Enter Spring with California Dreams
Kick off Spring in rejuvenating fashion in 2010 with California Dreamin’, a guided, five day romp through Southern California that features the natural beauty the Pacific Coast is so noted for.
Your journey will begin upon your arrival at the Los Angeles Airport (LAX) with a welcome dinner at the Anaheim White House before retiring to the Knott’s Berry Farm Resort Hotel. Throughout the next four days, you will visit the San Diego Zoo, journey into Palm Springs, cruise to the port city of Avalon on Catalina Island and experience the sights of San Diego.
Upon your return home you are sure to feel rejuvenated by the natural wonders seen and in awe at the man-made accomplishments highlighted through a picturesque look into all sunny Southern California has to offer!
Those interested in being a part of California Dreamin’ are encouraged to view additional information and make reservations online before the only set date of 2010, March 23, sells out.
For those that won’t be able to be a part of California Dreamin’, we encourage you to view other unique spring vacation ideas across the country online.
Winter Entertainment in Branson, MO
January 7, 2010 by admin
Filed under Branson MO
While much of Branson may take a hiatus after the holidays that’s not to say that Ozarks visitors can’t enjoy a variety of entertainment options throughout January. Whether looking to take in classic rock hits, down-home country or simply something entertaining, there are a variety of impressive shows to explore if you know where to look. To help you get started on planning your winter getaway to Branson we’ve highlighted a range of shows that will be available throughout the month of January. Read on to find an option that piques your interest and begin planning your Branson vacation today!
Heat up your winter visit to Branson with the new Top 10 Rock and Roll Review. Featuring talented saxophonist and Branson legend Marvelous Marvin Short, the Top 10 Rock and Roll Review offers non-stop rock from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s for a lively time of entertainment. Jerry Lee Lewis, Buddy Holly, Eric Clapton, the Mamas and Papas and numerous other iconic acts will be covered throughout the performance for a fast-paced night of rock and roll in Branson, MO!
Billed as the Grand Country Theater’s signature show, Grand Jubilee offers an exceptional time of Branson entertainment as New South belts out country hits and gospel classics, and Jamie Haage plays the role of the hilarious Jim Dandy. Add to the evening emcee Mike Patrick, a rotating cast of entertainers and vibrant set design and you have a classic variety show experience! Those looking for a top notch time of variety entertainment will find a little of everything with Grand Jubilee.
Those looking for a light-hearted show that is a little out of the ordinary will find just that with Amazing Pets! Hosted by Sean Paul, Amazing Pets features an eclectic cast of cats, dogs, exotic birds and even the talented monkey Frankie as they perform a variety of tricks and stunts. Best of all, the majority of the cast has been rescued from shelters and humane societies for a heart-warming show that will delight audiences of all ages.
Sample a Taste of Southern History in Chattanooga
The Chattanooga, Tennessee area is full of history, ranging from the time the region was settled to the Civil War to the depression-era building of the region. Whether you are visiting Chattanooga on a day trip or extended vacation, add some of these historical sites to your trip to better understand the rich history behind Chattanooga and Tennessee.
Sequoyah Caverns Tour with Visit to Ellis Homestead
The Ellis Homestead is over 160 years old, so it has seen its fair share of Chattanooga history. With the Sequoyah Caverns Tour with Visit to Ellis Homestead, you can experience both the legendary homestead along with some of the oldest caves in Chattanooga. During this activity, you will get to explore the caverns as well as Ellis Homestead, which contains a 160 year old cabin. At the homestead, you will also be able to participate in gem mining and wildlife watching.
While you are in Chattanooga, you must stop by the legendary Chattanooga Choo Choo complex on historic Market Street. This historic building contains the Chattanooga Choo Choo engine, a model railroad museum, and fascinating architecture. At the Chattanooga Choo Choo, you will also find many places to eat and shop, making it a fun family destination perfect for an afternoon that offers history as well as entertainment.
Chattanooga Regional History Museum
Chattanooga is also home to many interesting museums that commemorate the history of the museum. At the Chattanooga Regional History Museum, you can explore decades of years of history of the Chattanooga area. The museum contains exhibits and artifacts on Chattanooga’s role in the Civil War, daily life from the 1920s to 50s, and the work of Chattanooga artists. Offering a fascinating look at Chattanooga’s history, this museum is a great activity for families and visitors who have never been to Chattanooga before.
Celebrate 2010 with a New Year’s Vacation in Nashville
December 17, 2009 by admin
Filed under Nashville TN, VME
Spend the New Year in style when you enjoy a New Year’s vacation in Nashville. We understand that after the hectic weeks of the holiday season, the last thing you want to do is take the time to plan a vacation, so we have a New Year’s Eve package ready to go for you.
The New Year’s in Nashville vacation package offers a fun and relaxing Nashville experience. The package includes four nights of lodging at the Gaylord Opryland Resort, which is practically a destination in itself. For your convenience, this package contains two breakfasts, two dinners, one lunch, and on brunch, as well as many activities.
The package kicks off with an evening spent at your leisure at the Gaylord Opryland. After you get settled in your room, you can explore the resort property, which contains shops, a river boat cruise, lounges, and restaurants. On New Year’s Eve, you will join other visitors for a party at the Gaylord Opryland in the Grand Ballroom. The evening’s festivities include a catered dinner with wine and champagne, party favors, and live entertainment. After the excitement of New Year’s Eve, you will have New Year’s Day to rest, wake up to a late brunch, and then board the General Jackson showboat dinner cruise for another great meal with live entertainment. On the next day of this vacation, you will enjoy a guided tour of Nashville complete with a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and lunch at the Wild Horse Saloon. That evening, you will enjoy a performance at Nashville’s legendary Grand Ole Opry.
Complete with a variety of live entertainment, a memorable New Year’s Eve party, and a fantastic time at the Gaylord Opryland, this package contains everything you need for a spectacular New Year’s vacation.
If you would like to plan your own New Year’s vacation or just find something fun to do that weekend, you can easily build your own package or find activities online. Most of the holiday shows will be over, but Nashville still has plenty to offer visitors. Some of the activities available during the long weekend include the General Jackson New Year’s Eve cruise, ICE! at the Gaylord Opryland, and the Grand Ole Opry.
Ring in 2010 in Branson, Missouri
December 16, 2009 by admin
Filed under Branson MO, VME
As the holiday season wraps up in a couple of weeks, you may be looking for ideas for New Year’s Eve. Why stay at home when you can make the holiday special with a getaway in Branson? Because New Year’s Day falls on a Friday, you can enjoy a long weekend in Branson to celebrate the beginning of 2010. Check out the ideas below for a festive and fun New Year’s Vacation.
Kirby VanBurch’s Magical New Year’s Eve Show
A magical time is sure to be had by all when you make reservations for Kirby VanBurch, Branson’s most popular magic show. For New Year’s Eve, the Kirby VanBurch show hosts a special New Year’s Eve show that features spectacular illusions, tricks, and performances by Kirby VanBurch. During the show you may see people disappearing, assistants being sawed in half, and the Kirby VanBurch Theatre’s furry friends: tigers, leopards, and more! The Kirby VanBurch New Year’s Eve show is sure to be a memorable way to end 2009.
Miracle of Christmas–Last Chance!
If you did not have the opportunity to catch the Miracle of Christmas at the Sight and Sound Theatre before the holidays, you will have one final chance at New Year’s. The show is available both Dec 29 and 30, and if you have the opportunity to go, you should certainly take advantage of it! Miracle of Christmas is easily one of the most popular holiday shows in Branson, and for good reason. Don’t wait until the next holiday season to check out this fantastic production, which features live animals, talented performers, original score, and an incredible state-of-the-art theater.
Showboat Branson Belle Dinner Cruise
If you are looking for a romantic New Year’s Eve activity for two, how do a three course meal, live entertainment, and beautiful views from Table Rock Lake sound? The Showboat Branson Belle has two dinner cruises available on New Year’s Eve. Each dinner cruise includes a delicious three course meal, entertainment from the legendary Todd Oliver, and a relaxing time aboard Table Rock Lake. Because it is New Year’s Eve, you may even see fireworks happening in Branson and around the lake.
Check Out the Smoky Mountains’ Newest Attraction
December 14, 2009 by admin
Filed under Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge TN, VME
Looking to add the excitement of visiting a brand new attraction in the Smoky Mountains on your next trip to the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area? One of the newest attractions in the area, the ZORB, hails from New Zealand and is one of the most unique activities you can enjoy in the area.
If you liked rolling down hills as a child, this activity is perfect for you! The ZORB features a huge inflatable ball that you will roll down an 820 foot hill in. The globe is approximately 11 feet tall, and up to three riders can ride in it at one time. The ZORB also has the ZYDRO option, which is a wet and wild activity that is available even in the middle of winter. This ride option includes you, the globe, and five gallons of water (cold in the summer, warm in the winter) rolling down the hill. Kids as young as eight can enjoy this attraction, making the ZORB an activity that the whole family can enjoy. A perfect escape from the boredom of winter or a fun addition to your summer vacation in the Smoky Mountains, ZORB is the new must-do activity in the area.
Looking for other ideas for fun winter diversions? Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have many options open year round with indoor fun for all ages. At the Guinness World of Records Museum in Gatlinburg, you will see a unique collection of exhibits, artifacts, and more from the record-breaking history of the Guinness World Records. This museum contains a replica of Noah’s Ark, Elvis Presley’s “Hound Dog” boat, and a view of the original Batmobile. With so many fascinating exhibits, the Guinness World of Records Museum is the perfect way to spend a fun afternoon in Gatlinburg.
For another interactive activity sure to keep kids entertained, check out WonderWorks in Pigeon Forge. This engaging attraction is known as an “amusement park for the mind” and features multiple exhibits and stations that allow for interaction, creativity, and a true hands-on experience. Here you can experience how an earthquake feels, what lying on a bed of nails feels like, and what it is like to land a space shuttle. With exhibits to appeal to any age group, WonderWorks is sure to be an attraction that pleases everyone in your family.
Keep Warm During a Chilly Chicago Winter
Chicago winters are not always that friendly, but that is no reason not to visit this fun city! Chicago has a fantastic selection of museums and other indoor activities that you can enjoy while you get out of the cold.
A multi-day pass is a great way to see a lot of Chicago without waiting in lines or paying lots of ticket fees. With the Go Chicago Card, you can have days of access to many of the great museums and attractions in Chicago. This card provides free admission to the Art Institute of Chicago, Field Museum, Chicago Children’s Museum, and the Kohl’s Children Museum. In addition, you have access to the Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium, and the Hancock Observatory. The card is available from a one day to seven day ticket, so you can buy it for a day or weekend to entertain you and your family during Christmas vacation. With so many options, you’ll be sure to see something new and interesting while in Chicago. In addition, this card gives you immediate access to the attractions—no waiting in ticket lines!
Another fascinating museum option in Chicago is the new Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center. This museum contains many exhibits that have art, artifacts, documents, and photographs about the Holocaust. Some of the exhibits are temporary, but the Zev and Shifra Karkomi Permanent Exhibition can always be found at this museum. The permanent exhibit contains the history of the Holocaust from its beginning in Germany to the after effects in the Jewish community. The museum ticket also includes transportation to the museum from Chicago. A visit to this museum is certain to expand your knowledge and perspective on the events of the Holocaust.
If you are looking to escape the cold for an evening, check out one of the world-class theater options in Chicago. The city has a vibrant theater scene, and three acclaimed plays are showing right now in Chicago. Million Dollar Quartet, Jersey Boys, and The Addams Family all feature engaging music and performances that should guarantee any visitor a memorable night spent in Chicago. In addition, these plays all end in January, so you have only a few weeks left to experience them!
Start Your New Year Right in Gatlinburg
December 4, 2009 by admin
Filed under Featured, Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge TN, VME
If you do not already have plans for how you are going to ring in the New Year, spending the weekend in Gatlinburg is a sure bet for a fantastic vacation. Because the New Year falls on a Friday this year, you have the perfect opportunity for a long weekend of relaxation after the busyness of the holidays.
To make planning your vacation in Gatlinburg easy, we have a pre-built New Year’s package for you. The Celebrating New Year’s In The Smokies vacation package already comes with lodging, shows, and dinners for your convenience. With this package, you will have four days and three nights to enjoy everything that Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have to offer for the New Year’s holiday.
This package is full of great Gatlinburg activities and shows, including the Smith Family Theater, Country Tonite, and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. In addition, you can experience the lights of the area on the guided Winterfest Light Tour. This package also includes dinner each night. One of the dinners will be at Dolly Parton’s famous Dixie Stampede Dinner and Show. In addition, you will enjoy a New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner, which will make your holiday extra-special.
With country music, delicious food, and the convenience of a pre-planned vacation, the Celebrating New Year’s In The Smokies package is the perfect vacation option for anyone looking to get away and celebrate the beginning of 2010. Whether traveling with your family or booking a romantic vacation for two, you will be sure to have a great time on this vacation.
Explore Civil War History in Savannah on Veterans Day
With its location in the heart of the South, Savannah and the surrounding area are home to many Civil War sites. Also, Georgia was one of the 13 original colonies and was part of the Continental Congress before the Revolutionary War. Many sites in Savannah honor those who gave their lives in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, and a historic sightseeing tour is an excellent way to see all of the history that Savannah has to offer.
For an overall view of the vast history of Savannah, the Historic Overview Tour is an excellent choice that provides visitors the opportunity to see the most important historical sites in Savannah. This tour is fully narrated by a knowledgeable guide and features stops at River Street, the City Market, and the Historic District. The tour takes place on an open-air trolley, and the tour lasts just 1.5 hours. Sites in the historic district include the Juliette Gordon Low birthplace, Maritime Museum, and River Street, which is a historic landmark in itself.
Homemade Thunder Civil War Walking Tour
For a unique and interactive experience exploring Civil War history, the Homemade Thunder Civil War Walking Tour offers a complete view of Savannah’s role in the Civil War. The walking tour is led by a knowledgeable guide. During the tour, visitors will see numerous historical sites in Savannah, including Gen. A.P Lawton’s House, the homes of Gen. Moxley Sorrel and Gen. Hugh Mercer, and Sherman’s Savannah headquarters after his march through Georgia. Additional sites on the tour include the Confederate Monument and Savannah Theatre. The tour covers about a mile of Savannah and lasts approximately 90 minutes.
Additional sites to see during your time in Savannah during Veterans Day are the centuries-old cemeteries in the city. The Bonaventure Cemetery was featured in the novel “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” This cemetery is the resting place of many Civil War soldiers, and it is rumored to be haunted. This cemetery was built on an old plantation. The other legendary cemetery in Savannah is the Colonial Park Cemetery, which was built in the 1700s. This cemetery contains over 600 graves, and some of the most famous residents in Savannah’s history are buried here, including Button Gwinett, who was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.
Visit the Nation’s Monuments for Veterans Day
Each city in the United States has its own special way to honor Veterans Day, which is on November 11 each year, but if you are looking for the ultimate destination to honor the United States’ veterans, Washington, DC is the perfect place to do so. With monuments that honor the veterans of the Korean, Vietnam, and Second World Wars, visitors have many options for honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. One of the easiest ways to see all of the monuments is by taking a guided monument tour.
Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most powerful landmarks in the Washington, DC area and is a must-see for any visit to the Nation’s capital. From the changing of the guards to the acres of plain white grave markers, Arlington National Cemetery is a sobering experience. The Mt. Vernon and Arlington Tour is a guided tour that features a stop at the Arlington Cemetery as well as other sites in Arlington, including Christ Church. This activity also includes a visit to Mount Vernon, George Washington’s estate. On Veterans Day, Mount Vernon hosts a wreathlaying ceremony as well as other special events for the day.
For a tour that centers on the monuments in Washington, DC proper, the Monuments by Moonlight Trolley Tour offers a tour that goes through all of the monuments as they are lit up for the evening. In total, the tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours. This tour stops at the FDR Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Memorial, and Iwo Jima. Accompanied by a guide who narrates the tour, the Monuments by Moonlight Trolley Tour offers the total experience of Washington, DC at night.
If you want to combine a tour of the monuments with stops at all of the other fascinating landmarks in the capital, the DC It All! Tour is an excellent choice. This tour features many historic buildings in the city, including the Old Post Office, the U.S. Capitol, the Pentagon, and more. This tour also stops at the Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Korean Memorial, and Iwo Jima. The tour also drives by many more Washington, DC sights, including Arlington National Cemetery, the World War I Memorial, and the National Archives.
