Arlington Heights is a fantastic starting point for unforgettable group travel. With its proximity to Chicago and its surrounding areas, this charming Chicago suburb is ideal for exploring scenic spots, cultural hubs, and exciting destinations both nearby and across state borders. Whether you’re planning a school trip, corporate outing, or group getaway, a charter bus rental can make your journey smooth, comfortable, and stress-free. Here’s a curated guide to some of the must-visit locations you can explore with an Arlington Heights charter bus rental.

Local Adventures Around Arlington Heights

1. Chicago, IL (25 miles from Arlington Heights)

No trip is complete without a visit to the Windy City! Your group can explore iconic sights such as:

• Millennium Park – Snap photos at the famous Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”).
• The Art Institute of Chicago – Admire masterpieces from world-renowned artists.
• Navy Pier – Enjoy breathtaking lakefront views and entertainment options.
• Architectural River Cruise – Learn about Chicago’s rich architectural history from the water.

A charter bus makes it easy to hop between neighborhoods—whether you’re heading to vibrant Chinatown, trendy Wicker Park, or family-friendly Lincoln Park Zoo.

2. Ravinia Festival, Highland Park, IL (15 miles)

Attend the nation’s oldest outdoor music festival with your group at Ravinia. This seasonal destination offers live music performances from world-class musicians in a picturesque setting. Pack a picnic, book your charter bus, and enjoy a day of music under the stars.

3. Six Flags Great America, Gurnee, IL (30 miles)

Thrill-seekers will love a trip to this popular amusement park. From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to family-friendly attractions and water rides, Six Flags Great America offers something for everyone. A charter bus ensures your group arrives together and avoids parking hassles.

Day Trips, as well as Destinations Beyond Illinois

4. Lake Geneva, WI (50 miles)

Escape to the picturesque lake town of Lake Geneva for boating, shopping, and relaxation. Take a guided boat tour, stroll along the Geneva Lake Shore Path, or enjoy the quaint boutiques and restaurants in town. A charter bus makes this scenic getaway an effortless experience.

5. Milwaukee, WI (80 miles)

Just a short ride north, Milwaukee offers a mix of culture, history, and great food. Popular highlights include:

• Milwaukee Art Museum – Known for its striking architecture and impressive collections.
• Harley-Davidson Museum – A must-see for motorcycle enthusiasts.
• Historic Third Ward – Explore trendy shops, art galleries, and craft breweries.

With your group riding in comfortable seats, your trip to Milwaukee will be as enjoyable as the destination itself.

6. Starved Rock State Park, Utica, IL (100 miles)

Nature lovers will adore exploring Starved Rock’s trails, waterfalls, and canyons. This state park offers a refreshing escape from city life and is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and group bonding. A charter bus ensures your group and gear are safely transported to this serene destination.

Weekend Getaways Beyond State Borders

7. Indianapolis, IN (200 miles)

Venture into Indiana’s vibrant capital city for an exciting weekend getaway. Highlights include:

• Indianapolis Motor Speedway – Visit the iconic racetrack loved by motorsport fans.
• The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis – Perfect for families and school groups.
• Canal Walk – A scenic spot for a relaxing stroll or pedal boat ride.

A charter bus rental makes the 3.5-hour trip much more comfortable, especially for larger groups.

8. Wisconsin Dells, WI (190 miles)

Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” Wisconsin Dells is the perfect destination for family and school trips. From indoor and outdoor waterparks to scenic boat tours and delicious supper clubs, there’s so much to do. With charter bus transportation, your group can enjoy the ride just as much as the destination!

9. St. Louis, MO (300 miles)

Take on the Gateway City for a weekend of fun and discovery. St. Louis charms visitors with:

• The Gateway Arch – Ride to the top for incredible views.
• City Museum – An interactive wonderland perfect for all ages.
• Forest Park – Home to free attractions like the St. Louis Zoo and Art Museum.

A charter bus makes longer interstate trips like this one comfortable with ample storage, reclining seats, and onboard Wi-Fi.

1. Type and Size of the Bus
   • Type: Different types of buses (charter bus, minibus, executive coach, party bus, etc.) have varying costs based on their amenities and features.
   • Capacity: Larger buses generally cost more due to their size and the number of passengers they can accommodate.
2. Distance and Duration
   • Mileage: Costs increase with the total distance traveled.
   • Trip Duration: Longer rental periods, such as multi-day trips, result in higher charges, especially if overnight stays for the driver are required.
   • Route Complexity: Multiple stops or routes with high traffic can add to the cost.
3. Timing and Season
   • Time of Year: Demand during peak seasons (summer, major holidays) typically raises prices.
   • Day of the Week: Weekend rentals often cost more than weekday trips.
   • Time of Day: Night or off-hour bookings can sometimes involve additional fees.
4. Pick-Up and Drop-Off Location
   • “Garage time” to your starting point may incur extra costs.
   • Special accommodations for remote or hard-to-reach locations could also increase expenses.
5. Driver and Staff
   • Driver fees, which include wages, per diem, and overnight accommodations (if needed), are often factored into the total price.
   • Additional staff, such as tour guides or assistants, may involve extra charges.
6. Fuel Costs
   • Fluctuations in fuel prices can affect the overall rental cost, especially for long-distance trips.
7. Permits and Tolls
   • Road tolls, parking permits, and special city permits (if required for your route) can raise the total price.
8. Insurance and Liability
   • Extra coverage beyond the federal minimum for insurance coverage or liability waivers.
9. Special Requests
   • Custom itineraries, last-minute bookings, or changes to the schedule may involve additional charges.

Tips to Manage Costs

• Book in advance to secure better rates.
• Choose a bus that meets your exact needs without unnecessary extras.
• Consolidate routes and stops to minimize time and distance.

Let us know if you’d like help with specific estimates or further advice!

1. We only partner with bus operators who share our steadfast commitment to safety and service. We vet all of our operators through a process that includes:
   • Safety Records: We examine safety records in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Safer database to ensure the operator in question is fully compliant with the DOT.
   • Assessing On-Time Performance: Not being late is crucial, so we select partners that have successfully delivered for us numerous times in the past.
   • Customer Reviews: Ratings from past customers helps us gauge overall satisfaction and service quality.

   We also require our partners to uphold high standards in cleanliness and customer service, ensuring all trips are as pleasant as they are safe. Our thorough approach guarantees that from the moment you get on board, you can relax knowing that safety is our top priority.

Planning your charter bus trip has never been easier! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you secure a bus rental for your trip:

1. Contact a Reservation Specialist:
   • Reach out to one of our reservation specialists by calling 866-205-5197! They’re available to assist you with all your travel needs and answer any questions you may have.
2. Identify Your Destination:
   • Decide where you want to go, and from where- Is your journey starting in Allentown? Or are you planning to depart from Allentown?
3. Discuss Your Travel Requirements:
   • Provide details about your travel dates, passenger count, and any other special requirements. This will help our specialist recommend the best bus options for your group.
4. Select Your Bus Type:
   • Choose from a variety of charter buses, such as minibuses for smaller groups or full-sized coaches for larger parties. Each type offers different amenities, so be sure to discuss your preferences.
5. Receive a Quote:
   • Get a free price quote based on your travel itinerary, group size and date. This will ensure you have a clear understanding of the costs involved.
6. Finalize Your Booking:
   • Once you’re satisfied with the arrangements, confirm your booking with your account executive. The account executive will finalize your itinerary and provide any additional information you need.
7. Prepare for Your Trip:
   • Pack your bags, gather your group and get ready for an exciting adventure!

By following these steps, you’ll have a memorable experience booking a charter bus for your next trip. Happy trails!

When you book a charter bus rental, understanding the payment process is important to ensure there are no misunderstandings. Here’s a breakdown of how it typically works:

1. Get a Quote: After you have selected the perfect bus for your trip and shared your itinerary, you’ll receive a detailed quote. Once you accept this quote, you can move forward to the payment stage.
2. Secure Your Booking with a Deposit: To lock in your reservation, a deposit of 20% is required if the trip is more than 30 days away. This will ensure that your bus is reserved exclusively for your trip.
3. Payment Confirmation and Dates: When the deposit is processed, you’ll get a confirmation. This will include important information, such as the deadline to pay the remaining balance- always 30 days prior to the trip.
4. Payment Methods: A credit card is generally required to finalize the reservation. This will ensure that any future payments can be processed efficiently. We also accept payment by ACH, wire and check.

By following these steps, your North American Charter Bus rental will be secured, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey.