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This Florida Destination has Wildlife Encounters, Family Fun, Art Shows, and More

The Palm Beaches, renowned for 47 miles of sun-kissed coastline and a vibrant collection of activities, welcomes the arrival of spring with an array of fresh offerings. Visitors will find new experiences through the destination's tremendous growth, with The Palm Beaches seeing a total combined investment of more than $500 million across a dozen hotels over the past few months alone. Within the next two years, an anticipated $1 billion collective investment for 16 new properties in the pipeline is expected to add nearly 2,200 more rooms. To help travelers plan their perfect getaway, Discover The Palm Beaches recently introduced an interactive quiz on its official website. This personalized tool highlights the new brand campaign, “The Palm Beaches Collection,” and recommends tailored experiences based on individual interests, offering insights into the destination's diverse offerings and unique attractions, including arts and culture, shopping, sports, spa and wellness, nature and outdoors, or culinary. The website offers free tools to simplify the planning process, including a comprehensive Visitors Guide, direct hotel booking platform, a calendar of upcoming events, dining recommendations, and more. Book accommodations at one of these new hotels A family at Hilton West Palm Beach - courtesy of Discover the Palm Beaches Several hotels and resorts throughout The Palm Beaches have recently undergone substantial updates to enhance the guest experience. Tideline Palm Beach Ocean Resort and Spa has been reimagined with a dramatic new design, following a $20 million renovation by owner and financier Jeff Greene. The refurbishment has touched all areas of this coveted resort, including the stylistic pool entrance, the grand lobby, and the outdoor dining patio offering stunning views alongside a private beachfront. The Renaissance Boca Raton recently debuted in Midtown Boca Raton after a multimillion-dollar renovation, including updated guest rooms, main lobby, corridors, meeting space, club lounge, and fitness center. The renovation also includes the addition of a 30,000-square-foot resort-style pool deck with a waterfall backdrop, and a “WET by Meat Market” tiki bar to service pool and VIP cabana guests with food and beverage options. The Hilton West Palm Beach has debuted a $25 million renovation with 400 refreshed guestrooms, including 43 suites, four enhanced dining destinations, a reimagined pool deck, and six newly constructed cabanas. In addition, there is a new lobby bar and a variety of wellness activities such as meditative sound healing, poolside sessions, weekly fitness classes, and more. Flagler Club, the ultra-luxury, private-access boutique hotel nestled within the top two floors of The Breakers Palm Beach, experienced a full-scale renovation with a new, modern aesthetic extending throughout 21 guest rooms and suites, as well as its lounge and terrace. The transformative new look from Tihany Design was inspired by the cosmopolitan lifestyle of The Breakers' clientele. The Seagate Golf Club in Delray Beach has reopened its course after a major renovation to its Joe Lee-designed 18-hole championship golf course and practice facilities. World-renowned architect J. Drew Rogers oversaw the renovation, which enhanced the gameplay of each hole and, in some instances, resulted in complete redesigns. The Seagate also renovated its 41,064-square-foot Golf Clubhouse. The Singer Oceanfront Resort is set to debut this spring after a multimillion-dollar renovation and conversion to Curio Collection by Hilton. The property will offer a coastal escape on Singer Island with 223 freshly renovated guest rooms and suites, all with private outdoor balconies. The vibrant culinary program will offer three new concepts, including the island's only beachfront bar, “Top Shell,” signature restaurant “Caretta Caretta,” and grab-and-go style gourmet retail at “The Market at Singer.” Dine out for amazing views, Mediterranean food, and more A couple enjoys drinks on a rooftop - courtesy of Discover the Palm Beaches Elevate Skye Bar & Lounge has opened on the rooftop at the Opal Grand in Delray Beach, overlooking the city's bustling Atlantic Avenue with stunning ocean views. The casually sophisticated open-air sanctuary offers a menu starring small plates and shareable dishes. For more amazing views, Elisabetta's Ristorante, Bar and Pizzeria has just opened Bar Capri, a rooftop bar with sweeping views of West Palm Beach, including the Intracoastal Waterway and the town of Palm Beach. The 75-seat covered bar area will serve Elisabetta's bar bites and pizza, as well as cocktails, wine, and beer, Monday-Friday starting at 4 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays starting at 12 p.m. Mediterranean cuisine lovers will have plenty of options to choose from. Tutto Mare will be developed inside the Palm Beach Playhouse at The Royal Poinciana Plaza as Palm Beach's first and only intra-coastal waterfront restaurant. The Mediterranean concept is from Tutto il Giorno restaurant group, founded by husband-and-wife team, Gianpaolo de Felice and Gabby Karan de Felice, daughter of fashion designer Donna Karan. The restaurant is set to debut later this year and will seat 200 guests. The Blue Door, a coastal bistro in West Palm Beach's “SoSo” (South of Southern Boulevard) district, has opened with indoor and al fresco seating. The restaurant offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu with an emphasis on seafood, and a beverage program featuring wines from smaller vineyards in coastal Europe. NiMo Coastal Mediterranean, a new restaurant in Tequesta, offers dishes that pay homage to the Mediterranean and Middle East. Acclaimed star chef Niven Patel and his business partner Mohamed Alkassar earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand Honor for their Miami restaurant, Ghee Indian Kitchen, and NiMo is their first restaurant in The Palm Beaches. Corvina Seafood Grill in Boca Raton has kicked off Santorini Saturdays with an Aegean Sea-inspired selection of Coastal Greek specialties and cocktails and live music on Saturday evenings, along with a Complimentary Cava Cart. In addition, the restaurant has unveiled new dishes under the direction of Executive Chef Jeff Tunks, who has been at the helm of the restaurant since it first opened. For great Italian, Campi Italian has opened at The Ray Hotel in Delray Beach. The casual yet swanky experience seeks to transport diners on an Italian voyage by serving age-old Italian favorites with an upscale twist, from in-house made fresh pasta to tableside flambéed Fiorentina steak. Fiolina Pasta, a new restaurant in Boca Raton's Restaurant Row, is inspired by the female pasta makers of Italy who carry on the art of making pasta by hand. Michelin-starred and James Beard Award-winning Chef Fabio Trabocchi leads the restaurant, which features authentic classic and regional Italian cuisine. For a fun experience, Radcliffe's Speakeasy & Supper Club has been reborn with a “secret alley entrance” behind its sister restaurant, The Wine Room Kitchen & Bar. The revival of this historic Delray Beach hidden treasure offers a unique dining and entertainment experience with live jazz and R&B performances and an eclectic, upscale menu.The area has also recently welcomed five new immersive Omakase dining experiences: Bōken at Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa in Manalapan, Sushi By Bou Omakase at PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Konro in West Palm Beach's Flamingo Park area, and AlleyCat Boca and Kapow Noodle Bar in Boca Raton. These establishments offer intimate seating of 12 or fewer, providing the perfect setting to indulge in an interactive chef-driven meal. Guests at Bōken can enhance their culinary journey by pairing meals with a selection of drinks, ranging from premium sake, Japanese craft beer, house-infused cucumber sake, and Fukucho Seaside, a sparkling sake from a female-owned brewery in Japan. Meanwhile, at Sushi by Bou, guests can sit back and let the chef decide their menu and unique libations. Konro is a Japanese Grill helmed by Chef Jacob Bickelhaupt that serves a 10-14 course tasting menu with classic old-world techniques, such as the A6 “drunken” Wagyu tripled seared over rare Binchotan charcoal which earned the chef two Michelin stars from his first restaurant in Chicago. AlleyCat Boca now offers an exciting omakase-meets izakaya social dining experience by award-winning celebrity Chef David Bouhadana and Chef Eric Baker. Kapow offers a Sake Sommelier for seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to enjoy a selection along with signature dishes, providing a harmonious blend of delicate flavors and nuanced profiles at all price points. Take the whole family out to these fun attractions Rapids Waterpark in Riviera Beach has unveiled its newest and biggest attraction: MEGA MAYHEM, Florida's only dueling water coaster, and the longest one of its kind. The ride features two side-by-side flumes where riders speed down twists and turns and then are propelled uphill by a unique blast of water jet technology. PopStroke Palm Beach has broken ground on its new location in West Palm Beach and is expected to open later this year. The mini-golf experience, which Tiger Woods and TaylorMade back, will boast two 18-hole putting greens with views of Palm Beach International Airport along with a two-story modern restaurant, sushi bar, club, rooftop pool, outdoor beer garden with games, lounge, and an outdoor playground. The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, in association with INFINITY Experiences, Felix & Paul Studios and PHI Studio, will present Space Explorers: THE INFINITE funded by William A. Meyer, from June 4 through September 2, 2024. The highly acclaimed experience will transport visitors on a journey as they roam freely inside a state-of-the-art, virtual 3D replica of the International Space Station (ISS), float in space alongside the astronauts, and admire breathtaking sights of Earth that only a handful have ever seen before — all without ever leaving the ground. Get up close to wildlife with these encounters and exhibits Snorkeler at Phil Foster Park - courtesy of Mike Scott Photography/Discover the Palm Beaches Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center is expected to debut an innovative seagrass nursery exhibit this spring. The new tanks will serve as an educational resource for visitors, as well as a functioning nursery to facilitate the growth of seagrass, manatee's preferred food source. Loggerhead Marinelife Center is launching new sea turtle experiences during nesting season this summer. From Sunrise Nest Excavations to Hatchling Releases and Guided Turtle Walks, these new Eco Experiences offer an insightful and hands-on approach to understanding the importance of preserving our ocean and the creatures that call it home. Lion Country Safari has welcomed a male southern white rhinoceros calf to its herd, one of the country's largest. “Orion” the calf is a significant addition to the park's rhino herd and to the White Rhinoceros Species Survival Plan, a national collaboration to save imperiled species from extinction. Guests can see “Orion” and his mother, “Bloom,” from their vehicles in the park's Hwange National Park section of the safari. Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society has welcomed a baby Hoffman's two-toed sloth to mother sloth “Wilbur” and father “Dustin” through a Sloth Species Survival Plan. Guests can see “Wilbur” and her baby in the sloth habitat. In addition, guests can also enjoy a new Bear Experience, which offers an unforgettable experience with the zoo's resident rescued black bear brothers “Lewis” and “Clark.” Take in the local arts and culture scene Japanese Gardens at the Morikami Museum - courtesy of Discover the Palm Beaches Maltz Jupiter Theatre has a new $5 million state-of-the-art 198-seat "black box" style theatre, located adjacent to the MainStage, named The Island Theatre. The Island Theatre features a two-story layout with 198 comfortable seats and cutting-edge technical infrastructure. Its flexible design allows for various performance configurations, from intimate musicals and thought-provoking plays to captivating museum exhibitions, movie screenings, and vibrant cabarets. MOSAIC (Month of Shows, Art, Ideas and Culture) is an annual month-long celebration of The Palm Beaches' art and cultural scene from the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County. All during May, visitors can take advantage of special offers such as “buy one, get one” deals and up to 50 percent off discounts on admission tickets, retail purchases, and unique experiences throughout the culturally rich region. Participating organizations range from the beloved Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society to the interactive Cox Science Center and Aquarium and the world-class Norton Museum of Art. Throughout the month, more than 90 artists will participate in Palm Beach County Open Studios on Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19 between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. With more than 25 limited-time, one-of-a-kind deals on a wide range of experiences, MOSAIC is the perfect time to visit The Palm Beaches. SunFest is marking its 40th celebration along the West Palm Beach waterfront May 3-5. The lineup for SunFest 2024 includes Nelly, Cole Swindell, Rebelution, Third Eye Blind, Billy Idol, Yung Gravy, The Revivalists, Elle King, Shaggy, Dashboard Confessional, and many more. New this year, SunFest is introducing The Palm, a three-hour all-inclusive VIP culinary experience with views of the Ideal Nutrition Stage and amenities. A Delray Beach Family Affair celebrates freedom, history, and family on May 19 in the backyard of the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum. The family-reunion-style event features speakers who will engage the audience with accounts of Florida's history, which includes news of the emancipation of enslaved people that reached the state's citizens on May 20, 1865. The Center for Arts and Innovation in Boca Raton is hosting the “RPBW Exhibition” on display from April 20-May 19. Renzo Piano is a renowned Pritzker Prize-winning architect who spearheaded the Renzo Piano Building Workshop (RPBW), the company selected to design the center as the new arts and cultural destination in the city. Focus on wellness Eudēmonia (Greek for "life well lived”) is launching this year from November 1-3 in West Palm Beach. Through a partnership between DTPB and the team that brought Wanderlust festivals to more than 20 countries, this transformational three-day summit is designed to empower guests to cultivate their well-being in all dimensions of life: physical, mental, and social. The event will offer a range of talks from leaders on the frontiers of health and longevity, experiential activities such as treatments, classes, and workouts, an expo hall filled with the latest brands in wellness tech, and daily culinary experiences designed to fuel guests' journeys. Guests can sign up for the newsletter for early access to tickets.

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Get Ready for Summer with These Fun Family Vacation Ideas

Summer is right around the corner. Get excited with these fun ideas for a great family vacation, including road trip inspiration, educational attractions, and outdoor activities. Take a ride on this giant indoor roller coaster in Missouri Town scene on the Fire in the Hole coaster - courtesy of Silver Dollar City The largest family roller coaster in the Heartland, Fire In The Hole, is now open at the internationally awarded Silver Dollar City theme park, in the heart of the Ozarks. At over 32,000 square feet, Fire In The Hole represents the 1880s theme park’s single-largest attraction investment to date — a nearly 3-minute long ride retelling an account of the night the real town Silver Dollar City now sits on was burnt to the ground. Integral to the ride’s story, “volunteers” are asked to board their very own “pumper” — an 1880s steam-powered, firefighting wagon — and save the burning town from notorious vigilantes, the Baldknobbers. 14 iconic show scenes are paired with 3 gravity-driven drops, while the journey ends with a surprise, quick water-splash finale. The final product is a result of years of collaboration with Idaho’s Rocky Mountain Construction and Herschend Creative Studios. “Fire In The Hole is truly one-of-a-kind,” said Duane Marden, founder of the Roller Coaster Database, a worldwide database with statistics on over 10,000 roller coasters and counting from around the world. “The ride combines a family coaster experience all can enjoy with indoor elements illustrating the history of this area, all in a massive building that ends with a water splash. There’s nothing like it anywhere and will be an absolute must-ride every visit.” True to the theme park’s 1880s roots, the new coaster recounts the story of a real night in Ozark Mountain history when the mining town of Marmaros — the once-real town Silver Dollar City now resides on and inspiration for the park’s theme — was burned to the ground by the Baldknobbers. This new coaster follows in the legendary footsteps of the original Fire In The Hole, a 51-year-old coaster that held final rides on Dec. 30, 2023, after hosting over 25 million riders since 1972. Now, housed in a 5-story, temperature-controlled building, the new family coaster will always be open regardless of the day’s weather and temperature. “Fire In The Hole is a testament to the hard work and ingenuity of the men and women who work here at Silver Dollar City,” said Brad Thomas, President of the Silver Dollar City Company. “Work on this massive addition started back in 2021, with planning much before that. They have poured tens of thousands of hours into this project, and their craftsmanship can be seen in every nook of this ride, from the queue line and coaster building, all the way to the hand-painted backdrops and lush foliage.” Effectively doubling the size of one The City’s most popular areas, Fire In The Hole is the new centerpiece in the newly incorporated Fire District. Additionally located in The Fire District is Sadie’s Pretzel Cafe, an all-new restaurant serving handmade pretzels, pretzel dogs and pretzel sandwiches. Plus, just across the street, the new Flanders Dry Goods offers a line of “Flanders-branded” merchandise, connecting the store location back to Fire In The Hole’s rich lore. “This new Fire In The Hole continues our mission of creating memories worth repeating, as we look to always improve the experience for our guests and towards the future of our park,” said Thomas. “This coaster, just like the original, ensures the whole family makes lasting memories for the foreseeable future, and the only place you can ride something like this is Silver Dollar City. Fire In The Hole marks the beginning of an action-packed summer this year at Silver Dollar City, with the park’s Summer Celebration kicking off June 8, with extended nighttime hours starting July 13 with Summer Nights, all the way through August 4. And, there’s plenty of fun between now and then, too, as this spring The City celebrates the final year of Street Fest from April 11-29. Then, Bluegrass & BBQ from May 2-27, awarded “Top Bluegrass Event” by the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA). Enjoy inshore and ocean fishing Florida Fishing in the waters of St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, and The Beaches - courtesy fo Florida's Historic Coast Spend a leisurely day casting a line into the surf with toes in the sand or wrestling a sport fish out of the depths of the Atlantic Ocean, it's easy to understand why fishing is Florida's favorite pastime. And there's no better place than St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and The Beaches, where there's a myriad of backwater honey holes, guided charters, challenging tournaments, and passionate fishing experts. Saltwater fishing is king here—kingfish, that is. St. Augustine is home to the Southern Kingfish Association, which sanctions more than 100 tournaments throughout the Southeast. The ocean waters are also home to blackfin tuna, tarpon, flounder, wahoo, mahi mahi, sailfish, cobia, and king mackerel. Hop on board one of Sea Love Charters' public trips for a deep-water adventure or charter a fishing boat from the Conch House Marina or the Nix Boat Yard Road Marina. The ever-popular fishing tournaments are on. If you want to put a little more on the line, enter one of the many tournaments hosted on Florida's Historic Coast. Kingfish tournaments lure in large crowds of fishermen and fisherwomen after big fish and even bigger cash prizes. St. Augustine Kingfish Mayhem kicks off on May 30th and Old School Kingfish Tournament follows on June 8th. The Ancient City Game Fish Association hosts the Kingfish Challenge on June 28th and 29th. Go from the big water to the backwater with any number of guided fishing charters that explore the marshes, creeks, and bays that vein Florida's Historic Coast. The area is known for its local redfish, as well as flounder, tarpon, black drum, and speckled sea trout. The aptly named Drum Man Charters and Fishardy Charters can navigate St. Augustine's inland waters and venture 30 miles offshore, while First Coast Inshore Fishing, Chips Coastal Charters, and Prime Time Charters specialize in Ponte Vedra's inland waterways. Bringing your own boat? Get bait, gear, hot local tips, and tie-up overnight at Devil's Elbow Fishing Resort or Genung's Fish Camp. Along Florida's Historic Coasts 42 miles of pristine beaches, Surf fishing at sunrise is a must-do. Cast past the waves during the warm summer months and land speckled sea trout, pompano, or jack crevalle. Vilano Beach, St. Augustine Beach, Crescent Beach, Matanzas Inlet, and South Ponte Vedra Beach Recreation Area are all perfect places to surf cast – just remember to be respectful of other beach-goers! Anglers also have tremendous fun fishing from the area's piers and bridges. Most well-known is the St. Johns County Ocean Pier on St. Augustine Beach. The $6 fee to fish includes a fishing license! There are also Lighthouse Park on Anastasia Island, the Vilano Beach Pier and Usina Boat Ramp Fishing Pier on Vilano Beach, Vaill Point Park in St. Augustine South, and the Rose of Sharon Pier just north of the Bridge of Lions. Give bridge fishing a try at the Matanzas Inlet Bridge on A1A or the May Street Bridge. Having fun on the water is key, but remember, these waters are very sensitive ecosystems that can easily be damaged. Help preserve the natural environment for future generations by following a few simple rules. Don't discard any fishing materials or refuse in the water; discard used fishing line in designated receptacles, where it can be safely recycled; stay off the dunes; and boat at safe speeds. Fishing, fresh air, and the water are sure to stoke the appetite. Grab some delicious bites packaged to enjoy in the great outdoors from Kaiser's Deli on Anastasia Island, the Floating Food Company on Vilano Beach, Stir It Up on St. Augustine Beach, or Trasca and Company in Ponte Vedra Beach. Fishing is just the beginning of the adventure on Florida's Historic Coast. Be sure to take advantage of the unforgettable stays and deals available on Florida's Historic Coast this Spring and summer. Explore outdoor recreation in the Laurel Highlands Visitors enjoy the rivers in the Laurel Highlands - courtesy of GO Laurel Highlands The Laurel Highlands is home to excellent outdoor recreation on the Youghiogheny and Stonycreek rivers as well as eight state parks (Keystone, Kooser, Laurel Hill, Laurel Mountain, Laurel Ridge, Laurel Summit, Linn Run and Ohiopyle) and two state forests (Forbes and Gallitzin). Architecture aficionados flock to the Laurel Highlands to see Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater – a UNESCO World Heritage site – as well as Mantyla and the Duncan House, both of which are located at Polymath Park, and Kentuck Knob. History lovers are drawn to Fort Necessity National Battlefield, Fort Ligonier and the Flight 93 National Memorial. Family vacations are especially popular in the region, which is home to Idlewild and SoakZone, Laurel Caverns, Jennerstown Speedway and Seven Springs Mountain Resort. Ann Nemanic, executive director of GO Laurel Highlands – the official destination marketing organization of Fayette, Somerset and Westmoreland counties – said the region's diverse range of activities and experiences make it the perfect summer getaway. “Summer is a season filled with anticipation,” she said. “Three months filled with dates circled for family gatherings, celebrations, parades, and vacations simply are not enough. “The Laurel Highlands has always been a summer destination because the region checks many boxes for visitors,” Nemanic said. “An entire week could be filled with outdoor experiences alone – hiking numerous trails, biking the Great Allegheny Passage, floating a kayak on calm water, or screaming excitedly over Class IV rapids on the Yough. A blend of history and cultural assets is appealing to many, with museums and artist studios scattered throughout the landscape. For little tots, Idlewild and SoakZone create memories for their first amusement park experience. Pepper in farmers markets for fresh-grown ingredients to take home, and you have yourself one tremendous escape this summer.” Recently, Ohiopyle Borough, which has about a dozen year-round residents captured the USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Award as the Best Small Town in the Northeast. The popularity of Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands has been showcased multiple times by USA Today 10Best: Keystone State Park was named the Best Destination for Fall Foliage in the U.S., and the Foggy Goggle at Seven Springs Mountain Resort was chosen the Best Apres-Ski Bar in North America. Ohiopyle outfitter Wilderness Voyageurs was voted one of the 10 Best Whitewater Rafting Tours last year, and Greensburg's El Diablo Brewing Co. was one of the nation's top new breweries. The Great Allegheny Passage was recently in a contest for the top recreational trails in the U.S., and Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run – just a few miles outside of Ohiopyle – is currently a nominee for Favorite RV Campground. Save on sight-seeing in San Antonio, Texas The Alamo by Gower Brown - Unsplash As of March 1, admission to The Alamo's – Exhibit and Church is now included in San Antonio CityPASS® tickets. CityPASS tickets, the first-ever bundled attraction tickets in North America, offer substantial discounts on combined admission to iconic attractions in 16 North American destinations. The Alamo, part of Texas' only UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Lone Star State's top tourist destination, is a fantastic addition to the already impressive San Antonio CityPASS lineup of attractions. Renowned worldwide for its significant role in American history, the Alamo offers a unique and immersive journey through 300 years of history. While first established as a Spanish mission in the 1700's, the Alamo is best known as the site of a tragic battle during Texas' quest for independence from Mexico. It was during this 1836 Siege of The Alamo by Mexican General Santa Anna that every last Texas defender, including famed frontiersmen David Crockett, William B. Travis and James Bowie, perished while fighting for freedom. That tragic event transformed the site into a sacred place to which travelers have paid homage for nearly 200 years. One of the most iconic of the historical buildings at the Alamo is the Church, dating back to the site's Spanish Mission era. The Long Barrack, located near the cherished Alamo Church, houses exhibits detailing the Alamo's history and the events leading up to the famed Battle of the Alamo. Visitors can engage in interactive demonstrations of early 19th–century daily life, military drills and other activities in the Living History Encampment. While entry to the Alamo grounds and Church is always free to the public, admission is charged for the Alamo Exhibit located inside the Ralston Family Collections Center. San Antonio CityPASS tickets cover this admission fee. The Alamo Exhibit offers a state-of-the-art curatorial environment dedicated to the preservation of the Alamo. Here, visitors can view priceless artifacts gifted to the State of Texas by musician and historian Phil Collins (yes, that Phil Collins!), including the Battle of the Alamo Diorama featuring his narration. Additional period pieces are showcased in the Donald and Louise Yena Spanish Colonial Collection among the many displays and interactive exhibits. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers, the San Antonio CityPASS program bundles discounted prepaid admission into one easy-to-use mobile ticket. Visitors can now save 39% on combined admission to four of the following must-see San Antonio attractions: Go Rio San Antonio River CruisesSan Antonio ZooThe Tower of The AmericasThe DoSeumSan Antonio Botanical GardenWitte MuseumSan Antonio Museum of ArtNEW The Alamo — Exhibit and Church Visiting is easy with a San Antonio CityPASS mobile ticket. The tickets cost $59 (value $92), for adults and $49 for children ages 3-11. Once scanned at the first attraction visited, CityPASS tickets are valid for nine consecutive days starting with the first day of use. (Should travel plans change, a 365-day refund is available for nonactivated tickets.) Tickets can be purchased online at citypass.com or at one of the participating attractions. Customers can use the My CityPASS app to access their tickets, make reservations, and find entry instructions, directions, special offers, and more for each attraction. Experience the iconic Route 66 in Illinois Sprague's on Route 66 in McLean County, Illinois - courtesy of Bloomington-Normal Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Nestled in the heart of Illinois, McLean County invites travelers to embark on an unforgettable adventure along Route 66. As the legendary Mother Road weaves through the county, it leaves a trail of history and nostalgia, offering a personalized travel experience. With a multitude of attractions, dining, shopping, and events capturing the essence of Route 66, McLean Countyensures a memorable journey for all. What sets McLean County apart is its commitment to personalized travel, without the hustle and bustle of big city travel. Discover the cultural heritage and create lasting memories in McLean County, where warmth and hospitality await all travelers. For travelers venturing into McLean County, step back in time at Sprague's Super Service station in Normal. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places and meticulously restored to its former glory, this landmark, now known as Ryburn Place, serves as a poignant reminder of Route 66's storied past. This location is great for photo taking and has a popular route 66 gift shop. Bloomington offers travelers a huge array of dining and shopping opportunities along Route 66. Exploring the Cruisin' with Lincoln on 66 Visitor Center in Bloomington to get your passport stamped, shop and discover the local area. Spend time at the McLean County History Museum in Bloomington, where exhibits chronicle the region's pivotal role in shaping the American landscape. Stroll through the charming streets of Downtown Bloomington, where there's something to delight every palate and preference. Funks Grove in Shirley beckons travelers with its idyllic scenery and warm hospitality. Visitors can explore Funks Grove Pure Maple Sirup, a family-owned maple syrup farm that has been producing delicious syrup for generations. Visitors can't miss Memory Lane in Lexington or the thrill of Dead Man's Curve in Towanda. And for those seeking great photo locations, the Route 66 Monuments in Bloomington, Normal, Lexington, Chenoa, and McLean stand as the perfect backdrop for your travel photo taking. The adventure continues with a lineup of Route 66 events that promise excitement and camaraderie. From the annual Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor Festivals hosted in many communities in McLean County to the adrenaline-pumping 11th annual Get Your 6.6 on Route 66 run/walk from Funks Grove to McLean, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate the spirit of the Mother Road. Check out the new EV charger at Miller Park pavilion in Bloomington that highlights the region's commitment to sustainability and accessibility along Route 66. Looking ahead, the eagerly anticipated Route 66 Murals slated for Cruisin' with Lincoln on Route 66 Visitor Center, Downtown Bloomington, Lexington, and McLean promise to captivate and inspire visitors starting June 2024.

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What to Do on Your Next Gulf Coast Vacation

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."

InspirationAdventureFamily

Plan a Dream Vacation to Hawaii This Spring

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).

FamilyTheme Parks

Dragons, Butterbeer, and More: New and Upcoming Fun at Universal Orlando

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

InspirationFamily

Fun-filled Camping Trips to Book this Spring

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

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Best Cities to Visit for Easter Weekend This Year

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