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Best Theme Park Destinations

Amusement Business Magazine has revealed the top ten theme parks in North America for 2004 based on attendance figures. As expected, six of those ten are owned and operated by The Walt Disney Company. Although no numbers were released for theme park visitor count elsewhere, it’s safe to assume that the brand also dominates internationally, as its newest theme park HongKong Disneyland just opened. Here is how the list looked with a short overview of its attractions.

1. The Magic Kingdom at Disney World (FL)

Disney World’s Magic Kingdom opened in 1971 and is located 30 minutes south of Orlando. Cinderella Castle, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Space Mountain are just some of its popular attractions. Kids will be thrilled getting autographs from Disney characters at Mickey’s Toontown Fair.

2. Disneyland (CA)

The world’s most famous theme park recently celebrated its 50th anniversary called the “Happiest Homecoming on Earth” which was attended by, among others, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Indiana Jones Adventure and Haunted Mansion have been hailed by critics to be the parks best rides.

3. Epcot at Walt Disney World (FL)

Originally called EPCOT Center (Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow) when it opened in October 1982, the park was envisioned to be a futuristic city with controlled environs. Now, it is known to be a “learning-oriented” attraction in where science and international culture blend.

4. Disney-MGM Studios at Walt Disney World (FL)

The park functions both as a full-service production lot and theme park. Five major sections make-up the park: Hollywood Blvd., New York St., Mickey Ave., Animation Courtyard, and Sunset Blvd. Of all the rides here, Tower of Terror has been said to be the best of the modern-day attractions. The freefalling thrill ride is based on the classic television show The Twilight Zone.

5. Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World (FL)

This 500-acre theme park focuses on animals and dinosaurs. The people behind it are quick to point out, though, that it is not a zoo since there certainly is a lot more to see and do here than animals on display. It’s Tough To Be A Bug and Tree Of Life are the top picks among the attractions.

6. Universal Studios at Universal Orlando (FL)

Universal’s Revenge of the Mummy ride is widely proclaimed to be among the best rides ever with coasters reaching top speeds and gut-displacing drops. It also gets props for effectively incorporating story into an action-filled ride with stunning special effects. Another reason for its success is the family-oriented approach Universal chose which means it’s relatively docile compared to its predecessors.

7. Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando (FL)

Undoubtedly, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man is the number one reason visitors keep coming back to this theme park. Merging 3D graphics with the most advanced motion base simulation technology, this ride takes visitors on a whole new level of fun and excitement that even the most jaded ride enthusiast will come out totally blown away.

8. Disney’s California Adventures (CA)

Soarin’ Over California is the perfect attraction for anyone who has always dreamed of flying. This attraction simulates a hang glider “soaring” over California’s best known locations such as the Golden Gate Bridge, San Diego, Lake Tahoe, Los Angeles, and even Disneyland itself. It has become one of the most visited attractions in the two Disney parks it is featured in. Scents corresponding to the places shown on screen are incorporated into the wind effects for added realism.

9. SeaWorld Florida (FL)

Aside from the usual marine shows, SeaWorld also boasts its own roller coaster and making it floorless gives the ride an added thrill factor. It’s also the tallest of its kind in Central Florida. There are motion simulator rides, a marine life exhibit, and, at Discovery Cove, visitors can swim with dolphins. Truly, a far cry from the whale-splashing attraction it used to be.

10. Universal Studios Hollywood (CA)

The rides and attractions at Universal Studios are all tied with Universal’s movies. There is also the famous backlot tour on a tram that visits famous film sets and complete special effects. The most recent addition to line-up is Steven Spielberg’s War of the Worlds set. Guests can also be part of the studio audience at television show tapings. About 35,000 visitors come to Universal Studios daily, majority of them also from Southern California. It is also the largest film studio-theme park in the world.

Crafts that Everyone Will Enjoy

I’m always on a hunt for things that will not only keep my kids entertained, but will also teach them creativity, help with their focusing skills, and give them the confidence that even a simple accomplishment can bring. Here are some of my favorite activities and crafts for kids that I think parents and adults will think are fun and exciting, too.

1. Balloon Rockets

Balloons are one of the cheapest and easiest sources of entertainment! The next time the kids complain about being bored, just blow up a few balloons and it’s likely to keep them busy for hours. These balloon rockets are a blast, and only require materials you probably already have at home: A balloon, a straw, yarn, tape, and two chairs or other pieces of furniture the yarn can be attached to.

2. Painted Rocks

It’s always fun to take something as ordinary as a rock and turn it into a piece of art! On top of just being pretty, you could also use them as a paper weight or door stop. Or, I have what I call a “gratitude rock”, and every time I see it, I pick it up and think of something I’m thankful for. Perhaps these could be gifts for something like that!

You will need smooth (and preferably flat) rocks to get started. Clean them really well and maybe even rub them down good with rubbing alcohol to help the paint stick. Use an acrylic craft paint for your base coat, and after it dries, a fine permanent marker to make your outline. Fill in your design with more paint, or try these Molotow Markers for fine detail work. It might be best with the kids (depending on the age) to help them with their outline, and then they can have fun filling in the lines.

3. Straw Weaving

If you’re at all familiar with the Rainbow Loom, then you can see how exciting this project can be for older kids! My daughter has an obsession with yarn lately, and I’m so happy to say that I’ve finally found a good use for it. She’s not quite old enough to knit, but this is a fun alternative for making bracelets and bookmarks. Get the full instructions hereincluding a video tutorial.

Friendship is a Wonderful Thing

Friendships can have a major impact on your health and well-being, but it’s not always easy to build or maintain friendships. Understand the importance of friendships in your life and what you can do to develop and nurture friendships.

What are the benefits of friendships?

Good friends are good for your health. Friends can help you celebrate good times and provide support during bad times. Friends prevent loneliness and give you a chance to offer needed companionship, too. Friends can also:

Increase your sense of belonging and purpose
Boost your happiness and reduce your stress
Improve your self-confidence and self-worth
Help you cope with traumas, such as divorce, serious illness, job loss or the death of a loved one
Encourage you to change or avoid unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as excessive drinking or lack of exercise

Why is it sometimes hard to make friends or maintain friendships?

Many adults find it hard to develop new friendships or keep up existing friendships. Friendships may take a back seat to other priorities, such as work or caring for children or aging parents. You and your friends may have grown apart due to changes in your lives or interests. Or maybe you’ve moved to a new community and haven’t yet found a way to meet people.

Developing and maintaining good friendships takes effort. The enjoyment and comfort friendship can provide, however, makes the investment worthwhile.

What’s a healthy number of friends?

Quality counts more than quantity. While it’s good to cultivate a diverse network of friends and acquaintances, you also want to nurture a few truly close friends who will be there for you through thick and thin.

Music From the Good Old Days

The Story of Appalachian Music

The music of Appalachia has deep roots in Western North Carolina. The North Carolina mountains have an unbroken tradition of ballad singing that is still going strong today. Signature styles of banjo playing in old time and bluegrass music were pioneered and popularized by musicians from the North Carolina foothills. Some of the earliest chapters in the history of country music and bluegrass music were set in North Carolina.

Today, the sounds of Appalachian music can be heard in a wide range of genres including ballad singing, bluegrass, blues, early country music, gospel, mountain swing, and old-time.

NC Festivals and Venues

Traditional music of Appalachia is alive and well in Western North Carolina. Festivals, concerts, fiddlers’ conventions, jam sessions, and dances happen year round in the region. Be sure to browse our interactive map and calendar when planning your trip.

Appalachian Music Legends

Western North Carolina has been home to countless numbers of legendary players of the music of Appalachia. One of the most famous figures of the music of Appalachia, Doc Watson, was born and raised here. But he is only one of the many great North Carolina musicians credited with the development and popularization of Appalachian music including: