Monthly Archives: September 2018

The El Paso Vacation

Places to Visit/Things to Do


If you’re looking for an entertaining amusement park, look no further. Head over to Western Playground, a family amusement park located in nearby Sunland Park of New Mexico. The 30-acre amusement park was originally built in 1960 in El Paso but was moved to its new location after 2006. The park features plenty of rides that entertains all ages, from the little ones to the more mature. Western Playland has interesting hours, with different hours on different days and seasons. For pricing, there are two options: One price bracelets, or admission plus the price of each ride ticket. For one price bracelets for those 42 inches and taller, it costs $21.21. For those 34 go 41 inches, the admission costs $16.60. If you choose the second pricing option, admission will cost you $5 plus each ride ticket of $2.50.

 

  • Franklin Mountains State Park



    El Paso has a multitude of outdoor activities. One of the more popular ones is the Franklin Mountains State Park. Franklin Mountains State Park is an almost 25,000-acre park, with its highest peak reaching over 7,100 feet. The state park is the largest state park in the country that lies completely within city borders. The park headquarters is open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4 pm. The Tom Mays Unit is open every day, with the gate open from 8 am to 5 pm. Extended hours are in use on weekends of April to September. Admission into the state park is very minimal, at only $5 for adults. For kids under 13, it’s free. If you want to book an adult group, contact the park for special pricing.

 


Who doesn’t admire beautiful art? The El Paso Museum of Art a popular art venue located in downtown El Paso. It was founded almost60 years ago, back in 1959. When it became accredited in ‘72, it was and remains to be the only accredited art museum within a span of over 200 miles. Each year, the museum attracts near 100,000 visitors each year, making it one of the most popular art museums in Texas. The El Paso Museum of Art is open from 9 am to 5 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. On Thursday, they are open from 9 am to 9 pm and from 12 pm to 5 pm on Sundays. They are closed on Mondays and major holidays. Hours for certain exhibits and collections vary. Admission into the El Paso Museum of Art is free, so you can admire the beautiful art without a price.

 


Another popular historical site of El Paso is the Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site. Basically an oasis within a desert, the rock basins (aka Huecos), has been providing the areas with water. The park is popular for offering ancient rock imagery, spots for picnics, and 20 campsites. The 860-acre park is a popular attraction among both locals and tourists. To behold this site, it costs $7 for adults and free for kids 12 and under. The park is open from 8 am to 6 pm throughout the months of October to April. During the months of May to September, the park is open from 8 am to 6 pm Monday through Thursday and from 7 am to 7 pm Friday to Sunday.

 


The El Paso Zoo is a popular attraction within the city. The 35-acre zoo is home to more than 200 species of animals, including endangered species such as the Amur leopard and Aruba rattlesnake. Other popular animal exhibits include elephants, lions, orangutans, and more. Since its opening in 1930, it has been serving as one of the best things to do while in El Paso. The El Paso Zoo is open every day from 9:30 to 5 pm. They are closed on major holidays. Tickets will cost $12 for adults, $9 for teens, seniors, and active military personnel. For children aged 3 to 12, the zoo tickets cost $7.50. You can’t leave El Paso without visiting this zoo first.

 

Best Way to Tour El Paso, TX

  • The best way to tour the city of El Paso (as well as many other cities) is by chartered buses and vans. Explore at your own pace within the safety of your private vehicle. Don’t worry about ordering an Uber or Lyft when you have your own exploration vehicle. Through Prompt Charters, you can order the buses you need. Prompt Charters is an amazing, affordable chartered vehicle company that caters to your every needs. Whether you need a bus for school trips, marriages, parties, campaigns, or whatever else, Prompt Charters can help you. Prompt Charters offers buses, mini buses, school buses, party buses, and more. Most activities and destinations listed above and below are accessible by chartered buses.
    Visit www.promptcharters.com to book your rental bus today!

 

Best Place to Eat/Shop

  • Cielo Vista –The Cielo Vista is the largest mall in El Paso. They feature over 140 stores, including 5 anchor stores. Some stores include American Eagle, Apple, Banana Republic, Dillard’s, GAP, H&M, Hollister, Michael Kors JCPenney, Macy’s, and much more. They also feature easy eating options such as Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, Olive Garden, and more.
  • Bassett Place – Another amazing place to shop in El Paso is the Bassett Place. Like Cielo Vista, Bassett Place is a large shopping mall, but not as large. They features 80 stores, featuring 4 anchor tenants. Some stores include Marshalls, Target, Ross, Victoria’s Secret, and much more. They also feature great dining options within their food court.
  • Sunland Park Mall – The Sunland Park is another large mall in El Paso. The Sunland Park features one of the largest store amount in El Paso, coming in at 130. At the mall, there is so much to visit and do. From stores to entertainment to dining options, Sunland has it all.
  • Café Central –Café Central is one of the most popular sit-down restaurants in El Paso, Texas. The American-International restaurant is both vegetarian and vegan friendly, as well as items that meat-loves will love. Café Central is rated the #1 fine-dining restaurant in El Paso by tripadvisor in 2018.
  • Kiki’s Restaurant & Bar – “Kiki do you love me?” We’re sure they will, but we guarantee that you will love them. The local restaurant is a perfect place to eat Mexican and Hispanic foods. Kiki’s Restaurant & Bar is rated the #1 local cuisine restaurant in El Paso by tripadvisor in 2018.

 

 

Enjoy your Vacay!

What to Do in Lubbock, Texas

Places to Visit/Things to Do


If you’re looking for a fun time at an amusement park, head over to Joyland Amusement Park. Joyland is a small family-run, family-owned amusement park located inside Mackenzie Park. Originally founded as Mackenzie Park Playground in the 1940s, Joyland has attracted thousands of visitors, making it one of the most popular attractions in Lubbock. They feature over 30 rides and attractions, perfect for any age groups. Joyland operates in the months of March to September. Like many small-scale amusement parks, they charge per ride instead of all-access admission. After purchasing general admission, each ride costs $2.75 or a group of 10 for $20.

 


Lubbock has an interesting selection of entertainment. In a way, the Buddy Holly Center is one of them, and it’s probably the most popular as well. Ever hear of Buddy Holly, the pioneer in rock ’n’ roll music. The center showcases many things he owned, including his guitars and person items. The Buddy Holly Center is also a performance and visual arts facility. You can catch unique performances here. For the Buddy Holly galleries, adult admission is $8, $6 for seniors above 60, $5 for children under 18 and for students, and free for kids under 7, museum members, and active military personnel. The fine arts gallery has free admission. The Buddy Holly Center is open from 10 am to 5 pm from Tuesday through Saturday. On Sundays, they open at 1 and close at 5 pm. On Mondays and major holidays, the center is closed.

 


Many cities in Texas have many historical sites. The Lubbock Lake National Historic Landmark may be the most popular one in Lubbock. Also known as the Lubbock Lake Landmark, it is an important archaeological site that is proclaimed to offer 12,000 years of history. The 336-acre site, a protected state and federal landmark, is said to contain evidence of extinct and endangered animals, as well as ancient peoples. The Lubbock Lake National Historic Landmark is open to the public from 9 am to 5 pm on Tuesday through Saturday, and from 1 to 5 pm on Sundays. The landmark is closed on Mondays and major holidays. There is no admission fee to this site.

 

  • Museum of Texas Tech University


Do you like art? Do you like science? What about nature? Get all of this in one destination at the Museum of Texas Tech University. The museum is another popular attraction in Lubbock, Texas. The museum is made up of several “departments: the Moody Planetarium, the Lubbock Lake Landmark, the Natural Science Research Laboratory, and the Val Verde County research site. In the main building, the Moody Planetarium, you can find countless items belonging to the areas of art, science, geography, and so much more. You can also watch unique performances and observe interesting exhibits here. The museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm from Tuesday to Saturday, and from 1 to 5 pm on Sundays. On Mondays and major holidays, the museum is closed.

 

  • Mackenzie Park


Do you enjoy spending time outdoors? If so, Mackenzie Park would be perfect for you. Here, you can find a multitude of activities, such as golf courses, gardens, and even the Joyland Amusement Park (read above). Mackenzie Park is also the home of the Prairie Dog Town, an attraction featuring Texas’ prairie dogs and more. Mackenzie Park is open to the public 24 hours 365 days of the year, unless there is an emergency event.

There is no price of admission to enjoy most amenities of the park, but certain events and attractions may cost money. If you have spare time on your hands, Mackenzie Park is perfect for those looking to enjoy time outdoors.

Best Way to Tour Stamford, CT

  • The best way to tour the city of Stamford (as well as many other cities) is by chartered buses and vans. Explore at your own pace within the safety of your private vehicle. Don’t worry about ordering an Uber or Lyft when you have your own exploration vehicle. Through Prompt Charters, you can order the buses you need. Prompt Charters is an amazing, affordable chartered vehicle company that caters to your every needs. Whether you need a bus for school trips, marriages, parties, campaigns, or whatever else, Prompt Charters can help you. Prompt Charters offers buses, mini buses, school buses, party buses, and more. Most activities and destinations listed above and below are accessible by chartered buses. Visit www.promptcharters.com to book your rental bus today!

 

Best Places to Eat/Shop

  • South Plains Mall – South Plains Mall, the largest shopping mall in Lubbock, is a popular shopping destination among both locals and tourists. This shopping mall features stores like Dillard’s, American Eagle, H&M, JCPenney, Sears, and more. They also feature plenty of dining options
  • Kingsgate Center North – Kingsgate Center North is one of the two Kingsgate Malls in Lubbock. It features stores like Chico’s, Talbots, and more. They also feature great, cheap dining options such as Chipotle, Pei Wei, and more
  • Kingsgate Center South – The second of the Kingsgate malls, Kingsgate Center South is literally across the street from Kingsgate Center North. There stores are combined and include the same listed above. Their dining options as well are combined.
  • Double Nickel Steakhouse –Who doesn’t enjoy a great fancy meal? Have one at the Double Nickel Steak House, a popular fine-dining joint. The American steakhouse is rated the #1 fine-dining restaurant in Lubbock according to tripadvisor (in 2018).
  • The Shack –What a great name for a great restaurant! The Shack is a popular local restaurant in Lubbock. The American barbecue restaurant is rated the #1 local restaurant in Lubbock by tripadvisor (in 2018).

 

 

Enjoy your Vacay!

How to Enjoy Charleston, SC

Places to Visit/Things to Do


Middleton Place, built in 1755, was the home of Arthur Middleton, one of the people who signed the Declaration of Independence. Today, you can find historic items like furniture and portraits inside. On the property, there is also a stable that houses heritage bred animals. You can also watch re-enactors show how life in the 18th century used to be. The real attention-grabber are the gardens. The gardens are modeled after traditional French garden. You can find the 65-acre grounds filled with beautiful flowers and plants. After you’re done exploring the estate, you should grab a bite to eat at the Middleton Place Restaurant, a local restaurant on site. Admission to the Middleton Place is a bit steep, costing $28 for adults $10 for kids aged 6 to 13. This price includes a guided walking tour and a chance to explore the large gardens. If you want to tour the house, you might have to pay extra. Middleton Place is open daily, from 9 am to 5 pm.

 


You remember sitting in history class while the teacher taught about the Civil War? If you remember, the first shot was fired here, at Fort Sumter back in 1861. You can see where history happened by taking a ferry to the fort. At the fort, you can find stone caverns, cannons from the Civil War-era, and even a museum that talks about the role of the fort during the war. All this does came at a price. Exploring Fort Sumter itself is free, but the ferry ride costs $21 for adults and $13 for the young ones aged 4 to 11. We recommend purchasing your ferry tickets ahead of time, as they might get sold out depending on the season.

 


If you prefer more nature than trimmed gardens, head over to Magnolia Plantation & Gardens. This place is perfect for those who love avid nature. The house is worth the visit, with a gorgeous interior. There is also an Audubon Swamp Garden, where you see gators, turtles, and otters. There is also several trails where you can go jogging or ride your bike. For the kids, there is also a petting zoo. The house and gardens are open every day from 9 in the morning to 4:30 in the afternoon. November through February. From March to October, they are open from 8 in the morning to 5:30 in the evening. General admission costs $20 for adults and $10 for kids aged 6 to 12. General admission gives you access to the gardens, the conservatory, the orientation theater, the peacock café, the petting zoo, and more.

 


The Nathaniel Russel House was built by Nathaniel Russel in the early 1800’s. Russel was a rich Southern businessman. The historic house is mostly known for its famous spiraling staircase. Other popular features of the estate is the furniture and gardens. You can join a tour of the property, which are held every 30 minutes. The tour teaches you about the Russel family and slaves of the household. The property is open from 10 in the morning to 5 in the evening from Monday through Saturday, and from 2 to 5 pm on Sundays. The last tour for each timings is held at 4:30 pm.  Entrance for adults costs $12 and $5 for the kids.

 


Although it is only 3.3 square miles, Sullivan’s Island is one of the most popular attractions in Charleston. Located at mouth of the Charleston harbor, Sullivan’s Island is home to beaches, great restaurants, interesting stores, and more. If you don’t enjoy beaches and the other activities, you can spend your time learning about the history of the area. You can learn about Fort Moultrie, Sullivan’s Island’s first fort. It withstood a 9-hour battle in 1776 due to its soft exterior causing cannonballs to bounce off. Edgar Allen Poe was also stationed at this fort from 1827 to 1828. Some of his short stories were based from Sullivan’s Island. If you’re interested in visiting Sullivan’s website, you should stay updated with the things you want to do, as some activities are not available every day.

 

Best Way to Tour Charleston, SC

  • The best way to tour the city of Charleston (as well as many other cities) is by chartered buses and vans. Explore at your own pace within the safety of your private vehicle. Don’t worry about ordering an Uber or Lyft when you have your own exploration vehicle. Through Prompt Charters, you can order the buses you need. Prompt Charters is an amazing, affordable chartered vehicle company that caters to your every needs. Whether you need a bus for school trips, marriages, parties, campaigns, or whatever else, Prompt Charters can help you. Prompt Charters offers buses, mini buses, school buses, party buses, and more. Most activities and destinations listed above and below are accessible by chartered buses. Visit www.promptcharters.com to book your rental bus today!

Best Places to Eat/Shop

  • Charleston City Market – The Charleston City Market, although a bit of a tourist trap, is an interesting place to shop. Here, you can find vendors selling toys, clothes, special goods, and more.
  • The Shops at Belmond Charleston Place –If you’re looking for an upscale shopping center, The Shops at Belmond Charleston Place is the place to go. It features luxury brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and more.
  • Charleston Farmers Market –The Charleston Famers Market is the perfect place to shop if you’re looking for fresh produce, meat, and goods. Choosing a good place to eat here might be tough, as so many of them smell and taste so good!
  • Halls Chophouse – There might not be a better sit-down restaurant in Charleston than Halls Chophouse. The American steakhouse is rated the # fine-dining restaurant in Charleston by tripadvisor (in 2018).
  • Swig & Swine – Swig & Swine is an American bar and barbecue restaurant. It is a favorite among both locals and tourists for its tasty, local-based food. It is rated the #1 local cuisine restaurant in Charleston by tripadvisor (in 2018).

  

Enjoy your Charter Bus Vacation!

 

Things to do in Des Moines, Iowa

Things to Do/Places to Visit


For those looking for entertainment in Des Moines, head over to the Des Moines Civic Center. The Des Moines Civic Center is a 2,500+ seat facility owned and run by the Des Moines Performing Arts. The Des Moines Performing Arts is a not-for-profit organization for art. They present world-class productions and performances, such as the Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield Family Series. Also, you might be able to catch famous performers and bands here. The ticket office is open Monday through Friday from 9 in the morning to 5 in the afternoon. The Civic Center is closed on the weekends and major holidays. Pricing depends on the performance and show.

 


The Des Moines Art Center is a popular art museum, which was founded in 1948. The center features world class art pieces, paintings, and sculptures and statues. Also impressive is the architecture of the building, combining different forms of art architecture styles. The galleries feature exhibits from famous artists like Matisse, Monet, and several more. The center features large collections of both temporary and permanent collections. Temporary exhibits usually are displayed in the main gallery for anywhere from one to three months. Unlike many other art museums, the Des Moines Art Center has free admission. The art center is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 11 am to 4 pm. On Thursday, they are open from 11 am to 9 pm. On Saturday, the museum is open from 10 am to 4 pm; and on Sundays, they open at noon and close at 4 pm. They are closed on Mondays and major holidays.

 


Do you enjoy sports? Des Moines has you covered with their Wells Fargo Arena. Different teams with different sports play in the multi-purpose arena. One of the teams is the Iowa Wolves. They are an American professional basketball team that is affiliated with the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves. If you’re more of a football fan, catch a game of the Iowa Barnstormers. The Barnstormers is a professional indoor football team that compete in the Indoor Football League. The third and last team that plays at the Wells Fargo Arena is the Iowa Wild. An ice hockey team, they are affiliated with the NHL’s Minnesota Wild. Game times and ticket prices depend on the game, seating, and team.

 


What better historic place in Des Moines is there than the Capitol building? The Capitol building offers free guided tours, as well as the chance to walk around by yourself. Tours begin on the ground floor and work their way up. The capitol building was built between 1871 and 1886, showing a great example of beautiful architecture. The building’s style is made of Neoclassical architecture. Probably the most spectacular part of the building is the large center dome. The building’s dome is covered in beautiful 23-carat gold leaf. The Capitol is open from 8 am to 5 pm Mondays through Friday. On Saturday, they open at 9 am and close at 4 pm. The Capitol is closed on Sundays and major holidays. Tours are available during the operating hours.

 


If you’re looking for a zoo to visit while in Des Moines, head over to the Blank Park Zoo. Originally began as a children’s zoo in 1996, it is now the only accredited zoo in the state of Iowa. While there are many exhibits, some popular exhibits include the Discovery Center, the African Boardwalk, the Aquarium of the Discovery Center, and more. If you’re bringing your family to Des Moines, this zoo is one of the best places to visit, especially since the admission price won’t break your bank. For adult (13-64), the price is $14. For seniors, admission costs $3 dollars less, sitting at $11. Children aged 3 to 12 have to pay $8; and those under 3 can have fun for free. If you buy your tickets online, the cost is slightly lower. Through the months of May to September, the zoo is open between 9 am to 5 pm. October through April, the zoo opens at 10 am and closes at 4 pm. They are also closed on major holidays.

 


The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is one of the most popular attraction in Des Moines. The 14-acre botanical was originally begun as a city greenhouse in 1939. Later in 1979, the botanical garden that is here today was established. The garden currently holds more than 1,200 various plants. The mission of the garden is “to celebrate and explain the world of plants.” Some popular collections include those of Bonsais and Orchids. Throughout the year, the garden also hosts occasions, such as Garden Growers, Story Sprouts, and Yoga at the Garden. Entrance to the garden for adults costs $10, $9 for seniors and military personnel, and $7 for children 4 to 17. Those who are members or under 4 enter for free. The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is open every day for the public unless it is a major holiday.

 

Best Way to TourDes Moines, IA

  • The best way to tour the city of Des Moines (as well as many other cities) is by chartered buses and vans. Explore at your own pace within the safety of your private vehicle. Don’t worry about ordering an Uber or Lyft when you have your own exploration vehicle. Through Prompt Charters, you can order the buses you need. Prompt Charters is an amazing, affordable chartered vehicle company that caters to your every needs. Whether you need a bus for school trips, marriages, parties, campaigns, or whatever else, Prompt Charters can help you. Prompt Charters offers buses, mini buses, school buses, party buses, and more. Most activities and destinations listed above and below are accessible by chartered buses. Visit promptcharters.com to book your rental bus today!

Best Places to Shop/Eat

  • Downtown Farmers’ Market –TheDowntown Farmers’ Market is the place to go for fresh goods. Some of the food offered here by local farmers include fresh fruit, vegetables, eggs, and cheese. There is also a great selection of fresh meat like chicken, goat, lamb, pork, and turkey.
  • East Village – This is another great place to shop in Des Moines. Here, you can find a variety of shops such as eateries, small-scale retailers, boutiques, home décor stores, and specialty shops. There are also several services offered here.
  • Jordan Creek Town Center –The Jordan Creek Town Center is a popular mall in West Des Moines. Here, shop the brands you love, eat the food you love, and spend time with the people you love. Activity-wise, there is a lot of entertaining things to do.
  • 801 Chophouse –Who doesn’t love food from a nice, fancy restaurant? Well, that’s what the 801 Chophouse is. 801 is an American steakhouse with a price of $$$$. It is also rated the best fine-dining restaurant in Des Moines by tripadvisor (in 2018).
  • Skip’s –Skip’s is a local restaurant that is a favorite of pretty much everyone who’s eaten there. The American restaurant is both vegetarian and vegan friendly. Don’t worry meat lovers; Skip’s has you covered! The restaurant is rated the #1 local cuisine restaurant in Des Moines by tripadvisor (in 2018).

 

Enjoy your Vacation!