Miami Beach Visitors Center

SoBAY Festival of the Arts at the Deering Estate in Miami

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Sun, 17 Jan 2010 20:34:00 +0000

Set against the backdrop of a growing South Biscayne Bay (SoBay) Community and founded in 2006, the SoBay Festival of the Arts celebrates the literary, performing, and visual arts at the Deering Estate at Cutler. In partnership with LegalArt, Bernice Steinbaum, the Greater Miami Youth Symphony, the Miami-Dade College Theatre Department and individual artists such as Xavier Cortada, Jennifer Basile, Deena Blazejack, Cherie Clark, Ingrid Eliasson, and Vickie Pierre we celebrate the best of Miami’s artistic talent.

The following events will be held from January 31st through February 14th at the Deering Estate:

Sunday, January 31st
ArtSoBay Exhibit Opening
7:00 - 9:00 pm; Free. Open to the public.
Join us for the ArtSoBay Exhibit Opening with a progressive evening of art, history, and entertainment! Xavier Cortada will present his genographic project, "Ancestral Journeys,” a series of installations and performances using DNA to trace the ancestral journeys of people living in Miami. Guest juror, Bernice Steinbaum in partnership with LegalArt and the Deering Estate at Cutler presents a group art exhibit in the Stone House, Richmond Cottage and main grounds of the Estate. Artists in Residence – Jennifer Basile, Deena Blazejack, Cherie Clark, Ingrid Eliasson, and Vickie Pierre will present a culmination exhibit of their past year’s work while in residence on the Estate. Vignettes in the Courtyard will be featured by the Greater Miami Youth Symphony and the Miami Dade College Theatre Department.

Sunday, January 31st – February 26th
ArtSoBay Exhibit: "Ancestral Journeys," Xavier Cortada
In developing the works for the "Ancestral Journeys" installations and performances at Deering Estate, Cortada will be using DNA to trace the ancestral journeys of people living in Miami. Cortada will do so through the Genographic Project. The site-specific works Cortada proposes to install and perform during February 2010 include The Ancestral Dinner Party, Ancestral Journeys and Ancestral Miami. The artwork shows the interconnectedness between those who came from different countries across the Hemisphere to build their lives in Miami and their relationship to the natural world. In their blood they capture evidence of the routes their deep ancestors took in response to climatic changes from their original journey out of Africa 60,000 years ago. Looking at their biology to explore how nature influenced human history, the art piece will use genetic data to create a portrait of Miami's community.

Friday, February 5, 2010
Greater Miami Youth Symphony Performance
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm; $15
Join us for an evening celebrating emerging young artists in our community as they perform various vignettes of Chamber Music in the historic Stone House Ballroom. The Greater Miami Youth Symphony - our youth performance Artists-in-Residence - will co-host the evening.

Saturday, February 6, 2010
"Book Nook by the Bay" - "EcoArt"
10:00 am - 12:00 pm; Free with Estate admission: $10 for adults; $5 for children (ages 4-14).
Join the Deering Estate at Cutler's staff and Artists-in-Residence and find inspiration in the natural features of the Estate while creating an eco-art project that focuses on the importance of environmental stewardship.

Wednesday, February 10, 2010
“Icon of a Moment” – Panel discussion and lecture in the Ballroom
7:00 - 9:00 pm; $15
Join the Deering Estate's own Literary Artists-in-Residence, Deena Blazejack, guest historian, Dr. Paul George, Independent researcher and author from the Chicago area, Jennifer Faus, and Education and Interpretive Staff, Jessical Cabral as they lead a discussion and discovery of the juxtapositions of technology and culture depicted through Charles Deering - an icon of a moment in our nation's history.

Friday, February 12, 2010
Miami-Dade College Theatre Department
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm; $15
Under the direction of Deborah Mello, Miami-Dade College's Theatre Department will present an evening of Vignette's on the Estate.

Saturday, February 13, 2010
ArtSoBay Exhibit: Curator's Tour & Lunch
Tour at 11:00 am; Lunch at 12:00 pm; $25 includes gourmet boxed luncheon.
Join Xavier Cortada, Artists-in-Residence, featured ArtSoBay artists, LegalArt Executive Director, Kathleen Carignan, and Exhibits and Collections Manager of the Deering Estate for a guided tour of the exhibits followed by a discussion of the Economic Impact on our Community over lunch. RSVP required by Tuesday, February 9th. Please call 305-235-1668 ext. 233.

Sunday, February 14, 2010
11th annual "Moonlight & Music" Valentine's Day Concert
Concert begins at 7:00 pm; gate opens at 6:00 pm; $20 general admission.
The festival will end on a romantic note with the 11th annual “Moonlight and Music” Valentine’s Day Concert. The concert will feature Johnny Rodgers who will delight guests with his original soft rock ballads, Taylor-flavored melodies, and sultry jazz arrangements. Johnny Rodgers performed to a sold out crowd at the Deering Estate's July 2009 Summer Cabaret Concert. Liza Minnelli discovered Johnny several years ago, bringing him on as a pianist and guest performer on her world tours and recently featured Johnny in “Liza’s At The Palace” on Broadway. Johnny Rodgers grew up in Miami and is a product of Westminster Christian, Southwood Middle School, and New World School of the Arts. He also attended University of Miami Frost School of Music.

For more information, please visit http://www.deeringestate.org/.

Enjoy Miami on a Holiday Dinner Cruise

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:25:00 +0000

Island Queen Cruises will be hosting daily holiday dinner cruises between Christmas and New Year's Eve. Their nightly dinner cruise will be aboard their two luxury yachts the Venetian Lady and Biscayne Lady.

Their price of $75 dollars per adult is crazy! I highly recommend purchasing a ticket immediately, you can not find a better priced dinner in all of Miami for that price. Purchase holiday dinner cruise tickets now!!

Plus, their yachts are ideal for cruising Biscayne Bay and see Miami's spectacular skyline. You will not want to miss one of their nightly dinner cruises so make plans immediately!!

Personally, I've had a chance to be on board both vessels through the years. The Biscayne Lady is a huge vessel and extremely spacious while the Venetian Lady is spectacular and sleek. Even the show Top Chef filmed an episode on the Venetian Lady

As for the food, you will savor every bit from their chef, Clinton Smith. He makes incredible dishes.

Summer Concerts in Miami at the Deering Estate

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 14:40:00 +0000

Stay cool this summer and enjoy an intimate, cabaret-style concert at the Deering Estate’s 6th Annual Summer Cabaret Concert Series. The series features eclectic and world music artists in the historic Stone House Ballroom on June 27th, July 25th, and August 29th.

The Deering Estate kicks-off the 2009 Summer Cabaret Concert Series on Saturday, June 27th with the Jazz Trio - Cindy Curtis & Company. Cindy Curtis has written original lyrics to the melodies of many jazz standards including: Blue Bossa, Footprints, and High-Fly. The second concert will be held on Saturday, July 25th and will feature Johnny Rodgers. A native of Miami, Johnny Rodgers is an award-winning singer-songwriter-pianist whose original songs are influenced by the Beatles, Billy Joel, James Taylor, Sting, Paul Simon and John Mayer. Jorge Heilpern “Tangoman” will be performing for the final concert on Saturday, August 29th.

Concerts begin at 8 pm and the main gate opens at 7 pm. Guests are welcome to bring refreshments and snacks to enjoy during the show. Single Tickets are $20 and the three-concert series is $55. Limited seating is available. Advance tickets are recommended. Seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the Deering Estate Ticket Office at 305-235-1668 ext. 233.

The Deering Estate at Cutler, a Miami-Dade County Park, is located at 16701 SW 72 Avenue in Miami. This 444-acre natural and archeological preserve and historic site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a center for education, culture and recreation. During the summer, historic house tours are offered daily with admission to the Estate. EcoAdventure Tours are also offered throughout the year for an additional fee. For more information on the Deering Estate's educational and cultural programs please visit the Deering Estate website.

Mother's Day Brunch at the Deering Estate

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 15:10:00 +0000

Enjoy Mother's Day in Miami at the Deering Estate! Treat someone special to a morning of delicious food in an elegant setting on Sunday, May 10th from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm. Enjoy an endless selection of food, desserts, and beverages provided by Bill Hansen Catering. After brunch, guests can tour the grand Stone House and historic Richmond Cottage and explore the grounds as they enjoy a relaxing day at the Deering Estate. The cost is $70 for adults and $45 for children ages 5-12. Children 4 and under are free. For more information on the Mother’s Day Brunch, or to purchase tickets, please call 305-235-1668 ext. 233.

Deering Seafood Festival in Miami

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 16:08:00 +0000

Seafood lovers get ready to party! The enchanting rhythms of steel drums and towering stilt walkers greet you as you’re drawn into the magical, island-style celebration that has become the Deering Seafood Festival. Bring your family and friends on Sunday, March 29th from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and plan to spend the day because this event just keeps getting better.

Meet on the lawn of the biggest backyard on Biscayne Bay, where the Bay Roots Reggae Band play their calypso beat, and the colorfully costumed, free spirited Bahamian Junkanoo dancers weave playfully throughout the crowd. Every island celebration needs some fire eating and limbo dancing, and the entertainment at the Dearing Seafood Festival offers that and more. Also, back by popular demand is the crowd-pleasing band, Mr. Nice Guy.

Throughout the day seafood markets, restaurants and caterers such as Golden Rule Seafood Market, Bizcaya Ritz-Carlton, Fleming, Shibui, Rodbenders, Sports Grill, Tropical Palate and The Les Seafood Express prepare an outstanding array of the freshest catch that includes delicious lobster, fried conch, shrimp egg rolls, grilled dolphin, garlic blue crabs and mountains of shrimp that are steamed, fried, or just peel and eat.

Under the big top tent local celebrity chefs conduct cooking demonstrations, and share their unique recipes and impart culinary advice. Taste delectable samples of seafood dishes prepared by Sean Bernal (Oceanaire); Barb Freda, (Les Dames d’Escoffier); Cindy Hutson (Ortanique on the Mile); Philippe Pinon (Bizcaya, Ritz-Carlton); and Paula Da Silva (3030 Ocean, Ft. Lauderdale) who was recently seen on Hell’s Kitchen with Gordon Ramsay. Professionally attired culinary students from Robert Morgan Education Center work along side the chefs and offer assistance in food preparation. In the Lil’ Shrimp Kids Zone, Ariana Kumpis (Ariana’s Etiquette) conducts a cooking event designed just for children.

While festival goers of all ages are enjoying the scrumptious seafood and lively entertainment, some of the other exciting activities include an Artists’ Village with original paintings, photography, crafts and jewelry; the Lil’ Shrimp Kids Zone for kid-friendly fun; pontoon boat rides aboard the Pelican Skipper to Chicken Key; and a limited number of nature hikes and tours of the historic Stone House and Richmond Cottage.

Admission tickets include park entrance and entertainment, Adults $12 online and $15 at the gate; Children 4-14 year $5, and Foundation Members Free. For more information call 305-235-1668 ext. 263 or log on to Deering Seafood Festival.

Proceeds from the event benefit the Deering Estate Foundation.

Mother's Day Dinner Cruise Miami

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan) — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 04:37:00 +0000

This year, Island Queen Cruises is hosting a special Mother's Day Dinner Cruise aboard the Venetian Lady. This is going to be the best place to take your mother or wife and entire family for this special day. Make plans for this incredible Mother's Day Dinner Cruise.

This special Mother's Day Dinner cruise includes an unlimited dinner buffet of a tenderloin carving station with fresh baked dinner rolls, chicken marcela, bow tie pasta with 2 types of sauces fresh grilled garden veggies, scallop potatoes, fresh Greek salad and a Hong Kong desert table.

Our Venetian Lady yacht will be boarding between 3:30pm to 4:30pm and cruising until 7:30pm. The cruise will navigate the clear blue, calm waters around Miami and beautiful Biscayne Bay. Sit back and enjoy the scenery, while relaxing to our tropical background music and savor some of the best cuisine in South Florida. The most memorable Mother's Day imaginable!

Our modern yacht, the Venetian Lady, features three grand decks, 2 full bars, 2 dance floors, and state-of-the-art audio/visual equipment. She is Miami's newest private luxury charter yacht.

Please contact our office at 305.379.5119 ext 201 to make reservations for this spectacular Mother's Day Brunch Cruise. Limited Seating!

Price Adults $95.00 Children $42.95

Click here to purchase Mother's Day Dinner Cruise tickets!

Valentine's Day Jazz Concert featuring Nicole Henry at the Deering Estate

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 21:32:00 +0000

Don't miss the 10th annual "Moonlight & Music" Valentine's Day Concert at the Deering Estate featuring Jazz Vocalist Nicole Henry. Nicole will be performing a variety of jazz and romantic classics. There will also be an opening performance by Erin Pettit.

The concert will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2009 at 8:00 pm. Guests are welcome to bring blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets to enjoy the outdoor concert. The gate opens at 7 pm and the concert begins at 8 pm. Parking is free. General admission is $20.

The “Moonlight and Music” Concert is a Valentine’s Day South Florida tradition. It offers couples the opportunity to celebrate their love at a romantic outdoor concert under the stars, on the edge of Biscayne Bay, at the historic Deering Estate.

This is a great way to celebrate Valentine's Day in Miami - especially compared to the long wait that you will experience at many restaurants!

Holiday Events in Miami

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:00:00 +0000

Enjoy a variety of holiday events and activities at the Deering Estate in Miami. The historic Estate kicks off their Holiday Season of Events on Friday, December 5th with a “Tree Lighting Ceremony." Students from Miami-Dade College will be performing some of your favorite Holiday music in the Stone House Ballroom.

The 10th Annual “Holiday under the Stars” outdoor concert will be held on Saturday, December 6th from 7 – 10 pm. The concert will feature musical performances by Doug Cameron, Dana Paul, Wendy Pedersen, Lisanne Lyons, Nicole Yarling and the Miami String Project. During the concert and intermission, guests can tour the historic houses and see them filled with holiday accents and decorations created by the District XII Garden Clubs. The holiday decorating effort is an annual tradition and is a special project of the District XII Garden Clubs, which includes 26 branches in Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. The holiday decorations will be on display throughout December and is free with regular admission to the Deering Estate.

Santa Claus will be visiting the Estate for story-time and kids crafts on Saturday, December 13th and Saturday, December 20th from 10 am to 12 pm. And for those who want a break from holiday shopping, take a relaxing Bay Cruise on Sunday, December 21st from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.

For more information on the Holiday Season of Events at the Deering Estate please call 305-235-1668 ext. 233.

Biscayne National Park Celebrates 40 Year Anniversary

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 19:15:00 +0000

It has been 40 years since the creation of Biscayne National Park, originally known as Biscayne National Monument. Biscayne National Park stretches from the south point of Key Biscayne to the north end of Key Largo, and most of its 300 square miles are underwater. The tropical sanctuary was created after decades of struggles by local conservationists to prevent residential and industrial development on the bay’s chain of barrier islands.

The Deering Estate at Cutler is pleased to partner with Biscayne National Park to celebrate its 40th anniversary with a series of events in October. A month long exhibit entitled "Biscayne Bay - Then and Now" will open on October 1st at the Deering Estate at Cutler. The exhibit chronicles the 40 year history of Biscayne National Park and new plans for the Biscayne - Everglades Greenway. The exhibit will be on display in the Richmond Cottage from October 1st - November 14th. The exhibit is free with admission to the Estate.

The South Florida National Parks Trust will host a fundraising and awareness dinner on Friday, October 17th at the Deering Estate at Cutler to honor those who led the effort 40 years ago to save Biscayne Bay and establish the park.

On Saturday, October 18th the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) will host a symposium on the state of Biscayne National Park and the marine resources it protects. The symposium will be held at the Deering Estate at Cutler from 8:30 am - 3:30 pm. The cost is $15 and includes breakfast, lunch and entrance to the Estate. Keynote speakers include: Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Miami-Dade County Commissioner Katy Sorenson. For more information, please call 954-961-1280 ext. 201 or email suncoast@npca.org. Please RSVP by October 9th to 305-235-1668 ext. 233.

The celebration will conclude on Sunday, October 19th, from 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm, with a birthday party at the Biscayne National Park in Homestead. Enjoy a free, fun-filled day with a concert featuring Grant Livingston, a book signing with Lloyd Miller and hands-on activities for the whole family.

Canoeing and Kayaking in Miami

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 02:54:00 +0000

Miami-Dade Parks offers a variety of EcoAdventure Tours, including canoeing and kayaking on Biscayne Bay. The Deering Estate offers naturalist-guided canoe trips on Sunday mornings. On the trip, you will canoe to Chicken Key, a seven-acre mangrove island and restored bird rookery, which is located one mile offshore from the Deering Estate. Keep a look out for the manatees and sea turtles, as well as other marine wildlife along the way. The canoe trip is from 8:00 am to 11:00 am and is $25 for adults and $15 for children ages 9-14.

Interested is trying something different? Then checkout the Moonlight Canoe Tour also at the Deering Estate. You will canoe to Chicken Key under the light of the full moon. This night-time adventure includes a camp-fire and light snacks on the island. The moonlight canoe trip is from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm and is $35. You must be 18 years and older for this trip. Helpful hint: reserve your space early because this trip is sold out months in advance.

Kayak rentals are available on weekends from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at the Deering Estate. The cost for adults is $10 per hour plus regular park admission. The cost for children, ages 9-15, is $8 per hour plus regular park admission.

Patti Austin and Gerald Albright to perform at the Deering Estate's "Fall in Love" Jazz Concert

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:31:00 +0000

Enjoy an evening of jazz at the Deering Estate’s “Fall in Love” Concert featuring Patti Austin and Gerald Albright on Saturday, November 8, 2008. The concert is presented by Clear Channel Communications and Love 94FM and the Miami-Dade County Park and Recreation Department.

The outdoor concert will be held on the beautiful manicured lawn that overlooks the tranquil waters of Biscayne Bay. The gate opens at 5 pm and the concert begins at 7 pm. Guests can bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic baskets. No coolers will be permitted on the premises. Beverages will be available for purchase as well as a variety of food.

Tickets are $40 in advance and $45 at the gate. Tickets go on sale October 1st and can be purchased through Ticketmaster and the Deering Estate located at 16701 SW 72nd Avenue. For more information call 305-235-1668 ext. 233.

Wine Tasting Event in Miami

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 23:48:00 +0000

"Wine on Harvest Moon" isn't your ordinary wine tasting event. The event, now in it's seventh year, includes fine wine, fine food and fine art under the golden light of the Harvest Moon at the Deering Estate. Every year the wine tasting event features a different region - and this year it is the Wines of Spain presented by Crown Wine and Spirits.

With a tasting map and wine glass in hand, guests can explore the historic Stone House and Richmond Cottage which are filled with a variety of Tapas prepared by a select group of Miami's Top Chefs.

Be sure to enjoy a glass of wine in the Prohibition Era Wine Cellar where Charles Deering once hid his collection of fine wine and spirits.

Guests can also enjoy the best of Flamenco presented by Clarita Filgueiras - Flamenco Puro. And be one of the first to see the new permanent exhibit "Marycel and Tamarit" in the Stone House. Tickets for Members are $60 and for Non-members are $75.

Treat yourself to the VIP experience! As a VIP Ticket holder, you are invited to arrive one hour early to enjoy a special VIP Tasting with Professor Chip Cassidy, Wine Director of Crown Wine & Spirits, a culinary tour with event sommelier Marita Leonard, Ortanique on the Mile, preview the art and enjoy a special tour of Spain as seen through the eyes of Charles Deering. You will also receive preferred VIP parking and reserved VIP seating on the Stone House Court Yard for scheduled performances throughout the evening. VIP Tickets for Members are $120 and Non-members $150.

Drink and be merry because this event is for a good cause. Proceeds benefit the Deering Estate Foundation, which serves as the advocacy support group and philanthropic arm of the Deering Estate at Cutler. The Foundation raises funds to support education, research, exhibits and collections, natural conservation and historical restoration and preservation at the Deering Estate at Cutler.

Purchase tickets early because this event has sold out in the past. To purchase tickets or for more information call 305-235-1668 ext. 263.

Weddings at the Morikami Museum & Gardens

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:18:00 +0000

There are a number of attractions in Florida that also serve as a beautiful setting for wedding ceremonies and receptions. The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, and its tranquil natural setting, has become a premier rental facility in Palm Beach County. Their are 200 acres which include expansive Japanese gardens with strolling paths, a tropical bonsai collection, small lakes, nature trails, pine forests and a variety of wildlife.

A sunset wedding ceremony overlooking the lake provides a one of a kind backdrop for guests and for wedding photos. Those who do get married at Morikami receive a one-year membership, which includes unlimited free admission to the museum and gardens.

Cirque du Soleil Corteo coming to Miami

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 16:31:00 +0000

Corteo, one of the many touring Cirque du Soleil shows, is coming to Miami on Thursday, November 13th. That's right - they are setting up shop (actually, the Grand Chapiteau) at Bicentannial Park in Downtown Miami. Performances will be held through the end of November. I am a big fan of the Cirque du Soleil shows. I have seen several shows in Miami and Las Vegas and enjoy the creativity and uniqueness of each show. It's breathtaking what an ordinary circus has transformed to and how the enchanting music and performances take you to another world. Oh yes, let's not forget the comedy...

Corteo Tickets are on sale now exclusively for Cirque du Soleil Club Members. Becoming a member is free and easy, so take advantage of this great opportunity (especially since you will get the better seats!)

Tickets go on sale to the general public on Sunday, August 17th.

Jazz Vocalist Dana Paul to perform at the Summer Cabaret Concert Series

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:10:00 +0000

Don’t miss the final concert of the 2008 Summer Cabaret Series at the Deering Estate at Cutler. On Saturday, August 30th, Jazz Vocalist Dana Paul will be performing “Moments of My Life” and “A Tribute to Gershwin.” Dana is a featured vocalist with the South Florida Big Band, “The Peter Graves’ Atlantean Driftwood Band.”

The concert begins at 8 pm and the main gate opens at 7 pm. Guests are welcome to bring refreshments and snacks to enjoy during the show. Tickets are $20. Limited seating is available. Advance tickets are recommended. Seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The 5th Annual Summer Cabaret Concert Series features eclectic and world music artists in the intimate setting of the Stone House Ballroom. The Deering Estate hosts a three-concert series in June, July and August. The Debbie Orta Jazz Quartet performed on Saturday, June 28th and Sitar Player Stephan Mikes performed on July 26th – both to sold out crowds!

For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact the Deering Estate Ticket Office at 305-235-1668 ext. 233.

Medieval Times Dinner Show Orlando

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan) — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 05:08:00 +0000

When visiting Orlando, go out and get Medieval with it! At the Medieval Times Dinner Show, you do just that, or actually the performers do it for you.

You and your guest will have a chance to journey back to a ruthless and cruel era in the world’s past. A time, in which, the strongest and wealthiest ruled, it’s a pre-Darwin survival of the fittest.

Before entering the royal dinning area, you will be required to stand and experience what it would be like to be common folk during the Middle Ages. There are many things going on during the pre-show performance, including the SELLING of drinks, merchandise, trinkets and other unique accessories during this period, all highlighted by a small performance enticing the crowd to get into character too. However, our role is to become the peasants of the time. Even the seating is like being designated a specific class of society, where special seating garners better views of the performance, as would better classes of society give you better privileges. Go ahead, upgrade to VIP, it’s worth it.

Once you have a seat in your right class, I mean color, you will be amazed how large the place is and you will not even notice that there are around 1,000 people in attendance. The entire audience is all anticipating the live performance and slowly being brought into this other world. Every age is able to enjoy the setting, no matter how WWE it is, sorry Hulk Hogan.

From the servers to the bar tenders, everyone is in costume. They work together to help create the suspension of disbelief, by playing dual roles as performer and restaurant employee. You kind of don’t even realize that they are working both characters but look closely and you will see Rachel pouring you beer one minute then parading on stage with a giant flag the next. I can only imagine the infighting of employee’s egos colliding, where the performer ‘onlys’ feel greater then the typical waiter or server. That’s just my imagination, enticed by this cool setting viewed by a former bar tender and ‘Super-server’. Go Olive Garden, Hops, Outback, Friday’s, and Chillis, just to mention a few.

As the performance begins, the pace is perfectly orchestrated. In no particular order, you will be offered, to upgrade your chicken to white meat, name brand drinks from the bar, all sorts of photo packages and useless trinkets that you might buy just for the sake of Greenspan. It was a little much and slightly distracted me from the performance I came to see and imitate for hours later. Otherwise, the food and the show was better then expected, but seriously where is the silverware?

The best part of the evening was seeing the competition of the knights on horses and the fighting scenes. For just a few minutes, the knights rode horses and displayed more technical skills necessary for battle. Two such events were while riding a horse the knight must position the joust perfectly to pluck a small ring off a string. The other is while riding a horse, the knight must strike a small target with his joust in the center. Each of these skills is more interesting and respectful then a rehearsed battle scene, not that there is anything wrong with it. But don’t Titanic everything.

The food is delicious even though you have to eat it with your hands. Pretending your at a BBQ or tailgate in South Carolina, and use-your-hands. The menu includes garlic bread, tomato bisque soup, roasted chicken, spare rib, herb-basted potatoes, pastry of the Castle, coffee and two rounds of beverages.

Medieval Times is worth ever bit of what it might cost you to do it right. Get the photo, buy the souvenir, DVD, and the VIP package, treat your self like the king. You will remember it forever or at least the kids will. Medieval Times is suitable for all ages.

Pittock Mansion in Portland, Oregon

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 02:27:00 +0000

It's truly amazing when historic homes are saved from demolition and restored for the public to enjoy. In the case of the Pittock Mansion, located in the West Hills of Portland, the citizens of Portland raised the $225,000 purchase price and the estate was open to the public in 1965 by the Portland Parks & Recreation Department.

When visiting the Pittock Mansion, you get a glimpse of Portland's past. The estate was the home of Oregon trail pioneers Henry and Georgiana Pittock. Henry was the owner of the famous newspaper "The Oregonian," which is still in print today. Henry and Georgiana were married for 58 years and lived in the mansion from 1914 to 1919.

As you explore the grounds of the estate, the manicured lawn features a variety of flowers and guests are welcome to take in this beauty for free. There are actually 46 acres of forest and gardens, as well as miles of hidden hiking trails. Be sure to explore the 30 room mansion (23 rooms are actually open to the public). There is a small admission fee to go inside, but it is definitely well worth it. I was fascinated with the different objects and artifacts found in each room. One of my favorites was the harp located in the music room. There are also several photographs of Henry and Georgiana as well as family portraits.

Pittock descendants were said to be very generous with their donations of original items to the mansion. Some of the original furniture in the house today was purchased by the Pittock Mansion Society.

The mansion is 1,000 feet above the city's skyline and on a clear day, you can see up to five mountains in the Cascade Range, including Mount St. Helens and Mount Hood. There are benches where you can sit to enjoy this view and a couple minutes of solitude.

The Pittock Mansion is just one example of an American Treasure that was preserved for many people to enjoy throughout the decades.

Seattle's Space Needle is my Eiffel Tower

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan) — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 16:46:00 +0000

It must be something about the dynamics of being 605 ft in the sky, over viewing the entire Seattle skyline, that makes you feel ready to proclaim your inner most feelings to the entire city. I certainly can attest to these emotions and my quiet proclamation that I didn't necessarily want to share. (Just yet!). However, I did and let it be known that the Space Needle will always be considered my Eiffel Tower.

Our entire Seattle mini-vacation was created to visit this landmark place. Our hotel room was nearly two blocks from the Needle. To our disappointment, our hotel room almost had the perfect view from the bedroom, but it was blocked by a covered driveway to protect visitors from the relentless Seattle rain. Yes, we all know Seattle is overcast and dreary and not even the rainiest city in the nation. Luckily for us, we got to see Seattle on a sunny day.

The Space Needle is a cool place with a certain vibe in the air. You can't help but look for it where ever you are. Whether you taking a harbor cruise on Argosy Cruises, at the Farmers Market, buying coffee at the original Starbucks or up the hill at Porter's house, while in Seattle you will be looking for the iconic landmark where ever you visit.

The journey up the Needle only takes 43 seconds and once you get to the top, you will be enamored by the incredible vista. The 360 degree Observation Deck allows you to see Seattle in all its magnificence. You will be able see Mount Rainer just right of the downtown skyline. You will have an aerial view of Elliott Bay, the harbor that Argosy Cruises passes through. Photos are incredible here. The only drawback to taking photos is the wires and the cables that protect lunatics and daredevils from jumping off. If you buy the Space Needle DVD, you will see how visitors had an unobstructed view unlike today.

A great compliment to the incredible views is the interactive and informative displays around the observation deck called the SkyQ. The SkyQ is made up of five kiosks that offer a truly hands-on way to explore Seattle on an entirely new level. One cool interactive display is to see a minute-by-minute, 360 degree panoramic view of Seattle. By merely rotating a dial, you can see the entire city move and function from the Space Needle's vantage point. This definitely is cool for any age group.

Also, along the walls are intriguing facts and old images detailing the Space Needle's history. You can see images of the construction of the Needle. You may also read about its cost, purpose and other important facts. Don't be in a hurry, be ready experience everything on the observation deck. This makes for longer memories and a deeper connection to the landmark itself.

Go ahead and splurge, get the Day/Night pass and see the Space Needle during the day and at night. It is well worth the extra $4 dollars.

Souvenirs are abundant at the SpaceBase. There are hundreds of items to choose from including: Space Needle figurines, pens, magnets, key chains, shirts, hats and hundreds of other items. For us, the DVD was the coolest and must have at the souvenir shop. We enjoyed see the Space Needle circa 1962 and watching it being built.

My favorite souvenir from the Space Needle will always be the memories and the photo taken by Jaime, the coolest dude. He got on the ground to take a picture of us with the Space Needle in the background. Jaime and Porter, you guys rock!

Plenty to see and do at Jungle Island

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 01:01:00 +0000

Jungle Island, formerly known as the Parrot Jungle, gives people an opportunity to see and interact with rare wildlife from all over the world. What makes up the "Jungle" are more than 3,000 exotic animals and 500 species of plants. At Jungle Island, hundreds of Flamingos can be found spread across a lake. Flamingos were filmed at the original Parrot Jungle for the opening theme of the television show Miami Vice.

Visitors can enjoy a world famous bird show "Winged Wonders" in the Parrot Bowl. In this show, a cockatoo shows off by riding his bicycle on a high wire. "Reptiles of the Jungle" can be seen in the Serpentarium and "Tales of the Tiger" can be seen in the Jungle Theater, an open-aired arena.

A great feature for kids, especially during the summer, is the Hippo Slide. This water slide is 3 stores tall and has a 40 degree drop!

Jungle Island is located off the MacArthur Causeway (A1A) between Downtown Miami and Miami Beach.

Miami Metrozoo's Amazon & Beyond

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 04:07:00 +0000

Miami Metrozoo has hundreds of wild animals and attractions for all ages. There are a number of ways that you can get around the zoo; you can simply walk, take a guided tram tour or an air-conditioned monorail tour. You can also turn an ordinary visit to the zoo into an exciting adventure by renting a Safari Cycle. You can pull up right next to each exhibit and take photos of the zoo animals right from the cycle.

From Flamingos to Bengal Tigers to the Silverback Gorilla, there are so many fascinating animals for you to interact with. Who knows what type of mood they will be in when you are visiting. Sometimes the animals are very entertaining and sometimes they are sleeping. Everyday is a completely different experience; therefore you must visit more than once.

Camel rides are offered in the Children's zoo and keeper talks are held at the animals respective location throughout the day. For those of you who are techies, you can also download Miami Metrozoo's Podcast Tour to your ipod.

Miami Metrozoo is opening the 27-acre "Amazon & Beyond" exhibit which will feature new animals such as a giant river otter, a black howler monkey and two green anacondas.

New Year's Eve Cruise Miami

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 21:28:00 +0000

It is never too early to plan your evening for this coming New Year's Eve celebration in Miami. Get ready for some spectacular events this New Year's Eve in Miami. We will be updating you on the best events in Miami for New Year's Eve 2009.

Currently, the best thing to do this New Year's Eve in Miami is hopping on a luxury yacht and ringing in the New Year. Biscayne Lady Yacht Charters just announced they are hosting their own New Year's Eve celebration on their 111' mega yacht called the Biscayne Lady.

Their fun filled evening will include an open bar and delicious, chef prepared food stations throughout the main dining area. The food stations include a salad bar station, a pasta station, a meat carving station and a dessert station. The Biscayne Lady is world-renowned mega yacht, which departs from Bayside Marketplace.

A professional DJ will be onboard playing all the fabulous dance music that you will want to hear. It’s Miami’s great nightlife but on the water.

This is a great venue for ringing the New Year. The Biscayne Lady yacht will setup for the best location to watch the downtown Miami fireworks show that Miami puts on.

Take a look at the video from the Biscayne Lady during their spectacular 4th of July cruise. This was a spectacular event and www.miamibeachvisitorscenter.com was there.

The cost for the New Year's Eve Cruise on the Biscayne Lady is only $145.00 for adults. Click here to purchase tickets today.

Don't wait too long because the cruise sells out.

Definitely check out www.miamibeachvisitorscenter.com for more spectacular celebration for New Year’s Eve 2009 in Miami.

Sightseeing Cruises Miami by Island Queen Cruises

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 03:16:00 +0000

There is truly no better way to experience Miami than by taking a sightseeing cruise by Island Queen Cruises. They operate the best sightseeing cruise in Miami by far.

Certainly, you will first notice the many times of their departures. They leave every hour on the hour from 11am to 7pm and will even set sail whether they have 2 people or 140 passengers, the limit. This is tough to accomplish in any city, especially with the cost of fuel being so high. Yet, they do it 7 days a week and 365 days a year. We noticed this because we missed our first cruise and took the next available cruise at 5pm.

Next, we noticed that all of Island Queen Cruises' boats are clean and new! Many cities around the world have sightseeing cruises but usually there boats are old. I was surprised when the captain mentioned there boat, the Miami Lady was built this year. Can you believe it was born in 2008?

You really get to experience Miami by being on a boat. We cruised through Biscayne Bay, passing the beautiful homes and tall, luxury condos. It is truly spectacular. During our cruise we got to see the entire Miami skyline, the Port of Miami with both the cruise ships and cargo districts, an island called Fisher Island and Millionaire's Row or Star Island. This is where Gloria Estefan and P Diddy live.

The cruise was great and we even picked up a DVD about the history of Miami. The DVD has other areas of interest that we weren't able to see.

Conch Tour Train Key West

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 01:16:00 +0000

The Conch Tour Train is a great sightseeing tour that takes you all over Key West. This is one of Key West's most popular attractions and is highly recommended. If you love learning and sightseeing than this is a must activity while visiting Key West.

As you arrive in Key West, you will see these trains cruising everywhere. From Duval Street to Green Street, to the Southern Most Point, everywhere you go the train is right there. Whether you're toasting at Hemingway's House, Green Parrot or Sloppy Joe's Bar, take a look and you will see the conch snaking around town. Yet, you can not appreciate the train unless you take the tour.

The Conch Tour Train boasts about their friendly staff and I must say, they definitely live up to their reputation. As we journey through town, everyone will be greeting the 'engineer' by their first name. These friendly interactions are real, not phony. This is very cool and unique.

In addition to cruising around the entire island, you will learn about Key West's wonderful history. The tour guides are very knowledgeable about the history of Key West. They will point out important locations, famous people's homes and businesses, popular attractions and unique Key West architecture. History fanatics get ready, you will be elated with this tour and you might even take the tour twice.

Quick notes, make the conch the first thing you do so you get a sense where all your planned activities are located.

Sebago Power Adventure Key West

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 13:20:00 +0000

During a recent trip to Key West, I went on the Sebago Power Adventure excursion. The trip included 6 hours of fun-filled water activities aboard a 60' Catamaran. We set sail at 10 am and our first stop was snorkeling at a living Coral Reef. The underwater view of the Coral Reef was beautiful and we saw a variety of colorful fish.

After snorkeling we headed to the highly anticipated parasailing portion of the trip. This was our first time parasailing therefore we were very excited. Photos and a video of your personal experience is available for a fee. We purchased the pictures & video and we also took a camera up in the air with us - that way we got both views. The view from up in the air was amazing! The time goes by very quick, so take everything in as much as you can.

Once you are done parasailing, there are a number of water activities lined up, such as jet-skiing, a water trampoline, and a banana boat.

The Sebago Power Adventure staff was very friendly and accommodating. Besides the breakfast and lunch that was served, there were always snacks available to eat throughout the day - pretzels, fruit and chocolate chip cookies.

If you are looking for something fun to do while visiting Key West, spend the day doing the Sebago Power Adventure!

Jimbo's Place Key Biscayne

noreply@blogger.com (Cat) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 18:27:00 +0000

Jimbo's Place in Key Biscayne's Virginia Beach is a must see! I don't even know where to begin to describe it. Anyone is welcome to stop by and visit. You can walk around and enjoy the scenery, try some smoked fish and sip on a ice cold beer. Ask for Jamaican Paul and talk to him about the history of the place - needless to say a very interesting man.

James "Jimbo" Luznar has lived just off the Rickenbacker Causeway for over 50 years where he established a little shrimp shack. People continue to visit Jimbo and take part in his birthday celebration every April.

Jimbo's has served as a movie set for films such as Wild Things, Ace Ventura and True Lies.