Full course description
Description:
Step into the holiday season with an unforgettable group travel experience to Asheville, North Carolina, where history, culture, and seasonal charm come together.
This four-day, three-night immersive experience centers around a full-day visit to the iconic Biltmore Estate-fully decorated for Christmas, offering a rare opportunity to experience America’s largest privately owned home in its most magical setting. From grand halls adorned with holiday décor to beautifully lit gardens, the estate becomes a centerpiece of the season.
Beyond Biltmore, participants will enjoy a guided exploration of Asheville’s vibrant downtown, known for its Art Deco architecture and cultural energy, as well as a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, often called “America’s favorite drive.” The itinerary also includes visits to the Folk Art Center and the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center, blending natural beauty with regional heritage.
This experience is designed as a lifelong learning and cultural enrichment opportunity, combining travel, history, architecture, and community in a relaxed and festive environment.
Category: Continuing Education / Professional Development
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Date & Time:
Sunday–Wednesday | November 22–25, 2026
Location:
Departure: Show Me Center, 1333 N. Sprigg St., Cape Girardeau, MO (8:00 AM)
Destination: Asheville, North Carolina
Price:
$714 per person (double occupancy)
Additional cost for single occupancy
Format: In-Person / Experiential Travel
Audience:
Lifelong learners, travelers, alumni, and community members interested in cultural, seasonal, and group travel experiences
Learning Outcomes:
- Explore the historical and cultural significance of the Biltmore Estate
- Experience seasonal traditions and holiday design in a historic setting
- Identify key architectural and cultural features of Asheville, NC
- Understand the regional importance of the Blue Ridge Parkway
- Engage in shared cultural experiences through guided group travel
- Reflect on the role of travel in lifelong learning and community building