Medieval Times has a new Queen!

There's a new Queen on the throne at Medieval Times Atlanta! While she may not sit upon an iron throne, from the very beginning she demonstrates—and you feel—that she rules her kingdom with an iron fist, perched high above the arena while graciously hosting her feast and tournament guests, as well as her knights and other loyal subjects.

The Queen | Photo courtesy of Medieval Times Atlanta

You have the wonderful opportunity to meet the new Queen when you first arrive. As soon as you enter the Great Hall (the lobby) and have received your Medieval Times crown, you're invited to a photo-op with either the Queen or another member of the Royal Family. The Queen is an absolute royal delight. We had our photo made with her!

There's no obligation to purchase, but if you decided to, you can pick them up at the photo station after the show, or before the show depending on how early you arrive. And they're in a handsome gold frame ready to display!

Jousting | Photo courtesy of Medieval Times Atlanta

My first Medieval Times experience was at the Atlanta Castle in 2013 and I've returned many, many times, approximately 1-2 times per year since. This particular visit was my first VIP upgrade and it was AWESOME! Among other fantastic royal treatments, we were seated on the front row! A truly spectacular view! 

The final season of Game of Thrones is now underway, making the experience all the more exciting. Fans are excited for a new season, but sad that it'll be the last. Fortunately, you can visit Medieval Times most days of the week, some Monday holidays, and there are even some matinees. My favorite time to go is Friday evenings...it's a great way to unwind for the weekend! 

In Game of Thrones, you see jousting as early as the 4th episode in Season One. But at Medieval Times, you don't have to wait that long and it's live, up close and personal! They're fighting for their Queen, after all.

Medieval Times Atlanta | Photo: wanderlust ATLANTA

This is one of most fun "dinner and a show" experiences out there! 

Arrive early to enjoy a drink (with lots of souvenir glasses to choose from) and to explore the lobby, which features numerous suits of armor and a fire place the size of which I could stand in! 

You can also meet the falcon that will be in the show, see a live owl with one of the widest wingspans, and you even have the option of being knighted—lots of fun for those celebrating birthdays or other special occasions.

Medieval Times Atlanta | Photo: wanderlust ATLANTA

If you'd like wine with your dinner, you can pre-order it prior to the show and it'll be bought to your table. You can also buy a libations from your table, either beer, wine or cocktails.

The feast is exactly that...a FEAST! You'll be given a choice of beverage: soda, tea or water--you get two pours of that each. Then comes the piping hot "Dragon's Blood"! (tomato bisque). The buttery thick-slice toast is crunchy, delicious and great for sopping up your dragon's blood. The main course features Baby Dragon (half a roast chicken!), a Dragon Scale (roasted half potato), and corn on the cob. Dessert used to be a flaky baked pastry, but now it's...ICE CREAM! 

They even offer a vegetarian meal for those who wish to forego the dragon.

Tournament | Photo courtesy of Medieval Times Atlanta

Before you enjoy the four-course feast and two-hour tournament, you might want to treat yourself to a little torture, literally. There's a "torture chamber" in the main lobby, guarded by a royal toll-taker (there's a modest fee for admission). I've visited before...it stirs the imagination to say the very least!

After the tournament, head back into the lobby where you can make all the free photos you want with the knights that you just saw compete in the Queen's tournament! Get a photo with your favorite knight or all of them! Be sure to tag the photos you post on social media with #MTFan or #MTFans!

Be sure to explore the amply supplied gift shop where you can acquire a vast array or treasures ranging from a new tunic to a handsomely engraved long sword or perhaps your very own dragon. I have quite the handsome dagger from a previous visit and I keep eyeballing the full-size swords...I know one of those will be going home with me eventually. Probably two, to be honest!  

Travis and Barry at Medieval Times Atlanta

My friend Barry went with me on this visit and we had a grand time! I've been to Medieval Times with many friends over the years, but most often with Barry. It's equally a fun 'guys night out' or a 'girls night out', or a family night out or a work team building outing...you can make it a fun evening out for any number of groups! Or "just because" is my favorite reason.

Just for clarification and not that it matters, what looks like a sash across my chest, is actually a Medieval Times pennant, which guests love waving furiously to celebrate their knight during the tournament, and it's complimentary with the VIP package. Please consider the VIP experience—worth every penny—but know that wherever you are seated in the arena, you're sure to have a great time! I have every single time I've been!

Enhance your Game of Thrones final season experience with a taste of the real thing, without the gore, of course, but with knights, equestrian beauty and grace, a generous dose of royal chivalry, and a beautiful new Queen! 

Go, be a knight or princess for an evening at Medieval Times Atlanta!


(I'd like to offer a huge wanderlust ATLANTA "Thank you!" to Medieval Times for the tickets and the VIP upgrade. All opinions are my own and are from my personal experience at Medieval Times.)

Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times

Totally just for fun, because both Dragon Con and Medieval Times are so awesome, even though it was a couple of weeks ago, I want to share with you a few photos from the Second Annual "Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times".

Prior to the two-hour dinner and tournament, there was a costume contest!

Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times 2015, Tony Stark & Flo

My favorite couple at the event was Tony Stark and Flo, the Progressive Girl (which happens to be the insurance company that covers my car--No, they didn't pay me to say that, nor her to dress like that). Aren't they awesome?!

Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times 2015

This was the second annual Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times...and I hope there will be many, many, many more!

The Arena was sold out, so ALL the Medieval Times staff were there...including "Greg" (I think that was his name) the hunchback...This guy was hilarious! "Thank you!" to all the Medieval Times staff--including Lady Ann, the Master Falconer--for making this a fantastic event!

I have no idea what he was doing with the bubble wrap!

Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times 2015

There were many more costumes there than I'd even hoped for. I had just come from work, so I didn't have the opportunity to don my Starfleet tunic, but perhaps next year. There was only one Star Trek couple there that evening, that I noticed, but there were quite a few Medieval, Steampunk, and other similar genre costumes...all fantastic!

Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times 2015. Dr. Who

There were 10 contestants in the children's category of the costume contest..."Dr. Who" won that category, for obvious reasons...just look at that adorableness! Who else could have won?! And don't you love the Tardis bag?

Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times 2015. Iron Man

In addition to the 10 children who entered the costume contest, there were approximately 70 adults who entered the contest! And the costumes were brilliant...absolutely and totally brilliant!

The winner of the adult category was none other than Iron Man, of the Marvel Universe (see Tony Stark in the first photo)...who crafted his costume from scratch!  He totally deserved to win!

Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times 2015

What young lady doesn't want to be a princess...and have a pony?! There were a few princesses there that evening, but none quite as spectacular as the one pictured above. She was marvelous!

Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times 2015

If you've been to Dragon Con you know how magnificent the creativity of the cosplayers can be. It was no different this night, or knight, in some cases. The evening's Wind Sock Dancer was a favorite and gave quite the animated performance!

Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times 2015, Vader-Clown-Chicken

Some of the costumes were waaaaaay over the top! I'd seen the Clown Darth Vader from across the room, but didn't realize he was on a giant chicken until he took the stage (I'm assuming it was a "he"...could have been anyone!). This was also a crowd favorite, even if a little creepy. Okay...a lot creepy. But still brilliant.

Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times 2015

The tournament was fantastic, as it has been every time I've been to Medieval Times...now up there in number. The horses are magnificent, as are the knights and their performances. This is a fantastic show. It's great for a special event (there are birthday celebrations ranging from single digit to 60s, the times I've been there) for all ages and all special occasions.

Dragon Con Night at Medieval Times 2015

I have to give a shout out to Leah, our "serving wench" (That's her on the left carrying the red & yellow flag!). She's absolutely brilliant! She waited on my party the last time I was there and she was equally brilliant that time. "Thank you, Leah" for making our Medieval Times experience so much fun!

So...looks like a great time, right? Whether you go to the Dragon Con Parade, the Dragon Con Convention, or Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament at the Atlanta Castle, you're in for a grand, unique, unparalleled Atlanta experience.

Medieval Times' Knights To Remember

One of my favorite aspects of the Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament experience is the multitude of photo ops. What? Me...photo ops? Surprise, surprise, right. 

That the King, Princess, knights and squires, wenches, falconer, and every other person on the kingdom's payroll (not to mention the magnificent horses, the falcon, and the owl) make it so much fun makes it all the more a splendid experience. 

I've been to the Atlanta Castle a couple of nights recently, and brought along a number of friends who had yet to experience the gallantry of the knights, beauty of the princesses and the majesty of those magnificent horses...quite so close up and in-person!

Tournament Princess, Medieval Times Atlanta

Let me jump right in an tell you about the little princess pictured above. It was her birthday and it's one she'll never forget! After the Blue Knight won that tournament, he and the Princess crowned her Tournament Princess! 

She, her sister and her father (who gave me permission to share the photo) were sitting right next to us and her crowning made the evening all the more fun, for everyone around. She was an enchanting and distinguished little princess, one to be commended for her grace. 

Lady Anne, Master Falconer, Medieval Times Atlanta

There's a LOT going on before (and after) the doors to the Arena are opened, including the opportunity to meet one of the stars of the show...Echo! 

Echo is a falcon who has been performing at the Atlanta Castle for approximately 4.5 years now. His (I think it's a "he", but truthfully I didn't confirm that) trainer is Lady Anne (pictured above with Echo), a Master Falconer. He adoration and great care for Echo is immediately apparent when you start talking with her.

When you visit, seek out Lady Anne and Echo. She will gladly share with you some insight into why Falconry is called "The Sport of Kings" and give, if asked, a little more detail about the training and how it's less a performance but a mutual cooperation, true to nature. 

Echo is a spectacularly beautiful creature and I was so fascinated to have met him...and Lady Anne, too. 

Knighting Ceremony, Medieval Times Atlanta

When you visit, you may have the opportunity to be knighted by the King! Especially if you're celebrating a birthday or anniversary or other special occasion. I'm not sure who that is in the above photo...another visitor to the Castle, there to celebrate a birthday, I believe. 

I think it's cool that someone who's more than eight years old (and there were those, too, of course) wasn't at all shy about being knighted! Who doesn't have dreams of being a celebrated knight (or princess, as the case may be), right?!

Just to the right of the knighting ceremonial space you'll see a series of tall vertical windows. Go over to those and peer into a habitat that houses a splendid owl, one that belongs to the largest owl family in the world! It's wing span is nearly as wide as I am tall! Ask Lady Anne about it when you're meeting Echo.

King's introduction of the Knights, Medieval Times Atlanta

Before the King takes to his observation tower with the Princess, he'll be on the arena floor to greet the knights, who had been introduced as visitors were welcomed into the arena. Be sure to listen for details of the knight for whom you'll be cheering—you'll know which one he is by the color of your own crown.

Oh, and while I'm talking about the King, as you enter the Castle, you may have a souvenir photo made with either the King or the Princess. On my most recent visit, we opted for a photo with the King. The Princess is prettier, but my friends wanted a photo with the King...a great photo to have, just in case.

You can pick up your souvenir photo almost immediately! The 8"x10" photos are beautifully framed in a heavy stock paper folding frame with opulent detailing. The first copy is only $20 and subsequent copies are only $10. We got two, Ashley's treat..."Thank you, Ashley!"

Tournament Majesty, Medieval Times Atlanta

The tournament is a fun-filled two hours long...and there's a LOT going on. As many times as I've been—and I love it every time!—I've not yet committed to memory the precise naming of the segments of the tournament. Good thing there's not a pop quiz at the end!

The procession above is, however, one of my favorites. I love how regal it is. The horses, their dress, the knights, the flags, the...everything about it! From the time you enter the Arena to the time you leave, there's some sort of performance, gallantry, contest...it's action-packed!

Even while your "wench" (who have all be wonderfully entertaining, highly attentive, and impressively professional—Thank you, All!") is describing what's about to happen dinner-wise—and be sure to pay attention, she's imparting very important information—there's still a performance taking place on the arena floor.

Blue Knight, Medieval Times Atlanta

As I'm sure you can imagine, there are more than the the six knights who participate in the tournament. There are the squires, the game masters, the flag bearers, and I'm sure I'm forgetting a few others. It takes an army to stage a tournament of this magnitude! Oh, and there's the evil visitors from another land—the whole reason for the tournament!

Actually, that's not true...the tournament is for the entertainment of all the Lords and Ladies who are there to have a great time! But Medieval Times makes a drama-filled spectacle of a tournament, for one and all.

Knights of Medieval Times Atlanta

I'd love for you to learn more about the horses. You'll get to know the knights before, during and after the tournament, but be sure to get to know something about the horses before you go, so that you can fully appreciate the performance you're seeing.

The horses are magnificent and it's obvious—to me, having worked with horses—that they're very well cared for, and pampered I'm sure. After only a few years of performing, they retire to their original home where they live out their natural lives. 

Lady Ashley with Knights of Medieval Times Atlanta

Lady Ashley (pictured above) is a dear friend and not at all shy about having fun, and she also has an impeccable work ethic, both of which are qualities I admire in her. So, while other friends have been somewhat timid about having photos made with the knights and princesses (and I can be that way, too), not Ashley! 

I don't think I'd be very far off base if I were to assume that Ashley subscribes to my philosophy that life is too short to not have as much fun as you can! That life is meant to be enjoyed and we often take it too serious. Yes, it's important to work hard and do the job you're paid to do, but it's also great to venture into other realms, from time to time.

Lord Ahmad and Lord Dave with the Princess of Medieval Times Atlanta

Ahmad and Dave were on the same visit with Ashley and they were all three a total blast to as Lords and Lady. Thank you all three for a glorious adventure with the knights!  

I'd be remiss to not mention the Dinner! The most fun about dinner is that you enjoy it Medieval-style. Do you know when forks and spoons came into popularity? 

The meal is a feast. I see most people take leftovers home, but I'm a trooper when it comes to the dinner plate. I want to enjoy the full experience in the moment. Four courses are served and the meal includes a non-alcoholic beverage. 

But not to worry for those who wish to enjoy an adult beverage. There's a full bar and table cocktail  service, as well. If you enjoy wine with your meal, you can even pre-order a bottle a the bar in the Great Hall before the arena opens and it'll be delivered to your table with no wait.

Remember to plan to leave a tip for your serving wench. Like practically all dining establishments in the modern world, gratuity isn't included with your ticket...and please be generous. They're working folk just like you and I—and they've been impressively remarkable every time I've been!

Suit of Armor, Medieval Times Atlanta

While you're exploring the Castle, have a close look at the suits of armor peppered throughout the Castle...the detailing is quite spectacular. 

Since I was a kid I've been a fan of the Medieval era, and especially of armor. On one of the recent visits, my friends who have a place overlooking Centennial Olympic Park were along. They have a suit of armor who we all respectfully refer to as Henry. It's nice to know that he's always there to guard...and how cool to have a real suit of armor! 

And I was quite surprised at how reasonably priced the armor elements, swords, and other assorted items are in the gift shop. No, I wasn't asked to mention the gift shop, I've just always wanted a sword.

Travis with a Knight and Princess, Medieval Times Atlanta

Well, of course I'm going to get in on the photo ops! Remember, that's part of the fun. And every single person I asked to make a photo with or of was happy to pose. I hope they realize how great a finish that is to an already wonderful evening.

One recommendation—and I should take my own advice—Don't get so caught up in the picture-taking that you miss the tournament or miss having a grand time with your family and friends. You can always visit again and make more photos.  

While I hope my enthusiasm for Medieval Times had encouraged yours, let me leave you with a few brilliant words from Medieval Times about the experience that awaits you...

"Be swept away to an age of bravery and honor and witness epic battles of steel and steed. From ringside seats, discover a feast of the eyes and appetite with all the splendor and romance of 11th Century Spain. As you thrill to a rousing, two-hour live jousting tournament, marvel at awe-inspiring horsemanship and falconry, Medieval Times serves a four-course meal fit for royalty."

Head over to the wanderlust ATLANTA Facebook page for more photos of my Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament visits...hope to see YOU at the Atlanta Castle sometime soon!

Medieval Times Special & GIVEAWAY

As summer draws to a close and a new school year begins, keep the kids' (and your!) spirits up with an evening of Feasting, Fighting & Family Fun!

Now through Sunday, August 10, 2014, all seats are just $29.95 as part of Medieval Times Atlanta’s Back-to-School Special! Ring in the new school year with jousting knights, damsels in distress, a free-flying falcon, and an abundance of medieval pageantry.

Click HERE for more information and to book your tickets today!

This is one of the best "dinner and a show" experiences around, and you can't beat that price! Read about my last visit to the Atlanta Castle here: Oh, What a Knight! 

GIVEAWAY

What: Four (4) FREE tickets to Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament - Atlanta Castle. The tickets are valid for any show now (allow time for booking) through the end of September. 

How: Like wanderlust ATLANTA and Medieval Times Tournament & Dinner: Atlanta on Facebook and then comment on this post (or comment on the wanderlust ATLANTA Facebook post regarding this giveaway) to be entered in a random drawing.

When: Enter now through Wednesday, August 6, 2014 by 9:00 p.m. Eastern time. The winner will be announced on the wanderlust ATLANTA Facebook page by Thursday, August 7. The winner should direct message me for booking information.

Good luck, Everyone!