Dixie Stampede Branson Features Family Fun at its Finest!

Dixie Stampede touts itself as the most fun place to eat in the Branson, and after attending the show, I have to agree!  From start to finish, the show features nonstop entertainment, including singing, dancing, trick riding, comedy and a friendly North and South rivalry that had me stampeding my feet in delight. 

The show I attended officially started at 6pm, but be sure to get there early for the Carriage Room show opening act which begins at 5:15pm.  Dick Franco, the featured performer, had me laughing along with his jokes and amazed by his juggling expertise. 

The Dixie Stampede Branson tickets include a delicious feast, which is served promptly after the introduction of the armies and cavalries.  I was seated in the North section and loudly cheered on my troops and cavalry as they were introduced.  While the friendly North and South rivalry got started, I enjoyed a hot bowl of Dixie’s creamy vegetable soup, along with a yummy cheddar biscuit. 

While enjoying the rest of my first course, I was awed by the roman riding and fiery hoop jump the skilled riders and horses performed, as well as the “Into the West” segment of the show which paid tribute to frontiersmen and Indians and featured “Sha-Kon-O-Hey,” written by Dolly Parton, as well as an amazing aerialist who gracefully soars high above the audience.  The buffalo were a highlight of this segment of the show as well, as they stood their ground in the settlers-themed arena.  Skeeter, the pesky and hilarious Dixie Stampede comedian, kept the show rolling with funny jokes, shenanigans and magic tricks too. 

Before I knew it, the dinner bell rang and my plate was being piled high with a whole rotisserie chicken, pork loin, corn on the cob and herb-basted potato, all while more spectacular trick riding, comedy and a beautiful tribute to the South is performed.  Not soon after, the competition begins between the North and the South, where horsemanship and other feats are tested.  Some of the competition is also done between audience members, such as the chicken chase for little ones and horse shoes for the adults.  Plus, Skeeter gets in on the rivalry as he hosts races between mini-horses and pigs.  The audience was roaring with applause and stampeding thunder as they cheered on their respective side, a sure sign everyone was having a great time at the Dixie Stampede Branson. 

As the show winded down, I dug into my flaky apple pastry and watched the competition heat up as the North and South were neck and neck.  The very last event – Pass the Flag – includes the entire audience and during my visit, it sealed the win for the North!  The show finale is a patriotic salute to America as riders and horses in luminous costumes perform to Dolly Parton’s “Color Me America.”  It was the perfect way to end a night that truly was the most fun place to eat in Branson.

Camden Hotel Branson Newly Renovated for 2012 Season

The Camden Hotel is a newly renovated Branson property located conveniently near Branson shows and Branson Outlet shopping, with Tanger Outlet Mall within walking distance.

The Camden Hotel Branson has new brick exterior and has received various amenity upgrades, including new mattresses, linens, curtains and flat screen televisions in all rooms. The hotel offers guests a selection between Double Queen and King rooms. Their price is appealing to money-minded travelers, as is the hot complimentary breakfast which includes biscuits and gravy, waffles, eggs, and other breakfast staples and the complimentary cookies, ice cream and cobbler served in the evening. It’s a great treat to have before you visit Branson attractions. An on-site guest laundry facility and 6,000 square foot convention space with great view of the Ozarks is also available for guest use.

The Branson Camden Hotel is still in the process of being renovated, so guests should note the indoor pool area is currently under construction as is exterior brick work on the hotel buildings. Over the winter, new tile and sinks are expected to be installed in the bathrooms of the hotel rooms at the Camden Hotel. In 2012, this property will debut an all-new look but the same customer service their loyal guests have come to expect.

See the Smokies in all their Splendor with Scenic Helicopter Tours

Scenic Helicopter Tours is the top Pigeon Forge attraction to go to see the Smokies in their entire splendor. With a variety of scenic tours to choose from, guests leave satisfied and awed by their helicopter tour. Take my word, as I recently went on my very first helicopter ride with Scenic Helicopters and can’t say enough about the wonderful experience.

After arriving at the Scenic Helicopter Tour headquarters in Sevierville, I was greeted by friendly staff that told me about the tour I had chosen. I felt assured my experience would be safe and memorable, and soon after climbed into the front seat of the copter, adjusted my headphones that let me communicate and hear pilot Dan Haynes, and was off the ground. The initial lift is a unique moment, as before you know it you are flying above the ground you were just standing on.

I had chosen the Gatlinburg Tour, or Mountain Valley Tour, and it provided the perfect mix of scenic images from Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Bluff Mountain and Tennessee Valley. It rained in a few short patches during my tour, forming a beautiful smoke over the mountains, creating a memory of the truly Great Smoky Mountains no other experience had been able to do. Credit has to be given to Dan Haynes, who navigated and narrated the trip with ease. Some of the most memorable moments include soaring over mountain tops into a vast valley down below, seeing the Smoky Mountains from the best vantage point you can imagine and the pure joy I felt my simply flying above it all. It is not an experience to be missed.

I recommend everyone make Scenic Helicopter Tours Pigeon Forge a part of their Pigeon Forge vacation experience.

Dixie Stampede Pigeon Forge is Family Fun at its Best!

Dixie Stampede touts itself as the most fun place to eat in the Smokies, and after attending the show, I have to agree! From start to finish, the show features nonstop entertainment, including singing, dancing, trick riding, comedy and a friendly North and South rivalry that had me stampeding my feet in delight.

The show I attended officially started at 6pm, but be sure to get there early for the Carriage Room show opening act which begins at 5:15pm. Mountain Ruckus, the featured performers, pick and grin their way through some sing-a-long style tunes and a few other interesting ditties that got me ready for the main event.

The Dixie Stampede Pigeon Forge tickets include a delicious feast, which is served promptly after the introduction of the armies and cavalries. I was seated in the North section and loudly cheered on my troops and cavalry as they were introduced. While the friendly North and South rivalry got started, I enjoyed a hot bowl of Dixie’s creamy vegetable soup, along with a yummy cheddar biscuit.

While enjoying the rest of my first course, I was awed by the roman riding and fiery hoop jump the skilled riders and horses performed, as well as the “Into the West” segment of the show which paid tribute to frontiersmen and Indians and featured “Sha-Kon-O-Hey,” written by Dolly Parton, as well as an amazing aerialist who gracefully soars high above the audience. The buffalo were a highlight of this segment of the show as well, as they stood their ground in the settlers-themed arena. Skeeter, the pesky and hilarious Dixie Stampede comedian, kept the show rolling with funny jokes, shenanigans and magic tricks too.

Before I knew it, the dinner bell rang and my plate was being piled high with a whole rotisserie chicken, pork loin, corn on the cob and herb-basted potato, all while more spectacular trick riding, comedy and a beautiful tribute to the South is performed. Not soon after, the competition begins between the North and the South, where horsemanship and other feats are tested. Some of the competition is also done between audience members, such as the chicken chase for little ones and horse shoes for the adults. Plus, Skeeter gets in on the rivalry as he hosts races between mini-horses and pigs. The audience was roaring with applause and stampeding thunder as they cheered on their respective side, a sure sign everyone was having a great time at the Dixie Stampede Pigeon Forge.

As the show winded down, I dug into my flaky apple pastry and watched the Rumble in the Treetops salute to the North highlighting the skills of lumberjacks. From log climbing to sawing and chopping competitions, the lumberjacks raced from one event to the other as I cheered on the North. The very last event – Pass the Flag – includes the entire audience and during my visit, it sealed the win for the North! The show finale is a patriotic salute to America as riders and horses in luminous costumes perform to Dolly Parton’s “Color Me America.” It was the perfect way to end a night that truly was the most fun place to eat in Pigeon Forge.

WorldQuest Orlando World's Apart from Competitors

Upon arriving at WorldQuest Orlando, I felt transported into a different world. Driving through the gated entrance made it feel as if I was miles away from the hustle and bustle of Orlando, when in actuality, all the entertainment was just a few minutes away.

The 59 acre resort is home to 173 rooms that are Mediterranean-inspired, inside and out. The 2 and 3 bedroom condominium-style suites boast marble tiling, granite countertops in a spacious Kitchen and bathrooms, as well as a laundry room. The bedrooms offer a casual elegance for visitors, with a king bed in the master suite and two double beds in the additional rooms. The 3 bedroom units feature a set up of 1 king room, 1 queen room and 1 double double room. The master suite bathroom offers a walk-in shower with a whirlpool tub and the suite itself has access to the balcony which also has access from the main living area.

The resort is a haven for guests as their pool area is one of the best in the area. It is massive in size, stretching across the middle of the resort like an open air oasis, and features fountains, a big hot tub, lap pool and lounge chairs and umbrellas, creating an island-like feel in the middle of central Florida. The entire resort is nicely landscaped throughout, and this remains true at the pool area, creating a nice ambiance for guests. There is also a convenient Tiki Bar next to the pool area, great for snacks and drinks.

The Orlando WorldQuest Resort also has a buffet breakfast, Sundry Store and small fitness center.

WorldQuest is a perfect choice for families, but any Orlando visitor will enjoy their comfortable yet affordable accommodations.

Sea Watch Resort Great Choice for Fun in the Sun

Sea Watch Resort provides guests with exceptional aquatic amenities as well as property amenities, a fantastic beachfront location on the Atlantic Ocean and studio and condominium accommodations.

The oceanfront water features at Sea Watch Resort Myrtle Beach are a highlight of the property. A large veranda overlooks the poolscape below, including an extra large pool, five additional surrounding pools, 10 outdoor whirlpools, large sundeck, a kiddie pool and two 225-foot lazy rivers. A Poolside Tiki bar serves refreshing drinks and cocktails seasonally, while guests can also enjoy a DJ poolside, complete with tunes and fun party games. Two of the outdoor pools are covered seasonally, so you can splash and play even in the winter. Additionally, the resort has a medium-size fitness center, guest laundry, arcade room with approximately 10 games, gift and sundry shop, and the Captains Cove Café serves a large breakfast buffet and lunch. The Captain’s Nook Coffee and Ice Cream shop serves up tasty treats and pizza too, so guests can always pick up a snack while enjoying their day at the beach. The beach access is also a bonus as their stretch of beach is scenic and secluded.

All rooms at the resort feature an oceanfront balcony and full kitchens with stovetops, microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee/tea makers. I stayed in an Oceanfront One Bedroom Deluxe Condo during my Myrtle Beach vacation and found the dual access to the oceanfront balcony, one access point from the living area and one from the bedroom, to be a real bonus. The case goods were basic but comfortable, the decor sea-inspired and the bathrooms were equipped with a shower/tub combo, hair dryer and complimentary toiletries.

Sea Watch Resort is a great option for fun in the sun in Myrtle Beach.

The Caravelle Resort Top Choice for Myrtle Beach Vacation

The Caravelle Resort offers guests in Myrtle Beach deluxe accommodations, an upgraded amenities package highlighted by aquatic features and are located on a wonderful stretch of beach along the Atlantic Ocean.

This resort is the perfect place to go for a mix of fun and relaxation. With a block-long poolscape featuring a large pool, whirlpool, lazy river, kiddie lazy river and Wild Water Pool outfitted with unique aquatic features, as well as a spacious lounge space, this full service resort offers plenty of ways to dive into a beach vacation. The open-air Marco Polo Poolside Bar and Grill serves up light fare and refreshing tropical drinks seasonally, and guests can also enjoy an indoor pool and whirlpool, located on the 7th floor Solarium. A second whirlpool is located outside of the solarium. A unique feature of the hotel is the poolscape area is covered in the winter, creating more value during your non-summertime stays. Additionally, there is a large fitness center with plenty of equipment, large arcade room with pool table and air hockey, convenient guest laundry, business center, a gift and sundry shop, and a Pirate’s Cove Ice cream and Sandwich Shop. Other eating options on the site include Santa Maria Restaurant, serving breakfast a la carte or buffet style daily, and guests can grab a cocktail at Liquids Coffee and Martini Bar.

An $8 million renovation five years ago furnished the units at The Caravelle Resort Myrtle Beach with modern case goods, upscale bedding and flat screens TVS, as well as new furniture and granite counters in many units. All rooms feature balconies offering ocean views and provide either a full kitchen or a kitchenette that includes a four burner range, a microwave oven, a full size refrigerator, toaster, and coffeemaker and comes with dishes, flatware, and cookware. The exception to this rule is the non-oceanfront standard rooms. During my Myrtle Beach vacation, I stayed in an Oceanview Suite and was very impressed with my surroundings. From the upgraded features in the bath like a pedestal sink to the exceptional angle ocean view, I felt satisfied with my lodging choice.

Caravelle Resort provides a range of room styles to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that fits your vacation needs.

Note: Caravelle Resort Registration is located across the street from the Caravelle Resort building.

Your Beach Adventure Awaits at Beach Colony Resort Myrtle Beach

Beach Colony Resort is a large, family-friendly resort located on a beautiful stretch of sandy, oceanfront beach on the Grand Strand. Located on the north end of Ocean Boulevard, the resort provides the perfect ways to splash, play and relax in Myrtle Beach.

One of the things that really stand out regarding this resort is their amenities package. Guests can relax in their large lazy river, splash around in one of the two oceanfront pools, soak in both an indoor and outdoor whirlpool as well as indoor pool, play in the kiddie pool and enjoy the on-site sauna. An oceanfront lounge serves a light menu and refreshing drinks from 11am-9pm and offers a nice ocean view, and a breakfast buffet is also served at the resort from 7am-11am (for an additional fee).  A poolside snack bar and grill serves up frozen drinks and light fare, making your day at the pool or beach even more satisfying. Beach Colony Resort offers even more things to do with a large arcade room with over 15 games, racquetball court, shuffleboard court and small fitness center. For guest convenience, there is also a guest laundry facility, located on the 1st floor, as well as free wireless internet throughout the property. Children’s activities programs are scheduled throughout the summer months as well.

Rooms at the resort come in a variety of layouts, with the Oceanfront Suite and Two Bedroom Condo being the most popular units. During my Myrtle Beach vacation, I reserved an Oceanfront Suite and was pleasantly surprised upon arrival. The unique layout featured two queen beds in a semi-private bedroom that had wooden shades that open or close to make it private or open to the living room. The living area is furnished with a flat screen TV as well as small kitchenette with refrigerator, 2 burner stove, basic cookware and dinnerware and microwave. The bathroom was spacious, had a standard shower/tub combo, hair dryer and two sinks. Oceanfront Suites feature a private balcony that overlooks the ocean. The Two Bedroom Condos expand on the suites to provide a large living room, a full kitchen, and second bedroom. These units feature a side view balcony.

Come soak up the sun at Beach Colony Resort Myrtle Beach!

Hotel Blue Myrtle Beach Top Choice for a Fun Value Beach Vacation

Hotel Blue is a unique resort offering a wonderful beachfront location, an inviting atmosphere and a variety of amenities to enjoy.

This hotel is home to South Carolina’s first swim up bar, which compliments their aquatic area nicely, as the pool is large and features a large oceanfront sundeck and whirlpool. Indoor you will find another pool and whirlpool plus a lazy river. Café Blue is located poolside as well, and the property has easy beachfront access. Hotel Blue guests also have access to aquatic amenities at Captains Quarters, as well as the 20-lane bowling center, located one block away.

Hotel Blue Myrtle Beach offers a variety of room types, with their Oceanview One Bedroom Double Suite and Oceanfront Efficiency units being the most popular. Oceanfront efficiencies consist of two double beds, one bath, a kitchen with full size refrigerator, microwave, stove, toaster, and basic cookware and dinnerware, and a large oceanfront balcony. The One Bedroom Double Suites expand on the efficiency layout to provide a Murphy bed in the separate living room. Bathrooms in both units were standard shower/tub combos, and included hair dryers. All units are equipped with free wireless internet.

For a fun value beach vacation, choose Hotel Blue.

Palace Resort Boasts Affordable Comfort for Beach Vacations

The Palace Resort, located on famous Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach, provides a convenient location to enjoy all of the local Myrtle Beach attractions as well as take in the spectacular views and beaches of the Atlantic Ocean.

On-site resort amenities at the Palace Resort include a free daily breakfast at the Oceanside Restaurant, served from 7am-10am featuring eggs, pancakes and waffles, a cardio-only fitness center with ocean views, guest laundry facilities, small game room, large oceanfront pool, indoor and outdoor whirlpools, oceanview snack bar and restaurant, putting green, and free wireless internet. Many of the aquatic features become enclosed during the winter months, creating indoor pools for guests to enjoy.

The Palace Resort is located oceanfront and is an affordable option for staying beachside. Plus, all units are interior rooms.  The Palace Resort offers a variety of units, including Sun Suites and One and Two Bedroom Condominiums. In-room amenities include angle ocean views, cable TV, spacious living room and fully equipped kitchen complete with full size stove, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher and basic cookware. I stayed in a Sun Suite during my visit and found it comfortable and accommodating. The case goods were a bit older, but the atmosphere was still very nice and I rather enjoyed my view of the ocean.

For a beach vacation that is also budget-friendly, choose the Palace Resort Myrtle Beach.

Choose Ocean Creek Resort for a Unique Place to Stay in Myrtle Beach

For a unique place to stay on your next Myrtle Beach vacation, choose Ocean Creek Resort. Located on 57 acres right across the road from Barefoot Landing, this resort features a variety of amenities and things to do, along with a spectacular oceanfront location complete with its very own Ocean Creek.

Amenities at the resort include water features such as a large oceanfront pool at the Beach Club, oceanfront kiddie pool and three pools in the villas area – an outdoor pool in the Lodge Villas and Tennis Villas, as well as indoor pool and whirlpool, located centrally on property. Ocean Creek guests also have access to a large Tennis Center (minimal fee), oceanfront playground, boardwalks, fitness center, children's activities and arcade room. The Four Seasons restaurant serves a breakfast buffet each morning, and the oceanfront Beach Club Bar & Grill has spectacular views of the ocean and pool area, and serves up delicious light fare and drinks. Ocean Creek Resort has a very spacious feel and their secluded, gated setting adds to the relaxing atmosphere.

Studio, One Bedroom and Two Bedroom Units are available at Ocean Creek Resort Myrtle Beach. All of the units are located inland, with about a 5 minute walk to the beach. The One Bedroom Condo is furnished with a queen bed, large living room with sleeper sofa, screened-in porch (or patio), full kitchen with stove, oven, fridge, microwave and coffee maker, as well as free wireless internet. There is one full bath and one half bath in the unit, with a total square footage of 695 feet. All units are individually owned and decor in units may vary. Studio units feature an open layout and small kitchenette, while the two bedroom units are furnished with a second bedroom located off of the living room.

Peppertree by the Sea Offers Comfortable Affordability on the Grand Strand

Peppertree by the Sea is an oceanfront condominium resort located in North Myrtle Beach featuring a wide stretch of private beach access as well as upgraded resort amenities that create a perfect beach vacation.

Water features at the resort include a large outdoor pool with sun deck, kiddie pool, spacious indoor pool with hot tub in an atrium-style setting, fitness center with weights, cardio and TV, as well as activity center, located on the 6th floor, offering children’s activities, board games and more. A tiki hut located poolside is equipped with charcoal grills too. A sauna and laundry facilities are also located on site, and wireless internet is available throughout Peppertree by the Sea. This resort provides a daily linen/towel service but there is an additional fee for daily cleaning service.

Accommodations at this resort come in studio, one, two and three bedroom varieties. During my visit, I stayed in a One Bedroom Suite, featuring a queen master bedroom, alcove with bunk beds, large living room with flat screen TV, sleeper sofa, private balcony and a partial kitchen (which means there is no dishwasher). The case goods, which were mostly white, were in good condition and created a nice atmosphere mixed with the green, yellow and blue décor. The bathrooms were spacious for the size, had new tile, complimentary toiletries and a hair dryer. All units do vary, but the standard of quality remains the same. Studio units are a nice option when staying at Peppertree by the Sea Myrtle Beach as they are affordable yet comfortable and have a unique layout that boats privacy and openness.

Laid Back, Value Oriented Oceanfront Litchfield Inn Perfect for Beach Goers

The Oceanfront Litchfield Inn is located in Pawley’s Island, just south of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The property is Pawley’s Island’s only oceanfront resort and has a laid back, leisurely atmosphere perfect for beach goers.

The classic Inn features a supreme location on the Atlantic Ocean’s white sandy beaches as well as on-site amenities such as the fine dining Ocean One with spectacular views, the beach-friendly Cabana Café and Beach Bar, which features an open air bar with an oceanfront and poolside location, as well as live entertainment (seasonally). The Litchfield Inn serves a deluxe continental breakfast free of charge too, which is something you won’t find at most Myrtle Beach hotels. The pool area is very inviting, and is equipped with two outdoor pools, including a 2 foot deep kiddie pool, along with a large sundeck.

Guests can choose from two main room types – an Oceanfront Tower Single King Room or Double Double Lodge Room. All rooms are equipped with mini-fridge, microwave, FREE wireless internet, cable TV, coffee maker and hair dryer, with the Oceanfront Tower rooms boasting a private oceanfront balcony, nice size bathroom with large vanity and café-style table and chairs. The Double Double units are the most economical rooms on property. The space is a bit smaller than the other units available, but the rates are incredible and make a beach vacation budget-friendly. There are no elevators in the Lodge side of the Inn, so keep that in mind when making reservations. Rooms are individually decorated and reflect different styles, with some featuring upgraded amenities like flat screen TVs.

Choose the Oceanfront Litchfield Inn for a quiet, peaceful beach vacation set in a quaint coastal locale.

Ripley's Aquarium is a "Must-Sea" in Myrtle Beach

Ripley’s Aquarium Myrtle Beach, located at the Broadway at the Beach Entertainment Complex, is an interesting and engaging attraction dedicated to “life under the sea.” The aquarium boasts more than 10,000 exotic sea creatures, comprised of over 350 species, creating an environment those of all ages find entertaining. There are eight main sections of the aquarium, plus an all-new Sharks – Perfect Predators exhibit.

During my visit to the Ripley’s Aquarium, I made a beeline to see the new Sharks exhibit, as it featured over a dozen species of sharks along with over 30 hands-on interactive displays. One of my favorite elements of this exhibit was getting to experience “shark vision,” as well as see shark skin up close. On display through 2011, this is very popular with Ripley’s guests. The Rainbow Rock exhibit was a favorite of mine as well, as it was home to brightly colored fish from the tropical islands of the Pacific Ocean such as raccoon butterflyfish and clown triggerfish. The Live Gallery highlighted sea creatures like the West Coast Sea Nettle, Giant Pacific Octopus and Regal Blue Fish, which were beautiful to see. The most popular exhibit at the aquarium is the Dangerous Reef as is includes a 340-foot long glidepath that takes you through an acrylic tunnel and treats you to face to face encounters with snappers, tarpons, grunts, squirrelfish, a green sea turtle, giant stingrays, sawfish , sharks and more.

Family-favorites like Touch-a-Ray Bay lets guests touch sting rays as they swim through shallow waters, while the Discovery Center, an interactive multimedia playground and educational resource center, allows aquarium goers to experience touching a horseshoe crab, learning about marine animals, solve puzzles all in a kid-friendly “sea for yourself” atmosphere.

Purchase your Ripley’s Aquarium tickets today for an experience the whole family will enjoy.

Landmark Resort Features Unique Amenities in the Heart of Myrtle Beach

The Landmark Resort in Myrtle Beach is a large resort-style property offering a variety of top-notch amenities to its guests. From water attractions to a beachfront location, this property is the perfect choice for a family vacation or a couples getaway. Located on Ocean Boulevard, the resort is conveniently located to Myrtle Beach attractions, like Ripley’s Aquarium, the SkyWheel and WonderWorks, as well as the Myrtle Beach International Airport.

The oceanfront property features a wide variety of unique amenities including 17 indoor and outdoor water attractions. There is a large oceanfront pool, 300 foot outdoor lazy river, oceanfront whirlpool, large indoor pool, five indoor whirlpools, indoor kiddie fun pool, kiddie lazy river, as well as the H2Oasis water park and 9-hole mini-golf course outfitted with a wading pool with waterfalls, barrel bucket dumps, rain tree umbrellas and a 4 foot deep lap pool and 8 foot spa. The Gazebo Restaurant is also located on-site, serving breakfast, and the Latitudes Grill is open for lunch and dinner. A large arcade room with over 10 games and expansive guest laundry is also available to guests, as is a cardio-based fitness center, gift and sundry shop, poolside ice cream and snack shop and poolside bar. There is a large sundeck as well, so there is plenty of room to soak up the sun too!

Rooms and suites at the Landmark Resort Myrtle Beach give guests several options and price tiers to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly interior rooms to oceanfront suites. During my Myrtle Beach vacation, I stayed in an oceanview double room which was equipped nicely with two double beds, wetbar with refrigerator and microwave, full bath, granite vanity countertops and private sideview balcony with a view of the Grand Strand coastline. The case goods were in good condition and the room was decorated in bright blues, oranges and yellows. FREE wireless internet was also included. With a variety of room types, Landmark Myrtle Beach surely has one to fit your travel needs.

Discover a new wave of fun at Landmark Resort.

WonderWorks Myrtle Beach Combines Education with Entertainment

WonderWorks Myrtle Beach is an all-new attraction located at Broadway at the Beach. Known as an "amusement park for the mind," WonderWorks combines education with entertainment. With over 100 interactive attractions located in a massive 50,000 square-foot building, attendees of all ages enjoy the mind-stimulating, hands-on exhibits. Plus, the WonderWorks building is an attraction in and of itself as its dramatic exterior features a classically designed building that appears to have landed upside down.

I entered the museum through an Inversion Tunnel, which makes you feel like you are defying gravity, and on the other side discovered a plethora of engaging attractions. The Xtreme 360 Bikes are a popular attraction, as visitors pedal their way on these tandem bikes as they try to generate enough power to complete a full loop over the top and back to its original position. I tried it myself and it was the highlight of my day. A few of my other favorites were the Wonder Simulators, where I got to design my own 360 degree virtual roller coaster; the Space Zone, where I was in control of landing a NASA space shuttle; and the Mindball Challenge, where participants use their own brain waves to move a ball across the table to the opposing side. Some other favorite elements were the bed of nails, bubble lab, hurricane shack, and Fun with Light and Sound Zone, where I danced on a floor piano, created shadow impressions and played virtual air hockey. WonderWorks also features a three story black-light rope obstacle course that I climbed and conquered at the end of my adventure.

The WonderWorks attraction is home to a café and bar on Lake Broadway, serving pizza, sandwiches, salads and other light fare. I had received a discount with my WonderWorks ticket and grabbed a bite to eat after I had tried all of the interactive attractions housed inside the upside-down building that is WonderWorks. You can add even more fun to your day by visiting Soar and Explore, located right next door. It is home to a zipline adventure and ropes challenge course.

Family-Friendly Adventure Awaits at Soar and Explore Myrtle Beach

For a family-friendly adventure, look no further than Soar and Explore, located at Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach. This attraction features two outdoor adventures – a Ropes Challenge Course and a Zipline – that take family fun to new heights.

The Ropes Challenge Course is the only ropes course in Myrtle Beach. It features a pirate theme, over 3,000 ropes and 33 different challenges and obstacles, including a tremor bridge, tight rope walk, ladders, swinging stairs and it extends out over Lake Broadway. The course lets you test your strength and skills as you climb your way to 40 feet in the air. Plus, the higher you get the more difficult the course becomes. Families enjoy the competition the course offers as well as the accomplishment one feels at the end of the course. Kids were proudly displaying their “I Did the Ropes Challenge” sticker during my visit. Note – The Ropes Challenge Course is very safe as all participants are harnessed in and attached to a security rope.

The Zipline Adventure gives guests a spectacular ride over Lake Broadway. After being attached to a safety harness and climbing a set of stairs, I launched from a platform and soared over Lake Broadway at 50 feet in the air. The zipline is 500 feet both ways, so you get to experience a total of 1,000 feet of zipline. As I glided through the air, I thought “I want to do this again!”

Soar and Explore Myrtle Beach is the place to go to swing, soar and climb your way to family fun. WonderWorks is located right next door too, so you can make an afternoon of it!

Schooner II Resort Boasts Great Location and Modern Conveniences

The Schooner II Resort in Myrtle Beach is located on Ocean Boulevard, with convenient access to Myrtle Beach attractions, dining and shopping. The resort is a smaller facility but offers amenities such as a fitness center with ocean views, a top-notch racquetball court, guest laundry, a large sundeck, outdoor pool, spa tub, sauna and a lovely beachfront on the Atlantic Ocean, along with a nice green space surrounding the pool area. The pools and sundeck were recently resurfaced, and were very clean during my visit. The resort also offers children’s activities, seasonally, to keep the kids entertained during their stay.

Rooms at the Schooner II Resort Myrtle Beach come in one or two bedroom varieties. The units are nicely decorated and feature fully equipped kitchens complete with stove, refrigerator, microwave and granite countertops. The one bedroom suites are furnished with a king bed plus a separate alcove with bunk beds, while the two bedroom suites feature a king bed in the master bedroom, with two twin beds in the additional bedroom. Both units are equipped with FREE wireless internet, flat screens TVS and DVD players and sofa sleepers in the living rooms, as well as private balconies with ocean views. The two bedroom units are located in the middle section of the building and therefore boast the best views.  The property does not have daily housekeeping service but does offer a towel exchange.

Choose the Schooner II Beach Resort for a great location and excellent ocean access.

Captains Quarters Resort Myrtle Beach a Top Choice for Families

Captains Quarters is a family-friendly oceanfront resort located on Myrtle Beach’s famous Ocean Boulevard. The property boasts a plethora of amenities and has a great location right on the famous beaches of the Grand Strand.

There is a lot to see and do at Captains Quarters, as they feature 15 water attractions including an indoor pool, three outdoor pools plus the Ship Wreck Lagoon Water attraction, six whirlpools, indoor and outdoor lazy rivers, kiddie pools and large pool decks great for soaking up the sun. The pool deck is also home to the Soggy Dollar Pool Bar, which serves light fare and refreshing drinks. The Ship Wreck Lagoon Water Park is a highlight of this resort, as it features cannons that spray water and waterfall mushrooms, along with pirate ships for the kids to play around. During my visit, the kids couldn’t get enough of this unique attraction. On top of all of the aquatic attractions at Captains Quarters Myrtle Beach, they are also home to Level 6 Bowling and Entertainment Center. The area has a full-size bowling center with 20 lanes, arcade and lounge so you really never have to leave the resort to enjoy a fun-filled Myrtle Beach vacation. Plus, Vista Nine, the resort’s oceanfront restaurant serves breakfast in the morning, from 7am-11am, and the resort is also equipped with a Fitness Center, open 6am-10pm, along with a guest laundry.

Accommodations at the resort vary from oceanfront, to ocean view, to angle oceanview to efficiency. Each of the rooms vary in layout and design, but they all were very clean and spacious. I stayed in an Angled Oceanfront Suite, which featured a double bed and a flat screen television in the bedroom, a separate living room with a king bed, double sleeper sofa, and flat screen television. The suite was also equipped with one bath with hair dryer, granite counters and upgraded tile, as well as a kitchen with full size refrigerator, microwave, stove, toaster, coffee maker, and basic cookware and dinnerware. FREE wireless internet is also included with all rooms.

The Captains Quarters Resort Myrtle Beach hosts activities and events for guests too, including Dive-In Movie Nights, daily children’s activities and a Saturday night hula show starring Chief Kamu. Be on the lookout for Salty the Shark too, as he and his mascot friends host a poolside parade every Tuesday and Thursday (seasonally).

Beach Cove Resort Provides Tropical Adventure in Heart of the Grand Strand

Beach Cove Resort in North Myrtle Beach is an all oceanfront property, with a fantastic location on the Grand Strand offering secluded access to the Atlantic Ocean beachfront yet still just minutes from exciting attractions like Barefoot Landing.

The resort also features a variety of fantastic amenities, including aquatic elements like an oceanfront pool deck with four outdoor pools, three outdoor hot tubs, kiddie pool with water features, and indoor pool and hot tub and a 350’ lazy river. Beach Cove Myrtle Beach is also home to Tradewinds Café, serving breakfast and dinner; Javatini’s, a piano bar serving coffee and martinis; Chaser’s Soda Shoppe and Ice cream Bar; and Breeze’s Beach Bar and Grill, located poolside. A racquetball court, large fitness center with ocean views, well equipped game room, guest laundry and sundry shop are also located on-site.

Accommodations at Beach Cove Resort Myrtle Beach are spacious and clean, with the One Bedroom Executive Suite creating the perfect place for me to stay while I played. The layout of the room opens to a living area with sleeper sofa, flat screen TV, kitchenette, a private balcony with spectacular ocean views and a full bathroom equipped with two sinks. A definite bonus of this room layout is the division between the sleeping area, featuring two queen beds, and the living space. It adds a level of privacy and also makes the room feel larger. The rooms come standard with FREE wireless internet, hair dryer, refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker and safe. Choosing your room at this resort is easy too, as they all boast excellent ocean views.

Reserve your next Myrtle Beach vacation with Beach Cove Resort for a tropical adventure in the heart of the Grand Strand.

One The Show Myrtle Beach Entertaining From Start to Finish

One The Show in Myrtle Beach is an energetic, variety-packed show featuring a full 2 ½ hours of entertainment. Located at the Alabama Theater at Barefoot Landing, the show is the perfect way to end your day on the Grand Strand. After seeing the show for myself, I have no doubt in my mind as to why it was voted the #1 Live Theater Attraction for Entertainment.

The Alabama Theater features a nice stage and modern multi-media effects, as well as elaborate set designs. These are noticeable from the start of the show, which begins with “You Can’t Stop the Beat.” Greg Rowles is your host for evening, and he gets things off to a rousing start with “Boots On,” which is followed by Gail Bless singing “The Ride,” which features an excellent guitar solo from Jeff Zola. Zola segues into a performance of “Long Black Train” and “That’s Allright” nicely, which is rounded out by a moving performance of “I Saw God Today” by Rowles.

The fast-paced production launches into a Broadway segment, compete with a stellar song and dance routine during “Dancin’ Fool” and Mary Poppins flying through the air during renditions of “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” “Step In” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.” A hit-filled American Bandstand segment was next, featuring excellent covers of The Temptations hit “Get Ready,” Dusty Springfield’s “I Only Wanna Be With You,” and a showstopping performance of Michael Jackson’s “Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough.” The dancing was also incredible during the Michael Jackson performance – the crowd loved it!

Gail Bliss shined on the Patsy Cline themed performance as well, with “Crazy” and “Walkin’ After Midnight” sounding identical to the originals. The shadow dancing and aerial chiffon performers added a nice touch to the beautiful “My Wish,” and the toe-tapping “Are You Ready for a Miracle” performance got me moving in my seat, as did “Turn the Beat Around” which featured dancing in the audience and aerialists performers. The cover of “Sideways” by Dierks Bentley was a highlight of the show, as was “Consider Me Gone.” The show concludes with a patriotic salute featuring a medley of songs, including “This Land is My Land,” “America the Beautiful,” “Born in the USA,” and “Coming to America.”

The One Show Myrtle Beach also features hilarious comedy from Grant Turner, performing as “Ricky Mokel.” He kept the show fresh and entertaining, and had people laughing so hard they cried. He was a great addition to the show and had great chemistry with the host, Greg Rowles.



My Ticket from One The Show

Stay and Play at Springmaid Beach Resort Myrtle Beach

A stay at the Springmaid Beach Resort creates a fun-filled yet relaxing Myrtle Beach vacation perfect for families or couples. Their prime location on the south end of Ocean Boulevard, right next to the Myrtle Beach State Park, provides a peaceful oceanfront location while being minutes away from entertaining Myrtle Beach attractions.

The amenities at Springmaid Beach Resort feature a variety of things to do, including six pools, two of which are heated, two lazy rivers, an 18 hole miniature golf course and large arcade with over 15 games including two pool tables and air hockey, fitness center, guest laundry and two onsite restaurants – The Pier Café and Marlin’s Buffet. Plus, guests have access to the longest pier in Myrtle Beach, the Springmaid Beach Pier, where you can fish and get excellent views of the beach and ocean. Their quarter-mile stretch of Atlantic Ocean beachfront access is a definite bonus as well.

Rooms at the Myrtle Beach Springmaid Beach Resort are nicely equipped and feature upgraded amenities like flat screen televisions, full-size refrigerators and microwaves, coffee makers, hair dryer, private balconies, and wireless internet. A great benefit of reserving your Myrtle Beach vacation with this property is that it is an all ocean view resort, meaning every room has great views of the surrounding beachfront. The rooms were also very spacious and clean, and the beds were very comfortable.

For an affordable yet extremely accommodating Myrtle Beach property, choose the Springmaid Beach Resort. I was more than pleased with my stay and am sure you will be too.

Kennedy Space Center Out of this World Experience

The Kennedy Space Center near Orlando, Florida is a sprawling complex highlighting the marvels of space and the adventure of being an astronaut. It is the only place on earth where visitors can tour a launch area, meet an astronaut, see giant rockets, train in spaceflight simulators and even view a launch. When I arrived at the complex, I was amazed by the actual size, 140,000 acres, and even more impressed by the technology present. The first-hand look at space flight made me feel a part of some of man’s greatest discoveries and let me experience what it feels like to be an astronaut, which is every child’s dream.

There truly is a lot to do at Orlando’s Kennedy Space Center, so allow a full afternoon for you and your family to enjoy all that it offers. On top of the rockets you can tour, there are also some interesting Imax movies to take advantage, including Magnificent Desolation: Waking on the Moon 3D, which gave me a whole new perspective of the moon. There is also a live theatrical production, Mad Mission to Mars, where audience members become astronaut trainees, plus a rocket garden, Astronaut Hall of Fame, and Space Shuttle Plaza where one can tour the inner workings of a space shuttle and see how astronauts live during missions. However, my two favorite things to do at Kennedy Space Center were the Space Flight Simulator and the Launch area. The Space Flight Simulator was a great first-hand experience of what it’s like for astronauts in a rocket, including preparation, blast off and orbiting. The end of the ride is the best part, as you get an amazing view of “outer space.” The Launch area, which you get to by bus, was an interesting experience because I got to see the exact area where space shuttles blast into space. It really is a piece of history that I felt proud to see. In addition, when actual launches are scheduled, visitors can see those too.

Tips: At the Kennedy Space Center, there is a food court area offering a variety of options, so you can spend your day or afternoon here and still eat well. Plus, there is a gift shop for souvenirs. Be sure to plan your day at the complex ahead of time in order to have enough time to do everything available.