The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum redefines the concept of a museum, focusing on the preservation of the Sonoran Desert. Spanning two miles of walking paths, this unique space is home to 230 animal species and 1,200 types of plants, blending elements of a zoo, botanical garden, natural history museum, aquarium, and art gallery. Highlights include the Stingray Touch, Hummingbird Aviary, Warden Aquarium, and Earth Sciences Center, where visitors can explore a replica limestone cave. Plan for at least two hours to fully experience this immersive destination.

Designated by Congress as America’s National World War II Museum, this must-visit destination offers a powerful experience for locals, visitors, and all citizens. The Louisiana Memorial Pavilion houses a wealth of artifacts from the war, including exhibits on D-Day, the Home Front, and the Pacific Theater. Don’t miss Tom Hanks' exclusive production "Beyond All Boundaries," a 4-D experience at the Solomon Victory Theater. The Stage Door Canteen transports you back in time with music and entertainment from the era, while the American Sector restaurant and Soda Shop, crafted by renowned Chef John Besh, offer delicious dining options.

Join a full-day adventure from New Orleans which combines a boat ride through Louisiana’s swamp with a tour of a southern plantation. Begin your journey at Oak Alley Plantation, where you’ll stroll down the iconic tree-lined esplanade and gain insight into antebellum life, or explore Destrehan Plantation, once a leading producer of sugar and indigo. Afterwards, venture into the marshy swampland for an exciting boat ride, where guided commentary will enhance your experience as you spot gators, raccoons, snakes, and native birds in their natural habitat.

Mardi Gras and Carnival have long been the marquee events in New Orleans, with the first recorded parade taking place in 1837. Attracting hundreds of thousands of people each year, these festivities trace their origins to French traditions—Mardi Gras translates to "Fat Tuesday" in French. Carnival officially kicks off on January 6th (Epiphany) and unfolds over several weeks, beginning with elaborate, invitation-only balls hosted by krewes (private clubs), where debutantes are introduced to society. The excitement builds in the final weeks, leading up to Mardi Gras, with the famous street parades filling the city with colorful costumes, floats, and lots of music.