Thursday 27 June 2019

Top 10 Winter Adventures in Lake Macquarie, the Winter Sun Destination



This winter, pull out your winter woollies and do something different – enjoy an Australian winter getaway in lovely Lake Macquarie. This destination of all seasons has so much to offer and could even be considered its most beautiful during the cooler months. There’s no need to rush to get out early and beat the summer heat - and when you’re ready for exploration later in the day, there’s plenty to see and do at the Lake!

Here are our top 10 winter adventures in Lake Macquarie:

Let Lake Mac Float Your Boat

Lake Macquarie is set to put on its annual light show, with dozens of boats lighting up the night skies and calm waters of Lake Macquarie during the region’s perennial favourite boating regatta Float Your Boat – an event where passionate boat owners are encouraged to decorate their vessels in lights and take part in a parade around the Lake.

This weekend (June 28 and 29), the event will feature two flotilla parades following a course from Marmong Point Marina to Wangi Wangi on the first night, and Marmong Point Marina to Belmont on the second. Join the fantastic foreshore celebrations featuring live music, food and entertainment.

Have a whale of a time



With whale season well underway, it’s time to check out the hottest spots to view nature’s most majestic mammals as they flip and frolic off the NSW coast. Bring the binoculars and try your luck at Redhead Bluff, Awabakal Viewpoint, Caves Beach Walk or the Ken and Audrey Owens Walk.

For the ultimate up-close-and-personal experience, hop aboard a whale watching tour with Coast XP to enjoy an unforgettable voyage, with plenty of opportunities to get close to playful humpback whales. In the unlikely event you don’t spot a whale – they’ll offer you another cruise free of charge.

Get toasty in the Watagans National Park

Nothing beats toasting fluffy marshmallows over a campfire on a winter’s night, and what better place to do so than Lake Macquarie. It’s not uncommon for holiday parks to have a ‘no campfire’ policy so finding a cosy campsite where this is allowed really is a treat!

Hidden deep in the Watagans Mountains you will find The Pines Campground, where you can light a campfire and enjoy the dancing flames as the sun sets behind the wall of forest trees.

Fly high

If you fancy an entirely different view of Lake Macquarie, Skyline Aviation operates helicopter joy flights departing from Lake Macquarie Airport and taking in the sights of Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the coastline from Umina Beach and Terrigal past Caves Beach, Blacksmiths, Redhead and Bar Beach all the way to Newcastle Harbour.

Giddy up

The glorious foothills of the Watagan Mountains are perfect for being explored via horseback so take advantage of lessons, full-day rides and even overnight stays with the experts from AAA Horse Riding. Explore incredible trails that take you into the foothills of the Mountains, through rainforest and past some of the most spectacular scenery in Lake Macquarie, that will be sure to take your breath away.

Cruise the Lake

Jump onboard Lake Macquarie Cruises’ ‘Lunch on the Lake’ and experience the hidden highlights of beautiful Lake Macquarie – the largest coastal saltwater lake in the Southern Hemisphere. Cruise the Lake and indulge in a freshly prepared BBQ buffet lunch served onboard the vessel consisting of fresh local prawns, scotch fillet minute steak and gourmet beef sausages with a selection of salads to compliment. Enjoy a selection of petit fours for dessert, with complementary tea and coffee or select from a full range of drinks available from the fully licensed bar.

Get adventurous

For the ultimate winter challenge – which will put you firmly outside your comfort zone, why not try abseiling the spectacular sandstone cliffs at Gap Creek Falls in the Watagans National Park with the team from Out and About Adventures. Offering sequenced programs beginning with small cliffs and progressing over a series of descents – the perfect way to master the rope!

Creative LAKE and cake?

You can’t say you’ve been to Lake Macquarie without visiting Warner’s Bay. Check out the flavour filled fare at Travino’s CafĂ©, Table 1 Espresso or Little While Bull Espresso on The Esplanade before exploring the foreshore.

Winter offers the perfect temperature to walk or bike around the Lake, which is the best way to appreciate Creative LAKE. Along Warners Bay Shared Pathway you’ll find a selection of unique artworks including a bronze sky pig, a young monk and bronze sculpture titled ‘Darwin’.

Get back on track

Winter is the time to explore one of the most popular shared pathways in the Lake Macquarie region, Fernleigh Track. Loved by walkers and cyclists alike, the track follows a heritage coal rail line from Belmont to Adamstown. Those keen to enjoy the warm winter rays while meandering along the track will be treated to beautiful bushland and wetland areas.

Caves galore

From sunrise to sunset, there is so much to love about a day on Caves Beach. This iconic beach is a firm family favourite for low tide cave exploration, beach cricket, long walks, meditation, building sandcastles, and just chillaxing. Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows perched on the hill above is the perfect hotspot for 5pm sunset drinks.

This coastal destination has a chilled-out vibe inviting you to do nothing but relax, get adventurous, take long walks and enjoy sunset wines. Embrace the cold, pack your winter woollies and get yourself to lovely Lake Macquarie.

To learn more about what the region has to offer and plan your winter getaway, please visit: http://www.visitlakemac.com.au

Thursday 6 June 2019

What's new in Dallas Texas 2019



MARGARITA MILE | SUMMER

Dallas' history with America's most famous frozen concoction is as storied as it is salty. In 1971, a clever restaurateur, Mariano Martinez, invented the frozen margarita machine – and since then the way Dallas drinks has never been the same. That first machine now sits in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

This summer, Dallas celebrates one year of becoming the Official Home of the Frozen Margarita and the launch of the Margarita Mile, a collection of the city's best and most brazen margaritas, conveniently collected in a colorful app. Think of it as the ultimate margarita bucket list. VisitDallas will continue to showcase Dallas' unique place in history of American mixology with the help of Julian Rodarte – official Margarita Mile Ambassador and owner of Beto & Son.

There are now almost 20 stops (and counting!) on the Margarita Mile to leave visitors satisfied. You'll want to check out the newest stop on the Mile – the Dallas Cowboys-inspired Cowboyrita at AT&T Stadium.

The free Margarita Mile app is available on the Apple Store and Google Play.

AT&T DISCOVERY DISTRICT | FALL 2019

Since 2008, AT&T has called Dallas home. In 2018 the company broke ground on the $100 million AT&T Discovery District, a brand-new shopping, dining and entertainment hub in the heart of Downtown Dallas for workers and travelers. The district will feature a wide array of shops, outdoor event space, restaurants, a beer garden and more than 300 scheduled events and activities throughout the year.

VISITDALLAS EXPERIENCE CENTER | OPENING 2022

Since its completion in 2012, Klyde Warren Park has drawn millions of visitors to the Dallas Arts District and the surrounding areas. Last year, the park announced a $76 million expansion to create more space for activities and walkability. Part of the park's expansion will also include a new state-of-the-art VisitDallas Experience Center, an innovative space that will tell Dallas' story through interactive technology and experiences for visitors.




VIRGIN HOTEL | FALL 2019

In 2019, Virgin Hotels will open a 200-room hotel in Dallas' hip and growing Design District. The $80 million lifestyle hotel will cater to the new, savvy traveler, offering free Wi-Fi, cancellation and late checkout and a complimentary social hour for guests. It's the fourth planned Virgin Hotel property in the U.S.

THE THOMPSON AT THE DREVER | FALL 2019

Formerly the First National Bank Tower, The Thompson is set to open later this year as part of The Drever, the mixed-use space transforming the historic building in Downtown Dallas. The $380 million redevelopments will transform the 52-story, 1.5 million-square-foot skyscraper that was originally designed for legendary Texas oilman H.L. Hunt and also served as the fictional façade for Ewing Oil, J.R. Ewing's office in the hit television series Dallas. Once finalized, The Thompson will include 218 rooms, an amenity deck with a resort-style pool, a luxurious spa, fitness centers, office, restaurants, and retail space. Building redevelopment also includes 324 apartment units.

THE PITTMAN HOTEL AT THE EPIC | 2020

The Epic is set to open in Deep Ellum in 2019. The project will be the first of its kind in the neighborhood. It will consist of eight acres of mixed development, including office space, multifamily and hotel space with ground floor retail space. The Epic's design will reflect
a mix of the historic past of Deep Ellum, as well as give a glimpse into the neighborhood's thriving future. The hotel portion of The Epic will be the Pittman Hotel, a 164-room Kimpton property in the historic Dallas landmark, Knights of Pythias Temple, named after William Sidney Pittman, the architect behind the original building and son-in-law of Booker T. Washington. Originally, built in 1916 Knights of Pythias Temple was the first commercial building in the city built by and for African-American professionals.

New Flights

AIR FRANCE | MARCH 2019

After more than ten years, Air France returns to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) this spring. The airline will fly direct from Dallas-Fort Worth to Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport, begin- ning on March 31 through the 2019 summer season. Service will be three daily flights from March 31 – June 30 and September 4 – Oc- tober 25 and increasing to five daily flights in July and August. The airline will be the 16th international airline to fly from DFW.

AMERICAN AIRLINES | JUNE 2019

Last fall American Airlines announced two new non-stop flights from Dallas-Fort International Airport (DFW) to Dublin, Ireland, and Munich, Germany. The new flights mark the first-ever nonstop flight to Ireland and the third to Germany. Both flights are set to begin service in June.




CROW MUSEUM OF ASIAN ART | FALL 2018

The Crow Museum of Asian Art recently celebrated its 20th anniversary with a multi-million-dollar expansion, a new name and the announcement of five new exhibitions including Jacob Hashimoto: Clouds and Chaos and Our Asian Art Museum: The Crow at Twenty. The re-imagined museum dramatically expands its footprint along Harwood and Flora Streets. In addition to the renovation, the museum opened the doors to Pearl Art Studio, a creative workplace across from the Crow Museum of Asian Art. The studio will serve as a place for families, corporate teams, artists and individuals to experience and experiment through workshops and art-making opportunities.

FABIO LUISI NAMED MUSIC DIRECTOR OF DALLAS

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA | SPRING 2019

Italian Grammy-winning Fabio Luisi has been appointed to the Louise W. & Edmund J. Kahn Music Directorship of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, serving as music director designate in the 2019-2020 season. He assumes the title of music director in the 2020-2021 season, succeeding Jaap van Zweden, who ended his decade-long tenure as music director in May 2018. Prior to being appointed as music director of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Luisi was the principal conductor of the Danish National Symphony and the music director of the Zurich Opera. Luisi is best known to American audiences


for his acclaimed work as principal conductor of the Metropolitan Opera and guest engagements with leading U.S. orchestras.

DIOR: FROM PARIS TO THE WORLD |

MAY 19 – SEPT. 1, 2019

After debuting at the Denver Art Museum last year, Dior: From Paris to the World makes it second and only other U.S. stop at the Dallas Museum of Art. The stunning exhibit includes a selection of more than 100 haute couture dresses, original sketches, photographs and other archival material that highlight the more than 70 years of legacy and global influence of the House of Dior. The exhibition not only profiles Christian Dior, but also his subsequent directors including Yves Saint Laurent and John Galliano among others.

DALLAS HOLOCAUST AND HUMAN RIGHTS MUSEUM |

SEPTEMBER 2019

Recently, the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum began construction in Dallas' historic West End. The new building will expand the educational and cultural programming in the southwest U.S. to advance human rights and combat prejudice, hatred and indifference. The design of the new facility will create a narrative showing the journey of the many who experienced the Holocaust and other social injustices.


DOWNTOWN

Dallas' Downtown is in the middle of a resurgence thanks to a boom in hotel and retail development. Once a business hotspot by day but ghost town by night, Downtown is now a vibrant place where visitors can do it all – dining, culture, art, shopping and entertainment.

Don't miss: Always known for luxury shopping, Downtown boasts the flagship Neiman Marcus and boutique shop, Forty-Five Ten. Walk to the West End for a dose of history at the Sixth Floor Museum, chronicling the life and legacy of JFK, then head to the Arts District nearby for a wealth of artistic experiences.

Recent/Upcoming Developments: Commissary, Royal Blue Grocery, Klyde Warren Park Phase II, Public Green Spaces, AT&T Discovery District, East Quarter near the Dallas Farmers Market

UPTOWN

True to its name, Uptown is the place to see and be seen. Full of bars, restaurants and hip hotels, such as Hotel Zaza, Uptown is the playground of Dallas' young professionals.

Don't miss: The Happiest Hour, Uchiba and anything on McKinney Avenue. Hop on and off the historic McKinney Avenue Trolley for a free and fun ride. This neighborhood is also home to the American Airlines Center, which hosts the Dallas Mavericks, Dallas Stars and top music artists.

Recent/Upcoming Developments: Sweet Tooth Hotel, Cinépolis luxury cinemas, new restaurants in Victory Park including Billy Can Can Saloon and Restaurant and Chef Kent Rathbun's newest restaurant – Imoto

DESIGN DISTRICT

Dallas' Design District is about to boom. This community, just northwest of Downtown, has been a warehouse district for craftspeople to sell and produce local goods for more than 60 years. By day, there are more than 400 international showrooms filled with furnishing, textiles, art and antiques. By night, the district is an up-and-coming nightlife destination.

Don't miss: The Dallas Contemporary sits on the edge of the Design District and offers some of the city's most Avant Garde art exhibitions. Search for unique finds at White Elephant and Lula B's and check out the outrageous burgers at Rodeo Goat.

Recent/Upcoming Developments: Virgin Hotel, Town Hearth, The Charles

TRINITY GROVES

Located west of Downtown across the striking Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge, Trinity Groves is a booming dining destination. Central to the area's success is the Restaurant Concept Incubator program, which gives local chefs the opportunity to bring their restaurant dreams to reality.

Don't miss: Find every kind of dining in Trinity Groves: Spanish tapas, middle eastern, Latin-Asian fusion, Central-American, Italian, sushi and barbecue. Eat pasta at Saint Rocco's New York Italian and then wind down with a local brew from Steam Theory Brewing Company or a liquid nitrogen margarita at Beto & Son.


MAVS GAMING PAVILION | OCTOBER 2018

This past fall Mavs Gaming opened its high-tech Gaming Pavilion in Deep Ellum, following the inaugural season of the NBA 2K League, the professional esports league co-founded by the NBA. The pavilion features a 4,800 square foot gaming arena, including a 36-foot stage with five-versus-five gaming desks and a 35-foot gaming screen. Additionally, there are lounge areas, conference rooms, basketball hoops, a bar and everything else a gamer could need or want. The innovative facility hosts the Mavs Gaming team and is open to the general public for private parties, live tournaments and more.

NATIONAL SOCCER HALL OF FAME | FALL 2018

As part of a $39 million addition to Frisco's Toyota Stadium, home to professional soccer club FC Dallas, the arena opened the National Soccer Hall of Fame in October 2018. The hall houses the museum's collection as well as trophies from the Women's World Cup, Gold Cup and other U.S. memorabilia and Olympic medals.

DALLAS TIES: FC Dallas CEO Dan Hunt made it a personal mission to bring the Hall of Fame to Dallas in honor of his father Lamar Hunt. The elder Hunt championed the sport and brought Dallas its first soccer team, the Dallas Tornado, in the late 1960s.

MEXICO NATIONAL TEAM U.S. TOUR 2019 | JUNE 9, 2019 – 2022

Last fall, the Dallas Cowboys, Federacion Mexicana de Futbol, MLS' FC Dallas and the Dallas Sports Commission announced a four-year partnership that will bring the Mexican National Team to AT&T Stadium through 2022. North Texas has become a second home for the Mexican National Team since AT&T Stadium's opening in 2009, playing a total of seven games at the home of the Dallas Cowboys. The first game is set for June 9, 2019, a few days before the 2019 Concacaf Gold Cup.

WORLD FOOD CHAMPIONSHIPS | OCTOBER 16 – 20, 2019

Dallas will be the new host of the World Food Championships this October, after calling Alabama home for the past three years. The World Food Championships is the largest competition in Food Sport where champions of previous events compete to win the ultimate food crown. The World Food Championships is known for being the springboard for many up-and-coming culinary stars. Dallas' evolving and eclectic restaurant scene, with celebrity chefs like Dean Fearing, Stephen Pyles, Kent Rathbun, and up- and-comer Julian Rodarte, make the city an ideal destination for the Championships. The Championships will be held on Reunion Lawn, located next to the iconic Reunion Tower.


BRIDGESTONE NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE

WINTER CLASSIC | JANUARY 2020

Ring in 2020 in Dallas with the National Hockey League's Dallas Stars and Nashville Predators. This January, the National Hockey League, and the Dallas Stars announced the club will host the 2020 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic at Cotton Bowl Stadium on January 1, 2020, marking the first NHL regular-season outdoor game for the Stars. The game marks the 12-year anniversary of the annual tradition the League established of hosting a regular-season outdoor game at the start of the new year. The Cotton Bowl is only the sixth football stadium to host the Winter Classic, and it's the first time it's ever been played in a Southern city.




GLOBE LIFE FIELD | SPRING 2020

MLB team, the Texas Rangers, is getting a new $1.1 billion ballpark in Arlington, Texas. The stadium's biggest and most anticipated attraction will be its retractable roof and state-of-the-art air conditioning technology. The project will also include a new 400 car parking garage, 42,000 seats and a total of 24 pedestrian bridges. Other features include club spaces, children's play areas, team stores and a team Hall of Fame. Sports fans awaiting the opening of the new stadium can now enjoy the recently opened Texas Live!, an entertainment and restaurant complex adjacent from the soon-to-come Globe Life Field, where fans can watch their favorite teams on the large screens, catch a show or dine at one of the many restaurants.

Wisconsin – What's New in 2019



40th Anniversary of Noah's Ark Waterpark, Wisconsin Dells

The country's largest outdoor waterpark turns the big 4-0 this summer, with an anniversary party planned for Memorial Day weekend. Ride their newest sensation, Raja, the world's largest king cobra-themed slide. The Wisconsin Dells is the Waterpark Capital of the World, with more waterparks to experience than any other destination.

50th Anniversary of EAA AirVenture, Oshkosh

The greatest airshow in the world is hosting its 50th anniversary in Oshkosh July 22-28. More than 600,000 people from 80 different countries and 10,000 aircraft will descend on Oshkosh during the week-long event that features exhibitors, forums, workshops, presentations, aircraft flights, air shows, concerts and more. During EAA AirVenture week, Oshkosh is the busiest airport in the world with more take-offs and landings than any other airport in the world.

50th Anniversary for Wisconsin Maritime Museum, Manitowoc

This Smithsonian Affiliated museum is the largest maritime museum on the Great Lakes and features the nation's most fully restored WWII submarine, the USS Cobia (the Cobia marks its 75th this year). The museum gives visitors a chance to time-travel back to the 19th century when shipbuilding dominated the community.

60th Year for Circus World, Baraboo

Circus World rose to fame in the 1960s, and this season's Big Top performances will pay tribute to that decade of mod fashions and classic rock with a theme of “A Summer of Luv Under the Big Top.” While at Circus World, the original winter quarters of the Ringling Bros. Circus, be sure to visit the world's largest collection of restored antique circus wagons, circus costumes and posters.

60th Annual Lumberjack World Championship, Hayward

The thunder of chainsaws, the quick footing of the birlers, the brute strength of sawyers, and the agility of pole climbers are all on display at this world championship event. On Aug. 1-3, the world's best professional lumberjacks and lumberjills will converge in Hayward to compete in sawing, chopping, logrolling, speed climbing, boom running, axe throwing and more.

70th Annual Musky Festival, Hayward

Fishing enthusiasts will want to mark their calendars for the 70th anniversary of Musky Festival, June 21-23. This Up North classic includes the crowning of the Musky Festival Queen, 5K run/walk and 10K run as well as a Minnow Run for those 12 and younger, catch and release fishing contest, fishing photo contest, and street dances on Friday and Saturday nights. The weekend's festivities wrap up with the Grand Parade staged on the city's historic Main Street on Sunday.

150th for Door County Lighthouses

Both the Cana Island Lighthouse and the Baileys Harbor Range Lights turn 150 this year. Climb the 97 steps of the Cana Island Lighthouse's spiral staircase and be rewarded with a sweeping view of Lake Michigan and the Door County peninsula. Open May through October. The Bailey's Harbor Range Lights, two lighthouses though modest in design played a critical role in keeping ships off the treacherous reefs at the entrance to Bailey's Harbor. Door County has more lighthouses than any other county in America. Visit eleven lighthouses during Door County's Lighthouse Festival – June 709, 2019.

Lodging:

Dorr Hotel in Sister Bay – Door County. Sister Bay is breaking ground on a new Nordic-inspired hotel. The four story, 46 room Dorr Hotel will offer views across Lake Michigan's Green Bay, and 11 of the first-floor rooms will include private patios with access paths leading down to the water.

The Stella Hotel & Ballroom in Kenosha is accepting reservations starting April 1, 2019. A century-old Kenosha landmark that began its life as the Kenosha Elks Club, the Stella Hotel & Ballroom will come alive once again after nearly two years of meticulous restoration. The Stella Hotel & Ballroom is also a distinctive dining destination with its 1844 Table & Mash Restaurant and Crow's Nest rooftop bar. The Stella features 7,600 square feet of meeting space including a two-story ballroom for 300 people.

Potawatomi Hotel & Casino in Milwaukee is constructing an $80 million second tower, housing 119 rooms and suites, bringing the hotel's total room number to 500. The 180,000-square-foot addition will also feature a spa and additional meeting space.

Saint Kate The Arts Hotel in Milwaukee. In the spring of 2019, the InterContinental Hotel Milwaukee will transform into Saint Kate The Arts Hotel, the city's first independent arts hotel in the heart of Downtown Milwaukee. The renovation will result in 219 art-inspired guestrooms, 11 event spaces, 13,000 square feet of meeting space, three restaurants and numerous bars and lounges. The hotel will also boast a theater, gallery space, rotating exhibitions, screenings, workshops and a working Artist-in-Residence space.

Culinary:

The Garver Feed Mill, located on Madison's near East Side, is expected to open summer 2019. This multi-faceted destination will feature artisans, producers, and retailers offering visitors everything from coffee to gardening, catering to kombucha, providing visitors with the opportunity to taste the best of Madison. The historic Mill is sure to become a foodie destination for locals and out-of-towners alike, benefitting from the close proximity and future programming with Olbrich Botanical Gardens and Olbrich Park.

Apis Hotel & Restaurant in Kenosha will occupy a grand historic building with a fresh, mid-century modern flair. Setting the hotel apart are six expansive boutique-style rooms offering features such as loft areas and views of the harbor. The Apis Restaurant will specialize in creative small plates and seasonal ingredients, as well as immersive dining experiences in a chef's table-like setting. A rooftop bar with views of Downtown and Lake Michigan top off this distinguished property.

Crossroads Collective, on the Milwaukee's east side, opened late 2018 with eight restaurant stalls, a bar, and a hidden speakeasy. Milwaukee will soon have two more food halls, somewhat similar to the Milwaukee Public Market.

3rd Street Market Hall another food hall in Milwaukee will open in the fall of 2019 and will reside in the former Grand Avenue Mall in the heart of downtown. It will feature 20 local restaurant vendors, a beer hall, table games, and plenty of space for hanging out.

Good City Brewing opened the doors to its production facility and taproom in January 2019 as the first tenant of the Milwaukee Bucks entertainment block. The official grand opening event is scheduled for Feb. 22, 2019.

Sports:

Ryder Cup – Prepping for 2020 –Whistling Straits – Kohler, Wisconsin – September 22-27, 2020

The Ryder Cup has become one of the world's greatest sporting events. Every two years, 24 of the best players from Europe and the United States go head-to-head in match play competition. Drama, tension, incredible golf, camaraderie and sportsmanship are served in equal measure, captivating an audience of millions around the world. Whistling Straits

Open, rugged and windswept terrain defines the links-style Straits course sculpted along two miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. A masterpiece in the world of golf created by Pete Dye, who sculpted the Straits course to reflect those in Ireland and Scotland. Open, rugged and windswept terrain defines the Straits Course. With meandering streams, stone bridges, rolling greens, and grass topped dunes, Pete Dye explains this course as a “once in a lifetime” achievement in golf course design. Whistling Straits has previously hosted the 2004, 2010 and 2015 PGA Championships.

U.S. Open Qualifying Round, May 8, Wisconsin Dells

Wild Rock Golf Club has been selected by the United States Golf Association to host a qualifying round for the 2019 U.S. Open. This magnificent course, built around and through a former quarry, was designed by the same duo who created the site of last year's U.S. Open, Erin Hills near Milwaukee.

Ride Across Wisconsin, Aug.16 -18, La Crosse

The 5th Annual Ride Across Wisconsin, Wisconsin's signature bicycle ride, announces a new route for 2019. After four years riding the southern route across the state, the ride now starts in La Crosse

with one- and two-day options. This ride (not a race) offers scenic views across some of the most beautiful back roads the state has to offer.

Signature Events:

The TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE travels through the Great Lakes every three years. In late July and early August, the Challenge will make its way to Lake Michigan's Wisconsin ports in Green Bay and Kenosha. Festivals in host ports offer an opportunity for visitors to explore the majestic vessels from stern to bow. Specific ships will offer sail-away tours on Lake Michigan. Live entertainment, food and beverage vendors, and children's activities will add to the festivities.

What's new in Milwaukee – Wisconsin's Largest City:

A new gateway to the lakefront. New construction, hotel conversions, foodie hubs: things are changing in Milwaukee - fast! It's an exciting time in the city, and this new growth promises even better things to come over the next five years.

The Fiserv Forum - The new NBA arena and entertainment complex is transforming downtown Milwaukee. Fiserv Forum is much more than just the new home for the Milwaukee Bucks basketball. Designed to reflect the heritage, history and personality of Milwaukee while actively projecting progress, accessibility and a renewed sense of community, the state of the art, 714,000 square foot arena is the hub of entertainment in Wisconsin and the engine that drives growth in downtown Milwaukee. Combining entertainment, residential and commercial spaces, the new district will transform Milwaukee and serve as a catalyst for driving development throughout the region.

The Hopp – Milwaukee's new downtown streetcar system. Milwaukee's new streetcar is ready to take you where you need to be downtown – and thanks to sponsor Potawatomi Hotel & Casino, everyone rides free during this first year of service! Take advantage of this convenient new transportation option as you travel throughout downtown Milwaukee.

Milwaukee County Zoo's new exhibit, Adventure Africa, will reopen in May 2019 after a major expansion. This exhibit, which will house the elephants as well as other African animals, has reimagined 25 percent of the Zoo's footprint, making it the largest project since the Zoo was completed in the early 1960s.

Saturday 1 June 2019

What's New in Los Angeles - Summer 2019



HOTELS

Soho Warehouse (Arts District, Downtown)
July 2019
The London-based Soho Warehouse is the third in L.A. and set to open in the south Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles. Soho Warehouse will span more than 110,000 square feet, making it one of the biggest standalone Houses and the first with guestrooms on the West Coast. The property will include bedrooms, a gym, club spaces and a rooftop with a pool.

The Wayfarer DTLA (Historic Core, Downtown)
Summer 2019
The Wayfarer DTLA is a community-focused hotel coming to Downtown L.A.'s historic Broadway Corridor in the former Ritz Milner buildingThe property will feature 156 total shared and private rooms, four food and beverage spots including a rooftop bar, and a stairwell gym. This is the second hotel under the Wayfarer name with the first located in Santa Barbara.

Silver Lake Pool and Inn (Silver Lake)
September 2019
This September Silver Lake Pool and Inn will open at Sunset Junction just south of the lively intersection of Santa Monica and Sunset. The 54-room boutique property run by Palisociety Hotels is set to feature an elevated pool deck and Marco Polo, a coastal Italian-inspired outdoor restaurant and bar.

Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel (Fashion District, Downtown)
September 2019
Proper Hospitality, the new brand headed by former Viceroy Hotels Chief Brad Korzen, is slated to debut their first Los Angeles hotel in Downtown L.A.'s Fashion District located at the site of the former Case Hotel. The 13-story property, which was originally built in 1924, will have 148 stunning rooms.

The Hoxton, LA (Fashion District, Downtown)
Fall 2019
Chic British brand Hoxton will debut The Hoxton, LA in a transformed 1925 building that was once the headquarters of the LA Railway Authority. Located in Downtown L.A.'s booming Fashion District at 11th and Broadway, the 10-story hotel will feature 174 guest rooms, three restaurants including one on the roof, multiple bars and a rooftop pool when it debuts in fall 2019.

The Godfrey Hotel (Hollywood)
October 2019
The 60,000-square-foot Godfrey hotel is a high-end boutique property fit for the lifestyle of the contemporary jet-setting professional. The project features amenities that will allow travelers to conduct business both locally and remotely, while enjoying the unique room and food experiences that the Godfrey brand is known for in Chicago and Boston. The property is slated to open with 220 rooms, a rooftop pool and a casual steakhouse called About Last Knife.


Park Hyatt at Oceanwide Plaza (South Park, Downtown)
Early 2020
Oceanwide Plaza, the mixed-use project being built adjacent to STAPLES Center and L.A. LIVE, will include L.A.'s first hotel under the Park Hyatt luxury badge. The Park Hyatt Los Angeles will have 184 rooms, including 34 suites, meeting and events space, a swimming pool, and access to the retail and amenity podium known as The Collection at Oceanwide Plaza.

Fairmont Century Plaza (Century City)
Spring 2020
AccorHotels' Fairmont badge will take over the landmark Century Plaza hotel in Century City when the property reopens as Fairmont Century Plaza in the spring of 2020. The redeveloped 5-star property will boast 400 guestrooms and 63 luxury residences. Expected amenities include a swanky rooftop pool, a world-class 14,000-sqaure-foot spa, and 24-hour fitness center.

Grupo Habita Project (Arts District, Downtown)
Summer 2020
The first L.A. project for Grupo Habita, a hotel group that develops some of the hippest hotels in Mexico City, Chicago, and New York will take over a 109-year-old brick warehouse in the Arts District transforming it with modern accommodations, a rooftop lounge, garden and pool. Construction on the property is ongoing with a projected opening date of summer 2020.

W Los Angeles Downtown 
(South Park, Downtown)
Mid-2020
The 250-room W Los Angeles Downtown will be located across the street from L.A. LIVE and STAPLES Center and will be the W brand's third location in Los Angeles. The hotel will feature a spa, outdoor pool deck and destination restaurants along. It will boast approximately 15,000 square feet of meeting and event space perfect for the modern business traveler.

Thompson Hollywood (Hollywood)
2020
Two Roads Hospitality's Thompson lifestyle brand, which previously operated The Hollywood Roosevelt, will return to the buzzing Hollywood neighborhood with a new property on Wilcox Avenue between Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards. The 190-room hotel is being built by Dream Hollywood developer Relevant Group and will house meeting and events space, a fitness center and a rooftop deck with a pool.

Tommie Hotel (Hollywood)
2020
With lush greenspace and an array of communal amenities, the Tommie Hotel is designed for young professionals, artists and entrepreneurs. The Tommie Hotel Los Angeles will sit at the intersection of Wilcox and Selma Avenues in Hollywood, adjacent to the existing Mama Shelter hotel. The 212-room, lifestyle-focused hotel also comes from the Two Roads Hospitality brand and Relevant Group developers.



ARTS & CULTURE
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures (Mid-City)
December 2019
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is bringing the world's leading film sciences museum to L.A.'s Miracle Mile. This exciting project is designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Renzo Piano, and will encompass six stories of state-of-the-art galleries, exhibition spaces, movie theaters, educational areas, and special event spaces. Inaugural exhibitions will include a retrospective of legendary filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki and Making of: The Wizard of Oz.

LA Plaza Cocina (Olvera Street, Downtown)
Early 2020
LA Plaza Cocina will be the first museum and teaching kitchen dedicated to Mexican food when it opens in Downtown L.A.'s Olvera Street at LA Plaza Village. The multi-disciplinary venue will aim to celebrate and educate visitors on Mexico's culinary heritage, from its indigenous roots to its contemporary interpretations through an array of exhibitions, cooking classes, lectures, workshops, and culinary festivals.

The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art (Exposition Park, Downtown)
2021
Los Angeles will welcome the 275,000-square-foot, $1-billion Lucas Museum of Narrative Art to Downtown L.A.'s Exposition park in 2021. Works on display will come from George Lucas' personal collection of art, which consists of approximately 10,000 paintings and illustrations along with Hollywood memorabilia from films such as “Star Wars” and “The Ten Commandments.”
Skirball Cultural Center (Westside)“Fearless Fashion: Rudi Gernreich”
Now Through September 1, 2019
A must-see, the Fearless Fashion: Rudi Gernreich exhibit at Skirball Cultural Center presents an in depth look at the ways in which the famed designer impacted fashion through his beliefs on gender identity, utilitarianism and body positivity. On view through September 1, 2019, Fearless Fashion: Rudi Gernreich features more than eighty ensembles and is the first exhibition to focus on the social and cultural impact of Gernreich's vision. 
www.skirball.org/exhibitions/fearless-fashion-rudi-gernreich
Hammer Museum (Westside)
“Sarah Lucas: Au Naturel”
June 9, 2019 – September 1, 2019
The Hammer Museum will present the first American survey the U.K.'s influential Sarah Lucas in Sarah Lucas: Au Naturel. Over her 30-year-career, Lucas has developed a provocative, humorous body of work that subverts society's traditional notions on gender, sexuality, and identity as it relates to the human body and power. More than 130 photographs, collages, sculptures and installations will be on display.
Los Angeles County Museum of Modern Art (LACMA) (Mid-City)
“The Allure of Matter: Material Art from China”
“Beyond Line: The Art of Korean Writing”
June 2, 2019 – January 5, 2020
June 16, 2019 – September 29, 2019
Los Angeles County Museum of Modern Art (LACMA) adds two Asian art exhibitions in late spring. The Allure of Matter: Material Art from China will bring 34 works from 40 years in which material choice has become a symbol of artistic expression. The installation includes 20 of the most influential Chinese artists working today including Ai Weiwei, Cai Guo-Qiang and Lin Tianmiao. Beyond Line: The Art of Korean Writing will be the first exhibition held outside of Asia to focus on the history and art of writing and calligraphy in Korea.
ATTRACTIONS & EVENTS

Universal Studios Hollywood (Universal City)
Jurassic World – The Ride
Summer 2019
This summer at Universal Studios Hollywood the all-new attraction Jurassic World – The Ride will debut. The eagerly awaited reimagining of the Jurassic Park attraction will send guests down a thrilling, 84-foot waterfall all set around an original storyline that takes place within the theme park as depicted in Jurassic World. It will feature additional new dinosaurs from the film, lush scenic design, and ground-breaking technology that has yet to be experienced within a theme park.

2019 Summer dineL.A. (Citywide)
July 12 – 26, 2019
The dineL.A. program is a biannual, 15-day dining event showcasing the city as a premier dining destination. It offers diners value-driven lunch and dinner menus from over 400 restaurants across L.A. Lunch menus range from $15, $20, $25 to $35, with dinner menus priced at $29, $39, $49 and $59. For visitors who want to try exclusive tasting menus from some of L.A.'s most celebrated restaurants like Providence and Spago, prices start at $99 per person.

Outfest Los Angeles (Citywide)
July 18 – 28, 2019
Considered the preeminent LGBTQ film festival in the world and oldest film festival in L.A., 2019 Outfest Los Angeles LGBTQ Film Festival returns from July 18 to July 28 for 11 days of world-class films, panels and parties. Each summer Outfest Los Angeles screens more than 150 feature and short films to an audience more than 40,000 people at venues across the city like The Orpheum, and Ford Theatres.

2019 DTLA Proud Festival (Pershing Square, Downtown)
August 23 – 25, 2019
Now in its fourth year, DTLA Proud Festival returns to the heart of Downtown L.A. from August 23-25 in Pershing Square. A perfect itinerary addition to a late summer visit, the 3-day festival includes a diverse lineup of local stage talent, community booths, art installations, retail vendors, interactive exhibits, food trucks and a pop-up water park.

Bob Baker Marionette Theatre (Highland Park)
Summer 2019
Shows will begin again at their new home in the effortlessly cool and ever evolving neighborhood of Highland Park this summer. The theatre trip is set to bring its 3,000 puppets, endless ice cream, boundless imagination, and love for its Los Angeles community to its new location at 4949 York Boulevard.
LA Stadium at Hollywood Park (South Bay)
2020
When the LA Stadium at Hollywood Park opens in 2020, it will house L.A.'s two NFL teams: the Los Angeles Chargers and 2019 NFC Conference Champions Los Angeles Rams. The state of the art, open-air stadium will host Super Bowl LVI in 2022.

Los Angeles Convention Center (South Park, Downtown)
February 2022
An estimated $1.25-billion project will transform the Convention Center and adjacent L.A. LIVE into a fully integrated 100-acre meetings and conventions destination with over 2 million sq. ft. of total event space; 2,240 on-site hotel rooms; 20 restaurants; unique venues and more. The entire campus project is expected to be fully complete and operational by February 2022 for the Super Bowl Fan Fest.

DINING
Tacos 1986 (Historic Core, Downtown)
June 24, 2019
The Tijuana-style Tacos 1986, which started as a Hollywood stand, will open their first brick and mortar in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles in late June. The extra cheesy tacos, created by Victor Delgado and Jorge “Joy” Alvarez -Tostado, are a star on social media and have gained positive acclaim from restaurant critics like the LA Times.

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema (Financial District, Downtown)
Summer 2019
After years of anticipation, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is scheduled to open this summer at The Bloc in Downtown L.A., a mixed-use dining, shopping and office complex. The theatre will include 12 dine-in screening rooms and a full-service lobby bar. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema's L.A. location will include vegan and gluten-free options.

Antico (Larchmont Village)
Summer 2019
Chef Chad Colby, formerly of Chi Spacca, is opening his first solo venture along Beverly Boulevard in the chic neighborhood of Larchmont Village. Antico will be a rustic Italian spot focused on wood-fired cuisine along. The menu will heavily feature grilled meats, prepared vegetables and handmade pasta classics.

Sqirl Away (East Hollywood)
Fall 2019
After years of anticipation, highly-acclaimed chef Jessica Koslow will open the takeaway version of Sqirl, aptly named Sqirl Away, on Vermont Avenue in East Hollywood later this year. Sqirl Away is expected to serve the menu favorite fresh jams, breakfast toasts and lunch bowls.

Death & Co. (Arts District, Downtown)
Late 2019
Notable New York City-born cocktail bar Death & Co., considered one of America's greatest, will come to the popular 3rd Street stretch of the Arts District later this year. The 3,000-square-foot bar and kitchen will have a menu like NYC's East Village location as well as a secondary bar in the back of the venue for private events.

The Barish (Hollywood)
January 2020
James Beard Award winner Nancy Silverton will bring The Barish, a large-scale Italian steakhouse, to The Hollywood Roosevelt as part of a revamp of the hotel's dining program. The restaurant will specialize in meat focused dishes and baked pastas.

San Pedro Public Market (San Pedro)
Phase one by 2021
The Los Angeles waterfront will see dramatic improvements to its dining options as early as 2021. The new San Pedro Public Market will feature a 15-stall food hall, five restaurants next to the waterfront and outdoor garden seating that is both pet and family-friendly. Once the second phase of construction is complete, the San Pedro Public Market will hold retail shops, a 5,000-seat waterfront amphitheater concert venue, playgrounds, recreation areas, waterfront taxis and cruises.

Lucas Museum of Narrative Art (Exposition Park)
Upcoming
Founded by philanthropist and filmmaker George Lucas and his wife, Mellody Hobson, President of Ariel Investments, the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art will inspire current and future generations through the universal art of visual storytelling. The museum will present permanent collection and rotating exhibitions for diverse public audiences which will feature illustrations, paintings, comic art, photography, and an in-depth exploration of filmmaking (including storyboards, costumes, animation, visual effects, and more). Designed by renowned architect Ma Yansong and under construction in Los Angeles' Exposition Park, the museum will feature new public green space, state-of-the-art cinematic theaters, a research library, numerous spaces for onsite education, restaurants, retail, and event spaces. 


LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (LAX)

Digital Food Orders
Ongoing
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) guests can now save time by pre-ordering food and shopping online for select locations. The enhancements to the shopping and dining experience at LAX include the launch of a digital product catalog and digital food ordering services, powered by Grab. Guests can pre-order food on their mobile device, Facebook messenger app or desktop/laptop computer by accessing FlyLAX.com and following the link to "Dining, Shopping and More" and choosing one of the participating terminals, or by going directly to LAXShopDine.com.

LAX Presents Performance Series
Now through December 10, 2019
Now in its third year, LAX Presents brings 38 performances in eclectic styles such as vintage West Coast rock, jazz piano and classical ensembles. The 2019 season will more than double the number of performances from 2018 and will feature 14 diverse acts, compared to nine in 2018.

PUP Program
Ongoing
Pets Unstressing Passengers (PUP) is a therapy dog program at LAX providing stress relief and comfort to passengers through warm and furry interactions with pets. Certified by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, therapy dogs and handlers roam the departures levels in the gate areas of each terminal, visiting travelers awaiting flights and providing comfort, as well as vital airport information.

LAX Modernization Program
Through 2023
In operation since 1928, LAX is amid a multibillion-dollar modernization program which is the largest public works project in Los Angeles history. It includes a new, 12-gate Midfield Satellite Concourse (MSC) which will serve as an addition to Tom Bradley International Terminal set to open in 2020 and the Landside Access Modernization Program (LAMP) which includes a 2.25-mile Automated People Mover (APM) that will connect three on-airport stations to Metro Rail and transit services set to open by 2023.