“We couldn’t be more excited to debut Taylor Swift: Through The Eras at our Mississippi Museum this year,” said Emily Havens, Executive Director of GRAMMY Museum Mississippi. We can’t wait to share this story with our visitors.”

On display until February 2025, the exhibit will feature artefacts, instruments and memorabilia that represent each of Swift’s 11 eras, including:

• The BCBG Max Azria dress worn on tour in 2007
• Swift’s custom Taylor GS-6 “Sparkle Guitar” played throughout her Fearless Tour from 2009–2010
• A red sparkle top Gibson Les Paul played by Swift during her Speak Now World Tour
• Custom Marina Toybina ensemble and LaDuca boots worn during her performance of “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” at the GRAMMY Awards in 2013
• Custom Jessica Jones bodysuit and jacket and Christian Louboutin boots worn during her 2018 reputation Stadium Tour
• Gibson J-180 played during Swift’s 2019 City of Lover concert in Paris, celebrating the release of her seventh studio album, Lover
• Oscar de la Renta dress and Christian Louboutin shoes worn at the GRAMMY Awards in 2021
• Stella McCartney coat worn by Swift on the cover of her 2020 album evermore
• Free People coat worn in the music video for “Lavender Haze”
• Maticevski gown and gloves worn in the music video for “Fortnight (feat. Post Malone)”

UK Account Manager for Visit Mississippi, Hannah Phipps commented “This is an exciting new addition to the GRAMMY Museum in Cleveland, which is already a must-stop destination on a music inspired fly-drive holiday through the Mississippi Delta.”  Hannah continued, “This region is so rich in music history, from Elvis’s birthplace, in Tupelo to the home of the Blues in Clarksdale, Indianola for the BB King Museum, and Dockery Farms, birthplace of the Blues. Everywhere you stop, you can hear incredible live music and enjoy a true taste of the Deep South”

ENDS 

For media enquiries, more information, hi-res images or video, please contact:

Anisha Hegde, PR Account Executive: anisha@ttmworld.co.uk

For any other enquiries, please visit www.ttmworld.co.uk, email ttmoffice@ttmworld.co.uk or

call +44 (0)208 313 1717

ABOUT GRAMMY MUSEUM MISSISSIPPI

Developed by the Cleveland Music Foundation—a nonprofit organization founded in 2011—the 28,000-square-foot GRAMMY Museum Mississippi is housed near the campus of Delta State University, home of the Delta Music Institute’s Entertainment Industry Studies program, which features the most unique audio recording facilities in the South. Affiliated with the GRAMMY Museum Foundation™, GRAMMY Museum Mississippi is dedicated to exploring the past, present, and future of music, and the cultural context from which it emerges, while casting a focused spotlight on the deep musical roots of Mississippi. The Museum features a dynamic combination of public events, educational programming, engaging multimedia presentations, and interactive permanent and traveling exhibits, including a Mississippi-centric area that introduces visitors to the impact of Mississippi’s songwriters, producers, and musicians on the traditional and modern music landscape. For more information, visit grammymuseumms.org.

The post TAYLOR SWIFT: THROUGH THE ERAS TO OPEN AT GRAMMY MUSEUM® MISSISSIPPI appeared first on TTM World.

New Orleans & Company were delighted to return to Brighton and Hove for a second year running as the destination sponsor, joining the parade with a float and 85 participants.

“We are beyond thrilled to take part in Brighton & Hove Pride 2024 and to share a slice of New Orleans’ rich cultural heritage and spirit which welcomes all” commented Kim Priez, Senior Vice President of Tourism at New Orleans & Company.

“There are many similarities between Brighton & Hove and New Orleans, from our love of independent chefs and retailers, to a thriving arts community, a 24/7 party scene and spectacular live music. In addition to our own Pride event, we have over 200 festivals a year. In September, we will celebrate Southern Decadence, which is the city’s largest LGBTQ+ event .”

New Orleans has always been a city that champions the arts and celebrates culture, drawing many LGBTQ+ artists and performers to the French Quarter, home to Café Lafitte in Exile, one of America’s oldest gay bars.

With its rich history, vivacious festivals and welcoming spirit, New Orleans is the ultimate destination for travellers seeking an inclusive atmosphere.

Brighton & Hove Pride has once again cemented its status as one of the world’s premier Pride events, and with support from sponsors including New Orleans & Company, this year’s celebration was a resounding success, as the community and allies joined together to party and paint the city rainbow. As the glitter settles, the memories of this extraordinary weekend will continue to unite us all.

For more information on LGBTQ+ New Orleans

For more information on Brighton & Hove Pride 24

ENDS

For more information on this release, please contact:

David Venables david@ttmworld.co.uk
Senior PR Account Manager, UK

About New Orleans & Company:

New Orleans & Company is dedicated to promoting the unique culture, cuisine, and heritage of New Orleans, Louisiana. As a city renowned for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community and inclusive atmosphere, New Orleans is a fabulous destination that welcomes all. By sponsoring events like Brighton & Hove Pride, the company aims to foster cultural exchange and celebrate the vibrant diversity that makes New Orleans a beloved destination for travellers.

The post Brighton & Hove Pride 2024 – A Dazzling Celebration of Love and Diversity appeared first on TTM World.

This year, for the first time, Explore Louisiana and Visit the USA will present the #MyLouisiana series, three specially curated concerts inspired by the energy, culture and musical heritage of the state of Louisiana, with its deep and rich history in jazz.

The partnership centres on three very special shows on the closing weekend of the festival. Saturday will see a special performance by representatives from Take Me To The River. Born from the desire to celebrate and preserve the rich musical history of Louisiana, Take Me To The River is a blend of musicians, educators and historians, united by a shared passion for music and culture. They are passionate to keep the river of music flowing for future generations.

On Sunday, the South Bank Centre will feature a day of performances from a diverse roster of Louisiana Musicians including Orphy Robinson, who will lead a group of 50 amateur musicians to learn, rehearse and perform a suite of new music composed for this performance. The Joli Blon Cajun Project will play traditional dance music from Louisiana: featuring accordion, fiddle and sung in Cajun French by a core trio of women.

The festival will close with a Louisiana themed party featuring The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, the Grammy award-winning band founded in 1977, blending brass band music with Bebop, Jazz, Funk and R&B/Soul. Further information will be released regarding performances that will encompass the #MyLouisiana series.

Neil Tagliavini Jones, Chief Account and Marketing Officer for Explore Louisiana UK said “The London Jazz Festival is the perfect place to celebrate the musical legacy of Louisiana which has been instrumental in so many genres of music that we listen to today.” He continued “Music is engrained in the soul of Louisiana, it’s the birthplace of jazz, zydeco, Cajun, and swamp pop and more. It’s easy to plan a music inspired road trip through Louisiana by following the Louisiana Music Trail.”

EFG London Jazz Festival #MyLouisiana Series

Saturday, 23 Nov – Take me To the River – Barbican Centre

Sunday, 24 Nov – Louisiana all-dayer featuring Orphy Robinson, Joli Blon Cajun Project, The Brass Funkeys and DJ Lil’ Koko – Clore Ballroom

Sunday, 24 Nov – Louisiana Closing Party featuring The Dirty Dozen Brass Band – Lafayette

Other artists scheduled to perform during the London Jazz Festival include Jamie Cullum and Imelda May who are both performing at London’s Royal Festival Hall. For a full list of performances announced so far, please visit www.efglondonjazzfestival.org.uk.For further information on Take Me To The River, www.takemetotheriver.org

For further information on Explore Louisiana, https://www.explorelouisiana.com/music

Ends

For media enquiries, more information, hi-res images or video, please contact:

David Venables, Senior PR Account Manager: david@ttmworld.co.uk

Anisha Hegde, PR Account Executive: anisha@ttmworld.co.uk

For any other enquiries, please visit www.ttmworld.co.uk, email ttmoffice@ttmworld.co.uk or

call +44 (0)208 313 1717

The post EXPLORE LOUISIANA PRESENT #MYLOUISIANA SERIES AT EFG LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL 2024 appeared first on TTM World.

Discover New England

New England with its diverse landscape of beautiful coastlines, quaint small towns and beautiful scenery has inspired filmmakers and showrunners to film in the region. Martin Scorsese used Otter Cliff in Acadia National Park to film the cliff scenes in Shutter Island starring Leonardo DiCaprio, the movie was set on an island off the coast of Massachusetts. Popham Beach, at the tip of Maine’s Phippsburg Peninsula was featured in the 1999 film Message in a Bottle.  Many of the scenes of Cider House Rules starring a young Tobey Maguire, Charlize Theron and Michael Caine, were filmed at Sand Beach in Acadia National Park.

 Rosecliff Mansion in Newport features in several famous movies like 27 Dresses, The Great Gatsby and True Lies. The Mansions of Newport are also a major setting for The Gilded Age and fans can go behind the scenes and get all the insight on The Gilded Age Tour which takes in the four mansions featured in the series.

Many of New England’s locations have also inspired many movies and TV shows and some have been set in the region but not shot there. The creator of Gilmore Girls was inspired by the town of Washington, Connecticut when she stayed at the Mayflower Grace Inn to create the fictional town of Star’s Hollow. Fans can visit all the places that have inspired the hit show including Hartford, New Haven and many more. The famous Mystic Pizza also inspired the movie of the same name starring Julia Roberts.

https://discovernewengland.org/

Meet Boston

Boston is the city where history meets Hollywood. From its cobblestone streets to its storied landmarks, Boston has been the backdrop for some of the most iconic films in movie history—and this fall, the city is rolling out the red carpet for film lovers everywhere.  Some of Boston’s most famous offspring are today Hollywood’s leading lights including Matt Damon, Mark Wahlberg, Uma Thurman and Ben Affleck.

Relive the intense drama of Good Will Hunting, written by Boston locals Matt Damon and Ben Affleck as you stroll through Harvard Square, or immerse yourself in the gritty atmosphere of The Departed while exploring the city’s South Boston neighbourhood. Fans of Mystic River can revisit the hauntingly beautiful spots that brought this masterpiece to life, while those who love the heist thrillers of The Town will feel the adrenaline of Boston’s North End.

Matt Damon has recently expressed his desire to put a statue of the late Robin Williams near the bench where the duo shot a famous scene from the 1997 film Good Will Hunting which has led to a petition pushing for the statue garnering momentum with tens of thousands of signatures.

The famous Fenway Park is featured towards the end of the Brad Pitt starring, Oscar- nominated Moneyball while the Freedom Trail Line features in The Departed. Visitors can take a tour of these famous movie locations by taking the Boston Movie Mile Walking tour or the Boston TV and Movie Bus Tour where they catch a glimpse of the buildings used in famous shows like Boston Legal and Ally McBeal and the streets of that famous chase sequence in The Town.

But Boston isn’t just about drama; comedy fans can’t miss revisiting the hilarious hijinks of Ted, the laugh-out-loud buddy film that captures the quirky side of Boston like no other and stars Boston local, Mark Wahlberg. No trip to Boston is complete without the obligatory selfie by the Cheers pub sign on the corner of Boston Common.

Boston’s theatres are packed with a mix of new releases and classic films that celebrate the city’s cinematic heritage. The Boston Film Festival will spotlight emerging talents, while the Brattle Theatre and Coolidge Corner Theatre offer retrospectives of the films that made Boston a star on the silver screen. Whether you’re revisiting old favourites or discovering new ones, Boston’s film scene promises a captivating journey through the heart of cinema.

https://www.meetboston.com/event/parks-movie-nights/81005/

Tennessee Tourism

With its deep-rooted music scene, beautiful outdoor and charming small towns, Tennessee has drawn filmmakers to the state to create movies for years. To commemorate the upcoming 90^th  Anniversary of Elvis Presley’s birth, fans of the singer can visit his Graceland, Memphis, where the movie Elvis is set. Elvis is filled with many iconic stops found only in Memphis, including the Presley’s’ apartment in Uptown Square, historic Beale Street Entertainment District, Sun Studios and The Arcade, one of Elvis’ favourite restaurants.

The 2005 Johnny Cash biopic Walk The Line was shot in Memphis and stars Nashville native Reese Witherspoon who won an Oscar for her performance in the film. The Hannah Montana Movie starring Miley Cyrus was filmed extensively in Nashville and Franklin, where the singer was born. The Bluebird Cafe, located outside of downtown Nashville, has a starring role in the 2012 TV show Nashville which was inspired by the music industry in the city.

https://www.tnvacation.com/

Maverick Helicopters

Catch the Hollywood Stars in 2024, as Maverick Helicopters launched flights over Hollywood and breathtaking views of the Californian coastline on a luxury helicopter experience to view some starry locations.

The Hollywood & Beyond aerial tour will take guests over iconic landmarks including Hollywood, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and the stunning Pacific Ocean. This tour will soar over the exclusive Hollywood Hills and Bel Air, where legendary film personalities reside and views of the upscale Rodeo Drive, UCLA campus, Hollywood Bowl, and Universal Studios in the distance. The world-famous Hollywood Sign is best witnessed from the sky, followed by notable sights like Griffith Park & Observatory and Dodgers Stadium.

In addition, Maverick Helicopters offers Tours from Las Vegas where famous heist movies like Ocean’s 11 and 21 along with romcoms such as What Happens in Vegas and Miss Congeniality 2 were shot.

https://www.maverickhelicopter.com/

Visit San Antonio

An urban oasis, San Antonio and its charming locations have featured in many Hollywood classics that people visiting may recognise. The Alamo, San Antonio’s icon is featured in blockbusters like Miss Congeniality and Pee-wee’s Big Adventure. Originally known as Misión San Antonio de Valero, the Alamo and San Antonio Missions National Historical Park are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Jennifer Lopez secured her first lead actor title in the film Selena. Filmed in the city it tells the tragic story of Singer/Fashion designer Selena Quintanilla known as the Tejano Madonna.  The film is credited as JLo’s breakout role.  Fans of both the Tejano singer and the actress/singer that played her are always to be seen having their picture taken on the ‘Selena Bridge’ along San Antonio’s River Walk.

The San Antonio Black International Film Festival takes place every October complete with a red carpet reception and some dazzling entertainment. The mission of the festival is to showcase quality films, advocate for, and support filmmakers of African descent.

Fun fact : Supernatural and Gilmore Girls actor Jared Padalecki was born in San Antonio and so was Fast and Furious star Michelle Rodrigues.

https://www.visitsanantonio.com/

Visit Tucson

Since 1925, the international film industry has relied on the Southern Arizona city to provide stunning locations to feature in films of every genre. A variety of films and shows have been made in Tucson. The Fabelmans directed by Steven Spielberg has featured the Saguaro National Park and Tucson Mountain Park while Away We Go directed by Sam Mendes features the JW Mariott Starr Pass Resort & Spa. Martin Scorsese’s Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore was filmed entirely in the Old Pueblo.

Old Tucson Studios  is Arizona’s premier Western Amusement Park, Movie Studio, and Events Center. Located 25 minutes outside downtown Tucson, the park is situated between the beautiful Saguaro National Park and Tucson Mountain Park. Since 1939, Old Tucson has been the production site for over 500 western films and TV shows. Old Tucson preserves the significance of the production studio, while offering its visitors guided tours, seasonal events, attractions, live shows, restaurants, and retail outlets.

Tucson also keeps cinema’s magic alive with a wide array of film festivals throughout the year. Tucson has 3 film festivals taking place in the month of October alone – Tucson Terrorfest Film Festival that showcases and celebrates the best of horror and films from all over the world, Film Fest Tucson which is a homegrown film festival and Loft Film Fest that is a showcase for the very best independent and foreign films.

Films in Tucson, AZ | Iconic Filming Locations & Classic Movies (visittucson.org)

Explore Louisiana

Louisiana has long been a frontrunner in the film industry with more than 2,500 movies being shot in the state. It is also nicknamed “Hollywood South” as the state has featured widely in movies and TV shows. Movie lovers can visit many famous locations on Louisiana’s Film Trail including  Oak Alley Plantation where the original Interview with the Vampire was shot and Natchitoches, where Steel Magnolias was filmed. Visitors can enjoy a weekend staying in the actual 1830s, six-bedroom, six-and-a-half bath Steel Magnolia House. The bed and breakfast inn is where much of the movie was filmed.

Louisiana’s historic homes on the Mississippi River between New Orleans and Baton Rouge remain a magnet for blockbuster films. In recent years, 12 Years a Slave was filmed at Felicity Plantation. The Emmy-award winning True Detective’s first season is filled with images of the Louisiana swamps, and in some of its most intense scenes, a historical 1822 brick fort. Fort Macomb (located between New Orleans and Slidell), Oak Alley Plantation in Vacherie, the Prairie Cajun town of Eunice (home of the Cajun Music Hall of Fame) and the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road on the outskirts of Lake Charles all serve as prominent locations in True Detective.

https://www.explorelouisiana.com/film

Visit New Orleans

New Orleans is a treasure trove of cinematic gems, offering film lovers a journey through the heart of the Big Easy’s film magic. New Orleans built the first movie theatre in the USA and is still a popular city for filmmakers.

In a city known for its spooky spirit, New Orleans has played host to some of the most unforgettable films of our time. Wander the French Quarter and relive the supernatural allure of Interview with the Vampire; the American Horror Story cast and crew also took to New Orleans for the third season of the series: Coven. The FX horror anthology’s 13-episode season is filled with iconic New Orleans eateries, attractions, and scenery. Scream Queens, a slasher comedy series starring Emma Roberts and Jamie Lee Curtis filmed its first season in New Orleans.

Dive into the deep mysteries of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button as you explore the city’s historic architecture. For a dose of adrenaline, follow the action-packed trails of Jurassic World in City Park or revisit the intense drama of Steve McQueen’s 12 Years a Slave, filmed at the Columns Hotel on St. Charles Avenue which is on the National Register of Historic Places.

https://www.neworleans.com/blog/post/filmed-in-new-orleans/

Visit Mississippi

For more than a century, movie makers have been bringing business to Magnolia State, showcasing the eye-catching visuals of its landscapes and architecture. Iconic locations throughout the entire state have been featured on the Silver Screen and are ready to be rediscovered.

Stroll through the streets of Clarksdale, where the soulful rhythms of the blues come alive in O Brother, Where Art Thou?, a film that perfectly captures the spirit of the Delta. Locations featured in the movie include D’Lo Water Park and Courthouse Square.

Dive into the intense world of A Time to Kill, set against the backdrop of Mississippi’s storied past, or experience the resilience and triumph of the human spirit in The Help, filmed in the charming towns of Greenwood and Jackson. Notable buildings include Brent’s Drugs, the Mississippi Capitol building, and the Mayflower Café, in Jackson, and the former Press Register building in Clarksdale.

Several locations in Mississippi’s oldest city Natchez were featured in the 2014 movie Get On Up starring the late Chadwick Boseman. Natchez was also the setting for 2021’s holiday Hallmark movie Every Time a Bell Rings. Oxford’s picturesque downtown known as the Oxford Square is the backdrop for the classic black and white crime drama Intruder in the Dust. The charming square is still recognisable, even after 70 years!

https://visitmississippi.org/go/film/

Vist Mesa

One of the most iconic film spots near Mesa is now a popular tourist attraction on The Apache Trail (The Apache Trail is a historic scenic driving route in the Tonto National Forest). Apacheland Movie Ranch opened in 1960 in Gold Canyon as a movie set and was operational for many years until a fire consumed most of the property in 2004. The only buildings that escaped being destroyed were the Elvis Presley Chapel that was built for the movie Charro, and the Apacheland Barn which had been used in many Western films. Guests can visit Apacheland and the Elvis Presley Chapel at the Superstition Mountain Museum which is one of the stops along The Apache Trail.

Other Movies filmed in Mesa include Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure : Golfland Sunsplash in Mesa was featured in the waterpark scene, Raising Arizona : Lost Dutchman State Park was where their “starter home” was and Daddy Daughter Trip: Rob Schneider’s movie that was filmed entirely in Arizona and features Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch and the Salt River.

https://www.visitmesa.com/

Ends 

For media enquiries, more information, hi-res images or video, please contact:

Caroline Donaldson-Sinclair, PR Account Director: caroline@ttmworld.co.uk

For Meet Boston, Discover New England, and Visit San Antonio 

David Venables, Senior PR Account Manager: david@ttmworld.co.uk

For Explore Louisiana, Tennessee Tourism, Visit Mesa, and Maverick Helicopters

Billy Greening, PR Account Manager: billy@ttmworld.co.uk

For Visit Mississippi, New Orleans & Company, and Meet Boston  

Anisha Hegde, PR Account Executive: anisha@ttmworld.co.uk

For Visit Tucson 

Kirsty Dillury, Owner / Chief Communications Officer kirsty@ttmworld.co.uk

For any other enquiries, please visit www.ttmworld.co.uk, email ttmoffice@ttmworld.co.uk or

call +44 (0)208 313 1717

The post A Movie Lover’s Guide to the USA appeared first on TTM World.

San Antonio

As of one of only two UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy in the USA, and home to one of the three Culinary Institute of America campuses; San Antonio, is at the heart of an American culinary revolution that expands far beyond traditional flavours. Most would associate San Antonio with their renowned Tex-Mex cuisine and as the home of chilli con carne, but this city really is a melting pot of flavours, offering multi-award winning gastronomy from across the world.

Two Bros. BBQ Market is a barbecue spot that stands out for its family-friendly ambiance and authentic Texas barbecue.  The Jerk Shack offers a vibrant escape to the Caribbean right in San Antonio. Specializing in Jamaican cuisine, this restaurant is renowned for its Jamaican jerk chicken. The jerk shrimp tacos, served with mango salsa, is another popular dish. Tre Trattoria, located at the

San Antonio Museum of Art, brings Italian flavours to San Antonio while Curry Boys BBQ, located near the lively Olmos Basin Park, offers a fusion of Texas barbecue and Asian (Thai, Vietnamese) spices. This fusion of flavours from different continents makes San Antonio’s culinary scene exciting.

The Culinary Institute of America campus is in the heart of the historic Pearl District and infuses the city’s culinary culture with creativity, innovation, and a passion for food. For a taste of what the Institute is cooking up, visit Savor at Pearl for meals prepared and presented by advanced students under the guidance of professional faculty.

San Antonio is the home of Taste Texas: The Texas Wine & Food Festival which this year takes place

8-10 November. The festival is so highly regarded it has been sponsored by the James Beard Foundation from its outset. Set against the picturesque La Villita backdrop in downtown San Antonio, the festival gathers celebrated local and national chefs under the James Beard banner to create a four-day celebration of food, wine and cultural gastronomic experiences.

Read this for more on restaurants in San Antonio

Visit Tucson

With locally driven restaurants, up-and-coming chefs and artisans, and a grounding in regional cuisine, Tucson, Arizona’s food scene has to be experienced to be understood. As the first and one of only 2 cities in the USA designated a UNESCO World City of Gastronomy, Tucson has a rich and diverse culinary scene, built on years of agricultural history and heritage that spans 5000 years of continuous agricultural practices, encompassing distinct Mexican and native traditions.

Tucson’s Mexican food scene is a melting pot of passion and heritage with sizzling street food to family-owned gems hidden in colourful barrios. The Best 23 Miles of Mexican food is an adventure of incredible tacos and a wide array of dining options from fine to funky. The Sonoran Dog, Tucson’s version of the American hotdog is an award-winning local delicacy. The oldest family-run continuously operating Mexican restaurant in the United States is in downtown Tucson. Visit Tucson has also launched their newest Field Guide, spotlighting a trail of local Mexican restaurants around the city that will give locals and visitors a taste of Tucson, home to USA’s best Mexican food.

The Farm to Table scene supports farmers and ranchers who form the backbone of Tucson’s agricultural legacy. At Tucson’s Farmer’s Markets, fresh food can be found all year-round and visitors can shop sustainably grown, locally sourced seasonal food. Sonoran Desert delicacies like traditional heirloom crops (such as tepary beans), edible native plants (like prickly pear fruit), and regional artisan products (bread made with mesquite flour) in addition to familiar provisions like garlic, herbs, tomatoes, eggs, honey and more can be found in these markets.

For more foodie information

Explore Louisiana

Louisiana has thousands of miles if you count bays and inlets—of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, making it one of North America’s most productive shrimp, oyster and crab fisheries. Seafood in Louisiana offers great variety and the state produces more than 850 million pounds of seafood each year and is the second largest seafood producer and largest commercial fishery in the U.S.

Crawfish are abundant in Louisiana late winter through early spring. Louisiana blue crabs are quite a delicacy and can be found late spring through early fall. Found in dishes ranging from crab dip appetizers and marinated or fried crab claws, to crab and shrimp gumbo, Louisiana blue crabs are a sweet, succulent treat. The Louisiana Oyster Trail is a trail experience focusing on Jefferson Parish restaurants serving Louisiana Oysters. October through April is the prime season for these succulent, large Gulf Coast delicacies, however, they are available year-round.

Louisiana’s Food: An Insider’s Guide | Explore Louisiana

Visit New Orleans

New Orleans is a vibrant tapestry of flavours and festivities, where food trucks reign supreme on every corner, from bustling festivals to historic churches. They line the electrifying Mardi Gras route and showcase a world of cuisines. New Orleans shares its passion for food and drink with a series of festivals where anyone can sample, sip and savour the city’s best-tasting offerings throughout the year.

Thousands of wine and food lovers gather each spring in New Orleans for one of the city’s most extravagant rites of passage, the New Orleans Wine and Food Experience. The five day event features unique programs throughout the city for lovers of food and wine. The Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival presented by the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation continues the New Orleans tradition of blues, bringing together top performers from southern Louisiana and Mississippi. Musicians and vendors alike captivating audiences with soulful blues melodies and mouthwatering BBQ making it a musical and culinary delight. It’s a feast for the senses, making it a must-attend musical and culinary delight.

The 2024 James Beard winners for New Orleans include Jewel of the South winning Outstanding Bar and  Dakar NOLA winning Best New Restaurant.

https://www.neworleans.com/restaurants/where-to-eat/food-trucks/

Discover New England

Many of New England’s culinary traditions trace their origins to Colonial times, when European settlers’ own food sensibilities became mixed with what they learned from native peoples about preparing the bounty harvested from land and sea.

A genuinely indigenous food, maple syrup was first produced by Native Americans, who marked the harvest with a “sugar moon” celebration of the last full moon before spring. Made by tapping maple trees and evaporating the collected sap to create a concentrated liquid, real maple syrup is today a breakfast staple used to top pancakes and waffles. Sugarhouses—many of them small-scale, family-run operations—produce maple syrup in every New England state, with Vermont being the biggest producer in the USA, and largest producer of ‘grade A Fancy’ syrup in the world. The sap harvest in March and April is the time to visit if you’re hoping to see a sugarhouse in action, with the maple associations in Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, and Connecticut hosting special events and tours.  Can’t get enough maple syrup, head to the Vermont Maple Festival which runs every April.

Found on restaurant menus in every New England state, lobster is the region’s most famous culinary export, with Maine lobster being sort after as a delicacy throughout the world.  This very carefully monitored fishing industry is the pride of the state and a model of sustainable and humane practise.  The lobster roll is a speciality of the region. Visitors can devour some great lobsters at eateries like Abbott’s Lobster in the Rough in Connecticut or seaside shacks like McLoons in Maine.  The Maine Lonster Festival takes place July 31- August 4 2024.

New England won big at the James Beard Awards 2024 with Atsuko Fujimoto winning Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker, David Standridge of the Shipwirights Daughter in Mystic, Connecticut winning Best Chef in the Northeast, and ZU Bakery in Portland, Maine winning Best Bakery.

Click here for more on New England’s Heritage foods

Meet Boston

As Boston’s culinary scene explodes with flavour and innovation, it’s vibrant Food Halls are taking the spotlight. These dynamic hubs bring together a medley of cuisines under one roof, blending international flair with local charm and presenting a tantalising array of choices that cater to every palate.

Visitors can take a stroll through the Boston Public Market where 35 local artisanal vendors and food producers offer a mix of fast-casual meals, fresh produce and specialty food items. Located within the historic Haymarket, this bustling marketplace also hosts a range of food-centric events every season.

Just a few steps away, you’ll find yourself at the legendary Faneuil Hall Marketplace, home to Quincy Market. Opened in 1742, this iconic food hall is frequented by tourists and locals alike. Visitors can stroll along the endless hallways while taking in the sights and smells of over 75 vendors cooking in their respective open kitchens. In Fenway The Time Out Market beckons with 16 handpicked restaurants serving global cuisine all curated by the discerning editors of Media Group Time Out. This gastronomic paradise is where culinary dreams come true, offering a world of flavours that reflect the rich diversity of Boston’s food scene.

In the heart of Downtown Boston High Street Place offers a vibrant foodie destination with 20 fabulous vendors, each curated by Greater Boston’s culinary rockstars. From modern sushi, to gourmet sandwiches, salads, shellfish towers and award winning cocktails, High Street Place has a little something for everyone’s cravings and mood.

Bites of Boston Food Tours offers food tours in Boston’s tastiest neighbourhoods and provides an opportunity for visitors to take in the flavours and explore the historic and scenic areas. A well-balanced mix of historical, architectural and cultural details combined with a hearty helping of delicious local cuisine is the perfect recipe for a walking food tour packed with food, facts and fun. The group food tours are held across all seasons and accommodate dietary requirements of the group.

For more details on Boston’s local food festival, visit https://www.meetboston.com/event/boston-local-food-festival/80335/

Tennessee Tourism

Music and food go hand in hand in the state of Tennessee. Nashville’s music and food scene hits all the right notes where visitors can grab a bite to eat or sip their favourite beverage while listening to some live music. AJ’s Good Time Bar is the perfect place for anyone looking for the classic Lower Broadway experience, historic views and the kind of country music that made Nashville famous. The Bluebird Cafe has gained worldwide recognition as a songwriter’s performance space where each show can include an up-and-coming songwriter along with those whose music is regularly on the charts. Visitors can enjoy a meal alongside your experience with a weekly entrée feature, seasonal menu, delectable desserts and an extensive beverage menu.

Visitors can feel the soul of Memphis in restaurants that regularly host live music. You’ll hear soul, blues, rock n’ roll and even DJs at dining spots around the city. Originally opened in 1991, B.B. King’s Blues Club has remained a favourite for visitors and locals alike. With a unique blend of blues, soul, and classic rock & roll music that can only be found in Memphis, this eatery features great music and a great menu. Specialty ribs are a highlight, but the restaurant also serves some other Southern favourites like shrimp and grits, barbecue chicken, burgers, po’ boys, and more. Signature drinks (like Beale Street Lemonade and Memphis Margarita), beers and wines are also available.

Click here for more information on culinary trails in Tennessee

Visit Mississippi

Mississippi is blessed by a natural bounty of seafood. Dive into the freshest seafood straight from the Gulf of Mexico, renowned for its world-class quality. Oysters from the Gulf can be found at some of the state’s best restaurants, like Thorny Oyster on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

In the Mississippi Delta, BBQ enthusiasts will find some of the finest barbeque in the USA at restaurants like Abe’s in Clarksdale, who have been perfecting their craft over nearly a century, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers.

The Mississippi Culinary Trail showcases the state’s rich tapestry of culinary flavours highlighting each of the five region’s distinct delicacies, restaurants and food traditions. Indulge in the Delta’s famed Mississippi Catfish, relish the fresh shrimp along the Coast, and enjoy the hearty grill fare in the Hills.

Johnnie’s Drive-In on Main Street in Tupelo is still known for their dough burger, Elvis actually preferred a cheeseburger and an RC Cola. Visitors can enjoy lunch in the Elvis booth … it’s the one marked with the plaque.

For more details on must-try meals and dining hotspots, visit

Visit Mesa

Mesa is a culinary gateway with the region’s neighbouring farms providing a continuous bounty of seasonal goods for visitors to enjoy at restaurants and resorts throughout the state of Arizona. The  Fresh Foodie Trail® is a unique experience that needs to be on every foodie’s bucket list.

Farms and Agritourism are a huge part of Mesa where a treasured heritage of family farms with organic food and long-standing festivals make for lasting memories. Visitors can enjoy a traditional American family farm and 300-acre peach orchard at Schnepf Farms with annual events taking place throughout the year like hayrides, train rides and live entertainment. The Power Road Farmers Market, located in south east Mesa, is open every day. This market is over 50 years old and known for their fresh produce and great prices.

Here’s a foodie itinerary for Mesa

Ends

For media enquiries, more information, hi-res images or video, please contact:

Caroline Donaldson-Sinclair, PR Account Director: caroline@ttmworld.co.uk

For Meet Boston, Discover New England, and Visit San Antonio

David Venables, Senior PR Account Manager: david@ttmworld.co.uk

For Explore Louisiana, Tennessee Tourism, Visit Mesa, and Maverick Helicopters

Billy Greening, PR Account Manager: billy@ttmworld.co.uk

For Visit Mississippi, New Orleans & Company, and Meet Boston

Anisha Hegde, PR Account Executive: anisha@ttmworld.co.uk

For Visit Tucson

Kirsty Dillury, Owner / Chief Communications Officer (CCO): kirsty@ttmworld.co.uk

 For any other enquiries, please visit www.ttmworld.co.uk, email ttmoffice@ttmworld.co.uk or

call +44 (0)208 313 1717

The post The USA Foodie Bucket List: 2024 appeared first on TTM World.

New Orleans

Every June, events that unify and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community can be found throughout New Orleans. Parades, parties, fundraisers, and community events exemplify the welcoming culture for which the city is known.

New Orleans has always championed arts and culture, fostering a lively gay social scene and drawing many LGBTQ+ artists and performers to the French Quarter, home to Café Lafitte in Exile, one of America’s oldest gay bars. The longest running gay event, the Fat Monday Luncheon, kicked off in 1949, and the oldest gay social organization, the Steamboat Club, was launched in 1953.

New Orleans Pride Weekend this year is 07 – 09 June 2024. One of the most exciting traditions is PrideFest, a block party hosted outside The Phoenix Bar on Elysian Fields. PrideFest and the parade are free to attend.

Southern Decadence occurs every year over Labor Day Weekend at the start of September, and is the largest LGBTQ+ event in New Orleans. The celebrations last through the day and night, with lively parties and parades. While the street parties are free, the weekend passes offered allow entry to exclusive events.

New Orleans & Company is very excited to return to Brighton, UK this year as the destination sponsor for Brighton & Hove Pride, set to take place on 03 August. This event is widely acknowledged as one of the biggest and best Pride events and festivals anywhere in the world.

For more information: LGBTQ New Orleans

New England

New England’s scenic landscapes, inclusive accommodations, and progressive attitudes make it a haven for all travellers seeking authenticity, acceptance, and memorable experiences.

Ogunquit, Maine is a small beach community with a reputation for being exceptionally friendly to all those who visit.  Ogunquit is easily accessible and is home to many LGBTQ+ friendly hotels and resorts. Every June, Maine’s communities unite to celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride with a festival.

From vibrant cities like Boston and New Haven to quaint coastal towns there’s a spectrum of welcoming spaces tailored to diverse identities. For almost a century, gay and lesbian travellers have made their way to Provincetown, Massachusetts.  Today, the tip of the Cape draws its energy and spirit from members of the LGBTQ+ community who come here year after year, some for the first time, and many who stopped counting long ago.

New England also leads the country in welcoming and accommodating LGBTQ partners and their families. The Pointe Hotel at Castle Hill Resort in Vermont sometimes hosts LGBTQ-themed events, creating opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and forge meaningful friendships.

For itinerary ideas: Celebrate Diversity

Boston

Boston is known for its inclusivity. As the capital city of the first state in the USA to legalise same-sex marriage, Boston stands proud, accessible, and welcoming. The city boasts one of the largest LGBTQ+ populations on the East Coast with neighbourhoods such as the South End and Jamaica Plain offering a good variety of nightlife. Boston remains one of America’s most LGBTQ+ friendly cities and has a large queer community itself.

Boston’s LGBTQ Past walking tour traces the gay and lesbian culture that flourishes today. This tour is presented in partnership with The History Project, a nonprofit organization that documents, preserves, and shares New England’s LGBTQ+ history.

Boston Pride For The People will celebrate Pride Month on 08 June this year. Events include a parade and festival which combine to create a collective city-wide celebration.

A year round highlight is the Drag Brunch at Summer Shack every Saturday, featuring stellar entertainment and themed drag acts including the Barbie Drag Brunch, Beyonce Renaissance Drag Brunch, and the Rihanna Drag Brunch.

LGBT Boston | Nightlife, Events, Walking Tours & Transportation (meetboston.com)

Tenneseee

The Annual Nashville Festival and Parade  is the largest LGBTQ+ event in Tennessee and kicks off on 22 June with the free Nashville Pride Parade. This year, the Equality Main Stage entertainment line-up will feature Billy Porter amongst others. Additionally, the Knox Pride Festival is an open celebration of music, entertainment and speakers focused on promoting equality and the inclusion of all people.

Dolly Parton famously stated that Dollywood is a place for all families and for everyone. The Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration at the theme park, runs this year from 15 June – 11 August. The park is awash with colour including flying kites and rainbow pool noodles suspended overhead and surrounded by technicolour trees.

See local information and events: Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville

Mississippi

Biloxi, Gulfport and Coastal Mississippi offer an inclusive environment in a beautiful setting. Visitors can head to LGBTQ+ bars like Sipp’s in Gulfport, and Just Us Lounge, located within walking distance of Beau Rivage which is a melting pot of the area’s diverse and welcoming LGBTQ+ community.

In Jackson, the fourth annual 5K colour run will be held on 08 June: an inclusive, fun race that honours LGBTQ+ individuals and allies as it raises money for LGBTQ+ causes. On 28 September, MS Capital City Pride, an LGBTQ+ Community Building and Advocacy Organisation serving the Jackson Metro Area are hosting ‘It’s Pride Y’all’.

For more information for events on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, including the eight annual Equality Fest in Biloxi, please see here.

San Antonio

San Antonio has a vibrant LGBTQ+ culture that has blossomed in the city, an evolution that stretches back to the 1950s, when drag shows arrived. Luther’s  stages a variety of shows, including an all-ages drag brunch on Sunday.

San Antonio’s Pride celebrations are as colourful as they are inclusive. June is full of events honouring and celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. At Otro Bar, people can enjoy the “Y’all Means All” cocktail throughout the month of June in celebration of Pride. San Antonio also hosts LGBTQ+ International Film Festival in October.

Pride San Antonio celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with the Pride Bigger than Texas Festival and Parade. Typically held at the end of June, this event highlights the accomplishments of the LGBTQ+ community and raises money for local charities.

For more information on LGBTQ+ in San Antonio

Tucson

Tucson Pride returns to Reid Park in Midtown on 28 September.  The annual Pride in the Desert Festival takes place at the DeMeester Outdoor Performance Centre. This year’s theme is Together we Rise. Tucson Pride was formed in 1976 by the Tucson Lesbian and Gay Alliance and is Arizona’s first and oldest LGBTQ+ pride organization and one of the oldest LGBTQ+ Pride organisations in the USA.

Tucson’s progressive culture and relaxed, live-and-let-live attitude have made the city one of the country’s most gay-friendly places to live or visit.  Plan your visit to Tucson.

Ends

For media enquiries, more information, hi-res images or video, please contact:

Caroline Donaldson-Sinclair, PR Account Director: caroline@ttmworld.co.uk

For Meet Boston, Discover New England, and Visit San Antonio

David Venables, Senior PR Account Manager: david@ttmworld.co.uk

For Explore Louisiana and Tennessee Tourism 

Billy Greening, PR Account Manager: billy@ttmworld.co.uk

For Visit Mississippi, New Orleans & Company, and Meet Boston

Anisha Hegde, PR Account Executive: anisha@ttmworld.co.uk

For Visit Tucson

Kirsty Dillury, Owner / Chief Communications Officer (CCO): kirsty@ttmworld.co.uk 

For any other enquiries, please visit www.ttmworld.co.uk, email ttmoffice@ttmworld.co.uk or

call +44 (0)208 313 1717

The post With Pride In Mind, Here’s a Round Up of Inclusive Travel News for 2024. appeared first on TTM World.

Discover New England

Much of New England’s history, character, and lifestyle is tied to the water and summer is ideal for boating around  the shores of this beautiful region.

Connecticut’s most iconic riverboat, the Becky Thatcher, was built to resemble the type of steamboat that Mark Twain piloted on the Mississippi River during the mid-19th century. At Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, travellers will all get a thrill out of boarding a historic train for a rail ride from Essex to Deep River, where they’ll board the Becky Thatcher for a second dose of nostalgia.

Essex River Cruises, which is north of Boston, Massachusetts, operates scenic wildlife-viewing tours aboard wheelchair-accessible boats. Visitors heading south to Cape Cod, could consider booking a private excursion aboard the catboat Sarah. Built at, and operated out of the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, this replica of an 1886 Crosby catboat (sailboat with a single sail ) also embarks on public sails. The Kimpton Hotel have free access to kayaks and canoes for enjoying the Charles River in the summer.

In the heart of Rhode Island, is the yacht-filled waterfront of Newport. Having hosted the annual sail regatta — the America’s Cup — for over 50 years, the city is known as the ‘sailing capital of the world’. One of the best ways to experience Newport’s nautical roots is by feeling the salty sea breeze and refreshing spray onboard a former America’s Cup racing yacht.

Lobster boat tours are a unique way to experience lobstering first-hand and learn how lobster fishermen preserve this vital industry. Some of Maine’s Lobster Boat Tours go past lighthouses and landmarks where sailors can see the ocean in all its beauty along with seals and whales.

New Hampshire offers more than 400 public-access sites where visitors can launch a boat or fish from shore.  With 1,300 ponds and lakes all across New Hampshire, visitors can find the perfect natural pool for everything from waterskiing to canoeing and kayaking. History buffs can book the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company’s M/V Thomas Laighton, to hear spine-tingling legends and tales of pirates, treasures and shipwrecks enroute to their destination.

In Vermont’s remote Northeast Kingdom, visitors can sit back, relax and enjoy New England’s only international lake cruise. Northern Star Cruises offers two-hour scenic outings on Lake Memphremagog, which come with the added thrill of crossing both the 45th parallel, located halfway between the equator and the North Pole, and the border between the U.S. and Canada, which is marked by “the Slash,” a 20-foot-wide (6m) clear-cut alleyway through the trees that runs the entire 5,525 miles (8,892km) of the longest international border in the world.

https://discovernewengland.org/

Visit San Antonio

A summer trip to San Antonio is incomplete without visiting the city’s largest theme park – Six Flags Fiesta Texas. It is the ideal place for a fun experience. Located in the centre of a booming retail, restaurant and entertainment district, Six Flags Fiesta Texas offers guests thrilling coasters, exhilarating park rides, splash zones and wave pools, live entertainment (including an evening firework show that is not to be missed), fair food, adult beverages and so much more. Additionally, three new thrilling attractions and an expanded DC universe will premiere at the Sig Flags this summer creating the largest DC Universe at any amusement park in the United States. The three brand new attractions include: CYBORG Cyber Revolution that creates a visually stunning and air-time-filled ride experience, SHAZAM! Tower of Eternity that is a rotating family drop tower experience taking riders of all ages to a height of 70 feet before a series of bounce and drop sequences; and METROPOLIS Transit Authority that allows 16 passengers to relax and enjoy an aerial view 17 feet above.

https://www.visitsanantonio.com/

Visit Tucson

Summer in Tucson promises great hikes, horse rides and clear skies full of stars. Guest Ranches  in and around Tucson deliver the authentic Southwest experience without sacrificing things like hot tubs, Wi-Fi, and great big comfy beds. Guests can expect the relaxing elegance of a resort with the purifying solitude of thousands of acres of Sonoran desert, canyons, and foothills.

Tucson has beautiful places for riding and it is a huge part of Tucson’s culture. White Stallion Ranch,  and Tanque Verde Ranch are located on opposite sides of town, but each adjacent to Saguaro National Park. Although ranches have always focused on horseback riding, today guests can also participate in other activities such as rock climbing, biking, guided hikes, fishing, arts & crafts, and cowboy cookouts.

Tucson is known as a Hiker’s Haven as it is surrounded on both sides by the Saguaro National Park offering some of the most iconic treks in the region. There’s also Catalina State Park, Redington Pass and Mount Lemmon inviting hikers to strap on their boots and explore rich and abundant desert and forest areas. Hikers can dip their toes in Seven Falls Water Trail and Romero Pools, when they need a break from their long treks.

https://www.visittucson.org/

Explore Louisiana

When temperatures rise, Louisiana offers plenty opportunities to cool off at a variety of water parks, playgrounds, resorts and more.

Thrill-seekers should venture to Blue Bayou Water Park in Baton Rouge, which offers nearly 20 water attractions and epic, giant water slides. Blue Bayou also has a lazy river, water playground and wave pool. In Sulphur, near Lake Charles, families gather at Sulphur Parks Waterpark to enjoy the water playground, lazy and raging rivers, and multiple water slides ideal for summer fun.

Many Louisiana State Parks  also offer opportunities to enjoy the pools and beaches, water parks and splash pads. The wave pool at Bayou Segnette State Park in Westwego is a popular spot, as are the water playgrounds at Fontainebleau State Park in Mandeville, which also boasts a sandy beach.

Guests at L’Auberge Casino Resort in Lake Charles can enjoy a relaxing float along the property’s lazy river. For family fun with a beautiful lakeside location, the Sun Outdoors in Ponchatoula offers camp sites that have amazing views, along with the family pool and lazy river.

https://www.explorelouisiana.com/

Maverick Helicopters

Maverick Helicopters are launching flights over Hollywood and breathtaking views of the Californian coastline on a luxury helicopter experience. Summer is the ideal time to take this ride with lots of warmth and sunshine along with stunning coastal views.

Passengers will witness the beauty of the Southern California coast from an unparalleled vantage point with a 30-minute luxury helicopter experience. Departing from Long Beach, the Coastal California flight will soar over the breath-taking Pacific Ocean coastline, revealing exquisite architectural residences, extravagant seaside resorts, and lavish golf resorts. The stunning panoramas continue with views of the iconic Huntington Beach Pier, Balboa Island, and Laguna Beach. Glimpses of California’s diverse marine life can be seen throughout the flight, often witnessed in the glistening waters along the Pacific Coast Highway and world-renowned surf beaches.

https://www.maverickhelicopter.com/tour-listing/california

Meet Boston

Boston’s Summer Bucket List has plenty of options for visitors looking to indulge in fun summer activities. One of the most unique and amazing things about Boston is the access to beautiful water views, activities, and boat tours. Visitors can take a sunset cruise in the harbour, or paddle down the Charles River, glide through the Boston Common on a swan boat, and explore the city by land or by sea with an iconic Boston Duck Tour.

Boston’s music scene has never been so hot, and the summer is no different. With several outdoor music venues and concerts, music lovers can head to the Seaport and grab tickets to a show at the Leader Bank Pavilion or check out the Fenway Concert Series for the summer.

With the city known as a craft beer haven and the sunny summer weather in full swing, visiting one of Boston’s beer, wine, or cocktail gardens is a must-do in this city. Check out one of the many pop-ups in some of the coolest locations in the city, or make your way to one of Boston’s widely known breweries – complete with indoor and outdoor space, dining options, games, events, and more.

https://www.meetboston.com/

Visit New Orleans

New Orleans has festivities galore this summer, with Tales of the Cocktail, Essence Festival and many more.

Tales of the Cocktail is a week-long celebration of cocktails and mixology at the 22nd annual Tales of the Cocktail® (TOTC) event, taking place from July 21-26, 2024. This year, the theme “Inspire” has been chosen as a call to action for the global drinks industry to embrace growth through the collective sharing of ideas and energy. Tickets will be available from World Cocktail Day on, May 13, 2024.

The Essence Festival Of Culture event brings a plenty of big names to New Orleans for large evening performances, intimate lounge shows, and DJ parties. Held over 4th of July weekend at the Caesars Superdome and throughout downtown New Orleans, this multi-day party named for its founder and sponsoring magazine combines high-octane music performances with inspirational speakers and provocative conversations about gender, race, culture, and art. 2024 marks the 30^th Anniversary of the festival.

Pride Weekend set to take place 7 – 9 June this year, is celebrated with parades in the French Quarter, special parties, brunches, family-friendly events, and more celebrating the LGBTQ+ community in the city and beyond.

https://www.neworleans.com/

Tennessee Tourism

Road trips, Elvis Week, Summer fairs and much more await travellers in Tennessee this summer.

Elvis Week 2024 at Elvis Presley’s Graceland in Memphis has an exciting lineup of events that celebrate his life, music, and legacy. Elvis Week 2024 highlights include the Elvis: Return to Vegas Show on August 16, featuring Elvis on the big screen accompanied by a live band; Elvis Fan Choice Awards, a night offering some glitz and glamour; Elvis: Back in Memphis Concert, a tribute to the music Elvis recorded in his hometown; plus Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist events and contests; Conversations on Elvis; and much more.

Themed “The Best Six Days of Summer,” the Anderson County Fair at the Anderson County Fairgrounds in Clinton, Tennessee brings a lot of fun with concerts every day, contests like a truck pull and a pie eating contest taking place 15^th -20^th July 2024. The Claiborne County Fair takes place August 26-31 2024 on the Claiborne County Fair Grounds.

Travellers can take a Summer Road Trip across Tennessee to experience the scenic beauty, history along with charming small towns, local restaurants and hidden gems. The 16 self-guided driving routes take you off the beaten path for authentic experiences and connect Tennessee’s 95 counties. Trails feature attractions, restaurants, and unexpected stops as you walk in the footsteps of legends and discover Tennessee. The Tennessee Music Pathways driving tour connects visitors to the people, places and genres that make Tennessee the Soundtrack of America.

https://www.tnvacation.com/

Visit Mississippi

The state of Mississippi has played a crucial role in the United States’ civil rights story, will continue to share this important history with events and programming that commemorate the 60th anniversary of Freedom Summer. Cities like Hattiesburg, one of the largest areas for volunteer activity during the summer of 1964, are organizing photographic exhibitions and events leading up to additional programming commemorating the brave volunteers of the summer later this year.

Vicksburg offers travellers world class outdoor activities through boating, hiking and cycling. Visitors can experience the Mighty Mississippi, paddling through the river’s currents while enjoying the diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery of the Magnolia State. Canoe the Mississippi River with Quapaw Canoe Company – Vicksburg Outpost, which offers day trips on the river or multi-day/overnight expeditions.

Elvis fans will also love a trip to Tupelo, the city of his birth where a signature event that celebrates the impact Elvis Presley made and continues to make on popular culture, the Tupelo Elvis Festival will return this summer from 6 – 9 June featuring live music events, Elvis Tribute Artist competitions and concerts, living history demonstrations, conversations with those who knew Elvis best and more.

From October 6-13, Crusin’ the Coast, returns.  Known as “America’s Largest Block Party,” this event draws sun and car-enthusiasts from all over the world to the shores of Mississippi’s coastline for traces of nostalgia through music, vintage cars and hot rod vehicles. Attendees are invited to “cruise” across the region’s eclectic coastal towns, where miles of mini stages await filled with live bands, local food vendors and more.

https://visitmississippi.org/

Visit Mesa

Mesa, Arizona’s third largest city is in close proximity to a water recreation paradise offering plenty to do for visitors. There are three lakes and two rivers within 30 minutes of Mesa that allow for desert boating, fishing, rafting, kayaking, water skiing, wake boarding and jet skiing.

Glamping at Schnepf Farms must be on every camping lover’s bucket list. The Cozy Peach trailers are renovated, vintage airstreams that provide guests with the perfect getaway, offering both a cozy and relaxing camping experience. Each trailer is unique and has its own personal style to it. The trailers include a television, microwave, refrigerator, plush bedding and a fully landscaped front yard with grass, a patio and outdoor seating elevating camping to a whole new level.

https://www.visitmesa.com/

Ends

For media enquiries, more information, hi-res images or video, please contact: 

Caroline Donaldson-Sinclair, PR Account Director: caroline@ttmworld.co.uk

For Meet Boston, Discover New England, and Visit San Antonio

David Venables, Senior PR Account Manager: david@ttmworld.co.uk

For Explore Louisiana, Tennessee Tourism, Visit Mesa, and Maverick Helicopters

Billy Greening, PR Account Manager: billy@ttmworld.co.uk

For Visit Mississippi, New Orleans & Company, and Meet Boston

Anisha Hegde, PR Account Executive: anisha@ttmworld.co.uk

For Visit Tucson

Kirsty Dillury, Owner / Chief Communications Officer (CCO): kirsty@ttmworld.co.uk

For any other enquiries, please visit www.ttmworld.co.uk, email ttmoffice@ttmworld.co.uk or

call +44 (0)208 313 1717

The post Summer in the USA – 2024 appeared first on TTM World.

New Orleans will host the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’ Super Bowl LIX (59) in 2025 and the city is already getting prepared. The game is scheduled to be played on February 9, 2025, at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. It’s a great time to visit this beautiful city rich with culture, food and sports.

New Orleans

The Caesars Superdome is one of the most famous of New Orleans’ sporting venues. Built in 1975 and renovated in 2006, the Caesars Superdome remains the most recognizable fixture on the New Orleans skyline and is the home of the New Orleans Saints. New Orleans is also home to the nation’s third-oldest race track, the Fair Grounds, and the Professional Golf Tournament’s Zurich Classic draws huge crowds every spring.

https://www.neworleans.com/things-to-do/sports/

Meet Boston

Home to the world famous Boston Red Sox (Baseball), New England Patriots (American Football), Boston Bruins (Ice Hockey) Boston Celtics (Basketball) and New England Revolution (Soccer), Boston is a city dedicated to its sports.  Boston is set to host 7 matches in 2026 FIFA World Cup including one of the quarter finals. A visit to the City of Champions is a must  for sport lovers as the city gets ready to host the biggest sports tournament in the world. Fenway Park, “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark” is visited by fans from around the world. Guided Tours can be booked throughout the year.

Boston also offers the Sports Museum. Visitors can see treasures on display and the influence of sports on the social history and evolution of the city. Boston’s world-class venues host sporting events of all kinds, from UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship)  to historic college football games and the largest 3-day sailing regatta.

There are plenty of things to do along the Charles River that divides the cities of Boston and Cambridge. Visitors can rent a kayak, sail, canoe, or paddleboard from Paddle Boston to navigate its calm waters and enjoy serene views of the city. The Charles River is also home to Community Boating, Inc., and Community Rowing, Inc. offering accessible classes for all.

Boston is known for its many sports bars. Bleacher Bar is one of the most popular spots in town to watch any sport and overlooks Fenway Park. The Sporting Club at the Omni Bostel Hotel is an illustrious sanctuary for tastemakers, and sports enthusiasts alike.

Foxborough, a suburb south-west Boston is home to the New England Patriots and New England Revolution at Gillette Stadium, Boston’s FIFA World Cup stadium.

https://www.meetboston.com/things-to-do/boston-sports/

Discover New England

Some of the best ski resorts in the United States can be found in New England in places such as Stowe and Killington, Vermont, Sugarloaf in Maine, and Bretton Woods in New Hampshire. Jake Burton founded Burton Snowboards out of a Vermont barn in 1977 and dedicated the rest of his life to snowboarding. He was regarded as the Godfather of snowboarding, what Nike is to trainers, Burton is to Snowboarding. Visitors can go and visit Craig’s Place, the design and testing centre and take a free tour to journey through 40 years of Burton history.

New England is home to a number of ice-climbing destinations—most notably the Smugglers’ Notch.

For the ultimate skating adventure, head to Vermont to experience the longest ice trail in the United States; the Lake Morey Ice Skating Trail, when ice conditions permit its full operation.

Many New England cities have lovely outdoor skating rinks, such as Labrie Family Skate at Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and the Providence Rink in Providence, Rhode Island.

New England isn’t just limited to outdoor but many fun indoor adventure sports too. The It Adventure Indoor Ropes Course in Connecticut is the largest facility of its kind in the world where you can tackle a challenging, aerial web of swaying plank bridges, cargo nets, tightropes, and ziplines.

New England offers endless opportunities for flatwater canoeing and kayaking for water sports enthusiasts and paddling lovers. Coastal kayaking abounds in Maine, whose southern region is home to the state’s two largest salt marshes, in Wells/Ogunquit and in Scarborough, just south of Portland. Connecticut’s 500-acre Great Island salt marsh is considered to be one of the best paddle sports destinations in the Northeast. The American invention known as boogie boarding is best represented by Hampton Beach in New Hampshire which is one of the cleanest beaches in the country. In Rhode Island, the 2022 opening of The Sailing Museum in Newport further punctuated this city’s long and storied association with the sport and its most famous race, the America’s Cup. America’s Cup Charters owns the world’s largest fleet of former America’s Cup champion yachts, and in addition to sightseeing tours, visitors can sign on for an actual hands-on racing experience.

https://discovernewengland.org/

Visit San Antonio

The Fiesta City is also home to many sporting arena and golf courses such as Golf Club of Texas – San Antonio. San Antonio was also named one of the best cities for cycling in the USA due to its more than 100 miles of multi-use trails along the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail System. The Greenway trails wind through natural landscapes along many of San Antonio’s waterways,

One of the best outdoor activities in San Antonio is kayaking on the iconic River Walk. This new way to experience the River Walk’s southern stretch or Mission Reach, a glorious stretch of natural landscaping which can be enjoyed by people of all ages and multiple ability levels thanks to the river’s calm waters. This kayaking activity can be reserved through Mission Adventure Tours, It is not a guided tour but a chance to freely roam the River Walk spotting turtles and other wildlife that calls the healthy river home.

The Quarry Golf Course makes for a golfer’s paradise in the heart of the city. It is centrally located in the Alamo Heights community and is recognised as one of the most unique golf courses in the USA. It is home to an award-winning golf course, a fully-stocked pro shop, and a casual-dining restaurant that overlooks the majestic back nine of the course. The Hyatt Hill Country Golf Club boasts a scenic, lush and balanced 27-hole championship course. The course captures the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country including diverse terrain, tree-shaded plateaus, and several lakes and ponds.

The NBA’s San Antonio Spurs are a hugely popular team and play at the Frost Bank Centre.  They had the number one draft in the NBA last year with a player named Victor Wembanyama. Sports enthusiasts can also visit the Alamodome which was the home of the NBA World Champion San Antonio Spurs from 1993 to 2002.

Since 1949, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo has grown to become one of the largest, most prestigious single events in the city of San Antonio, with approximately 1.5 million visitors entering the grounds each year. The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo  is an annual event that will take place next year from 6^th -23^rd February.

San Antonio is also within easy driving distance of three FIFA World Cup 2026 venues – Dallas, Houseton and Monterrey, Mexico, making it an ideal location to stay and then travel to games.

San Antonio is a great stay choice for those wanting to visit Austin for Formula One at Circuit of the Americas.  The Alamo City is located west of Austin meaning race fans will both avoid traffic and enjoy better hotel rates, but with so much additional entertainment to offer visitors.

https://www.visitsanantonio.com/

Visit Tucson

Tucson’s terrain lends itself to a variety of outdoor sports and recreational activities. Tucson’s sunny, dry climate and easy access to thousands of traditional and sports climbs make the Old Pueblo a mecca for rock climbing in Southern Arizona. One of the top rock-climbing destinations is Mt. Lemmon in Tucson’s Santa Catalina Mountains. Rising more than 9,000 feet above the Sonoran Desert floor, Mt. Lemmon has more than 2,700 climbing routes, ranging from single-pitch clip-ups to multi-pitch traditional routes, and the mountain’s steep walls are ideal for gravity-defying thrills at the end of a rope.

World-class athletes and up-and-coming amateurs alike routinely train and compete in the lanes of Tucson’s lap pools, where guests are also welcome to train. The heated outdoor pool at the University of Arizona’s Hillenbrand Aquatic Center is the home of the Wildcats’ national-calibre swim and dive teams. While world and Olympic-champion swimmers have honed their skills in the waters of the Hillenbrand Center pool. This facility is also open to the public.

When in Tucson, one can also visit the Arizona Stadium, an outdoor college football stadium located on the campus of the University of Arizona. It is the home of the Arizona Wildcats. The stadium stands as a testament to the history and continuing tradition of Arizona football.

https://www.visittucson.org/

Explore Louisiana

Louisiana’s state parks are great locations for water sports. The Bogue Chitto River is a popular spot for tubing – Louisiana River Adventures and the Bogue Chitto Tubing Center offer tubing trips down a popular stretch of the River, including multiple beaches and sandbars to stop for a break along the way. In Denham Springs, the Cajun Tubing & Kayaking is great for a laid-back float down the Amite River.

Horse racing is available at tracks across the state. In north Louisiana, at the eastern edge of Bossier City is Louisiana Downs Casino & Racetrack, one of the nation’s highest-quality courses. In New Orleans, America’s third-oldest racetrack, Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots has been a showcase for the sport of kings since 1872.

The LSU Tigers football program, also known as the Fighting Tigers, represents Louisiana State University in college football. The team plays on the university’s campus at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The stadium is the 4^th largest on campus stadium in the USA and offers  guided tours   to visitors.

https://www.explorelouisiana.com/

Tennessee Tourism

Tennessee is a sports fan’s dream with Nashville being one of the biggest sports hubs in the state. The Tennessee Titans, Nashville Predators and Nashville Soccer Club, all call the city home. Memphians assemble to catch the NBA Memphis Grizzlies and the University of Memphis Tigers. Knoxville natives gather to watch beloved University of Tennessee football and basketball.

The FedExForum, known as a premier NBA arena is the home of the Memphis Grizzlies. The arena has hosted 10 NBA playoff series and major college basketball tournaments, along with major boxing events.

The roar of NASCAR and stock cars can be heard as they whizz around the world’s fastest half-mile in Bristol Motor Speedway & Dragway, known as The Last Great Colosseum, for its action-packed events and Romanesque architecture. The speedway is among the largest sporting venues in the world.

A visit to Tennessee for a sports fan is incomplete without a trip to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville. It houses a multimedia collection of memorabilia, stories and more that honour the great legends in Tennessee sports. The Hall serves as a platform to connect athletes, coaches, sports fans and supporters by acknowledging the life achievements through sports.

The Titans’ new $2.1 billion domed stadium, to be called Nissan Stadium, is expected to open in spring 2027 at Nashville. The New Nissan Stadium would host Titans games, Tennessee State University football games and community activities, and also aim to attract the world’s largest and most prestigious events such as Super Bowls and College Football Playoffs.

https://www.tnvacation.com/

Visit Mississippi

The Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum was named one of the Top 10 “Most Amazing Baseball Museums in America” by ESPN. The museum contains an array of sports-related, interactive exhibits and touch-screen television kiosks allowing museum visitors to access archival footage, achievement data, biographical information and more than 500 interviews with famous Mississippi athletes.

Mississippi is also known for its two excellent college football teams – Ole Miss Football and Mississippi State Football. There are a number of sporting venues worth visiting in the state too. Vaught-Hemingway Stadium at Hollingsworth Field is the home of the University of Mississippi Rebels college football team. It’s currently the biggest stadium in the state of Mississippi and is an unmissable experience. Landers Center is a multi-facet facility capable of hosting a wide variety of events each year. The arena plays host to the Memphis Hustle, of the NBA’s G-League. The arena has hosted a number of  sporting events such as boxing, hockey, rodeos and basketball. The Mississippi Coast Coliseum & Convention Center is a multi-purpose arena in Biloxi, Mississippi. The Coliseum hosts a wide range of indoor sporting events and concerts.

Mississippi’s coast lends itself to amazing kayaking experiences and fishing along the Mississippi river. The Okatoma Outdoor Post is a family owned and operated outfitter offering canoeing, kayaking, camping and lodging along the Okatoma Creek. Pearl River Kayaks is a locally owned business in Brandon, Mississippi. Their goal is to introduce recreational kayaking to a wider audience & to provide a fun, affordable outdoor activity in Central Mississippi. They rent, deliver kayaks and all the equipment needed to explore the Pearl River & Ross Barnett Reservoir. There are plenty of premier fishing destinations in the state such as Aberdeen Lake in northern Mississippi, Black Creek in southern Mississippi and Choctaw Lake Recreation area.

https://visitmississippi.org/

Visit Mesa

Mesa is a great city to visit for basketball, football and hockey enthusiasts. Both the Chicago Cubs and Oakland A’s call Mesa home for a few months each year during their spring training season. Mesa has also been recognized as one of the country’s most desirable destinations for hosting dynamic sporting events.

There is nothing like watching a game whilst having a drink with the locals. Mesa’s  Sports Bars  promise a family friendly atmosphere and great energy. The G.O.A.T. is one of Mesa’s newest, located at Arizona Athletic Grounds. Whilst Gabby’s Sports Bar and Grille has been in the game for almost 40 years.

Mesa will soon be home to a 37-acre surf, gym, and multi-use development project called Cannon Beach Revel Surf Park. Expected in Summer 2024, this unique combination will create a more natural surfing line-up with a peak wave rather than a right-session-only or left-session-only option as found in many of today’s wave pools. This new technology and layout has gained the attention and excitement of the professional surf community due to its ability to cater to all skill levels.

https://www.visitmesa.com/

Maverick Helicopters

Formula One will once again come to Las Vegas in 2024 with the race taking place on the famous Las Vegas Strip on 21^st to 23^rd November. Maverick Helicopters, will be offering special flight experiences for the Formula One Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix.

The GRAND Prix Experience is a luxury helicopter excursion to one of the greatest natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon. On the way to and from the Grand Canyon, guests will fly over the 17-turn, 3.8-mile F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix race circuit for an unparalleled arial perspective. Additional highlights include bird’s-eye views of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Bowl of Fire, Mojave Desert and more. 

Ends

For media enquiries, more information, hi-res images or video, please contact:

Caroline Donaldson-Sinclair, PR Account Director: caroline@ttmworld.co.uk

For Meet Boston, Discover New England, and Visit San Antonio

David Venables, Senior PR Account Manager: david@ttmworld.co.uk

For Explore Louisiana, Tennessee Tourism, Visit Mesa, and Maverick Helicopters

Billy Greening, PR Account Manager: billy@ttmworld.co.uk

For Visit Mississippi, New Orleans & Company, and Meet Boston

Anisha Hegde, PR Account Executive: anisha@ttmworld.co.uk

For Visit Tucson

Kirsty Dillury, Owner / Chief Communications Officer (CCO): kirsty@ttmworld.co.uk

For any other enquiries, please visit www.ttmworld.co.uk, email ttmoffice@ttmworld.co.uk or

call +44 (0)208 313 1717

The post Ready, Steady, Travel – Sporting Holiday Ideas for 2024 appeared first on TTM World.

Discover New England

New experiences and milestone anniversaries await travellers in New England this year.

Conway Scenic Railroad Celebrates 50 years

In 2024, Conway Scenic Railroad celebrates its 50^th Anniversary entertaining visitors with seasonal rail excursions. This beautiful journey over the former Maine Central Mountain Division offers splendid views of the Mount Washington Valley as it follows the Saco River toward its headwaters at Crawford Notch. Since 1974, families have enjoyed the railroad’s classic 1-hour heritage Conway Train from North Conway to Conway over an old Boston & Maine branch line.

New Openings

A new visitor centre opens in Maine at  Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Stacyville. The new centre will tell the story of the region through the eyes of Native Americans. The centre, now under construction and slated to open spring of 2024 is named “Tekαkαpimk” from the Penobscot Indian language meaning “as far as one can see.”

Newport Mansions in Rhode Island Offers “The Gilded Age Tour” inspired by the hit HBO Series. Arriving winter 2024, the guided tour brings fans on a fascinating ‘behind the scenes tour of locations used extensively for filming this iconic series by Downton Abbey writer Julian Fellows.

The Yale Peabody Museum in New Haven, Connecticut is set to reopen in early 2024 after a remarkable four-year renovation. The spacious and bright facility will exhibit 50% more of the museum’s vast collection of 14 million objects than ever before. The museum’s collection of natural history specimens ranges from enormous dinosaur bones to cultural artifacts. One of the museum’s central attractions is a forty-foot-long Tylosaurus fossil suspended in the main gallery.

https://discovernewengland.org/

Explore Louisiana

Music is ingrained in the soul of Louisiana. The birthplace of jazz, zydeco, Cajun, and swamp pop, Louisiana has also inspired genres ranging from blues and country to hip-hop, gospel, rap, and rock ‘n’ roll. In 2024, visitors will see a grand celebration of musical genres across the state.

2024 Year of Music

Starting on January 1, Explore Louisiana will celebrate its “Year of Music,” putting a special emphasis on this huge part of Louisiana culture. In 2024, Louisiana will also launch its new Louisiana Music Trail. The trail has been crafted to share Louisiana’s musical history through museums, historic locations, performance venues and will also celebrate Louisiana’s artists, including legends throughout the state’s music history.

https://www.explorelouisiana.com/

Maverick Helicopters

California Here We Come

Launching in 2024, Maverick Helicopters promises stunning rides over Hollywood and breathtaking views of the Californian coastline this New Year on a luxury helicopter experience.

The Coastal California tour departs from Long Beach and over the picturesque landscape of Orange County including the pristine shorelines of Newport Beach and Seal Beach, the dramatic cliffs of Dana Point, and the serenity of Laguna Niguel. The stunning panoramas continue with views of the iconic Huntington Beach Pier, Balboa Island, and Laguna Beach. California’s diverse marine life can be witnessed throughout the flight, in the glistening waters along the Pacific Coast Highway and world-renowned surf beaches.

The Hollywood & Beyond aerial tour takes visitors over iconic landmarks including Hollywood, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and the stunning Pacific Ocean. This tour will soar over the exclusive Hollywood Hills and Bel Air, where legendary film personalities reside and views of the upscale Rodeo Drive, UCLA campus, Hollywood Bowl, and Universal Studios in the distance. The world-famous Hollywood Sign is best witnessed from the sky, followed by notable sights like Griffith Park & Observatory and Dodgers Stadium.

Meet Boston

Ice Cream Museum Comes to Boston in 2024

An immersive experience awaits ice cream lovers visiting Boston in 2024. The Museum of Ice Cream will open its doors in Seaport allowing visitors to explore two floors of entertainment and discovery, inspired by the world’s favourite frozen dessert. This interactive and immersive attraction will be “dedicated to all things ice cream.” It will have an exhibit on the history of ice cream, a retro diner and a carnival atmosphere inspired by Fenway Park. Visitors can also jump in a “sprinkle pool” that features “hundreds of antimicrobial and biodegradable sprinkles.”

F1 Arcade to open in Boston in 2024

The Formula 1 Experience is heading to Boston this New Year. The Boston location will feature 60 simulators alongside private rooms that can accommodate up to 200 guests. The venue is set for an early 2024 opening and offers visitors the ability to drive its unique F1 simulation inside Vesaro-built D-BOX-equipped motion cockpits, watch live races, eat from a globally-inspired menu and sip champagne – among other drinks.

https://www.meetboston.com/

New Orleans

The Good Housekeeping Institute named New Orleans a “must see city” for 2024 getaways. Here are a few of the reasons why:

New Exhibits and Hotels

Prospect 6 New Orleans is a citywide contemporary art triennial and the first exhibition of its kind in the US with a decade-long history. Every three years, they bring new art to an old city by inviting artists from all over the world to create projects in venues spread throughout New Orleans.

Caesars is investing in New Orleans properties promising a luxury experience for visitors. Nobu Hotel New Orleans and restaurant are set to open within the Caesars Hotel New Orleans. Caesars is investing $435 million to expand, renovate and rebrand the 450-room Harrah’s Hotel and Casino with the 340-room hotel tower and is expected to be completed by 2024.

Festivals Galore

With an extra day added to the festival in 2024, now expanding to 8 days and the news that the Rolling Stones are headlining, attending the New Orleans Heritage & Jazz Festival is established as a leading music festival on the world stage. Jazz Fest is an annual festival celebrating the music, art, culture, and heritage of New Orleans. The Rolling Stones are set to headline Jazz Fest on Thursday, May 2 – the band’s only festival appearance on their 2024 tour. The full festival lineup will be released in January.

In 2024, the Essence Festival of Culture will celebrate its 30th anniversary in New Orleans. Held over the 4^th of July weekend at the Caesars Superdome and other venues in the city, this three-day party named for its founder and sponsoring magazine, combines high-octane music performances with inspirational speakers and provocative conversations about gender, race, culture, and art.

https://www.neworleans.com/

Tennessee Tourism

Tennessee promises unique and hands-on experiences in 2024 with new attractions, restaurants, distilleries, hotels, exhibits, iconic anniversaries, and impressive renovations.

Iconic Anniversaries in 2024

2024 marks the Franklin’s 225^th anniversary and 10 years of Franklin’s Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival. Franklin also celebrates new additions like the luxury resort Southall Farm & Inn and world-class music venues like FirstBank Amphitheater.

The Tina Turner Museum at West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center in Brownsville marks its 10^th anniversary where visitors can learn about the Queen of Rock through memorabilia, costumes, records and even her high school yearbook.

The Birthplace of Country Music Museum, which honours the legendary Bristol Sessions recordings through immersive experiences, celebrates its 10th anniversary.

New Year, New Experiences

Northeast Tennessee – Visitors can escape to the enchanting night skies of Northeast Tennessee along the Tennessee Night Sky Trail, where 9 breath-taking spots await stargazing adventures.

Chattanooga – The River to Clouds Route (RCR) is a new 34-mile trail system connecting Cloudland Canyon State Park to the Chattanooga Riverwalk in St. Elmo perfect for biking, trail running and hiking.

Chattanooga – The newly renovated Hotel Chalet at the Choo Choo allows visitors to experience a night inside restored train carriages and blends historic and modern elements to offer an inviting and captivating atmosphere. Inside the property, Elsie’s Daughter is a parlour designed with history in mind and serves up classic cocktails and French-Belgian cuisine with a nod to Appalachia.

Knoxville – Southern Skies Music & Whiskey Festival returns to World’s Fair Park with a brand new TN Whiskey Experience, food trucks, craft beer, wine, specialty cocktails, Maker Market and performances by Old Crow Medicine Show, The Dirty Guv’nah’s and Maggie Rose.

https://www.tnvacation.com/

Visit Mississippi

Mississippi has been home to many musical and cultural legends, and in 2025 the State will be commemorating some significant anniversaries.  Further details of key events will be available early in  2024.

Iconic Birthdays

September 16, 2025, will mark the 100^th Birthday of BB King. Located in the heart of the Delta in Indianola, the B.B. King and Delta Interpretive Center, through exhibits, tells the story of BB King’s life and music. For visitors travelling through this region, it provides insight into the events of B.B. King’s time, including discussions about civil justice and race relations, and it also explains how King contributed to Mississippi becoming known as “The Birthplace of America’s Music. January 8, 2025, will mark the 90^th birthday of Elvis Presley, who was born in Tupelo Mississippi and lived at various locations until he was 13.

Mississippi Blues Trail

For an unforgettable journey through blues history in Mississippi, the Mississippi Blues Trail tells the stories of the names and places that shaped the genre and speaks to generations of music lovers with historical landmarks and trails, music festivals, concert venues, and more.  After journeying through the past, dive into the music of the present by visiting one of Mississippi’s many juke joints and blues clubs. Musicians bare their hearts and souls on stages across the state, and there’s nothing quite like listening to authentic blues performers in person.

https://visitmississippi.org

Visit Mesa

A grand musical festival, and a new beach park should be worth a ticket to Mesa, Arizona next year.

Mesa Arizona is the First City Worldwide to Receive Destination Verified Seal from Wheel the World 

As part of Visit Mesa’s ongoing mission to ensure the city is regarded as one of the America’s most inclusive and accessible travel destinations, the organization partnered with Wheel the World to provide travellers with advanced information on accessible experiences in Mesa and connect them with suggested itineraries based on their personal requirements. Through the Destinations Verified Program, Wheel the World sent trained Mappers to visit and assess destinations. Once the data is gathered, the organization provides recommendations to travel service providers on enhancing their infrastructure, along with offering them access to their E-learning platform to expand their knowledge of disabilities and accessibility. After the evaluation, Mesa became the first city worldwide to receive the Destination Verified Seal from Wheel the World.

Musical Mesa

The Mesa Music Festival, powered by Amazon and Visit Mesa, is the largest free emerging artist festival of its kind in the country and will feature over 200 performances from artists around the world. Attendees can look forward to enjoying a celebration of music, art and entertainment in downtown Mesa, April 18-20. In addition to live music, this festival also offers food trucks, art activations, and exciting opportunities to network with the music industry.

Surfs Up: Cannon Beach Coming Soon!

Mesa will soon be home to a 37-acre surf, shop, gym, and multi-use development project called Cannon Beach Revel Surf Park. Expected in Spring/Summer 2024, this unique combination will create a more natural surfing line-up with a peak wave rather than a right-session-only or left-session-only option as found in many of today ’s wave pools. This new technology and layout has gained the attention of the professional surf community due to its ability to cater to all skill levels.

https://www.visitmesa.com/

Visit San Antonio

The city of fiesta promises a bigger party this New Year as more fun attractions in place for all.

Enter DC Universe 2024

This New Year, San Antonio’s Six Flags Fiesta,  will be adding thrilling upgrades and three new family-friendly rides creating the largest DC Universe at any amusement park in actual universe! The new rides include – CYBORG Cyber Revolution, SHAZAM Tower of Eternity and METROPOLIS Transit Authority. Additional park enhancements feature the transformation of several existing attractions to include new Super Heroes and Villains including THE PENGUIN: Gotham City Getaway, Supergirl Sky Flight, POISON IVY Toxic Spin and more.

Morgan’s Wonderland Expansion

Morgan’s Wonderland, is the world’s first and only ‘hyper accessible theme park. In 2024 the park, who’s owners have just signed with Hollywood for a film about its amazing origin story will add attractions totalling $6 million in preparation for its 2024 season. Major additions will include a 4D cinema giving guests the sensation of riding a roller coaster; passenger boat ride across the park’s 8-acre catch-and-release fishing lake; Rocket’s Sky Flight Adventure, a four-seat zipline that soars above the lake, named after one of the super-hero mascots comprising the park’s Wonder Squad. Jette’s Magic Bikes, a wheelchair-accessible ride named for another mascot that’s in keeping with the park’s butterfly theme.

https://www.visitsanantonio.com/

Visit Tucson

Tucson Museum of Art Turns 100

Originally founded in 1924 as the Tucson Fine Arts Association, the Tucson Museum of Art will celebrate its centennial in 2024. The museum plans to display retro exhibits from their archive to showcase their humble beginnings and the growth and development these past 100 years.

Honour for Barrio Viejo

One of Tucson’s downtown neighbourhoods Barrio Viejo, will receive National Historic Landmark designation by 2024. Barrio Viejo is the largest barrio in the U.S. and exemplifies Tucson’s connectivity to Mexico. In the past few decades, there has been a renewed focus on Barrio Viejo and its historic buildings, including the restoration of Teatro Carmen, a 300-seat theatre, and the adjoining building, the one-time home of the Black Elks Club.

https://www.visittucson.org/

Ends

For media enquiries, more information, hi-res images or video, please contact:

Caroline Donaldson-Sinclair, Senior PR Account Manager: caroline@ttmworld.co.uk

David Venables, PR Account Manager: david@ttmworld.co.uk

 Kirsty Dillury, PR and Communications Director: kirsty@ttmworld.co.uk

 Anisha Hegde, PR Account Executive: anisha@ttmworld.co.uk

For any other enquiries, please visit www.ttmworld.co.uk, email ttmoffice@ttmworld.co.uk or call +44 (0)208 313 1717

The post In 2024, Add More To Your Travel List appeared first on TTM World.

From an ultra-accessible theme park to the world’s first Autism City, accessible skiing and much more, destinations in the United States are taking the initiative to ensure everyone is included and able to experience the best of travel. Please find below the latest opportunities from our clients.

Morgan’s Wonderland – San Antonio

San Antonio is home to Morgan’s Wonderland the world’s first  ‘ultra-accessible’ theme park, devised to make everyone feel included and bring people of all ages and abilities together. Set for a major expansion in 2024, that will include new rides and 4D cinema, the park is a 25-acre oasis of inclusion, entirely wheelchair-accessible with all kinds of theme park attractions from a Ferris wheel and water splash park to catch-and-release fishing, and plenty of attractions. The story behind the creation of this theme park is a gift of love from a father to his daughter. In 2006, a man named Gordon Hartman noticed his daughter wanting to interact with other children at a hotel pool but they were wary of her and would not include her in their play. Gordon and his wife Maggie resolved to create opportunities and places where those of all abilities can come together for fun and a better understanding of one another and Morgan’s Wonderland was born.

This heartwarming story has also found its way to the heart of Hollywood. The theme park has inspired a movie that will explore the Hartman family’s challenges in raising a child with special needs, and what sparked their determination to create a place where people of all abilities could get together and experience. The theme park has attracted almost 3 million guests from all 50 states and more than 120 other countries since the grand opening in 2010. The ink is just dried on the agreement – production dates coming soon.

First Autism Certified City – Visit Mesa, Arizona

Mesa, Arizona is the first ever autism certified city in the United States. The Autism certified city (ACC) designation, awarded is given to communities where key stakeholders, including healthcare, education, local government, hospitality, leisure, and corporate members are trained and certified to better serve individuals with autism and other cognitive disorders. To earn this achievement, at least 80% of guest or public-facing staff are trained in understanding Autism and sensory disorders. Mesa is the first city to be designated as such. Recognized nationally as one of the most family-friendly communities in the United States, Mesa hotels and attractions are rolling out the red carpet to welcome travellers. Whether creating a work of art, panning for gold, or exploring our stunning desert landscape for the first time, Mesa offers a full-sensory experience for everyone.

Fall Colours Viewfinder – Tennessee

Tennessee has one of the best Fall colour displays in the USA, with its landscape lending itself to fiery red, lush greens and warm oranges. They wanted to ensure everyone had the opportunity to experience the incredible display, including colourblind people who’ve never experienced fall colours. Thus, they developed the first scenic viewers in the world designed to help those with red-green colour deficiency. The Tennessee Viewfinders for the Colourblind helps visitors enjoy the fullness of our state’s landscape, scenic views and fall colours accessible to everyone, making travel truly accessible.

Accessibility Guide – Explore Louisiana and New Orleans & Company

A wide range of travel options are available for visitors with disabilities in Louisiana. From the bayous of Cajun Country to the rolling hills and freshwater lakes of north Louisiana, Louisiana’s 22 state parks offer outdoor fun for all visitors. These parks were designed with accessibility in mind, and many have paved trails and wide boardwalks.  Louisiana Tour Company and Airboat Adventures, also in the Barataria region, have wheelchair-friendly swamp boat tours that ensure everyone gets to experience Louisiana’s famous swamps.

New Orleans provides an Accessibility Guide for tourists to navigate the city and enjoy its various sights and sounds. This city welcomes everyone and with being compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) it has ensured people of all abilities can experience the city. The Regional Transit Authority (RTA) runs the buses, streetcars, and ferries here in New Orleans. Standard buses and streetcars are equipped with devices for disabled riders, and paratransit services are available for eligible riders. In partnership with the local disability advocacy non-profit, Lighthouse Louisiana, Accessibility Cards are available for riders of public transportation who are blind, deaf-blind, or have low vision. Various museums and attractions offer accessibility options for those who are visually impaired or hearing impaired. The Ogden Museum of Southern Art’s services include large print materials and verbal description services.

Accessible Sports & Skiing – Discover New England and Meet Boston 

New England is a great playground for skiing and sports enthusiasts. Vermont Adaptive is an organization empowering people of all abilities through inclusive sports and recreational programming. It has year-round programme options in addition to sports. Founded in 1982, Maine Adaptive is now the largest year-round adaptive recreation program in the state of Maine for adults and children with disabilities and provides 3500 lessons.

Boston ensures transportation & experiences that are accessible to as many people as possible, welcoming visitors with any need or requirement. F1 Boston features F1 cars designed especially for children with disabilities.

Accessible Helicopter Tours – Maverick Helicopters

 Maverick Helicopters employs the highest qualified pilots in the industry who have received numerous awards for safety and is Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant. Maverick Helicopters also has the top safety record of any tourism-based aviation company in the world. Maverick caters for wheelchair users and collapsible wheelchairs can be transported in the helicopter in most cases.

Accessibility Guide – Visit Mississippi

Mississippi welcomes all visitors with disabilities and special travel needs. The state has various attractions offering experiences and accommodations that demonstrate their commitment to making it accessible for all. Ship Island located in the Gulf of Mexico offers travellers pristine beaches that can be accessed through private boats equipped with ramps for boarding and wheelchair tie-downs on the first deck and cabin. Beach access is provided via a continuous pier and boardwalk. The Hattiesburg Zoo was the first attraction in Mississippi to be certified by KultureCity as a sensory inclusive location. During scheduled sensory days, the zoo offers sensory bags at the zoo office which include noise-cancelling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads. The Mississippi Museum of Art provides wheelchair-accessible parking and the Grammy Museum Mississippi offering the best of American Music offers parking for the differently abled ensuring travellers can access these places conveniently.

Saguaro National Park – Visit Tucson, Arizona.

The unique Sonoran Desert landscapes and Sky Island mountains are accessible to travellers of all abilities. Saguaro National Park contains many accessibility upgrades such as; 8-foot parking spaces, curb cuts, wide power-assisted doors, variable height counters, and brochures in various text sizes. The new interpretive exhibits include assisted listening technology, closed-captioned videos, and a replica saguaro that is designed to be touched. The visitor centre also features a fully accessible and covered outdoor interpretive patio where daily educational programs take place. The Park is proactively working to provide for persons with a variety of abilities in order to connect people with their natural resources.

Children’s Museum Tucson features 11 indoor exhibits and party rooms & s entirely accessible by wheelchair and accessibility has been designed into the exhibits. The Museum also offers programming for families with children with autism, low-sensory needs, and disabilities to ensure they are welcomed in an inclusive environment.

Ends

For media enquiries, more information, hi-res images or video, please contact:

Caroline Donaldson-Sinclair, Senior PR Account Manager: caroline@ttmworld.co.uk

For Visit San Antonio, Discover New England and Meet Boston

David Venables, PR Account Manager: david@ttmworld.co.uk

For Explore Louisiana, Visit Mississippi, Tennessee Tourism, Visit Mesa, Maverick Helicopters

Kirsty Dillury, PR and Communications Director: kirsty@ttmworld.co.uk for Visit Tucson

For any other enquiries, please visit www.ttmworld.co.uk, email ttmoffice@ttmworld.co.uk or call +44 (0)208 313 1717

The post Accessible Destinations Across the U.S. appeared first on TTM World.