Looking for something close to all of the sights while in Cleveland, we chose the Drury Plaza Hotel.
Housed in the iconic former Board of Education building, this 189-room hotel is the perfect choice for your stay in downtown Cleveland. With over 3,900 square feet of meeting space and a two-story lobby adorned with beautifully restored murals from 1931, this hotel offers a unique blend of history and modern luxury.
Conveniently located within walking distance of popular attractions such as FirstEnergy Stadium, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, Progressive Field, and Quicken Loans Arena, you’ll have no shortage of things to do and see during your stay.
But it’s not just the location that sets this hotel apart. Start your day off right with a hot breakfast, complimentary for all guests. And in the evening, they have a free 5:30 Kickback®, where you can enjoy a variety of tasty bites. Plus, you won’t have to go far for a drink or a meal, as their lobby bar and restaurant are right on-site.
Here is a tour of our room!
We booked the double Queen room and were surprised by the size. Each room includes free Wi-Fi, TV, microwave, refrigerator, iron/ironing board and hairdryer.
In addition, there is a 24-Hour Fitness Center, Indoor Pool & Whirlpool along with valet parking on site.
The Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park is the largest inland Naval Park in the United States where visitors can learn more about some of the military conflicts the vessels served in and see what ship life was like 40-70 years ago.
Located on Buffalo’s Waterfront, this unique family destination also has a restaurant, museum, gift shop, and military exhibits in the main building.
We have visited a few times over the years but hadn’t been in 3 or 4 years so we planned a trip last week.
I bought tickets online and we were checked in quickly when we arrived and given wristbands.
You start your tour on the USS Sullivans. Named in honor of the five Sullivan brothers who lost their lives serving in World War II, it served in both World War II and the Korean War, before being used as a training ship until she was decommissioned on 7 January 1965. In 1977, she and the cruiser USS Little Rock were donated to the Buffalo Naval Park where they have been on display to the public since 1979. Unfortunately in April of 2022, the USS The Sullivans partially sank from a severe hull breach. In the past, you would have been able to go below deck to see the staff quarters and some of the operational spaces. Currently, they are closed. A staff member told me there are plans for it to go into drydock where they will hopefully be able to repair the interior so visitors can tour it again.
The USS Little Rock is the largest ship at the park with lots of spaces to explore. My kids enjoyed seeing the sleeping spaces for the crew and the differences in comfort between the different ranks.
The tour includes spaces like the mess hall, kitchen, Captain’s office, Officer’s quarters, operating room, and the Brig.
Many of the spaces onboard offer additional education with items like uniforms worn by the crew, some of their belongings, other ships in the class and historical information.
The USS Croaker is your last stop on the water. Commissioned in 1944, USS Croaker sailed through the treacherous waters of the Pacific theater on six war patrols. Retired in 1971, USS Croaker found a new home at the Buffalo Naval & Military Park in 1988.
It’s very interesting to see how they fit sleeping quarters(and pretty much everything) onto this ship with its slender design.
For mealtime, the crew had small tables that doubled as gameboards to sit in beside the tiny kitchen.
We met a lovely man who served in the Cold War that gave us some information about the ship and how the crew lived on board. This was a highlight for us because he was able to give us first-hand accounts of things that happened over the 20+ years he served in the Navy. He showed us things about the Submarine that we would never have seen on our own and brought it to life for us. If you get the chance to book a tour with one of the Behind the Scenes Curator Tours that would be the best bet as you get more information and visit spaces on board the USS Little Rock that are not available on any of our other tours.
Outside there are more military equipment exhibits including aircraft, a tank, and the PTF-17 boat.
If you are planning to visit as a family it’s important to note that the tour route is not stroller friendly and the stairs to move around the ship and transfer between each vessel are very steep. The staircase between USS Little Rock and USS Croaker is not for the faint at heart so it may not be the best option for toddlers or even kids under 5.
Admission was reasonable, parking was ~$5 and there are a couple other attractions in the area you can visit including the waterfront, The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum, Buffalo River History Tours and the Keybank Center.
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has started construction on a groundbreaking project at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The Denny Sanford Elephant Valley will transform the current elephant environment, creating an immersive and educational experience for visitors of all ages. This project aims to foster understanding, and appreciation for elephants while igniting a passion for wildlife conservation.
“We are thrilled to announce Denny Sanford Elephant Valley—a first-of-its-kind immersive experience for visitors, to further connect the vital work happening here in San Diego to the collaborative elephant conservation initiatives we support in the field,” said Paul A. Baribault, president and chief executive officer, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. “Elephant Valley could not be achieved without the incredible community, donors, members and allies who support us and make all our conservation work possible with partners around the world.”
The centerpiece of Elephant Valley will be a two-story lodge inspired by African safari destinations. Visitors to the zoo will have the opportunity to see elephants in action, surrounded on multiple sides and from an overhead walkway. Education about the essential role of elephants as ecosystem engineers and their social dynamics will be a key focus. The vibrant cultures and local communities where humans and elephants coexist will also be spotlighted.
Elephant Valley will reflect the awe-inspiring sights, sounds, and smells of the African grasslands. Expert horticulturists and arborists have curated the plant life to create an authentic experience. The expansive new habitat will provide enhanced experiences for the elephant herd, replicating the African savanna throughout the year.
Lisa Peterson, Executive Director of San Diego Zoo Safari Park, emphasized the fragility of elephants’ future and the importance of wildlife conservation. Elephant Valley aims to inspire curiosity and discovery while creating lifelong memories for visitors of all ages.
Climate change, habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife challenges are threatening elephant populations. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has prioritized elephant conservation and collaborates with various organizations to protect these endangered species. Scientific research conducted in Africa and at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park helps increase knowledge about elephants and develop effective conservation solutions.
Chief Conservation and Wildlife Health Officer, Nadine Lamberski, highlighted the need for collaboration to find sustainable solutions for elephants and people across Africa. The impact of Elephant Valley on global elephant conservation efforts is eagerly anticipated.
Elephant Valley is made possible by the generous support of thousands of donors, including Denny Sanford, a dedicated supporter of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. Sanford has also contributed to other initiatives, such as Wildlife Explorers Basecamp and educational programming for children’s hospitals and Ronald McDonald Houses worldwide. The completion of Elephant Valley is expected in 2025.
Get ready for the Holidays at the Disneyland Resort! From Nov. 10, 2023, through Jan. 7, 2024, you and your loved ones can create amazing memories and experience a range of special holiday offerings. This season, immerse yourself in the magic of Disney with traditions and celebrations inspired by Christmas, Navidad, Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Three Kings Day. Indulge in delicious food at the Disney Festival of Holidays marketplaces, witness stunning projections and fireworks at Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, and capture a photo with Mickey Mouse in his brand-new holiday outfit!
Here’s everything you need to know about the festivities, decorations, entertainment, and more that await you this holiday season. Discover the Disney Festival of Holidays, featuring diverse cuisine, live performances, and an incredible atmosphere inspired by multicultural celebrations. Enjoy both new and returning food and beverage options at the marketplaces, groove to music and dance performances across the resort, and catch the Holiday Toy Drummers in action at “Mickey’s Happy Holidays.”
For those who want to savor the culinary delights, consider purchasing the Sip and Savor Pass. With eight tabs redeemable for food and nonalcoholic drinks, you can sample the best dishes from various marketplaces and dining locations in Disney California Adventure. Share the Pass with your friends and family to enjoy this season of flavors together.
Don’t miss the return of Disney ¡Viva Navidad! at Paradise Gardens Park, featuring an all-new menu at Paradise Garden Grill. Join the Three Caballeros as they host a festive street party, accompanied by vibrant dances, lively music, giant puppets, and appearances by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. There will also be live music, dancing, character meet-and-greets, and special appearances by Mirabel from “Encanto.”
Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with dazzling decorations throughout the Disneyland Resort. Marvel at Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, adorned with icicles and snow-capped turrets. Visit the gingerbread house at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, inspired by delicious treats. Explore uniquely themed Christmas trees across the theme parks, Downtown Disney District, and the hotels. And be prepared for a touch of Disney magic as “snow” falls in select areas of Disneyland Park every night.
Favorite attractions are getting a festive makeover too! Experience the joyous tunes of “it’s a small world” Holiday or venture into the Haunted Mansion Holiday, transformed by Jack Skellington. In Disney California Adventure, Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl and Mater’s Jingle Jamboree will offer seasonal spins for the “haul-idays.”
Capture unforgettable moments with Disney characters dressed in all-new outfits, adding a modern twist to the classic red and green. Keep an eye out for Santa Claus, who will be available for jolly photos until Dec. 24.
Enjoy merry entertainment that will make your holiday season even more magical. Watch “A Christmas Fantasy Parade,” featuring characters from “Frozen,” “Toy Story,” and more. When night falls, be amazed by the “Believe…In Holiday Magic” nighttime spectacular, complete with breathtaking fireworks and snow. For an extra dose of holiday enchantment, consider the Holiday Time at the Disneyland Resort Guided Tour, offering a hosted experience and reserved viewing for “A Christmas Fantasy Parade.”
At Disney California Adventure, be enchanted by “World of Color – Season of Light” as hundreds of fountains bring heartwarming moments from Disney animated films to life.
Experience a bewitching fall season at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. From Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party to the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
At Magic Kingdom Park, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party offers parades, character photo opportunities, and delicious treats. Don’t miss Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow dressed as the Sanderson Sisters. Indulge in 30 specially-themed fall and Halloween treats, including Mars sweets like SKITTLES, SNICKERS, and M&M’S. Take photos with The Seven Dwarfs and enjoy entertainment from a spirited pirate band and Max Goof’s Powerline party pack.
Magic Kingdom is also adorned with festive fall decor, transforming Main Street, U.S.A. into a wonderland of autumn colors and giant pumpkins.
At EPCOT, the International Food & Wine Festival offers a taste tour of six continents. Visit the Brew-Wing Lab at the Odyssey for wacky culinary creations from Muppet Labs. Explore over 25 Global Marketplaces and enjoy live musical performances at the Eat to the Beat Concert Series.
Experience Halloween fun at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park with Tree of Life Awakenings and The Animation Experience at Conservation Station.
Disney Springs is full of festive fun with spooky treats, seasonal merchandise, and live entertainment from “Squad Ghouls,” Zombie Drummers, and Skeleton Stiltwalkers.
Don’t miss out on these enchanting fall experiences at Walt Disney World Resort.
Prepare to scream your way through the most chilling Halloween event of the year! Universal Orlando Resort has just revealed the heart-stopping lineup for Halloween Horror Nights 2023. Get ready for five bone-chilling haunted houses and five terrifying scare zones that will leave you trembling with fear.
In its 32nd year, Halloween Horror Nights promises an unprecedented 48 nights of pure terror. Step into the madness of the twisted circus led by the evil ringmaster in “Dr. Oddfellow: Twisted Origins.” Experience a horrifying battle between Fire and Ice in “Dueling Dragons: Choose Thy Fate.” Face bloodthirsty monsters in the deep mountains of “YETI: Campground Kills.” Witness the dark consequences of “The Darkest Deal” as souls are sold for fame. And beware the colonial cult seeking sacrifice in “Bloodmoon: Dark Offerings.”
As night falls, the streets of Universal Studios Florida become a haunting playground. Dr. Oddfellow himself emerges from Halloween Horror Nights past, unleashing hordes of scare actors in five new scare zones. Encounter the legend in “Dr. Oddfellow’s Collection of Horror.” Experience the twisted transformation of the zodiac signs in “Dark Zodiac.” Explore the nightmarish creations of “Jungle of Doom: Expedition Horror.” Party with bloodthirsty vampires in “Vamp ’69: Summer of Blood.” And brace yourself for the escaped monsters in “Shipyard 32: Horrors Unhinged.”
But the horror doesn’t end there. Enjoy an all-new live show, “Nightmare Fuel Revenge Dream,” where dreams turn into nightmares. Immerse yourself in the terrifying world of the original horror comic book in the mysterious Tribute Store. Visit the Dead Coconut Club for a themed drinking experience. Indulge in a monstrous menu of food and beverages, including fan favorites like Pizza Fries and new delights like Bloody Campground Poutine. And don’t miss Peacock’s Halloween Horror Bar for themed libations and photo opportunities.
Universal Orlando’s hotel guests also get exclusive access to the fear. Enjoy Early Park Admission to the theme parks during the day, priority entrance to Halloween Horror Nights at night, and complimentary transportation to the parks and Universal CityWalk.
Halloween Horror Nights runs select nights at Universal Orlando Resort from Friday, September 1 through Saturday, November 4, and at Universal Studios Hollywood from Thursday, September 7 through Tuesday, October 31. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com. Due to popular demand, event nights are expected to sell out and tickets should be purchased in advance.
Gaylord Hotels, a part of Marriott Bonvoy’s impressive portfolio of hotel brands, is thrilled to announce the return of the highly-anticipated ICE! event for the 2023 holiday season. Prepare to be amazed as each of the brand’s five resorts transforms over 2 million pounds of ice into vibrant and larger-than-life holiday showplaces inspired by beloved Christmas classics. This is all a part of their So. Much. Christmas. extravaganza, which includes a wide range of holiday activities, entertainment, unique dining experiences, and more. Get ready for an unforgettable holiday experience at Gaylord Opryland in Tennessee, Gaylord Texan in Texas, Gaylord Palms in Florida, Gaylord Rockies in Colorado, and Gaylord National in Maryland.
ICE! serves as the centerpiece of each resort’s extravagant festive displays, featuring traditional ice sculptures, stunning light and fountain shows, and other marquee programs. You won’t want to miss the original production of Cirque: Spirit of Christmas, a live show that combines incredible acrobatics, flexibility, and thrilling stunts. Plus, at Gaylord Opryland, you can catch the brand-new Christmas in Tennessee dinner show.
To make the start of the season even more exciting, Gaylord Hotels is offering a special early bird offer. Guests and visitors can save up to 20% off Christmas packages and room nights, as well as up to 30% off ICE! tickets. Don’t miss out on this amazing deal!
ICE! at Gaylord Hotels: A Spectacular Holiday Tradition
For over 20 years, Gaylord Hotels has been delighting guests with its dazzling ICE! experiences. Starting in October, talented artisans from Harbin, China (known for the renowned Harbin Ice Festival) begin hand-carving characters, scenes, stories, and epic slides out of colorful, vibrant ice. Each resort will feature a new and exciting theme every year, providing visitors with a fresh and captivating showcase. These incredible sculptures are created using over 33,500 blocks of ice, weighing over 10 million pounds (or 5,000 tons) across all five resorts. Maintained at a chilly nine degrees, every detail of these holiday-themed spectacles remains perfectly frozen. The carving process takes six weeks and combines traditional skills passed down through generations with modern tools. The vibrant colors of each theme come to life with the help of a skilled chemist who prepares a special formula to ensure the ice sculptures maintain their bright and festive colors throughout the season.
This year, prepare to be transported into five quintessential holiday classics:
ICE! featuring The Polar Express™ at Gaylord Opryland
ICE! featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas at Gaylord Palms
ICE! featuring Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! at Gaylord Texan
ICE! featuring A Christmas Story™ at Gaylord Rockies
ICE! featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ at Gaylord National
But that’s not all! Alongside ICE!, Gaylord Hotels presents the original production of CIRQUE: Spirit of Christmas at Gaylord Rockies, Gaylord Palms, Gaylord Texan, and Gaylord National. This mesmerizing live show combines stunning acrobatics, mind-bending flexibility, and thrilling stunts. Centered around Noel, a child who has lost her love for the holidays, the show takes audiences on an energetic and dreamlike journey to rediscover the true meaning of the season.
In addition to ICE! and the live show, families and guests can enjoy a wide range of winter festivities and holiday-themed events suitable for all ages. The signature atrium of each property will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland, adorned with millions of lights, beautifully themed Christmas trees, and miles of garland. Hungry? Indulge in festive menus at the restaurants or explore pop-up dining options. And don’t forget to check out the retail opportunities where you can find the perfect gifts and stocking stuffers to take home.
Don’t miss out on Gaylord Hotels’ extraordinary holiday experiences this year. Book your tickets and packages now to save with their special early bird offer. Get ready to be dazzled and captivated by the magic of the holiday season at Gaylord Hotels!
THG, a top creative agency specializing in awe-inspiring attractions for theme parks, museums, and leading brands, proudly presents its latest project: the American Heartland Theme Park. In collaboration with Mansion Entertainment Group, THG has developed an impressive concept master plan and is currently working on show designs for the park’s main attractions. Renowned design firms like FORREC and Cuningham are also involved in the project.
Mansion Entertainment Group announced the 1,000-acre development in Vinita, Oklahoma, including the 125-acre American Heartland theme park. This expansive park, comparable to the size of Magic Kingdom® Theme Park and Disneyland® Park, will transport visitors to an Americana-themed environment filled with thrilling rides, live shows, family attractions, waterways, and top-notch dining options. The theme park and resort are set to open in fall 2026.
Erik Neergaard, Chief Creative Officer at THG, expressed his excitement about this unique collaboration and the opportunity to create an unforgettable destination. The American Heartland Theme Park is one of the largest independent theme parks to be built in the US in recent years.
Combining the nostalgic charm of traditional amusement parks with modern elements, THG’s design for the new park features six distinct American lands: Great Plains, Bayou Bay, Big Timber Falls, Stony Point Harbor, Liberty Village, and Electropolis. Located in northeast Oklahoma, near Grand Lake on Route 66, this regional theme park promises an immersive and captivating experience for visitors.
The project is spearheaded by THG’s talented leaders, including Erik Neergaard, known for his award-winning design experiences worldwide, and Scott Sinclair, Executive Director Of Design, who has led projects like Tomorrowland at the Magic Kingdom and Tokyo DisneySea. THG’s Pasadena-based creative team, known for their exceptional work, supports them. With over two decades of experience and a portfolio that includes iconic projects like the One World Observatory, the High Roller Observation Wheel, and Beyond All Boundaries at the National World War II Museum, THG is a world leader in experiential design.
As a trusted partner for high-profile clients like Universal Creative, Walt Disney Imagineering, DreamWorks, and more, THG continues to showcase its innovative approach and commitment to delivering exceptional experiences. Their pipeline for this year includes exciting projects that will further demonstrate their expertise.
Sesame Place® San Diego, the only Sesame Street-themed theme park on the West Coast, has just opened The Count’s Splash Castle, a new and exciting water-play attraction. Designed for park guests of all ages, this multi-level structure features 111 play elements, including massive tipping buckets that release over 1,300 gallons of water. With four thrilling slides and a variety of interactive water features, Count’s Splash Castle is bigger and more splashy than ever before!
But that’s not all. At Sesame Place, you can also enjoy a wide range of rides, shows, parades, and visits with your favorite Sesame Street characters. And now, in celebration of the new attraction, kids under three years old can enter the park for free every time they visit.
With 18 Sesame Street-themed rides and attractions, there’s something for everyone at Sesame Place. From roller coasters to carousels to water slides, the park is designed with the whole family in mind. And don’t forget to explore the interactive Sesame Street Neighborhood and catch the daily live character shows.
Celebrity Cruises is thrilled to announce its revamped Caribbean program for the Summer 2024 season. Get ready to experience the Caribbean like never before on board two award-winning ships, Celebrity BeyondSM and Celebrity Reflection®. This exciting new program offers double the number of year-round Caribbean sailings and introduces the first-ever weekend itineraries. But that’s not all. For the first time in history, guests will have the incredible opportunity to visit Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Perfect Day at CocoCay is a vibrant island paradise located in the Bahamas, offering the best of beach-side bliss and sun-soaked excitement. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or thrills, this exclusive destination has it all. Enjoy pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the largest freshwater pool in The Bahamas. For the ultimate in relaxation, indulge in Coco Beach Club’s heated infinity pool, specialty restaurant, and overwater cabanas. And if you’re seeking adventure, experience North America’s tallest waterslide or soar 450 feet above the island in an epic balloon ride.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Celebrity Beyond, the newest member of the brand’s revolutionary Edge Series, will be sailing year-round from South Florida. Offering a mix of six and eight-night journeys, this ship will take you to incredible destinations like Grand Cayman, The Bahamas, Mexico, and the Dutch Caribbean islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao, along with the unforgettable Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Experience luxury and innovation aboard Celebrity Beyond. With its outward-facing design, panoramic ocean views, and a wide range of dining options, this ship will redefine your cruising experience. Choose from sleek staterooms with Infinite Verandas, wellbeing-focused AquaClass® accommodations, or indulge in the ultimate luxury of the first-ever two-story Edge Villas.
Be among the first to embark on this extraordinary Caribbean adventure. Book your unforgettable journey with Celebrity Cruises today and discover a world of relaxation, excitement, and unparalleled luxury.
