Remaining Galleries and Renovation Completion Scheduled for July 1, 2026.
The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum has announced the next phase of gallery openings at its flagship building in Washington, DC. Five new exhibitions, the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater and the museum's redesigned entrance on Jefferson Drive along the National Mall will open Monday, July 28. The project to renovate the entire museum began in 2018 and will culminate next year when the remaining galleries open July 1, 2026, the 50th anniversary of the museum in Washington and in time for the United States' 250th anniversary.
Thousands of artifacts will go back on display in the reopened galleries. Favorites such as the Spirit of St. Louis, the North American X-15, John Glenn's Mercury Friendship 7 capsule, Apollo Lunar Module 2 and the touchable moon rock will be back on view. Several artifacts new to the building in Washington will include the Sopwith F.1 Camel, Virgin Galactic's RocketMotorTwo, a Blue Origin New Shepard crew capsule mockup and a Goddard 1935 A series rocket.
Galleries opening July 28:
"Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall"
"Futures in Space"
"Barron Hilton Pioneers of Flight"
"World War I: The Birth of Military Aviation"
Allan and Shelley Holt Innovations Gallery
Galleries opening July 1, 2026:
"Textron How Things Fly"
"At Home in Space"
"RTX Living in the Space Age Hall"
"Jay I. Kislak World War II in the Air"
"Modern Military Aviation"
"U.S. National Science Foundation Discovering Our Universe"
Flight and the Arts Center
The museum's multi-year renovation includes redesigning all 20 galleries, complete refacing of the exterior cladding, replacement of outdated mechanical systems and other repairs and improvements including the addition of a new entry vestibule. The first phase opened in October 2022 with eight new galleries, the planetarium, the museum store and the Mars Café. Since then, nearly 5 million people have visited the museum.
Free timed-entry passes will still be required to visit the museum. Passes for the July 28 opening and beyond are available on the museum's website, in addition to more information about how the museum is transforming all of its exhibitions and revitalizing the building.
Courtesy of Groups Today.
Photos courtesy of the National Air and Space Museum.
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A group trip to New York City promises an incredible mix of iconic sights and thrilling activities.
Whether you're gazing at the majestic Statue of Liberty, reaching new heights at the Empire State Building, or enjoying a leisurely stroll through Central Park, the city offers endless experiences. Don't miss the chance for some retail therapy while shopping on 5th Avenue. And of course, a visit to the Big Apple wouldn't be complete without experiencing the magic of a Broadway show.
Broadway delivers a one-of-a-kind theatre experience that ignites the imagination and leaves audiences truly inspired. Attending a live performance in one of its iconic theatres means sharing in the joy and energy of the actors, orchestra, and fellow theatregoers. The lights, music, and atmosphere create a level of excitement you won't find anywhere else. With cutting-edge stagecraft and world-class talent, each show is a singular spectacle. To find the season's standout productions, turn to the Tony® Awards, as they shine a spotlight on the performances that truly rise above.
The Tony Awards, established in 1947, celebrate excellence in Broadway theatre, recognizing outstanding achievements across various aspects of production, including acting, directing, and design. Broadcasted annually, the televised ceremony not only honors the best talent but also offers viewers a sneak peek at some of the nominated shows. These performances from the nominees and winners give audiences a taste of the vibrant creativity and artistry that define Broadway, setting the stage for a memorable trip to the theatre.
Winning the Tony Award for Best Musical marks a show as one of Broadway's finest, celebrated for its creativity, impact, and standout performances. It's a clear signal: this is a must-see production. This year's winner is Maybe Happy Ending, a charming and tender musical about two out-of-date helper robots (Emmy winner Darren Criss and newcomer Helen J Shen) who discover unexpected love and meaning as they explore what it means to be human. In addition to Best Musical, Maybe Happy Ending took home trophies for its director Michael Arden, lead actor Darren Criss, its book and original score by Will Aronson and Hue Park, and its scenic design by Dane Laffrey and George Reeve—making it one of the most celebrated productions of the season.
Heading into Broadway's biggest night, Maybe Happy Ending wasn't the only standout among the nominees. While it claimed the top prize, several other acclaimed productions also took home Tony Awards—and are well worth adding to your must-see list.
Photo courtesy of Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman.
The musicals Death Becomes Her and Buena Vista Social Club were each tied with Maybe Happy Ending, all with 10 nominations across technical and performance categories.
Death Becomes Her, based on the 1992 cult classic movie, stars Megan Hilty and Jennifer Simard as archrivals who will stop at nothing to maintain their youth and beauty. Both leading ladies were nominated in the Best Actress in a Musical category, but the show ultimately won its sole Tony for Paul Tazewell's glamorous and inventive costume design. This lively show is a great addition to any group itinerary, delivering an evening of laugh-out-loud moments and unforgettable entertainment.
Buena Vista Social Club is another crowd-pleaser that took home five Tony Awards this year. Inspired by the album and the documentary of the same name, the new stage musical brings the music of mid-century Havana to Broadway in a tale of four talented musicians navigating the twists and turns of the Cuban Revolution while holding onto their love for music. The show won Best Orchestrations for Marco Paguia, Best Choreography for Patricia Delgado and Justin Peck, and Best Featured Actress for Natalie Venetia Belcon. The musical was also honored with a Special Tony Award, celebrating the musicians of the show's on-stage band. The rich storytelling and vibrant Afro-Cuban music make Buena Vista Social Club a must-see celebration of culture, rhythm, and resilience that will have audiences dancing in their seats.
Photo courtesy of Matthew Murphy.
Winning a Tony Award can make any show a hot ticket, but Broadway Inbound is here to help you secure seats so your groups don't miss out on the best productions Broadway has to offer. As an authorized Broadway ticket seller, Broadway Inbound has the access and expertise to assist in securing tickets for large groups at discounted prices. Visit BroadwayInbound.com for more information on these shows and the many other great musicals and plays currently running on Broadway.
With the right tools and some thoughtful planning, the Tony Awards can inspire a theatre trip that's both meaningful and memorable, while Broadway Inbound manages the details, allowing you to fully enjoy the magic onstage.
Courtesy of Broadway Inbound.
Photo courtesy of Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman.
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The Sun City welcomes travelers from around the nation and the world to experience more than 300 days of sunshine, exceptional cuisine, cultural events, and more during their stay.
El Paso sits at the corner of three states and two nations, making the city a central hub for boundless adventures. From sightseeing at cultural centers and dining at award-winning restaurants to visiting state parks and learning over 400 years of history, El Paso invites visitors to make unforgettable memories on a year-round basis.
HISTORY IN THE MAKING
With a storied past, El Paso is a history buff's goldmine. In recent history making news, El Paso earned the distinguished title of becoming the Boot Capital of Texas, an official designation recognized by the Texas State Legislature, honoring the local bootmakers who have helped shape El Paso's place in the industry. This long-awaited title is one that now solidifies El Paso's place in industry, highlighting the dozens of local boot manufacturers who, for centuries, have contributed to El Paso's impressive boot-making history.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES AWAIT
For those eager to explore the great outdoors, El Paso is your gateway to adventure. The natural beauty of the Franklin Mountains State Park, the largest urban state park in the continental U.S., is perfect for group hikes, mountain biking, or overnight camping. Scenic drives and guided excursions through the Chihuahuan Desert offer breathtaking views and a unique understanding of the region's ecological wonders. If your group prefers a slower pace, enjoy birdwatching at Rio Bosque Wetlands Park or viewing ancient pictographs at Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site.
A CULINARY JOURNEY THROUGH EL PASO
El Paso's culinary scene is as bold as its landscape. Food-loving groups will appreciate the city's strong culinary heritage, where authentic Mexican cuisine blends with innovative culinary flavors. Savor classic dishes at beloved restaurants or discover new favorites at creative eateries serving modern takes on tradition. Don't forget to book a group cooking class or food tour to immerse your crew in El Paso's one of-a-kind food culture.
CULTURE THAT INSPIRES
El Paso is steeped in history, with stories that span centuries and cultures. Group travelers can dive into the region's past with visits to El Paso's Historic Mission Trail, a nine-mile stretch across time to observe Spanish missions, or the El Paso Museum of History, where interactive exhibits bring local stories to life. Murals across the city paint a colorful picture of El Paso's borderland identity, while guided tours through Downtown El Paso Heights reveal architectural gems and fascinating stories of El Paso's past.
A PLACE TO CONNECT AND EXPLORE TOGETHER
El Paso's warm, welcoming community, rich traditions, and diverse attractions make it a perfect destination for group travel. Whether you're bonding over delicious food, hiking under desert skies, or learning about the city's layered past, your group will leave El Paso with unforgettable memories and a deeper connection to the Sun City.
Courtesy of Visit El Paso.
Photo courtesy of Destination El Paso.
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In the fight for American independence, Frederick County, Maryland had a major part to play. Here are the ways you can find the story of the American Revolution hidden in plain sight in Frederick County, Maryland.
Colonial Fredericktown
In the early 1700s, English and Scots-Irish settlers began moving west from the shores of the Chesapeake Bay into the interior of Maryland. In the 1740s, an Irish businessman named Daniel Dulany received a land patent for 7,000 acres of Maryland countryside known as Tasker's Chance. In 1745, he laid out a grid for a town that he called "Frederick-Town" in honor of Frederick Calvert, the 6th Lord of Baltimore.
One of the ways Dulany intended to develop the land that officially became Frederick County in 1748 was by inviting German immigrants from Pennsylvania to settle in the Fredericktown area. Among the families that arrived were Josef and Catharina Brunner. They established a home along Carroll Creek they called "Schifferstadt." Their original log cabin gave way to a large stone farmhouse in 1758. Today, you can visit Schifferstadt Architectural Museum and learn more about the building and the colonial era in Frederick.
Supplying an Army
When the Revolution broke out and war commenced in 1775, the county sent hundreds of men to fight for independence with Maryland regiments in the Continental Army. On the home front, a new industrial operation opened at the base of Catoctin Mountain in northern Frederick County.
The Johnson family opened the Catoctin Iron Furnace in 1776. As the Revolutionary War dragged on, the Johnson brothers eventually ordered the construction of cannon balls for General George Washington's forces to use during the Siege of Yorktown in 1781.
To manufacture these weapons in the fight for freedom, the Johnson brothers paradoxically used slave labor. Enslaved men and women worked the furnaces and in the village that supported the iron-making operation. The furnace continued operation using enslaved labor until the 1840s and remained in use until 1903.
Today, you can visit the historic furnace and the village of Catoctin Furnace. The Catoctin Furnace Historical Society and their Museum of the Ironworker tell the story of the enslaved workers who lived and died in the village, the Johnson brothers whose fortune was made in iron, and the iron furnace that helped build a new nation. Forensic facial reconstructions at the Museum of the Ironworker tell the stories of two enslaved people held in bondage at the Catoctin Furnace.
Housing Prisoners of War
As the Revolutionary War raged in the 1770s, construction began on barracks to house equipment for the Frederick County militia. However, before the construction could be completed, the site became a make-shift prisoner-of-war camp for British and Hessian soldiers captured by the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.
Because many residents of the Frederick area were German, some of the Hessian mercenaries held at the camp later settled in Frederick County. One of the original L-shaped buildings of the Hessian Barracks survives today, and historical placards tell the incredible story of these historical buildings constructed as the War for Independence raged.
These are just a few of the many places where you can explore American Revolutionary history in Frederick County. Visiting these locations, you can feel the sense of place, those important events that happened here, shaped by the people who created the United States of America.
Jake Wynn is the Senior Marketing and Communications Manager for Visit Frederick. His passion is American history—something you can find in abundance in Frederick.
Courtesy of Visit Frederick.
Photo courtesy of Visit Frederick.
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In 2008, the opening of a state-of-the-art baseball facility in Mansfield, Texas, a small Fort Worth suburb, might have raised eyebrows.
With just three hotels, limited shopping and dining and stiff competition across the tourism industry in the DFW Metroplex, the little city seemed a long way off from being considered a destination. Today, Mansfield is a contender to serve as a Team Base Camp for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
Visit Mansfield's Director, Theresa Cohagen, expressed great honor in Mansfield's consideration as a Team Base Camp location, saying, "We can't wait to welcome the world to North Texas next summer and invite every competing team to consider Mansfield as their hometown while they compete for soccer's greatest prize."
A Team Base Camp serves as a team's "home away from home" throughout the international tournament's group stage. A national team will train and live at the base camp as they prepare for their three group stage matches. Teams will decide on their Team Base Camp location in December 2025, following the Final Draw.
Mansfield's consideration as a potential base camp reflects the city's substantial growth. Since that initial baseball facility opened in 2008, the city's population has almost doubled, large sports facilities that can host basketball, volleyball, hockey and swimming have all opened, and tourism is now a nine-figure industry with over a quarter million annual visitors.
However, this next leap into the international arena is only possible because of what will open in 2026: a full-sized professional soccer stadium.
Mansfield Stadium, scheduled to open before the World Cup, would be the Team Base Camp site. This multi-sport facility, with a capacity of approximately 7,000 fans, will host the North Texas Soccer Club of the MLS NEXT Pro league beginning in 2026. The stadium is part of the upcoming Staybolt Street Entertainment District, which will also include hotels, a conference center, a renovated Mansfield Sports Park, and a High 5 Entertainment venue.
"As a community that has grown from a small suburb to a destination community, Mansfield is the perfect home for the champion North Texas Soccer Club," said Mayor of the City of Mansfield Michael Evans. "The Staybolt Street Entertainment District Stadium will be the place where people come from all over to watch the highest level of MLS NEXT Pro soccer."
At its soul, though, Mansfield is still that small town and that's what makes it such a welcoming destination—even as it skyrockets into potential worldwide notoriety.
"It's one thing to have amazing spaces and events, but what sets Mansfield apart as a Tourism Friendly Texas destination is the genuine connection and sense of community that guests feel when they visit," Cohagen added. "Visitors come for the attractions, but they return for the people who make them feel like they belong. That's the magic of Mansfield."
Written by Tim Roberts, Tourism Manager at Visit Mansfield.
Courtesy of Visit Mansfield.
Photo courtesy of City of Mansfield.