Founding Members Receive Exclusive Presale Access Beginning July 1, One Week Before Public Release on July 8
The Obama Foundation is releasing more Obama Presidential Center Museum tickets after the first tickets were immediately sold out. The new ticket release for the Museum will include visits from September 2026 through January 2027. The Museum is the only ticketed area on campus, with the vast majority of the campus free and open to the public. (photo: Obama Presidential Center)
CHICAGO, IL — The Obama Foundation today announced it will release more Obama Presidential Center Museum tickets following a sellout due to high demand. The new ticket release for the Museum will include visits from September 2026 through January 2027. The Museum is the only ticketed area on campus, with the vast majority of the campus free and open to the public.
Founding Members of The Obama Foundation will receive exclusive presale access beginning July 1, with tickets becoming available to the general public on July 8.
“We built the Obama Presidential Center to be a place where people from all walks of life can come together, find inspiration, and leave ready to make a difference – and it’s been thrilling to see that vision come to life every day on our campus,” said Valerie Jarrett, CEO of The Obama Foundation. “The overwhelming interest we’ve seen since opening our doors is a powerful reminder of how much people are looking for spaces that bring us closer together. We’re thrilled to make more tickets available and grateful to our members whose support helps us invest in the next generation of changemakers.”
Membership in The Obama Foundation provides early Museum ticket access and exclusive benefits while supporting the Foundation’s mission to inspire, empower, and connect the next generation of leaders. Member support helps expand community programming and ensures the Obama Presidential Center remains a vibrant, welcoming space for all.
For more information on membership or to purchase tickets, visit obama.org.
Denver, CO — June 25, 2026 — This summer, the holiday spirit arrives early thanks to Xanterra Travel Collection®’s Christmas in July Sale, running July 17–29, 2026. For a limited time, travelers can unwrap exclusive savings on iconic national park stays, yacht-style cruises, cycling and walking tours, luxury resorts, a historic train ride, and other global adventures.
From the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone and the awe-inspiring vistas of the Grand Canyon to the otherworldly landscapes of Death Valley National Park and the coastal luxury of Sea Island, travelers can take advantage of special offers designed to inspire unforgettable journeys.
Explore the enchantment of the world’s first national park. Covering 2.2 million acres, Yellowstone is home to an incredible array of wildlife, boasting more geysers, hot springs, and geothermal features than any other place on Earth.
Save 25% at Canyon Lodge, Grant Village, Lake Hotel, Lake Lodge, Bridge Bay Campground and Grant Campground. Save 20% at Old Faithful Inn, Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Mammoth Hotel. Eligible stay dates are July 17, 2026 through March 3, 2027.
Grand Canyon, South Rim
Marvel at the breathtaking views and historic charm of one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. “The eternal yet ever-evolving Grand Canyon is as mystical and awe-inspiring as ever.” – Sunset Magazine, May 2026
Save 20% at El Tovar Hotel and 30% at Bright Angel Lodge, Kachina Lodge, Thunderbird Lodge, or Maswik Lodge for stays between July 15, 2026 and March 4, 2027.
Save 20% at The Grand Hotel at The Grand Canyon for stays between July 17, 2026, and March 4, 2027.
Save 30% at Grand Canyon Hotel & Suites for stays between July 17, 2026, and March 4, 2027.
Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel
Take a nostalgic journey to the canyon aboard a vintage train and stay in comfort in Williams, Arizona.
Stay 2, 3 or 4 nights with the Stay and Save Platinum Package at Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and save 50% on roundtrip tickets for all classes of service on the train.
Stay 2, 3 or 4 nights at Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and save 50% off your train fare, receive a $20 Gift Shop Certificate, and allow us to take care of your meals with the Canyon Rails Getaway Platinum Package.
AAA Members stay 2, 3 or 4 nights with the Rails to the Rim Platinum Package at Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and save 50% on all classes of service on the train.
Save with $125 Hotel rates for standard rooms on select dates for the Polar Express packages, a holiday experience like no other.
The Oasis at Death Valley
Most people avoid Death Valley in summer — after all, it’s the hottest place on Earth. But this is when The Oasis at Death Valley comes alive, with early morning golfing, natural spring-fed pools, and some of the most spectacular stargazing in the world.
Save 30% on room rates at both The Inn and The Ranch for stays between July 15, 2026 – January 14, 2027.
Cedar Creek Lodge
The 64-room Cedar Creek Lodge and Conference Center is a AAA Three Diamond property located just outside Glacier National Park, serving as the perfect home base for hiking, biking, world-renowned river fishing, and more.
Save 30% at Cedar Creek Lodge for stays between October 12, 2026 – March 31, 2027.
Holiday Vacations
Step into the wonder of the holidays with a journey to one of the most enchanting destinations across the country. Experience a traditional German Christmas market, wander the candlelit halls of the Biltmore Estate, enjoy performances in Music City USA, be swept away by the magic of The Nutcracker™ at Lincoln Center, or soak up the sun at America’s grandest New Year’s event.
Take $200 off any 2026 Christmas tour, including New York City at Christmastime, Smoky Mountain Christmas, Nashville Holiday Extravaganza, Christmastime in British Columbia, Chicago at Christmastime, and Pasadena Rose Parade.
VBT | Country Walkers
For those who want to go deeper, VBT | Country Walkers tours allow travelers to experience a destination with the help of a local leader who guides small groups through the world’s most beautiful destinations.
Save 5% when you book any 2027 vacation and pay in full by November 19, 2026.
Windstar Cruises
Windstar Cruises operates an eight-ship fleet of small sailing and all-suite yachts visiting over 330 ports, including Europe, the Caribbean, Costa Rica and the Panama Canal, Asia, Alaska, Canada & New Zealand, and cruising year-round in Tahiti.
Enjoy the complimentary All-Inclusive package, plus $300 onboard credit per stateroom and $300 reduced deposit on cruises through December 31, 2027.
Sea Island
Tucked away on the southeastern coast of Georgia, Sea Island boasts five miles of private beach and a lush natural world to explore. An exceptional destination fueled by gracious service and timeless luxury since 1928.
Receive 25% off at The Cloister and The Lodge or 15% off Cottage Rentals for stays November 29 – December 23. Plus, receive a $250 Resort Credit per stay.
The Broadmoor
Experience a pristine Colorado Springs resort where personalized luxury offers an escape from the ordinary and modern details blend seamlessly with classic European elegance.
Save 30% on your stay at The Broadmoor for select dates November 1, 2026 through April 30, 2027.
Xanterra Travel Collection® has operations in national parks, including lodges, restaurants, tours and activities 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 | 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.
With Europe preparing for its first total solar eclipse in 27 years on August 12, demand for prime viewing destinations is starting to climb. Combined with the continued rise of noctourism, one of the top travel trends for this year, the celestial event is expected to cause a rush for accommodations along the eclipse path.
To travel for the eclipse, HomeExchange Collection, an exclusive community for like-minded travelers to meet, share, and exchange their home, allows members gain access not only to exceptional residences, but also to invaluable local insight, like tips on the best viewing spots and sights to see during this extraordinary celestial event. Ideal for travelers who want to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime event, an annual membership fee allows members to enjoy unlimited direct home exchanges or utilize GuestPoints to stay in another home without coordinating reciprocal travel dates. Additional benefits include dedicated member support, 100% flexible guest cancellation, and the comfort, privacy, and character of extraordinary residences in some of the world’s best locations to view this remarkable phenomenon.
The eclipse will brush across parts of Spain, Morocco, and Iceland. HomeExchange Collection presents a selection of luxury homes located directly on the eclipse path:
Meðalfellsvatn Lake, Iceland
Set on the shores of Iceland’s picturesque Meðalfellsvatn Lake, this elegant three bedroom home offers uninterrupted views of the water and surrounding mountains. Its open-concept living spaces and three comfortable bedrooms make it ideal for families or groups seeking a peaceful retreat. With minimal light pollution and dramatic natural surroundings, it provides an exceptional setting for experiencing the total solar eclipse, where maximum totality will last approximately two minutes and 18 seconds.
Ponça, Mallorca, Spain
In Mallorca, travelers will experience one and a half to two minutes of totality, and where better to watch this extraordinary event from a spacious five bedroom villa, located in the best corner of the Spanish island. This home sits proudly on a green lawn with orange and lemon trees, olives and palms, with multiple terraces on all sides of the property, perfect for watching one of the most anticipated celestial events of the year. Santa Ponça, as a residential and a holiday spot beloved by locals, is minutes away from some of Mallorca’s best golf courses, yacht marinas, and beaches.
Tangier, Morocco
As Morocco’s premier eclipse-viewing destination, Tangier will be directly in the line of totality for approximately four minutes and 50 seconds. The home’s breathtaking terrace, which gazes directly over the sea, makes for an exceptional viewing experience. Ensuring that the magic lasts long beyond those incredible few minutes of totality, the property is a true artist’s home, with spectacular antiques and art displayed throughout all four bedrooms and common spaces. Additionally, the property’s location in Tangiers’ chicest neighborhood, Marshan, makes it perfect for exploring the best of the city’s hillside medina, bustling souks, and international artistic history.
Cadiz, Spain
Located in Cadiz, Southern Spain’s prime eclipse-viewing base, this three bedroom home sits within the path of totality for nearly three minutes. Overlooking La Caleta beach, it pairs immaculate beach views with sleek, contemporary interiors. The result is a stylish coastal base from which to experience this highly anticipated event and explore Cadiz’s captivating architecture, climate and culture.
Home Exchange is a membership organization where you swap your home and travel the world differently. Stay in real homes across 155 countries – 550,000 are listed – and be part of a global community built on trust.
Create your account and become a member: Add your home and tell us more about yourself. Become a member for $235 and search for your first exchange.
Find an exchange that fits you: Swap homes directly with another member, or use GuestPoints to travel without matching your plans with anyone else.
Travel with confidence: Home Exchange guarantees protect your home and your finalized exchanges, so you can relax, explore and feel at home wherever you go.
VBT | Country Walkers has announced a collection of new walking, cycling and Discovery tours debuting in 2027, expanding its portfolio of immersive travel experiences across six continents. The new itineraries emphasize active exploration, authentic cultural immersion, meaningful local connections, and insider access to the people, traditions and landscapes that define a destination.
Highlights include new journeys through Japan, Morocco, Indonesia, Patagonia, Colombia, Australia, India and beyond, featuring experiences, such as home-hosted meals, artisan workshops, wildlife encounters, conservation-focusesd activities, and expert local guides.
“Our latest tours reflect the evolution of how many travelers want to explore today,” said Timo Shaw, President of VBT | Country Walkers. “Guests still want to be active and engaged, but they also want meaningful access to local traditions, cuisine, landscapes, and people. These journeys stimulate both heart and mind through exclusive experiences that feel authentic and inspiring.”
NEW FOR 2027: DISCOVERY TOURS
VBT | Country Walker’s newest travel style, Discovery combines enriching local encounters, expert Trip Leaders, seamless Tour + Travel Packages, and thoughtfully paced itineraries that prioritize cultural depth, flexibility, and authentic connection.
Indonesia Discovery Tour with Bali & Komodo Cruise
Can’t choose between an Indonesian beach vacation and a cruise? This unique Discovery adventure delivers both.
Relax and become enchanted at a luxurious Bali resort upon arrival, then venture inland to discover the temples of Ubud before boarding a charming wooden pinisi ship for a fascinating eight-night cruise.
Snorkel through vibrant coral reefs, swim with gentle whale sharks, and kayak in the crater lake of an extinct volcano, while a Indonesian Trip Leader brings guests to seaside villages to meet the locals, spot Komodo dragons, and explore pink sand beaches.
Japan Discovery Tour from Tokyo to Kyoto
On this remarkable Japan Discovery adventure, the sights of Tokyo and Kyoto are juxtaposed with the Japanese countryside most travelers never see.
In the spa town of Awara, experience traditional Japanese hot spring baths, travel through rice paddy fields to visit a local chef who demonstrates how to make soba noodles, and venture into the mountains to discover the ancient Eiheiji Temple.
In the company of a Japanese Trip Leader, learn the subtle art of calligraphy in Tokyo, visit the minka village at Shirakawa-mura, and explore the Nomura-ke samurai house in Kanazawa.
Morocco Discovery Tour with Fès, Marrakech & the Sahara
Take a deep dive into the many facets of Moroccan culture, exploring the medinas and mosaics of four imperial cities with a Moroccan Trip Leader.
Join a local family for a traditional tea ceremony in their home and visit a neighborhood women’s collective to learn how to prepare traditional Berber dishes.
Explore the stunning sands of the Sahara Desert during a stay in a luxurious tent oasis and where the haunting notes of traditional Berber music set the mood for a starlit alfresco dinner.
Türkiye Discovery Tour with the Turquoise Coast & Cappadocia
Discover Türkiye’s famous Turquoise Coast, with the fascinating coastal city of Izmir as homebase.
Perched perfectly on the crystal-clear Aegean Sea, Izmir is the perfect spot to discover the ancient site of Ephesus, the historic archeologic site at Troy, and the riveting village of Urla.
Stay at private boutique hotels that showcase the true character of the region, including a remarkable 5-star hotel in Cappadocia that is built right into the caves overlooking the region’s magnificent fairy chimneys.
Tahiti Discovery Tour Cruise with Bora Bora & Moorea
In partnership with Windstar Cruises, indulge in seven nights on a nimble sailing yacht which glides into smaller harbors the larger cruise ships can’t reach.
Join a Tahitian Trip Leader on the island of Mo’orea where a local friend hosts a cooking class in her tropical garden, then snorkel with sharks and manta rays and visit a pearl farm where guests can dive for their own pearl.
Learn about conservation efforts in the region during a visit to a coral garden and visit a sea turtle rescue where guests swim with these gentle giants.
Australia Discovery Tour with Uluru & the Great Barrier Reef
Few Australia vacations focus on cross-cultural discovery with an eco-friendly twist, making this adventure a rare gem.
Cruise the Great Barrier Reef on a sailing catamaran, preserving the fragile ecosystem as a local marine biologist guides the discovery. Visit a First Nations artist enclave to learn the fine art of traditional dot painting.
Explore the Daintree rainforest with a local First Nation’s guide and enjoy a traditional bush tucker lunch, then visit Sydney’s iconic Opera House, and explore Bondi Beach and its century-old surf lifesaver’s culture.
Colombia Discovery Tour to Medellín & the Cocora Valley
Dive deep into Colombian agriculture and traditions with a local Trip Leader on this eco-friendly adventure.
Visit a cacao plantation to discover the aromatic beans used in fine quality chocolate and journey to a coffee plantation and take part in a coffee cupping workshop.
Visit an orchid farm and take in the vibrant array of spectacular blooms, and explore Medellín, known for its sustainable “green corridor” network of gardens that keeps the city cool.
Egypt Discovery Tour to Cairo, Luxor & the Nile
Experience the architectural wonders of Egypt the way they’re meant to be seen: without the crowds and led by a trained Egyptologist.
This Nile River adventure includes a traditional Egyptian dahbiya rather than a cruise ship, offering a flexible timetable, so guests can explore fascinating archeological sites at sunrise and sunset when the crowds are at their thinnest.
Meet a camel merchant and his animal companions, visit a family’s home to enjoy fresh bread baked in their wood-fired oven, and ride a tuk-tuk to an outdoor market known only to locals.
India Discovery Tour to Jaipur, Udaipur & Agra
Go beyond the main attractions of India on this unique adventure led by a local Indian trip leader, journeying from the blue city of Jodhpur to Ranthambore National Park.
Ride through the golden sands of the Thar desert, returning to a delightful oasis for an evening of traditional music and dance beneath the stars. Explore the brilliant blue city of Jodhpur, and practice yoga with an Indian yogi.
Search for the thrilling orange streak of tigers against the lush green of the forest — and visit a non-profit organization helping protect them, and visit the pink city of Jaipur to meet a local businesswoman and ride in her tuk-tuk.
Patagonia Discovery Tour with Torres del Paine
This adventure contrasts sophisticated cities with the wild, untamed beauty of Patagonia.
Starting in Buenos Aires, uncover vibrant art, exquisite Michelin-starred restaurants, and lively milongas, and set out for the splendor of Patagonia’s soaring peaks and turquoise lakes.
Among Argentina’s windswept steppes, meet local gauchos and enjoy an authentic lunch at their estancia, explore the prehistoric Midolon Caves, and take a hands-on pottery workshop at a local artisan’s studio before exploring alluring Santiago.
NEW FOR 2027: WALKING VACATIONS
VBT | Country Walkers delivers exclusive small-group adventures off the beaten path. Traveling on foot with local leaders frees guests to experience life in new and delightful ways.
Azores Walking Tour on São Miguel Island
On Portugal’s lush volcanic island of São Miguel, follow scenic footpaths past crater lakes, waterfalls, tea plantations, and dramatic Atlantic coastlines.
Guests gain exclusive access to thermal pools at Terra Nostra Park, explore the geothermal wonders of Furnas, and walk beside the twin blue-and-green lakes of Sete Cidades, one of Portugal’s Seven Wonders.
Cultural immersion comes alive through a hands-on cooking experience in a local chef’s home, garden-to-table island cuisine, and tastings of volcanic-inspired cheeses and artisan chocolates shaped by the island’s fertile terrain.
Poland & Slovakia Walking Tour through the Tatras
This alpine walking journey pairs breathtaking mountain scenery with centuries-old Central European traditions.
Guests hike forest and meadow trails beneath the dramatic peaks of the High Tatras, discover UNESCO-listed Banská Štiavnica and its rich mining heritage, and immerse themselves in authentic Goral Highland culture through music, artisan foods, and village life.
Experiences include sharing a home-hosted lunch in the Polish countryside while learning to prepare traditional pierogies and regional flatbreads, relaxing in boutique mountain hotels with spa amenities, and walking to glacial lakes and panoramic viewpoints that reveal the Tatras at their most spectacular.
NEW FOR 2027: BICYCLING VACATIONS
Exploring the world on two wheels with VBT | Country Walkers lets guests experience their surroundings on a deeper level, with friendly camaraderie, cultural immersion, and casual comforts around every bend in the road.
Northern Ireland Bike Tour
Pedal through rolling emerald hills, dramatic Atlantic coastlines, and storybook villages while tracing the cultural heartbeat of Northern Ireland.
Walk the wave-splashed basalt columns of Giant’s Causeway, sip whiskey straight from the source at Old Bushmills Distillery, cycle beneath the haunting beech tunnels of the “Dark Hedges,” and watch master artisans hand-paint porcelain at Belleek Pottery.
Along the way, guests experience the warmth of Irish hospitality through lively pubs, traditional music sessions, and relaxed village encounters across Derry, Donegal, and the Fermanagh Lakelands.
Texas Bike Tour through San Antonio & the Hill Country
On this Lone Star State experience, discover a landscape where German heritage, cowboy culture, music, vineyards, and wildflower-lined roads converge.
Riders explore the UNESCO-listed San Antonio Missions, visit the legendary Alamo, and cycle rolling ranchlands dotted with wineries and historic dance halls.
Experiences range from tasting Hill Country varietals and savoring Texas barbecue on a working ranch to hiking Enchanted Rock and spending evenings in Fredericksburg, where live music and front-porch hospitality embody the spirit of the Lone Star State.
Japan Bike Tour through Shikoku & the Shimanami Kaido
Combining serene cycling with deeply rooted Japanese traditions, this immersive journey traverses the islands of Honshu and Shikoku via quiet mountain roads, pilgrimage routes, and seaside villages.
Guests receive a cyclist’s blessing cloth at a Shinto shrine, craft delicate washi paper by hand, participate in a tea ceremony with a Buddhist monk, and stay in traditional inns and luxury ryokan with restorative hot spring baths.
One of the journey’s most memorable evenings features a private dinner with geisha, offering rare insight into one of Japan’s most refined cultural traditions.
For more than 50 years, VBT | Country Walkers have been providing active, experiential, and stunning travel experiences throughout the world. From their home base in Williston, VT, the company’s adventures and insider access bring the beating heart of a destination to life with well-crafted itineraries for walking and biking vacations. A range of guided and self-guided options highlight local cuisine, authentic accommodations, and immersive cultural experiences. VBT | Country Walkers is recognized as a leading provider of active vacations worldwide, having garnered countless awards including National Geographic Traveler’s “50 Tours of a Lifetime,” AFAR’s “Traveler’s Choice” Awards, and Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best” Awards. For more information, visitvbt.com.
What if the most meaningful trip you take this year asks you to slow down, read and walk through the woods that inspired one of the most beloved stories ever written?
Travel in 2026 has a new defining word: “readaway.” With 91% of travelers expressing a desire for slower, more intentional trips this year, a new category of literary travel has become one of the year’s most compelling emerging trends — journeys built around books, reflection and the landscapes that gave great stories their soul. This year, the trend has its perfect emblem: the 100th anniversary of Winnie-the-Pooh, first published in 1926.
Ashdown Forest, the East Sussex heathland just 30 miles from London that became the real-life Hundred Acre Wood, is marking the centenary this summer with a full program of free cultural events, including interactive performances, new themed walking trails and community celebrations across the county, all under the banner of The Big One Hundred (thebigonehundred.co.uk).
To mark the anniversary, Active England, a U.K.-based soft adventure luxury tour operator, has launched A Rather Important Journey: Winnie-the-Pooh’s Centenary — a six-day guided read retreatthat blends quiet, literary exploration with a walking-led tour through the real-life setting of the story’s Hundred Acre Wood, Ashdown Forest.
Beginning in London and continuing into the Sussex countryside, the experience is designed as a true “readaway,” complete with a gifted collection of the original stories to accompany you throughout the journey. From playing Poohsticks at Poohsticks Bridge, to visiting Pooh Corner and Nymans, to themed picnics and independent readings along the route — taking in Piglet’s door, the Gloomy Place, the Heffalump Trap and the Milne and Shepard Memorial — the journey brings the magic of Winnie-the-Pooh into the real world.
Highlights of the six-day journey include:
Walking through Ashdown Forest, the setting behind Milne’s stories
Playing Poohsticks at the original Poohsticks Bridge
Guided outdoor readings with a gifted collection of the original Winnie-the-Pooh books
Visits to Pooh Corner and special centenary exhibitions across Sussex
Exploring the lives of A.A. Milne and Christopher Robin through literary and historical landmarks
Road Scholar, the not-for-profit leader in educational travel for adults 50+, is unveiling two new civil rights programs in New Orleans and Mississippi & Tennessee.
Road Scholar’s inaugural Civil Rights Movement program in Alabama and Georgia has consistently been one of their most popular and impactful programs since its release in 2017. Nearly 550 travelers attended the program last year, and it frequently elicits reviews that include the word “life-changing.”
“I cannot overstate the richness of this experience,” said 2024 participant Analee from South Deerfield, Mass. “The people we met, the experts who taught us, the museums and sites we visited— they all were life-changing (no hyperbole!). History became real, and I am dedicated to learning more and living my life anew with the lessons learned.”
The nonprofit organization hopes these new programs in New Orleans, Jackson, Memphis, and Nashville will help broaden their educational programming on the civil rights history in the U.S., leaving as much of a meaningful mark on participants as the program in Georgia and Alabama.
“This program was created to connect people with the living history of the Civil Rights Movement across Jackson, Memphis, and Nashville— places where ordinary individuals made extraordinary choices that helped shape our nation,” said Bobbie Duncan from the Center for Educational Adventure, which partners with Road Scholar to organize and operate the program. “By exploring these communities and hearing the stories rooted there, we hope participants leave with a deeper appreciation of the movement’s complexity, the courage it required, and a renewed sense of how its lessons about justice, dignity, and collective action still matter today.”
New Orleans is already one of Road Scholar’s most popular destinations, with participants visiting the Crescent City on any of 10 different programs. The new civil rights program takes an even deeper look at the city’s story beyond what most travelers see.
“A civil rights and jazz program in New Orleans offers a powerful new way to experience the city by connecting two of its most influential legacies,” said Lindsey Temple, Program Operations Director at Road Scolar. “From the fight for equality to the birth of America’s most iconic musical tradition, these stories bring New Orleans to life in a meaningful and immersive way. This focused program allows travelers to engage with the people, places, and history that shaped the city’s cultural identity, offering an experience that is both educational and unforgettable.”
Road Scholar’s first departures are scheduled in May 2027 in honor of the 10th anniversary of their inaugural Civil Rights Movement program “The Civil Rights Movement: Atlanta, Montgomery, Selma, Birmingham.” Both programs are currently open for enrollment, as well as future dates of the original program in Alabama and Georgia.
Road Scholar is the not-for-profit world leader in educational travel for older adults. Founded as Elderhostel in 1975, Road Scholar has served more than 6.5 million lifelong learners over the past 50 years. With educational adventures hosted by expert faculty in nearly 100 countries and throughout the United States, Road Scholar truly is a university of the world. Learn more at www.roadscholar.org.
The National Archives Foundation is hosting the Spirit of Independence Festival, a spectacular multi-day festival taking place from June 4-6, 2026 on Constitution Avenue to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Hosted beneath a tent spanning two city blocks in front of the National Archives—the home of the original Declaration of Independence—the Spirit of Independence Festival will include free daytime events for families and three evening benefit events to support the National Archives Foundation and its effort to engage the American public with our nation’s history.
From free daytime programming like a patriotic pet “yappy hour” to a “Stars and Stories” Fest with Disney characters, there’s something for everyone to enjoy throughout the multi-day festival. See the full lineup of events and find more details here.
Reserve free tickets to daytime programming and purchase individual tickets to select evening programs. Guests who reserve tickets online will receive complimentary access to the National Archives Museum.
Glen Cove, N.Y.— Congressman Tom Suozzi (D–Long Island, Queens) announced the introduction of the Washington Spy Ring National Historic Trail Designation Act, legislation that would designate a new National Historic Trail highlighting the crucial role Long Island played in securing America’s independence. He leads this bipartisan bill alongside his Long Island colleague, Congressman Nick LaLota (R-Long Island).
The proposed trail would span approximately 50 miles along the north short of Long Island and Queens, from Little Neck to Port Jefferson, connecting key sites used by the legendary Culper Spy Ring during the American Revolution.
“The story of the Culper Spy Ring is one of courage and patriotism played out right here on Long Island,” said Congressman Suozzi. “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, it’s incumbent upon us to honor the brave men and women who risked everything for freedom, especially those whose heroism took place in our backyard. By establishing this National Historic Trail, we honor their legacy, preserve our history, and take great pride in Long Island’s role in American independence.”
“As America approaches its 250th birthday, Congress should recognize that without the Culper Spy Ring, General George Washington may never have turned the tide of the Revolution and set the United States on the path to becoming the greatest nation in the world,” said Congressman LaLota.
The Culper Spy Ring, a network of American patriots operating behind enemy lines, gathered intelligence on British troop movements in New York, helped expose traitor Benedict Arnold’s plot to surrender West Point to the British, helped protect the vital alliance between American and French forces, and otherwise transferred information to General George Washington across the Long Island Sound.
Key sites along the proposed trail include Raynham Hall in Oyster Bay, the Arsenal in Huntington, and the Brewster House in Setauket.
The legislation directs the Secretary of the Interior to work in partnership with local stakeholders to develop and administer the trail, ensuring public access and historical preservation.
The Washington Spy Ring National Historic Trail would join the National Trails System, a network that promotes historic preservation, outdoor recreation, and heritage tourism across the United States.
“This designation tells the story of how Long Island helped shape the future of our nation,” Suozzi stated. “This is a proud, bipartisan celebration of both our country and our community.”
Discover Long Island’s Long Island Heritage Trail
Meanwhile, you can explore the Culper Spy Trail and Long Island Heritage Trail on your own. Discover Long Island, the regional destination marketing organization, offers a four-day itinerary.
Although it was largely occupied by the British during the Revolutionary War, there were many brave Patriots who risked their lives in the Washington Spy Ring to get George Washington the information he needed to win the war.
Stretching along Long Island’s North Shore is Route 25A, also known as the Long Island Heritage Trail. President George Washington traveled this same route in a 1790 horse-drawn carriage tour on a mission to thank his Long Island Revolutionary War supporters and the ‘Culper Spy Ring’ for their help in winning the American Revolution. Among the sites to visit are Raynham Hall in Oyster Bay, where the Townsends became part of the Washington Spy Ring; TheArsenalin Huntington, where Job Sammis hid stores of gunpowder in his attic during the onset of the British occupation; the Conklin House where Sybil Conklin lived and worked here while her husband, David was held prisoner by the British during the Revolutionary War; in Lloyd Harbor, the British occupied Joseph Lloyd Manor,and the Brewster House in Stony Brook where American Patriot Caleb Brewster spied on British soldiers during the Revolutionary War.
See where the British had a garrison quartered where the Battle of Setauket was fought near the Setauket Presbyterian Church on Caroline Ave. Nearby on Dyke Rd is the Woodhull Home marker, and go down Strongs Neck Rd., where Anna Smith Strong and Abraham Woodhull lived. Stop in at the Thompson House to see some of the spies’ names in the doctor’s book. In East Setauket, Sherwood-Jayne Farm was the home of Loyalist William Jayne, also known as “Big Bill the Tory”.
Make sure to visit the Three Village Historical Society to see exhibits on the ‘Spy Ring’ and to find out about special events and tours.
Stony Brook University Library’s Special Collections has two original Culper Spy Ring letters from General Washington to his Long Island spymaster. Make an appointment to learn more.
On the South Shore, be sure to visit Sagtikos Manor in Bay Shore, built in 1697. British forces occupied the Manor briefly during the Revolutionary War. President George Washington stayed here during his tour of Long Island in 1790.
On August 12, 2026, the moon will pass between the Earth and the sun, plunging the Mediterranean into an otherworldly twilight for one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles.
If you felt left out of the opportunity to see the total eclipse of the sun on August 12, 2026, unobstructed from the vantage point of the Mediterranean, National Trust Tours is still taking reservations for limit space available on the elegant small ship La Belle des Océans, perfectly positions you in the path of totality, with nothing between you and the sky but open sea.
National Trust Tours is partnering with Great Courses Journeys, to present this journey guided by astrophysicist Dr. Sarah Rugheimer and Allan I Carswell, Chair at York University, who will enrich your experience by bringing the science of the eclipse vividly to life.
The journey beings and ends in Nice — a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its glimmering beaches and tree-lined promenade — and features ports of call in Barcelona and the sunny islands of Menorca and Mallorca.
When the sky darkens and the stars emerge on August 12, cruisers will have one of the best vantage points in the world for experiencing the total solar eclipse — at sea, directly in the path of totality, with an unobstructed view of the moon as it passes between the Earth and the sun.
This western Mediterranean cruise aboard the elegant La Belle des Océans provides an ideal balance of elements: an expert scientist who will offer fascinating lectures and insights into the astronomical phenomenon that occurs during an eclipse; the natural beauty and delicious cuisine of the Mediterranean; and the opportunity to experience one of nature’s most spectacular shows from the deck of a small expedition ship.
Between celestial events, the itinerary is includes a full day in Barcelona with an exclusive after-hours visit to one of the world’s oldest active astronomical observatories, a private star party at the Observatorio Astronómico de Mallorca, and leisurely exploration of the sun-drenched islands of Menorca and Mallorca, and begins and ends in the glamorous French Riviera city of Nice.
As the 2026 travel season is in full swing, a fundamental shift is redefining the “adventure” in adventure travel. Moving beyond the passive observation of traditional safaris, a new generation of travellers is choosing conservation travel: a model where travellers swap binoculars for data sheets and camera traps.
In an era where biodiversity loss is increasingly linked to multi-faceted global threats, ethical wildlife volunteering has emerged as the most meaningful way to explore the planet. Leading this evolution since 1999 is Biosphere Expeditions, a non-profit organisation whose “citizen science” model has become the industry gold standard for transparency, scientific rigour, and ethical integrity.
Citizen scientists surveying a reef
The Rise of the “Impact Adventurer”
In 2026, the allure of the “unspoiled” is being replaced by the desire to “protect.” Modern travellers are increasingly wary of “voluntourism” (short-term programs that prioritise tourist entertainment over ecological needs). Instead, they are seeking “Impact Adventures”: long-term, science-led initiatives that contribute to real conservation outcomes.
Photographing a whale fluke for ID purposes, Azores
Biosphere Expeditions: A Role Model for 2026
While many operators struggle with transparency, Biosphere Expeditions has spent over 25 years refining a model that puts science first. Their approach serves as a blueprint for the industry through three core pillars:
Financial Transparency: Biosphere Expeditions remains a non-profit, with at least two-thirds of expedition contributions going directly into the project on the ground. This ensures that the local environment and communities (not corporate stakeholders) are the primary beneficiaries.
Sustainable Impact: Every expedition is part of a long-term strategy aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The data collected by volunteers are used by local governments and NGOs to create protected areas and manage wildlife corridors.
Transferring a sedated cheetah to be collared, Namibia
Being part of the solution
“People no longer want to just see the world; they want to ensure the world they see continues to exist,” says Dr. Matthias Hammer, founder of Biosphere Expeditions. “Conservation travel is about bridging the gap between professional science and the passionate amateur. It’s about being part of the solution, not just a witness to the problem.”
Dr. Matthias Hammer, founder of Biosphere Expeditions
