W Scottsdale Invites Guests to Ditch the Snow for Glow with its Luminating Event

Southwest Hotel Transforms into Winter Wonderland Saturday, December 2

 W Scottsdale, located in the heart of the Phoenix’s booming Entertainment District, will transform into a Winter Wonderland for its annual event to kickoff the holiday season. The property invites guests from near and far to partake in the special experience taking place on Saturday, December 2. W Scottsdale’s Winter Wonderland is just one of many reasons to plan a visit to the desert hotel this season, where guests can relax at a serene retreat or embrace the weekend at the ultimate party destination, while taking advantage of the exciting on-site attractions and amenities. 

“Each December, we enjoy providing our guests with an atmosphere that evokes the cheerful spirit and holiday escapism many look forward to this time of year,” says Todd Iacono, general manager, W Scottsdale. “A getaway at W Scottsdale during winter means luminating décor, memorable dining and spa experiences, and the opportunity to take advantage of the sights and activities of the greater Scottsdale area with blue skies and moderate temperatures.”

On Saturday, December 2, W Scottsdale will become a magical Winter Wonderland from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. promising an evening filled with enchantment and delight. Guests will be captivated by the mesmerizing entertainment provided by live performers, creating an atmosphere that evokes the spirit of the season. The venue will be adorned with twinkling lights, exuding a frosty ambiance that transports guests to a world of wonder. Tickets start at $50 for non-hotel guests and can be purchased at CottontailLounge.com, while hotel guest entry is complimentary.

In addition to the festive events, there is an array of exciting sights and activities to explore in the area. With its central location, W Scottsdale offers easy access to the Southwest’s most distinctive shopping center with over 220 stores that include favorite staples and luxury stores, and outdoor activities including hot air balloon rides, charming Old Town Scottsdale, golf experiences, and hiking trails in the Sonoran Desert. The daytime weather in Scottsdale is pleasantly warm making it comfortable to plan various outdoor activities.

Whether seeking adventure and recreation, or rest and rejuvenation, guests will have the most memorable moments when staying at W Scottsdale. Amenities range from the WET Deck pool area that hosts Vegas-style pool parties with private cabanas complete with bottle service, dancing, and DJs, to the Cottontail Lounge that offers a next-level mixology experience and expansive views of the desert sky and Donabe restaurant, a Japanese Steakhouse that offers high-quality seasonal cuisine. There is also the AWAY spa, a full-service spa and salon which offers relaxing treatments, complete with spa therapy for guests to enjoy while sipping a spa signature cocktail. Now through December 31, those that book a spa treatment receive 40 percent off an additional treatment.  

host an exclusive New Year’s Eve bash that dares its guests to dream big with the theme, “Imaginarium.” On Sunday, December 31st, from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., the stylish oasis in the heart of Downtown Scottsdale’s entertainment district will go all out with a talented DJ, dancing, live entertainment, a full bar, and more.

Guests can live it up on the last day of the year at WET Deck and Cottontail Lounge with mind-bending visuals and interactive performances with an artistic twist, all highlighted by the only fireworks show in Old Town.

Tickets can be purchased here and start at $50 per person. VIP table service will be available by contacting vip@spellboundeg.com or 602-405-0099. The event is 21+. For those interested in making a staycation out of the holiday, W Scottsdale is offering a special package with code “XY0” featuring a luxury room stay, two event tickets, a $40 drink credit, and 20% off AWAY Spa treatments. The package is available December 28, 2023 – January 02, 2024.

For more information on W Scottsdale and for bookings, please visit www.WScottsdaleHotel.com.

About W Scottsdale (www.wscottsdalehotel.com)

W Scottsdale marks the debut of W Hotels in Arizona. This Southwest warm weather destination that mixes innovative design with urban sophistication, features 241 guest rooms including 44 lavish suites. A true insider escape, W Scottsdale boasts W Hotels The Store and offers three chic destination bars – Living Room Lounge, Cottontail Lounge and Wet Deck. Located in downtown Scottsdale, W Scottsdale provides guests access to discover the city’s high-profile shopping, innovative restaurants, eclectic arts district and vibrant nightlife. Signature services and amenities include the Whatever/Whenever® concierge service, Wheels® valet, FIT® fitness center, WET®, WIRED Business Center and P.A.W. – Pets Are Welcome™. For more information, visit www.wscottsdalehotel.com or call to schedule a reservation 877 W HOTELS.

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa Sets the Scene for a Grand Holiday Season

The Midwest is the setting for some of the most iconic holiday movies of all time, such as A Christmas Story, Home Alone, and even National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, and when it comes to the holidays, there is a resort in Lake Geneva, WI that offers one of the grandest celebrations in the Midwest. Grand enough for any holiday movie buff.

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin is one of the Midwest’s top vacation destinations for holiday fun with its annual Christmas in the Country experience. A six week celebration, this cherished holiday resort tradition features over-the-top holiday décor, private igloo dining, breakfasts with Santa, a heated Trolley Tour of Lights, the option to have a decorated Christmas tree in your hotel room, and new this year, a jumbo gingerbread display of its beautiful ski hill. In addition, the city of Lake Geneva is full of holiday charm and programming, with wonderful Midwest holiday hospitality.

Family together Christmas celebration concept. Festive place setting for holiday dinner with natural decorations from fir tree branches.

Here is a rundown of what is on Santa’s list at Grand Geneva this year (and yes, you can catch him swimming and skiing if you’re lucky):

Family together Christmas celebration concept. Festive place setting for holiday dinner with natural decorations from fir tree branches.
  • Grand Geneva officially kicks off the season with its annual Illumination Ceremony taking place on November 19, 2023, where the resort literally flips the switch to start the season, with over-the-top holiday displays, lights, animated designs, grand Christmas trees, and plenty of photo opportunities to capture the holiday cheer. Now in its 29th year, the Illumination Ceremony will feature activities for kids, holiday cookies, hot apple cider, a dazzling fireworks display, and an appearance from the big guy himself, Santa Claus! Guests are asked to bring an unwrapped, new toy for local children. The event will support Walworth County Deputy Sheriff Department and its Toys for Kids program.
  • There’s a tree in the grand hotel, and one in your room as well. For a modest extra charge, guests can have the resort’s holiday elves add a little magic to their stay at Grand Geneva or its on-site sister property, Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark, by adding a holiday tree to their room. Travelers will enjoy a fully decorated tree in their guestroom upon arrival, complete with ornaments, ribbon topper and an ornament to cherish at home (take-home ornament available at Grand Geneva only). It’s all the Christmas cheer with none of the cleanup! 
  • Trolley Tour of LightsFor some traditional holiday fun, visitors can hop aboard the heated and enclosed Grand Geneva trolley for a tour around the resort’s dazzling light displays and decorations, including the beloved 12 Days of Christmas animated display. For those who miss the trolley, visitors can take their own car down Grand Geneva Way, starting at Hwy 50. 
  • An Igloo Experience. Baby, it’s cold outside but cozy inside one of Grand Geneva’s igloos. Offered at the resort’s Embers Terrace, visitors can reserve a private igloo for festive dining, holiday drinks, and gathering with friends and family. This fun winter experience is available for up to 6 guests for a 90-min reservation. 
  • Brunch with the Big Guy. Grand Geneva’s Brunch with Santa will take place on select dates in November and December. Designed for children, families enjoy brunch served tableside.
  • Santa Mail: Speaking of the big guy, guests and visitors may take advantage of Grand Geneva’s magical mailbox and drop off letters to Santa Claus. Located in the resort’s main lobby, Santa’s helpers collect the mail daily at 3pm to mail it to the North Pole. The best part? Santa takes time out of his busy schedule to send a message back.
  • Gingerbread House WalkArea residents, in amateur, professional, adult and child categories, display their sugary masterpieces beginning November 19 through the holidays, creating a Gingerbread House Walk on the upper level in the resort’s Ristorante Brissago foyer. Judges from United Way of Walworth County and Grand Geneva will award cash prizes for the top three overall winners in five different age groups. New this year: The resort will feature its very own over-the-top Gingerbread display of its Ski Chalet on a 3×3 ft board. The sugary sweet ski display is made with 50+ lbs. of flour, 3 gallons of molasses, 6 dozen eggs, 12 lbs. of butter, 20 lbs. of brown sugar, and lots of colorful candy.

Where Santa Goes to Splash & Swim: Grand Geneva’s resort campus is also home to sister-property Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark. This all-suite resort features rooms with kitchens and extra space, plus its very own indoor waterpark where it is always a warm 86 degrees. A perfect holiday escape for families, the resort also offers Breakfast with Santa, plus holiday hotel package deals. Santa has previously been spotted taking a swim at Timber Ridge, and on December 22 and 23, he will be taking a relaxing break and greeting guests in his very own Santa cabana in Timber Ridge’s Moose Mountain Falls. 

  • Grand Geneva’s The Mountain Top is one of the country’s top family-friendly ski hills. The perfect ski and snowboard hill for beginners, The Mountain Top is slated to open for the season on December 16. It is also one of Santa’s favorite slopes, and he is slated to make an appearance at the ski chalet a few times this holiday season!
  • In case the weather outside is frightful, there are plenty of other delightful family-friendly activities to enjoy, including holiday movie nights, ornament painting, gingerbread house decorating, and other fun holiday crafting and games.
  • Grand Geneva’s Midwest Holiday Hospitality by the Numbers
  • 2 million twinkling lights
  • 6 weeks of celebration
  • 50lbs of flour for an oversized ski chalet gingerbread display
  • 1 set of skis for Santa
  • 7 igloos
  • 32ft outdoor Christmas tree with 24,500+ lights
  • 1 Santa cabana
  • 50+ gingerbread houses on display
  • 70 holiday light displays, including 14 animated
  • 66 indoor holiday trees

For additional information on holidays at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, please visit grandgeneva.com

W Scottsdale Creates Cheerful Connections for Groups this Winter Season with New Holiday Events Package and Special Promotions 

Festive Celebrations in Hotel’s Exceptional Event Spaces Include Complimentary Wine Toasts, Spa Experiences, Suite Upgrades, and More

The holidays may seem like a long way off, but it’s not too soon to make plans. And W Scottsdale, located in the heart of the city’s booming Entertainment District, offers myriad ways to celebrate the upcoming holiday season. From now through December 2023, the hotel is offering its new Event Holiday Package featuring significant perks and rewards to guests booking the property’s event spaces. Whether planning a family gathering, corporate winter event, or a milestone birthday, W Scottsdale’s team of experts will work with clients in creating festive, holiday cheer and unforgettable experience.

The Event Holiday Package features special perks for bookings that qualify, including:

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When booking the Event Holiday Package, guests are rewarded with additional benefits depending on the budget and scale of the event outlined below:

  • Double Marriott Bonvoy points
  • 15 percent discount Audiovisual services
  • 25 percent discount at award-winning AWAY Spa
  • Complimentary sparkling wine or holiday signature cocktail
  • Waived meeting room rental

Spend:

  • $5,000-$7,499, choose 1 benefit
  • $7,500-$9,999, choose 2 benefits
  • $10,000 or more, choose 3 benefits

Benefits:

  • 20,000 signing bonus
  • 50-minute spa treatment gift certificate
  • Complimentary suite upgrade
  • Complimentary uplighting package
  • Festive red carpet and step and repeat
  • Gift certificate for raffle prizing
  • Life size lawn game

With impeccable service and tailored offerings, W Scottsdale remains dedicated to ensuring that each event is a resounding success. W Scottsdale’s event specialists work closely with guests to help build a luxury itinerary that best matches their interests and curate a personalized event that exceeds expectations. The hotel’s innovative meeting venues and event spaces come equipped with the latest technology, adaptable conference equipment and space for up to 500 delegates. The state-of-the-art meeting rooms and conference facilities provide the perfect setting for memorable corporate functions that are enhanced with specialized business packages, dedicated event coordinators, and delectable catering options. Whether it’s a small soiree or a winter extravaganza, the flexible event spaces and experiences can be tailored to suit any specific needs.

In addition to the memorable events, there is an array of exciting sights and activities to explore in the area. With its central location, the hotel offers easy access to vibrant nightlife and exciting sporting events. Other facilities include Cottontail Lounge which offers a next-level mixology experience and expansive views of the desert sky, the outdoor WET Deck pool area that hosts Vegas-style pool parties with private cabanas, in-house Japanese Steakhouse Donabe and a 24-hour fitness center. For the ultimate revitalization experience, AWAY Spa, W Scottsdale’s full-service spa and salon, offers guests a go-to place for glamour, providing a variety of customized treatments ranging from traditional deep tissue massages to makeup and hair.

The exclusive Event Holiday Package provides additional value and experiences to make every celebration shine bright this season. For reservations or inquiries, please call Emily Gaines at402.253.5619 or contact Emily.Gaines@marriott.com.

About W Scottsdale

W Scottsdale marks the debut of W Hotels in Arizona. This Southwest oasis, where innovative design mixes with urban sophistication, features 241 guest rooms including 44 lavish suites. A true insider escape, W Scottsdale boasts W Hotels The Store and offers three chic destination bars – Living Room Lounge, Cottontail Lounge and Wet Deck. Located in downtown Scottsdale, W Scottsdale provides guests access to discover the city’s high-profile shopping, innovative restaurants, eclectic arts district and vibrant nightlife. Signature services and amenities include the Whatever/Whenever® concierge service, Wheels® valet, FIT® fitness center, WET®, WIRED Business Center and P.A.W. – Pets Are Welcome™.

For more information, visit www.wscottsdalehotel.com or call to schedule a reservation 877 W HOTELS.

Giving You Butterflies!

These Southern Destinations Welcome Guests of the Human and Insect Varieties

Now that fall has officially arrived, there’s plenty of chatter about the amazing hues of the season. But leaves aren’t the only colorful, fluttering signs of autumn; there are also plenty of migrating birds and butterflies in the air right now, and it’s that second group that we want to focus on today. Though National Butterfly Day is on March 14, we’re choosing to celebrate these fascinating creatures today, as many of them are making their way south toward Mexico. Here’s a roundup of places where you can see an abundance of butterflies right now … or even all year round. If any of this inspires YOU to migrate to any of the featured destinations, please check in with us for more information!

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge in Gulf Shores, Alabama

               Every fall, butterflies descend upon coastal Alabama as they fly from Canada down the East Coast and to the Gulf of Mexico. Though visitors to this region can see species that include the common buckeye, Gulf fritillary and viceroy, they’re especially drawn here by the prospect of seeing an astounding number of monarch butterflies. By mid-October, hundreds of the orange-and-black butterflies can be spotted along Pine Beach Trail, where they stop for a snack before they continue their flight to Mexico. But they’re not the only colorful critters in the refuge. Countless songbirds have been arriving during the past few weeks and their presence will likely peak in mid-October. As a bonus, the fall wildflowers ensure that while the winged creatures keep the skies and trees ablaze with color, the ground offers an equally dazzling display.

Grand Hotel in Point Clear near Mobile, Alabama

               This luxury hotel in coastal Alabama has been welcoming human guests since 1847 … and butterflies since long before that. The hotel acts as an official waystation for the species, serving as a temporary home to hundreds of monarchs that pause on the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay so they can rest and feed, building their strength for the final leg of their journey. Since the monarch has been placed on the endangered species list, the resort’s horticulture team is committed to helping butterflies survive and thrive. They’ve dedicated a portion of one of the hotel’s gardens to plants that are especially appealing to the species, including milkweed, verbena, lemongrass and oregano. The monarchs arrive in Alabama in great flocks during the month of October, and guests who stay at the Grand Hotel during this time report hearing the hum of thousands of tiny flapping wings. Besides watching the butterflies around the property, guests can buy monarch merchandise and butterfly-shaped cookies in the Oak & Azalea gift shop. New this year, during the month of October, registered guests can also head to the hotel’s daily “Grandeur, Grit and Glory” celebration at 3:45 p.m. to get a sip of “Monarch Nectar,” a mixture of fresh lemonade, orange juice and butterfly pea flower pollen.

Lockport Elevated Wetlands Boardwalk in Lousiana’s Cajun Bayou

               Situated in southeastern Louisiana, right along the Gulf of Mexico, Lafourche Parish – aka “Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou” – is a haven for all kinds of migrating species, from birds to butterflies, and the best place to see them is by the elevated boardwalk in Lockport. It opened in 2015 as a way for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the parish by allowing them to literally enter a swamp for a safe and up-close look at flora and fauna. The 440-foot boardwalk is open daily from dawn to dusk and attracts birdwatchers and photographers from all over the world. Countless species of butterflies can be spotted here, too, from March through May and again from August until early October. As a bonus for visitors who come to see the butterflies on their fall migration, there’s also a chance to see bald eagles in October.

Northlake Nature Center in St. Tammany Parish

               Popularly known as “The Northshore,” St. Tammany Parish is in the southeastern corner of Louisiana and just a short drive from New Orleans. But it feels worlds apart, especially in the parks and preserves and along the trails that remind you that Mother Nature reigns supreme here. Northlake Nature Center is a 400-acre preserve on Bayou Castine, in the town of Mandeville. Visitors come here to hike along trails that take them through forests and wetlands as they search for glimpses of interesting plants, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and insects … including several species of butterfly.

The Butterfly Palace in Branson, Missouri

The Butterfly Palace in Branson, Mo. on Sept. 16, 2017. Photo by Brad Zweerink

               If you can’t make it to the Gulf Coast this fall, no worries …we know a place where you can see butterflies all year round. Families who visit the Ozark Mountain town of Branson can find plenty of fun and adventure in the Great Outdoors, from ziplining to riding roller coasters. But for those days when it’s rainy or chilly, The Butterfly Palace brings nature inside a large dome that offers a rainforest-style adventure you wouldn’t expect to find in a mountain town. The Butterly Palace is home to more than 1,000 live butterflies imported from locales around the world.

Time your visit right and you can even help release a newly emerged butterfly into the makeshift rainforest. Guests are encouraged to dress in red – the color that most attracts the 40 to 60 species of butterfly – and everyone receives a bright red silk flower with a nectar tube in it as they enter the aviary. Walk through and just wait for the butterflies to land on the flower … or you (they tickle!). Guests are issued wrist bands that are good for three days, allowing them to come and go each day for a truly uplifting adventure.

Lost River Cave in Bowling Green, Kentucky

               This unique cave is toured via boat, but a visit to the site doesn’t just include time underground. There’s plenty of nature to explore aboveground, too … including the Charlie Miller Butterfly Habitat. But you’ll have to put this on your to-do list for 2024, as the habitat only operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day. This indoor garden is filled with native nectar plants and is home to butterfly species like monarchs, painted ladies and giant swallowtails. As a special treat, visitors can learn how to create their own butterfly gardens at home so they can enjoy butterflies in their backyard.

Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

               We’d be remiss to talk about butterflies and not mention one of the creatures’ biggest fans, Dolly Parton. She’s loved them since she was a little girl growing up in the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee, and she tells stories of how she used to get in trouble because she wandered off while chasing them. She’s on record as saying that she feels drawn to butterflies because she admires their gentle nature and incredible beauty.

Atmosphere of the Great Pumpkin LumiNights held at Dollywood on October 28, 2019 in Pigeon Forge, TN. © Curtis Hilbun / AFF-USA.com

They have the freedom of flight but – unlike many other flying insects – don’t sting or bite, and she sees a lot of herself in those characteristics. In short, Dolly has claimed butterflies as her spirit animal, and fans can find them represented throughout Dollywood and its resorts. A butterfly appears as the “W” in the Dollywood logo, and the insect is incorporated into the décor of Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, in everything from the weave of the hallway carpet to ornaments on the property’s signature Christmas tree each holiday season. As the park celebrates its Harvest Festival, you can even find a giant butterfly made of carved pumpkins.

15 Great Reasons to Visit Las Vegas This Summer Season

With everything from new celebrity chef restaurants and poolside attractions to remodeled suites and A-list concerts, here’s a look at what’s happening in Las Vegas this spring and summer.

New Places to Eat

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Retro by VoltaggioMay 3, Mandalay Bay will open Retro by Voltaggio, the first Las Vegas restaurant from TV stars, judges and renowned chefs Michael and Bryan Voltaggio. Conceptualized by the famed chef duo, the one-year culinary residency experience will celebrate the best of the 80s and 90s with the brothers’ modernized take on classic American dishes served in an environment with playful and nostalgic nods to the era.

Cathedrale: TAO Group’s heralded French-Mediterranean concept will debut in Las Vegas at ARIA Resort & Casino May 1. The artful cuisine inspired by the flavors of Southern France will complement the dramatic scenery setting the stage to be a go-to destination. Cathédrale’s elemental, ingredient-driven menu features coastal cuisine influenced by the regions of France, Spain, Italy and Greece.

 LAGO by Julian SerranoChef Julian Serrano, the Michelin-starred trailblazer for Bellagio’s acclaimed lakeside dining, is delivering a new vision for his beloved LAGO by Julian Serrano overlooking the resort’s famous Fountains. Inspired by centuries of colorful culinary traditions, the a la carte menu allows a reimagined dinner, lunch or brunch experience that celebrates Italians’ passion for scratch-made pastas, slow-aged steaks and fresh seafood within the larger-than-life style that fuels Las Vegas.

New Ways to Make a Splash

Boulevard Pool, Cocktail

Sunset Cocktail Hour: Every Thursday and Friday night, the North Bar at The Cosmopolitan’s Boulevard Pool will transform into a one-of-a-kind cocktail lounge with incredible views of the city skyline. A festive soiree under the stars, Sunset Cocktail Hour gives guests a chance to indulge in some of the resort’s iconic signature drinks alongside exclusive specialty cocktails. New this year, an interactive, create-your-own daiquiri cart presented by Mount Gay Rum for guests to sip, savor and sway to live DJ sets while enjoying refreshing summer libations.

Temptation Sundays: The pool season will get hotter, bolder and brighter as Temptation Sundays returns to Luxor better than ever for its 13th sizzling season. Beginning May 14, Las Vegas’ longest-running LGBTQ+ pool party will take place at Luxor’s North Pool every Sunday through September 18.

Beachside Bungalow: The ultimate beach experience at Mandalay Bay is now available. The Grand Bungalow, a 425-square-foot cabana that accommodates up to 20 guests, is fully air conditioned and features two TVs, VIP service from a designated host and direct access to the 11-acre beach paradise.

Poolside Yoga: Guests at The Cosmopolitan can catch the sunrise and soak up the summer rays with a rejuvenating sunrise yoga session, sure to provide a revitalizing, yet relaxing experience for yogis of all levels. Situated atop the Boulevard Pool deck, each 60-minute class is $25 per person and includes a yoga mat.

New Places to Stay

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Bellagio Spa Tower: Bellagio recently revealed details surrounding the $110 million transformation of all rooms and suites within its luxurious Spa Tower. Beginning this July, guests will be able to book the new accommodations delivering contemporary accommodations inspired by the beauty and tranquility of Italy’s Lake Como.

Stay Well™ Collection: Now available at all 13 MGM Resorts’ Las Vegas properties, Stay Well accommodations feature elevated wellness amenities including air purification, aromatherapy, dawn simulation and Vitamin C-infused showers that reduce chlorine to keep hair and skin soft and smooth.

New Entertainment to Enjoy

Usher: Due to popular demand, global megastar and eight-time GRAMMY Award-winner Usher expanded his Las Vegas residency for new show dates throughout the summer. Usher, Live Nation Las Vegas and MGM Resorts are donating $1 of every ticket purchased to Usher’s Las Vegas residency dates in 2023 to Usher’s New Look, Inc. Founded in 1999 by Usher as a young man barely out of his teens, UNL is on a mission to transform the lives of underserved youth through a comprehensive program that develops passion-driven, global leaders. Check your calendar and check out the dates: June 2023: 28 and July 2023: 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 12, 14, 15

Maroon 5: Three-time GRAMMY Award-winning multi-platinum band Maroon 5 debuted their new Las Vegas residency at Dolby Live at Park MGM. Every aspect of the show’s immersive design caters to the Dolby Live theater, from the panoramic, multi-layered video box to the Dolby Atmos sound design ensuring every seat in the room experiences the band’s performance in an intimate way only possible in a Las Vegas residency.

Check your calendar and check out the dates: July 2023: 28 & 29 and August 2023: 2, 4, 5, 9, 11 & 12

America’s Got Talent Presents SUPERSTARS Live: Following an successful first year entertaining America’s Got Talent fans inside Luxor Theater at Luxor Hotel and Casino, the newly christened America’s Got Talent Presents SUPERSTARS Live will usher in 2023 with jaw-dropping new talent joining a selection of current headliners when it returns. America’s Got Talent Presents SUPERSTARS Live pairs current showstoppers such as Kodi Lee, Deadly Games, Light Balance and The Silhouettes with new cast members including Celia Munoz, Pack Drumline and more.

New Ways to Relax

Poolside Facials: Visitors can have the spa delivered directly to them with poolside facials and massages available at several resorts, including Park MGM, ARIA and Bellagio. Talented therapists bring their services straight to guests’ lounge chair or daybed, providing a new meaning to “cozy oasis.”

CBD Spas: This April, 11 spas in Las Vegas introduced a CBD wellness program across celebrated destinations such as The Cosmopolitan, Bellagio, ARIA, Delano and more. Specialized CBD wraps, massages and mani-pedis across The Strip offer a new way to unwind at the spa. 

DiveIn Movies: On Monday evenings this summer, the marquee at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas’ Boulevard Pool will transform into a colossal movie screen, showing favorite films high above the Las Vegas Strip. While watching classic films and modern blockbusters, guests can take a dip or lounge poolside sipping on movie-themed cocktails and enjoying creative movie snacks under the stars.

Dollywood Readies for Its Biggest Season Yet

Big Bear Mountain Roller Coaster and HeartSong Lodge & Resort Opening This Year

 Construction progress continues on two major projects at Dollywood Parks & Resorts. This year, Dollywood will unveil a new roller coaster, Big Bear Mountain, and a second resort, Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort, which are parts of a $500 million expansion plan that was announced in June 2021.

Big Bear Mountain, set to open this spring, adds to Dollywood’s already impressive portfolio of world-class roller coasters. At $25 million, the ride is the most significant single attraction investment ever at Dollywood, while its nearly 4,000-foot length will make it the longest roller coaster at the park. Big Bear Mountain includes highly-detailed ride vehicles (resembling four-wheel-drive SUVs) that will take guests on an expedition in search of the elusive “Big Bear” in the hills just beyond Dollywood’s newest area, Wildwood Grove, which opened in 2019.


At a little more than three-quarters of a mile long, Big Bear Mountain provides park-goers with plenty of thrilling moments, including three separate launches, multiple airtime hills, high-speed carousel turns and tunnels, and a pass behind a waterfall. The minimum height requirement is 39 inches, meaning even smaller guests can enjoy the thrills, and the coaster will reach a top speed of 48 mph.

With the addition of Big Bear Mountain and the continued appeal of Dollywood’s seasonal events, Dollywood Parks & Resorts has seen an increased need for additional lodging to complement its original resort, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, which opened in 2015. Tucked away in a beautiful cove in the rolling foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, the 302-room, five-story lodge is being designed to provide a space of awe and inspiration for guests around every turn. The property is set to open this fall.

Dolly Parton welcomes guests to the Season Passholder Day at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, TN on March 10, 2023. © Curtis Hilbun

From spacious accommodations to well-planned amenities, the resort will offer a variety of spaces to recharge and relax. The lodge will feature an impressive atrium with four-story, lantern-inspired windows, as well as a two-story HeartSong Event Center. Many of the guest rooms feature balconies that provide sweeping views of the resort’s vast property, as well as the surrounding beauty of the Smokies.


Both the coaster and the lodge give nods to the beauty of the natural surroundings in which the theme park exists, a tribute to the “Tennessee Mountain Home” that Dolly Parton sings about and loves so much. In addition to all the family entertainment offered by Dollywood Parks & Resorts, this area of Tennessee is home to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is the nation’s most visited national park.

There’s much to see and do in the region, which is part of the reason for adding the second resort. To keep up with the growing demand for even more fun at Dollywood, the park’s operating calendar is also growing this year and adding 21 more days of operation.

For more information about Dollywood Parks & Resorts, please visit Dollywood.com.

About Dollywood Parks & Resorts

The Dollywood Company consists of the 165-acre Dollywood theme park; the 35-acre Dollywood’s Splash Country; and Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa. Currently under construction, the 302-room Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort is scheduled for completion later this year. As unique as its namesake and owner Dolly Parton, Dollywood is the 2010 Applause Award winner, the theme park industry’s highest accolade; winner of 48 Golden Ticket Awards; and recipient of 28 Brass Ring Awards for Live Entertainment.

The park is located near Great Smoky Mountains National Park and was named in 2022 by Tripadvisor as the #1 theme park in the country based on actual guest reviews. It also has been recognized as a top-three U.S. theme park by USA Today on multiple occasions. Dollywood is open mid-March through early January and offers rides and attractions, shows and crafters authentic to the East Tennessee region.

Dollywood’s Splash Country, recognized by the Travel Channel and Tripadvisor as one of the country’s most beautiful water parks, operates from mid-May to Labor Day. Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, a favorite of USA Today voters and Tripadvisor reviewers, provides guests with spectacular mountain views and family-friendly amenities next door to Dollywood theme park and Dollywood’s Splash Country. For more information, visit dollywood.com. Operating days and hours vary. 

12 Great Ways to Celebrate the Holidays at the Sonoma Coast Villa, Resort and Spa

As the air turns crisper, so does the wine and nothing pairs better with the holidays than the hospitality of California wine country at Sonoma CoastSipping wine, enjoying cheeses, and sitting by the fire with good company is the ideal way to get in the holiday spirit. Sitting on 60-acres of wine country, guests of the resort can enjoy the spa, restaurant, and nearby attractions such as Sonoma Coast State Beach, Bodega Marine Library, Sonoma Wine Country and more.

The Tuscan-style property features limestone fireplaces and vaulted ceilings among acres of rolling hills just five miles east of Bodega Bay in the Russian River Valley area of Sonoma County that will make you want to cozy up just in time for the winter. Come take advantage of the rich coastal and redwood forest landscape, the authentic California farming culture, and the region’s deep-rooted wine culture this holiday season.

Unique, complimentary activities at Sonoma Coast include heading to the dunes to catch some fresh crab, taking a midday picnic by horseback through local mustard grasses to the nearby giant redwoods, enjoying a charcuterie plate assembled with local cheeses by the fire, barbecue fresh-caught oysters beachside, a custom Russian River wine tour, or even a little grape stomping. Start your day with a breakfast buffet offered daily with fresh farm to table selections and rise with the sun on Saturday mornings during yoga class to get centered, clear your mind, and find your calm before you start the day.

By the Numbers

100: There are over 100 wineries and 50 tasting rooms within a thirty minute drive on Sonoma Coast and over 475 wineries within an hour’s drive.

8: Minutes to drive from Sonoma Coast Villa & Spa to Bodega Bay.

60: Acres in the beautiful rolling hills of Sonoma’s Russian River Valley.

Wine O’Clock

Gather together or on your own, watch the sun set and enjoy a complimentary glass of wine and cookies. After all, it’s that special Sonoma time called Wine O’Clock. Don a jacket or a comfy sweater and sit by the outdoor firepit nightly for s’mores, hot cocoa and popcorn while enjoying vintage and holiday classic movies under a night sky lit by stars and a silvery moon. Is there a better way to celebrate the holidays then with good times, wine, food, locale, and accomodations? We think not.

About Sonoma Coast Villa, Resort, & Spa

Five miles east of Bodega Bay, Sonoma Coast was originally a horse and gun club for the owners of the Blue Boar restaurant in San Francisco in the 1970s and then converted into a vacation retreat in 1982. Now being reimagined by Auric Road which specializes in petite resorts in honoring historic properties, indulging in our love for culture and adventure (think kayaking, hiking, biking, star-gazing, horseback riding, beachcombing, wine tours, and eating local), the 18 rooms in this Tuscan-style villa can be booked as can the one private four-bedroom, 3,000-square-foot house. Other Auric Road petite resorts include Hotel Joaquin in Laguna Beach, California, Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, Montana, Korakia Pensione in Palm Springs, California, and Rex Ranch in Amado, Arizona.

Celebrate all things autumn at Kingsmill Resort in Williamsburg, Virginia

Fall lingers a bit longer in Virginia giving us more time to enjoy the beauty of the season. And those looking for the great escape certainly linger longer at Kingsmill Resort in Williamsburg, Virginia.  Maybe it’s because the resort is on 2,900 acres (that’s a lot of fall foliage) of land, or that it’s the only resort in Williamsburg on the fabled James River with sweeping views of the water, or the championship golf, million-dollar spa and massive indoor heated swimming pool.  Of course, there’s seemingly endless bike and walking trails, tennis courts and dining options.

Fall also means special value-added savings, packages and programming celebrating harvests, culture, Halloween and Thanksgiving. 

The AAA Four Diamond Kingsmill Resort  is also well known for having “living room,” as in many of the accommodations feature one, two and three bedrooms and two baths with a living room, kitchen, dining area and even a washer and dryer.  It’s ideal for families, couples and friends get-away.

And while many guests are content to stay within the resort, just outside its gates are all the attractions and experiences Williamsburg is famous for such as the scenic drives on the Colonial Parkway to Jamestown Island, or hiking/walking on the short trails of the coastal estuary at York River State Park.

On Saturday through December 18, guests can enjoy the Williamsburg Farmers Market and sample the regions famous farm products, produce, baked goods and even pick up some arts and crafts.

On Water: Rent a pontoon, paddle board, kayak or jet ski at Kingsmill’s marina to see the magnificent colors along the James River. 

There is nothing more “fall” than pumpkins.  And in Williamsburg, guests will discover Pumpkinville where one can choose one from a family farm or shop for seasonal specialties such as gourds, winter squash, and fall flowers and decorations. There’s even a corn maze for those that like to wander.

In a land as ancient as this (by US standards) there are certain to be super-natural experiences.  Haunted houses, ghost walks and spooky carriage rides abound.  You can be truly pushed to your scared limits at Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream or just be mildly spooked on a one-hour candlelit tour of old Williamsburg.

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The country’s first documented Thanksgiving was here as well, at Berkley Plantation to be exact (two years before the Pilgrims event in Massachusetts).  The first settlers celebrated “a day of thanksgiving to Almighty God,” and ate after fasting. Each year, you can celebrate the event with a living history program, tribal Native American dancers, arts and crafts, and choral music. Kingsmill Resort also offers a major Thanksgiving dinner (go to http://www.kingsmill.com for details).

For more information on Kingsmill Resort check into www.kingsmill.com

Three Great Destinations for Fall Colors and Fun

Hikes, fly fishing, falconry, all-inclusive wilderness retreats, and a view from the top of America’s mountain, no one does Western fall wonder and adventure like The Broadmoor. Here are a variety of different ways (water, air and on top of a mountain) to enjoy those autumn golden aspens that everyone is talking about.

Fall fun by water: Get your boots wet with some Colorado fly fishing.

The Broadmoor’s all-inclusive Wilderness Properties such as Fly Fishing Camp are where fall colors and adventure combine.

For more water wonder, stay at The Broadmoor and take advantage of an autumn hike at Seven Falls.

For more water wonder, stay at The Broadmoor and take advantage of an autumn hike at Seven Falls.

The Broadmoor’s Soaring AdventuresEnjoy the tree tops and fresh autumn air with a zip lining experience in the mountains. For more reasons to look up, take advantage of The Broadmoor’s falconry experience which allows the unique opportunity for an up-close encounter with the resort’s majestic birds of prey plus the opportunity to watch them in flight.

A view from the top of the land: The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway

What’s better than a view from the top? America’s highest railway reaching a height of 14,115 feet offers stunning Colorado mountain views and some of the country’s best fall foliage landscapes. 

Cape May, NJ is one of the most underrated beach towns in America.

This charming seaside getaway offers the perfect beach town trip any time of year. Fall is a great time to beat the crowds and enjoy the award-winning beaches, cozy fireplaces, exquisite farm to table dining, and amazing small-town amenities including exploring this Victorian town by foot or bike and enjoying family-friendly fun and shopping. Plus families will also enjoy visiting Beach Plum Farm during harvest season to enjoy a mix of summer and a preview to fall.

Set on 62 acres less than two miles away from the center of Cape May, Beach Plum Farm is a family favorite and provides ingredients to several local restaurants, including the award-winning Ebbitt Room. The farm provides many of the seasonal ingredients used in the delicious food served at Congress Hall, its restaurants and sister properties! Kids love feeding the chickens and exploring the acres of gardens and fields. Cape May is also home to Congress Hall, America’s oldest seaside resort. Check out caperesorts.com

 Sag Harbor & Shelter Island (Hamptons / Eastern Long Island)

Grab a classic novel and head to Baron’s Cove in Sag Harbor, NY. Rich in literary history (the hotel was a favorite of John Steinbeck), this classic all-American hotel sits in one of the best spots in Sag overlooking the harbor making its porch and pool the perfect spot to curl up with a book and enjoy the autumn harbor breezes. Bonus: enjoy some of the East End’s freshest dock to dish dining. Baron’s Cove’s culinary team works closely with local farmers, purveyors, and fishing boats and can name the captain and boat that the restaurant’s daily fish came off of that morning. Baron’s Cove is also one of the few places in town that offers live music every night during the summer and Wednesday through Sunday in the fall.  

Over on Shelter Island, NY, Baron’s Cove’s sister property, The Pridwin Hotel & Cottages, recently reopened its doors after a two-year renovation (recently as in, the ribbon cutting took place mid-July!) Another waterfront property, The Pridwin offers travelers the best of both worlds: the vibes of a luxury lake/adult summer camp getaway with the thrill of the beach (it has its own private beach steps from the hotel). Guests may also take advantage of water sports activities, sunset sailing, private luxury yacht experiences and also the resort’s very own kayaking and paddle boarding. Guests also have the extra perk of fishing off of the resort’s dock.

Heading into the cooler weather, The Pridwin will continue to offer several family friendly programming throughout the fall including lawn games, arts & crafts, live music, kids cooking classes, nature walks, hiking in Mashomack; farm tours with local Sylvester Manor Farm; plus yoga on the lawn programming for children.

The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway

Grand Geneva Resort: Fall fun, frights, and culinary delights

More than a year-round destination for adventure, fun, and relaxation, Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin should also be on every serious foodies list as well. That’s because, under the direction of Food & Beverage Director, Nelly Buleje and new Executive Chef Dustin Urbanik, this popular resort is dishing up exceptional seasonal flavors on their new fall menus.

From the resort’s popular elevated Saturday brunch which are focusing on such autumn delights as pumpkin pancakes and fall flavored mimosas to in-house made desserts like apple crumble to seasonal soups and sides such as lobster bisque with Maine lobster sherry, tarragon, lobster brodo, sourdough crisp and caviar; truffle creamed spinach with black truffle, mornay, and farmstead cheese; and rainbow carrots and parsnips with bourbon and maple glaze, the resort and its collection of restaurants are bursting with fall flavors.

There’s also an impressive new fall cocktail menu with selections like Wisconsin Apple Old Fashioned; Smoked Maple Mile; a White Pumpkin cocktail; Espresso S’MORES-tini; and more (check out the fun visuals here). By popular demand, the resort’s seafood boil and Midwestern prime rib roasts will run every Friday and Saturday through November 12.

In addition to the new fall flavors, here are some new autumn offerings and programming guests and families can expect:

  • Seasonal outdoor adventures including hiking, biking, an indoor pool and waterpark, horseback riding, championship golf, skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and more.
  • One of the best ways to get around and explore the 1,300 acre-campus and beautiful Lake Geneva as well as Wisconsin’s scenic backroads is by the resort’s scooters and new this year, e-bikes. Rent one for a few hours or take a guided tour around the area with. The perfect way to spend an autumn afternoon with family or a group of friends (must be 18+, check out rules here).
  • Hayrides and waterslides! The resort campus is also home to Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark. Both Grand Geneva and Timber Ridge offer guests on-site haunted hayrides, haunted barns, apple picking opportunities and seasonal packages. Check out Grand Geneva’s packages here; Timber Ridge packages can be found here.
  • Families will also enjoy new programming such as pumpkin painting; DIY caramel apples; excursions to Pearce’s Farm (local farm with fresh produce, kid’s activities and corn maze); and a Grand Escape – the resort’s very own pop up escape room.

Keep an eye on the Wisconsin Fall Color Report for optimal leaf-looking opportunities. 

Photos courtesy of Grand Geneva Resort.