DCI Tourism Story Starters: Spring/Summer 2024 Edition
May 10, 2024
NORTH AMERICA
Alexandria, VA
Nothing says summer like a refreshing trip to Alexandria, Virginia. Hotel Heron — in the heart of Old Town and only minutes from Washington, D.C. — opens in early summer 2024, providing a fresh perspective on the historic area. The hotel is a gateway to exploring the city’s renaissance beyond the National Mall and monuments, making it an ideal summer stay. The recent opening of Copper Mill, a chic market and tavern that honors the site’s milling history, transforms a historic waterfront warehouse. Whiskey enthusiasts will delight in Saturday whiskey tastings at George Washington’s Distillery and the newly opened MacMillan Spirit House in Old Town North. Don’t miss exciting events like the Pride Bar Crawl on June 22, Port City Brewing Co. Old Town Pub Crawl on July 20, Beats, Bites and Brews on July 27 and the Around the World Cultural Food Festival in August. Savor sustainable dining at the new Founding Farmers restaurant location, coming to the Oakville Triangle development in late summer 2024. Art lovers, mark your calendars for the Alexandria Old Town Art Festival on Sept. 14-15 and the return of Art on the Avenue in early October.
Baltimore, MD
Summer in Baltimore is a rich tapestry of cultural celebrations and community gatherings, offering something for everyone to enjoy. Embrace African American heritage at AFRAM, where music, entertainment, and special guests come together to celebrate culture and unity from June 22-23. Dive into the colorful world of the Caribbean from July 12-14 at the One Caribbean Festival, featuring lively parades, exotic costumes, and tantalizing cuisine to transport you to the islands. Join the exuberant festivities of Baltimore Pride from June 10-16, celebrating love and acceptance with parades, music, and family-friendly activities. Celebrate the Cherry Hill Arts & Music Festival and dazzling Fourth of July Fireworks at the Inner Harbor on July 4, complete with art, music, waterfront concerts, and family-friendly activities. Savor Baltimore’s vibrant culinary scene from July 19-28 during Restaurant Week with exclusive prix-fixe menus showcasing the city’s gastronomic diversity. Then, take in the city’s vibrant art scene from August 2-4 during Artscape, the nation’s largest free arts festival, featuring captivating exhibits, live music, workshops and delectable local cuisine.
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga offers a vibrant mix of music, festivals, food, and free activities throughout 2024. Kick off your summer with the free Nightfall Concert Series, held every Friday night through August. This eclectic live music event features a mix of local openers and national headliners, creating a family-friendly atmosphere where kids and pets are welcome and picnics are encouraged. In the spirit of community and music, celebrate Make Music Chattanooga on June 21. Part of a global movement that began in France in 1982, this citywide event showcases local talent and now spans over 700 cities across 120 countries. Stay a few extra days to participate — on the course or the sidelines — in the Chattanooga Waterfront Triathlon on June 23. In its 42nd year, this cherished endurance race takes place downtown with a river swim, two-loop bicycle course and scenic run along the Tennessee Riverwalk. As the seasons change, the athletic spirit in Chattanooga continues with IRONMAN Chattanooga on Sept. 29. Witness the peak of athleticism in this demanding race that challenges participants with a swim in the Tennessee River, a grueling bike course and a marathon run. The Riverview Park Playground in North Chattanooga will undergo a transformative redevelopment this year. Once complete, the new inclusive playground will offer nature-inspired play areas, sensory music elements, and spaces accessible to all abilities.
Cincinnati, OH/Northern Kentucky
Cincinnati Opera will present the world stage premiere of “Paul McCartney’s Liverpool Oratorio” on July 18, 20, 21, and 27. Sir Paul’s early post-war life in Northern England inspired the semi-autobiographical work, which he originally composed in 1991 for the 150th anniversary of the Royal Liverpool Society and hit the top of the classical charts. The Cincinnati Music Festival returns on July 25 along the banks of the Ohio River. The three-day festival features such musical genres as R&B, jazz, soul, and hip-hop and welcomes an array of musical acts for 2024, including En Vogue, Maxwell, Fantasia, and Ne-Yo. Nearby is the Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame, which celebrates its first anniversary on July 27. This new interactive outdoor park commemorates Black musicians worldwide who have made lasting contributions to music.
Expedia Group (Canadian B2B Media Only)
Expedia Group Media Solutions, the global travel advertising platform, recently launched its new “Where To” offer, which allows destination partners to showcase a fresh and creative perspective to travelers. Expedia Group partnered with Destination Canada to produce four episodes highlighting Canada’s culinary, outdoors, wellness and skiing destinations. Expedia Group also revealed new data highlighting the impact of its advertising tools in boosting travel partners’ visibility on Expedia Group brands and increasing partner revenue during popular cultural events. Major cultural events in 2023 that the company highlighted are Wimbledon in London, cities included in the Taylor Swift Eras Tour, the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Las Vegas, and the Super Bowl in Phoenix. Vrbo® unveiled its 2024 Vacation Rentals of the Year in Canada, which features remarkable private vacation homes countrywide. This year’s list recognizes gorgeous waterfront homes, stunning cabin escapes and modern chalet stays in Kimberley, British Columbia; Baie-Saint Paul, Quebec; Port Carling, Ontario; North Rustico, Prince Edward Island; and more.
Florida
Florida is packed with exciting events, new attractions, and memorable adventures in 2024. The new Daytona Aquarium and Rainforest Adventure in Daytona Beach invites visitors to explore a fascinating array of both aquatic and terrestrial species, providing a comprehensive and educational journey through diverse ecosystems. Families will also be thrilled by SeaWorld’s latest addition, Penguin Trek, debuting in 2024. This innovative launch coaster, modeled after a snowmobile, offers a thrilling expedition through a simulated Antarctic landscape, enhancing the visitor experience with a narrative centered on penguin conservation.
In 2024, the MICHELIN Guide Florida welcomed 19 new restaurants, enriching the dining landscapes of Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. Notable newcomers include EntreNos and Tam Tam in Miami, alongside Zaru and Supernatural Food & Wine, enhancing Florida’s total to 137 MICHELIN Guide-listed venues. Culinary enthusiasts can also savor the flavors of the world at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, held from Aug. 29 to Nov. 23 at Walt Disney World Resort. Music lovers are in for a treat at the Suwannee Hulaween festival, from Oct. 24-27 at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak, featuring a diverse lineup in a mystical setting.
Greater Miami, FL
Greater Miami and Miami Beach hosts many fun events in the backdrop of sun-drenched beaches and lively rhythms. This destination offers the perfect mix for an unforgettable vacation — gorgeous beaches, vibrant nightlife, shopping paradises and a lively art scene. The Hyundai Air & Sea Show returns to Miami Beach for its eighth annual “Greatest Show Above the Earth” extravaganza on Memorial Day weekend. Visitors should also save the date for Labor Day weekend because Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens hosts The Orange Blossom Classic, a top historically Black college and university football event. The CONMEBOL Copa America also hits Miami from June 23 to July 14, featuring 16 top teams at the Hard Rock Stadium. All travelers will enjoy three intense days of international soccer! The electrifying NASCAR weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway happens Oct. 26–27, with the highlight being the NASCAR Cup Series Race on Sunday, a must-see event in the NASCAR Playoffs that offers a variety of experiences to complement a race weekend.
Kissimmee, FL
Kissimmee delivers non-stop excitement throughout 2024 with thrilling attractions, unforgettable festivals and recreation options perfect for every traveler. Known as the Vacation Home Capital of the World®, Kissimmee has sprawling resorts with thousands of options ranging from two-bedroom condominiums to 15-bedroom mansions. Car enthusiasts can revel in the Florida Summer Special Mecum Auctions from July 10–13, showcasing a vast selection of classic vehicles. Further automotive delights await at the Old Town Kissimmee Car Show, held every Wednesday, and the Saturday Classic Car Show & Cruise, featuring stunning vintage cars. Step into the Wizarding World this fall with the all-new, immersive “Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience.” Let the magic continue at nearby world-famous theme parks, where Halloween brings spine-tingling events like Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights. The Delta by Marriott Orlando Celebration recently completed a $35 million renovation, enhancing the guest experience with modern amenities and stylish design. The Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate is also expanding its facilities, adding a new sleeping room wing and introducing Eagles Edge—a cutting-edge golfing experience featuring TopTracer technology with smart targets and gameplay.
Loudoun County, VA
Loudoun County’s events welcome visitors to the county’s rich history, vibrant culture, amazing culinary experiences and breathtaking landscapes. D.C.’s wine country traces its roots back to 1980, when Lew Parker planted the first grapes in Loudoun on his farm south of Leesburg. Despite an initial crop failure, he persevered, and in 1984, he bottled his first wine. As a result, 2024 marks the 40th anniversary of the Loudoun wine industry. Loudoun County is a top wine destination, spanning 854 acres and boasting the seventh-highest number of wineries in the country. In October, the county pridefully hosts the prestigious Loudoun Wine Awards, a competition that highlights exceptional regional wines, chosen through a blind tasting by industry experts. The event concludes with an awards dinner and a chance to meet passionate winemakers and owners. Also in October, the Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg hosts the Middleburg Film Festival. The event features intimate screenings, discussions with filmmakers and actors, and a lineup of festival favorites, premieres and potential Oscar contenders.
Orlando, FL (Canada Media Only)
Experience the enchanting summer magic at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, inspired by Disney’s The Princess and The Frog. Scheduled to open this summer, visitors can join Princess Tiana and jazz-loving alligator Louis on their journey through a shimmering bayou. Dreamworks Land is also set to debut an all-new themed land featuring DreamWorks Animations’ beloved characters in interactive play spaces and attractions that bring characters from such popular movies as Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda to life. Villatel Orlando Resort is a new upcoming accommodation offering private villa rentals along with resort-like amenities including a water park, fitness center, and restaurants. Designed for nature lovers, Cabins at Fort Wilderness is set within a forest oasis of cypress and pine and offers tent and RV camping, fully furnished cabins and more.
St. Louis, MO
St. Louis boasts one of the most significant gatherings celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community with Pride Fest, widely recognized as one of the region’s largest events. In June, this joyous occasion completely transforms the stunning downtown — including the iconic Gateway Arch, a perfect location for Instagram-worthy moments after experiencing exciting concerts, dancing and more. Opera Theatre of Saint Louis hosts an annual festival season showcasing classical and contemporary operas performed in English by talented artists from around the world, accompanied by the Grammy Award-winning St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. The Japanese Festival at the Missouri Botanical Garden is a top U.S. event that spotlights Japan’s history, culture, and people with traditional art, food, and entertainment. Don’t miss special tours, such as the guided Teahouse Island visit or the self-guided evening stroll through the beautifully illuminated Japanese Garden. Another signature event is the Festival of Nations in Tower Grove Park, which celebrates St. Louis’s diversity by uniting more than 75 nations during a two-day event of food, music, arts, and traditions.
Greater Louisville, KY
Greater Louisville delivers a unique blend of Southern charm, bourbon heritage, and thrilling events throughout 2024. Immerse in the city’s vibrant cultural scene with the return of Kentucky’s Summer Shakespeare Festival taking place from May 29 through August 11 at the C. Douglas Ramey Amphitheater in Old Louisville’s Central Park. Explore Southern Indiana’s blossoming arts community with the new Inspired Soin Passport, your guide to unique galleries, studios, and events across the river. For a taste of Kentucky’s finest craft beer, mark your calendar for the Kentucky Craft Bash on June 29 and the Summer Beer Fest at Frazier, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Frazier History Museum with more than 200 craft beers, food, live music on July 27. Celebrate the diverse LGBTQ+ community and the city’s signature spirit during Bourbon and Belonging: Kentucky’s Queer Bourbon Week, featuring tastings, tours, and special events from Oct. 2-6. Looking ahead, the Yew Dell Botanical Gardens is undergoing a transformation with the Castle Gardens project, slated for completion in 2025. The $5 million project aims to convert the area surrounding the iconic Yew Dell castle into a stunning collection of new gardens, water features and educational opportunities that will be fully accessible to all visitors.
North Carolina
Explore vibrant festivals, outdoor adventures, and unforgettable cultural experiences across North Carolina in 2024. Relive the ’80s with a blast from the past at the Totally Tubular Festival in Raleigh on July 13. Get to know the playful side of nature at the National Black Bear Festival on June 1, then indulge in juicy watermelon at the NC Watermelon Festival in Historic Downtown Murfreesboro from July 31 – Aug. 2. Prospect for hidden treasures at the NC Mineral and Gem Festival in Spruce Pine from Aug. 1-2, followed by swashbuckling fun at the Outer Banks Pirate Festival from Aug. 7-8. Thrill-seekers will find their fix at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, with exhilarating whitewater rafting and ziplining. History buffs will soar with excitement at the newly renovated Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, tracing the path of aviation pioneers. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the vibrant galleries of the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh. As autumn paints the landscape, a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway reveals breathtaking fall foliage. Head on over to Lexington and savor the smoky goodness of a true Southern tradition at the Lexington Barbecue Festival from Oct. 25-26. Finally, immerse in the sweet melodies of bluegrass at the Outer Banks Bluegrass Island Music Festival taking place Oct. 17-19.
Redding, CA
Redding is a hidden gem in Northern California, celebrated for its affordability and less crowded spaces, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Positioned just south of the Oregon border, Redding is renowned as California’s sunniest city, boasting over 300 sunny days each year. This vibrant city will celebrate the 20th anniversary of its famed Sundial Bridge on July 4. Designed by the illustrious Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, this pedestrian bridge doubles as a functional sundial and spans the Sacramento River, seamlessly linking the north and south sections of Turtle Bay Exploration Park. This connection extends into Redding’s extensive Sacramento River Trail system, providing serene pathways for hikers and cyclists. Nearby, the river access allows for a variety of water activities, with facilities for launching boats and kayaks, making it an ideal spot for fly-fishing and rowing. At the heart of Turtle Bay Exploration Park lies a wildlife rehabilitation center, offering close encounters with a diverse collection of animals such as porcupines, skunks, and foxes, enhancing the visitor experience with interactive opportunities.
San Antonio, TX
Known as the Theme Park Capital of Texas, San Antonio is primed for a summer filled with exciting new offerings and expansions. Morgan’s Wonderland, the world’s only Ultra-Accessible Theme Park, reopened in late spring following a $6 million expansion. Designed with those with special needs in mind, the park now features a 4D cinema that simulates the thrills of a rollercoaster, a passenger boat ride across the park’s lake, and a wheelchair-accessible zipline. Six Flags Fiesta Texas is also gearing up to introduce new park enhancements, attraction upgrades and three new thrill rides, creating the largest DC Universe at any amusement park in the United States. The Pearl district has also seen significant growth; Pullman Market, the largest culinary market in the Southwest, opened in late April and features a specialty grocer, a whole animal butcher, a sourdough bakery, a chef supply shop, five quick-service eateries and four distinct restaurants. Chef Nicola Blaque’s latest creation, Freight Fried Chicken, also debuted at The Pearl’s food hall in early 2024, blending tradition with culinary innovation. In September, the city will unveil the World Heritage Center, a new gateway to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this new facility promises to enrich visitor understanding of the region’s profound historical and cultural significance. The excitement continues into October with San Antonio’s spirited Día de los Muertos celebrations, complete with traditional ofrendas, festive parades, and colorful sugar skull displays.
San Francisco, CA (Canadian Media Only)
San Francisco invites Canadian travelers to explore a tapestry of new and refined experiences in 2024, setting the stage for the upcoming expansion of Presidio Tunnel Tops in 2025. This innovative urban park, perched atop highway tunnels, promises breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and a fresh perspective on the city’s landscape. For accommodation, the Beacon Grand in Union Square offers a perfect blend of historic elegance and modern luxury, while the eco-friendly 1 Hotel San Francisco provides a serene retreat at its Bamford Wellness Spa, complete with rooftop terrace baths. Culinary enthusiasts will be delighted by the city’s newest Michelin-starred restaurants, Aphotic and Nari, and the expanded offerings at China Live in vibrant Chinatown. Another notable addition is Tiya, which brings modern prix fixe menus to the Bay Area’s expanding Indian dining scene. For thrills, the heart-pounding Fleet Week air shows in October are a must-see, and sports fans can support the San Francisco Giants during their home games at Oracle Park through the late fall. With direct flights from major Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal to San Francisco International Airport, accessing these unique experiences is more convenient than ever.
San Luis Obispo, CA
The city of San Luis Obispo (SLO), located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco along California’s Central Coast, hosts its annual Concerts in the Plaza every Friday night from June 21 through Sept. 6. The free concerts — at the Mission Plaza, with the historic 1772 Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa as a backdrop — feature a lineup of regional and headlining acts, including The Molly Ringwald Project, with the ‘80s teen queen of films taking to the mic. (She recently played Joanna Carson in the miniseries Capote Vs. The Swans.) Check in to one of SLO’s many boutique hotels, which participate in the city initiative “Keys for Trees.” For every overnight stay, hoteliers will donate a percentage of revenue to the planting of 10,000 trees throughout the city, with a goal of completion in 2035 — when the city plans to be completely carbon neutral. Make time to visit the weekly downtown Farmers Market on Thursday evenings and the area’s many award-winning wineries.
U.S. Virgin Islands
If your idea of a perfect summer includes incredible beaches, tropical drinks and gourmet dining, then look no further than the U.S. Virgin Islands, a trio of easily accessible Caribbean islands that require no passport. Summer is synonymous with St. John Celebration. Smaller and more intimate than other carnivals, this event marks the end of slavery on the islands and the founding of the United States. Held June 28 through July 4, its parade is just as fun, albeit smaller, than others, and the lines for food and drinks are shorter. On July 7, head to St. Croix for the annual Mango Melee at St. George Village Botanical Garden. The event features chefs and mixologists using the golden-fleshed tropical fruit in every way imaginable, a mango-eating contest and music by top local bands. In St. Thomas, don’t miss the King of the Wing contest during June, in which 40 teams compete for the coveted crown and a chance to represent the USVI at the National Buffalo Wing Festival.
Washington, D.C. (Canadian Media Only)
Stay at the newly transformed boutique hotel AKA Washington Circle, which offers contemporary accommodations and amenities. Another exciting development in hospitality is the highly anticipated rebranding of the former Mandarin Oriental into Salamander Washington, DC. Guests can experience luxury with modernly refreshed guest suites designed by Washington’s own Thomas Pheasant, including its stunning gathering spaces and an expanded spa. At the hotel, guests and visitors can indulge in the city’s evolving culinary scene, including the opening of Dōgon by acclaimed chef Kwame Onwuachi, who draws inspiration from D.C.’s heritage and the West African Dogon tribe. In addition, the October opening of Arlo, the city’s first property from the independent lifestyle brand, promises a unique blend of historic preservation and modern amenities, featuring a rooftop lounge, a pool and innovative dining options. Once the fall colors explode, enjoy some of the city’s most-anticipated festivals, such as the H Street Festival, which celebrates the vibrant culture of the H Street NE corridor with live music, food vendors and art exhibits, and the 20th anniversary of the DC Jazz Festival, where fans can enjoy performances by local and international artists throughout the city.
Western Massachusetts
Western Massachusetts is a vibrant and diverse region offering a rich tapestry of experiences from the scenic counties of Berkshire, Hampshire, Hampden, and Franklin to the iconic Mohawk Trail. Kick off your summer with the Berkshire Yoga Festival, where yoga, meditation, and art installations create a transformative experience from June 12-16. Celebrate diversity at Springfield’s Juneteenth Jubilee, featuring parades, live music, and vibrant festivities. Enjoy the soundtrack of summer at the Green River Festival from June 21-23, and experience thrilling rides and spectacular July 4th fireworks at Six Flags New England, home to more rides and attractions than any other theme park in the region. Dive into wet and wild fun at Hurricane Harbor, New England’s largest waterpark. As summer winds down, the streets of Springfield come alive with the Puerto Rican Parade on Sept. 17, celebrating Latin culture with vibrant rhythms and dance. The excitement continues with The Big E, the Northeast’s largest fair, from September 13-29. For more adventure, explore the great outdoors with hiking, biking, and water adventures at Jiminy Peak and Berkshire Whitewater Adventures. Then, be sure to quench your thirst with craft brews at White Lion Brewing and Bright Ideas Brewing.
INTERNATIONAL
Barbados
Barbados, renowned for its pristine beaches and sustainability efforts, is enthusiastic about this summer and fall. During June, excitement will peak as Barbados hosts the thrilling finale of the International Cricket Council’s T20 World Cup. During July and August, the most-anticipated Caribbean festival returns with lively festivities and the infectious energy of the Crop Over Festival filling the island to celebrate the end of the sugar cane harvest. Dive into thrilling cricket action at the T20 World Cup finals in June, then join the infectious energy of the Crop Over Festival in July and August. Explore Barbadian culture and discover the wonders of the marine environment at the Dive Fest Barbados from Aug. 18-24. Don’t miss the Barbados Jazz Excursion and Golf Tournament in October, along with the flavors of the Barbados Food and Rum Festival from Oct. 24-27.
Belize (Canadian Media Only)
Kick off the festival season during July at the Placencia Lobsterfest and San Pedro Lobster Fest, which celebrate and showcase the rich tradition of lobster fishing and hold a special place in Belizean history. Featuring lively music, dancing and dynamic performances, these festivals provide a platform for local businesses, artists and performers and advocate for sustainable tourism practices. The International Costa Maya Festival, which has become one of Belize’s largest and most-anticipated cultural events, begins Aug. 1. This three-day event filled with live music and entertainment promotes tourism on the Island of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. On this island is construction at Six Senses, which is building 24 luxurious new residences. With its anticipated ready date in 2025, guests can look forward to a range of amenities, including a scuba center for underwater exploration and an organic garden supplying fresh produce to the resort’s restaurants.
Monaco
With a packed events calendar, buzzy alfresco restaurants and bars, colorful gardens and beach clubs pouring made-to-order cocktails, Monaco is the place to be during the summer. Spend the day exploring the rocky coastline on a chartered yacht, or lounge by the pool at the 40-room Monte-Carlo Beach hotel, which boasts its own private beach with a water-sports club offering paddleboat, stand-up paddleboard and kayak rentals. Larvotto Beach is popular for morning coffee, lunch by the sea or an all-day session in the sun. Don’t miss La Note Bleue, a breezy restaurant with live music every Friday and Saturday evening. Book a table at Amazonico, one of Monaco’s newest restaurants, or try the new Japanese hotspot at Hotel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, L’Abysse Monte-Carlo, opening during July, with French chef Yannick Alléno and sushi chef Yasunari Okazaki at its helm. Enjoy the Monte-Carlo Television Festival in June and the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival in July, when some of the biggest names in music will be performing in the Principality’s most prestigious venues.
Scotland (Business Events Media Only)
www.businessevents.visitscotland.com
VisitScotland Business Events (VSBE) continues its “Journey to Change,” which leverages the business events platform as a catalyst for positive change inspired by Scotland’s pioneering spirit. JetBlue has launched its inaugural New York to Edinburgh flight from JFK to Edinburgh Airport (EDI) routes from May 22 through Sept. 30. Delta offers a new route beginning in May, connecting Atlanta to EDI. Canadian airlift includes a new route from WestJet, with daily flights from Toronto to EDI through Oct. 13. New and renovated hotels for planners to discover include the upcoming The Hoxton Edinburgh, the first one from the renowned group in the Scottish capital, which will offer 212 rooms, three three-bedroom apartments and an innovative meeting concept called The Apartment, which will host up to 200 people. During November, Scotland hosts the Global Wellness Summit at the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa in St. Andrews. Leaders in the health, wellness and innovation spaces come to connect and innovate at the event, which is one of the pinnacles in the growing industry that brings the world a healthier future.
Toronto (Business Events Media Only)
Toronto, home to some of the most-innovative hotels, restaurants and venues in North America, hosts several notable events, including the Collision Conference, June 17–20, renowned for its dynamic convergence of technology leaders and industry innovators. Adding to the city’s allure, Formula 1 has chosen Toronto to host the North American premiere of The F1 Exhibition at the Lighthouse ArtSpace and is expected to attract a diverse audience, from motorsport enthusiasts to industry leaders. From July 19–21, Toronto’s Exhibition Place hosts Honda Indy Toronto, IndyCar’s second-oldest street race. Additionally, The Canadian National Exhibition, better known as “The Ex” to locals, is happening Aug. 16 through Sept. 2. Known as Canada’s biggest annual fair, this nearly 150-year-old event showcases Canada’s agricultural and scientific progress, such as the Vertical Hydroponics exhibit, eSports tournaments and the CNE Gaming Garage. Toronto also invites travelers to immerse in island culture during the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, where the city comes alive Aug. 1–5 with vivid colors and infectious rhythms. The National Bank Open, the world’s third-largest tennis tournament after Wimbledon and the US Open, takes place Aug. 4–12. In September, the red carpet is rolled out for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the Toronto International Festival of Authors, drawing creatives from all over the world.
Vienna
Experience the best of Vienna’s city oases in the open air. Trendy spots along the Danube Canal evoke a Riviera vibe, with sandy beaches and refreshing cocktails. Highlights include Strandbar Herrmann and the rooftop terrace of Klyo restaurant, while the Badeschiff offers a fantastic retreat with an outdoor pool boat. Volksgarten Pavillon and Kleinod Stadtgarten offer charming evening escapes, and the Old Danube provides diverse water activities, such as boating and stand-up paddling. Visitors can enjoy their summer stay in Vienna at the just-opened The Hoxton Hotel, which occupies an historic modernist building from the 1950s; boasts 196 rooms, a lobby, a coffee bar, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with a pool; and seamlessly combines heritage with modern amenities. Travelers can indulge in Vienna’s rich ice cream tradition — a legacy that dates back to the 19th century — at numerous parlors that blend authentic recipes with modern twists.