Check out recent travel-related news, upcoming events and the latest AAA Member savings. Stay in the loop and enjoy the full spectrum of your membership benefits this January.
Lobby of Cambria Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
choice hotels
TENNESSEE
New Cambria Hotel Now Open in Pigeon Forge
Delve into the magic of the Smoky Mountains at Cambria Hotel Pigeon Forge! Opened in October, this hotel offers an ideal mix of adventure and relaxation. Just 2.6 miles from Dollywood and close to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, the property features 118 rooms, a fitness center, a pool with stunning Mount LeConte views and more than 700 square feet of meeting space. Enjoy local fare at Park Social, open for breakfast and dinner. It's a perfect place for AAA Members, whether you’re a thrill seeker or a peace seeker.
King guest room with mountain view
CHOICE HOTELS
Cambria Hotel Pigeon Forge is a part of the Choice Hotels expansion of its upscale portfolio. Eighteen new Cambria hotel locations have recently opened, and 62 more are on the way. Standout properties in California, Tennessee and Washington are making Choice a leader in the upscale market. Cambria Hotels are known for their unique design and excellent service, embodying the true spirit of their locales.
AAA Members can save up to 10% on stays at Choice Hotels. Plus, achieve Gold Elite status after just one stay. Gold Elite Status means you get 10% off elite bonus points, reserved parking, early check-in, late checkout and much more.
Click here for reservations to Cambria Hotel Pigeon Forge!
A glimpse inside the full-scale recreation of the British Ministry of Magic
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS ORLANDO
FLORIDA
Harry Potter Attraction Unveiled
Universal Orlando Resort offered a sneak peek into the impressive, new Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, opening on May 22, 2025, at Universal Epic Universe. This pioneering addition to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Ministry of Magic promises to be Universal’s boldest ride yet, with guests witnessing the trial of Dolores Umbridge inside a full-scale recreation of the British Ministry of Magic.
Talk with a knowledgeable AAA Travel Agent for an out-of-this-world vacation at Universal Studios Orlando.
Interior of Bacan
BACAN
Newest AAA Four Diamond Restaurant Awarded in Florida
Orlando's Bacan has been awarded the prestigious AAA Four Diamond rating, joining an elite list of North American restaurants. Bacan's eclectic dishes, influenced by the flavors of the Americas, and show-stopping presentations impressed AAA Inspectors. Apart from upscale amenities, Bacan stands out with its full bar, patio dining, Sunday brunch and entertainment. Located at 611 Wave Hotel Drive in Orlando, Bacan is easily accessible and offers both valet and on-site parking. Don't miss out on the chic restaurant’s creative menu featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients and noticeably delicious Bacan burger with waygu beef.
Explore nearby activities and accommodations at AAA.com/Orlando.
ILLINOIS
Springfield’s Route 66 Oral History Project to Inspire and Preserve
Visit Springfield announces the Springfield Stewards of Route 66 Oral History Project, in collaboration with Evan Stern, founder of Vanishing Postcards. The project aims to preserve the historic stories of Springfield, Illinois, citizens, who have lived and worked along the iconic highway. By recording interviews, the project has immortalized the experiences of 17 legendary local businesses, contributing to the preservation of Springfield's cultural heritage. These stories, available for future generations on YouTube and at Illinois State Archives, offer deep insights into the social significance of Route 66. The project underscores the importance of individual narratives that might otherwise be forgotten, highlighting the vibrant human life that exists along this historic route. Through this initiative, Visit Springfield nurtures an appreciation of the city's rich history and encourages others to create their own memories along Route 66.
Visit Springfield with pre-planned road trips from AAA.com/TripCanvas
North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum building
North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum
NORTH DAKOTA
North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum Receives National Recognition
The North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum has recently been reaccredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), signifying excellence and securing its place as one of the roughly 1,100 accredited museums out of 33,000 in the United States. Having held this accreditation since 1986, this prestigious recognition affirms the exceptional work of the museum staff and its commitment to providing quality services to the public. The museum's future projects include a new military gallery set to open in 2027. The accreditation process, overseen by AAM's Accreditation Commission, involves a rigorous examination of the museum's operations.
COLORADO
New Denver Travel Guide Available
AAA’s new Denver, Colorado Guide is your go-to resource for exploring Colorado’s Mile High City. From outdoor adventures at parks, bike trails and nearby ski resorts to family fun at interactive museums and the zoo, the new guide has something for everyone. Dive into the city’s dynamic neighborhoods, vibrant culinary scene and iconic spots like Red Rocks Amphitheatre. History buffs, art lovers and culture seekers can explore museums, street art and events like PrideFest and Cinco de Mayo. Let the AAA Denver, Colorado Guide help you uncover the best of this unforgettable city! Click here to access the guide!
