Top USA Arts & Design - page 57

West of the Milwaukee River, you’ll find the historic arts and entertainment district of Downtown. Today, the area known as Westown includes several theaters and arts venues as well as sports arenas, the Baird Convention Center, and several historic hotels. Also in the district is the multi-block Grand Avenue Mall (1982), now redeveloped into The Avenue (2018) with updated food hall and shopping. This tour will explore the recent transformation of several historic buildings into mixed-use development with apartments, new coffee shops, and gallery spaces, and the reinvigoration of office space. Included on the tour are Milwaukee’s large blue building, the Reuss Federal Plaza, now known as 310W (1983), the historic Hotel Wisconsin (1913), and the Pabst Theater (1895). This walking tour is 1.4 miles in length. We recommend that travelers bring (weather permitting): good walking shoes, water, sunscreen, and/or an umbrella.

This key commercial corridor on Milwaukee’s Lower East Side was settled by Polish immigrants who built St. Hedwig’s Catholic Church (1886) as the center of their community. Their residences, seen mostly north of Brady, became the ubiquitous Milwaukee Polish Flat. Later the neighborhood became home to a number of Italian families, who transformed many commercial buildings into businesses that are still on Brady today like Glorioso’s Italian Market (1946) or Peter Sciortino’s Bakery (1947). On this tour, you’ll also hear more about the counterculture era from the 1960s and 1970s and learn how Brady Street has reinvented itself in recent year. The tour blends local history and cultural insight with the sights and atmosphere of one of Milwaukee’s most engaging urban corridors.

Milwaukee, once known as the German Athens, is the most German among major US cities. Walking down Old World Third Street today you are not likely to see many German shops advertising “English Spoken Here” as a special or unique service, but as early as 1848 it would not have been uncommon. Germans represented 1/3 of the entire population in Milwaukee and this section of the city was integral to German immigrant’s daily life. Today, much of the landscape today reflects that influence including a number of stops on the tour such as Turner Hall (1882), the Germania Building (1896) and Old St. Mary’s Church (1846). Woven between the cream city bricks, hear stories about the notable German biermeisters, tanners, merchants and artists who helped to shape Milwaukee.

The Historic Third Ward was the first stop for many of Milwaukee's European immigrants, particularly the Irish and later the Italians. Close to cheap housing and available jobs, these new arrivals created close-knit communities. Like most major industrial cities, the Third Ward had a significant and destructive fire in 1892, which reshaped the landscape to much of what you see today. In the 1970s, this area experienced a resurgence that transformed factories and warehouses into condos and mixed adaptive reuse. On this tour, learn about the neighborhood landscape as well as the Irish and Italian immigrants as well as the impact of the LGBTQ+ community and other residents. Stops include the Milwaukee Public Market (2005), Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design (MIAD) (1974), and Commission Row (1894). This walking tour is 1 mile in length. Travelers are recommended to bring (weather permitting): good walking shoes, water, sunscreen, and/or umbrella.

Set on a bluff, overlooking the northern point of Milwaukee’s harbor, this neighborhood boasts an incredible collection of mansions from the early twentieth century. The tree-lined blocks feature a variety of styles including German Renaissance Revival, English Tudor Revival, Mediterranean Revival and others popular from 1890-1940. The houses were designed by some of the most notable Milwaukee architects including Eschweiler, Clas, Niedecken and even Wisconsin’s own Frank Lloyd Wright. Beyond the architectural details, the neighborhood’s past residents include many prominent Milwaukeeans who made money in wheat, railroads, straw hats, fur coats, ice cream and more. The tour also includes non-residential neighborhood landmarks like a historic hospital complex, water tower and lighthouse, as well as a Frederick Law Olmsted designed park. This walking tour is 1.4 miles in length. We recommend bringing (weather permitting): good walking shoes, water, sunscreen, and/or umbrella.

Travel back in time and learn more about Wisconsin’s first company town. Today, Bay View is one of Milwaukee’s neighborhoods but it was originally established in 1867 for workers at the Milwaukee Iron Company. The tour will explore houses built for laborers and managers and discuss the development of the mill and town before it incorporated into Milwaukee in 1887. Beyond residential streets, stops include important businesses, community spaces including the Beulah Brinton House (1871), houses of worship, and landmarks like the Pryor Avenue Iron Well (1882). The tour will also share immigrant stories from Welsh, English and later Italian families who established deep roots in Bay View. This walking tour is 1.9 miles in length. We recommend that travelers bring (weather permitting): good walking shoes, water, sunscreen, and/or umbrella.

Like many communities in the industrial Midwest, Milwaukee’s ecological legacy has a significant period of pollution. Thankfully, in the late 1980s & early 1990s, driven by Mayor John Norquist and others, Milwaukee dedicated resources to water clean up and the reinvigoration of the buildings along the Milwaukee River. This reinvestment included the creation of a public-private partnership known as the Riverwalk (1993). Today, the Riverwalk extends 3.1 miles along both sides of the Milwaukee River, from the site of the former North Avenue Dam, through Downtown and the Historic Third Ward to Lake Michigan. The tour will explore the industries and early city growth that impacted the river so greatly and also a number of the historic buildings along the way. You’ll also learn about some of the temporary and permanent public art on display. This walking tour is 1.2 miles in length. We recommend that travelers bring: good walking shoes, water, sunscreen, and/or umbrella.

Step into the heart of Hollywood on this fun and fast-paced walking tour! Starting at the iconic Hollywood & Vine, we’ll stroll down the legendary Walk of Fame, where over 2,700 stars celebrate movie legends, music icons, and even cartoon characters. Snap photos of the world-famous Capitol Records Building, stand where countless premieres happen at the dazzling TCL Chinese Theatre, and learn the surprising stories behind your favorite celebrities’ stars. Along the way, I’ll share insider gossip, quirky history, and the hidden secrets that make Hollywood sparkle. This one-hour adventure is perfect for travelers short on time who still want the ultimate Hollywood experience.

**This is an outdoor walking tour - we will be viewing buildings from outside.** Off the beaten path for sure, a very unique tour! Hiding in plain sight is some absolutely *stunning* architecture in NYC that has been turned into...a Home Depot, a Container Store, a TJ Maxx - once majestic marvels of the Gilded Age in NYC. Learn about Ladies' Mile, the historic district where women could finally travel solo and gather with other women, bolstering the movement for suffrage. Hear all about the rivalries and new ideas of historic retail icons like R.H. Macy (seafarer turned entrepreneur), A.T.Stewart (whose grave robbery is still a big mystery) & Isidor Straus (who died on the Titanic). Explore how ready-to-wear fashion took hold in the US, how advertising matured from street barkers to collectible cards to dazzling window displays, and what happened to all of these grand palaces of consumerism.

The street art of Spanish Harlem (AKA East Harlem or El Barrio) tells us so much about the history, culture, & politics of this under-appreciated NYC neighborhood & its residents. Some of the colorful murals & mosaics are dedicated to accomplished citizens of Spanish Harlem, such as the writers Julia de Burgos & Nicholasa Mohr. Others honor world-famous people including Celia Cruz & Che Guevara. Many of the artworks celebrate the Latin culture of the neighborhood. They also bring into the streets the gorgeous scenery of the tropical islands which so many members of this community left behind. Visitors to Spanish Harlem are always dazzled by the street art there. Here is what one of them said: "The Spanish Harlem tour with Leigh was a great investment of 2 hours. The tour was rich in information & cultural & neighborhood significance. Leigh is a terrific guide to it all. I have done many walking tours, and this is one of the best. Not to be missed if you are visiting New York".

Explore the unique landscapes of Bombay Beach and the vibrant Salvation Mountain on this guided tour from Palm Springs. Experience the quirky art installations along the Salton Sea's shoreline, including the Deserted Drive-In and colorful murals that reflect the community's spirit. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the iconic Ski Inn before heading to Salvation Mountain, where you'll learn about its cultural significance and the dedication of its creator, Leonard Knight. This tour combines art, history, and environmental insights for a memorable day out. - Guided exploration of Bombay Beach with insight into local art and ecology - Visit stunning art installations at the Salton Sea, perfect for photos - Lunch at the historic Ski Inn (not included in tour price) - Approximately 7.5 hours duration with comfortable shuttle transport

Discover a world where reality bends at the Museum of Illusions in Denver. With over 50 interactive exhibits, guests can challenge their perceptions and engage their sense of wonder. Experience gravity-defying installations, life-size kaleidoscopes, and mind-bending holograms that play tricks on your senses. This unique attraction is perfect for families, friends, and couples looking for a memorable outing. Conveniently located on the vibrant 16th Street Mall, you'll have easy access to dining and entertainment options before or after your visit.

Museum of Illusions is a one-of-a-kind, visual, sensory, and educational experience designed to engage your sense of wonder and challenge perceptions through the science behind optical illusions.

Museum of Illusions is a visual, sensory, and educational experience designed to engage your sense of wonder and shift your perspective through the science behind optical illusions.

Step into a world where reality bends at the Museum of Illusions Las Vegas, where over 50 interactive exhibits challenge the way you see everything around you. You’ll defy gravity, get lost in life-size kaleidoscopes and experience mind-bending holograms that trick your senses at every turn. It’s a wildly fun, unforgettable adventure that’s perfect for your next outing - whether you’re exploring with friends, family or someone special.

Step into the captivating realm of illusions, where reality is never exactly as it appears. Museum of Illusions is a one-of-a-kind, visual, sensory, and educational experience designed to engage your sense of wonder and challenge perceptions through the science behind optical illusions. You can enjoy over 50 immersive, hands-on exhibits to explore. The illusion rooms, installations and holograms let you defy gravity, grow and shrink your body, walk into a life-size kaleidoscope, and play tricks on your senses at every turn. It’s a mind-bending journey that deceives the senses and reveals how the brain interprets reality.

Step into the captivating realm of illusions, where reality is never exactly as it appears. Museum of Illusions is a one-of-a-kind, visual, sensory, and educational experience designed to engage your sense of wonder and challenge perceptions through the science behind optical illusions. We offer over 50 immersive, hands-on exhibits to explore. Our illusion rooms, installations and holograms let you defy gravity, grow and shrink your body, walk into a life-size kaleidoscope, and play tricks on your senses at every turn. It’s a mind-bending journey that deceives the senses and reveals how the brain interprets reality.

Field trips aren't just for kids! BonnaH Co Fiber Arts is here to help you eperience the sheer joy of a grown-up field trip in the heart of New York City. We've done the research and there's nothing like it! Bonnie and Hannah combine the vibrancy of New York City and the history of the flower factory (we'll get a private tour!) with a relaxed Italian lunch, some shopping, and crafting together where you’ll make your own handsewn tulip bag charm. We provide all supplies and instruction so you can just show up and have fun! Expect a relaxed pace, about 12–14k steps total, with plenty of breaks. This adults-only outing is proof that field trips aren’t just for kids—it’s a day of creativity, discovery, and connection.

Field trips aren’t just for kids! BonnaH Co Fiber Arts invites you to rediscover the joy of a grown-up field trip in vibrant Manhattan. We’ve designed a one-of-a-kind experience that blends creativity, culture, and connection. We will gather at Grand Central Terminal and head out to explore the galleries along 10th Avenue, view the beauty of the spring flowers in the city, walk the High Line, enjoy lunch at Chelsea Market, visit Little Island and Pier 57, and stitch up a NYC-themed postcard embroidery project. We make all the decisions so you don't have to! This adults-only outing is thoughtfully paced at around 12–14k steps with plenty of breaks, so you can enjoy the city without rushing. All embroidery supplies and instruction are provided. You just show up ready to explore, stitch, and make new memories. It’s creativity, discovery, and connection all wrapped into one unforgettable day.

Explora is a place of lifelong learning where Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math come together with over 250 hands-on exhibits and activities in the heart of Old Town, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

An amazing, local's guided tour of one of Chicago's coolest neighborhoods. Learn the history and get advice from a local who knows this area and make your Chicago experience a memorable one. Get out of downtown, come and experience the neighborhoods that make Chicago the great city that it is. Looking forward to seeing you!

Discover the rich history of Staunton on a guided 90+ minute, 12 block walking tour through the charming Beverley and Newtown Districts. Marvel at the stunning Victorian architecture while hearing captivating stories about early settlers, the Civil War, and the city’s renaissance. Visit iconic sites such as the Smith Center for History and Art, the National Valley Bank, and Trinity Church with its exquisite Tiffany windows. Along the way, explore local art galleries, antique shops, and the vibrant Farmers Market. Perfect for history buffs and families alike, this tour offers a unique glimpse into Staunton’s past. - Enjoy a 90-minute guided walking tour through historic districts - Explore architectural gems and hear tales from Staunton’s history - Visit notable landmarks including Trinity Church and the Farmers Market - Tours available Friday and Saturday at 11:00 AM, or by appointment - This tour may also be conducted on Staunton Downtown Trolley depending on availability

Explore the rich history of Staunton with a guided tour in the guide's vehicle that takes you through all six Historic Districts. Discover the town's unique architecture, beautiful vistas, and historic cemeteries, all while listening to intriguing stories from a professional tour guide. A highlight includes a visit to Trinity Episcopal Church, showcasing stunning stained glass windows by Tiffany and Sons (subject to availability). Perfect for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike, this tour offers a comprehensive experience of Staunton's rich heritage. - Visit all six Historic Districts of Staunton with a knowledgeable guide Augusta County Courthouse, Beverley Mansion, Rail station, American Hotel, Stuart Mansion, several historic churches, more - Discover unique architecture and beautiful vistas throughout the town - Enjoy guided tour of Trinity Episcopal Church and its Tiffany stained glass - Ideal for history lovers and those interested in local culture and architecture

Finding an efficient route to explore the city is a goal. Walking through a hidden tunnel that leads to New York’s most iconic spaces, now thats an adventure. Meeting at hidden entrance, we take an elevator down to a [new] underground tunnel. A newly built space that feels like a gallery and even holds Art from globally recognized artists and photographers. After immersing ourselves in Art, we’ll walk into Grand Central Terminal, the worlds largest train station. A nice time to slow down as you gaze up at the 125-ft high ceilings, listen for secrets in the whispering gallery, and peer outside at the once-tallest building in the world. Then we'll take a light stroll to a palace of knowledge and inspiration: The New York Public Library.