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Charlotte Guide Available
Discover the charm of Charlotte, North Carolina, in AAA's new Local Travel guide. From its rich history to its dynamic arts scene, Charlotte has something for everyone. Explore top attractions, dining hotspots and hidden gems to make the most of your visit to the Queen City! Check out the Charlotte guide today.
Click here for additional AAA Guides!
Rendering of new Detroit hotel opening in 2027
JASON KEEN
MICHIGAN
NoMad Hotels to Open Luxury Detroit Location in 2027
NoMad Hotels is set to make a remarkable debut in Michigan with the opening of a 180-room hotel at The Station at Michigan Central in Detroit. This exciting venture, in collaboration with Ford Motor Company, aims to revitalize the historic passenger rail station into a hub of commerce, innovation, and culture. Scheduled to open in 2027, NoMad Detroit will offer travelers luxurious accommodations, wellness facilities and memorable dining experiences. The hotel's design will honor Detroit's rich history and vibrant arts scene, making it an inviting option for visitors seeking culture and community. By choosing NoMad Detroit, travelers will be treated to unparalleled luxury, unique local character and stunning views of the city's skyline.
Visit AAA TripCanvas for more Detroit information.
Aerial view of Chimney Rock State Park
CHIMNEY ROCK STATE PARK MANAGEMENT
NORTH CAROLINA
North Carolina State Park is Open for Visitors
Chimney Rock State Park, a beloved natural landmark in Western North Carolina, is ready to welcome back adventurous travelers and nature enthusiasts alike. After a nine-month closure due to the catastrophic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene, the park reopened on June 27. This reopening is not just a return to nature's splendor but a testament to the resilience of the Hickory Nut Gorge community and the park's dedicated stewards.
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene was reminiscent of the historic Flood of 1916, with waters washing away the park’s bridge and damaging nearby businesses. However, through a collaborative effort involving state parks, cultural resources departments, and numerous local entities, Chimney Rock State Park is back in action, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with its breathtaking landscapes.
Now accessible via a temporary bridge and with reservation-only entry, the park offers a unique blend of adventure and safety. While exploring, visitors can enjoy the new scenic detour through Lake Lure, further enriching their journey. Guests are encouraged to book their passes in advance and explore the park from Friday through Monday. It's time to create new memories at Chimney Rock State Park.
IF GOING TO THE PARK: Reservations are required to enter the Park and can be made online in advance on chimneyrockpark.com. To get to the park, guests should be aware there are numerous road closures as recovery efforts continue in the area. As of August, the only open route into Chimney Rock is NC 9 through Lake Lure. All other routes remain closed to non-local traffic, including US 74A from Asheville, US 64 from Hendersonville, and NC 9 from Black Mountain. The best address to use in GPS is 665 Main Street, Chimney Rock, NC 28720. Guests should plan ahead and include extra travel time.
Mount Airy’s new hotel will be ideal for music enthusiasts.
ADOBE STOCK
Experience the Harmony of Heritage and Mondern Comfort
The Balladeer Hotel is set to open in early 2026 in downtown Mount Airy, North Carolina, offering a unique experience for travelers with a harmonious blend of musical heritage and modern hospitality. Affiliated with Marriott's Tribute Portfolio, this 65-room boutique hotel will be part of the revitalized Spencer's Mill site, providing an ideal stay for music enthusiasts. With amenities like a recording booth, on-site dining and a wine bar, guests can immerse themselves in Mount Airy's rich musical legacy. Conveniently located near Pilot Mountain State Park and the Andy Griffith Museum, The Balladeer Hotel is a perfect addition for travelers seeking culture and comfort.
Your adventure to Bryce Canyon is just a road trip away
adobe stock
Rediscover America Through AAA
This summer, an unforgettable adventure is just a drive away! Hit the open road and explore scenic routes, national parks and must-see landmarks with exclusive tips and discounts for AAA Members. Whether you're looking for hotel savings, car rental deals or need to get your vehicle road-trip ready, trust AAA to help get you there safely and in style. Visit AAA.com/DriveAmerica to start planning your next adventure today.
Saxman Native Village educates visitors about indigenous Alaskan culture.
CAPE FOX LODGE
ALASKA
Cape Fox Lodge Unveils Cultural and Culinary Tour in Saxman Native Village
Discover the heart of Ketchikan with Cape Fox Lodge's new "Tlingit Formline Craft, Tasting and Cultural Showcase." This immersive 3.75-hour journey invites travelers to delve into Indigenous heritage through art, cuisine and performance. Craft Tlingit designs under a local artist's guidance and savor an Alaskan culinary spread featuring reindeer sausage and smoked salmon dip. Explore Saxman Native Village, home to historic totem poles and rich Tlingit stories. The journey culminates with an enthralling Alaska Native dance performance. Ideal for all travelers, this experience promises a profound connection with Alaska's vibrant cultural tapestry.
For more information about Ketchikan and accommodations, visit AAA.com/TripCanvas.
To read more about traveling to Alaska, read Savoring Alaska’s Culinary Treasures.
BOB MARLEY HOPE ROAD VIDEO
NEVADA
The Spirit of Bob Marley at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino
Las Vegas is ready to groove with the highly anticipated launch of Bob Marley Hope Road at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. This groundbreaking entertainment experience celebrates the life and legacy of the music legend, Bob Marley. Visitors can now journey through the vibrant world of reggae music with dual offerings—a daytime interactive exploration and a thrilling nighttime live show. Cedella Marley, the executive producer, invites audiences to connect deeply with Marley's message of love and unity.
Buy Tickets Through AAA.com/Tickets
The Wizard of Oz at Sphere video
New Wizard of Oz Show at Sphere
Step into the magical world of Oz at Sphere with the latest immersive show, "The Wizard of Oz." Running from Aug. 28, 2025 through Mar. 31, 2026, this groundbreaking experience promises to be a must-see for travelers and adventure seekers alike. As you journey down the yellow brick road with Dorothy and her friends, Sphere’s vast 160,000 sq. ft. display will envelop you in the vibrant landscapes of Kansas and Oz. Enhanced with haptic seats, environmental effects and custom scents, you'll feel every step and breeze as if you're truly part of the story. The remastered original songs will resonate through Sphere Immersive Sound’s massive 167,000 speaker system, offering unmatched auditory clarity. Don't miss the chance to be part of this enchanting adventure.
Buy tickets to Sphere shows at AAA.com/Tickets
Architectural rendering of the upcoming Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library and library grounds
THEODORE ROOSEVELT PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY / PLOMP
North Dakota
Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library to Open in 2026
The state of North Dakota is gearing up for a historic addition to its landscape—the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, set to open its doors in July 2026 during the nation’s 250th birthday celebrations. Set in the picturesque Badlands near Medora, the library will honor the legacy of America’s 26th President in a place that significantly influenced his ideals of conservation and leadership. This architectural marvel, designed by Snøhetta and pursuing the rigorous Living Building Challenge, promises to be both an eco-friendly and educational beacon. Featuring interactive exhibits, this transformative space will immerse visitors in Roosevelt’s life story and values. Collaborating with Microsoft, the library will also offer a unique digital experience using AI to access Roosevelt's extensive archives.
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Eating Your Way Through Alaska
