It may seem as if the Ozarks can, at times, be cut off from world culture. What with its own distinct way of life, beautiful natural surroundings and friendly locals there’s not much left to want when visiting. However, those that are looking for a truly international taste will be pleased to know that there are more than a few options in terms of experiencing cultures from around the world when visiting Branson, MO. From all-out performances of acrobatic feat to witty social commentary, there are a number of entertainment offerings that can bring you closer to the world from right in the heart of Missouri.

Acrobats of China featuring the New Shanghai Circus

As the name implies, Acrobats of China are straight from China complete with the myriad of talents found in a typical Chinese circus. Crowds will be amazed at the variety of talent the cast possesses as they showcase a range of action including juggling, hoop diving, trapeze, aerial ballet and numerous other stunts of agility, strength and daring.

Yakov Smirnoff

The Russian-born Yakov Smirnoff may have reached stardom in the States, but he still has a keen eye and understanding of the culture and customs of his native Russia that helps ensure that his brand of social humor is both funny and relevant. You may have seen him in such films as “Brewster’s Millions” and “The Money Pit,” and now you can see his stand-up act live in Branson. From stingingly witty to unwaveringly patriotic, this is a show that runs a gamut of emotion while keeping true to itself the entire time.

The Twelve Irish Tenors

The Twelve Irish Tenors features twelve male and two female Irish vocalists in a show that forgoes the glitz and glamour of large show productions for a more intimate, true to the music feel. Throughout the evening you’ll take in numerous Irish classics, including “Danny Boy” and “When Irish Eyes are Smiling,” though the crowd will also be treated to a mixture of sound that will range from show tunes to pop classics.

Celebrate this 4th of July in revelry and surrounded by a decidedly Memphis feel with the Beale Street 4th of July! Held at Tom Lee Park, where Beale Street meets the Mississippi River, Memphis’ Beale Street 4th of July has all the ingredients for a great Memphis vacation and great times. Throughout the day, visitors will find a variety of cuisine, including Memphis’ famous ribs, along Beale Street with live music flooding Tom Lee Park. Of course, as dusk approaches the traditional sights and sounds of Memphis will give way to a fireworks grand finale that will both inspire and amaze. There’s always a party taking place on Beale Street, but during the 4th travelers will find an unbridled celebration of American independence.

While on Beale Street, you’ll definitely want to take in some authentic Memphis cuisine, and the Blues City Cafe can offer just such an experience with its pull-from-the-bone ribs, savory fried catfish and other Memphis favorites. Having been featured in major motion pictures including The Firm, let the Blues City Cafe also make a memorable appearance in your vacation memories as well during the Beale Street 4th of July.

And for those that want to do more than merely hear the sounds of Memphis during their visit, the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum can help by providing an detailed look into Memphis’ music history. As part of the Smithsonian Institute, you’ll already find the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum to be a credible source before even stepping foot inside. And once inside you’ll find seven galleries that run through everything from the music itself to the social and racial boundaries it broke.

While Williamsburg is generally regarded as a link to our nation’s past with attractions that include Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown and Jamestown, the area can also provide a pristine, present day view of the East coast that is equally as impressive as the old world charm it is noted for. From merely admiring the beautiful countryside to exploring state-of-the-art attractions, there’s plenty for the modern day traveler to enjoy in Williamsburg.

Williamsburg Winery Reserve Tour & Tasting

The Williamsburg Winery may be steeped in the old world feel that Williamsburg is best known for, but has carried great wine right into the 21st century. The 320 acre vineyard produces a variety of wines including Chardonnay, Cabernet, Sauvignon, Seyval, Merlot and Vidal for an extensive look at wine and wine production. From visiting the vineyards to the reserve cellars, visiting the Williamsburg Winery offers a unique look into how classic practices have carried into modern times.

Spirit of Norfolk Dinner Cruise

The Spirit of Norfolk Dinner Cruise offers an elegant evening of dining, entertainment and dancing in nearby Norfolk. You’ll cruise the Elizabeth River and Hampton Roads Harbor along your night on the water for the ability to take in a touch of sightseeing as well. A buffet including beef, poultry, seafood, vegetables, salads and deserts offer a delicious spread for dinner, while you’ll be treated to both a live musical revue and the chance to get on your feet with a live DJ afterwards.

Virginia Living Museum

Showcasing a 300,000 gallon aquarium, ¾ mile habitat trail featuring animals in their natural environment, hands-on opportunities and six planetarium shows, the Virginia Living Museum is a truly modern wildlife experience. You’ll be able to experience a wide breadth of both land and sea animals throughout the modern attraction that has been considered part aquarium, science center, aviary, botanical preserve and planetarium. If you have even a minute interest in the world around us, then the Virginia Living Museum is sure to offer a time of intrigue and education.

Whether you sport a brand new Mustang GT, custom-built 86′ hatchback or are merely a fan of the popular Ford product, Myrtle Beach will be the place to be the week of July 22. For an entire week the Myrtle Beach area will be holding its annual Mustang Week complete with social events, drag races, cruises and car shows. The event typically draws hundreds of participants with thousands of spectators also coming out to share in the week’s events. More than just another car show, the Myrtle Beach Mustang Week is a gathering of like-minded connoisseurs.

Those planning on visiting the event for an entire week will find it to be the perfect opportunity for a full-blown vacation. And with our extensive selection of vacation packages and the option to completely customize your Myrtle Beach experience, you’re sure to find an outing just right for you.

But even if a planned vacation and the activities of Mustang Week are just too much to fit into the schedule, there are still a variety of options for at least one night of entertainment. Complete with encompassing dinner shows including Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede and Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, unique live shows such as The Carolina Opry and Le Grand Cirque, and numerous general activities, there’s sure to be something to ensure that you’re never left with a want of something to do.

The Big Apple is a non-stop city where people tend to live life fast. And while even just walking the streets of New York City can be an adventurous experience, there are a few ways to see the sights of NYC that can live up to the legendary style of the city itself by offering fast-paced action and larger-than-life settings. From speeding across the waterways of the five boroughs to catching an eagle-eye view of the metropolis, we’ve featured a variety of ways to make your method of touring New York City every bit as memorable as the city itself.

Speedboat Rides

When you jump aboard a boat named “The Beast” and are greeted by captains with names such as “Mad Dog” and “Wild Thing,” you know you’re not in store for the typical tour. Along this trip you’ll cruise at speeds approaching 45 mph as you explore the sights of Manhattan Island. And while it may be hard to catch all of the sights during this wild, and sometimes wet, ride, the tour will slow down at stops such as the Statue of Liberty to ensure that you don’t miss out on any of the major landmarks. Inject a touch of attitude into your next NYC outing with a speedboat ride aboard “The Beast.”

Helicopter Rides

Due to the sheer size of New York and its scaling skyscraper, a helicopter tour over the city is a great way to catch a full view of the city structure. From flying just above the Empire State Building to circling Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, you’ll see each landmark in an entirely new light. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening, afternoon family activity or merely a quick overview of New York City, you’ll also find a variety of different tours to offer the perfect scenario as well.

On Location Tours Featuring Sopranos Sites

The classic HBO masterpiece may have come to its conclusion, but the drama and intensity of The Sopranos still lives on in the hearts’ of countless fans. And with an On Location Tours you can relive all of the action of The Sopranos in person! From having a quick drink at the Bada Bing to investigating the scene where Chris was shot, you’ll actually become a part of the Sopranos mythos during this one of a kind experience. Whether a fan of The Sopranos or even general Mafioso motifs, On Location Tours Featuring Sopranos Sites is definitely a unique way to explore the New York area.

San Antonio is a city quite simply covered in history. From historic battles and the eventual progression of the city into a thriving metropolis to the many luxuries that the growth of San Antonio has afforded the area, there are a number of unique sights and stories to explore when visiting, and a number of tours that can offer just such tales. Whether your interests lie in the historic Alamo, happenings of the entire area or simply where the best shopping and dining can be found, there’s a tour just right for nearly ever visitor. Below, we’ve highlighted a few of the different options that can be found to help you start thinking about your next vacation experience.

Alamo Trolley Tour

With the Alamo Trolley Tour you’ll explore historic and modern sites of San Antonio with an interesting twist. With the Alamo Trolley Tour you’re able to depart the trolley at any tour stop to explore the area in depth, and then simply hop on the next trolley as they make continuous runs throughout the tour loop. And with the Alamo as your first tour stop you can get as much time out of the landmark as you’d like before starting in on the rest of the trolley tour.

Alamo & Mission Trail Tour

The Alamo & Mission Trail Tour takes travelers through the history of San Antonio’s missions for a unique look at early San Antonio. Along the tour you’ll visit the ever popular Alamo, as well as San Fernando Cathedral, Mission San Jose and Mission Conception. So whether interested in the Alamo and the many events that surrounded it or a more broad view of San Antonio’s missions, the Alamo & Mission Trail Tour is a great way to explore San Antonio’s past.

Hill Country Magic Tour

The Hill Country Magic Tour takes San Antonio visitors out of the city and into the surrounding areas for a varied view of Texas. Lyndon B. Johnson’s ranch, the German town of Fredericksburg and the Japanese Garden of Peace are just a few of the many locales you’ll visit throughout the tour of the Hill Country, offering a more natural view of the Lone Star State.

Please Note: The Grand Ole Opry does not release final lineups until the Wednesday prior to each performance. This list will be updated weekly as new performers are confirmed and added to the lineup.

Friday, June 20 - Order Tickets

Jeannie Seely
Jimmy C. Newman
Point of Grace
Jimmy Dickens
The Whites
Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver
Riders In The Sky
Charlie Louvin
Jean Shepard
Restless Heart
Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers
Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys
Vince Gill

Saturday, June 21 - Order Tickets

6:30 performance

Jim Ed Brown w/ Helen Cornelius
Eddy Raven
Kim Richey
Jeannie Seely
Chonda Pierce
Mandy Barnett
Jean Shepard
Ernie Ashworth
Point of Grace
Riders In The Sky
Jan Howard
Opry Square Dancers
Hal Ketchum
Janie Fricke
Gene Watson

 9:30 performance

Jim Ed Brown w/ Helen Cornelius
Eddy Raven
Chonda Pierce
Jean Shepard
Mandy Barnett
Point of Grace
Hal Ketchum
Gene Watson
Opry Square Dancers
Riders In The Sky
Janie Fricke
Kim Richey

Located in the southern Midwest, the area of Nashville saw more than its fair share of turbulence during the American Civil War, and even today remnants of the tragic battle can still be seen throughout the land. Fortunately, Nashville is home to not only the bad aspects of the American Civil War, but many of the beautiful aspects of this particular period in American history as well. From exploring ancient battlefields to the beautiful architecture of the time, there are a variety of ways to relive American history when visiting Nashville, TN.

The Hermitage, Home of President Andrew Jackson

Whether you love him or hate him, there’s no denying that Andrew Jackson was a pivotal personality in our nation’s history. And with a visit to The Hermitage you’ll gain a unique, inside look into the life of this infamous figure. Along the tour you’ll visit the mansion home, log cabin Andrew and his wife Rachel lived in until their mansion was complete, slave housing (Jackson amassed as many as 150 slaves at one point in time) and the garden Andrew designed for his wife. From offering insight into the life of one of our nation’s presidents to simply experiencing the architecture of the 19th century, a visit to The Hermitage can mean any number of things to numerous people.

Belle Meade Plantation Tour

Continuing with the beautiful antebellum architecture of the 19th century, Belle Meade Plantation is another great look into the history of the Nashville area. In total, the plantation property features an antebellum-style mansion, stables, seven outbuildings, log cabin, carriage collection and general beauty of the Nashville land. In today’s age its rare to find such detailed offerings of our nation’s past, but it is all intact in authentic form at the Belle Meade Plantation.

Civil War Tour

The Civil War may have affected America more than any other conflict in our nation’s history, and even today the wounds of this tragic aggression can still be felt. However, with the Civil War Tour in Nashville you’ll gain an up close understanding of the many events that led to brother fighting brother across America. During the tour you’ll visit numerous areas of importance including the Carnton Plantation and town of Franklin as your knowledgeable guide shares interesting informative anecdotes and insight.

With just two months left before Summer is once more three seasons away, now is the time to take full advantage with a visit to Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. Offering a combination of large-scale entertainment and natural beauty, there are a number of ways for visitors to enjoy themselves and through activity and relaxation - especially when during the summer. Below, you’ll find a few different ideas to help spark ideas for one last summer romp!

Dollywood’s Splash Country

Dollywood Theme Park’s sister-site, Splash Country, offers visitors a full day of splashing good fun in a water park environment that offers something for nearly every visitor. A variety of flumes, slides, tubes, lazy rivers and tide pools are waiting for you at Splash Country to offer an active day of family entertainment. Along with the many thrilling and relaxing options found throughout the park, guests will also find a number of eateries and snack venues to ensure you’re energy is up to par.

Rafting

Both Pigeon Forge and Nantahala Rivers showcase rafting options that can be appreciated by an expert while still offering enough room for novice rafters to not be overwhelmed. If you’re looking to end your summer in thrilling fashion, then this is certainly a prime way to spend your time in Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge.

Shows

While you can catch them throughout the year, that in no way means that Gatlinburg’s list of live shows isn’t a great way to beat the summer heat when visiting the Smokies. Musical eras, comedy, magic, gospel, tributes and general Smokies culture are just some of the topics you’ll find entertainingly handled through the variety of show offerings in the area. Whether you’re looking for a way to cool down after a long day of activity or hope to make going to the show your main activity, there’s a show for virtually every vacation style when visiting Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge.

With a rich musical heritage, thriving city scene and location just off the mighty Mississippi River, Memphis offers a wide spectrum of sightseeing opportunities for travelers. And just as unique as the differing sights are the ways in which you can uncover the many gems of Memphis. Whether floating along the Mississippi itself, exploring Memphis musical heritage with a real Memphis musician or traversing both land and water for an encompassing view of the city, there’s sure to be an experience just for you waiting in Memphis, TN.

Memphis Riverboats Sightseeing Cruise

The Mississippi River itself carries a history as rich as that of the city of Memphis, and can offer an intriguing look into America’s early history. With the Memphis Riverboats Sightseeing Cruise you’ll float the Mississippi River and hear tales of the early Native Americans, Civil War battles that took place along the Mississippi, and learn of the importance of the Mississippi’s earliest bridges. Whether looking for exceptional sights of Memphis or interested in the history of the Mississippi River, the Memphis Riverboats Sightseeing Cruise can deliver.

Big Muddy Blues to Superfly Soul Tour

One of Memphis’ biggest contributions to our nation is the original sounds the area had a hand in creating. Passionate styles including blues and soul were directly influenced by Memphis, and with the Big Muddy Blues to Superfly Soul Tour you’ll be guided by a real musician along the musical sights of the city. You’re even allowed to bring musical instruments aboard the tour and jam out with the tour guide and other guests as the tour unfolds!

Ride the Ducks of Memphis Sightseeing Cruise

If you can’t decide on whether you’d prefer to see Memphis from the city streets or from the waterways, then the Ride the Ducks is the sightseeing experience for you. The versatile Ducks are amphibious vehicles that can run on both land and water, offering the ability to shoot down Beale Street before launching into the Wolf River without eve changing vehicles.