DESTINATION
Staff Report | Photos courtesy of Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, Big Cedar Lodge, Finley Farms, Tulsa Zoo and Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium
Take a Break This Spring With a Getaway
Make new memories this spring break with a getaway! These nearby destinations are perfect for a relaxing solo trip, a couple’s retreat or an action-packed family vacation.
Big Cedar Lodge welcomes its Adventure in the Great Outdoors Season this month through May. Explore breathtaking views of the Ozarks just south of Branson, Missouri. Beginning March 13, all Big Cedar lodging types will include a daily resort credit that can be used toward Fun Mountain, Cedar Creek Spa, marina experiences or other resort activities. Set sail on a Lady Liberty cruise across Table Rock Lake or rent a boat from Big Cedar’s new fleet at Bent Hook or Long Creek Marinas, all while taking in stunning views. Keep the momentum going by creating your own custom wood-burned charcuterie board or designing a boho hat at a creative workshop. Don’t forget to check out the award-winning golf courses and end your day with a memorable culinary experience ranging from casual to fine dining. For more information about spring offerings, visit www.bigcedar.com.
A magical underwater adventure returns to Springfield, Missouri, at Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium for a limited time only. See a mermaid swim in the Great Barrier Reef and Lower Shipwreck Reef exhibits, enjoy a meet-and-greet experience, and participate in fun crafts and hands-on learning throughout your journey in the aquarium — all included with admission during select dates. Mermaid experiences take place March 12-15, March 18-22 and March 27-29. To plan your adventure, visit www.wondersofwildlife.org.
Find your escape at Finley Farms in Ozark, Missouri, this spring. With its urban farm springing back to life, new seasonal menus will be available at The Workshop, The Ozark Mill and The Garrison, all inspired by the farm’s grown-on-site produce. Immerse yourself in workshops from mixology to growing culinary mushrooms and from DIY bath products to stargazing. And learn about Ozarks tales and traditions on a self-guided tour spanning three floors of the historic Ozark Mill. Also, enjoy a first taste of the new Golden Hour Lager, a collaboration between Finley Farms and 4 by 4 Brewing Company, during the release party March 20. Learn more about seasonal offerings at www.finleyfarmsmo.com.
The race is on at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort! The classic racing season opened in Hot Springs earlier this year and will continue through May 2. Catch a glimpse of thoroughbred horses and their jockeys during a day at the races. Enjoy free entry, live bands, food trucks and activities for kids every weekend, Thursday through Sunday. Don’t forget your hat for the Arkansas Derby on March 28, where the winner automatically qualifies for the Kentucky Derby. Oaklawn will be your one-stop shop this spring with everything from casino and resort access to a luxury spa, sports bar, upscale dining and live entertainment. Plan your stay this spring by visiting www.oaklawn.com.
Take a road trip to Tulsa Zoo for a ZooLIGHTful surprise. Its new Chinese lantern exhibit opens March 26, and tickets go on sale tentatively March 16. And recently expanded, the full elephant exhibit will be open, including The Mary K. and John T. Oxley Elephant Experience, the elephant preserve barn and 10-acre preserve yard. It’s hard to miss these gentle giants with 17 acres dedicated to the Asian elephants! Find more information about visiting the animal kingdom at www.tulsazoo.org.
