Bus Charter and Leisure Blog Archive

The Hermitage is a well-known downtown Nashville landmark that is just across the street from Tennessee's State Capitol. It is one of the few examples of the beaux arts architectural style that is still standing.

The Hermitage was originally built in 1909 and has hosted five U.S. presidents as well as other notables including Al Jolson, Jack Dempsey, Gene Autry and Billy Graham. Totally restored in 1981 to become an elegant all-suite hotel. From the exquisite marble lobby, accented by brass fittings and oriental carpets, to the ballroom which was constructed with an intricately carved Russian walnut ceiling the decor and atmosphere of the Hermitage is breathtaking.

Many of the furnishings in the Hermitage are original and throw-backs to the turn of last century. Nearly 100-years of history has passed by the walls of this fine old Hotel.

There are three types of suites. Each is decorated in the styles of traditional American, contemporary American or oriental styles. The dining room is well known as a great place to enjoy a leisurely and elegant meal. The continental cuisine features such delicacies as Tournedos Biarritz and Fettucine Carolina. There is also live entertainment featured nightly while you dine.

Small pets are allowed at the Hermitage and pet accomodations are available. Other amenities at the Hermitage abound and include valet service, garage and parking, car hire, laundry service, complimentary shoeshine, baby-sitting services if needed, Complimentary newspaper along with the usual room standards as TV, Radio, Phone, Shampoo, Lotion, Soaps, Caps, Shoe mitt, Shoehorn and wet bar.

The Hermitage is located at 231 Sixth Avenue North, Nashville, Tennessee.

Are you looking for a great place to visit when you are in the Nashville area? If so, then you really need to stop by the Nashville Toy Museum. This is a fun and unique place full of all sorts of great things for the entire family to look at. Kids and adults alike just love to look around at all of the toy trains that are on display at the museum.

You will find a wonderful array of toys on display during your visit. There are things such as trains, antique toys and even dolls. In addition to those, you will also find bears, ships, cars and soldiers too. There is something wonderful for everybody to see when they visit this fun place!

Do you enjoy items from the Department 56 collection? If you are a fan, then you are in luck. The Nashville Toy Museum has all of the latest collections from Department 56. Thousands of people collect these wonderful items, and you can too! Stop by the Nashville Toy Museum today to pick up something for yourself or a unique gift item for somebody special.

This museum will take you back in time to the toys of your youth and give you kids a real insight to toys of days gone by. This lovely toy museum is located at 2613 McGavock Pike in Nashville, Tennessee. The hours that you may stop by for a visit are from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm every single day of the week. For your convenience, they accept cash, check, Discover, MasterCard, Visa and Travelers Checks. If you would like more information, you can give them a call at (615) 391-3516.

If you are going to be hitting the Nashville, Tennessee area in search of some great places to visit, you need to stop by the Travellers Rest Plantation and Museum. Once you lay your eyes on this beautiful place with magnificent architecture and perfect landscaping, you will feel as though you have traveled back in time to the days gone by. You may actually never want to leave after you arrive!

During your visit to the Travellers Rest Plantation and Museum, you have the option of taking several different tours. There is a self-guided garden tour that is very popular with many of the visitors. You may even enjoy the self-guided Civil War grounds tour that they offer. If you are looking for a guided tour, there are two guided historic house tours available as well. No matter which one you choose, you are in for a world of unique and interesting learning experiences during your visit.

Hours that you may stop by for an interesting visit at the Travellers Rest Plantation and Museum are from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm Monday through Saturday and 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm on Sunday. Travellers Rest is open daily throughout the year with the only closings being on all of the major national holidays.

The cost for admission at Travellers Rest is really affordable as well. Admission is only $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $4 for kids ages 6 through 12, and free for kids under the age of six. You will also find that there are group rates offered as well as certain discounts to members.

If you love Country Music, a trip to the Willie Nelson and Friends Museum is in store for you. This museum has exhibits on Willie Nelson, Patsy Cline, Elvis Presley and others who were important in the founding of not only the Nashville sound but the very foundations of both Country and Rock and Roll music.

The Museum is located at 2613A McGavock Park and admission is $3.50 for adults and children (6 - 12)are admitted for just $1.50. All children under 5 years old are free.

The hours open are Memorial Day - Labor Day 9 AM - 9 PM; The rest of the year 9 AM - 5 PM; the museum is open all year round.

The museum is located just across from the Opryland Hotel. The museum itself is a self-guided tour through random displays of memorabilia and photographs of Elvis, JD Sumner, Alan Jackson, Patsy Cline and others - special attention is given to the "Redheaded Stranger," Willie Nelson himself. Willie's personal items, gold and platinium albums and his favorite guitars he's used over the years are all on display.

The gift shop is one of the biggest in Nashville and has the usual knick-knacks along with a few original items: Look for Willie's trademark bandanna with fake braid attachments.

If you're looking for a great way to spend an afternoon getting to know your favorite music stars up close and personal, make a stop by the Willie Nelson and Friends Showcase Museum.

Are you looking for a great way to cool down when things heat up in the Nashville area? If you are, then Wave Country is the place to be. This is one of the coolest swimming pools in the area because it is the only one that features exciting wave-action. Kids and adults alike love to ride the waves, making them feel as if they are actually at the ocean!

During your visit to Wave Country, you will also have the chance to slip and slide down one of the three water slides that they have. Nothing can be more thrilling than zipping down the wet corners and turns and ending by splashing into the pool that waits for you at the bottom! For a bit of a change, there is also a great playground available on the grounds for the kids to play on.

Bring a picnic lunch or snack on some of the tasty treats that are available at the concession stands. This is a place that the entire family is sure to enjoy for hours of family fun in the sun. Cost of admission for adults is only $6, children ages 5 through 12 get in for $5 and children ages 4 and under get in absolutely free.

The season runs from Memorial Day through Labor day with operating hours from 11:00 am until 5:00 pm. After Labor day, Wave Country is only open for your enjoyment on the weekends so be sure that you plan your visit accordingly.

There will be a great time had by the entire family when you visit Wave Country, your kids will be insured a fantastic time and after a day of hard playing in the waves, you will all have a great night's sleep!

The District is "the" place to go party in Nashville. It is located downtown and has been a part of Nashville since Christmas day in 1779. The riverfront birthplace remained the heart of the settlement and grew into what is now Downtown Nashville. There is a replica of Fort Nashboro which stands in Riverfront Park - where the original settlement was- as a reminder of those earliest days.

There are three historic districts where most of the original buildings of this time are still located. Second Avenue, Broadway, and Printer's Alley, all of which are well within walking distance of each other.

The entire District had become run-down by the 1970s and a huge restoration effort was started throughout the 1980s resulting in an economic revitalization and preservation of these historically and architecturally significant sections of downtown for not only Nashville residents to enjoy but visitors to the City as well.

The Second Avenue area was the first area to receive National Registry Status as a historic place. The area was known as Market Street until the early 1900s and was the hub of Nashville where the dry goods, hardware, and groceries shipped down the river and unloaded at the wharf where Riverfront Park is now were received in the entrances along Front Street (now First Avenue) then sold out the front doors on Market Street.

Most of the block-deep warehouses and their Victorian commercial facades date from 1870 to 1890. The area is now filled with historic buildings to view, restaurants to visit and nightclubs. Printer's Alley was the district where all the publishing companies were located and is now a collection of the most fun party venues you will visit.

Take a stop by The District on your next visit to Nashville and enjoy the partying side of this City!

If you or someone you are visiting Nashville with, is a horse lover, check out the Tennessee Walking Horse Museum.

You can learn a lot of interesting facts about this outstanding breed of horse. The Tennessee Walking Horse is a composite breed that evolved from the Narragansett Pacer, Canadian, Morgan, Standardbred, Thoroughbred and American Saddlebred. These bloodlines were fused into one animal in the middle Tennessee bluegrass region, resulting in one of the most special breeds of horses ever - the Tennessee Walking Horse - Also, this is the first breed of horse to bear a state name.

The Tennesee Walker has an usually smooth gait and was bred to combat the tough Tennessee terrain, which it does quite easily. At the Museum, you will learn about this horse's gentle disposition and kind manner. The ease of which it can be taught and it's high intelligence level. You will also learn it is a great horse for anyone beginning to ride as the Tennessee Walker has a very docile temperament.

They don't call this breed the Tennessee Walker for nothing, at the museum you will see the horse's distinctive gait demonstrated. There are three main gaits this horse has and the running walk is the gait for which the Tennessee Walker is most well-known.

The admission to to the Tennessee Walker Museum is free and the hours of operation are : Tues. - Sat. 10 AM - 4 PM; closed noon - 1 PM for lunch.

Addtionally, there is a small gift shop with a myriad of Tennessee Walker related items that are available for purchase. Get yourself a Tennessee Walker shirt of hat or spring for that cool mug to remember your visit to the Tennessee Walker Museum.

If you are a history buff, you really need to stop by the Tennessee State Museum the next time that you are in the Nashville area. This place is just loaded full of all of the information you could ever imagine about the rich history of the state of Tennessee. There are always lots of great exhibits and events for visitors to check out that are just right for your entire family.

Did you know that this museum measures in as being one of the largest state museums within the entire United States of America? While you are visiting, you will be intrigued by the many exhibits you will find that span the history of the great state of Tennessee. You be pleased to learn through exhibits such as Civil War, Prehistoric, Age of Jackson and Frontier. All of the displays include interesting items such as weapons, furniture and paintings.

Tennesee has been the source of a major find of dinosaur bones and prehistoric artifacts and those are well represented here. You will find prehistoric tools and items in use 1,000s of years ago as well as items used during the hard times of the first settlers.

The Tennessee State Museum is located within the Polk Cultural Center at 505 Deadrick Street in Nashville. Hours that you may stop by for a look-see are Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm and Sunday from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm. The museum is closed down on all of the major national holidays. Visitors will be delighted to know that admission to the museum is always free except for the occasional cost of special exhibits on display. If you would like further information or if you have general questions, you may call the museum toll free at (800) 407-4324.

Looking for a sparkling good time on your next visit to Nashville? Leave the beaten path of the regular (although fun and interesting) tourist traps and check out the unusual designs at the Shelton Gallery.

Not only do they have custom made one-of-a-kind jewelry, they have art, sterling and coin art, walking sticks and regional folk art. There are books about little known and regional artists available so you can take the gallery home with you to show your friends back home or they make great gifts for the art lover in your life. "Southern Folk and Outsider Art" by Kathy Moses Shelton is highly recommended.

The Shelton Gallery holds nearly 100 kinds of antiques and vintage artifacts that include furnishings from an earlier time, decorative art that was in use from long ago, even instruments and implements such as ice tongs which can add a neat flair if used in a kitchen decor.

There is also a great selection in their collection of Fine Art that has nearly 70 pieces. This collection has not only what you might think of in Fine Art such as paintings and drawings. But also sculpture and mixed media designs that draw from several art forms. If you have someone who is into military memorabilia they will like the small but interesting display with the Miliaria.

Start your own art collection with the art of an up and coming artist of this region, you will find something you just have to have at Shelton Gallery and Fine Jewelry on your next visit to Nashville, you'll have an artfully good time.

Would you like to visit a museum that will let you do more than look at exhibits? Check out the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.

This cool Nashville destination has interactive games for you to enjoy, college football and basketball exhibits that highlight a number of successful sports careers, two 30-seat theaters with sports videos, and so much more.

This Hall of Fame was founded by a group known as the Middle Tennessee Sportswriters and Broadcasters Association in 1966. Their first banquet raised a whopping total of 300.00 and they were on their way to creating one of the best known Sports Hall of Fame Museums in the country. It wasn't until 1994 that the Tennessee State Legislature passed the necessary legislation in 1994 to officially create the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.

Both male and female atheletes are recognized for their outstanding acheivements and contributions to sports at the Hall of Fame. Approximately ten new inductees are honored each year. There are hundreds of athletes to learn about here.

Regular admission is must $3 per person. There are great discounts if your group has ten or more persons. The admission is only $2 per person. Seniors and Children are only $2.

There is a small gift shop where you can pick up a memento of your visit to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame or buy a little something for someone back home. The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Museum is located at 501 Broadway and for more information, you can call them directly at (615) 242-4750. You can spend a great afternoon learning more about the sports figures you've always admired and meet some new greats!

A true must see when you are visiting Nashville is the State Capitol, otherwise known as Union Fort Johnson. This lovely building was built way back in 1859 and is nestled in a lovely area right in the downtown area of Nashville. A trip to see this wonderful piece of Tennessee history could be great fun for your entire family.

The State Capitol is rich with all kinds of history that many find very interesting to learn about such as the tomb of former United States President James K. Polk and his wife being located on the grounds. The building is also loaded to the gills with a great number of wonderful works of art including murals, portraits and frescos. There are also several famous statues on the grounds as well which are great for picture taking to capture memories of your visit.

Admission to the Tennessee State Capitol is always free to all visitors. The State Capitol is conveniently located on Charlotte Avenue, which happens to lie between 6th and 7th Avenue in the downtown area. There is plenty of parking available for a small fee in several parking lots in the area surrounding the location.

Hours that you may stop by for a visit by yourself, with your family or with a group are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM. If you are looking to get some type of a tour, there are brochures available that will help you go on a self-guided tour around the grounds.

A Nashville destination that will thrill everyone from the kids to the kids at heart is the Nashville Train Store and Toy Museum.

Located at 2613 McGavock Pike the Train Store and Toy Museum is open daily from 10 AM - 5 PM. The venue is located just across the street from the Opryland Hotel and right by the Willie Nelson and Friends Museum.

At this fun destination, you can see one of the world's finest collections of vintage toys and models. The kid in you will drool over lavish train layouts, and then walk a few steps into Peterson's Train Store where you can see 100 year old live steamers and 10 foot ship models in the museum.

The Train Store has been a Nashville mainstay for years where many an eccentric collector of trains has found a welcome haven. Collectors from all over the region gather on weekends to work on their models and trade parts and stories. If you happen to be stopping by on a weekend, you are sure to see some unusual collections of model trains and accessories.

You can also see the latest models of trains made by the following companies: Lionel, LGB, American Flyer, Marklin, Brio, Exotic Live Steamers by Aster.

The train shop is located in the rear of the Toy Museum. After you view the myriad of toys from days gone by, be sure to check out the trains. For an afternoon thrilling the kids or the kids at heart, make the Nashville Train Store and Toy Museum a must see on your next visit to Nashville.

The Lotz House Museum is a cool place to spend an couple of hours on your next trip to Nashville. This historical venue holds the features the largest and most comprehensive collection of War Between the States and Old West artifacts in the Mid-South.

The Lotz House Museum will let you see the actual items that belongs to the soldiers who fought on both the North and South sides of the Civil War. The entire first floor of the museum has hundreds of artifacts that were used in the men's daily lives. From the pipes they smoked to the uniforms they wore to the photographs of loved ones they carried with them into battle are represented within the War Between the States exhibition. There are also flags that were carried into battle, guns, bayonettes, letters that were written-some never mailed, canteens used to carry water, and other daily used items.

There is an intriguing exhibit dedicated to both the Old West and Native Americans that has memorabilia from the frontier days and many of these artifacts are of the type that won't be found any where else. You can see authentic head-dresses, period photographs of both Native Americans as well as pioneers of the day. One of the most talked about artifacts on display is a Native American battle shirt with 32 scalps attached.

There is also pottery, autographs, and much more like the Tombstone, Arizona business license for "Ill Fame" carried by Nellie Pottsum (Ike Clanton's girlfriend) are all to be seen by our visitors.

There second floor of the house is like entering another world. It has been restored to recreate the day to day lives of the people who lived there. There are a good number of original furnishings from the period that give a truly authentic feel to the exhibit.

Before you leave, make a stop by the Gift Shop and you can pick up a little something to remember your visit to the Lotz House Museum.

The Hartzler-Towner Multicultural Museum is now known as the The Cultural Museum at Scarritt-Bennett Center. This museum was created to provide the opportunity to celebrate and appreciate the diverse ethnic and cultural heritages that make up Nashville.

Diversity is celebrated through a number of collections. There are over 10,000 artifacts from around the world. You can see artifacts range from textiles handmade in Asia and Africa to pottery made in South America and by Native Americans.

Something that usually draws onlookers in awe (especially little girls) is the impressive collection of 700 dolls representing countries from around the world. The dolls are a permanent display located in the International Room of the Administration Building. If you are or have a doll lover along with you during your visit to Nashville, make sure to stop by this exhibit. In order to see this special exhibit you'll need to make a special request and you can do so by calling Director of Cultural Education at (615) 340-7450.

Other exhibits include a focus on the countries of China, Mexico, India, and Africa and the contributions of their people. You can see early writings from China, folk art from Mexico. There are numerous statues from India along with writings and a book display. The African exhibit has a number of masks, drums and ceremonial items from different tribes. Intricate textiles from Africa are also highlighted.

The displays are well presented and if you're looking for a great way to spend an afternoon in Nashville, this is it.

The Museum is open 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Sunday through Saturday. Admission is always free.

If you love to visit art galleries when you visit your favorite cities, make the Cumberland Gallery a destination on your next visit to Nashville.

This is a newer gallery having just been established in 1980, but it had a large selection of fantastic and thought provoking exhibits. The gallery mostly concentrates on regional artists from the Tennessee area and the Southeast, but nationally known artists are also represented at the gallery from time to time.

The exhibits include not only the traditional artist offerings in the form of paintings, but also works on paper, photography and sculpture. The gallery changes the exhibits every 6-weeks. So you are assured of a fresh look at art even if you visit several times a year.

The gallery is closed each year from Dec 25 - Jan 2, 2006. Cumberland Gallery is open Sunday through Saturday from 10 AM until 5 PM. Admission for all visitors is Free.

Even thought exhibits change several times each year, the gallery does have a good collection of permanent works. There is the stark whiteness of "Tabletop" and the thought provoking "Living on a limb" sculpture. The absolute realness of Robert Durhams "You Can Keep Your Hat" will have you reaching out to take the hat that is floating in the water out of the painting.

One sculpture that gets a lot of comments is John Hagman's "Ajar" which is a stark little figure with a myriad of objects flying up and out and the head suspended on wires.

For a great afternoon getting your art infusion, take a stop by the Cumberland Gallery in Nashville and seek out the unusual!

Printer's Alley really used to be home to a large number of printing companies. The printers have long gone, however the Alley remains and if you're in search of a good time in the form of good drinks and good music, you're in the right place.

The Printer's Alley is located between Third and Fourth Avenues stretching from Union to Church Streets, the Alley started before the turn of the century as the location of many of Nashville's first Publishing and Printing Companies.

If Country Music had not have exploded in the City of Nashville, it might very well be known as the center of the Printing Universe. Clear up until the 1960's, Nashville was home to over 36 Printing Companies and many other numerous Businesses, whose roles were, to support and supply the massive printing and reproduction industry. The last printing company left this area in 1976.

In the late 1800's Printers Alley was a part of "The Men's District". Many cafes, saloons, gambling halls and speakeasies sprang up to cater to the men of Nashville's Print shops. The prominent judges, lawyers, politicians and other Nashville Elite were also known to frequent the Alley. At the turn of the Century, The Climax Club of Printers Alley was nationally known as Nashville's Premier Entertainment hotspot. Printers Alley was Nashville's dirty little secret. It didn't matter what you were looking for, you could find it there. Even during the time of prohibition, the drinks flowed freely in this area.

The only Clubs to survive the 70's and 80's were Skulls Rainbow Room, Boots Randolph's, The Black Poodle and The Brass Stables, which got its name from being the original stables which housed the mules that pulled the newspaper wagons at the turn of the century. Printer's Alley saw a major renovation in 1997 as Nashville recognized its historical importance, however storied its past may have been. The Western room has replaced the Voodoo Room, the Brass Rail has replaced the Brass Stables, and the Pink Poodle has replaced the Black Poodle. If you are looking for a historically great night out, leave the kids at home and check out Printer's Alley!

When you visit the Nashville War Memorial Auditorium, the first thing you will be struck by is the statue of a lone warrior that stands high above the plaza steps.

This impressive memorial to the men and women who lost their lives in the persuit of freedom was constructed between 1923 and 1925, and the names of 3,400 Tennesseans who lost their lives in WWI are inscribed on the wall of the courtyard. The memorial opened to the public in 1927 and has remained a testiment to freedom.

Near to the sculpture is a black marble memorial wall that mimics the much larger one in Washington DC that is emblazoned with the names of Vietnam veterans from the Volunteer State. This is a gathering spot for people to group peacefully at the plaza for all manners of public assemblage.

The inside of this auditorium holds up to 1,900-people for concerts, theater, and other forms of entertainment. This venue was once home to Charlie Daniels' Volunteer Jam, where several live albums have been recorded.

This auditorium was designed specifically to give concert goers a good seat no matter where they sit. The acoustics are designed to carry sound equally as good up high as low.

The lower level of the War Memorial Building houses an impressive military history musuem that is overseen by the Tennesee State Museum. With items from the earliest military days of this area to present day.

The musum is located at 301- Sixth Ave. N. and their phone number is 615-532-4826. There are guided tours available, check time and schedule for the most current information.

Best of all admission is free to the War Memorial Building.

Nashville Superspeedway is a 1.33-mile concrete tri-oval track that is considered one of the newer venues in NASCAR racing as it just opened in 2001 and each year plays host to the Indy Racing League, NASCAR Craftsman Trucks and two NASCAR Busch Series races.

If you think NASCAR is nothing but a big left turn, think again. The NASCAR circuit is pure excitement. This speedway is fully lighted and capable of expanding to more than 150,000 seats, Nashville Superspeedway is poised for a possible future NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Race that is currently held in Dover each year.

Check out Vendor/Expo Row where you can pick up NASCAR items and other soveniers of your visit to the Nashville Speedway. You can even pick up a DVD of the Superspeedway previous season available on DVD so you can share the excitement of the races with your friends.

Other cool items you can pick up at the gift shop include the Nashville Curl Cap, Camo Caps, and other gimme hats that will let you show where you've been. Custom Golf shirts are available emblazoned with the Nashville Speedway logos and other NASCAR licensed items are available for purchase in the gift shop.

It is okay to bring a cooler under 12"x8" into the grandstands and headsets, scanners, cameras and binoculars that are not in a bag are okay to bring into the stadium as well.Before your next visit to Nashville, check the schedule for the Speedway to make sure you will be able to attend at least one great NASCAR race.

You can check the current schedule for this venue by visiting Nashville Speedway online or calling (615) 547-7500, on your next trip to Nashville, we'll see you there!

If you want to see the roots of Nashville on your next visit to this fun town make a stop by Music Row.

Music Row was born in 1950s and became the center of the blossoming recording industry. The term to describe this area was soon coined as "Music City USA" and has stuck ever since.

At the time, Both country music and rock and roll music were considered interchangeable similar genres. The roots of this music are from Music Row. Elvis was signed by RCA Victor who in turn located an office on Music Row, Elvis' first recording sessions were there. Chet Atkins, already a legend in his own time, brought the sons of known country musicians Ike and Margaret Everly, and became the world renowned Everly Brothers.

Music savvy moves like these instilled Music Row as a place for the movers and the shakers of the then early efforts of both country and rock and roll. Because of Nashville's popularity,in the budding music industry, a number of New York and Hollywood-based music publishing companies set up offices in the Nashville.

When you see the sculpture of Alan leQuire's "Musica", a 20-foot creation that depicts nine naked, dancing spirits, you will be at the front door to Music Row. You can see over 40 different publishing companies from Sony to RCA to EMI.

Walk through the streets that were immortalized in song by legends like Patsy Cline, Elvis and Johnny Cash.

Normal operating hours from 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday. Closed most holidays.

Chaffin's is Nashville's oldest dinner theatre. The dinner is served up buffet-style with all the trappings of good Southern cuisine. You can have a great dinner and take in a Broadway-style plays as they have done for over 38 years.

The dinner theater holds nearly 300 people and normally advance tickets are required to be purchased as the shows tend to sell out rather quickly. Admission is very reasonable at $40 for adults, seniors are $38, children 12 and under $20.

The hours of operation are Tues. - Sat. 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Chaffin's is only closed
Dec. 24 and 25, Thanksgiving, Halloween, July 4, and 1st 2 weeks in January.

The rustic decor that resembles a country barn will automatically make you feel at home and the buffet which opens at 6 PM serves a huge smorgasbord. You can dine on all your favorites from carved beef and baked salmon to veggie casseroles and fresh salads. The desserts occupy tables of their own, set up where the main stage later appears, and run the gamut from fresh strawberry shortcake and pies to build-you-own ice cream sundaes.

After dinner, it's on with the show with no bad seat in this house, diners sit on tiered levels around the stage's perimeter. Your waitstaff are actually actors who not currently appearing in a show - please tip them generously to support their craft.

If you're looking for a great night out that has good food and good entertainment, make Chaffin's Barn Dinner Theater a definite must see on your next visit to Nashville.

hen you are in the Nashville, Tennessee area you should stop by and visit the Parthenon in Centennial Park. This is an actual replica of the original Parthenon that you would find in Athens, Greece. It was built way back in 1897 for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition and stands today as an art museum.

A trip to the Parthenon in Nashville is perfect for the whole family, because children and adults alike love to look at the fine structure. Many people especially like to go and see the 42-foot tall statue of Athena that sits at the Parthenon as well. It is quite amazing to see these two structures that are actual full-scale designs of the originals that you would find in Greece.

Be sure that you bring your camera along with plenty of film to take pictures of the stunning view of the building. However, pictures are not allowed to be taken inside of the art galleries. There are no scheduled tours offered of the Parthenon or the art galleries, but there are brochures available to help guide your way. Often times, you will be able to find a volunteer guide on hand as well to answer any questions that you may have.

The admission prices for the Parthenon are $4.00 for adults, $2.50 for seniors, $2.50 for children ages 4 through 17 and free for children under the age of 4. Hours that you may stop by for a visit are from 9:00 am until 4:30 pm Tuesday through Saturday. If you are planning on a visit during the summer months, there are extended hours on Sundays from 12:30 pm until 4:30 pm.

There is a little chunk of music history located in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee and it is called RCA Studio B. This is one of the most famous recording studios in United States history. When you are in the Nashville area, this is truly a must see stop for your itinerary.

Many huge artists have recorded here over the years, making RCA Studio B the place to go for the true music buff. Since the studio was built back in 1957, many big names such as Elvis Presley, the Everly Brother and Chet Atkins have all graced the doors of this recording studio.

Now a part of the Country Music Hall of Fame, RCA Studio B is available for visitors to stop by and enjoy a little bit of Nashville music history. This is the place where it all happened, and now you and your entire family or group can visit and get a feel for the rich history that lies within its walls.

Listen to recordings made by Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis and Patsy Cline, complete with studio out takes while you tour the area. There are also souvenirs available to get a memento of your visit to this unusual venue.

If you would like to take a tour of the famous and historic RCA Studio B, you can do so any day of the week. The daily tours are at 10:30 am, 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm. The cost of admission is only $11 for adults, $9 for ages 6 through 17 and free for children under the age of 6. If you wish, there is also a celebrity audio tour available for you to enjoy. For further information or general questions, you may call (615) 416-2001.

Anyone who is visiting the Nashville area simply must stop by the Grand Ole Opry Museum to get a glimpse of all that is country music history. This is a must for any true country music fan as well as the person who is interested in seeing some great music memorabilia. You will find many great exhibits and items on display that are sure to peak your interests.

While you are at the Grand Ole Opry Museum you will be delighted to see many exhibits honoring country music legends such as Marty Robbins, George Jones, Minnie Pearl, Patsy Cline and Tex Ritter. That is just a short list of the wonderful artists that you may learn about at the museum. You will also find several interesting displays from all of the recent stars in country music history such as Garth Brooks, Tanya Tucker and Faith Hill. Many of the items on display are actually interactive so that you can learn about the history while also being entertained with music and video.

There is also a Grand Ole Opry gift shop where you can get a little something to remember your visit or buy something for someone back home that didn't get to come on this visit. There are a myriad of small items from banjo brooches to hats and t-shirts and statues. You will find the perfect souvenir or gift!

Anyone who stops by the Grand Ole Opry House is encouraged to stop by the Museum as well for a special added treat. Admission to the Grand Ole Opry Museum is free for all patrons. Hours that you may stop by are Monday through Thursday from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm, Friday from 10:00 am until 8:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am until 10:00 pm and Sunday from 11:00 am until 4:00 pm. Seeing the sights and exhibits at this museum could be fun for your entire family

To sooth the shop-a-holic in all of us, there is an amazing place located in Nashville, Tennessee called Opry Mills. Here, you will be completely thrilled at the great shopping adventure that awaits you will some of the hottest retail outlets under the sun. The restaurants are to die for as well, and there is even entertainment available on the premises.

Any true shopper knows that with names such as Nike, Old Navy, the Gap and Saks Fifth Avenue, you are in for a whirlwind shopping adventure. This list is actually just the tippy top of the iceberg of great stores that are on hand. Opry Mills also has great stores such as Bath and Body Works, Charlotte Russe, Hot Topic, Tower Records, Urban Planet and Wilsons Leather Outlet. There is something to suit the tastes of absolutely everyone.

If you are looking for a bit of exciting entertainment, Opry Mills has it. You can sit and watch some of the latest movies while you visit in the Regal Cinemas complex. There are also a great number of special events that take place at Opry Mills throughout the entire year. Bring your kids along and have them join the Muggsy's Meadow Kids Club for all kinds of fun and excitement.

Feeling a little bit hungry? You can get something to eat at one of the many awesome restaurants or stands in the food court. Choose from Johnny Rockets, Aquarium, T.G.I. Friday's or the Rainforest Cafe. There is something for everyone at Opry Mills.

Make Opry Mills a destination on your next trip to Nashville, You'll be glad you did!

Anybody who visits the Nashville Zoo is totally taken by the amount of wonderful animal species that they find. There are so many different types of animals that are all really fun and interesting to learn about. You will find many mammals, birds, reptiles and more. Kids and adults alike enjoy visiting such a great place where they can learn all about the animals that they see.

At the Nashville Zoo there is even a petting area called Critter Encounters that is just right for all of the little visitors. There are always different and exciting shows featuring some of the animals that live at the zoo. See the Hyacinth Macaw and Meerkat and Bongo exhibits while you visit. Be sure to stop by the Safari Gift Shop during your visit as well because no trip to the zoo would be complete without a great souvenir or two!

You can stop by and visit the Nashville any day of the week with the exception of all of the major national holidays. From time to time, problematic weather conditions may also prompt a closing.

Hours of operation vary depending on the season as follows:

April 1st through October 31st hours are from 9:00 am until 6:00 pm, and from November 1st until March 31st the hours are from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm. Admission prices vary due to season as well with pricing ranging from $6 up to $11 for children to adults with kids under three getting in free.

You can check out the website for up to date pricing at www.nashvillezoo.org.

Next time you're in the Nashville area, take an afternoon off from the usual tourist traps for a leisurely time at Riverfront Park.

This park is located between Cumberland River and downtown Nashville. Riverfront Park houses historic Fort Nashborough and holds a number of outdoor concerts and festivals each year. If you happen to be visiting Nashville in the summer, try to come to Riverfront Park on a Thursday night for "Dancin' In The District", it's a block party for all.If you can make in May, the annual three-day music festival called "River Stages" is great fun. Even if there isn't a special event happening, the park itself is a great time to be had. You can stroll the beautifully maintained paths and enjoy a picnic on the riverbank of the Cumberland River while you watch the Riverboat and other marine traffic drift lazily by.

No matter what time of year you're visiting, the Red Grooms' Tennessee Fox Trot Carousel pays tribute to legendary Tennessee natives and gives the kids a fun ride on a historic carousel. If you happen to be making your tour of Nashville in the Winter, you're in for a real treat, take a turn on the RiverSkate. It's an open-air ice rink, runs each winter.

The smaller than the Mississippi River, the Cumberland River was very important in the founding and continuing prosperity of Nashville. There is a riverboat that runs up and down the Cumberland.

The Riverfront Park is located at 100 1st Ave. N, Downtown, Nashville, TN and is open from 6 AM to 11 PM Monday through Sunday. Normal admission is free, however there may be a charge for special events.

Do you love to shop? Really, really love to shop? Forget the malls and the tourist traps on your next visit to Nashville and come explore the shopping Mecca at Second Avenue.

There are unique shops, yummy restaurants and even nightclubs lining up and down the newly renovated Second Avenue Historic District located in Downtown Nashville. Take a stop in the world-reknowned Wildhorse Saloon, Club Milano and get your groove on and several authentic honkytonks where the Country and Western folk go to get inspired.

If you get hungry, you can dine at any number of restraurants such as the Hard Rock Cafe and Planet Hollywood.

Also, beyond the cool architecture, night clubs and restaurants, there is also a huge variety of charming shops and boutiques. You'll find speciality shops along with gourmet food.

Pick up a memento of your visit at one of the Nashville souvenir stores and take some time to walk around the area and see the revitalized architecture. The buildings in this area were abandoned and dilapidated and the entire area has been restored to be an all in one shopping excursion and more.

Come in the late afternoon, enjoy shopping at the boutiques. As sundown approaches go enjoy a great dinner at one of the restraurants in the area and then check out the nightclubs and honky tonks. Definitely make a special effort to stop by the Bohannon microbrewery and sample of their world famous brew. Enjoy your trip to Second Avenue Shopping District and checking out the light-hearted spirit of Nashville.

More than likely, everybody has heard about the Grand Ole Opry. If you have not, and you have never visited, now is the time for you to get there. The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee is one of the most famous places in the world where you can go and catch the absolute best in country western entertainment. The extensive list of talent that has graced the stage over the decades is just unbelievable.

The great city of Nashville alone is a wealth of some of the best entertainment you will ever find. Not only are there great nightspots, but you will also find great historical attractions, fine dining, interesting places to visit for daytrips and much, much more. A trip to Nashville with your entire family would be something great for everyone to remember for years to come. No matter what time of year you visit, especially if you are planning a stop at the Grand Ole Opry, you are in for a wonderful time!

If you are looking to visit the Grand Ole Opry during your Nashville visit, you will be pleasantly surprised at the way the seating is set up. Pretty much every seat in the house is a good one, and the music sounds great throughout. A fantastic time can be had by all when you buy tickets to see one of your favorite performers at the Opry. You are always welcome to bring your camera so you may capture all of the memories of the evening. Sit back and enjoy the sounds of the famous Grand Ole Opry!

Have you ever been to a wax museum? Well, if you have not, and you are going to be in the Nashville area, then now is the time. The Music Valley Wax Museum is one of the coolest attractions to visit when you are in the area. You will find that there are over 50 wax figures of some of the most popular country music stars of the past and the present. They are all dressed in detailed authentic costumes as well.

This is a really fun place to visit, especially if you are looking for a great attraction that is appropriate for the entire family. Kids and adults alike enjoy looking at the wax figures. It is quite amazing just how real they look! If you would like a tour, they are available to visitors with a duration of 30 minutes to a full hour.

The Music Valley Wax Museum is located at 2515 McGavock Pike in Nashville, Tennessee. Your cost for admission is only $3.50 for adults, $1.50 for children ages 6 through 12 and free for children ages 5 and under. Hours of operation are as follows: 9:00 am until 9:00 pm from Memorial Day until Labor Day and from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm for the rest of the year.

The Music Valley Wax Museum closes down on all of the major national holidays, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly. If you would like further information, you can give them a call at (615) 883-3612.

The museum tells the story of two men, Hank Williams Sr. And Jr. and their contributions to music.

Hank Williams Sr. was a legend in Country Music before he was even 30. Matter of fact, his star had burned out from excesses by the age of 29. Born in 1923, Hank Williams Sr. with spinal bifida Hank overcame some tall odds to become a major force in the music industry.

He learned his craft from various street performers and at the age of 16 began appearing on the radio with his band, the Drifting Cowboys. By the time he was in his early 20s he was one of the biggest draws in the region music-wise and his drinking and reliability had become also legendary. Hank passed away sometime after midnight on New Year's Day, 1953, sleeping in the back seat of his Cadillac en route to a show, Hank Williams had lived out one of his own songs "I'll Never Get Out Of This World Alive".

Hank Williams Jr. "Bocephus" as he was christened by his late father was born in 1949. He took the stage at the age of 8 and has been singing ever since. The year he put out his most popular album to date, 1975's album "Hank Williams Jr. and Friends", he suffered a near-fatal accident when he fell from a Montana mountainside and endured many surgeries to keep him alive.

He came back bigger than ever in 1979, and released his signature classic, "Family Tradition," which referenced his famous father and their shared love for the wild side of life.

The museum highlights both these men's careers and contributions to the music industry through photos, recordings and other personal artifacts and memoriabilia. The museum is located at : 1524 Demonbreun St., Nashville. Please call 615 242-8313 for hours of operation.

After you've experienced the culture, the museums, the historic places in Nashville, would you like to do something and just cut loose?

Take a stop by the Grand Old Golf and Games. This facility has a lot of fun activities to keep you entertained for hours. Play a game of miniature golf on one of three fun courses. The golf courses are fun for all ages and just challenging enough to make it fun but not frustrating for the younger set. If you're in the mood to hit the arcade games, there is a fully loaded family game room where you can try your luck.

Also, you can play ski-ball and other skill games and win tickets to cash in for prizes. For a little outdoor fun, take on the bumper boats, it's a great way to cool off and stay cool during a hot summer day.

If you're in the mood for some faster action, the go-kart course is for you. Race around the track in one of their go-karts that go up to 35-MPH. The track has a number of loop-arounds and turns and isn't hard to maneuver,even for beginning drivers. Best of all, you can ride with a friend in a double seater go-kart too!

Grand Old Golf is located at 2444 Music Valley Drive, Nashville, Tennessee and the hours of operation are :

Mon - Thu 10am to 11pm; Fri - Sat 10am to 12am;Sun 11am to 11pm.

Admission prices are as follows: $6.50 one course; $7.50 two courses; $8.50 three courses. Bumper boats $3.50 per boat. Children 10 and under 1/2 price.

A trip to the Nashville area is just not complete without a stop at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Located at 222 Fifth Avenue S. in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, this is the place to go to see and hear absolutely everything that there is to know about country music and its history. There is something fun and interesting for everyone in your family.

During your visit, you can stop by the museum library, which holds over 30 years of books and memorabilia about the country music industry. You can look through sheet music, songbooks, scrapbooks, photographs and more. There is even a great sound recording collection at the museum library as well with about 200,000 recordings of both folk and country music.

Make sure you stop by the museum shop while you are at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. It is loaded with all kinds of great souvenirs and country memorabilia that you can pick up before you leave. Also, if you are looking to make sure that you see everything there is to see during your stop, you can schedule your very own tour. A tour is the perfect way to see everything of importance.

The hours that you can stop by to check out the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum are from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm daily. There are closings on all of the major national holidays as well as Tuesdays during the months of January and February each year. Cost of admission is $16.95 for adults, $8.95 for children, free for children 5 and under and members as well

If you are looking for a great learning experience, you should visit Fort Nashborough located in Nashville, Tennessee. This is a wonderful, historic place located in Riverfront Park in the downtown Nashville area. This fort was built back in the 1700s when Nashville was founded by a man named James Robertson entered the area with his group of fellow pioneers.

You can now set aside time for your very own visit to the historical fort. Admission is always completely free for your convenience. If you are looking to take your time and look around, you may want to think about having a tour. There are self-guided tours available from the hours of 9:00 am until 4:00 pm every single day that Fort Nashborough is open.

You can take your very own self-guided tour through the fort and see the interesting old architectural methods that were used in forts back in the day. The fort itself is actually a log stockade that has about 5 interior cabins. Be prepared to spend around 20 minutes touring the fort and the surrounding area so that you are able to see everything that there is to see.

This is a good and interesting place to go if you are looking for a site that is worthy of being called a decent family attraction. Children just love to explore and look around and it is quite interesting as well to find out all about the history that surrounds the fort itself. A trip to Fort Nashborough is great for a unique learning experience.

When you are in the Nashville area, there is a wonderful place that you should go for a visit. It is called the Frist Center for the Visual Arts and it is loaded with some really great and interesting stuff. Since its opening back in 2001, the Frist Center has been wowing visitors with a wonderful arrangement of art from the local area as well as the entire world.

There are always new exhibits arriving at the Frist Center so you are sure to see something new and exciting every single time you visit. The galleries are spacious and just perfect for walking around and browsing through some of the enlightening works of art. Everybody who stops by for a visit to the Frist seems to enjoy themselves a great deal with all of the wonderful sights and sounds that they find.

The hours that you may stop by and visit the Frist Center for the Visual Arts are as follows: Monday through Wednesday from 10:00 am until 5:30 pm, Thursday from 10:00 am until 8:00 pm, Friday from 10:00 am until 9:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am until 5:30 pm and Sunday from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm. There are regular closings at the Frist on all of the major national holidays.

Admission is only $8.50 for adults, $6.50 for college students with proper identification, $7.50 for seniors and military personnel, and free for members and visitors age 18 and under. Plan your trip to the Frist Center for the Visual Arts now so you can view this wonderful piece of Nashville culture.

For any true art fanatic, a trip to the Carl Van Vechten Gallery in Nashville, Tennessee is an absolute must. This is a wonderful place that has been providing the local community with stunning and exquisite works of art for years. The building that the gallery sits in was actually originally built as a church way back in 1888. A trip to the Carl Van Vechten Gallery is perfect for yourself or your entire family or group. There is no end to the wonderful things that you may find on display.

One of the most popular exhibits on display at the gallery would have to be the famous Alfred Stieglitz Collection. There is just nothing like the great pieces that one can view from this collection of some of the best modern European and American artwork. Within this collection, you will see pieces from Hartley, Renoir, Picasso, Dove, Cezanne, O'Keefe and many other famous and talented artists.

Even if you are not totally into art, one will surely appreciate and enjoy all that is on display at the gallery. It is the perfect place to relax and browse through some interesting pieces. What a great way to spend your day!

The Carl Van Vechten Gallery is located in Nashville right on the corner of 18th Avenue North and Jackson Street. The hours that you may stop by to browse through the works are from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm Tuesday through Friday and 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm Saturday and Sunday. The only time the gallery is closed would be all major national holidays, Mondays, and each Sunday during the summer months.

There is a gorgeous place nestled in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee that you simply need to see to believe. The Belmont Mansion is a little slice of heaven here on earth with beautiful lush gardens, exquisite architecture and rich history. Many visitors are stunned by the wonderful statues and cast iron garden ornaments that are on display in the gardens.

The Belmont Mansion is such a lovely place, many locals like to rent out their facilities for gatherings, meetings, parties and weddings. You can even have gourmet meals presented in the Grand Salon for a truly unique experience not to be forgotten. One glance at the inside of this mansion and you will find yourself feeling as though you were royalty.

If you would like a tour of the Belmont Mansion while you are visiting Nashville, you are welcome to do so. There is always some type of interesting and informative tour going on within the mansion and on the grounds. Be sure and set aside some time so that you may shop around and browse through the gift shop during your visit.

The stunning Belmont Mansion is located on the Belmont University Campus at 1900 Belmont Boulevard. Hours that you may stop by for a tour are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm and Sunday from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm. The mansion is closed on all of the major national holidays. Admission is only $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and $3 for children ages 6 through 12 with children under the age of 6 getting in for free.

If you are looking for a gorgeous place to visit in Nashville, you should schedule a trip to the Belle Meade Plantation. This is a great place to see that was built up by the Harding family to become a plantation of 5,400 acres of splendor along with a thoroughbred horse farm. In about 1953, the Belle Meade Mansion and some of its surrounding buildings were handed over to the Association for the Preservation of Tennessee Antiquities.

For you convenience, you will find brochures regarding the Plantation and its buildings in several languages including French, Japanese, German and Spanish. The grounds and the first floor of the mansion are fully handicapped accessible. If you are looking for a bite to eat during your visit, you are welcome to stop by Martha's, a wonderful restaurant that is located on the Plantation.

The Belle Meade Plantation is located at 5025 Harding Road in Nashville. You can set up daily tours Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM until 5:00 PM. There are closings on all of the major national holidays. Admission prices are $11 for adults, $10 for seniors, $5 for children ages 6 through 12, and free for children under the age of 6.

Enjoy your visit to the wonderful Belle Meade Plantation, and be sure that you allow yourself time to see all of the buildings and exhibits on display. Stop by and buy a few uniquely exquisite items in the gift shop before you leave as well. A trip to the Belle Meade Plantation in Nashville is a wonderful time to be had by all.

There is a world of wonders waiting for you at the Adventure Science Center in Nashville, Tennessee. This place is perfect for children and adults to learn all about everything that is fun and exciting with every aspect of science. There are all kinds of great exhibits and activities that are geared toward making learning a fun process for everyone.

During your visit, you can stop by and check out all that is happening at BodyQuest. This is a super cool exhibit that teaches you all about how your body works. Also in this exhibit are several games and fun environments where you can learn all about the functions of the bran, heart, stomach, muscles, lungs and more.

Another popular place to visit at the Adventure Science Center is the Sudekum Planetarium. This is a wonderful place to go to learn all about the stars, planets and the universe. Several times during the year, you may also even be able to see a great laser show. There is truly something great for everybody to do at this place!

The hours that you can stop by to check out the Adventure Science Center are from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm Monday through Saturday and 12:30 pm until 5:30 pm on Sundays. The center is closed on all of the major national holidays. Cost of admission is only $9 for adults, $7 for kids ages 3 through 12, $7 for seniors over the age of 60, and children ages 2 and under get in for free.

When you are in Nashville, Tennessee and you are looking for a great place to go to enjoy the arts, you should try the Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art located at 1200 Forest Park Drive. This is a wonderful place that is just loaded with really gorgeous botanical gardens and a slew of great fine art. The 55 acre complex is just the right thing to add nice memories to your visit of the Nashville area.

The botanical garden at Cheekwood is full of beautiful plants and perfect landscaping. You will also find yourself being soothed by the pools and fountains throughout the gardens as well. There are many lovely and colorful flowers on display and you can even take a walk through the Japanese garden. You can look through the mansion at Cheekwood to experience the Museum of Art. There is about 30,000 square feet of some of the best collections of paintings and sculptures that you have ever seen.

If you get a bit hungry during your visit to Cheekwood, you can stop by the Pineapple Room Restaurant for a nice meal. You can get your fill of soups, salads, quiche, salmon, burgers and more. Once you are done eating, you can also stop by the gift shop to pick up some unique gifts or souvenirs of your visit.

Admission prices for Cheekwood are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $5 for youth ages 3 through 13 as well as college students with proper identification, and children under three get in for free. Hours that you may stop by for a look are Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 am until 4:30 pm and Sunday from 11:00 am until 4:30 pm. Cheekwood is closed on Mondays as well as all of the major national holidays.

If you like to visit venues off the beaten path in Austin. The Austin Ghosts and Legends of the Capitol District Walking Tour is just the ticket for you.

This is a 90-minute walking tour that covers many of the legendary haunted sites around Austin and all this fun only costs you $19.95. These tours are busy, especially during the month of October, if you're going to be visiting the Austin area during the month of October and you want to take a ghost tour, get your tickets in advance. Tickets for tours can be purchased by calling The Hideout Box office at 512-853-9826

The tours include stories of Austin residents who's spirits remain after their sometimes untimely deaths. Except for the Driskill building, the rest of the tour is held outside, so dress for the cooler Austin nights and wear comfortable shoes.

Contrary to what you may have heard about some ghost tours, no one is going to jump out from behind a wall and yell, "Boo!". The Ghost Tours are also ADA and wheelchair friendly. Among the stories you will hear will be about the first serial killer in America, who appeared 4-years before Jack the Ripper. This serial killer was called the Servant Girl Annihilator. From December 30, 1884 and ending on December 25, 1885, this killer killed eight servant girls so savagely that citizens were afraid to leave their homes. The spirits of these poor girls are said to still haunt the area.

Other areas on your walking tour will include historic 6th Street and a haunted history of the taverns and bars.

This is something unusual to do on your next visit to Austin, have a spooking good time!

You've had a chance to see how people who were the early settlers of the Austin area lived a very hard life in the pioneer times recreated at Pioneer Farms and you probably have seen the Neill house where Union Prisoners were treated in a make-shift hospital - for a peek at Victorian-era high society, take a stroll through the Bremond Block Historic District in Austin and see how the other half *really* lived.

The Bremond block was a enclave of posh homes built on the edge of Austin's commercial district just before the turn of the century. The collection of homes all belonged to the relatives of the John Bremond, Sr. Family, who was a wealthy merchant who owned the Dry Goods Store and the State National Bank, which today is known as Chase Bank. The Bremonds also created the first coffee roasting company in the State of Texas. Bremond resided in this area along with his well-to-do neighbors, the Robinsons and Hirschfields.

The homes were designed by Abner Cook, who also built the Neill House and these homes carry his unique design and attention to detail along with his signature columns and wheat sheaths he normally incorporated in his architectural designs.

There are guided walking tours of the Historic Bremond Block take place at 11 AM Saturdays and Sundays. If you prefer to take a self-guided tours, you may use an informative brochure available at the City Tourism Office for free and walk these neighborhoods at your leisure.

You will also be within walking distance of historic Hyde Park which is one of Austin's oldest neighborhoods and the historic Texas State Cemetery, the resting place of many Texas heroes.

This is the longest running music television show. Artists from Willie Nelson to Stevie Ray Vaughn to Sheryl Crow have graced the stage at Austin City Limits, giving an intimate one-on-one performance that you won't see anywhere else.

You can see a live show taped of Austin City Limits, but you have to do a little planning to get in. You just need to call the television station (KLRU) hot line at (512) 475-9077.

You will hear a recorded message that will tell you the upcoming schedule of artists, taping dates, and time. You will also be given a radio station to tune in to for the ticket distribution announcement. About a day or so before the taping of the Austin City Limits episode, the radio station will make the announcement stating the location of the ticket giveaway. When you hear the announcement, go immediately to the location of the distribution to pick up a pair. Tickets go quickly - literally within minutes of the announcement. Tickets can not be held and are distributed in pairs only, on a first come, first served basis.

This is a great way to get to see your favorite artists on an up close and personal basis. The sessions usually last for a few hours so be prepared to spend at least an afternoon at the studio which is located at the KLRU studios on the University of Texas main campus. The taping is mainly done in the Spring and early Summer months, however the Austin City Limits will accommodate an artist's touring schedule and if they happen to coming through Austin in the Fall or Winter months, a special taping can be arranged.

No cameras, recording or other video equipment is allowed in the studios and cell phones and pagers must be turned off. The tickets are free and if you can get a pair, you will have an unusual and fantastic time in Austin at the Austin City Limits, seeing your favorite artists perform.

Zilker is a name that is known throughout Austin as synonymos with nature and beauty. The Botonical Gardens are no exception. On this 31-acres of land there are a multitude of plants that thrive in arid southwestern conditions that is Austin.

This unique garden is a result of the cooperation between the City of Austin's Parks and Recreation Department and the Austin Area Garden Council and features a number of different gardens for you to view.

One of the newest is the Hartman Prehistoric Garden, which was created in and around the area where dinosaur tracks were found in 1992. The Green Garden, with areas planted by different local designers with native and well-adapted plants that thrive in Austin's challenging soils and climate is another new addition to the Zilker Botanical Garden.

The ADA Trail of Passages winds around and through beds of plants that are native and introduced to this area. Next, you will come to the Rose Garden where hundreds of species of roses are represented. The aroma in the spring is outstanding.
The Taniguchi Oriental Garden is a dazzling recreation of a formal Japanese garden and is one of the stars of the Gardens.

There is a gift shop on site that has some unique and fun soveniers to purchase for the folks back home or just to have a memento of your visit to the Zilker Botanical Gardens, all purchases go towards supporting the upkeep of the Gardens.

Photography is allowed in the garden so be sure to bring your camera, the sheer beauty of the entire venue makes for an impressive backdrop for your trip photos. Just be sure to follow the guidelines. Do not step on any of the flowerbeds and no one may leave the paths and do not climb the trees.

The grounds are open every day from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. There may be an admission and parking fees apply for certain events. Call 512-477-8672 before you visit to insure whether or not there will be a fee that day. Come see Zilker Botanical Gardens and spend an afternoon basking in the beauty and tranquility this park offers.

If you want to visit someplace fun on your next visit to Austin that will thrill both young and old, make the Austin Zoo a stop on your next excursion to this fun city.

The Austin Zoo is not just a zoo, they also assist needy animals through rescue if they find themselves in a bad situation such as stuck in a pipe or a case of an exotic tiger being illegally owned by an irresponsible and abusive owner, and also to educate the community on how to avoid confrontations with wildlife and what to do if you find yourself in a situation where you have a wild animal in your home.

At Austin Zoo, no matter if you're young or old you can have a great time looking at the animals and enjoying the natural habitats they reside in. Great care has gone into creating a natural environment so each species may live as naturally as possible.

There is also a great park area available if you want to take some time out from viewing the residents of the Austin Zoo, there is a great picnic area, which is a fantastic area to have a children's party, family gathering, or just a cozy, romantic lunch for two.

If you'd like to see the entire zoo from a different angle, there are train rides that encompass the entire whole of the zoo and you can get a great view of the perimeter. The zoo has a lot of ground to cover so make sure you wear comfy clothing and definitely wear shoes that are comfortable to walk in.

The Austin Zoo is a fun way to spend an afternoon in Austin visiting the animals and getting a close up look at nature.

Love to shop? Check out the South Congress Avenue in Austin and you can shop til you drop. Go on the first Thursday of each month and all the merchants keep their doors open until 10 PM at night.

There are a virtual cornucopia of shops that have everything from boots, hats and clothing at Allen's to fun furniture creations at the Antigua Amazing New Furniture, Lighting and check out the cool jewelry designs at European Jewelry.

Avenue Gallery Custom is a fun stop and you can pick up some soveniers for anyone that didn't get to come on your tour of Austin. Another fun boutique for unusual shopping is at creatures boutique where you can indulge in fine shoes, accessories, apparel and gifts for men, women and even baby.

If you need some food and live music, make a stop at D and L's Texas Music Cafe and indulge your taste buds in some authentic Texas cuisine. Guero's Taco Bar is another place to take in some great tastes of Texas.

Looking for something exotic for yourself or your home you can find it at Goodie 2-shoes, where they not only have shoes, they have all makes and manner of clothing and middle eastern home decor.

You can get a tattoo, a great cup of coffee and listen to some live music all on one block! Try to make South Congress a stop on your next visit to Austin and schedule it for the first Thursday of the month if possible - you'll be glad you did!

The George Washington Carver Museum was built in 1926 as a small wood-framed structure that soon had more visitors than it could accommodate.

Originally a library for African-Americans during segregation, it was renamed the George Washington Carver branch of the state library system in 1947 to honor the inventor and scientist who contributed so much through his research and work.

In 1979, a larger facility was built and the original library has become a museum and community center dedicated to the promotion of African-American history and recognition of their contributions to modern society. This facility also has the distinction of being the first African-American museum in the State of Texas.

The citizens of Austin voted and passed a bond in 1998 to further fund and expand the Carver Museum and Cultural Center and the Carver Branch Library. Nowadays, the museum is housed in a 36,000 square-foot facility that includes four galleries, a conference room, classroom, darkroom, dance studio, 134-seat theater, and archival space.

The galleries feature a core exhibit on Juneteenth, a permanent exhibit on Austin African-American families, an Artists Gallery, and a children's exhibit on African-American scientists and inventors.

If your time in Austin is short, make a special effort to see the Juneteenth Gallery which is a celebration of freedom. The Carver's core exhibit is dedicated to the history and evolution of Juneteenth. This Texas-born jubilee was created when slaves found out they were free in June, even though the Emancipation Proclamation had been signed in April. Juneteenth is still celebrated in Texas and this museum catalogues the history and events surrounding this tradition.

Definitely make time on your next trip to Austin to check out the downtown Museum of Art. It's a little smaller and cozier than the larger facility across town, but the it is the younger sister of the other Museum and it has some fantastic contemporary art by local and international artists.

Hours of operation at the Museum of Art are :
Hours Tues-Wed and Fri-Sat 10am-6pm; Thurs 10am-8pm; Sun noon-5pm.
Phone 512/495-9224
Web site www.amoa.org
Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors 55 and over and students, $1 for everyone Tues, free for children under 12.

This museum has been in the planning stages for over 20-years. Some major shows have taken place here such as Annie Liebovitz's music-related photographs in 2005 -- are complemented by exhibits of lesser-known local artists of consistently high quality.

There are some smaller permanent exhibitions, including the art of Dr. Suess that will lighten the hearts of both young and old when you get to see it up close and personal. There are a number of regional and local up and coming artists that regularly show in this venue. Take a look around, you might be viewing the next Picasso or Rembrandt!

The Museum has a small gift shop available where you can pick up some soveniers to remember your excursion to the Austin Museum of Art. The Austin Museum of Art, Downtown is a great way to spend an afternoon viewing art and learning about local artists that you just might be viewing on a national level in the future!

Are you looking to pamper yourself on your next visit to Austin? Take a stop by Barton Creek Spa for an afternoon of pampering and beauty.

Barton Creek Resort and Spa has a little bit of everything to make sure you have a lovely day of relaxation. You can take in a game of golf on their championship 18 hole course or you can have a massage and a pedicure.

Get your hair done in their full service salon which also has facials, body treatments, waxes and more. Get a full treatment of a facial, mask, peel treatment and pore cleansing and then take in a relaxing sauna. Follow it up with a relaxing full body massage and you'll be able to take on anything. Take a walk around the immaculately manicured grounds and enjoy the view. If you arrive in the early morning or early evening, you're bound to see some of the resident white tailed deer that sneak on the grounds in small herds to come nibble on the abundant rose bushes that are growing everywhere on the grounds of Barton Creek.

If you need to check up on your email or your stocks, they have wireless internet available throughout the facility and at various locations around Barton Creek there are plug ins for high speed access.

There is also a fitness center for the dedicated fitness guru. Barton Creek has something for everyone to enjoy. Go make it a great time on your next visit to Austin.

Looking for someplace to take the kids that isn't a total tourist trap on your next visit to Austin? Check out the Austin Nature and Science Center.

The exhibits are well done and touching *is* encouraged on these exhibits. This is a place definitely made with kids in mind.

The animal exhibits feature more than 90 native Texas animals that can't be returned to the wild. As you go through the exhibit you and your kids will hear the calls of owls, hawks and ravens, you can also see the tiniest citizens of Texas in the Small Wonders Exhibit.

Dino Pit Exhibit is a popular one with the kids. Your kids will be given the chance to dig in an honest-to-goodness dino pit. They can also see fossils that have been found and learn about the dinosaurs they came from as well as follow dinosaur tracks.

Discovery Lab Exhibit is another hands on experience in experimenting that your kids will love. They can see seven mini-science labs including mammalogy, botany, ornithology, herpetology and geology. Your kids will also be able to crawl through a Hill Country cave in the Nature of Austin exhibit - which an interactive exhibit that features four types of natural areas found in the Austin area.

Eco-Detective Trail will let your kids test their knowledge. They can grab a detective pack and wander down the Eco-Detective Trail and see how many indicators of wildlife they can discover around the pond. There are a myriad of signs and tracks for your children to discover.

This is a very fun outing for both adults and children and if you're not careful, you just might learn something!