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San Diego is a perfect budget-friendly destination that works for all kinds of vacationers—couples, families, friend groups, and solo travelers. There's something for everyone: music festivals, beautiful beaches, great food, and kid-friendly entertainment. Several new restaurants and attractions, plus fun events and activities make 2024 the time to visit this Southern California city. See family-friendly attractions LEGOLAND California is ready to roar in '24: Not only is the park in coastal Carlsbad celebrating its 25th birthday (aka “brickday”), but it will open a new themed area called Dino Valley as well as hosting North America's very first LEGO World Parade. Dino Valley will include two brand-new rides as well as plenty of interactive features for young visitors. SeaWorld San Diego, which has been remaking its patron experience over the past few years with numerous new rides and attractions, is adding another twist in 2024: An aquarium called Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience. With its walk-through arch and giant viewing wall, the aquarium promises to be as immersive as things can get without actually swimming alongside the jellies. One of the most distinctive structures in San Diego's beautiful Balboa Park, the Botanical Building was built in 1915 and is recognized as one of the largest wood lath structures in the world. This home to hundreds of rare, tropical and indigenous plants has undergone a major reconstruction intended to restore the building to its original design, and will reopen in 2024. Birthdays don't get much more monumental than The Nat's: The venerable Natural History Museum in Balboa Park marks its 150th in 2024. Now the oldest scientific institution in Southern California, The Nat will celebrate with free birthday admission, a new Nature Garden and giant-screen movie, and a whole lot more.Enjoy arts and entertainmentWonderfront Festival - courtesy of San Diego Tourism Authority Two years after San Diego and Tijuana jointly received designation as World Design Capital 2024 — a major global honor — the yearlong WDC24 celebration is about to kick off. San Diego is the first U.S. city to be named or co-named World Design Capital, and the city teamed with its cross-border neighbor of Tijuana, Mexico, to beat out Moscow (the other finalist) for that distinction. Now the two cities will mark WDC24 with an extended series of events and happenings centered on the theme of “Home.” The WDC designation helped inspire AFAR Magazine to include San Diego and Tijuana in its “Where to Go in 2024” roundup of “the 25 most exciting places around the world to visit next.” After taking a hiatus in 2023, the sprawling Wonderfront Music & Arts Festival will again unfold along San Diego's sparkling Embarcadero, with three days of music, food and fun. The fest, last held in 2022 with headliners including Gwen Stefani and Kings of Leon, is moving from its previous November slot to a new time frame (dates and artists have yet to be announced). The art of exquisite automotive design will get a world-class showcase here in 2024 —with a breathtaking setting to match — as the La Jolla Concours d'Elegance unfolds at La Jolla Cove in April. From a “Porsches on Prospect” sports-car extravaganza to chic VIP happenings to the vintage spritz of the event's “Roaring '20s and Glamorous '30s” theme, the Concours d'Elegance promises to be a car-lover's nirvana. And with more than 170 classic vehicles on display, there will be plenty to love. Historic Copley Symphony Hall — the longtime indoor home of the San Diego Symphony — will stage its much-awaited reopening in 2024 after a $125 million renovation. Improvements to the nearly 100-year-old Downtown performance space (formerly the Fox Theatre) include a reconfigured stage, a reshaped main seating level, improved acoustics and more. Some five years after its last edition in Del Mar, the popular KAABOO music festival is making its return in 2024. While the lineup of artists has yet to be announced, the fest has a rep for big-name performers and will again unfold at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.Dine at creative, sustainable, and award-winning restaurants Lafayette Hotel - courtesy of San Diego Tourism Authority/Haley Hill Since San Diego's CH Projects took over ownership of the venerable Lafayette Hotel in North Park, it has gone on a wildly creative binge with its dining and drinking options. The eight Lafayette eateries now open or coming online in 2024 include everything from the retro Beginners Diner to the Oaxacan restaurant Quixote to The Gutter, a bar with its own two-lane bowling alley. As San Diego continues to gain worldwide renown for its restaurant prowess, the region will enter 2024 with a full five restaurants that have been honored with coveted Michelin stars. They include the elegant Addison at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, one of only a handful of restaurants in all of California to earn the maximum three Michelin stars. One of the most celebrated chefs to come out of Baja California's fertile Valle de Guadalupe will mark 2024 by opening a new restaurant in San Diego's North Park. Drew Deckman, who hails from Georgia but has been a fixture in Baja culinary circles for more than a decade (and earned a Michelin star in Europe before that), is launching Watershed on University Avenue, with sustainability as a guiding principle. San Diego is known these days as the Capital of Craft, but you could argue that the region's critical mass of craft-beer-itude began in 1989, when Karl Strauss Brewing Co. opened its first tasting room on Columbia Street. Now, as Strauss gets ready to celebrate its 35th anniversary, the grandaddy of San Diego craft brewers has reacquired that original location, which it plans to “reimagine as an homage to the San Diego brewing scene.” The just-opened Malibu Farm restaurant — owned and operated by chef Helene Henderson and her husband, actor John Stockwell — is the latest addition to the waterfront Seaport Village, whose rising profile and surge of new eateries should make it a place to put near the top of your itinerary for 2024. It's been a decade since the much-loved Whaling Bar at La Jolla's La Valencia Hotel — the renowned “Pink Lady” of San Diego — served its last cocktail. Now, after a refitting of the historic watering hole, the Whaling Bar is set to return in 2024 under the auspices of the SDCM Restaurant Group, which runs eight other San Diego bars and restaurants.View exciting sports eventsPetco Park - courtesy of San Diego Tourism Authority Gallagher Square is already a much-loved focal point of Petco Park — home of the San Diego Padres and the No. 1 MLB ballpark in America, as deemed by USA Today. Now a $20 million glow-up, set for completion in 2024, will bring even more great features to the family-friendly square, including a new Tony Gwynn Terrace viewing deck and picnic space, a dog park, temporary pickleball courts, public art displays spotlighting San Diego-area artists, and much more. Speaking of Petco Park: The Downtown ballpark, which hosts not only MLB baseball but pop concerts, college football's annual Holiday Bowl and many other special events, marks its 20th anniversary in 2024. Look for the Padres to host plenty of happenings and commemorations as the big anniversary season unfolds at this beautiful venue. And there will be yet another exciting new development at Petco Park in 2024: The Padres, in partnership with C5 Rodeo Company Inc and Outriders Present, are presenting the ballpark's first-ever rodeo in January. The three-day event will transform the park into a Downtown rodeo zone, with the world's top cowboys competing for more than a half-million dollars in prize money. With the stunning success of the San Diego State men's basketball team, which made a thrilling run to the national title game in 2023, San Diego has cemented its rep as a basketball hotbed. The new Rady Children's Invitational builds on that track record, bringing top college hoops teams from around the nation to the UC San Diego campus for the second edition of this exciting Thanksgiving Weekend tournament. The Del Mar Racetrack is fast becoming a go-to home for the Breeders' Cup, one of the most prestigious annual events in Thoroughbred racing. The two-day event, with awards and prizes in excess of $30 million, will unfold in Del Mar in both 2024 and 2025, building on an inaugural run “where the turf meets the surf” in 2021. Excitement over women's professional volleyball is spiking big-time, and now our town is getting in on the action with the 2024 debut of the San Diego Mojo, a Pro Volleyball Federation club owned by Olympian and beach-volleyball luminary Kerri Walsh Jennings. The Mojo begins play in February at Viejas Arena on the San Diego State University campus. San Diego's strong and ever-growing rep as a sports town is exemplified by the return in 2024 of the State Games of America, an Olympic-style national event held every two years and showcasing matchups among State Games medal winners from more than 30 U.S. states. Some 12,000 amateur athletes are expected to compete in more than two dozen sports here, from archery to figure skating to surfing.Bask in the sunMission Beach in San Diego by Sean Mullowney - Unsplash Waterfront Park along San Diego's scenic Embarcadero is adding to its already expansive offerings with a $3 million project to bring pickleball courts, an off-leash dog park, shaded seating and more to the 12-acre oasis, which boasts beautiful views of San Diego Bay and beyond. And of course, San Diego just wouldn't be San Diego without itsamazing beaches and their world-famous plenitude of surf, sun and fun. While there are always lots of new things to do and see in this ever-dynamic city, you can always count on our 70 miles of coastline — from its beaches to its boardwalks to its bays — to make a visit here way more than worthwhile.

Springtime beckons travelers to get outdoors. Surround yourself with natural beauty at the destinations below, and discover new attractions and ways to enhance your experience in the outdoors. Enjoy outdoor experiences in Eastern Tennessee Eastern Tennessee is a popular destination for travelers wanted to explore the Great Smoky Mountains, but this spring there are even more reasons to find yourself in this part of the country. In Gatlinburg, buckle up for a thrill ride on Anakeesta's new Hellbender Smoky Mountain Coaster, with heart-pounding twists, gravity-defying drops and jaw-dropping views. Nearby, in Sevierville, a first-of-its-kind lazy river experience, Kaleidoscope Kavern Lazy River, features a uniquely immersive tunnel inspired by the Smoky Mountains, dynamic kaleidoscope lighting and sound to captivate the imagination at Wilderness at the Smokies. While in town, don't forget to see the Dolly Parton Experience, opening in May at Dollywood; it includes exhibits which span Dolly Parton's iconic career, a look at the inspiration for her biggest dreams, importance of family and a curated exhibit highlighting her signature style through the years. In northeast Tennessee, stargazing adventures and breathtaking views await on the Tennessee Night Sky Trail. Unveil a unique journey traversing the trail by your zodiac sign at one of the nine viewing areas. In Knoxville, on May 11th this year, the Southern Skies Music & Whiskey Festival returns to World's Fair Park with a brand new TN Whiskey Experience, food trucks, craft beer, wine, specialty cocktails, Maker Market and performances by Old Crow Medicine Show, The Dirty Guv'nah's and Maggie Rose. In addition to the popular draw of the Smokies, there are also plenty of amazing state parks in the state. Learn new skills like backpacking or birding, take a guided kayak tour, night moon hike or enjoy spring events and festivals at one of 57 Tennessee State Parks. See the beauty of Illinois, beyond Chicago Starved Rock Waterfall - courtesy of Illinois Office of Tourism The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Office of Tourism today announced its new outdoor video series featuring stories from Illinois adventurers spotlighting the extensive range of outdoor recreation and activities available throughout the state. The series of videos titled, “Real People, Real Stories, Real Outdoors,” aims to capture genuine experiences of Illinois residents and visitors exploring the outdoors, while highlighting the state's natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Home to 70 state parks and recreation areas, 2,900 lakes and seven national scenic byways, there is no shortage of outdoor adventure in Illinois. The stories featured in this new content series uncover picturesque nature trails, hidden gems, iconic landmarks, unique stays and beyond. Travelers can find inspiration in this new content to plan their own getaway to the state. "This campaign inspires visitors to explore all that Illinois has to offer and positions the state as a leading outdoor destination – especially in downstate Illinois,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Illinois' one-of-a-kind outdoor experiences have the power to attract a large market of outdoor enthusiasts and bring economic development to more rural areas of the state. This campaign shows the world why Illinois' outdoor wonders should be at the top of everyone's travel bucket list.” "In our increasingly hectic and digital world, it's vital to reconnect with the great outdoors, where every hiking trail offers a journey of discovery and every beautiful scene reveals a moment to remember,” said Natalie Phelps Finnie, Director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The content series features up close and personal stories of friends and families in Illinois as they explore outdoor destinations, including: A love letter to family camping & fishing in Illinois: For Dennis and Carol Sporleder, visiting their home state of Illinois is an opportunity to create special memories with their granddaughters by returning to some of their beloved places like Rock Cut State Park near Rockford and Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Park in Oglesby. To watch the Sporleder family's experience, click here. Finding beauty in a nature escape from Chicago: Watch as a group of friends escape Chicago to discover the beauty of diverse landscapes like Camp Aramoni's luxury safari-style campground in LaSalle County and Rend Lake in Southern Illinois. The group's experience creates an easy itinerary for outdoor adventure options like paddling, swimming and off-the-grid camping with friends and family. To watch their adventure, click here. Adventures in Illinois to challenge and inspire you: Follow Chicago adaptive climber Meaghan Cusack and her squad to some of Illinois' best climbing spots for people of all abilities and skill levels, including Cave-in-Rock State Park, Giant City State Park near the Shawnee National Forest and breathtaking Pere Marquette State Park along the Mississippi River. To watch Meaghan's inspiring journey, click here. Feel enchanted under the night sky of Arizona Saguaro National Park at night - courtesy of Arizona / Ray Cleveland Soak in breathtakingly clear star-scattered skies by visiting Arizona's 7 Dark Sky Communities, 12 Dark Sky Parks, and 1 Urban Night Sky Place. Stargaze in Flagstaff, the first ever Dark Sky Community and home to the Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered. Then start making plans to return to Lowell this fall to participate in the opening of its new Discovery Center. All three of Arizona's National Parks have been recognized for their limited light pollution with both the Grand Canyon National Park and Petrified Forest National Park being designated International Dark Sky Parks and Saguaro National Park being an Urban Night Sky Place. Catch sight of the Milky Way while exploring Sedona, Fountain Hills, Chiricahua National Monument in Willcox and Mt Lemmon SkyCenter Observatory in Tucson. Looking for a unique place to stay? Live within an earth and log hoghann (Hogan) and enjoy a traditional Navajo dinner thanks to the Navajo Experience offered by Shash Dine Eco-Retreat located near Page. During your two-night minimum stay, hear Navajo stories while eating savory lamb, bread and desserts underneath an endless starry sky before waking up for the morning walking tour to witness an unparalleled sunrise. Add additional BMW convertible tours that explore the desert, night sky and sunrise to reconnect with nature. Explore a luminous site at Lookout Mountain, Georgia Rock City gardens in Lookout Mountain, Georgia by Chris Boyer - Unsplash Rock City is one of the South’s most popular natural attractions. Known for its unique geological and botanical wonders, the enchanted, 4,100-foot walking trail is a true marvel of nature featuring massive ancient rock formations, a large waterfall that cascades down Lookout Mountain and the Swing-A-Long Bridge that spans nearly 200 feet. See Rock City like never before at Rock City Nights: Flora Luna, the attraction’s brandnew evening experience! Visit nightly from April 5 through May 12, Sunday through Thursday, from 6 to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m. Low-light lanterns illuminate this one-of-a-kind garden party with a fine selection of wine and beer, luminous art creations and locally sourced small plate food. “Flora Luna invites guests to discover Rock City in a whole new way while enjoying small bites and drinks in an artful and inspiring environment,” said Kim Jackson, Flora Luna storyteller and curator. “One-of-a-kind sculptural installations, an original musical score and poetic story stitches are woven together to invite guests to engage, reflect and contemplate what inspires them.” Flora Luna highlights Rock City’s natural environment and artfully tells the story of the Enchanted Trail’s beginnings. Follow the path that Rock City founder Frieda Carter first marked with red string over 90 years ago and be one of the first to cross the Swing-A-Long Bridge at night! The softly lit trail winds through multiple food and beverage locations, where tastes and flavors thematically compliment the sights and sounds of the gardens’ surroundings. Hear an original musical composition by composer Tim Hinck blend with the natural sounds of water, wind and cicadas. “Flora Luna offers guests the opportunity to learn about the amazing local farms, producers and fantastic foods that exist right here in our area,” said Aaron Reed, SRC director of food and beverage. “The southern Appalachia region is extraordinarily abundant in food, and we are proud to be a steward of that rich and wonderful heritage.” The culinary experience begins with seasonal fruit and cheese skewers featuring Sequatchie Cove Creamery cheese and locally sourced fruits and mint. Head to Café 7 for slow-smoked brisket, fresh-braised greens and twice-fried Mediterranean wings with a regional craft beer or Italian wine. Enjoy a culinary experience with a view while listening to the tintinnabulation of the sound installation, Chime Tree. Choose from a wide drink selection at Perch and enjoy a relaxed experience in a sittable sculpture installation and suspended woven papasan chairs in this avian-inspired location. The foodie experience continues at Hearth for cast-iron-grilled red wine-braised short rib on French potatoes and poached chicken thighs on artichokes. Make room for dessert; both Hearth and Café 7 are serving Clumpies’ Brownie a la mode and seasonal ice cream with fudge sauce. Tickets are available online only at www.SeeRockCity.com/floraluna. Guests can purchase a sip and savor pass with their ticket purchase to receive all food and beverage offerings at a discount. Gem members receive free admission and a free food item or non-alcoholic beverage at Parterre at The Garden Party.

For literature and history lovers, Alabama is a perfect and budget-friendly destination to explore American culture. The Southern destination is home to several American authors' hometowns, and features many historically important sites across the state. Alabama is also a great state for roadtripping. Visitors can drive from Huntsville in the north to Mobile in the South in just over five hours. What’s more, none of the major sites are more than 2.5 hours from each other: Birmingham is just 1.5 hours to both Huntsville and Montgomery, which in turn is 2.5 hours from Mobile. The state is easy to get to as well, with direct flights to Atlanta, Georgia, a two-hour drive from Birmingham. And if you want to combine it with other parts of the Deep South, New Orleans in Louisiana is a couple of hours from Mobile, while Nashville, Tennessee, is the same distance from Huntsville. Stay at F. Scott Fitzegerald's former home (Montgomery)Geese in Montgomery, Alabama by Rojan Maharjan - Unsplash Tender is The Night turns 90 in 2024. F. Scott Fitzgerald worked on parts of Tender is The Night while staying in Montgomery with his wife Zelda from 1931 to 1932; the book was published in 1934 and was the author’s last completed novel. The couples’ former home is now a museum, and you can stay upstairs in the one-bedroom Scott apartment or the two-bedroom Zelda for two (thefitzgeraldmuseum.org). While both are as period accurate as possible (the Scott features original wallpaper in the bedroom and living room), they have kitchens and modern bathrooms. Zelda wrote part of her novel Save me The Waltz there; she was also an artist – you can see some of her work at The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts (mmfa.org). The centenary of The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s most famous novel, is in 2025.Visit where life is "like a box of chocolates" (Mobile) July marks 30 years since Tom Hanks told us that life was like a box of chocolates while portraying Forrest Gump in the Oscar-winning movie. The 1994 film placed Forrest’s home near the fictional town of Greenbow, Alabama, but Winston Francis Groom Jr. set his 1986 novel in his hometown of Mobile. Groom studied at the University of Alabama (also ‘attended’ by Gump) and was inspired to write the book when his father, a lawyer in Mobile, told him about a slow-witted boy he had known, whose mother taught him to play the piano. That night, the author drafted the first chapter; he finished the book’s first draft in just six weeks. Groom died in Fairhope, Alabama, in 2020 and is buried in Mobile’s Pine Crest Cemetery. His tombstone is inscribed with a quote from Forrest Gump: “So whatever else has happened, I am figgerin this: I can always look back an say, at least I ain’t led no hum-drum life. You know what I mean?”See Helen Keller’s childhood home (Tuscumbia) A 10-minute drive from Muscle Shoals is Tuscumbia, where Helen Keller was born in a house called Ivy Green in 1880. She famously became both blind and deaf as a toddler, and, with the help of her teacher Annie Sullivan, she learned her first word, water, at the well pump in the garden. The Miracle Worker, William Gibson’s tale of Helen’s childhood, is performed on the grounds of Ivy Green during the summer. Book in advance to see the true story brought to life. Tour the town that inspired Harper Lee (Monroeville)Trees in Alabama by L L Sammons - Unsplash Celebrate the 98th anniversary of Harper Lee’s birthday by watching a play of her novel To Kill a Mockingbird at the courthouse in Monroeville, the town where she grew up and which doubled as the fictional Maycomb in the book. The two-act birthday celebration play is on April 27th; the $135 ticket includes food, drink and a chance to meet the actors. Other performances are held throughout April (tokillamockingbird.com). Tickets sell out fast; those for 2025 are already on sale. Visitors to the courthouse museum can see exhibitions on Harper Lee and her childhood friend Truman Capote, the inspiration for Dill in the novel (monroecountymuseum.org). There’s also an interesting self-guided walking tour around Monroeville, including the original county jail, the elementary school and Mel’s Dairy Dream, a hamburger restaurant on the site of the author’s original home. Harper Lee’s grave is marked by a simple granite stone in the town’s Hillcrest Cemetery. More details on visitmonroevilleal.com. Those aren't the only towns with literary history in the state: Daniel Wallace, author of Big Fish, later a Tim Burton film, was born and grew up in Birmingham; while Winston Groom wrote Forest Gump in Mobile and based it in Bayou La Batre, Alabama’s fishing village and seafood processing harbor. And Barracoon, Zora Neale Hurston’s account of how Cudjo Lewis journeyed from capture in Africa to captivity in Alabama on board the Clotilda, was published in 2018, a year before the scuttled ship was identified in Mobile.Learn about Civil Rights history Overlooking the Alabama River, Freedom Monument Sculpture Park honors the lives and memories of 10 million Black people who were enslaved in America and celebrates their courage and resilience. The 17-acre site opened March 26, 2024, to the public. Visit www.legacysites.eji.org/about/monument/ for more information. Holt Street Baptist Church once was the first meeting spot for the Montgomery Improvement Association and where Martin Luther King Jr was voted as president of the MIA in 1951. It is now a museum and the newest addition to the Alabama Civil Rights Trail. The MIA was created after Rosa Parks was arrested and the Montgomery Bus Boycott had begun. More than 50 years after the United States banned participation in the Transatlantic Slave Trade, the schooner Clotilda trafficked men, women and children from Africa to Mobile in 1860. It is the last known American slave ship and was destroyed to hide the evidence of the illegal activity. The ship’s remains were discovered and identified in 2019. On July 8, 2023, Africatown Heritage House opened, with multisensory exhibits and artifacts from the ship to bring life to the story of the 110 survivors, who demonstrated remarkable optimism and resilience. Visitors will also be able to take a boat tour on the Mobile River and hear stories of the captives who sailed the same waters — but in a very different manner. Today, the National Geographic documentary Clotilda: Last American Slave Ship is out on Disney+, while Netflix has bought the rights to Descendant, which tells the story of the slaves’ descendants.

For motorcyclists, now is the time to enjoy the beautiful warm and sunny weather and hit the open road. If you're looking for a destination along your next road trip, try the events and attractions below that specifically cater to bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts. Rock and ride at the Loretta Lynn Ranch (Tennessee) The open road in Tennessee by Nathan Kosmak - Unsplash Rev ’em up! Get ready to rock and ride at Tennessee’s one-of-a-kind “Moto & Music” event. The seventh annual Tennessee Motorcycles and Music Revival (TMMR) will be held May 16-19, 2024, at the 3,500-acre Loretta Lynn Ranch at Hurricane Mills. This popular, four-day festival, presented by Harley-Davidson Motor Co. ®, is a motorcycle enthusiast’s playground and a music lover’s paradise. Tennessee’s largest motorcycle gathering will feature a stellar selection of artists across multiple genres and a huge variety of two-wheeled events. Tickets are on sale now, exclusively at www.motorcyclesandmusic.com. The two-wheeled playground offers something for everyone who enjoys motorcycles of nearly any kind. Included are Harley-Davidson demo rides, motorcycle racing, ADV trail riding, a hill climb, V-Twin Visionary performance bike show, an all-class bike show, biker games, group motorcycle rides, minibike races, stunt riders and an extraordinary showcase of hand-crafted custom motorcycles from across the country in the BC Moto Invitational. Artists and bands, including recording artists Elvie Shane, Whey Jennings and Whitey Morgan, are specially curated primarily from the region and the booming talent coming out of Music City (see full lineup here). Genres include outlaw country, southern rock, country, bluegrass and rock. Promoters from around the country make their way to the festival every year to choose bands from the extraordinary plethora of talent—it’s a musical showcase of sorts. In addition to the three main stages, TMMR features live music at the Speed Shack, aptly situated next to the racetrack, and the Waterin’ Hole, alongside Hurricane Creek. TMMR is committed to supporting U.S. military veterans and will be working with Special Ops Xcursions to provide complimentary tickets and camping to members of U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF). Additionally, Helmets for Heroes will showcase a variety of custom-painted ICON Motorsport helmets available by auction, with funds going to the military nonprofit. In terms of accommodations, a wide range of options are available in three unique campgrounds, including RVs, glamping, tent camping and vehicle camping. Nearby hotels and Airbnbs are also available. “It takes a lot of hard work all year long,” says singer-songwriter Tayla Lynn, granddaughter of Loretta Lynn, family ambassador for the event and co-emcee, along with motorcycling legend and salt flats land speed record holder, Jay Allen. Tennessee Motorcycles & Music Revival is generously supported by Harley-Davidson Motor Co., Progressive Insurance, Appleton Harley-Davidson, Bumpus Harley-Davidson, White Lightning Harley-Davidson, Frontier Coffee, Icon MotoSports, Crowe Security, Jack Daniel’s and more. For more information, visit the TMMR website, motorcyclesandmusic.com, and check out the group’s social media sites Instagram @TNMotorcycleRevival, Facebook @TnMotorcycleRevival and YouTube @TnMotorcycleRevival. Subscribe to the email list HERE or text “TMMR” to (888) 306-6093 for updates. Loretta Lynn’s ranch is located at 8000 Highway 13 South in Hurricane Mills. Guests can also tour the museums and shops in the ranch’s Western Town. "Ride into History" with antique bikes on the beach (Florida) Bikes in St. Augustine, Florida - courtesy of St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau Motorcycles are more than a mode of transportation on Florida's Historic Coast – they're a way of life. The smooth roads that hug the ocean and the fresh breezes make it the perfect place to explore on two wheels. The Riding into History™ antique motorcycle event embraces this joie de vivre by featuring the most stunning bikes of yesteryear. Now in its 24th year, Riding into History™ is on Friday, April 19th and Saturday, April 20th, with Saturday's Concours d'Elegance at its new home – the Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine at 4730 Dixie Highway South. The theme of this year's event is Chasing the Rising Sun featuring Japanese motorcycles. The Riding into History™ event kicks off on Friday, April 19th, with the Grand Marshal Tour and Banquet featuring the 2024 Grand Marshal, Henry DeGouw. Born in Gainesville, DeGouw had a long and successful career as a motorcycle road racer, race team manager, and promotor, beginning in 1964. He raced in the AMA Expert Formula 1 National Championship Series on the Yamaha TZ750, scoring several top-ten finishes and securing several championship wins. He promoted races throughout Florida and managed race teams competing in international championships. He was inducted into the Palm Beach County Sports Hall of Fame, and his beloved 1977 Yamaha TZ750D is on display at the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Birmingham, Alabama. He has also been honored with a plaque at the Daytona 200 Monument. The Grand Marshal Tour is for Concours entrants only, and they must ride antique motorbikes. They can ride with the Grand Marshal through the historic backroads of Florida's Historic Coast. This is followed by the Grand Marshal Banquet, where visitors can hear Henry DeGouw speak about this epic history of racing. The Banquet takes place at the World Golf Village Renaissance St. Augustine Resort and features a catered banquet meal and a silent auction. Tickets for the banquet may be purchased here. Never has a machine embodied the essence of cool like vintage bikes do. The sleek lines of a classic motorcycle entices everyone from experienced riders to young children. Visitors can get up close and personal with over 300 antique and vintage motorbikes at the Riding into History™ Motorcycle Concours on Saturday, April 20th, from 10am to 4pm at the Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine. All bikes must be at least 35 years old to be shown, with exceptions being made for significant or limited edition later-year models and those with historical interest. The event will also feature exhibitors, dealers, food, entertainment, and curated exhibitions. Spectator tickets are $15 each at the door, or two tickets for $25 online. The Grand Marshal will present awards in multiple classes at 3pm. Chief Judge Harris Turner will oversee judging, joined by some special guests! Children ages 8 to 16 can explore their love of motorcycles by signing up for the Motorcycle Youth Judging Program. Young motorcycle enthusiasts will receive entrance to the Concours d'Elegance, easy-to-understand training, and a goodie bag. Parents can expect judging to take approximately one hour. The program is free; kids can register to be a youth judge here. With its new location at the Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine, the Riding into History™ Concours d'Elegance is closer to the heart of historic downtown St. Augustine. The Classic Car Museum is a 30,000-square-foot special events space, museum, and classic car storage facility. Its museum showroom is packed with everything from classic cars dating back to the 1800s to modern-day supercars. Proceeds from the Riding into History™ Concours d'Elegance benefit their longtime charity partner, K9s for Warriors. Determined to end veteran suicide, K9s For Warriors provides highly-trained Service Dogs to military veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury and/or military sexual trauma. With the majority of dogs coming from high-kill rescue shelters, this innovative program allows the K9/Warrior team to build an unwavering bond that facilitates their collective healing and recovery. Whether you're a biker with thousands of miles under your belt, a dreamer, or just someone who appreciates the beauty of design, Riding into History™ is a can't-miss event! Once you're here, there are plenty of backroads, beaches, and historic landscapes to explore. Use our trip planner to craft the perfect visit to St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, and The Beaches. Head to the Harley-Davidson Museum (Wisconsin) The Harley-Davidson logo by Austin Neill - Unsplash The collection within the halls of the H-D Museum brings to life the story of an American icon that is renowned the world over. And with Earth Day just around the corner, it’s time to Rock the Green! The 13th annual free, zero-waste Earth Day Celebration arrives on campus Saturday, April 20 and is presented by the City of Milwaukee’s Environmental Collaboration Office and Milwaukee Riverkeepers. After helping clean up Mother Earth, join the fun outside the H-D Museum for some refreshments and a live concert with Urban Empress & The Urbanites, Sarah Fierek & The Widlflowers and Jonah Denae performing on a pedal-powered stage. Plus, learn more about eco-education from community nonprofits & partners and hear Earth Day Remarks. Rain or shine with free parking and pets are allowed outside on H-D Museum™ grounds. If you can't make it for Earth Day, try this summer: tickets are moving fast for this summer’s Harley-Davidson Homecoming™ Festival. Visit HDHomecoming.com to secure your two-day general admission tickets for headliners like Jelly Roll and the Red Hot Chili Peppers in July. Join the fun in Milwaukee for the annual four-day celebration of music, motorcycles, and H-D’s hometown. The H-D Museum campus will be one of the places to be from July 25 – 28. This year, we’ll be celebrating legendary biker, builder, and former H-D Chief of Styling, Willie G. Davidson. Powered by Rockford Fosgate®, Dunlop® Motorcycle Tires, H-D Insurance, Twisted Tea®, Wisconsin Lottery®, Official Harley-Davidson™ Trucks and Death Wish Coffee Co.® In addition to these fun events, there are plenty of things to see and do at the museum. Current and upcoming exhibits include“Mama Tried: Bringing it Together”, J. Shia's unconventional 1972 350cc Sprint (inspired by Tchaikovsky's famous ballet "Swan Lake"), and “Creating a Legend: Art & Engineering at Harley-Davidson” (opening May 25). At the H-D Museum entrance, a new case featuring two long-time Wisconsin riders is on display. Lee and Pearl Christopherson have been together since meeting on a motorcycle in 1958. Lee was a member of the Blue Knights, a group of active or retired law enforcement officers. While Lee can’t begin to guess how many miles he’s ridden over 76 years, Pearl has kept track of her time in the saddle and surpassed 175,000 miles in the summer of 2023. The display features Pearl’s Motor Maids shirt and vest along with a Blue Knights Club vest from Lee, and the couple’s H.O.G.® patch and pin collection. The recently revealed 2024 Hydra-Glide Revival model, the fourth installment in the Harley-Davidson® Icons Motorcycle Collection, celebrates the 75th anniversary of that 1949 landmark bike, a champion of the Panhead era. And the new bike could be yours. Visit the H-D Museum to check out the original 1949 model in the H-D Museum’s Motorcycle Gallery. Then throw a leg over the 2024 Icon in the Experience Gallery and learn how you could be riding home on one of these limited-edition bikes.

Celebrate the environment, sustainability, and natural beauty by booking a trip to these lovely and Earth-friendly destinations. These places not only enchant visitors with their beautiful scenery, but special care is made by local organizations to protect and preserve their charm for generations to come. While booking a vacation for Earth Month (April) is a fun idea, there's really no bad time to visit these spots below. Explore and preserve the beauty of Hawaii Hawaii is one of the most beautiful and unique states in the US, and local efforts to preserve the people, place, and culture are strong. County of Hawai'i's Hawai'i Sustainability Summit 2024 Community Celebration takes places this year on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi, April 20, 2024. Held at Kailua Kona' Brewery Block, this celebration will showcase the accomplishments of this year's Hawai'i Sustainability Summit and establish commitments to the county's sustainable initiatives. The celebration will conclude this year's summit with a community event featuring local-grown foods, sustainable products and live, local music and talent. Also on the Big Island, the Hawai'i Land Trust (HILT) has opened its first series of Talk Story on the Land Hikes and Volunteer Days at the Māhukona Navigational and Ecological Complex on the Kohala Coast. In December, HILT, in partnership with the nonprofit Nā Kālai Waʻa as well as federal, state and county agencies, and the Kohala community, announced that it had closed on its largest-ever purchase, permanently protecting 642 acres at Māhukona. The public is invited to join community representatives for a brief guided interpretive hike or volunteer service opportunity. Both experiences aim to offer the community opportunities to learn about the Māhukona area's cultural significance and history as well as elements of traditional Hawaiian ocean navigation. On Oahu, the International Market Place (IMP) is hoping to inspire mindful travel and protect and preserve Hawai'i's natural world with its recent partnership with Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii for beach cleanups. Participants in IMP's DIY Beach Cleanup Program can receive a $20 gift card valid through December 1, 2024. Visit the IMP's Customer Service Desk on Level 1, Mauka Court to learn more. Turtle Bay Resort is home to the 480-acre Kuilima Farm, which provides the resort with more than 700 lbs of fresh produce each week, and even more produce to the local community. Kuilima Farm offers 45-minute farm tours on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Tour participants enjoy a scavenger hunt for native Hawaiian plants and, occasionally, the opportunity to help with new native plantings. Wayfinder Waikiki has created volunteer experiences for residents, visitors and hotel guests to explore O'ahu and make a lasting impact on the planet. The activities include farm experiences, beach cleanups, and cultural education and sustainability initiatives such as the ones listed below. As part of the hotel's Mālama Hawaiʻi initiative, $1 per night of every stay is donated to the Bishop Museum. Cultural Education and Sustainability Initiatives with the Bishop Museum — The recently launched “Hawaiian Stars and Stories: Wayfinder Planetarium Adventure” is a special initiative, happening every third Friday monthly, allowing participants to explore the science of traditional non-instrument navigation practiced by early Hawaiians and learn about Hawaiian history and royal artifacts on a guided tour of the museum's Hawaiian Hall.Taro Field Restoration with Kākoʻo ʻŌiwi Farm — On the final Friday of each month, participating Wayfinder Waikiki guests are driven by shuttle to Kākoʻo ʻŌiwi farm to participate in the restoration of its lo'i kalo (wetland taro terraces), forge connections with its dedicated workers and gain an appreciation for the cultural and environmental importance of O'ahu's Heʻeia community.Beach Cleanups with Waikīkī 'Ohana Workforce (WOW) and 808 Cleanups — Wayfinder Waikiki regularly partners on volunteer beach cleanups with these nonprofit environmental organizations committed to restoring the natural beauty and ecology of Hawaiʻi's coastlines. Book a beach trip to St. Augustine, Florida The sun ripples over the beach in St. Augustine, Florida by Maddie DiFilippo - Unsplash Each year, St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and The Beaches, known as Florida's Historic Coast welcomes visitors from around the world to enjoy its unique charms. One of the region's main attractions is the 42 miles of pristine beaches that stretch from Ponte Vedra south to Marineland. Tucked into a slight nook on North Florida's Atlantic Coast, the beaches provide a place for play and relaxation, a protected habitat for numerous animal and plant species, and a barrier that protects many waterfront homes, hotels, and businesses. Florida's Historic Coast residents and officials are passionate about preserving this precious resource for today and future generations while still providing access to an important part of the destination. And soon, visitors and residents can enjoy lush, freshly restored beaches! Much like the historic architecture that lines St. Augustine's Historic District and the lush vegetation that thrives throughout Florida's Historic Coast, resources like the beaches need regular and highly specialized care to ensure their integrity and natural beauty stay intact. St. Johns County, home to St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and The Beaches, is taking measures to protect its beaches by performing beneficial restoration projects with minimal impact on beachgoers throughout the summer. The short and sweet of it – the beaches will be open and ready to welcome visitors. Visitors and residents can plan their beach visits around the current work sites by visiting the St. Johns County project website here. The beach is ready and waiting. As it has been for generations, surfing on Florida's Historic Coast is a favorite pastime here. The Springtime winds kick up just enough waves for buggy boarding, traditional surfing, and the thrills of kite surfing. There are plenty of surf shops to set you up with the right gear. Once summer hits, plan to swim in the calm ocean waters, relax and soak up the sun on the newly restored beaches. What better way to see long expanses of the Atlantic Ocean than to bike the beach? Riding at low tide offers beach bikers a nice firm sand base. And, nothing beats a drive along the A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway – A Must Do Experience. There are several beautiful oceanfront resorts and hotels, as well as vacation rentals and campgrounds along Florida's Historic Coast. Something for every budget and style. Use the trip planner to plan your seaside getaways to St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, and The Beaches today. View wildlife in and around Seattle, Washington Mount Rainier National Park by Joshua Peacock - Unsplash Seattle's historic Pioneer Square neighborhood is getting a new hotel in 2024. Located in RailSpur, a sustainable micro-district that includes three historic warehouse buildings, the hotel will include 120 guest rooms and suites, signature indoor and outdoor restaurant on activated "Railspur" alley, as well as a rooftop bar. Hotel Westland is anticipated to be one of the most sustainable hotel openings in the U.S and only the second hotel in the country to be “carbon-positive.” While in town, check out the three national parks – Mount Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park, and North Cascades National Park – are within driving distance of Seattle, making the city a fantastic basecamp for outdoor exploration. From stunning lake hikes to fall colors, to wildlife sightings of pikas, mountain goats, and marmots, there's lots to love about our state's national parks. Don't forget to hit up a local brewery after your outdoor forays. Anticipated to be completed in summer 2024, the Seattle Aquarium's Ocean Pavilion shares the story that we have the power to save our oceans. In the Ocean Pavilion, visitors will be able to witness the exquisite biodiversity of a reef ecosystem in the Coral Triangle, a marine area in the tropical Pacific – coming face-to-face with sharks, rays, schooling fish, mangroves, seagrasses, and nearly 30 species of coral. For a unique wildlife sighting, plan to come sometime between July and November, when visitors can witness three species of Pacific Salmon passing through the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, also known as the Ballard Locks. See as many as hundreds of salmon per day through huge glass windows at the fish ladder as they return upriver to spawn. An average of 15,000 Chinook salmon pass through the Locks each year, with peak viewing in August. Sip sustainably in Santa Cruz, California A bottle of Carbon-nay - courtesy of Evan Nelson/WarRoom Cellars + Bonny Doon Vineyards Always innovating, Bonny Doon Vineyards in Santa Cruz, California is set to become the first winery in the country to use fully-recyclable paper wine bottles. The winery’s rosé wine — which is being marketed as Carbon-nay — will be sold at Whole Foods stores throughout California this spring and will expand to other stores throughout the U.S. This new packaging - shaped like a wine bottle - is five times lighter than a traditional wine bottle, reducing the carbon footprint of bottling and shipping.  Fully recyclable, the packaging weighs just under three ounces, providing expanded real estate to print information and artwork around the bottle. Designed from 94 percent recycled paperboard with a food-grade pouch inserted to contain the wine, paper bottles are becoming ubiquitous in Europe. Through innovative practices like popularizing screwcaps and the first winery to embrace true transparency with its ingredient labeling initiative, Bonny Doon Vineyards grew to become the 28th largest winery in the U.S. and is credited with popularizing Rhône grapes in California. The Santa Cruz Mountains AVA is one of the oldest in the country and many wineries within Santa Cruz County employ eco-friendly practices. Storrs Winery, located in Corralitos sits on the site of a former quarry. A 6,800 square-foot structure houses the production facility, barrel room and tasting room, adjacent to a vineyard complete with helpful signage explaining the habitat and wildlife that make this place their home. The organically-farmed site is also a teaching opportunity for biodynamic farming, catering to home gardeners and small scale farmers. A rare 1945 Willys Overland convertible also graces the site, as well as a piece of stained glass from an old church found at an antique shop decades ago and a table milled from pines culled from the estate’s property. Relying on stellar fruit from Santa Cruz Mountains vineyards, Storrs’ Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel and Petite Sirah are all hand-crafted from this boutique winery. Located along the Central Coast, Santa Cruz County, California, is approximately 70 miles/113 km south of San Francisco and 349 miles/562 km from Los Angeles. Many visitors choose to take scenic Highway 1 along the California coastline to Santa Cruz or Highway 17 through the Santa Cruz Mountains. Visitors can also choose to fly into San Francisco International Airport or San Jose Mineta International Airport.   Cycle through central Mississippi Cyclists explore Ridgeland, Mississippi - courtesy of Explore Ridgeland Explore Ridgeland, based in central Mississippi, has introduced the Ridgeland Bikeshare Program, providing visitors with free bicycles for exploring Ridgeland and its surroundings. The program aims to offer convenient and sustainable transportation options for both locals and tourists to explore Ridgeland's attractions, including the National Park - Natchez Trace Parkway, the Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail, the Reservoir Overlook, shopping districts such as the Railroad District, Renaissance at Colony Park, and the Township at Colony Park as well as crafted trails. Chris Chapman, executive director and CEO of Explore Ridgeland, stated, "We're excited to offer our guests free bicycles to explore Ridgeland's shops, boutiques, restaurants, and outdoor recreational venues. Thanks to our partners, Bikeshare racks are conveniently located, and bicycles can be unlocked using the Koloni App." As featured on the Bikeshare brochure and Bikeshare video, cyclists can explore natural scenery along the Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail or urban routes along Highland Colony Parkway, passing through outdoor shopping and lifestyle districts like Renaissance at Colony Park. The Bike Crossing and the Ridgeland Visitors Center are available to assist both locals and visitors interested in using the Bikeshare service. Bikes are available during daylight hours based on availability, and safety is encouraged. The city of Ridgeland requires cyclists to wear protective helmets which are conveniently provided with the bike share program. Bikeshare cyclists will find helmets in the bike baskets. Since its launch in February, the program has seen interest from visitors nationwide. “My wife and I had a wonderful date on Ridgeland's new Bikeshare bikes,” Russ Daniels, an entertainer from New York City, said. “We rode around the Renaissance, explored the bike paths, and ended by eating at Aplos. The process to rent the bikes was simple and the scenery was beautiful! We love Ridgeland!” Ridgeland is renowned as Mississippi's premier cycling destination, hosting various cycling events such as the annual Natchez Trace Century Ride. Visitors are also encouraged to bring their own bikes to explore Mag Ridge BMX Track and at the Ridgeland Mountain Bike Trails.

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).