Natural Sightseeing in Vancouver, BC
Canada’s entire Pacific Coast can offer travelers a wonder of natural beauty ranging from cool coastal breezes to towering mountain ranges, and Vancouver can easily serve as your central hub when exploring all that British Columbia has to offer. Whether it’s venturing through a modern metropolis, visiting a posh resort or even having the chance to witness animals interacting in the wild, there’s a site that is sure to please nearly every type of visitor that passes through British Columbia. Below, we’ve highlighted a few of the area’s more popular options to help you start planning your next Toronto vacation.
Victoria Excursion & Whale Watch
Just a short ways west of Vancouver, Victoria offers a stunning city structure and the cultural heritage that undoubtedly comes with being the capital of British Columbia. Along this tour you’ll travel from Vancouver to Victoria where you’ll take in numerous popular British Columbian sights including the Gulf Islands, Olympic Mountains, Beacon Hill Park, Parliament Buildings, Butchart Gardens and much more. Throughout the day natural beauty and charming architecture will combine to showcase a cityscape like few others in the world. And the best part is that during your time in Victoria you’ll have the chance to be treated to a unique whale watching cruise along the Pacific coast!
Along with Victoria, Whistler Resort is another popular attraction within proximity of Vancouver that can combine charming elegance with the natural beauty of British Columbia. With the Whistler Resort Tour you’ll travel the Sea to Sky Highway as you pass the Howe Sound on your way to Whistler. Once you’ve reached the popular resort it will be completely up to you how you’d like to spend the day. From roaming the natural beauty that surrounds the resort to exploring the trendy shops that are scattered about the grounds, or even a little of both, you’re sure to find peace and amazement combine for a tour option that can offer ample opportunities for relaxation.
Historic Sightseeing in Nashville, TN
September 12, 2008 by admin
Filed under Nashville TN
With a lively downtown area, blossoming sports franchise and ever-busy music industry Nashville is very much alive and well in the present, but for those visiting the area there is also a number of ways to relive Nashville’s interesting past as well. From presidential homes and immaculate plantations to “The Mother Church of Country Music,” there are a number of ways to explore the history of Nashville during your next Tennessee vacation.
As the birthplace of the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium has a special place amongst the hearts of country music fans and Nashville locals alike. And with a tour of the historic building you’ll be able to relive the glory days of country as you stroll past various artifacts belonging to the likes of Hank Williams and Minnie Pearl, and even get a chance to take to the actual Ryman stage!
The Belle Meade Plantation offers a taste of gentile plantation life during the mid 19th century. Along your tour of the Belle Meade you’ll experience a wide array of plantation life including the actual antebellum mansion, outbuildings and log cabins. And for those that are horse racing enthusiasts, you’ll also view stables that are linked to the lineage of Secretariat, Seabiscuit, Smarty Jones and other renowned horses.
The Hermitage, home of President Andrew Jackson, offers not only a pristine look at early 19th century architecture, but also at Andrew Jackson himself. From Andrew Jackson the plantation owner to Andrew Jackson the soldier to Andrew Jackson the president, a visit to The Hermitage can offer insight into every facet of the historic man’s life.
Branson Gears Up for the Holiday Season
September 12, 2008 by admin
Filed under Branson MO
Take time this holiday season to focus on what truly matters – family – with a heart-warming visit to Branson during the always popular winter season. Throughout the city, local businesses, shows, attractions, and even the residents bring out their full cheer in celebration of the holidays. From general decorations throughout the city to actual festivals celebrating the joy of Christmas, there are a variety of small touches that turn the Ozarks in to a veritable winter wonderland. However, as can be imagined, winter is always a popular time in the Ozarks, with many of its more recognized attractions and shows already beginning to fill up. That’s why we’ve highlighted some of the most beloved holiday activities in Branson, ensuring you can properly plan your winter vacation before it’s too late. Read on, and begin to prepare for a truly memorable Christmas experience!
Since 1992, Andy Williams has been entertaining the Ozarks with his charisma and pop-sensibilities, and this never shines truer than during the holidays. This year, from November 1 through December 13, Andy Williams will be hosting his traditional Christmas show, presenting many of your favorite carols and seasonal songs as only Andy can.
From his unparalleled talents on the violin to the sheer magnificence of his theater’s restrooms, Shoji Tabuchi has long been one of the more renowned shows in Branson for a number of reasons. And during the holiday season, you can experience the same level of craftsmanship, complete with sharp musical performances and complex choreography, all topped with the spirit of Christmas. During the Shoji Tabuchi Christmas Show, running from November 1 – December 14, Shoji will present Christmas classics while back-up singers, dancers, and an amazing set that all comes together to paint the picture of a snowy Christmas spectacular!
Noah The Musical at Sight & Sound Theatre
While the production of Noah may not change too drastically during the holiday season, that is only because it is a rare performance that happens to carry the basic message of the Christmas season throughout the entire year. Those looking for a faith-based experience will find it on a grand scale at Noah with set designs towering over 40 feet into the air, 3D video imaging, pyrotechnics, and, of course, a traditional message of Christ. If you’ve yet to take in Noah The Musical, be sure to do so while visiting Branson this Christmas season and see for yourself why this new show has been the talk of the town throughout the year.
Silver Dollar City – An Old Time Christmas
Offering a touching look at a traditional Ozarks Christmas, Silver Dollar City presents an immersive atmosphere of thrill rides, arts and crafts, and a general sense of holiday charm that can only be found during the park’s Old Time Christmas. Held from November 1 – December 30, An Old Time Christmas brings a variety of festive additions to the popular theme park. A 5-story Christmas tree, holiday lights parade, special holiday performances, and Christmas carolers is just a small taste of what’s awaiting throughout the day at Silver Dollar City during An Old Time Christmas, and is a great representative of the type of setting you’ll find not only throughout the park, but throughout Branson as a whole
Grand Ole Opry Schedule of Performers For September 16, 2008
September 11, 2008 by admin
Filed under Grand Ole Opry
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.
Tuesday, September 16 – Order Tickets
John Conlee
Richie McDonald
Charlie Louvin
Raul Malo
Point of Grace
George Hamilton IV
The Time Jumpers
Grand Ole Opry Schedule of Performers For September 12 & 13, 2008
September 11, 2008 by admin
Filed under Grand Ole Opry
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, September 12 – Order Tickets
Jimmy C. Newman
Connie Smith
Cherryholme
Jeannie Seely
Jack Greene
Adam Gregory
George Hamilton IV
Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
Restless Heart
Jim Ed Brown
Rhonda Vincent
Gene Watson
Saturday, September 13 – Order Tickets
7 p.m. performance
Jim Ed Brown
George Hamilton IV
Danielle Peck
Jimmy C. Newman
Connie Smith
Jim Lauderdale
Lorrie Morgan
Stonewall Jackson
Gene Watson
Opry Square Dancers
Dierks Bentley
Jeannie Seely
Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys
9:30 p.m. performance
Jim Ed Brown
Connie Smith
Danielle Peck
George Hamilton IV
Jan Howard
Lorrie Morgan
Stu Phillips
Jim Lauderdale
Opry Square Dancers
Jeannie Seely
Jesse McReynolds & The Virginia Boys
Gene Watson
He Sapa Wacipi Introduces Native American Culture to Mount Rushmore Visitors
This October 10 – 12, the Mount Rushmore area will be hosting the annual He Sapa Wacipi at Rushmore Plaza Civic Center in Rapid City. Shedding cultural understanding about Native American culture, the always popular event will be highlighted by championship pow wow, fine arts show and various forms of entertainment for a weekend that can all at once be entertaining and educational. However, aside from the traditional displays of Native American culture, visitors will also find activities including a walk/run, youth day, parade, style show and softball tournament to ensure that everyone is kept busy throughout the duration of this always popular event. Whether visiting He Sapa Wacipi to celebrate your culture or to learn more about the culture of others, you’re sure to find a lively time of cultural exploration.
Those looking to further their Native American experience while visiting the Mount Rushmore area need look no further than Wounded Knee: The Museum. This immersive museum covers the history of the various Native American tribes of the Black Hills and their struggles with imperialistic America throughout the 1800′s. A variety of media sources and exhibits come together to offer a complete look at the many tragedies and injustices suffered by area natives. Both emotionally touching and historically accurate, Wounded Knee: The Museum provides numerous reasons to visit during your next stay in the area.
Pushing even further back into South Dakota’s history, The Journey Museum delves into the beginnings of the area and its first inhabitants. The Journey Museum is broken into four main elements: Museum of Geology, Archaeological Research Center, Sioux Indian Museum and Minnilusa Pioneer Museum. Throughout the four exhibits you’ll learn of the natural shaping of the land in pre-historic times, the Lakota Nation and the impact European settlers had on the area
Fly High in San Diego with the Miramar Air Show
This October 3 – 5 the Miramar Air Show will once again be returning to the Miramar Marine Corps Air Station for a weekend of high-flying thrills and family fun. Throughout the weekend both military and civilian performances will entertain the crowds through a variety of exhibitions. The Blue Angels, stealth bombers, The Patriots Team, the U.S. Army Golden Knights and even the Red Bull MIG are just a few of the many unique, high-speed sights waiting this October at Miramar Marine Corps Air Station. Along with the flight-centric displays, visitors will also be greeted to special fireworks displays and a range of vendors as well.
Those interested in the Miramar Air Show can take their fascination with flight one step further the Learn to Fly Discovery Flight. More than mere sightseeing, the Learn to Fly Discovery Flight is an all-out experience of a lifetime. Along this excursion, you’ll take to the air in a dual-cockpit, Varga VG-21 with the chance to actually take the reins of the plane. Don’t worry though! You’ll be given pre-flight instruction, and your guide will have their hands on their controls at all times. Whether you’ve always dreamed of being a pilot or are simply looking for a new experience, the Learn to Fly Discovery Flight offers great aerial sightseeing, and so much more.
If you’d like a more nostalgic time of flight, then the 1920’s Open Cockpit Biplane Flight may be just for you. Along this journey you’ll climb aboard a plane from a forgotten era, and if you should choose even be allowed to take the controls! Don’t worry though; both cockpits are fully equipped so that even at the first hint of trouble your knowledgeable guide will be able to take control. Those wishing to relive the romantic era of flight are sure to find this to be an experience of a lifetime.
Gear Up for Las Vegas’ BikeFest
Las Vegas will once again be holding its BikeFest this fall with dates set for October 2 – 5. The annual event always attracts tens of thousands of bikers and their prized possessions to the city of
While the Las Vegas BikeFest itself should offer more than enough to keep any visitor busy during its duration, there are numerous sights surrounding
If you’re looking for great dining and a rockin’ atmosphere during your visit to the Las Vegas BikeFest, the Hard Rock Café can deliver. Offering traditional, American cuisine coupled with rock memorabilia highlighting legends including Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley, and Elton John. If you’re looking for good times and good dining to combine, then make it the Hard Rock Café during your next visit to
Outdoor Adventure in Charleston, SC
While temperatures may be starting to dip throughout most of the country the subtropical climate of Charleston is keeping things relatively warm for a vacation that can offer plenty of comfortable outdoor adventure even as October approaches. From setting off on a fishing excursion to exploring the beauty of Charleston itself, there are a variety of things to do in Charleston that can turn your next fall vacation into a veritable adventure. Below, we’ve highlighted a few different tour options to help you get started on planning your getaway to the city of Charleston, SC.
Historic Homes Walk
With the Historic Homes Walk you’ll have the opportunity to saunter through the streets of Charleston exploring the range of architectural beauty the city holds, and even step inside two prominent homes within the area. Both the Edmonston-Alston House and the Nathaniel Russell House will showcase an exquisite look into authentic antebellum architecture for an immersive view of the grandeur of old. Of course, the tour also offers an encompassing look at Charleston’s architectural history as you’ll make your way through a variety of charming alleyways, genteel neighborhoods and decidedly southern gardens.
If you’d like a more natural look of Charleston, then a Creek Fishing Trip is just the experience for you. You’ll take to the salt marshes of the Charleston area with the possibility of snagging everything from trout and flounder to shark and rays. And while the fishing is sure to be exciting, just being able to get out amidst the natural beauty of Charleston, SC is what truly makes this an experience to remember.
Charleston Journeys Civil War Tour
More than offer intriguing views of Charleston, the Charleston Journeys Civil War Tour is a trip back in time to a pivotal point in our nation’s history. Along the experience you’ll visit battlefields and other historic points of interest as you uncover the reality of the Civil War and the effects it had on the city of Charleston.
New Orleans’ Voodoo Music Experience Invades the Bayou
It may be a month away, but New Orleans’ Voodoo Music Experience has quickly shaped up to be one of the major concert events in New Orleans this year. The annual multi-genre festival will be held in New Orleans City Park over the course of October 24 – 26, and looks to be one of the biggest showings yet. Featured artists are set to include a grab bag of musical styles including the likes of R.E.M., Erykah Badu, Lil Wayne, Stone Temple Pilots, Joss Stone, The Mars Volta, and numerous other local and national artists. Whether looking for a time of hip-hop, rock, jazz or simply hoping to catch some good music while visiting The Big Easy, the Voodoo Music Experience can offer a sound for nearly every ear within range.
While visiting New Orleans, a Swamp and Bayou Tour is just the thing to experience the full effects of the region. Along this interesting tour option you’ll cut through the backwoods and swamps of Louisiana as you experience both the natural growth of the swamps and their inhabitants. Along with a romp through the swamps, the Swamp and Bayou Tour will end with a wildlife show featuring snakes, turtles, raccoons and all of the other critters that call the swamps and bayous home.
Turning from the wildlife of the area to a more diverse look at nature, the Audubon Zoo is another great activity option for New Orleans visitors. The zoo sits on 58 acres and features a variety of exotic species including orangutans, white tigers, jaguars, flamingos and much more. The Audubon Zoo also features a number of praise-worthy exhibits including their Reptile Encounter – complete with Komodo Dragon – and the Swamp Exhibit.
