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EAST COAST SPRING 2023
Allegiant Travel Company
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By choosing us, you’re benefiting from nonstop flight access to amazing destinations across the country. From quaint small towns like Asheville, to booming tech hotspots like Austin, we can take you anywhere you need to go. This magazine is your best guide to local attractions, restaurants, and lodging.
Get ready to spring into action! Join us as we continue our journey upwards with exciting route additions and a brand-new seaside resort - Sunseeker!
Shaun McIlveen
shaun@smmediasales.com
Tampa Bay Theatre, Marshall Haque/MEGACON Orlando, Fishermen’s Village, Miranda Jansen, Joshua Brasted, SeaWorld Orlando, Fort Myers Brewing Co., Brian Harris, Marker Miller, Preservation Hall, Mary Cormaci, Shannon Brinkman, Brooklyn Botanic Garden/ Antonio M. Rosario, Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, Brooklyn Botanic Garden/Blanca Begert, New York Botanical Garden, Islamorada Resort Collection, Hawks Cay Resort, Alive Coverage, Gulfarium Marine Adventures, Cattywampus, Kolbi Amos, Destin-Fort Walton Beach, East Pass Seafood & Oyster House, Destin History and Fishing Museum, Dewey Destin’s, Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer, Robert Nelson, alligatorbaydistillers.com, Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens, David Sussman, Gary Brownell, King Fisher Fleet, NAUTI Aquatic Adventures LLC, Jay Withers, SUP Englewood, Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor, Florida Tiki Tours, Vicki Norton Photography, Little Toot Dolphin Adventure, Melissa/Santell/Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach, Bob Heilman’s Beachcomber, Shepherds Beach Resort, Visit St. Pete/Clearwater, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Simone Amaduzzi, Colorado’s Prime Steak, St. Johns River Steak & Seafood, Universal Orlando Resort, Discovery Cove, Gatorland, Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida, Dinosaur World, The Horse Shoe Farm, Lifted Up/Courtesy of McGovern Centennial Gardens, Houstonfirst.com, Nash Baker, Paul Pelc, The Ringling, Jessica Osceola and The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art nonstop Allegiant Travel Company. Statements, opinions and points of view expressed by the writers and advertisers are their
Let Allegiant nonstop life be your guide to the best places to eat, drink and have fun on your vacation. Turn to page 21 and discover adventure in DestinFort Walton Beach in Dive Into Fun. If you are visiting Sarasota, don’t miss a visit to The Ringling, see page 25 for our story, Portraits and Landscapes for details. If Punta Gorda is your destination, you won’t want to miss the Breathtaking Beauty of Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Garden on page 30.
Wherever this flight takes you, we hope you enjoy your vacation.
Thank you again for choosing Allegiant.
Benefitting the historic Florida landmark’s programs and preservation, Tampa Theatre’s WineFest celebrates its 20th anniversary on March 10 and 11 with “Forrest Grape.” Open to guests age 21 and older, the moviethemed wine fundraiser encourages vino enthusiasts to come dressed as their favorite “Forrest Gump” character while drinking for a cause at a wine tasting event on Friday evening and/or a wine pairing event on Saturday evening. Cinephiles can also attend a special screening of the six-time Academy Award-winning film on March 7 at 7 p.m. tampatheatre.org
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Punta Gorda, Florida, at the Fishermen’s Village St. Patrick’s Day Celebration. From noon to 6 p.m. on March 17, guests can enjoy traditional Irish dancers, live bagpipers and more at the waterfront retail, dining and entertainment destination. Admission is free. fishermensvillage.com
The 37th annual Tennessee Williams & New Orleans Literary Festival takes place March 22 through 26 at various venues throughout New Orleans, including Hotel Monteleone in the French Quarter. The festival not only features writing workshops, readings, interviews and discussion panels
with contemporary authors, but also a variety of events centered around its namesake playwright — including a Stella shouting contest. Culinary, cocktail, music and cultural events occur during the weekend as well, including for the first time ever “Last Bohemia: A Fringe Performance Series.” tennesseewilliams.net
Featuring a star-studded celebrity lineup, cosplay encounters and more, MEGACON
Orlando takes over Florida’s Orange County Convention Center March 30 through April 2. The ultimate playground for comics, sci-fi, horror, anime and gaming, the four-day convention welcomed more than 140,000 fans last year. Show hours are Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. fanexpohq.com/ megaconorlando
An opportunity for bread enthusiasts and professional bakers to break bread together, the Asheville Bread Festival takes place on April 22 and 23 at various locations throughout Asheville and Hendersonville, North Carolina. In addition to attending hands-on workshops and lectures by featured guest artisan bakers on Saturday, guests can purchase breads and pastries from local and regional artisan bakeries. The festival concludes on Sunday with a 6-hour master class for professional bakers. ashevillebreadfestival.com
Savor Mexican flavors while enjoying live music and other entertainment during SeaWorld Orlando’s Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. Part of the park’s Seven Seas Food Festival, the event runs April 27 through 30 and May 4 through 7. seaworld.com/orlando
A celebration of the unique culture and heritage of New Orleans and Louisiana, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell
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takes place April 28 through 30 and May 4 through 7 at the New Orleans Fair Grounds Race Course. Attracting approximately 500,000 guests from around the world each year, the annual event features 14 stages of live music, 70 food booths serving everything from crawfish bread to vegan items, three juried arts and crafts marketplaces, second line parades and more. nojazzfest.com
Beer aficionados in Fort Myers, Florida, can celebrate American Craft Beer Week at Fort Myers Brewing Co. from May 15 through 21. Lee County’s original microbrewery will have specialty beer releases, live music, food trucks and other activities throughout the week in honor of the event, which celebrates small and independent craft breweries. fmbrew.com
Returning for its 32nd year, the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival takes place May 16 through 29 at Loch Haven Park. The longest-running fringe theatre festival in the United States, the Florida favorite attracts over 70,000 people each year. In addition to more than 800 ticketed performances, guests can enjoy
free performances on an outdoor stage, Visual Fringe, Kids Fringe and plenty of food vendors. For the first time ever, festivalgoers can also watch shows at Fringe ArtSpace, Orlando Fringe’s new year-round performance space in downtown Orlando. orlandofringe.org
Emerald Coast Open Lionfish
Tournament and Festival returns to Destin, Florida, May 19 through 21. Guests can participate in the world’s largest lionfish tournament to help remove the invasive fish from local waters and lessen their threat to native wildlife, and also taste a variety of delectable dishes made from the fish on Saturday and Sunday at HarborWalk Village. Advance registration is required to compete in the tournament. emeraldcoastopen.com
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There’s nothing like experiencing live jazz in New Orleans, and there’s arguably no better place to attend a jazz concert in the music genre’s birthplace than Preservation Hall.
Founded in 1961, Preservation Hall supports the unique culture of traditional jazz in New Orleans, which developed in the local melting pot of African, Caribbean and European musical traditions at the turn of the 20th century. That rare space in the South where racially integrated bands and audiences shared music together during the Jim Crow era, the intimate French Quarter music hall continues to showcase acoustic New Orleans jazz performances more than 350 days a year. Multiple 45-minute concerts are held each evening featuring ensembles from a collection of 60 local master practitioners, with matinee performances added on Saturday and Sunday.
“New Orleans is a city of musical royalty,” said Ben Jaffe, Preservation Hall’s creative director and the son of its founders, Allan and Sandra Jaffe. “Many of the hall’s musicians performing today can trace their family history back to the birth of jazz. Preservation Hall was established to honor these important African American families and their gift to the world. These musicians
not only represent New Orleans, they are the world’s guardians of the significant and precious tradition that is passed down from one generation to the next.”
During the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival each spring, the venue also hosts a Midnight Preserves fundraiser that benefits the Preservation Hall Foundation’s music education programs. Special guests join the Preservation Hall Jazz Band for an unforgettable night of music, with such notable names as Elvis Costello and Jimmy Buffett surprising audiences in the past. This year’s benefit concerts are scheduled for April 28 through 30 and May 4 through 7, so be sure to get your tickets before they sell out. preservationhall.com
New York City may seem like it is only made up of tall buildings and concrete sidewalks, but it is also home to gorgeous gardens and outdoor green space. Escape among nature’s beauty and take some time to smell the roses…and the tulips, lilacs, cherry blossoms, bluebells and more when visiting these gardens and parks in the Big Apple and its boroughs.
The more than 100-year-old-public garden offers 52 acres of strollable paths, flowers, trees and plants. Spring at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden includes the flowering cherry trees located within Cherry Esplanade and Cherry Walk, as well as the Annual Border with its bulb display that features thousands of tulips, alliums and other seasonal favorites. Also, Bluebell Wood, where more than 45,000 bluebells are planted under oak, birch and beech trees, should not be missed. bbg.org
Set within Manhattan’s most famous of green spaces, the Conservatory Garden in Central
Park opened way back in 1937. Today, its six acres are made up of three spaces: the French-style North Garden, Italianate Center Garden and the English-style South Garden. A restoration project was recently completed on the South Garden, with the French and Italian Gardens up next. The entire project to be completed by late 2024. You’ll find plantings of tulips, lilacs, crabapple trees, summer perennials and chrysanthemums amongst plenty of Instagrammable backdrops. centralparknyc.org/locations/ conservatory-garden
At 250 acres, the New York Botanical Garden is one of the largest in any city in the U.S. Established in 1891, the National Historic Landmark is home to 50 specialty gardens and collections making up more than one million plants and 30,000 trees, many of which are more than 200 years old. It’s hard to pick which areas to explore first, but top choices include the award-winning Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden, the Native Plant Garden and the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, a Victorian-style glasshouse. The Garden Tram Tour included in the All-Garden Pass offers an overview of the gardens and its history. nybg.org
Snug Harbor offers visitors programs that focus on the arts, horticulture and agriculture. There are 14 botanical gardens, plus a two-acre urban farm, 10 acres of wetlands and 26 historic buildings spread throughout the 83-acre campus. A must-visit is the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden, one of the only of its kind in the U.S. It features eight pavilions, a bamboo forest path, waterfalls, a Koi-filled pond, Chinese calligraphy and a variety of Ghongshi scholar’s rocks including a 15-foot formation that towers over the central courtyard. Other gardens include the Rose Garden, with more than 100 varieties, and the White Garden, an English garden boasting white roses, hellebores, snowdrops, lilies and irises. Adding to the setting are surrounding European court garden-style grey lattices. snug-harbor.org
The Florida Keys are a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities to enjoy in the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean. From snorkeling and scuba diving to fishing and kayaking, there are adventures for everyone on a tropical getaway to the Keys.
One of the top water sports destinations in the Florida Keys is John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, located in Key Largo. This park is home to the Florida Keys Reef Tract, the only living coral barrier reef in North America and one of the largest coral barrier reefs in the world. For this reason alone, snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities in the park. Visitors can join a snorkeling tour and rent equipment from the park, including kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to explore the park’s mangrove forests and shallow waters. pennekamppark.com
Known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” one must-visit spot for water sports is the laid-back Islamorada. Fishing among the turquoise waters and lush vegetation
make it a stunning experience, and Pelican Cove Resort offers a variety of fishing charters, including deepsea fishing and fly fishing. The on-site marina also allows guests to dock their own boats.
Pelican Cove offers complimentary fishing classes every Thursday and Saturday, where you can try your hand even if you’re a rookie. In addition to fishing, the resort also offers several other water sports activities, including scuba diving, jet-skiing and tarpon feeding. pelicancovehotel.com
Another destination to visit is Hawks Cay Resort. This luxury resort offers a variety of water activities for guests to enjoy, including snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing. Located on Duck Key, the resort is known for its worldclass diving and snorkeling. They offer a variety of excursions, including trips to the nearby coral reefs and shipwrecks.
Those craving an underwater adventure will want to try scuba diving at the nearby Christ of the Abyss statue, a popular dive site located off the coast of Key Largo. Guests can also explore the shallow waters of the resort’s private lagoon, home to various tropical fish and coral reefs. hawkscay.com
No matter which water sport sounds best to you, the Florida Keys is the perfect destination to enjoy it. The warm, crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life make it a paradise for water sports enthusiasts.
Celebrating a decade of making a difference, Rock the Ocean’s Tortuga Music Festival takes place April 14 through 16 on beautiful Ft. Lauderdale Beach.
Sponsored in part by Allegiant, this year’s event will once again feature performances by artists across several music genres while raising money for marine conservation efforts. To date, more than $3 million has been raised from the ocean-side music festival, which began after its founder, Chris Stacey, saw how bad the condition of the world’s oceans had become after watching the documentary “The Cove.”
“I wanted to do something that could harness the power of music to shine a spotlight on how important it is to save our seas,” Stacey, a longtime music executive who founded the Rock the Ocean Foundation to support scientific research, education and public awareness about the issues impacting the world’s oceans, told nonstoplife
In addition to seeing such notable acts as Kenny Chesney, Eric Church and Shania Twain performing on the Allegiant Main
See some of your favorite music artists with your feet in the sand at the Tortuga Music Festival The Tortuga Music Festival will leave concertgoers eager to support ocean conservation effortsStage and Wiz Khalifa, Justin Moore and The Wallflowers performing on the Sunset Stage, this year’s festival will feature a third stage dedicated to emerging acts based out of Nashville. When festivalgoers aren’t watching some of their favorite music acts perform, they can learn more about the critical environmental issues facing our oceans by exploring the on-site Conservation Village.
“Each year we try to curate our Conservation Village lineup in a thoughtful manner,” Stacey said. “We identify groups that, in our opinion, are really putting in the time and effort in the fight to save our oceans. We highlight five core issues (sea turtle conservation, shark conservation, marine pollution, overfishing and coral reef degradation) and find the thoughtleaders who are driving the science behind each issue. Then we give them an opportunity to showcase their work for all of our fans. I always say we bring the rockstars of ocean conservation to Tortuga.”
Guests can actually pick up a passport and earn stamps by visiting core issue tents in the Conservation Village for a chance to win free tickets to next year’s Tortuga Music Festival. Stacey noted that guests can “dive as deep or as shallow” as they want at each location.
“The learning potential is unlimited,” Stacey stated. “You can spend 30 seconds completing a task to earn
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your stamp, or you might engage a scientist and spend an hour in their booth doing the interactive display and really learning a lot about your favorite topic.”
Festivalgoers are encouraged to stop by the Eco Exchange as well to pick up a bag to collect trash and recyclable materials with during the event. Guests can then return their filled bag to accumulate points for a chance to win a variety of prizes, from Allegiant flight vouchers to passes to next year’s festival. The more items guests pick up, the better prizes they can win. Stacey noted that the festival takes its location on a stretch of beach that also happens to be a sea turtle nesting zone very seriously, and even has a sustainability coordinator who makes sure the event is as green as possible.
“Our internal motto is Rethink-Reduce-Restore,” Stacey said. “We want to Rethink every aspect of our production and find the most eco-friendly options; Reduce by only bringing things on site that are truly required; and Restore or refurbish the habitat so it’s better than we found it. We were the first major music festival to not allow single-serve plastic water bottles. We don’t use plastic straws. We use all compostable service ware. We use biodiesel and solar power on many of our generators and other heavy equipment. We recycle or compost most of our waste, and we recycle cigarette butts that we collect on site. Our goal is to become the most sustainable large-scale music festival in the world.”
For those who really want to support the
Learn about how you can help save our oceans at Rock the Ocean’s Conservation Village Conservation Village features distinguished groups that support Rock the Ocean’s five core issuesWhether you’re looking to reconnect with the great outdoors, make some fun vacation memories with your kids or just savor some delicious Gulfto-table cuisine, Destin-Fort Walton Beach has something for every type of traveler.
Located in the northwestern reaches of the Sunshine State, Destin-Fort Walton Beach offers a plethora of activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Known for its white sand beaches, the coastal destination welcomes guests of all skill levels to discover adventure on, off and even under its emerald waters.
With spring temperatures in the 70s and 80s, there’s no better time to visit one of the area’s most popular attractions: Henderson Beach State Park. The 228-acre park features a one-mile stretch of sugar-white sand beach with 30-foot sand dunes, making it not only a picturesque place to go swimming, but also a romantic place for couples to watch the sunset. Visitors frequently spot dolphins just offshore, along with a variety of wading birds and butterflies. The park is a great place for fishermen to try their luck as well, with pompano, redfish, flounder and cobia often caught in its waters. Additionally, the park boasts a threequarter-mile nature trail that meanders through a coastal scrub habitat and a 60-site campground for those who want to turn their visit into all-day adventure. floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/ Henderson-beach-state-park
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Another fun way for visitors to explore the area’s waters is on an eco-cruise with Cattywampus. The United States Coast Guard-registered motor catamaran offers daily excursions out into the Gulf of Mexico that let passengers enjoy an hour of snorkeling and swimming and two hours of sightseeing and dolphin watching. March and April are actually the ideal months for passengers to see dolphins and sea turtles up close, as well as migrating manta rays. Up to 49 people can enjoy each trip, with private charters available by request. cattywampus-snorkeling.com
One of Destin-Fort Walton Beach’s most beloved attractions will even be celebrating a major expansion this spring when Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park’s $20 million Dolphin Oasis exhibit opens to the public. The new immersive habitat will be home to the park’s seven Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and feature three interconnected environments consisting of more than 1 million gallons of saltwater. Visitors will be able to enjoy daily dolphin presentations as well as more enhanced interaction opportunities with the animals. An assortment of other marine life, including California sea lions and African black-footed penguins, also resides at the 11.3-acre park, making it a real family favorite. gulfarium.com
For those who want to learn more about the area, the Destin History and Fishing Museum features 5,500 square feet of exhibit space that highlights Destin’s natural and pioneering history. Guests will learn about how Destin went from being a small fishing village to the major tourist destination it is today. Along
the way, visitors will discover why the area’s sand is white and see the last seine boat ever built in Destin — the Primrose — on display. destinhistoryandfishingmuseum.org
With more than 20 types of edible fish available off its shores, no trip to Destin is ever complete without savoring some fresh-caught seafood in the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.” One of Destin’s signature seafood restaurants is actually owned by the great, great grandson of the town’s founder, Leonard Destin. Dewey Destin’s has three nearby locations, including a casually refined restaurant on Harbor Boulevard. Diners can savor such delectable dishes as the Pecan Crusted Grouper at the Harborside restaurant, or enjoy more fast-casual fare like the fried Gulf Shrimp basket at Dewey Destin’s original Destin and Navarre locations. destinseafood.com
Two other seafood favorites can also be found on Harbor Boulevard. At Brotula’s Seafood House & Steamer (brotulas.com), diners can feast upon an array of steamed and boiled shellfish platters as well as locally sourced seafood dishes, like the guest favorite Blackened Snapper made with local red snapper. Meanwhile, at Brotula’s’ sister restaurant, East Pass Seafood & Oyster House (eastpassseafood.com), diners can savor fresh local seafood and creative takes on raw, baked and grilled oysters. The eatery’s Mayor oysters made with smoked Gouda cheese, roasted jalapeños and bacon crumbles are actually a tribute to the former mayor of Destin, Gary Jarvis!
To dive even deeper into Destin-Fort Walton Beach’s diverse offerings, visit destinfwb.com.
While a good number of museums play host to beautiful artwork, few are works of art themselves. At The Ringling, Florida’s State Museum, art and artistry are in full display in every corner of the property, not just in the exhibits but in the immaculate decoration, the stunning architecture and the well manicured grounds.
The former residence of John Ringling, circus impresario, The Ringling is every bit as eye-catching as the industry that paid for its conception. The entirety of the Ringling estate is home to The Ringling Arboretum, over 2350 of native, exotic, historical and culturally significant trees.
Amongst the arbor sits the palatial winter residence of John and Mable Ringling, Ca’ d’Zan, an architectural gem in the Mediterranean Revival style that draws thousands of visitors every year. Inside, guests can marvel at the furnishings and works of fine art carefully selected by Marissa Hershon, Curator of Ca’ d’Zan and Decorative Arts.
It’s not the only venue dedicated to the former proprietors of the estate. The Circus Museum, divided into two buildings, houses the wardrobe, props, equipment and ephemera documenting more than 250 years of the traveling entertainment emporium.
Beautifully carved parade wagons, sturdy utility wagons, and even a cannon that shot fearless performers across the big top are joined by a wealth of 19th and early
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20th century posters, as well as the Howard Bros. Circus Model, a 3/4 inch scale miniature depicting the tented American circus of Ringling’s era.
However, that’s not the only era The Ringling has its sights on. Special exhibitions focusing on contemporary art reflect the institution’s initiative, “The Art of Our Time.”
At The Ringling Museum of Art, the original 21 galleries of rotating works of art from the Ringlings expansive collection are housed with 10 additional galleries that have been added since it opened. Traveling exhibits are hosted regularly, including a new and groundbreaking exhibit running March 18 to September 4.
“Reclaiming Home: Contemporary Seminole Art” will mark The Ringling’s first presentation of contemporary art by Native American artists with ancestral, historical, and present-day connections to Florida. An imperative step toward establishing a meaningful relationship
The piece (above), a triptych by artist
Jessica Osceola entitled “Portrait One, Portrait Two, and Portrait Three” (2017) is the first work by a Seminole artist to be added to The Ringling’s collection of modern and contemporary art.
with the Native American artistic community, “Reclaiming Home” will highlight the breadth and depth of the artwork being done today by Seminole, Miccosukee, and mixedheritage artists in Florida and beyond.
“It’s important to understand who are some of the contemporary Native American artists working in Florida today and what various issues they are exploring in their art,” said Ola Wlusek, The Ringling’s Keith D. and Linda. L. Monda Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art. “Every single piece of art on view, over 100 objects, was made after the 1970s. We’re very excited and honored to be able to show recent work by Native artists with such deep ancestral connections to Florida.”
Also presented with the important work by the internationally-recognized artists of Muscogee (Creek) and Seminole descent now living in Oklahoma and beyond, the exhibition will change viewers’ understanding of Native American art made in and around Florida today and raise awareness about the complexities of issues facing Seminole diaspora.
“Reclaiming Home” is also the first collaboration between The Ringling and Florida’s Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum of Seminole culture and history, located on the Big Cypress Indian Reservation. Several
important loans from the museum will be featured in the exhibition.
“Recently, The Ringling made an important and exciting acquisition from the collection of work by one of the artists in the exhibition” said Wlusek. The piece, a triptych by artist Jessica Osceola entitled “Portrait One, Portrait Two, and Portrait Three” (2017) is the first work by a Seminole artist to be added to The Ringling’s permanent collection of modern and contemporary art.
The permanent collection at the Museum of Art includes works that span genres and centuries, from medieval art and Renaissance paintings to contemporary works, as well as an entire pavilion dedicated to international contemporary glass. The rotating collections allow for new acquisitions to be installed, giving guests a reason to return.
Just outside the Museum of Art, in the beautiful Italianate courtyard, is one of many bayfront gardens that dot the grounds. Like Mable’s Rose Garden, located at the heart of the estate, they are another enduring testament to The Ringling’s many interests.
From pristine beaches and waterways to nature trails filled with fascinating wildlife, an outdoor wonderland awaits to rekindle romance and reawaken your sense of adventure. Come share unforgettable moments in a getaway that’s outside all expectations.
Whether you are looking for an enlightening activity to enjoy with friends or you love drinking quality spirits, Alligator Bay Distillers in Punta Gorda/ Englewood Beach has got it covered.
Celebrating its seventh anniversary in April, the family owned and operated small batch craft distillery operates from inside of a 3,000-square-foot warehouse located in Punta Gorda. Known for its handcrafted, award-winning rums and whiskey, the distillery produces 10,000 bottles a year and is one of only a few Florida distilleries to use a traditional pot still during its production process. Guests can learn more about the production process and see the production facilities up close by taking a complimentary 25-minute tour of the distillery.
“A lot of guests who visit the distillery are first-time visitors, and they leave saying, ‘I didn’t know it took that much to make liquor,’” said Alexander Voss, who along with his brother, Benjamin, co-founded Alligator Bay Distillers. “People are fascinated to see the step-by-step process with the science that we incorporate.”
Guided tours are offered at the top of the hour from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and generally cap off at
15 people, making them an ideal activity for birthday or bachelor/bachelorette parties. While walk-ins are welcome (space permitting), it is always best to book a tour online in advance.
Although guests receive free samples of the distillery’s available spirits at the conclusion of every tour, the distillery also has a bar onsite serving craft spirit cocktails for visitors to enjoy. Its signature piña colada is made from ingredients sourced within a 100-mile radius of the distillery, making it a true Florida libation. Bottled spirits are available for purchase as well, so guests can bring a taste of Florida home with them. alligatorbaydistillers.com
Natural and manmade beauty come together to create a true work of art at one of Southwest Florida’s most breathtaking attractions: Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens.
Encompassing 15 acres of land and another 10 acres of waterways, marshland and heritage mangroves, Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens opened to the public in the fall of 2017. The perfect place to reconnect with nature, the Punta Gorda park not only showcases more than 4,500 plants, trees and bamboos integrated with Florida’s natural landscape, but also nearly 20 unique sculptures created by artists from around the globe.
“Peace River Gardens is a must-visit destination for every visitor and resident of Charlotte and its surrounding counties,” said Tanna Horner, the park’s executive director. “We see guests enter the beautiful grounds and take a deep relaxing breath. They walk away with a refreshed and inspired human spirit and a deeper connection to nature. That’s what our sanctuary is all about.”
Designed in collection rooms so that visitors can experience the intriguing diversity of each species, the park is home to some of the rarest and most interesting hibiscuses, cacti, staghorns, bromeliads,
Photo of guests of all ages, koi pond, “New Yorck City Slicker” courtesy of Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens; Aerial and butterfly by David Sussman; “Leap Frog” by Gary Brownell Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens is one of Punta Gorda’s most beautiful attractionsferns and bougainvilleas that visitors will ever see. Unique flowering and fruit trees are sprinkled throughout the grounds as well, and a grove of rainbow eucalyptus trees were recently planted.
As guests stroll along the park’s near 2 miles of walking paths, they’ll pass by such noteworthy works as a yellow sculpture of Andy Warhol by Sarasota-based modern sculptor Jack Dowd, and a modern Zimbabwean Shona stone sculpture by Dominic Benhura of three life-size children playing the game Leap Frog. There’s also a pond with koi fish that guests can feed during their visit and a butterfly house. Many types of wildlife nest on the property, too, and there’s a gift shop filled with local, handcrafted treasures.
In addition to being a tranquil place to spend the afternoon, Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens offers a full calendar of events throughout the year for visitors to enjoy. Special events visitors won’t want to miss include the “Caribbean Colors” exhibit on view through May 15, featuring a vibrant botanical display coupled with an on-site art studio by impressionist-expressionist painter Leoma Lovegrove, and the popular bi-annual Plant Sale on April 22. Guests can also regularly find a variety of plants available for purchase in the park’s garden shop.
Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. A nominal admission fee applies for guests age 6 and older. Be sure to give yourself at least 90 minutes to experience everything the park has to offer, as you won’t want to rush through the relaxing retreat. peacerivergardens.org
Those visiting Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach this spring hoping to spend some quality time out on (or even in) the water will find no shortage of incredible water activities to enjoy close by.
For the past 40 years, one of the most popular ways to experience Charlotte Harbor has been aboard one of King Fisher Fleet’s Sunset Cruises. Open to guests of all ages, the 90-minute cruise departs nightly from Fishermen’s Village and takes up to 130 passengers on a relaxing tour of upper Charlotte Harbor and around the mouth of Peace River. As guests watch the stunning sunset, they’ll often see dolphins and seabirds nearby. Children are frequently invited into the wheelhouse to steer the boat with the captain as well, further adding to the unforgettable experience. kingfisherfleet.com
While narration is limited on King Fisher Fleet’s Sunset Cruises so that passengers can enjoy the relaxing evening with their friends and family while listening to some music, Babcock Ranch’s Swamp Buggy Eco-Tours are great for those who want a more educational excursion. The 90-minute narrated tour takes passengers through Punta Gorda’s historic Crescent B cattle ranch, where they will learn about the history of the property and the various Florida ecosystems found on it. Along the way, passengers will not only get to ride through an actual cypress swamp twice, but also see a variety of wildlife near the water, such as alligators and softshell turtles. babcockranchecotours.com
For a more active aquatic adventure, SUP Englewood offers a variety of guided stand-up paddleboard and kayak tours that range from two to four hours. Guests can paddle to places in the Greater Englewood area like Don Pedro Island and Boca Grande while being led by a certified Florida Master Naturalist, who will educate paddlers on any wildlife seen along the way. In addition to dolphins and manatees, smaller marine life like sea urchins and hermit crabs are often spotted on tours. Rentals are also available for more skilled paddlers who would rather venture out into the water on their own. supenglewood.com
Nature fans can get an even closer look at some of the area’s marine life by booking a Seagrass Wading Trip at Cedar Point Environmental Park. Guided by a naturalist, the free monthly wading adventure invites guests to go into the
Lemon Bay estuary with dip nets and buckets to explore its seagrass meadows and catch (and release) some of the creatures that live there. Frequent sightings include pipefish and live conchs. While each trip is limited to just 12 participants, private and nighttime wading trips can also be booked in advance for only $15 per person. checflorida.org
Visitors can spend a full day exploring Southwest Florida’s waters as well by booking a private VIP boat charter with NAUTI Aquatic Adventures LLC. The ultimate sightseeing adventure, NAUTI Aquatic Adventures LLC works with guests to make their wildest vacation dreams come true, whether it’s going SNOOBA diving for shark teeth, shelling on a remote island, snorkeling with manatees or all three. Having logged more than 6,000 nautical miles on Florida’s Gulf Coast waters, Captain Buck Mosher and his team know just where to find dolphins and other marine life off the beaten path so that guests can experience up-close, Sea World-like animal encounters in the wild. Passengers are given the VIP treatment from the moment they step aboard, too, with their own valet to serve their every need — including taking videos and photos throughout the day so they can enjoy every moment to its fullest! nautiauqatic-adventures.com
Fishermen looking to test their luck out in the Tarpon Capital of the World, meanwhile, can book a private fishing charter in Boca Grande or Charlotte Harbor with Silver Lining Charters. Offering something for every angler, the company not only lets guests choose what type of experience they’re interested in — from inshore backcountry fishing for tarpon, snook and cobia to nearshore fishing for grouper, snapper and king mackerel — but also which vessel they want to book: the 2023 Maverick HPX-S, which is better for shallow waters, or the larger 2023 Pathfinder 2500 Hybrid. Either way, under the expert guidance of “GuideLines” TV host Captain Jay Withers, anglers are guaranteed a fruitful time out on the water. captjay.com
Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor, one of the most highly anticipated new hotels, has announced a fall 2023 opening.
This new resort will become a center of activity in Charlotte Harbor, offering visitors a portal to some of the finest amenities on the Gulf Coast. When finished, the destination resort will offer guests 20 total dining options and bars, from casual eats on the water to elegant fine dining.
Great food is a focal point of the Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor experience. Authenticity, quality and good taste is the foundation of each of the 20 original food & beverage concepts: including seven standalone restaurants, 11 bars and lounges, two poolside offerings and a 25,000-square-foot, multi-dining experience. From a classically elevated steakhouse to the warm and familiar vibe of Italian food and hospitality, settle in at any one of our curated culinary offerings for a memorable experience. Sunseeker offers casual dining options for everyone to enjoy,
whether it’s burgers, noodle bowls or craft pizza you’re after. With nine bars featuring everything from fine wine to local beer, modern cocktails to fun, shareable delights, drinks are a delectable part of the complete resort experience.
Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor, which is owned and operated by Allegiant Travel Company, also plans to open the first Allegiant Stadium: Sports, Table & Tap at the resort in 2023. Guests will enjoy a celebratory, immersive stadium experience. With 60 HD flat screen TVs and a state-of-the-art sound system there’s no better place to keep the live sports action in full view than the 230seat Allegiant Stadium Sports Bar. Sit back in primetime seating in a reclining lounger, or for
anticipated hotel to become a center
When finished, the destination resort will offer guests 20 total dining options and bars, from casual eats on the water to elegant fine dining.
those looking to host a special event the private dining room seats 44.
The energetic sports bar will offer 30 beers on tap and Americana pub food fare featuring shareable plates and fun, approachable dishes made with fresh ingredients. Menu highlights will include Sweet Spiced Fried Chicken, pubstyle Fish & Chips, Signature Double Fisted Burger, prime rib hand-carved to order on the weekends and more.
Sunseeker boasts two pools including a 21,000-square-foot adults-only rooftop retreat and a 117,000-square-foot ground-level experience (set to become the largest pool in Southwest Florida). For those looking to relax at the ultimate poolside oasis, the exclusive Level Blue rooftop pool experience is available to hotel guests for a small daily fee.
Additional resort amenities include state-ofthe-art 7,100-square-foot fitness center and a full-service spa and salon. The convention area will include innovative technology and feature two waterfront ballrooms fully equipped with best-in-class A/V systems and stunning views, creating the perfect backdrop for any event or social celebration. Guests will also have access to an exclusive 18-hole golf experience, Aileron. The golf course will be home to highend practice facilities and additional culinary offerings.
Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor is located at 4949 Tamiami Trail, Charlotte Harbor, FL 33980. For more information or to make reservations at Sunseeker Resort Charlotte Harbor, visit www. sunseekerresorts.com or call (833) 909-5700.
For the most up-to-date news and information, please follow the hotel on Instagram @sunseekerresorts.
Soft sands, stunning sunsets and year-round temperate waters rank high with vacationers choosing the St. Pete/Clearwater area. To add to the sun-drenched getaway, many make time for a short cruise into the Gulf, where playful dolphins and stunning views make the experience truly memorable. Numerous cruise choices are offered at the Clearwater Beach Marina across from the Pier 60 public beach area. Most offer a narrated tour, guaranteed dolphin sightings and food and drink options.
This casual two-decker vessel offers 2 ½ hour sightseeing cruises of Clearwater Harbor. A narrated daytime cruise gets you up close to friendly dolphins, and the island-style dinner buffet cruise features dance music, interactive entertainment and complimentary beer, wine, rum punch and soft drinks. Cruise-only options are also available. starlitecruises.com
Swashbucklers of any age will enjoy this rollicking daytime or sunset cruise on a customdesigned adventure boat built to USCG specifications. The crew of friendly pirates engages would-be buccaneers with treasure
A Gulf excursion adds to the joy of your St. Pete/Clearwater Beach getawayFlorida Tiki Tours Calypso Queen
hunting, face painting, nautical activities and I-spy dolphin spotting fun as they roam the calm seas of the Gulf. All guests receive complimentary soda and adult pirates have options for beer or wine. Snacks are available for purchase. captainmemo.com
This repurposed 47’ tugboat is one of the most popular cruises on Clearwater Beach. Built to sit low in the water, it attracts bottlenose dolphins that love to frolic in its wide wake. If you’re looking for breathtaking close-up photos, this is the cruise for you, and it comes with a dolphin sighting guarantee. Little Toot offers 60-to-90-minute daytime and sunset cruises, and cold beverages may be purchased on board. littletoot.us
Choose this 115-passenger vessel with large picture windows and a spacious dining area for a more upscale lunch or sunset cruise. Dine on continental cuisine prepared on board and spend time on the top deck enjoying sweeping views of the Gulf. A Sunday Daytime Music Cruise on sister-ship Starlite Sapphire Dining Yacht is also a pleasurable excursion and tickets can be purchased with or without the meal option. starlitecruises.com
TROPICS BOAT TOURS
Depart from Clearwater Beach Marina on this narrated dolphin exploration tour that sails along Clearwater Bay through
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Starlite Dining Yacht Little Toot Dolphin AdventureClearwater Pass out into the Gulf. Options include the enhanced Happy Hour dolphin exploration tour or a delightful sunset celebration cruise that includes a complimentary champagne toast for those over 21. Light snacks and add-on drink packages may be purchased on board. thetropicsboattours.com
A few miles south of Clearwater Beach is John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk in Madeira Beach, where a novel Hawaiian-style Tiki Hut party boat awaits you. This unique vessel holds six guests, but larger parties can choose the 18-passenger Tiki Boat. Choose between the 90-minute dolphin tour or a relaxing sunset cruise around John’s Pass and Boca Ciega Bay. Buy beer, wine or frozen drinks at the on-site Tipsi Tiki Bar, or bring your own snacks and beverages. floridatikitours.com
Destination information can be found at visitstpeteclearwater.com
Guests enjoy unforgettable sunsets on Calypso Queen’s dinner cruise Photos courtesy of Vicki Norton PhotographyGreat seafood goes hand in hand with a beach vacation, and on Clearwater Beach, there is no shortage of restaurants offering delectable choices. While grouper is undoubtedly the most popular, additional seafood options include snapper, amberjack, tuna, Mahi Mahi, redfish, shrimp and crab. Area chefs are experts at creating fabulous dishes sourced from the sea, and dining choices are plentiful.
Located a block from the beach, this beloved dining spot has been serving patrons and locals since 1948. The well-appointed dining room and friendly servers compliment culinary choices including prime steaks, chicken and a fabulous selection of seafood. The fresh Gulf Black Grouper, American Red Snapper or the mile-high Bronzed Seafood Platter are all great choices. bobheilmansbeachcomber.com
Photo of Mussel Pot courtesy of Melissa Santell/Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach; Shrimp cocktail courtesy of Bob Heilman’s Beachcomber; Grouper tacos courtesy of Shephards Beach Resort; Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill courtesy of Visit St. Pete/Clearwater Mussel Pot at SHOR American Seafood Grill Shrimp Cocktail at Bob Heilman’s BeachcomberThis award-winning restaurant inside the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort offers patio dining overlooking the Gulf or seating inside with views of the open kitchen. Relax over a handcrafted cocktail and a Seared Scallops appetizer while considering upscale regional seafood dishes such as Pan Seared Florida Grouper, Seafood Coconut Curry or the zesty SHOR Tuna Poke. Live music plays on Friday and Saturday evenings. hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/florida/hyatt-regencyclearwater-beach-resort-and-spa/pierc/dining
Visitors interested in beachfront views, great food and live music will want to look no further than Shephard’s Beach Resort. If you’re hungry, head to the Tiki Beach Bar where flavorful Fish & Chips, Fresh Gulf Grouper or Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp will be sure to satisfy. For an unexpected twist on the original, order the Gulf Grouper Tacos, a savory, delicious and filling handheld dish that’s best washed down with a craft beer. For post-dinner fun, head to the concert stage for drinks and uptempo music by Florida’s best dance bands and DJs. shephards.com
There are four Frenchy’s restaurants on Clearwater Beach including the ultracasual beachfront Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill. Frenchy’s is known for its grouper sandwich which can be served either grilled, fried, Cajun style, Buffalo, Caribbean or even as a Grouper Reuben. For alternatives to their mainstay grouper sandwich, grouper egg rolls, baked stuffed grouper or a mouthwatering snapper sandwich add variety, but be sure to save room for a slice of Eggnog Cheesecake. frenchysonline.com
You never know what friends you’ll make at Palm Island Resor t, where wildlife is plentiful and always on display Come say hi, won’t you?
Known for its riveting rides and incredible animal experiences, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will soon welcome an exhilarating new way to see one of its most beloved attractions.
Opening this spring, Serengeti Flyer offers thrill seekers the chance to view the park’s 65acre Serengeti Plain — home to many exotic African animals, including zebras, giraffes and even a male Southern white rhino calf — from 135 feet in the air. The world’s tallest and fastest ride of its kind, the screamin’ swing features dueling arms that soar progressively higher, reaching a top speed of 68 miles per hour. The jaw-dropping addition joins more than a dozen other rides at the park, including Iron Gwazi, which just opened last year. North America’s tallest hybrid coaster and the fastest and steepest hybrid coaster in the world, Iron Gwazi plunges riders from a 206-foot-tall peak into a 91-degree drop and reaches speeds of up to 76 miles per hour.
Visitors will discover even more thrills at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s animal attractions and habitats, which are home to more than 200 animal species. Several exclusive experiences are available for an
additional charge, too, that give guests the unique opportunity to go behind the scenes and learn more about some of the amazing creatures that reside at the park, like the sloths, cheetahs and penguins.
Springtime also marks the return of one of the park’s most popular events: the annual Food & Wine Festival. Parkgoers can savor tastes inspired from around the globe during the flavorful celebration, which takes place select dates March 10 through May 21. Several music acts will be performing free concerts during the festival as well, including rock band Kansas on March 11 and rapper Flo Rida on March 26, making springtime the perfect time to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. buschgardenstampa.com
Forget about chain steakhouses — you can dine at those back home. Steak aficionados traveling to Sanford hungry for a succulent cut of beef will find several local restaurants that know how to cook a steak to perfection.
Famous for its signature 16-oz. Cowgirl T-bone and 32-oz. Cowboy Porterhouse, this family-owned restaurant has been serving some of the best steaks in Sanford for 38 years. All of its steaks are made from Greater Omaha beef that’s been aged for 30 days and cut on premise with trim to flavor. They are then cooked on an open-flame grill with the restaurant’s dry seasoning, resulting in some of the tastiest steaks in Florida. cattleranchsteakhouse.com
Renowned for its aged Colorado beef, this family-owned restaurant just celebrated its
30th anniversary in November. Its steaks are hand cut each morning in-house, and its burgers are freshly ground from the steak trimmings. In addition to such popular steaks as the New York strip, the restaurant serves the only natural smoked prime rib in Central Florida, smoked in a custom brick oven over hickory chips. coloradosonline.com
A former bait and tackle shop, this locally owned favorite is known as much for its steaks as its gorgeous views of St. Johns River. It offers a wide range of USDAcertified Choice cuts of beef, including ribeye and filet mignon. Each steak is dry aged for 21 days or longer and seasoned with the restaurant’s own seasoning, before being grilled on a char-grill and finished with garlic herb butter. While the steaks are plenty flavorful by themselves, guests hungry for some surf and turf can add a variety of seafood items to enjoy with their beef, like a lobster tail or snow crab. stjrss.com
The park explodes with color and new attractions in 2023
By Sandra ChambersPut on your party clothes, don your detective hat and sharpen your villainous skills for loads of fun at Universal Orlando’s new attractions this spring and summer.
UNIVERSAL ORLANDO’S MARDI GRAS: INTERNATIONAL FLAVORS OF CARNAVAL
Join the fun at the parkwide celebration of Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval from February 4 through April 16, 2023. The Carnaval is inspired by celebrations from New Orleans, Brazil, Belgium and beyond. A Mardi Gras parade filled with vibrant floats, street dancers and street performers marches through the park, and
on select nights, there are live performances by top names in music. This year, guests can take their Mardi Gras celebration to the next level with the new “Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dinner Experience.” Reserve your spot and have fun tossing beads from a float during the parade. Then enjoy a three-course meal at one of four participating restaurants. universalorlando.com/mardigras
Universal Orlando’s first-ever escape room invites guests of all ages to solve their way through two immersive escape adventures inspired by Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s Blockbuster films: “Jurassic World” and “Back to the Future.” Each adventure consists of eight immersive environments that feature state-of-the-art challenges, detailed sets and captivating storylines.
In Jurassic World: Escape, guests become new geneticists-in-training, splicing dinosaur DNA to create new genetic codes. When an apex predator escapes, guests must work together to avoid becoming its prey.
In Back to the Future: Outatime, Biff has stolen Doc Brown’s newest time travel device to sabotage the space-time continuum. Guests must work together to track down Biff and save the past and future before they run “outatime.” These story-driven adventures are also randomized, so guests can get a different answer each time they play, as well as being adjustable based on participants’ skill level and desired complexity. universalorlando. com/web/en/us/things-to-do/entertainment/ universals-great-movie-escape
Coming Summer of 2023 as part of the new Minion Land, an interactive blaster game will invite guests to put their villainous skills to the test as they compete to join the ranks of the franchise’s most infamous supervillains. The family-friendly attraction will transport guests to VillainCon, the biggest criminal convention on the planet. There, they will take part in an epic competition to see if they have what it takes to become the newest member
Nestled in the forests of the Blue Ridge Mountains sits an 85-acre estate on the French Broad River that’s the ultimate respite for those in search of a tranquil getaway: The Horse Shoe Farm.
Located 10 miles from Asheville Regional Airport and only minutes from downtown Hendersonville, The Horse Shoe Farm is a boutique resort unlike any other in North Carolina. The Hendersonville property was originally a working farm that was transformed in 2018 into an upscale farm retreat with a spiritual twist. Run by the Turchin family, who lives on the grounds along with a variety of farm animals, the resort boasts three vacation homes, four cottages and a loft that can be booked individually or combined. Accommodations range from
the five-bedroom, five-bath, 4,800-squarefoot Magnolia Manor — which features such luxurious amenities as a hot tub and a porch with rocking chairs to enjoy the stunning mountain views — to the one-bedroom, onebath Farmhouse Loft.
While many notable attractions are located close by, including the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site and George Vanderbilt’s historic Biltmore estate, The Horse Shoe Farm has plenty of activities for guests to enjoy that make it hard to leave its breathtaking grounds. Guests can stroll down its walking trails to see an assortment of wildlife, including turkeys, deer, rabbits and white (not albino) squirrels; go catch-and-release fishing in the property’s bass and bluegill fishing ponds; play a game of table tennis or billiards in The Farmhouse
The Horse Shoe Farm can accommodate up to 61 guests in its 25 guest rooms The Silo Cookhouse has indoor and outdoor dining, a lounge and a refurbished grain “Silo Bar”game room, and even go for a swim while soaking up gorgeous views of Mount Pisgah at The Pool House. There’s also a spa on property housed in a soulful yet stylish converted barn that offers an array of soothing services, like the 120-minute Bellanina with full body massage that uses a combination of aromatherapy and organic oils to help relax the body.
Farm can check out complimentary mountain bikes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to use on the property on a first-come, first-served basis.
In the evening, guests can feed their soul while watching the sunset at The Silo Cookhouse. The resort’s farm-to-table restaurant hosts threecourse family-style dinner parties where diners feast upon dishes made from only the freshest seasonal ingredients. While menus change nightly, spring favorites include the Braised Lamb Raviolo and the Burrata with asparagus and morel mushrooms. After dinner, guests can continue their serene stay by roasting s’mores over a bonfire.
“There is a magic and energy on the land that we witness time and again,” said Jordan Turchin, steward of The Horse Shoe Farm. “It speaks to the hearts of our guests and allows them to unwind, take a breath and connect. It’s the greatest gift of the farm, and visitors feel the shift upon entering the gates of this luxurious, bucolic oasis. I know that type of guest experience is unparalleled in the region.” thehorseshoefarm.com
While many visit Houston for its famous space center, this high-energy city teems with tons of green space, making it perfect for a springtime visit. Outdoor parks, gardens, lakes and walkways encourage exploration, relaxing strolls, meditative reflections and dazzling photo ops to capture those beautiful memories.
An afternoon is not enough time to explore the massive 132-acre Houston Botanic Garden. Just past the coral stone Abendshein Family Fountain and through the entrance lies an immersive and fragrant experience. The Culinary Garden, with its array of edible and medicinal plants, is a big draw for budding foragers, while the interactive Family Discovery Garden gives guests an opportunity to get their hands dirty. The Global Collection Garden transports visitors worlds away with its arid, subtropical and tropical plantings. On exhibit now through August 13, 2023 is “Intertwined,” a fascinating display of large bronze and steel sculptures depicting clouds, nests and roots by renowned contemporary artist Steve Tobin. hbg.org
This 160-acre greenspace west of downtown features gardens, groves and meadows surrounded by hiking and bike trails. Onsite features include public art sculptures, the Memorial Fountain, cozy picnic spots, amphitheater and the Waugh Bridge Bat Colony. A fascinating highlight is the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, once Houston’s underground drinking water reservoir and now restored and repurposed for public viewing of dozens of majestic 25-foot-tall concrete support columns. buffalobayou.org
The eight-acre botanical garden, part of the 445-acre Hermann Park Conservancy, features multiple themed gardens and activities. A 14-minute tour on the Hermann Park Railroad provides a nice overview of the manicured grounds. The gardens are host to the Friendship Pavilion, a gift to Houston by its sister city Taipei; the Hawkins Sculpture Walk, which features 10 busts of globally recognized notables; and a relaxing pedal boat tour on McGovern Lake. hermannpark.org
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor beauty in the Lone Star StateMcGovern Centennial Gardens Cisterns at Buffalo Bayou Park Pedal Boats at Hermann Park
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To kick off 2023, Allegiant celebrated a special milestone welcoming aboard our 2,000th wish child as part of our partnership with Make-A-Wish. Annabelle, an 8-yearold who lives near Reno, Nevada wished to become a member of her favorite hockey team, the Vegas Golden Knights. Allegiant team members quickly got to work to arrange a flight she would never forget!
Our operations team scheduled the Vegas Golden Knights-themed aircraft to make the special flight to Las Vegas. Our inflight crew members made announcements on board, to let other passengers know they were a part of something special, and they also let Annabelle join them as an honorary flight attendant.
When Annabelle and her family arrived in Las Vegas, dozens of Allegiant employees were waiting to surprise her with full fanfare – they cheered her on with posters, pom poms and enthusiasm for the superstar she is. Allegiant Chief Marketing Officer Scott DeAngelo presented Annabelle with a signed Vegas Golden Knights jersey, a hockey stick signed by the whole team, and an official certificate to mark the occasion. As Annabelle hit the ice the next day to practice with the team,
By Andrew PorrelloAllegiant employees filled the stands to cheer her on.
“We are beyond thrilled to have reached such a significant milestone as a partner with MakeA-Wish,” said John Redmond, Allegiant CEO. “Helping to make wishes come true for these brave and inspiring children is a true honor for us at Allegiant. “
Allegiant became a national partner with Make-A-Wish in 2012. Since then, the company has donated more than $7 million to the organization through in-kind flights and sponsorships.
Allegiant’s partnership with Make-A-Wish extends beyond wish flights. In 2017, the airline donated office space at its Las Vegas headquarters to Make-A-Wish Southern Nevada. This allows the nonprofit to reduce its administrative costs, dedicating those funds to wish fulfillment.
Allegiant also donates $1 from every Wingz Snack Pack sold in flight to Make-A-Wish. We are the only airline to feature a special MakeA-Wish livery on one of our A320 Airbus aircraft, a symbol of our dedication to making air travel accessible to all.
Since 1999, Allegiant has grown to 126 Airbus aircraft (50+ Boeing by fall 2023), and 615 routes. Our flights are point-to-point which means our aircraft and crew end most days back at their base.
Current bases shown in image. Some
As part of Program Amazing, we love to recognize our hard-working Team Members all year long. Each month, CX Celebrities are nominated by fellow team members for going above and beyond to maximize our Customer Experience. These nominees are voted upon by our Customer Experience Leadership Team to select one CX Celebrity for each month who made an impression on our customers in a big way.
Below are just a few examples of how they went above what is required of them to ensure we not only provide our customers with a safe and reliable flight at a great value, but also deliver a memorable experience. We are proud to honor each of our 2022 CX Celebrities for their dedication and passion to our customers and fellow team members.
“Brittany assisted one of our Punta Gorda station lead agents when the agent was on her way to Pittsburgh to assist the operation on a temporary assignment but missed the flight. The airline she was booked on had re-routed her on an overnight connecting flight but leaving her without hotel or ground transportation arrangements. Brittany stepped up and went above and beyond to secure a hotel and ground transport for the agent that night and the following morning. Brittany’s willingness to assist another department is exactly what our core value of TEAMWORK is all about!”
“Terry was halfway home after a shift during heavy snow but volunteered to come back in to
2022 CX CELEBRITIES:
Redyane Cladera, Crew Pay Specialist (HQ)
Gary Lagace, Customer Assistance (PGD)
Brittany Lopez, Crew Travel Coordinator (HQ)
Jasmine Armstrong, CSA/GOA Team (AUS)
assist with the ground handling for an incoming and outbound flight. The weather unfortunately delayed the outbound flight to the next day, but Terry was again one of the first to volunteer to come in to work the rescheduled flight. He then went out of his way to help secure snacks and pillows for the passengers that had to stay overnight. The passengers were very touched by his act of kindness. I was proud as a station leader to know how genuine and passionate Terry is about his job and our passengers.”
“Please allow me to sing the praises of your employee, Courtney, who provided me with great peace of mind as she successfully shepherded my special needs son, David, through a long wait at the Cincinnati airport. Passengers boarded the flight, after which David’s driver, who had waited with him at the gate, left, thinking the plane was taking off. But the plane sat on the tarmac for a while before having to return to the gate. With no one else there, David turned to Courtney, who, in turn, called me in Florida and told me what was going on. She watched out for David for the next hour, called me to let me know that he was fine and boarding the plane, then called me again when the plane took off. You have a real treasure in Courtney! As a worried mother and a frequent flier, next time I fly I plan to check out Allegiant myself.”
Each of our 2022 CX Celebrities has a unique story and impression they have made on our customers. See the full list below!
Savannah Hipp, Flight Attendant (AVL)
Courtney Graham, CSA Lead (CVG)
Terry Thoroughman, CSA (LEX)
Nik Haynes, AMT (SAV)
David Brawley, Captain (PIT)
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$1 from every Deluxe Wingz Snack Pack purchase will benefit Make-A-Wish® For more info, visit wish.org or call 1.800.722.9474.
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• Seagram’s Sparkling Seltzer Water
• Seagram’s Ginger Ale
• La Colombe Vanilla Draft Latte (9 oz)
• La Colombe Cold BrewBrazilian (9 oz)
• Black Rifle Espresso Mocha (11 oz) Only available on Las Vegas and Orlando flights.
• Dunkin’ Donuts Iced Coffee (13.7 oz)
$2.99
• Minute Maid Orange Juice
• Minute Maid Cranapple
• Minute Maid Apple Juice Select flights only.
• Dasani Bottled Water LET
Customer safety is Allegiant®’s first concern. Please be advised that interference with the duties of crew members, including flight attendants, is a violation of federal laws. Our crews are thoroughly trained in all safety procedures. To ensure your own safety, we hope you take a moment to review the safety information card located in the seat pocket in front of you. Be aware of the following:
• Location of the nearest emergency exit
• Location of your emergency oxygen mask, if needed
• Correct procedure for exiting the cabin in an emergency
Seat belts must be fastened ANY TIME the seat belt sign is on, during taxi, takeoff and landing. Once the seat belt sign is turned off, you may walk around the cabin. Due to unexpected turbulence, it is strongly recommended that you keep your seat belt fastened any time while in your seat. Allegiant’s exit seating policy does not allow the use of seat belt extensions in the exit seats due to tripping hazards.
Federal Aviation Administration requires that all child restraint seats used on planes meet federal safety standards. Acceptable seats bear proper labeling “THIS RESTRAINT IS CERTIFIED FOR USE IN MOTOR VEHICLES AND AIRCRAFT" from the manufacturer. Unlabeled seats or seats manufactured before Jan. 1, 1981, are not acceptable. Child restraint seats are to be placed into a window seat and secured with an aircraft seat belt.
The use of small cameras or mobile devices for photography and video is permitted onboard provided you keep the purpose of your photography and video to capturing personal events. Photographing or recording other customers or airline personnel without their express consent is prohibited. Airline personnel reserve the right to prohibit photos and videos onboard the aircraft if it becomes a disturbance to them or other passengers.
Allegiant is forbidden to serve alcoholic beverages to anyone who appears to be intoxicated or who has not yet reached the age of 21. It is a violation of federal regulations to drink alcoholic beverages during a flight unless they have been served by Allegiant personnel.
Smoking, the use of other tobacco products, e-cigarettes and other similar smoking devices are not permitted on any Allegiant flight. Federal law imposes fines of $1,000 for smoking and up to $2,000 for any attempt to disable an aircraft smoke detector.
PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Smartphone
in Airplane Mode
*Restrictions may apply when operating outside of U.S. Airspace. NOTE: Portable electronic device use on the ground, during takeoff and during landing should be limited to small, lightweight devices less than 2 lbs. These devices should be able to be easily secured in a seat back and not impede emergency access to the aisle.
Maximum Take-Off
Weight: 166,000 pounds
Maximum Passengers: 156
80 nonstoplife
Total Length: 111 feet
Wingspan: 112 feet
Flight Attendants: 4
Using cellular network services (voice or data) to make or receive calls during the flight is not permitted by U.S. and International regulatory authorities. If you have other questions about the use of other portable electronic devices not shown here, ask your flight attendant.
AIRBUS A320
Number of Aircraft: 89
Cruising Speed: 561 mph
Maximum Take-Off
Weight: 172,000 pounds
Maximum Passengers: 186
Total Length: 123 feet
Wingspan: 112 feet
Pilots: 2
Flight Attendants: 4
ARTISTS IN THE EXHIBITION:
NOAH BILLIE // WILSON BOWERS // HOUSTON R. CYPRESS // ELISA HARKINS
ALYSSA OSCEOLA // JESSICA OSCEOLA // C. MAXX STEVENS // TONY TIGER
HULLEAH J. TSINHNAHJINNIE // BRIAN ZEPEDA // CORINNE ZEPEDA // PEDRO ZEPEDA
25,000
Equal to $250 off a future Allegiant trip!
Get a bonus offer for 15,000 points, plus an additional 10,000 points when you apply today! Ask your flight attendant for more details.
Complimentary priority boarding and priority check-in for you and everyone else on your itinerary when you present your Allegiant credit card.
Earn 25,000 Bonus Points
Get a bonus offer for 15,000 points, plus an additional 10,000 points when you apply today and make $1,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening. That’s equal to $250 off a future Allegiant trip.
3X
Buy one, get one free airfare
Anytime you use your card to purchase a vacation package from Allegiant with 4 or more hotel nights or 7 or more rental car days on the same itinerary. There are no blackout dates and there is no limit to how many BOGOs a cardholder can redeem.
points on Allegiant purchases
1 point per $1 on all other purchases 1X points on qualifying dining purchases 2X
One free beverage every time you fly Allegiant when you present your Allegiant credit card. No blackout dates. No destination restrictions. No minimum points redemption. Points don’t expire for cardholders.
This offer is unique to this ad. Our credit card offers may vary, and this offer may not be available elsewhere.
You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
For more information about rates, fees, other costs and benefits associated with the use of the card, refer to the disclosures accompanying the application.
The Allegiant credit card program is issued and administered by Bank of America, N.A. Mastercard and World Mastercard are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated and are used by the issuer pursuant to license.
The Contactless Symbol and Contactless Indicator are trademarks owned by and used with permission of EMVCo, LLC.