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The coastline that stretches from Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida along the Gulf of Mexico is full of beautiful beaches, delicious seafood spots, festive nightlife, and excellent wildlife viewing. If you're planning a trip to the region this year, be sure to include some of these fun attractions and events to your itinerary.Celebrate 20 years of flight at this hot air balloon festival Spot hot-air balloons shaped as everything from a unicorn to the sun at the Gulf Coast Air Balloon Festival, celebrating its 20th anniversary May 2nd, 3rd, and 4th at OWA Parks & Resort in Foley, Alabama. Take a tethered balloon ride 35 feet into the sky for a birds-eye view of the proceedings, then try the theme parks’ AeroZoom ride, which replicates a hang glider, and the Air Racer, which simulates the dives and loops pilots take in an air show. The park features coasters and carousels among its 23 rides, as well as Tropic Falls, an impressively large indoor water park beneath a glass roof. More details on gulfcoastballoonfestival.com. Visit the new Dolphin Oasis on Okaloosa Island A dolphin jumps out of the water at the Dolphin Oasis - courtesy of Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, located on Okaloosa Island in Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida, proudly announced the grand opening of its highly anticipated Dolphin Oasis. This extraordinary event occurred during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 8, 2024, marking a significant milestone for the renowned marine park and the area's attractions. In attendance were local dignitaries, politicians, respected business leaders, dedicated employees, former staff members, accomplished habitat engineers and designers along with their families, valued stakeholders, and representatives from the county. Their presence underscored the significance of the Dolphin Oasis grand opening and highlighted the widespread support and interest it has garnered within the community. Dolphin Oasis, spanning 2.2 acres of sandy dunes and palms along the stunning emerald waters of the Florida Gulf Coast, is a testament to Gulfarium's commitment to animal welfare, conservation education, and the guest experience. The $30 million expansion includes three large interconnected habitats and three husbandry habitats, totaling over one million gallons of Gulf salt water, providing an immersive, natural-themed experience, all while reflecting the beauty of the Emerald Coast. The new presentation habitat has grandstand seating for 480 guests and plenty of space for standing room. The exhibit habitat has a 27-foot acrylic split-level viewing area, providing an unparalleled experience for visitors. Access to Dolphin Oasis is now included with a general admission ticket, allowing visitors to experience the magic of the new habitat. Guests can also purchase exclusive dolphin encounters for an up close and personal experience. This same habitat is designed to serve as a nursery for dolphin calves in the future, adding a unique dimension to the park's offering. Lastly, the interactive habitat, exuding the beauty of our Emerald Coast beaches, was created to allow getting up close and personal with our family of dolphins, guaranteed to be the highlight of any visit to Northwest Florida. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Patrick Berry, Senior Vice President and CEO of Gulfarium, made an exciting announcement. He revealed that the original 300,000-gallon dolphin habitat is currently undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation to accommodate manatee rehabilitation patients as part of the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP). Berry expressed the significance of this initiative, stating, “The renovation of our original dolphin habitat to care for manatee rehabilitation patients demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protecting and preserving marine life.” He added, “We eagerly anticipate welcoming these incredible animals and continuing our efforts to make a positive impact on our coastal ecosystem.” This transformative initiative aligns with Gulfarium's dedication to marine life conservation. The Gulfarium will be taking in manatees in need beginning this fall 2024.Plan a romantic escape to Mississippi Sunset in Ocean Springs - courtesy of Alex North Photography / Play Coastal Mississippi As the spring season begins to bloom, Coastal Mississippi is excited to highlight an array of experiences tailored to individual traveler interests. From romantic retreats to culinary delights, the 62 miles of shoreline promises an unforgettable experience for travelers. Couples seeking a romantic escape can find various offerings in Coastal Mississippi. For intimate, relaxing moments, travelers can visit world-class spas, like the Senses Spa and Salon in the IP Casino. Raise a glass to the end of another beautiful Coastal day by booking a sunset cruise on the Mississippi Sound with Ship Island Excursions. For that perfect romantic dinner, couples can choose from an array of culinary delights, such as world-class, James Beard nominated Vestige, or delight in savory crab claws and other specialties at the legendary Mary Mahoney's Old French House. Couples looking to enjoy a private evening with cocktails and dinner on the beach will find their match with picturesque views, delicious food, and a cozy fire pit from Food Booze Hiccups. For a delightful, toes-in-the-sand waterfront dining experience, travelers can visit Sea Level, Lucy's Retired Surfers Bar, or Shaggy's in Biloxi, Gulfport, and Pass Christian. Shaggy's Charter Docks in Pass Christian will even cook your catch so travelers can enjoy their own fresh catch following a day on the water with an expert captain who knows just where the fish are biting. For an elevated experience, travelers can visit White Pillars, where chef-owner Austin Sumrall creates truly magnificent dishes with an ever-changing menu, or The Sycamore House, where chefs Stella LeGardeur and Michael Eastham combine their New York and Coastal Mississippi culinary experience for a meal travelers won't soon forget. For award-winning barbeque, travelers can visit the crowd-favorite Murky Waters BBQ or The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint, which offers delicious smoked options and live entertainment. Celebrate 60 years of Flora-Bama Sunset over Orange Beach, Alabama by Steven Van Elk - Unsplash One of the world’s top beach bars, The Flora-Bama Lounge is located uniquely on the Orange Beach, Alabama, and Perdido Key, Florida, line. This honky tonk has been a landmark in the community since August 1, 1964. Since opening, the Flora-Bama hosts several famous annual events including Interstate Mullet Toss & Beach Party, Frank Brown’s Songwriters Festival, Super Chili Bowl Cook-off, Polar Bear Dip, and many more. The Flora-Bama has millions of “Bamily” members that visit them from around the world who know that the reputation, love and the legend is because of them. The Flora-Bama has five stages for live music and features bands of country, rock, dance and beach music. You can relax in any of the areas and select the entertainment of your choice. If you need a little away time the Flora-Bama has several beach-front bars where you can sip on a famous Bushwacker and enjoy the beautiful sunsets on the water.Enjoy family-friendly activities in Biloxi and beyond Families visiting the Mississippi Gulf Coast this spring can create lasting memories across the 62-mile destination. With an abundance of multigenerational family-friendly attractions and activities, blending education with thrilling experiences and more, crafting a fun-filled itinerary for families is effortless. Imagine building sandcastles on the beautiful, pristine beaches, watching dolphin shows at Ocean Adventures Marine Park, learning how to catch shrimp like a pro on the Biloxi Shrimping Trip, and enjoying the expansive 55,000 sq. ft. arcade at Margaritaville Resort & Family Entertainment Center. For fun in the sun, families can visit the Buccaneer Bay Waterpark or find thrilling rides at Paradise Pier Fun Park. Each activity promises to make for an engaging, memory-filled experience. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise amidst the landscapes of Coastal Mississippi. Adventurers can hike along the coast at the Gulf Island National Seashore - Davis Bayou Area trails and kayak through the largest free-flowing river in the lower 48 at the Pascagoula River Audubon Center. Fishing enthusiasts can find their own catch on many of the fresh and saltwater waterways, and thrill-seekers can experience the region's only zipline adventure course paired with high-speed racing at Finishline Performance Karting. "Whether you're coming for a week or a weekend, we invite travelers to discover the magic of Coastal Mississippi and create their own cherished memories," said Judy Young, CEO of Coastal Mississippi Tourism. "With a diverse range of offerings catering to romantic, family fun, outdoor enthusiasts, and more, there's no shortage of ways for travelers to 'Play Coastal' this season."

Embark on a transformative journey to the Hawaiian Islands this spring. Immerse yourself in Hawai'i's first culture, its indigenous Hawaiian culture, which makes our islands a place like nowhere else in the world. Your days exploring Hawaiʻi will unveil opportunities to connect with its living traditions, be serenaded by its local musicians and performers, and embark on cultural adventures promising to awaken your knowledge and sense of wonder. Read on, discover and participate in the array of unique experiences awaiting you. Book a stay at one of these new luxurious hotels Unveiled in February, the Grand Wailea's Kilolani Spa (Maui) honors the stargazers of early Hawaiʻi who looked to the skies to navigate their ocean course. Drawing inspiration from the kaulana mahina — Hawaiian lunar calendar — which divides each month into three helu pō, or moon phases, Kilolani aims to create what the resort calls “space for healing, rejuvenation and restoration.” The spa's programming evolves in tandem with the current anahulu (10-day period) and features native botanicals, holistic bodywork treatments and mindfulness practices enhanced by modern wellness methods. www.GrandWailea.com. Hotel Wailea (Maui) recently debuted its Land, Sea, Air experience, which aims to capture Maui on all three levels. Designed for couples, the exclusive experience offers a romantic getaway celebrating the beauty of Maui. www.HotelWailea.com Land - Explore the island at leisure in a 1957 Porsche 356 Speedster reproduction, with a picnic basket packed with snacks and beverages curated by Hotel Wailea Executive Chef Ryan Cruz keeping you energized and hydrated throughout the day.Sea - Discover Maui aboard a classic Columbia 57-foot sailing yacht on a private, two-hour sunset sail. The voyage, reserved solely for Hotel Wailea guests, offers panoramic coastline and sunset views as well as bites and sips.Air - Experience a helicopter flight along Maui's north coast featuring bird's-eye views of waterfalls and sea cliffs. Passengers will land within a Hāna-area rainforest to explore its lush vegetation and enjoy a picnic prepared by Executive Chef Cruz with champagne and wine selections. Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel (Oʻahu) and Cirque du Soleil will announce the title, theme, show schedule and debut date for their anticipated Hawai'i-inspired show this spring. The Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber will be home to the new Cirque du Soleil experience led by co-creators Simon Painter (The Works Entertainment) and Neil Dorward (The Illusionists, Circus 1903), with cultural direction by Aaron Salā, Ph.D. www.CirqueDuSoleil.com The Renaissance Honolulu Hotel and Spa (Oʻahu) opened in February 2024. This is the Renaissance brand's first Hawai'i location and one of the first new hotels constructed in Honolulu in 25 years. Situated in the city's vibrant Ala Moana neighborhood, the 39-story hotel's rooms and suites spotlight floor-to-ceiling glass windows and contemporary design. Other highlights of the new property include a Sky Terrace and Renaissance Spa complete with traditional Japanese ofuro soaking tubs, Himalayan salt saunas, a fitness center with LifeFitness equipment, and a glass-enclosed yoga space. www.Marriott.com The healing power of horses is at the heart of Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort's (Maui) Unbridled Retreat. The July 24 through 28 retreat, led by Equine Coach Devon Combs, aims to provide what the resort describes as “a path to clarity, mindfulness and sustainable well-being” through Combs' “unique synergy with horses and expert, intuitive coaching.” The four-night equine experience at the adults-only wellness enclave also includes a horseback ride, massage, sunset sail, complimentary daily classes, empowerment encounters and round-trip travel from Honolulu to Lāna'i on Lāna'i Air. www.FourSeasons.com Enjoy incredible culinary experiences Fresh fruit from Hawaii - courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority The Veranda, located within the Moana Surfrider (O'ahu), is hosting an enchanting twist on its traditional Afternoon Tea, partnering with Paradise Monarch to host a Butterfly Keiki Tea every second Saturday of the month until the end of spring. Keiki (kids) will step into the captivating realm of the Butterfly Dome surrounded by enchanting butterflies and participate in a butterfly release under the Moana Surfrider's iconic banyan tree. They'll also learn about how their efforts contribute to plant pollination and enhancing Hawai'i's biodiversity. Partnering with her friend and baker, Katherine Yang, James Beard Award-winning chef-owner Robynne Maii of Fête is readying a spring opening for Mille Fête (O'ahu), a bakery concept featuring new treats and some of her restaurant's most popular desserts. Sushi Gyoshin OMAKASE by Hiroshi Tsuji (Oʻahu) is a new 16-course omakase restaurant. Prepared by Chef Hiroshi Tsuji, each dish honors traditional sushi. The fish served at Sushi Gyoshin are sourced from Hawaiʻi and Japan's famed Tsukiji Market. The restaurant's omakase menu includes small plates and intricate sushi creations. Tasting Kaua'i's (Kauaʻi) new Waimea Walking Food Tour offers two-and-a-half hours of walking, tasting local food, and learning about the rich history and lifestyle of the island's west side. Following the tour, participants are encouraged to visit the lookouts of Waimea Canyon State Park — also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific — and check out Kōke'e State Park. Experience local art and culture Strumming a ukulele - courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority Debuting in March in the J.M. Long Gallery, the Bishop Museum's (Oʻahu) new exhibition, “Corned Beef & Kalo,” was curated by Healoha Johnston, the museum's director of cultural resources and curator for Hawaiʻi and Pacific arts and culture. It features the works “Pisupo lua afe (Corned Beef 2000)” by Michel Tuffery and “KALO” by Bernice Akamine, bringing together both contemporary artworks to, according to the museum, “consider how artists make visible issues related to agricultural subsistence, environmental sustainability and everyday life where food imports and structured land use intertwine.” Presented by the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement (CNHA) and Kilohana by CNHA, a new version of the renowned Waikīkī hula show once put on by Kodak debuted at the Waikīkī Shell in February. Running Sundays through Thursdays, the free, open-to-the-public Kilohana Hula Show (Oʻahu) will highlight mele (songs) honoring Waikīkī and feature dancers from six award-winning hālau hula (hula groups) from across Hawai'i. CNHA is working with Rick Barboza, Native Hawaiian plant specialist and co-owner of Hui Kū Maoli Ola, on reintroducing Native Hawaiian plants to the Waikīkī Shell venue. Timbers Kauaʻi (Kauaʻi) is offering new cultural programming aimed at immersing guests in the rich heritage and history of the island. Guests can learn the art of ti kūpeʻe (ti-leaf bracelet making) typically used in hula as adornments, and 'ohe kāpala, the Hawaiian art of bamboo stamping, typically utilized for printing designs on paper or fabrics. Timbers Kaua'i also offers Hawaiian language, 'ukelele and lei-making lessons. Plan an exciting outdoor adventure Visitors and tour operators headed to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (Island of Hawaiʻi) should expect delays in the months ahead as a two-year Disaster Recovery Project commences to repair, improve and remove damaged buildings and infrastructure at the summit of Kīlauea volcano. Delays should be expected at the park's entrance station, coinciding with temporary area closures and limited parking availability. The project will also include the removal of the former Thomas A. Jaggar Museum — which was damaged during the 2018 Kīlauea eruption and summit collapse — a new roundabout near the park's entrance station to improve safety, and a new USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory facility near Kīlauea Military Camp on the park's grounds. The Twin Fin Hotel (Oʻahu), in partnership with Beach Candy Waikiki and the Jamie O'Brien Surf Experience, recently launched the new Jamie O'Brien School of Surf Waikiki. Housed in the oceanfront hotel's ground-level storefront, the Jamie O'Brien School of Surf Waikiki is a new venture from Oʻahu resident, professional surfer, filmmaker and Banzai Pipeline surf competition champion Jamie O'Brien. The school specializes in family and group surf lessons, with all surf experiences conceptualized and designed by O'Brien and led by local instructors selected for their ocean knowledge and surf skills. The County of Hawai'i County Department of Parks and Recreation has reopened Kaūmana Caves (Island of Hawaiʻi) in Hilo to the public. The caves, a destination for locals and visitors, had been closed since September 23, 2023, due to a rock fall. For more information on Kaūmana Caves, call the Department of Parks and Recreation administration office at (808) 961-8311. Kualoa Ranch (Oʻahu) recently launched a new three-hour deluxe semi-private UTV tour. Offered six-times daily, the guided tour utilizes Kawasaki off-road UTV vehicles for a behind-the-scenes adventure to the backcountry of the ranch's Kaʻaʻawa and Hakipuʻu valleys unreachable by other vehicles and tours. Guides customize the tour's narration to guests' Kualoa interests, sharing stories of Hollywood movies filmed in the valley, its historic places, Hawaiian legends, and valley farming, aquaculture and ranching. The Umauma Experience (Island of Hawaiʻi) now offers a family-friendly Triple-Tier Waterfall Rappel and River Tour for adventure seekers interested in immersive experiences. Guests on the tour rappel alongside the triple-tier waterfalls of Umauma Stream and can swim or float in water tubes. All needed gear is provided, and no experience is necessary. The Umauma Triple-Tier Waterfall Rappel and River Tour is operated by Island Mountain Guides LLC on the Umauma Falls property. Attend one or more of these festive events The coastline of Maui - courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority Kauaʻi 'Ukulele Festival (April 14, 2024) — World-class music festival that unites music enthusiasts globally to commemorate the transformative influence of music. This festival is situated in the heart of Līhuʻe with ample complimentary parking available. The festival's roster showcases a diverse array of skilled local musicians, ranging from established to up-and-coming talents. 28th Annual East Maui Taro Festival (Maui, April 20, 2024) — This annual celebration in Hāna pays tribute to kalo/taro, the essential sustenance of the Hawaiian community, featuring music, hula performances, food stalls offering taro-based dishes, and cultural demonstrations. 17th Annual Waimānalo Kanikapila (Oʻahu, April 20, 2024) —This annual event honors Cyril Lani Pahinui and his father, Gabby Pahinui, two iconic figures in Hawaiian music, and celebrates the musical legacy of the Waimānalo community. Initiated by Cyril Pahinui in 2007, the Waimānalo Kanikapila is reminiscent of the musical gatherings from his childhood, attracting over 100 musicians and thousands of fans. The festival offers unforgettable performances and all-star jams by some of Hawai'i's greatest musicians. Support for the event is generated through the sale of t-shirts, available both at the event and online. 54th Annual Maui Marathon and Half Marathon (Maui, April 21, 2024) — The Maui Marathon is one of Hawai'i's longest consecutively-held running events and claims to be the oldest marathon west of the Mississippi River. Runners can participate in a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K or a newly added full marathon relay. All runners will participate in a special memorial during the race, offering lei to be placed on the Lahaina Memorial on the Lahaina Bypass. 11th Annual Big Island Chocolate Festival (island of Hawaiʻi, April 26-27, 2024) — Check out this festival for everything from chocolate cooking demos and a unique tequila and chocolate pairing event to a grand gala. The festival is presented by the Kona Cacao Association with a mission of promoting Hawai'i Island's cacao industry. All festival events happen at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa. Waikīkī SPAM JAM® (Oʻahu, April 27, 2024) — The 20th annual Waikīkī SPAM JAM® will celebrate Hawai'i's ongoing love for, of course, SPAM®, with local Waikīkī restaurants offering creative SPAM® dishes. Attendees will find food and retail booths, custom festival T-shirts, arts and craft vendors, keiki activities and appearances by SPAMMY™ characters and friends. The event benefits Hawai'i Foodbank — the state's largest nonprofit feeding those in need — the Waikīkī Community Center, and the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaiʻi. Lei Day Celebration (O'ahu, May 1, 2024) — As one of Hawai'i's most emblematic symbols of aloha, lei — and the crafting of lei — have been celebrated in the Hawaiian Islands on Lei Day since 1927. The City and County of Honolulu's official Lei Day event is held at Kapi'olani Park in Waikīkī, honoring lei and the traditions surrounding it with festivities, including pageants and competitions for lei queen and the crafting of colorful, fragrant flower lei. 8th Annual World Whale Film Festival 2024 (Maui, June 6, 2024) — A non-profit dedicated to safeguarding the ocean and its inhabitants, the Pacific Whale Foundation calls upon filmmakers and artists to participate in the Annual World Whale Film Festival (WWFF), which serves as a platform to raise awareness about various ocean-related issues, including marine wildlife conservation, indigenous ecological knowledge, environmental stewardship, and solutions for ocean preservation and human well-being. In response to the Maui wildfires of 2023, the WWFF will introduce a new category focusing on climate change and natural disasters. 43rd Kapalua Wine and Food Festival (Maui, June 6-9, 2024) — One of Hawai'i's longest-running culinary festivals, the Kapalua Wine and Food Festival annually celebrates the delicious pairing of great food and great wine with a four-day culinary extravaganza. The festival's aim is to explore trends in the gastronomic world, bringing together winemakers, master sommeliers, chefs and industry insiders for themed tastings, seminars and gala evening culinary events. 13th Annual Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture (Oʻahu, June 6-16, 2024) —The Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture (FestPAC) is the world's largest celebration of indigenous Pacific Islanders. For the first time, the 13th annual celebration will convene in Hawaiʻi on the island of O'ahu. More than 2,500 delegates including artists, cultural practitioners, scholars and officials from over 20 nations will gather on Oahu for 10-days of cultural exchange, appreciation and celebration at various venues across the island. The theme for FestPAC Hawaiʻi 2024 is “Ho'oulu Lāhui: Regenerating Oceania,” honoring the traditions that FestPAC works to perpetuate with an eye toward the future. FestPAC serves as a platform for Pacific Island nations to showcase their rich heritage and artistic talents. 41st Annual Pan-Pacific Festival (Oʻahu, June 7-9, 2024) — After a five-year hiatus, the Pan-Pacific Festival Foundation is thrilled to announce the return of the festival to Honolulu. The Pan-Pacific Festival began in Hawai'i in 1980 as a cultural exchange between the state and Japan. Visiting participants from Japan were invited to enjoy the familiarity of Japanese music, crafts, traditions and foods, while Hawai'i residents and other visitors were offered opportunities to gain a deeper appreciation of Japanese sensibilities and cultural heritage. Today, the festival features events held throughout Waikīkī showcasing Japan's pageantry and includes a ho'olaule'a (celebration) block party, art fair and hula performances, culminating with a grand parade on Waikīkī main street Kalākaua Avenue. Ka'ū Coffee Festival (Island of Hawai'i, June 8, 2024) — Though coffee had been farmed in the island of Hawai'i's Ka'ū district for generations dating back to the 1800s, the area's beans and roasters only began earning notice on the global specialty-coffee scene in the early 2000s, winning numerous international awards. Held each spring, the Ka'ū Coffee Festival celebrates the district's now firm standing as a world-class coffee-growing region and honors the farmers, roasters, gatherers and rich agricultural landscape that have all played a role in its renown. King Kamehameha Day Celebrations (June 11, 2024) — Celebrated across the state of Hawaiʻi on June 11, the Kamehameha Day holiday honors Kamehameha I, the island of Hawai'i chief who united the Hawaiian Islands under his rule in 1810. Festivities span across Kaua'i, O'ahu, Maui, Moloka'i and the island of Hawai'i and include lei draping ceremonies, parades, pā'u (skirted) riders on horseback representing the Hawaiian royal court to other special gatherings with ʻono (delicious) food and family-friendly activities, residents and visitors alike come together in celebration of the great aliʻi nui (king).

If you're planning a trip to the theme parks in Orlando, Florida, be sure to check out what is coming to Universal Studios this year and next. New celebrations, attractions, and environments are launching, including a festive culinary season, DreamWorks-themed land, and a dragon-lovers paradise. Spring means "Butterbeer Season" at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Butterbeer season at Universal Orlando - courtesy of Universal Orlando For the first time ever, Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood will celebrate Butterbeer™ Season, offering fans and guests a chance to enjoy Butterbeer in all-new ways within “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,™” beginning March 15 and continuing through April 30, 2024. The celebration also marks the introduction of Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream counter within “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios Hollywood. Opening on Friday, March 29, the all-new venue, located in Honeydukes™, will feature 10 decadent and savory soft serve ice cream flavors, including Butterbeer, Banana, Chocolate, Mint, Orange, Vanilla, Toffee Nut, Granny Smith Apple, Pistachio and Toffee Apple, served in a cup or waffle cone. With a flavor reminiscent of butterscotch and shortbread, Butterbeer is a perfectly fine-tuned Wizarding World treat that includes cold, frozen, hot and non-dairy Butterbeer beverages along with Butterbeer fudge, potted cream and ice cream. Throughout Butterbeer Season, both destinations will roll out delectable treats, including an ice lolly which features the rich palate pleasing Butterbeer flavor in popsicle form, in addition to the traditional items served daily. Plus, new Butterbeer caramels will only be available at Universal Orlando Resort. For a limited time only during this festive period, cold and frozen Butterbeer will be available for purchase in a special collectible silver stein. Guests at Universal Orlando Resort can enjoy Butterbeer and celebrate the season at “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade” at Universal Islands of Adventures as well as at “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley™” at Universal Studios Florida. For more information about “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.universalorlando.com, and at Universal Studios Hollywood, visit www.universalstudioshollywood.com. Butterbeer Season is a new global franchise initiative to annually celebrate the flavor, scent and look of the iconic beverage fans will recognize from the magical wizarding world. Butterbeer was first introduced in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and quickly became a fan favorite symbol of joy, comfort, warmth and togetherness. Fans who longed for the opportunity to enjoy the beverage have loved the varied Butterbeer offerings currently available at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Destinations & Experiences global theme parks, Warner Bros. Studio Tours in Hollywood, Tokyo and London, and many of the Harry Potter touring experiences around the world. Now, every March through early May, fans around the world will have the opportunity to experience Butterbeer in new and unexpected ways during Butterbeer Season. Look out for new treats, limited-edition products, events, and activations to celebrate the joy of Butterbeer. Favorite animated characters from DreamWorks come alive this summer Shrek's Swamp Meet - courtesy of Universal Orlando This summer, Universal Orlando Resort will debut DreamWorks Land – a vibrant new themed environment inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s beloved characters Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda. Located in the Universal Studios Florida theme park, the expansive area will feature tons of fun for the entire family and include a family-friendly coaster, multiple interactive play areas, live entertainment, character meet and greets and more. As soon as guests step into the spectacular new land, the vivid world and imagination of DreamWorks Animation will surround them as they embark on exciting adventures like exploring Shrek’s Swamp just outside of his 35-foot-tall cottage, taking a ride on a dazzling Trollercoaster, interacting with Po in the Panda Village and meeting favorite characters like Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse. Guests will also discover unique treats, photo-op-worthy murals, interactive play areas, splash pads and entertainment offerings themed to popular DreamWorks stories and characters. Here are more details about the enchanting and playful new experiences coming to DreamWorks Land: For Shrek fans: Like ogres and onions, guests can peel back layers of fun in Shrek’s oasis to discover “ogre-the-top” adventures at every turn. Shrek’s Swamp Meet: Guests can visit Shrek’s Swamp Meet to interact with beloved characters Shrek, Princess Fiona and Donkey, the noble steed eager to joke around and converse with guests, just outside of Shrek’s cottage.Shrek’s Swamp for Little Ogres: This ogre-sized play area features four fun slides, wet play areas and a playground where guests can climb, bounce and splash around as well as venture into Shrek’s outhouse.Mama Luna Feline Fiesta: The blockbuster film, Puss in Boots 2: The Last Wish, comes to life with this new interactive experience that takes place in Mama Luna’s retirement home for cats. Here, guests get to play with Mama Luna’s many cats on vivid interactive screens activated by buttons, bells, maracas and levers. They might even spot the one and only Puss in Boots himself.King Harold’s Swamp Symphony: Guests can create their own melodious masterpiece as they trigger a choir of ever-changing frog ribbits by continually stomping on an array of interactive lily pads.Swamp Snacks: Families can feast like an ogre at this new kiosk, which will serve scrumptious snacks inspired by Shrek, including Shrekzel, Far Far A Waffle, Frozen Ogre and more. For TROLLS fans: A magnificent fountain featuring favorite Trolls characters Poppy and Branch sits at the center of the Trolls Village where “fantastamazing” energy flows and guests can relax and “find their happy place.” Trolls Trollercoaster: After strolling through a dazzling marquee starring cherished Trolls characters Poppy, Viva, Tiny Diamond, Satin and Chenille, guests of all ages can take a ride on the iconic Caterbus escaping evil spiders as they speed along a bright orange and yellow track aboard this family-friendly rollercoaster.Poppy’s Playground: Nestled under a giant, 20-foot mushroom is Poppy’s Playground – a shaded play area featuring colorful flowers and bugs with a bountiful array of fun bouncing and climbing structures for the youngest of trolls.Trolls Treats: Poppy’s boombox from Trolls Band Together has been transformed into a playful kiosk that offers up brightly colored Trolls ice cream treats inspired by Poppy and Branch like the pink lemonade-flavored Poppy-licious Pink and huckleberry-flavored BroZone Berry.High Five Hideaway: Cloud Guy hosts this all-new retail location featuring the latest merchandise including apparel, plush and accessories from Shrek, Trolls, Kung Fu Panda, Gabby’s Dollhouse and more. For Kung Fu Panda fans: Guests embark on thrilling and fun adventures alongside the lovable panda Po from the action-packed world of the Kung Fu Panda movies. Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp: Inspired by the hit Kung Fu Panda films, this all-new play area brings the Panda Village to life like never before. Within both wet and dry play areas, guests have the opportunity to help the pandas wash and dry their laundry with enormous water cannons, dump buckets, giant fans and more. Guests will also encounter fun elements throughout the experience, including an interactive gong, mischievous, giggling baby pandas, and oversized merry-go-round noodle bowls from Mr. Ping’s Noodle Shop.Po Live!: This digital, interactive meet and greet experience gives guests the opportunity to interact with the famous Dragon Warrior himself as he teaches them cool Kung Fu moves, cooks some delicious stir fry and babysits his little cousin, Ling Ling…all at the same time. DreamWorks Land will also feature additional opportunities for guests to meet and interact with beloved characters through extraordinary live entertainment, including: DreamWorks Imagination Celebration: Popular DreamWorks Animation stories leap off the screen and come to life in DreamWorks Imagination Celebration. The multisensory adventure combines hit pop songs, high-energy dancing, advanced technology, and more to create an imaginative party atmosphere that will transport guests to the worlds of their favorite characters within the all-new DreamWorks Theater.DreamWorks Character Zone: At DreamWorks Character Zone, guests can meet, greet and interact with their favorite DreamWorks characters like Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse and more. Dragon-lovers unite for this epic 2025 launch Artist rendering of Isle of Berk - courtesy of Universal Orlando Universal Orlando Resort invites guests of all ages to soar with dragons in a colorful, fully-alive world filled with Viking adventures in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk – one of the five worlds featured at the all-new Universal Epic Universe theme park opening in 2025. Here, guests will see what it’s like to live amongst dragons as they explore a larger-than-life world that includes exciting attractions, beloved character meet-and-greets, dining, shopping – and even flying dragons – based on DreamWorks Animation’s multi-award winning and Academy Award-nominated trilogy, “How to Train Your Dragon.” Developed in partnership between Universal Creative and the powerhouse filmmakers from DreamWorks Animation and Universal Pictures, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk captures the heart, humor and scale of the films within an authentic re-creation of the rugged, rocky world where raucous Vikings and rambunctious dragons live together in hilarious harmony. Guests visiting Berk will encounter one of the most breathtaking environments Universal has ever created – complete with immense architecture featuring hand-carved details, lush landscaping, and extraordinary heights of rolling hills surrounding vibrant dragon houses and local establishments. And everywhere guests look within the bustling village, they’ll find endless activity – from active dragons in their natural habitats and sheep attempting to disguise themselves as Terrible Terror dragons to sporadic bouts of fire – making Isle of Berk an attraction unto itself. Guests’ first sight of Berk will be reminiscent of the iconic sweeping vista straight from the films – featuring a vast sparkling lagoon that boasts two 40-foot-tall Viking statues set against an energetic village perched above churning seas. Guests will discover four attractions, one live show, and several character and dragon meet-and-greet experiences that offer something for every member of the family, including: Hiccup’s Wing Gliders – On this family thrill coaster, Hiccup invites brave new Vikings to take a ride in his latest glider contraption – a winged flying machine that launches aspiring Dragon Riders into the sky for a dragon’s eye view of Berk. Guests will fly alongside Hiccup and Toothless and reach speeds up to 45 mph as they soar around the perimeter of Berk – and even through the lagoon – while experiencing firsthand what it’s like to fly on a dragon.The Untrainable Dragon – Inspired by Universal Beijing Resort’s wildly successful “Untrainable” show, this dragon-filled live spectacular takes guests on an unforgettable journey with beloved characters Hiccup, Toothless, Gobber, and Astrid as they work together to solve the mystery of The Untrainable Dragon. This heartwarming story comes to life with captivating musical numbers, breathtaking sets and life-sized dragons soaring overhead.Fyre Drill – Mischievous Viking twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut invite teams of Vikings to compete to outscore and out-soak each other on this wet-and-wild boat battle. Guests will board a colorful dragon-headed boat and blast water cannons at flame-like targets to practice putting out fires – a crucial skill to master when living with dragons.Dragon Racer’s Rally – Berk’s new Vikings racers can practice aerobatic maneuvers and high-speed barrel rolls on two Viking-made dragon-riding trainers that reach heights of up to 67 feet in the air. Guests can control how “wild” or “mild” their experience will be as they perform high-flying, gravity-defying, swooping and soaring skills that are necessary to earn the accolades worthy of a true champion dragon racer.Viking Training Camp – Junior Vikings will learn everything they need to know about dragons as they climb, slide and explore their way through this sprawling interactive adventure play camp – featuring a Viking agility course, a Toothless-themed teeter-totter, baby Gronckle dragon climbers and so much more.Meet Hiccup and Toothless – Guests can visit the Haddock Paddock for an incredible meet-and-greet experience with heroic Dragon Rider, Hiccup, and pose for a photo with his friendly Night Fury, Toothless. Plus, throughout the day, guests may also encounter other familiar Vikings and dragons while exploring Berk. Guests can also dine and shop like Vikings in the world’s variety of themed eateries and retail locations, including: Mead Hall – The beating heart of Berk and the village’s main gathering hall, Mead Hall is where guests can feast like a Viking and enjoy a savory menu featuring a variety of meats, fish, sandwiches and more along with a collection of meads and ciders.Spit Fyre Grill – Overlooking the action of the Fyre Drill water attraction, Spit Fyre Grill is a quick-service dining location featuring delicious, hearty meals flame-seared by a helpful (unseen) dragon fry cook.Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel – Guests can grab quick bites at this festive racing-themed food stand located in the Viking Camp.And after a day of dragon training, guests can commemorate their lessons with an array of merchandise available at highly-themed shops like Viking Traders, How to Treat Your Dragon, Hiccup’s Work Shop, and Toothless’ Treasures.

As the seasons change, campgrounds will begin to fill up with families and outdoor adventurists looking to take advantage of warm weather and sunny days. While camping itself offers plenty to do on its own — including nature activities and bonding with family and friends — booking a location near other fun events or entertainment can break up the monotony of a typical trip. This spring, add a little extra flair to your average family camping adventure and make a plan to visit these campsites below, which include access to unique music festivals, Easter celebrations, and more. Experience other-worldly cave tours and a unique festival A campfire by Matt Whitacre - Unsplash In Pelham, Tennessee, CaveJam, a new 3-day, multi-stage camping festival features headliner The String Cheese Incident and an incredible line-up of bands both above and below ground at The Caverns over Memorial Day Weekend, May 24-26, 2024. CaveJam will offer a variety of VIP glamping options in addition to everything else that makes The Caverns such a unique destination venue, from otherworldly cave tours and a spacious campground with a vibrant vendor alley to the stunning views surrounding the venue’s outdoor amphitheater where guests can spread out, dance, savor food truck fare, and enjoy the music. And of course, the crown jewel of The Caverns experience remains seeing live music inside a beautiful cave. General admission tickets begin around $149, but kids 12 and under are admitted free to the event. For those looking to book a glamping experience, CaveJam VIP packages include four nights of lodging in yurts, canvas bell tents, or large pitched tents, VIP tickets, and the following:Thursday early access Yurt Village or VIP Village.Exclusive viewing areas at the Amphitheater Stage including viewing from the VIP tent close to the stage as well as exclusive access to an elevated tier at rear of the venue for a unique bird’s eye view of the stage.Guaranteed tickets to The String Cheese Incident’s special late night cave set on Sunday night (5/26).Exclusive access to VIP Restroom Trailers in the campground and amphitheater, and VIP Shower Units in the campground.Catered brunch each morning (Sat., Sun., & Mon). Roll out of your yurt/tent to a nice, locally sourced meal to start each day off right.Locally sourced catered meals each evening (Fri., Sat.,& Sun.) in the tent overlooking the stage. We’ll keep you full & energized.Private VIP cash bar & daily Happy Hour discounts, late night campground snacks & activities on Friday and Saturday, and free canned drinking water in the Campground.Free chair massages from our roaming massage therapist. Sit back & enjoy a relaxing massage while enjoying amazing tunes.Charging stations in The Caverns Amphitheater and campground.Two (2) CaveJam commemorative T-shirts; two (2) CaveJam commemorative posters; two (2) CaveJam VIP lanyards; two (2) CaveJam stickers.VIP Liaisons to assist you during your stay. Hunt for Easter eggs (even after Easter) Easter egg hunts are being held through late spring - courtesy of Jellystone Park-Camp Resorts With more than 75 locations across the United States and Canada, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts feature fun attractions such as pools and water slides, non-stop family activities, up-close fun with Yogi Bear characters, and glamping-style accommodations. Easter egg decorating contests, egg hunts with Yogi Bear, visits by the Easter Bunny and Easter-themed games are just a few of the activities that await families at Jellystone Park Camp-Resort locations across the country during Easter weekend. “Our Easter-themed activities are so popular that some of our northern locations with later opening dates offer them in May and June so families don’t miss out on the fun,” said Trent Hershenson, vice president of marketing for Camp Jellystone, the Southfield, Michigan-based company that franchises Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts. While most Jellystone Park locations offer Easter egg hunts and craft activities, specific activities vary by location. Here’s a sampling of some of the Easter-themed events and activities taking place at Jellystone Park locations across the United States this year: Caledonia, Wisconsin: This location celebrates Easter the first weekend in May with a blending of springtime and Halloween festivities called “Spring-o-Ween.” Dress up in your favorite spring-themed or spooky costume and strut your stuff through a costume parade and then trick-or-treat throughout the park. There will also be an Easter egg hunt and candy bar bunny races.Bostic, North Carolina: This location celebrates Easter with an Easter egg hunt and a visit by the Easter Bunny.Burleson, Texas: Easter weekend events at this location include Easter-themed crafts, Easter egg relay races, a “Tip the Easter Basket” group game,” a scavenger hunt, a marshmallow eating contest, and a “Hop & Treat” event, the park’s spin on a traditional Easter egg hunt.Horn Lake, Mississippi: Easter weekend at this location includes an Easter egg hunt and a visit by the Easter Bunny.Lodi, California: This location will have an Easter egg hunt and a visit by the Easter Bunny.Mill Run, Pennsylvania: Activities at this location include egg coloring, cookie decorating, a jelly bean guessing contest, an Easter egg hunt, candy bar bingo, an Easter basket raffle, and a magical Easter basket ride.Sioux Falls, South Dakota: This location celebrates an Easter Eggstravaganza Week beginning May 28th. Activities include Easter crafts, bunny games, and a flashlight Easter egg hunt with Yogi Bear. Parents can also order Easter baskets to be delivered by the Easter Bunny.Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin: This location celebrates Easter the weekend of June 7-9 with an Easter egg hunt with Yogi Bear and a dance party on Saturday night.Tabor City, North Carolina: This location celebrates Easter with egg hunts for all ages — and even one for dogs. The Jellystone Park characters will be delivering Easter baskets and there will be games of “Chocolate Bunny Bingo.”Williamsport, Maryland: This location celebrates Easter with an Easter egg hunt and a visit by the Easter Bunny.Waller, Texas: An Easter egg hunt and a visit by the Easter Bunny top the list of activities planned at this location. Listen to bluegrass, jazz, and more A camping tent in the mountains by Christopher Jolly - Unsplash Several the Spacious Skies campgrounds along the eastern US are near excellent local music festivals. The Blooms, Bluegrass and BBQ Festival near Spacious Skies Belle Ridge in Monterey, Tennessee takes place in early May. To the north in Winchester, Virginia, and near the Shenandoah Views campground in Luray, there's also Fiddles & Fifths in early June which combines bluegrass and bourbon tastings. Further south, Savannah Oaks is conveniently located near The Savannah Music Festival, a multi-week event from late March to mid-April with top jazz, classical and acoustic artists. Bringing along pets? You can take in Adirondack Woof Stock in early June near Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks in North Hudson, New York where events include blessings of the animals, K9 police demonstrations, pet adoptions and grooming, costume contests and more. There will also be music that you would have heard from the original Woodstock.

Easter is a big consumer holiday that rakes in billions and gives Americans toothaches on an annual basis. In fact, 81% of Americans celebrated the holiday last year, and consumers are expected to spend $22 billion on it this year. Outside of this consumerism, though, Easter is an especially important day for Christians everywhere. In order to determine the best cities for celebrating Easter, WalletHub compared the 100 most populated cities across four key dimensions: 1) Easter Observers, 2) Easter Traditions, 3) Kids’ Easter and 4) Easter Weather. They then evaluated those dimensions using 11 relevant metrics, such as the number of churches, the size of the Christian population, the number of chocolate shops and gift shops, and Easter weather forecasts. “The best cities for Easter cater to the religious nature of the holiday by offering plenty of opportunities for Christians to attend services, and they also provide the resources for people to have a great time with their family regardless of religious affiliation. That means lots of places to get some sweet treats or dine out, as well as good weather conditions and nice open spaces for Easter egg hunts," says Cassandra Happe, WalletHub analyst. Don't want to travel far? Don't worry—there are cities all over the country with great activities and ways to celebrate. Take some notes from Dr. Kerri Camp, professor at the University of Texas at Tyler: "Travel costs during the Easter Holiday are impacted by supply and demand. Costs this year are expected to be slightly higher than last year due to rising fuel costs and increases in baggage fees for flights. If Easter travel plans include driving, consumers should consider carpooling with others to share the costs of travel or consider closer destinations. For those consumers wanting to travel by air, comparison shopping of airlines and the days of the week for travel could result in some savings. Additionally, because of recent increases in baggage fees for several airlines, consumers should try to travel lighter than normal and carry their luggage rather than checking bags at an extra cost." Some of the top spots to celebrate this holiday are below—but for the full report on how each city fared, head to WalletHub. #7. Honolulu, Hawaii Scoring 5th place in the "Easter traditions" category and 4th for kid-friendly activities, this Hawaiian city makes a festive destination for an Easter celebration. This tropical destination also tied in first place for most flower and gift shops per capita, making it easy to put together fun Easter baskets and gifts, or simply decorating for an enjoyable holiday weekend. Honolulu also tied for first place when it came to the most candy and chocolate stores per capita—but don't worry, parents; you can always counter all the sweet treats with healthier island cuisine featuring fresh fruit and seafood catches! #6. Atlanta, Georgia Atlanta, Georgia by Joey Kyber - Unsplash Atlanta took first place in the Easter traditions category; the city has a plethora of options for Easter meals and brunches at restaurants, as well as options for purchasing sweets and decor. Being located in the South, Atlanta also ranked 22nd in the "Easter observers" category, thanks to its churches and Christian population. Many places are throwing special holiday brunches, Easter egg hunts are plentiful, and other themed activities can be found all over the city this holiday weekend. #5. El Paso, Texas This border city ranked well in almost all categories, scoring a 7th place rank in "Easter observers," 11th in "Kid's Easter," and 17th in "Easter traditions." El Paso has the 3rd largest Christian population by percentage, and especially has a strong Catholic population in part due to its larger Latin American immigrant community. #4. Orlando, Florida Easter decor by Sebastian Staines - Unsplash Okay, Orlando is always a good place to celebrate, holiday or not. It ranked 2nd in the Easter traditions category, and tied for first place for the most flower and gift shops per capita. With its typically warm weather and a local population that celebrates the holiday, it can be a uniquely fun time of year to visit this family-friendly destination. #3. Buffalo, New York Buffalo is the third-best city for celebrating Easter, boasting the second-highest number of churches per capita and the fifth-highest share of the population identifying as Christian, at over 55%. Buffalo residents also search Google for “Easter dinner” more than residents of many other cities, which shows that a lot of people are planning celebrations. The city has a lot of candy and chocolate shops per capita, too. #2. Birmingham, Alabama A church decorated for Easter by Tucker Good - Unsplash Birmingham is the second-best city for Easter, largely due to the fact that it’s a very Christian city. It has the most churches per capita, and over 52% of the population is Christian, the sixth-highest rate in the country. There are lots of choices when it comes to Good Friday and Easter Sunday services as a result. On top of that, Birmingham has a lot of flower and gift shops per capita, allowing people to spruce up their celebrations. See where all the Easter bunny sightings, egg hunts, and more are happening here. #1. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Pittsburgh is the best city for celebrating Easter, in part because it has some of the most churches per capita and a very high share of the population identifying as Christian, so there’s a lot of people celebrating and plenty of places for them to worship. The Steel City also has some of the most candy shops per capita and a high number of chocolate shops per capita, so it’s easy to sweeten the celebration. Pittsburgh also has some of the most flower and gift shops per capita, so decorating is easy, and Easter is projected to have pretty good weather as well. Here's a list of family-friendly events happening in Pittsburgh this year. —For the full rankings, visit WalletHub.

Wondering where to go this spring? Whether you're looking for a family trip, outdoor adventure, or cultural experience, these destinations offer something for everyone. Book a family trip to South Lake Tahoe, California The area certainly has a split personality: part California, part Nevada — with the two meeting along the lake’s southern shore. High-end casino hotels (in Nevada) bump up against the base village for Heavenly (in California). Outdoor recreation, gambling and nightlife are equally accessible things to do in South Tahoe — while for others outdoor picnics and renowned restaurants and breweries keep everyone satiated. There is so much to look forward to, as spring represents one of the most beautiful and interesting seasons to visit. The weather is generally mild, sunny, and temperatures can even get warm on some days. Known as the “shoulder season,” spring in Tahoe is a time of warmer weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices, making it ideal for families to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and attractions. Here are some of the best ways to spend your spring vacation in South Tahoe: Enjoy spring skiing – Enjoy the sun and snow with South Tahoe’s famous spring ski scene. Heavenly, Kirkwood, and Sierra-at-Tahoe provide diverse skiing experiences suitable for all skill levels. RnR’s extended stay rentals offer convenience for families, allowing them to treat their vacation as a full ski season rather than a short getaway.Visit Taylor Creek Visitor Center – An educational and scenic experience awaits families at this center, where diverse wildlife can be observed in a natural setting. The center is a gateway to several self-guided trails, making it a great spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.Experience the beauty of Emerald Bay State Park – A must-visit location, Emerald Bay offers breathtaking views, kayaking, beaches, and hiking trails. It’s an ideal spot for family photos and outdoor adventures.Chase waterfalls – Spring is the best time to explore Tahoe’s waterfalls, thanks to the melting snow. Trails of varying difficulty levels, like the beginner-friendly Eagle Falls trail, offer families the chance to witness the beauty of nature up close.Kayak or paddleboard – Experience Lake Tahoe from a unique perspective by kayaking or paddleboarding. Clearly Tahoe offers year-round tours, including special glass-bottom kayak experiences.Hop on a bike – Whether you’re a mountain bike pro or just getting started, spring offers many amazing mountain biking trails. The website Localfreshies.com offers a trail guide that will get you pointed in the right direction. Our suggestion? The 7.5-mile Tahoe Mountain trek is perfect for beginner-intermediate riders. It’s usually one of the first trails to dry out in the spring. After a quick battle uphill, you’ll be greeted with views that make it worth it, and the option to either out-and-back, loop around or keep heading up the ridge.Go climb a mountain – There’s no better way to experience the natural beauty of the Sierras firsthand than on the beautiful hiking trails. One of our favorite South Shore spots is Eagle Falls. This link from our friends at All Trails lays out other prime options.Enjoy a Heavenly Village experience – The base of the Heavenly Mountain Resort Gondola is home to Heavenly Village, featuring a charming shopping scene, restaurants, live music, and various family-friendly entertainment options.Partake in family-friendly events – With the new Tahoe Blue Event Center comes a new venue for great family-friendly entertainment with the 2024 Spring lineup including the Harlem Globetrotters world tour and Paw Patrol Live!: Heroes Unite, sure to delight the youngest members. Get in some spring swings – With the snow at lake level melted away, it’s the perfect time to get in a few rounds on the links, most open May through October. There’s Lake Tahoe Golf Course (a public course in a mountain meadow), Bijou Municipal Golf Course (Tahoe’s oldest, a 9-hole executive course) and Edgewood Tahoe (a challenging, beautifully sculpted public course along the lake). Of course, there’s plenty of fun to be had at Magic Carpet Golf, a family-friendly goofy golf experience that’s sure to bring some laughs. RnR Vacation Rentals offers a wide selection of vacation homes, ensuring that families find the perfect base for their South Tahoe adventures. But remember, well-placed vacation rentals fill up quickly for spring break, so early booking is recommended. Ready for a family spring break filled with adventure and relaxation? Visit RnR Vacation Rentals at www.rnrvr.com/extendedstay or call (530) 208-5001 to start planning your South Tahoe spring break today. Go golfing in Williamsburg, Virginia An aerial view of Colonial Williamsburg by Eric Foster - Unsplash Head to the Historic Triangle of Virginia and plan for an epic, golf-filled vacation at the region's beautiful courses. Just as Colonial Williamsburg brings America’s history to life, the Golden Horseshoe Golf Club honors the classic traditions of the game while still creating an entertaining challenge for today’s player. Designed by the father-and-son team of Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Rees Jones, players will experience 45 walkable holes over three courses, surrounded by mature woodlands. The Gold Course is a classic reimagined. Recently renovated by “The Open Doctor,” Rees Jones, the Gold Course now features cutting-edge turf grasses, new grass on the fairways, updated greens and surrounding rough, and utilizes “Better Billy Bunker” construction. Tees have been re-leveled and resurfaced, and the expanded practice putting green and range gives golfers plenty of opportunity to work on their long and short games. Rees Jones drew inspiration from his father to create the acclaimed Green Course, which opened in 1991. Carved from the same beautiful parkland terrain, the Green Course is longer than the Gold Course, but also more forgiving, which creates an enjoyable challenge for golfers of every skill level. Perfect for networking or a quick golf getaway, the Spotswood Course is Robert Trent Jones Sr.’s updated version of the original 1947 Williamsburg Inn course. Called the “best short nine-hole course in the country” by Golf magazine, this par-31 course includes six par-3s, two par-4s, and one par-5 to test your entire game. Championship golf is the centerpiece of the Kingsmill Resort experience. It has hosted 38 PGA and LPGA events with golf legends Payne Stewart, Annika Sorenstam, Jack Nicklaus, Cristie Kerr, and Arnold Palmer among those who have played the famed courses. The Kingsmill Golf Academy offers expert advice for all levels of players. Pick between three renowned courses, The River, The Plantation, and The Woods. You can’t go wrong. The River Course, a Golfweek “Top 200 Resort Course,” was designed by prominent architect Pete Dye and is home to the LPGA Pure Silk Tournament. This course has welcomed Presidents Gerald Ford, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama. Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay designed the Plantation Course to test the skills of all types of players with its generous fairways, water hazards, and undulating greens. The Woods Course occupies a secluded corner of the resort and was recently opened to the public. Ranked #10 of Virginia’s Top Ten Golf Courses by Golf Week Magazine, the Woods Course is an instant hit with all golfers. Featuring the only Arthur Hills signature-designed golf course in Williamsburg, Colonial Heritage Golf Club is open to the public and offers an exceptional layout that winds through rolling hills, streams, and pine forests. This artfully crafted masterpiece emulates the classic beauty and refinement of the natural terrain of its southern Virginia surroundings. Thoughtfully planned bunkers, undulating fairways, and well-arranged water features create an enjoyable golfing experience for novices and experts alike. Each year since 2013, Colonial Heritage has been ranked “Best in Region” by Coastal Virginia Magazine. After sinking the last putt, the clubhouse’s Heritage Restaurant and Bistro Grille will be waiting so you can grab a bite from the menu of American classics. Kiskiack Golf Club is home to one of the top-ranked 18-hole golf courses in the state of Virginia. Designed by John LaFoy, it’s nestled along a ridge of a natural bluff in Williamsburg. Kiskiack’s public course features tree-lined fairways, gorgeous water features, and is easily walkable. While the course can be demanding even for the experienced player, the course’s open fairways and picturesque views will allow beginners to enjoy a round of golf as well. It’s the only golf course in Williamsburg with no homes on the course. The 18-hole golf course at Stonehouse Golf Club features 7,013 yards of golf from the back tees. Stonehouse was designed by one of the most innovative golf course architects in the business, Mike Strantz, a former protégé of Tom Fazio. Strantz envisioned a mountain-style course that disturbed nature as little as possible. With deep bunkers and wide fairways, the par-72 layout features dramatic elevation changes and enormous putting greens perched on the edges of natural cliff formations, with constant challenges for all levels. Williamsburg golf travelers looking for a unique experience will find it at Stonehouse. Located just minutes away from historic Williamsburg, Ford’s Colony Country Club offers some of the best resort golf in Virginia. This semi-private golf club features 54 holes with three distinct championship golf courses designed by Dan Maples. Blackheath is the most picturesque of the three courses with water coming into play on 13 holes. Every green on the course is guarded by bunkers, and the course also features many doglegs with rolling fairways. The Blackheath course is the only course at Ford’s Colony that plays to a par 71. Blue Heron is a continuous 18 that has long, challenging par-3s and par-5s. The Blue Heron has generous fairways carved out of dense wetlands. The course has new Champion Bermuda greens, which provide the smoothest surfaces throughout the year. Blue Heron is the longest of the three courses and contains many different species of birds, fish, and other wildlife. Marsh Hawk features traditional tree-lined fairways. It has small, undulating greens with strategically placed bunkers. The narrow fairways, well-placed bunkers, natural lakes, and elevation changes are the defenses of this course. Marsh Hawk was the host of the 1998 and 1999 Virginia State Opens, a Monday Qualifier for the 2005 – 2007 Henrico County Open, and a Monday Qualifier for the PGA Tour’s Michelob Championship for 12 straight years. Voted “Best Golf Course in Williamsburg” by the Virginia Gazette two years in a row, Williamsburg National Golf Club is an open-to-the-public private club that features two very different courses when it comes to layout and putting surfaces (Bermuda rather than bent grass). The Jamestown Course, developed by Nicklaus Design, is a 4-star Golf Digest winner. The par-72 course measures close to 7,000 yards from the championship tees, with five different sets of tees appealing to golfers of all skill levels. It has received several awards, including being named “One of the Ten Best Courses you can play in Virginia” by Golf Digest magazine. The Yorktown Course layout offers a great mix of classic course design with a few modern twists. In addition to being ranked No. 7 of the most-improved courses in the nation by Golf Advisor (now GolfPass) in 2018, it has the area’s most interesting back nine featuring three par-5s, three par-4s, and three par-3s. Bermuda fairways, bent grass putting greens, and a course full of fun challenges await, three par 4s, and three par 5s. Be sure to try one of the most creative casual dining menus in Williamsburg at Williamsburg Nationals' 1607 Grill which features daily specials, weekend breakfast, and patio dining. Immerse yourself in culture in New York, New York The meatpacking district in New York City by Bernd Dittrich - Unsplash Steps away from the High Line and Chelsea Market in New York City’s vibrant Meatpacking District, the Whitney Museum of American Art is the perfect destination for visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in art, culture, and all that NYC has to offer. The Whitney presents soaring views of the famous city skyline via four stories of outdoor balcony terraces and awe-inspiring architecture amid its collection of masterworks by leading American artists like Edward Hopper, Jacob Lawrence, and Georgia O'Keeffe, along with cutting-edge exhibitions featuring today's most celebrated contemporary artists. From March 20th through August 11, 2024,, the Whitney Biennial, the Museum’s flagship exhibition and the country’s leading survey of contemporary American art, will return with a showcase of the most relevant art and ideas of our time. Plan your trip to experience this must-see exhibition and cultural event of the season, and be sure to include a visit to the newly opened Frenchette Bakery at the Whitney. Looking ahead, mark your calendars for Edges of Ailey, the first large-scale museum exhibition to reflect on the life, work, and legacy of visionary artist and choreographer Alvin Ailey, opening this September. The 2024 edition, Even Better Than the Real Thing, on view through August, features 71 contemporary artists and collectives working across media and disciplines. The artists featured are exploring and interpreting critical and timely issues. Don’t miss your opportunity to see tomorrow’s icons today, all in the heart of the lively Meatpacking District. The 2024 Whitney Biennial also features an incredibly robust lineup of live performances and film screenings. For the first time in Whitney Biennial history, audiences will be able to enjoy select films online, as well as during special screenings at the Museum. More information about the Whitney Biennial can be found at whitney.org/biennial. On view through May 19, 2024, Harold Cohen: AARON traces the evolution of AARON, the earliest artificial intelligence (AI) software for artmaking and one of the longest-running contemporary art projects. Featuring artworks produced by AARON, this mesmerizing exhibition highlights its drawing process with pen plotters live in the galleries for the first time since the 1990s. The Whitney houses the foremost collection of American art from the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, with a special focus on the most innovative artists of our time. Iconic works by Andy Warhol, Lee Krasner, Norman Lewis, Roy Lichtenstein, and many more are now on view in The Whitney’s Collection: Selections from 1900 to 1965. This multi-year presentation also features a panoramic installation of Alexander Calder’s Calder's Circus, which New York magazine calls “one of the most fun, beloved, and radical works of 20th-century American art.” As part of the Whitney’s reimagined food and beverage program, Frenchette Bakery, which opened in TriBeCa in 2020, opened a new flagship location, with its first-ever cafe in the Museum’s redesigned ground-floor restaurant space in November 2023. The new Frenchette Bakery at the Whitney offers a grab-and-go bakery with a selection of on-premises baked sweet and savory fare, as well as a sit-down, full-service cafe with pizzas, soups, salads, sandwiches, entrees, desserts, and a carefully selected wine, beer, and cocktail menu. The restaurant features a new installation from artist Rashid Johnson, a steel-grid sculpture laden with plants and ceramics, extending from within the Whitney out to the plaza. The Museum's eighth-floor cafe space, featuring a new commission by artist Dyani White Hawk, will reopen this spring. All year round, the Whitney offers free art programming for kids and teens on weekends and a robust slate of public programs and events for visitors of all ages. Programs range from guided tours and artist talks to artmaking, performances, and so much more. Throughout the month of June, the Whitney will present a series of free, on-site public programs and events celebrating Pride. More public program information can be found online at whitney.org/events. The Whitney Museum of American Art is the cultural anchor of the Meatpacking District, a twenty-square-block area on the far West Side of Manhattan. A neighborhood where old New York meets the electric pace of the 21st century, today the Meatpacking District is bustling with numerous architecture and design firms, fashion boutiques, high-tech companies, innovative public parks, and some of New York's most notable restaurants, bars, clubs, and hotels. The neighborhood is bordered by Chelsea, renowned for its art galleries, cultural organizations, and Chelsea Market. The Whitney is only a few steps from the High Line, one of New York City's most exceptional public parks located thirty feet above street level on a 1930s freight railway, as well as Little Island and Gansevoort Peninsula. Day and night, the cobblestone streets of the Meatpacking District are alive with culture. The Whitney recently transformed the artist Roy Lichtenstein’s nearby Greenwich Village studio into a new permanent home for its Independent Study Program, creating a dynamic space for creativity and scholarship. Learn about the ocean in Daytona, Florida Visitors explore the Daytona Aquarium and Rainforest Adventure - courtesy of Daytona Beach Area CVB Often called home of the world's most famous beaches, Daytona Beach, Florida, continues to delight and surprise visitors with its diverse and growing array of attractions. The Daytona Beach area includes several cities and towns including Ormond Beach, Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Shores, Ponce Inlet, Holly Hill and South Daytona. The destination has long been known for its iconic beaches and rich auto racing history but today a slate of exciting new attractions, upscale lodging, a vibrant arts scene and an amazing collection of parks, preserves and outdoor activities are all part of Daytona Beach's year-round appeal. The Daytona Beach area has its first aquarium offering in the destination with the opening of the Daytona Aquarium and Rainforest Adventure, which provides an interactive educational experience featuring animals from both land and sea.The 55,000-square foot facility is located on the northwest corner of International Speedway Blvd. and Nova Road in the heart of Daytona Beach. Visitors can explore close to 40 separate exhibits including a 100,000-gallon shark exhibit and two touch pools including a 12,000-gallon stingray touch pool. There are also habitats for alligators, frogs, and lizards.In addition, the attraction will have animal meet and greets with reptilian animal ambassadors throughout the day with guests. “We're excited that this moment has arrived,” said Lori Campbell Baker, Executive Director for the Daytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. “The destination's first aquarium is going provide another great must-do experience when visiting Daytona Beach area.” Phase 2 of the attraction, The Rainforest, is scheduled for opening in 2025 and will feature multiple species including primates, sloths, and tropical birds. Daily adult admission tickets are $28.95 and $24.95 for children ages 2-12. College students, military/police, and senior admissions (65 and over) are $27.95. Annual memberships are $100 for adults and $80 for children ages 2-12. The Daytona Aquarium and Rainforest Adventure is open seven days a week, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. with the last admission available at 5:15 pm. For more information, visit Daytona Aquarium and Rainforest Adventure. Sip on fine wines in Detroit, Michigan The Michigan Wine Collaborative (MWC) is excited to announce that from May 17-19, 2024, Detroit is set to be swept off its feet as Taste Michigan Invades the D, transforming the city into a haven for wine enthusiasts and gastronomic aficionados alike. This three-day extravaganza promises an unforgettable fusion of local flavors, exquisite wines, and unparalleled experiences.On May 17, embark on a journey through the heart of Metro Detroit as Michigan Wine Collaborative's renowned winery members collaborate with restaurants, crafting exclusive Michigan wine-paired experiences at select locations. Immerse yourself in the art of wine and culinary perfection as each venue unveils a symphony of flavors curated to tantalize taste buds across the Motor City. This is the premier chance to truly, Taste Michigan.The climax of the weekend unfolds on May 18 at Comerica Park, where Michigan Wine Collaborative, Vintage Michigan Wine Club, and Taste Michigan partner with Uncork Me Michigan Wine Festival. Brace yourselves for an unparalleled gathering of 30 wineries, all converging within the iconic stadium. Sip, savor, and celebrate the diversity of Michigan's finest wines, meticulously curated to delight even the most discerning palates. The invasion concludes on May 19th with The Royce's annual Michigan Wine Expo.Experience the best that Michigan has to offer in the world of wine and culinary arts by securing your tickets at TasteMichigan.org. Don't miss this opportunity to revel in a weekend of unparalleled indulgence and create lasting memories with friends and fellow enthusiasts. Taste Michigan is dedicated to showcasing the vibrant culinary and winemaking scene of the Great Lakes State. Through curated events and festivals, Taste Michigan provides a platform for locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Michigan's gastronomic delights. Visit TasteMichigan.org for more information and ticket details. The Michigan Wine Collaborative is the voice of the Michigan wine industry. Our mission is to enhance the sustainability and profitability of the Michigan wine industry by supporting wineries, growers and other businesses and individuals connected to the industry – today and for future generations.

Tennessee is home to a number of landmarks, museums, and educational destinations focused on African-American history and culture. While February is an opportune time to visit and celebrate Black History Month, the destinations below are worth planning a vacation to during any time of the year. Bessie Smith Cultural Center (Chattanooga, Tennessee) The Bessie Smith Cultural Center, founded by empowering visionary leaders from Chattanooga, pays homage to the late “Empress of the Blues” Bessie Smith. The center preserves and celebrates African American history and culture through art, education, research and entertainment. Exhibits incorporate technology, interactive kiosks and a children's education corner. The new exhibit “Chattanooga's Black Soundtrack” highlights local artists, like Usher Kane Brown and The Impressions. Visit black-owned businesses and restaurants in Chattanooga. Beck Cultural Exchange Center (Knoxville, Tennessee) Beck Cultural Exchange Center - courtesy of TN Department of Tourist Development The Beck Cultural Exchange Center is a historic community treasure dedicated to collecting, preserving and exhibiting artifacts and evidence of contributions relating to history and culture of African Americans in East Tennessee and America. The center creates immersive educational experiences to promote learning for present and future generations. From arts and culture to attractions, restaurants, breweries and businesses, here are additional ways to celebrate Black history in Knoxville. Green McAdoo Cultural Center (Clinton, Tennessee) Green McAdoo Cultural Center - courtesy of TN Department of Tourist Development Learn about the courageous stories of the Clinton 12, who bravely fought for equal access to education. Green McAdoo Cultural Center shares he legacy of what happened in 1956 and how it shaped the students and the community. Step inside a 1950s classroom and follow the chronological story of desegregation at Clinton High School, the first integration of a public high school in the South, with life-size photographs and narratives. Listen to stories from the students in episode three of the TN Civil Rights Trail podcast. Travel Tennessee's stops on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail. Nearest Green Distillery and Humble Baron (Shelbyville, Tennessee) An unlikely friendship created maybe the greatest story you've never heard, told at Nearest Green Distillery. Tour the distillery and taste Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, which honors the world's first-known African American master distiller, Nearest Green, who taught Jack Daniel how to make whiskey. Be sure to stay for local cuisine, Sunday Brunch or a cocktail at Humble Baron, the world's longest bar, where everyone has a seat at the table. Ruby's Happy Farm (Cross Plains, Tennessee) Ruby's Happy Farm - courtesy of TN Department of Tourist Development Ruby's Happy Farm was built on family legacy land and named after the family matriarch. Ashley Brooks is the third generation of her family to farm this land and opened the property to the community in the inaugural Juneteenth Festival. 2024's event, “Ruby's Happy Farm Feel Good Festival,” is slated for June 22, 2024 and will include vendors, entertainment and presentations on agriculture, history and wellness, including beekeeping, self-care, small farm operations and a history of Juneteenth. Mclemore House Museum (Franklin, Tennessee) The McLemore House, purchased by former enslaved man Harvey McLemore in 1880, was a model of community development in Hard Bargain, the first African American middle class neighborhood in Franklin consisting of carpenters, teachers, masons and farmers. The house is now a museum promoting cultural and historical preservation, celebrating the rich African American heritage of Franklin and Williamson County. National Museum of African American Music (Nashville, Tennessee) The National Museum of African American Music in Nashville - courtesy of TN Department of Tourist Development The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) in the heart of Music City is the only museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the music genres created, inspired or influenced by African Americans. Interactive exhibits allow guests to write a blues song, sing with a gospel choir, learn dances, do a rap battle and learn about jazz, blues, rap, pop and stories of renowned artists like Isaac Hayes, Beyonce, Rihanna, Prince and others. NMAAM is located in Fifth + Broadway, where travelers should also get a taste of Slim & Husky's, an artisan pizza shop with a love for hip hop R&B culture. Here are ways to explore Black history in Nashville. Stax Museum of American Soul Music and Museum of Science & Industry (Memphis, Tennessee) Experience the story of Stax Records, one of the most famous recording studios in the world, through interactive exhibits, artifacts and hall of records at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The museum shares how creative individuals came together to write, record and produce some of the best soul music in Memphis. Separately, the Museum of Science & History (MoSH) has a new exhibit, Everyday People: Snapshots of the Black Experience, a photography journey showcasing Memphis artist Eric Echols' photo collection of twentieth century African Americans and Black culture. From attractions to restaurants to local businesses, here are additional trip ideas to celebrate Black history in Memphis. Tina Turner Museum at Flagg Grove School (Brownsville, Tennessee) The Tina Turner Museum - courtesy of TN Department of Tourist Development The Queen of Rock 'n' Roll, Tina Turner, was born in Nutbush, made famous with her hit song, “Nutbush City Limits.” Turner attended school in a one-room schoolhouse in Brownsville, one of the first schools built in the South for African Americans. Visitors to the Tina Turner Museum at Flagg Grove School, located on the grounds of the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center, explores the largest known collection of Tina memorabilia, costumes and stories. While visiting Brownsville, savor local favorite Black-owned business, Helen's Bar BQ, where Helen Turner works as one of the few female pitmasters in the country. Alex Haley Museum & Interpretive Center (Henning, Tennessee) The childhood home of author Alex Haley, who wrote the groundbreaking novel, Roots: The Saga of an American Family, is located in Henning. “Roots,” which was made into a landmark TV miniseries in 1977, was inspired by family stories young Alex heard on the porch of his home. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Alex Haley Museum & Interpretive Center's exhibits feature Haley's work, childhood memorabilia and references to people who inspired the characters in “Roots.” Virtual Black History Month Tour Can't plan a trip? Launching in February 2024, The Virtual Black History Month Tour in Historic Jonesborough, Tennessee's oldest town, is an interactive, app-based tour starts at the Jonesborough Visitors Center and takes guests on a walk up East Main Street and down West Main Street. Along the way, guests stop at spots in town that are pivotal to the history of the Black community and to the history of Jonesborough.