Grand Western Tour

Grand Western Tour is a Greensboro, North Carolina-based travel company specializing in transformative teen adventure tours across America. Established in 1964, we’ve been pioneering memorable summer adventures for students for over six decades, offering a 5-week cross-country road trip experience. Our tours visit 18 states and 22+ cities, including iconic national parks like the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone, providing a unique opportunity for high schoolers to explore the country and forge lifelong friendships. We’ve evolved from a single busload of students in 1964 to a trusted brand, now owned and operated by Mary Barnett Hale and Scott Hale, continuing a legacy of inspiring young adventurers.

The Grand Western Tour began with Sue Cox Shore, an alum of Salem College, who founded the Western Tour in 1964 to provide young people with the same educational travel experiences she had enjoyed. Ken Hayes, a beloved teacher, and coach from Winston-Salem, shaped The Grand Western Tour’s legacy as its first director.

Today, we maintain a staff of 12 and a student-to-staff ratio of 1:10, ensuring personalized attention and a supportive community for every traveler. We’re committed to providing students with an unforgettable experience that fosters personal growth and lasting connections.