2. Why were the new Experiential Tours developed?
Experience Columbus developed Experiential Tours to meet the changing needs and dynamics of the group travel market. The tours target active travelers or visitors that have been to Columbus multiple times. These tours go beyond the average experience to give visitors a VIP, hands-on, behind-the-scenes tour, where they can be immersed in the experience.

3. Are the Experiential Tours just for groups or can individuals participate?
The majority of Experiential Tours require a minimum number of participants. However, several organizations also offer tours to individuals on a regular basis, such as Woodhaven Farm, Camelot Cellars, Kelton House, Broadway Across America-Columbus. For details, check the specific tour Web site for group minimums, then get on the phone, e-mail or Facebook with your neighbors, girlfriends, the guys or your book club.

4. How many people are needed to make a group?
Most tours have a minimum of 10 people. Tour numbers vary, so please refer to the specific tours for availability and guidelines.

5. What types of groups are best suited for the Experiential Tours?
The Experiential Tours are designed for groups of all ages and interests, i.e. active travelers, girlfriend groups, book clubs, affinity groups, alumni, culture, arts groups and students. They also fit into the meetings and convention market, which makes them ideal for unique, entertaining after-hours events, off-site programs, team building and spouse tours. Most of the Experiential Tours have a variety of options to fit the needs of many different types of groups. Due to the content, however, a majority of tours are not recommended for those under the age of six.

6. How do the Experiential Tours address the new and emerging market segments, i.e. Baby Boomers, students, conference and meeting attendees?
These emerging markets demand more out of a tour. The Experiential Tours let visitors go behind the scenes and provide access to programs never before available to tour groups. There are more than 20 Experiential Tours to choose from with varying levels of activity. Experiential Tours provide operators with great options to expand their itineraries, or build a new itinerary around an existing tour.

7. Is it possible to put a group together to book an Experiential Tour?
Yes, based on the required minimums, it is easy to create your own group. If you have a group of people that are connected i.e., friends, family or church group that you would like to bring together, the Experiential Tours are a perfect way to create a personal and memorable event for your group.

8. My group is smaller and more upscale. What type of experiences address this need?
The majority of Experiential Tours can be specially designed to meet the needs of smaller more upscale groups. For example, your group can become winemakers, dancers, chefs, horticulturalists, candlemakers, archaeologists and more. View themes and tours to see what best fits your group.

9. What is the significance of the Experiential Tour categories?
The Experiential Tours have been segmented into a series of themed categories such as Arts & Culture, Culinary, Gardens, Great Neighborhoods, History, Play Here and Sports. The categories allow you to focus on a specific interest or aspect of the Columbus region, or mix and match. They also allow you to create day trips, overnights or multi-day itineraries for visiting Columbus that relate to the individual themed categories. View sample itineraries.

10. How are the Experiential Tours different from the regular offerings the organization lists?
The Experiential Tours are special offerings and many are different from an organization’s current tours. Each organization has created, scripted and staged an experience designed to engage you. It may take you behind the scenes, provide special access, incorporate hands-on activities, and immerse you in the experience.

11. I would like to come to Columbus with my group, but want to find a local company that will organize my trip. How do I do it?
We have several members of the Columbus Motorcoach Council that can assist you in planning a wonderful trip to Columbus including our Experiential Tours. For more information, contact our staff.

12. Are students able to participate in the Experiential Tours?
The majority of the Experiential Tours are student-friendly and offer more than a standard school trip. Due to the content, many of the tours are not recommended for those under the age of six.

13. How many people are needed to make a group?
Most tours have a minimum of 10 people. Tour numbers vary, so please refer to the specific tours for availability and guidelines.

14. Do all of the Experiential Tours come with a guide?
Yes. To ensure your group has an unforgettable visit, all of the Experiential Tours include an instructor or guide.

15. How far in advance do I need to book an Experiential Tour?
To ensure availability, we recommend you book as early as possible. Some Experiential Tours require booking one month in advance. For details, please check with the specific attraction for their booking arrangements.