9 Things To Do In Pigeon Forge When Traveling With Kids

BY  Sibashree Sep 30, 2024

With curiosity being the primary driving force of dark tourism, it has often taken us to the places of macabre. Further, its association with the eagerness to know about human tragedies and pay respect to war heroes leads our path to war memorials and historic places. The USA has no dearth of such sites thanks to the massive impact of the Cold War and nuclear testing or deployment. Also, the country had ED Gein and many other barbaric serial killers of recent times. So, it is no wonder that with a 1.5% expected CAGR between 2024 and 2034, it is one of the topmost countries in dark tourism. The sites for dark tourism in USA are countless, covering almost all aspects, such as thanatourism, ghost tourism, warfare tourism, disaster tourism, etc. Here, I have picked places like Alcatraz Island, Alcatraz Prison, and Ed Gein’s Farm Houses that will offer you the most unusual experience. So, it’s time to be a dark tourist in the USA! THESE Are The Best Dark Tourism In USA Destinations  The USA has probably experienced the most significant human tragedy in the 21st century. It was 11th September 2001, and the hijacked Flight 11 and Flight 175 struck the Twin Towers, taking the lives of 2977 people.  The 9/11 Memorial & Museum was built after 11 years of this devastating incident. It was a tribute to the survivors of the 9/11 attack and the terrorist attacks of 26h February 1993. It also marked the anniversary of the end of the recovery and rescue work of the 9/11 devastation.  Today, it is one of the biggest draws for dark tourism in the USA. But what about the other sites that are drenched in tragedy, paranormal acts, history, and more? Let’s explore them! 1. Alcatraz Island And Alcatraz Prison Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, or Alcatraz Prison, was one of the most infamous prisons in the history of America. It was located on Alcatraz Island in the San Francisco Bay of California.  Alcatraz Prison, or Alcatraz Island, goes into the history of American criminal justice thanks to its association with famous criminals and their attempts to escape the most secure walls. Today, the prison, preserved for tourists, gives you an overview of the lives of the guards and inmates. This Is Why Alcatraz Prison Is A Famous Tourist Destination  Operating as a Federal Prison from 1934 to 63, Alcatraz Prison had inmates like Machine Gun Kelly and Al Capone. Further, the prison was famous as “The Rock” because of its impeccable construction and security measures. Even after the stringent security measures, there were many escape attempts to go beyond the walls. The Anglin Brothers and Frank Morris managed to escape the prison. However, what happened to them afterward is still a mystery.  Moreover, Alcatraz Island tells tales from the 19th century when it functioned as a military fort. In the late 1960s, the Native American activists used Alcatraz Island as their base to be vocal about the rights and cultural preservations of the Native Americans.  2. Salem On the North Shore of Massachusetts, Salem is a place of witch trials, historical architecture, and mystical intrigue for the modern followers of Paganism and the Wiccan Community. The air here is heavy with the cry of the women being executed in the infamous Witch Trial of 1692. Further, the cobblestone street and historical structures scream about injustice, paranoia, supernatural practices, and more. The museums and preserved sites here offer an immersive experience, especially if you are a woman with an independent mind. Witch Hunting has always been a way of patriarchal control since time immemorial.  Why Salem Is A Popular Site For Dark Tourism In USA Salem is a popular site for dark tourism in USA for multiple reasons.  The Witch Trial of 1692 As I just mentioned, it is the site of the Witch Trials 1692. Many people, especially women, were suspected of practising Witchcraft. They were executed, registering one of the most brutal incidents of American Colonial History.  Recently, the city has owned its history of the 1692 Witch Trial and emerged as a hub of paranormal tourism. The Historical Sites of Salem  The city has preserved its colonial buildings and structures well. Even the cobblestone streets of the city's historic district have a unique charm.  A walk through these streets is an experience for any dark academia enthusiast or a dark tourist interested in American Colonial History.  Modern Wiccan Community And The Acceptance Of Various Belief Systems As the place of the Witch Hunt of 1692, Salem has attracted many Pagan and Wiccan Communities across the globe.  Today, the city practices and promotes tolerance of various religious beliefs and practices. Even practicing modern Witchcraft is allowed here.  Halloween Celebrations Salem has become the most happening destination for dark tourism in USA during Halloween. In the month of October, the city has many Halloween-themed events and a tour of the spooky or haunted houses in the locality.  3. Gettysburg National Military Park Gettysburg National Military Park is one of the rarest dark tourism destinations in the USA, and it is a place of history, haunted stories, and ghost tours.  The Gettysburg National Military Park is associated with the Battle of Gettysburg, one of the most important battles of the American Civil War. The three-day-long 1863 battle from July 1st to 3rd led to the loss of around 6000 human lives.  What Happened At The Battle Of Gettysburg? The Battle of Gettysburg was a major conflict between the  Confederate Army of Northern Virginia and the Union Army of the Potomac.  General Robert E. Lee led the Confederate Army, and General George G. Meade led the Union Army. The Union Army grabbed victory in the battle, which was the biggest blow to the Confederate Clan.  5. Ed Gein’s Farmhouse Ed Gein’s farmhouse in Wisconsin was witness to the heinous acts of serial killers in the 1950s. Gein was obsessed with his mother, and his ultimate aim was to make a skinsuit to quasi-resurrect her.  His heinous acts include killing women and making household items using their body parts. When police searched Ed Gein’s farmhouse, they found a sofa made of human skin, a lampshade made of human face, and many other disturbing stuff.  The deeds of Ed Gein have inspired many films and documentaries, and his farmhouse today is a popular place for dark tourism in USA. The place is attached to gore, inhuman crimes, and also a complex understanding of human psychology. Further, it is an account of rural American life in the 1950s.  6. Bonaventure Cemetery The Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah, Georgia, is a popular dark tourism destination because of its ethereal charm. Apparently, it looks like a somber cemetery with beautifully carved statues, camellias, azaleas, and draped oaks.  However, the moment you enter the cemetery, you will feel like being in an unknown era. Its statues and relics start whispering the stories of people buried here.  The most famous person to be buried here is Johnny Mercer, the American songwriter. This cemetery also houses the life-size marble sculpture of Little Gracie Watson. It is one of the few funerary monuments in Georgia to depict the exact likeness of the deceased.  7. The Cecil Hotel “I am beyond good and evil. I will be avenged. Lucifer dwells in us all. That's it.” - That was the words of Richard Ramirez, one of the most notorious serial killers of the USA. The next destination I am going to discuss is related to him. Richard Ramirez was a guest of The Cecil Hotel in Los Angeles, and it was also the location of many mysterious deaths. As a popular dark tourism spot, the Cecil Hotel and its storied halls give visitors goosebumps. It’s captivating, indeed!  8. Ground Zero Ground Zero, or the World Trade Center Site, is one of the topmost sites for dark tourism in USA. The World Trade Center was a commercial complex spanning 16 acres in lower Manhattan. The 9/11 attack in 2001 crashed it into dust as two hijacked planes struck the Twin Towers.  Al-Qaeda, an Islamic Extremist Group founded by Osama bin Laden, was behind this attack and the greatest human tragedy of modern times. As I have mentioned, 2977 people lost their lives in this incident.  Today, the place is important for dark tourism in USA for its educational and historical value. It is also a place to reflect upon the lives lost and how America has risen from this tragedy. It shows the grit and excellence of America as a nation.  What To Do At Ground Zero As A Dark Tourist? Visit the 9/11 Memorial dedicated to the victims. Spend some time near the 9/11 Survivor Tree. Walk through the 9/11 Memorial Glade. Visit the 9/11 Museum. Pay a visit to Saint Paul's Chapel. Do you know that the 9/11 Museum here has more than 10000 objects collected from the debris of victims and other people who offered rescue services after the attack? It opened in May 2014 and offers the most moving experience documenting the details and history of the 9/11 attack.   9. Badlands National Park The Badlands National Park in South Dakota is “surreal,” for lack of a better word. The erosion of nature for millions of years has resulted in the eeriest formations here. Further, these formations cast the longest shadow during the Sunset, giving you a chill down the spine.  Further, the ridges and canyons here tell tales of ancient tribes who lived here. The wind rustling through the ridges sounds like the ancestors' whispers from a bygone era. Moreover, you will lose count of the time in this most beautiful, desolate land.  10. Area 51, Nevada Are you a fan of conspiracy theories? Area 51 in Nevada will be the best dark tourism in USA destination for you. The mystery of this place revolves around the tales of extraterrestrials found here.  For the dark tourists, it is a place of intrigue related to military secrets and alien attacks (?).  11. The Texas School Book Depository https://www.instagram.com/p/Cz8zbSjqb6P/?img_index=1 The Texas School Book Depository in Dallas, Texas, is where the assassination of President John F. Kennedy took place. The assassination of the president on 22nd November 1963, had deep national and international implications.  Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly shot the president, leading to one of the most tragic incidents in American history.  12. Museum Of Tolerance https://www.instagram.com/p/CqqbS30PyIa/ The Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles was built in 1993. Simon Wiesenthal was a holocaust survivor, and his human rights organization, the Simon Wiesenthal Center, built this museum.  This museum has many exhibits recording the most notorious stories of intolerance worldwide. The mission of the museum is to “remind us of the past, so that we may forge a better, more harmonious future.” That is what dark tourism should aim to achieve by triggering positive moral emotions.  Here is a list of the permanent exhibits in the museum.  The Holocaust (a 70-minute dramatic presentation taking you to Nazi-dominated Europe between the 1920s and 1945) The Tolerancenter (shows major issues of intolerance faced in our everyday lives) Finding Our Families, Finding Ourselves (exhibits of Americans with interesting personal histories) Para Todos Los Niños or For All The Children (a depiction of the struggles of Latino families in Southern California) The Exhibit of Anne Frank (a representation of the iconic diary of Anne Frank, depicting her plight in multimedia formats) Overall, it’s a museum that depicts the exploitation of women and children, terrorism, social media violence, and much more! Moreover, anyone interested in the American civil rights movement will find it a significant destination for dark tourism in USA. Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024] Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Ankita Apr 24, 2024

Waiting for your connecting flight is the longest wait period of a person’s life. It might not seem to end soon when you do not end up doing anything to fill up time. However, if you prefer to make the most of your time, a long layover can be an excellent opportunity to explore a new place. From elite lounge to spa facilities, you can experience every bit of comfort and luxury during a layover.   Do you have a layover for your next flight? In this article, you will discover some interesting things to do during your long wait hours at the airport.   List of Things To Do During A Layover Below mentioned is a list of things you can do during a layover.   1. Catch Up On Sleep If you are tired after a long hour of layover and en route to a different time zone, one of the most effective ways to pass the time is to catch up on your sleep. Similarly, for comfortable napping, you can book a stay at an airport hotel as well. Furthermore, if your layover airport does not have a connecting hotel or the booking cost does not justify your budget, make a reservation for a napping pod. It is one of the most rapid choices passengers opt for. If you hold a priority pass, you can easily get suite access at a minimal rate. 2. Read Or Write Who said you can only write in your travel journal when you arrive at the destination? Use the layover time to add entries or read a book or newspaper. Thus, these activities often need to be addressed in favor of more high-tech entertainment in this fast-paced modern world. But once you start, you will remember to relax and engage with either reading or writing. Did you forget to bring your travel journal? Now is the time to download a digital travel journal application and record your journal while it is fresh in your mind. 3. Explore The Lounge The airport lounge has been the epitome of wealth for a long time. From comfortable seating to lounging areas, complimentary food, high-speed Wi-Fi, and drinks, the airport has everything to offer.  However, Miami International Airport offers premium lounge services, a shower facility, La carte dining options, spa services, and nap rooms for long layovers. These lounges will provide you with comfortable surroundings to relax in before your flight. Thus, you can purchase an airport lounge pass and enjoy free snacks and drinks. Similarly, you will get the best food in miami airport even if you are traveling with your five five-year-old. It caters to every type of cuisine and facility that you need. 4. Play A Game Before you leave for your trip, try to pick up a few travel-size games. This will keep you engaged and help you pass the long wait time. Thus, if you do not wish to pack your Uno set, you can download some new games on your phone and invest some time. Therefore, playing games is a surefire way to keep your mind occupied while you wait for those long- hours for your flight to take off. 5. Research About Your Destination If a long flight is on your way to your trip, you can use the time to research and plan a schedule. Therefore, you can spend a few hours creating a list of itineraries, researching the best tourist posts and eateries, and reserving tickets for activities in advance. On the contrary, if you need more time to make a reservation, it is always good to check and ensure advanced reservations are not required beforehand. So, read up and ensure you make the right reservation by using time while sitting around the airport. 6. Relax At Transit Hotels Many hotels have partnerships with the airport. Similarly, there are some places where you can make a reservation a couple of hours before check-in. On the other hand, if you are traveling with a jetlagged child or infant, you tend to be exhausted yourself. In that situation, you can book a transit hotel and get a few hours of sleep before your next flight.   However, booking a transit hotel will make you feel more energized and ready to hit the ground running when you reach your final destination.   Hence, the private space will give you time to relax, freshen up, and shower after your long journey. 7.  Try Local Cuisine Depending on the layover airport, you may try the local cuisine without leaving the airport.   Similarly, if you wish to explore the local cuisine, you need to get away from the terminal, set out, and find local transport that will take you to a regional cuisine place. Moreover, you can also research a few top traditional places to try the local cuisine and indulge in some delicious food. Thus, Miami is teeming with some of the largest fast-food chains and restaurants. Venture away from the airport and explore the best authentic cuisine. 8. Charge Your Devices This is obvious, but layovers are the perfect time to charge up all the devices for your next flight. Similarly, when traveling with your kids, you will likely have multiple devices to charge. These can be smartphones, tablets, GoPro's, laptops, or your power bank. Therefore, find a spot where you can place multiple outlets and plug in. Moreover, if your layover is in another country, check what type of outlets they have and purchase a plug adaptor if necessary. 9. Watch a Movie One does not always have to be active on social media. You can alter this tendency by watching your favorite movie.  This will be enjoyable at the airport because no one will disturb you, unlike at home. Summing Up Long layovers allow you to explore a destination you are simply passing through. Similarly, if you are planning to leave the airport during your layover, there are a few conditions that you need to maintain. All you need is a little airport math and to calculate the time of boarding your next flight.    Thus, whether you are an avid traveler or someone who just wants to pass the time before their next flight, you can do plenty of things during a layover. So, take help from the above-mentioned points and utilize your time wisely. Read Also: Top 10 Airports In The USA: Navigating Excellence In Air Travel Navigating The Journey: How To Get To JFK Airport In New York Sky Harbor Airport Parking Made Easy: Insider Tips For A Smooth Journey

BY  Sibashree Dec 17, 2024

Are you ready to explore Dallas for the holidays? Winter is here, making your list of things to do in Dallas even bigger and better.  I was talking to a local friend, Mia. She just visited the Grapevine Bar at Butler Street last night with her boyfriend and she was all praises about the quirky bar getting into the festive spirit. She is my go-to guide whenever I need to know anything about Dallas. After knowing all she had to suggest for this weekend's fun, I also started my own research.  Being a scorpion and a number 7, I had to really  must have to get into the thick of it before I share an account of the things to do in Dallas with you.  While checking out the Visit Dallas social pages, I indeed found that Yellow Rosa Deep Ellum, a holiday pop-up bar, is promisesing a snowfall every 30 minutes. Further, the Dallas Zoo Lights look all more amazing with a festive spirit and nip in the air.  Moreover, if you are a music lover or want to watch live performances, you can attend a show at the Morton H Meyerson Symphony Center.  Want to know about more things to do in Dallas in winter? Here is a Tour and Travel guide to make your winter weekend more happening.  Things To Do In Dallas In Winter: Make Your Weekend The Most Happening Dallas, one of the warmer states in the USA, has a mild winter. Further, the temperature hovers around 2-14 degrees Celsius during these months.  So, the weather conditions in this Texas city’s conditions are just perfect for exploring and having all the fun. However, this time, Texas in winter can be even warmer with 40-50% lesser chances of rainfall or precipitation.  That’s great for people who want to visit Dallas to beat the chill this winter. Having said that, it’s time to check the best things to do in Dallas this winter.  1. Visiting A Holiday Pop Bar And Enjoying Snowfall https://www.instagram.com/p/CzuteZQo5_R/ The holiday pop-up bars in Dallas are the best place to visit when the holidays are happening. Seasonal spirits get high and you can expect the best Dallas delicacies during these days.  Again, there are venues like the Yellow Rosa Deep Ellum, promiseing you artificial snowfall every 30 minutes. This year, Yellow Rosa Deep Ellum has started the Christmas pop early, with the fun beginning on 21st November.  While soaking in the festive spirit here, you can try the best cocktails here, including Mestizo, Montenegro 75, Frozen Blueberry Mojito, Montenegro 75, etc.  The address of the Yellow Rosa Deep Ellum address is 2901 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75226. Further, you can reach out to them at +1 214-300-5490.  2. Taking Part In The Dallas Zoo After Dark https://www.instagram.com/p/C5Rm1zprLTV/?hl=en With December setting in, the Dallas Zoo After Dark is waiting for you. It is scheduled on 12th December 2024, and it will take place between 6-9 PM.  Further, with lights from Reliant, the Dallas Zoo will glow in the darkness. You can take a stroll through the illuminated landscape. Also, as you take a stroll, don’t forget to relish the seasonal delicacies and drinks. You can even take part in the holiday games and events. Moreover, this year, Dino Projection and the Dinoland presented by Reliant  will are going to be the biggest attractions.  Entry Fee For the Dallas Zoo After Dark Wild LightsMembers: $25 Per PersonGeneral Public: $35 Per PersonParking: $12 Per Person 3. Taking A Ride On The Mline Trolley https://www.instagram.com/p/DBhQsNoRLUg/ McKinney Avenue Transit Authority or Mline Trolley allows you to explore the heritage of Dallas. These heritage street cars run every day, and you can ride these for free.  “Our mission is to link the past to the present, providing safe, reliable, and convenient public transportation within Uptown and Downtown Dallas.”McKinney Avenue Transit Authority Providing transit services for more than 34 years, the Mline Trolley has 400,000 passengers every year. Moreover, 35% of the riders use the trolley to explore the city. So, if you have to travel to Dallas like a local, you must enjoy a ride in these trolley cars. Moreover, you will find top tourist destinations like the Dallas Museum of Art and West Village on the route.  4. Visiting The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden Address: 8525 Garland Road, Dallas Contact Number:  +1 214-515-6615 Hours Open: 8 AM to 5 PM The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a 66-acre area with an extensive display of trees and shrubs. Further, this place looks resplendent with seasonal flowers in full bloom. Also, it is a chosen place for many educational events.  The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden Entry FeeDaytime Entry - $22 (13-64 Years), $18 (64+ Years), $13 (2-13 Years), Free for MembersHoliday at the Arboretum at Night (6-9 PM): $22-$37 (13-64 Years), $20 (64+ Years), $15-$17 (2-13 Years), $13-17 (Members) However, attending “Holiday at the Arboretum” is one of the best things to do in Dallas in winter. It’s a special or seasonal event here, and the dates for this year are 13th November 2024 to 5th January 2025.  Reliant has already transformed the space into a winter wonderland. Now, it looks like a perfect Christmas Village with Gazebos. Furthermore, the event, celebrating its 10th year in 2024, is going to be even bigger and better.  5. Watching Concerts And Performances At Morton H Meyerson Symphony Center https://www.instagram.com/p/DAl3-3Qus04/?img_index=1 Address: 2301 Flora St, Dallas Phone Number: +1 214-849-4376 One of the greatest orchestra halls in the world, the Morton H Meyerson Symphony Center is a great place to visit during winter. Flaunting the best of modern architecture the Symphony Center also stands for inclusivity and equity in the field of music and otherwise. The building itself showcases a belief in touching and changing lives through music.  Nevertheless, this holiday season, the most prominent events at the Symphony Center are KINGS ReJOYCE! On 11th December, Christmas Pops on 12th-15th December, Christmas At The Meyerson on 23rd December, etc. (Please refer to the events calendar  forto know about more events.) Now that I have mentioned all the major things to do in Dallas in winter, I want to draw your attention to the local food scenario. Knife Steakhouse, Haywire, and Bowl & Barrel are some places you must explore to relish the festive cuisine. Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.