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Kateri, a gorgeous golden eagle, was injured while feeding on a dead deer near Gilette, Wyo. She cannot fly. She was named by a young Cody girl. Kateri honors the patron saint of people who love nature and preserve the environment. ENRAPTURED BY RAPTORS AT THE BUFFALO BILL CENTER OF THE WEST IN CODY, WYOMING STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER "The Carpe Diem Kids" Editor's Note Originally published: June 2015 and last updated June 23, 2026, to reflect current travel information, attractions, schedules, pricing, lodging options, and visitor recommendations. Most travelers come to Cody because it is the eastern gateway to Yellowstone National Park. What many visitors don't realize is that one of the region's most impressive wildlife experiences is waiting right in town. Inside the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, the Draper Natural History Museum and the famous Raptor Experience offer an exciting journey into the wildlife, landscapes, and natural wonders of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Whether you're traveling with kids, photographing wildlife, or simply looking for an unforgettable educational adventure, this attraction deserves a place on your Cody itinerary. A red-tailed hawk, Isham, arrived at the raptor program from New Mexico. He was likely hit by a car when only a few years old. His eyes were damaged and he is a permanent resident at the world famous museum. Welcome to One of Cody's Hidden Gems Cody, Wyoming is home to Western history, rodeos and scenic drives. The Draper Natural History Museum provides something completely different. Instead of focusing on cowboys and frontier history, the museum celebrates the wild landscapes, animals, geology and ecosystems that make Yellowstone a remarkable place. Located inside the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, the museum immerses visitors in the natural world through interactive exhibits, dramatic displays, and hands-on experiences that appeal to every age group. The moment you walk in, you're transported to the mountains, forests, rivers, and valleys of the Yellowstone region. You explore exhibits featuring wolves, bears, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain lions, and countless other species that call Wyoming home. This place isn't about only artifacts behind glass. The Draper creates an experience that feels alive. Why Families Love the Draper Museum One reason travelers consistently recommend the museum is its ability to engage visitors of all ages. Children love the interactive displays and wildlife exhibits. Adults appreciate details about Yellowstone's ecology, geology, and conservation efforts. Families can: • Learn about Yellowstone's wildlife • Explore interactive exhibits • Discover how predators survive in the wild • Understand the delicate balance of ecosystems • Experience educational activities designed for children Many visitors arrive expecting to spend an hour or two but stay longer. The exhibits are thoughtfully designed for a deeper understanding of the Wyoming landscape. The Star Attraction: The Draper Museum Raptor Experience If there's one experience you should not miss, it's the Draper Museum Raptor Experience. This live educational program allows visitors to get remarkably close to some of Wyoming's most iconic birds of prey. The program features rescued birds -- wildlife ambassadors-- who educate visitors about conservation and the role predators play in the ecosystem. You'll see majestic Bald and Golden Eagles, swift Peregrine Falcons, striking Great Horned Owls. Meet the Raptors The Raptor Experience introduces guests to an incredible collection of birds. Depending on the day, visitors may encounter: • Bald Eagles • Golden Eagles • Peregrine Falcons • Red-tailed Hawks • Swainson's Hawks • Great Horned Owls • Saw-whet Owls • American Kestrels • Ravens • Turkey Vultures Each bird has its own unique story. Many were injured in the wild and cannot be released, making them ideal ambassadors for wildlife education programs. Visitors learn of challenges birds face, including habitat loss, vehicle collisions, power line injuries, and other threats. A trainer holds a rescued Great Horned Owl, one of the participants in the Draper Museum's live raptor show. Known as a key member of "nature's clean-up crew," vultures are respected for disposal of waste and rotting meat. A unique digestive system is impervious to bacteria and disease. An Up-Close Wildlife Encounter The beauty of the Raptor Experience is that it creates a connection between people and wildlife. Seeing a Golden Eagle soar across the Wyoming sky is incredible. Standing feet away from one while hearing its rescue story is unforgettable. Suli, for instance, hatched in a haystack in Kansas in 2011 where ranchers discovered her and thought her an orphan. They took her to a nature center where she grew up with people not other vultures. So Suli failed to learn bird behavior and survival in the wild. Expert handlers also explain: • Hunting behaviors • Flight adaptations • Predator-prey relationships • Migration patterns • Conservation challenges • How birds survive in Yellowstone's harsh climate We found the presentations engaging, educational, and humorous -- enjoyable for all. Exploring the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem The Draper Museum focuses on one of the most biologically diverse regions in North America -- the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Exhibits showcase: Yellowstone Wildlife, Ecosystems Learn about bears, wolves, moose, elk, bison, and mountain lions. Discover how wildlife survives Wyoming's extreme seasonal changes. Rivers and Wetlands Understand the importance of water systems to regional biodiversity. Geological Wonders Explore the forces that shaped Yellowstone's mountains, valleys, and volcanic landscapes. The museum does an exceptional job of connecting visitors with the landscapes they may encounter during their Yellowstone adventures. Perfect Before Visiting Yellowstone Many travelers visit the Draper Museum before entering Yellowstone National Park. This is a smart strategy. The exhibits help visitors prepare for a Yellowstone visit: • You'll be better able to identify wildlife • Understand animal behavior • Learn about ecosystems • Appreciate conservation efforts • Gain a deeper understanding of Yellowstone After time in the here, spotting an elk, eagle, or wolf in Yellowstone is more meaningful. Photography Opportunities Photographers appreciate the Raptor Experience. While wildlife photography in Yellowstone often requires long lenses and patience, the Raptor Experience provides unique opportunities to photograph birds of prey up close while learning about them. Follow staff instructions regarding photography and respect the animals. Educational Without Being Boring One of the biggest surprises for many visitors is how entertaining the museum is. The exhibits blend science, storytelling, conservation, and hands-on activities. Instead of reading endless informational plaques, guests experience wildlife through immersive displays and engaging presentations. This makes the Draper Museum one of the most family-friendly attractions in Cody. Cookie and a raptor docent examine mice and other food for the birds, carefully kept in freezers with diet descriptions on the walls. The raptors are given a healthy diet, much like they would find in nature. How Long Should You Plan to Visit? Many visitors spend between two and four hours exploring the museum and attending a Raptor Experience presentation. If you're interested in wildlife, photography, conservation, or Yellowstone ecology, you could easily spend much longer. Admission to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West includes access to all five museums. Frequent Questions about Raptor Experience Buffalo Bill Center Is the Draper Museum good for children? Absolutely. Interactive exhibits and live animal presentations make it one of Cody's most family-friendly attractions. Presentations last 30-45 minutes depending on featured birds. Is the Raptor Experience included with admission? Yes. Regular daily presentations are included with general museum admission. Can I visit all five museums in one day? You can, but many travelers use the two-day admission window to explore at a relaxed pace. Birds of prey at the museum include eagles, kestrels, falcons, hawks and owls, viewed at close distances. Final Thoughts and Why Visit If you're planning a Wyoming adventure in 2026, don't just drive through Cody on your way to Yellowstone. Take time to explore the Draper Museum and experience other fascinating wildlife programs. Immersive exhibits, live birds of prey, educational programs, and world-class storytelling creates an experience that visitors remember long after leaving Wyoming. A BIRD IN THE HAND, as the old saw goes, is worth two in the bush. At the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, there are several lively "handsful" of gorgeous raptors. Summer Hours and Admission Costs Buffalo Bill Center of the West and Draper Museum Summer Hours (May 1 – September 15, 2026) 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Daily General Admission is $23 Seniors: $22; Students (with ID): $21; Children Ages 6–17: $16; Children Under 5: Free Active U.S. Military: Free Park County Youth: Free (with qualifying program) Summer Raptor Experience Program Schedule May 23 – September 30; 10:00 AM Daily; 3:00 PM Daily Included with general admission. Visitors to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West often spend two days visiting five world-class museums. More on that next time, a unique museum complex with a two-day admission. COMING UP: whereiscookie.com spends the day at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, known worldwide, an intriguing complex of five different museums ranging from western history to art, rifles and wildlife. Remember to explore, learn and live and check us out weekly for more destination guides, hidden gems, road trip inspiration, travel planning advice, family adventures, and unique attractions across America and beyond, at WhereIsCookie.com. You'll find the latest travel tips, ideas, and recommendations to help you travel smarter, explore deeper, and create unforgettable memories.

Vibrant colors in 51 rooms at Park Hotel Tokyo greet guests. Each "artist room" is an unique artistic creation with a thoughtful theme, hand painted by the artist. A biography of each creator is on the wall he or she painted. Story By Christene Meyers Photos By Bruce Keller "The Carpe Diem Kids" Whether one books a themed "art room" as in right photo, or a guest room with tasteful contemporary furnishings, Park Hotel pleases. Tokyo changes depending on where you are. Happily, we were at Park Hotel Tokyo for an immersion in the city's artful culture. The hotel is unique because 52 of its 268 guest rooms are individually designed by accomplished artists. On a return visit, our room had a Zen motif, with a meditation corner and soothing artwork. A striking bronze surreal sculpture, "The God of Wind" by Mikuo Konoki, catches the eye at Park Hotel Tokyo. The dramatic piece takes center stage in the hotel's modern atrium which also features 52 unique artist rooms. Other rooms feature sea motifs, dragons, birds, gardens, bamboo forests, Japan's famous koi, sushi and cherry blossoms. The first "art room" celebrated Japan's ancient sumo sport. From our soothing "Zen Room," we looked down on the streets of Tokyo. As trains zipped below, we were high above the noise. Within easy walking distance, tiny ramen shops were tucked beside towering office buildings. The hotel is in the top section of Shiodome Media Tower, near both Shiodome and Shimbashi stations. Helpful signs guided us to our hotel entrance as we easily walked to subways, gardens, food markets and cultural landmarks. Each room offers attention to detail, as in these raccoons in a bamboo grove. The city of 14.2 million people stretches in every direction, pulsing with motion. Despite the crush of people in subways, streets, malls and markets, a sense of order and harmony prevails. Along with neon, glitz and high fashion, thousand-year-old temples sit quietly in the shadows inviting a closer look. Our skyscraper towered above lovely gardens where we recharged. At Park Hotel Tokyo, art is integrated into every floor. Changing exhibits reflect Tokyo's vibrant and varied culture. Here an eye-catching figurine display of Japanese dolls complements a stimulating city view. In our return visit to Park Hotel Tokyo -- high above central Tokyo's busy business district -- we felt immediately at home. While it has the feel of a luxury property, it blends hospitality with creativity, design, and a cultural storytelling atmosphere. Guests in Park Hotel Tokyo have spectacular views of central Tokyo's trains, streets and skyscraper skyline. A Hotel That Feels Like a Living Gallery The defining characteristic of Park Hotel Tokyo is art. Its art is woven into the identity of the hotel. Everywhere we looked, there were installations, paintings, textures, and thoughtful visual details that reflected both contemporary Japan and traditional influences. The atmosphere feels sophisticated without feeling intimidating. Warm lighting softens the sleek modern architecture. Quiet music drifts through open spaces overlooking the city below. Travelers move slowly through the lobby, often stopping to admire artwork or photograph the skyline through enormous windows. There is energy here, but also calmness, the paradox of the city itself. The hotel's artist room concept carries over into the hallways with art along the way. It feels like a curated exhibition. This produces a distinctly modern feel deeply connected to ancient Japan. Each artistic detail is rooted in culture, subtlety and storytelling. Cookie admires Mount Fuji, featured in this artist room, with bamboo mural and other bamboo forest accents. Seeing Tokyo From Above One of the greatest gifts Park Hotel Tokyo offers is perspective. Literally. Skyline views from the hotel are extraordinary. During the day, sunlight pours across the sprawling cityscape. At night, Tokyo is a sea of light. The city feels endless from above. We often paused to look out the windows. Morning coffee became a skyline viewing ritual. Returning to the hotel at night offered Tokyo's illuminated towers against the darkness. We've sampled quieter neighborhood hotels, with local street life. Park Hotel Tokyo gave us the sensation of floating above the city -- observing it from a calm, elevated distance. That made Tokyo feel less overwhelming and more beautiful. There’s a reason Tokyo is considered one of the world’s greatest urban landscapes. From above, you understand the scale of its design, organization, and endless movement. Our "Zen room" featured a minimalist hallway entrance with bold calligraphy on white walls, and a tranquil meditation corner. Exploring Shiodome & Beyond The location of Park Hotel Tokyo placed us in the center of modern Tokyo energy. The Shiodome district is sleek and futuristic -- towering buildings, pedestrian walkways, classy architecture, easy access to transportation. Despite its modern atmosphere, the neighborhood is walkable and calm. A plus is transportation ease, the ability to move efficiently between different areas of Tokyo. We explored: Ginza’s luxury shopping streets Shibuya’s famous nightlife Asakusa’s historic temples Tsukiji’s legendary food culture Quiet residential neighborhoods Tokyo’s efficient transit system made us feel connected. Park Hotel Tokyo served as our perfect launch point for exploring both iconic attractions and quieter discoveries. And after long days navigating Tokyo, returning to the hotel felt restorative and comforting. We ended the day high above the city lights while the streets continued moving far below. Yoko, dressed in a blue kimono, prepares matcha with a bamboo whisk beside a black bowl. She is calm and focused against a soothing shell wall. A tea ceremony at the hotel is available for guests. The Quiet Luxury of Japanese Hospitality Luxury in Japan feels is not loud or excessive. It's defined by precision and attentiveness. At Park Hotel Tokyo, that philosophy was visible everywhere. Staff interactions were seamless and thoughtful, never intrusive. Every detail was carefully considered -- from presentation of meals and tea ceremonies to arrangement of spaces within the hotel. Japan's subtle approach to hospitality is the reason we return. On this fifth visit, we noticed that service isn’t "drama" in Japan. It’s quietly embedded into the culture. At Park Hotel Tokyo, that translates into an experience that feels calming in the heart of one of the world’s busiest cities. The atmosphere encouraged us to slow down, appreciate details, notice design, lighting, textures, and small moments. In a city as stimulating as Tokyo, that matters enormously. Before heading out for the evening, Cookie and Keller pause by a hotel window, high above busy Tokyo with its maze of skyscrapers. Tokyo Nights and City Energy Tokyo at night glows. From Park Hotel Tokyo, evening views became part of our nightly ritual before heading out to explore. The skyline shifted colors constantly while trains threaded through illuminated buildings below. There’s an excitement to Tokyo after dark. Tiny restaurants hidden underground. Lantern-lit alleyways and ramen shops packed with locals enjoying a visit. Cocktail bars inside high-rise towers. One of the things we love most about Park Hotel Tokyo is the contrast between the calmness of the hotel itself and the vibrant energy outside. We enjoyed Tokyo's lively nightlife, returning to a peaceful retreat. That rhythm quickly became addictive. Explore. Wander. Return. Reflect. The city never truly sleeps, yet somehow the hotel creates separation from the noise without disconnecting from the excitement. Each "artist room" has a unique theme, designed by the artist. Themes range from gardens to mountains, meditation to sumo wrestling. Art, Design, Cultural Identity What makes Park Hotel Tokyo memorable is how successfully it bridges contemporary design with cultural identity. Many luxury hotels in our world travels could exist anywhere. Replace the skyline and the interiors remain interchangeable. Park Hotel Tokyo feels truly Japanese. Not through clichés or exaggerated traditional design, but through subtlety incorporating craftsmanship and theme. Use of space reflects Japanese aesthetics. Nothing feels cluttered. Every object appears thoughtfully placed. The atmosphere encourages grounding, not distraction. The hotel tells a story about modern Japan and culture through architecture, design, and art. Framed Earth collage with colorful flowers and stick figures on a dramatic black background Stillness Inside a Global City Tokyo is often described as “fast,” “crowded” and “electric.” All of those descriptions are true. But we also found stillness. Japan seems uniquely skilled at creating calmness within density. Park Hotel Tokyo embodies that feeling. Despite being surrounded by skyscrapers and transportation hubs, the hotel never felt frantic. For us it was a place to process what we experienced throughout the city. Travel sometimes is exhausting, especially when we are traveling half the year. Without planning, each day can feel overloaded with activities and logistics. But Tokyo rewards travelers who pause long enough to absorb the atmosphere around them. Why Park Hotel Tokyo Is Ideal for Cultural Travelers For travelers seeking nightlife alone, there are endless hotel options in Tokyo. For travelers seeking luxury alone, there are even more. Park Hotel Tokyo combines these elements, appealing to travelers who value both architecture and hospitality, creativity and old-world standards. Staying there encouraged us to see Tokyo differently -- as a destination housing famous landmarks, and a living expression of modern Japanese creativity. The perspective complemented our earlier stay at the Shiba Park Hotel. We recommend a few days at each property, if scheduling allows. Withers Taizan Bonsai is a unique art installation in Park Hotel Tokyo’s Executive Museum Lounge Atrium, was created by artist Shin Suzuki. It represents the Japanese theory that even in aging, there is great beauty. While Shiba Park Hotel introduced us to Tokyo’s quieter cultural traditions, temple neighborhoods, and intimate local experiences, Park Hotel Tokyo revealed the city’s contemporary artistic identity and vertical energy. Together, the two hotels told an enchanting story about Tokyo: Old and new, grounded and elevated, quiet yet electric, traditional and modern. That duality is Tokyo’s greatest strength. A Compelling Gateway to the Rest of Japan By the end of our stay, Park Hotel Tokyo also became a turning point in our broader Japan journey. As our travels continued to Kyoto, Shiba, Nagasaki, Yokohama and South Korea, Tokyo remained central to our fifth Japan visit because of its distinctive contrasts. Tokyo is compelling, impossible to summarize, but Park Hotel Tokyo offers a perspective one doesn't forget -- one shaped by art, skyline views, hospitality and immersion in Japanese culture. The city was transformed from intimidating to inspiring. The property offers a culturally rich luxury experience in Tokyo, with atmosphere. High above the streets of Tokyo, surrounded by art, light and calm, we returned to a favorite hotel. It offered another unforgettable chapter in our journeys through Japan. More information or to book: parkhoteltokyo.com If you're going to Tokyo, we recommend the Tokyo Pass, a digital, smartphone-based sightseeing ticket that grants travelers cash-free entry to Tokyo's top museums, gardens and cultural attractions. It also offers optional unlimited subway rides: mytokyopass.com Three grizzly bears pause on a grassy forest hillside, looking left among pine trees in a calm wilderness scene UP NEXT: If you've always wanted to see a bear in Yellowstone Park or elsewhere in the wilds, we have tips and suggestions for finding bears -- as well as pointers on safety in bear viewing areas. Then with our country's Fourth of July special this year -- our country's 250th anniversary -- we pay tribute to that. Amd we help you navigate the efficient but elaborate transportation system in Japan and use the Tokyo Pass. Japan is a learning experience, but once logistics are mastered, delights unfold. All that and more as we encourage you to explore, learn and live and For new travel stories, tips and unforgettable experiences, follow our journeys at WhereIsCookie.com

MULTIPLE VISITS NEVER DISAPPOINT AT WORLD CLASS CODY, WYOMING MUSEUM The Buffalo Bill Center of the West draws an international clientele to Cody, Wyo. It houses five fine museums. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER The Carpe Diem Kids The road to Cody feels like a journey into a living Western story. As we stepped inside the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, we expected a museum dedicated to Buffalo Bill Cody. What we discovered instead was an entire world of stories spread across five museums cowboys and outlaws, Indigenous cultures, wildlife of the Greater Yellowstone region, Western masterpieces, and the larger-than-life legend of Buffalo Bill himself. Hours passed quickly as each gallery revealed another layer of the American West, making this one of those rare places where history feels less like a lesson and more like an adventure. A painting of Wild Bill Hickock and Buffalo Bill Cody is one of the most admired and talked about in the Whitney Western Art Museum. FOR DECADES now, I've enjoyed the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. It's a road trip highlight with family, friends or visitors from other states and countries.. For years, this stunning complex of five museums, was known as the Buffalo Bill Center In our nearby town of Cody, Wyoming, One doesn't have to be a gun aficionado to appreciate Cody's Firearms Museum. IF YOU'RE a fan of art of the West, you'll enjoy my favorite of the quintet of museums, the Whitney Western Art Museum. You'll see a majestic Deborah Butterfield bronze horse, a stunning collection of western paintings ranging from Albert Bierstadt to N.C. Wyeth, with everything in between. There are fun, recent paintings and sculpture, too, besides the time honored portfolio of artists who joined in and promoted the western expansion effort, or who simply came to know and love the west through visits as tourists. I ALWAYS discover something new, and revisit favorite pieces. Upcoming Event Lunchtime Expedition: A Place of Their Own – Bison Culture and the Northern Plains July 2 @ 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm MDT Buffalo Bill Center of the West 720 Sheridan Avenue, Cody, WY, United States Join Dr. Shane Doyle, Director of Indigenous Right Relations for North America, the Caribbean, and Micronesia at The Nature Conservancy Buffalo Bill Center Location and Hours: The center is located in Cody, Wyoming, and is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. Admission Fees: General admission is $20 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and children. Exhibits: The center features five museums showcasing Western art, history, and culture, including Buffalo Bill's life. Guided Tours: Guided tours are available and can enhance your experience; check the schedule for times. Events and Programs: The center hosts various events throughout the year, including lectures, workshops, and family activities. Accessibility: The facility is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations available for visitors with disabilities. The famous painting of the Custer Battle, whose anniversary is this week, always has people around it. Did you know that painter Edgar Samuel Paxson arrived in Montana in 1877, the year after the Battle of the Little Bighorn, to begin his prodigious research? The painter's interest in the battle -- almost an obsession -- would become a defining element in his artistic career, culminating in his major work, "Custer’s Last Stand." You may not realize that the Center of the West contains five museums plus a world renowned research library. The Plains Indian Museum has a world-class collection of artifacts. Edgar Paxson's famously detailed painting of the Custer Battle Besides the Whitney, the Draper Natural History Museum showcases the rich life, power and beauty of the natural world of the Yellowstone region. The Plains Indian Museum's elegant and elaborate collection depicts in beautifully curated displays the lives and legends of the Plains Indian people, and the Buffalo Bill Museum explores the world of the man after whom the town of Cody, and the museum, are named. THE CODY Firearms Museum is a must for anyone interested in guns, the lore of firearms and their importance in history. Cody's shoot-out attracts those looking for corny but entertaining, old-west fun, each night by the Irma Hotel. The museum houses the world's most comprehensive collection of American firearms. In 1975, the Winchester Arms Collection, the heart of this museum, came to Cody on loan from the Olin Corporation. It was hugely received and gifted in 1988, enjoyed by thousands since. The museum houses 7,000 firearms with 30,000 firearms-related artifacts. A gun lover's paradise to be sure. COMING UP: Grab the gang and head for Fishtail Family Fun Days, a real kick in the pants. The Fishtail General Store is an institution in the tiny town of Fishtail, Montana. Fishtail General Store, headquarters for fun, food and a two-mile long, parade. Not bad for a one-block town. Plus bakery, crafts, kids events and more. Fishtail General Store, Fishtail, Montana The historic Fishtail General Store is entering a new chapter in 2026. After more than 25 years of ownership, Katy Martin is passing the reins to Bryan Rose and Celena Ross, who plan to continue the store’s long tradition as the heart of the Fishtail community. The beloved general store, which has served residents and travelers since 1900, remains a gathering place for groceries, supplies, local news, and friendly conversation in the shadow of the Beartooth Mountains. If this destination sparked your wanderlust, there’s plenty more waiting for you explore more travel stories and inspiration over at WhereIsCookie.com Check us out Wednesdays and weekends at www.whereiscookie.com :

Meet Cookie & Keller — award-winning travel writer and photographer duo sharing global travel stories, cruise reviews, arts coverage, and cultural insights. ABOUT US Meet Cookie & Keller – Travel Writers, Photographers, and Global Explorers “Cookie and Keller” are the creative duo behind WhereIsCookie.com — a global travel and arts blog sharing curated adventures, cultural stories, cruise reviews, and travel tips from around the world. Christene “Cookie” Meyers is an award-winning travel writer who has explored 119 countries and been passionate about travel since her first transatlantic crossing as a child. Bruce Keller, a lifelong explorer and talented photographer, grew up traveling Europe with his military family and began capturing the world through a lens while teaching scuba diving in the Red Sea. Together, they created this blog to showcase their work and inspire others to explore with purpose, passion, and perspective. Our Focus: Travel with Purpose and Perspective We believe that travel and the arts inform every aspect of our lives — shaping how we think, connect, and grow. This shared passion inspires us to explore and write about destinations across Europe, South America, Asia, Australia, the Middle East, Antarctica, and the U.S. Through our blog, we celebrate the transformative power of travel, cultural storytelling, live performance, visual art, nature, and meaningful global encounters. What We Do At Where Is Cookie?, we bring the world of travel, culture, and the arts to life through engaging stories, interviews, and photography. Our work includes: Interviews & Features – Conversations with actors, playwrights, directors, pilots, ship captains, artists, musicians, museum curators, composers, dancers, and street performers. Photography & Storytelling – Insightful photos paired with lively critiques and recommendations drawn from our lifelong passion for theater, music, and cultural history. Iconic Venues & Museums – Coverage of world-class destinations such as the Prado, Louvre, Van Gogh Museum, and MoMA, alongside intimate galleries and regional cultural treasures. Performing Arts Coverage – From opera houses and jazz clubs to ballet, flamenco, classical, rock, and ragtime performances, we showcase both world-renowned and emerging talent. Spotlighting Artists Worldwide – Highlighting everything from internationally celebrated performers at the Metropolitan Opera to gifted musicians and creators at Montana’s Tippet Rise Art Center. Through these experiences, we share the stories that make travel richer — blending the arts, culture, and authentic local encounters in every journey. Our Experience We cover everything from cruising and train travel to performance venues, cultural events, nature escapes, and boutique properties. Our lively stories and photo essays often include: 20+ cruise lines and boat tour offerings (and counting) More than 150 cities across 119 countries Travel by plane, train, ship, and car — always with an eye for cultural discovery Each destination is approached with artistic insight, emphasizing unique local experiences, meaningful encounters, and practical travel advice for seasoned and first-time travelers alike. Our Background Christene “Cookie” Meyers is an award-winning journalist and accomplished musician, novelist, poet, and musical arranger with a lifelong passion for the arts and cultural storytelling. Her partner, Bruce Keller, is an award-winning photographer, sailor, and deep-sea diver who draws on a long career in engineering and building to create striking, artfully composed images that bring their stories to life. Together, Cookie and Keller form a creative team — both professionally and personally — whose work blends vivid travel writing, cultural insight, and world-class photography. Their features spotlight theater, parks, gardens, nature preserves, adventure destinations, and family-friendly attractions across the globe. They have traveled to 111 countries, and toured 11 U.S. states and 9 countries with their historical novel, Lilian’s Last Dance , available on Kindle and Amazon. A memoir chronicling a life of travel, learning, and surprise is currently in progress. When not traveling, Cookie and Keller split their time between Southern California and Montana’s Beartooth Mountains — finding inspiration both at home and abroad. Kudos Cookie and Keller have been internationally published as travel and arts journalists for decades. Their bylines appear in: San Francisco Examiner Chicago Tribune Big Sky Journal Western Art and Architecture Airline magazines Museum and gallery publications Many leading travel guides They have also been recognized as featured speakers, writing coaches, and cultural ambassadors — known for blending their storytelling with humor, history, and heart. Want to collaborate, feature your destination, or hire us as travel consultants? Contact us at whereiscookienow@gmail.com or click here to reach out.

Get the cruise travel media kit: ship reviews, insider upgrades, destination ports and expert commentary from Cookie & Keller. CRUISING MEDIA KIT Our story and media kits about global adventures! For inquiries please contact us here From new flashy cruise ships to stately trans‑Atlantic liners, thrilling America’s Cup yachts to sedate harbor tours, exciting whale watches and the canals of Venice and Amsterdam — we cover the waterfront. Our cruise travel media kit offers expert tips on finding the perfect cruise, discovering a new city by boat, or stretching your comfort zone on a high‑speed yacht, delivering compelling stories of the world’s famous and obscure waterways. DOWNLOAD MEDIA KIT Body Glove Hawaii fits like a charm for Kona Coast ocean activity and sightseeing pleasures Body Glove Hawaii offers Kona Coast ocean activities, sightseeing pleasures Cookie & Keller Jan 26 4 min read Ships sail California's southern shores for education, entertainment American Pride tall ship Long Beach Christene Meyers Jun 12, 2025 6 min read City Cruises North America: For Best Sightseeing, Dining & Harbor Experiences Discover why City Cruises is one of North America’s top travel experiences. From sightseeing tours to sunset sails and dining cruises, there’s something for every traveler. Cookie & Keller Jun 5, 2025 4 min read 1 2 3 4 5

Recommended Travel Resources & Trusted Affiliates Explore our curated travel recommendations — a directory of trusted tour guides, local experts, travel companies, and service providers we’ve personally vetted from years on the road. Whether you’re planning a cultural city tour, a nature adventure, or a specialized excursion, these resources help make your trip easier and more memorable. North Coast Repertory Theatre From its modest beginning over 30 years ago, the North Coast Repertory Theatre, a non-profit organization, has evolved into one of the area's leading performing arts organizations, recognized for the quality of its work and its commitment to excellence. Visit their website here. Big Bus Tours Discover the great cities of the world with Big Bus Tours. Big Bus Tours provide the perfect introduction to the city and the best photo opportunities of iconic landmarks from the top deck. Visit their website here.