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.

Don’t Miss Cinco de Mayo in Gatlinburg!

On May 5, three local attractions are teaming up to present the first ever Hispanic event with Cinco de Mayo Celebration in the Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge area. Ripley’s Entertainment, No Way Jose’s and Greystone Lodge at the Aquarium are planning events ranging from musical entertainment, food and beverages, dancing and more. In the morning, children will have the opportunity to learn about Latin music, taste authentic Latin food, and work on arts and crafts. This is definitely an event you will want to participate in from start to finish. You and your family can also make lodging reservations in the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area as well.

While staying in the Smoky Mountains you will want to stop by Titanic – World’s Largest Museum Attraction for another educational experience. This interesting attraction features artifacts directly related to the legendary ship and its tragic sinking. The museum is shaped like the ship and houses an extraordinary number of exhibits that teach you all about the Titanic, from its ill-fated beginnings to its ending at the murky depths of the Atlantic Ocean. You won’t want to miss this impressive attraction!

During your vacation in the Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge area, you can also add a trip to WonderWorks Interactive Experience. At WonderWorks, you can enjoy a variety of exhibits that are sure to bring you jaw-dropping surprise. You can feel the surge of a powerful simulated hurricane, experience a simulated 5.3 magnitude earthquake or even lie on a bed of nails. You can enjoy hours of entertainment exploring the fascinating exhibits at WonderWorks, and it is sure to provide you with great memories of your vacation!

Celebrate Sweetheart Month Aboard Gatlinburg’s Titanic!

It’s Sweetheart month at the Titanic in the upcoming month of February in the Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge area, and visitors will be able to meet Rose from James Cameron’s box office hit, “Titanic,” from February 11-14. Rose is adorned in some of the original costumes designs from the epic movie, and she’ll be honoring the 14 couples who were on their honeymoon as the Titanic sailed across the waters. You’ll also be able to see the Swarovski Crystal Heart of the Ocean Necklace, a beautiful replica of the necklace worn by Rose in the movie. Your opportunity only lasts through the month of February, so make sure you book your Gatlinburg accommodations today, as well as tickets to the Titanic.

Book another romantic sightseeing experience aboard the Gatlinburg Sky Lift, providing you with views of the surrounding sights high above the Smoky Mountains. The trees, wildlife and colorful flowers will all be yours to behold from your highest point of 1,800 feet. Once you’ve reached the top of the mountain, you can sit down to a delicious picnic lunch and snap a few photos before heading back to to the Gatlinburg area.

Several other romance attractions are available for you to participate in as well, such as the Smoky Mountain Picnic and Carriage Rides. Pick your choice of a picnic carriage ride or sightseeing romance carriage ride for two, and experience private transportation by horse beside beautiful streams, meadows and gorgeous landscapes. Whether you’re keeping the spark in your marriage or setting up for a proposal, this romantic tour is perfect.

Enjoy a Romantic February in Gatlinburg!

If you are planning a romantic getaway in Gatlinburg, you can profess your love to your sweetheart in style at Gatlinburg’s Titanic attraction. February is Sweetheart Month at the Titanic, and you will have the opportunity to have a romantic vow renewal or marriage ceremony on the beautiful Grand Staircase. The ship’s captain will officiate your ceremony, and you will have a memorable and unique experience renewing your vows at one of Gatlinburg’s most romantic attractions! If you are not quite ready to say “I do” in the month of February, the Titanic attraction is also a romantic place to propose to your significant other! Be sure to make your reservations early because many people will want to take advantage of this great opportunity.

To add to the romance of February in Gatlinburg, take in breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains with your sweetheart with a Helicopter Ride! You will love the unique view of the Smoky Mountains from above, and there are several flight options that you can choose from. You can fly over Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for a unique view of the cities, or go over the foothills of the Smoky Mountains to see the incredible landscape from above. Whether you decide to take a 20 minute ride over Gatlinburg or the incredible 40 minute Clingman’s Dome Tour, you will have to opportunity to see the Smoky Mountains like you’ve never seen them before!

After a day full of exciting activities in Gatlinburg, you will be ready to relax and be entertained, and the talented performers at the Soul of Shaolin are sure to impress you. The amazing acrobatic feats and martial arts in the show provide an incredible performance that is not only beautiful, but also heartwarming with its touching story about a young man who goes on a quest to find his estranged mother. This two-hour theatrical performance is the perfect way to end an exciting day in Gatlinburg!

Sweetheart Month Brings Romance to Branson in February

February 14th is a day filled with romance and tokens of appreciation, and for Branson’s Titanic Museum Attraction, the whole month of February will be a celebration of love as they begin Sweetheart Month. From February 1st to February 28th, you will be welcome to visit Titanic to renew your vows, propose, or get married on the Grand Staircase in front of friends and family. Titanic’s Captain Smith will officiate wedding ceremonies, and the Grand Staircase will lend its elegance and grandeur to the event to add a special touch. Advance reservations are required, so go ahead and start planning on how to make that special someone very happy in the month of February!

While you’re in Branson during February, take advantage of the opportunity to see the hilarious Jim Stafford Show. While most shows are closed in February, Jim Stafford is open due to popular demand, and he will give you a show to remember. With his musical comedy and 3-D virtual thrill ride, Jim Stafford presents a show that is original as it is entertaining. It’s perfect for some clean, family friendly fun.

Another show that continues regularly in February is the Comedy Hypnosis Dinner Show. This show, featuring the talented hypnotist Jecobie Roberts, offers guests a laugh and a look into the mysterious ways that people’s minds work. Jecobie is a master of hypnotism, and you may get the chance to experience it for yourself as she often takes volunteers from the audience. Her popularity continues to grow each year as more and more visitors to Branson discover her unique talents.

Gatlinburg Offers Exciting Ice Exhibits in January

For a truly unique experience during your vacation to the Gatlinburg area, be sure to attend the First Pigeon Forge Professional Ice Carving Competition at the Titanic Pigeon Forge on January 22. At this event, you will get the chance to watch some of the nation’s most talented artists carve amazing sculptures from ice! You will even get to visit with some of the artists as you marvel at their incredible handiwork. This event is perfect for families because there is no admission cost for the Ice Carving exhibit!

Gatlinburg is the perfect destination for a winter vacation during January because there are a variety of exciting attractions that can be enjoyed indoors during the cold weather months. If you are interested in enjoying some of nature’s beauty indoors, you will love visiting Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, where you will stare in awe at the beautiful marine life. Not only will you get to see sharks and colorful fish, but you will also have a chance to touch a sting ray in the Touch a Ray Bay. You will be fascinated by the beautiful sea life, making your visit to Ripley’s Aquarium and pleasant and memorable event.

With all of the fun activities in Gatlinburg to do during the day, you might want to relax and enjoy a show in the evening during your vacation. Country Tonite is one of the most popular shows that Gatlinburg has to offer, and for good reasons: this show has earned titles like “Best Live Country Music Show in America” and “Show of the Year”. You will love the wonderful performances of some of your favorite country hits and the comedic skits that will have you tapping your toes and giggling all night!

Experience Christmas in a Winter Wonderland with Titanic in Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge

If you are still looking for a special holiday experience that you and your kids can share, it’s time to visit Pigeon Forge for Titanic’s Christmas in a Winter Wonderland event. The event is ongoing from now until January 1st, and it gives families the chance to play in real snow as well as enjoy the famous Titanic museum attraction. The snow is created by machines in the Titanic parking lot, so come and enjoy their beautiful Winter Wonderland before the event is over!

While you’re in the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area for Titanic’s event, make sure to take in one of the area’s popular shows. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a favorite for the young and old with its unique use of blacklights and neon as well as its fun musical numbers. You will love the way this musical transforms the story of Joseph into a brand new experience that you will always remember!

If you’re in the mood for more musical magic after Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, you need to plan on seeing the Black Bear Jamboree Dinner and Show. This energy charged, Broadway-style show gives you a varied show of oldies, bluegrass, and gospel music to enjoy while you eat a delicious meal. Your meal consists of Southern-style classics like hickory pit barbecue ribs, corn on the cob, and oven baked bread.

Now that Christmas is getting near, you may be thinking more about getting gifts for other people rather than taking a trip. If you still have no idea what to get a family member or friend and you’re worried that you’re running out of time, get a Vacations Made Easy gift certificate. Our gift certificates are good for any of the attractions and lodging on our website including those in Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge, so there is something for everyone. Gift certificates can be printed out almost instantly after purchasing them, so there’s no wait involved in the process. It is the perfect last minute gift for everyone!

Ice Carving Competition at Branson Titanic Attraction Promises Winter Fun For All

The coldest months of the year prove to be the most eventful in Branson this winter season!  Audiences will be fascinated by the incredible artistic skill of the National Ice Carving Association’s Titans of Ice when they attend the 5th Annual Ice Carving competition at Titanic – The Legend Continues in Branson. The event will be taking place January 15, 2011.  Visitors can visit with the artists and watch them work on their sculptures in progress.  The artists are competing for cash prizes, and the event ends with an award ceremony in the afternoon.  This one-day event is complimentary for the public, so it will be the perfect outing for families!

After visiting the Titanic – The Legend Continues Museum Attraction, see more historical exhibits at the Hollywood Wax Museum!  Families love getting a chance to see replicas of their favorite celebrities from times gone by.  Each wax figure is so life-like, it will make you feel like you are standing in front of a real person!  Be sure to bring your camera and take photos with your favorite celebrities and historical figures.

Sightseeing surely makes one work up and appetite, so be sure to consider Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner & Show for your next activity.  Not only does the friendly staff serve up a delicious meal of rotisserie chicken, creamy vegetable soup, buttered corn and herb-baked potato, but they also perform an incredible show! The North vs. South variety show, featuring horses, magicians and jugglers will be a pleasant memory for years to come.

Experience a Winter Wonderland at Titanic in Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge

Every Friday and Saturday evening, visitors to Titanic in the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area will be transported to a Winter Wonderland when machines set up in the parking lot make it appear as though it is snowing. This exciting event is a part of Titanic’s Christmas in a Winter Wonderland which has been dedicated to celebrating the lives of the passengers of the ship. The festivities will continue from now until January 1st, so head on down to Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge to be a part of the excitement!

It may be chilly outside, but it’s warm inside at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. This aquarium is the perfect place to have some fun and keep nice and warm during your time in the area, and it allows you to experience nature even when it’s too cold to be outdoors. This aquarium has over 10,000 aquatic animals for you to see and learn about. You will see great exhibits like Shark Lagoon, Touch a Ray Bay, and the Coral Reef during your visit. You can even get something to eat at Feeding Frenzy and watch sting rays swim in their aquarium nearby. It’s a fun adventure for the whole family.

Of course, when you’re in Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge, you can’t miss out on seeing one of their exciting shows. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a family favorite that gives everyone a look at the popular Biblical tale of Joseph. Fantastic costumes, specialized lighting, and delightful music and dance routines make this show unforgettable while the story of a man tested to his limits and rewarded enthralls everyone who watches. It’s a great way to have a memorable evening during your getaway.

Add Historical Sites to Your Next Branson Visit

With the number of exciting year-round events and attractions in Branson, MO, a look at some of the city’s historical sites can provide a nice, easygoing complement to your next Ozarks visit. Branson features a wide range of museums near the heart of the city to help supply a healthy dose of historical education on your trip.

Titanic – The Legend Continues

Featuring over 400 artifacts and historic memorabilia, Titanic – The Legend Continues is among Branson’s most fascinating points of interest. Don’t miss your chance to experience a look into the intricate details of the ill-fated ship. Upon entry, you will receive a ticket with the name of a real-life passenger on it; as you wander through the museum, you will discover the fate of that one passenger on this disastrous night. The hundreds of artifacts, the Grand Staircase, and an actual iceberg that you can touch combine to paint an accurate picture of the tragedy and help place you back to this fateful night in April of 1912.

Veterans Memorial Museum

The Veterans Memorial Museum is dedicated to memorializing the lives of Amerrican soldiers during the 20th century. Among the notable displays within the museum are no fewer than 2,000 artifacts, including one particularly stunning bronze sculpture depicting 50 life-sized soldiers. The sculpture is the largest of its kind in the world. The names of diferent soldiers who have given their lives line the walls. The museum’s purpose is twofold: as an educational experience and as a way to pay tribute to fallen heroes.

Harold Bell Wright Museum

On a bit of a lighter note, the Harold Bell Wright Museum presents the life and times of this 20th century author through an assortment of his personal collections and artifacts. The museum displays original manuscripts of his work, which include such books as the Branson-based “The Shepard of the Hills” and the ever-popular “The Winning of Barbara Worth.” Also of interest in the museum is a personal letter from Ronald Reagan expressing his admiration of Wright’s career. Wright’s gun collection and a variety of original paintings are among the other notable displays at the museum.

Next Page »