Exploring destinations near Peoria and venturing beyond state borders is easy, comfortable, and efficient with a charter bus rental. Whether you’re planning a group getaway, a corporate retreat, a school trip, or a family adventure, renting a charter bus opens up unlimited possibilities for exploration. Here are some top destinations you can consider:

Nearby Destinations in Illinois

1. Chicago, IL (Approx. 2.5 hours)

Take a trip to the vibrant city of Chicago. Known for its iconic skyline, rich history, and endless attractions, Chicago offers something for everyone.

Key highlights include:

• The Art Institute of Chicago – Famous for its world-class art collections.
• Millennium Park – Snap a picture with “The Bean” or enjoy an outdoor concert.
• Navy Pier – A hub for dining, rides, and live entertainment.

Whether it’s a shopping spree on the Magnificent Mile or exploring diverse cultural neighborhoods, Chicago makes for a fantastic charter bus destination.

 2. Starved Rock State Park (Approx. 1.5 hours)

A nature lover’s paradise, Starved Rock State Park features stunning hiking trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking sandstone canyons. Renting a charter bus ensures your group can enjoy the beauty of Illinois’ landscapes without worrying about driving or parking.

3. Springfield, IL (Approx. 1.5 hours)

Dive into the rich history of Abraham Lincoln’s hometown. Stops can include:

• Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
• Lincoln’s Home National Historic Site
• Old State Capitol

Springfield makes for a meaningful day trip full of educational and historical value.

4. Bloomington-Normal, IL (Approx. 1 hour)

Visit this charming Midwest area for a mix of entertainment and cultural options. Highlights include the Miller Park Zoo, the David Davis Mansion, and the McLean County Museum of History.

Beyond State Borders Destinations

5. St. Louis, MO (Approx. 2.5 hours)

Head south to the vibrant “Gateway to the West.” St. Louis offers a variety of attractions, including:

• Gateway Arch – Take a tram ride to the top for stunning views.
• City Museum – A whimsical, interactive museum experience for all ages.
• Missouri Botanical Garden – One of the oldest and most beautiful gardens in the country.

Enjoy a day packed with culture, food, and fun, all made hassle-free with a charter bus.

6. Indianapolis, IN (Approx. 3 hours)

Take your group east to explore the bustling city of Indianapolis. Top attractions include:

• Indianapolis Motor Speedway – Perfect for racing enthusiasts.
• The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis – A must-visit for families.
• White River State Park – Enjoy open green spaces, museums, and more.

7. Wisconsin Dells, WI (Approx. 4.5 hours)

Plan an adventurous group trip to the “Waterpark Capital of the World.” With its numerous waterparks, scenic boat tours, and unique attractions like Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, it’s an unforgettable destination for team-building or family outings.

8. Louisville, KY (Approx. 5 hours)

Venture southeast to Louisville, home of the Kentucky Derby. Highlights include:

• Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory – A must for baseball fans.
• Churchill Downs – Visit this legendary horse racetrack.
• The Urban Bourbon Trail – Perfect for bourbon enthusiasts to experience the heritage of Kentucky.

9. Milwaukee, WI (Approx. 4.5 hours)

Known for its breweries, Milwaukee is a great spot for relaxation and entertainment. Be sure to visit the Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee Art Museum, and enjoy the city’s impressive lakefront.

10. Nashville, TN (Approx. 7 hours)

If your group is willing to go the extra mile, Nashville’s live music, vibrant nightlife, and Southern charm are worth the trip. From the Grand Ole Opry to street-side honky-tonks, Music City is teeming with excitement.

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!

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-perhaps you want to hit the trails at the Wildlife Prairie Park ? Or maybe you want to explore the Illinois River on an authentic paddlewheel riverboat? Or maybe you want to see a baseball game at Dozer Park?
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.