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.)

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!

Oh, What a Knight!

"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." 

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament delivers on its promises! 

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament / Atlanta

I'd wanted to go to Medieval Times for years—my list of things to see and do is surprisingly long, even after blogging for more than three years. Recently, I was graciously invited to Medieval Times as a guest and I brought three lady friends along with me. One had been a number of years ago and the other two had never been before. We all were excited and not quite sure what to expect.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament / Atlanta

The greatest majority of my Medieval experience has been in cinema. Unless you count the Renaissance Festival I went to in Washington, DC a number of years ago (with a great friend who had 15 years worth of costuming—yes, I wore tights and a funny hat! LOL). I know, I know...those are separated by centuries, but they both evoke grand fun!

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament / Atlanta

As we were approaching Medieval Times, I became downright giddy, which my lady friends found amusing—although, truth be told, I think their laughing at me was a cover up for their own excitement. They'd been talking about it all day long and in the end, they too had a wonderful evening—I think especially during the photo ops with the Knight's after the show.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament / Atlanta

So..."dinner" and z "tournament". I wasn't expecting too much. This is a tourist attraction and as much as I love being a tourist, some have the reputation of being tourist traps. I wasn't sure what to expect here, but having met the beautiful and charming Alyson, with Medieval Times, I was hopeful and excited about visiting. 

Wow! When they say "dinner", they mean an extremely filling dinner—four courses of great food! And how much fun that—just like in 11th Century Spain—you have to eat with your hands! How often do you get to do that in public? 

Our server, Wench Kristy, was funny, attentive, brilliant and an absolute delight. The servers' performances are amazing in themselves. I promise you, this is a dining experience unlike any you've enjoyed before...I can hardly wait to go back! By the way, don't feel like you have to eat every morsel that's served...they'll offer a box so you can take home leftovers. I didn't need a box.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament / Atlanta

I'd read that the show—the Tournament—was two hours in duration. I didn't know if that was from the point we walked in or from the main lobby or from the King & Queen (or was she the Princess?) announcing the start of the Tournament. 

Oh my goodness, thinking that we were approaching two hours into the Tournament, I looked at my phone to see what time it was, just because I felt like I'd lost track of time. We were only an hour into the show...there was so much more to come!

There's a lot to take in—and I mean a LOT—and I won't give it all away here, but know that you'll see heart-pounding jousting, sword fights, spectacular horsemanship, gallantry, fantastic costuming, super-cool lighting and smoke effects, and music with an rock influence that's been specifically choreographed for this show.

When you arrive, you're aligned with a particular Knight. Our credentials indicated we were allies and fans of the Blue Knight. 

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament / Atlanta

Again...Wow! The Blue Knight won the tournament!!! And he went through a LOT to win said Tournament...seriously, there's ceremony and competitions galore! In my book, they all won, because everyone in the audience was having a blast!

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament / Atlanta

The "main lobby", which I'm assuming they call the Great Hall, is where we started and where we finished. The lobby is HUGE! They have one of the largest fireplaces I've ever seen. I think the only fireplace even approaching this one—that I've seen—is at the Biltmore Estate in Ashville, North Carolina.  

There's also a bar that's open before and after the Tournament, seating tables, a gift shop, there's a photo-op with the King & Queen on your way in, and about a bazillion suits of armor...there's actually a lot going on even before you get to the Tournament!

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament / Atlanta

Immediately following the Tournament, the King, Queen, and the Knights are in the main lobby (seriously, it must be called the "Grand Hall"...I feel silly calling it a lobby), for photo ops. And every single one of them are charming, friendly, gallant, and quite happy to pose for photos with guests. We made quite a few, many of which you can see on the wanderlust ATLANTA Facebook Page.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament / Atlanta

I've loved suits of armor since I was a kid...a young kid. And some things last a lifetime, including my love of armor. Actually, friends I've mentioned on the blog before have an incredibly handsome, historic suit of armor that overlooks the Atlanta skyline. I've not been around this much armor since visiting the Met in New York City! 

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament / Atlanta

Your ticket to Medieval Times includes the four-course meal and the two-hour Tournament. Cocktails are available for purchase and please remember to tip your servers (gratuity is not included in the ticket price).

This family-friendly attraction is also a popular special occasion destination. There were guests who were celebrating anniversaries and birthdays ranging from seven to 53 (the range could be wider, but those are the ones I remember). And I can say with certainty that they had a wonderful time celebrating with the Knights, squires, wenches, and the Princess, as did I and my friends.