Saturday, April 13, 2024

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas: Ultimate Wax Museum Experience, Tickets & Tips

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas: Where Celebrities & Fun Await on the Strip

For those looking to make the most of their time in Sin City, Madame Tussauds Las Vegas is more than just a museum of wax figures; it's a celebration of pop culture and the enduring legacy of celebrity. The attraction opened in 1999, becoming the first Madame Tussauds venue to open in the United States.

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Nestled within the bustling hub of The Venetian Resort, in the vibrant heart of the Las Vegas Strip lies a sanctuary where fantasy meets reality, and dreams intertwine with celebrity allure. With a rich history dating back over two centuries, Madame Tussauds has captivated audiences worldwide with its lifelike wax figures, meticulously crafted to perfection.

Embark on a mesmerizing adventure as you traverse the halls of this celebrity haven, where every corner unveils a new surprise. One of the highlights of Madame Tussauds Las Vegas is its interactive exhibits, inviting guests to engage with their favorite stars in unprecedented ways. Strike a pose alongside the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, as his iconic music sets the stage for an unforgettable dance-off. Channel your inner superhero and join forces with the Avengers in an epic battle against evil, or test your sporting prowess against boxing legend Muhammad Ali in the ring of champions.


Step into the eerie realm of the Marvel Super Heroes 4D Experience, with state-of-the-art special effects and immersive storytelling, this pulse-pounding attraction promises thrills and chills aplenty.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas is more than a wax museum; it’s an interactive celebrity experience that puts you in the spotlight with the biggest names in entertainment. Located at The Venetian Resort on the Vegas Strip, this attraction lets you pose, play, and party with incredibly lifelike wax figures of A-list actors, music icons, superheroes, sports legends and more. From snapping selfies with Marvel’s Avengers to grabbing a drink in a bar straight out of The Hangover, Madame Tussauds offers a fun-filled escape into the world of pop culture. The vibe is enthusiastic and playful – perfect for festival-going, travel-loving adventurers looking for something unique in Vegas. Get ready to walk the red carpet, strike a pose, and make memories with “celebs” at every turn!




Why Visit Madame Tussauds Las Vegas?

Madame Tussauds is a must-see Vegas attraction because it combines the glitz of Hollywood, the excitement of an amusement park, and the charm of a interactive gallery all in one. Here’s why travel enthusiasts and festival-goers will love it:

  • ⭐ Meet the Stars: Where else can you high-five Marvel’s Spider-Man, sing on stage next to Beyoncé, or sit in Elvis Presley’s Cadillac? With over 75 incredibly detailed wax figures of celebrities, you’ll feel like you’re at the ultimate VIP party. The figures are so lifelike that you might do a double-take!

  • 🎭 Interactive Everything: This isn’t a look-and-don’t-touch museum. Go ahead and hug your favorite actor, shoot hoops next to an NBA star, or pose on a royal throne beside the Queen. Many exhibits encourage you to jump right into the scene – put on props, play games, and be the star of your own story. It’s like a selfie playground for grown-ups and kids alike.

  • 🎡 Fun for All Ages: Whether you’re on a family trip, a friends’ getaway, or a couples’ date, Madame Tussauds has something for everyone. Kids will love the superheroes and movie characters, grown-ups will enjoy the nostalgia of classic stars, and everyone laughs and bonds while striking silly poses. It’s a perfect break from casinos and a great way to spend a few hours in Vegas beyond the usual shows and gambling.

If you crave an enthusiastic, up-close encounter with pop culture, Madame Tussauds Las Vegas absolutely delivers. Still need convincing? Read on for the amazing highlights and tips to make the most of your visit!

Highlights of the Madame Tussauds Experience

One thing’s for sure – you won’t be bored here. Madame Tussauds Las Vegas is packed with themed zones and special experiences that go beyond static wax figures. Here are the top highlights you shouldn’t miss:

  • Pose with Your Idols: Ever wanted to stand on stage with Michael Jackson, shoot a scene with Sandra Bullock, or chat up George Clooney? Now’s your chance! Snap selfies with Hollywood stars, music legends, and sports heroes throughout the museum. From Brad Pitt to Lady Gaga, the gang’s all here. Pro tip: have your camera ready – you’ll be taking tons of photos. 

  • Marvel Super Heroes 4D Experience: Calling all comic fans! Step into a thrilling 4D movie adventure with Marvel’s Avengers. Don a pair of 3D glasses and join Iron Man, Captain Marvel, Hulk, and Spider-Man in a short film that engages all your senses. Feel the rumble of explosions and a splash of water as heroes battle villains in this theater experience. It’s like being inside a mini Marvel movie – complete with wind, tremors, and other surprising special effects that kids and adults will love.

  • The Hangover Bar: 🍻 Time to join the Wolf Pack! Inspired by the hit Vegas comedy “The Hangover,” this full-themed bar inside Madame Tussauds makes you a part of the movie scene. Step onto the rooftop bar set, surrounded by Vegas skyline views, and grab a prop beer or “Tiger” plush for that perfect pic. You can actually order a drink here (it’s a real bar for guests 21+), so clink glasses with Alan and Phil (in wax form) for a hangover-free good time. It’s five o’clock somewhere – might as well be in a famous movie!

  • Carnival Carnage 7D Game: Think 3D is cool? Try 7D! This interactive game is part ride, part video game. You’ll sit in a moving seat, put on special glasses, and shoot lasers at spooky clowns and zombies in a virtual carnival. Compete with other players for the high score as you feel the motion and wind of the ride. It’s a quick thrill (suitable for most ages) that adds an unexpected adrenaline rush to your museum visit. Who knew a wax museum could get your heart pounding?

  • Club Tussauds & Music Icons: Dance and sing with music superstars! In the Club Tussauds zone, the vibes are high-energy – jam out with figures of Beyoncé, Tupac, Rihanna, Elvis, and more. Belt out a karaoke tune, drop beats with a DJ setup, or pose amid a recreated nightclub scene. Over in the Music Icons section, you can moonwalk next to Michael Jackson or play guitar alongside Miley Cyrus. If you’re a music festival fan, you’ll be in heaven rubbing shoulders with rock and pop legends here.

  • Historical & Sports Heroes: It’s not all showbiz – you can meet history-makers and champions too. Shoot hoops with Shaquille O’Neal, throw a punch (gently!) at Muhammad Ali, or take a knee with an NFL star. Then stroll over to say hello to President Barack Obama or Captain America – the mix of figures is wonderfully eclectic. It’s a fun chance to snag photos with people who shaped the world, all in one place. (Great for kids’ school projects or just your own bucket-list moments!)

And guess what? They’re always updating exhibits. Recent additions have included figures like Princess Diana, pop stars like Lizzo and Bad Bunny, and even a new Illuminating Speakeasy Experience. So each visit can bring something new. Take your time exploring all the zones – you don’t want to miss a thing!

Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit

To ensure your Madame Tussauds adventure is absolutely epic, consider these handy tips and suggestions:

  • Go Early or Late: As mentioned, hitting the museum right at opening (10 AM) or in the evening (after 6 PM) can give you more space and time with each figure. It’s more relaxed, and you won’t feel rushed to move aside for other guests’ photos. Early in the day, you might even get some areas all to yourself – perfect for those Insta-worthy shots!

  • Charge Your Camera/Phone: You will be taking LOTS of photos – trust us on this. From goofy selfies to artsy shots mimicking celebrity poses, it’s basically a photoshoot playground. Make sure your phone or camera is fully charged (and bring a portable charger if you have one). There are so many fun backdrops and props that you won’t want to stop snapping pics. Maybe even coordinate outfits with your friends for the ultimate Vegas photo album! 📸

  • Interact and Have Fun: Don’t be shy! This place is made for you to play around. Wear costumes or silly hats provided at certain exhibits (ever wanted to don Marvel hero gear or a vintage Vegas showgirl feather boa? Now’s your chance!). Try to reenact famous movie scenes or dance moves with the figures. The more you engage with the exhibits, the more memorable your experience. And if you’re with family or friends, encourage each other to get creative and cut loose.

  • Plan for 1-2 Hours: Most visitors spend about 90 minutes here, but it can vary. If you do all the extra experiences (4D movie, 7D game, etc.) and take lots of photos, two hours can fly by. There’s no time limit once you’re inside, so you can linger as long as you like. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be on your feet the whole time. Thankfully, it’s air-conditioned – a nice break from the desert heat, especially in summer.

  • Family Considerations: If you have kids, Madame Tussauds is generally very family-friendly. Strollers are allowed, and there are no super-scary parts (the 7D game has spooky elements, but you can opt out of that). Young ones will recognize characters like Marvel heroes or maybe figures from cartoons depending on current exhibits. Encourage kids to interact – perhaps challenge them to count how many singers vs. athletes they find, or mimic the pose of each figure for a fun game.

  • Don’t Skip the Extras: The Marvel 4D film is short (about 10-15 minutes) and runs continuously – definitely do it, it’s included and really entertaining. The Hangover Bar is a unique touch – even if you don’t drink alcohol, step in for the atmosphere (grab a soda or just take pics with the guys). And the Carnival 7D shooter game does cost a bit extra, but if you love arcade games or theme park rides, it’s a blast worth trying. Think of it as a mini side-quest during your visit.

  • Souvenirs: On your way out, you’ll pass through a gift shop (of course – it’s Vegas!). You’ll find fun souvenirs like mini wax figure replicas, celebrity merchandise, and the photos taken by staff. One very unique souvenir is the Wax Hand station – you can literally have your hand dipped in wax to create a mold sculpture of your hand giving a thumbs-up or peace sign. It’s a quirky keepsake (and a hit with couples who mold their hands together!). Budget a little extra time at the end if you want to shop or do the wax hand, as there might be a short wait for those.

Lastly, be courteous to other visitors. Everyone’s excited to get their perfect shot, so just take turns and maybe even offer to snap photos for a group and have them return the favor for you. You might make a few new friends along the way – after all, bonding over meeting “Beyoncé” in wax is a pretty great conversation starter!

Location, Hours & Getting There

In addition to its regular hours of operation, Madame Tussauds Las Vegas also hosts special events and private functions, making it the perfect venue for birthday parties, corporate gatherings, and other celebrations.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas is conveniently located at The Venetian Resort, right in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip (3377 S Las Vegas Blvd). If you’re exploring the Strip, you can’t miss it – look for the grand Venetian Palace architecture and the Madame Tussauds neon sign out front. The museum’s entrance is just off the sidewalk by the Venetian’s outdoor Grand Canal (near the gondola rides).

Hours: The attraction is typically open 7 days a week, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (with last entry around 7:45 PM). Hours can vary on holidays or special event nights, so it’s wise to check the official website before you go, just in case. But generally, you have all day to drop in and enjoy. Keep in mind that midday and early afternoon can be the busiest times, so if you want a quieter experience (better for photos without other guests in the background), try going first thing in the morning or later in the evening.

Getting There: If you’re staying on the Strip, it’s likely a short walk or quick rideshare to The Venetian. From elsewhere in Vegas, you can drive (there’s parking at The Venetian’s garage, often free for the first hour or two) or take a taxi/Uber/Lyft right to the entrance. The Deuce bus (the Strip’s double-decker bus) also stops nearby. Once you arrive at The Venetian, follow signs for Madame Tussauds or ask a hotel staff member – it’s well-marked and easy to find near the Strip-facing side of the resort.


Monday, April 1, 2024

County Fair Season in Arizona

April 2024: County Fair Season – Carnival Rides, Fried Treats & Family Fun in Arizona

Spring is in the air, and in Arizona that means county fair season! April 2024 brings the return of two of the state’s biggest fairs – one in the Phoenix area and one in Tucson – where you can enjoy classic carnival rides, farm animals, live music, and every deep-fried treat imaginable. Grab the family and get ready for funnel cakes and Ferris wheels!

Maricopa County Fair 2024 (Phoenix)

When & Where: The Maricopa County Fair is set for mid-April 2024 (likely a five-day event around April 10–14, 2024). It takes place at the Arizona State Fairgrounds (19th Ave & McDowell Rd) in central Phoenix. The fairgrounds come alive with bright lights and music as the county fair rolls into town. There’s plenty of parking on site (for a fee), and the central Phoenix location makes it easy to reach.

What to Expect: As one of the largest county fairs in Arizona, Maricopa County Fair offers:

  • Thrilling Rides: A full carnival midway features everything from a towering Ferris wheel and classic carousel to adrenaline-pumping rides like the spinning Zipper and the giant Giant Slide. There are rides for all ages – gentle choo-choo trains and teacups for the little ones, and high-flying pendulum and drop tower rides for teens and adults craving thrills. (Look out for unlimited ride wristband days if you plan to ride a lot — it can be a great deal.)
  • Live Entertainment: Multiple stages showcase local talent throughout each day. You’ll encounter everything from live bands and dance troupes to magic shows and pie-eating contests. In the evenings, enjoy concerts (often included with admission) featuring tribute bands or up-and-coming artists. Don’t be surprised to see roaming entertainers too – stilt walkers, clowns, and quirky characters adding to the fun.
  • 4-H & Livestock Exhibits: Being a county fair, agriculture is at its heart. Stroll through the livestock barns to see prize-winning cows, goats, sheep, pigs, and chickens raised by Arizona’s 4-H and FFA youth. You might catch an old-fashioned pig race or a goat milking demo. City kids (and adults!) love meeting the farm animals and learning a bit about rural life. There’s often a petting zoo area where you can feed gentle farm animals and an “Agri-land” exhibit with educational, hands-on activities like gardening or seed planting for kids.
  • Fair Food Galore: Come hungry because the fair is a food paradise. Indulge in giant turkey legs, funnel cakes piled with whipped cream and strawberries, corn dogs, fry bread tacos, and curly fries – the classics are all there. But save room for creative indulgences too: deep-fried Oreos and Snickers bars, flaming hot Cheetos-coated corn, massive pickle corn dogs… each year brings new outrageous eats. Pro tip: share dishes with friends so you can taste a bit of everything! And don’t forget a cold lemonade or a creamy gelato to wash it down.

Family Tips: Admission is usually very affordable (kids under a certain age are often free). Check their website for discount days – for instance, in past years the fair has offered free admission during certain weekday hours or special family-pack deals. Once inside, scope out the “Kid Zone” area for milder rides and games suited for young children. Strollers are welcome, though some barns and tents can get crowded. Midday in April can be warm, so apply sunscreen and consider hats for the little ones. And if noise is an issue (the midway can be loud), a pair of ear protectors or earbuds can help sensitive ears.

Pima County Fair 2024 (Tucson)

When & Where: The Pima County Fair takes over the Pima County Fairgrounds (11300 S. Houghton Rd) on Tucson’s southeast side in late April 2024 (tentatively April 18–28, 2024). This fair runs longer – around 10 days – giving you two full weekends to attend. The fairgrounds are a short drive from Tucson, with ample parking (and even carnival shuttles on peak days).

What to Expect: Pima County Fair is known for its lively atmosphere and big entertainment lineup:

  • Big-Name Concerts: One hallmark of the Pima fair is its evening concert series, often bringing in nationally known artists free with fair admission. In previous years, genres have ranged from country stars (like Lee Brice) to rock bands (like P.O.D.) to old-school R&B groups. Concerts happen on the main stage and are first-come, first-serve for seating/standing, so if there’s a show you’re dying to see, arrive early that day to secure a spot.
  • Carnival Midway: Just like Maricopa’s fair, you’ll find a huge midway here with rides for all ages. One unique aspect at Pima: they often debut a new ride or two each year from the traveling carnival company, so you might get to try a ride you haven’t seen before. From the classic Tilt-A-Whirl to the heart-pounding Spinning Coaster, there’s no shortage of motion and speed. And plenty of gentler attractions for kids, of course. Grab a wristband for unlimited rides if you’re a ride warrior (usually offered on certain weekdays).
  • Exhibits & Attractions: Check out the exhibition halls where locals showcase arts, crafts, and culinary creations. Marvel at intricate quilts, marvelously decorated cakes, giant home-grown vegetables, and even Lego masterpieces – all competing for ribbons. The fair often has special attractions like a wildlife showcase (think live tiger presentations or exotic birds), an illusionist/magic show inside a tent, or fun contests like a demolition derby or monster truck show in the arena. There’s always something happening beyond the midway.
  • Fair Food & Drink: Tucson’s fair brings its own flavor. In addition to the usual fair foods (which we all love), look for Southwest twists: maybe green chile cheeseburgers, Sonoran hot dogs, or horchata treats. Pima County Fair also typically has a large beer fest tent on weekends, featuring local craft brews for the 21+ crowd to sample while listening to live music. And of course, plenty of sweet treats – cotton candy, buñuelos (Mexican sweet fritters), ice cream, you name it.

Good to Know: The Pima County Fair often offers unlimited ride wristband deals on certain days/times (commonly on Thursdays until 8 p.m. for a flat fee). If you have thrill-seekers, that can be a cost-saver. The fairgrounds layout is fairly large, but they offer a handy map brochure at the entrance – snag one so you don’t miss anything. Tucson evenings can be breezy in April, so you might bring a light jacket if you’ll stay after dark (you’ll want to – the fair is beautifully lit up and the concert energy is great at night).

Celebrate Spring at the Fairs

Arizona’s county fairs are a timeless tradition that bring communities together for springtime fun. It’s a chance to experience a little bit of country life right in the city – where else can you pet a goat, ride a roller coaster, watch a live band, and eat a fried Twinkie all in one day? Whether you head to the Maricopa County Fair in Phoenix, the Pima County Fair in Tucson, or both, you’re sure to make fantastic family memories.

Mark your calendars, bring your appetite, and get ready to enjoy the simple joys of the fair. Take lots of photos (who can resist a Ferris wheel selfie at sunset?), win that stuffed animal, and savor every bite of funnel cake. And as always, follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates and our favorite snapshots from these fairs – we’ll be sharing our adventures and would love to see yours too! See you on the midway!

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Chandler Chamber Ostrich Festival

Ostrich Festival – A Quirky Arizona Tradition Takes Flight

March in the Phoenix area means it’s time for one of Arizona’s most unique and beloved events: the Chandler Ostrich Festival 2024! This annual festival brings together the nostalgia of a county fair with a quirky local twist – celebrating Chandler’s history of ostrich ranching. It’s a perfect outing for families, music lovers, and anyone up for some offbeat fun as spring arrives in the desert.

When & Where: Two Weekends of Fun in Chandler

When: The Ostrich Festival spreads out over two weekends in March 2024. Festivities run Friday through Sunday on back-to-back weekends (for 2024, those dates are March 8–10 and March 15–17). Gates open in the afternoon on Fridays (around 2 p.m.) and from morning till midnight on Saturdays, and until around 11 p.m. on Sundays, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the fun day or night.

Where: Tumbleweed Park in Chandler, AZ transforms into the festival grounds. The park is located just south of downtown Chandler and offers lots of space for rides, stages, and yes – even ostrich pens! On-site paid parking is available, and there are typically shuttles from nearby lots to ease congestion. (Insider tip: if you can, consider a rideshare on the busiest nights to save the parking hassle.)

Festival Highlights: More Than Just Ostriches!

The Chandler Ostrich Festival offers a smorgasbord of entertainment and attractions. Here are some highlights you won’t want to miss:

  • Ostrich Races: Yes, you read that right! Ostrich racing is the star attraction and a nod to Chandler’s quirky past (the city once had ostrich farms whose feathers were used in women’s fashions in the early 1900s). During scheduled shows in the arena, daring jockeys climb onto ostriches and attempt to race them a short distance. It’s hilarious, unpredictable, and truly one-of-a-kind – don’t forget to cheer for your favorite big bird! (These races usually happen a couple of times each day, so check the schedule when you arrive.)
  • Live Music & Shows: The festival boasts a main stage with concerts from national headliners and talented local bands each evening. Past years have featured big names in pop, country, and rock (think along the lines of The Beach Boys, Andy Grammer, or Clint Black – the lineup varies every year). During the day, catch a variety of acts around the park: magic shows, BMX stunt demonstrations, cultural dance troupes, and yes, the ever-entertaining ostrich-inspired “Daisy the Ostrich” puppet wandering the grounds.
  • Carnival Rides & Games: A full carnival midway offers dozens of rides for all thrill levels. Little ones can enjoy the carousel and mini-coaster, while thrill-seekers can get spun and flipped on extreme rides like the Hyperloop or Kamikaze. A giant Ferris wheel provides a panoramic view of the whole festival (awesome at night!). In between, test your skills at classic fair games to win a stuffed animal or that giant ostrich plush you didn’t know you needed. (Pro tip: Unlimited ride wristbands are usually available for certain days – a good value if you plan to ride a lot.)
  • Delicious Fair Food: Come hungry because the Ostrich Festival is known for its mouth-watering food vendors. Savor all the fair favorites – funnel cakes dusted with powdered sugar, corn dogs, curly fries, and lemonade shake-ups – plus unique treats. You might find ostrich burgers on the menu as a cheeky homage (tastes like lean beef!), or try fry bread Navajo tacos, kettle corn, snow cones… the list goes on. And yes, there’s likely a vendor selling deep-fried everything (Oreos, Twinkies, pickles – if you can fry it, it’s probably here).
  • Family Fun & Animals: Beyond ostriches, there’s usually a petting zoo and pony rides for kids to get up-close with friendlier farm animals (goats, sheep, bunnies, etc.). Don’t miss the exotic animal display – in past years, they’ve had camels or zebras on exhibit, tying into the festival’s “wild” theme. There are also ostrich-themed activities like an ostrich egg decorating station and selfie opportunities with costumed characters. Plus, character meet-and-greets (think superheroes or princesses) are common in the kids’ zone. It’s a festival designed to keep all ages entertained.

Tips to Make the Most of the Ostrich Festival

  • Tickets & Deals: Check online for advance ticket pricing – buying ahead can save a few dollars off the gate price. There are often family packs or wristband deals available. Kids under a certain age (typically 5 and under) might be free, so verify the age policy. Also, some discount days or promotions (like free entry for military on a specific day, or half-price admission during certain hours) might be offered. Plan accordingly to take advantage.
  • Plan Your Visit: Each evening features a big-name concert that draws crowds. If you’re mainly interested in the rides and unique attractions, consider going earlier in the day to avoid the biggest crowds, then you can stick around as the concert begins (you can enjoy the music from many parts of the fairground). Conversely, if the concert is your main draw, arrive a bit before showtime to stake out a good viewing spot (the standing area in front of the stage is first-come, first-served).
  • Stay Hydrated & Sun Safe: March weather is pleasant but can be sunny and warm in the daytime. Wear sunscreen and a hat, and take breaks to hydrate – especially if you’re enjoying those deep-fried goodies. There are water refill stations and plenty of vendors selling cold drinks.
  • Comfort & Cash: Wear comfy shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of walking between rides, stages, and vendor booths on grass and pavement. It’s a big park! ATMs are on site, but it’s smart to bring some cash for game booths and smaller vendors that might be cash-only. Most food stands take cards now, but it can vary.
  • Embrace the Quirk: Where else can you watch ostriches race, then hop on a roller coaster, then eat a funnel cake while listening to live music? The key is to dive into the fun and embrace the festival’s quirky charm. Take a selfie with an ostrich (there’s usually one you can meet in a pen), sing along to the cover band on the side stage, and make a whole day (or night) of it.

The Chandler Ostrich Festival perfectly captures the spirit of Arizona – a blend of classic fair fun with a unique local twist. Whether you go for the ostriches, the carnival thrills, the live entertainment, or all of the above, you’re in for a memorable experience. So mark your calendar, gather your flock (er, family and friends), and get ready to make some springtime memories. And follow us on Instagram and Facebook for live updates and goofy highlights from the festival – we’ll see you there, hopefully with an ostrich burger in hand!

Saturday, February 3, 2024

36th Annual Renaissance Festival

The 36th Annual Renaissance Festival is open Saturdays and Sundays, including Presidents’ Day Monday, from 10am-6pm every event day, rain or shine.

February 3-4, 10-11, 17-18-19, 24-25

March 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, 30-31

~ NEW in 2024!! ~

 Whether you are a seasoned festival-goer or a first-time visitor, you will want to check out the following new and exciting additions for the 2024 Arizona Renaissance Festival season. 

  • The Hops!! - New Pub Crawl - a brand new pub crawl at the Arizona Renaissance Festival!
  • Mynstrel's Roost! New Music Stage!!
  • New Entertainment!! - More new Stage acts at the village of Fairhaven!  
  • New Food, Drink, and Shopping!!

Get your tickets

~~   FREE Parking   ~~