“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” ~ Saint Augustine
Experience the Arts Council’s ARTours–arts-oriented trips designed to enrich your appreciation of familiar places and expand your knowledge of remote locations. Enjoy special museum exhibits, attend acclaimed musical & theatrical shows, visit artists’ homes & studios, and enjoy points of cultural interest and unique experiences as you share the companionship of fellow Arts Council members. We would love for you to join us on a future ARTour!
NOTE: Arts Council members save a lot on our ARTours. So, Join Now!
UPCOMING ARTOURS
SPOLETO FESTIVAL USA
May 25-28, 2026
Charleston, SC
Spoleto Festival USA transforms Charleston, SC into a global arts epicenter. Drawing dynamic & accomplished artists from around the world & set against the backdrop of Charleston’s shops, restaurants & uniquely preserved historic downtown, Spoleto is truly a unique experience.
NC SYMPHONY PRESENTS
“THE MUSIC OF BILLY JOEL”
WITH TONY DESARE
Saturday, June 27, 2026
Koka Booth Amphitheater
Cary, NC
Experience the full symphonic orchestrations by the North Carolina Symphony while Tony DeSare’s signature vocal & robust piano style pay tribute to the iconic songs of Billy Joel. This concert will include some of Joel’s most beloved hits, such as “Just the Way You Are,” “Piano Man,” & more. Reserved table seating & a picnic dinner are included.
“Boy Bitten by Lizard” (1893-94) by Caravaggio
CARAVAGGIO REVOLUTION
Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Mint Museum of Art
Charlotte, NC
View the first exhibit in North Carolina in a century to shine light on how Caravaggio’s radical realism transformed not only painting, but the very language of modern film, photography & popular culture. The exhibit includes 50 works attributed to the artist and over 30 paintings by leading Baroque masters & Caravaggisti from across Europe. These works illuminate the extraordinary impact of his use of shadow, light, realism, & dramatic intensity on an entire generation of painters.
THE BLUE DANUBE
From Prague to Budapest
October 25 – November 6, 2026
Don’t miss this Tauck river cruise waltzing along the “river of kings,” visiting Prague, Vienna, Salzburg, Budapest, & more. Be as active as you like with many options for walking & bike excursions. Enjoy the music of Mozart, an Imperial evening in a Viennese palace, fruits of the Wachau Valley vineyards, & visits to some of the world’s leading art museums. This is trip of a lifetime!
NOTE FOR ALL ARTOURS: You should be in good physical condition to fully enjoy our tours. The Arts Council cannot provide individual assistance during the tours and therefore reserves the right to decline anyone who has a physical condition that could create a hazard to him/herself or could impact the enjoyment of other travelers on the tour.
CANCELLATION POLICY: 35% of the total cost will be withheld for cancellation after registration deadline on ALL ARTours. NO refunds after advertised full payment deadline unless substitute traveler is found—at which time transfer fees, if applicable, will be withheld. Trip cancellation insurance is available upon request & must be purchased at registration. ARTours.
All ARTours are subject to change at any time due to circumstances beyond our control.
If you are interested in joining one of our ARTours, please contact Katherine MacRae at 910-692-2787 or via Email.