In addition to its attraction to tourists, Puerto la Cruz is a major center of commerce for Eastern Venezuela. It is the hub of the thriving oil industry and the port where oil from the interior is refined and from which it is exported. As a result of this commercial activity, a thriving service sector has emerged with four and five star hotel and resort accommodations, restaurants and shops.

Puerto la Cruz is located in the northeastern region of Venezuela known as El Oriente.

It is an area rich in historic sites and a primary site for ecotourism. Fed by many rivers, and receiving steady, moisture- carrying trade winds, this is one of the few areas along Venezuela’s coast that is lush and green all year long. The region is home to an enormous variety of animals and plants, and is one of the most biodiverse in the world.

The northeast is a place of outdoor activity. This is the region for diving, sailing, walking, and exploring. Puerto la Cruz is Venezuela’s major water sports center and is lined with marinas and yacht clubs, sailing and diving schools, Near Puerto la Cruz is the Mochima National Park which contains beaches for swimming and contains coral reefs for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Venezuela has a variety of traditional dishes which are found in nearly all local restaurants. Most are served with fried maize or wheat flour -based pancakes or breads. The most popular dishes are fried and grilled fish and meats usually served with rice. The wide variety of fish includes trout, red snapper, dorado, parrot fish, catfish and the baby shark (cazon). Oysters, clams and other shellfish are also widely enjoyed.

Coffee is domestically produced in Venezuela and is the usual hot beverage. It is always offered to visitors as a welcome drink.

An interesting orientation to the city is to take a half-day walking and bus tour beginning with the mile long main street called Paseo Colón. This street passes along the beach where at outdoor stalls jewelry, leather goods and craft items are displayed. Turning south, walk along Calle Sucre to the lovely square known as Plaza Bolívar. Take the Avenida Intercommunal bus and get off at the Avenida Principal de Lecherías. There you will see five 20 story residential towers. Adjoining them is El Morro, a large, modern residential/tourist complex on the waterfront with shops and restaurants. The area is criss crossed by a group of canals, on the banks of which residences and vacation cottages are being built, most with direct access to the waterfront with their own piers and slipways.

From Puerto la Cruz it is a short boat ride to the incomparable beaches where swimming, diving, shelling, and deep sea fishing are superb. From Mochima National Park and the beaches, travelers can take a tour along the “Route of the Sun” to South America’s oldest city, Cumaná. This is one of the most scenic roads in Venezuela. The steep, winding highway is cut into the sides and base of steep mountains that seem to plunge into the sea. The rugged coast is pounded by waves, and the beaches are ringed by palm trees. The full length of the route is dotted with sweeps of white sand and breathtaking views of mountains and valleys.

Near Cumaná is the much visited and fascinating Cueva del Guácharo, an enormous cave named for the fruit eating, nocturnal birds that inhabit it. Swimming areas with hot springs and a colonial fort are other featured attractions. The ferry can be taken from Cumaná for a visit to the sun-kissed Island of Margarita. On the island is the lively and sophisticated city of Porlamar, which has grown from a fishing village to its present population of 150,000 residents. A ferry ride will return visitors to Puerta la Cruz.

For active water sports, a vibrant nightlife, unforgettable sunrises and sunsets, ample opportunities for island exploration, bird watching, or pure relaxation, there is no vacation destination offering more variety or more natural beauty than Puerto la Cruz.

B- City Information:
Full country name: República Bolivariana de Venezuela

Population of Puerto la Cruz: 220,000

Language:
Spanish is the official language, but Amerindian languages still survive, predominantly belonging to the Arawak, Cariban and Chibcha ethnolinguistic categories. Spanish is the main language of Venezuela. Venezuelans call their language castellano.

Average Temperatures (In Fahrenheit):
High Low
January – March 79 56
April – June 81 60
July – September 80 61
October – December 79 58

Climate:
Venezuela is located entirely in the tropics. The temperature varies very little during the year and most parts of the country maintain an average of over 77°F. Its capital, Caracas, has an average annual temperature of 72°F and varies by only 8°F through the year. Like all tropical countries, Venezuela only has two seasons, the dry season, known as verano, and the rainy season, known as invierno, which are marked by the difference in rainfall rather than temperature. Generally, the dry season is from December to April/May, and the rainy season lasts for the rest of the year. Rainfall, however, can occur during the dry season, and the rainy season often has dry months.

Visas:
US citizens do not require a visa if they fly directly to Venezuela. Otherwise a visa is required.

Health Concerns: Visitors should not drink or brush their teeth with tap water in Venezuela. Use bottled water. Do not use ice cubes.

Time:
GMT/UTC minus 4 hours (minus 5 hours in summer). When it is noon in New York City , it is also noon in Puerto la Cruz.

Electricity:
110V, 60 Hz

Weights & measures:
Metric

Useful measurements
Equivalent Weights And Measures
1 cm 0.39 inches
1 meter 3.28 feet / 1.09 yards
1 km 0.62 miles
1 liter 0.26 gallons
1 inch 2.54 cm
1 foot 0.39 meters
1 yard 0.91 meters
1 mile 1.60 km
1 gallon 3.78 liters

Public Holidays
1st January – New Year’s Day
Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday – Carnival
Monday, Thursday and Good Friday – Easter
19th April – Declaration of Independence
1st May – Labor Day
24th June – Battle of Carabobo
5th July – Independence Day
24th July – Bolívar’s Birthday
12th October – Discovery of America
25th December – Christmas Day

Currency:
The Venezuelan currency is the Bolívar (Bs), sometimes called the ‘Bolo’. It can be exported and imported in unlimited quantities. You can buy Bolívares before coming to Venezuela, but it can take time for them to be ordered and you will get a better exchange rate in Venezuela. The US dollar is the most commonly accepted foreign currency in Venezuela, so it is recommended to carry cash and traveler’s checks in US dollar.

Banks:
Most major banks are within a few blocks south of Plaza Colón. Credit cards are widely accepted, but a surcharge of up to 10% is often applied. Most commonly accepted are MasterCard/Eurocard, American Express and Visa. You can also use a credit card to withdraw money from automatic cash machines, which usually dispense up to 100,000 Bs per day. If you require more, you will have to make a transaction over the counter. Venezuelan banks can get very crowded so allow at least 2 hours for this.

Telephone
The international code for Venezuela is 58. For international calls from Venezuela, dial 00+country code.

City Code:
Puerto La Cruz 0281
CANTV is Venezuela´s national telephone company and it has a modern, efficient telephone network. Making international phone calls is not a problem, but is very expensive.
There are many public telephones in Venezuela, even in the more remote places, all of which accept CANTV cards only (tarjeta CANTV). Credit cards are not accepted. Telephone cards are available for 2000 and 5000Bs and can be purchased from CANTV offices and most supermarkets and souvenir shops. CANTV has an information system that can be accessed by the number 103. Some of the operators speak English.
The Internet
There are internet cafés or agencies that offer internet services. However, prices are still quite high.
Café with internet access: North American Connection (Puerto La Cruz)
Transportation
Air José Antonio Anzoátegui airport is between Barcelona, the capital (though a much smaller city), and Puerto la Cruz. Flights arrive and depart for Caracas to Barcelona several times a day. There are buses to all tourist attractions outside of town, as well as tours. Travel to or from the airport takes about 20 minutes.
Bus Buses travel from Caracas to Puerto la Cruz via Barcelona and return. The travel time is 5 hours. Puerto La Cruz is also served by city buses.
Tours There are many organized tours from Puerto La Cruz to places such as Parque Nacional Mochima, (Mochima National Park), and to various sporting activities such as snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving, water sports, etc.

Boat Puerto La Cruz is the major departure point for Isla de Margarita. Ferries are operated to the island four times a day. The trip takes 4 1/2 hours. The boat, Margarita Express cuts the travel time to 2 hours. The scenery is spectacular.

Cuisine:
Some traditional Venezuelan dishes:

Arepa: A plain fried corn pancake. They are filled with almost anything, including eggs and tomato for breakfast, beef, chicken, ham, sausage, shrimp, cheese, salad and even baby shark.

Empanada: Deep-fried cornmeal turnover filled with chicken, ham, cheese, fish or meat.

Cachito: Hot croissant filled with chopped ham and or cheese.

Cachapa: Thick, slightly sweet pancake made with maize and served with mozzarella-type cheese (queso guayanesa).

Hallaca: Traditional Christmas dish made from chopped beef, pork and chicken with green peppers, onion, garlic, tomatoes, raisins, olives and various herbs and spices all mixed into maize dough. It is then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.

Pabellón Criollo: Venezuela’s national dish, consisting of shredded beef, black beans (caraotas negras) and cheese, served with fried plantain (cooking banana) and rice.

There is an abundance of fruits in Venezuela. Mango, papaya (lechosa), avocado (aguacate) oranges (naranja), banana (cambur) coconut (coco), passionfruit (parchita), melon (melón), pineapple (piña), guava (guayaba) and soursap (guanábana) are just a few.

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Barcelona:

This is the capital of the state of Anzoátegui in which Puerto la Cruz is located. It is the site of the airport for the two towns. The following are the principal attractions in Barcelona:

Casa Fuerte
located within the town of Barcelona, the ruins of the Convent of San Francisco was outfitted with cannons and used by republican troops during the War of Independence in 1718. It has been preserved as a memorial.

Museo de Anzoátegui
Open daily 8-noon and 3-6. (December: 8-4) Free admission.
the oldest existing house in the city (1671). Handsomely restored; now used as a
museum.

El Morro tourist project
Between Puerto la Cruz and Barcelona, a turn off leads to the enormous El Morro complex and its beaches. The centerpiece is the Centro Comercial Plaza Mayor, designed with colorful architecture to resemble the Carribean resort city of Willemsted, Curaçao.

The entire Avenue Principal of Lecherías is lined with small shopping centers and many restaurants. The complex contains numerous single family homes, condos and hotels constructed on a series of canals which provide each living unit with docking facilities and boat access to the sea. A five star resort and golf course is part of the community.

Puerto la Cruz:

Paseo Colón
A new, modern waterfront boulevard filled with hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, and shops on one side and a beach bordered by a wide walkway on the other. Seafood restaurants, cafés, and local crafts people line the walkways. the beach is beautiful and yields many interesting shells, but it is not safe for swimming. A multitude of swimming beaches are nearby.

Parque Nacional Mochima
Reached by boat, the beaches are superb. Shuttle boats carry visitors to swimming, diving, and fishing locations all day. The park stretches from Puerto la Cruz to Cumaná. It contains many islands as well as a strip of hilly coast noted for its deep bays and white sand beaches. Some of the islands are surrounded by coral reefs and offer good snorkeling. The waters are calm and warm and filled with marine life.

Cumaná (South America’s oldest city, population 270,000)

Museo del Mar
Located opposite the University de Oriente campus
Open daily from 8:30-11:00 and 2:30-5:30.
Small entry fee
Displays range from boats used by indigenous settlers to old time diving equipment, shells, fossils, and a small aquarium.

Castillo de San Antonio de la Eminencia
overlooks the city
open daily 9-noon and 3-5.
Admission free
Site of the first area fort (1660). Subsequent replacements were destroyed by earthquakes. The present fort was restored after a 1929 earthquake.

Castillo de Santa Maria de la Cabeza
Enter through Iglesia de Santa Inés
Like the Castillo de San Antonio this fortress has been destroyed and rebuilt 5 times between 1637 and 1929.

Museo Gran Marisical de Ayacucho
Tues.-Fri. 8-noon and 2-4; Sat. 8-noon.
Admission free.
Historical exhibits and artifacts.

Market
Near the fishing port on Avenida Los Manglares
5-noon
Fresh produce; handicrafts; tasty food.

Marine Terminal
Near the market.
Catch the ferry to Punta Piedras for a visit to Margarita Island and from there back to Puerto la Cruz.

Excursion from Puerto la Cruz to Margarita Island and Caripe

A representative three day tour of the area originating from and returning to Margarita Island:

(Take the ferry or boat to Margarita Island from Puerto la Cruz)

Margarita – Orinoco Delta
An early morning flight goes to Maturin, capital of the Monagas state. From there, a boat takes visitors through dense tropical forest all the way to a camp in the middle of the Orinoco Delta. After lunch there is a walk across the swampy ground of the delta forest to enjoy and learn more about the tropical vegetation. Piraña fishing on the Manamo river near the camp follows .At the end of the day there is always a one-of-a-kind sunset to watch .

2nd Day: Orinoco Delta – Caripe
In the morning after breakfast , visitors enjoy a a boat ride to San Jose de Buja. and from there a drive to Caripe and the Hacienda Campo Claro, one of the oldest coffee farms in Caripe. Following the tour of the coffee farm, there is a visit to Guacharo’s cave, one of the largest caves in south America, once examined by Alexander Von Humboldt a German scientist who spent 16 months exploring Venezuela. In the first section of the cave are huge stalactites and stalagmites, some growing together as though building images of enormous sandcastles.

Outside, there is a shrieking noise of the hundreds of unseen oil birds (guacharos). At the Hall of Silence in the center of the cave everything changes. The cave suddenly is dark, quiet, and humid, and it is necessary to light the way with the kerosene lamp carried by the guide.

Emerging from the cave, there is the amazing sight of La Paila a charming waterfall in the middle of the mountain! In the evening the nocturnal guacharos leave the cave with loud shrieks as they go on their nightly flight.

3rd Day: Caripe – Buffalo Farm – Margarita Island
After breakfast, tour participants ride to “Hacienda Agua Sana” (thermal waters) in the Sucre state, where they are invited to bathe and swim in the hot springs. After lunch there is a visit to hacienda “Rio de Agua”, a real buffalo farm. At the farm, visitors watch cheese being made and learn a little about eco-farming.

(Take the ferry or boat back to Puerto la Cruz.)

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Barcelona:

This is the capital of the state of Anzoátegui in which Puerto la Cruz is located. It is the site of the airport for the two towns. The following are the principal attractions in Barcelona:

Casa Fuerte
located within the town of Barcelona, the ruins of the Convent of San Francisco was outfitted with cannons and used by republican troops during the War of Independence in 1718. It has been preserved as a memorial.

Museo de Anzoátegui
Open daily 8-noon and 3-6. (December: 8-4) Free admission.
the oldest existing house in the city (1671). Handsomely restored; now used as a
museum.

El Morro tourist project
Between Puerto la Cruz and Barcelona, a turn off leads to the enormous El Morro complex and its beaches. The centerpiece is the Centro Comercial Plaza Mayor, designed with colorful architecture to resemble the Carribean resort city of Willemsted, Curaçao.

The entire Avenue Principal of Lecherías is lined with small shopping centers and many restaurants. The complex contains numerous single family homes, condos and hotels constructed on a series of canals which provide each living unit with docking facilities and boat access to the sea. A five star resort and golf course is part of the community.

Puerto la Cruz:

Paseo Colón
A new, modern waterfront boulevard filled with hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, and shops on one side and a beach bordered by a wide walkway on the other. Seafood restaurants, cafés, and local crafts people line the walkways. the beach is beautiful and yields many interesting shells, but it is not safe for swimming. A multitude of swimming beaches are nearby.

Parque Nacional Mochima
Reached by boat, the beaches are superb. Shuttle boats carry visitors to swimming, diving, and fishing locations all day. The park stretches from Puerto la Cruz to Cumaná. It contains many islands as well as a strip of hilly coast noted for its deep bays and white sand beaches. Some of the islands are surrounded by coral reefs and offer good snorkeling. The waters are calm and warm and filled with marine life.

Cumaná (South America’s oldest city, population 270,000)

Museo del Mar
Located opposite the University de Oriente campus
Open daily from 8:30-11:00 and 2:30-5:30.
Small entry fee
Displays range from boats used by indigenous settlers to old time diving equipment, shells, fossils, and a small aquarium.

Castillo de San Antonio de la Eminencia
overlooks the city
open daily 9-noon and 3-5.
Admission free
Site of the first area fort (1660). Subsequent replacements were destroyed by earthquakes. The present fort was restored after a 1929 earthquake.

Castillo de Santa Maria de la Cabeza
Enter through Iglesia de Santa Inés
Like the Castillo de San Antonio this fortress has been destroyed and rebuilt 5 times between 1637 and 1929.

Museo Gran Marisical de Ayacucho
Tues.-Fri. 8-noon and 2-4; Sat. 8-noon.
Admission free.
Historical exhibits and artifacts.

Market
Near the fishing port on Avenida Los Manglares
5-noon
Fresh produce; handicrafts; tasty food.

Marine Terminal
Near the market.
Catch the ferry to Punta Piedras for a visit to Margarita Island and from there back to Puerto la Cruz.

Excursion from Puerto la Cruz to Margarita Island and Caripe

A representative three day tour of the area originating from and returning to Margarita Island:

(Take the ferry or boat to Margarita Island from Puerto la Cruz)

Margarita – Orinoco Delta
An early morning flight goes to Maturin, capital of the Monagas state. From there, a boat takes visitors through dense tropical forest all the way to a camp in the middle of the Orinoco Delta. After lunch there is a walk across the swampy ground of the delta forest to enjoy and learn more about the tropical vegetation. Piraña fishing on the Manamo river near the camp follows .At the end of the day there is always a one-of-a-kind sunset to watch .

2nd Day: Orinoco Delta – Caripe
In the morning after breakfast , visitors enjoy a a boat ride to San Jose de Buja. and from there a drive to Caripe and the Hacienda Campo Claro, one of the oldest coffee farms in Caripe. Following the tour of the coffee farm, there is a visit to Guacharo’s cave, one of the largest caves in south America, once examined by Alexander Von Humboldt a German scientist who spent 16 months exploring Venezuela. In the first section of the cave are huge stalactites and stalagmites, some growing together as though building images of enormous sandcastles.

Outside, there is a shrieking noise of the hundreds of unseen oil birds (guacharos). At the Hall of Silence in the center of the cave everything changes. The cave suddenly is dark, quiet, and humid, and it is necessary to light the way with the kerosene lamp carried by the guide.

Emerging from the cave, there is the amazing sight of La Paila a charming waterfall in the middle of the mountain! In the evening the nocturnal guacharos leave the cave with loud shrieks as they go on their nightly flight.

3rd Day: Caripe – Buffalo Farm – Margarita Island
After breakfast, tour participants ride to “Hacienda Agua Sana” (thermal waters) in the Sucre state, where they are invited to bathe and swim in the hot springs. After lunch there is a visit to hacienda “Rio de Agua”, a real buffalo farm. At the farm, visitors watch cheese being made and learn a little about eco-farming.

(Take the ferry or boat back to Puerto la Cruz.)

Florianópolis, (also known as Floripa) is a city in southeastern Brazil, and the capital of the seaport on Santa Catarina Island known as the state of Santa Catarina. The longest suspension bridge in Brazil, the Hercilio Luz Bridge. connects the island to the mainland. Situated in a rich farming region, the city is a commercial and cultural center. The Federal University of Santa Catarina and the University for the Development of Santa Catarina State are both located there. Founded about 1700, the city received its present name in 1893.

Floripa is 480 miles southwest of Rio de Janeiro. Over the last few years it has become one of the most visited destinations in Brazil, for visitors seeking superb beaches, beautiful scenery, interesting culture, and friendly people. It is also in the midst of a real estate boom, with Brazilians, especially from São Paulo and Rio Grande do Sul estates, looking for a better living situation away from the chaos of the big cities.

Smaller islands with forts, which protected ships in the 17th century, surround it. Most of the population lives in the island’s northern half. The southern sector is more isolated and less developed. Though originally settled by the Portuguese (from the Islands of Açores), like the rest of Brazil, the city has a strong German and Italian influence. Florianópolis has long been a popular destination for South American tourists, because of its location and its picture perfect white sand beaches.

Today Florianopolis is a busy commercial center. Industries produce metallurgical and electrical communications equipment, pharmaceuticals, plastics, and perfume. The area around Lagoa has a reputation for some of the best seafood restaurants in the world.

Three bridges link the island to the continent but at present only two are in use. Hercílio Luz Bridge, the city’s best-known landmark, is temporarily closed for renovations. The northern beach resorts, such as Canasvieiras and Ingleses are busy during the summer months and provide many hotels, restaurants and other conveniences for seasonal visitors.

Eastern beaches, such as Joaquina, Mole and Moçambique are the best surfing beaches and are popular with young adults. Other beaches to the south include Campeche, Armação and Morro das Pedras, which are also very beautiful.

The isolated and unspoiled beaches of Lagoinha do Leste and Naufragados can be found at the southern end of the island and are reached only by hiking trails. The Conceição lagoon is a famous natural attraction, and features many entertainment options along its main strip. Peri Lagoon is quiet and serene and is perfect for nature walks. Among the historical highlights are the maritime forts of Santa Cruz de Anhatomirim and Santo Antônio de Ratones.

There are archeological sites with samples of ancient Rock Art. There are remnants of colonial villages, the City Centre with its historical buildings, and of course the city’s trademark, Hercílio Luz bridge.

There are hot springs, mountains, waterfalls, endless white sand beaches, clear, cool highland streams, and year round sports. The food is exceptional; the nightlife is superb. The weather is warm and the island is welcoming. What better place could there be to spend a winter or summer vacation?

B- City Information:
C- Attractions/Things To Do:

Beaches

It had been thought that Florianópolis had 42 beaches. For decades, this was one of the slogans of the city. However, when FUI ( Florianópolis Urban Institute) conducted a survey of the beaches of the state capital, more than 100 beaches were found.

The beaches are divided into 8 groups according to their location: Northern beaches, Eastern beaches, Southern beaches, Northern bay, Southern bay, Continent, the Neighboring islands and the Lagoons. The beaches facing the northern bay have calm sea with few waves. The ones Facing the east side (ocean side) have constant waves. The sand is usually white and fine, Shells, dunes, and bushy vegetation are common, with occasional little estuaries.

Lagoons

Lagoons are usually salt water lakes separated from the sea by an area of rock or sand. Conceição Lagoon is the largest one, connected with the sea by a canal. Peri lagoon is in fact a fresh water lake above sea level surrounded by native Atlantic forest.

Islands

Santa Catarina Island is surrounded by 38 small islands some of which can be visited on day trips, such as Campeche Island: to visit the archeological sites and enjoy the beautiful beach; Ratones and Anhatomirim Islands: to visit the forts.

Some small islands have diving spots: Aranhas and Xavier islands, but the best diving conditions are to the north at Arvoredo Island.

Dunes

Sand dunes cover large areas in the North ( Ingleses and Santinho) , Conceição Lagoon, Campeche, Armação and Pântano do Sul.
In Joaquina, the dunes are popular for the sport of sand boarding, which is a tropical version of snowboarding.

Museums

The city has few Museums, but has a wealth of open-air sites such as the forts, Azorean villages, and rock art archaeological sites.
The Historical Museum of Santa Catarina in the centre is a neo classical building displays collections of state history.

Rock Art

The main archeological sites containing rock art can be found at Ingleses beach, Santinho beach and Campeche Island. The oldest is about 4500 years of age.
The petroglyphs follow geometric patterns: concentric circles, zigzag parallel lines and some of them contain anthropomorphic figures. The patterns depicted are many and varied.
Campeche Island, in particular, has the largest concentration of sites with a total of 167 inscriptions and many more expected to be found.

Forts

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Portugal and Spain fought each other for control of South America. In 1680, the Portuguese founded Colônia do Sacramento, at Rio Prata (Silver River) Delta, a strategic location for gold, silver and cattle trading. The Spanish considered this a violation of the Tordesilhas Treaty (which stipulated that the New Land was to be divided between Portugal and Spain). Battles continued over the years causing Portugal to establish a military settlement in the region.

Santa Catarina Island was chosen as the site of the military post and fort for 2 reasons: its strategic position and its protected bays. In 1739, a defensive triangle fortification in the Northern bay was begun. São José da Ponta Grossa, Santa Cruz and Santo Antônio Forts were built. Over the years, a total of 11 forts were constructed.

Even so, on the 23rd of February, 1777, a navy of 100 ships with 12,000 men, commanded by Spanish Dom Pedro Cevallos took the island without resistance. The island was returned a year later with the Santo Idelfonso Treat. By then, the defense system had lost its credibility and was abandoned. Restored in 1989 as an initiative of the state government and local institutions, the forts have become a major area attraction.

Outdoor Activities

Canoeing

There are many interesting canoeing possibilities all over the island. The best time to take advantage of these is usually in the morning when the breezes are gentle. The Northern bay has protected waters and stunning views. Conceição Lagoon is popular, but be aware of fast boats and jets skis. Peri Lagoon is located in a preservation area, where motor sports are prohibited so canoeing becomes a magical experience. It is quite easy to find canoes or kayaks for hire.

Hawaiian Canoeing on Conceição lagoon offers an interesting option for up to 6 rowers.

Diving

The best dive conditions are during the summer from December to April, when the water is clear and on good days you can have 10 to 15 metres visibility.

The best dive sites can be found at the Arvoredo Marine reserve. It is a group of islands located north of the northern beaches. There is a great concentration of marine life including sea turtles, groupers, moray eels, angel fish, seahorses and many colorful fish . At present, most of the reserve is closed to diving. Diving is allowed only at the southern end of Arvoredo Island.
The islands of Aranhas and Xavier also have diving spots.

Good snorkelling can be found at Campeche Island and at some protected points on the headlands.

Hiking

One of the best and least expensive ways to explore the natural beauty of the island is hiking some of the many nature trails.
Some follow the coast line along promontories and cliff sides: for example, the Santinho-Moçambique and the Matadeiro –Lagoinha do Leste trails.
Other trails are more demanding, going uphill but revealing wonderful views: such as the Morro das Aranhas and Morro da Galheta trails.
On Campeche Island you can hike and explore the archaeological sites with the assistance of local guides.
On the Naufragados beach trail, it is possible to travel either way by boat.

On most of the trails, it is easy to find your way but be cautious entering unclear trails and sea cliffs.

Paragliding & Hang Gliding

The island’s geography provides great flying sites everywhere except in the south where flying is not allowed due to the airport traffic. The best season is summer when the sea breezes are constant.

The hills on both sides of Mole beach are the most popular take-offs (SW, NE and E winds) allowing great soaring. The best flying site is Rio Vermelho where great thermals combine with soaring (E winds).

Brava beach is also popular but there are many buildings between the hills and the beach.
During the summer, Praia Mole is crowded, so it is best to fly on weekdays after 12:00 noon when the wind direction has been defined or later in the day before sunset (in summertime there is light until 20:00.

Hang gliding is not as popular as paragliding. One of the reasons might be the difficult access to take-offs. The take-off near the west outlook on Conceição Lagoon, is the best one for hang gliders.
Near the town of Santo Amaro da Imperatriz, 35 km from Florianópolis, at the foothills of Serra do Tabuleiro Estate Park is the best thermal flying in the region for reaching great heights and for distance flying triangles.

Surfing

Floripa has some of the most consistent surf in Brazil. The bigger swells come from the Southern Atlantic and Antarctica. During the summer, it receives many swells from the north, and during the rest of the year from the south (Antarctica). May through October is usually the best time.
Joaquina beach is the most consistently popular spot on the island.

The Campeche beach, in perfect conditions, is a world class wave.
Other great spots are: Moçambique and Lagoinha do Leste to avoid crowds; and Mole beach for the annual Obongo Pro Surfing. Barra da Lagoa beach is a great spot to learn to surf and is recommended for beginners.

Kite & Windsurfing

Conceição Lagoon is the main location for windsurfers and kite surfers because of its consistent winds, large area, sandbanks for beginners and good facilities.

The waves at Mole and Moçambique are also popular as the location of the ongoing competitions of the local surfing crowd.

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Family Activities

Canoeing

There are many interesting canoeing possibilities all over the island. The best time to take advantage of these is usually in the morning when the breezes are gentle. The Northern bay has protected waters and stunning views. Conceição Lagoon is popular, but be aware of fast boats and jets skis. Peri Lagoon is located in a preservation area, where motor sports are prohibited so canoeing becomes a magical experience. It is quite easy to find canoes or kayaks for hire.

Good snorkelling can be found at Campeche Island and at some protected points on the headlands.

Hiking

One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of the island is hiking some of the many nature trails.
Some follow the coast line along promontories and cliff sides: for example, the Santinho-Moçambique and the Matadeiro –Lagoinha do Leste trails.
Other trails are more demanding, going uphill but revealing wonderful views: such as the Morro das Aranhas and Morro da Galheta trails.
On Campeche Island you can hike and explore the archaeological sites with the assistance of local guides.
On the Naufragados beach trail, it is possible to travel either way by boat.

On most of the trails, it is easy to find your way but be cautious entering unclear trails and sea cliffs.

Rock Art

The main archeological sites containing rock art can be found at Ingleses beach, Santinho beach and Campeche Island. The oldest is about 4500 years of age.
The petroglyphs follow geometric patterns: concentric circles, zigzag parallel lines and some of them contain anthropomorphic figures. The patterns depicted are many and varied.
Campeche Island, in particular, has the largest concentration of sites with a total of 167 inscriptions and many more expected to be found.

Forts

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Portugal and Spain fought each other for control of South America. In 1680, the Portuguese founded Colônia do Sacramento, at Rio Prata (Silver River) Delta, a strategic location for gold, silver and cattle trading. The Spanish considered this a violation of the Tordesilhas Treaty (which stipulated that the New Land was to be divided between Portugal and Spain). Battles continued over the years causing Portugal to establish a military settlement in the region.

Santa Catarina Island was chosen as the site of the military post and fort for 2 reasons: its strategic position and its protected bays. In 1739, a defensive triangle fortification in the Northern bay was begun. São José da Ponta Grossa, Santa Cruz and Santo Antônio Forts were built. Over the years, a total of 11 forts were constructed.

Even so, on the 23rd of February, 1777, a navy of 100 ships with 12,000 men, commanded by Spanish Dom Pedro Cevallos took the island without resistance. The island was returned a year later with the Santo Idelfonso Treat. By then, the defense system had lost its credibility and was abandoned. Restored in 1989 as an initiative of the state government and local institutions, the forts have become a major area attraction.

E- Events & Entertainment:

Annual Events

October

Festival of Beer

Blumenau, Santa Catarina

November

Obongo Pro Surfing

Praia Mole, Florianopolis, Competitive surfing is organized by the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) along a two-tier system.

July

Annual Florianopolis Children’s Film Festival

Features, shorts, animation, documentary

July

Annual Dance Festival

Santa Catarina

Joinville. The Festival attracts over 200,000 each year. 140 dance groups, both national and international participate.

Activities and Entertainment

Shopping

Ceramics, embroidery, and “Floripa” stamped t-shirts are the most popular souvenirs.

Ceramics represent figures from local folklore such as Boi de Mamão. They also feature the slogans of the religious parties and the local Azorean people. You can buy the pieces at Casa da Alfândega, next to the public market, and at Casa Açoriana, in Santo Antônio de Lisboa.

Cuisine

Sea food is the base for most of the typical dishes following the traditions of the Portuguese Azorean people who colonized the island.

Shrimp is popular and the standard dish is ” Sequência de Camarão” which is the Shrimp prepared in different styles (steamed, fried, etc.) and served in sequence.

Fish is also popular, cooked in many ways and usually served with rice and Pirão ( a paste made from fish). During winter, the Tainha fish ( Mugil liza), which is similar to striped mullet, is the most popular dish. It is stuffed and then baked.

In Costa da Lagoa there are many waterfront restaurants serving great seafood at relatively low prices, but to get there you need to take a boat from the Lagoa centre marine. Lagoa Azul restaurant is a choice for taste and for value.

On avenida das rendeiras, Lagoa, there are some restaurants that are very popular with tourists: Casa do Chico and others serve the standard local dishes.

Santo Antônio de Lisboa and Sambaqui are good places to have a drink and eat Petiscos (appetizers), while watching the sunset on Northern Bay.

Floripa Oysters are famous and the best restaurants for these can be found at Ribeirão da Ilha Azorean Village.

To sample standard Brazilian food ( rice and beans, pasta, salad, etc), you can eat at restaurants known as KILO, where the food is served buffet style and you pay by the weight of your selections.

Pizza has become as Brazilian as Feijoada! Pizza places are everywhere and many have Rodizios (eat as much as you want and pay one price).

Always popular is Churrasco, the typical Brazilian BBQ.

Nightlife

The main concentration of night clubs, bars and restaurants are in the city centre and Conceição lagoon. During the summer, the northern area also offers a wide choice of nightlife venues.

Security is professionally administered, and everyone is checked before entering a club.

Nightclubs normally charge a cover charge over and above the cost of food and drinks.

A common feature on Friday nights, at various nightclubs is “Ladies Free”, where women don’t pay a cover charge until midnight.

John Bull Pub, located at Avenida das Rendeiras, Conceição Lagoon is a popular live music spot which plays mainly rock and blues. The decor is a rock and blues theme and the atmosphere is casual.

Latidude 27, on the way to Mole beach at the top of the hill is another popular live music venue. It has a mix of contemporary music and a beautiful view of Lagoa at night. Expect crowds where you can barely move.

El Divino Club, the former Cafe Cancun, located at Beira Mar avenue is a traditional nightclub which has different themes and popular live bands. Sophisticated decor.

Ilha dos Cascaez, next to Costão do Santinho is open in the summer only. It features electronic, hip hop and general dance music. Popular on Fridays with Lady’s First theme, where women don’t pay a cover charge until midnight.

For those interesting in FORRÓ, the popular Brazilian dance, La Pedrera in Lagoa is the most popular place.

For those who enjoy history, there are few more richly endowed settings than Charlottesville. The area is identified with Thomas Jefferson and his legacy of leadership and free thought, which laid the foundation for what Charlottesville is today. The values and traditions of Jefferson, the nation’s third president and author of the Declaration of Independence, are on display at his home, Monticello, and at the University of Virginia.

It was in Charlottesville that Thomas Jefferson designed and built his magnificent mountaintop home, Monticello, and created what he described as his “academical village,” the University of Virginia. It was Jefferson’s belief that the college experience should take place within a place where shared learning infused daily life. Plans were developed for ten Pavilions, which were stately, neoclassical faculty homes with living quarters upstairs, and classrooms downstairs that were attached to two rows of student rooms and connected by an inward-facing colonnade. The buildings face a long lawn, anchored at one end by a Pantheon-inspired Rotunda. Each Pavilion was identified with a subject to be studied and inhabited by the professor who taught that subject.

Jefferson corresponded with scholars in America and Europe, seeking the best faculty to teach in the areas of philosophy, the arts, foreign languages, science, law, and medicine. In March, 1825, the University of Virginia opened to serve its first 123 students. Through the years, the University has grown and developed from its original composition of white males (sons of wealthy plantation owners) to include men and women of all ethnic and economic backgrounds with the emphasis on academic excellence and adherence to an individual and communal “Code of Honor”.

In 1993, U.S. News and World Report ranked UVA the nation’s best public university. It has remained at the top of that annual list ever since. The University of Virginia consistently ranks well whether judged by popularity with students, retention and graduation rates, or overall excellence and remains committed to fulfilling the vision of its founder. Regularly scheduled official tours of the university are offered. One of the tour points is the university’s West Range, where Woodrow Wilson and Edgar Allan Poe each lived when they were students

Monticello is located just 3 miles southeast of town. Thomas Jefferson was an inventor, and some of his discoveries are displayed at Monticello. Among these are: a seven-day calendar clock; semiautomatic glass doors; and a built-in bed that Jefferson could enter from his bedroom, on one side, or his study, on the other. Jefferson’s memory is honored at the family cemetery on the Monticello grounds.

Slightly more than two miles from Monticello is Ash Lawn-Highland, the restored home of America’s fifth president, James Monroe. This 550-acre estate features gardens, farm-craft demonstrations, and a hiking trail. The scene of many special events such as the Summer Festival, It now hosts tours, concerts and occasional wine tastings.

Also in Charlottesville can be found the home of James Madison, fourth president and author of the Constitution. Charlottesville and Albemarle County proudly display their historical treasures: Monticello; the grounds of the University of Virginia; Historic Court Square; Michie Tavern, and countless others. Tours, special events, and educational programs for the entire family attract many visitors to the area.

The university’s influence on the town of Charlottesville is evident in the number of art galleries, musical venues, bookstores, and trendy restaurants that line the brick streets of downtown. The town has even adopted the university’s famous honor policy: yellow bicycles are left at major intersections for anyone to use, provided they return them when they are finished. (Biking is a great way to get around Charlottesville.) The town offers the best in dining, shopping and education in a sophisticated, small town atmosphere.

Charlottesville borders Shenandoah National Park, whose 300 square miles stretch out along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, serving as a reminder of the great hardwood forests that once blanketed the northeastern United States and of the wildlife that inhabited them. The park offers protection to the animals and plants that thrive within its boundaries. A roadway bisects the park affording spectacular views into the valley below. This is a place to bicycle, to hike, to canoe, and to drive with the Appalachian Trail running for 100 miles through the entire park.

Take a picnic and drive into the countryside in any direction from Charlottesville and you will discover numerous Civil War sites and historical markers detailing more than two hundred years of history. Beautiful estates, bounded by split-rail fences and cedar trees, dot the rolling, hilly landscape. In and around Charlottesville, history comes alive, enriching our understanding of the past and its relationship to the present.

B- City Information:
Population: 45,049

Elevation: 594 feet

Land area: 10.3 square miles

Location: The City of Charlottesville is located in Central Virginia, approximately 100 miles

southwest of Washington, D.C. and 70 miles northwest of Richmond, Virginia.

Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time Zone, Daylight Saving Time April – October.

Weather:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Average temp. (°F)
35.0
38.3
46.5
56.7
64.7
72.5
76.5
74.8
68.4
57.5
48.4
38.9

High temperature (°F)
44.4
48.4
57.5
68.4
75.7
83.2
87.3
85.6
79.1
68.6
58.7
48.1

Low temperature (°F)
25.6
28.1
35.5
44.8
53.7
61.8
65.7
64.1
57.8
46.3
37.9
29.5

Precipitation (in)
3.3
3.0
3.9
3.2
4.6
4.2
5.0
4.0
4.7
4.1
3.6
3.1

Climate:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Days with precipitation
11
9
11
10
12
10
11
10
8
7
9
9

Wind speed (mph)
8.0
8.3
8.8
8.7
7.4
6.7
6.3
5.9
6.4
6.7
7.4
7.4

Morning humidity (%)
76
76
75
75
81
83
86
87
89
87
82
78

Afternoon humidity (%)
56
52
49
46
52
54
56
56
57
53
52
55

Sunshine (%)
52
56
59
63
63
67
64
63
62
62
57
53

Days clear of clouds
8
8
8
8
8
7
8
8
10
12
9
9

Partly cloudy days
7
7
9
9
10
12
12
11
9
7
7
7

Cloudy days
16
14
14
13
13
11
11
11
11
11
13
15

Snowfall (in)
5.7
5.1
3.1
0.2
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.7
2.7

Local Seasons: Charlottesville has four temperate seasons. Winters bring some snow, but the temperatures in January rarely dip below freezing. Spring warms up quickly, with temperatures in March and April averaging in the mid-40’s and 50’s. The dogwood trees are coaxed into blooming by the rising temperatures and thousands of visitors come to the area to enjoy both the blooms and the festival. Summers bring sunny days, and with temperatures averaging in the high 70’s, it’s just perfect for spending time outdoors. The fall brings magnificent vistas with foliage in hues of red, gold and orange and perfect weather for light jackets or sweaters.

Getting There:

By Car: Charlottesville is on I-64 from east or west and U.S. 29 from north or south. I-64

connects with I-81 at Staunton and with I-95 at Richmond.

By Plane: US Airways, Delta, and United fly commuter planes to Charlottesville-Albemarle

Airport, 201 Bowen Loop (434-973-8341, north of town off U.S. 29. Taxis are available, and Van on the Go (877-973-7667 or 434-975-8267) provides shuttle service into town.

By Train: The Amtrak station is at 810 W. Main St. (800-872-7245), about halfway between the commercial district and the University of Virginia.

Getting Around:

The easiest way to get between the campus and the Downtown Mall is on the free trolley operated by the Charlottesville Transit Service (CTA) (434-296). It runs along Main Street every 10 to 15 minutes Monday to Saturday from 6:30am to midnight. CTA also has bus service Monday through Saturday from 6:30am to 6:30pm throughout the city (but not to Monticello).

Parking — On-street parking is extremely limited. In the historic downtown area, you can park free for 2 hours with merchant validation (take your ticket with you and get it stamped) in the garage on Market Street between 1st and 2nd streets, or in any of the lots and two garages along Water Street. The university’s visitor parking garage is on the western side of the campus, on Emmet Street (U.S. 29 Business) a block south of University Avenue (which is the continuation of West Main Street). On the eastern side of campus, two public garages are located opposite the University Hospital on Lee Street, off Jefferson Park Avenue. The Corner has public parking on Elliewood Avenue, Wertland Street at 14th Street, and down the alleys behind the businesses fronting West Main Street.

City Layout:

Charlottesville has two commercial centers, one catering to college students; the other to grownups. Both are on Main Street (U.S. 250 Business), about a mile apart. On West Main Street, opposite the University of Virginia between 13th Street and Elliewood Avenue, the Corner neighborhood is a typical campus enclave, with student-dominated restaurants, bookstores and clothing stores, and a dearth of parking spaces. A mile to the east, Historic Downtown Charlottesville is centered on the Downtown Mall, an 8-block, pedestrian-only strip of Main Street between 2nd Street West and 8th Street East.

Getting Around:

Explore Charlottesville’s captivating downtown and the University areas the most relaxing way: on foot. Visitors and locals alike also enjoy taking advantage of Charlottesville Transit Service’s free trolley from historic downtown to the Corner and University Grounds.

Given the county’s size and geographic diversity, alternative options for travel beyond the city include private or rental vehicle, bus, limousine or if you feel daring– ballooning! Customized guided tours of Charlottesville and Albemarle County, Monticello Wine Country, and beyond are available by appointment.

National Holidays:

New Year’s Day: Jan. 1

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day: 3rd Mon. in Jan.

President’s Day: 3rd Mon. in Feb.

Memorial Day: last Mon. in May

Independence Day: July 4

Labor Day: 1st Mon. in Sept.

Thanksgiving Day: 4th Thurs. in Nov.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: Dec. 24 and 25

New Year’s Eve: Dec. 31

Business Hours

Emergencies: Ambulance (911). Fire ( 911). Police ( 911).

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Monticello — Home of Thomas Jefferson

931 Thomas Jefferson Parkway
March 1 – October 31, 8am-5pm; November 1 – February 28, 9am-4:30pm. Closed Christmas.

434-984-9800

Admission Charged. Children under 6 free.

Monticello is the home of Thomas Jefferson, third U.S. President, author of the Declaration of Independence and Statute for Religious Freedom as well as founder of the University of Virginia. In 1769 at the age of 26, Thomas Jefferson began the design and construction of Monticello. Perched on a mountaintop overlooking the city of Charlottesville, Monticello is a majestic reminder of Jefferson’s creativity and talent. No other home in the United States more accurately reflects the personality of its owner than Monticello, Jefferson’s architectural masterpiece and beloved mountaintop home. Daily tours.

Ash Lawn- Highland

1000 James Monroe Parkway, 2 1/2 miles from Monticello on Route 795, off Route 53.

Open daily November – March 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; April – October 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

434-293-9539

Admission Charged.

Restored home of the 5th president of the United States and close friend of Thomas Jefferson. James Monroe’s 550- acre estate recreates the atmosphere of a working farm, with strutting peacocks, spinning and weaving demonstrations, open hearth cooking demonstrations and tours of the house and gardens

Of particular interest are the newly refurbished interiors, lovely herb and vegetable gardens, and a statue of James Monroe at one end of the boxwood gardens.

Michie Tavern

683 Thomas Jefferson Parkway

Michie Tavern is located less than one mile from Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello on State Route 53, Monticello Mountain.

Museum is open year-round
Admission Charged (tours). Tours are 9-5 daily. Last tour: 4:20pm.
434-977-1234

Michie Tavern is a Virginia Historic Landmark which has welcomed travelers for more than 200 years. Established in 1784 by Scotsman William Michie, the Tavern served as the social center of its community and provided travelers with food, drink and lodging. In 1927, the Tavern was moved 17 miles to its present location close to Monticello, serving as a prime example of the Colonial Revival period. Today, crossing the threshold of old Michie’s Tavern, is to enter another era. This is where our 18th-century counterparts came to dine and socialize. Visitors experience the Tavern’s past through an historical journey which recreates life when Mr. Michie operated his Inn. During the afternoons, April through October, visitors may be invited to dance the Virginia Reel in the Assembly Room, drink an 18th-century tavern punch or write with a quill pen. After visiting the original Inn, the tour continues through the Tavern’s outbuildings and the Virginia Wine Museum.

The Printer’s Market (at Michie Tavern)

Seasonal Operation, hours: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm.

Located in an historic 1822 structure, the shop features original and reproduction Early American printed items for sale including one of the most extensive offerings of period newspapers, paper currency and vintage stamps on the East Coast. A gallery setting encourages guests to browse through the books, historic prints, posters, and exhibits.

Albemarle County Courthouse

501 East Jefferson Street

Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Closed for state and federal holidays.

434-972-4083

Admission Free.

The courthouse was established in 1762. The grounds once held a whipping post, pillory and stocks, as was typical of the time. In addition to serving as the courthouse and sole place to vote in Albemarle County, religious services for Episcopal, Presbyterian, Methodist and Baptists were held in this space, which Jefferson called “The Common Temple.” Jefferson, Madison and Monroe were frequent visitors here, especially after Jefferson retired in 1809.

Court Square of Charlottesville

411 East High Street
877-386-1102

Admission Free.

The following sites can be explored in more detail on Saturday morning walking tours offered by the Albemarle Historical Society (April-October)

200 Second Street, NE.

Tours begin at 10:00 am, last for approximately one hour with donations accepted.

434-296-1492 for more information.

1. 300 Court Square, is the site of the Eagle Tavern, a simple wooden frame building which stood there in 1791 and provided food and lodging on court days, as well as public dances and victory celebrations within its spacious parlor. (the brick replacement, can be seen by visitors today). The building also was used as the headquarters of the Federal occupying forces after the Civil War. Operating as a hotel until the 1960’s, it is now office space.

2. Adjacent to “0” Court Square and 6th Street buildings visitors can see the slave block, where auctions of slaves took place. The slave block should serve as a reminder of the shameful and racist attitudes of many communities during much of our early history.

3. The influence of Jefferson’s design for the University of Virginia buildings nearby may have influenced the design of Building #0, when it was built in the 1820’s. Storehouses for merchants, as well as a small town library, a whiskey dealer and a Swiss watchmaker recruited by Jefferson were all located along 6th St.

4. The Swan Tavern was located at 300 Park Street, where a brick townhouse now stands. The tavern was made famous by Jack Jouett, whose father owned The Swan. In 1781, Jefferson and Virginia’s government quit Richmond under threat of capture by the British, and reconvened in Charlottesville. Jouett rode through the night on back roads from Louisa County to warn Governor Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, Richard Henry Lee and other members of the General Assembly of the approach of British forces under the command of Colonel Banastre Tarleton. Eluding capture, most legislators fled to safety in Staunton. Tarleton’s men destroyed some court records and military stores, but spared the town from destruction.

The Miller School of Albemarle

1000 Samuel Miller Loop
434-823-4805

Visitors are welcome during the day, but should check in at the Main Office in Old Main.

Admission Free.

The Miller School is one of several legacies of Samuel Miller, a native of Albemarle County who grew up in poverty but became a wealthy investor in Lynchburg. He established The Miller School in Albemarle County to provide a first-rate education for children from Albemarle County and the surrounding area, regardless of financial condition. Listed in the Virginia Landmarks Register, the Miller School complex of buildings reflect the Victorian Gothic architecture popular at the time. Situated on almost 1600 acres of land, the beautiful grounds provide ample space for the 160 students now attending the school. The Miller School, originally known as The Miller Manual Labor School, was chartered by an Act of the General Assembly approved on February 24, 1874. The architectural focal point of the campus, Old Main, was begun in 1876. It was designed by architects Albert Lybrock and D. Wiley Anderson of Richmond, and built by Thomas Woodroffe, originally from England. The school opened in 1878 with 33 students, and has been a successful boarding and day school ever since.

University of Virginia Rotunda and Central Grounds

University Ave
434-924-3239, 434-924-7969

Conducted tours of the Rotunda are offered daily at 10am, 11am, 2pm, 3pm, and 4pm. Closes for 3 weeks at Christmas time and during graduation in May.

Admission Free.

The original Grounds of the University, including the Rotunda and the Lawn, were designed by Jefferson to be what he called an “Academical Village.” The Academical Village includes a rectangular, terraced green space known as the Lawn; two parallel rows of buildings, the Pavilions, connected by colonnaded walkways and student rooms; and the Rotunda, which closes off the north end of the Lawn. The Rotunda, a half-scale interpretation of the Pantheon in Rome, is the signature landmark of the University and its Dome Room originally housed the University library. The Pavilions are in the Federal style and no two are alike. The top floors of the Pavilions originally served as living quarters for the professors, while the ground-level floors served as classrooms and offices.

The Gardens are enclosed by serpentine brick walls, whose curve helps to stabilize and strengthen the walls, which are remarkable for being only one brick thick. Parallel to the Lawn and behind the Gardens are the Ranges, rows of rooms in which graduate students now live. West Range No. 13 is preserved as the Edgar Allan Poe Room. A plaque over the door of No. 31 marks the room of Woodrow Wilson.

Edgar Allan Poe’s Room

University of Virginia grounds. West Range #13

434-977-1783, 877-386-1102
Admission Free.

Call for days and hours.

Author/poet’s room has been restored to 1826 time period when he was a student. Features a recording about his life.

McGregor Room of Alderman Library

Alderman Library, University of Virginia

434-924-3025

9am-9pm, Monday through Thursday; 9am-5pm, Friday and Saturday.

Call to confirm Saturday hours.

Admission Free.

The Special Collections Department’s exhibition space is located in the Tracy W. McGregor Room on the second floor of Alderman Library. Special Collections administers over 12 million manuscripts, 2.5 million items in the University archives, and 268,600 rare books, as well as approximately 4,000 maps, over 4,000 broadsides; more than 125,000 photographs and small prints.

Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection of the University of Virginia

400 Peter Jefferson Place

434-244-0234
Tuesday – Saturday, 9 am to 3 pm.

Admission Free.

The Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection was a gift from An American businessman, John W. Kluge to the University of Virginia in 1997. Mr. Kluge began collecting Aboriginal art in 1988 and compiled one of the foremost private collections of Australian Aboriginal art in the world. In 1993, Kluge purchased the collection and archives of the late Professor Edward L. Ruhe of Kansas University

Frontier Culture Museum

1290 Richmond Ave., Staunton, VA. Located near I-64 & I-81 in Staunton, VA. I-81, Exit 222, Route 250 West, the museum is ½ mile on the left.

540-332-7850

Open daily, 9am-5pm; Winter hours: Dec.1- March 16, 10am – 4pm.

Museum closed New Year’s, Thanksgiving, & Christmas. Museum may close or have program changes due to weather conditions. To avoid being disappointed, call ahead.

Admission Charged

University of Virginia Art Museum

Rugby Road, located one block north of the Rotunda on the Grounds of the University of Virginia.

Tuesday-Sunday, 1-5pm

434-924-3592, 434-924-7458

Admission Free.

The University of Virginia Art Museum exhibits art from around the world dating from ancient times to the present day. In addition to its permanent collection, the Museum presents an ongoing schedule of changing exhibitions, accompanied by related programs and publications.

Leander J. McCormick Observatory

McCormick Observatory on the UVA grounds.

9-11pm, Apr. – Oct, first and third Friday night.

8-10pm, Nov.-Mar., first and third Friday night.

434-924-7494

Admission Free.

Call for schedule.

Monuments/Memorials

Robert E. Lee Monument

Lee Park, Historic Court Square

434-296-1492.

This monument was commissioned in 1917 and completed nearly seven years later. In 1924, the statue was presented to the city during a Confederate reunion held at the park. More information is available from the Albemarle County Historical Society at the phone number listed above.

Stonewall Jackson Monument

Jackson Park, Historic Court Square

434-296-1492

At the time of the artwork’s unveiling in 1921, the Jackson monument was considered to be among the finest equestrian sculptures in the nation. More information is available from the Albemarle County Historical Society at the phone number listed above.

Confederate Memorial on Court Square

Albemarle County Court House in Charlottesville. Court Square

877-386-1102 or 434-977-1783

Admission Free.
Charlottesville and Albemarle County were among the last communities in Virginia to erect a monument honoring Confederate soldiers from their area. The bronze statue, whose sculptor remains unknown, is most likely a mass- produced copy of a Confederate soldier “at ready.”

Lewis, Clark and Sacagawea Statue

At the intersections of W. Main Street and Ridge Street Charlottesville. Just northwest of the downtown mall.

434-293-6789

This impressive and historic statue commemorates the 1803-1806 journey of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The statue of Meriwether Lewis, William Clark and Sacagawea was sculpted by Charles Keck, who was a prominent sculptor of his day. The statue was commissioned by Paul Goodloe McIntire and given to the citizens of Charlottesville in 1919.

Confederate Monument, University Of Virginia Cemetery

At the intersections of Alderman and McCormick Roads in Charlottesville.

877-386-1102 or 434-977-1783

Admission Free.

Unveiled on June 7, 1893, the monument is in memory of approximately eleven hundred Confederate Soldiers buried at the University of Virginia. The piece consists of a gray granite pedestal twelve feet high on which stands an eight foot bronze statue of a young Confederate solider, hat in hand and rifle at the rest position. Four encircling bronze tablets carry the names of the soldiers buried at the cemetery. Seventeen blank spaces represent unknown soldiers.

Cemeteries

Maplewood Cemetery

400 Block Lexington Avenue

7am-8pm.

877-386-1102, 434-977-1783
Admission Free.

Like many cemeteries in cities across the nation, Maplewood Cemetery offers a glimpse of the lives of past citizens. As the oldest public cemetery in Charlottesville, with interments beginning in 1777, Maplewood Cemetery is a priceless reminder of Charlottesville’s rich and varied history. At least three Confederate Generals, as well as other local citizens who distinguished themselves in the Civil War, are buried in Charlottesville’s Maplewood Cemetery.

Oakwood Cemetery

Elliot Avenue & First Street SE
434-293-6789, 434-970-3589

7am-8pm

Admission Free.

As the second-oldest public cemetery in Charlottesville, with interments beginning in 1883, Oakwood Cemetery is a peaceful and welcoming space for visitors. The graves of many prominent and historic citizens are here.

Vineyards & Wineries

Jefferson Vineyards

1353 Thomas Jefferson Parkway,

located on Hwy 53 between Monticello and Ash Lawn-Highland.

800-272-3042, 434-977-3042

Daily, 11 am to 5 pm; tours on the hour between noon and 4 pm.
Admission Free. Fee charged for tastings.

When Thomas Jefferson and Italian Filippo Mazzei decided to establish a vineyard, they chose the land between Monticello and Ash-Lawn – the site of present day Jefferson Vineyards.

First Colony Winery

1650 Harris Creek Road

434-979-7105

11am-5pm.

Open daily, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Admission Free.

Complimentary tours and tastings are offered at the winery. Five Wines are produced: Chardonnay, Vidal Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Oakencroft Vineyard & Winery

1486 Oakencroft Lane

434-296-4188

Open daily, April to December, 11-5, January and February by appointment, March weekends only 11-5.

Admission Charged. (Tasting fees)

Spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains are seen from the vineyards. A lake, home to five species of waterfowl, fronts the Winery Courtyard. Wines: Countryside White, Blush, Chardonnay, Cabernet, and Merlot.

McGuffey Art Center

210 Second Street, NW

Tues-Sat, 10am-5pm.; Sun., 1-5pm. Closed Mondays.

Holiday closing schedule: New Years Eve/Day, July 4th, Last two weeks in August, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve/Day.
434-295-7973

Admission Free.

The McGuffey Art Center is a co- operative, non-profit organization that has been in existence since 1975 and is housed in the former McGuffey Elementary School building. The schoolrooms were transformed into forty studios, three galleries, and a gift shop All studios are open 17.5 hours per week in order for the public to observe work in progress.

Old Hardware Store Building

316 E. Main Street, Historic Downtown Mall
434-977-1518

Call for hours of operation.

Admission Free.

This Charlottesville landmark since 1895 is now an exciting complex of boutiques, restaurants, and art and exhibition galleries.

Fortune’s Cove Preserve

490 Westfield Road
434-295-6106

Open daily, dawn to dusk, year-round.

Admission Free

Fortune’s Cove Preserve (The Nature Conservancy) provides a challenging hike that rewards visitors with stunning mountain vistas. Fortune’s Cove straddles Virginia’s Piedmont and Blue Ridge. Here, these two ecological regions meet to form a unique collection of flora from both areas. The 5.5-mile loop trail climbs steeply from the parking area, gaining some 1,500 feet in elevation before reaching its highest point. Hikers should be in good physical condition and should allow six hours to complete the entire loop. A gravel parking area and kiosk with trail map are at the preserve entrance; there are no restrooms.

Thomas Jefferson Parkway and Kemper Park

Located on Route 53 (100 yards from Route 20S).

434-984-9822

Daily, sunrise to sunset.

Admission Free.

Visitors are invited to stroll along the Thomas Jefferson Parkway located on Route 53. The trail is 3.2 miles round-trip on a gentle grade. Limited parking is available at the base of Route 53.

Rivanna River

Winds through Albemarle County, the City of Charlottesville and Fluvanna County. Access points include U.S. 29 Bridge at South Fork, Darden Towe Park, Riverview Park (fishing), Palmyra and Columbia (at James River).

434-293-6789

Admission Free.

The beautiful and gentle Rivanna River flows through Albemarle and Fluvanna counties as well as the City of Charlottesville. Named for Queen Anne of England, the Rivanna is home to countless birds, fish, turtles and other creatures, as well as providing a wonderful place for human residents to fish, canoe, swim and boat. The river begins about six miles northeast of Charlottesville where the North and South Forks of the river are joined, and flows about 42 miles to Columbia where it joins the mighty James River. The Rivanna is considered safe for canoes in winter, spring and early summer, with few hazards, and no whitewater.

Hardware River

Carter’s Bridge on Route 20 south
434-293-6789

Admission Free.

The Hardware River begins about 15 miles south of Charlottesville, just above the Route 20 Bridge. The Hardware flows south for 26 ½ miles to join the James River just above Bremo Bluff. Typically, canoeists divide the trip into two sections, the first being from Route 20 at Carter Bridge to the Temperance Wayside at Route 6, and the second being from the Temperance Wayside at Route 6 to the James River at the take-out bridge.

The Hardware River is rich in wildlife, including deer, turkey, fish and a variety of other birds and mammals. The banks are mostly tree-lined and shady, with the high clay banks so typical of Piedmont streams. Though often crossed by roads, the traveler is certain to enjoy the peace and quiet afforded by the river.

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Children’s Health Museum at UVA

University of Virginia Medical Center, on Lee Street

1st floor of the Primary Care Center of the University of Virginia Medical Center

434-924-1593

Monday through Friday, 9am-4pm.

Admission Free.

The museum was designed to teach children about their bodies, health care, and healthy choices in a way that builds self-esteem, promotes good health, and alleviates fears of doctors, hospitals, and medical procedures.

Monticello Visitors Center

600 College Drive

434-984-9822

Open daily 9am-5pm., November through February; 9am-5:30pm., March through October. Jefferson Exhibit is closed December 25.

Admission Free.

Located in the Monticello Visitors Center building is the exhibition “Thomas Jefferson at Monticello,” which explores many aspects of Jefferson’s domestic life. On display is a rich assortment of personal memorabilia, artifacts discovered during archaeological excavations, and architectural models and drawings. A film, “Thomas Jefferson: The Pursuit of Liberty,” is shown in the theatre.

Tonsler Park

1300 Pen Park Road, At the intersection of Ridge Street and Cherry Avenue.

434-970-3589

Daily, 6AM to 11PM

Admission Free.

Tonsler Park is one of the busiest parks in Charlottesville. Small children, teenagers and families gather to enjoy the recreation center, tennis courts, life-size chess board, lighted basketball courts, softball/soccer fields, large sprinkler shower and extensive playground equipment.

Virginia Discovery Museum

East end of the Charlottesville’s Historic Downtown Mall
434-977-1025

Tuesday – Saturday 10am-5pm; Sunday 1-5pm. Closed Mondays.

Admission Charged.

An exciting world of education and fun for children ages 1 to 10 and their families. The Museum has two exhibit spaces: the Back Gallery exhibit changes every three months, and the Discovery Corner alternates every month. The Museum’s Front Gallery is full of interactive exhibits about science, history and the arts for children including twelve permanent exhibit areas.

Virginia Museum of Natural History – UVA

104 Emmet Street

434-982-4605

Monday – Thursday, 10am-4pm.

Admission Free.

The Museum offers changing exhibits on natural history which rotate periodically. The Wachovia-UVA Discovery room engages children, ages 3-93 in hands- on nature-related learning experiences. Young children may crawl into a tree snag (replica) and discover the creatures that make their home inside. A discovery box, animal tracks as well as a library allow for more exploration. Visitors may examine animal x-rays on a view box and compare them to real animal skulls and skeletons that are on display. Children can also learn about our water supply system as they connect pipes from a “reservoir” to a “sink” to a “water treatment plant” or “septic system”, and watch it flow back into the “river.” Using a marble as a water drop, children follow the flow of water through the system.

McIntire Skateboard Park

McIntire Rd & 250 Bypass
434-244-0166

Open June through December

Call for exact dates and times of operation
Admission Free

Attendant on duty during operating hours

Hours subject to change

Liability waivers are required. Helmet, elbow & kneepads are required and available at site.

Equipment consists of Skatelite ramps, jumps & boxes.

E- Events & Entertainment:
February

Japanese Family Festival

University of Virginia Art Museum

434-924-7458

Call for exact date and time.

Admission Free.

Festival events will include family activities such as origami, games, kimono wrapping and other traditional crafts, organized by the Young Friends. The gallery guild and the volunteer board will present Japanese treats and drinks, and the docents will host demonstrations of Japanese music and dance, a tea ceremony and a bonsai exhibition.

March

Virginia Festival of the Book

Events are held at the University of Virginia, in downtown Charlottesville, and around the Charlottesville/Albemarle area

434-924-6890

Admission Free (except special luncheons and receptions).

Call for dates, time and location.

Readings, panel discussions and book signings are held throughout the area during the days and evenings of the festival. There are usually about 150 total programs, including adult and children’s programming.

April

The City Market

H & R Block parking lot on Water St.

970-3371 or 970-3271
Saturdays, 7am-12noon

The Market offers fresh produce, herbs, plants, crafts & baked goods
from local vendors.

Court Days Crafts Festival
Downtown Historic District
434-296-8548

Admission Free.

Historic Garden Week in Virginia

Various locations in Charlottesville and Albemarle County

434-977-1783 or 877-386-1103

Admission Charged.

Call for exact date, hours and locations.

Annual Dogwood Festival

Various locations including McIntire Park and Downtown Charlottesville.
434-961-9824

Admission Charged for some events.

Call for schedule of all events.

What began in the fall of 1950 as the Apple Harvest Festival became the Dogwood Festival in April of 1958, during the peak of the Dogwood blossom season. Thousands come each year to enjoy the feature parade which usually consists of over 120 units. Some of the many other activities that comprise the festival include a golf tournament, a chicken barbeque at McIntire Park, the dogwood tree sale at Barracks Road Shopping Center, a breakfast in Charlottesville, the amusement rides at McIntire Park, the Dogwood Blues Festival on the Downtown Mall.

Fridays After Five

Downtown Mall

Every Friday, late April-early October, beginning at 5:30pm.
434-296-8548

Admission Free.

Free outdoor concerts for the whole family on the east end of Charlottesville’s historic Downtown Mall in the amphitheater.

Easter Egg Hunt at Kluge Estate Farm Shop

Kluge Estate Winery and Vineyard | 100 Grand Cru Drive

434-977-3895

Call for exact date and time.

Admission Free.

Come for a fun-filled Easter Egg hunt. All prizes are edible!

May

Crozet Arts and Crafts Festival
Claudius Crozet Park
434-823-2211

Call for exact date and time

Admission Charged.

Virginia Wine Festival
Ash Lawn-Highland, 1941 James Monroe Parkway
434-293-9539

Call for exact date and time

Admission Charged (includes wine glass and tastings).

Important Virginia vineyards, music, gourmet food, Monroe house tours, more.

June

Ash Lawn-Highland Summer Festival

1941 James Monroe Parkway
434-293-4500

Call for exact date and time.

Admission Charged.

July

Charlottesville Fireworks Fest

McIntire Park

434-977-6100
July 4, 4-10pm

Admission Free (donations accepted).

Come for an evening of great community fun. Moonbounces, games and slides for kids, music, skydivers and lots of fireworks!

Monticello Independence Day Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony

Monticello, 931 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Charlottesville
July 4

Call for exact time.

Admission Free.

This outdoor naturalization ceremony for new citizens on Monticello’s West Lawn is one of America’s most inspiring July 4 events. Patriotic music will be performed.

African-American Cultural Arts Festival

Booker T. Washington Park (Park is located on corner of 10th Street NW and Preston Avenue, west of the Downtown Mall in Charlottesville)

Last Saturday of July

434-296-4986 or 434-979-0582
Admission Free.

This family-oriented festival opens with a grand entrance by the Spiritwalker, dancers, drums and many other exciting performers. A wide variety of crafts, foods, community organizations and artisans will be found throughout the park. Visitors can listen to the traditional African storyteller, watch musical and dance performances and discover more about local and national African American history and the contributions of African Americans to our community.

Ash Lawn Opera Festival

Boxwood Gardens of Ash Lawn-Highland

1941 James Monroe Parkway, (2 1/2 miles from Monticello on Route 795, off Route 53).

Evening performances at 8 p.m. are outdoors at Ash Lawn-Highland; grounds open for picnicking at 6 p.m. Lectures begin at 7:15 p.m. (if applicable).

434-979-0122 or 434-293-4500

Admission Charged.
Opera and musical theater sung in English.

August

Albemarle County Fair

Fairgrounds (From Charlottesville take Route 29 south to North Garden, turn right on Route 692. Approximately 1/2 mile on right)

434-293-6396

Call for exact dates and hours of operation.

Admission Charged.

What would August in Albemarle County be without the County Fair? This week-long tradition is a great finale to summer fun. The fair provides an opportunity for visitors to understand, appreciate and enjoy the agricultural heritage that continues to sustain the area economy. A family fun-filled event featuring agricultural, livestock and craft exhibits; musical entertainment, amusement rides, commercial exhibits and a wonderful variety of food.

Plantation Days: Children’s Day

Ash Lawn-Highland

1941 James Monroe Parkway, (2 1/2 miles from Monticello on Route 795, off Route 53).

434-293-9539

Admission Charged.

Call for exact date and time.

Work and play on an early 19th-century plantation. Special youth tours of the home of President James Monroe. Craft demonstrations, hands-on workshops, music, colonial games, more.

September

Plantation Days: Autumn on the Plantation

Ash Lawn-Highland

1941 James Monroe Parkway, (2 1/2 miles from Monticello on Route 795, off Route 53).

434-293-9539

Admission Charged.

Call for exact date and time.

Activities to prepare for winter on an early 19th-century plantation. Craft demonstrations, hands-on workshops, music, colonial games, more.

Charlottesville Chamber Music Festival

Jefferson Theater, on the Downtown Mall

434-977-6100

Admission Charged.

Call for exact date and time.

The Charlottesville Chamber Music Festival presents a series of concerts each September, featuring musicians from all over the world, in new and old chamber music repertoire.

October

Monticello Wine and Jazz Festival

Boar’s Head Inn

1486 Oalencroft Lane

434-296-4188 ext. 21

Admission Charged.

Call for exact dates and times.

Featuring wineries located in the Monticello Viticultural Area all within an hour of Charlottesville, Va. Art and craft exhibits, jazz musicians, great food and great wine. Come and enjoy the beautiful fall colors of Virginia.

Virginia Film Festival

Events are held at locations throughout the Charlottesville area.
434-924-FEST or 800-UVA-FEST

Admission Charged.

Call for exact dates and times of event.

There will be a rapid filmmaking workshop in which approximately twenty filmmakers will write, shoot, and edit their films in three days, beginning on opening night and screening on closing night.

Downtown Safe Halloween Festival

Downtown Mall

434- 970-3271
Call for exact time and date.

Admission Free.
Halloween fun for children 12 and under.

Charlottesville Cavalcade

CHS Stadium

434-295-8453.

Call for exact time and date.

Admission Charged.

High School Marching Band Competition.

November

Governor Jefferson’s Thanksgiving Festival
Historic Court Square and Downtown Mall
434-978-4466

Call for exact date and time.

Admission Free.

Over fifty activities scheduled at seven different venues around Charlottesville’s Historic Court Square and Downtown Mall are designed to let you experience what the community was like during the American Revolution between 1779 and 1781. You will step back in history and mingle with a cast of about 150 costumed people portraying famous statesmen, soldiers, merchants, clergymen and slaves who gathered during the American Revolution for a Day of Public Thanksgiving that was proclaimed by Virginia’s Governor Thomas Jefferson in November 1779. Events include: colonial folk music and dancing; children’s games; horse-drawn carriage rides; the “little militia’ at the soldier encampment; demonstrations of 18th century crafts and trades; crafts for children at the Discovery Museum; lectures on African-American history and culture; Governor Jefferson’s Ball and more.

Sounds of the Season-A Holiday Concert
Ash Lawn-Highland

1941 James Monroe Parkway, (2 ½ miles from Monticello on Route 795, off Route 53).

434-293-9539

Call for exact dates and times.

Admission Charged.

This informal concert features holiday music followed by a candlelight tour of the historic James Monroe house.

Charlottesville Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show

Charlottesville National Guard Armory – 1640 Avon Street Extension

540-384-6047

Call for event date and hours of operation

Jewelry makers, goldsmiths and silversmiths from all over the U.S. who can reconstruct, repair, design or make original jewelry from customer-selected gems, stones, opals and crystals. Wire wrap, wire sculpture, pearls, stone beads, stone setting, amber, opal, gem tree, mineral and fossil dealers. Hourly door prizes.

Charlottesville Tradition

Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall, 108 5th Street N.E.

434-961- 5846

Call for exact date and time.

Admission Free

Kick off the Holiday Season in Downtown! Charlottesville’s Mayor will pull the switch lighting up the entire Downtown Mall with brilliant holiday light for the Grand Illumination. Festive holiday music by the Charlottesville Municipal Band and local gospel groups. Children and adults alike can welcome Santa’s arrival in Charlottesville as he rides a fire truck down the mall!

December

Oratorio Society Annual Holiday Concert

Cabell Hall Auditorium, University of Virginia

434-996-3610

Call for exact date and time

Admission Charged

The Oratorio Society of Charlottesville- Albemarle (TOSCA) is a 65-member group of singers of all ages (college and beyond) who enjoy singing good music. They present holiday favorites for the whole family.

First Night Virginia

Events are held at locations throughout the downtown area

December 31

434-975-8269

Entertainment, food, and events in Downtown Charlottesville, fireworks at midnight. There are fabulous musicians, magicians, storytellers, puppet shows, and entertainers galore. The event is alcohol free.
Admission Charged (Admission buttons are sold prior to the event, call number listed above for participating stores.)

Call for hours.

Giant Menorah Lighting and Community Chanukah

Central Place on the Downtown Mall

434-293-5994

Call for exact time and date.

Admission Free

Join Chabad of Charlottesville at Central Place on the Downtown Mall for a Chanukah celebration for folks of all ages. Sing the “Dreidel Song” and “Rock of Ages” and feast on traditional holiday treats like potato latkes with all the trimmings and jelly doughnuts…plus chocolate gelt and prizes for the kids!

Spotlight at the Paramount

Charlottesville’s Downtown mall

434-979-1922

Call for exact date and time.

Admission Free.

Local performers are in the Spotlight! Spirited performances of holiday cheer will begin every half hour.

Michie Tavern’s Yuletide Feast

Michie Tavern

683 Thomas Jefferson Parkway
434-977-1234

Call for exact date and time.

Admission Charged. Advance ticket purchase required. Reservations begin in November.

Strolling musicians entertain guests dining by candlelight. A banquet of Virginia favorites is served. Festive 18th century style fresh greens and fruits decorate the Tavern.

Christmas by Candlelight

Ash Lawn-Highland

1941 James Monroe Parkway, (2 ½ miles from Monticello on Route 795, off Route 53).

434-293-9539

Call for exact date and time.

Admission Charged.

Christmas candlelight tours are given by costumed interpreters. Hot cider and jumbles are served.

This major East Coast resort city welcomes college students and other travelers with a scenic boardwalk bustling with ice-cream shops, fast-food outlets, nightclubs, and places to rent water-sports equipment. There are excellent beaches north of town and thousands of hotel and motel rooms to suit every budget.

Visit the landing site where the first colonists touched shore, enjoy an IMAX theatre presentation, explore a nature trail and hundreds of interactive exhibits at the Virginia Marine Science Museum, and experience various marine habitats. In winter, the museum organizes trips to see the humpback whales that congregate off the coast.

Nearby, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and First Landing State Park are excellent places to ride bicycles, observe the migrating waterfowl, and explore coastal dunes.

On April 26th 1607 Admiral Christopher Newport set a landing party ashore at the present site of Virginia Beach. Fearing the area was too susceptible to attack from the native people and the Spanish, Admiral Newport chose a small island on the James River (Jamestown) on which to establish the first permanent English Colony in the new world. Fourteen years later, some of the colonists returned to the original landing site and settled in the area that is now Virginia Beach.

Abundant fishing and fertile soil assured the area’s success. In the late 1800s, Virginia Beach developed as a resort following construction of a hotel and a railroad linking it with Norfolk. After World War I it became an important base in the national coastal-defense system and today is home to Little Creek Naval Amphibious Base, Oceana Naval Air Station, and Fleet Combat Direction Systems Warfare Training Center at Dam Neck.

With its excellent beaches and many fine hotels, Virginia Beach is one of the most popular resort destinations on the east coast and one of the fastest growing cities in the United States.

B- City Information:

Population : 433,934

Elevation: 15 feet

County: Virginia Beach

Land area: 248.3 square miles

Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time Zone

Average weather in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Based on data reported by over 4,000 weather stations

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Average temp. (°F)
40.2
42.1
49.0
57.4
66.1
74.4
79.0
77.4
72.2
61.3
52.4
44.3

High temperature (°F)
48.1
50.6
57.9
67.0
74.7
82.7
86.7
84.8
79.5
69.6
61.1
52.5

Low temperature (°F)
32.2
33.6
40.0
47.7
57.4
66.1
71.3
70.0
64.9
53.0
43.7
36.2

Precipitation (in)
4.0
3.4
4.1
3.3
3.8
3.7
5.0
4.9
4.2
3.5
3.0
3.1

Normal climate around Virginia Beach, Virginia
Based on data reported by main weather stations

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Days with precipitation
11
10
11
10
10
9
11
10
8
7
8
9

Wind speed (mph)
11.4
11.8
12.3
11.8
10.4
9.7
8.9
8.8
9.6
10.2
10.3
10.9

Morning humidity (%)
75
75
74
74
77
79
81
84
84
83
79
76

Afternoon humidity (%)
59
57
54
51
56
57
59
61
61
59
57
59

Sunshine (%)
53
56
60
63
62
67
62
62
61
59
56
54

Days clear of clouds
9
8
9
9
8
7
7
8
9
12
10
9

Partly cloudy days
7
6
8
9
10
12
12
12
9
7
8
7

Cloudy days
16
14
15
12
13
11
12
11
11
12
12
15

Snowfall (in)
3.0
2.9
1.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.9

Climate :
Ocean breezes moderate the humidity and make for a mild climate in Virginia Beach. Air temperatures range from 40 Degrees in the winter to 80 in the summer. Spring and fall shorten winter(with an average snowfall of 8 inches) and drift into Summer (average July/ August temperatures 78 Degrees F)

Getting Around
Once in Virginia Beach, enjoy the convenience and fun of the trolley service from 2nd Street to 42nd Street on Atlantic Avenue; 19th Street and Pacific Ave. South on General Booth Boulevard; Lynnhaven Mall via the 44 Expressway; The Entertainment Express runs until 2.30am to all the major nightspots.

Tidewater Regional Transit (TRT) provides area bus transportation. Call (757) 640-6300 for information on routes, schedules and fares

By Car
All roads lead to Virginia Beach. When approaching from the west, the easiest routes are Interstate 64, U.S. 460 or U.S. 58. From the north and south, convenient routes are Interstates 85 or 95, U.S. 17 and U.S. 13 (crossing the world-famous Chesapeake Bay-Bridge Tunnel, a 17-mile span connecting Virginia’s Eastern Shore with Virginia Beach). These routes intersect with Interstate 64, which connects with the Virginia Beach-Norfolk Expressway, Interstate 264, and leads directly to the Virginia Beach oceanfront.

Alternate Driving Routes
Travelers driving to Virginia Beach can avoid the tension of driving and relax right away, thanks to the many routes leading to the resort city. Rather than the traditional and trafficked Interstate 64, explore the breathtaking scenery, wildlife and historical monuments found along routes 13, 17, 60 and I-664 in Virginia.

Route 13 For a truly picturesque drive from the north, consider Route 13 – a scenic stretch of open road through Virginia’s eastern shore. A trip through Cape Charles offers a look at some of Virginia’s most untouched nature, as tall trees and grasses line the highway and sea gulls glide in the sky.

Route 17 Another alternative route to Virginia Beach from the north is Route 17, leading drivers through the heartland of Virginia. Historic towns like Fredericksburg and Yorktown dot Route 17, ensuring visitors a healthy dose of American history while on their way to the beach resort.

Route 60 Route 17 also affords travelers the opportunity to connect with Route 60, and experience yet more American history with a stop at Colonial Williamsburg or the 1607 Jamestown Settlement. Williamsburg, in addition to the historical attractions, boasts unique shopping experiences and theme parks, such as Busch Gardens and Water Country USA.

Route 460 Visitors also can travel Route 460 through the Virginia countryside, through Petersburg and Lynchburg, to stop and explore the Civil War monuments.

Interstate 664 Those eager to get to the beach as soon as possible – and, who can blame them – can pick up Interstate 664 in Newport News and experience Hampton Roads’ other bridge-tunnel, the Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel. Interstate 664 connects with Interstate 264 in Portsmouth, just minutes from the Virginia Beach oceanfront.

By Air
Virginia Beach is served by Norfolk International Airport and the Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport. The airport is a quick 20-minute ride from the oceanfront, is serviced by almost every major U.S. carrier and offers close to 200 flights daily.

By Train
An Amtrak train connection is available in Newport News, a neighboring city to Virginia Beach. Amtrak bus service is available between the train station and 19th Street and Pacific Avenue. Reservations are required. Call Amtrak at 800-USA-RAIL (800-872-7245).

By Water
Water is never far away in Virginia Beach. The city contains 51.3 square miles of water, which takes form in the dozens of rivers, bays, lakes, marsh areas and fingers of water that flow into the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay. Linking the Chesapeake Bay and James River estuaries is the Hampton Roads harbor, one of the finest natural harbors and home port to the world’s largest naval base. Here, the Intracoastal Waterway begins at mile marker 1. From Virginia Beach, recreational boaters can travel as far north as Boston and south to Brownsville, Texas.

Navigators along the East Coast can reach Virginia Beach by plotting a course on the Intracoastal Waterway or Atlantic Ocean. For more information about local marinas and slip fees, call 1-800-VA BEACH.

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
The Virginia Marine Science Museum
717 General Booth Boulevard, Virginia Beach
Tel:717-425-FISH
The States largest aquarium with 800,000 gallons of aquariums and live habitats this is one of the top ten most visited aquariums in the country . A must see for all ages.

Oceana Navel Air Station
Oceana Boulevard or London Bridge Rd
Tel:757-433-3131
One of the U.S Navy’s four master jet bases with 22 squadrons. Seasonal tours are available

Historic Cape Henry
Atlantic Ave/Fort Story, Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-460-1688
Come see and stand where perhaps your ancestors first set foot on the New World back in 1607. The first landing cross marks the place. Also, here you will see the oldest government built lighthouse in the USA, dating back to 1791.

The Pavilion, Virginia Beach Convention Center
1000 19th Street
Tel: 757-437-7629
The convention center is in a wonderful building of interesting architecture, which hosts a variety of events each year. A great location for a trade show or meeting.

Association for Research & Enlightenment
67th Street/Atlantic Ave., Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-428-3588
Now here’s a unique place to visit. It’s the International headquarters documenting the works of psychic Edgar Cayce.

Seashore State Park
2500 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-481- 2131
With more than 27 miles of hiking trails, camping and picnic areas this 2700-acre area is a nature lovers paradise.

Upper Wolfsnare House
2040 Potters Road, Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-491-3490
If History is your passion this house is a must. Built in 1759 by Thomas Walke III it gives a wonderful insight into life at that time.

Adam Thoroughgood House
1636 Parrish Road, Virginia Beach
Tel: 757- 460 0007
Step back in time and visit this 17th Century house in the style of an old English Cottage and discover historic herbs and flowers in the gardens.

Contemporary Art Center
2200 Parks Ave, Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-425 0000
Although specializing in the presentation of 20th century art styles, the Art Center also presents an eclectic mixture of fine Art forms.

Tidewater Veterans Memorial
19th Street, Virginia Beach
In appreciation of the contributions of the military in the area, a magnificent sculpture/waterfall has been erected here.

Rudee Inlet 7 Marina
Winston-Salem Ave, (Nr. Pacific Ave)
Fun for all if you plan a day out here. Whether it’s a Chesapeake Bay and Virginia Beach tour of 2 hours or a full days sports fishing you’re after, you’ll find it here.

Old Coast Guard Station
24th Street/Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-422 1587
For those of you who come down to the sea, to dream of days gone by, this museum will transport you back in time with historical stories to tell of shipwrecks off the coast and a history of the area.

Virginia Zoological Park
3500 Granby Street
Norfolk, VA
Tel: 757- 441 2706
Located only about half an hour’s drive from Virginia Beach you will find this fine Zoo. The whole family will love it!

Colonial Williamsburg
Henry Street/Rt 199
Tel: 1-800 History
Williamsburg is a must if you’re staying in the Virginia Beach area. It’s about 1 hour’s drive away and there’s lots to see and do with 18th Century houses, a governors mansion, the capital plus Colonial restaurants and shops. Learn all about the history of the area from costumed characters who’ll stroll among you and put on wonderful plays. Special events are put on at different times of the day and evening.

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
45 minutes from Virginia Beach
open from March through October
hours 10am-10pm most days
Tel:757 253 3350
Busch Gardens Williamsburg has four of the world’s top-rated roller coasters, including Alpengeist and the new Apollo’s Chariot. This hypercoaster will plummet riders a total of 825 feet. From awesome rides and spectacular shows to superb shopping and fabulous feasts, Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers a fun-filled adventure you’ll never forget.
Directions:
Take Interstate 64 West to Exit 242A, then follow SR 199 2 Miles to US 60, take US 60 east, 1.5 Miles to entrance

Water Country USA
45 minutes Virginia Beach
Open May through September
hours 10am-8pm, late summer 7pm and 6pm
Tel: 1 800-343-SWIM
With more than 35 wacky cool water rides, super shopping and tasty treats, Water Country USA is the coolest way to beat the heat. Directions:
Take Interstate 64 West to Exit 242A, then follow SR 199 ¼ Mile to Entrance

Colonial Williamsburg
Open March through August
hours 9.30am-5pm
Tel:1-800-HISTORY
Colonial Williamsburg is the world’s largest outdoor living history museum. Learn all about the history of the area from costumed characters who’ll stroll among you and put on wonderful plays. Special events are put on at different times of the day and evening. Directions:
About an hours drive from Virginia Beach midway between Richmond and Norfolk on I-64 (exit 238). After exiting, look for the green and white signs for the Visitor Center. Once you purchase your admissions pass, you can either take the shuttle bus or walk to the Historic Area.

Virginia Air & Space Centre
600 Settlers Landing Road,Hampton,Va
Tel: 757 727 0800
Less than an hour from Virginia Beach is the Air & Space museum which will bring excitement and fun for kids of all ages!

The Virgina Marine Science Museum
717 General Booth Boulevard, Virginia Beach
Tel:717 425 FISH
The States largest aquarium with 800,000 gallons of aquariums and live habitats this ‘Travel Attraction of the Year’ is one of the top ten most visited aquariums in the country . A must see for all ages.

Old Coast Guard Station
24th Street/Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-422 1587
For those of you who come down to the sea, to dream of days gone by, this museum will transport you back in time with historical stories to tell of shipwrecks off the coast and a history of the area.

Childrens Museum
221 High Street Portsmouth
Tel: 757-393 8393
Kids looking for something different to do? Well approx. 30 minutes form Virginia Beach is a fun museum. Watch them delight while playing with the big Bubble machine where they can make bubble as big as themselves! Or hold your breath as you watch them scale the indoor rock-climbing wall

Ocean Breeze Amusement Park
849 General Booth Boulevard
Tel: 757 422 4444
A traditional amusement park to complement a day at the beach.

E- Events & Entertainment:
Street Stages (all summer)
7th, 17th & 24th
Virginia Beach
Tel: 757- 491 SUNN
Head to these stages for entertainment at all times of day and night. Free for all! You’ll find a great variety to choose from such as musicians and singers, magicians and comedians.

The Hampton Roads Shakespeare Festival (all summer)
2000 Seatack Neighborhood Park
Virginia Beach
Tel: 757-425 1154

June

Latin American Festival

June-September

Beach Street USA

Nightly 8 – 11:30 p.m.

July 4

Stars and Stripes Explosion

Mid-July

Mid-Atlantic Hermit Crab Festival

Late July

Philippine-American Festival

August

Tiger Birthday Party
Virginia Zoo hosts a birthday party for its tigers.

Live Bird Café at the Virginia Beach Zoo

Ongoing Sat & Sun 12pm & 1pm

Late August

Soul Music Beach Festival

September

Labor Day Weekend

Verizon Wireless American Music Festival

Early September

Rock and Roll Half Marathon

Mid-September

Blues at the Beach

Annual Neptune Festival
Features a variety of competitions and entertainment

Early October

Virginia Beach Annual Film Festival

Mid-October

Annual Oktober Brew Festival

Halloween (Late October)

Screech Street Festival

Williamsburg is located in southeastern Virginia on a peninsula between the James and York Rivers, which run into Chesapeake Bay. Settled in 1632, it was Virginia’s capital from 1699 to 1779. After that time, the city unfortunately declined, and it was not until the 1920′s that people again took a real interest in Williamsburg. It was in 1926 that the idea of excavating and restoring the colonial site of Williamsburg took root. Williamsburg then underwent a complete transformation from an industrial town to what is now known as Colonial Williamsburg.

Colonial Williamsburg bridges Virginia’s past and present, with remnants of the past preserved amid the cultural and commercial bustle of the modern day. Throughout the city, an engaging mix of sights, sounds and activities helps visitors reconnect with America’s past and become active participants in 18th-century life. Not only can visitors enjoy the restored buildings, but also actors recreate the everyday lives of early settlers. On Colonial Williamsburg’s 173 acres, 88 original 18th- and early 19th-century structures, such as the courthouse, have been meticulously restored. The site curators are dedicated to maintaining the period’s integrity in every detail from pieces of furniture, pottery, china, glass, silver, pewter, textiles, tools, and carpeting, to landscaping.

All year round, visitors can observe hundreds of costumed interpreters wearing bonnets or three-cornered hats and speaking in character. Many residents of the settlement demonstrate their trades in venues open to the public. Historic trade demonstrations, dramatic vignettes, interactive programs and encounters with “People of the Past” take place in 28 exhibition sites and historic trade shops throughout the Historic Area. Visitors can enjoy 18th-century style dining in authentic colonial surroundings at any one of Colonial Williamsburg’s four operating taverns.

For a vacation with the grandchildren, for a holiday celebration with the family, or for a time of personal reflection: treat yourself to the opportunity to become part of our nation’s living history in Colonial Williamsburg!

B- City Information:
Population: 11,998

Elevation: 86 feet above sea level

Land Area: 8.5 square miles

Location: Williamsburg is 150 miles south of Washington, D.C., midway between Richmond and Virginia Beach, Virginia on Interstate 64.

Time Zone: Williamsburg is located in the Eastern Time Zone (when it’s noon in Williamsburg, it’s 11am in Chicago and 9am in Los Angeles). Williamsburg observes Daylight Savings Time April – October.

Weather:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Average temp. (°F)
38.5
41.2
48.8
57.8
66.2
73.8
78.1
76.5
70.8
59.8
50.9
42.5

High temperature (°F)
48.9
52.4
61.0
71.1
78.2
85.2
89.0
87.1
81.6
71.5
62.4
53.0

Low temperature (°F)
28.1
29.9
36.6
44.4
54.1
62.3
67.2
65.9
60.0
48.0
39.3
31.9

Precipitation (in)
4.2
3.4
4.6
3.2
4.5
3.4
5.3
5.0
5.0
3.6
3.4
3.3

Climate:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Days with precip.
10
9
11
9
11
9
11
9
8
7
8
9

Wind speed (mph)
9.4
9.9
10.4
10.1
8.9
8.3
7.7
7.4
7.9
8.3
8.7
9.1

Morning humidity (%)
78
77
76
75
79
81
83
86
88
87
82
79

Afternoon humidity (%)
58
55
51
48
53
55
57
59
58
56
54
57

Sunshine (%)
54
57
61
65
64
69
66
64
63
61
58
54

Days clear of clouds
8
8
8
8
7
7
7
7
9
12
9
9

Partly cloudy days
7
6
8
9
10
12
12
12
9
7
8
6

Cloudy days
16
14
15
13
14
12
12
12
12
12
13
15

Snowfall (in)
4.2
3.5
1.8
0.1
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.2
1.6

Local Seasons:

Summer is the busiest time of year as visitors come to visit and experience the many historic attractions in and around the area. With the summertime temperatures averaging in the high 70s F, with daytime highs in the mid to high 90s and evenings dropping into the 60s F, it is possible to spend the entire day and night seeing the sights. Spring and fall are quite beautiful with the changing of the seasons. In the spring, the blossoms begin to appear as early as March and dot the countryside. It’s a great time to take a walk and enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer. The same applies to the fall when the area becomes an array of beautiful colors and temperatures to match. Winter is the slower time of year and snow does fall but it does make the town look even more “picture perfect”. While the temperatures do drop during this time, the daytime can reach the 40s F, giving the visitor the choice of both indoor and outdoor activities to pursue.

How to Get There:

By Car

Easily accessible by car, Williamsburg is conveniently located 150 miles south of Washington, D.C., midway between Richmond and Virginia Beach, Virginia on Interstate 64.

From Interstate 64, visitors may take exits 227 through 242 to reach different points of interest in the Historic Triangle.

Exits 227, 230, and 234 – route travels to Route 60 West.

Exit 238 – route travels to Colonial Williamsburg and the downtown area.

Exit 242 – route travels to Route 60 East.

By Air

Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF)

900 Bland Blvd.

Newport News, VA 23602

757-877-0221

The airport is located 20 minutes from downtown and is served by many of the low cost regional airlines.

Norfolk International Airport (ORF)

2200 Northview Avenue

Norfolk, VA 23518

757-857-3351

The airport is located approximately 50 minutes from Williamsburg and is serviced by many of the national airlines as well as certain regional carriers.

Richmond International Airport (RIC)

1 Richard E Byrd Terminal Drive

Richmond VA 23250

804-226-3000

The airport is located 50 minutes from Williamsburg and is serviced by a variety of the national airlines as well as certain regional carriers.

Ground Transportation

Ground transportation is available at all three airports, including car rental companies, taxis, and limousines

.

By Train

Amtrak

468 North Boundary Street
Williamsburg, VA 23185

800-USA-RAIL

Direct Amtrak service from Baltimore, Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.

How to Get Around:

Very few cars are allowed in the Historic Area from 8am – 10pm daily, so visitors must find alternate parking. In addition a shuttle bus is available.

The Williamsburg Visitors Shuttle

757-259-4111

Fee Charged

The shuttle bus operates from Memorial Day until Labor Day, from 9am -10pm.

National Holidays:

New Year’s Day, January 1

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the third Monday in January

President’ Day, the third Monday in February

Memorial Day, the last Monday in May

Independence Day, July 4

Labor Day, the first Monday in September

Thanksgiving Day, the fourth Thursday in November

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, December 24 and 25

New Year’s Eve, December 31

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Colonial Williamsburg
I-64 Exit 238
757-220-7645
Colonial Williamsburg is a marvel, a true recreation of the city that was the capital of Virginia from 1699 until 1780. All year round hundreds of costumed interpreters, wearing bonnets or three-cornered hats, rove and ride through the cobblestone streets.

Water Country USA
One Busch Gardens Blvd.
Williamsburg VA 23187-8785
757-253-3350
A splash of amusing entertainment and a drop of fun-filled adventure add up to gallons of great times at Water Country USA. It is the largest water theme park in the mid-Atlantic region. Watch the breathtaking high-dive spectacular at the Aqua Theatre. Visit Kid’s Kingdom. -Just My Size- rides, shows and pools await kids of all ages when they visit this water wonderland. Unique features include unusual water ski boats filled with slides, waterfalls, fountains and water guns.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg
One Busch Gardens Boulevard
P.O. Box 8785
Williamsburg VA 23187-8785
757-253-3350
Busch Gardens Williamsburg recreates the 17th-century charm of old world Europe. Journey through more than 30 spine-tingling rides and attractions, sparkling live shows and a wide variety of authentic foods and shops. Busch Gardens Williamsburg provides thrills and chills for the entire family. One special feature is the WILD MAUS roller coaster, this colorful and dynamic ride mimics the motion of a mouse through a maze. LAND OF THE DRAGONS is a colorful, musical adventure area designed for younger children. This unique attraction features a three-story tree house inhabited by Busch Gardens’ resident dragon -Dumphrey- and his delightful dragon friends.

Jamestown Settlement
Rte. 31 off Colonial Pkwy
757-229-1607
This is a living-history museum, with a reconstructed fort staffed by docents dressed as colonists. It also features an inhabited “Indian Village” At the pier there are reproductions of the Godspeed, the Discovery, and the Susan Constant.

Yorktown Battlefield
Colonial Pkwy
757-898-3400
The museum displays George Washington’s original field tent; dioramas, illuminated maps, and a short movie tell the story. A free range walking tour is available of the battlefield.

The Yorktown Victory Center
Rte. 238 off Colonial Pkwy
757-887-1776
Located next door to the Yorktown Battlefield, it consists of a Continental Army encampment, with tents, a covered wagon, and interpreters-costumed as soldiers. Inhabitants speak to visitors in the regional dialects of the time.

Bassett Hall
Francis Street
Williamsburg VA 23185
757-229-1000
Bassett Hall was built in 1760. This home was the Williamsburg residence of Mr and Mrs Rockefeller, Jr. from 1936 to 1979. The house is furnished with antiques and folk art from the Rockefeller’s collection.

Jamestown Festival Park
P.O. Drawer Jf
Williamsburg VA 23187
757-229-1607
Jamestown Festival Park features full-size replicas of the three ships, which arrived in 1607 with the Jamestown colonists. The Susan Constant, Godspeed and Discovery are moored at the Festival Park pier. James Fort and an Indian village have also been reconstructed. Costumed interpreters provide information about these exhibits. A restaurant and a gift shop are located on the premises.

Carter’s Grove Plantation
Carter’s Grove Plantation was built in 1750 by Robert “King” Carter. The property was purchased and renovated in 1929 and has since been designated as the “most beautiful house in America”. The grounds contain a representation of Wolstenholme Towne, a community of the 17th century destroyed in 1622 by an Indian attack. Archeologists uncovered the site in the 1970′s. A visitor center, demonstrations, exhibits and a gift shop are available.

Busch Gardens Brewery
One Busch Gardens Boulevard
Williamsburg VA 23187
757-253-3039
While visiting Busch gardens, you can take the -Eagle One- monorail over for a brewery visit from April through November. Visitors have the opportunity to see our world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales up close in Heather Downs, the Scottish village section of Busch Gardens. While at the brewery, you may take a leisurely self-guided tour.

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Colonial Williamsburg
I-64 Exit 238
757-220-7645
Colonial Williamsburg is a marvel, a true recreation of the city that was the capital of Virginia from 1699 until 1780. All year round hundreds of costumed interpreters, wearing bonnets or three-cornered hats, rove and ride through the cobblestone streets.

Water Country USA
One Busch Gardens Blvd
Williamsburg VA 23187-8785
757-253-3350
A splash of amusing entertainment and a drop of fun-filled adventure add up to gallons of great times at Water Country USA. It is the largest water theme park in the mid-Atlantic region. Watch the breathtaking high-dive spectacular at the Aqua Theatre. Visit Kid’s Kingdom. -Just My Size- rides, shows and pools await kids of all ages when they visit this water wonderland. Unique features include unusual water ski boats filled with slides, waterfalls, fountains and water guns.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg
One Busch Gardens Boulevard
P.O. Box 8785
Williamsburg VA 23187-8785
757-253-3350
Busch Gardens Williamsburg recreates the 17th-century charm of old world Europe. Journey through more than 30 spine-tingling rides and attractions, sparkling live shows and a wide variety of authentic foods and shops. Busch Gardens Williamsburg provides thrills and chills for the entire family. One special feature is the WILD MAUS roller coaster, this colorful and dynamic ride mimics the motion of a mouse through a maze. LAND OF THE DRAGONS is a colorful, musical adventure area designed for younger children. This unique attraction features a three-story tree house inhabited by Busch Gardens’ resident dragon -Dumphrey- and his delightful dragon friends.

Jamestown Settlement
Rte. 31 off Colonial Pkwy
757-229-1607
This is a living-history museum, with a reconstructed fort staffed by docents dressed as colonists. It also features an inhabited “Indian Village” At the pier there are reproductions of the Godspeed, the Discovery, and the Susan Constant.

Yorktown Battlefield
Colonial Pkwy
757-898-3400
The museum displays George Washington’s original field tent; dioramas, illuminated maps, and a short movie tell the story. A free range walking tour is available of the battlefield.

The Yorktown Victory Center
Rte. 238 off Colonial Pkwy
757-887-1776
Located next door to the Yorktown Battlefield, it consists of a Continental Army encampment, with tents, a covered wagon, and interpreters-costumed as soldiers. Inhabitants speak to visitors in the regional dialects of the time.

E- Events & Entertainment:
Events

January

Williamsburg Quilt Festival

Usually held the third week of February

215-862-5828

Explore an American art that has developed and grown with the nation. Williamsburg Festival Week is a compilation of four exciting quilting, fiber arts, and wearable art shows, and is the perfect place for quilters and wearable, textile and fiber artists of all levels and ages to explore these arts. These four festivals revolve around the textile arts: the Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival; the Mid-Atlantic Wearable Art Festival; the Mid-Atlantic Fiber Arts Fair; and the Williamsburg Quilt & Vintage Annex. In all, more than 500 quilts, wearables, dolls and textiles on exhibit; workshops, lectures and special activities offered; four Merchant Malls with more than 140 vendors.

May

Spring Native Wildflower Sale

Held in early May

Virginia Living Museum

Newport News, VA.

757-595-1900

Admission Free

More than 40 species of native perennials, grasses and shrubs are available for purchase in this joint sale by the Virginia Living Museum and Virginia Native Plants Society. All plants are nursery propagated.

Civil War Weekend

Held in late May

Yorktown National Cemetery and Confederate Cemetery

757-898-2410

Tactical demonstrations, encampments and a Confederate field hospital interpret the role Yorktown played during the Peninsula Campaign. Special Memorial Day ceremonies take place at the Yorktown Victory Center,

July

The Road to Independence: People of Vision

Held over the Fourth of July weekend

888-593-4682

Salute America during the third annual Fourth of July event, leading up to the anniversary of the momentous American victory at Yorktown. The two-day event explores the important personalities of the American Revolution. Visitors can join in military drills and learn about the sacrifices of our nation’s founders, including those who signed the Declaration of Independence.

Fourth of July at Colonial Williamsburg

Held on the Fourth of July

Colonial Williamsburg

800-HISTORY

A salute to the 13 Colonies, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, a garden party at the Palace, and fireworks at 9:15 p.m. Fireworks viewing open to the public. Garden Party requires admission.

Yorktown Independence Day Celebration

Held on the Fourth of July

757-890-3500

Hours: 9am – 10pm

Admission Free

Celebrate the Fourth of July in the place where independence was won. This family-oriented event is staged in Historic Yorktown and has something for everyone, including an arts and crafts show, a classic car show, parade, children’s game area, food and beverages, musical entertainment and of course, a spectacular fireworks show over the York River.

Watermen’s Heritage Festival

Held in mid July

Watermen’s Museum

309 Water Street

Yorktown

757-887-2641

Admission Charged

The Work Boat races start with a parade of Work Boats at 12:30 pm followed by the blessing of the fleet and the races. Activities include exhibits, contests, demonstrations, crafts and artwork for sale. There are children’s activities and displays from local military bases including the Naval Weapons Station and the Coast Guard Training Base. The Yorktown Trolley runs from the parking areas in town to the Watermen’s Museum.

September

National Public Lands Day

Held in mid September

Colonial National Historical Park

Historic Jamestown and Yorktown Battlefield

757-898-2410

Admission Free

A celebration of the role that publicly owned lands play in the preservation of America’s natural and cultural resources at one of the 387 areas nationwide administered by the National Park Service.

Bacon’s Rebellion Weekend

Held in mid September

Historic Jamestown

757-898-2410

Evening walking tours will relate the details of Bacon’s Rebellion as they occurred at Jamestown, including a symbolic burning of the town site. Living history programs during the weekend highlight the actions of key events of the rebellion.

October

Howl-O-Scream

Held during the entire month of October

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

800-343-7943

Admission Charged

The creeps come out at night as Howl-O-Scream returns to haunt Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Monstrous mayhem is on hand as this 17th century European-themed adventure park transforms into a “scream” park full of Halloween fun.

Spirits and Witches Brew Lunch and Tour or Candlelight Dinner Tour

Held various days throughout the month of October

Edgewood Plantation

Charles City, VA

800-296-3343

Reservations required

Edgewood Plantation has a lunch or dinner and a tour of the plantation where countless ghost stories have been written, including one about the legendary lost Civil War love of Lizzie Rowland.

An Occasion for the Arts

Held in early October

Merchants Square

757-259-1206

Admission Free

Annual juried festival of nationally acclaimed artists; performances by jazz, classical, Dixieland, acoustic, country and rock musicians; youth art and stage.

Italian Festival

Held in mid October

On the grounds of the Williamsburg Winery

757-220-5535

Admission Charged

Italian food, Virginia wines, entertainment and artisans, plus an Alfa Romeo classic car exhibit and activities for children.

Yorktown Victory Celebration

Held in mid October

Special programs also are held in Yorktown at Yorktown Battlefield, administered by Colonial National Historical Park.

Yorktown Victory Center

888-593-5682

Military life and artillery demonstrations mark the anniversary of America’s momentous victory at Yorktown. To experience Continental Army life firsthand, visitors may enroll in “A School for the Soldier,” where they can try on uniforms, march to the beat of a Revolutionary drum and join in other hands-on military activities.

Night of the Living Museum

Usually held the third week of October

Virginia Living Museum

Newport News, VA.

757-595-1900

Hours: 6pm – 9pm

Admission Charged

A family Halloween celebration returns at the Virginia Living Museum, featuring live animal shows, a night trail walk, and various creatures of the night. Hear Halloween and night animal myths dispelled and experience a haunting planetarium show filled with little known Halloween facts. This is a non-scary event for families with children ages 12 and under.

November

Berkeley Plantation First Thanksgiving Festival

Held in early November

Berkeley Plantation

Charles City, VA

888-466-6018

Hours: 9am – 5pm

Admission Charged

Celebrate the 1619 landing of the original colonists at Berkeley Plantation; the site of the first official Thanksgiving in America, for a day dedicated to history, food and fun with tours of the 1726 manor house, Thanksgiving dinner at Berkeley Coach House Tavern, walks in the colorful autumn gardens and a formal living history program.

Foods & Feasts of Colonial Virginia

Jamestown Settlement & Yorktown Victory Center

888-593-4682

Admission Charged

Explore Virginia food of the 17th and 18th centuries during this three-day event beginning on Thanksgiving Day. At Jamestown Settlement, learn how food was gathered, preserved and prepared on land and at sea by Virginia’s English colonists and Powhatan Indians. At the Yorktown Victory Center, learn about typical soldiers’ fare during the American Revolution and trace the bounty of a 1780s farm from field to kitchen.

December

Annual Williamsburg Area Community Christmas Parade

Held in early December

757-229-6511

Hours: 9am

Admission Free

Starts at Merchants Square.

Annual Christmas Homes Tour Presented by the Green Springs Garden Club

757-565-7844

Admission Charged

Tour private residences in or near the Historic Area that are not usually open to the public. Each location will be decorated with holiday floral arrangements.

The Grand Illumination

Colonial Williamsburg

800-HISTORY

Admission not required for viewing

Colonial Williamsburg welcomes the Christmas holiday season with candles, fireworks and music.

A Colonial Christmas

Held mid to late December

Jamestown Settlement & Yorktown Victory Center

888-593-4682

Admission Charged

Experience 17th-and 18th-century holiday traditions. At Jamestown Settlement, a film and special guided tours compare and contrast English Christmas customs of the period with how the season may have been observed in the difficult early years of the Jamestown colony. At the Yorktown Victory Center, hear accounts of Christmas and winter in military encampments during the American Revolution and glimpse holiday preparations on a 1780s Virginia farm.

Indoors and out, Burlington has much to offer. The Church Street Marketplace is a pedestrian mall filled with small boutiques, cafes, and craft vendors. Burlington has a wonderfully independent culture all its own. The city is a favorite of residents of Vermont, who come to Burlington to experience the festive hospitality of the city.

Burlington’s unique small town, yet sophisticated culture, its generous and happy spirit, and its incomparable scenery all combine to inspire and to refresh.

B- City Information:
The Spirit of Ethan Allen
Burlington Boat House, College St. at Battery St.
802-862-9685
This replica of an old paddle-boat takes people on narrated cruises upon Lake Champlain. Guests can eat dinner as they drift by the Adirondacks and the Green Mountains.

Lake Champlain Basin Science Center
One College St.
802-864-1848
This center has presentations about the ecology, history, and culture of the lake region. The hands-on exhibits are a favorite with children and adults.

Ethan Allen Homestead
North Ave., off Rte. 127, north of Burlington
802-865-4556
This museum is dedicated to the life of Vermont’s famous founding father. The house is filled with colonial furniture and exhibits, and the nearby trails are beautiful.

Shelburne Museum
Rte. 7, 5 mi south of Burlington
802-985-3346.
This museum is located on 45 acres and includes 37 buildings. Its collections number more than 80,000 objects, including 18th- and 19th-century period homes and furniture, fine and folk art, farm tools, more than 200 carriages and sleighs, Audubon prints, an old-fashioned jail, and even a private railroad car from the days of steam! Kids of all ages will love the antique toy exhibit.

Shelburne Farms
West of Rte. 7 at the junction of Harbor and Bay Rds., 6 mi south of Burlington
802-985-8686
This 1,400-acre property is an educational and cultural resource center. Visitors can see a working dairy farm, get to milk a cow and get up close to many other farm animals at the Children’s Farmyard, watch the making of world-famous Vermont cheddar cheese, listen to nature lectures, or simply stroll the immaculate grounds stretching along the Lake Champlain waterfront.

Vermont Teddy Bear Company
2236 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne
802-985-3001
This teddy bear headquarters loves to talk about toys and bears of all shapes and sizes. A children’s play tent is set up outdoors in summer, and visitors are welcome to tour the beautiful 57-acre property.

Vermont Wildflower Farm
Rte. 7, 5 mi south of the Shelburne Museum
802-425-3500
This 6-acre farm features eye-popping displays of various floral arrangements throughout the year: violets in the spring, daisies and black-eyed Susans for summer, and a full palette of fall colors.

Green Mountain Audobon Nature Center
18 mi southeast of Burlington, Huntington-Richmond Rd., Richmond
802-434-3068
The center’s 300 acres of diverse habitats are a wildlife sanctuary filled with trails. Educational activities appeal to both kids and adults.

Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge
Swanton, 36 mi north of Burlington, 36 mi north of Burlington
802-868-4781
This refuge includes 6,300 acres of federally protected wetlands, meadows, and woods. Bird-watchers and other outdoor enthusiasts can walk, canoe, jog, picnic, and have a great time in this beautiful preserve.

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Lake Champlain Basin Science Center
One College St.
802-864-1848
This center presents a variety of information about the ecology, history, and culture of the lake region. The hands-on exhibits are a favorite with children and adults.

Ethan Allen Homestead
North Ave., off Rte. 127, north of Burlington
802-865-4556
This museum is dedicated to the life of Vermont’s famous founding father. The house is filled with colonial furniture and historical exhibits. The nearby trails are beautiful in every season.

Shelburne Museum
Rte. 7, 5 mi south of Burlington
802-985-3346.
This extensive museum is located on 45 acres and includes 37 buildings. Its collections feature over 80,000 objects including 18th- and 19th-century period homes and furniture, fine and folk art, farm tools, more than 200 carriages and sleighs, Audubon prints, an old-fashioned jail, and even a private railroad car from the days of steam! Kids of all ages will love the antique toy exhibit.

Shelburne Farms
West of Rte. 7 at the junction of Harbor and Bay Rds., 6 mi south of Burlington
802-985-8686
This 1,400-acre property is an educational and cultural resource center. Visitors can see a working dairy farm, get to milk a cow and get up close to many other farm animals at the Children’s Farmyard, watch the making of world-famous Vermont cheddar cheese, listen to nature lectures, or simply stroll the immaculate grounds stretching along the Lake Champlain waterfront.

Vermont Teddy Bear Company
2236 Shelburne Rd., Shelburne
802-985-3001
This teddy bear headquarters loves to talk about toys and bears of all shapes and sizes. A children’s play tent is set up outdoors in summer, and visitors are welcome to tour the beautiful 57-acre property. It’s almost too much to “bear.”

Vermont Wildflower Farm
Rte. 7, 5 mi south of the Shelburne Museum
802-425-3500
This 6-acre farm features eye-popping displays with changing floral arrangements throughout the year: violets in the spring, daisies and black-eyed Susans for summer, and a full palette of fall colors.

Green Mountain Audobon Nature Center
18 mi southeast of Burlington, Huntington-Richmond Rd., Richmond
802-434-3068
The center’s 300 acres of diverse habitats are a wildlife sanctuary filled with walking trails. Educational activities will enthrall kids and adults alike.

Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge
Swanton, 36 mi north of Burlington, 36 mi north of Burlington
802-868-4781
This refuge includes 6,300 acres of federally protected wetlands, meadows, and woods. Bird-watchers and other outdoor enthusiasts can walk, canoe, jog, picnic, and have a great time in this beautiful preserve.

Outside the city, Utah’s beautiful landscape and unique geological features continually amaze visitors. The Great Salt Lake is the second saltiest body of water in the world, and it has been mysteriously refilling itself in recent years, leading to an explosion of life in and around the lake. The Timpanogos Cave National Monument leads to several miles of exciting and interesting underground sights. The center of the caverns opens up to display a vast array of dazzling white crystals.

Salt Lake City’s greatest outdoor venue continues to be its mountains. The Wasatch Mountains offer some of the best skiing in the world and are one reason why Olympic officials chose Salt Lake City to host the winter Olympics in 2002. For years, travelers tended to overlook this serenely beautiful, sunlit, historic city, but this is no longer true. The whole world seems to be coming to Salt Lake City, and the city and its people are ready.

B- City Information:
Population: 181,743

Elevation: 4266 feet above sea level

Land Area: 109.1

Location: Located adjacent to the Great Salt Lake in the central section of Utah, at the intersections of Interstate 84 from the north, Interstate 15 from the south, and Interstate 80 from the east and west.

Time Zone: Salt Lake City is in the Mountain Time Zone (when it’s noon in Salt Lake City, it’s 11am in Los Angeles and 2pm in New York City). Salt Lake City observes Daylight Savings Time from April – October

Weather:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Average temp. (°F)
31.8
36.5
44.8
51.9
60.3
70.7
78.0
77.0
66.9
55.5
42.2
33.0

High temperature (°F)
38.5
43.5
52.9
61.1
70.0
81.5
89.0
87.9
77.5
65.0
49.8
39.6

Low temperature (°F)
25.2
29.4
36.6
42.6
50.6
59.7
67.0
66.0
56.4
46.0
34.5
26.4

Precipitation (in)
1.6
1.6
2.0
2.2
2.3
0.8
0.7
0.7
1.3
1.7
1.6
1.3

Climate

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Days with precipitation
10
9
10
10
8
5
4
6
5
6
8
9

Wind speed (mph)
7.5
8.1
9.3
9.6
9.4
9.4
9.5
9.7
9.1
8.5
8.0
7.6

Morning humidity (%)
79
78
70
66
65
59
52
53
61
68
75
79

Afternoon humidity (%)
69
60
46
39
34
26
22
24
30
41
59
71

Sunshine (%)
45
54
64
68
72
80
83
82
82
72
53
42

Days clear of clouds
6
5
7
7
9
14
17
16
16
14
8
6

Partly cloudy days
6
7
8
9
10
10
10
11
8
8
7
6

Cloudy days
19
16
16
14
12
6
4
4
5
9
15
18

Snowfall (in)
13.6
9.8
9.3
5.0
0.6
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
1.3
7.0
11.8

Local Seasons:

As the capital city of Utah as well as being both a business city and a leisure destination, Salt Lake City sees a multitude of visitors year round. Visitors come to enjoy the nearby mountains, explore Temple Square; the worldwide headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, as well as to hear the world renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir. In the winter, temperatures in the city can reach into the 40’s F during the day, while dropping to the 20’s F at night. This is mild compared to the nearby mountains. Spring and summer are quite pleasant. In the spring, temperatures rise about 10 F each month, beginning in March, making it a great time to explore the many out of doors activities and sites available. Summers are very dry with low humidity, but temperatures can approach 90 F, making it seem much warmer. Fall is lovely with the temperatures comfortably cool in the day and just right for a warm drink by the fire at night. Whatever time of year, this remarkable city welcomes its guests with warm and friendly atmosphere.

How to Get There:

By Car

Major routes into the area are I-80 from the east and west, I-15 from the north and south, and I-84 from the northwest.

By Air:

Salt Lake City International Airport

776 North Terminal Drive

Salt Lake City, UT 84116

801-575-2400

The airport is just north of I-80 at Exit 115, on the west side of the city. It is served by many of the national airlines, certain international carriers, and a variety of regional carriers.

Ground Transportation

Most of the major car rental companies, as well as taxis and limousines, are available at the airport and throughout the city.

By Train

Amtrak

340 South 600 West
Salt Lake City, UT 84101

800-USA-RAIL

By Bus

Greyhound

160 West S Temple
Salt Lake City, UT 84101

801-355-9579

How to Get Around:

Getting around town is quite easy by car. The city has wide streets and ample parking. In the summer, from June – August, the city also operates the Pioneer Trolley (801-240-6279). It provides transportation in the Temple Square area.

National Holidays

New Year’s Day, January 1

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the third Monday in January

President’ Day, the third Monday in February

Memorial Day, the last Monday in May

Independence Day, July 4

Labor Day, the first Monday in September

Thanksgiving Day, the fourth Thursday in November

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, December 24 and 25

New Year’s Eve, December 31

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Temple Square
North Visitors’ Center, 50 W. North Temple St.
801-240-2534
This 10-acre expanse is the center of sites related to the Mormon Church.. Two visitor centers house exhibits and art with religious themes.

Salt Lake Temple
The six-spired granite temple is open only to church members, but the public may enter the other buildings and monuments spread across the beautifully landscaped grounds.

Joseph Smith Memorial Building
801-240-1266
This Mormon community center is where visitors can learn how to conduct computerized genealogical research. Other attractions include a film on early Mormon history and the emigration of Mormons to the Salt Lake Valley in the mid-19th century.

Museum of Church History and Art
West Temple St.
801-240-3310
This museum displays Mormon artifacts, paintings, fabric art and sculptures.

Family History Library
West Temple St.
801-240-2331
This massive genealogical library provides free public access to the Mormons’ huge collection of genealogical records, one of the largest in the world.

Beehive House
South Temple St.
801-240-2671
Built in 1854, this house was the home of Brigham Young while he served as territorial governor.

Hansen Planetarium
15 S. State St.
801-538-2098
The museum exhibits include a moon rock display among its many exhibits. A domed theater hosts laser shows set to music, as well as various live stage performances.

State Capitol
300 N. State St.
801-538-1563
Completed in 1915, the State Capitol is a lovely Renaissance-style building featuring depression-era murals in the rotunda, which depict events from Utah’s past.

Pioneer Memorial Museum
300 N. Main St.
801-538-1050
This museum lies directly west of the state capitol grounds, and it holds thousands of artifacts including tools and carriages from the late 1800s and a doll and toy collection.

Marmalade District
West of the Capitol Building
This neighborhood contains many pioneer houses that are beautiful both inside and out. It’s a wonderful place to go for information on pioneer life.

Utah Museum of Natural History
University of Utah, 200 S. 1340 East
801-581-4303
This large museum presents Native American artifacts, dinosaur skeletons and hands-on science adventures. This is a great place to take the kids.

Great Salt Lake
About 17 mi west of downtown Salt Lake City via I-80
Water flows into the lake, but there is no outlet other than evaporation. This causes the lake to be the second saltiest body of water on Earth, surpassed only by the Dead Sea. There are two beaches here, each with showers.

Wasatch Mountains
Rising to more than 11,000 ft, the mountains provide an impressive backdrop and recreational escape for city dwellers. Resorts here offer hiking, biking, arts festivals and concerts in summer, and skiing in winter.

Park City
29 mi. east of Salt Lake City via I-80
Utah’s premier ski destination, Park City’s three ski areas will host much of the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. The historic Main Street has a museum, galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Hogle Zoo
2600 Sunnyside Ave.
801-582-1631
This wonderful zoo has more than 1,300 animals in exhibits spread out over a large, spacious area.

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Family History Library
West Temple St.
801-240-2331
This massive genealogical library provides free public access to the Mormons’ huge collection of genealogical records, one of the largest in the world.

Beehive House
South Temple St.
801-240-2671
Built in 1854, this house was the home of Brigham Young while he served as territorial governor.

Hansen Planetarium
15 S. State St.
801-538-2098
The museum exhibits include a moon rock display among its many exhibits. A domed theater hosts laser shows set to music, as well as various live stage performances.

State Capitol
300 N. State St.
801-538-1563
Completed in 1915, the State Capitol is a lovely Renaissance-style building featuring depression-era murals in the rotunda, which depict events from Utah’s past.

Pioneer Memorial Museum
300 N. Main St.
801-538-1050
This museum lies directly west of the state capitol grounds, and it holds thousands of artifacts including tools and carriages from the late 1800s and a doll and toy collection.

Marmalade District
West of the Capitol Building
This neighborhood contains many pioneer houses that are beautiful both inside and out. It’s a wonderful place to go for information on pioneer life.

Utah Museum of Natural History
University of Utah, 200 S. 1340 East
801-581-4303
This large museum presents Native American artifacts, dinosaur skeletons and hands-on science adventures. This is a great place to take the kids.

Great Salt Lake
About 17 mi. west of downtown Salt Lake City via I-80
Water flows into the lake, but there is no outlet other than evaporation. This causes the lake to be the second saltiest body of water on Earth, surpassed only by the Dead Sea. There are two beaches here, each with showers.

Wasatch Mountains
Rising to more than 11,000 ft, the mountains provide an impressive backdrop and recreational escape for city dwellers. Resorts here offer hiking, biking, arts festivals and concerts in summer, and skiing in winter.

Park City
29 mi. east of Salt Lake City via I-80
Utah’s premier ski destination, Park City’s three ski areas will host much of the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. The historic Main Street has a museum, galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Hogle Zoo
2600 Sunnyside Ave.
801-582-1631
This wonderful zoo has more than 1,300 animals in exhibits spread out over a large, spacious area.

E- Events & Entertainment:
Events

January

First Night Salt Lake City

Location: Downtown

Held December 31st from 6pm to midnight

801-359-5118

Admission Charged

First Night is a New Year’s Eve Celebration of the Arts, with music, art, theatre, dance, fireworks, and kid’s activities held in indoor and outdoor venues. There are two fireworks shows; the early bird’s Children’s Fireworks at 9:00 PM, and the classic midnight Fireworks Finale.

April

Salt Lake City Marathon & 5K- Run, Bump and Boogie

Location: Starting line is at the Olympic Legacy Bridge at the University of Utah, the site of the 2002 Winter Olympic Athlete Village

Held end of April

801-412-6060

Admission Charged for marathon and 5K run, free to watch

The Salt Lake City Marathon & 5K is certified and sanctioned through USATF, and is a qualifier for the Boston Marathon. The 26.2 mile scenic downhill course makes it an appealing run for a wide range of entrants. Entry classes will include open, masters and wheelchair divisions and will have 17 age divisions. Top runners from around the world will enjoy crisp, cool running weather in April, in a setting that surrounds them with snow-capped peaks contrasting with spring blossoms, all along a flat and slightly downhill 26.2 mile course. The gentle course skirts the base of the towering Wasatch Mountains, passes by cozy neighborhoods and elegant estates, and winds through Salt Lake’s legendary wide streets, into the city center. The music rocks and crowds of enthusiastic spectators cheer participants on, all the way to the electric finish at the Olympic Legacy Plaza at The Gateway, in downtown Salt Lake.

VegFest

Location: Plaza of the downtown public library

Usually held end of April

801-355-3320

Admission Free

Some of Utah’s best live music is featured; along with jugglers, face painting, bounce houses, some of the best vegan (meat and dairy free) food around.

May

Prehistory Week

Location: Various venues in Salt Lake City

Usually held early May

801-533-3529

Celebrate Utah’s diverse and fascinating prehistory at events statewide. During Prehistory Week you can participate in tours, demonstrations, lectures, workshops, and hands-on archaeology.

Masonic Open House

Location: Masonic Center

Usually held mid May

650 East South Temple

801-450-1421

Free & Accepted Masons cordially invites the public to attend their annual open house which includes tours of the historic Masonic Center.

Iris (flower) Show

Location: Sugarhouse Garden Center

1602 East 2100 South
Salt Lake City, UT 84106

Held on a Saturday in mid May and a Saturday at the end of May

The iris has sometimes been called the poor man’s orchid; however, people from all walks of life enjoy these beautiful flowers. The newer irises that have been developed in recent years are quite different in texture, form and color than the irises that were developed years ago. The first show features early blooming iris and the second show features later blooming iris. Both shows are judged.

June

Salute Our Military Day

Location: Hogle Zoo

Usually held the last week of June

801-584-1729

As a thank you to all who serve in the United States military, Utah’s Hogle Zoo hosts “Military Appreciation Week”. All military personnel and their immediate family (spouse and dependent children) receive free admission to Utah’s Hogle Zoo.

November

Psychic Fridays

Location: Great Salt Lake Marina

Held Friday, Saturday and Sundays in November

801-252-9336

Enjoy live music and nightly events every Friday and Saturday nights. Get a psychic reading on Friday night. Sunday Football from 10:30am-3:00pm weekly.

Special Olympics Utah Fall Sports Classic

Location: Utah State University

Held end of November

801-363-1111

More than 700 Special Olympics athletes participate in basketball, bocce, aquatics, gymnastics and power lifting.

December

Festival of Trees

Location: South Towne Expo Center

Usually held early December

801-588-3674.

The Festival of Trees is magic! With over 700 uniquely decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, playhouses, centerpieces, and gingerbread houses, the South Towne Expo center becomes a magical wonderland.

Arts & Entertainment

Dance

Ballet West
50 West 200 South
Salt Lake City, Utah 84101

801-323-6900

Call for performance schedules

Admission Charged

Ballet West ranks among the premier professional ballet companies in the United States. With 45 dancers, the company strives to bring new levels of excellence to ballet through innovative choreography, and to present balanced programs that represent a wide range of ballet styles and viewpoints.

Utah Opera

50 West 200 South
Salt Lake City, Utah 84101
801-323-6868

Season runs October – May

Call for schedule of performances

Admission Charged

Symphony

Utah Symphony

Abravanel Hall
123 W. South Temple
Salt Lake City, UT 84101

801-533-NOTE (6683)

Call for schedule of performances

Admission Charged

Founded in 1940, the Utah Symphony has become a vital presence on the American music scene through its distinctive performances worldwide and its well-known recording legacy. The orchestra became recognized as a leading ensemble largely through the efforts of Maurice Abravanel, it’s Music Director from 1947 to 1979.

Theatre

Hale Centre Theatre

3333 South Decker Lake Drive (2200 west)

West Valley City, UT 84119

801-984-9000

Call for performance schedule

Admission Charged

Hale Centre Theatre performs comedies and musicals year-round and is Utah’s highest attended live theatre.

Off Broadway Theatre

272 South Main St.

Salt Lake City, UT 84101

801-355-4628

Call for performance schedule

Admission Charged

Home of Utah’s long-running improv comedy troupe, Laughing Stock and known as Utah’s wackiest place for great parodies, comedies, and musicals.

Repertory Dance Theatre

Located in downtown Salt Lake City

801-534-1000

Call for performance schedule

Admission Charged

Founded in 1966, RDT is America’s premiere modern dance repertory company.

Broadway in Utah

610 East South Temple

Salt Lake City, Utah 84102

801-355-5502

Call for performance schedule

Admission Charged

Touring Broadway shows are presented at this theater.

Pioneer Theatre Company

300 South 1400 East

Salt Lake City, UT 84112

801-581-6961

Season runs from September to May, call for performance schedule.

Admission Charged

Utah’s professional theatre company performs Broadway-quality plays; from classic to contemporary to world premieres plus large-scale musicals.

Sports

Utah Jazz

Professional Basketball (NBA)

Games play at the Delta Center

801-355-DUNK

Season runs October – April

Sal Lake Buzz

Minor League Baseball
Games played at Franklin Covey Field

801-485-3800

Call for additional information

Utah Starzz

Professional Women’s Basketball
Games played at the Delta Center

801-355-DUNK

Season is in the fall

Utah Grizzlies

Professional Hockey
Games played at the “E” Center

801-988-8000

Season runs October – April

South Padre Island is a dream come true for those that love to play in the water or soar through the sky. There are several places on the Island to rent equipment. Jet skis, wave runners, kayaks, and Hobie cats can be rented for as little as one-half hour or for longer periods of time. Windsurfing and kiteboarding are also popular water sports on the Island. There is a wide array of choices for touring the Island by land or by water. A horseback ride on the beach at sunset is one of several ways to end a perfect day in the tropics. South Padre Island is the spot to try those water sports that you have imagined yourself trying as you sat at home dreaming of a vacation in the sun.

Kiteboarding is fast becoming the hottest new water sport, and South Padre Island offers year round, world-class kiteboarding conditions. The Laguna Madre’s waist deep water and consistent winds give everyone from beginners to expert riders near perfect flat-water conditions in which to hone their skills. Advanced kiteboarders will enjoy riding the Laguna Madre and the waves of the Gulf of Mexico.

Other local activities include boating, swimming, fishing, surfing, sailboarding, beachcombing on long white beaches, birding, camping, in-line skating, parasailing, and bungee jumping.

Among the places to see in Port Isabel is the lighthouse, that was built in 1853 and is now a State Historic Site. You can climb to the top for a bird’s-eye view of the coast. Boats from Port Isabel’s fleet can be seen docked all around the harbor area, and you can watch them head out every morning.

The natural surroundings of South Padre Island and the Rio Grande Valley give birders and wildlife enthusiasts the opportunity to study and observe a wide variety of species. On South Padre Island, nature lovers will appreciate and enjoy the last 34 miles of ecologically significant, unspoiled beaches and sand dunes along the Gulf of Mexico. Due primarily to its location, South Padre Island is a feeding ground for various migrating birds. The fall months, namely October and November, bring birds headed south for the winter.

The white, sandy beaches of South Padre are well known throughout the United States. In fact, the beaches of South Padre Island are ranked among America’s top 10 beaches, with the emerald water of the Gulf of Mexico serving as the perfect backdrop for spectacular sunsets.

The island is perfect for sailing, fishing, windsurfing, dolphin watching, horseback riding, shopping, and golf. The evenings come alive with dining, dancing and music. Large selections of fine restaurants are available, and many will cook your catch! South Padre Island is the perfect place for a for a change of pace in a vacation paradise.

B- City Information:
Population: 2,422

Time Zone: Central Time. When it is noon at South Padre Island, it is 1:00 PM in New York City and 10:00 AM in Los Angeles. Daylight saving time is observed from April-October.

Elevation: At Sea Level

Area Code: 956

Land Area: 1.8 Square Miles

Location: Padre Island National Seashore is 150 miles southeast of San Antonio, Texas

Average Temperatures:

Month
High
Low

January
67F
47F

February
70F
51F

March
74F
56F

April
80F
63F

May
85F
69F

June
91F
74F

July
94F
75F

August
94F
75F

September
90F
71F

October
85F
65F

November
74F
54F

December
69F
50F

When to Visit:

Spring, early summer and fall are ideal times to visit the this area of Texas, though the climate is enjoyable year round. Breezes blow off the bay, so bring a sweater for the afternoons and evenings. From late March to mid June and from mid September through mid November, days are usually warm but not too hot and evenings are pleasant.

Holidays:
Jan. 1 New Year’s Day
January ( 3rd Monday) Martin Luther King Jr’s birthday
January 19 Confederate Heroes Day
February (3rd Monday) Presidents’ Day
March 2 Texas Independence Day
May (Last Monday) Memorial Day
June 19 Emancipation Day
July 4 Independence Day
August 27 Lyndon B. Johnson’s birthday
September (1st Monday) Labor Day
November 11 Veterans’ Day
November (4th Thursday) Thanksgiving Day
December 25 Christmas Day

Time & Temperature: 1-956-546-2481

Weather Forecast: 1-956-546-5378

Arriving

By Air: Harlingen’s Valley International Airport and Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport in Brownsville are easily accessible.

By Car

The Queen Isabella Causeway is a 2.5-mile modern structure that links the Island to the mainland of Texas at Port Isabel. It provides easy access (and the only access by land) to South Padre Island.

From Houston: Take U.S. Highway 59 southwest to U.S. Highway 77 south (380 miles) to Texas Highway 100 east.

From San Antonio: Take Interstate 37 south to U.S. Highway 77 south (294 miles) to Texas Highway 100 east.

From Dallas: Take Interstate 35 east to San Antonio. Interstate 37 south to U.S. Highway 77 south to Texas Highway 100.

From Corpus Christi: U.S. Highway 77 south to Texas Highway 100 east. (166 miles)

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
The Laguna Madre Nature Trail

this wheelchair accessible facility can be accessed through the circle driveway leading up to the South Padre Island Convention Centre at 7355 Padre Boulevard.

The boardwalk is open at all times and is free of charge.

Known locally as the birding boardwalk, it provides access to the Laguna Madre bay for birders and other outdoor enthusiasts. From the 1,500-foot boardwalk that extends across four acres of wetland, onlookers can see egrets, herons, oystercatchers, terns, and the White-Morph Redish Egret wading in the shallow water of the Laguna Madre.

The boardwalk also takes nature lovers over wetlands and around a freshwater pond, providing them with an excellent opportunity to view a variety of rails, soras, kingfishers, moorhens, and numerous other species.

There is also a dedicated “Warbler Rest Area” adjacent to the boardwalk frigatebirds, boobies, and other pelagic birds. Whether you tour South Padre Island by car, boat, or on foot, your birding experience will be a special one.

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

(956) 748-3607.

The Visitor’s Center is open October 1 through April 30 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily. The Center is open only on weekends during the month of May from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and is closed June 1 through September 30. The Center is also closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Entrance fee charged per car.

A short 20-minute drive from South Padre Island is Located east of Rio Hondo and bordering the Laguna Madre bay, this 45,000-acre federal preserve is one of the jewels of the refuge system and has a record number of 411 birds documented. It is also home to endangered species such as the ocelot and jaguarundi. Other animals found at the refuge are javelinas, deer, Texas tortoises, indigo snakes, bobcats, coyotes and occasionally, mountain lions.

Andy Bowie Park

761-3704
Located on the northern end of South Padre Island, this park provides beachfront picnic pavilions, concessions, children’s playground, shower facilities, Group rental facilities are also available with prior arrangement for beach parties.

Edwin K. Atwood Park
Located 1.5 miles north of Andy Bowie Park on Park Road 100, this park offers a beachfront picnic pavilion, a concession, and a beach access road, which provides twenty miles of beach driving. 761-3704

Isla Blanca Park

(956) 761-5493.

On the southernmost tip of South Padre Island, this park is the crown jewel of the Cameron County Park System. Over one mile of clean, white beach along the Gulf of Mexico offers abundant beachfront recreational facilities. Enjoy picnic and playground areas, the south fishing jetty, restaurants, clubs, University of Texas Pan American exhibits, and the Chapel By The Sea non-denominational church. There is also a full-marina with daily charters, a water park, retail shops and a boat ramp.

Laguna Madre Nature Trail
Cutting through the tall marsh grass are two boardwalks made of recycled material. Each boardwalk ends in a blind that allows people to become an unobtrusive observer of a host of birds, fish, turtles, dragonflies, lizards,and an alligator or two. Located just off to the side of the South Padre Island Convention Centre, the trail starts at the Warbler Rest Area, a plot of ground seeded with flowers designed to attract the winged creatures on a year-round basis. Located 4 miles north of the Queen Isabella Causeway. For more information call 800-SO-PADRE.

The Point Isabel Lighthouse Complex
421 Queen Isabella Blvd.

(956) 943-2262.

Daily, 9:00 – 5:00

Home to the newly renovated Point Isabel Lighthouse and the Keeper’s Cottage. In 1852, Congress approved the construction of a beacon in the Laguna Madre to support the growing ship industry of the South Texas Coast. The Point Isabel Lighthouse was built to protect and guide ships through Brazos Santiago and the barrier islands. During the Civil War, the light was closed and the tower was used as a lookout for both the Confederate and Union armies. The lighthouse was lit again after the war. In 1880, the lighthouse was renovated to accommodate a new light system. The lighthouse was officially closed in 1905. In 1952, the lighthouse was opened as a state park and is the only lighthouse on the Texas coast to be opened to the public. A replica of the Keeper’s Cottage houses the Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce, historic displays, and tourist information.

Port Isabel Historical Museum
317 E. Railroad Street

Port Isabel, TX

(956) 943-7602

Tuesday -Saturday, 10:00-4:00

Housed in the historic Champion Building, built in 1899 as a dry goods store and residence, it is one of the oldest structures in Port Isabel. The Museum houses numerous hands on exhibits, audio presentations and videos that commemorate the colorful history of the Port Isabel area, the stage of some of the most important chapters of Texas, Mexican and American History. The museum has two exhibit levels, a theater, gift shop and one of the largest collections of Mexican artifacts from the U.S. Mexican War. On the south end of the building is the famous “fish mural” painted in 1906 by a local fisherman.

Sea Turtle, Inc.

6617 Padre Blvd.

(956) 761-1720

Tuesday – Sunday, 10:00 – 4:00

Small admission charge

Did you know that picking a turtle up by its shell without supporting the tummy is like being lifted by our finger, toe nails or hair? Founded by Illa Loetscher, affectionately known as the “Turtle Lady”, this enviro-friendly organization is dedicated to caring for and educating the public about endangered sea turtles. If you see a sea turtle, call the Turtle Hotline (956) 380-9677.

South Padre Island Center

2 Wallace L. Reed Rd.

956-943-0051.

The Center occupies The Old Coast Guard Station, the only historic building on South Padre Island., With its New England style design and lookout tower, it is a popular local tourist attraction. It was built in 1923 and served as an active Coast Guard station until the 1970s.

It was renovated in 1987 to house the University of Texas at Brownsville/Texas Southmost College’s first extension campus. The SPI Center is home to the University’s South Padre Island Technical Education Center

South Padre Island Convention and Visitors Center Whaling Wall #53
Built in 1992, this modern, airy, and colorful building located four miles north of the Queen Isabella causeway was created to host a wide variety of events.

The Convention Center is also the site of the famous Whaling Wall #53 by acclaimed environmental artist Wyland. Wyland wanted to show homage to whales and other creatures of the sea by devoting his talent to painting 100 walls across the world. His “Whaling Walls” capture the grandeur of his subjects. Spanning 153 feet in length, covering 3 walls and 23 feet in height, it took over 111 gallons of paint, 100 volunteers, and nearly four days to complete. Wyland donated his time and artwork, while local residents, private sponsors, and public organizations donated the paint, scaffolding, air guns, and lighting.

The Treasures of the Gulf Museum
317 E. Railroad Street

(956) 943-7602 for more information and current admission prices.

Tuesday – Saturday, 10:00 – 4:00.

The museum tells the story of the three ill-fated Spanish ships wrecked off the northern end of South Padre Island in 1554 near present day Port Mansfield, 30 miles north of Port Isabel. The exhibit incorporates murals, artifacts and hands-on activities to interpret this event. Actual artifacts from the shipwreck include silver planchas, or disks, coins, and weapons.

The Children’s Discovery lab features hands-on exhibits that teach visitors about marine archeology. Visitors are allowed to try on period clothing and map out a treasure site. The children’s section has a small-scale ship in which children can imagine themselves sailing the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The museum also has a “ship” theater and a nautical-inspired gift shop

University of Texas Pan American Coastal Studies Laboratory

Located in Isla Blanca Park, near the north pavilion

956-761-2644

A satellite of the University of Texas Pan American,

Sunday -Friday, 1:30 – 4:30.

Charge per vehicle charge to enter the park
The Coastal Studies Laboratory studies and exhibits marine life such as crustaceans and marine vertebrates, and plant life.

North Padre Island National Seashore, Said to be the longest barrier island in the world, North Padre Island extends 113 miles from Corpus Christi almost to the Mexican border, with much of that part of the national

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark

Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark is Texas’ newest waterpark on the beautiful beaches of South Padre Island. Splash into more than a dozen family water attractions, including the world’s largest surfing ride and a five story Sand Castle.

South Padre Island Convention Centre Sand Castle

7355 Padre Blvd. on the north end of the Island.

The sand castle may be viewed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
The South Padre Island Convention Centre is the location for the largest year-round sand castle in the State of Texas. Sons of the Beach Sand Castle Wizards, who complete in sand castle building contests throughout the world, built the sand castle and restore it regularly. They use 45 tons of sand mixed with an estimated 50 pounds of clay and 200 gallons of water to build the 10 feet tall statue. Built on a 10′ X 16′ base, it is topped off with an 80% water/20% Elmer’s glue solution. In all, about half a gallon of Elmer’s glue is used to coat the castle.

The sand castle has become a year-round treat for Island guests, and at times, the foreground is changed to welcome large groups and conferences, or to mark a special event.

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

(956) 748-3607.

The Visitor’s Center is open October 1 through April 30 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily. The Center is open only on weekends during the month of May from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and is closed June 1 through September 30. The Center is also closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Entrance fee charged per car.

A short 20-minute drive from South Padre Island is Located east of Rio Hondo and bordering the Laguna Madre bay, this 45,000-acre federal preserve is one of the jewels of the refuge system and has a record number of 411 birds documented. It is also home to endangered species such as the ocelot and jaguarundi. Other animals found at the refuge are javelinas, deer, Texas tortoises, indigo snakes, bobcats, coyotes and occasionally, mountain lions.

Andy Bowie Park

761-3704
Located on the northern end of South Padre Island, this park provides beachfront picnic pavilions, concessions, children’s playground, shower facilities, Group rental facilities are also available with prior arrangement for beach parties.

Edwin K. Atwood Park

761-3704
Located 1.5 miles north of Andy Bowie Park on Park Road 100, this park offers a beachfront picnic pavilion, a concession, and a beach access road, which provides twenty miles of beach driving.

Isla Blanca Park

(956) 761-5493.

On the southernmost tip of South Padre Island, this park is the crown jewel of the Cameron County Park System. Over one mile of clean, white beach along the Gulf of Mexico offers abundant beachfront recreational facilities. Enjoy picnic and playground areas, the south fishing jetty, restaurants, clubs, University of Texas Pan American exhibits, and the Chapel By The Sea non-denominational church. There is also a full-marina with daily charters, a water park, retail shops and a boat ramp.

Laguna Madre Nature Trail
Cutting through the tall marsh grass are two boardwalks made of recycled material. Each boardwalk ends in a blind that allows people to become an unobtrusive observer of a host of birds, fish, turtles, dragonflies, lizards,and an alligator or two. Located just off to the side of the South Padre Island Convention Centre, the trail starts at the Warbler Rest Area, a plot of ground seeded with flowers designed to attract the winged creatures on a year-round basis. Located 4 miles north of the Queen Isabella Causeway. For more information call 800-SO-PADRE.

The Point Isabel Lighthouse Complex
421 Queen Isabella Blvd.

(956) 943-2262.

Daily, 9:00 – 5:00

Home to the newly renovated Point Isabel Lighthouse and the Keeper’s Cottage. In 1852, Congress approved the construction of a beacon in the Laguna Madre to support the growing ship industry of the South Texas Coast. The Point Isabel Lighthouse was built to protect and guide ships through Brazos Santiago and the barrier islands. During the Civil War, the light was closed and the tower was used as a lookout for both the Confederate and Union armies. The lighthouse was lit again after the war. In 1880, the lighthouse was renovated to accommodate a new light system. The lighthouse was officially closed in 1905. In 1952, the lighthouse was opened as a state park and is the only lighthouse on the Texas coast to be opened to the public. A replica of the Keeper’s Cottage houses the Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce, historic displays, and tourist information.

E- Events & Entertainment:
Mid January

Annual Taste of the Island
The Annual Taste of the Island, one of the most looked forward to events of the year, is held at the South Padre Island Convention Centre from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Area restaurants showcase their excellent food items, and there is also be a free tradeshow and live music for your listening enjoyment.Ticket information is available at the South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce office located at 600 Pare Blvd., South Padre Island.

Early February

Annual Kite Festival

The summer blue sky will be filled with diving, darting, fluttering and hovering kites. Experts and other kite lovers are on hand to teach the fine art of hand-held sky ballet. South Padre Island is host to two kite festivals each year.

Early February

Annual South Padre Island Chili Expo (SPICE)
In good-natured competition, cooking teams vie for votes from the crowd for the coveted People’s Choice award and turn in their judging cups to be ranked by local celebrity judges. There are also awards for Showmanship, Best Vegetarian, Best Open Category and 1st through 10th Place for Best Recipe. Criteria taken into consideration for judging is aroma, consistency, red color, taste, and aftertaste. Showmanship (must have chili entered) is judged on theme, costume, booth set-up, action, and audience appeal. South Padre Island Chamber at 956-761-4412

Early May

Annual Windsurfing Blowout
This USWA (U.S. Windsurfing Association) event invites all recreational windsurfers to compete in course slalom and distance races. Finalists are sent to compete in higher divisions. Now a nationally recognized event, it has become an Island springtime tradition

Friday nights Memorial Day through Labor Day

Fireworks

Every Friday night is the Fourth of July on the Island. At 9:15 sharp, a silent barge in the center of the Bay releases it’s payload into the summer sky. With the firework light reflecting off the water, it’s a breathtaking display.

Early August

Annual Texas International Fishing Tournament
For more than 66 years, the Texas International Fishing Tournament has taken pride in creating an atmosphere of friendly fishing competition and wholesome family fun. The five day event, , offers fishing divisions that include bay, offshore and tarpon. TIFT is open to anglers of all ages and is the largest saltwater fishing tournament in Texas. (956) 943-8438

Mid August

Annual Ladies Kingfish Tournament
The Ladies Kingfish Tournament has been an Island tradition for many years. The tournament is divided into two divisions, bay and offshore. Qualifying fish include redfish, trout and flounder for bay, and backfin tuna, dolphin and bonito for offshore. Like TIFT, the tournament is open to anglers of all ages.

Grand Champion Offshore and Overall Largest Fish. Prizes are also awarded for the best Hard Luck Story in each division. (956) 761-4412

Mid October

Bikefest and Motorcycle Convention Rally
It’s a South Padre Island Hog Rally that’s billed as “The Roar by the Shore.”

Late October

Sand Castle Days
It’s art and architecture in the sand. Get down and gritty along with sandcastle wizards who will inspire you to build sky scraping turrets and mind-bending arches. At the end of the day, go splash off in the Gulf and admire what your hands and buckets hath wrought. Prizes awarded for the most exemplary effort.

Early November

Tails Over South Padre Island Fun Fly Fiesta

The clear blue sky is filled with diving, darting, fluttering and hovering kites. Experts and other kite lovers are on hand to teach the fine art of hand-held sky ballet. South Padre Island is host to two kite festivals each year.

Visitors will find gorgeous ocean views, and many activities centered around beaches and water sports: fishing, sailing, windsurfing, and just swimming and relaxing on the beach.

The two-mile sea wall running through the heart of the business district was constructed in such a way as to open the city to the Bay rather than to form a barricade. Steps lead down to the water and to the popular “T” head docks where pleasure boats tie up. This very attractive waterfront was designed in the late 1930′s by Guzon Borglum, sculptor of Mount Rushmore.

North of downtown, over the bridge, is the site of the USS Lexington, a floating naval museum, as well as Texas State Aquarium, and extensive park and picnic areas. Scenic bay front cruises provide an orientation to all that the waterfront offers. A favorite with children is the ferryboat ride into the ship channel to watch the dolphins frolic in their natural habitat.

The Beach Loop is a scenic drive that takes about an hour with no stops (if the ferry isn’t too busy). It is wise, however, to allow a few hours for browsing the shops, walking the beach, swimming in the surf, and enjoying the view.

Begin the Loop in Downtown Corpus Christi, then cruise along Ocean Drive savoring the gorgeous view of the bay. Turn at Ennis Joslin Road to reach South Padre Island Drive (S.P.I.D.) also known as Route 358, and turn east. You will soon reach a causeway which meanders up and down over scenic bridges and takes you to Padre Island National Seashore. Turn left on Route 361 (a paved road that runs through the middle of the island). There are several Beach Access Roads along the way.

Route 361 takes you into Port Aransas, which is the deep-sea fishing capital of Texas. Gulf waters contain an abundance of king mackerel, red snapper and pompano. The Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail offers birders plenty of sightings in this area year around. The sunny beaches, eclectic island atmosphere, funky shops and waterside restaurants of Port Aransas appeal to just about everyone. It is almost impossible to drive through without stopping for an hour or two.

Leaving Port Aransas, you can drive onto a ferry for a great ride. If you get out of your car on the ferry, you might see some porpoise following behind. Continuing on Route 361, you will reach Aransas Pass, known as the “shrimp capital of the world”, then Gregory, Portland, and back to Corpus Christi.

If time permits, take a side trip along Route 35 to the sleepy little town of Rockport, the area “artist community”. There you will find a wide variety of stores featuring local art, paintings, seashells, and beachwear. If you continue to Fulton, you will pass the Fulton Mansion, a Texas landmark which has periodic tours through the historic home.

For an entertaining and enjoyable meal, stop at Boiling Pot Seafood which serves huge pots of boiled crabs, shrimp, corn, and potatoes. They will ceremoniously deposit all of this in the middle of your table, put giant bibs on everyone, and hand out wooden mallets for cracking the shellfish. Open from lunch to late evening, seven days a week, they feature blues bands on the weekends, but the process of pounding and cracking your way through the meal is entertainment enough!

Texas is cattle country and no city captures the roping, wrangling, ranching spirit of the old west like Kingsville. Just south of Corpus Christi, Kingsville is the city that grew up around the famous King Ranch. Bigger than the state of Rhode Island, the King Ranch is one of the largest (825,000 acres) and oldest working cattle ranches in the world. Guided tours are offered at the ranch and its history is also preserved in exhibits at the Conner Museum at Texas A&M University-Kingsville.

The Corpus Christi area is a shopper’s paradise. From malls and retail centers, to antique shops, souvenir centers and galleries, there are many days of shopping pleasure to be discovered.

Corpus Christi’s status as one of the breeziest (warm breezes) cities in the nation makes it a prime vacation spot for those who love the wind and waves. Each spring, the city hosts the annual U.S. Open Windsurfing Regatta. In addition, weekly sailboat regattas are held on Wednesday evening all year round.

The variety of waterways, from open Gulf beaches to protected coves, make the Corpus Christi area attractive to beginners and experts alike. In keeping with the city’s image of maintaining glistening waterways, Corpus Christi’s Water Garden at Bayfront Arts and Science Park sparkles for visitors who see, hear, and touch the garden’s water. Some 150 fountains form the nucleus of the park, which is lighted at night.

The revitalized downtown area provides visitors with an array of stores, restaurants, and nightlife. The center of activity downtown is the Water Street Market, a collection of places to dine, shop, and then relax with a cool drink and evening entertainment.

These are just a few of the unforgettable sights and sounds of Corpus Christi. How can anyone resist a visit to this Sparkling City by the Sea?

B- City Information:
Facts

Population:
281,453

Elevation:
35 feet

Time Zone:
Central Standard Time (one hour behind Eastern Standard Time)

Area:
134 sq. mi.

Emergency:
911.

Area Code:
(361)

Average Temperatures in Fahrenheit:

Month
High
Low

January
67F
47F

February
70F
51F

March
74F
56F

April
80F
63F

May
85F
69F

June
91F
74F

July
94F
75F

August
94F
75F

September
90F
71F

October
85F
65F

November
74F
54F

December
69F
50F

Spring, early summer and fall are ideal times to visit the east coast of Texas, though the climate is enjoyable year round. Breezes blow off the bay, so bring a sweater for the afternoons and evenings. From late March to mid June and from mid September through mid November, days are usually warm but not too hot and evenings are pleasant.

Holidays:
Jan. 1 New Year’s Day
January ( 3rd Monday) Martin Luther King Jr’s birthday
January 19 Confederate Heroes Day
February (3rd Monday) Presidents’ Day
March 2 Texas Independence Day
May (Last Monday) Memorial Day
June 19 Emancipation Day
July 4 Independence Day
August 27 Lyndon B. Johnson’s birthday
September (1st Monday) Labor Day
November 11 Veterans’ Day
November (4th Thursday) Thanksgiving Day
December 25 Christmas Day

How to get around:
It is advisable to have a car available. There is adequate parking and a car provides easy access to the suburban areas.

Airport :
Corpus Christi International Airport is served by major airlines and is 5-7 minutes from the city center. There is also regular daily shuttle service between Corpus Christi and the San Antonio Airport offered by several airport shuttle operators.

Bus Service:
Passenger bus service is offered by Greyhound Bus Lines and Valley Transit Company.
The Regional Transit Authority (RTA) provides public bus service to Corpus Christi and surrounding areas, as well, as special tourist service.
(Summer Only) Scenic Trail #73 An old-time trolley that explores the historic sights of Corpus Christi.
CC Beach Shuttle #76 Cruises around Corpus Christi Beach from the USS Lexington and the Texas State Aquarium.
Harbor Ferry – A passenger ferry that runs across the bay to the USS Lexington and the Texas State Aquarium on Corpus Christi Beach.
For information on any special tourist transportation services or local bus routes, call the B Rideline at 361-289-2600.

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Texas State Aquarium
2710 N. Shoreline Blvd.
1-800-477-4853
Directions:
From Corpus Christi, 181 North to Corpus Christi Beach Exit, rt. on Burleson, rt. on Surfside.. Summer Hours:
Mon.-Sat. 9-6, Sun. 10-6
Labor Day through Memorial Day:
Mon.-Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-5
Admission charged. Under 4 Free
The visitor’s experience begins at the entrance plazas which depict whales, rays, dolphins, sharks, and the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Guests enter the building by walking under a “waterfall”. Volunteer guides are stationed throughout the Aquarium to explain exhibits and answer questions.

USS Lexington
2914 N. Shoreline Blvd.
361-888-4873
Directions:
From Corpus Christi, 181 North to N. Shoreline Blvd.
Hours:
9-5 daily, except for Christmas Day.
Admission charged.
The USS Lexington, a World War II aircraft carrier, haunted the waters of the South Pacific and was known as the “Blue Ghost.” Today the USS Lexington is one of the top ten visitor attractions in the state. Multi-media presentations and unique exhibits intrigue visitors. Live reenactments engage visitors of all ages

The Art Museum of South Texas
1902 N. Shoreline Blvd.
(361) 825-3500
Directions:
From Corpus Christi, 181 North to N. Shoreline Blvd.
From Portland, 181 South to N. Shoreline Blvd.
Hours:
Tues. Wed. Fri. Sat. 10 – 5 ; Thurs. 10 – 9 ; Sun 1 – 5 (Closed Mondays)
Admission: By Donation
Changing exhibits of prints, paintings, sculpture, photography and folk art. Exhibits share space with breathtaking views of the bay in this facility designed by renowned architect Phillip Johnson.

Museum of Science and History
1900 N. Chaparral
(361) 883-2862
Directions:
Located in the Bayfront Arts and Sciences Park, on the South side of the ship channel in downtown Corpus Christi
Hours: daily Mon.-Sat. 10 – 5 ; Sun. 12 – 5.
Memorial Day – Labor Day 10 – 6.
Admission charged.

The museum contains many interesting, interactive exhibits. Also, you can explore “Reptiles of South Texas,” featuring a live alligator and “Shipwreck,” an award-winning story of a 1554 shipwreck.

Pirates of the Gulf Miniature Golf
2901 West Surfside Drive
512-884-4774
Directions:
Take I81 North to N. Shoreline Blvd.
Hours:
April-August, Daily 11-11
Sept.-March on weekends (call to check times)
Admission charged.
18 Hole championship miniature golf course.

Art Center of Corpus Christi
100 Shoreline Blvd.
(361) 884-6406
Directions:
From Corpus Christi, 181 North to N. Shoreline Blvd.
From Portland, 181 South to N. Shoreline Blvd.
Tues.-Sun. 10 – 4
Closed Mondays.
Admission: Free
Watch artists practice their craft, display their accomplishments and teach others new skills. The complex includes a gallery, gift shop and a restaurant.

Asian Cultures Museum
1809 N. Chaparral
(361) 882-2641
Directions:
Located in the Bayfront Arts and Sciences Park, on the South side of the ship channel in downtown Corpus Christi
Tues.-Sat. 10 – 5
Admission charged.

The museum houses over 8,000 objects and documents, including artifacts from Japan. There is also an exhibit of arts and crafts from the Philippines, China and Korea. Exhibits include a 5 ft. bronze Buddha, Chinese porcelain, lacquerware, opera costumes and Hakata dolls.

Britton-Evans Centennial House
411 N. Broadway
(361) 992-6003
2 – 5 Wednesday only… or when the house’s flags are flying.
Built in 1848, the Centennial House is Corpus Christi’s oldest structure. Special tours available.

Harbor Playhouse
1 Bayfront Park
(361) 888-7469 or 882-5500
Box office open Mon.-Sat. Noon – 6
Call for shows & times.
The oldest continually performing community theater in Texas. A variety of productions are offered each year at this theater by the sea, from musicals to melodramas.

Heritage Park
1581 N. Chaparral St. (near the Bayfront Arts & Science Park)
(361) 883-0639
The site of nine historical homes, the oldest dating back to 1851. These homes are now beautifully restored.

Cole Park
This sprawling 43-acre park along Ocean Drive offers a spectacular view of sparkling Corpus Christi Bay. The Kid’s Place playground is always popular. Free concerts are held Thursdays and Sundays throughout the summer.

Corpus Christi Marina
Called the “T-heads” by locals, this scenic bayfront area is bustling with activity…private yachts, sight-seeing boats, water sport rentals and waterside restaurants. Buy fresh shrimp right off the shrimp boats and don’t miss the colorful sailboat regatta every Wednesday evening.

Downtown Seawall
Impressive waterfront wall and promenade. Bicycle, rollerblade or just stroll and people-watch. Miradores del Mar provide visitors with shady rest spots along the way. And the special Mirador del Flor includes a pavilion and statue dedicated to the late Tejano singing star, Selena.

Harbor Bridge
The second tallest bridge in Texas spans the port and connects Corpus Christi Beach to the Downtown area.

Ocean Drive
A seven-mile scenic waterfront drive lined with stately homes, parks and walking paths.

Port of Corpus Christi
The sixth largest deep-water port in the U.S. The Port’s Cargo Dock One pavilion offers an incredible view of the city and ship traffic.

Corpus Christi Greyhound Race Track
5302 Leopard
1-800-580-7223 or (361) 289-9333
Evening Races Tues. – Sat. 730 ; Matinees Wed. Sat. Sun. 130 . Simulcast races Mon. Tues. and Thurs. Call for current schedule. The Clubhouse area features booth service with an excellent view of the track and televisions at every table showing the racing action live. The Grandstand area contains a variety of seating, plus a food court. Both are fully air-conditioned.. Admission

Corpus Christi Botanical Gardens
8545 South Staples
361) 852-2100
9 – 5 Tues. – Sun. Call for Holiday
Admission charged.
This 180-acre site along Oso Creek combines nature, tourism and eco-education with colorful, exotic floral exhibits and local landscapes. Tour the Orchid House, Exhibit House, Plumeria collection, Sensory Garden, Hibiscus Garden and Water Garden. Be sure to save time for the shaded Bird & Butterfly Trail, Oso Creek Trail and Gator Lake. The complex contains extensive natural wetlands and protected native habitats. The Gardens is a Greater Texas Coastal Birding Trail site with lakeside observation tower, air conditioned Visitors Center, gift shop and gallery.
There is also a playground and covered picnic sites. Parking is free. Call for class schedules and schedule of events, including spring and fall Children’s Garden, April and October plant sales, and summer day camps.

Corpus Christi Zoo
County Road 33
(361) 814-8000
Open daily 10 – 6
The Corpus Christi Zoo continues to expand its existing collection of exotic birds, primates, big cats, hoof stock, reptiles and water fowl. Children’s Petting Zoo.

GCCA/CPL Marine Development Center
4330 Waldron Road
(361) 939-7784
Reservations required. Admission free.
See red drum and spotted seatrout up close in a 3,000-gallon saltwater spawning tank at one of the largest marine fish hatcheries in the world.

Hans A. Suter Wildlife Park
Ennis Joslin at Nile
Admission free.
This coastal marshland is one of the best bird watching locations in Texas! A boardwalk, viewing tower and hiking trails offer an ideal view of ducks, rare brown pelicans and other shore birds in their natural habitat. Picnic Tables.

Padre Island
J.P. Luby Surf Park
Hwy. 361 At Zahn Road, Mustang Island
(361) 949-8121
This is where the surfers hang ten and hang out! The “surf pier” generates lots of wave action. A pavilion and recreational facilities are nearby. Special events.

Padre Ball Park
Park Road 22, Padre Island
(361) 949-8121
A recreational complex with pavilion, overnight camping hookups for RV’s, tent sites, showers and covered picnic areas. Bob Hall Pier is nearby. Admission Call.

Padre Island National Seashore
At the end of Park Road 22, Padre Island
(361) 949-8068
Park is open 24 hrs. Visitor Center daily 9 – 6 , Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Padre Island National Seashore is the largest undeveloped barrier island in the continental United States. The park is open year-round for beachcombing, camping, surfing, swimming, hiking, fishing and other activities. The Visitor Center has restrooms with showers, a convenience store and an exhibit/information center. There’s a free boat launch at Bird Island Basin.

Mustang Island State Park
Port Aransas Mustang Island
Highway 361, Mustang Island
(361) 749-5246
Park closes at 10 except to overnight guests.
Padre Island, this 3,700-acre state park has 1 1/2 miles of beach

Mustang Riding Stables
Hwy. 361, Mustang Island
(361) 991-RIDE or (361) 749-5055
Open daily 9 – 5
Ride on horseback along the beach on Mustang Island. Hay rides and beach parties also available. Instruction available

Roberts Point Park
Highway 361, Port Aransas
Free admission.
Watch dolphins chase the ferries across the ship channel and cargo ships steam by on their way to the Port of Corpus Christi. Pavilion, picnic areas, fishing pier, scenic overlook and a play area.

University of Texas Marine Science Institute
Port Aransas
(361) 749-6729
Mon-Fri 8 – 5 weekends in the summer, Sat 9 – 5 and Sun Noon – 4
Free admission
This “mini-aquarium” addresses mysteries of the sea from a scientific viewpoint and highlights current research projects.

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge
Aransas Pass, Ingleside And Rockport/Fulton
(361) 286-3559
Daily Sunrise to Sunset,
Visitors Center 8:30 – 4:30
Admission charged.
Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
30 miles north of Rockport, this expansive wildlife refuge offers a 16-mile paved loop with wildlife photo opportunities, a museum, hiking trails, picnic areas, a visitors center and an observation tower. It’s the winter home for the endangered Whooping Cranes.

Dolphin Connection
Ingleside on the Bay
(361) 882-4126 or (361) 776-2887
Five trips a day during peak season. Call between 8 and 10 tour times. Seasonal–March through October. Reservations required. View dolphins in their natural habitat in Corpus Christi Bay on this guided boat trip.

Fulton Mansion
317 Fulton Beach Road, Rockport-Fulton
(361) 729-0386
Call for tour times.
A spectacular example of French Second Empire architecture, this home has been completely refurbished by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Dept. Sixteen rooms showcase technology that was far ahead of its time when constructed in 1877.

The King Ranch
Hwy. 141 at Santa Gertrudis, Kingsville
(361) 592-8055
Visitor Center open weekdays 9 – 4 . .
The King Ranch is one of the largest and oldest working cattle and horse ranches in the world. This is the birthplace of the American ranching industry, founder of the Santa Gertrudis breed of cattle, and home of the first registered American Quarter Horse. Tours on ranch’s history, wildlife and agriculture offered.

King Ranch Museum
405 North 6th St., Kingsville, (361) 595-1881
Mon-Sat 10 – 4 ; Sun 1 – 5.
Trace the history of the King Ranch from its early days as a cow camp to the present-day activities in agribusiness, energy exploration and cattle.

Lake Corpus Christi State Park
(361) 547-2635 or (361) 389-8900
Two fishing piers and two boat ramps.

Port Aransas
(Port A to the locals) is full of colorful characters. Just a 30 minute drive from Corpus Christi, Port Aransas is a laid-back fishing village for most of the year. During peak summer months the population has been known to grow to 100,000.

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Corpus Christi Zoo
On County Road 33, off Weber Street
512-814-8000
Wed.-Sun. 9-6
145 acre park featuring a vast collection of primates, exotic birds and other animals. It also contains the Kidz Zoo which is the largest petting area in the US with two acres of barnyard animals to meet and pet.

Bayfront Arts and Science Park
1900 Shoreline Drive
512-882-5603
This plaza offers indoor and outdoor attractions that are family oriented. All of these are listed below because of their geographic proximity: some will be of particular interest to adults; others to children.
The Water Garden is a cooling circle of over 100 fountains that are lighted at night. In June it hosts the Fiesta de Corpus Christi, a celebration of the city’s Hispanic heritage. In September this is the site of Bayfest, an expansive arts and crafts show with fireworks, parades and a sailboat regatta.

The Art Museum of South Texas
512-884-3844
Tues.-Sat. 10-5 Sunday 1-5
Rotating exhibits featuring the work of many area artists.

Bayfront Plaza Auditorium
512-882-2717
Site of concerts, musicals and other shows. Call for times and prices.

Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
512-88-2862
Mon.-Sat. 10-5 Sunday 1-5
Houses the natural history of the area including artifacts from 16th century shipwrecks, a live reptile exhibit and interactive hurricane displays.

Harbor Playhouse
512-888-7469
Features children’s shows and other theater productions throughout the year. Call for details.

Heritage Park
512-883-0639
Free
Features 8 restored turn of the century homes and a multicultural center with rotating exhibits focusing on the city’s heritage.

Texas State Aquarium
2710 North Shoreline Drive (across from the Bayfront Center)
512-881-1200 or 1-800-477-GULF
Mon-Sat 10-6 Sunday noon-6
More than 250 species of marine life are displayed as well as a coral reef. Also featured are a river otter family, and a new shark “touch tank”.

USS Lexington Museum
2914 Shoreline Drive
1-800-LADY-LEX
9-8 Summer 9-5 rest of year
A fascinating tour for the whole family. The old aircraft carrier is steeped in history. It served longer than any other US Navy carrier. Tours take visitors all around the ship including the engine room, the bridge and the flight deck full of vintage planes. Multimedia programs and maritime exhibits are also on display.

Columbus Fleet
Cargo Dock One
Port of Corpus Christi
512-882-1232
Mon-Sat 10-5 Sunday noon-5
Admission charged. Recreations of the three ships of Christopher Columbus. The ships were built in Spain and are precise duplicates of the Niña, Pinta and Santa Maria. There are also historical exhibits from Spain.

Dolphin Connection
5151 East Causeway Blvd.
512-882-4126
Admission charged.

Reservations in advance required.
Children and adults will enjoy taking a boat trip into the bay to watch dolphins in their natural habitat. Children are allowed to feed the dolphins during each of the two trips made every morning from March – October.

Flagship Paddlewheeler
Peoples Street Pier, Slip 49
512-884-8306
Hour long narrated cruises of the bay and harbor. (1 1/2 hours at night) This trip into the past on a paddlewheeler will be more interesting to older children.

Playland at the Beach
3001 Seagull Blvd.
512-884-7251
Open as weather permits March-November
An exciting array of vehicular choices: go carts; bumper boats; bumper cars. In addition there is a playground and a game room.

International Kite Museum
3200 Surfside Drive
512-883-7456
Daily 10-6
Free
The history of kites as far back as 2000 years told in exhibits and videos.

Padre Island National Seashore
South of Corpus Christi at the end of Park Road 22
512-949-8068
9-6 daily
This 110 mile long island is one of the last natural seashores in the United States. Most of it is a preserve accessible only by four wheel drive vehicles or long hikes. The National Park Service has a parking area and developed parkland for visitors.
The Park Service allows visitors to collect shells, driftwood and glass floats, but not artifacts such as antique coins, etc. There is a visitor’s center; bathhouse and picnic area. There is no access road between North and South Padre Islands.

E- Events & Entertainment:
Events

Buccaneer Days PRCA Rodeo
Every April (361) 882-3242
Professional rodeo event held in Memorial Coliseum.

U.S. Open Windsurfing Regatta
Every May
361 985-1555
Wind, waves and wow what action! The event is held every May off Oleander Point.

Men’s Pro Beach Volleyball Competition
May

210-938-8810
Corpus Christi is a designated stop on the Miller Lite AVP Tour. Catch the action in May at Cole Park.

East-West Powerboat Shootout
June
National racing event held in June in Corpus Christi Bay.

Ice Rays Hockey
October – April
361 814-7825
Corpus Christi’s professional hockey team. Catch home games in Memorial Coliseum

Annual Oktoberfest
October 15, Violet
361/387-7697

Annual Rockport Seafair
October 7-8, Rockport
361/729-3312

Annual Texas Jazz Festival
October
Corpus Christi
361/883-4500

Annual Harbor Lights Festival & Boat Parade
December
Corpus Christi
361/985-1555

Cultural Activities

Ballet Nacional
(361) 854-6528

Broadway Series
(800) 714-5331

Corpus Christi Ballet
(361) 991-8521

The Cathedral Concert Series
(361) 888-6520

Corpus Christi Concert
Ballet Company
(361) 854-7969

Corpus Christi Symphony
(361) 882-4091

Harbor Playhouse
(361) 888-7469

Mariachi Clasico Lopez
(361) 855-8000

Mariachi Huasteca
(361) 883-2686

With its classic Western geography, and because it shares an international border with Ciudad Juarez, Mexico’s rich culture pervades everything in El Paso, from its art and architecture to its celebrations and cuisine. El Paso’s area is 248 square miles, making it the fourth largest city in Texas, and 22nd in size in the United States. It is the nation’s third fastest growing metropolitan areas. El Paso is midway between Los Angeles and Houston.

Shielded by mountains on three sides, the dual cities of El Paso in the US and Juárez, on the Mexican side, are rewarded with more than 200 days clear days of sunshine annually and a dry climate, making it possible to enjoy most outdoor activities year-round.

Visitors can sample some of the best Tex-Mex cuisine in the state of Texas and go bargain-shopping in Juárez, Mexico, just across the river. There are many historical and unique sites to be seen from the unusual Bhutanese-style architecture of the University of Texas at El Paso to the three Spanish colonial missions of Yselta, Socorro and San Elizario.

The Adventure Zone is one of El Paso’s largest and finest family oriented arcade experiences. It features a game zone with virtual reality simulator games, a speed zone with go-karts, and a bumper zone for a water themed play. For roller coaster fans, Western Playland Amusement Park has rides for kids of all ages. Roller coasters, water slides, trains, rides, go-carts and more in a well maintained and exceptionally clean park. This is a great place to let the kids unwind after long stretches of time in the car! How about a day at the zoo? The El Paso Zoo is home to over 175 species of animals, including many endangered species, in 18 acres of natural habitat exhibits. The zoo focuses on animals of the Americas and Asia.

For just enjoying the scenery, be sure to take a ride along “Scenic Drive”. Visitors can see all of El Paso and Juarez, plus some of New Mexico. From downtown, take Stanton St. north, then go right on Rim Road. Another nice trip by car is “The Mission Trail”. Located just 15 minutes east of downtown El Paso, the Mission Trail is rich in history dating back 400 years. Visitors can see three active missions, plus numerous other historic sites. A variety of local shopping and dining establishments are also nearby.

Of national fame is the University of Texas El Paso. This renowned University is home to the annual Sun Bowl held on New Year’s Eve. The school opened in 1914 as the Texas School of Mining and Metalurgy. The buildings were designed to resemble those seen in the city of Lhasa in the Himalayas.

El Paso is in many ways represents the authentic Southwest, standing in contrast to the wealth and glitz of Santa Fe or Tucson. El Paso is unpolished, undiluted, and honest. El Paso and Ciudad Juárez each represent their country’s largest border city. The local culture, a fusion of Mexican and American traditions, is unique in comparison to the way of life in eastern Texas.

Vacationers should be sure to allow enough time to see it all: exploring, just wandering downtown, enjoying a Tex-Mex meal, or whatever the particular interest. By spending time in El Paso, the visitor is bound to gain a better understanding of what a border town is all about.

B- City Information:

Population: 563,662

Elevation: 3867 feet above sea level

Land Area: 249.1 square miles

Location: El Paso is situated on the border of two nations, and lies in the desert 3,762 feet above sea level. The Franklin Mountains split El Paso down the middle, dividing the city into what El Pasoans refer to as the west & east sides. The Rio Grande River flows along El Paso’s Southern boundary, separating Texas from Mexico.

Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time (when it’s noon in El Paso, it’s 1pm in Dallas and 2pm in New York City). El Paso observes Daylight Saving Time from April – October

Weather:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Average temp. (°F)
45.1
50.4
56.9
64.5
73.5
82.0
83.3
81.1
75.4
64.9
52.7
45.3

High temperature (°F)
57.7
63.9
70.8
78.6
87.2
95.8
95.1
92.6
87.6
78.4
66.1
57.9

Low temperature (°F)
32.3
36.8
43.0
50.3
59.7
68.1
71.4
69.6
63.2
51.2
39.2
32.7

Precipitation (in)
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.4
0.9
1.5
1.8
1.6
0.8
0.4
0.8

Climate:

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Days with precip.
4
3
2
2
2
3
8
8
5
4
3
4

Wind speed (mph)
8.3
9.1
10.8
10.9
10.3
9.3
8.3
7.7
7.6
7.5
8.0
7.9

Morning humidity (%)
65
55
47
39
41
45
61
65
66
63
61
65

Afternoon humidity (%)
34
27
21
17
17
19
29
33
33
30
33
38

Sunshine (%)
78
82
86
89
90
90
82
81
83
84
83
77

Local Seasons:

As the home to the University of Texas, El Paso; any time school is in full session, visitors can expect a crowd. The busiest time of year is over the New Year’s Holiday when the annual Sun Bowl takes place. With temperatures near 60 F during that time, it’s a perfect time to not only experience the annual football event but to enjoy the many outdoor activities available both in the city and throughout the area. There is just a hint of snow during this time.

Spring brings sunny days and temperatures near 80 F. With low humidity, who could ask for more? Summers are hot, yet stay dry due to the low humidity.

How to Get There:

By Air

El Paso International Airport

6701 Convair

El Paso, TX 79925

915-780-4749

El Paso International Airport is the gateway to West Texas, Southern New Mexico and Northern Mexico and provides airline passenger services, air cargo, and general aviation services. The airport is served by many of the nationally known airlines as well as certain local, regional and international carriers.

Ground Transportation:

Most of the major car rental companies as well as taxi, limousine, and shuttle bus service are available at the airport as well as at select locations throughout the city.

By Car

There are several ways to get to El Paso by car:

From White Sands National Monument, NM: Travel Hwy 54 South to I-10 East.

From Juarez, Mexico: Travel Hwy 54 North to I-10 East.

Traveling from the West or the East: Travel I-10.

By Train

Amtrak

700 San Francisco St.
El Paso, TX 79901

800-USA-RAIL

Call for schedule and additional information

By Bus

Greyhound

200 W San Antonio Street
El Paso. TX 79901

915-542-1355

Call for schedule and additional information

How to Get Around:

For traveling around El Paso and between El Paso and Mexico, a rental car is recommended.

National Holidays:

New Year’s Day: Jan. 1

Confederate Heroes’ Day: January 19

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day: 3rd Mon. in Jan.

President’s Day: 3rd Mon. in Feb.

Texas Independence Day: March 2

San Jacinto Day: April 21

Memorial Day: last Mon. in May

Emancipation Day: June 19

Independence Day: July 4

Lyndon Baines Johnson Day: August 27

Labor Day: 1st Mon. in Sept.

Thanksgiving Day: 4th Thurs. in Nov.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: Dec. 24 and 25

New Year’s Eve: Dec. 31

C- Attractions/Things To Do:
Adventure Zone

251 W Redd Rd
El Paso, TX 79932
915-585-9663

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Game Zone is one of El Paso’s largest and finest arcade experiences. Game Zone offers cutting edge virtual reality, full motion simulator games, a western theme 8 player shooting gallery and some of the best redemption games and prizes in town. Speed Zone has over 800 feet of twists and turns spread out on over one acre, making it El Paso’s premier go-kart destination. Bumper Zone is set in 100,000 gallons of water with a small tropical island. Food Zone delivers top quality food for everyone and take out orders are welcome.

El Paso Zoo

4001 E. Paisano
El Paso, TX 79905

915-544-1928

Hours: Open daily from 9:30am to late afternoon

Admission Charged

The zoo is home to over 175 species of animals, including many endangered species, in 18 acres of natural habitat exhibits. The zoo focuses on animals of the Americas and Asia. The zoo is located in central El Paso near the intersection of Highway 54 and Paisano.

McKelligon Canyon

915-564-9138

Hours: Open daily, call for additional information

Admission Free

Beautiful Canyon Park is located on the north side of El Paso and in the middle of the Franklin Mountains and is fabulous for hiking and picnicking. The amphitheater is home each summer to performances of Viva El Paso! and other events. Take McKelligon Canyon Road off Alabama St.

Scenic Drive

The best view of the city accessible by car. You can see all of El Paso and Juarez, plus some of New Mexico. From downtown, take Stanton St. north, then go right on Rim Rd.

Transmountain Road and Franklin Mountains State Park

State Park 1331 McKelligon C Rd
El Paso, TX 79930

915-566-6441

Hours: Open 8am – dusk daily

Admission Charged

This is the road that cuts through the mountains and connects northeast El Paso with Canutillo to the northwest of town. There are several places to stop and enjoy different views of the desert and towns below. Franklin Mountains Park lies at the bottom of the west side of the mountain. It’s a great place for hiking and picnicking and to get an up-close view of the desert and mountains.

Western Playland Amusement Park

6900 Delta Dr, # 79905
El Paso, TX 79905
915-772-3914

Hours: Open weekends in the spring and fall and Wednesday through Sunday in the summer Admission Charged

Located in Ascarate Park in El Paso, Western Playland has rides for kids of all ages. Roller coasters, water slides, trains, rides, go-carts and more in a well maintained and exceptionally clean park. This is a great place to let the kids unwind after too much time in the car!

Wyler Aierial Tramway State Park

1700 McKinley

El Paso, TX 79930
915-566-6622

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

Seven thousand miles of Southwestern natural beauty and culture present an eagle-eye’s view atop Ranger Peak in El Paso’s Franklin Mountains. A four-minute climb treats visitors to a 946-foot vertical rise. Upon reaching the Wyler Observatory at 5,632 feet, sky-travelers spot the Hueco Mountains, New Mexico’s White Sands and Mexico.

Historical and Cultural Sites:

Camino Real

101 S el Paso St
El Paso, TX 79901
915-534-3000

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Free

Originally built in 1912 and listed on the National Historical Register. The 80-year old Tiffany glass dome, once part of the hotel’s lobby, is now the showcase of the elegant Dome Bar. The hotel has hosted such guests as Pancho Villa, President Taft, and “Blackjack Pershing”.

Magoffin Homestead

1120 Magoffin Ave
El Paso, TX 79901
915-533-5147

Hours: Open Wednesday – Sunday 9am – 4pm

An adobe-style hacienda built in 1875 by settler Joseph Magoffin. The home is built of adobe (sun-dried brick) with walls four feet thick. Some of the furnishings date back to the time of the original owner.

The Mission Trail

1 Civic Center Plaza
El Paso, TX 79901
915-534-0630
Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

Located just 15 minutes east of downtown El Paso, the Mission Trail is rich in history dating back 400 years. Visitors can see three active missions, plus numerous other historic sites. Unique local shopping and dining are also nearby. Take I-10 east to the Zaragosa exit, turn south and follow the blue historical signs.

The University of Texas El Paso (UTEP)

500 W. University Ave.
El Paso, TX 79968

915-747-5000

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Free to Visit

The school opened in 1914 as the Texas School of Mining and Metalurgy. The buildings were built to resemble those seen in the city of Lhasa in the Himalayas. The Sun Bowl Stadium on campus is home to the annual Sun Bowl.

Ysleta Mission

301 S. Schultz

El Paso, Texas 79907

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Free

At the crossroads of Zaragosa Road and Alameda Street stands the Ysleta Mission is believed to be the oldest in Texas, founded in 1682. This mission is known to be the oldest continuously used church in the United States.

Museums:

Border Patrol Museum

4315 Transmountain Dr
El Paso, TX 79924
915-759-6060

Hours: Open Tuesday thru Sunday, 9am – 5pm

Admission Charged

Learn the history of the U.S. Border Patrol from the old west to the present. Static displays of aircraft and vehicles used by the patrol, surveillance equipment, confiscated items and more. This 10,000 square foot museum is a good stop along with the Wilderness Park Museum next door.

Centennial Museum

500 W University Ave

El Paso, Texas 79902

915-747-5565

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

The museum, on the campus of the University of Texas at El Paso, is a natural and cultural history museum focusing on the Southwest and Mexico. It fulfills its mission by exhibits, education programs, and research.

El Paso Museum of Art

1 Arts Festival Plaza
El Paso, TX 79901

915-532-1707

Hours: Closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Regular Museum hours: Tues – Sat, 9am – 5pm, Sunday noon – 5pm. Galleries closed to public Mondays

Admission Charged

Located in downtown, the museum offers a celebrated permanent collection and a regular calendar of featured exhibits.

El Paso Museum of History

12901 Gateway Blvd W
El Paso, TX 79928

915-858-1928

Hours: Open Tue -Sun 9am – 4:30pm

Admission Charged

This museum displays the colorful history of Indians, conquistadors, vaqueros, cowboys and Cavalrymen who played a role in settling the Southwest.

El Paso Science Museum

12901 Gateway Blvd W
El Paso, TX 79928

915-542-2990

Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 9am -5pm

Admission Charged

Over 80 hands-on science and technology exhibits located in a new building in the City Hall parking lot downtown.

Museum of Archeology at Wilderness Park Museum

4301 Transmountain Dr
El Paso, TX 79924

915- 755-4332

Hours: Open Tuesday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm

Admission Charged

Located on Transmountain Road near Highway 54 in Northeast El Paso, this museum tells of man’s adaptation to the desert environment. There is a mile long nature trail and great views of the mountains and valleys.

Natural History Museum

9348 Dyer St.
El Paso, TX 79924
915-759-8585

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

The Natural History Museum of El Paso fills 30,000 sq. ft. with more than 300 exhibits spanning the wonders of the universe, from the progression of life on earth to the dawn of civilization to today’s marvels. Paleomania features the great international fossil collection, Tutankhamun displays treasures from one of the most famous and richest tombs ever discovered, and Starscape illustrates the cosmos with spectacular photography.

NCO Museum

Biggs Army Air Field, Bldg 11331
El Paso, TX 79901
915-568-8646

Hours: 9am – 4pm, weekdays, and noon – 4pm Saturday and Sunday

Admission Free
Here’s one place where the Non-Commissioned Officer gets due credit. Equipment and uniforms used by sergeants and other NCOs through the years are displayed.

Tiqua Cultural Center

305 Yaya Ln
El Paso, TX 79907
915-859-5287

Hour: Open from 8:30am – 5pm, Tuesday – Sunday

Admission Charged

The center features a Tigua tribe museum, including its relationship to the Tiwas of Northern New Mexico, and their arts and crafts.

U.S. Army Air Defense Museum

Bldg 5000th Fort Bliss
El Paso, TX 79916
915-568-5412

Hours: 9am – 4:30pm daily

Admission Charged

The museum includes an outdoor weapons park, with weaponry ranging from early anti-aircraft guns to the Hawk missile.

Nearby:

Plaza Monumental Bullring

Paseo Triunfo de la Republica #4630

Juarez, Mexico

915-585-8965

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

Live, traditional bullfights are held in the spring and summer at this bullring in Juarez. Three matadors fight two bulls each in this longstanding Spanish and Mexican sport. Matches last about two hours. On hot days spend the extra money for tickets on the shady side of the arena. Check the calendar of events in this issue for dates. Plaza Monumental is located at Paseo Triunfo de la Republica #4630, one block from the Rio Grande Mall.

New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum

4100 Dripping Springs Rd.
Las Cruces, NM 88011

Located 45 miles north of El Paso
505-522-4100

Hours: 9am – 5pm, Wednesday – Sunday

Admission Charged

The museum has several exhibits on farming and ranching, plus Southwestern art exhibits. The museum offers an insect zoo and wildflower and native plant garden. Domestic animals on site include burros, churro sheep, Longhorn cattle and dairy cows. Milking demonstrations are at 11am and 3pm.

War Eagles Museum

8012 Airport Rd.
Santa Teresa, NM 88008
505-589-2000

Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10am to 4pm

Admission Charged

Located at the Santa Teresa, New Mexico Airport, this unique museum is only 20 minutes from downtown El Paso. The warbirds of World War II and Korea, and other historic military aircraft, are displayed in a 54,000-square-foot building and the surrounding area. The collection includes the P-51 Mustang, P-38 Lightning, A26 Invader, and the German Fieseler-Storch. Among later era aircraft are the F-86 Sabre and MIG-15s.

Wet n Wild

8804 S Desert Blvd.

Anthony, TX 79821

Located approximately 25 miles north of El Paso

915-886-2222

Hours: Vary by season, call for additional information

Admission Charged

Have fun getting wet! A variety of rides and attractions for children and adults.

D- Family Fun Attractions:
Adventure Zone

251 W Redd Rd
El Paso, TX 79932
915-585-9663

Hours: Call for days and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Game Zone is one of El Paso’s largest and finest arcade experiences. Game Zone offers cutting edge virtual reality, full motion simulator games, a western themed 8 player shooting gallery and some of the best redemption games and prizes in town. Speed Zone with over 800 feet of twists and turns spread out on over one acre, making it El Paso’s premier go-kart destination. Bumper Zone is set in 100,000 gallons of water with a small tropical island. Food Zone delivers top quality food for everyone and take out orders are welcome.

El Paso Zoo

4001 E. Paisano
El Paso, TX 79905

915-544-1928

Hours: Open daily from 9:30am to late afternoon

Admission Charged

The zoo focuses on animals of the Americas and Asia and is home to over 175 species, including many endangered species, in 18 acres of natural habitat exhibits. Located in central El Paso near the intersection of Highway 54 and Paisano.

Scenic Drive

The best view of the city accessible by car. You can see all of El Paso and Juarez, plus some of New Mexico. From downtown, take Stanton St. north, then go right on Rim Rd.

Western Playland Amusement Park

6900 Delta Dr, # 79905
El Paso, TX 79905
915-772-3914

Hours: Open weekends in the spring and fall and Wednesday through Sunday in the summer Admission Charged

Located in Ascarate Park in El Paso, Western Playland has rides for kids of all ages. Roller coasters, water slides, trains, rides, go-carts and more in a well maintained and exceptionally clean park. This is a great place to let the kids unwind after too much time in the car!

Wyler Aierial Tramway State Park

1700 McKinley

El Paso, TX 79930
915-566-6622

Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

Seven thousand miles of Southwestern natural beauty and culture present an eagle-eye’s view atop Ranger Peak in El Paso’s Franklin Mountains. A four-minute climb treats visitors to a 946-foot vertical rise. Upon reaching the Wyler Observatory at 5,632 feet, sky-travelers spot the Hueco Mountains, New Mexico’s White Sands and Mexico.

The Mission Trail

1 Civic Center Plaza
El Paso, TX 79901
915-534-0630
Hours: Call for additional information

Admission Charged

Located just 15 minutes east of downtown El Paso, the Mission Trail is rich in history dating back 400 years. Visitors can see three active missions, plus numerous other historic sites. Unique local shopping and dining are also nearby. Take I-10 east to the Zaragosa exit, turn south and follow the blue historical signs.

El Paso Museum of History

12901 Gateway Blvd W
El Paso, TX 79928

915-858-1928

Hours: Open Tue -Sun 9am – 4:30pm

Admission Charged

This museum displays the colorful history of Indians, conquistadors, vaqueros, cowboys and Cavalrymen who played a role in settling the Southwest.

E- Events & Entertainment:
Events & Entertainment

January

Annual El Paso Chamber Music Festival

Held in early – mid January

Location: First Baptist Church on Montana

915-833-9400

Call for additional information

Presented by El Paso Pro-Musica. World-class chamber music with renowned soloists and chamber musicians.

Miss El Paso & Miss Teen El Paso

Held in early January

Location: Hanks High School Theatre

915-592-2254

Call for additional information

February

Southwestern International Livestock Show & Rodeo

Held in early – mid February

Location: El Paso County Coliseum and Fairgrounds

915-532-1401

Call for additional information

The annual show and rodeo is held at the El Paso County Coliseum and Fairgrounds.

Miss Black El Paso Southwest Scholarship Pageant

Held in early February

Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theatre

915-566-2407

Call for additional information

The Miss Black El Paso Southwest Scholarship pageant features young African American ladies exhibiting their poise, grace and erudition while vying for the coveted title of Miss Black El Paso.

Race for the Cure

Held in mid February

Location: Biggs Army Airfield

915-566-9745

Call for additional information

The annual Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation’s 5K Race and 1 mile fun walk.

Siglo de Oro Drama Festival

Held in late February – early March

Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theatre

915-532-7273

Annual celebration of the dramatic arts from Spain’s Golden Age with professional and collegiate performing groups from Mexico, Spain, South America and the United States in performances of classic works by Miguel Cervantes, Lope de Vega, Sor Juana Inez de la Cruz and Pedro Calderón de la Barca. All presentations in Spanish unless otherwise noted.

Extreme Tuner Car Show

Held in late February

Location: El Paso Convention Center

915-591-6100

Call for additional information

The annual show showcases imports and euro cars.

March

Siglo de Oro Drama Festival

Held in late February – early March

Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theatre

915-532-7273

Annual celebration of the dramatic arts from Spain’s Golden Age with professional and collegiate performing groups from Mexico, Spain, South America and the United States in performances of classic works by Miguel Cervantes, Lope de Vega, Sor Juana Inez de la Cruz and Pedro Calderón de la Barca. All presentations in Spanish unless otherwise noted.

El Paso Sports Expo

Held in early March

Location: El Paso Convention Center

915-544-9550

Call for additional information

An interactive sports venue for parents and kids.

El Paso Times Spelling Bee

Held in early March

Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theatre

915-546-6255

Call for additional information

About 150 students from West Texas and Southern New Mexico compete in the El Paso Times Spelling Bee. The champion will represent the area at the National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.

Northeaster Parade

Held in late March

Location: Hercules and Diana

915-751-6964

Call for additional information

Annual parade starts at 10 am. at Hercules and Diana, and continues 1 1/2 miles along Diana to North Park Mall.

April

WinStar Derby

Held in early April

Location: Sunland Park Racetrack

505-874-5200

Call for additional information

The annual running of the $500,000 WinStar Derby and $250,000 WinStar Oaks.

World On A String Guitar Festival

Held in early – mid April

Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theater

915-541-4481

Call for additional information

The El Paso Arts & Culture Department presents renowned classical guitar artists from around the world.

Heritage Festival Week

Held in late April – early May

Location: Varies in El Paso

915-533-1555

Call for additional information

The celebration of El Paso’s art, culture, history and natural beauty, featuring dozens of events.

May

Heritage Festival Week

Held in late April – early May

Location: Varies in El Paso

915-533-1555

Call for additional information

The celebration of El Paso’s art, culture, history and natural beauty, featuring dozens of events.

Art in the Park

Held in late May

Location: Memorial Park

915-533-3311

Call for additional information

The City Parks & Recreation Department’s semi-annual arts & crafts fair with continuous entertainment.

Armed Forces Day

Held in late May

Location: Noel Field, Fort Bliss

915-568-4505

Call for additional information

Military equipment displays, chili cook-off, live music, historical tours, health fair and more.

KLAQ Balloon Festival

Held in late May

Location: Wet-N-Wild Waterworld

915-544-8864

More than 75 hot air balloons take flight during the annual festival. Event includes three full days of rides, vendors, balloon glows and live concerts.

June

Car Show

Held in early June

Location: El Paso County Coliseum

915-920-0997

Call for additional information

Big Daddy Car Show and Concert

Held in late June

Location: Sunland Park Racetrack

505-874-5200

Call for additional information

Chili Cook-off

Held in late June

Location: El Paso County Coliseum

915-534-4229

Call for additional information

Food booths and entertainment

July

Independence Day Parade

Held on July 3

Location: Thunderbird and Shadow Mountain

915-581-5179

Call for additional information

West Side parade starts at 9 am. July 3 at Thunderbird and Shadow Mountain; East Side parade starts at 9 am. July 4, at Hanks High School.

Downtown Street Festival

Held in early July

Location: Various Downtown Locations

915-544-8864

Call for additional information

The annual 4th of July celebration in downtown El Paso features four stages of live entertainment, more than 100 vendor booths, food and drink, a children’s carnival, and July 4 fireworks.

Summer Music Games

Held in early July

Location: Sun Bowl Stadium

Call for additional information

The annual Drum Corps International “Drums Along the Border” event.

El Paso Aqua Posse International Swim Meet

Held in early July

Location: Call for exact location

915-833-0212

Annual swim meet.

Ysleta Mission Festival

Held in early July

Location: Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church

915-859-0848

Call for additional information

The event includes food, drink, music, dance, arts & crafts and religious items booths, games.

Chamizal Independent Film Festival

Held late July – early August

Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theater, the El Paso Museum of Art, the UTEP Union Cinema and Juarez’s Pronaf Theatres

915-585-0672

Call for additional information

Filmmakers from the United States and Mexico present feature, documentary and short independent films. The festival also includes lectures, competitions and other special events.

August

Fiesta de San Lorenzo

Held in early August

Location: San Lorenzo Catholic Church in Clint

915-851-2255

Call for additional information

The annual celebration includes plenty of live music, matachines dancers, food booths, and more.

Chamizal Independent Film Festival

Held late July – early August

Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theater, the El Paso Museum of Art, the UTEP Union Cinema and Juarez’s Pronaf Theatres

915-585-0672

Call for additional information

Filmmakers from the United States and Mexico present feature, documentary and short independent films. The festival also includes lectures, competitions and other special events.

Bodybuilding Championships

Held in mid August

Location: Abraham Chavez Theatre

505-373-2998

Call for additional information

Sun City Border Regional Championships.

Seafood and Music Festival

Held in mid August

Location: El Paso County Coliseum

915-534-4229

Showmanship and judging; food booths plus music.

KLAQ “Taste of El Paso”

Held in mid August

Location: Western Playland

915-544-8864

Call for additional information

Some of ­ El Paso’s best restaurants offer samples of their food during the annual event. Also features rides, vendors and live entertainment.

St. Nicholas Greek Festival

Held in late August

Location: Greek Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas

915-833-0882

Call for additional information

The annual celebration of Greek food, music and culture is Friday through Sunday,

September

Fiesta de las Flores

Held over Labor Day Weekend

Location: El Paso County Coliseum

915-542-3464

Call for additional information

The festival includes a variety of food and game booths, arts and crafts, car show and a Niñoville area for kids. Fiesta de las Flores Pageant is at 7:10 pm. Friday and Saturday, and Queen Crowning is at 8:10 pm. Sunday. Karaoke contest 6 to 7 pm. Friday and Saturday, finals at 6 pm. Monday. World Championship Huacha Tournament begins at noon Saturday at the Equestrian Center. A Celebrity Huacha Tournament is noon Sunday.

American Heart Walk

Held in early September

Location: Chamizal National Memorial Walk

915-833-1231

Call for additional information

The annual 5K family fun walk for the American Heart Association. Walk from the Chamizal through the El Paso Zoo and return. Includes entertainment, health fair, kid’s tent, and exhibits.

Mexican Independence Day

Held in mid September

Location: Chamizal National Memorial

915-533-6311

Call for additional information

The celebration commemorates the call Padre Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla gave the night of the Sept. 15 that ignited Mexico’s rebellion against Spain. The Mexican Consul General’s office honors Mexico’s independence with this ceremony filled with live music and ballet folklóricos dancing.

El Paso Chopin Music Festival

Held in mid September

Location: Chamizal National Memorial

915-584-1595

Call for additional information

El Paso County Fair and Junior Livestock Show

Held in mid September

Location: El Paso County Coliseum Fairgrounds

915-497-9518
Call for additional information

The annual Bucking on the Border bull riding competition and livestock show.

El Paso Interior Design & Remodeling Expo

Held in mid September

Location: El Paso Convention Center

361-882-2071

Call for additional information

Expo LTD presents the show 10 am to 7 pm. Friday, 10 am to 6 pm Saturday and Sunday.

Art in the Park

Held in late September

Location: Memorial Park

915-533-3311

Call for additional information

The City Parks & Recreation Department’s semi-annual arts & crafts fair is Saturday and Sunday at Memorial Park.

Woman’s Club Fall Festival

Held in late September

Location: The Clubhouse 1400 North Mesa

915-532-6131

Call for additional information

‘Cars Under the Stars’ Car Show

Held in late September

Location: Cohen Stadium

915-755-7637

Call for additional information

More than 300 cars and motorcycles attend the annual event, sponsored by Rio Grande Wheels Car Club.

October

Celebration of Our Mountains

Held the entire month of October

Location: Varies throughout El Paso

915-542-1422

Call for additional information

The annual Celebration of Our Mountains is a month-long festival of events to encourage appreciation of the El Paso region’s environment. More than 30 hikes, field trips, driving tours, nature walks, bicycle rides and other activities are offered to the public. Most events are free

El Paso Wine and Food Festival

Held in early October

Location: Varies

915-751-1181

Call for additional information

The epicurean fundraiser for the El Paso Tennis Development Foundation is held at various venues, including a Friday gala at Insights.

Arts International

Held in early October

Location: International Museum of Art

915-534-7377

Call for additional information

One of the region’s most prestigious juried arts competitions, presented by the El Paso Art Association is held at the International Museum of Art.

Fall Bash

Held in early October

Location: Westside Community Church

915-584-0882

Call for additional information

The annual community cookout, sponsored by Westside Community Church, is held at Francisco Delgado Park, on Imperial Ridge behind Franklin High School. Free cookout, face painting, jumping Balloons and live music.

Oktoberfest

Held in early October

Location: Fort Bliss

915-568-8923

Call for additional information

The annual celebration that brings a taste of Bavaria, especially beer, to El Paso is held on Carter Road at Fort Bliss.

Chamizal Festival

Held in early – mid October

Location: Chamizal National Memorial Theater and Grounds

915-532-7273

Call for additional information

The Chamizal’s annual tradition features three days of music, dance, children’s programs and demonstrations of traditional folk crafts.

Hueco Tanks Interpretive Fair

Held in mid October

Location: Hueco Tanks State Historic Site

915-857-1133

Call for additional information

Traditional Native American song and dance, pictograph tours, campfire program, cowboy skills demonstrations, food and gifts for sale.

November

A Christmas Fair

Held in early November

Location: El Paso Convention Center

915-584-3511

Call for additional information

The Junior League of El Paso’s annual holiday shopping event featuring more than 130 shops and specialty stores from around the country.

ACTF West Texas Festival

Held in mid November

Location: Studio Theatre and Wise Family Theatre at UTEP

915-747-5118

Call for additional information

The UTEP Department of Theatre, Dance and Film host guest colleges performing a variety of plays as part of the national theater program,

YMCA Turkey Trot

Held in late November

Location: Central YMCA

915-533-3941

Call for additional information

The annual Thanksgiving Day 5K run and 3K fun walk benefiting YMCA youth and teen programs.

Las Palmas Del Sol Sun Bowl Parade

Held on Thanksgiving Day

Location: Downtown El Paso

The annual parade begins at 10 am. Thanksgiving Day, downtown El Paso.

December

Season of Lights

Held in early December

Location: UTEP

915-747-8600

Call for additional information

Annual lighting of the UTEP holiday lights. The 150,000-plus lights stay lit each night through Jan. 1.

Senior All-Star Football Classic

Held in mid December

Location: UTEP’s Sun Bowl Stadium

915-478-6904

Call for additional information

Annual high school all-star football game.

Luminarias/Posadas along the Mission Trail

Held in mid December

Location: Mission Trail Churches

915-534-0677

Call for additional information

About 15,000 luminarias line Socorro Road. Spans Ysleta to San Elizario, with Las Posadas celebrations at the Mission Trail churches.

Vitalis Sun Bowl

Held on December 31

Location: UTEP Sun Bowl

800-915-BOWL

Call for additional information

The annual football classic begins at noon on December 31, with teams from the Pac Ten and Big Ten Conferences.

Entertainment:

The University of Texas at El Paso Ballet

Fox Fine Arts Center

500 West University Avenue

El Paso, Texas 79968
915-747-5606

Call for performance schedule and additional information

The University of Texas at El Paso Ballet is in residence at UTEP. Guest artists