Dust Off Your Lightsaber for Star Wars Weekend in Orlando
Star Wars Weekend is an annual special event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park in Orlando that celebrates all things Star Wars. Starting May 20 and continuing each weekend until June 12, you can join celebrities and characters for special shows, panels, presentations and activities, including motorcades and autograph sessions. You will have the opportunity to meet the stars who portrayed such favorite characters like Chewbacca, Darth Maul, Boba Fett and C-3PO. Star Tours, now presented in 3-D, will be making its reappearance on May 20. Star Tours gives you the opportunity to board a Starspeeder 1000 for an exciting journey through the Star Wars universe where you will be faced with many different missions. Younger kids can hone their lightsaber skills at the Jedi Training Academy, a 30-minute live action show. If you are planning on heading to Orlando for this special event, be sure to reserve you lodging today!
While you are still reveling in your Star Wars space adventure, head over to the Kennedy Space Center where you can learn more about space, space travel and the future of space. You will get a unique chance to tour NASA’s launch and landing facilities, experience interactive simulators, enjoy live shows and even possibly meet a veteran NASA astronaut. As a special experience, join the Starfleet Academy during 30-minute interactive show that combines cutting-edge special effects, audience interaction, amazing science and on-screen appearances from your favorite Star Trek characters.
After all your adventures in space, go to the watery depths of the ocean at Titanic – The Experience. This 20,000 square foot interactive museum is filled with more than 200 artifacts from the Titanic as well as interactive exhibits. You can walk up the Grand Staircase, visit a First Class Parlor Suite or head down to the Boiler Room. Throughout your Titanic experience, you will meet actors in period costumes, including Captain Smith and the “Unsinkable” Molly Brown who will share a personal account of their trip aboard the Titanic. In addition to housing actual artifacts from the ship, you will also find movie memorabilia from the award-winning movie, Titanic, by James Cameron.
Beat the Heat Inside These Memphis Museums!
With the temperature heating up outside, there are plenty of places in Memphis that can offer the weary vacationer a few hours of respite while giving them a lesson on Memphis culture and history. Whether you are interested in music, social activism or just want to provide your kids with some hands-on fun, Memphis has the perfect place for you to visit.
The Pink Palace Museum is as unique as the city it makes its home in, featuring exhibits that cover everything from dinosaurs to the Piggly Wiggly grocery chain. The museum offers patrons a historical look at Memphis through interesting collections, exhibitions and programs. Current exhibits include the Cultural History of the Mid-South, the Natural History of the Mid-South and The Mansion, which offers a glimpse into 20th century Memphis.
The Children’s Museum of Memphis
A great museum for kids and their parents is The Children’s Museum of Memphis. Kids can experience hands-on, interactive exhibits that will stimulate their imagination, like the Growing Healthy exhibit where they can learn about human anatomy or Art Smart exhibit which allows kids to paint, sculpt or perform. Traveling exhibits rotate every few months, and there is a snack area inside the museum so you can visit a few times each and spend the whole day.
Built as a tribute to the Civil Rights Movement, the National Civil Rights Museum features stunning exhibits chronicling events from pre-Revolutionary times to the present day, including the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. Learn the stories of people who have helped shape our world with their struggle for equality and fairness.
Head to the Smoky Mountains for the Scottish Highland Festival!
May 9, 2011 by admin
Filed under Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge TN
Formerly held in Gatlinburg, this year’s Scottish Highland Festival will be held about 20 minutes away in Maryville, Tennessee, May 20-22. Gather around your clan tent to watch athletic competitions which include the Caber Toss, Stone Put, Scottish Hammer Throw and Sheaf Toss. Other less athletic competitions include highland dance, pipes and drums, a dog show and a clan challenge. There will be plenty of musical entertainment on hand as several bands perform traditional and original Celtic songs; you will surely be dancing a jig after hearing these bands. Food vendors will be selling everything from fish and chips to the true Scottish delicacy of Haggis. There will also be plenty of unique merchandise readily available for purchase such as handcrafted Celtic jewelry, Scottish kilts, bagpipes, and clan attire. Don’t forget to book your Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge lodging!
While in the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area, enjoy a peaceful hour-long Horseback Ride through the Smoky Mountains. Geared towards beginners, the guided tour will take you along a beautiful mountain stream, through lush forestry and by wonderfully colorful wildflowers. All of the horses used are extremely gentle and mild-mannered, due in part to the fact that they live in a pasture, not in stalls, and get the opportunity to run and play regularly. This is truly a wonderful way to spend some time in the Smoky Mountains!
For a more adventurous activity, hitch a ride aboard the ZORB, an 11-foot-tall inflatable globe that takes you down an 820-foot hill for a ride you won’t soon forget. The Zorbit, or dry ride, harnesses the rider into the globe and rolls head over heels down a straight track while the Zydro, or wet ride, places you in the globe with five gallons of water and lets you slip and slide your way down the straight track or the more thrilling zig zag track. You and two friends can even ride the Zydro together for a really wild time. ZORB is the only one of its kind in the United States so make sure and plan an afternoon for a ride like no other!
Experience the Grandeur of the Grand Canyon from the Water!
Once you have seen the Grand Canyon from above, experience the beauty and majesty of this natural wonder during a scenic cruise. There are several different cruise options you can choose from that will show you the beautiful, multi-colored canyon walls carved out over millions of years by the force of rushing water. The hour and a half long Antelope Canyon Tour will take you through one of the most inspiring sights of nature as you travel from Wahweap Bay into the Canyon on the Navajo Nation and return by way of the Glen Canyon Dam. Make sure your camera is ready as you witness the changing colors in the vibrant sandstone walls and rosy sand beaches that meet with the deep blue water of Lake Powell.
During the three hour Canyon Adventure Tour, you will cruise past the Glen Canyon Dam and see impressive panoramic views of the giant Tower Butte. The dark desert multicolored sand appears like hand woven tapestry upon the towering rock walls. Along the way, the knowledgeable crew will provide an interesting and informative narration about the area and the formation of the canyon. Enjoy the fresh air and sit on the open upper deck. Or, if you prefer, you can sit inside and enjoy the panoramic views from the 360 degree windows.
See one of the most unique natural formations during the Rainbow Bridge Cruise. The Rainbow Bridge was formed by water and wind long ago and is the largest natural bridge in the world today. It spans 275 feet with a height of 290 feet making it almost as tall as the Statue of Liberty. During the cruise, you will be able to leave the boat and explore this beautiful area on your own, with plenty of time for photos. You can choose from either the five hour tour or the seven hour tour, which will give you more opportunities to explore at places such as the Dangling Rope Marina. Whichever tour you choose, you are sure to take many fabulous memories home with you!
Gather in Gatlinburg for the Easter Arts & Crafts Show!
April 5, 2011 by admin
Filed under Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge TN
From April 20-23, Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge area visitors can view artistic works at the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts show, featuring the talented craftsmanship of local artists. The event began in 1937, and it has grown over the years, providing the Gatlinburg area with beautiful art pieces, including quilts, detailed ceramics, silver, photography, watercolor and oil paintings, candles and baskets. Visitors will be astounded at the sheer variety of the artistry in the area, and they’ll be able to make a full vacation out of the event from its start to the finish. You and your family can make Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge hotel reservations in the Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge area as well.
You can learn about other artistic antiques with admission to Titanic – World’s Largest Museum Attraction within the Pigeon Forge area. This museum takes you on an adventure as a passenger aboard the historic ship, providing you with a walk-through of replicated rooms and staircases along the way. The museum is about half the scale of the real ship, so you’re sure to receive the full experience as a Titanic passenger. Send out emergency signals in the communication room, admire artifacts from the real ship and touch the cold surface of a simulated iceberg.
The Biltmore Estate Asheville, NC is another great venue to visit while you’re spending time in the Smoky Mountains region. Tour this beautiful home built with a French Renaissance style and learn about all of the features that have been added to the home since its construction was finished in 1895. The home has 250 rooms and takes up 175,000 square feet, so you’ll have plenty of space to cover during your two hour tour. Explore a few of the mansion’s highlights, including 65 fireplaces, a beautifully adorned banquet hall ceiling and a library with more than 10,000 books!
View the Immense Grand Canyon from Above on Your Vacation!
Planes and helicopters will transport you from one area of the canyon to the next on these extraordinary adventures in the Grand Canyon. You can view the majesty of the canyon with a bird’s eye view, taking in the Painted Desert and sharp cliff faces that make this place one of the natural wonders of the world. The canyon attracts thousands of people every year, but the because of its sheer size and immensity, the canyon is best viewed from above, giving visitors the best understanding and big picture of the area while they’re here.
Start off your Grand Canyon adventure by taking the South Rim Airplane Tour, an exciting trip that provides you with highlights such as Zuni Point, the beautiful Painted Desert, Navajo Indian Reservation and the Desert View Watchtower. Fly high across the canyon in your comfortable airplane, letting the pilot do the work as you enjoy all the sights surrounding you. You’ll even have a chance to see the tremendous Kaibab National Forest, the most famous natural growth in the area.
In addition to the airplane tour, visitors can also see highlights of the South Rim on the North Canyon Helicopter Tour, providing amazing views of the winding Colorado River and the Dragon Corridor. The helicopter will enter the Dragon Corridor during your 30 minute flight, giving you an up-close inspection of the amazing geological features that surround this unique area. You’ll also receive a special live narration from your pilot, providing you with insight into the area’s history.
Discover both the North and the South Rim on the exciting Grand Kingdom Helicopter Tour – North & South Rim, giving visitors a sightseeing experience 5,000 feet above the Colorado River. Visitors will find out more about the geological features of the Grand Canyon than they ever imagined, with an easy way to sightsee and learn from viewpoints near such highlights as the Imperial Point to the Painted Desert.
Celebrate Irish Culture at Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade!
St. Patrick’s Day is almost upon us, and for those of you that are planning a vacation in Savannah this March, you can celebrate with thousands of other spectators at Savannah’s enormous St. Patrick’s Day parade. The event features fancy floats and an entire band of great musicians that will be playing traditional Irish tunes. Discover a new side to the cultural heritage of Ireland with this great opportunity, and don’t forget to wear your green clothing to blend in with the rest of the city. To make sure you have a hotel room, be sure to book your Savannah lodging ahead of time.
If you’re still in the mood for great cultural discoveries, the Savannah Historical Experience Tour will be right up your alley. Travel through the quaint Victorian District and view the smooth, flowing architecture adorned with intricate carvings and flower arrangements. You’ll also have your fill of some of the other beautiful sectors of the city, including Thomas Square, Victory Drive, Beach Institute and the Historic District. The area is packed with more than 250 years of history, and you can ask your knowledgeable tour guide any questions you may have.
After an educational overview of the city, you can try out an adventurous activity such as the Deluxe Land and Sea Savannah Package, providing you with several cruises and a trolley tour in and around the outskirts of the city. On land, you’ll take the Historic Savannah Trolley Tour beside places like the bustling City Market and River Street in true historic transportation. In addition, you’ll have the chance to experience the luxurious Davenport House and River Street Riverboat Cruise. Be sure to bring your camera for each location.
Entertain Family with a Mount Rushmore Excursion!
You can make a trip to Mount Rushmore this year and find plenty of attractions for you and your family to experience. South Dakota is covered with large groves of pine, cedar and red maple trees that stretch across the hills, providing you with plenty of scenery. Educational tours, dinner shows and sculptures of historic figures are present near the Mount Rushmore area to provide the perfect vacation for adults and kids. You can spend plenty of time experiencing some of these attractions with a few of the highlights below.
Holy Terror Mini Golf – Keystone, SD
The Holy Terror Mini Golf – Keystone, SD, is a favorite for families who can breathe in the mountain air while putting along the 18 hole course. There are several obstacles along the way, so make sure you avoid the water hazards, steep slopes, and even large boulders that may block your view. The course is guaranteed to appeal to all ages, and its a great way to bond with the whole family.
National Presidential Wax Museum
After your golf game, you might as well head over to the National Presidential Wax Museum, which sits right next to the golf course. Inside, you can identify some of the most important significant historical events in America, such as former President George W. Bush’s visitation to Ground Zero after 9/11, or Roosevelt’s trip to Yalta. You’ll have the chance to view these presidents up close, admiring the intricate detail of each one.
Flying T Chuckwagon Supper and Show
The Flying T is known for its friendly atmosphere, and you are welcome to sing along with these talented performers as they sing of the good ol’ days with traditional country music. The food is absolutely delicious, with a choice of tender barbecue roast beef or grilled chicken, Chuckwagon potatoes, and western baked beans. Entertain the family with this musical group of cowboys that play, dance and even add in their own style of comedy.
Las Vegas Celebrates its 45th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade!
During the month of March in Las Vegas, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in the Southern Nevada Sons of Erin St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival, which takes place from March 17-20, marking its 45th year. You can attend this event displaying your green, and there are many activities for you and the entire family to visit and enjoy, including a luxury car show, fun entertainment and a carnival. You can make reservations at one of Las Vegas’ fine hotels while you’re here for the perfect vacation.
If you’re interested in additional entertainment to add to your vacation, you can choose from some of Las Vegas best shows, including the BeatleShow, which captures the incredible talent of the Beatles back in their heyday, and it even provides the antics of an Ed Sullivan impersonator during the show. This great performance features the same brand of instruments that the Beatles used during their performances to replicate their sound. You’ll be able to hear some of the Beatles’ greatest hits such as “Day in the Life.”
Vegas is known for its magical appeal, and you can be a part of the experience with Zen Magic, a performance featuring two lady magicians that will perform some of the most unbelievable illusions you’ve ever laid eyes on. Their charm, skilled acrobatic stunts and even martial arts will keep you on the edge of your seat until the curtain falls for the last time. This show is perfect for any age, and your family is sure to love it.
Mount Rushmore’s Journey Museum Commemorates 40th Anniversary of Apollo Missions
Inside Mount Rushmore’s Journey Museum on February 25, visitors will be able to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of NASA’S Apollo Missions to the Moon. You’ll hear a presentation by the knowledgeable Tom Durkin, the Deputy Director of NASA South Dakota Space Grant Consortium. Durkin will start from the early years of space travel, when President John F. Kennedy told America’s Congress that we would have a man on the moon with safe travel back to Earth by the end of the 1960s. Afterward, you’ll be able to discover the quick developments of mankind’s ambitions and goals as NASA launched their Gemini, Mercury and Apollo missions. Visit the Journey Museum today for a walk through Mount Rushmore’s extensive history, and book Mount Rushmore lodging as well.
If you want an experience taking you back even further through history, you can head over to the Flying T Chuckwagon Supper and Show, giving you a rootin’ tootin’ performance by the famous Flying T Wranglers with country music and hilarious comedy. Take advantage of the delicious hot meal provided for visitors, which has everything from warm biscuits with honey to a choice of roast beef, grilled chicken or BBQ buffalo. Tap your toe to the fun, swingin’ music of the Old West!
After a night of feasting and country music, you’ll enjoy an educational experience with the Mount Rushmore Audio Tour, allowing you to walk through the Mount Rushmore National Memorial at your own pace. You can listen to the epic music, lively narration and informative interviews by those who have expertise in Mount Rushmore’s history. Take a walk around the provided route on your map or take a seat and listen to your recorded guide. The choice is completely yours.
