Pre-TREX Tours
Nov. 13–16, 2024

Registration is now CLOSED

Hosted by Sweet Home Alabama

For tour operators and travel advisors only*

*Participants must attend Travel Exchange to be considered.

Please do not book flights until you receive confirmation for your spot on the Fam. Arrival airports will depend on your selected tour.

Option 1 – 🌟Alabama’s Southern Jewels🌟

Welcome to an unforgettable journey through the heart of Alabama! This carefully curated itinerary is designed to showcase the best of Mobile and Tuscaloosa, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Whether you’re exploring historic battleships, diving into the vibrant traditions of Mardi Gras, or savoring the mouth-watering flavors of Southern cuisine, each day promises a unique and engaging experience. Let’s embark on this adventure and discover the true spirit of Alabama!

Day 1: November 13

Embark on a journey through Mobile, Alabama, where history and adventure collide. Begin by delving into the storied past of naval warfare at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. Step aboard this majestic vessel and traverse its decks, immersing yourself in tales of valor and heroism. Next, you’ll find yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Mardi Gras culture at the Mobile Carnival Museum, where intricate costumes and spirited traditions await your discovery. As the sun sets, savor a delectable farm-to-table dining experience at The Noble South, where each dish is a celebration of Southern culinary heritage.

Day 2: November 14

Awaken to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and embark on a maritime odyssey at the GulfQuest National Maritime Museum. Dive into interactive exhibits that bring seafaring history to life before indulging in a sumptuous brunch at a local favorite spot. Venture into the heart of African American history with a tour of Africatown Heritage House, where the legacy of resilience and courage unfolds. Then as twilight descends, relish a dinner with panoramic views of Mobile Bay at Dauphin’s, a culinary gem nestled atop the city.

Day 3: November 15

Bid farewell to Mobile and journey to Tuscaloosa, where a tapestry of culture and heritage awaits. Delve into the rich heritage of Gee’s Bend Quilt Collective, where the vibrant hues of intricate quilts tell stories of community and resilience. Join award-winning Chef Scott Peacock for a masterclass in traditional Southern biscuit-making at The Reverie Mansion, a culinary experience unlike any other. Pay homage to the legacy of Coretta Scott King at her childhood home and memorial, where history comes alive amidst the whispers of the past. Then, journey onward to the Safe House Black History Museum in Greensboro, where relics of the Civil Rights Movement offer poignant reminders of courage and sacrifice.

As evening descends, unwind with drinks and appetizers at the historic Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion before savoring a delectable dinner infused with the soulful melodies of the Queen of the Blues. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll through downtown Tuscaloosa, where the spirit of the South beckons you to explore its hidden treasures.

Day 4: November 16

As dawn breaks, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Rama Jama’s, where the spirit of Alabama football infuses every bite. Then immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of African American history at the First African Baptist Church and Fosters Auditorium, where echoes of the past strike with power and resonance. Embark on a journey of leisure and recreation at PopStroke, where the thrill of competition meets the allure of adventure. Explore the quaint charm of historic downtown Northport before indulging in a feast of legendary proportions at Dreamland BBQ. As the sun sets on Tuscaloosa, bid farewell to this vibrant city and set your sights on the next leg of your adventure.

The End: Tuscaloosa to Huntsville. On Nov. 16, our journey culminates in Huntsville, a city renowned for its contributions to science and innovation. WE GOT SPACE! Enjoy NTA TREX ‘24

Option 2 – 🌟Alabama’s Civil Rights Legends Tour🌟

Join us for an unforgettable expedition through the heart of America’s Civil Rights legacy. This journey will bring you face to face with some of the greatest legends of this time period. Our meticulously curated itinerary takes you on a transformative journey, where every step immerses you in the struggle, triumphs, and enduring spirit of the movement.

Day 1: Montgomery to Selma  Our voyage begins with a poignant exploration of Montgomery’s pivotal role in the U.S. Civil Rights narrative. At the Holt Street Baptist Church Museum, stand on sacred ground where the Montgomery Bus Boycott was ignited, fueling the flames of change. Then, immerse yourself in the echoes of history at the Court Square Fountain, where the past and present converge in a mesmerizing 360-degree tour. The Rosa Parks Museum beckons, offering a profound tribute to a fearless icon. Travel to Tuskegee to visit the Tuskegee Human & Civil Rights Multicultural Center, where you will delve into exhibits covering the local and national impact of the Civil Rights Movement. End the day with dinner with special guests, setting the stage for the days ahead.

Day 2: Montgomery to Selma   Rise and shine for a day filled with monumental encounters. Departing Montgomery, we journey to Selma, where foot soldier Joann Bland awaits, her firsthand accounts breathing life into the activism within us all. A symbolic crossing of the Edmund Pettus Bridge follows, representing a tribute to the brave souls who marched for justice. Returning to Montgomery, we pay homage at the Dexter King Memorial Baptist Church before savoring Southern flavors at Pannie-George’s Kitchen. The afternoon unfolds with a profound exploration of the Equal Justice Initiative Legacy Museum, where the past comes alive as we delve into Social Justice. Finish the day with heartfelt reflection at the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park and review the National Memorial for Peace & Justice.

Day 3: Montgomery to Birmingham  Today we trace the footsteps of giants in Birmingham, a city steeped in the struggle for equality. From the historic Bethel Baptist Church to the iconic A.G. Gaston Motel, each stop unveils layers of courage and resilience. A guided tour of Kelly Ingram Park offers poignant insights into the power of peaceful protest, while the 16th Street Baptist Church stands as a beacon of hope. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute awaits, its halls alive with the echoes of history.

Day 4: Birmingham  Prepare for a day of discovery as we delve into Birmingham’s rich heritage. Rev your engines at the Barber Motorsports Museum, home to one of the world’s most extensive motorcycle collections. Then, journey back in time at Sloss Furnace, a testament to Birmingham’s industrial past. A leisurely lunch at Vulcan Park and Museum offers panoramic views of the city, setting the stage for an afternoon of exploration.

The End: Birmingham to Huntsville On Nov. 16, our journey culminates in Huntsville, a city renowned for its contributions to science and innovation. WE GOT SPACE! Enjoy NTA TREX ‘24!