Myrtle Beach Sun Fun Festival Turns 60!
The 60th annual Sun Fun Festival will soon take place in Myrtle Beach on May 28, marking a great celebration in the city featuring several artistic performances for visitors. You’ll be treated to the amazing music of several young, up-and-coming artists as well as a “Meet ‘n’ Greet” with friendly people like Matthew Timmons, the actor from Suite Life on Deck, Jake T. Austin from Wizards of Waverly Place and Zendaya Coleman from Shake it Up. Let your kids shake the hands of these famous celebrities, and be sure to look for your favorite pieces of artistic work. Delicious cuisine will be on hand at the concession stands as well. If you’re planning on taking your summer vacation during this time, be sure to reserve your Myrtle Beach lodging and compare prices.
You can celebrate your relaxing time even further with a trip to the famous Myrtle Waves Waterpark, featuring a variety of great water rides, with 20 acres of attractions in all. This water park has everything from 10 story-tall water slides like Riptide and Turbo Twisters to the smaller, child-friendly Bubble Bay, which is about 18 inches deep at its maximum. Spark your child’s imagination while cooling off inside this great water park.
For an additional watery experience, you can reserve your tickets to the Ripley’s Aquarium, with a massive, 750,000 gallon tank inside, providing visitors with every possible sea creature they could imagine. Walk up close to the glass as you watch a 10 foot shark glide by, or look for the Pacific Giant octopus in the more tropical, Rio Amazon exhibit, which provides everything from sea horses to piranhas. Several other exhibits, such as the Ray Bay and Sea-For-Yourself Discovery Center are worth checking out as well on your aquarium excursion.
Jeep Tours Provide a Fun Way to Explore the Grand Canyon
The range of options for ways to tour the Grand Canyon are endless, from helicopter tours to donkey rides to hiking, but Jeep tours are a fun alternative. Jeeps can handle the rough terrain, putting you close to the wildlife and scenery surrounding the Grand Canyon. A popular choice for families and a variety of visitors, these Jeep tours are sure to give you a memorable visit to the Grand Canyon.
The Grand Sunset Safari Jeep Tour
This tour will take you exploring at one of the most beautiful times for day at the Grand Canyon: sunset. Perfect for a romantic evening activity, this Jeep tour will take you to the South Rim of the canyon. You will be able to climb an observation tour, from which you will see amazing views of the Painted Desert, the Grand Canyon, and the San Francisco Peaks. Your drive through the Kaibab Forest will also give you chances to see native wildlife. With plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and picture-taking, this tour is sure to provide a memorable experience.
Indian Painting Safari Jeep Tour
This fascinating tour provides an exploration of the Kaibab Forest outside of the Grand Canyon. You will receive an educational look at the Indian Paintings in the area as a knowledgeable guide provides an informative narration. Your drive in the Jeep will take you through the Kaibab Forest giving you ample opportunities for picture taking and wildlife viewing. You will see the various cave paintings and markings of the Indian tribes that used to live the area. This tour provides a relaxing day enjoying the wild beauty of the Kaibab Forest and native Indian markings.
Rim Walk & Indian Paintings Jeep Tour
This tour combines the best of the Indian Paintings Jeep Tour as well as an awesome Grand Canyon Experience. This Jeep tour will take you through the Kaibab forest and to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and allows you to hike up to explore the Indian paintings as an informative guide provides background information on the paintings and markings. A trip down an old stagecoach trail along the rim of the canyon will provide breathtaking views. This tour promises a complete Grand Canyon experience.
Williamsburg, VA: Your Perfect Destination for a Family Vacation
If you are looking for a great family vacation spot this summer, look no further than Williamsburg, Virginia. Nestled in the hills of Virginia, Williamsburg offers a host of activities that will entertain and excite kids and adults of all ages, whether they are history buffs or thrill seekers.
One of Williamsburg’s most popular destinations is Busch Gardens. With a European theme, you and your family will enjoy dozens of fun shows and thrilling roller coasters. Rides you will find at the park include the Griffon, the tallest dive coaster in the world; The Curse of Darkastle, an intense 3-D ride; and the Loch Ness Monster, a topsy-turvy ride with two loops. If you are traveling with young children, Busch Gardens has plenty of rides for them in a special area. Shows include a variety of themes from Irish dancing to an Italian musical theater show. Summer events can also be found here throughout the season. Until June 14, Busch Gardens is hosting Glory at the Gardens, a special inspirational concert event. On the weekend of July 24-25, the Summer Nights Concert Series begins, featuring nightly big-name acts. With something for everyone, Busch Gardens is a sure bet for summer fun.
The Virginia Living Museum is another great family attraction in Williamsburg. This museum combines aspects of a wildlife park, aquarium, science center, aviary, botanical preserve, and planetarium, making for an exciting day. With a variety of exhibits, displays, and demonstrations, everyone will be able to find something to appeal to them. Your family will enjoy seeing creatures like alligators, bobcats, and horseshoe crabs. The museum also includes a 30,000 gallon aquarium, six different planetarium shows, and an outdoor trail with a variety of creatures in their natural habitats. A trip to this museum will definitely be a memorable part of your vacation!
A vacation package may be the best fit for your family vacation. We offer a variety of packages already built for you, making reserving your vacation as easy as clicking a couple buttons. The Williamsburg Family Vacation Package contains three nights’ lodging, a day at Busch Gardens, admission to the Virginia Living Museum, and Colonial Williamsburg. Planning your summer vacation has never been easier!
Of course, if you prefer to build your own vacation package, we also offer that service online with our easy-to-use vacation builder. You can choose your hotel and activities to build your own perfect vacation.
Grand Ole Opry Lineup for June 11-13
June 10, 2009 by admin
Filed under Grand Ole Opry, VME
Here is the lineup of upcoming musical guests at the Grand Ole Opry. Be aware, however, that the lineup is subject to change as the Grand Ole Opry does not release final line-ups until the Wednesday before each performance.
Thursday, June 11–Order Tickets
7:00–9:00 p.m.
Lynn Anderson
Janie Fricke
The Gatlin Brothers
Opry Square Dancers
Jeannie Seely
Ashton Shepherd
Emily West
Spotlight Artist:
Tanya Tucker
This Week’s Theme:
A Salute to the Women of Country Music
7:00 –7:30 p.m.
Pam Tillis
Jimmy C. Newman
Riders In The Sky
Del McCoury Band
7:30–8:00 p.m.
Jimmy Dickens
Jean Shepard
Diamond Rio
8:00–8:30 p.m.
Bill Anderson
Mike Snider
Emerson Drive
8:30–9:00 p.m.
Charley Pride
Stu Phillips
Bobby Osborne & The Rocky Top X-Press
Collin Raye
Saturday, June 13–Order Tickets
7:00–7:30 p.m.
Jimmy Dickens
The Whites
Mandy Barnett
7:30–8:00 p.m.
Charley Pride
Connie Smith
Jim Ed Brown
Mike Snider
8:00–8:30 p.m.
Mel Tillis
Charlie Louvin
Pam Tillis
Opry Square Dancers
8:30–9:00 p.m.
Bill Anderson
Jean Shepard
Tracy Byrd
San Diego Summers: Festivals and More
Summer is the perfect time to explore some of the unique cultural advantages a big city like San Diego offers. In addition to enjoying the area activities and attractions, these summer festivals are a great reason to plan a visit to San Diego.
The Annual Scottish Highland Games is a festive event that will entertain visitors of all ages whether they claim Scottish heritage or not. You will be able to watch thrilling displays of human skill, ability, and strength as the game participants show their stuff in competition. In addition to the athletic displays, the festival includes musical features and concerts, sheepdog trials, traditional Highlands dancing, and a piping and drumming competition. Grab your plaid and join thousands of visitors and participants at this annual festival in San Diego. The Scottish Highland Games takes place June 27-28 at Brengle Terrace Park.
For visitors interested in art, the La Jolla Festival of the Arts at the University of California is a perfect event for you. Happening June 20-21, this weekend event is an annual event that draws over 15,000 guests. Past festivals have featured over 200 artists featuring their paintings, sculptures, photographs, and more. Looking at all of this art will make you hungry, and you can sample the offerings of any of the many food vendors at the festival. Live entertainment is also a feature at this weekend festival. Whatever your taste, you will be sure to enjoy this weekend celebrating the San Diego art scene.
A perfect addition to your visit to San Diego when you come for these festivals is the Go San Diego Card. You’ll be able to explore even more of the history and culture of San Diego. This card is your all-access pass to San Diego’s most popular attractions including the world-famous zoo, the Birch Aquarium, the Japanese Friendship Garden, San Diego Museum of Art, and many other museums and attractions. City tours are also included in this card. You can buy a card for a day or for the whole weekend and explore San Diego at your leisure.
Plan an Unforgettable Myrtle Beach Vacation
Nothing says summer vacation like a trip to the beach, and Myrtle Beach is a perfect summer vacation for both families and romantic getaways. With a range of beachfront accommodations and Myrtle Beach activities, this beautiful South Carolina city is ready to provide you a memorable summer vacation.
Staying on the beach is the ideal way to begin your vacation. You will not have to worry about finding transportation or being far away from your hotel when at the beach. Beachfront condos and resorts that are located directly on the beach provide many luxurious amenities as well as the convenience of staying at a property with its own beach access.
The Kingston Plantation Condos are a beachfront property that offers deluxe condos with private balconies and full kitchens. You can enjoy a quiet night in with your family, or you can take advantage of the on-site restaurants. Various Myrtle Beach attractions including Broadway at the Beach and House of Blues are located nearby. These condos will provide space, privacy, and convenience for your trip.
For a more energetic environment that is perfect for families, the Ocean Dunes Resort and Villas Beachfront is a great property located on the beach. This resort features a range of rooms, suites, villas, and more, so you will be able to find a room to fit your party. On site, the resort features two indoor swimming pools, five outdoor pools, seven Whirlpools, swim-up bar, and an on-site restaurant and lounge. The Sands Waterpark is also conveniently located on-site. Even though the resort has enough to keep you occupied for your entire trip, it is also close to area attractions including golf courses, mini-golf, and entertainment venues.
A family vacation would not be complete without some fun area activities. The NASCAR Speedpark will become your family’s favorite Myrtle Beachattraction. This attraction includes a go-kart track, the SpeedDome arcade, and NASCAR-themed mini-golf courses. Close to the NASCAR Speedpark are other exciting attractions including the Myrtle Waves Waterpark, Pavilion Nostalgia Park, and MagiQuest. These are entertaining and interactive activities that will appeal to anyone in your group. We offer passes that include tickets to all of these attractions.
Making your own Myrtle Beach vacation package is easy on our website. You can choose your lodging and activities and pay just one price. We make planning your vacation easy!
Visit Fun and Interactive Branson Museums on Your Next Vacation
May 27, 2009 by admin
Filed under Branson MO, VME
Aside from the great shows and activities Branson offers, the city is also host to a variety of unique museums that are the perfect addition to any Branson vacation. Sure to appeal to a variety of visitors, these museums are definitely worth checking out on your next visit.
Children of all ages as well as adults who are still children at heart will love this museum that features hundreds of toys from the 1800s to the present. You will see the toys you loved as children as well as the toys your parents and grandparents may have enjoyed. Toy trains, airplanes, lunch boxes, bicycles, and antique cars can all be found at this museum. Great for a leisurely afternoon, you and your fellow visitors will have a fun afternoon reminiscing about childhood at this museum.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum
Fans of the weird, unbelievable, and paranormal will be in their element at this museum. Featuring over 400 oddities including a two-headed calf and shrunken human head, this museum is full of surprises, starting when you first drive in and see the unique building. This museum is appropriate for all ages, and everyone in your family is sure to find something to intrigue and surprise them at this museum. Your visit to Ripley’s will surely give your family something to talk about for the rest of the vacation!
The tragic demise of the Titanic has been the source of fascination for many years, beginning when the ocean liner was discovered in the ocean. This museum is appropriate for all ages and promises an educational and interesting exploration of this vessel. Upon arrival at the museum, you will receive a ticket with the name of one of Titanic’s passengers on it, and you will follow this person’s journey throughout your tour. This museum is a half-scale model of the original ship and features over 400 exhibits and artifacts. You can even stick your hand in ice-cold water to feel what the passengers felt that fateful night! This museum provides a one-of-a-kind experience learning about one of America’s greatest legends.
Whatever your interests, Branson museums provide a great opportunity for family fun on your vacation.
Celebrate Music, Culture, and Art in San Antonio This Summer
The San Antonio area offers a variety of unique festivals in June, making it the perfect time to visit this eclectic city. These festivals are sure to offer something to appeal to anyone in your group, and you will not want to miss the great entertainment opportunities these festivals offer for a memorable vacation.
Annual San Antonio Summer Art & Jazz Festival
Known as the SAS Fest, this three-day long festival is happening June 3-5. This festival features 10 jazz concerts, as well as Arts & Crafts workshops and booths, in addition to the great Texas cuisine you can count on in San Antonio. Another feature of the festival is two jazz workshops geared towards budding young musicians. Admission is free, leaving you more money to donate to the charitable institutions the SAS Fest sponsors. The festival takes place in beautiful Crockett Park.
This weekend festival taking place June 11-14 celebrates the many cultures that have made their home in San Antonio and Texas. From the early French settlers to the German immigrants who established themselves in the Hill Country, this festival brings over 40 cultures together in celebration. This festival takes place at the Institute of Texan Cultures located in the HemisFair Park. You can look forward to great food, exhibitions, performances, dancing, singing, and more at this Festival, making for a great addition to any visit to San Antonio.
Central Texas is quickly becoming known as a great area for producing films, and the Festival of Films celebrates this passion of the area. A group of independent film producers created this festival to show off their films. A Festival of Films takes place June 25-29. This is the fifteenth year of the event, which was formerly known as the San Antonio Underground Film Festival. In between seeing a variety of local films, you can enjoy the performances of various local musician. This festival is a great way to experience the art scene of San Antonio.
Make your San Antonio vacation one to remember when you take in one of these great summer festivals! Don’t forget to check out our extensive list of San Antonio lodging options for your visit!
Don’t Miss the Essence Music Festival in New Orleans, Louisiana
If you are a music lover, July 3-5 is the perfect time to visit New Orleans and take in the Essence Music Festival. Featuring a weekend full of top name acts, this festival promises to provide a great time in the Big Easy.
The headliner of this year’s festival is Beyonce, one of U.S.’s best entertainers. This is just one stop on her United States tours, and her concerts have been sold out all over the country. Other big name acts include John Legend, a soulful Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter. Hip-hop lovers will love the musical stylings of Ne-yo and Robin Thicke, two young artists who are quickly making names for themselves.
Other artists set to perform include Solange (Knowles, Beyonce’s sister), Lionel Ritchie, Al Green, Salt-n-Pepa, Jazmine Sullivan, En Vogue, and Eric Benet. For music fans interested in the jazz scene, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and Rebirth Brass Band will provide great New Orleans jazz music.
Another feature of the weekend is special seminars conducted by notable speakers. These presenters include Bill Cosby, Rev. Al Sharpton, Mayor Ray Nagin, and Dr. Juanita Bynum and Bishop T.D. Jakes, two speakers noted for their inspiring and uplifting seminars. Other presenters include Roland Martin, author, Donna Brazile, Demoratic political strategist, Steve Harvey, and many more.
This is the 15th anniversary of this festival, which was started to celebrate the birthday of Essence magazine. Filled with notable music acts and famous speakers for seminars, this weekend is sure to provide an awesome time in New Orleans.
Hotel rooms are sure to fill up fast for this great event, especially because it is on July 4th weekend. Be sure to book your room early so you can get a great room close to the festivities. We offer a wide range of hotels in New Orleans, so you will be sure to find a hotel that is perfect for you. If you want to take a break from the festival or extend your vacation, we offer lots of great tours and activities in New Orleans. Whether you are taking a foodie tour of the city or a carriage ride through the French Quarter, any of our activities is a great addition to the Essence Music Festival.
Last Minute Memorial Day Weekend Ideas for Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge, TN
May 22, 2009 by admin
Filed under Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge TN, VME
No plans for Memorial Day weekend yet? Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, are a perfect quick getaway destination. Aside from the year round features, the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area is hosting several festivals this weekend.
MountainFest in Downtown Gatlinburg, TN
MountainFestis a great annual festival held in Gatlinburg’s downtown that celebrates Gatlinburg’s heritage. Featuring traditional festival features like games, food, special exhibits, and more, this festival is a great time for families and visitors of all ages. You’ll be able to enjoy the great features of Gatlinburg and enjoy special festival features like live bluegrass music and live workshops. MountainFest takes place May 22-24.
Annual Craftsmen’s Fair at the Gatlinburg Convention Center in Gatlinburg, TN
Happening at the same time as the MountainFest, you can catch the Annual Craftsmen’s Fair at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. This fair features over 200 booths with craftsmen and handiworkers. You will also be able to enjoy live musical entertainment. You will be able to talk to the craftsmen, watch live demonstrations, and enjoy the city of Gatlinburg. This fair takes place May 22-24.
With great options for lodging, shows, and attractions, Gatlinburg makes a great destination any time of year. Whether you are interested in exploring Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokiesor checking out Dolly Parton’s theme park Dollywoodfeaturing thrilling roller coasters and entertaining shows, there is plenty to do in Gatlinburg to entertain you. If you want to stay a few nights, we offer a great variety of hotels in the area. From cabins to suites to deluxe hotel rooms, you’ll be sure to find a lodging option to fit your needs.
