America's 250th, National Parks, Travel Sales-Discounts-Deals

Xanterra Travel Collection® Celebrates 250 Years of America and 150 Years of Hospitality with America’s 250th Travel Sale, April 17-29

The sale highlights this milestone year with exclusive savings of up to 50% across iconic national parks, cruises, tours, and resorts

Grand Canyon National Park. Xanterra Travel Collection® has launched its America’s 250th Travel Sale, with offers kicking off in mid-April for its iconic national park properties including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Glacier, and Rocky Mountain National Parks, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial National Park, as well as VBT Country Walkers, Windstar Cruises © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Denver, CO — March 31, 2026 — Xanterra Travel Collection®  is launching its America’s 250th Travel Sale (April 17-29, 2026), an enterprise-wide initiative celebrating two remarkable milestones: 250 years of America and 150 years of legendary hospitality. This once-in-a-generation campaign invites travelers to experience unforgettable journeys across Xanterra’s diverse portfolio, from iconic national park stays to yacht-style cruises, immersive tours, and luxury resorts. 

The sale builds on Xanterra’s legacy across a diverse range of travel experiences while honoring its deep roots in some of the world’s most beloved destinations. For a century and a half, the company has helped shape the visitor experience, welcoming generations of guests while supporting preservation and responsible tourism.

“As America approaches its 250th anniversary, we’re proud to celebrate our own 150-year legacy of unmatched hospitality in the country’s most extraordinary places,” said Andrew N. Todd, CEO of Xanterra Travel Collection®. “The America’s 250th Travel Sale encourages travelers to explore and enjoy our national parks and beyond while honoring the landscapes and experiences that make them so special during this milestone year.”

A World of Unforgettable Experiences®, All in One Sale 

Spanning Xanterra’s full collection of brands and destinations, the America’s 250th Travel Sale makes it easier than ever to plan a memorable getaway, whether it’s a classic national park escape, a guided adventure, or a luxurious coastal retreat.

Featured offers include:

National Park Lodges

Xanterra Travel Collection includes the historic Old Faithful Inn in Yellowstone National Park © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com
  • Glacier National Park — Save 20% at Cedar Creek Lodge for stays between April 19 – October 31, 2026.
  • The Grand Hotel at The Grand Canyon — Save 20% on stays between May 7 – October 31, 2026.
  • Grand Canyon Hotel & Suites — Save 30% on stays between April 17 – October 31, 2026
  • Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel —Stay 2, 3 or 4 nights with the Stay and Save Platinum Package and save 50% off Pullman, Coach, First or 25% off Dome or Luxury classes on the historic Grand Canyon Railway between April 17 – September 3, 2026.
  • Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges — Save up to 30% at El Tovar Hotel, Bright Angel, Maswik, Kachina, and Thunderbird Lodges (Booking dates vary).
  • The Oasis at Death Valley — Save 30% at The Inn and The Ranch at Death Valley for stays between April 20 – October 31, 2026.
  • Yellowstone National Park — Save up to 30% on designated room types this spring and summer at Old Faithful Snow Lodge, Old Faithful Inn, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, Canyon Lodge, Grant Village, Lake Lodge, Bridge Bay Campground, and Grant Campground (Booking dates vary).

Cruise, Tours, and Resorts

  • Holiday Vacations —Take $250 off any Bryce, Zion, & Grand Canyon tour by Holiday Vacations.
  • Windstar Cruises — Complimentary All-Inclusive package — Wi-Fi, gratuities, and unlimited cocktails, wine by the glass and beer, on voyages through June 30, 2027.
  • Sea Island — For stays through February 2027, book and prepay your entire stay and enjoy a 15% savings off the standard room rate at The Inn by Sea Island.
  • The Broadmoor — Save up to 30% off your stay at The Broadmoor’s all-inclusive Wilderness Retreats.

“America 250 is a reminder of why travel matters — not just as a way to see new places, but to connect with landscapes and experiences that shape our shared story,” said Andrew Heltzel, Chief Commercial Officer at Xanterra. “This campaign brings together the full breadth of our portfolio, giving travelers more ways than ever to be part of that story.”

The America’s 250th Travel Sale launches April 17, 2026, and runs through April 29, 2026. Travelers can learn more and book offers at https://www.xanterra.com/americas-250-sale/.

Known for its “Legendary Hospitality with a Softer Footprint®,” Xanterra Travel Collection® provides A World of Unforgettable Experiences® through its operations in national parks, including lodges, restaurants, tours, and activities, as well as through its ownership of resorts, a cruise line, a railway, and tour companies. Xanterra has operations in Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Glacier, and Rocky Mountain National Parks, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Xanterra Travel Collection® also owns and operates Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel in Williams, Ariz., The Grand Hotel and The Grand Canyon Hotel & Suites in Tusayan, Ariz., The Oasis at Death Valley in Death Valley Calif., Windstar Cruises, Holiday Vacations, VBT Bicycling Vacations, and Country Walkers. Xanterra is also affiliated with two Forbes Five-Star Resorts, The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO and Sea Island on the coast of Georgia. 

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Cultural Travel, Museums & Exhibits, New York City travel

The New York Historical to Present ‘Old Masters, New Amsterdam’ Featuring Works by Rembrandt and His Contemporaries

Jan Steen (1626-1679), Peasants Merrymaking Outside an Inn (previously Fair at Warmond), ca. 1676. Oil on canvas. The Leiden Collection, JS-108. Courtesy of The Leiden Collection, New York

New York, NY –This spring, The New York Historical provides visitors with an extraordinary glimpse into life in New Amsterdam through portraits, genre scenes, and still life paintings created by renowned 17th-century Dutch masters, among them, Rembrandt van Rijn. The exhibition, Old Masters, New Amsterdam , is on view May 1 to August 30, 2026.

In this first-of-its-kind exhibition, which celebrates the 400th anniversary of the founding of New Amsterdam, paintings by Rembrandt and his contemporaries help imagine the world of the Dutch settlement that would eventually become New York, depicting people at home, at the marketplace, at prayer, at play, and in taverns.

Featuring objects from The New York Historical’s collection and more than 60 Dutch 17th-century paintings, including works from the Leiden Collection—among the largest and finest collections of 17th-century Dutch art in private hands—the exhibition also includes works from a variety of institutions, including the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, National Gallery of Art, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the New York State Archives, and Trinity Church, as well as private collectors.

“As we continue our commemoration of the United States’ 250th anniversary, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase works of art by Rembrandt van Rijn, Frans Hals, and Jan Steen, many of which have never before shown in New York,” said Dr. Louise Mirrer, president and CEO of The New York Historical. “Old Masters, New Amsterdam is a fascinating view into daily life in New Amsterdam—a diverse settlement and a place of commerce, creativity, and conflict, which laid the foundations of the city and nation we know today.”

“Four centuries ago, the Dutch founded an outpost at the tip of Manhattan Island—a humble but vibrant settlement that would give rise to New York,” said Russell Shorto, the exhibition’s co-curator, director of the New Amsterdam Project at The New York Historical. “Across the ocean, meanwhile, Rembrandt and his peers were transforming art, revealing the beauty and drama of everyday life. These Dutch artists never set foot in New Amsterdam, but their portraits, character studies, and depictions of daily life in the Netherlands provide real insight into the world of Manhattan’s 17th-century settlers.”

“The Dutch greatly enjoyed family festivities that included music, dancing, food, and drink,” said Arthur Wheelock, co-curator of the exhibition, and senior advisor to the Leiden Collection. “Jan Steen’s joyous Peasants Merrymaking Outside an Inn, for example, wonderfully captures the vibrancy and wide range of human interactions that could be found at a country fair, whether in the Netherlands or in New Amsterdam.”

In the 1600s, the tiny Dutch Republic became a global power, outpacing larger nations through bold innovations in trade and finance. By entrusting overseas ventures to private companies, the Dutch extended their reach across the oceans, bringing home spices, textiles, and extraordinary wealth.

From 1626 to 1664, New Amsterdam was the capital of New Netherland, a colony established by the Dutch West India Company that stretched across parts of five future states. The Dutch policy of religious toleration spawned an unusually pluralistic society, in which at least 18 languages were spoken. The city’s position and its diverse inhabitants made it a hub of global trade in the Atlantic network.

Some of the finest Dutch artists of the 17th century, among them Rembrandt van Rijn, Jan Lievens, Gabriel Metsu, Frans Hals, and Jan Steen, painted portraits and character studies. Though portraying scenes in the Netherlands, these works of art offer hints of what life was like in New Amsterdam for government officials, fur traders, preachers, doctors, and women at home and in the markets. One of the most memorable portraits on view is Rembrandt’s engaging Self-Portrait from 1634, which the young master painted just as he was becoming Amsterdam’s most celebrated artist. Rembrandt’s large portrayal of a dignified Amsterdam merchant, painted much later in his career, projects the gravity of a wealthy gentleman who has assumed social and political responsibilities in his life.

Homes in New Amsterdam echoed those of the old country, though they were generally more modest. Paintings of Dutch interiors on view offer glimpses into the rhythms of domestic life on Manhattan Island. As evident in Gerrit Dou’s Herring Seller and Boy, shopkeeping was a common way for a woman to make a living at home during the era. Paintings of Dutch women reading also echo the habits in New Amsterdam, where people devoured books and pamphlets. Each arriving ship brought letters with news from the home country. Gabriel Metsu’s Smoker Seated at a Table, and Caspar Netscher’s Two Women in an Interior with a Basket of Lemons, also provide tangible examples of how integral the transatlantic trade had become during this period, and how it brought luxury products within reach of ordinary citizens.

The exhibition includes market scenes as well as still-life paintings by Pieter Claesz and Frans Snyders that depict the types of foods that could be savored in New Amsterdam. Tavern life, where the Dutch enjoyed gathering for drink and song, is also seen in several works. Music was a constant feature in Dutch life, whether in the quietude of one’s home, on street corners, or at county fairs, as in Jan Steen’s large Peasants Merrymaking outside an Inn.

The story of New Amsterdam is also one of exploitation. Indigenous people were displaced, and the first enslaved Africans arrived only a year after the city’s founding. On display from The New York Historical’s collections are maps, portraits, and a deed from 1651 granting property north of New Amsterdam to Manuel de Spangie, a formerly enslaved African who had won his freedom a few years earlier. Works by the Bohemian artist Wenceslaus Hollar showcase rare likenesses of people whose societies were reshaped by colonialism, including Native Americans. The figures shown in Head of a Young Black Boy (1635) and Head of a Black Woman with a Lace Kerchief Hat (1645) may have been household servants in Amsterdam or Antwerp. While slavery was technically illegal in Amsterdam, the line between “servant” and “slave” was a blurry one.

Also on view are two foundational documents in the early struggle for religious freedom in America: the Flushing Remonstrance and the journal of Quaker leader John Bowne.

The exhibition ends with several paintings providing a glimpse into 1776 and beyond. The individuality fostered in the Dutch era evolved into a New York hallmark: a brash, confident, entrepreneurial energy. On the eve of the American Revolution, the city’s diversity made it a cauldron of debate and unrest. Built on Dutch foundations and shaped by waves of newcomers, New York reflected the American experiment and propelled it forward. From The New York Historical’s collection, Francis Guy’s 1797 painting Tontine Coffee House, New York City, where commercial activity seemingly bursts across the canvas, shows the expansive growth of the city in the century after the Dutch founded New Amsterdam.

Accompanying the exhibition is a digital 3D reimagining of the 1660 Castello Plan. Created in partnership with the New Amsterdam History Center, this interactive map lets visitors step directly into 17th-century New Amsterdam—exploring the interior of a home and visiting the original City Hall, the Indian Trading House, and a house where enslaved Africans lived. The map also traces the Lenape trail that would later become Broadway, revealing the living city beneath today’s street.

The exhibition is co-curated by Russell Shorto, director of the New Amsterdam Project at The New York Historical, and Arthur K. Wheelock Jr., senior advisor to the Leiden Collection.

Programming
On May 4, the exhibition’s co-curator Russell Shorto and the Leiden Collection’s Elizabeth Nogrady lead a special tour of Old Masters, New Amsterdam, offering an Old Master’s view of New Amsterdam. On May 20, author Alan Mikhail joins Russell Shorto to explore the exceptional story of one of New York’s most unorthodox founding families, a poor immigrant couple named Anthony and Grietje, who arrived in Dutch New Amsterdam in the 1630s in search of a better life and ended up changing the course of New York’s history.

For families, there will be story time themed to the exhibition. Visit the family calendar for details. Private group tours can also be arranged throughout the exhibition.

New York’s first museum, The New York Historical is a leading cultural institution covering over 400 years of American history. A museum of museums and a collection of collections, The New York Historical is home to the Patricia D. Klingenstein Library, the Center for Women’s History, the DiMenna Children’s History Museum, and the future American LGBTQ+ Museum.

The New York Historical, 170 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024. Connect at nyhistory.org and @nyhistory on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Tumblr.

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America's 250th, cruises, Cultural Travel, festivals & events, Historic Places, small ship cruising

Historic Voyages of Maine Windjammers Set for America’s 250th

A raft-up of the historic Maine Windjammers. Two of the ships, the Angelique and the American Eagle, will being making a historic voyage to participate in America 250th events in New York City and Boston © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

This year’s schedules of the member historic sailing vessels of the Maine Windjammer Association include two historic voyages on two of the windjammers to New York City and Boston to participate in celebrations for America’s 250th anniversary.

Among the international fleet of tall ships gathering for NYC’s Sail4th 250 and Boston’s SailBoston 2026 festivities will be two members of the Maine Windjammer Association fleet: Windjammer ANGELIQUE and the Schooner AMERICAN EAGLE. Both plan to participate in the Parades of Sail with tall ships from around the globe.

The American Eagle at sunrise, anchored in Rockland harbor, Maine events © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

ANGELIQUE and AMERICAN EAGLE are each offering two trips in conjunction with the event, one 10 or 11-day trip down culminating in NYC’s festivities and one 9 or 10-day trip back that includes SailBoston 2026 and ends in Maine. Guests aboard these special voyages will sail the East Coast the traditional way, anchoring in snug harbors along the way as the vessels make their way between Maine, New York, and Boston.

The Angelique will be offering a voyage in conjunction with America 250th events © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

It’s rare for the Windjammers to leave New England waters. Neither has been to NYC since the rededication of the Statue of Liberty in 1986. Nearly 40 years later, they’ll once again join a fleet of tall ships from around the world to celebrate this important milestone in the nation’s history. We’re delighted to have them there representing Maine’s sailing heritage on a national stage.

The Class B Parade of Sail in NYC is scheduled for July 3rd.

The Meet Boston Parade of Sail is scheduled for July 11th.

All member vessels are individually-owned and -operated. Cruises can be booked directly with the Windjammer via their website or by giving them a call.

Windjammer ANGELIQUE

Schooner AMERICAN EAGLE

Schooner GRACE BAILEY

Schooner HERITAGE

Schooner J. & E. RIGGIN

Schooner LADONA

Schooner LEWIS R. FRENCH

Schooner MARY DAY

Schooner STEPHEN TABER

Request a packet of brochures (https://www.mainewindjammerfleet.com/brochure-request/) that includes the sailing schedules of all nine vessels of the Maine Windjammer Association; meet the fleet, https://www.mainewindjammerfleet.com/fleet/.  

Maine Windjammer Association, P.O. Box 1083, Rockland, Maine 04841, 1-800-807-9463, info@mainewindjammerfleet.com. Mainewindjammerfleet.com.

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Cultural Travel, Educational Travel, heritage travel, Historic Places, Museums & Exhibits

Anne Frank The Exhibition Makes Midwest Debut at Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, May 1

Standing in Anne Frank’s tiny room in The Annex where she and her family hid from the Nazis for two years, personalizes the Holocaust. This immersion into a full-scale re-creation of the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam is part of a landmark “Anne Frank The Exhibition,” opening at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, on May 1, 2026 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

Chicago — Griffin Museum of Science and Industry will be the Midwest host of Anne Frank The Exhibition. A presentation of the Anne Frank House, the exhibition features a pioneering experience outside of Amsterdam to immerse visitors in a full-scale, fully furnished recreation of the Annex rooms where Anne Frank, her parents and sister and four other Jewish refugees spent two years hiding to evade Nazi capture. Anne Frank The Exhibition opens May 1, 2026. 

“Anne Frank’s story is a powerful reminder of what happens when fear and hatred are allowed to take root,” said Dr. Chevy Humphrey, Griffin Museum of Science and Industry President and CEO. “At the same time, it reveals the quiet but enduring strength of curiosity, creativity and resilience, values that sit at the heart of our mission. We hope this exhibition offers meaningful moments of reflection for our guests, particularly young people, and encourages them to think critically about their role in the world they are inheriting.” 

“Anne Frank The Exhibition is a call to conscience, said Ronald Leopold, Executive Director of the Anne Frank House. “By stepping into the world that confined Anne and her family, visitors are invited to confront the enduring realities of antisemitism, racism and hatred — and to recognize that remembrance is not passive, but a moral act that demands empathy, vigilance and courage. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, founded through Julius Rosenwald’s conviction that knowledge must belong to everyone, embodies this same spirit of moral responsibility. Just as Rosenwald believed education is humanity’s greatest equalizer, this exhibition transforms history into living dialogue, ensuring that learning, understanding and compassion are never the privilege of a few, but the right of all.”

The exhibition follows an inaugural run in New York City at the Center for Jewish History, attended by 300,000, with several extensions due to popularity and dates that sold out.

Anne Frank The Exhibition immerses visitors in the context that shaped Anne’s life, from her early years in Frankfurt through the rise of the Nazi regime. It traces her family’s phased move to Amsterdam in the early 1930s, where Anne lived for ten years until her arrest in 1944. Visitors also follow her deportation to Westerbork, a large transit camp in the Netherlands, then to Auschwitz-Birkenau, a concentration camp and killing center in Nazi-occupied Poland, and eventually to Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in Germany, where she died at the age of 15.

In addition to the recreated Annex, Anne Frank The Exhibition provides an opportunity to learn about Anne Frank not as a victim but through the multifaceted lens of her life — as a girl, a writer and a symbol of resilience and strength. This is a story inspired by one of the most translated books in the world. 

The Chicago exhibition includes more than 130 original artifacts from the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam — many have never been seen before in public. Some of those artifacts include letters from Anne Frank, Margot Frank, Otto Frank and Fritz Pfeffer; a “List of Returned Jews Arriving at Amsterdam Central Station” in 1945; Anne Frank’s first photo album (1929-1942); handwritten verses by Anne Frank and Margot Frank in their friends’ poetry albums; and a German fairytale book that belonged to Margot Frank and Anne Frank (1925). 

Celebrated for its unprecedented intimacy and depth, Anne Frank The Exhibition originally premiered in New York City on the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration camp.

Griffin MSI will offer this exhibition for free to all field trip groups, alongside the Museum’s ongoing policy of free General Admission to Illinois field trip groups, to make this important educational experience available to more people. All children in these groups also will receive a journal to write in to reflect on Anne’s words and consider the power of their own.

The exhibition is supported by age-appropriate educational resources and an antisemitism curriculum developed by the Anne Frank House and the Anne Frank Center at the University of South Carolina. These materials help students understand the history and ongoing reality of antisemitism and hatred while fostering critical thinking, empathy and civic responsibility through meaningful classroom conversations. Educators can access the curriculum — aligned with standards adopted by 39 states — through the exhibition website.

The exhibition is designed for children (ages 10 and older) and adults. All tickets include the exhibition audio guide in English and Spanish. 

Leading the creative vision for the expanded exhibition in Chicago is Tom Brink, Head of Collections & Presentations at the Anne Frank House and curator of Anne Frank The Exhibition. Michael S. Glickman, CEO of jMUSE, advised the Anne Frank House, with exhibition design by Eric Goossens Ontwerpt. Dr. Doyle Stevick, Executive Director of The Anne Frank Center at the University of South Carolina — the Anne Frank House’s official U.S. partner — is the educational advisor.

The exhibition is presented at Griffin MSI with support from Lead Benefactor Tony and Laura Davis, Presenting Benefactor Crown Family Philanthropies, Premier Sponsors Zell Family, Patron Sponsors Cari and Michael J. Sacks and GCM Grosvenor, the Estate of Judith Marx Golub, Jewish United Fund, Michael and Tanya Polsky and John and Jacolyn Bucksbaum Family Foundation, with supporting gifts from Neil Book, Chicago Bulls Charities and Rich and Vanessa Copans.

The exhibition was originally developed — and will travel nationally — through the leadership and support of Leon Levy Foundation, David Berg Foundation, Bank of America, Rebecca and Jared Cohen, Gray Foundation, Stacey and Eric Mindich, The Fuhrman Family Foundation, The Koum Family Foundation, Merryl and James Tisch and UJA-Federation of New York. Major support for the exhibition was also provided by Debbie and Mark Attanasio, Tanya and Ryan Baker, Einstein Astrof Foundation, Jesselson Foundation, Pershing Square Philanthropies, Sara Naison-Tarajano, The Barbra Streisand Foundation, The Krupp Foundation and Anonymous. Pro bono legal services provided by Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz.

The Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House was established in 1957 in cooperation with Otto Frank, Anne Frank’s father, as an independent nonprofit organization entrusted with the preservation of the Annex where Anne Frank and her family went into hiding in 1942 during the Second World War. For nearly seven decades, the Anne Frank House has served as a place of memory and a place of learning. Committed to bringing Anne’s life story to world audiences, the Anne Frank House has emerged as a primary resource for teaching and learning about the Holocaust. Through Anne’s legacy the Anne Frank House empowers people of all ages — and especially young people — to reflect on the dangers of antisemitism, racism, and discrimination and the importance of freedom, equal rights, and democracy.

The Annex

In July 1942, Anne Frank (13), her parents, Otto and Edith Frank, and her sister, Margo Frank (16), went into hiding in the Annex at the back of her father’s company. The Van Pels family (Hermann, Auguste, and their 15-year-old son, Peter) followed the next week. Four months later, they were joined by Fritz Pfeffer. All of them were Jews daring to escape certain death at the hands of the Nazis amid the German occupation of the Netherlands during World War II. Unable to go to school, largely cut off from the rest of the world, and trapped in close quarters with others while a war raged outside, Anne poured herself into her diary. The people in hiding in the Annex were discovered and arrested in 1944, and subsequently sent to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration and extermination camp. Anne and her sister Margot were then sent to the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, where they both died of typhus in February 1945. Anne was 15. Margot was 18 or 19. Otto Frank was the only person from the Annex to survive the Holocaust.

The Diary

Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl, more commonly known as The Diary of Anne Frank, is one of the most translated books in the world. Transformed multiple times for stage and screen, the published book’s source is the personal diary that Anne Frank kept in multiple notebooks during the two-year period of hiding with her family in rooms located in the back house of her father’s company in Amsterdam. Soon after Anne and the others were arrested in 1944, Miep Gies, one of the people who risked their lives to help them in hiding, returned to the Annex and found their belongings ransacked. Miep was relieved to find Anne’s diary pages, knowing how important her writings were to her, and saved them for her return. Otto was the only person from the Annex to survive the Holocaust. When Miep first gave him his daughter’s diary, he could not bring himself to read it. Soon, he did and he could not stop, sharing it with relatives and friends who encouraged him to publish what they considered “an important human document.” Upon its publication, Otto Frank wrote: “How proud Anne would have been if she had lived to see this. After all, on 29 March 1944, she wrote: ‘Imagine how interesting it would be if I published a novel about the Secret Annex.'”

Kenneth C. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (Griffin MSI) offers world-class and uniquely interactive experiences that support the Museum’s mission: to inspire the inventive genius in everyone. For more information, visit griffinmsi.org or call 773-684-1414.

See also:

Landmark Anne Frank The Exhibition in NYC Personalizes Holocaust As Never Before

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America's 250th, Historic Places, New York City travel

‘NYC Revolutionary Trail: Echoes of Revolution’ Self-Guided Walking Tour to Launch June 2026 to Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary

A free immersive walking tour in downtown Manhattan reframes New York as the heart of the American Revolution – set in the Assassin’s Creed® universe

July 1776, “La Destruction de la Statue Royale a Nouvelle Yorck”, published in Paris. When General Washington’s troops heard about the Declaration of Independence, they pulled down the statue of George III at New York’s Bowling Green. The print is part of  “Declaring the Revolution: America’s Printed Path to Independence,” New York Historical’s first in series of exhibits focused on the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America. On view through April 12, 2026.

New York, NY –NYC Revolutionary Trail: Echoes of Revolution , a free, mobile, geo-located immersive, self-guided 90-minute walking tour, will launch in June 2026 to celebrate America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

Founded by The Gotham Center for NYC History at The Graduate Center, City University of New York, the multimedia walking tour in downtown Manhattan reframes New York at the heart of the American Revolution. Partnering with Video Game Publisher Ubisoft and Creative Technology Studio Sugar Creative, Echoes of Revolution uses augmented reality to place visitors inside Revolutionary-era New York, including characters, ships, and streets recreated from Ubisoft Inc.’s Assassin’s Creed’s universe. 

Echoes of Revolution is a new version of Gotham’s original NYC Revolutionary Trail App and will also partner with the Museum of the City of New York for the upcoming exhibit, “The Occupied City,” to ring in New York’s 250th celebration.

 “While Boston and Philadelphia often dominate the conversation about America’s Revolution, New York was at the center of events surrounding Independence and the City’s history is often overlooked. The war literally began and ended in the city, from the earliest major battle – the largest and most important of the war – to the British evacuation,” said Peter-Christian Aigner, Co-Founder of NYC Revolutionary Trail and Director of the Gotham Center for New York City History at The Graduate Center, City University of New York. “Our goal is to correct this misunderstanding and reframe New York as the city at the heart of the American Revolution. We are thrilled to partner with Ubisoft and Sugar Creative to launch NYC Revolutionary Trail and bring history to life in a compelling, immersive and interactive way that will attract a new generation of history fans.” 

Starting at the Battery and ending at Federal Hall via Bowling Green, Wall Street, and other pivotal sites, the 90-minute, 3-mile walking tour will transport visitors back in time on a journey throughout lower Manhattan, where they will relive pivotal historical moments from the founding of the United States, uncover the stories that shaped the nation’s beginnings in the actual locations where they took place, and have a close-up experience of the “city at the heart of the Revolution,” with each stop providing audio narration with site information, character profiles, videos and links to Center’s Library.

The Trail will incorporate cutting-edge AR and geolocation technology alongside exclusive historical environments and character assets from the Assassin’s Creed universe, allowing visitors to explore a digitally reconstructed colonial New York layered directly onto today’s streets.

“Ubisoft is excited about using the worlds of Assassin’s Creed III and Assassin’s Creed Rogue to bring key moments of the American Revolution to life for visitors exploring the streets of New York City,” said Amy Jenkins-Le Guerroué, Strategic Alliances Director at Ubisoft.

“Echoes of Revolution brings Revolutionary-era history to life in New York City in a way that no single museum or statue can by connecting people physically to the stories and places where history actually unfolded,” said Will Humphrey, Creative Director of Cardiff-based Sugar Creative Labs.

“The Freedom Trail that many of us visited on school trips as kids helped redefine Boston’s place in the story of the American Revolution,” said Ted Knudsen, Co-Founder of the NYC Revolutionary Trail and Professor of History at CUNY Queens College. “By connecting nationally significant sites through a simple, accessible walking route, it became a beloved tradition for families, students, locals, and visitors—and permanently put Boston on the historical map. Our goal is to do the same for New York. As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, we’re inviting New Yorkers and visitors alike to rediscover the city’s central role in the founding of the United States.”

In addition, as part of NYC Revolutionary Trail, The Gotham Center offers an online classroom featuring short, standard-aligned lesson modules for middle school, high school, and college students nationwide.

Echoes of Revolution was made possible by support from the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, the Leon Levy Foundation, the Achelis-Bodman Foundation, Creative Wales and Media Cymru through UK Research and Innovation’s Strength in Places Fund (SIPF) and New York’s Downtown Alliance.

More details of New York City Revolutionary Trail will be announced in the coming weeks.

For more information, visit https://nycrevolutionarytrail.org or follow on Instagram @NYCRevTrail, Facebook or X @NYCRevTrail.

See also:

SEE THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS THAT INSPIRED AMERICA’S REVOLUTION AT THE NEW YORK HISTORICAL

NEW YORK STATE CELEBRATES AMERICA’S 250TH

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Best in Travel, Historic Hotels, Romantic travel

Top 25 Historic Hotels of America for a Proposal

The Don CeSar has been a symbol of romance, glamour, and celebration since opening in 1928. Its old-world elegance and timeless coastal beauty creates a sense of occasion that elevates every proposal, especially at sunset on the beach, when the gulf glows in shades of pink and gold behind the hotel’s famous façade © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Historic Hotels of America®, the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing and celebrating historic hotels, announced The 2026 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America® for a Romantic Proposal list. This selection of 25 authentic historic destinations celebrates the places where love stories unfold against backdrops shaped by centuries of architecture, artistry, and heartfelt hospitality. These historic hotels offer settings that feel truly unforgettable, whether couples are standing beneath hand‑painted domes, wandering through glowing winter light trails, pausing on historic bridges at sunset, or sharing a quiet moment on an art‑covered staircase.

From grand city landmarks to restored manor homes and contemporary art museum hotels, each destination on this year’s list brings its own sense of magic, creativity, and history. Together, they showcase the kinds of romantic experiences that turn a single question into a memory woven into the legacy of a remarkable place.

Woolverton Inn (1792)
Stockton, New Jersey

Woolverton InnWoolverton Inn offers a tranquil, television free environment where couples can focus on each other, supported by a twelve and older guest policy that ensures a peaceful atmosphere and spectacular pastoral views of preserved farmland and grazing sheep. Northridge Restaurant adds a culinary layer to the experience with intimate farm to table dining inside a restored stone barn, while personalized hospitality from the innkeepers makes every stay feel warm, thoughtful, and tailored. The inn features countless romantic places to propose, including candlelit tables inside Northridge Restaurant, a cozy breakfast in bed moment, the graceful branches of weeping beech trees or flowering magnolias, private balconies overlooking rolling pastures, the fern garden’s stone bench beside a gentle fountain, the historic all season veranda, or the quiet perimeter trail around the sheep pasture at sunrise or sunset. The team delights in preparing the perfect surprise by staging the chosen location in advance and coordinating the entrance for a complete reveal, whether in the gardens, near the fountain, during breakfast, or on a walk by the pasture. Ring deliveries can be woven into breakfast trays, sweet treats, pasture picnics, or dessert at Northridge Restaurant for a memorable touch. The year round proposal package includes personalized staging with candles and garden flowers, assistance from experienced wedding coordinators, and photography support from the innkeepers or owner, Mario. Seasonal dining ranges from winter evenings by the soaring stone fireplace, to warm weather meals on the private deck overlooking sunset lit farmland, with options for private dining in suites, cottages, or near the wedding garden patio. Generations of couples return to Woolverton Inn and often leave heartfelt notes in the guest books, sharing how the inn’s historic charm, pastoral beauty, and enduring hospitality create a place where memories deepen over decades. Woolverton Inn dates to 1792 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2023.

The Oaks Waterfront Hotel (1800s)
Easton, Maryland

The Oaks Waterfront HotelThe Oaks Waterfront Hotel is romantic by design, an intimate waterfront estate on 10 historic acres in Easton, Maryland, with just 11 guestrooms and suites and 4 private cottages that create a sense of privacy and calm. Couples love its blend of timeless charm and modern luxury, from sunset cruises aboard a Hinckley yacht and fireside evenings by the water, to elevated Chesapeake Bay dining at The Oak Room. With roots tracing back to a 1680 land grant and a past life as a 19th century boarding house, the hotel adds meaningful historic depth to every proposal. The most romantic place to pop the question is aboard the hotel’s 40 foot Hinckley yacht, Overcomer, during a private sunset cruise on the Miles River, where golden light, gentle breezes, and uninterrupted views create an effortlessly luxurious moment. The Oaks Waterfront Hotel team excels at coordinating seamless, personalized proposals, whether arranging a surprise cruise with champagne and a photographer, or timing a family arrival after a disguised “wine tasting” dinner. Seasonal offerings like the Romantic Winter Retreat, along with enhancements such as private boat charters, curated picnics, floral arrangements, and in room treats, allow couples to tailor their celebration. Adding to its charm, the hotel even played a role in early Hollywood history when Gary Cooper and Fay Wray stayed on site during the filming of the silent movie The First Kiss (1928), weaving another love story into the legacy of this serene waterfront retreat. The Oaks Waterfront Hotel was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2025.

Omni Bedford Springs Resort (1806)
Bedford, Pennsylvania

Omni Bedford SpringsWith a history that dates to 1806, Omni Bedford Springs Resort is more than a destination; it is a living piece of American heritage where proposals become part of a legacy of love, elegance, and celebration. Its historic architecture, vintage charm, and classic grandeur make every moment feel monumental, especially at the Magnesia Spring Pavilion, an iconic landmark framed by lush greenery and glowing beautifully in the soft light of morning or sunset. For a more secluded, nature inspired setting, the Wedding Grotto offers a serene waterfall, natural stone, and a sense of discovery that creates an unforgettable backdrop. The resort’s associates take great pride in crafting personalized “wow” moments, from candlelit proposals at the Grotto to dessert reveals in The Crystal Room or even custom puzzles that end with the engagement ring. While there is no dedicated proposal package, the evergreen From Omni, With Love offer and special Valentine’s Day programming provide a romantic foundation for celebrations. Couples can enjoy intimate dinners in the historic Crystal Room, indulge in the luxurious A Night at the Vineyard wine pairing experience, or unwind together at Springs Eternal Spa with couples massages or private, after hours access to the Bedford Baths. Throughout the resort, romance is woven into the details, including the initials etched into the library windows in the Colonnade Building by brides to be from generations past, a whimsical reminder of the timeless love stories that have unfolded here for more than two centuries. Omni Bedford Springs Resort was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2008.

Boar’s Head Resort and Birdwood Mansion (1834)
Charlottesville, Virginia

Boars Head Resort and Birdwood MansionBoar’s Head Resort and Birdwood Mansion become especially magical during November and December, when the Winter Wander Trail of Lights transforms Heritage Lake into a glowing holiday landscape. Once a historic manor home that began as a Colonial era tavern, the estate still carries the character and architecture it developed as Birdwood, giving the entire resort a sense of history and warmth that makes romantic moments feel even more meaningful. Couples stroll along the half mile path surrounded by sparkling light displays, but the most romantic proposal spot is the Tunnel of Lights, where thousands of bulbs create a full circle of illumination that feels both whimsical and cinematic. The experience has become so popular that a second tunnel was added; one designed specifically for guests to pause and capture the moment. Knowing how many couples choose Winter Wander for their engagement, the resort created a Celebration Package that includes admission tickets, a private fire pit with s’mores, a bottle of wine or a Winter Wander beer bucket, Santa photos before December 25, personalized planning assistance, and a keepsake ornament. Many guests pair the experience with an overnight stay that includes a welcome gift, VIP passes, and balcony views of the lights. Beyond the holiday season, the resort’s expansive grounds invite couples to enjoy world class golf, outdoor activities events with Blue Ridge Mountain vistas, and moments of relaxation at the serene spa, sports club, and restaurants. Charming guestrooms and suites with modern amenities offer a peaceful retreat at the end of the day. Winter weekends also feature the Breakfast with Santa event, which offers a chef curated meal and a carriage ride that departs from just outside the restaurant. Together, these experiences create a festive and heartfelt setting where proposals feel joyful, memorable, and wrapped in the warmth of the season. Boar’s Head Resort and Birdwood Mansion dates to 1834 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2001.

Island House Hotel (1852)
Mackinac Island, Michigan

Island House HotelFor generations, Island House Hotel has been woven into the love stories of Mackinac Island, offering a rare sense of continuity as the island’s oldest operating hotel and a designated State of Michigan Historic Landmark. Romance here is shaped by history and place, from the iconic front porch and veranda overlooking the harbor, to the rocking chairs, sweeping waterfront views, and the gentle clip clop of passing horses that create a timeless, unhurried atmosphere. The porch at sunset remains the most beloved proposal spot, while the 1852 Grill Room provides an elegant indoor setting with candlelit tables, harbor views, and live piano music. Evenings by the outdoor fire pits, with stars reflecting off the water, offer another intimate moment to ask the question.The Island House Hotel team works discreetly with each guest to plan personalized proposals, from arranging flowers, photographers, and horse drawn carriage rides to coordinating celebratory dinners or in-room touches like sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries. Romantic offerings such as the seasonal Romantic Retreat package and the special 2026 Once Upon an Island weekend help couples celebrate milestones with intention and ease. Classic Mackinac Island experiences like private carriage rides, scenic bike rides with picnic lunches, or the playful Ryba’s Fudge Shops Fudgemaking Experience add to the charm. What makes the Island House Hotel truly extraordinary is how often couples return to mark life’s most meaningful moments, revisiting the same rooms, views, and traditions across decades. Stories like Ron and Kathy Farnum’s, who honeymooned here in 1975 and returned for their 25th and 50th anniversaries, or couples who come back to celebrate engagements, weddings, and even their children’s birthdays, reflect the enduring magic of a place where personal histories become part of the hotel’s own. Island House Hotel dates to 1852 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2005.

Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton (1852)
Charleston, South Carolina

Mills House CharlestonWith cobblestone streets, rich history, and undeniable Southern charm, Charleston is one of the most romantic cities in the country. Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton, an iconic pink landmark in the heart of the historic district, has been a beloved backdrop for love stories for more than 170 years. The hotel blends historic grandeur with contemporary comfort, from its intimate courtyard designed by Loutrel Briggs and beautifully appointed guestrooms, to the signature restaurant, Iron Rose, and the rooftop pool and bar of The Terrace. Many couples choose to get engaged in the serene courtyard or on the rooftop terrace, where soft evening light, lush greenery, and the gentle hum of downtown Charleston create a naturally intimate mood. The hotel team works closely with each “asker” to plan seamless and creative moments, whether revealing the ring through an elevated champagne presentation at Iron Rose or timing a dessert surprise perfectly with the ambiance. The Mills House also offers its Southern Sweethearts package, which includes a two night stay, welcome champagne, fresh florals, a dessert amenity for two, and dining credit to enjoy at Iron Rose. Over the years, countless couples have celebrated engagements, anniversaries, and milestones here, often returning to the place where their story began. Iron Rose provides a romantic dining experience with its courtyard setting, warm hospitality, and elevated Lowcountry inspired cuisine, and the team can arrange private, customized dinners for special occasions. Additional romantic experiences include private rooftop moments, curated champagne and dessert pairings, floral styling from select partners, personalized signage, room surprises, and thoughtful itinerary planning that help create celebrations that feel effortless, intimate, and unforgettable. Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton dates to 1852 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2024.

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa (1876)
Riverside, California

The Mission Inn Hotel & SpaThe Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, built over generations by Frank Miller, was shaped by a belief in beauty, craftsmanship, and storytelling. In a world where many moments feel fleeting, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa offers something rare: a setting that is intentional, storied, and profoundly romantic, making a proposal feel not only magical, but timeless. World leaders, artists, and visionaries have walked its halls, and a “yes” here becomes part of a much larger narrative woven through more than a century of meaningful moments. The Atrio Courtyard and the Spanish Patio are among the most romantic places to propose, each offering iconic architecture and breathtaking ambiance. The hotel also features unforgettable landmarks such as the arched Campanario, warm and inviting restaurants, and intimate spaces like the Alhambra Courtyard on the top floor. The Atrio Courtyard, located just outside the St. Francis of Assisi Chapel, is surrounded by Tiffany stained glass windows, handcrafted fourteen foot-tall doors, and the Bacchus Fountain, creating a setting that feels undeniably romantic. Sunset seating in the Spanish Patio at the Mission Inn Restaurant or a candlelit dinner at Duane’s Prime Steaks and Seafood also provide perfect moments to ask the question. The hotel has been part of many love stories, including Bette Davis’s 1945 wedding in the chapel, Richard Nixon’s 1940 wedding to Pat Ryan, and the honeymoon of Ronald and Nancy Reagan, all of which contribute to its rich and storied legacy. The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa dates to 1876 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 1996.

Napa River Inn (1884)
Napa, California

Napa River InnNapa River Inn, a historic boutique inn on the banks of California’s Napa River, embodies romance with its historic ambiance, luxury service, and proximity to world class dining, shopping, and experiences. Napa Valley is one of the world’s most romantic destinations, and the inn offers romantic getaway packages with wine amenities, gondola cruises on the Napa River, and access to more than 20 nearby tasting rooms and restaurants. While there are many beautiful and memorable places to propose in Napa Valley, the most romantic is on a gondola on the Napa River. This proposal combines the timeless romance of an authentic Venetian gondola with California Wine Country, juxtaposing Italian tradition against the backdrop of the natural Napa River. A popular location to become engaged, the experience engages all the senses: the gentle glide of the gondola, the sound of water lapping against the hull, a singing gondolier providing ambiance, wine to toast the moment, and stunning riverside views of northern California’s scenery and wildlife. Plus, unlike restaurants or overlooks, all gondola cruises are completely private. Couples float on a serene stretch of river with only the gondolier, who can discreetly fade into the background. This combination of Old-World romance, Wine Country sophistication, natural beauty, and privacy makes it unlike any other proposal setting in America. Established in 1884 as a grain mill and converted into a luxury inn in 2000, Napa River Inn was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2004.

Eagles Mere Inn (1887)
Eagles Mere, Pennsylvania

Eagles Mere InnEagles Mere Inn offers a romantic escape defined by cozy fireplaces, beautifully remodeled guestrooms, warm hospitality, and the serene natural beauty of its historic village setting. Couples find endless opportunities for connection, whether strolling to the lake at sunset, wandering the quiet Village Green, or choosing intimate proposal spots like the Outlet Pond, the beach, or one of the inn’s own charming nooks. The entire town provides a peaceful, storybook backdrop where special moments feel private and uninterrupted, and the staff delights in helping bring those moments to life, from decorating rooms for surprise engagements to saving the day during weddings with thoughtful, behind the scenes support. Valentine’s Day weekend brings added romance with vow renewals from the Mayor of Eagles Mere, and a special candlelit dinner for two. Guests may request personalized touches like congratulatory digital photo displays to make celebrations even more meaningful, or flowers placed in their room upon arrival. Many couples return year after year to reminisce about engagements, weddings, and milestone anniversaries, drawn back by the inn’s timeless charm and the memories they have made in this beloved mountain village. Eagles Mere Inn dates to 1887 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2021.

Casa Monica Resort & Spa (1888)
St. Augustine, Florida

Casa Monica Resort & SpaCasa Monica Resort & Spa is inherently romantic, blending rich history, dramatic Spanish Baroque Revival and Moorish Revival-style architecture, and intimate experiences designed for connection. Built in 1888 and set in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, the hotel surrounds couples with cobblestone streets, horse drawn carriages, centuries old landmarks, and bayfront views that create a cinematic backdrop for a proposal. Favorite locations include the grand stairway leading to the pool, the Anastasia Suite with views of the Lightner Museum and Flagler College, a horse drawn carriage stop in front of the hotel, and the velvet lined private dining rooms of Cordova Coastal Chophouse & Bar. The team specializes in bespoke proposal planning, from champagne reveals historically inspired ring deliveries or personal touches involving children or pets. Romantic dining ranges from private candlelit dinners by the pool to intimate spaces like the Wine Room and Sultan’s Room of Cordova, as well as curated alfresco dinners amid lantern lit downtown St. Augustine. Casa Monica is known for immersive celebrations, including carriage rides with champagne, personalized proposal signage, and poolside dinners with candlelight and live music. One of the hotel’s most heartfelt stories involved a couple who arrived hoping to marry without family present; the staff created a deeply personal ceremony, a private rose petal dinner, and a carriage ride before transforming their suite into a honeymoon retreat. They now return every year to celebrate their anniversary. Casa Monica Resort & Spa was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2001.

Ledges Hotel (1890)
Hawley, Pennsylvania

Ledges HotelLedges Hotel carries the soul of its past within its walls. Once a bustling 1890s glass factory, it has been transformed into a sanctuary where history, nature, and modern design meet in a way that feels both intentional and quietly romantic. The bluestone building rises beside Paupack High Falls, and the sound of rushing water becomes part of the experience, echoing through guestrooms and gathering spaces filled with adaptive reuse furnishings and views of the river gorge. Proposals here feel like moments suspended in time. Couples wander the tiered decks overlooking the falls, choosing the secluded Stargazer Deck high above the gorge or the wide open Great Deck where the waterfall stretches out below. Each season paints the landscape differently: winter turns the falls into shimmering ice, spring brings budding trees and rushing water, summer is lush and cool, and autumn wraps the gorge in vibrant color. Hidden corners like “the ruins,” with its bluestone walls and secret garden atmosphere, offer intimate spaces for a quiet question. Inside, Glass – wine.bar.kitchen sets the stage for candlelit proposals over an unforgettable meal. The staff loves helping craft these moments, arranging rose petal paths, floral arches, champagne toasts, and photography to capture every detail. February brings the Romance by the Falls package, complete with flowers, Moka Origins chocolate, bubbly, and a dining credit, while spa experiences at the Art Deco inspired Vault 240 add another layer of indulgence. At Ledges Hotel, proposals unfold against the timeless rhythm of the falls, creating memories that feel rooted in place and impossible to forget. Ledges Hotel dates to 1890 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2013.

Hotel Colorado (1893)
Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Hotel ColoradoHotel Colorado, fondly known as the “Grand Dame of the Rockies,” has been a beloved Glenwood Springs icon since 1893, welcoming travelers from around the world who came to soak in the healing mineral hot springs. Often called the town’s living room, the hotel’s grand ballrooms, cozy nooks, and crackling fireplaces have hosted generations of couples celebrating life’s most meaningful moments. Following more than $8 million in floor to ceiling renovations, every guestroom now features custom Italian villa inspired furnishings, top tier beds and linens, Turkish cotton robes, and luxury bath amenities. Couples have three especially romantic places to propose: beside the bubbling fountain and koi pond in the Victorian courtyard garden, on a Bell Tower Suite balcony overlooking Glenwood Springs, or before one of the original stone fireplaces in the grand lobby. Certified wedding planner Alta Otto helps coordinate every detail, and the hotel’s Proposal Package includes a personal proposal planner, champagne, flowers, a Signature Suite stay, and chocolate covered strawberries. Baron’s Restaurant elevates the experience with carefully crafted dishes, from top choice beef to fresh trout, served amid the soothing sound of an indoor waterfall or alfresco in the landscaped courtyard during warmer months. Beyond the hotel, Glenwood Springs offers three romantic hot springs experiences within walking distance, including the world famous Glenwood Hot Springs with its Grand Pool, Therapy Pool, and intimate Yampah Mineral Baths. Couples can also unwind at Iron Mountain Hot Springs, with an adults-only Premier Access area that is a sanctuary along the Colorado River, featuring pools inspired by mineral waters from around the world. No romantic getaway is complete without a couples massage and time in the geothermal vapor caves at Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves, a serene retreat perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Hotel Colorado dates to 1893 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2007.

The Pfister Hotel (1893)
Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The Pfister HotelThe Pfister Hotel surrounds guests with old world elegance, where warm lighting, Victorian artwork, and historic architectural details invite couples to slow down and savor each luxurious moment. For more than a century, its corridors, portraits, and grand gathering spaces have witnessed countless celebrations, giving every proposal a sense of legacy and emotional weight. Many couples choose to begin the next chapter of their love story beneath the lobby’s domed ceiling mural, originally created for the hotel’s 100th anniversary and restored in 2024, or at the foot of the grand staircase flanked by the hotel’s iconic lions, while live piano music or soft jazz fills the space. Others are drawn to Blu, the hotel’s signature cocktail lounge, where panoramic views of downtown Milwaukee and Lake Michigan turn a sunset proposal into something cinematic. The concierge team coordinates timing, surprise moments, and ring reveals, including a beloved tradition in which champagne arrives with the ring presented under a cloche or on a dessert plate, revealed by a simple, handwritten note. Engagement weekends feel fully curated through packages such as the Celebration Package, the Luxury Getaway, and the All-Inclusive Stay, which offer champagne, dining credits, spa treatments, and late night desserts. Seasonal experiences like Hearts Above the City at Blu add even more romance, with skyline views, live music, petite desserts, and Veuve Clicquot for the toast. Mason Street Grill provides intimate or private dining options paired with live jazz, creating a perfect setting for a candlelit proposal. One especially memorable moment involved a guest who arranged for Doc Hollander to play the couple’s favorite love song on the lobby piano as he proposed before the grand marble staircase, a scene that captures the timeless charm and enduring romance that defines The Pfister Hotel. The Pfister Hotel was established in 1893 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 1994.

XV Beacon (1903)
Boston, Massachusetts

XV BeaconTucked within Boston’s historic Beacon Hill neighborhood, XV Beacon offers an intimate and luxurious setting that has earned its reputation as one of the city’s most celebratory hotels for romantic milestones. Couples often choose to propose in the hotel’s atmospheric Wine Cellar before enjoying a private dinner for two, or on the exclusive seasonal rooftop deck with sweeping views of the city. Beyond the hotel, the surrounding cobblestone streets create a naturally romantic backdrop, with Acorn Street standing out as one of the most photographed and charming locations in the country for a picture perfect moment. Guests benefit from the hotel’s dedicated 24 hour concierge team, who excel at crafting personalized engagement experiences, whether that includes arranging the Romance on the Hill package, securing a table at the award winning Mooo…. Beacon Hill, or preparing an in room dining setup beside a glowing guestroom fireplace. The Wine Cellar can also be reserved for an ultra private dining experience, complemented by curated off site activities, custom welcome amenities, and thoughtful romantic touches during turndown service. XV Beacon’s blend of elegance, intimacy, and attentive service makes it an unforgettable destination for proposals and celebrations of love. XV Beacon dates to 1903 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2016.

Castle Hill Resort and Spa (1905)
Cavendish, Vermont

Castle Hill Resort and SpaCastle Hill Resort and Spa carries a lasting sense of meaning, where history, nature, and romance come together effortlessly. Built in 1905, the mansion immediately sets a timeless, intentional tone that makes a proposal here feel deeply special. Each season adds its own charm: spring and summer bring blooming gardens and a babbling fountain, fall surrounds the estate with rich foliage and historic backdrops, and winter offers candlelit pathways, snow covered mountain views, and the warm glow of the fireside library. Inside, the mahogany walls, crystal chandeliers, ornate plaster ceilings, grand staircase, and roaring porcelain fireplace create an atmosphere of classic elegance. The team works closely with each “asker” to personalize every detail, whether placing the ring on a heart shaped dessert plate with “Will You Marry Me?” written in chocolate, tucking it into a glass of champagne, or preparing a guestroom with rose petals and chocolate covered strawberries. Engagement packages are available year round and can include a one night stay, a romantic gourmet dinner for two, long stem roses, champagne, and coordination with a preferred local photographer. Guests may also arrange a private candlelit dinner in the award winning historic dining room, where mahogany walls, plaster ceilings, and crystal chandeliers create a cozy, intimate setting. From live music and flowers to horse drawn carriage rides, personalized proposal signage, photography, and fully customized planning, the Castle Hill Resort and Spa team can bring nearly any vision to life, ensuring each proposal feels personal, memorable, and worthy of the moment. Castle Hill Resort and Spa was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2007.

Hayes Mansion San Jose, Curio Collection by Hilton (1905)
San Jose, California

Hayes Mansion San Jose, Curio Collection by HiltonHayes Mansion San Jose, Curio Collection by Hilton offers a naturally romantic setting where California warmth meets the elegance of a historic estate that dates to 1905. Its grand architecture, sweeping lawns, and lush gardens create an atmosphere that feels both intimate and enduring, making a proposal here feel like the beginning of a story rooted in more than a century of celebrations. One of the most romantic places to pop the question is the East Lawn, framed by palm trees, banana trees, and historic stonework that glows beautifully at sunset, while the mansion’s historic parlors provide refined indoor spaces with fireplaces and classic décor. The team at Hayes Mansion San Jose, Curio Collection by Hilton is known for discreet, thoughtful coordination, from arranging heart shaped floral arches with petals and candlelight, to crafting personalized setups that ensure the ring appears at exactly the right moment. Engagement celebrations often continue on the Westwood Patio, an intimate glass ceilinged, string lit venue ideal for gatherings of up to 75 guests, where the culinary team creates custom menus tailored to each couple’s vision. Hayes Mansion San Jose, Curio Collection by Hilton can further enhance the experience with live or background music, floral design, champagne service, and personalized room amenities that extend the celebration long after the proposal. Many guests share that engagements here feel “meant to be,” as the estate has hosted generations of milestones, and returning years later only deepens the meaning of beginning their story in such a historic and welcoming place. Hayes Mansion San Jose, Curio Collection by Hilton was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2019.

Keswick Hall (1912)
Charlottesville, Virginia

Keswick HallPhoto by Aaron WatsonKeswick Hall’s historical beauty, from its Italianate-style architecture with creamy stucco and terra cotta roofs, to its lush gardens and sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, creates an effortlessly romantic setting for unforgettable moments. Couples have several stunning proposal locations to choose from, including the Horizon Pool overlooking the golf course at sunset, and the fairway, with the hotel as a dramatic backdrop. The Guest Experience Coordinator excels at crafting personalized proposal experiences, arranging everything from rose petal turndowns and champagne amenities, to unique touches such as falconry. The seasonal Celebration Package and Romance Package are available in January and February, offering elevated ways to mark the occasion. Marigold by Jean Georges provides an intimate dining experience with outdoor seating and fireplaces when the weather allows, while the Library beside Crawford’s Bar offers a cozy and elegant alternative. Guests can also enjoy Keswick Hall’s exclusive fleet of BMW vehicles, including a convertible perfect for a scenic drive to a Blue Ridge overlook. What makes Keswick Hall especially meaningful is the number of families who have become engaged, married, or celebrated across generations on the estate, weaving the hotel into their lasting love stories. Keswick Hall dates to 1912 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2015.

21c Museum Hotel St. Louis (1926)
St. Louis, Missouri

21c Museum Hotel St. Louis21c Museum Hotel St. Louis offers a proposal setting that feels both artistic and deeply rooted in the city’s history. Located in a beautifully restored former YMCA building from the 1920s, the hotel blends contemporary art with historic architecture, creating an atmosphere that feels vibrant, creative, and full of character. Couples are often drawn to the lush central staircase wrapped in The Way Out West, a site specific installation by artists David Allen Burns and Austin Young of Fallen Fruit. The piece transforms the stairwell into a collage of flowers, plants, historic artifacts, and native Missouri wildlife, creating an otherworldly backdrop that feels perfect for a romantic, unforgettable moment. Guests also love the hotel’s ability to personalize the experience, whether through surprise musicians in the art gallery, bottles of bubbly delivered to the guestroom, or chocolates waiting after dinner. Packages such as Love Birds, which includes a dining credit at Idol Wolf along with sparkling wine and chocolates, and Pampered Penguin, which adds a massage at the wellness club, help couples craft a full celebration. Idol Wolf’s moody dining room, with its star like ceiling lights and intimate booths, is a favorite for romantic dinners, and private dining, with a fireplace and rich curtains, offers an elevated option. Guests seeking something truly dramatic can even rent gallery spaces in the museum for private events surrounded by contemporary art. The hotel often adds thoughtful touches for couples who become part of its story, including sending souvenir ceramic penguins to those who get engaged at the hotel. Many return for future milestones, including the first couple married at 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis in 2023, whose framed wedding photo still hangs in the office as a reminder of the love stories that continue to unfold within the hotel’s walls. 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis dates to 1926 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2023.

InterContinental New York Barclay (1926)
New York, New York

InterContinental New York BarclayInterContinental New York Barclay defines romance through timeless elegance, discreet luxury, and a sense of place that feels unmistakably New York. Debuting in 1926, the hotel is woven into Manhattan’s cultural history, welcoming distinguished travelers and hosting meaningful occasions for nearly a century. Its storied past adds emotional depth to every proposal, allowing couples to begin their next chapter in a setting that feels both iconic and intimate. The Harold S. Vanderbilt Penthouse is the most romantic proposal location, offering privacy, refined design, and sweeping views of the Chrysler Building that create a cinematic and instantly recognizable backdrop. Golden hour and the evening are especially magical, as the skyline glows and the Chrysler Building lights up the moment. The InterContinental New York Barclay team is highly experienced in planning seamless and discreet proposals, from champagne tray reveals timed perfectly with the glowing skyline, to transforming a suite with candlelight, florals, music, and a handwritten note for an intimate turndown proposal. Customizable proposal and celebration experiences can include luxury accommodations, champagne, floral arrangements, romantic dining, curated in-room touches, live music, transportation, photography coordination, spa experiences for two, and personalized keepsakes. Dining at the InterContinental New York Barclay is ideal for special occasions, and private candlelit dinners can be arranged either in a suite or in an intimate hotel setting. One of the hotel’s most memorable love stories involved a couple who met near the Chrysler Building and made “Meet me at the Chrysler” their daily ritual. When he proposed, the Penthouse Suite, with its glowing skyline and private terrace, became the perfect extension of their story. Soft candlelight, roses, champagne, a private dinner, and a pianist created a moment that was understated, emotional, and unmistakably New York, reflecting the sense of place and history that make InterContinental New York Barclay such a meaningful setting for life’s most important milestones. InterContinental New York Barclay was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2025.

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa (1927)
Sonoma, California

The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & SpaThe Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is a naturally romantic retreat, rooted in the land and its ancient geothermal springs that have drawn those seeking restoration and connection for centuries. Nestled in the heart of Sonoma Valley, the resort offers an atmosphere that feels intimate, timeless, and deeply meaningful. One of the most beloved proposal locations is the resort’s private gardens at golden hour, where manicured lawns, lush greenery, and soft evening light create a private wine country oasis. Indoors, a terrace or suite overlooking the gardens, glowing with candlelight and fresh florals, provides an equally enchanting setting for a quiet, personal moment. The dedicated team collaborates discreetly with each “asker,” arranging ring reveals during champagne toasts, elegant dessert presentations at Santé, or after private spa rituals enhanced with rose petals and live music. Bespoke engagement experiences may include luxurious accommodations, spa indulgences, private dining, champagne, florals, and personalized touches, such as a private wine blending session at a neighboring winery. For couples seeking something unforgettable, Spa Under the Stars offers a serene and intimate atmosphere, as the geothermal pools glow beneath the night sky, creating a magical backdrop for a proposal. Santé restaurant provides refined, seasonal cuisine for celebratory dinners, and couples can also arrange private candlelit meals in secluded gardens, on terraces, or in exclusive indoor venues, with curated wine pairings. Additional enhancements such as spa rituals, rose petal turndowns, in room champagne and caviar, live acoustic music, private poolside moments, and custom calligraphy notes ensure every proposal feels effortless, personal, and unforgettable. The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa dates to 1927 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2014.

The Don CeSar (1928)
St. Pete Beach, Florida

the don cesarAffectionately known as Florida’s iconic Pink Palace, The Don CeSar has been a symbol of romance, glamour, and celebration since opening in 1928, welcoming celebrities, dignitaries, and couples to its sugar white sands for nearly a century. Its blend of old world elegance and timeless coastal beauty creates a sense of occasion that elevates every proposal, especially at sunset on the beach, when the gulf glows in shades of pink and gold behind the hotel’s famous façade. Couples also love proposing on private oceanfront terraces or balconies, where the sound of the waves adds serenity, or inside Maritana restaurant, where refined ambiance and artful cuisine enhances an intimate, candlelit setting. The Don CeSar’s concierge and events teams excel at coordinating discreet, personalized proposal moments, from champagne toasts and custom desserts, to private beach setups with rose petals, ensuring perfect timing and seamless execution. Celebrations continue with elevated dining at Maritana, private dinners under the stars, couples spa rituals, in room champagne and floral arrangements, live acoustic music, sunset photography sessions, and gatherings in the hotel’s bars or lounges. For nearly a century, The Don CeSar has served as the backdrop for countless engagements, weddings, and anniversaries, with many couples returning, generation after generation, to celebrate life’s most meaningful milestones. The Don CeSar was inducted as a Charter Member of Historic Hotels of America in 1989.

The Graylyn Estate (1932)
Winston-Salem, North Carolina

graylyn estatePhoto by Chelsea RenayThe Graylyn Estate is romantic by design, a place where European inspired architecture, intricate ironwork, and 55 acres of manicured grounds create the feeling of stepping into a fairytale. Since its earliest days as the Gray Family’s grand manor, the estate has welcomed guests seeking beauty, privacy, and a sense of timeless escape. That history, paired with gardens, courtyards, and storybook pathways, creates a setting where proposals feel deeply personal and rooted in place. Many couples are drawn to the historic bridge at sunset, where a 1930s stone span arches over the pond, and the surrounding greenery glows in the evening light. Others choose the Mews, a French style courtyard featuring a fountain that becomes especially romantic as the day softens into dusk, or the Persian Card Room, where candlelight reflects off vintage architectural walls that originated in Syria in the 17th and 18th centuries. The Graylyn Estate team coordinates discreet proposal touches, from private dinners and rose petal turndowns, to champagne reveals and personalized moments staged in hidden corners of the estate. The Romance Getaway Package adds to the celebration with early check in, late check out, champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, fresh roses, a keepsake print, and a chef curated breakfast for two, along with thoughtful amenities such as transportation to Reynolda Village and Mrs. Gray’s famous butterscotch cookies. Many couples return to The Graylyn Estate because of the memories that they have created here, from alumni who met at nearby Wake Forest University, to families who have celebrated weddings and anniversaries across generations. Some even reflect on the idea that The Graylyn Estate has quietly witnessed their story unfold long before the proposal itself. That sense of history, continuity, and full circle romance is the true magic of The Graylyn Estate. The Graylyn Estate dates to 1932 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2016.

Royal Palms Resort and Spa (1948)
Phoenix, Arizona

Royal palms resort and spaRoyal Palms Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona, feels like a secluded Mediterranean villa where romance naturally unfolds, thanks to its origins as the 1920s winter home of Delos and Florence Cooke and its winding pathways, lush courtyards, ivy covered alcoves, and intimate hideaways. Couples proposing here gravitate toward Camelback Vista, a tucked away garden with a stone fireplace and soft lighting that creates a cozy, private atmosphere, or Alegria Garden, an intimate space framed by mature trees and an old world wooden door that leads to a built in stage perfect for unforgettable moments. Other picturesque spots such as the Reflecting Pool, Florence’s Alcove, Montavista Courtyard, and corners of T. Cook’s restaurant offer effortless backdrops that need little more than rose petals or candlelight. The resort’s private dining coordinator helps couples plan every detail, from musicians and photographers, to surprise family arrivals and celebratory dinners, and many guests enhance the experience with the Royal Romance package or a Via Cappello private dinner set in a hidden corner of the resort With a long history of hosting everything from elopements to grand weddings, Royal Palms Resort and Spa continues to inspire lifelong devotion, drawing couples who dream of celebrating their love in a place that feels timeless, intimate, and deeply personal. Royal Palms Resort and Spa dates to 1948 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2000.

Surf & Sand Laguna Beach (1948)
Laguna Beach, California

Surf and Sand Laguna BeachSurf & Sand Laguna Beach is romantic by nature, set directly on the shoreline where the rhythm of the Pacific Ocean meets decades of coastal history. Since welcoming travelers in the mid 20th century, the resort has been a beloved retreat for artists, writers, and couples drawn to Laguna Beach’s creative spirit and timeless beauty. That legacy, paired with unobstructed ocean views, creates a setting where proposals feel deeply personal and rooted in place. The most romantic locations are the oceanfront terraces overlooking the Pacific at sunset, when the sky glows in soft pink and gold, or a private suite balcony where the sound of the waves creates an intimate and unforgettable moment. Splashes restaurant and the guest services team coordinate discreet ring deliveries, whether hidden in a custom chocolate shell, tucked inside a glass bottle with a handwritten note and placed along the shoreline, or set thoughtfully in the guestroom before a planned moment. Romance month packages in February add to the celebration, and Splashes offers an especially magical dining experience as the sky shifts to gold, pink, and lavender above the shoreline. Bespoke engagement experiences can include private beachfront or terrace dining, customized champagne and dessert pairings, rose petal turndown amenities, spa experiences for two, and personalized keepsakes. Many couples return to Surf & Sand because of meaningful memories, from first dates at Splashes to family staycations spent on the same stretch of sand. Some couples even reflect on the idea that they likely crossed paths here long before they met. For these couples, getting married at Surf & Sand is about honoring a shared history and a place that has quietly witnessed their lives evolve from childhood memories to adult love. That sense of full circle destiny is the true magic of the resort. Surf & Sand Laguna Beach dates to 1948 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2021.

El Conquistador Resort (1962)
Fajardo, Puerto Rico

El ConquistadorSet high above the Atlantic Ocean on a dramatic cliffside, El Conquistador Resort offers a romantic setting rooted in more than 50 years of Puerto Rican heritage, where generations of guests have celebrated love stories and meaningful milestones. Nearly every corner of the resort provides sweeping views of the sea and sky, giving couples countless intimate and personal places to propose, with Casitas Garden standing out as the most iconic location thanks to its lush greenery and breathtaking ocean backdrop. The resort’s groups and events team works discreetly with each “asker” to plan unforgettable moments, from illuminated “Marry Me?” displays overlooking the water, to surprise ring reveals during romantic dinners or quiet sunrise proposals by the pool. Couples can continue the celebration with fine dining, private Jacuzzis with ocean views, sunset catamaran cruises, spa experiences, private cabanas, breakfast in bed, or scenic strolls through the resort’s gardens and cliffside paths. Over the years, El Conquistador Resort has become a cherished backdrop for milestone anniversaries and love stories throughout the generations, with couples returning decades later to celebrate engagements, weddings, and family traditions that began on this timeless stretch of the island. El Conquistador Resort dates to 1962 and was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2021.

To be considered for membership in Historic Hotels of America, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or be listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and must honor its historic authenticity, sense of place, and architectural integrity while providing guests with fine hospitality. Visit HistoricHotels.org to learn more, and sign up for the program’s newsletter to stay up to date on news and specials from Historic Hotels of America.

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heritage travel, Historic Hotels, Historic Places, Historic Preservation

New HeritageXplore Programs Offer Rare Visits, Stays in Private Castles, Estates Hosted by Royals in England, Scotland

In Perthshire, Scotland, The Earl and Countess of Mansfield welcome you to 19th-century Scone Palace, the crowning palace of 42 Scottish kings including Macbeth, Robert the Bruce, and Charles II. Scone Palace is home to an outstanding collection of antiques, paintings, and rare artifacts (photo provided by HeritageExplore)

(LONDON, United Kingdom)   With Bridgerton-inspired travel having a major moment, HeritageXplore Luxe is launching three intimate, small-group journeys through England and Scotland that open the doors to privately owned castles and aristocratic estates. Hosted by the families who have owned these properties for generations, the small-group tours invite travelers to enjoy their own stately experience through rare access, elegant accommodation inside castle walls, and behind-the-scenes tours. 

Arranged exclusively by HeritageXplore Luxe, the two England programs provide privileged access to five castles and six estates, their grounds, and the surrounding areas. The Scotland experience travels to six castles. Each program includes private chauffeured luxury transportation; meals hosted by resident Dukes, Duchesses, or Lords and Ladies; tours conducted by the estate owners; and overnight stays in the castles and estates. Meals are elegant affairs, with some designed as casual chic and others requiring cocktail or black-tie attire.

England’s Abbeys, Halls & Castles –  April 27-May 1, 2026  

Located across the East Midlands and North West England, and exclusive to HeritageXplore Luxe, England’s Abbeys, Halls & Castles program visits castles, halls, and the ducal seats of the region. Led by Viscountess Violet Garnock (née Lady Violet Manners), the eldest daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland, and conducted by stewards or owners of the properties, the experience visits five of Britain’s grandest country estates. Accommodations in the castles and a nearby hotel, tours, and dining in castle state rooms are featured.

The visit begins at Hatfield House & Park in Hertfordshire, dating from 1607, whose artifacts include the signed death warrant of Mary Tudor, penned by Elizabeth I. A second stop at Belvoir Castle features a tour of the castle’s manicured gardens on a site that has roots back to the Norman Conquest, followed by a visit in Lincolnshire to the final masterpiece of Sir John Vanbrugh, 13th-century Grimsthorpe Castle, to view the castle’s art collection and one of the largest assortments of royal thrones and furnishings outside of the Royal Palace.

The next stop is medieval Haddon Hall in Derbyshire, one of England’s oldest historic houses and parklands. The final day leads to Combermere Abbey, originally a Cistercian monastery founded in 1133 and dissolved by Henry VIII in 1536, and now a private residence.

The five-day/four-night travel-through-history experience is priced beginning at £8,500 per person, based on double occupancy ($11,600 USD at the time of this writing).  International flights are not included. 

 The Great Estates of Norfolk –  May 26-29, 2026

Set in Norfolk and neighboring Suffolk in England’s eastern countryside, The Great Estates of Norfolk opens the doors to six esteemed, private estates across a region noted for its landscaped parklands and proximity to the North Sea coast.

Perfectly timed to allow an optional pre-tour to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in London, the tour begins at Euston Hall, the ancestral seat of the Duke and Duchess of Grafton in Suffolk. In this setting dating from the 1660s, you’ll visit the home and parkland of the current Duke, a descendant of Charles II of England. Amidst the private collections of Royal Stuart portraitures, you’ll enjoy two dinners hosted by the Duke and Duchess of Grafton and two nights’ accommodation.

The second day takes you to Elveden Hall, an architectural wonder owned by the Guinness family. Through exclusive arrangement by HeritageXplore Luxe, guests have a privileged look at the estate’s distinctive fusion of English country house, Italian design, and Indian palace – it was once home to the exiled Maharajah Duleep Singh – and its exceptional Marble Hall.

Guests will also visit Houghton Hall, a magnificent Palladian structure built in the 1720s for Britain’s first Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole. A tour of the estate’s celebrated Walled Garden and State Rooms is followed by a cocktail reception on the West Front balcony overlooking the sculpture park.  An additional stop includes an exclusive house and garden tour, an owner-hosted lunch, and evening accommodations at Sennowe Park, an Edwardian country estate and now a private residence.

The program finale is at refined Wolterton Hall, the former Palladian-style “Power House” residence of Sir Robert Walpole, concluding with a visit and private lunch at Holkham Hall, Thomas Coke’s Palladian-designed country house with its extensive art collection, William Kent-designed parklands, and sweeping coastal vistas.

The four-day/three-night travel-through-history experience is priced beginning at £9,500 per person ($13,000 USD at the time of this writing) based on double occupancy. International flights are not included. 

HeritageXplore Luxe can arrange privileged access to the Chelsea Flower Show and accommodations at Claridge’s for an additional charge.

 Castles of Scotland –  July 31- August 4, 2026

Traveling through central Scotland and the eastern Highlands, the Castles of Scotland program meanders through the country’s heartland, an area dotted with ancient castles with sweeping Highland vistas and stately homes. The program is led by Viscountess Violet Garnock (née Lady Violet Manners), the eldest daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland. Privileged guests will enjoy the hospitality of Scotland’s illustrious noble families at their historic homes.

In Perthshire, The Earl and Countess of Mansfield welcome you to 19th-century Scone Palace, the crowning palace of 42 Scottish kings including Macbeth, Robert the Bruce, and Charles II. Scone Palace is home to an outstanding collection of antiques, paintings, and rare artifacts. The Earl and Countess of Rosebery are your hosts at Barnbougle Castle, a heritage site dating to the 13th century on the shore of the Firth of Forth.

The Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne show off the distinctive design details of Glamis Castle in Angus, an architectural masterpiece from 1372 and the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. Here, to further your immersion in Scottish country life, the option of clay pigeon shooting on the estate is offered. 

Other visits include lunch at House of Bruar, the renowned country emporium, and an after-hours visit to Blair Castle, reflecting Medieval, Georgian and Victorian eras, where guests can view archival treasures before a private Champagne reception. A wine or whisky tasting of your choosing concludes the evening. The final day and celebration take place at Barnbougle Castle.

The four-day/three-night travel-through-history experience is priced beginning at £9,500 per person ($13,000 USD at the time of this writing) based on double occupancy. International flights are not included. 

HeritageXplore Luxe can arrange privileged access to the Edinburgh International Festival for an additional charge.

For more information and to book these tours, visit https://www.heritagexplore.com/luxe

HeritageXplore Luxe invites you inside the United Kingdom’s most remarkable private homes, not as a visitor, but as a personal guest of the families who have lived there for generations.

Three times a year, small groups of culturally curious travelers are welcomed for immersive heritage experiences. These are set departures for those drawn to history, interiors, gardens and the enduring charm of the UK’s country houses.

Days are spent exploring the house and estate alongside your hosts, the families who know every room, portrait and story intimately. Evenings unfold over candlelit dinners in state dining rooms — black-tie affairs where conversation flows as freely as the wine.

For more information, visit www.HeritageXplore.com/luxe, email violet@HeritageXplore.com or follow @HeritageXplore.Luxe on Instagram.

HeritageXplore is the UK’s dedicated platform for discovering and booking visits to the country’s most exceptional privately owned historic houses. Beyond traditional day trips, we connect you to Britain’s most imaginative heritage experiences — candlelit comedy evenings, contemporary art exhibitions, supper clubs, and behind-the-scenes access that bring these remarkable houses to life.

For those seeking deeper access, The HeritageX Club offers exclusive benefits: discounts on stays at unique estate properties, plus a monthly newsletter filled with insider stories and the best of what’s on across Britain’s heritage scene.

For more information, visit www.HeritageXplore.com, email info@HeritageXplore.co.uk, or follow on Instagram and TikTok @HeritageXplore.

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Eco-friendly resorts and hotels, Responsible Tourism, Sustainable and Responsible Travel, Sustainable Hotels, Sustainable Tourism, Sustainable Tourism and Travel

Sustainable Luxury Arrives in the Finger Lakes: The Lake House on Canandaigua Earns Beyond Green Certification

The Lake House on Canandaigua, a premier luxury hotel and resort in New York’s Finger Lakes region, has earned a Beyond Green certification in recognition of its commitment to environmental stewardship and community partnerships that consistently deliver an elevated, eco-conscious experience for guests. Guests can experience this commitment in action through thoughtful initiatives such as water and energy conservation, as well as meticulously maintained gardens that celebrate the region’s natural beauty (photo provided by The Lake House)

Canandaigua, N.Y. – The Lake House on Canandaigua, the Finger Lakes’ premier luxury hotel, has earned a Beyond Green certification, joining a global portfolio of hotels recognized for advancing sustainability, environmental stewardship and meaningful community connection. With this designation, The Lake House becomes the only hotel in New York State to receive the Beyond Green recognition. 

Operated by Preferred Travel Group, Beyond Green is a curated collection of hotels and resorts committed to responsible travel worldwide. Member properties are vetted against more than 50 sustainability indicators aligned with the best global practices and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, recognizing places where sustainability is deeply embedded in both philosophy and practice.

Designed with the Finger Lakes landscape in mind, sustainability is woven into every aspect of The Lake House’s daily operations, from energy use and waste reduction to regenerative landscaping and long-standing partnerships with local farmers, winemakers and artisans, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship, cultural integrity, and community well-being.

“From the beginning, the goal was to create a place that feels genuinely connected to its surroundings, not just visually, but operationally and philosophically,” said Alex Schnoeller, General Manager. “Beyond Green certification affirms the belief that luxury and responsibility go hand in hand and that thoughtful hospitality can benefit guests, the community, and the environment alike.”

Sustainability, Embedded

At The Lake House, sustainability is not a standalone initiative; it is an integral part of the guest experience. The resort has eliminated single-use plastic water bottles in favor of refillable bottles and on-site water refill stations, implemented daily composting and comprehensive waste-reduction practices, and actively monitors energy and water usage with an emphasis on renewable sources.

Additional initiatives include geothermal heating, electric vehicle charging stations, reusable to-go containers, and bio-friendly guest amenities. Linen reuse programs and reduced housekeeping schedules further conserve water and energy while maintaining the comfort and elevated service guests expect.

Nature as a Partner

Nature is not simply the backdrop at The Lake House; it is a partner. Regenerative gardens supply herbs, flowers and botanicals used throughout the property, from spa treatments and craft cocktails to seasonal menus, creating a true garden-to-body and farm-to-table experience. Composting efforts enrich the soil that sustains this cycle, reinforcing a seamless loop of renewal.

The Lake House also prioritizes local sourcing across food, beverage, design, and operations, supporting Finger Lakes farmers, winemakers, and artisans while reducing emissions tied to transportation and supply chains.

Situated on land shaped by generations before it, The Lake House remains committed to honoring the history, ecology and cultural heritage of Canandaigua and the greater Finger Lakes region.

With its Beyond Green certification, The Lake House on Canandaigua is formally recognized as a model for sustainable luxury and responsible travel, offering guests an experience that is as intentional as it is refined.

The Lake House on Canandaigua is a family-owned and operated hotel with world-class design, locally inspired dining and premier event spaces, and an ideal destination for family gatherings and important events. Designed by Post Company in collaboration with the design collective and The Brooklyn Home Company, it has 124 guest rooms and suites, there is a timber frame event barn, a pool and year-round hot tub, Willowbrook Spa and a boardwalk perfect for admiring the panoramic views of Canandaigua Lake. MICHELIN Guide recognizes the Lake House on Canandaigua as a top lakefront destination hotel and has won multiple prestigious travel awards, including the No. 1 Resort Hotel in New York State in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards, Travel + Leisure’s It List and Condé Nast Traveler’s Hot List. The Lake House is also a TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award winner, ranking in the top ten percent of hotels worldwide. The hotel is a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts L.V.X. Collection. All guests of The Lake House are eligible to enroll in the I Prefer Hotel Rewards program, which extends points redeemable for cash-value Reward Certificates, elite status, and other special benefits upon eligible stays at nearly 600 participating properties worldwide. For more information, visit lakehousecanandaigua.com.

Beyond Green is a global portfolio of some of planet Earth’s most sustainable accommodations. Offering travelers a more intuitive way to find and book authentic, conscious hotel experiences, each of Beyond Green’s member properties are required to adhere to more than 50 sustainability indicators that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. To learn more about Beyond Green, visit www.StayBeyondGreen.com.

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festivals & events, New York State tourism, sports travel

NYS Offers Local Grants to Promote Public Viewings of World Cup Throughout State

Encourages New Yorkers To Host Public Viewings of the World Cup, Connecting Regions and World Cup Enthusiasts In Celebration

Applications To Host Events Must Be Submitted by February 13; Link To Apply Is Available Here 

Watching FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. New York State is inviting communities to get grants to set up public viewing when World Cup comes to North America, with eight games including the final taking place in NY/NJ © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of the New York State Community World Cup Grant Program, a new statewide initiative that will support locally led public viewing events tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup and help extend the excitement of the tournament to communities across New York. The program is designed to expand access to the World Cup experience by supporting community-based celebrations that bring the excitement of the tournament to regions across New York State. By broadening the reach of this global moment, New York State is ensuring that residents in every corner of the state can take part in one of the world’s most celebrated sporting events. 

“New York is proud to play a leading role in hosting the 2026 World Cup, and we want every community to share in the excitement,” Governor Hochul said. “This new program helps bring the spirit of the tournament beyond the stadium and into towns and cities across the state, giving New Yorkers everywhere a chance to come together and celebrate.”

New York (with New Jersey) will welcome the world to Met Life Stadium in East Rutherford for eight  FIFA World Cup matches beginning June 13, culminating with the World Cup Final on July 19 (https://tickets-center.com/fifa-world-cup-metlife-stadium):

June 13, Brazil vs Morocco

June 16 France vs. Senegal

June 22 Norway vs Senegal

June 25 Ecuador vs Germany

June 27 Panama vs England

June 30 Match 77

Jul 5 W76 vs W78 (Match 91) Jul 19 W101 vs W102 (Match 104) – final

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Hosting the World Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity, and we want every New Yorker to feel part of it. This program empowers local leaders to create welcoming, community-driven events that bring people together, support small businesses, and showcase the unique character of each region.”

The New York State Community World Cup Grant Program is designed to broaden the reach of the World Cup experience by creating new opportunities for communities across the state to participate in the excitement of the tournament. Through the program, Empire State Development will support locally led public viewing events across the Capital Region, Central New York, the Finger Lakes, the Mohawk Valley, the North Country, the Southern Tier, and Western New York, helping communities create celebrations that reflect local pride and bring neighbors together around this global moment. New York State is also advancing plans for additional World Cup programming on Long Island and in the Mid-Hudson Region, which will be announced at a later date, and partnering with the NY/NJ Host Committee on official fan events in New York City.

Municipalities, nonprofit organizations, tourism entities, and other eligible partners will be invited to apply for support to host public viewing events that celebrate the World Cup and reflect local community identity. Eligible applicants must complete and submit a Consolidated Funding Application for review by New York State and the Regional Economic Development Council for the region in which the proposed event is located. Applications must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on February 13, 2026.

For more information about the New York State Community World Cup Grant Program and upcoming application details, visit New York State Community World Cup Grant Program | Empire State Development.

About Empire State Development
Empire State Development is New York’s chief economic development agency, and promotes business growth, job creation, and greater economic opportunity throughout the state. With offices in each of the state’s 10 regions, ESD oversees the Regional Economic Development Councils, supports broadband equity through the ConnectALL office, and is growing the workforce of tomorrow through the Office of Strategic Workforce Development. The agency engages with emerging and next generation industries like clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing looking to grow in New York State, operates a network of assistance centers to help small businesses grow and succeed, and promotes the state’s world class tourism destinations through I LOVE NY. For more information, visit esd.ny.gov, and connect with ESD on LinkedIn, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).

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Hotels & Resorts, Uncategorized, Wellness & Health, Wellness Travel

Club Med Redefines All-Inclusive Wellness Escape with ‘Wellness Fusion Retreat’ at Club Med Miches Playa Esmeralda

Club Med is redefining the all-inclusive wellness escape with the launch of its enhanced Wellness Fusion experiences at Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda in the Dominican Republic (photo provided by Club Med)

Miami, FL—Club Med is redefining the all-inclusive wellness escape with the launch of its enhanced Wellness Fusion experiences at Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda in the Dominican Republic. Beginning this month, the resort introduces its first annual Wellness Fusion Retreat, January 18-February 14, featuring expert-led sessions, restorative stays in the new Emerald Jungle wellness Fusion Rooms and on-demand mindfulness via a collaboration with technology partner, YouTuneIn. The expanded offerings come at a time when travelers are increasingly seeking transformative and immersive experiences focused on connection, restoration and holistic well-being.

Set in the emerging region of Miches in the Dominican Republic, Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda is part of the brand’s Exclusive Collection, an elevated portfolio of resorts including premium accommodations, curated activities, gourmet dining, and personalized service. Nestled between the jungle and the Caribbean Sea, the resort’s pristine beaches provide a naturally secluded environment designed to inspire reflection, renewal, and time in nature.

Wellness Fusion Retreat

Guests staying at the resort between January 18, 2026 through February 14, 2026 can participate in the Wellness Fusion Retreat at their own pace. Seamlessly integrated into the resort’s all-inclusive ethos, programming will be led by more than 20 internationally recognized wellness practitioners, celebrating Club Med’s global culture and its tradition of connecting diverse travelers from around the world.

Leading the yoga experience is Jonah Kest, Club Med’s Yoga Ambassador across North America and the Caribbean, whose transformative approach anchors the program with dynamic movement, mindful sequencing, and energizing flow suitable for all levels. From February 3–7, Kest will be on property leading immersive classes and workshops, including his signature Vinyasa Flow and Hip Hop Vinyasa Flow, which blends ancient asana with modern-day hip-hop beats, alongside his renowned Art of Inversions Workshop.

In addition to Kest, retreat leaders include Maude Bergeron, a meditation and self-growth expert focused on empowerment and holistic living, guiding meditation and mindful practices; Fabian-Carlos Guhl, an international somatic water therapist offering deeply restorative “Floating into Stillness” sessions; Dr. Emmanuel Pinillos, physical therapist and founder of Miami Run Club, directing functional mobility and conditioning workshops; Dr. Monisha Bhanote, a quintuple board-certified physician specializing in gut health and longevity, hosting interactive sessions on nutrition and wellness; and Tanna Kirchmer, a body reconnection and movement coach, facilitating mindful movement and somatic strength practices focused on recovery and longevity, among others.

Together, these experts provide a comprehensive approach, allowing guests to explore a variety of wellness practices while connecting with like-minded travelers. Small group sessions include:

·       Mind-Body Practices: Yoga, meditation, sound healing, breathwork, journaling, and mindful nutrition.

·       Fitness & Physical Conditioning: Cold plunge therapy, beach fitness bootcamps, on-resort running, and longevity workshops.

·       Creative Expression: Daily rituals like moon meditations, cacao ceremonies, painting, and guided reflection, each designed to deepen self-discovery and inspire meaningful, lasting wellness habits.

On-Demand Mindfulness

Among the retreat’s featured experts is Millah, a transformational guide and founder of YouTuneIn, the app designed to enhance wellbeing through mental and emotional clarity with immersive auditory experiences such as binaural meditation, healing sound frequencies, and 8D audio journeys. Launching this month in conjunction with the Wellness Fusion Retreat, Club Med has partnered with YouTuneIn to premiere the experience on property, allowing guests to be among the first users with complimentary seven-day access during their stay. The app is actively being rolled out at select Club Med resorts throughout North America including the brand’s flagship sun resort, Club Med Punta Cana. United by a shared commitment to holistic wellness, the partnership also offers guests 10% off a subscription after checkout, extending the wellness journey beyond the resort.

Enhanced In-Room Experience: Emerald Jungle Wellness Fusion Rooms

A sneak peak of the Emerald Jungle Wellness Fusion Rooms, scheduled to debut in summer 2026, will be offered during the retreat. The reimagined room category is designed to bring wellness and restorative practices directly into guest accommodations, reinforcing the brand’s approach to comprehensive wellbeing. Located in the adults-only Zen Oasis section, each room features three curated amenity baskets, including healthy snacks and drinks, a Good Night Kit, and a Pampering Kit, crafted to encourage mindful moments and reflection. Interiors echo the surrounding jungle with tropical patterns, lush green hues, wooden furnishings, and a ceramic bathroom, while a furnished terrace or patio offers garden views, all steps away from the freshwater Zen Pool.

To learn more about the Wellness Fusion Retreat at Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda and take advantage of 40% off limited time offer, valid for travel through June 19, 2026, click here.

Located in the Dominican Republic’s El Seibo province in between lush palm groves, rugged mountains and secluded beaches, Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda is the first operating resort in the undiscovered region of Miches. Spread across 93 acres, this 5-Trident, all-inclusive resort is part of Club Med’s growing Exclusive Collection (5-star) portfolio that offers the brand’s own carefree interpretation of luxury. This eco-chic property features four boutique “villages” with distinct room concepts for every traveler – the Emerald Jungle and Archipelago sections offer a luxury, adults only escape, while the Explorer Cove and Caribbean Paradise offer an elevated, family-centric setting nearby children’s clubs, pools and beaches, and sports activities. With access to 25 land and water sports, guests can personalize their stay with a mix of experiences from treetop yoga in a jungle palapa, to archery, pickleball, or flying trapeze. The resort’s four restaurants and six bars offer an authentically Dominican culinary journey, and a playful secret chocolate room adds a whimsical twist to the dining experience. Part of Club Med’s signature Wellness Fusion program, a stay at Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda combines healthy nutrition, active sports, yoga & meditation, spa relaxation at Club Med Spa by Cinq Mondes, and reconnection to nature.

Club Med, founded in 1950 by Gérard Blitz, is a pioneer of the all-inclusive concept, operating nearly 60 premium resorts in stunning locations around the world including North and South America, Caribbean, Asia, Africa, Europe and the Mediterranean. Each Club Med resort features authentic local style and comfortably upscale accommodations, superior sports programming and activities, enriching children’s programs, gourmet dining, and warm and friendly service by its world-renown staff with legendary hospitality skills, an all-encompassing energy and diverse backgrounds. Club Med continues to grow and adapt to each market with three to five new resort openings or renovations per year, including a new mountain resort annually. 

For more information, visit www.clubmed.us, call 1-800-Club-Med (1-800-258-2633), or contact a preferred travel professional. For an inside look at Club Med, follow Club Med on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. 

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