Get ready to celebrate the holidays in style at Universal Orlando Resort! Starting next month, Universal invites you to experience their fantastic Holidays celebration. This festive event offers a mix of classic holiday traditions and pop culture-inspired experiences that will create a memorable atmosphere unlike any other. The celebration runs daily from November 17 to December 31.
Immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. With stunning decorations, lights, and enchanting performances, Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade transform into a wizarding holiday wonderland.
“The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle,” is a breathtaking projection show that brings the beloved “Harry Potter” films to life.
Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s is a must-see event. Colorful floats, larger-than-life balloons, and jolly performers bring to life beloved stories from Despicable Me, Shrek, and Madagascar. The parade concludes with a special appearance by Santa Claus and the lighting of an 80-foot Christmas tree.
Head to Universal Islands of Adventure for Grinchmas. Enjoy the live retelling of the Dr. Seuss holiday classic, “Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular.” Seuss Landing is transformed into a whimsical wonderland filled with festive decorations and appearances from the Grinch himself.
For even more holiday fun, check out the performances by Mannheim Steamroller, the top-selling holiday artist of all time. There are also unique add-on experiences available, including a guided tour that grants special access to all the holiday entertainment.
Access to Universal Orlando’s Holidays celebration is included with regular theme park admission. Don’t miss out on this incredible holiday experience!
Get ready for the ultimate Carnival fun in the sun! Carnival Cruise Line has just announced their exclusive private island in the Bahamas, Celebration Key™. With approximately 400 cruises starting in July 2025, guests can experience the pristine white sands, authentic Bahamian shopping and dining, and thrilling excursions on this paradise destination.
Situated on the south side of Grand Bahama Island, Celebration Key offers endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure. The largest freshwater lagoons in the Caribbean provide a playground for families and adults alike, with a wide range of recreational and leisure activities. Carnival ships will dock at a nearby pier that can accommodate up to two of their impressive Excel-class vessels, granting guests convenient access to Celebration Key.
“We are thrilled to be the first cruise line to offer this exclusive destination to our guests,” said Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy. “With 12 ships sailing from eight homeports, there are countless itineraries for guests to choose from. We have already seen incredible interest in Celebration Key, and we can’t wait to share more details about what guests can expect to experience there.”
The announcement of Celebration Key has also brought excitement to the people of Grand Bahama. The Minister for Grand Bahama, Hon. Ginger Moxie, expressed their bold vision for the island to become a premier destination for entertainment and events in the region. Carnival is collaborating with the Bahamian Government, local officials, and community leaders to generate job opportunities and support the local economy through the development of Celebration Key.
It’s time for Mom and Dad to enjoy some time alone at Hideaway Beach, the brand-new adults-only paradise on the private island of Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. Opening in January 2024 alongside the much-anticipated Icon of the Seas cruise ship, Hideaway Beach offers a day of luxury and relaxation.
At Hideaway Beach, you’ll find a pristine private beach, sparkling pools, exclusive cabanas, and incredible spots to enjoy delicious drinks and bites. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings while listening to live music and creating unforgettable memories.
According to Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, Hideaway Beach is designed specifically for adults seeking a unique and exclusive experience on Perfect Day at CocoCay. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures or ultimate relaxation, Royal Caribbean offers something for everyone, and Hideaway Beach adds to the unmatched combination of experiences available.
Located on the picturesque northwest beach of Perfect Day at CocoCay, Hideaway Beach brings together the best of a tropical getaway. For a small fee, adults aged 18 and over can enjoy a day of beachside or poolside fun, including:
Hideaway Beach: With over an acre of exclusive white sand beaches and turquoise waters, this beach is a slice of paradise. Relax on resort-style loungers, in-water hammocks, or swings while enjoying beach games and the tunes from a live DJ by the pool.
Hideaway Pool: Party the day away with the DJ’s beats and lively atmosphere at the swim-up bar. In-water seating, loungers, and poolside loungers surround the heated infinity-edge pool, offering breathtaking views.
Hideaway Cabanas: Take your day to the next level in one of the 10 chic poolside cabanas. Enjoy amenities like a cabana attendant, mini-fridge, floating beach mats, and charging outlets.
The Hideout: This exclusive area at the end of Hideaway Beach offers a VIP experience. Relax in one of the 10 Hideout Cabanas, complete with a heated infinity-edge plunge pool, cabana attendant service, in-water loungers, an outdoor shower, and resort-style seating.
Indulge in delicious bites and refreshing drinks at the various venues at Hideaway Beach, including:
On the Rocks: This al fresco bar along the rocky shore offers live music, TV screens for watching sports, and stunning ocean views. Sip on frozen margaritas and mai tais while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Hideaway Bar: The swim-up bar at Hideaway Pool is a hotspot for socializing. With two levels, you can enjoy your drinks poolside or without leaving the water.
Slice of Paradise: This rustic pizza haven serves up fresh-from-the-oven favorites and island-inspired options like Bahamian guava barbecue chicken.
Snack Shack: A staple on Perfect Day at CocoCay, this new location offers complimentary chicken sandwiches, burgers, mozzarella sticks, and fresh salads. Relax in shaded seating or Adirondack chairs on the sand.
Beach Bars: Two full-service beach bars are conveniently located on both sides of Hideaway Beach, ensuring a refreshing drink is never far away.
Hideaway Beach is the latest addition to Royal Caribbean’s award-winning destination. Following a $250 million transformation in 2019, the private island has continuously introduced new experiences. From elevated beach retreats at Coco Beach Club to the reimagined South Beach and now an adults-only paradise, Royal Caribbean has been creating unforgettable vacations for every type of traveler, from ship to shore.
Exciting news for Zootopia fans! Prepare for an unforgettable experience at the upcoming Zootopia attraction at Shanghai Disney Resort. Get a sneak peek into all the amazing things you can expect, from a thrilling police chase to unique entertainment and mouthwatering Zootopia-inspired food and drinks.
Step into the Zootopia Police Department and embark on an adventure as a rookie officer. Join forces with Officer Judy Hopps and Officer Nick Wilde to rescue Gazelle, who has been kidnapped on the day of a major concert. Traverse through iconic Zootopia landscapes, from Tundra Town to the Rainforest District, in pursuit of the culprits. It’s an action-packed ride you won’t want to miss.
Guests will also be able to witness live entertainment that brings your favorite Zootopia characters to life. Catch glimpses of familiar faces like Fru Fru, Mr. Big, and Flash as they interact with each other and even with you from the windows of Zootopia’s stunning buildings. Don’t forget to take a selfie with Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde at the Zootopia Recruitment Station for a memorable keepsake.
After all the adventures, satisfy your cravings at Jumbeaux’s Cafe. Indulge in Zootopified treats like the paw-shaped Disney Zootopia popsicle or Officer Clawhauser’s favorite donuts. And if shopping is on your agenda, visit Fashions by Fru Fru for a wide selection of themed products and unique finds.
Zootopia at Shanghai Disney Resort is the ultimate destination for fans of the beloved film.
There is a new Discovery Center coming to Zion National Park that will enhance the experience for visitors in the coming years! Design architects from Overland Partners unveiled renderings of the highly anticipated space during a ceremony in East Zion, Utah on August 22, 2023.
After more than a decade of planning, construction on the Discovery Center officially began. The site, located just outside the park’s east entrance, was carefully chosen to preserve the natural beauty of the area and prevent commercial development.
The 22,000-square-foot Discovery Center will provide free educational experiences for visitors, allowing them to learn about the park’s history, ecology, geology, and agricultural heritage. The goal is to create a strong connection between people and the land and foster a deep respect for the environment in future generations.
James Lancaster, principal architect at Overland Partners, emphasized the commitment to preserving and integrating structures into the landscape. The design of the Discovery Center aims to celebrate the iconic natural beauty of Zion while harmonizing with the surrounding environment.
The building will be constructed using sustainable materials, such as Forest Steward Council-certified wood, locally sourced sandstone, reclaimed wood finishes, and weathered steel. Passive design strategies will be implemented to maximize energy efficiency and create comfortable indoor and outdoor spaces throughout the year.
In addition to serving as an educational facility, the Discovery Center will also act as a gateway to Zion National Park, providing access to new trails and alleviating congestion at the south entrance.
The project received significant funding from various sources, including a $15 million bond from the local service district and a $10 million investment from the Utah Department of Transport for road construction.
The Zion National Park Discovery Center is set to become a model for conservation-focused development, showcasing the beauty of the park while promoting environmental awareness and education.
This week Polaris Marine introduced groundbreaking electric pontoons, showcasing their potential in the pontoon boat market. The Bennington and Godfrey Pontoons brands have unveiled two concept vessels, highlighting the capabilities of high-horsepower electric propulsion. These impressive demonstrators were unveiled at Polaris Marine’s annual dealer meetings in Syracuse, Ind., and serve as testbeds for future electric watercraft development.
By collaborating closely with high-horsepower electric propulsion OEMs, Polaris Marine utilizes these concept vessels to explore the possibilities of electric propulsion.
Bennington L-Series Bowrider
While electric propulsion has been proven effective in smaller applications like dinghies and tenders, its potential for luxury pontoons is the next step in the evolution of watercraft. Electric motors boast advantages such as easy maintenance, decreased moving parts, and no need for oil changes or scheduled engine upkeep. Furthermore, electric propulsion offers instant torque and the ability to navigate even restricted waterways, revolutionizing the capabilities of luxury pontoons.
Bennington L-Series Bowrider
The selected concept vessels were chosen due to their optimal battery placement. The 2024 Bennington L-Series Bowrider and the 2023 Godfrey Monaco 235 platforms are already popular models for their respective brands, making them ideal choices for exploring the potential of electric propulsion.
2023 Godfrey Monaco 235
Equipped with a 150-hp outboard electric motor from Forza X1, the Bennington and Godfrey demonstrators reached top speeds of 25 mph and 28 mph, respectively. The Bennington demonstrated a cruising range of 25 miles at 15 mph or 15 miles at 20 mph, while the Godfrey showcased a range of 29 miles at 15 mph or 17 miles at 20 mph. The systems were controlled by a custom interface, and Garmin touchscreen display, and featured 4G connectivity for remote monitoring.
BrightColors LLC and Kingsmen Xperience Inc., in partnership with Crayola LLC, are thrilled to announce a new family entertainment venue in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. Fall 2024 will see the arrival of the latest generation of Crayola Experience, bringing a burst of color to this popular vacation destination.
For more than 25 years, Crayola Experience has been a go-to destination for families seeking interactive creative play. These immersive attractions allow both kids and adults to explore art and technology, unleash their creativity, and discover color in an exciting way. Joining the existing attractions in Pennsylvania, Florida, Minnesota, Texas, and Arizona, the Pigeon Forge venue will be the sixth Crayola Experience.
This indoor family entertainment center will span 30,000 square feet and feature over 20 hands-on attractions. The retail store will offer the largest selection of Crayola products and unique souvenirs in the world. Visitors can look forward to never-before-seen innovative attractions as well as beloved Crayola Experience activities like naming their own crayons, appearing in a personalized coloring page, and creating melted wax art.
Warren Schorr, Crayola Senior Vice President of Business Development, Global Licensing & Experiences, stated, “Crayola Experience at Pigeon Forge will introduce exciting new adventures to our already iconic lineup of imagination-inspiring activities, taking the experience to the next level. We have truly sharpened our crayons to create an immersive world that will transport guests into the whimsical world of Crayola crayons and markers.”
Robin Turner, Managing Director of BrightColors, expressed enthusiasm for developing the first of the next-generation Crayola Experiences, saying, “This marks one of the first globally recognized attractions in the Pigeon Forge area. We will focus on family-friendly markets with a strong tourism and residential appeal to introduce the colorful world of Crayola to new audiences.”
The Pigeon Forge location is the first of five Crayola Experience venues that BrightColors plans to open within the next five years. This expansion is part of a licensing agreement with Crayola that aims to double the presence of the attraction brand across the United States.
Celebrate Hispanic and Latin American Heritage Month at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, 2023. Vacationers will enjoy new characters, amazing music, and delicious dining throughout the resort.
Experience the magic of “Encanto” with the Madrigal family at Magic Kingdom Park. Mirabel will welcome guests to her casita, and her uncle Bruno will make his debut as part of the Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade. Join them along with other beloved characters like Princess Elena, José Carioca, and Miguel.
Dance to the rhythms of the Caribbean and Latin America at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. Catch performances by Monsieur Periné, Raul Acosta and Oro Sólido, and Bacilos. Los Amigos Invisibles will also be returning for more amazing shows.
Don’t miss the chance to indulge in delicious cuisines from around the world at the EPCOT International Food & Wine International Festival. Explore more than 25 Global Marketplaces featuring flavors from Mexico, Brazil, Spain, and more.
Guests can immerse themselves in the art and culture of Latin America. Watch TRATOS live paint a mural at Disney Springs Art Walk, take art lessons featuring characters from “Coco” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, and enjoy Hispanic-themed Movies Under the Stars at various resorts.
Discover new merchandise inspired by films like “Coco” and “Encanto.” Look for the vibrant EPCOT International Food & Wine Disney Encanto Collection and spot the Familia Madrigal on the Disney Skyliner and transportation buses.
Test your knowledge of characters like Miguel and Mirabel with the Play Disney Parks app. This interactive experience is perfect for the whole family and can be enjoyed while waiting for attractions.
Join the celebration of Hispanic and Latin American cultures at Walt Disney World Resort – a magical experience for everyone.
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.
