Monday, February 2, 2015

Ripley's Believe It or Not! Times Square

How much time should I plan to spend at the museum?
Most guests spend between an hour and a half to two hours exploring the strange and unique artifacts, exhibits and interactive experiences at Ripley's Times Square. As with any attraction or museum, your personal tastes will determine how long it takes. If you plan to dive into every item and read each caption, you'll be here a bit longer. If you plan to focus on featured galleries, you will find that two hours is sufficient.

Is photography allowed at Ripley’s Times Square?
We encourage guests to take as many photos of themselves as they want while interacting with our exhibits.

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Ripley's Times Square is handicapped accessible. Wheelchairs are available upon request at the admission desk on a first-come, first-served basis.

Do you allow strollers?
Yes.

Is food or drink allowed in the museum?
A number of our exhibits are priceless and simply cannot be replaced if damaged. Therefore, to be sure that we preserve the collection for future visitors, we do not allow any outside food, gum, or beverages.

Is there a gift store?
Yes! Our magnificent Ripley's Odd Shop features items that range from the bizarre to the unbelievable and everything in between. The Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odd Shop is the perfect place to find something for everyone – Believe It or Not! t-shirts, bizarre collectibles, unique jewelry, crazy candy, gadgets and toys that will engage the imagination. Our products change regularly and we invite you to visit often. Our gift store may be accessed by the public as well as those who have visited our attraction.

Is this museum the same as other Ripley’s?
Ripley's personal treasures can be seen in Believe It or Not! attractions around the world. Each museum is unique in its collection of oddities and in their presentation. No Ripley's Believe It or Not! museum would be complete without the "old favorites" however - the incredible people whose stories Ripley gathered on his journeys around the globe. These strange people are brought back to life in detailed wax figures.

Madame Tussauds New York

Where are the nearest subway stations?
1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, S (at 42nd Street-Times Square)
A, C, E (at 42nd Street & 8th Avenue)
B, D, F, M (at 42nd Street & 6th Avenue)

Where is the discounted parking garage?
Discounted parking is available at IKON/Global Garage at 143 West 40th St (between Broadway and 7th Avenue) when you validate your parking claim ticket at Madame Tussauds admissions. $20 rate for up to 12hrs valid Monday - Saturday. Madame Tussauds is not responsible for parking discount or association with Global Parking LLC. Oversized vehicles are subject to additional charge.

Can I take large bags or luggage to Madame Tussauds?
For security reasons, large bags or luggage are not permitted to be left with Madame Tussauds staff. Lockers are available for most items.

How long does a visit to Madame Tussauds last?
It takes approximately an hour and half to complete a visit of Madame Tussauds, including Cinema 4D.

How long can I expect to wait in line to get into Madame Tussauds?
During busy seasons (i.e. holidays and summer), the wait can be up to an hour. No need to worry, you can snap photos with our wax celebrity hosts, or watch our fun video introduction.

Can I take a baby stroller to Madame Tussauds?
Yes.

Can I take any animals or pets to Madame Tussauds?
No animals or pets are permitted into Madame Tussauds. However, we do permit Service Animals.

Are there wheelchairs available?
Wheelchairs are available on request but the number available is limited - there is no charge or deposit required. Wheelchairs are available on a first come, first served basis.

Can I take a camera to Madame Tussauds?
We encourage taking many photos! Cameras are permitted in all public areas of Madame Tussauds.

Can I eat or drink at Madame Tussauds?
We do not permit outside food and beverage. However, you can purchase food and beverage in the attraction.

What are the hours of operation?
Sunday – Thursday: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Friday and Saturday: 9:00 am – 12:00 am

Brothels, Bites, and Booze Food Tour

Are children allowed on the tour?
We do not recommend this tour for children because of the content of the tour. While children are welcome on the tour, please keep in mind that tours are 2.5 hours long and we walk approximately a mile and a half. Parents, who know their children best, should assess whether a 2.5-hour walking food tour is appropriate for their child’s attention span and stamina. All participants ages 4 and older are required to purchase a standard, full priced ticket. Children ages 3 and under can attend for free.

How much walking and standing is involved?
The tour covers approximately 1.5 miles over a 2.5 hour period. The tour is conducted at a relaxed pace and stops frequently. You will have the opportunity to sit down at most of the restaurants we visit. We still recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes because we will be on our feet most of the time.

What if I have dietary restrictions or food allergies? Are there vegetarian options on the tour?
We can accommodate vegetarians. However, please let us know during your purchase if anyone in your party is vegan, gluten-free, lactose intolerant, has any dietary restrictions or food allergies. It is not always possible, but we will do our best to accommodate special dietary needs.

How much food is served?
We generally stop at 4-8 locations. Enough food is served to amount to a satisfying meal for most participants.

What types of food are served? What locations will we visit?
While the establishments may vary, we usually visit 4-8 restaurants and gourmet shops.

Are there any beverages included?
Alcoholic tastings will be provided at about 2-3 of the restaurants we visit. Each sample is about 3 oz. In addition, you are welcome to purchase other alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages along the way. Just be sure to bring a valid government-issued ID if you plan to participate in the alcoholic tastings.

What should I wear?
Since the tours go out rain or shine, we recommend wearing weather appropriate clothing. Please wear comfortable walking shoes, since we will be on our feet most of the time.

What should I bring?
If you plan to participate in the alcoholic tastings, please bring a valid government-issued ID for proof of age. It might also be a good idea to bring extra cash if you plan to purchase additional beverages. We also recommend bringing a camera to take photos of your experience!

When is the best time to take the tour?
We generally recommend taking the tour early during your stay in town to allow enough time to revisit some of your favorite stops later during your trip.

Do we only walk around and sample food?
This tour showcases the fine cuisine of San Diego and also gives you the inside scoop on local life! Learn about the history, architecture, and culture of the Gaslamp Quarter while tasting delicious specialties from some of the most unique establishments in town.

Are bathrooms available along the tour route?
Restrooms will be available at the beginning and at the end of the tour. There is also the possibility for restroom stops at the corresponding tasting locations.

Is the tour wheelchair and stroller accessible?
Yes, our tours are wheelchair and stroller accessible! There may be times where we are required to take a slight detour to accommodate, but we've never had an issue before.

Are cameras allowed?
Yes, cameras are permitted and we encourage taking photos!

Do your tours have anything to offer a local?
Absolutely! While you may be familiar with our route and some of the stops, you will have the opportunity to try new foods at the tasting locations and learn more about the establishments themselves. Also, as a local, you have the unique opportunity to re-visit the eateries we feature on the tour at your own leisure! This tour is an excellent way to entertain out-of-town guests, celebrate a special occasion, or do some team building.

Where does the tour finish?
The tour ends a few blocks away from the starting location and it will be very easy for you to walk back to the meeting location. Your tour guide will be more than happy to give directions back to the starting location or point you in the right direction for your next destination.

Is parking available near the meeting location?
There are a few parking garages within a block radius of the meeting location and street parking is available but limited. Please read all signs when looking for street parking to avoid getting ticketed. Specific parking details will be included in the meeting location directions after purchasing tickets.

Does the tour guide accept gratuities?
Gratuities are not included in the ticket price. While not required, gratuities are accepted and always appreciated by the tour guides.

Are tours only offered in English?
Yes, at the moment our tours are only offered in English. Interpreters are welcome to join the tour, but they will also need a standard, full priced ticket.

Can I shop during the tour?
We ask that you refrain from shopping during the tour, as it is important that we stay on schedule. We will, however, provide all the information necessary for you to return to your favorite spots once the tour is over.

Are dogs/pets allowed on the tour?
Since we will be entering various food establishments, and as a courtesy to the other guests on the tour, all pets, with the exception of trained service dogs, are prohibited on the tour.

Is smoking allowed on the tour?
Smoking is not allowed on any portion of the tour.

Tequila, Tacos, and Tombstones Food Tour

Are children allowed on the tour?
We do not recommend this tour for children because of the content of the tour. While children are welcome on the tour, please keep in mind that tours are 2½ hours long and we walk approximately a mile and a half. Parents, who know their children best, should assess whether a 2½ hour walking food tour is appropriate for their child’s attention span and stamina. All participants ages 4 and older are required to purchase a standard, full priced ticket. Children ages 3 and under can attend for free.

How much walking and standing is involved?
The tour covers approximately 1½ miles over a 2½ hour period. The tour is conducted at a relaxed pace and stops frequently. You will have the opportunity to sit down at most of the restaurants we visit. We still recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes because we will be on our feet most of the time.

What if I have dietary restrictions or food allergies? Are there vegetarian options on the tour?
We can accommodate vegetarians. However, please let us know during your purchase if anyone in your party is vegan, gluten-free, lactose intolerant, has any dietary restrictions or food allergies. It is not always possible, but we will do our best to accommodate special dietary needs.

How much food is served?
We generally stop at 4 locations. Enough food is served to amount to a satisfying meal for most participants.

What types of food are served? What locations will we visit?
During this tour, you will have the chance to try amazing Mexican food from 4 local restaurants.

Are there any beverages included?
Two cocktails will be provided during the tour. In addition, you are welcome to purchase other alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages along the way. Just be sure to bring a valid government issued ID if you plan to participate in the alcoholic tastings.

What should I wear?
Since the tours go out rain or shine, we recommend wearing weather appropriate clothing. Please wear comfortable walking shoes, since we will be on our feet most of the time.

What should I bring?
If you plan to participate in the alcoholic tastings, please bring a valid government-issued ID for proof of age. It might also be a good idea to bring extra cash if you plan to purchase additional beverages. We also recommend bringing a camera to take photos of your experience!

When is the best time to take the tour?
We generally recommend taking the tour early during your stay in town to allow enough time to revisit some of your favorite stops later during your trip.

Do we only walk around and sample food?
This tour showcases the fine cuisine of San Diego and also gives you the inside scoop on local life! Learn about the history, architecture, and culture of Old Town while tasting delicious specialties from some of the most unique establishments in town.

Are bathrooms available along the tour route?
Restrooms will be available at the beginning and at the end of the tour. There is also the possibility for restroom stops at the corresponding tasting locations.

Is the tour wheelchair and stroller accessible?
Yes, our tours are wheelchair and stroller accessible! There may be times where we are required to take a slight detour to accommodate, but we've never had an issue before.

Are cameras allowed?
Yes, cameras are permitted and we encourage taking photos!

Do your tours have anything to offer a local?
Absolutely! While you may be familiar with our route and some of the stops, you will have the opportunity to try new foods at the tasting locations and learn more about the establishments themselves. Also, as a local, you have the unique opportunity to re-visit the eateries we feature on the tour at your own leisure! This tour is an excellent way to entertain out-of-town guests, celebrate a special occasion, or do some team building.

Where does the tour finish?
The tour ends a few blocks away from the starting location and it will be very easy for you to walk back to the meeting location. Your tour guide will be more than happy to give directions back to the starting location or point you in the right direction for your next destination.

Is parking available near the meeting location?
There are a few parking garages within a block radius of the meeting location and street parking is available but limited. Please read all signs when looking for street parking to avoid getting ticketed. Specific parking details will be included in the meeting location directions after purchasing tickets.

Does the tour guide accept gratuities?
Gratuities are not included in the ticket price. While not required, gratuities are accepted and always appreciated by the tour guides.

Are tours only offered in English?
Yes, at the moment our tours are only offered in English. Interpreters are welcome to join the tour, but they will also need a standard, full priced ticket.

Can I shop during the tour?
We ask that you refrain from shopping during the tour, as it is important that we stay on schedule. We will, however, provide all the information necessary for you to return to your favorite spots once the tour is over.

Are dogs/pets allowed on the tour?
Since we will be entering various food establishments, and as a courtesy to the other guests on the tour, all pets, with the exception of trained service dogs, are prohibited on the tour.

Is smoking allowed on the tour?
Smoking is not allowed on any portion of the tour.

Tuesday, January 20, 2015

Soul of Motown

What is the size of the Grand Majestic Theater?
The theater seats 480 people, 360 on the floor and 120 in the Balcony.

How many rows constitute the theater?
There are 12 rows on the floor and four rows on the balcony. 

What is the length of intermission at Soul of Motown?
Intermission is about 15 minutes.

Approximately how long is Soul of Motown?
The show lasts approximately 2 hours.

Is there a pre-show guests should be aware?
No, there is not a pre-show. If you purchased a Dinner and Show ticket, dinner is served one hour prior to show time. For example, when an 8:00 pm show is booked, dinner is served at 7:00 pm.

Are visitors allowed to meet and greet the performers at Soul of Motown?
Yes, after the show in the lobby. They welcome pictures and autographs.

Are cameras, audio or video recording allowed at the show?
No video, but still photography is allowed. No audio recording allowed.

What type of handicap seating/handicap accessibility do you have?
There is a lot of handicap seating and an easy access ramp to assist guests.

Where is the show located? 
The Soul of Motown is located at The Grand Majestic Theater, at 2330 Parkway in Pigeon Forge.

Is seating reserved?
Yes. Your seats are reserved at time of reservation. You are guaranteed the best seats available.



America's Hit Parade

What is the size of the Grand Majestic Theater?
The theater seats 480 people, 360 on the floor and 120 in the balcony.

How many rows constitute the theater?
There are 12 rows on the floor and four rows on the balcony.

What is the length of intermission at America’s Hit Parade?
Intermission is about 10 minutes.

Approximately how long is America’s Hit Parade?
The show lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Is there a pre-show guests should be aware?
No, there is not a pre-show. If you purchased a Dinner and Show ticket, dinner is served one hour prior to show time. For example, when a 5:00 PM show is booked, dinner is served at 4:00 PM.

Are visitors allowed to meet and greet the performers of the America’s Hit Parade?
Yes, after the show in the lobby. They welcome pictures and autographs.

Are cameras, audio or video recording allowed at the show?
No video, but still photography is allowed. No audio recording allowed.

What type of handicap seating/handicap accessibility do you have?
There is a lot of handicap seating and an easy access ramp to assist guests.

Where is the show located?
The America’s Hit Parade is located at The Grand Majestic Theater, at 2330 Parkway in Pigeon Forge.

Is seating reserved?
Yes, seats are reserved at the time of your reservation as best available.

Monday, January 19, 2015

Medieval Times Buena Park

What exactly is Medieval Times?
Medieval Times is an exciting, family-friendly dinner attraction inspired by an 11th century feast and tournament. Guests are served a four-course banquet and cheer for one of six Knights competing in the joust and other tests of skill. Expect almost two hours of jousting, swordsmanship, thrilling hand-to-hand combat, displays of extraordinary horsemanship and falconry as part of an exciting yet touching story set in Medieval Spain.

What else does Medieval Times have besides a dinner show?
They also feature an excellent bar, dance floor, Hall of Arms displaying medieval artifacts and a medieval torture museum.

What's on the menu?
Medieval Times' noble guests feast on garlic bread, tomato bisque soup, roasted chicken, spare rib, herb-basted potatoes, pastry of the Castle, coffee and two rounds of select beverages. A full-service bar is also available for adult guests at an additional price. Vegetarian meals are available upon request.

How early should I arrive?
The Castle doors will open 75 minutes prior to the show time printed on your tickets. Plan to arrive early; seating is first come, first served and to obtain the best seats available you should arrive as early as possible. Once in the Hall of Arms there are plenty of activities and festivities to enjoy: visit the extensive gift shop, full-service bar, museum of torture and observe the master falconer and his birds of prey up close. Knighting ceremonies are also performed pre-show.

How much is parking?
They offer FREE on site parking.

Is it true that we must eat with our hands?
Absolutely! Eating utensils were not used in the 11th century and we take you back!

What is the policy for lap children under 3 years old?
Children under the age of 3 are admitted free as long as they sit on adults' laps and eat from their plate. If you prefer the child to have his or her own seat and meal then the child rate would apply.