.

Cinnamon rolls and chili. The Yale of the Midwest. A runza.

Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, back home in Nebraska on Saturday, delivered his usual appeals to joy and freedom, along with some jabs at former President Donald J. Trump and his running mate, Senator JD Vance of Ohio. But this time, he added a flex of his Nebraska roots and his knowledge of the state’s culture.

Mr. Walz spoke of growing up in the tiny village of Butte, graduating from Chadron State College — “the Yale of the Midwest,” he said to laughs — and serving in the state’s Army National Guard, in which he enlisted at 17. He was introduced by one of his former high school students in the state and had former Butte classmates in the audience.

“We have a slogan here — Nebraska, it is not for everyone,” he told a boisterous audience at a theater in La Vista, Neb., a suburb of Omaha. “Well, it certainly ain’t for Donald Trump, I’ll tell you that much.”

The stop in his home state offered Mr. Walz another chance to reach rural, working-class and moderate voters, as he and Vice President Kamala Harris cast themselves as fighters for the middle class.

Nebraska is one of two states (along with Maine) that award an electoral vote to the winner of each congressional district. A presidential candidate can lose the state and still earn electoral votes there.

Nebraska is solidly Republican, but its Second District, which encompasses Omaha and is known as Nebraska’s blue dot, is a swing region that voted for Barack Obama in 2008 and Joseph R. Biden Jr. in 2020. Mr. Biden won it with 56.4 percent of the vote .

In the spring, Nebraska Republicans, under pressure from Mr. Trump; the state’s governor, Jim Pillen; and conservative activists, renewed an effort to move to a “winner-take-all” system in presidential elections. State legislators overwhelmingly voted against the proposal.

“It is not just symbolic,” Pete Festersen, the president of the Omaha City Council, said of Mr. Walz’s stop in the state. “It shows they can compete through the Midwest and certainly for our electoral vote and that can make a difference this election.”

Mr. Vance is expected at a fund-raiser in Omaha this month.

In a statement, Steven Cheung, a spokesman for the Trump campaign, criticized Mr. Walz’s platform and record, saying that Mr. Walz and Ms. Harris had “nothing to offer the American people other than their radical, Communist ideas.”

Mr. Walz was born in West Point , a rural town of roughly 3,500 people northwest of Omaha, and spent much of his younger days in Butte and Valentine, Neb. His mother was a community activist and his father a public school administrator, and he became a high school teacher and coach in Nebraska after a year of teaching in China. He met his wife, Gwen, also a teacher, at the Nebraska school, and the two moved to her native Minnesota in 1996.

Onstage, Mr. Walz joked that Mr. Vance would probably call a runza — a bread pocket filled with beef, cabbage or sauerkraut, and a regional specialty — “a Hot Pocket.” He said his parents and the communities he grew up in taught him to “show generosity towards your neighbor,” to “work for the common good” and that chili and cinnamon rolls — a sweet and spicy favorite in Nebraska — is a good combination.

He pledged that a Harris administration would cut taxes — and “not for the billionaires” — lower the cost for rent and prescription drugs and work to give families relief from medical debt. He argued that it was the Harris-Walz campaign that embodied small-town values.

“As we are running on these values, let’s take them to the White House,” he said.

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Western Wonderland

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Wildlife Expedition

Many thanks for a great trip – eight states in eighteen days – wow! We certainly covered to distances but also saw the many things off the beaten track. I particularly enjoyed Zion, the Navajo evening, Dove Fort, Salt Lake City, Jackson Hole and Badlands, bit it was all great. I hope to have the opportunity to travel with you again someday. All the best.

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At Travel Dream West we offer you comfort in individual guided travel tours and pride ourselves in providing personalized service and memorable travel experiences. Twenty years of travel, research and exploration have resulted in these adventure tours – each a remarkable presentation of the best the West has to offer.

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Sierra Nevada Trails Exploring California’s backcountry, mountain lakes, high deserts and volcanoes including Lassen National Park – more….

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Ashland, Oregon – Day Tours Experience Crater Lake National Park or the beautiful Pacific Coast on a small group bus tour while visiting Ashland.

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21 Days / 20 Nights Departures: June, August, September

From the lights of Las Vegas to the grandest of canyons, then on to the lovely California coast this is one tour that captures the essence of the west! You’ve always wanted to see the “best of the west” and this whirlwind tour takes you to the heart of natural and cultural splendors. Revel in the silence as you watch the sunrise over the Grand Canyon then enjoy the quiet evenings in Moab, the gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Park. Head through the desert of Death Valley and reach the beautiful coast for a refreshing contrast to the desert parks.

Canyon Lands Grand Circle

15 Days / 14 Nights Departures: June, August, September

These outdoor adventure tours combine some of the west’s most magnificent scenery including the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Bryce Canyon, and Lake Powell. Let us show you what the big buses can’t- an adventure travel tour through the hidden valleys, the golden sunset over silent canyons, the natural beauty as you hike and drive through this unique geologic wonderland. Grand Circle travel for the individualist. Then excite your cultural senses in the city of Las Vegas.

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17 Days / 16 Nights Departures: July, October

Experience the beauty of Wild West landscapes, towns and natural wonders on these adventure travel tours.  From San Francisco to Yosemite National Park, through the ghost towns of Nevada to the Teton mountain range and Yellowstone National Park, this tour ventures into the heart of Nevada, Utah and Wyoming. Spend time hiking, watching for wildlife, and photographing the culturally rich region. Small towns like Jackson, Wyoming and Tonopah, Nevada provide an authentic representation of small town life.

Wildlife Expedition: 

Discover wildlife and the history of the Wild West touring some of the most beautiful National Parks including Yellowstone and Badlands while exploring  historical pioneer and Native American sites. This small group tour combines wildlife observations and visits to famous sites including Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Monument and the Black Hills in South Dakota. Get to know two beautiful capitol cities of the West: Denver, Colorado and Salt Lake City, Utah.

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15 Days / 14 Nights Departures: May, October

On our Arizona and New Mexico travel adventure you can expect a complete immersion into landscape and culture.  The Southwest’s outdoor adventure bus tour offers cactus forests, grand white sand dunes, petrified giant logs, volcanoes, and many unique and little known natural wonders.  But nature isn’t the only thing that this region offers.  Join this guided small group tour to explore the native cultures of the area, stroll the streets of artsy Santa Fe, and admire the setting of beautiful Sedona.

Pacific Northwest Explorer

15 Days / 14 Nights Departures: August, October

Participate at this unique outdoor adventure tour in the far west touching on some of the least known, most beautiful parts of this country. This tour combines Washington, northern California and Oregon travel. From the depths of Crater Lake to the expanses of golden sand beaches, from the Redwood tree giants to the Golden Gate Bridge you will be emerged in natural beauty. Little known, magnificent adventures await you on these escorted tours as you hike, explore and relax.

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14 Days / 13 Nights Departures: July, October

These Oregon Pacific Coast and volcanic Cascades tours offer a unique, personal view of the nature and culture found in Oregon.  From an Oregon coast tours portion which includes the famous Oregon Coast Aquarium and quaint coastal towns like Newport and Bandon with their attractive shopping and gallery areas to Crater Lake National Park featuring the deepest lake in North America, the natural beauty of the State prevails on these tours.

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14 Days / 13 Nights Departures: May, October

On these escorted small group tours you explore the highlights of “the Golden State”.  Whether you are interested in seeing the grand nature of Yosemite National Park, the vast expanse of Death Valley or the rugged coastline of Big Sur, the skyline of San Francisco or the less known, off-the-beaten path attractions that California offers, these escorted bus tours provide you with days of highlights explored in depth the small group adventure travel way!

Desert Springs:

2 tours that can be combined, each 7 Days / 6 Nights long Departures: Custom Tour for 2++

This springtime tour of California is timed with the blooming deserts, a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.  The harsh deserts of Mojave, Death Valley, and Joshua Tree National Park are transformed into brilliant fields of flowers, particularly after heavy winter rains.  Hikes and off-the-beaten-path drives will take us into the heart of these desert landscapes.  This trip offers more than desert- with stops at imposing Mt. Whitney, destination Las Vegas and Los Angeles, and a relaxing day in the lush Kern River Valley.

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Harris and Walz make small town stops in western Pennsylvania bus tour ahead of DNC

The democratic national convention is set to begin in chicago on monday., by darlene superville and michelle l. price | associated press • published august 18, 2024 • updated on august 18, 2024 at 7:04 pm.

Democratic presidential nominee  Kamala Harris  and running mate Tim Walz gave pep talks to campaign volunteers and a high school football team Sunday, with their bus tour in a corner of Pennsylvania serving as a modest, small-town version of the grand rally she's expected to have at the Democratic nominating convention in Chicago this week.

Vice President Harris and Walz, the governor of Minnesota, were joined by their spouses, Doug Emhoff and Gwen Walz, as they toured in a blue bus. They stopped off to visit volunteers at a campaign office not far from Pittsburgh before continuing on to a firehouse and a high school in another town, along with a pilgrimage to a Sheetz convenience store, part of a storied Pennsylvania chain.

Throughout their stops, Harris and her running mate shied away from policy or much politics, instead sticking to broad-strokes messages focused on character, perseverance and the future of the country.

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Harris, while speaking to a group of supporters and volunteers outside the campaign office in the borough of Rochester, spoke about strength and leadership. She appeared to make a veiled reference to former President Donald Trump , the Republican presidential nominee, who is known for his pugilistic style and projection of a strongman image, when she said the “real and true measure of a strength of a leader is based on who you lift up,” rather than who they beat down.

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“Anybody who is about beating down other people is a coward,” she yelled, drawing cheers and applause. “This is what strength looks like.”

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Walz in his remarks seemed to assume the role of his former job coaching high school football and told the volunteers: “Let’s leave it all on the field. Let’s get this thing done.”

Rochester is in in Beaver County, which Trump won in 2020. But the Democrats are riding on renewed enthusiasm after President Joe Biden  dropped his reelection bid exactly four weeks ago and endorsed Harris to replace him on the ticket.

As Harris' motorcade left the town, it rolled by a group of about 50 Trump supporters waiting near the road with signs of support for the former president. A handful of Harris supporters were standing nearby with their own signs.

The vice president next stopped at a firehouse in Aliquippa, where she met firefighters, petted the station's dog and gave the crew almond pastries, before heading to a nearby high school, where they met with the local football coach and addressed the team, who kneeled on the field to listen.

Walz again slipped into coach mode, reminiscing a bit about his days leading a team and the sport's character before introducing Harris. She praised the young athletes for their leadership: “Our nation is counting on you and your excellence. We applaud your ambition.

She also told them, “Welcome to the role model club.”

Southwestern Pennsylvania is a critical part of a key battleground state that has long commanded the attention of presidential candidates. The state voted for Trump in 2016 and for Biden in 2020. Both Harris and Trump are vying to see who can put Pennsylvania in their column on Nov. 5.

Most polls, including from the New York Times/Siena College and Fox News, find Harris and Trump locked in a tight race statewide.

Trump held a rally Saturday in Wilkes-Barre in the northeastern part of the state, following his earlier rallies in July in Harrisburg and Butler, where he survived an assassination attempt .

The bus tour marks Harris' eighth trip to Pennsylvania this year, and her second this month. The vice president chose to make her first joint appearance with Walz on the ticket in Philadelphia on Aug. 6.

On Sunday, they arrived with their spouses earlier at Pittsburgh International Airport and greeted supporters. The foursome held hands and raised their arms together in front of cheering supporters and then boarded a bright blue bus that says “Harris Walz” in big white letters as they set off to make stops in the Pittsburgh area to glad-hand with voters.

At a stop in the township of Moon, Harris popped into a Sheetz to seek out Doritos, her go-to snack.

In Rochester, Harris, Walz and their spouses spent a few minutes sitting at tables with volunteers and making phone calls to line up support.

Harris took a cellphone from a volunteer and spoke to the person on the other end.

“I love Erie. At some point we’ll get to Erie,” Harris said.

She continued the conversation at at one point said, “79 days to go."

Walz, sitting across the table from Harris, hung up from a call and said of the caller, “He’s all in,” and gave a thumbs up.

Kristin Kanthak, associate professor of political science at the University of Pittsburgh, said Pennsylvania “is a state that traditionally has been super important, but southwestern Pennsylvania has been really kind of the battleground part of the battleground state.”

After Trump’s surprise win in the state in 2016, Biden flipped Pennsylvania in 2020 — and, in so doing, won the White House — in part by running up his vote totals in heavily Democratic Pittsburgh, the state’s second-largest city and the county seat of Allegheny County.

Biden assiduously courted the area’s blue-collar labor unions, kicking off his 2020 presidential campaign at a Teamsters hall in Pittsburgh by declaring, “I am a union man.”

Trump, who is counting on strong turnout from his base of white, working-class voters, is not conceding the area. The counties around Pittsburgh have shifted from Democrat to Republican in recent presidential contests, delivering for Trump in both of his earlier runs.

Trump has also embraced protectionist trade policies and insists he is pro-worker. His vow to increase U.S. energy production and “drill, baby, drill” has resonated in southwestern Pennsylvania blue-collar counties like Washington, where a natural gas drilling boom has helped make Pennsylvania the nation’s No. 2 producer after Texas . Harris once wanted to ban fracking, an oil and gas extraction process, before recently disavowing her earlier position — a reversal Trump has hammered her for.

Dana Brown, director of Chatham University's Pennsylvania Center for Women & Politics, said in an interview that Harris will use the bus trip to spin up local media coverage as well as reach out to voters in the state's southwestern region “while she still has a great deal of momentum at her back."

Bus tours have become a staple of political campaigns partly because of the free media coverage they generate. Such trips get the candidates out of their power suits and out of Washington so they can travel the country and score face time with voters in small venues like diners and mom-and-pop shops.

The low-key venues of Harris' campaign on Sunday will be replaced with their polar opposite Monday when the Democratic National Convention opens , offering a prime-time showcase of the Democratic ticket that director Steven Spielberg is helping to choreograph.

Price reported from New York. Associated Press writers Michael Rubinkam in northeastern Pennsylvania and Linley Sanders in Washington contributed to this report.

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Kamala Harris, Tim Walz rally supporters at a series of visits in Allegheny, Beaver counties

Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, made a series of campaign stops Sunday in Western Pennsylvania, weaving her way through Beaver and Allegheny counties in an effort to build momentum ahead of the Democratic National Convention.

Harris visited six locations, speaking with liberal supporters, high school football players, service workers and diners on a tour focused on inspiring her base, while also exuding joy about the future America.

The sitting vice president visited Rochester and Aliquippa in Beaver County, giving speeches focused on hope and promise, and decrying efforts to divide the country.

Harris spoke to the Aliquippa High School football team, last year’s state champs, and said she was counting on them to continue to excel.

“Our nation is counting on your excellence,” she said. “And we want to give you every opportunity to succeed.”

The 6-hour visit was heavy on Western Pennsylvania icons, including getting an assist from Steelers legend Jerome “The Bus” Bettis, who introduced the campaign at Aliquippa High School. Harris and Walz also made quick stops at Western Pennsylvania staples Sheetz and Primanti Bros.

Harris also took questions from the press after a stop at a Primanti Bros. restaurant in Moon, where she answered questions about her campaign and the Israel-Hamas War.

“I very much consider us the underdog,” she said of her campaign. “We have a lot of work to do to earn the vote of the American people. That’s why we’re on this bus tour today and we’re going to be traveling the country as we’ve been and talking with folks and listening to folks and hopefully earning their vote.”

Harris spoke to dozens of Beaver County supporters in Rochester for about five minutes. She spoke about the campaign’s policies of backing LGBTQ rights, ending child poverty and “fighting for the middle class.” The speech was meant to fire up local Democrats.

Kamala Harris took a few questions from the press outside of Primanti Bros. in Moon. She was asked about her campaign in Pennsylvania, a ceasefire deal in Gaza, and other topics. Will post second half of video in thread pic.twitter.com/ILZygNfbBw — Ryan Deto (@RyanDeto) August 18, 2024

“The strength of a leader is not about who you beat down, but who you lift up,” Harris said.

Dozens of supporters were waiting outside of the Democratic headquarters in Rochester, hoping to catch a glimpse of Harris, Walz and their spouses. Rochester also attracted a small group of Trump supporters, who jeered at the bus tour as it drove by.

Walz said the energy of the campaign is electric, citing recent large rallies held across the country.

He said Harris is bringing out “the joy in the hearts of Americans.”

Walz, a former high school football coach, said there is still plenty of work left for the campaign, and there will be no rest until after the election in November.

“Coming into football country, and as a football coach, you don’t hope to win, you plan to win,” he said to the cheering crowd.

After the speeches at Rochester, the campaign began what was expected to be a series of brief visits with a stop at a fire station in Aliquippa.

Vice President Kamala Harris says hello go to Hank the dog of the Aliquippa Fire Department. Harris gifted the fire department with a burnt almond torte from Prantl’s. pic.twitter.com/lD4zS9iWSG — Ryan Deto (@RyanDeto) August 18, 2024

The Harris plane landed in Pittsburgh at about 1:15 p.m. and the bus tour got underway about 1:45 p.m. Harris and Walz briefly greeted some of the people in the crowd at the airport before the tour moved out.

Jerome Bettis, legendary Pittsburgh Steeler “the Bus” is here with Bob Casey. He is here as part of Harris- Walz bus tour pic.twitter.com/tBVPzT5hPz — Ryan Deto (@RyanDeto) August 18, 2024

One of the invited supporters at the airport, 62-year-old Jennifer Robbins of Ross, said she was thrilled by the level of excitement inside the Wright Bros. Aero hangar in Moon.

“It feels like we are at a concert,” Robbins said as music blared from speakers and supporters streamed in.

A local Democratic committeewoman, she said she is backing the Harris-Walz ticket because of its support for abortion access in the wake of Roe v. Wade being overturned.

Jennifer Robbins and Rosie Rabish from the North Hills are here as crowd now swells to over 100. Robbins said the energy is like a concert, and it is growing. They said they are pumped to see Harris and Walz pic.twitter.com/CLGcSsDkdS — Ryan Deto (@RyanDeto) August 18, 2024

Derek Haeussler, 20, of Pittsburgh’s South Side Slopes, said he woke up at 6 a.m., left shortly after that and then waited outside the hangar for over an hour to get a front row spot.

“I can’t even describe the energy,” he said. “Harris and Walz know how important Western Pennsylvania is.”

Derek Haeussler, 20 of Pittsburgh's South Side Slopes, said the energy inside the hangar is "unreal." He woke up a 6 a.m. and waited for over an hour to get a front-row spot in the hangar for the Harris-Walz in Pittsburgh. pic.twitter.com/bO5cyBgJ7n — Ryan Deto (@RyanDeto) August 18, 2024

Emily Best, 40, traveled from Brussels, Belgium, to attend the event with her mother, Ellen Garbury, 69, who lives in Butler.

“It feels so festive. Everybody I have talked to is fired up,” Best said.

Emily Best, a Butler native, travelled home all the way from Brussels, Belgium to attend the invited Harris-Walz event outside of the Pittsburgh airport. She is with her mom Ellen. “It feels so festive” said Best. pic.twitter.com/Kd76ZNBung — Ryan Deto (@RyanDeto) August 18, 2024

In a statement released Sunday morning, the campaign advisors for former President Donald Trump said he and running mate Sen. J.D. Vance will be meeting with Americans in contested states.

“At the DNC, Kamala Harris will hide behind celebrities because everyday families know that she has been an absolute disaster for our nation, and real Americans are worse off now than four years ago,” the statement said. “President Trump and Senator Vance will remind voters that under their leadership, we can end inflation, protect our communities from violent criminals, secure the border, and Make America Great Again.”

Following the campaign stops Sunday in Western Pennsylvania, Harris and Walz will fly to Chicago for the Democratic National Convention, which gets underway Monday.

As for the Western Pennsylvania stops on Sunday, Allegheny County has remained a solid base for Democrats over the decades, while Beaver County has fallen out of their grasp in the past several presidential elections. Even so, towns along the Ohio and Beaver rivers have remained pockets of blue politically in what has increasing become hostile territory for Democrats.

Maintaining votes in these industrial and largely white, working-class areas remain vital to Democratic candidates in Pennsylvania, a crucial swing state with 19 electoral votes up for grabs.

The bus tour was expected to focus on meeting voters in community settings such as retail locations. The campaign did not publicly release a schedule of the planned stops.

Ryan Deto is a TribLive reporter covering politics, Pittsburgh and Allegheny County news. A native of California’s Bay Area, he joined the Trib in 2022 after spending more than six years covering Pittsburgh at the Pittsburgh City Paper, including serving as managing editor. He can be reached at [email protected] .

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Sunbury, PA (17801)

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 48F. Winds light and variable..

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 48F. Winds light and variable.

Updated: August 20, 2024 @ 8:18 pm

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Kamala Harris stands with the First Gentleman Doug Emhoff and Gwen Walz during Sunday’s event.

• Pete Sirianni/New Castle News

Kamala Harris supporters cheer during a Sunday event at the Pittsburgh International Airport.

• PETE SIRIANNI{&pipe}NEWS

Vice President Kamala Harris waves to a crowd of supporters Sunday at the Pittsburgh International Airport.

Minnesota Gov. and vice presidential nominee Tim Walz greets a supporter Sunday at the Pittsburgh International Airport before embarking on a bus tour of the region.

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey greets Vice President Kamala Harris on Sunday at the Pittsburgh International Airport.

A Kamala Harris supporter holds a sign during a Sunday event.

• PETE SIRIANNI | NEWS

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris claps alongside second gentleman Doug Emhoff as they greet supporters at Pittsburgh International Airport, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Julia Nikhinson)

• Julia Nikhinson

Democratic presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris, left, Democratic vice presidential nominee Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, right, and his wife Gwen Walz arrive at Pittsburgh International Airport, Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024, in Pittsburgh, (AP Photo/Julia Nikhinson)

MOON TOWNSHIP — Kamala Harris' presidential bid placed western Pennsylvania back in the spotlight, launching a bus tour Sunday in her first visit to the region since becoming the presumptive Democratic nominee four weeks ago. 

Harris, Walz bus tour kicks off DNC week with western Pa. swing

• By Pete Sirianni New Castle News
• Aug 18, 2024
• Aug 18, 2024 Updated Aug 19, 2024

MOON TOWNSHIP — Kamala Harris’ presidential bid placed western Pennsylvania back in the spotlight, launching a bus tour Sunday in her first visit to the region since becoming the presumptive Democratic nominee four weeks ago.

Harris and running mate Tim Walz, the Minnesota governor, flew into Pittsburgh International Airport with their spouses as a few hundred invited guests and news media awaited in a hangar. There, the vice president and Walz stopped for selfies before taking off in a campaign bus headed for Rochester, Beaver County, where the two gave remarks.

“We’re back and we’re going to keep coming back,” Harris said outside a Rochester field office. Harris announced Walz as her running mate in a rally in Philadelphia earlier this month.

Appearing in Pennsylvania a day after Republican candidate former President Donald Trump held a rally on the other side of the state in Wilkes-Barre, Harris reiterated her campaign’s goal of building community and defending democracy.

“This campaign is about a recognition that, frankly, over the last several years there has been this kind of perversion that has taken place, I think, which is to suggest that the measure of the strength of a leader is based on who you beat down, when what we know the real and true measure of the strength of a leader is who you lift up,” she said during her roughly six minutes of remarks. “That’s what we see as strength. We know what strength looks like. Anybody who is about beating down other people is a coward.”

Walz, speaking before Harris, said the campaign is about giving people “the opportunity to see the best side of America.”

Harris nor Walz gave remarks at the airport, where the campaign continued to take a page from Trump’s playbook by hosting rallies in the shadow of a jetliner — in her case, Air Force Two. She was greeted at the hangar Sunday by U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, western Pennsylvania Reps. Chris Deluzio and Summer Lee and Steelers Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis.

Loretta Spielvogel, a former Lawrence County commissioner and now the county prison’s deputy warden, attended Sunday’s bus tour kickoff with her two daughters. She said the energy was up for the campaign, which is something she didn’t feel with President Joe Biden — especially after his June 28 debate performance.

“Biden has been a great steward for us and has done many, many good things,” Spielvogel said. “We need to carry it forward. However, I really think that the debate made me pause and wonder if he was going to be the right candidate to win in November.”

She said Harris’ fundraising totals are a testament to what can be done in a short period of time. She said with Walz as a running mate, the momentum is there to win in November.

Western Pennsylvania, anchored by Allegheny County, is a former stronghold of Democrats in the Rust Belt. Trump won the state in 2016 by some 44,000 votes, in part by tapping into working-class voters in the region. Trump lost in 2020 by 81,000 votes to Biden, who announced four weeks ago Sunday he would not seek another term and endorsed Harris.

Harris and Walz were due to fly from Pittsburgh to Chicago for the start of this week’s Democratic National Convention when she will become just the second female to lead a major-party presidential ticket.

Harris leads Trump by slim margins in Pennsylvania, according to a New York Times/Siena poll last week.

“They say that if you win Pennsylvania, you’re going to win the whole thing,” Trump said during Saturday’s rally.

Trump was due back in York today for a speech. His vice presidential candidate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, spoke Thursday morning at a Westmoreland County VFW.

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Harris and walz take bus tour in southwestern pennsylvania on last day of campaigning before dnc.

WASHINGTON — Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris and running mate Tim Walz embarked on a bus tour in southwestern Pennsylvania on Sunday, hoping to ride a wave of enthusiasm for her candidacy to their party’s nominating convention in Chicago this week.

Vice President Harris and Walz, the governor of Minnesota, were joined by their spouses, Doug Emhoff and Gwen Walz, as they made their first stop visiting local volunteers making phone calls at a campaign office in the borough of Rochester, in Beaver County, which Donald Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, won in 2020.

The stop came exactly four weeks after President Joe Biden dropped his reelection bid and endorsed Harris to replace him on the ticket.

Harris and Walz sat down at tables and made a few calls, as did their spouses.

“79 days to go, Hannah,” Harris said while on the phone.

At another point while making calls, she said, “We’re all in this together.”

Walz hung up his phone and said of the caller, “He’s all in,” and gave a thumbs up. He made another call and asked the person on the line, “How are you feeling? What are you hearing from folks?”

Southwestern Pennsylvania is a critical part of a key battleground state that has long commanded the attention of presidential candidates.

The state voted for Trump in 2016 and for Biden in 2020. Both Harris and Trump are vying to see who can put Pennsylvania in their column on Nov. 5.

Most polls, including the  New York Times/Siena College poll  and  Fox News , find Harris and Trump locked in a tight race statewide.

Trump held a rally Saturday in Wilkes-Barre  in the northeastern part of the state, following his earlier rallies in July in Harrisburg and Butler, where he survived an assassination attempt.

The bus tour marks Harris’ eighth trip to Pennsylvania this year, and her second this month.

The vice president’s Aug. 6 announcement that Walz would be her running mate came hours before their first joint appearance as a ticket later that day in Philadelphia .

They arrived with their spouses earlier Sunday at Pittsburgh International Airport and greeted supporters.

The foursome held hands and raised their arms together before cheering supporters who held campaign signs.

They then boarded a bright blue bus that says “Harris Walz” in big white letters as they set off to make stops in the Pittsburgh area to glad-hand with voters.

“This is a state that traditionally has been super important, but southwestern Pennsylvania has been really kind of the battleground part of the battleground state,” said Kristin Kanthak, associate professor of political science at the University of Pittsburgh.

Allegheny County, which includes Pittsburgh, is a diverse county with urban, suburban and rural areas, and a lot of people who haven’t decided how they will vote, she said.

“It makes sense to come here and ask for votes because there are votes up for grabs here,” Kanthak said of Harris. “It’s not just about turning out your base. It’s about having an opportunity to speak to truly undecided voters.”

In the 2020 race, Biden won Allegheny County with 60% of the vote, while Trump won neighboring Beaver County, which includes Rochester, with about 58% of the vote.

After Trump’s surprise win in the state in 2016, Biden flipped Pennsylvania in 2020 — and, in so doing, won the White House — in part by running up his vote totals in heavily Democratic Pittsburgh, the state’s second-largest city and the county seat of Allegheny County.

Biden assiduously courted the area’s blue-collar labor unions, kicking off his 2020 presidential campaign at a Teamsters hall in Pittsburgh by declaring, “I am a union man.”

As president, he opposed the acquisition of Pittsburgh’s storied US Steel by a Japanese company, saying it “should remain totally American,” and enacted steeper tariffs on Chinese steel.

Trump, who is counting on strong turnout from his base of white, working-class voters, is not conceding the area.

The counties around Pittsburgh have shifted from Democrat to Republican in recent presidential contests, delivering for Trump in both of his earlier runs.

Trump has also embraced protectionist trade policies and insists he is pro-worker. His vow to increase US energy production and “drill, baby, drill” has resonated in southwestern Pennsylvania blue-collar counties like Washington, where a natural gas drilling boom has helped make Pennsylvania the nation’s No. 2 producer after Texas.

Harris once wanted to ban fracking , an oil and gas extraction process, before recently disavowing her earlier position.

Dana Brown, director of Chatham University’s Pennsylvania Center for Women & Politics, said in an interview that Harris will use the bus trip to reach out to voters in the state’s southwestern region “while she still has a great deal of momentum at her back” and spin up local media coverage.

“She is going to garner a lot of that free media attention,” Brown said. “I believe their hope, right, is to keep that momentum up and focused on her and less so on her opponent.”

Bus tours have become a staple of political campaigns partly because of the free media coverage they generate.

Such trips get the candidates out of their power suits and out of Washington so they can travel the country and score face time with voters in small venues like diners and mom-and-pop shops.

Biden rolled across Iowa on an eight-day bus tour he dubbed “No Malarkey” in December 2019.

During his 2012 reelection campaign, President Barack Obama traveled though small-town Ohio on his “Betting on America” bus tour.

“It’s always fun just being out of Washington, and for me to be able to interact with folks is wonderful,” Obama said at one stop.

Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton also traveled by bus when they campaigned for a second term.

The Democratic National Convention opens Monday.

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Harris, Walz swing through Pennsylvania ahead of DNC

A day before the Democratic National Convention, Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, along with their spouses, made several stops on a bus tour in western Pennsylvania. Harris holds a narrow lead over former president Donald Trump in the presidential election, according to a Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll released Sunday. That’s a notable improvement for Democrats in a contest that showed President Joe Biden and Trump in a dead heat a little more than a month ago. On Saturday, Trump held a rally in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., where he continued to employ insults against Harris.

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Tomsk - Discovering Russia

Travel and respect, explore and smile, be curious and kind. have wild trips, travelling to tomsk.

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Tomsk, a pretty good destination in Russia (all info about the whole country here) . We will answer the most important questions: what to visit , when to go , how to get to Tomsk and what means of transport to use to get around . We will describe typical foods , the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation . We will list also the places to see around Tomsk , and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here. So, if you are travelling through Russia, here's everything to know about Tomsk for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Tomsk

What to visit in Tomsk

Here are some popular tourist attractions in Tomsk, Russia: 1. Tomsk State University - One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Russia, Tomsk State University is a landmark and symbol of the city's intellectual heritage. 2. Tomsk Regional Museum of Local Lore - This museum showcases exhibits related to the history and culture of Tomsk and the surrounding region. You can learn about the city's development as a Siberian outpost, see displays of traditional handicrafts, and explore the flora and fauna of Siberia. 3. Tomsk Wooden Architecture Tour - Tomsk is known for its unique wooden architecture, which features intricate carvings and colorful decorations. Take a walking tour of the city's historic neighborhoods to see some of the best examples of this style of architecture. 4. Trud Stadium - Home to the local football team FC Tom, Trud Stadium is a popular destination for sports enthusiasts. 5. The Tomsk State Art Museum - This museum showcases a wide range of Russian art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Some of the highlights include works by local artists from the 18th century to the present day as well as works by famous artists such as Aivazovsky and Repin. 6. The Tomsk Regional Puppet Theatre - Founded in 1934, the Tomsk Regional Puppet Theatre is one of the oldest puppet theaters in Russia. The theater's performances are known for their innovative use of puppets and lighting, and they offer entertainment for children and adults alike. 7. Lenin Square - Located in the heart of Tomsk, Lenin Square is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists. The square features a statue of Vladimir Lenin, as well as beautiful gardens and fountains. 8. The Tomsk Sports Palace - This large indoor stadium hosts a variety of sporting events, concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year. 9. The Tomsk Planetarium - The Tomsk Planetarium offers visitors a chance to explore the wonders of the universe through interactive exhibits and multimedia displays. The planetarium is a popular destination for families and children. 10. The Tomsk Botanical Garden - This beautiful garden is home to a wide variety of plants from around the world. It features several greenhouses, a Japanese garden, and a collection of Siberian flora. Visitors can also take part in guided tours and learn about the garden's history and conservation efforts. In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Russia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip. You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Tomsk .

When to go on holiday to Tomsk

The best time to visit Tomsk is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and pleasant with temperatures averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F). This is the peak tourist season in Tomsk, with many cultural festivals, outdoor activities and sightseeing opportunities available. However, if you want to experience winter activities like skiing, sledding and ice fishing, you can plan your trip from November to March, when the temperatures drop to around -20°C (-4°F) and the snow starts falling. Keep in mind that some attractions may be closed during the winter months because of the harsh weather conditions. Overall, it depends on your personal preferences and what activities you want to do during your trip to Tomsk. You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday !

How to get to Tomsk

There are a few options to get to Tomsk, Russia: 1. By plane: Tomsk has an airport called Bogashevo Airport (TOF) with regular flights from Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk, and other major cities in Russia. You can also find international connections to Tomsk from countries such as Kazakhstan. 2. By train: Tomsk has a train station with connections to major cities in Russia, such as Moscow, Novosibirsk, and Krasnoyarsk. The journey can take up to two days, depending on the point of departure. 3. By bus: There are also long-distance buses that connect Tomsk to other cities in Russia, including Moscow, Krasnoyarsk, and Novosibirsk. 4. By car: If you have access to a car, you can also drive to Tomsk. However, keep in mind that the journey can be long and challenging, especially during the winter months. Regardless of the transportation option you choose, make sure to check the schedules and ticket prices in advance, especially during peak travel periods. To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner . To hire a car to visit Tomsk, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Tomsk

Here are some typical foods of Tomsk, Russia with short descriptions for each of them: 1. Siberian pelmeni - small meat-filled dumplings that are boiled and served with sour cream or butter. 2. Tomskiy salad - a type of Russian potato salad that features potatoes, eggs, carrots, and peas with a dressing of mayonnaise. 3. Kvass - a fermented beverage made from rye bread that has a slightly sour taste. 4. Shangi - a type of thin, flaky pastry that is often filled with sweet or savory fillings such as cheese, mushrooms or spinach. 5. Omul - a type of fish native to the Siberian region that is typically smoked or grilled. 6. Chak-chak - a sweet dessert that is made by frying small pieces of dough and then soaking them in honey or sugar syrup. 7. Tyurya - a hearty stew made with meat, potatoes, onions, and other vegetables that is often served with a side of bread. 8. Sushki - small, crunchy bread rings that are often served as a snack with tea or coffee. 9. Solonina - a type of cured meat similar to salt pork, but made from the fatty bits of pork or beef. 10. Pirozhki - small, savory pastries that are usually filled with meat, vegetables or cheese and baked until golden brown. You can find general info about typical foods in Russia here .

Is Tomsk an expensive destination for tourists?

Tomsk, Russia can be considered a relatively affordable travel destination, especially compared to some of the more expensive cities in the world. However, the cost of your trip will still depend on factors such as your travel preferences, accommodation choices, and activities you plan on doing. Generally speaking, on a budget, travelers can expect to spend around 2,000 to 3,000 rubles per day on food, 500 rubles per night for budget accommodation, and about 1,500 to 2,000 rubles per activity. It is always recommended to plan and research ahead of time to ensure you have a budget that fits your needs and expectations.

Where to find accomodation in Tomsk

Is tomsk a safe destination for tourists.

Tomsk, Russia is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any city, it is always important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind: - Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night. - Keep your belongings close to you and be cautious in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing. - Avoid drinking alcohol excessively, as it can increase the risk of being a victim of crime or accidents. - Make sure to carry a copy of your passport, visa, and other important documents with you at all times, and keep the originals in a secure place. - If you are in need of help, don't hesitate to reach out to police officers or other authorities. Overall, Tomsk is a friendly, welcoming city with many great sights and attractions to offer, so enjoy your trip! You can find general info about safety for tourists in Russia here . Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Tomsk.

What type of travelers will enjoy Tomsk the most?

Tomsk is a beautiful city that caters to different needs and interests of travelers. Some types of travelers who will enjoy the most in Tomsk include: 1. History and architecture enthusiasts - Tomsk is home to numerous historical buildings and architecture, such as the wooden houses, cathedrals, and museums that showcase the city's rich history. 2. Cultural travelers - Tomsk hosts numerous cultural events like festivals, exhibitions, and art performances throughout the year, making it a perfect place for any traveler wishing to experience the local culture. 3. Nature lovers - Tomsk is surrounded by forests, rivers, lakes, and parks that offer outdoor recreational activities like hiking, biking, skiing, and snowboarding, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers. 4. Young people looking for fun - Tomsk is home to several bars, clubs, and entertainment centers that attract young people who enjoy dancing, live music, and nightlife. Overall, Tomsk is an excellent destination for any type of traveler be it couples, young people looking for fun, families as it offers a diverse range of activities and attractions that cater to all interests.

How to get around Tomsk

Tomsk has various transportation options to move around the city. The most common ones are buses, trams, trolleybuses, and taxis. The city also has a well-developed network of mini-buses, locally known as marshrutkas, which cover almost every corner of the city. Additionally, there are bicycle rental services available for tourists or locals who prefer cycling as a mode of transportation. Walking is an option too, especially in the city center, where many sights and attractions are located close to each other.

What to see around Tomsk

Sure, here are some suggestions for nice day trips from Tomsk: 1. Tomskiy Lis (Tomsk Forest): This nature reserve is just outside the city and offers beautiful hikes and breathtaking views of the forest. 2. Tobolsk: Known as the "Pearl of Siberia," this historic town about 3 hours from Tomsk offers stunning architecture, including the Tobolsk Kremlin and the St. Sophia Cathedral. 3. Novosibirsk: As the third-largest city in Russia, Novosibirsk has much to offer. Explore the State Art Museum, visit the Zoo, or stroll along the Ob River. 4. Kemerovo: This city is famous for its coal mining history and the Kemerovo Regional Museum of Local Lore is a great place to learn about the area. 5. Abalak: This ancient Siberian village is home to the Abalak Monastery and is famous for its traditional handicrafts and cultural events. 6. Sheregesh: If you're visiting in winter, you might like to hit the slopes in the Sheregesh ski resort, located about 5 hours from Tomsk. 7. Lake Bolshoye Inyune: This beautiful lake situated in a natural reserve is known for its crystal clear waters and stunning views. It's about a 3-hour drive from Tomsk. I hope this helps! For every travel information about Russia you can click here . Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you! Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips .

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Here you can find a list of destinations in Russia , each with a link to the page with detailed description about what to see and what to do: Moscow: what to see and do Saint Petersburg: what to see and do Sochi: what to see and do Kazan: what to see and do Ekaterinburg: what to see and do Vladivostok: what to see and do Kaliningrad: what to see and do Murmansk: what to see and do Krasnodar: what to see and do Irkutsk: what to see and do Rostov sul Don: what to see and do Nizhny Novgorod: what to see and do Veliky Novgorod: what to see and do Samara: what to see and do Krasnoyarsk: what to see and do Voronezh: what to see and do Ufa: what to see and do Sochi: what to see and do Omsk: what to see and do Perm: what to see and do Saratov: what to see and do Tver: what to see and do Vladikavkaz: what to see and do Stavropol: what to see and do Tula: what to see and do Chelyabinsk: what to see and do Volgograd: what to see and do Petrozavodsk: what to see and do Yaroslavl: what to see and do Kemerovo: what to see and do Tomsk: what to see and do Novosibirsk: what to see and do Kirov: what to see and do Barnaul: what to see and do Ulan-Ude: what to see and do Nizhny Tagil: what to see and do Magnitogorsk: what to see and do Kostroma: what to see and do Ryazan: what to see and do Syktyvkar: what to see and do Voronezh: what to see and do Yaroslavl: what to see and do Astrakhan: what to see and do Kaluga: what to see and do Orenburg: what to see and do Smolensk: what to see and do Saransk: what to see and do Tambov: what to see and do Tver: what to see and do Petrozavodsk: what to see and do Novorossiysk: what to see and do

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