Blue Suede Shoes & Amish Country Views

Departure Points:

Yankee Trails, Rensselaer
Pet Smart, Crossgates Commons
Catskill, Exit 21 Park & Ride
Kingston, Exit 19 Park & Ride

Saturday, January 23

Hop on board with us and shake, rattle and roll your winter blues away as we head to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to celebrate the King—Elvis Presley—and his birthday at the American Music Theatre! We’ll also get a taste of Lancaster’s Amish Country along the way. Our adventure begins at Kitchen Kettle Village, where you’ll have free time to browse the 40 charming shops filled with Lancaster’s simple pleasures. Be sure to stop into the Jam & Relish Kitchen and watch Amish ladies make pickles, relishes, jams and jellies right in the store kitchen. There are plenty of samples to enjoy, so don’t be surprised if you leave with a jar or two of Amish goodness! Next, we’ll settle in at the Heritage Hotel Lancaster (800-223-8963 ), with time to relax and freshen up before dinner. An Amish country buffet dinner is included at the hotel tonight. Then it’s time to celebrate the King! We’re off to the American Music Theatre for the exciting Elvis Birthday Bash, featuring two incredible Elvis tributes. Mike Albert brings the older Elvis to life with his acclaimed, respectful portrayal of the legendary entertainer, while Scot Bruce captures the energy and charisma of the young Elvis. With their remarkable performances, you’ll travel through different eras of the King’s career—and discover why audiences leave feeling All Shook Up! We will return to the hotel after the show.

Sunday, January 24

A full breakfast is included at the hotel this morning. After check-out, we’ll step back in time with a visit to the Amish Farm & Home. Enjoy a 30-minute guided tour of a historic Amish farmhouse, built in 1805. Step inside and experience a simpler way of life, where craftsmanship, family and community shaped everyday living. Explore the farmhouse’s handcrafted interiors, authentic Amish furnishings, beautiful quilts and unique appliances—all offering a glimpse into life without modern electricity. Wander through the cozy kitchen, bedrooms and living spaces as your guide shares fascinating stories about Amish customs, traditions and the values that continue to shape their way of life. It’s a wonderful opportunity to slow down and appreciate the simple joys of days gone by! Next, enjoy a delicious included buffet lunch at Miller’s Smorgasbord, a Lancaster favorite. After lunch, we’ll return to the American Music Theatre for the highly anticipated Mike Albert’s Elvis Gospel Show! It’s no secret that “The King” loved Gospel music. Of Elvis Presley’s 14 Grammy nominations, all three of his Grammy wins were for Gospel recordings, including the beloved album How Great Thou Art. Now, in his own incredible style, Mike Albert brings Elvis’ Gospel side to life. His powerful renditions are so authentic, you may feel like the King himself has returned to the stage! Joining Mike Albert are Gospel music legends The Stamps Quartet, making this a performance Elvis fans won’t want to miss. Following the show, we’ll depart Lancaster at approximately 5PM, with an estimated arrival back in the Capital District around 10:30 PM. One rest stop will be made each way.