Allegiant nonstoplife - East Coast Edition Summer 2026

Come to Play, Stay For Life

Stunning venues, luxury accommodations, and endless resort amenities. Sandestin is the ideal destination for your next meeting, conference or to say, “I do!”

Create Lasting Memories at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

sandestin.com/gather

Have you Found the Best Value in Travel?

Keel-billed Toucan

Costa Rica 8-Days

Costa Rica 8-Days $1195

Your Costa Rica tour is fully guided and includes all meals, all hotels, and all activities. During your vacation, you’ll see exotic birds, view volcanoes, soak in hot springs, hike in a jungle rainforest, enjoy a wildlife river cruise, and stay three nights at a beach resort.

Your Costa Rica tour is fully guided and includes all meals, all hotels, and all activities. During your vacation, you’ll see exotic birds, view volcanoes, soak in hot springs, hike in a jungle rainforest, enjoy a wildlife river cruise, and stay three nights at a beach resort.

Welcome to a great vacation at an affordable price. Caravan’s quality tours feature complete sightseeing, fascinating itineraries, and professional Tour Directors. Caravan includes all activities listed in the tour itinerary. Caravan does not sell any optional activities which can cost hundreds of extra dollars. Caravan gives you great vacations at prices much lower than you can nd anywhere.

Welcome to a great vacation at an affordable price. Caravan’s quality tours feature complete sightseeing, fascinating itineraries, and professional Tour Directors. Caravan includes all activities listed in the tour itinerary. Caravan does not sell any optional activities which can cost hundreds of extra dollars. Caravan gives you great vacations at prices much lower than you can nd anywhere.

The #1 in value—Discover for yourself why smart shoppers and experienced travelers have chosen Caravan Tours since 1952. Caravan is one of America’s oldest and most trusted tour companies. Compare with other travel choices. Caravan is the best deal. Happy Travels!

The #1 in value—Discover for yourself why smart shoppers and experienced travelers have chosen Caravan Tours since 1952. Caravan is one of America’s oldest and most trusted tour companies. Compare with other travel choices. Caravan is the best deal. Happy Travels!

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Sky-High SMILES

Family Time Deserves a View Like This

Create memories that rise above the rest at The Lodge at Gulf State Park. With the coastline as your backdrop and your family as your focus, never miss a moment with those you love most. Discover two-and-a-half miles of sugar white sand and emerald green waters on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, not to mention our 6,150-acre State Park right next door. Enjoy a meal from one of our four on-site dining outlets, and when you return to your rooms, you’ll appreciate the elevated comfort and Southern hospitality of our full-service hotel.

Come see why people take a break from busy life and head to the place Where Connection Comes Naturally™

nonstoplife®

PUBLISHER

Allegiant Travel Company

CHAIRMAN

Maurice J. Gallagher

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Robyn Davies

EDITOR

Riley McIIveen

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Teresa Bitler, Justin Ralenkotter, Heather Turk, Allison Barnett

CREATIVE DIRECTION & DESIGN 702West.com

WRITERS

Heather Turk, Nancy Foster, Gabriele Walkow, Connor McIlveen, Samantha Callinan

Thank you for choosing to fly with Allegiant. We are committed to making your journey as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Whether you’re on your way to re-connect with family, get together with friends, explore somewhere new or just escape for a relaxing getaway, we’re excited to have you onboard.

Sam Dean, Todd Bush, Jared Kay, Tim Robinson, Derek DeLuzio, Monica Johnson, Cove Ridge Marina & Resort, Hellbender Outfitters, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Florida State Parks, Lisa E Photography, Watershed Hospitality Concepts, Kyle Riich, 99 Bottles, Sunsets at Pier 60, The Birchwood, Fenway Hotel, Nick Cardello, Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, The Dali Museum, Book + Bottle, Sunny Collabs, Tombolo Books, Evato Elements, Clearwater Jazz Holiday, Intersport, City of Treasure Island, Fishermen’s Village, Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach Visitor & Convention Bureau, heidemariephoto.com, Palma SerraFrable for Lighthouse Grill and Tiki Bar, TT’s Tiki Bar, Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society, Kaitlyn Henry, Walt Disney World Resort, Kyle Flubacker, Discovery Cove, Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Legoland Florida Resort, St. John’s Rivership Co., Aerophoto.com, Edgewater Resources Fl, LLC, Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism, Gulf State Park, Laura Grier, The Broadmoor, Chad Chisolm, Carolina Opry Theater

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PHOTO CREDITS FOR ADVERTISING SALES INFORMATION

Shaun McIlveen shaun@smmediasales.com

1201 N. Town Center Drive

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At Allegiant, our business model is built with the leisure traveler in mind. All of our flights are nonstop, eliminating the hassle of layovers or connections. We know how valuable your time and money are, and strive to offer both exceptional value and convenience. Our unique model bridges the gap in connecting small-to-medium-sized markets to premier vacation destinations.

Born out of the passion to reshape the industry by making air travel more accessible and convenient, Allegiant continues to provide our customers with safe, reliable air travel. We are proud to receive recognition as 2024’s Best Low-Cost Airline in North America by Skytrax, an international air transport rating organization. We were also named the number one Ultra Low-Cost Carrier according to the J.D. Power 2024 North America Airline Satisfaction Study. These awards underscore the hard work of our team members and displays their commitment to providing our customers a superior travel experience.

Additionally, airline customers voted Allegiant as having the Best Airline Credit Card and Best Frequent Flyer program in USA TODAY ’s 10Best 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards.

We are honored to have you as our guest, and hope you have a fantastic flight. We wish you smooth skies and an unforgettable experience!

Thanks again for choosing to fly with Allegiant. We hope to see you again soon!

Savvy Travelers Pick for Harvest Season Fun Hendersonville

Travel is for making memories and a bushelful are made each harvest season in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Hendersonville, North Carolina.

This long-time tourism destination, little more than a stone’s throw from Asheville Regional Airport, attracts travelers from late summer through fall with orchards, vineyards, farm-to-table dining, outdoor adventure and one of the best main streets in the Southeast.

Here, visitors realize an apple is much more than a snack. Henderson County grows the most apples in North Carolina and consistently ranks among the nation’s top 20 apple-producing counties.

Harvest season means walking along rows of trees in picturesque orchards to pick newly ripened apples straight from the

branch, all the while soaking in mountain views stretching beyond the farm.

Many orchards sweeten the experience with apple cider doughnuts and an assortment of baked goods washed down with fresh cider. There are wagon rides for mom, dad and the grandparents. Kids race through corn mazes, and everybody

seems to love grabbing the handles of apple cannons and firing at targets.

Hendersonville’s apple season officially kicks off Labor Day weekend with the North Carolina Apple Festival. Downtown becomes the Big Apple for four days of festivities, culminating on Labor Day with the King Apple Parade. Insiders will tell you, however, that many orchards open in August, and that’s the best time to miss the crowds and enjoy two popular varieties that ripen early: Honeycrisp and Gala.

If apples don’t excite you, feel free to branch out to other pursuits. Winemakers have learned that the conditions that make the area ideal for apples also support the cultivation of grapes. Warm days and cool nights during the growing season create a favorable climate for European vinifera and French-American hybrid grapes.

In 2019, Hendersonville’s Crest of the Blue Ridge wine country received federal designation as a bona fide wine region. Eight vineyards produce wines of distinction, offering travelers a taste of Bordeaux in the Blue Ridge.

Not only are wines plentiful; so are awards.

Stone Ashe Vineyards was named America’s best new winery in 2022, and Marked Tree Vineyard in 2024 had two chardonnay wines rated 90 by internationally renowned wine critic James Suckling. Souther Williams Vineyard’s Vidal Blanc recently won double gold at the 2026 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

Continued on next page

Speaking of 2026, travelers can raise a glass of wine to America’s 250th among the vines at Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, or toast our American milestone with a pint of hard cider across the road at Appalachian Ridge Artisan Cidery.

The uniqueness of Main Street’s serpentine design makes it a destination. Wide sidewalks are accentuated by brick planters, public art and outdoor dining. Nearly two dozen palate-tempting restaurants are downtown, along with three of 13 stops along the Hendersonville Ice Cream Trail.

The area’s newest attraction has a downtown toehold. The Ecusta Trail, a six-mile rails-totrail greenway, starts on Main Street and takes walkers and cyclists on an urban-torural journey to the Horse Shoe community. Stops along the way include breweries, eateries, coffee shops and a gem mine.

Just five miles from downtown is a mustsee: Jump Off Rock. This overlook is the centerpiece of a mountaintop pocket park easily accessed by vehicle and a short walk across the green. What awaits is a panoramic view of the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains that is considered one of the grandest in North Carolina.

Those views are even grander in fall, as Mother Nature’s tapestry of color overtakes the mountains. Standing on the rock at 3,000 feet elevation surrounded by hues of yellow, red and orange, it’s easy to understand how Hendersonville came up with such a fitting tagline. It truly is a place of “gratitude at altitude.”

here, gratitude doesn’t fall far from the tree.

NATURE IS CALLING

Reconnect with the great outdoors in beautiful Carter County

By Heather Turk

Located in the scenic Appalachian Mountains of Northeast Tennessee, Carter County is the ideal summer vacation destination for recreation enthusiasts.

Roan Mountain State Park is the perfect basecamp for adventure, with 110 campsites and 30 cabins available for visitors who want to stay overnight.

Boasting approximately 2.25 miles of mountain bike trails, 12 miles of hiking trails — including a half-mile storybook trail that teaches kids about the importance of conservation — and guided tours of a historic farmhouse that reflects the lifestyle of rural subsistence farmers in Appalachia in the early 20th century, the 2,000-acre park is one of Carter County’s most popular outdoor attractions. Guests can even fish for trout in the cool, clear Doe River, which winds its way through the center of the park. tnstateparks.com/parks/roan-mountain

Anglers can also go fishing for trout on the Watauga River with Hellbender Outfitters. The veteran-owned outdoor gear shop and fishing charter company in downtown Elizabethton offers half-day and full-day guided wade and boat-based float trips for individuals, couples and small groups. Half-day and full-day stand-up paddleboard rentals are available throughout the summer, too, for visitors looking to traverse the calmer sections of Watauga River. hellbenderoutfittersetn.com

Known for its exceptionally clear mountain water and largely undeveloped shoreline, Watauga Lake is an excellent place for wildlife viewing. During the summer months, visitors frequently spot bald eagles, great blue herons and other waterfowl

along the shoreline, as well as deer along the edge of the forest. Cove Ridge Marina & Resort in Butler offers kayak rentals for those who want to explore Watauga Lake’s shoreline and nearby coves, as well as pontoon boat rentals for families and small groups eager to spend a day out on the water swimming, fishing and sightseeing. coveridgemarina.com

For more exhilarating ways to experience “Tennessee’s Mountain Playground,” visit Carter County’s website. tourcartercounty.com

PGD

From June 14–Aug. 9, The Summer Circus Spectacular is held in collaboration with The Ringling and The Circus Arts Conservatory. It’s a fast-paced, onehour performance at the Historic Asolo Theater. Circus fans will thrill to jaw-dropping feats from world-class performers. ringling.org/event/fy26-summercircus/

Patriotism marches in at the ourth of July All-American Cookout at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in downtown Sarasota. Spend the day at the world’s first net-positive energy botanical garden for a family-friendly cookout on the Great Lawn, games, food and entertainment, all capped with fireworks above Sarasota Bay. Other area fireworks displays include the July 3rd Fireworks on the Lake at Nathan Benderson Park, July 4th Bayfront fireworks over Sarasota Bay and the annual Siesta Key Community Fireworks. visitsarasota.com

Anna Maria Island Privateers Fourth of July Parade starts at Coquina Beach and runs to Anna Maria Island Pier with pirate-themed floats, beads and frivolity. bradentongulfislands.com

Catch minor league baseball with the Bradenton Marauders at historic LECOM Park, one of Florida’s oldest ballparks, all the way through September. Promotions include the July 3 Independence Day Celebration with postgame fireworks, Christmas in July on July 24, concerts July 25 and Aug. 22 and a drone show Sept. 5. bradentonmarauders.com

SARASOTA-BRADENTON

A PLAYGROUND FOR OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS

Experience the natural beauty of Myakka River State Park

By Heather Turk

There’s no better place in Sarasota for visitors to reconnect with nature than beautiful Myakka River State Park.

Home to 14 miles of the Myakka River, Florida’s first state-designated wild and scenic river which flows through a vast expanse of unspoiled wetlands, wildflowercovered prairies, hammocks and gorgeous pinelands, Myakka River State Park is one of Florida’s oldest and largest parks. A recreation lover’s dream, the park features miles of trails and backroads for hikers and bicyclists to explore as well as 12 miles of designated horse trails. Guests can pick up a bird list from the ranger station to look for more than 100 species birds while visiting the park, as its 37,000-plus acres provide a wonderful habitat for wading birds, raptors, songbirds, migratory birds and ducks.

Guests visiting Myakka River State Park also love its water activities, especially during the summer months. Anglers with a Florida freshwater fishing license can fish for bass, tilapia and catfish, while paddlers can go kayaking or canoeing. The park’s concessionaire, the Myakka Outpost, offers single-seat kayak and double-seat canoe rentals by the hour, as well as beach cruiserstyle bicycles. Paddles, life vests and seat cushions are provided with each kayak and canoe rental, and bike helmets are available by request. The Myakka Outpost is also home to the Lazy Gator Café, where guests

can enjoy lunch, dessert or a craft beer while taking in the sights of Upper Myakka Lake. Standout menu selections include the café’s famous homemade Alligator Stew, Seafood Gumbo and hand-breaded Gator Bites.

For those interested in learning more about why Sarasota is often called “Sedona by the Sea,” Sarasota Vortex Tours offers year-round Vortex Tours at Myakka River State Park. The only vortex tour company in the state of Florida, Sarasota Vortex Tours takes groups of up to eight people on a two-and-a-halfhour guided ecotour that visits three different locations within the park to interpret the energy of each landscape. Guests will practice intuitive development skills to interpret the signs and messages from nature, like, “Is it a good sign to see a flock of wild turkeys?” Private tours are available to book as well. srqvortex.com

Visitors hoping to spend the night at Myakka River State Park can reserve a campsite at one of three campgrounds. Each of the park’s

Insider’s Tip: For those who can’t wait to post their park photos on social media, Myakka River State Park’s Big Flats Campground is located near Wi-Fi.

90 campsites comes equipped with 50-amp electrical service, water, a fire ring and a picnic table, and is located within 40 yards of restroom facilities with hot showers. The park also has six primitive campgrounds located along the hiking trails for backpackers.

Regardless if guests stay for a night or just a few hours, no trip to Sarasota is complete without visiting Myakka River State Park. floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/myakkariver-state-park

A DRINK FOR EVERY TASTE

Bar hopping in downtown Sarasota

By Heather Turk

Home to some of the city’s best drinking establishments, downtown Sarasota is the perfect place to go bar hopping.

Bar hoppers can start their night at the luxurious Sugar Champagne Bar, which will pick up guests within a 5-mile radius free of charge in its Sugar Pink Rolls-Royce with a reservation. Offering just 32 seats inside and an additional 32 seats on the patio, the intimate bar serves more than 100 champagnes, with five rotating selections available by the glass. Guests can enjoy their drink while listening to a live pianist and savoring a European-inspired menu of small plates and caviar. Seasonal craft cocktails are also available. sugarbarsrq.com

Just steps away at Cask & Ale is an assortment of expertly prepared cocktails made from topshelf spirits and house-made simple syrups and garnishes. Best known for its Espressotini made with Borghetti liqueur, the lively cocktail bar also offers 12 beers on tap — including local lagers, IPAs, Pilsners and stouts — and a selection of wines. Live music is showcased on the weekend, and there’s an extensive menu of dishes guests can enjoy featuring favorites like the mahi-mahi South of the Border Ceviche. caskalesrq.com

Before calling an Uber back to the hotel, bar hoppers can end their night at the nearby community hub, 99 Bottles. Not only does the beer-centric bar boast a rotating selection of 34 craft beers on tap, including local Florida beers and rare releases, but it also serves boutique wines and non-alcoholic beverages. Guests can pair their drink of choice with a variety of sandwiches, fish tins

and snacks. Community-driven events are held throughout the month, including bingo on every third Thursday, and for those who aren’t hungover from the night before, the taproom hosts a popular New York-style bagel brunch every Friday through Sunday.

The activity-packed three-day St. Pete Pride weekend opens June 26 in downtown St. Petersburg. Events include a pageant, street fair, concerts, pet parade and masquerade ball, plus the St. Pete Pride Parade, Florida’s largest LGBTQ+ parade, attracting more than 300,000 people. stpetepride.org

The St. Pete Opera presents the 4th of July Pops Spectacular, a patriotic evening of music and Broadway selections at the Duke Energy Center for the Arts. At the St. Pete Pier, enjoy food trucks, vendors and live entertainment from 4–9 p.m., followed by fireworks over Tampa Bay, weather permitting. themahaffey.com/show/4th-of-july/

Heritage Village, a 21-acre living park and history museum, celebrates its 50th year with historic home tours, children’s activities and period demonstrations. On July 8, join in a public reading of the Declaration of Independence as communities across the country do the same. On July 11, to mark America’s 250th birthday, the village will debut the exhibit “Many Voices, One Nation: Stories of Democracy in our Parks.” heritagevillagefl.org

Running every night at Pier 60, the Clearwater Beach Sunsets at Pier 60 Festival celebrates the sunset with vendor booths, dancers, buskers, live entertainment and magical sunset views. sunsetsatpier60.com

ST. PETE-CLEARWATER-TAMPA

White Sand, World-Class Culture & One Easy Trip

St. Pete-Clearwater proves you don’t have to choose between the beach and everything else

It’s vacation, and you know you could sleep in, but when there’s 35 miles of soft sugar-sand and sparkling emerald water calling to you, your bed doesn’t stand a chance. As the sunshine seeps into your room, that little voice starts talking, “Get up–America’s Favorite Beaches are waiting for you!”

You head outside with coffee in one hand and notice the sand is still cool between your toes. The Gulf stretches out to the horizon like a private invitation. Nothing but sunshine, sand, and possibilities. This is what you’ve been waiting for for weeks.

And then there’s everything else just waiting to be discovered…

Just ten minutes from the beach, downtown St. Pete offers the most comprehensive collection of Salvador Dalí’s work outside Spain. The Dalí Museum isn’t just a rainy-day backup plan; it is a must-visit on its own. There’s even a renowned Chihuly Collection, the Museum of Fine Arts, and a MICHELIN-recognized dining scene that rivals cities twice its size. St. Pete-Clearwater is a destination that rewards curiosity as much as it rewards relaxation.

Spend the morning shelling on a barrier island and the afternoon standing in front of a Dalí masterpiece–you don’t have to choose between a beach escape and a cultural vacation. You can enjoy both in St. Pete-Clearwater, and on one trip.

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DINING OUT FOR A CAUSE

Get a taste of St. Pete-Clearwater’s restaurant scene during Tampa Bay Restaurant Month

By Heather Turk

Foodies visiting St. Pete-Clearwater this summer have come to the right place. In addition to St. Pete-Clearwater being home to some of Florida’s most delectable restaurants, many of its dining establishments are participating in Tampa Bay Restaurant Month.

From June 1 through 30, more than 65 restaurants across Tampa Bay are offering curated prix fixe menus with special pricing for Tampa Bay Restaurant Month. Previously known as Tampa Bay Restaurant Week, the event has expanded this year from 10 days into a month-long celebration in honor of its 20th year. The extension gives diners more time to not only explore the area’s vibrant culinary scene, but also support a good cause, as a portion of the proceeds from the event benefit the nonprofit organization Feeding Tampa Bay. tampabayrestaurantweek.com

Downtown St. Pete’s Birch & Vine has participated in Tampa Bay Restaurant Week since 2015. Open Tuesday through Sunday for dinner and Saturday and Sunday for brunch, the relaxed fine dining restaurant at The Birchwood hotel serves contemporary American cuisine with globally inspired touches. Guests can savor such mouthwatering dinner selections as the Miso Glazed Salmon and the deboned Lantern Lane Half Chicken while taking in sweeping views of the bay, Beach Drive and Straub Park from the restaurant’s upper-level front porch. Guests can also enjoy live pianists

in the lounge every Thursday through Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. while sipping a selection from Birch & Vine’s wine cellar, which features more than 700 types of vino. thebirchwood.com/birch-vine

Another Tampa Bay Restaurant Week favorite can be found at Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach: Ocean Hai. Clearwater Beach’s only Asian-fusion restaurant,

Ocean Hai features a menu that blends international flavors with local ingredients. Guests can feast upon stunning views of Clearwater Beach and the hotel’s expansive pool deck from the restaurant’s 55-seat patio while relishing such flavorful dinner selections as the sushi taquitos and the scallops. wyndhamgrandclearwater.com/ ocean-hai-dining

One of Tampa Bay Restaurant Week’s more recent participants, HEW Parlor & Chophouse is open daily for brunch and Wednesday through Sunday for dinner. The Dunedin steakhouse inside Fenway Hotel is known for its succulent cuts of beef — including a 6-ounce Japanese A5 Filet — and its delicious Seafood Beignets. Al fresco dining is available poolside or on the veranda overlooking the front lawn, and live music is featured every Monday and Tuesday night as well as on Sunday during the restaurant’s popular Jazzy Brunch. hewchophouse.com

For a true taste of what St. PeteClearwater has to offer, foodies can also attend two Tampa Bay Restaurant Month Meet the Chefs events. The cocktail-style events will take place at The Birchwood on June 18 and The Vault inside downtown Tampa’s historic Franklin Exchange on June 25, giving guests sample a variety of small plates and

A TIME OF REINVENTION

Discover what’s new and coming soon to The Dalí Museum

By Heather Turk

The Dalí Museum is celebrating the United States’ 250th anniversary this summer with a special limited-time exhibition: “Dalí in America.”

On view through Oct. 18, “Dalí in America” explores the Spanish surrealist Salvidor Dali’s dynamic relationship with the United States through more than 70 paintings, objects and archival materials curated from the museum’s collection. The exhibition traces Dalí’s journey from his early fascination with American media to his arrival in New York as an ambassador of Surrealism, his refuge in the United States during World War II and his bold engagements with the nation’s art and popular culture.

“The years Salvador Dalí spent in the United States were central to his artistic evolution and to how Americans came to understand modern art,” said Dr. Jennifer Cohen, director of curatorial affairs at The Dalí Museum. “In these years, our country became a place of refuge and self-reinvention for Dalí, setting the stage for his embrace by a broad public. Presented during the nation’s 250th anniversary year, ‘Dalí in America’ invites visitors to experience this defining chapter of his career as a story of possibility and creative risk, and to consider how vividly it still speaks to the present.”

Among the items on exhibit, guests will see photographs, objects and archival treasures that highlight Dalí’s presence in the American

cultural landscape — from meeting presidents to collaborating with Alfred Hitchcock on the 1945 film “Spellbound.” Significant works are also on display, including the 1976 oil on canvas “Gala Contemplating the Mediterranean Sea Which at Twenty Meters Becomes the Portrait of Abraham Lincoln — Homage to Rothko (Second Version),” which reflects Dalí’s fascination with perception and identity.

Those visiting The Dalí Museum this summer can see a 3D model of its recently announced 35,000-square-foot expansion as well. The model is a part of “The Architecture of The Dalí” exhibition also on display through Oct. 18, which traces the museum’s journey from a converted Ohio factory to its current home in St. Petersburg through archival photographs and historical documents. Additionally, the exhibition sheds light on how the museum’s forthcoming

Did You Know.. The Dalí Museum’s upcoming expansion will include a striking new exterior for the museum, flexible gallery environments for experiential exhibitions, a dedicated learning center and community-focused spaces designed for events.

$65 million expansion, scheduled for competition in 2028, will engage audiences, host exhibitions and connect with the community.

Located in downtown St. Petersburg, The Dalí Museum is home to a preeminent collection of Dalí’s works. Not only can visitors get up close to more than 2,400 pieces representing every period and medium of Dalí’s creative life, but they can also pick up a telephone inspired by his famous “Lobster Phone” and ask a recreated Dalí developed with

A MECCA FOR BOOKWORMS

Literary establishments in St. Pete-Clearwater

By Heather Turk

Literary enthusiasts will want to book it to St. Pete-Clearwater, as the area is home to several notable establishments that bookworms will love.

Guests can visit the last home of legendary American novelist Jack Kerouac (“On the Road”) by attending a poetry reading, lecture or other event at The Jack Kerouac House of St. Petersburg. Hour-long guided docent tours of the mid-century home are also available, so visitors can learn more about the storied property and Kerouac’s history in Florida. Overnight stays can even be book based on availability, giving fans the rare opportunity to sleep in Kerouac’s bed, recline in his Barcalounger and use his kitchenware. stpetekerouachouse.com

Book + Bottle, an independent bookstore and wine bar in St. Pete, hosts dozens of events each month, including author happy hours where authors mingle with guests over glasses of wine while signing their books. Shoppers will find not only an array of curated books for purchase, including cookbooks and fiction titles, but also a selection of wines from around the world. The store recently began a partnership with the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach Resort, too, offering a rotating selection of books for sale in the hotel lobby, in-room amenities and book delivery service to the beach or pool. bookandbottlestpete.com

Tombolo Books, another independent bookstore in St. Pete, offers a robust calendar of events as well, including multiple author

events and book clubs every month. While the bookstore carries a variety of classic, non-fiction and children’s books, most of its titles are contemporary works with a focus on emerging and marginalized voices. In midJune, the bookstore will launch local author Alicia Thompson’s latest romance novel, “In Every Possible Way.” Visitors can also expect upcoming events that tie into St. Pete Pride Weekend in June and Bookstore Romance Week in August. tombolobooks.com

Since 1994, Rick’s on the River has been Tampa’s go-to waterfront hideaway where the river meets the road and locals know to go for the best food without the “vacation prices.” Tucked along the Hillsborough River, we serve up the freshest oysters in town, famous deviled crab, and ice-cold drinks in a laid-back setting that keeps people coming back for over 30 years.

Whether you’re pulling up in a rental car or docking your boat at our marina, skip the tourist traps and experience the real Tampa. With free parking, live music, and unbeatable waterfront vibes, it’s no surprise visitors and locals alike make Rick’s their first stop.

2305 N WILLOW AVE, TAMPA, FL 33607. OPEN 365 DAYS A YEAR.

(813)-251-0369.

SAVE THE DATE

By Heather Turk

Can’t-miss events coming to St. PeteClearwater

With its many museums, breweries and breathtaking beaches, St. Pete-Clearwater has plenty of reasons for visitors to plan a return trip in the future. However, the destination will soon be welcoming back three popular events that might entice visitors to book a flight back sooner than expected.

This fall, Clearwater Jazz Holiday returns for its 47th year. Taking place in Coachman Park Oct. 15 through 18, the annual music festival features a diverse lineup of acts, including jazz, funk and fusion artists. While at press time the 2026 lineup had yet to be announced, the festival has attracted many big names in the past, including Bonnie Raitt, Brandi Carlile and Earth, Wind & Fire. clearwaterjazz.com

One of Florida’s premier sand sculpting events occurs in the fall as well. Transforming Treasure Island Beach into a stunning art gallery, the Sanding Ovations Master’s Cup returns for its 17th year Nov. 19 through 22, with an encore viewing weekend Nov. 28 and 29. More than 50,000 visitors are expected throughout the event to view the works of 12 world-class sculptors who have transformed piles of sand into “out-sanding” masterpieces. The free event will also feature live music, a kite festival and one of the year’s most dazzling fireworks displays. sandingovationsmasterscup.com

Finally, golf fans won’t want to miss the Skechers World Champions Cup supporting Shriners Children’s when it’s played Dec. 3 through 6 at Feather Sound Country Club in Clearwater. The PGA TOUR Champions event features three six-player teams — U.S., International and European — competing

in a three-day stroke play tournament. With miles of front-row seating available, fans can follow their favorite golfer throughout the course, like 2025 European Team captain winner and 2011 Open Championship winner Darren Clarke. Last year’s event featured players with a combined 90 Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup appearances. worldchampionscup.com

Vote for your favorite sand sculpture to win the People’s Choice Award during the Sanding Ovations Master’s Cup

PGD

Music Walk in historic downtown Fort Myers will have you dancing in the streets on June 19. Held the third Friday of every month, the walk hosts musicians from throughout Southwest Florida performing a variety of genres including classic rock, country western, Motown and jazz. myriverdistrict.com/event/ june-music-walk-2

Celebrate July 4 in classic Englewood style at Light Up Lemon Bay. Enjoy a festive atmosphere on Historic Dearborn Street with live music and food vendors capped by the fireworks finale at 9 p.m. This spectacular free community event lights up the skies for miles. englewoodchamber.com/events-news/events

Crazy about mangos? Don’t miss MangoMania 2026. Pine Island’s Tropical Fruit Fair on July 11 is a fun filled family event with food contests, mango beverages and specialty foods, live music, arts and craft vendors, and tropical plants and fruit sales. pineislandchamber.org/ chamber-events/mangomania

On August 1 at Fishermen’s Village, TikiFest features authentic island flavors and culture including Hawaiian dance, steel drums, live demonstrations, and shopping and dining galore. Don’t miss the audience participation segment during the Polynesian Dance performances! fishermensvillage.com/events/august

FORT MYERS-PUNTA GORDA

Welcome to Punta Gorda’s Harborwalk A PATHWAY FOR ALL AGES

By Gabriele Walkow

Stretching for two and a half miles along the beautiful Charlotte Harbor shoreline, Harborwalk is a recreational gem offering a wonderful waterfront experience in the heart of historic Punta Gorda.

Starting at Trabue Park with its urban mangrove forest, Harborwalk runs to Fishermen’s Village, a popular shopping and dining destination. Along the way, it connects parks and playgrounds, the city marina, recreational facilities, sculptures and memorials.

A perfect path for walking, biking and family fun, it also offers quiet corners for contemplation and reflection.

A good starting point is picturesque Laishley Park. At 17 acres, it is the largest park on the Harborwalk, offering a host of amenities including Laishley Park Marina, fishing from the seawall, concert area and event lawn, walking and jogging paths, a waterfront restaurant and parking facilities.

Located adjacent to Laishley Park, Veterans Park is home to the Vietnam Wall of Southwest Florida, a half scale replica of the original in Washington, D.C., and one of only a few in the country. Veteran’s Memorial Garden and Gazebo, with its beautiful fountain, rounds out this peaceful park.

Be sure to see the “Spirit of Punta Gorda” before leaving the park. This memorial sculpture of two palm trees, one bent by hurricane winds and one standing tall, symbolizes the community’s resilience after Hurricane Charley slammed into the area in 2004.

Continuing along, Harborwalk passes by the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. This stately venue hosts a range of events and conferences including consumer expos and trade shows, sports tournaments, auctions and concerts.

Gilchrist Park with its sweeping views of Charlotte Harbor is the next stop. Park amenities include a large playground,

Fun Fact: The name “Punta Gorda” is Spanish for “Fat Point,” describing the broad piece of land that juts into Charlotte Harbor.

basketball, tennis and pickleball courts, a gazebo and picnic pavilions.

A must-stop in Gilchrist Park is the statue of Juan Ponce de Leon, near the waterfront gazebo. Ponce de Leon landed along the shores of Charlotte Harbor in 1513, and this “bigger than life size” bronze statue commemorates the conquistador.

After Gilchrist Park and just before arriving at Fishermen’s Village is the Military Heritage Museum, recognized as one of Florida’s top attractions.

Just beyond, Fishermen’s Village awaits with an inviting array of waterfront shopping, dining, live music and special events. An abundance of water activities are also on offer including fishing charters, Charlotte Harbor boating excursions, nightly sunset cruises, and boat and kayak rentals.

Home to mangrove forests, sweeping vistas, waterfront dining and shops, historical sites and picturesque parks, there is always something to see and do along this vibrant pathway. pureflorida. com/blog/post/harborwalk-punta-gorda

RESTAURANTS THE WHOLE FAMILY WILL LOVE

Kid-approved dining options in Punta GordaEnglewood Beach

By Heather Turk

Foodies visiting Punta Gorda-Englewood Beach with kids will be happy to discover that some of the area’s tastiest restaurants are extremely family friendly.

FARLOW’S ON THE WATER

A local favorite for 23 years, Farlow’s on the Water has been serving some of its adult guests since they were ordering off of its children’s menu. Known for its made-fromscratch dishes that blend the bold flavors of the Caribbean with the comfort of Southern dining, the restaurant has a children’s menu for diners ages 11 and younger that features such popular items as Fried Grouper Bites and a Corn Dog. The children’s menu also has a coloring sheet on one side and puzzles and mazes on the other to keep kids entertained, and the restaurant features live music every Wednesday through Sunday evening. farlowsonthewater.com

LIGHTHOUSE GRILL AND TIKI BAR

Serving American comfort fare with an emphasis on fresh seafood and its signature smokehouse dishes, Lighthouse Grill and Tiki Bar offers a kids menu to guests ages 12 and younger that features six delicious options like

Farlow’s on the

serves a variety of children’s dishes sure to please even the most finicky of palates

Fried Shrimp and Cheeseburger Sliders. While children wait for their order to arrive, they can sit waterside looking for dolphins, color complimentary coloring pages and feed the snook that gather around the docks. Live music is also showcased nightly. lighthouse-grill.com

TT’S TIKI BAR

Specializing in tropical cuisine, TT’s Tiki Bar has a kids menu for guests ages 10 and younger that features such palatepleasing selections as Beef Tacos and Coconut Shrimp. Additionally, the waterfront restaurant has several games kids can play, including a giant Connect 4, and every Wednesday through Sunday there’s live music. For older kids, free bicycle loaners are available to bike along the Harborwalk, and there’s a sand volleyball court that often becomes a playground for younger children on Friday and Saturday nights. ttspg.com

PAINTING WITH HISTORY THE TOWN

Go on a tour of Punta Gorda’s many murals

By Heather Turk

Visitors to Punta Gorda may notice many striking murals decorating the city’s streets — and it’s all because of the vision of one man.

Inspired by the various murals he saw painted on buildings during a trip to Chemainus, British Columbia, local Punta Gorda physician Dr. Robert Andrews wanted to feature historic and educational murals around the city. In 1993, he met with the Punta Gorda Revitalization Committee and the Punta Gorda Business Alliance to talk about creating a mural program, and in 1995, the Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society was formed.

Since the city’s first public mural was painted in 1995, more than 30 public murals have been created. The Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society typically selects one new mural project each year, with each mural showcasing a piece of local history. Visitors can currently see murals on display paying tribute to everything from the city’s first city council (artist Charles

Peck’s “First City Council” painted on the Punta Gorda City Hall Annex) to its old movie theater (artist Michael Vires’ “Movie Memories” painted on the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center).

Visitors can learn more about these marvelous creations on the Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society’s website or by going on a self-guided mural tour using the audio guide app, Ottocast. Not only does the mobile app use geolocation mapping technology to help users find each mural as they walk around town, but it also plays audio descriptions of the history depicted in each work. Mobile and downloadable walking maps are available as well on the Punta Gorda Historic Mural Society’s website. Additionally, on select dates throughout the year, the organization hosts a two-day history class — “The History of Punta Gorda through its Murals” — for a nominal fee. Class size is limited, so advance online registration is required. puntagordamurals.org

AN ICONIC FLORIDA ROADSIDE GEM

Wonder Gardens is a treasured family destination

By Gabriele Walkow

Since it first opened as one of Florida’s original roadside attractions, Wonder Gardens has been offering a unique glimpse into “Old Florida” charm. And this year

This non-profit botanical garden is a sanctuary for exotic animals and is set on acres of lush, tropical landscapes and winding pathways under majestic banyan trees.

Diverse animal residents include American alligators, elegant flamingos, colorful macaws and lorikeets, ancient tortoises, alligator snapping turtles and playful American river otters. With various pythons, boas and green iguanas also housed here, there is something to interest every member of the family.

Head to Flamingo Lagoon, a tropical waterscape and the centerpiece of the park. Featuring a lily-filled pond and small waterfall, the flamingos offer a perfect

See gators “cruising” the water or basking in the sun on the sandy banks of Gator Hole, one of the sanctuary’s most popular and historic exhibits. Designed to reflect the alligator’s native ecosystem, visitors can

Insider’s Tip: Wonder Gardens can typically be explored in one to two hours, making it an ideal family destination for a relaxing morning or afternoon in Bonita Springs.

observe and learn about Florida’s famous reptiles in a safe and immersive setting.

One of the noisiest and a highly interactive areas at the gardens is the Parrots and Parasols courtyard. Featuring some of the park’s most charismatic residents, this part of the park is known for constant chatter from these talkative birds, which include parrots and cockatoos.

The Wonder Gardens “soundtrack” continues at the nearby Magnificent Macaws exhibit. In addition to their striking vibrant feathers, these social birds are renowned for their “big voices” carrying loudly throughout the gardens.

At the Otter Grotto exhibit, rescued North American river otters Ivy and Mae show off their high energy personalities in this new state-ofthe-art aquatic habitat. See their playful aquatic antics above and below the water through the glass viewing panels.

For up close and personal experiences, join the Animal Care team for a guided Wonder Gardens adventure. During the Wild Wonder Animal Encounter, participants meet and have fun interactions with Sulcata tortoises and Rainbow lorikeets.

Park admission and tickets for the Wild Wonder Animal Encounters are available in the Welcome Center or online. The gardens are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with last admission at 3 p.m. wondergardens.org

Celebrate America’s 250-year anniversary in Winter Park at the Winter Park History Museum. On view from May 20 through July 15, this special pop-up exhibit honors 250 years of history since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. wphistory.org

Magic Kingdom Park in Walt Disney World Resort is lighting up the skies during its dazzling fireworks show “Disney’s Celebrates America” all three nights of the Independence Day Weekend, July 3–5. Prepare for an unforgettable concert in the sky! waltdisneyworld.com

Enjoy traditional high tea service and scenic views of the St. Johns River aboard the Barbara-Lee sternwheeler. Hosted by the St. Johns Rivership Co., the America 250 High Tea is a two-hour commemorative high tea cruise offered July 3, 10, 17 and 24. stjohnsrivershipco.com/hightea2026

With interactive exhibits, live entertainment, family fun zones and hands-on experiences, kids of all ages will love the Florida Kids and Family Expo. Held August 22–23 inside the Orange County Convention Center, this one-of-a-kind event brings together over 200 exhibitors. mycentralfloridafamily. com/orlando-expo

NEWS THAT WON’T MAKE YOU FEEL BLUE

Blue Man Group makes their long-awaited return to Orlando

By Heather Turk

It’s been six years since Blue Man Group closed their hit Orlando show at Universal CityWalk due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the bald and blue trio are finally back and better than ever.

On May 1, Blue Man Group premiered an all-new show at ICON Park inside the first custom-built theater designed for the act. The 591-seat venue is more intimate than Blue Man Group’s previous Orlando theater, providing a more up-close and interactive experience for ticket holders to enjoy during the 90-minute production. Audiences can expect all-new material mixed in with signature pieces like “Paint Drumming,” “Gumballs & Marshmallows” and “Drumbone,” resulting in a show that feels both familiar and fresh.

“With every show we develop, we always honor the roots and original intention of Blue Man Group by including signature pieces that audiences expect and will recognize,” said one of Blue Man Group’s artistic directors, Matt Ramsey. “However, the Orlando set

Ramsey noted that includes new content developed around the theme of artificial intelligence and “how our culture relates to the emerging technology.” One thing that hasn’t changed, though, is the impact the production has on audiences.

“No matter where you are from, what language you speak or what culture or ideologies you subscribe to, you can relate to Blue Man Group,” Ramsey stated. “You enter the space with hundreds of strangers, experience a rare theatrical collision of art, technology, comedy and percussive rock, then leave feeling connected to everyone around you — even if you can’t fully describe what you just experienced.”

Blue Man Group performs Tuesday through Sunday, with an additional Monday

New experiences at area attractions SUMMER FUN IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

By Heather Turk

This summer, discover what’s new at some of Central Florida’s most popular attractions.

CENTRAL FLORIDA ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDENS

Home to more than 350 animals, including a greater one-horned rhinoceros, the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens in Sanford recently began offering Zoo Insider Tours every Saturday and Sunday morning. Led by the zoo’s knowledgeable staff and volunteers, the separately ticketed, 60-minute walking tour takes groups of up to 10 guests across the zoo’s grounds to learn more about its animals and the people who care for them. Each unscripted tour is shaped by the guide’s expertise and the questions people ask, so no two experiences are the same. The zoo recently began offering a free goat brushing experience in its barnyard, too, giving guests a fun and interactive way to get up close to its 12 Nigerian dwarf goats. centralfloridazoo.org

DISCOVERY COVE

Known for providing guests with the unforgettable opportunity to swim with dolphins, snorkel with rays and hand-feed tropical birds, Orlando’s all-inclusive day resort, Discovery Cove, will soon be hosting a new separately ticketed, after-hours event: Paradise Nights. Taking place select nights from June 5 through Aug. 8, the exclusive dining experience invites guests of all ages to indulge in a seemingly endless buffet of islandinspired cuisine while enjoying live entertainment that unfolds in four dynamic acts inspired by Earth, Air, Water and Fire. Beer and wine are also included for guests ages 21 and older. discoverycove.com

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With more than 625 unique customization options, no two missions on LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s Galacticoaster are the same

Guests will have a whole new appreciation for the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens’ animals and staff after booking a Zoo Insider Tour

Enjoy an open-air dining celebration under the stars at Discovery Cove’s Paradise Nights

LEGOLAND FLORIDA RESORT

In February, LEGOLAND Florida Resort in Winter Haven welcomed its first-ever indoor family coaster: Galacticoaster. Part of the immersive new LEGO Galaxy expansion at LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park, the ride lets guests design their own digital LEGO spacecraft through the use of interactive touchscreens and RFID wristbands. Riders will then “blast off” through a custom space adventure, reaching speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. Families visiting the theme park this summer can enjoy the return of the multiweek LEGO Festival, too, featuring limitedtime entertainment and themed experiences, and the annual Red, White & BOOM!

Fourth of July celebration, which includes a spectacular LEGO-themed fireworks display. legoland.com/florida

WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT

There’s more magic than ever at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, as several new and reimagined experiences have recently debuted. Visitors can take a simulated flight across the United States aboard Soarin’ Across America at EPCOT, dance and play with Bluey and Bingo at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, and track down ex-Imperial officers throughout the galaxy with Din Djarin and Grogu on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in Stars Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Additionally, guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios can now ride Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets. disneyworld.com

Florida Resort’s immersive new LEGO Galaxy expansion is out of this world

Enjoy limited-time, high-energy stage shows during LEGOLAND Florida Resort’s signature summer celebration, LEGO Festival

FAMILY FUN IN THE SANFORD SUN

Abundant activities for the whole family

By Gabriele Walkow

An outdoor paradise, Sanford is the perfect place for families to reconnect with nature and play outside year-round.

ST. JOHNS RIVERSHIP CO.

Take the kids back in time on the authentic sternwheeler the Barbara-Lee while she cruises across Lake Monroe and plies up the beautiful St. Johns River. St. Johns Rivership Co. provides a one-of-a-kind cruise, where kids can spot wildlife such as manatees, dolphins, alligators and turtles in their natural setting. The Barbara-Lee departs from its homeport on Lake Monroe in Historic Downtown Sanford for narrated luncheon and dinner cruises (reservations required). To best see the wildlife and the beauty of the area, the luncheon cruises are ideal. stjohnsrivershipco.com

SANFORD RIVERWALK

This multi-use, wheelchair accessible pedestrian trail, with its inviting gazebos and swinging benches, offers nearly 5 miles of pedestrian walking and cycling paths on the shores of

Downtown Sanford to discover the charming shops, award-winning restaurants and colorful art galleries. sanfordfl.gov/visitors/riverwalk

FORT MELLON PARK

Located along the RiverWalk, Fort Mellon Park is perfect for families with young children. With a soft surface playground, a little “Fort Mellon” play fort and a popular splash pad for cooling off on hot summer days, the kids will be busy

Explore Gulf Shores in Alabama Shore Enough

By Connor McIlveen

It’s time to rethink what you know about Alabama. The Gulf Shores of Alabama boast beautiful white sandy beaches, clear blue waters and abundant wildlife, ready to be explored and enjoyed all summer long.

The rugged natural beauty of Alabama’s coast is on full display at Gulf State Park. At 6,150 acres, it’s a massive wild area where visitors can get out on the water in a kayak; relax on a beautiful beach, explore award winning trails on foot, bike or segway; or spend the day fishing in the deep gulf waters.

Beach

The park has 3 miles of public beaches that can be accessed by parking at the Gulf State Park Beach Pavillion. The recently renovated pavillion now features air-conditioned bathrooms, private showers, a snack bar, a fire pit and low lighting for evening events.

Meanwhile, the park’s unspoiled natural coastline boasts picturesque dunes of stunning white sand and turquoise waters that can be explored on stand-up paddleboards available to rent.

If saltwater seems too briny, Gulf State Park is home to Lake Shelby, a freshwater ecosystem unto itself, where boaters and kayakers can explore the waters. It’s a great spot for swimming, lounging or barbecue, as there are several grills around the lake available on a first-come, first served basis.

Fishing

Alabama’s only public pier on the Gulf, the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier, is also the largest pier in the Gulf of Mexico.

With a bait and tackle shop on site where you can rent rods and purchase permits, the pier is one of the best places to cast a line and reel in some big fish.

Those new to fishing can get a two-hour crash course courtesy of Angler Academy and learn tricks and tips for saltwater fishing.

Trails

Winner of USA Today’s Best Recreational Trail three years in a row, the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail is 28 miles of interconnected multi-use paths. The trails cross through nine distinct ecosystems, winding through longleaf sand ridges, coastal dunes, live oak maritime forests, pine flatwoods, freshwater marshes and coastal hardwood swamps. Not only is the park home to whitetail deer, bobcats, coyotes and alligators, it’s also home to an array of bird species, making it a popular destination for birders looking for osprey, bald eagles, heron and more.

Visitors can descend the trails on free bikes via the park’s bikeshare program, which allows patrons to hop on a bike for three hours without charge, so long as the bikes are returned to a designated station. The trails can also accommodate skateboards, rollerblades and wheelchairs.

Segway tours of the trail are available through Coastal Segway Adventures, located at the park’s main office. After an introductory lesson on how to operate the electric scooters, tour guides lead their goup through the trails, providing insightful and engaging information throughout the tour. They also rent kayaks and paddleboards and lead kayak tours throughout the park.

Before heading out on the trails, the interpretive center is the place to stop to get a primer on all the natural splendor of Gulf State Park and the creatures that call it home. With informative exhibits and easy trail access, it’s a great place to start an adventure in Gulf Shores.

Accommodation

Staying near Gulf State Park is made simple thanks to The Lodge at Gulf State Park, an eco-friendly resort operated by Hilton. Aside from being conveniently located near the park, pier and beaches, the hotel also has delicious restaurants, comfortable beds and outdoor areas to relax in and enjoy the Alabama coast.

Surrounding Lake Shelby, the Eagle Cottages at Gulf State Park provide comfortable lodging right on the lake, while The Cabins at Gulf State Park have pier access for easy fishing.

There is also a small number of campgrounds for those who seek more rugged accommodation. Gulf State Park Campground is easy to access by car or RV, while the hike-in campsite, The Outpost, is a more secluded retreat with raised, canvascovered shelters and quaint front porches. gulfshores.com

SIMPLY THE BEST

The Broadmoor sets the bar for an unforgettable getaway

Known for its luxurious accommodations, breathtaking surroundings and array of activities for guests to enjoy, it’s easy to see why The Broadmoor is the world’s longest-running Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five-Diamond resort — it’s truly a vacation destination unto itself.

Celebrating its 108th anniversary on June 29, the Colorado Springs resort has grown over

property also has a spacious indoor pool, a heated lap pool and a seasonal outdoor pool with a 146-foot-long curved water slide and a 57-foot-long speed slide.

Given its proximity to the Colorado Rocky Mountains, The Broadmoor offers an array of wilderness adventures guests can enjoy, too. Visitors can book a guided fly-fishing excursion, go rock climbing or mountain biking, and even get up close to majestic birds of prey like the Harris’s hawk and Eurasian eagle-owl by enrolling in a falconry lesson. Animal lovers will also find the 100-year-old Cheyenne Mountain Zoo nearby, which was founded by The Broadmoor’s co-founder, Spencer Penrose. A nationally recognized leader in conservation

Fun Fact: Among The Broadmoor’s collection of Prohibition liquor bottles on display, there’s a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon signed by George W. Bush during a visit to the resort. Supposedly, Bush told The Broadmoor staff that he never wanted to drink again after viewing his bar bill — and he’s been sober ever since.

and animal care, the zoo is home to hundreds of animals, including grizzly bears and Nile hippos.

Visitors can learn more about Penrose and his wife, Julie, at the Penrose Heritage Museum. Located across from The Broadmoor, the free museum not only features the Penroses’ personal collection of 30 carriages, but also 15 race cars that competed in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Spencer started in 1916.

The Broadmoor’s most exquisite dining experience pays tribute to its philanthropic founders as well. The Penrose Room reopened last fall after an extensive remodel, complete with a speakeasy, The Polo Club, tucked behind a bookshelf. Boasting panoramic views of Cheyenne Mountain, the restaurant features a menu that celebrates the Penroses’ extensive travels around the world, with signature dishes like the Beef Wellington served on beautiful plates custom designed by renowned Italian porcelain house Ginori 1735.

In addition to its main campus accommodations, The Broadmoor has three all-inclusive wilderness properties close by that guests can stay at from May through October. For those looking for a rustic yet luxurious mountain getaway, Cloud Camp is situated 3,000 feet above The Broadmoor and offers both private cabins as well as guest rooms and suites in its main lodge. Guests can play a game of pickleball on one of the highest pickleball courts in the United States, savor sumptuous multicourse communal dinners and hang out with Cloud Camp’s resident dog, a Bernese Mountain DogGolden Retriever mix named Moose. The Broadmoor’s many other amenities are just a shuttle ride or 3.5-mile hike away.

Regardless of which property guests stay at, The Broadmoor and its attentive staff always deliver an unforgettable vacation experience. broadmoor.com

AND FABULOUS 40

The Carolina Opry Theater continues to be a cornerstone of the Myrtle Beach visitor experience

By Heather Turk

Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, The Carolina Opry Theater wasn’t just Myrtle Beach’s first large-scale live entertainment venue — it was the foundation of the area’s modern theater scene.

“When we opened the doors in 1986, we were building something no one had seen in Myrtle Beach before,” said country music singer Calvin Gilmore, founder of The Carolina Opry Theater. “Forty years later, knowing that this one idea sparked an entire entertainment industry still amazes me.”

The Carolina Opry Theater helped redefine Myrtle Beach as an entertainment destination, setting a precedent for professional production values, original live shows and a commitment to musical excellence that had not previously existed in the market. A cast of more than 35 of the nation’s most talented musicians, singers, dancers and comedians regularly perform at the venue, starring in two original productions that run from February through October. “The Carolina Opry,” a fast-paced variety show that blends comedy with country, pop, rock and gospel music, performs most Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday nights at 7 p.m., while “Time Warp,” a highenergy celebration of music from the 1960s through the 1980s, performs most Wednesdays and Fridays at 7 p.m.

In addition to its original productions, which includes “The Carolina Opry Christmas Special” in November and December, The Carolina Opry Theater hosts comedy shows, music tribute performances and celebrity concerts on select nights. Many notable acts, including Kenny G and Gladys Knight, have

of

group

performed at the theater over the decades. Upcoming shows include a concert by The Marshall Tucker Band on July 12 at 7 p.m. and a performance by Sail On, a Beach Boys tribute band, on Aug. 2 at 7 p.m.

While other performance venues have emerged in Myrtle Beach over the years, The Carolina Opry Theater remains one of South Carolina’s hottest tickets. thecarolinaopry.com

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Connecting, Celebrating, and Giving Back

At Allegiant, community and culture come to life when we gather with purpose. This year’s Customer Experience Excellence Award (CEEA) Luncheon was a meaningful opportunity to connect, recognize one another and celebrate the values that keep us moving forward — together.

From heartfelt conversations at the tables to inspiring remarks shared during the program, the luncheon highlighted what makes our workplace strong: engaged team members, supportive leaders and a shared commitment to creating an environment where everyone feels seen, heard and valued.

More Than a Meal

While the dining is a highlight, the true purpose of the CEEA Luncheon is to bring our team members together across teams and roles. It creates space to build relationships, share perspectives and strengthen the sense of belonging that powers our day-to-day work.

As one team member shared during the luncheon: “Events like this remind me that I’m part of something bigger, and that my actions matter.”

Recognition, Updates, and Shared Priorities

The program included remarks that reinforced our shared priorities and recognized the work happening across

Highlights from the CEEA Luncheon

the organization. Attendees also had time to connect informally, checking in with colleagues, meeting new faces and leaving with a renewed sense of alignment and appreciation.

Small touches, from thoughtful table settings to intentional conversation, all helped make the experience feel personal and welcoming. It was a reminder that recognition isn’t always about big moments; sometimes it’s simply taking time to gather, listen and say thank you.

Carrying the Energy Forward

The CEEA Luncheon was a great reminder that culture is built in the moments we choose to connect. When we invest in each other through conversation, recognition and shared experiences, we strengthen the teamwork that supports our passengers and each other every day.

Thank you to everyone who attended, helped plan and supported the CEEA Luncheon. Your participation is what turns an event like this into an experience and helps ensure Allegiant remains a place where people feel connected and empowered to do their best work.

We look forward to continuing these moments of connection throughout the year and celebrating the people who make Allegiant excellent.

Routes as of May 25th, 2026. Some routes may be seasonal; subject to change.

Cleared for Takeoff: Inspiring Future Aviation Professionals

By Samantha Callinan

For many students, middle school is an exciting time to begin exploring academic interests that spark career aspirations. For a particular group of students at James S. Rickards Middle School in Broward County, Florida, a recent school day didn’t involve desks or textbooks, but instead a trip to the airport to get a close-up view of the world of aviation.

In April, Allegiant teamed up with the ISTAT Foundation to host the South Florida students for a behind-the-scenes tour of Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). The experience brought to life a shared mission between the two organizations: expanding access to STEM education and careers in the aeronautical sciences.

The ISTAT Foundation supports the future of commercial aviation through investment in learning and development, offering scholarships, grants and internship opportunities. Allegiant worked with the organization to design a tour that provided the students with hands-on exposure to various airport, airline and aviation career paths. Key stops included the ticket counter, terminal, tarmac and, of course, an Allegiant aircraft.

At each stop, team members shared engaging introductions about what they do at Allegiant, how they achieved their roles and why they enjoy their careers in aviation. The students interacted with gate agents, mechanics, flight attendants and pilots.

Allegiant hosts field trip at FLL for students interested in aviation

For many students, it was their first time seeing these roles up close. What they discovered was not just a single career path, but an entire ecosystem of opportunities.

The tour concluded over lunch, where students and staff connected in smaller groups. Conversations ranged from technical questions about the aircraft to personal stories about career paths and future ambitions. While the day was designed to inspire students, Allegiant team members found inspiration of their own in the students’ curiosity and enthusiasm.

By the end of the afternoon, it was clear that the future of aviation is bright! We are proud to provide a robust charitable giving program that allows us to impact the areas we serve and call home even further.

If you would like to request a monetary or inkind donation, please send a detailed email to corporate.giving@allegiantair.com.

NOW BOARDING

Allegiant introduces Hiyo Social Tonicssip, settle in, and enjoy the ride.

Allegiant travelers already know the joy of going somewhere new, but now there’s something new to discover onboard.

Meet Hiyo, an organic, non-alcoholic social tonic designed for moments when you want to unwind or socialize and feel good while doing it. Carefully crafted with adaptogens, nootropics, and botanicals like ashwagandha, L-theanine, lion’s mane, lemon balm, passion flower, and ginger, Hiyo brings together stressrelieving, mood-boosting functional ingredients to provide a delightful lift they call “the float,” an experience for wherever the journey takes you.

“Travel is one of those moments where people are especially thoughtful about how they want to feel,” said Evan Quinn, CEO and co-founder of Hiyo. “Our social tonics give passengers a way to relax into the occasion and still step off the plane feeling clear and refreshed.”

Made with real fruit juice and premium, organic ingredients, each can is just 30 calories with 5 grams of sugar and 0% alcohol. The result is a crisp, balanced beverage that’s easy to enjoy from takeoff to touchdown.

As more travelers rethink what they reach for in flight, Hiyo offers a modern take on drinking, one that meets you where you are and moves with you. “We’re seeing a major shift toward intentional drinking,” said Quinn. “People still want the ritual of having something enjoyable to sip, but they want it to support how they live, travel, and feel. That’s exactly where Hiyo fits.”

Now available onboard is Hiyo’s Peach Mango, a sweet, satisfying, subtly tropical blend that brings a bright, fruitforward profile and feels like a small escape above the clouds.

Because wherever you’re headed, how you feel along the way matters just as much.

Snack Boxes

Horizon Box

Boulder Canyon Potato Chips, Old Wisconsin Salami, Summer Harvest Garlic & Herb Crostini, Gilman Wisconsin Swiss Cheese, Gilman White Cheddar Cheese, Wonderful Pistachios, OREO Chocolate Sandwich Cookies 2 pk, M&M’s Fun Size - $12

Getaway Box

Octonuts Sea Salt Almonds, Field Trip

Cracked Pepper Turkey Jerky, Pretzel Pete Mini Twists, GoGo Squeez AppleApple Fruit on the Go, Jelly Belly Jelly Beans, Classic Cookie - $10

Winglet Snack Pack

RITZ Cheese Cracker Sandwiches 6 pk, OREO Chocolate Sandwich Cookies 2 pk, Albanese Sour Worms, Crayons (2 units/4 colors), Allegiant Wings - $5

Ascent Box

Poshi Artichokes Basil & Thyme, Fit Joy Pretzels, That’s It Apples + Fig Bar, KIND Dark Chocolate Chunk Bar, Mario Pitted Olives w/ Hint of Savory Pepper, Dip In Classic Hummus - $10

$1 from every Winglet Snack Pack purchase will benefit Make-A-Wish®

For more info, visit wish.org or call 1.800.722.9474.

Combos

Daou Combo

*

Pick Daou Chardonnay or Pessimist by Daou with an Olli Meat and Cheese Tray - $26

Bloody Mary Combo*

Filthy Bloody Mary Mix with two Tito’s Handmade Vodka - $18

Mix & Match**

drink - $13

Kentucky Coffee

*

Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream with Dunkin’ Original Iced Coffee or La Colombe Black Cold Brew - $13

Snack Combo

Spirited Beverages

Wine

Pessimist by Daou

Daou Chardonnay

La Marca Prosecco

Altus Sol Cabernet Sauvignon

Altus Sol Pinot Grigio

Beer

Bud Light

Modelo Especial

Michelob Ultra

Heineken 0.0

Cocktails

On the Rocks Old Fashioned

Cutwater Lemon Drop Martini

Jose Cuervo Margarita

High Noon Vodka Seltzer Pineapple

Liquor

Grind Espresso

Tito’s Handmade Vodka

Tanqueray Gin

White Rum

Morgan Spiced Rum

Premium Liquor

Don Julio Tequila

Whiskey

TRAVELER INFORMATION

SAFETY FIRST

Customer safety is Allegiant®’s first concern. Please be advised that interference with the duties of crew members, including flight attendants, is a violation of federal laws. Our crews are thoroughly trained in all safety procedures. To ensure your own safety, we hope you take a moment to review the safety information card located in the seat pocket in front of you. Be aware of the following:

• Location of the nearest emergency exit

• Location of your emergency oxygen mask, if needed

• Correct procedure for exiting the cabin in an emergency

SEAT BELTS

Seat belts must be fastened ANY TIME the seat belt sign is on, during taxi, takeoff and landing. Once the seat belt sign is turned off, you may walk around the cabin. Due to unexpected turbulence, it is strongly recommended that you keep your seat belt fastened any time while in your seat. Allegiant’s exit seating policy does not allow the use of seat belt extensions in the exit seats due to tripping hazards.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

Allegiant is forbidden to serve alcoholic beverages to anyone who appears to be intoxicated or who has not yet reached the age of 21. It is a violation of federal regulations to drink alcoholic beverages during a flight unless they have been served by Allegiant personnel.

ALLEGIANT’S FLEET

CHILD RESTRAINT SEATS

Federal Aviation Administration requires that all child restraint seats used on planes meet federal safety standards. Acceptable seats bear proper labeling “THIS RESTRAINT IS CERTIFIED FOR USE IN MOTOR VEHICLES AND AIRCRAFT" from the manufacturer. Unlabeled seats or seats manufactured before Jan. 1, 1981, are not acceptable. Child restraint seats are to be placed into a window seat and secured with an aircraft seat belt.

PHOTOS & VIDEOS ONBOARD

The use of small cameras or mobile devices for photography and video is permitted onboard provided you keep the purpose of your photography and video to capturing personal events. Photographing or recording other customers or airline personnel without their express consent is prohibited. Airline personnel reserve the right to prohibit photos and videos onboard the aircraft if it becomes a disturbance to them or other passengers.

SMOKING

Smoking, the use of other tobacco products, e-cigarettes and other similar smoking devices are not permitted on any Allegiant flight. Federal law imposes fines of $1,000 for smoking and up to $2,000 for any attempt to disable an aircraft smoke detector.

Weight: 194,700 pounds

Maximum Passengers: 190

Total Length: 129 feet

Wingspan: 118 feet

Pilots: 2

Flight Attendants: 4

AIRBUS A320

Number of Aircraft: 79

Cruising Speed: 629 mph

Range: 3,797 miles

Maximum Take-Off

Weight: 172,000 pounds

Maximum Passengers: 186

Total Length: 123 feet

Wingspan: 117.5 feet

Pilots: 2

Flight Attendants: 4

AIRBUS A319

Number of Aircraft: 27

Cruising Speed: 629 mph

Range: 4,315 miles

Maximum Take-Off

Weight: 166,000 pounds

Maximum Passengers: 156

Total Length: 111 feet

Wingspan: 112 feet

Pilots: 2

Flight Attendants: 4

*Restrictions may apply when operating outside of U.S. Airspace. NOTE: Portable electronic device use on the ground, during takeoff and during landing should be limited to small, lightweight devices less than 2 lbs. These devices should be able to be easily secured in a seat back and not impede emergency access to the aisle.

or

and International regulatory authorities. If you have other questions about the use of other

Your Journey, Rewarded.

Find out how Allegiant travelers earn rewards their way with Allways Rewards® — free to join, or even faster with the Allways Rewards Visa® card.

Special Inflight Bonus Offer — ask your flight attendant how to apply.

2 points per $1 on Allegiant Travel Packages of $500 or more, and 1 point per $1 on all Allegiant bookings.

No blackout dates or minimum point redemption

Redeem your points towards:

Earn Faster. Fly Farther.

Take your loyalty further with the Allways Rewards Visa® card. Ask your flight attendant how to apply and earn a Special Bonus Points Offer.

3X points on Allegiant purchases, 2X points on qualifying dining purchases, and 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Complimentary Priority check-in and Priority

boarding on Allegiant Flights

for you and everyone else on your itinerary when you present your Allways Rewards Visa® card.

One Free Beverage

every time you fly Allegiant when you present your Allways Rewards Visa® card.

Buy One, Get One Free Airfare

anytime you use your card to purchase a vacation package from Allegiant with 4 or more hotel nights or 7 or more rental car days on the same itinerary when you call Allegiant Member Services for booking.

No blackouts dates or minimum point redemption, points don’t expire as long as your card account is open, and more.

Apply today! Ask your flight attendant how to apply now. This offer is unique to this ad. Our credit card offers may vary, and this offer may not be available elsewhere. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

For more information about rates, fees, other costs and benefits associated with the use of the card, refer to the disclosures accompanying the application. This credit card program is issued and administered by Bank of America, N.A. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and are used by the issuer pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. The Contactless Symbol and Contactless Indicator are trademarks owned by and used with permission of EMVCo, LLC.