Travel South

Premiere Issue

g n i s i the u Cr

Coastlines The Ultimate Seaside Road Trip

retire in style the Best is yet tO cOme

FALL 2017 | DISPLAY UNTIL 12/25/2017

+

Paradise OutdOOrs THE BEST BEACHES, GOLF COURSES, AND MORE

a search fOr

SOUL FOOD

fall 2017

12 38

Paradise Outdoors From cloud-like hills dusted with luxury golf courses, to mangrove-coated swamps, your ideal outdoor paradise is never too far away.

56 Sip the South Heritage & Culture Uncovering the Soul of the South The heart and history of the south is discovered in breathtaking plantations, eerie battlegrounds, old churches, and so much more.

Trip-Worthy Wineries, Breweries, & Distilleries Discover the region, one drink at a time!

64 A Search for Soul Food Where to Find the Best Southern Fare In the mood for a plate of authentic southern cuisine? Head to one of these establishments to get your soul food fix.

70 THE BEST IS YET TO COME Retiring in Style Settle into your dream retirement community here!

78 Exploring the Lone Star State From visiting the Alamo, to hiking the Hill Country, find out why everything is bigger in Texas!

s verglade E a d i r o l F

SEE IT. BET IT. TASTE IT. Celebrate Mardi Gras in Shreveport-Bossier with tons of beads, mouth-watering king cake, familyfun parades, glitzy parties and glamorous bals. Have a group of 10 or more? Book today and reserve your spot for the coveted 2018 Red River Mardi Gras Bash.

Red River Mardi Gras Bash Feb. 3, 2018

Krewe of Centaur Mardi Gras Parade XXVII Feb. 3, 2018

Krewe of Gemini Mardi Gras Parade XXIV Feb. 10, 2018

Book Today!

Savor authentic Louisiana cuisine, dance to Cajun tunes, see parades and more. Tickets are just $40 per person. For group information, hotel accommodations or customized group tour itineraries, contact Erica Telsee, group sales manager at the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau at 800-551-8682 ext. 104 or etelsee@sbctb.org.

www.ShreveportMardiGras.org

94 102

Falling in love Southern romantic getaways are perfect for the fall season, and falling in love!

Health & Wellness Tranquil Retreats for the Mind, Body, & Soul From outdoor meditation classes to full-body spa treatments, relaxation has never felt so good!

108 family fun Top-Rated Amusement Parks of the South Find your kind of fun, from splashing around in an oceanfront waterpark, to riding a rollercoaster after Batman’s own heart.

120 Cruising the Coastlines The Ultimate Seaside Road Trip Explore the soft sands, refreshing waters, and beautiful coastal towns that make make up the southern shorelines.

132 A Taste Of Arkansas - Louisiana Mississippi - Florida South Carolina North Carolina Tennessee - Kentucky Explore these select states and discover the best attractions that each one has to oer.

David-Jacobs Publishing Group, LLC 14497 N. Dale Mabry Hwy Suite 135 Tampa, FL 33618 (813) 898-2808 www.davidjacobspg.com www.TravelSouthMag.com EXECUTIVE STAFF JOSHUA WATTAM Chief Executive officer ELIZABETH DIRKS President & Chief Marketing officer TIMOTHY WATTAM Vice President of operations SAM WATTAM Vice President of advertising ROBERT FORD Vice President of Sales SENIOR STAFF WRITER ABIGAIL THERRIEN SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER AMANDA McEWAN CREATIVE Flair Design Studio unlimitedflair.com NEWSSTAND CONSULTANT Ferruggia Newsstand Services, LLC TOM FERRUGGIA DISTRIBUTION Curtis Circulation NATIONAL ADVERTISING SALES DEPARTMENT KATHERINE MILLER National Sales Director JENNIFER HARPST National Sales Director AUDREY WATTAM National Sales Manager WILLIAM PREVATT National Sales Manager CHRIS RHODES National Sales Executive DAVID MALONE National Sales Executive JONATHAN ROACH National Sales Executive CHRISTIAN LOUBRIEL National Sales Executive ZACHARY PENDLEY National Sales Executive

Get Digital Save when you purchase a one year subscription.

www.TravelSouthMag.com

we could tell you how awesome Northern Kentucky is...

Left to Right: Ark Encounter, Roebling Bridge, National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Skyline Chili, Cincinnati Zoo, Mainstrasse Village, Newport Aquarium, Creation Museum, Braxton Brewing Co., Coppin’s at Hotel Covington, BB Riverboats, Hofbrauhaus Newport, Covington, Newport, New Riff Distilling

but we’ll let our visitors show you instead. #makeitNKY

meetNKY.com

, e m o c l e W David-Jacobs Publishing Group and the Travel South team are ecstatic to present to you, the premiere issue of Travel South Magazine. In this fall issue, you’ll find engaging content, covering everything from coastal road trips, to top-rated retirement destinations. Get a taste of the best attractions in each state; explore outdoor paradises, revamp and relax in award-winning spas and resorts, or take the entire family out for a day of fun at one of the south’s acclaimed waterparks or theme parks.

History buffs will enjoy the special heritage feature, where you’ll dive into Mississippi’s history of the Battle of Vicksburg, and learn all about the vintage charm of Charleston.

The south surely wouldn’t be what it is today without soul food, so head out to some of the most famous places in the region for grabbing a bite of that authentic cooking style.

Wash it all down with a trip to a local craft brewery, or take a stroll through the southern muscadine vineyards. This premiere issue of Travel South offers up information on all of this, so that you may plan your perfect southern vacation.

As this edition comes to a completion, we place it in your hands in hopes that it brings you inspiration for your travels, as well as new and exciting places to explore in the future. Whether you’re looking for a quiet seaside town to plan a weekend getaway in, or a luxurious mountain cabin rental for the holidays, Travel South is your guide to all that this region has to offer.

Wishing you safe travels this season,

on, Charlest ina arol South C

Your Travel South Team

If your dream of a Florida holiday means being outside, then this is the destination for you. Named by search engine Trivago as the #1 U.S. destination based on price and quality, Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach gives you all the best of Florida’s glorious outdoor experiences. Take a kayak tour deep into a wildlife preserve. Tour a forbidden swamp. Or bask in the solitude of one of our remote island beaches.

Discover the getaway of a lifetime. Learn more online now.

PureFlorida.com

Unlock the treasures of Florida’s West Coast through Tampa International Airport – Florida’s Premier Gateway.

• Conveniently located between Tampa’s business core and America’s Best Beaches in Pinellas County • 19 million passengers enjoy access to 82 nonstop domestic and international destinations • $1 Billion Master Plan remodel and nearing completion ensuring TPA remains America’s Favorite Airport • Expanding our international destinations 100% since 2010*, providing connectivity to the Americas, Europe and Beyond • Consistently ranked in the top 3 airports internationally and domestically by travelers and industry leaders *Projected

Visit us at TampaAirport.com or follow us @FlyTPA 0510MKT-0617

Paradise

OUTDOORS B A R R E N R I V E R L A K E | G R E AT S M O K Y M O U N TA I N S | T U R N E R FA L L S | E V E R G L A D E S

, ountains M y k o Sm Tennessee

From cloud-like hills dusted with luxury golf courses, to swampy, mangrove-infested tropical areas, your ideal outdoor paradise is never too far away. Get dressed up and enjoy dinner with a lakeside view in your very own private cabin, or get down and dirty in the lowlands with the gators and the panthers! Hike the mountains that straddle the Tennessee border, or visit the largest waterfall in Oklahoma. These destinations are going to have you reading and packing at the same time!

BARREN River L ake State Res o rt Park

The Barren River Lake State Resort Park is a haven for those who love the outdoors, but also prefer to have the comforts of a luxury getaway.

Spend your days on the water, surrounded by the caves and rolling hills of Kentucky, where the contrast between greenery and lapping waves bring you the best of both worlds. You can head out to the marina and rent a jet ski, kayak, or pontoon boat, and hit the waves! If you’re local and would like to bring your own equipment, there are plenty of slips to dock in.

The resort park has a main lodge, the Louie B. Nunn Lodge, which has 51 rooms complete with all the bells and whistles, most of which overlook the giant 10,000-acre lake. The lake itself is filled to the brim with hybrid bass, large and small mouths, crappie, catfish, and even walleye! Cast your line and you won’t leave without a catch.

If you’re not looking to stay in the main lodge, try renting out one of the cottages. There are 22 cottages to choose from. Take your pick between a cottage nestled in the woods and hills, or one with a lakeside view and plenty of open space for fishing or taking a walk along the shore.

Looking for something a tad bit more primitive, but still surrounded by options? Go camping at the park’s campground, complete with nearly 100 separate sites. The campgrounds are open until November 1st (they close for the winter), and there are dump stations, a central building with showers and restrooms, and utility hookups as well.

Make your stay a hole-in-one at the golf course on site within the park. The course itself is beautifully manicured and woven deep within the curvy Kentucky hills. This course will test even the best golfer’s skills, as it hosts some tricky shots and tight positions.

Barren River Lake State Resort Park also has a lighted basketball court, two lighted tennis courts, volleyball, and a shuffleboard court as well. If you’d like to sightsee around the park, take to the hiking and biking trails, which are conveniently paved and wind around the different amenities within the park.

If you’re interested in booking a stay at Barren River Lake, head to parks.ky.gov for brochures, reservations, and a full list of seasonal events and amenities.

a vibrant

O U T D O OR CO M M UN I T Y Miles of hiking, biking,

running and walking trails,

award-winning recreation facilities, year-round golf and tennis, and close proximity to many lakes and waterways are just a few of the reasons why Sumter is fast becoming one of the top destinations in the state of South Carolina.

Come experience all Sumter has to offer — indoors and out.

Find more at SumterTourism.com

GREAT

Smoky Mou ntain s National Park is t he mo st visit ed park in th e unite d stat es .

With over 10 million people flocking to the park every year, it beats out both Yellowstone and Yosemite by nearly triple the amount of visitors.

The park sits on the ridgeline of the Great Smoky Mountains, which is a part of Blue Ridge, and both extend as a division of the greater Appalachian Mountains. In the center of the park, you’ll find the border that separates North Carolina and Tennessee, which makes for a great local vacation no matter which way you’re coming from. The park’s area is over 500,000 acres, and is home to a variety of wildlife.

The vast differences in elevation throughout the mountain ranges make for great diversity among the park’s inhabitants.

Because the park has both a subtropical lowland climate, and old growth forests with steep slopes and cooler temperatures, animal sightings can range from a black bear to a bat, depending on where you’re at in the park.

Other species include bobcats, raccoons, foxes, otters, skunks, white-tailed deer, coyotes, woodchucks, and many more. Park officials estimate that there may be more than 50,000 undocumented species within the park’s boundaries. There are plenty of woods to explore within the park, as it is home to more than 100 different types of trees and well over 5,000 plant species.

Towns that surround the park house museums, landmarks, handcrafted souvenirs, events, lodging, park tours, and a variety of other adventures, so be sure to check out all of the attractions in the area.

Cherokee, North Carolina and Gatlinburg, Tennessee are the two closest cities on the border, and they welcome visitors year-round.

The park also has an array of historical landmarks and sites to visit, as well as natural wonders, like caves, waterfalls, and ravines. Historical attractions include Cades Cove, among others, which displays original buildings like log cabins, churches, and even barns. Take a hike or go for a bike ride on one of the many different trails that usually lead to a spectacular endpoint with a view fit for a picnic and fantastic pictures.

ove Cades C

BEST Place to Boat & Live

LakeMurrayCountry.com

1-866-SC-JEWEL The Jewel of South Carolina

TURNER Fal l s State Par k

Turner Falls State Park is considered to be the home of Oklahoma’s largest and tallest waterfall. At a staggering 77 feet tall, it is a beautiful sight to see once you reach the opening.

Turner Falls also has a lot of different hiking trails and caves to explore throughout, so make sure you wear a good pair of walking shoes and set a full day aside for a nature excursion.

If you’re looking to stay overnight or for the weekend, there are cabins available to rent, as well as campsites, RV parks with utility hookups, and lean-tos/screened shelters. All rentals are booked on nightly rates.

Turner Falls boasts some of the best trout fishing in the state of Oklahoma, so bring your rod and reel, and don’t forget to register for your fishing permit. If you’re a fan of the water in general, there are more than enough natural swimming areas, including sandy beaches and shorelines, along with a wading area and water slides!

A general store and restaurant within the park allows you to stop in for a bite to eat and a souvenir. Try the burgers and ice cream!

Park concessions also make for convenient stops to grab a cool drink or a small snack.

As you’re exploring the park, you will not want to miss the Rock Castle. Built in the 1930s, the Rock Castle is a walk-in castle that you are free to explore, and it will add a bit of history to your trip. The entire park is open 24 hours a day, with admission hours being from 6am-8:30pm.

You will need to make reservations and buy tickets in advance in order to enter the park, as it will fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons.

As a smaller park, the capacity will cause the gates to close once maxed out. Visit www.turnerfallspark.com for more information, and to purchase your tickets.

EVERGLADES Nationa l Park

The Everglades National Park was established in 1934 and and was officially marked as protected in 1947 to preserve the natural wonders and “biological diversity” within its boundaries.

The Everglades is over 1.5 million acres in area, and is home to one of the most diverse wetland ecosystems in the world. The park is the thirdlargest national park in the lower United States, and the largest tropical wilderness in the country. The land is a mix of coastal marshlands and freshwater outlets that are covered in mangroves, cypress trees, and river grasses.

The Everglades is federally protected, so the environment remains as pristine and untouched as possible, with the acceptance of northern developments and “agribusiness.” Each year, the park has an estimated 1 million visitors annually.

Activities range from a leisure walk with bird watching, to intense hiking and even camping in some of the most remote areas in the park. If you’re looking for a warmer destination this season, the Everglades is the perfect park for you. The humidity will be low in the fall and winter months, with moderate temperatures ranging in the 70s. This is perfect walking weather. Because of the great weather, however, it is a peak season for the Everglades, so if you plan on camping out or staying, making a reservation ahead of time is encouraged.

Hoping to see some wildlife? Get your camera ready! There are more than 30 endangered or threatened species that thrive in the Everglades, including the Florida panther, West Indian manatee, and the American crocodile. There are approximately 350 species of birds in the park as well, and more than 300 species of freshwater and saltwater fish.

Whether you’re looking for a resort park to kick back and relax in, or a completely preserved natural paradise, these amazing destinations have something to offer every type of outdoor enthusiast. Visit their websites for more information, book your stay, and plan your next wild vacation to one of these outdoor paradises!

Travel South | Fall 2017 | 19

MARTINSBURGBERKELEY COUNTY, WV AS THE HEAT OF SUMMER FADES INTO THE COOLER TEMPERATURES OF FALL, BERKELEY COUNTY, WEST VIRGINIA'S PICTURESQUE BEAUTY SHINES THROUGH AS THE LEAVES TRANSITION INTO STUNNING SHADES OF YELLOW, ORANGE, AND RED.

Discover the area’s beauty and charm through long drives down country roads, and cherished festivals and celebrations.

The best of fall entertainment is showcased at Orr’s Farm Market’s Fall Farm Fun Days, September 23rd-24th. Kids will be delighted exploring their way through a corn maze, pumpkin painting and hayrides, while adults munch on baked goods, visit craft vendors, and listen to local talent during live bluegrass music. Orr’s Farm Market hosts live bluegrass weekends, featuring talented local musicians throughout the fall, ending October 29th.

20 | Fall 2017 | Travel South

October brings ghoulish fun to life by sharing the area’s haunted history with guided tours of Martinsburg’s historic districts and buildings, where brave guests will discover paranormal activity and learn the legends behind the hauntings. Take a break from ghosts to taste delicious chili at Main Street Martinsburg’s annual Chili Cook Off, October 7th, in downtown Martinsburg and explore the great, locallyowned shops and restaurants that line the downtown streets.

Visitors can also take part in Berkeley County’s long-standing Mountain State Apple Harvest Festival, October 20th-23rd, which celebrates the life and

culture of Berkeley County. The festival’s parade will delight the young and young at heart with colorful floats, a regal queen and her court, delicious food vendors and a craft show.

Plan your fall getaway and book your hotel stay all through the MartinsburgBerkeley County CVB’s website, www.travelwv.com. You can also discover the county through the CVB’s free app “Visit Martinsburg, WV,” which lists the hotels, restaurants and activities of the area. The MartinsburgBerkeley County CVB is located at 126 E. Race St. in Martinsburg, and can be reached at 304-264-8801 or www.travelwv.com.

Convention & Visitors Bureau 126 E. Race St. Martinsburg, WV 25401 304.264.8801 | 800.4WVA.FUN travelwv.com

Immerse yourself in wild outdoors of London-Laurel County, Kentucky A 700,000-acre national forest named after a frontiersman and explorer who helped open the Kentucky wilderness. A federally-protected lake with some of the cleanest, deepest water in the southeast. Wild rivers perfect for canoeing and kayaking.

These are just a few of the ways to immerse yourself in the Great Outdoors of London and Laurel County, Kentucky.

Strategically located between Lexington, KY, and Knoxville, TN, on busy Interstate 75, London is known as the Crossroads to Adventure and “the Cycling Capital of KentuckyTM, with good reason.

Abundant natural resources, complete recreational facilities, and caring residents who know how to welcome guests make it a perfect place for your next adventure.

The Daniel Boone National Forest has more than 600 miles of trails for use by hikers, mountain bikers, cyclists, horseback riders, campers and hunters. Attractions include Laurel River Lake, sections of the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail, and the Cumberland and Rockcastle Rivers. The forest also includes a wide array of natural habitats and scenic areas to keep visitors captivated.

Laurel River Lake has 5,600 acres of clear, deep water and nearly 200 miles of tree-lined shore.

The quiet coves and cliffs along the shoreline offer relaxation and quiet reflection, along with boating, fishing, skiing and scuba diving, in one of the deepest and cleanest lakes in Kentucky.

The U.S. Forest Service administers the lake and surrounding shoreline, which controls unwanted development and keeps the water pristine. The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers oversees the operation of the lake’s dam and nearby recreational facilities, including two marinas, seven boat ramps, picnic areas and a swimming beach at the spillway.

For more information, contact the London-Laurel County Tourism Commission at (800) 348-0095, or visit laurelkytourism.com.

Ride or bike the small country roads or take advantage of the equestrian trails.

Hike a couple of Shenandoah National Park’s most popular trails on Old Rag Mountain or White Oak Canyon Falls, or enjoy a stroll at Hoover Ridge.

Taste Virginia’s first historic farm brewery at Bald Top Brewing Co. Sit outside enjoying the views and listening to music, or experience America’s Favorite Tasting Room at Early Mountain Vineyards, or one of the other wineries such as DuCard or Prince Michel, and the gorgeous views they all offer.

Taste the delectable food at The Bavarian Chef, Bonanno’s Madison Inn, MAD Local, Pie in the Sky, Giovanna’s, or Yoder’s Country Market, to name a few.

Shop at Plow and Hearth outlet, Southern Grace, MAD Arts or a national treasure, E. A. Clore Sons, Inc. fine furniture!

Go to a fun festival like Graves Mountain Lodge’s Apple Harvest Festival, Taste of the Mountains, or Hops and Homestead Festival at Bald Top. Stay in a B&B, cabin, house, Lodge, RV, or even a luxurious yurt! President Herbert Hoover built his summer retreat, Camp Hoover, at the source of the Rapidan River.

Fish the same river that presidents and dignitaries fished, or explore one of the many rivers and streams throughout Madison County.

Your outdoor paradise awaits in Madison County, VA. Visit http://www.madisonva.com or call 540-948-4455.

Madison County, VA

is An outdoor pArAdise! it is both peACeful And AdVenturous.

24 | Fall 2017 | Travel South

MADISON COUNTY VIRGINIA Come to Madison for the hiking, history, artisans, scenery, the fishing, the Taste of the Mountains, Music and Apple Harvest Festivals, the brewery, wineries, or your destination wedding! Stay in a B&B, cabin, camper, RV, lodge, vacation rental house, tent or even a yurt!

We have it all away from it all.

MADISONVA.COM

Mecklenburg

County, Virginia

Mecklenburg County features charming small towns to explore, but with so many miles of trails for hiking and riding, plus a spectacular 50,000-acre lake with 850 miles of shoreline, it’s not surprising that so many visitors choose to spend their entire vacation outdoors! Home to the Southern Virginia Wild Blueway, consisting of 3 rivers and 2 lakes, this unspoiled wilderness adventure is just a short drive from major metro cities. Perfect for hours in a canoe with the kids or a weekend full of scenic fun with friends! Take off from one the 17 public boat launches as you explore hundreds of miles of pristine and WILD waterways throughout Southern Virginia.

Looking for a place to lay your head? Consider our lodging options, ranging from familiar national chain hotels to secluded cabins overlooking stunning landscapes, to an award winning bed and breakfast in Virginia’s Only Lakeside Town. After settling in, explore our delightful small towns and shops, where you will find locally-produced goods and wares unlike anywhere else. Get out and explore the dozens of historical sites and architecture that dot the landscape throughout Mecklenburg County.

Sit down and enjoy homemade, artisanal meals paired with locally produced wines, beers, or spirits in one of the several locally-owned restaurants. How about a little history you can taste? Mecklenburg County is home to the Bondurant Brother’s Distillery. Only 100 miles and 100 years separate them from their infamous Franklin County moonshining roots. All of this is served with the perfect combination of our distinctive southern hospitality and a “Bless Your Heart.”

If you are looking for a place to unwind and breathe, then come find More of What Matters to you in Mecklenburg County!

Website: www.visitmeckva.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisitMeckVA/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitmeckva/

More Miles of Shoreline than Highway.

Seaplane rides. Boutique wineries. Kayak birding and leaf viewing. Surprised? This is just the beginning of what you’ll find in the heart of Southern Virginia’s Lake Country. Boasting two lakes and 1,200 miles of shoreline, Mecklenburg County, Virginia has much more than just serene shoreline, but it sure is a great starting point for planning your fall vacation.

More of what matters. More Mecklenburg. visitmeckva.com | #moremeck

Kisatchie National Forest has more than 604,000 acres. Hidden in the bayous, beneath the bald cypress groves and old growth pine, is a world of natural beauty, excitement, learning, recreation, resources, and wildlife in their purest form. Come visit Louisiana's only national forest. There are numerous trails throughout the Forest that are marked as multi-use trails. Distances vary from half a mile to nearly 30 miles. Most traverse across rolling hill terrain with many scenic areas scattered throughout. The Calcasieu, Kisatchie, and Catahoula Districts have off-highway vehicle trails. Bird watching, sightseeing, scenic drives, overlooks, wilderness areas and scenic rivers, and other areas of interest abound throughout the Forest.

Wolf Rock Cave is located in the Vernon Unit of the Calcasieu Ranger District of the Kisatchie National Forest. Archaeological evidence shows that primitive peoples once used the cave as a habitation. The site has an informational kiosk and the trail is marked. Be aware, the trail is steep. We recommend that you wear sturdy shoes and be careful.

VERNON PARISH, LA

Myths & Legends Byway Hauntings, hidden treasures and hangings are all part of the folktales that have been passed down throughout the region now designated as the Myths & Legends Scenic Byway. Explore a former No Man’s Land once populated by outlaws and gunslingers. Fish on the Calcasieu River, the waterway that infamous buccaneer Jean Lafitte is known to have traveled. Search for the ghost-protected buried treasure of two Jayhawkers—pro-Union Civil War rebel guerrillas—from the 1800s. These are all parts of a collection of true stories and tall tales that can be experienced along the 181-mile Myths & Legends Byway. The route begins in southwest Louisiana at the Texas state line and travels through land originally settled by the Atakapa and Coushatta tribes, now the parishes of Allen, Beauregard and Vernon. Today, visitors will find pine forests, white sandy beaches, blueberry farms, rodeos and friendly people ready to share their stories.

Vernon Parish Tourism Commission www.LouisianaLegendCountry.com 337-238-0783 vernontourism@bellsouth.net

blaze

OUR TRAIL

Follow a trail to learn tall tales and legends. Take in the scenery and let your imagination soar. Our Myths and Legends Byway follows the history of the outlaws, bandits, heroes and soldiers who once traversed these lands. Visit Louisiana’s Legend Country and make our storied past a tale you love to tell.

LouisianaLegendCountry.com 800-349-6287

Travel South | Fall 2017 | 29

“Easy to get to an perfect choice for d easy to love, it’s a a weekend getaway in the great outdoors .”

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Auburn-Opelika is the coolest college town in the South, according to us, and one of the top cities in America to live, according to CNN. Easy to get to and easy to love, it’s a perfect choice for a weekend getaway in the great outdoors.

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AubuRNOPELIKA, AL

Load up the family bikes and check out Chewacla State Park.

With over 26 miles of versatile track, Chewacla offers worldclass trail systems designed for both mountain biking beginners and seasoned pros. Located in the last foothills of the Appalachian mountains, don’t miss the Great Wall of Chewacla and the Loch Ness Cobra nestled among miles of wellgroomed flow trails. Additional expert-level trails and features are being added this year, as Auburn continues to develop as a premier mountain biking destination. We offer a suitable option for every age and skill level – you can even test out one of our pedal-less “strider” bikes for the little ones! Rentals are available for mountain biking as well as street riding.

Opportunities for indulgent dining abound and you’ll find plenty of specialty retailers as well as a variety of activities and diversions. The community offers year-round outdoor experiences, from picking your own berries or flowers at a local farm to sipping wine produced from grapes you just tasted off the vine.

We now house our very own brewery and a local distillery featuring vodka, gin, rum, and liqueurs in a renovated historic space in downtown Opelika. Enjoy a tour before you indulge or wander up the block to the sophisticated and intimate 8th and Rail, where you can enjoy your cocktail with a soundtrack of live music. Try your hand at one of our affordable and highly touted golf courses, or plan your visit around one of the many fun and frequent outdoor events and festivals. So whether you prefer your adventures on two wheels or on your plate, the Auburn-Opelika area has something just right for you.

30 | Fall 2017 | Travel South

Fresh markets. Wineries. You-pick farms.

In Auburn-Opelika, Alabama, we are locally grown and boundlessly inspired.

We are original. We are authentic.

Travel South 7.17.indd 1

Log on now to find what

your Auburn-Opelika is.

7/20/2017 11:08:43 AM

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF DISTINCTIVE NORTH CAROLINA

Person County,

North Carolina

YOU NEED TO ENJOY THE OUTDOORS IN PERSON! That’s Person County North Carolina and better known as Roxboro. If you are truly an outdoorsy person, you will find so many experiences to add to your list of fun adventures. Our two large, warm-water lakes, Lake Mayo and Lake Hyco, are ready for all types of boating activities, from skiing, wakeboarding, and swimming, to just enjoying a ride on the lake at sunset. You can always find a fishing tournament to enter, as well as finding some nice, calm water for canoeing or paddleboarding.

If you enjoy the outdoors for running, our area has many trails for running and walking, as well as several timesanctioned 5K Run/Walks throughout the year. Some of the trails are paved for wheelchair accessibility.

Disc golf is really celebrated in Person County with three pro-sanctioned courses – and of course a couple have really large water hazards because they are at the lakes. We do have the traditional golf course ready for your enjoyment, also.

Our area is part of the North Carolina Birding Trail, as well as the North Carolina Bike Trail. Therefore, we think you will be able to enjoy our outdoors as you may have done some of these trails in other parts of this beautiful state. We have many geocaching sites for those treasure hunters, as well as a Quilt Trail that spans the whole county and can easily be seen in 4 different segments of the county. If you are a history lover, we have a historical trail of homes and buildings/businesses that are over 100 years old.

Just come and enjoy the parks, lakes, and scenery at your own pace and in PERSON! www.visitroxboronc.com

32 | Fall 2017 | Travel South

Columbus

County, North Carolina Columbus County in southeastern North Carolina, is a storied place. That means it’s a place where stories are told and where stories are created. It’s a place that feeds the senses and stirs the imagination, where the sights and sounds of nature are sealed in memories and recalled as a part of life unique and special to the people who share that life.

There are stories of fishing on Lake Waccamaw and the Lumber and Waccamaw Rivers. Sometimes from the banks, sometimes from a boat, and sometimes when you're standing in a gently flowing stream, listening to the water move around you, casting lazily, and enjoying your surroundings so much that catching fish is incidental. Or, you might be using all your knowledge and experience to bring in the most and the biggest in a fishing tournament.

There are stories of sailing on Lake Waccamaw, the largest natural lake on the eastern seaboard, of the wind pushing you softly and quietly, the sun warming the water and melting stress like butter on a hot biscuit.

Or maybe you’re racing that boat in one of the frequent regattas, testing your skills as you maneuver your boat toward the finish line.

The county’s waterways are big enough and numerous enough to share among skiers and fishermen, while still providing that serenity that can only come when the sights and sounds of nature replace the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. Just to make it official, the Lumber River has been designated a National Wild and Scenic River.

The stories are told at the end of the day on a pier, lakeshore, or the riverbank campsite. They're told with friends who shared it all and told and retold to those who weren’t fortunate to be there that day. Of course, they can come back with you next time and create their own stories.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SOUTH WIND PHOTOGRAPHY

CHANGE YOUR PERSPECTIVE ON “CURRENT” EVENTS. Northeastern South Carolina

PEE DEE COUNTRY K AYA K I N G

The Great Pee Dee and the Little Pee Dee rivers are just two of the many waterways to explore and discover in the Pee Dee Region of South Carolina.

These pristine and historic waterways offer adventure and an appreciation of nature that can be enjoyed by all.

Darlington | Dillon | Florence Lee | Marion | Marlboro Williamsburg

844.669.0950 www.peedeetourism.com

Pack Up the Kids

and Head for Halifax County, North Carolina Just over the border in North Carolina, as you enter from Virginia, Halifax County is a festival-goer's dream. Fall comes to life in this agrarian community as they celebrate the harvest and the end of summer. Take the kids and step back in time for hay rides, cotton pickin’, barbecue, antique farm equipment, and stories of days gone by.

The Littleton Lake Gaston Festival on September 2nd, gives you a chance to experience “beach music” and an amazing antique car show.

Halifax County Harvest Days happens on September 30th, and offers sawmill demonstrations, peanut threshing and corn shucking. This festival is paired with the Tri County Horse Show and promises to be a galloping good time! Hobgood’s Cotton Festival is on October 15th, and highlights a unique opportunity to take a “cotton ride!” The Cotton Festival is the quintessential small town festival.

The Halifax County Visitor’s Center is located just off I-95 and offers the only dog park for our four legged travelers on on I-95 in North Carolina!

Stop by the Visitor’s Center and get information on other attractions in the area, such as the Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail, Sylvan Heights Bird Park, Historic Halifax, Lake Gaston and Medoc Mountain State Park. You may also check out their user friendly website at www.visithalifax.com.

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SmAlL ToWn

charm A SiGhTsEeR’S PaRaDiSe Small town charm, art, summer theatre, hiking, fishing, music & Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair on Burnsville’s Town Square. A fiber to the home community and home of Mt. Mitchell.

Visit us online to explore more 828-682-7413 www.yanceychamber.com | www.exploreburnsville.com

Front Royal Virginia Adventure

is just over the ridge. www.discoverfrontroyal.com Front Royal-Warren County Visitors Center • 540-635-5788

Travel South | Fall 2017 | 37

Fort Sumter

Marianna, Fl

Charleston, SC

Vicksburg, MS

Heritage and

CULTURE Soul

UNCOVERING THE

OF THE SOUTH

The deep roots of the south date back to the Civil War era, and before. When the history of the south is brought up, the conversation usually demands a light shed on slavery, the cotton industry, and battles that took place to bring this suering to an end. Whether you enjoy exploring old houses, plantations, and museums, or actual battleďŹ elds that will give you the chills, these sites are worth a visit for an extraordinary amount of historical knowledge, as well as a true experience in southern heritage and culture, and how it came to be.

Charleston, SC

VICKSBURG, MISSISSIPPI

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The National Park Service presents a historical quote about the geographical importance of Vicksburg to turn the Civil War in the Union’s favor: “President Abraham Lincoln told his civilian and military leaders, ‘See what a lot of land these fellows hold, of which Vicksburg is the key! The war can never be brought to a close until that key is in our pocket... We can take all the northern ports of the Confederacy, and they can defy us from Vicksburg.’ Lincoln assured his listeners that ‘I am acquainted with that region and know what I am talking about, and as valuable as New Orleans will be to us, Vicksburg will be more so.’”

Because of this knowledge, The Battle of Vicksburg, which is also known as the Siege of Vicksburg, took place to obtain the land and thus divide the south to win the war. The Union soldiers that fought in this battle were led by Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, while the Confederate soldiers of the area fought under the command of Gen. John C. Pemberton. Pemberton ultimately surrendered to Grant on July 4, 1863. His soldiers were dying of starvation, and the explosions and attacks were happening more frequently, so Pemberton had little to no choice other than to give up. It is said that the ongoing battle, combined with the lack of supplies on the Confederate side, led Pemberton’s men to eat rats and “boiled shoe leather.” That would be enough to make most people quit on the spot!

This is only a tiny morsel of the history that is behind Vicksburg. Today, the National Military Park in Vicksburg is widely popular, and many visitors enter the park each year to wander the memorials and war houses. Within the park, you’ll be able to see the original guns used during The Battle of Vicksburg, along with walking through the actual fields where the battle took place. The entire city will take you back in time, and you’ll be able to explore one of the most pivotal parts of the Civil War era that ultimately shaped our nation today.

Mississippi

Illinois State Memorial in Vicksburg

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MARIANNA, FLORIDA

Marianna is known as “The City of Southern Charm.” Taking a stroll through the historic downtown district will show you why. Marianna is home to more than a dozen historic buildings and houses that tell the stories of the early history of the area. Take a trip to Marianna and visit the Russ House & Visitor Center. The Russ House was built in the 1890s and has remained in its original condition ever since. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is even said to be haunted! Tours of the house are available, so be sure to make the Russ House your first stop.

russ house and visitor center

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The city itself was founded in 1827. Its history dates back to the Spanish Mission period, but the Battle of Marianna happened during the Civil War, after the city’s military status caught the attention of Union soldiers, and a raid was launched.

The battle “was small but bloody.” Today, a small portion of the battlefield can still be visited right in the center of town.

Florida Caverns State Park

Florida

Soldiers were buried at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church & Cemetery, which was also part of the battlegrounds. The church itself was burned to the ground during the battle, but was rebuilt to look nearly identical to the original building. The church is now known as “Florida’s Alamo” in tribute to the soldiers that wouldn’t go down without a fight, literally. The grounds are open to the public daily, so stop in for a moment of silence and a small history lesson.

For a bit of geological history, check out the Florida Caverns State Park, which is Florida’s “only public tour cave!” The caverns are an important part of the area’s heritage, and considered to be the county’s treasure. Between the southern charm and historical culture of downtown Marianna, and the natural beauty of the caverns, there’s something for everyone to fall in love with here.

Travel South | Fall 2017 | 41

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CHARLESTON, South Carolina

Charleston screams vintage charm and deep history. the cobblestone streets, brightly colored neighborhoods, and horse-drawn carriages that make up the town are enough to make anyone want to visit. along with its great inns and restaurants, the city is brimming with historical sites and places of importance to visit.

Charleston also looks out at Fort Sumter, which is an extremely well-known Civil War sight, and is labeled as the place where “the first shots of the Civil War rang out.” Fort Sumter is a national Monument and is completely noteworthy for any history buff that’s looking for a historically educational gem. take a boat out to Fort Sumter, and tour the area where “it all began.”

a n i l o r a C h t u o S

another cultural must-visit destination is the Mcleod Planation historic Site. the plantation was established in 1851 and is said to be built from the profits of their main crop: sea island cotton. a tour of the plantation speaks volumes for slavery and the times of hardship, unjust actions, and the Civil War era. the plantation itself is over 30 acres, and holds the original slave quarters, which you can tour and walk through. there is also the Mcleod oak, which is noted as being over 600 years old, so the land itself is literally rooted into american history.

During your tour, you will be able to view the plantation’s family home, as well as the grounds where the enslaved families worked their fingers to the bone. You’ll also run through the history of the crops grown and cultivated on the land, and understand why the industry chose to participate in the way that they did. the tour will give you an inside look at a day in the life of a Mcleod Plantation slave, including their worship and leisure hours (of which were very few), along with the purchasing and history of their working generations. the landscape has certainly changed since the plantation was in full swing, but the history and the stories that live there remain the same.

From battlegrounds to slave quarters, these southern historic destinations will take you back in time to experience the true soul of the south.

Whether you’re wanting to learn about the turning point in the Civil War, or hoping to explore the inner workings of a real plantation, a visit to these places will leave you in awe.

McLeod Planation Historic Site

Durham, NC Old tobacco and textile warehouses have been artfully repurposed for new businesses, entertainment districts and residences. Black Wall Street honors the entrepreneurial spirit of early African-American business owners. New murals and landmarks tell the story of Durham’s Civil Rights past.

With an eye for the history behind the area’s growth, it is easy to see why Durham is a thriving and vibrant southern city. The gritty, passionate soul of its early leaders shaped the region and world at large. Through preservation efforts, many historic sites and tributes are open to the public, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

Antebellum Beginnings Durham first became a place, just a railroad station to be exact, in 1823. Like much of the antebellum south, there were several plantations in the region during the 1800s, but nothing quite like Stagville.

At its largest in 1860, Historic Stagville was once one of the biggest plantations in the South with 900 slaves and almost 30,000 acres of land. Stagville is incredibly well preserved and provides a glimpse into what African Americans experienced

STROLL THROUGH THE STREETS OF DOWNTOWN, AND IT IS EASY TO SEE HOW DURHAM HAS STRONGLY PRESERVED ITS HERITAGE AND CULTURE. during the Civil War era. Original slave quarters from 1851 remain intact and are available to tour, something visitors may not be able to experience at other plantation sites across the south.

The state historic site’s records are also uncommonly, meticulously complete. Stagville’s staff uses the records to collaborate with descendants and Durham residents to fill in family lineages and other gaps in African-American history.

Only history enthusiasts might already know that Durham was the site of the Civil War’s largest troop surrender in April 1865, effectively ending the war. The papers were signed at a farmhouse named Bennett Place, situated between the Union and Confederate army encampments. Now, Bennett Place hosts special living history events and tours through its restored historic structures.

An Early Hub for Innovation Following the Civil War, freed African Americans developed prosperous business and residential communities in Durham.

NC Mutual Life Insurance Company and M&F Bank were established as two of the nation’s oldest and largest black-owned businesses, memorialized today on Black Wall Street, now known as Parrish Street.

Travel South | Fall 2017 | 43

Around the same time, the first public liberal arts institution for African Americans in the nation opened in Durham to provide more educational opportunities for blacks. It is now North Carolina Central University, one of the top-rated Historically Black College and Universities.

In the early 1900s, Durham was also home to Washington Duke’s tobacco empire.

Duke learned of Union soldiers’ demand for the regionally grown brightleaf tobacco, invested in a small factory and began selling his product worldwide.

Duke Homestead features the restored mid-1800s family home, tobacco barns, original factory and farm, showing the beginnings of what became the American Tobacco Company conglomerate.

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Activism Beyond Black Wall Street, African Americans made their mark on Durham as artists, educators, politicians and engaged citizens. Their legacy lives on today at places like the Hayti Heritage Center, a central gathering during the civil rights movement on the National Register of Historic Places. And, the White Rock Baptist Church, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his history-making "fill up the jails" civil-rights speech a few days after an early sit-in at Woolworths. And, the childhood home of civil rights advocate Dr. Pauli Murray, recently named a National Historic Landmark.

Whether you’re a history buff or casual traveler, many of Durham’s historic sites are must-sees. Upon arrival, stop by the Museum of Durham History or the Durham Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Visitor Information Center to have the experts help plan your trip to discover what makes Durham such an integral part of the soul of the south.

Sure, our old brick walls were built by tobacco, but we gave them a facelift—and a soul.

Now, they echo with jazz, folk rock, and bluegrass. You’re in Durham, where we rejuvenate old stories with new life. Plan your weekend at DiscoverDurham.org.

Across the river from our nation’s capital, in the heart of Northern Virginia, you’ll find Fairfax County. Home to a treasure-trove of welcoming accommodations, world-class arts, natural and cultural resources, and premier historic attractions. Fairfax County’s history mirrors that of much of America—and that history is waiting for you to explore it first-hand.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon is an iconic American landmark—an enduring reminder of the life and legacy of the Father of Our Country. The estate is open year-round and is one of the nation’s most visited historic sites, combining an authentically interpreted 18th-century home, lush gardens and grounds, intriguing museum galleries, immersive programs, special events, and 46 | Fall 2017 | Travel South

first-rate dining and shopping. Mount Vernon is an incomparable national treasure and a bucket list item for anyone interested in history.

Don’t miss: The Mansion Tour, The Tombs, The Slave Memorial and Burial Ground, Washington’s Distillery and Gristmill, the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center.

George Mason’s Gunston Hall is a magnificent monument to a sometimes-forgotten Founding Father and is an impressive example of colonial architecture and interior design. The mansion’s magnificent woodwork remains intact, along with about 550 acres of the original estate which you are free to explore.

The words of Mason have inspired generations of Americans and others throughout the world, and his Virginia Declaration of Rights document was the intellectual basis for the Bill of Rights found in the United States Constitution.

Don’t miss: Guided tours, the Potomac River view The Workhouse Arts Center is set on 55 acres of land on the campus of what used to be the historic DC Workhouse and Reformatory where prisoners (including imprisoned suffragettes) built the facilities and farmed the land, gaining skills to walk a steady path upon release. Today, that legacy of healing and creation is carried forth on a campus housing 65 studio artists and over 100 exhibitions showcasing craftspeople, from painters to glassblowers to fiber artists. Visitors are encouraged to stop in to watch the resident artists at work, purchase one-of-a-kind creations, or enjoy one of the hundreds of theatrical, dance, or musical performances held year-round on campus.

Don’t miss: Second Saturday Art Walks, the Prison Museum, the artist studios Great Falls Park is home to one of the Washington, DC area’s most visited scenic overlooks. People visit the park from all over the world to take in the majestic falls as the Potomac River crashes over a series of steep, jagged rocks and flows through the narrow Mather Gorge. But there is much more to do at this 800-acre National Park Service site than snapping selfies in front of the falls. Great Falls Park is full of many opportunities to explore the area’s history and nature throughout its 15 miles of hiking trails.

Don’t miss: The Falls Overlooks, the Visitor Center and Great Falls Museum, the historic Potowmack Canal ruins, ranger-led tours The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is the companion facility to the Air and Space Museum on the National Mall in Washington, DC. Its two huge hangars display thousands of aviation and space artifacts, including a Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, a Concorde, and the Space Shuttle Discovery. The Center also houses the Airbus IMAX® Theater and features the Donald D. Engen Observation Tower, which gives you a 360-degree bird’s-eye view of Washington Dulles International Airport and the surrounding area.

Don’t miss: Daily tours, flight simulators, a movie in the IMAX theatre

Visit us today at FXVA.com

VISIT CLARKSVILLE, TN

Clarksville, Tennessee is first and foremost a river city. The Cumberland and Red Rivers merge in the heart of the town, very near where the city was established in 1784. Today, a fully-developed RiverWalk begins at this intersection and tells Clarksville’s story from that historic point. And, it’s the best place around to witness a jaw-dropping river sunset!

A short drive northwest of Nashville along I-24, Clarksville is easily accessible for a fun-filled weekend getaway. Whether your ideal trip involves adventure, education or relaxation, these ideas will kickstart your planning for a memorable trip.

Clarksville’s enviable climate makes outdoor activities pleasant year-round. Residents and visitors alike enjoy golfing, hiking, fishing, road and trail biking, and even most watersports during all four distinctly beautiful seasons.

Anchoring Clarksville’s picturesque, historic downtown are the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center and the Roxy Regional Theatre – both examples of fascinating architecture outside and exciting entertainment inside! Boasting more than

48 | Fall 2017 | Travel South

35,000 square feet of exhibit space, the museum showcases local and regional lore, art, science and hands-on activities. The Roxy, a 1947 art deco theatre offers 10 mainstage productions each year.

Between the two landmarks, local boutiques offer one-of-a-kind merchandise and dining options, from pub pizzas and mouthwatering steaks, to Cajun and Greek cuisine.

Clarksville’s rich military history spans from the Civil War era through modern conflicts. The remarkably well-preserved Fort Defiance Park & Interpretive Center is located on a 200-foot bluff over the Cumberland. Reenactment events show life during Civil War days.

Don't end your visit to Clarksville without indulging your taste buds. The award-winning Beachaven Vineyards & Winery and local distilleries serve fine libations and craft brews. Ethnic restaurants galore satisfy any international craving, but you’ll also find top-notch authentic southern fare like barbecue and catfish.

Begin planning your trip to Clarksville at www.visitclarksvilletn.com!

Fort Stockton, TeXas Fort Stockton was established in March of 1859, as Camp Stockton. The army withdrew from Texas during the Civil War and abandoned Fort Stockton in 1861. Confederate troops briefly occupied the site until they, too, withdrew in 1862. In July 1867, Fort Stockton was re-established by four companies of the 9th U.S. Cavalry Regiment.

The 9th was one of the new regiments organized after the Civil War staffed with African-American enlisted men known as Buffalo Soldiers. The community was originally known as Saint Gall, but the locals changed the name to Fort Stockton in 1881.

Fort Stockton was incorporated as a city in December of 1910 and elected its first mayor in 1911. Fort Stockton is the county seat of Pecos County, the second-largest county in the state. Covering nearly 5,000 square miles, Pecos County is one of Texas’ largest energy producers, combining renewable energy with fossil fuels.

Tourism, agriculture, retail sales and the service industry are also important contributors to the local economy.

46 BIGBENDTRAVELGUIDE.COM

& e L l I v aRtErSCoUnTy, Ga C [BaRtOw A Real Georgia Gem! Just north of Atlanta, Cartersville, Georgia mixes small town charm with sophisticated finds. On one end of the downtown business district is a farm supply store and on the other is the Smithsonian Affiliate Booth Western Art Museum, housing the nation’s largest collection of Western American art. Between the two are cool shops, chefowned restaurants, the world’s first Coca-Cola wall sign, and The Bartow History Museum, portraying the Appalachian foothills experience since the 1800s.

The renowned Etowah Indian Mounds is a nationally significant National Register Historic Site, which was a mecca for native peoples from 900 to 1,500 A.D. Historic diversity abounds from the Victorian elegance of Rose Lawn Museum— home of evangelist Sam Jones, for whom Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium was built—to poignant Civil War sites at Kingston, Cassville, Adairsville and Allatoona Pass Battlefield. Georgia’s first state park for African Americans–George Washington Carver Park on Lake Allatoona – is a landmark in the

state’s Civil Rights heritage. At nearby Euharlee, experience an authentic 19th century farming village with a covered bridge built in 1886.

The Tellus Science Museum, also a Smithsonian Affiliate, is worth a visit by itself. A quirky find is Old Car City USA, where acres of rusting classics, a Styrofoam cup art gallery and Elvis’ last car create a one-of-a-kind experience.

Travel sports families flock annually to LakePoint Sporting Community, featuring world-class athletic facilities and public wakeboarding at Terminus Wake Park.

Year-round, enjoy kayaking and fishing on the Etowah River, hiking some of the region’s best trails at Pine Mountain and Red Top Mountain State Park or shooting at Barnsley Resort’s Springbank Plantation. The historic resort also features fine dining, golf, horseback riding and spa. The magical gardens for which the resort is named have bloomed for more than 160 years – don’t let another go by without finding yourself there.

CHICKASAW CULTURAL CENTER OFFERS A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES Interactive cultural demonstrations, educational exhibits, family movies, a connection to nature, and a world of opportunity to learn and connect with Chickasaw history await at the Chickasaw Cultural Center.

Combining natural architectural elements and picturesque scenery, the 184-acre campus in Sulphur, Oklahoma, provides activities and adventures year-round.

Learning opportunities are plentiful in the Chikasha Inchokka' Traditional Village where cultural instructors share activities such as Stickball games, cooking demonstrations, language lessons, and archery demonstrations.

The campus also includes artwork of internationally acclaimed Chickasaw and Native artists, as well as awe-inspiring water features.

Massive outdoor sculptures, such as “The Arrival” by Chickasaw artist Mike Larsen, “Owwatta” (“They’re Hunting”)

by James Blackburn, and Joanna Underwood’s southeastern pottery sculptures intermingle with beautiful water and rock features and native landscaping.

The Aapisa' Art Gallery is a place to appreciate the art and artists of the Chickasaw Nation and hosts special exhibits throughout the year.

The Holisso: The Center for Study of Chickasaw Culture and History safeguards historical artifacts and documents and allows visitors to research their family heritage.

More than 600,000 guests from around the globe have experienced the Chickasaw Cultural Center since it opened in 2010.

Native plants grow abundantly in the Aaholiitobli' Honor Garden, a structure honoring Chickasaw Nation Hall of Fame inductees.

Built upon the vision of Chickasaw Nation Gov. Bill Anoatubby and the ideas and creativity of the Chickasaw people, the Chickasaw Cultural Center is a place where Chickasaw culture lives and thrives.

The Inkana “Friend” pedestrian bridge connects the Chickasaw Cultural Center and the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, providing easy access between the two attractions.

For more information about the Chickasaw Cultural Center, visit chickasawculturalcenter.com or call 580-622-7130.

g n i v i L CULTURE EXPERIENCE

The Chickasaw Cultural Center offers a world of opportunity to learn and connect with Chickasaw history and culture. Join us as we share the story of the Chickasaw people through storytelling, films, demonstrations and exhibits at one of the largest and most extensive cultural centers in the United States.

WWW.CHICKASAWCULTURALCENTER.COM

SULPHUR, OK // 580.622.7130

Sip

the South

Distillery e c a r T o l a f Buf entucky Frankfort, K

Trip-Worthy Wineries, Breweries, & Distilleries Have you ever sipped muscadine wine in the countryside, or taken a ghostly tour through one of the south’s favorite distilleries, whiskey in hand? If not, then this should be your next stop. Explore the region, one drink at a time, and see what these awardwinning establishments are oering up, both to loyal patrons and curious tourists alike.

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Old South Winery Natchez, Mississippi The Old South Winery was founded in 1979 by Scott O. Galbreath Jr. and his wife Edeen. Scott, or “Doc,” recalled the way his grandmother used to make muscadine wine how much he enjoyed the entire experience with her. Those fond memories of spending quality time with his grandmother led him straight into his passion for wine-making as an adult. The winery has been producing sweet wines, as well as award-winning whites and reds for many years, and the business has been passed on to the future Galbreath generations.

Today, the winery is known for its Sweet Noble, Old South’s number one bestseller, along with seasonal favorites like the Blueberry Thrill. Old South Winery also offers a variety of other muscadine products to sample and purchase, such as pepper jelly and hot sauces!

Visit the winery for a free tour and tasting (large groups must pay per person and reserve ahead of time).

THE WINERY IS KNOWN FOR ITS SWEET NOBLE, OLD SOUTH’S NUMBER ONE BESTSELLER, ALONG WITH SEASONAL FAVORITES LIKE THE BLUEBERRY THRILL.

58 | Fall 2017 | Travel South

“

Seasonal events are always happening at Three Sisters, and if you plan now, you can make it to the vineyards in time for their fall “Chillin the Vineyard” experience.

Three Sisters Vineyards Dahlonega, Georgia If you’re looking for a beautiful winery in the middle of the Georgia mountains, Three Sisters is it! A relatively new winery, The Three Sisters farm was purchased in 1995, and the first harvest was taken in August of 2000. The farm was purchased by the late Doug Paul, and his wife, Sharon. Doug just “decided to grow a few grapes” and see where it went. It was his finest decision.

The Tasting Room opened in 2001, and the winery was in full operation. Three Sisters is proud to say that their wines are produced from only the highest quality Georgia-grown fruits. With every ingredient being locally-grown, and the vineyards having the tasting rooms on site, Three Sisters makes for the most authentic southern wine experience.

Tastings and tours vary by package and group size, so head to www.threesistersvineyards.com to choose the tasting that is right for you. Seasonal events are always happening at Three Sisters, and if you plan now, you can make it to the vineyards in time for their fall “Chill in the Vineyard” experience. Known as the Food Truck Fall Weekends, this November event hosts comfort food and tastings for all guests. Specialty chefs and personalized tastings abound, as visitors make their way around the vineyard!

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, d a b s i g n i h t y ely r n a a b s f i iskey ch o

o m it on n r i i p k s n e u h r t s rs fd “ Beer,hie temper, chee-r Thomas Jeffe t h.” t l a e h s e ot m o r p d n a

Wicked Weed Brewing Asheville, North Carolina The Wicked Weed Brewery is as fantastical as its name suggests.

dream of opening such an establishment. They decided to test batches and build a business plan, while calling in their friend, Ryan Guthy. Ryan, Walt, and Luke all sat down with Ryan’s parents, and the team discussed the final seams of the plan. By 2011, the five of them opened the brewery, rolled up their sleeves, and got to work.

Wicked Weed now has several locations, including the original brewery that is now the town pub, a new brewing facility, and the Funkatorium. The Funkatorium is a taproom dedicated to the sours and “funky beers” from Wicked Weed. These exclusive blends are on tap and seasonal varieties are always being rotated.

The pub at the original location has a full restaurant and both the pub and the Funkatorium offer a dog-friendly patio!

Nestled in the beautiful town of Asheville, Wicked Weed was birthed by two families, the Guthys and the Dickinsons, who came together over lifelong friendship and a common goal to open an inspirational brewery. Walt and Luke Dickinson, two brothers, decided to fulfill their long-held

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Cigar City Brewing Tampa, Florida Cigar City is very southern from a geographical standpoint, but its roots are nestled deep in the Latin culture that Florida is known for. History cascades down to the modern day brewery from as early as the late 1800s. Inside, you’ll hear the stories feel the passion that comes from the Cigar City team, as you sit down for an authentic brew.

Visit cigarcitybrewing.com to sign up in advance for a tasting tour. The tours are about an hour long and include a souvenir glass. You’ll receive in-depth

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“ Too mu ch good wh Twain “ but too mu h.” - Mark ns e t f o s , n o derati enoug

knowledge and history about the brewery itself, along with what the average process of brewing a batch entails.

Tours are $8 per person. You can purchase merchandise at their shop on site or online. If you would like to host an event at Cigar City, they have a private tasting room available to rent out. If you get the chance, try their most sought after brew, Hunahpu’s Imperial Stout. It is 11% ABV and made with Madagascar vanilla beans, ancho chiles, and cinnamon!

Rock Town Distillery Little Rock, Arkansas The Rock town Distillery is the first legal and operational distillery in Arkansas since prohibition. It was founded in 2010 and has been thriving ever since, whipping up batches of award-winning whisky and bourbon for all those who wish to sample. Their Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey won the 2015 United States Micro Whiskey of the Year. Jim Murray of the Whisky Bible states: “This is absolutely enormous whiskey; Unquestionably one of the great microdistillery bourbons of all time.”

Rock Town offers private tours and educational tastings, as well as event spaces for private parties, weddings, charities, or corporate events. Simply send an email to info@rocktowndistillery.com for specific pricing, reservations, or more general information.

Tours are held 7 days a week, and Rock Town was named one of the “10 Best Southern Distillery Tours” by USA Today.

Wicked Weed Brewing

Buffalo Trace Distillery Frankfort, Kentucky If you’re looking for a distillery that is all about the tours, Buffalo Trace is the place to be. The building and area itself were in operation long before it become Buffalo Trace, but thankfully those legends and stories live on through the modern day establishment, especially through the tours. The distillery was rechristened as Buffalo Trace in 1999 and the new tag and renovations helped launch the oldage distillery into the modern spirit industry.

There are six distinct and different tours offered at the distillery, and every tour includes complimentary tastings of select products. Take the Ghost Tour at night, where you’ll hear legendary ghost stories as you wander the distillery and sip its award-winning batches. This tour also allows you in on the rarelyvisited mansion of Stony Point, where a colonel died in the 1950s. Other tours allow you to jump right into the mix with the masters themselves, such as the Hard Hat Tour, which gives you a behind-the-scenes look. The Hard Hat Tour involves a lot of walking, as you’ll be traveling through the entire process with your guide, from grain delivery down to the actual distillation. Tour spaces are often limited, so reservations are required. Visit buffalotracedistillery.com for more information.

Cigar City Brewing

Rock Town Distillery

Whether you’re looking to relax with a nice glass of sweet muscadine wine, or if you prefer the bold, smoky taste of southern whiskey, these establishments are more than willing to pour you a drink and show you around. Plan your next vacation around these one-of-a-kind producers and sip your way across the south!

Buffalo Trace Distillery

Rebecca Creek

A Spirited Texas Distillery

Rebecca Creek Distillery offers free tours on Thursdays through Sundays, and its tasting room, gift shop, and beautifully lit outdoor lounge areas are open to the public for private events & group tastings.

The distillery's spirits lineup has received numerous medals and awards, including platinum and gold medals from the SIP Awards International Spirits Competition, doublegold medals in The Fifty Best Spirits Competition, and a rating of 93 points from the Ultimate Spirits Challenge. Its spirits lineup includes: Rebecca Creek Fine Texas Spirit Whiskey® Rebecca Creek Fine Texas Spirit Whiskey® is distilled in Texas and produced from a proprietary blend of domestic malted barley and naturally limestone-filtered water. It is distilled in small batches in a traditional copper still and matured in charred oak for maximum taste profiles.

Enchanted Rock Vodka® Inspired by its iconic Texas Hill Country namesake, Enchanted Rock Vodka® is a true artisan-produced, corn-based spirit with incredible clarity, a medium body and a creamy finish. Handcrafted in small batches with pure, naturally limestone-filtered water from the Trinity Aquifer, Enchanted Rock Vodka® is crafted in a traditional copper pot still.

Texas Ranger Whiskey™ Texas Ranger Whiskey™ was named for the legendary law support organization established by Stephen F. Austin in 1823. It is carefully batchcrafted in the Texas Hill Country from a selection of unique whiskeys, bourbons and pure limestone-filtered water from the famed Edwards Aquifer. Then it is matured in charred American white oak barrels.

Enchanted Rock Peach Vodka® Enchanted Rock Peach Vodka® is built after the taste profile of a Fredericksburg Stonewall peach. The recipe is the perfect balance of sweet, all-natural Texas peaches and ultra-premium vodka; 10 times-distilled for a smooth and delicious product.

For more information on Rebecca Creek Distillery, call (830) 714-4581 or visit us: • In person, at: 26605 Bulverde Road, San Antonio, TX 78260 • On the web: visit www.RebeccaCreekDistillery.com • On Facebook: www.facebook.com/RebeccaCreekDistillery • On Instagram: www.instagram.com/RebeccaCreekWhiskey • On Twitter: https://twitter.com/rebeccacwhiskey

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Visit us t oda

Located in San Antonio, Texas, Rebecca Creek Distillery (www.RebeccaCreekDistillery.com) was founded in 2009 by entrepreneur Steve Ison, and was the first legal distillery to open in South Texas since Prohibition. It has since grown to become one of the largest craft distilleries in North America, with nearly 100,000 cases sold annually, four artisan spirits in its product lineup, and distribution in over a dozen states, including Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado and Louisiana.

WHERE TO FIND THE BEST SOUTHERN FARE

A SEARCH FOR SOUL FOOD Soul food is so much more than a meal. It’s the sound of fresh beans being snapped on a front porch. It’s the smell of the BBQ smokers out back. It’s the feeling of comfort in a homey and welcoming atmosphere. It’s the look of the slightly crooked family photos sporadically nailed on the wall. If you’re walking into a restaurant that claims to serve up the best soul food, and yet they seem to be lacking these sensory must-haves, then run! It’s not true soul food, it’s a scam!

These destinations, from the family-style sit-down meals of the Dillard House, to the cafeteria line of Eagle’s Restaurant, are offering up tried and true southern fare. Eat your fill of homemade cornbread and locally-grown greens, and savor the taste of Mama’s authentic gravy that smothers your oversized chops. You won’t find soul food like this anywhere else in the world.

TheDillard House The Dillard House, located in Dillard, Georgia, has been around since the early 1900s, and is a family-run establishment. Here, you'll find a large farm you can pet animals like cows and goats, and enjoy the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains that bring in the famous blue-silver mist.

The farm is completely picturesque, and hosts will greet you with that expected southern hospitality. What was once a modest home of six rooms, has now turned into a large hotel, with nearly 100 suites and several dozen cottages on site to rent. You’re invited to stay in the house during your vacation, but you’re more than welcome to just head straight to the restaurant for a huge soul food feast.

Dinner is served family-style, where your servers will place countless amounts of side dishes, as well as several meats, biscuits, and pastries on your table all at once. It feels as though you’re sitting down to Thanksgiving dinner, only you’ll find the best of southern classics before you. Prepare for heaping piles of fried chicken, country ham, catfish, country fried steak, corn on the cob, calico salad, green beans, rice and gravy, creamed cauliflower and spinach, fried green tomatoes, yeast rolls, cornbread, and so much more. The menus change each day, so you’ll be in for a treat each time you come back.

Each dish is completely homemade with the secret recipes that have been passed down through the Dillard family generations. The options for side dishes, specialties, and desserts overflow with variety, and the hospitality makes you feel as if you were in mama’s house for Sunday dinner. The Dillard House has been known to host celebrity guests throughout their history, including Walt Disney, Henry Ford, Arnold Palmer, and Thomas Edison, so the professionalism of the house is more than adequate.

side dishes, of s nt ou am ss le nt u co e ac r servers will pl ou y e er h w , le y st y il m fa l at once.” al e bl ta r “Dinner is served ou y on es ri st pa scuits, and as well as several meats, bi Dinner will cost about $20 per person, and everything is endless, so if you ask them to bring out a 4th plate of chicken, expect it in a jiffy! Take a walk around the property after you’ve enjoyed your meal, and you’ll see why people from across the country are raving about this true southern soul food oasis.

“The menu is impressive, with a variety of dishes to satisfy any traveler hoping for authentic soul food.”

Mary Macs Tea Room ’

Tea rooms in the south are known as tiny little hole-in-the-wall cafes that serve a traditional “meat and two sides” meal, and of course, sweet tea and other luncheon refreshments. In the 1940s, there were 16 distinct tea rooms in downtown Atlanta, Georgia. Today, only one remains: Mary Mac’s Tea Room. Mary Mac’s is still standing some 60+ years later because of its trusted recipes and true southern charm.

Guests say there is nowhere else they’d rather eat fried okra, and it is recommended that you ask for Pot Likker on your first visit. What in the devil is Pot Likker? A simple veggie (turnip green) broth, served with “cracklin’ bread.” It sounds simple enough, but folks can’t get enough of it, and if it’s your first time, they give you a cup to try for free!

The menu is impressive, with a variety of dishes to satisfy any traveler hoping for authentic soul food. Fill up on the lightly-fried okra, shrimp and cheese grits, deviled eggs, chicken livers, salmon croquettes, spiced apples, and so much more. Mary Mac’s is a local favorite that continues to put smiles on both tourist and community faces alike.

Eagles Restaurant ’

Eagle’s Restaurant is quite possibly Birmingham’s best-kept secret. It’s close to downtown, it’s small, and it features cafeteria-style lines. On the outside, it doesn’t seem appealing, but once you get in line and order your food, you’ll have a change of heart. The simplicity of the restaurant is what becomes most appealing, and the cafeteria lineup is one that changes all the time, so you’re in for a treat each time you walk through the doors.

The family-owned Eagle’s Restaurant is situated nearly next door to the local Farmer’s Market, which provides all of the restaurant’s produce. Enjoy fresh cabbages and greens, along with fresh fruits for pies and cobblers. Dinner comes with a choice of meat and two sides, similar to the tea room style, along with a piece of cornbread. Weekly choices include: fried chicken, smothered pork chops, chitterlings, and the famous neckbones with potatoes, which is a must-try item.

“Sides range from fried corn to stewed okra and tomatoes, and other classics like collard greens, pinto beans, and candied yams.”

Sides range from fried corn to stewed okra and tomatoes, and other classics like collard greens, pinto beans, and candied yams. Grab a slice of peach cobbler or a serving of banana pudding for dessert, and your soul food meal will be complete. Eagle’s even serves freshly brewed sweet tea and Kool-Aid!

Whether you’re looking for slow-cooked ribs and chicken in a family-style setting, a quaint tea room with classic diner mugs and paper placemats, or a trough full of homemade goodies, these southern soul food stars have you covered. Next time you’re in the mood for a plate of authentic southern cuisine, head to one of these establishments to get your fix. You won’t leave hungry or disappointed!

TaYlOr, Tx PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE TAYLOR MARKETING PARTNERSHIP

Bull Branch Park features a walking trail and fishing pond.

Taylor is a progressive city in East Williamson County, dedicated to growing through creativity and innovation.

Here, we encourage the entrepreneurial spirit with a slice of barbecue and a side of southern charm. So when you come to Taylor, come hungry!

Taylor is home to the best barbecue in the nation. Let one of the pitmasters at Louie Mueller’s on Second Street, Davis Barbecue and Grocery on Robinson or Taylor Café on Main Street fill you with the pride of our community.

Quench your thirst at our local craft brewery Texas Beer Company and

68 | Fall 2017 | Travel South

enjoy the unique antique, boutique and specialty shops along Second and Main streets and our amazing nightlife at Black Sparrow Music Company and Taylor Station.

Learn Texas history at the home of Texas’ youngest governor, Dan Moody (1863-1966). Legendary Bill Pickett (1870-1932) was a black cowboy who began the sport of “bulldogging," or steer wrestling. See the bronze statue of him outside Taylor Beer Company.

Taylor is also the hometown of animator and Daffy Duck creator Frederick Bean “Tex” Avery, Elmer “Pet” Brown (1888-1923), who won the world’s middleweight wrestling crown 1914; and the nationally recog-

nized physician, Dr. James L. Dickey.

Taylor is a vibrant city brimming with history and momentum. With growth fueled by a thriving economy, a sense of achievement and a location second to none, it is nestled in Williamson County, one of the fastest growing areas in the nation.

Taylor is within 30 miles of downtown Austin, the heart of Texas government, technology, music and higher education.

From the expansive city park system and abundant water supply, to the new County Exposition Center and coming-soon downtown skate park, to acres of ready land and a low cost of living – experience “Taylor Made Texas!”

e nj oy

TAYLOR MADE TEXAS TO P 1 0 THI NG S TO D O 1 Shop the Historic Downtown Area

6 Architectural Walking Tour

2 Tour Taylor’s Iconic BBQ Scene

7 Visit Moody Museum

3 Hike, Bike or Walk the Taylor Parks

8 Catch a movie at the Howard Theatre

4 Feed the Ducks in Murphy Park

9 Visit Lake Granger

5 Indulge in the Artist Culture

10 Tour Famous Film Sites

visit www.taylorm a d et exa s to lea r n m o r e

Surrounded by friends.

You can be one, too.

Adopt-A-Manatee Today ®

Call 1-800-432-JOIN (5646) www.savethemanatee.org Photo © David Schrichte

THE BEST IS YET TO COME

RETIRING

e l y t inS

, e m o c o t t e y “The best is it be fine?” t ’ n o w , e b a b d n a a

tr -Frank Sina

Choosing the right place to retire can be tricky. Cost of living, relaxing atmospheres, and plenty of activities are some of the things that retirees pay the most attention to. Clean air, beautiful communities, and the option to have plenty of weekend trips right at your fingertips are ideal when settling in to your retirement community.

Retiring doesn’t mean that we should be limited to small, ghost towns that offer nothing more than the average communal spaghetti dinner. Retirement should be fun, relaxing, and full of opportunity! The future holds the best days, so check out a few of these top-rated locations, where retirement is not about settling in, but instead, about getting out there!

FLORIDA Florida is full of places that are ideal for a stylish retirement. From walking the beaches, to enjoying the coastal nightlife and spending sunny days floating in the springs or casting a line, Florida has all you need to maintain your lively reputation.

als that n a c e h t m o r ts name f aking it “ Venice got i m , y t i c e h t h run throug antic.“ m o r d n a g n i both intrigu

Take Venice, for example. Venice is considered to be one of the best places in the entire state to retire in.

Venice got its name from the canals that run through the city, making it both intriguing and romantic. Large cities, such as Tampa, are nearby and have plenty of events and things to do all year long. With over a dozen miles of beautiful beaches, you’ll never want to spend a nice day inside. Venice beach hosts an offshore coral reef as well, so there is an abundance of wildlife, which makes for a great snorkeling trip!

Gainesville is also popular among retirees. The city has a wide variety of attractions to keep you busy.

Take trips to the local museums and art galleries, like the Florida Museum. Cook a delicious meal with the locally-grown produce that you’ll find in all of the Farmer’s Markets around. Gainesville’s historic district also makes for a lovely day downtown, whether you’re wanting to shop in the boutiques or grab a bite to eat. The old structures and Victorian-style houses that line the streets make this city an amazing one to call home.

THE CAROLINAS For years, people have been traveling to the Carolinas to discover the gorgeous mountain towns that boast the perfect type of retirement community. South Carolina is a great place to start if you’re looking for charming, coastal towns that aren’t too far away from the fresh mountain air.

Charleston

Charleston is, of course, a given. The picturesque town offers so much to do and so much natural beauty, all packed into one historically composed area. There are a lot of tourists that travel to this area, so if you’re not in the mood for dealing with crowds and busy streets, this may not be the city for you. As far as style goes, however, Charleston is the place to be. Most any restaurant in the town is offering up delectable dishes that are worth a few pictures, along with the many shops and local events that the city proudly displays.

Another great town to look into is the

Highlands/Cashiers area of North Carolina. Highlands is the big city compared to Cashiers, but if you’re looking for a quiet little mountain town, this is the prime location. You’ll find cute little stores, antique shops, and winding country roads full of wildflowers and old houses that are perfect for sightseeing. There are also an array of natural caves, waterfalls, and parks to explore within the area, so get your hiking boots on and get outdoors! The air can’t get any fresher than how it is in these mountains, so having coffee in the morning on your front porch will be one of your favorite pastimes.

h Venice Beac

Mobile Bay

ALABAMA Alabama is also a number one choice when it comes to searching for the best retirement states. Particularly, the town of Fairhope is favored as “one of the prettiest towns in the south.” Most homes here have a view of the Mobile Bay, and the town itself looks like something out of a movie, with picture-perfect shrubs and colorful flowers that line the streets.

Spanish moss hangs from the trees and the sun bounces off of the bay, making the view itself completely worth the move.

The town is driven by a vibrant 55+ community, and there are always events happening at the local adult rec center. Area happenings keep everyone busy as well, such as music festivals, art fairs, bird watching events, and so much more.

If you’re looking for a low-cost golf community that also happens to have some of the best bass fishing around, then you’ll want to head straight for Guntersville. This quaint little town is set on Lake Guntersville, which is the largest lake in Alabama.

Prepare your days of endless fishing on the lake, where you can enjoy the soft sunsets and peace and quiet.

There are 3 local golf courses, as well as others in nearby towns, so a golf adventure here is never far away. The cute little city makes for a wonderful place to live, and the attractions will keep you busy in style for many years to come!

Retirement shouldn’t be stressful. It should be a time in your life where you are able to finally start thinking about relaxation, about hobbies and things you have always wanted to try, and about living in general, instead of simply existing. These places are the best of the best, and all have breaks on property and other taxes, as well as an overall lower cost of living.

From the coast to the mountains, and back again, these stylish retirement communities are calling your name! Make the most of your future by exploring some of these towns. Take a weekend trip, stay at a bed & breakfast, and get a feel for each area; you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

Travel South | Fall 2017 | 73

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMY WALLIN TIPTON

Unicoi coUnty, tn

you can also bask in the beauty of nature when you see natural wonders like the nolichucky Gorge – the deepest east of the Mississippi – or the White House Rocks. there are many ways to spend your time when you visit us. Maybe you’ll take an easy drive to one of the several overlooks which offer sweeping panoramas of the Valley Beautiful.

Unicoi County is a unique place set aside in the arms of the Appalachian Mountains.

Here, you’ll find valleys and mountains, rivers and streams, but most importantly, you’ll find kind words and warm smiles. Unicoi county was founded in 1875 and has a rich heritage of hard working families, delicious foods, and beautiful arts. When you come to visit, you’ll enjoy the leisurely lifestyle offered by our community.

Maybe you'll hike to the Pinnacle. Maybe you’ll enjoy one of our many parks. Maybe you’ll walk around historic downtown Erwin. Maybe you’ll just stay indoors, enjoying the view. Whatever you choose, there’s plenty to see. in the spring months, watch the magic of a changing landscape as flowering plants bloom and unfurl. in the summer, take an icy plunge in the historic spring-fed pool at Rock creek Park. in the fall, just look around and take in the majesty of the changing leaves and the dazzling array of beautiful colors which decorate the hills and dales. in the winter, play in snow which covers the mountains like a white fleece blanket.

Unicoi county is home to a thriving cultural and civic community with a rich history. you’ll enjoy meeting our neighbors, learning more about the art which we've created for centuries, and exploring the places which make Unicoi county truly great.

“Here, you’ll find valleys and mountains, rivers and streams, but most importantly, you’ll find kind words and warm smiles.”

Unicoi County

TENNESSEE

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY AMY WALLIN TIPTON, TRACY FOSTER AND ALAN JOHNSON

A BACKDROP FOR GOOD LIVING. Retire Unicoi County P.O. Box 628 Erwin, Tennessee 37650 423-743-9555 | movetounicoicountytn.com

PERRY, GA

Perry, located at the intersections of Interstate 75, Georgia Highways 341 and 41, and where the Golden Isles Parkway begins, is “Where Georgia comes together.”

Perry beckons culture-seekers with antiques, specialty shops, farm-to-table dining, museums and recreation, all set against a swoon-worthy south Georgia farm backdrop.

Dine family-style on southern staples like fried chicken, cooked to perfection at the renowned Swanson House in our historic downtown, an area reminiscent of Mayberry, where spring arrives early with peach blossoms, azaleas and dogwoods. Quell hunger pangs with the homemade pimento cheese or the bread pudding prepared farm-to-table style at The Perfect Pear.

Take time to explore the Perry Area Historical Society's Historical Museum which offers a collection of artifacts and memorabilia from Perry's earliest days.

Of particular interest to many genealogists and researchers is their Resource Room which contains many family histories and photos.

Nearby, cultural pursuits continue at Massee Lane Gardens in Fort Valley, home to the American Camellia Society and their camellia collection and 100+ acre botanical garden. Ignite the imagination with close-by attractions like the Museum of Aviation with aircraft exhibits and the Aviation Hall of Fame. Along the Peach Blossom Trail, tour local farms like Lane Southern Orchards where you can walk on a catwalk above the packing plant to see fresh peaches come in from the fields before being shipped all over the world or taken to their café to be used in fresh peach ice cream or baked goods.

Perry is an outdoor-enthusiast’s paradise, with walking and driving trails that wind their way throughout the town. Stay active throughout the year on our three golf courses or explore Perry’s 13 parks and discover disc golf, tennis courts, archery, and even a bird sanctuary.

Get away to Perry, where Georgia comes together, www.perryga.com.

L NE EXPLORING THE

STAR STATE What’s your favorite thing about Texas? The Longhorns? Or, could it be the intense smell of woodchips smoking authentic BBQ? Maybe it is the culture, the handmade cowboy boots, and the soothing mix of big country and laidback southwestern atmospheres. If you’ve been before, then you know why it is such a special place.

If you’ve never been, then you will have to see it for yourself to understand why tourists are flocking from all over the country to step foot in Texas, for one attraction or another. From city streets teeming with musicians that take pride in Rock & Roll and the Blues, to waterparks and glass pyramids filled with exotic animals of all kinds, come explore the Lone Star State with us!

Dallas,

Texas

AUSTIN

If you are looking for entertainment and nightlife in Texas, it isn’t that hard to find.

Head to Austin’s 6th Street. Austin is often labeled as the “Texas Music Town,” and 6th Street is comparable to Bourbon Street of New Orleans. 6th Street has everything from piano bars to rowdy, southern nightclubs, so there is something for everyone to enjoy. Often, visitors roam the area and get to experience everything from quirky shops and restaurants, to live music playing right there on the street!

“

An interesting, and perhaps lesser-known, fAct about Austin is that it is home to the largest “urban bat colony” in North America!

Austin is also the capital of Texas, so there is much history to take in during your vacation, as well. Visit the Lyndon B. Johnson Library & Museum, or take a tour of the University of Texas. It is the third largest state capital (by population) in the country, and was founded in 1839, so visiting the state Capitol and the visitors center will give you a new sense of understanding for the city. Bordering the Hill Country region, lovers of the outdoors will find plenty of opportunities to hike or bike through the hills, along with a wide variety of natural lakes and waterfronts to enjoy boating, swimming, and kayaking.

An interesting, and perhaps lesser-known, fact about Austin is that it is home to the largest “urban bat colony” in North America! Take a bat cruise (yes, bat cruise!) at sunset, where you will witness the colony flying, which is said to look like an enormous black cloud. These bats are Mexican Free-Tails, and migrate north during bat season, from March to November.

Catch a glimpse of them at dusk next time you are in Austin for an intriguing and bizarre ending to your night.

“

o The Alam

SAN ANTONIO “San Antonio also has a wide variety of Foodie Tours to take, so make sure you book one in advance to explore the city with your taste buds!”

Across the street from the historic Alamo, you can also explore the Amazing Mirror Maze, which is the largest of its kind, because everything is bigger in Texas! There are floors that light up, neon lights throughout the maze, and plenty of zigzagging, windy pathways that will eventually lead you to the end. At the end of the maze, you’ll find the Infinity Room, which is made up completely of mirrors!

San Antonio is full of colonial culture, and is the home of the Alamo. The Alamo is considered to be one of the most important historical sites in all of America. It is part of a Spanish mission station that was established in 1718, but was then used as a fort by 1836. Its fame draws from Texas’ War of Independence, where the cries of “Remember the Alamo!” can still be heard through the walls. Millions of people visit the Alamo annually, where they walk through the buildings, get up close and personal with the structure, and pay homage to those that fought and died for freedom.

For a mix of color, head to the San Antonio River Walk, where you will find that the pathway that follows the San Antonio River is lined with covered tables and seating areas for visitors to enjoy the waterfront. There are also an array of shops, a brewery, and a blooming art district within the River Walk. A well-known section of the River Walk is the Museum Reach, which is over a mile long, and features art of all kinds, from “visual to audiovisual.” San Antonio also has a wide variety of Foodie Tours to take, so make sure you book one in advance to explore the city with your taste buds!

ardens G y d o o M

GALVESTON

For somewhat of an island retreat, visit Galveston, Texas.

Galveston is widely-known for the Moody Gardens park, which houses giant glass pyramids that hold everything from monkeys to sharks! A walk-through aquarium allows you to feel immersed in underwater life, where stingrays, sharks, fish, and other marine life swim above and around you. Don’t forget to visit the penguin exhibit!

park is kid-friendly, so Schlitterbahn is the perfect place if you are traveling with family or small children. There are concessions and refreshments available within the park, but Schlitterbahn also welcomes you to bring your own coolers and picnics!

General admission for adults is around $50, while children will be able to play all day for around $40. If you’re local and can return more than once a year, opt for a season pass!

You will easily be able to make an unforgettable weekend out of Galveston with these two activities alone, but be sure to check out the downtown area and stop in for a bite to eat at the local mom & pop restaurants. If you are looking for a more natural escape, there’s always the beach!

Moody Gardens also showcases the Rainforest Pyramid, where many endangered plant and animal species are on display. Birds, monkeys, and even Giant Amazon River Otters splash and play about as you get to interact with them. Adult tickets are $25, and children's tickets are around $20. Make Moody Gardens part of your trip for a “Galveston is once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Texas is proud of its collection of waterparks by Schlitterbahn. Schlitterbahn claims to have “something for everyone,” so whether you are looking to lounge and float, or get your adrenaline pumping on the waterslides, you will find what you are looking for. Most of the

widely-known for the Moody Gardens park, which houses giant glass pyramids that hold everything from monkeys to sharks!”

There is so much to do in Texas, far more than we can cover, but these destinations will give you the head start you need to enjoy all that the Lone Star state has to offer. Mix in a bit of lighthearted fun with rich history and a tour through the state capital, and you will see why everything is “bigger in Texas!”

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alvin,texas

Unplug from the bustle of the city and recenter yourself in the calm of Alvin, Texas.

Located 25 miles from Houston, Alvin is situated minutes away from the sandy beaches of the Texas Gulf Coast.

We boast a cow town heritage and love to share it with visitors. Our humble beginnings started in 1845 when the first family settled in what is now known as the City of Alvin.

We have several places of accommodation for a weekend full of exploring – your adventure in Alvin is about to begin.

Visit the Alvin Historical Museum, a portal transporting you back in time to when Alvin began. You will learn about our cow

town legacy through artifacts that showcase the history and culture of southeast Texas. Have a tour guide explain our precious items – or go through the selfguided tour.

general store lies Greak’s Smokehouse, where meat treats, like homemade sausage on a stick, barbeque sandwiches and frozen cuts, marinated and ready for your grill, are sold plentifully.

The Marguerite Rogers House Museum is a historical Victorian home built in the early 1900s, and features antique furnishings and household items on display.

Other old treasures lie in Alvin, such as Stanton’s, a real blast from the past with a gift shop, grocery, and feed store all in one.

Stop by Froberg’s Farm to experience a family tradition of raising and selling the best vegetables and fruit in the area. In the spring, you can pick your own strawberries. In the fall, explore the corn maze and Fall Festival for children and adults.

In addition to fresh produce, Froberg’s general store produces their own baked goods and breakfast items. Next to the

Take a walk on the wild side at Bayou Wildlife Zoo, home to exotic species, or spend the day antiquing at our 55,000 square foot antique mall. Oh, and don’t forget about our unique boutiques like The Label and Back Roads Beauties Boutique!

Alvin has something for everyone! We are tickled to have you as a guest and we know you will enjoy yourself here!

texasunplugged

Alvin Convention & Visitors Bureau 281-585-3359 | 200 Depot Centre Blvd, Alvin, TX 77511 www.alvintexas.org | cvb@cityofalvin.com

40,000guests to the downtown square “

“Fall brings roughly

VISIT MCKINNEY, TX

Delight in some of the best down-home fun Texas has to offer, set against the quaint backdrop of North Texas’s perfect getaway destination – McKinney!

At the heart of this vibrant city is a picturesque historic downtown square featuring roughly 120 mom-and-pop businesses, including restaurants, a boutique hotel, wineries and oodles of specialty shops filled with eclectic merchandise and tasty treats. In other areas of this city that sits just 30 miles north of Dallas are lush rolling hills, plenty of nature areas, and even a Croatian-inspired village, all awaiting the curious traveler.

Any time of the year, uniquely-McKinney events, practically one a month, take place around the downtown square. Check out the Krewe of Barkus Mardi Gras dog parade in winter, and Arts in Bloom and Bike the Bricks in the spring. Summer brings a very patriotic spirit to the city. A hometown patriotic parade takes place around the square early on July 4th, while a big family festival, concert and fireworks take place that night on the opposite side of town. Guests exploring other areas of McKinney will find Third Monday Trade Days flea mar-

86 | Fall 2017 | Travel South

ket, a couple breweries and wineries, and concerts in Adriatica and Tucker Hill.

Fall brings roughly 40,000 guests to the downtown square for the hugely-popular McKinney Oktoberfest. This threeday festival, now in its 10th year, features plenty of craft beer, wine, German food, games (Weenie Dog Races, a stein holding contest and more), dancing, music and a carnival.

A 46-foot-tall T-Rex and his buddies will again find a home on the nature trails of the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary (through February).

McKinney rings in the holiday season with Home for the Holidays… A McKinney Christmas over Thanksgiving weekend. December follows with a tour of decorated historic homes and a nighttime parade of lights.

More information on McKinney events and attractions is available at VisitMcKinney.com or by calling 888-649-8499.

TEXAS

Nature ARt

Shopping music

McKinney’s historic downtown shops and sidewalk eateries, miles of nature trails and beautiful parks and events like Arts in Bloom, the Farmer’s Market, Oktoberfest and Home for the Holidays make McKinney the perfect getaway destination.

VisitMcKinney.com/south

GET CRACKIN’ AND PLAN YOUR VISIT TO SEGUIN, TEXAS.

While the city of just more than 30,000 people might be best known for being home of the world’s largest pecan, it has a lot more to offer visitors. From it’s founding in 1838 by 33 Texas Rangers, Seguin’s legacy keeps growing with new attractions and the preserved historic downtown district linking visitors to the days of old.

Visitors today can shoot down the lazy Guadalupe River on inner tubes.

Recreationists also can flock to Max Starcke Park to kayak on the fourmile Lake Seguin Paddling Trail, take

TeXaS

gamut of adrenaline rushes to your system. Check out the custom-made Switchback roller coaster. The world’s first wooden shuttle roller coaster, Switchback snakes through the historical buildings before reaching the Grand Spike, a section of angled track at 87 degrees—a record!

Nothing is gentle about the ZDT Amusement Park, an indoor-outdoor thrill ride extravaganza covering the

Seguin’s downtown historic district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is filled with significant buildings. See a variety of building styles from across several eras as well as some unique shopping with a visit to downtown.

SeGuIn

on the surf at the Max Starke Park Wave Pool or sink a knee-knocking three footer at the 18-hole championship golf course along the river beneath the pecan trees.

You might call it, “Real America,” or “Real Texas.”

WE CALL IT

SEGUIN.

Seguin is home to real cowboys with grit on their boots, authentic smiles from mom & pop merchants greeting their neighbors, and a history steeped in Texas pride. Experience Texas the way its meant to be with a visit to Seguin. www.VisitSeguin.com

The Pape Pecan House and Nutcracker Museum displays more than 8,000 nutcrackers, the largest collection in the world! Not surprisingly, Seguin is also home to the World’s Largest Pecan, well two of them. The original sits on the Courthouse lawn, Seguin built an even larger pecan that can be found at the Texas Agricultural Education and Heritage Center along with the Pecan Museum.

Pick your weekend, and start planning your visit to Seguin. For more information, visit www.visitseguin.com.

Travel South | Fall 2017 | 91

BuDa, Tx

Have you ever heard of the phrase “the best place you didn’t know about?” If you are driving down IH-35 on your way to Austin and see the “Welcome to Buda,” sign you better pull off at the next exit or you are about to miss out.

and locally-owned farms you shouldn’t be surprised to find a longhorn in the middle of town. A little up the road and just past the train tracks, you will find a vibrant, rejuvenated historic downtown bustling with new and longstanding businesses.

Known for its ability to offer a taste of small-town charm in the midst of a growing metropolis, the town holds true to its home grown roots. As you drive into town, down Main Street, you will enter Old Town Buda, where the Historic Stagecoach House and post office sits. Surrounded by vast parks, beautiful heritage oak trees,

The local crafters here are proud to share their work with you as you explore the art gallery in the historic Buda Mill & Grain, showcasing local artists, pottery makers, and furniture builders at Assemblage Contemporary Craftsman Gallery. Or experience their work at the first brewing company in Buda just across the

tracks with their Budaful Blondie Ale at Two Wheel Brewing Co. Get a taste of their work at the only restaurant serving Buda for over 30 years at Helen’s Casa Alde or discover the first craft sandwich shop to serve its unique flavors inside of a liquor store at Proof Liquor & Deli.

Find your adventure outdoors in our parks or explore new flavors at our local restaurants. Relax and unwind at our spas or indulge in retail therapy at our boutiques and antique shops. Whatever you do, you will always find a way to breathe easy here in Buda, TX.

Come Celebrate

the 70’s with us in Brownfield, Tx

70 Annual th

at the

Terry County Harvest Festival Free Concert • Car Show • Parade October 13-14 • Brownfield, Texas www.brownfieldchamber.com Stay the night! Book your room at Best Western or Holiday Inn Express Paid for by City of Brownfield HOT Funds

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Seasonal Southern Romantic Getaways

These two romantic towns have everything you’d ever want in a romantic getaway. Most of us would agree that a cabin in the mountains is the most romantic type of vacation.

Others would argue in favor of the bliss that a coastal weekend walking along the shoreline brings. Whether you’re looking to ride horseback deep in the mountains, or spend your time together strolling beautiful city streets, Knoxville and Wilmington are two romantic towns that are offering up the best of both worlds. It’s no wonder that all the lovebirds are flocking to these dreamy gems!

Knoxville is known for being a romantic town, if for nothing other than its location. Knoxville is nestled near the Tennessee River, with riverfront dining, and views of the nearby Smoky Mountains. Quaint cottage rentals and small-towncharm bed & breakfasts give this town exactly what it needs to intrigue lovers from all over the country.

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Whether you are looking to take your sweetheart out on the town, or keep to yourselves in your room all weekend, Knoxville has plenty of attractions to keep you both busy. From the sparkling nightlife scene, to the luxurious and classically-southern inns, Tennessee has never looked so good.

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For a beautiful night full of drama, romance, and a tugging of the heartstrings, head for the Tennessee Theatre. The Tennessee Theatre is known for putting on an amazing schedule of events every year, and they book shows for all tastes, with an affordable price to boot. Dress up and get a seat for a classic play, like The Wizard of Oz, or book for a concert or comedy series. Visit www.tennesseetheatre.com for a full list of this year’s events and more information on how to obtain your tickets.

If you’re hoping to get away from the city life, try out the award-winning Little Valley Mountain Resort. Arguably, there is nothing better than a cabin or cottage rental in the mountains with a little fire going, and the two of you to keep each other company and enjoy the natural surroundings that beckon you to embrace the peace and quiet. The Little Valley Mountain Resort offers just that; scenery that is unmatchable, with adorable little rentals to call home for a weekend.

Invite yourself to go swimming in the heated pool or soak in the hot tubs on site. You can rest your tired legs here after a long day of hiking or biking through the trails of the Great Smoky Mountains. Fishing, mini golf, picnic areas, and more, all make for a great date night within the resort. Little Valley offers pet-friendly rentals, wheelchair-accessible rentals, and of course, honeymoon rentals! All of their cabins are on private lots to ensure that you two get as much alone time as you’d like.

“The Tennessee Theatre is known for putting on an amazing schedule of events every year, and they book shows for all tastes, with an affordable price to boot.”

Spend your vacation days enjoying the nightly bonfires or going on a horseback riding adventure through the woods. You can even cook a romantic meal together within your cabin, as grocery delivery services are available on site. Simply order what you’ll need to make that special meal, and it can be delivered right to your door!

r River Cape Fea If you were hoping for a coastal town full of nightlife and old southern charm, you’ll find it all in Wilmington.

Wilmington is known for having the best of all attractions, rolled into one fantastic package for tourists and locals alike.

The historic district is worth noting, as there are over 200 blocks to explore.

Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the district, where you’ll be able to explore the waterfront, as well as gain a plethora of history about the town, all while enjoying the scenery that surrounds you.

Being a coastal town that is also backed up against the Cape Fear River, Wilmington is known for its cruises. You can take a sightseeing cruise along the shorelines, or opt for a Murder Mystery Cruise through Cape Fear. For couples who enjoy a little excitement, this may be the activity for you.

We envision lovers hand-in-hand, strolling down vibrant streets and taking in all that a quaint little town has to offer. This is achievable in Wilmington’s Riverwalk. You can take a narrated tour if you prefer to pay less attention to your surroundings, and more attention to each other, or you can stroll the street by yourselves, stopping in at the unique shops and cafes on every corner. Browse the many art galleries, or take a seat in a quiet restaurant and enjoy an authentic meal for two.

You may want to book your stay at a historic bed & breakfast, where your guides and innkeepers will offer all of these activities and more to you. Take advantage of having them set up everything for the both of you, and you’ll fully be able to enjoy your vacation without the stressors of setting everything up. The C.W. Worth House Bed & Breakfast is an excellent choice, as it is the oldest and “longest continuously operating bed and breakfast in Wilmington.”

The C.W. Worth House will share history, luxury, and charm with you, from the house itself, to the hosts that present everything.

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Immerse yourself into the historic Victorian home, and wander the halls that are filled with keepsakes, antiques, and stunning architecture. Amenities include: private baths, personal robes, bedside chocolates, daily housekeeping, and of course, a magnificent breakfast.

Breakfast starts with the bold aroma of gourmet coffee brewing. There is a large assortment of fresh fruits and juices, as well as homemade muffins and pastries, and the chef’s special entrée of the day, whether that be an artichoke-mushroom quiche, or a banana-pecan upside-down pancake!

Impress your lover with a trip to one of these destinations, and neither of you will leave disappointed. Making time for that special someone is a very important part of a relationship, so show them you care and sweep them off of their feet all over again! Whether you’re booking a cabin rental in the woods, or looking forward to walking barefoot along the beach, these southern romantic getaways will woo you with their charm in no time.

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g n i l Fal ve: in lo T HE TOP RO MANTIC BEAC H RE S O RTS O F T H E S O U T H It’s no secret why the Henderson Park Inn was named Florida’s Best Romantic Getaway and America’s Most Romantic Hotel. Close your eyes and take a moment to picture your idea of the ultimate sanctuary. Does an intimate room with luxury amenities come to mind? How about a charming terrace overlooking the white-sand beach of the Emerald Coast or sipping on a glass of wine as you cruise along the water at sunset.

That’s the kind of bliss you’ll experience with a stay at the Henderson Park Inn. And remember…no one under 25 allowed!

The Inn itself is best described as a modern luxury boutique hotel but a step back in time in romantic beach ambi-

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ence. Each exquisitely decorated suite is distinctive from the other and features breathtaking gulf views, flat-screen TVs, and luxurious bedding. No detail is overlooked as, upon arrival, you’ll be greeted in your room with romantic music, a bottle of wine and two glasses, a vase of roses, as well as grapes and gourmet chocolates.

In and around Destin, now is the best time to enjoy a getaway at the Henderson Park Inn, a beachfront haven marrying the perfect blend of luxury amenities and the serenity of this luxury boutique hotel. The Inn’s guests now have access to a full suite of wonderful amenities next door, at their sister property, The Henderson, a Salamander

Beach & Spa Resort. Amenities include a full fitness facility, yoga classes and more. For a truly intimate experience, book a couples massage or enjoy any of their first-class spa services. After a morning of lounging on the beach, you may want to take a swim next door at one of The Henderson’s two beautiful swimming pools. Couples will love relaxing at the Adults Only Pool, which features a luxury cabana with poolside beverage service.

In the evening, if you’re looking for exceptional dining, The Henderson Park Inn’s onsite restaurant, Beach Walk Café is pure indulgence in romantic waterfront dining on one of the most breathtaking settings on the Gulf Coast.

Beach Walk Café, selected as one of the top 100 most romantic restaurants in the United States by OpenTable, offers dining experiences that allow guests to connect and kindle the flames of romance over fantastic fare. For the most romantic dinner on the gulf and possibly of your life, reserve Beach Walk Café’s Toes in the Sand dining experience. Enjoy a private table at the water’s edge under the stars with a dedicated server and watch the sun set into the gulf for a truly memorable evening!

Now more than ever, the Henderson Park Inn is the perfect destination for a couple’s retreat in Destin, FL. Voted the most romantic hotel in America by both the users of About.com and TripAdvisor.com, this luxury boutique hotel provides an idyllic BEACHSIDE atmosphere for a honeymoon, anniversary, or any special vacation with your sweetheart. According to Condé Nast Johansens on its website, the Inn overlooks more than a mile of the most pris-

tine and secluded white sandy beaches, and has the most gorgeous views in all of Destin,”. “This is definitely the most romantic luxury boutique hotel on the Emerald Coast.”

At this adults-only, gulf-front boutique hotel, privacy seekers will find the ultimate sanctuary for romance and serenity. Visit www.HendersonParkInn.com for more information.

But what could make all this even better? Getting it for free, of course.

Submit your entry for our Getaway/Giveaway at TravelSouthMag.com and we'll choose one winner who will receive a two-night stay for two at the Henderson Park Inn plus a $100 gift certificate for dinner at BeachWalk Cafe. No more dreaming - life really is good!

(Airfare not included. Based on availability November through March excluding holidays. Value $882 including all taxes and fees).

“Close your eyes and take a moment to picture your idea of the ultimate sanctuary.”

General Morgan Inn Are you ready to fall in love? The General Morgan Inn has the classic and elegant soul that will capture your heart. Located in Greeneville’s Downtown Historic District, the General Morgan Inn features a plethora of traditional 1800s décor and the perfect, romantic spot for your next honeymoon.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or a brand new hidden adventure, this historic Inn can accommodate your every wish. Nestled in the middle of Downtown Greeneville, you will be surrounded by its quaint, home-away-fromhome semblance. Local shops, libraries, historic museums, and notable birthplaces dot Main Street to give travelers a to-do list you won’t want to end. After a restful night in one of the General Morgan

Inn’s cozy and luxurious guest rooms, you and your partner can take A Walk With the President and go back in time to explore the streets of Greeneville in a day in the life of Andrew Johnson.

After spending time together experiencing the charms of downtown life, take your date back to the General Morgan Inn for a romantic, candlelit dinner at Brumley’s Restaurant. Sample some of the best American cuisine to be found by starting off with Brumley’s Skillet Baked Danish Brie For Two with strawberries, Kahlua spring caramel, garden basil, Georgia pecans, and cinnamon toast. Then get ready for the main course, like Brumley’s Grilled Black Angus Filet Mignon with Boursin whipped potatoes, spring asparagus, baby

carrots, and grilled scallion butter or try Brumley’s Honey Glazed Atlantic Salmon with warm fingerling potato salad, French beans, local mushrooms, red onion jam, and red pepper vinaigrette.

With the General Morgan Inn’s inherent intimate atmosphere, from its garden terrace perfect for watching sunsets and its grand ballroom primed for dancing the night away with your partner, this historic hotel has become an impeccable destination for weddings, anniversary celebrations, receptions, honeymoons, and all special occasions alike. Will you and your loved one be their next guests?

“After spending time together experiencing the charms of downtown life, take your date back to the General Morgan Inn for a romantic, candlelit dinner at Brumley’s Restaurant.”

Because of you, we never received a bill.

Because of you, families never receive a bill from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® for treatment, travel, housing or food. Because all a family should worry about is helping their child live.

Because of you, there is St. Jude.

Visit stjude.org to join our mission.

©2014 ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Brent | at age 9 cancer of the nervous system

a Resort

Sp Lake Austin

Health Wellness

&

Tranquil Retreats for the Mind, Body, and Soul

With all of the chaos that makes its way into our daily routines, we sometimes forget to take care of and make time for ourselves. Finding a free moment for relaxation and rejuvenation becomes harder and harder as the years go by. Wouldn’t it be nice if that free time was only a reservation away?

These resorts and retreats will include all you’ll need to revamp your mind, body, and soul, with packages that contain everything from outdoor recreation, to full spa treatments. Plan your next vacation around bringing out the best of yourself, and book your stay at one of these top southern oases, complete with absolute luxury and antebellum charm.

Ocean Kiawah

Island Kiawah Resort Golf

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort The Kiawah Island Golf Resort is located on the South Carolina coast, just south of Charleston. The Sanctuary Hotel within the resort is the spa hotel and is right on the shoreline, with instant access to the beach. The Sanctuary reflects its name in a variety of ways, from the sounds of the rolling waves that you can hear from your balcony, to the way the hosts greet you each time you step into the lobby.

You will find giant, old oaks that line the entrance, similar to that of a historic plantation, although the resort only opened in 2004.

Landscape artists, along with the architect, Cooper Carry of Atlanta, used the “world’s largest mechanical spade” to transport all of the 50-foot-high oak trees to the property, giving it that oldworld southern feel. The inside of the waterfront mansion houses luxurious southern architecture and accents, such as the antique floorboards that are meant to creak.

At The Sanctuary, you have the option of choosing from elegant guest suites, to something as lavish as the oceanfront suite or the presidential room. A priceless amenity is having the ocean just a few steps outside your door, but other amenities include a food and beverage service for guests spending their day on the beach, indoor and outdoor swimming pools with an “adults only” option, guest beach chairs and umbrellas, and the use of a MercedesBenz during their stay!

The Sanctuary welcomes you to renew at their spa, where you can join in on a spin or fitness class, or indulge in a full-body massage. Take advantage of The Sanctuary’s Body Rescues, which include full-body rejuvenation and wraps, as well as a complete exfoliation and an application of Undaria Algae oil. The rescues restore your skin and replenish your supply of essential fatty acids that are needed for tight, beautiful skin. Enjoy a scalp and neck massage during your rescue wrap, as well.

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Lake Aus a

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Lake Austin Spa Resort A wellness retreat meets Texas Hill Country. This resort, tucked into the shoreline of Lake Austin, is the epitome of pampering and the great outdoors. The lakefront scenery brings peace of mind, while the many activities help you reconnect with your inner passions. Lake Austin Spa Resort serves up each amenity with a little twang, so you’re still getting that southern hospitality, even though you’re staying at a resort that is only 30 minutes away from downtown.

There are plenty of relaxation areas, whirlpools, saunas, and lake activities to partake in, and all-inclusive packages combine the best of the resort’s amenities into one personalized vacation. Enjoy gourmet meals by celebrity chefs, guest speakers and wellness seminars, fitness programs, couple’s massages, spa allowances, and so much more when you opt for an all-inclusive stay.

Lake Austin Spa Resort has won many awards, including being a top 10 resort in the country two years in a row. Book your stay in one of the Luxury Lakeview rooms and enjoy lavender scents, a Keurig coffee brewer, refrigerator, modern accents, an outdoor patio, and a plush California king bed.

Explore the spa treatments, such as the Muscle Tension Melt massage or the LakeHouse River Rock massage.

Acupuncture and Japanese healing treatments are also available, giving this country atmosphere an exotic, luxurious feel. If you’re feeling particularly stressed, try the Floating Meditation Aquatic Specialty, which allows you to relax on a comfortable floating mat within the Pool Barn. Meditate to the sounds of calming music and feel all of your worries drift away.

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Sanderling Resort The Sanderling is another oceanfront resort, located in Duck, North Carolina, on Bodie Island. Enjoy all of the natural surrounding, as the resort is in close proximity to the Currituck National Wildlife Refuge, along with Pine Island and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Indulge in the gourmet meals and special events that happen throughout the year within the resort, such as Sunday brunches and private luncheons. The Sanderling delivers a true Outer Banks experience.

Countless reviews flood the media about Sanderling’s amazing service and luxe amenities. Ocean to Sound suites include a private balcony with hammock chairs overlooking the ocean, along with a fireplace in your room, personal robes, organic bath products, in-room dining, and a turn-down service.

Sit down at the four-diamond Kimball’s Kitchen for an exquisite meal during your stay. Locally-sourced oysters and handmade pastas grace guest’s plates, as well as rich entrees like the Veal Porterhouse or the Lobster Mafalda, served with roasted garlic beurre monté – a rich emulsified butter sauce. Brunch is served here, also, so make time for mimosas and a Flounder Hash skillet with egg.

The spa at Sanderling is world-class, with treatments such as the signature massage with brown sugar scrub, or the Ocean Serenity Ritual, which is highly recommended. The Ocean Serenity Ritual starts with not one, but two therapists that work side by side in the Hydrotherapy room, providing you with a hydro tub massage, a facial, scalp treatment, a body wrap, a rain shower, and more!

Whether you’re looking for a big, rustic, country retreat that offers the upmost luxury, or an Oceanside resort with simplicity and all of the comforts of home, these retreats are highly praised for good reason. Book your next rejuvenation vacation at one of these resorts for the chance to revamp and renew yourself!

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g n i v i L f o t Ar RETREAT CENTER

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, the Art of Living Retreat Center offers wellness vacations which are not only relaxing, but also inspiring. The location itself is breathtaking, with mountain views that stretch for a hundred miles and a cool breeze even in the heart of summer.

Honored with a number of recognitions, the center puts wellness first.

“We are a place where people not only relax, but can also learn skills to jumpstart their own journeys to wellness,” shares Kim Rossi, director of

spa. These journeys can take the form of yoga, nutrition, lifestyle, creativity, meditation or even Ayurveda.

Weekly retreats give guests the chance to immerse themselves in healthy living, ditch stress or simply get much needed R & R.

es “The center also featur rveda one of the largest Ayu spas in the country.”

“Ayurveda is an ancient healing science connected with yoga. It helps us to be the best version of ourselves, by bringing our health and lifestyle into harmony,” shares Kim. The Ayurvedic treatments offered include a wide range of standalone treatments, weeklong wellness retreats and personal consultations with an expert.

The center’s signature program takes a holistic approach to boost your energy and clear your mind through a synthesis of yoga, meditation and lifestyle.

Called the Happiness Retreat, it includes a unique breathing exercise, which research has shown can significantly reduce stress and depression and improve the quality of sleep.

Ideal for those who are looking to experience more in their vacation, the Art of Living Retreat Center is a getaway in every sense of the word. As Melissa, one recent guest, shared, “This past week has been so amazing. Everything from the view to the food to the kindness and smiles of everybody here. It’s just been life changing and I’ll be back.”

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Family

Fun! SEMENT TOP-RATED AMU UTH PARKS OF THE SO

What does your family like to do? If amusement parks are high on the list, then you’ve got to check out these top-rated parks in the south.

From splashing around in an oceanfront waterpark, to riding a rollercoaster after Batman’s own heart, you’re sure to find that one – or all – of these parks have an attraction that even the pickiest of family members will find fun!

Bay Volcano

Fun FAMILY KINGDOM AMUSEMENT PARK This amusement park has “family” in its name! Family Kingdom is all about having a good time, both for the “young and young at heart.” Family Kingdom is located in the heart of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and is in the perfect location for a fun family weekend, from enjoying the Splashes Oceanfront Waterpark, to hitting the rides at the Kingdom.

Family Kingdom has more than 30 different rides to experience, from the Swamp Fox wooden roller coaster, to the Sling Shot, a vertical coaster that sends riders soaring upward, and then plummets down to the ground at record speeds. With well over a dozen “kiddie rides,” Family Kingdom is the ideal place to take any small children that are travelling with you. Unlimited ride passes are around $30, so Family Kingdom is a very affordable amusement park.

Visitors may enjoy the go-kart racing, as well as carnivalstyle rides, such as the Tilt-a-Whirl. >>>>

VOLCANO BAY Volcano Bay is a newer attraction in Orlando, Florida. With an entirely new spin on what a waterpark should be, Volcano Bay is introducing a variety of mantras and a way of life that mimics the Pacific Waturi Islanders. Enjoy the sun and waves at Waturi Beach, ride the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, or relax all day in a private Family Suite Cabana, or premium seating.

There are 18 attractions at Volcano Bay, which include everything from daring thrill rides, to relaxation among the lush, tropical surroundings. Take your chance in raging whitewater, or ride the waves on the beach. Whatever your water fancy may be, Volcano Bay has thought of it.

Perhaps their biggest innovation is the use of the TapuTapu wearable. The TapuTapu is a waterproof wrist device, similar in looks to a FitBit, which alerts you when your ride time is available. This means no more waiting in long lines on high slide staircases, no more having to carry a raft or tube around the entire park with you, and no more wasting time waiting around

>>>> If it’s a hot day, or waterparks are more your style, head over to Splashes! Splashes Oceanfront Waterpark is the darling sister park of Family Kingdom, and is Myrtle Beach’s only oceanfront park. Race down giant tube slides and get your adrenaline pumping. While you climb to the top of the slide, you will be able to take in the picturesque scenery of the coastline surrounding you.

With speed slides and winding water flumes, the thrill-seeker in you will be more than pleased with the slide selection. If you are more comfortable relaxing and watching the kids play, the children’s areas have a ton of different activities to offer, from fountains and splash zones, to small wading pools. Take a ride down the lazy river and enjoy the sunshine, as you float your way through the park!

All-day unlimited Splash Passes are only $20!

when you should be having fun! Simply let the TapuTapu alert you when it’s your time to ride, and head to that attraction at your leisure.

Volcano Bay makes a day at a waterpark extremely affordable and enjoyable, with tickets starting at $67. Food and drinks, as well as lockers and towels to rent, are available all around the park, so don’t worry if you didn’t pack a cooler or forgot your towel! Purchase premium seating for servers to come to you all day to take your orders, and enjoy a complimentary lockbox right there, so you don’t have to travel to a locker. Cabanas are great if you’re hosting a party or with a large group, as the suite cabanas can hold up to 16 people.

Volcano Bay recommends that you get there early and head to the back of the park upon arrival, as many guests like to linger in the front of the park immediately after entrance. It is also recommended that you turn your TapuTapu into your wallet, to enjoy hands-free purchases. Simply link your device to your account with a form of payment, and you’ll be able to purchase anything you’d like within the park. A day full of fun and relaxation is only a ticket away. Plan your next vacation to Volcano Bay today!

SIX FLAGS FIESTA Head west to San Antonio, Texas, for another top-rated amusement park! Six Flags Fiesta offers a ton of attractions that will get your adrenaline rushing in no time. Thrill rides include: Batman, Boomerang, Der Twister Fireball, Goliath, and many more. Spin upside down, whirl around in circles at top speeds, and go careening into flips and dips at 4Gs! If you want to feel like a super hero, try out the Batman ride, which is the world’s first 4D freefly coaster! Seats flip and turn 360 degrees as you travel down the cutting-edge track, constructed with special effects and bone-chilling angles. It is noted that “you won’t need a Batsuit to ride – just Batman-level bravery!”

Thrill rides are not the only attractions that Six Flags Fiesta has to offer. There are plenty of family rides for the younger children, or those who do not find fun in coasters. Try Bug’s White Water Rapids, where you’ll get to take a ride through a medieval wonderland, with your guide and “knight in shining armor,” Bugs Bunny! If there’s a Scooby-Doo fan in the family, they won’t want to miss the Scooby-Doo Ghostblaster. The Ghostblaster is an interactive ride that allows guests to tag along with Scooby and the gang as they make their way through spooky houses, hauntings, cemeteries, and more! You’ll get your very own Ghostblaster gun, and be able to help protect the gang and solve the mystery!

Tickets are around $50-$60 per person. With plenty to do around the park, from interactive exhibits, to water rides and live shows, the entire family will find something to love about Six Flags Fiesta.

There’s nothing more rewarding that seeing the smiles on your loved ones’ faces when you know that they’re having the time of their lives.

Bring your family joy by choosing one of these top-rated amusement parks of the south, and watch them come alive!

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PUNTA GORDA ENGLEWOOD BEACH, FL

Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach is a relaxing, more secluded part of Florida, offering all the best of the Sunshine State’s wonderful outdoor experiences in one place. If your family’s dream vacation means being outside, then this is the destination for you.

Named by Trivago as the #1 U.S. destination based on price and quality, Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach gives you a Florida vacation unlike any other.

From beaches to boating, hiking to harbor tours, fishing to nature discovery, to sun, shelling and fossilized shark teeth, the area offers visitors more of what they come to Florida for: relaxation and discovery in an outdoor vacationland. Take a kayak tour deep into a wildlife preserve. Or bask in the peace and solitude of one of our remote island beaches. Known for its pristine, unspoiled beauty, the area has been featured on SAIL Magazine's list of the “10 Greatest Places to Sail in the United States,” and ranked by Golf Digest as the “Third Best Place to Live and Play Golf in America.” Yet, while we like to say “Our Best Side is Outside,” our indoor activities offer plenty of excitement as well. Art galleries and history museums, a wide range of restaurants, unique shopping opportunities, relaxing spas, and plenty of live music means everyone in your family can enjoy their vacation their way. From outside to inside, tableside to beachside, come see our best side in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach. Discover the getaway of a lifetime. Learn more online today.

PureFlorida.com

WILD ANIMAL SAFARI Take a drive on the Wild side! At Wild Animal Safari, you may travel the 3.5 miles of adventure in your own vehicle, take a ride on our complimentary bus tour, or rent a Zebra Van. A ride through the park in the bus tour is led by a Wild Animal Safari tour guide.

Get up close and personal like no other animal adventure and experience hundreds of animals. Many animals will come right up to your vehicle for a greeting. Come face-toface with a camel, a watusi, a zebra or hand feed an American bison.

You'll see elk, water buffalo, giraffes, and more running free. We have 75

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species of animals and over 550 of them on 500 acres!

Families often say how big of a blast they have, how much they ooh-andaah, and just break out in laughter.

The fun doesn’t stop there! Your purchase of admission into the drive-thru animal park includes admission into our walk-about. Here is your chance

to see more animals in a zoo-like setting. You’ll see Bengal tigers, peacocks, exotic birds, lemurs, alpacas, monkeys, and much more. So hop out of your vehicle, stretch those legs, and interact with more animals.

This is truly a fun, family experience for all ages, from child to grandma and grandpa. Don’t forget to check out our website for online discount tickets to a once in a lifetime Safari experience.

Come out to Wild Animal Safari and get your Wildlife on!

animalsafari.com Groups Welcome!

Strafford, Missouri

417-879-5300

Pine Mountain, Georgia

706-663-8744

Cadiz, KY Family Fun Destination

SUMMER IS FAMILY VACATION TIME, AND CADIZ MAKES A WONDERFUL FAMILY DESTINATION.

There is plenty to do here that is fun for the whole family without being overwhelmed by choices or being so busy that you cannot enjoy quality time together. So, what's on the bucket list for Cadiz? Let's explore!

Family-Centric Fun First, Cadiz is a place where community matters and as such, visitors are invited to enjoy some outstanding events throughout the summer in Cadiz. What that means is that events in Cadiz are friendly, fun, and the whole community enjoys them. Those Include: Cadiz Music & Food Festival - Featuring the Regi Wooten Band. Enjoy live music, food, and a whole lot of family fun.

Cadiz Cruz In's - These Cadiz Car Shows are all about community. The big deal is that this is a family-friendly event with music,

cars, trucks, motorcycles, everyone is welcome and the admission is free.

Hummingbird Festival - This is a celebration of these tiny and amazing little birds as they migrate through the area on their way back to South America. Come, enjoy, learn, and grow in the presence of hundreds of hummingbirds.

Visit GoCadiz.com/Things-to-do for current events.

and outdoor wildlife viewing, there is just a summer full of fun happening at Lake Barkley State Resort Park. Fish, camp, hike, swim, ride horses, bike, laugh, play, and bond - all in one spot.

Prizer-Point - Prizer-Point offers camping, fishing, cabins, and a host of family-related activities that put your whole family into the outdoors. Rent boats, fish, and get wet!

Places to see:

Land Between the Lakes - A national park with 170,000 acres of wildlife and wild land. People come here to enjoy the living history farm, a 700-acre Elk & Bison Prairie, and some 200 miles of hiking trails. There are opportunities to camp, fish, bike, and watch a sky full of stars.

Lake Barkley State Resort Park - Find a ton of adventure here. Including an 18hole golf course, to world-class fishing

Cadiz, KY invites families to come, stay, and enjoy the many family-friendly festivals, events, and destinations.

Cadiz is an outdoor destination with a focus on quality living and family fun. Some of the big stops include outdoor recreation, where parents can spend quality time with their kids as they laugh, play, and learn.

om r f s g n i t Gree

KENTUCKY VisitBerea.com Exit 77 or 76 off I-75

r adv ent ure , m usi cal “ Wh eth er yo u’r e int o ou tdoo ry or scie nce , Pr esto nsb urg ent ert ain men t, th eat re, h isto ryo ne. ” ha s a litt le som eth ing for eve

Discover

Prestonsburg, KY Discover Prestonsburg, the “Star City of Eastern Kentucky.”

Whether you’re into outdoor adventure, musical entertainment, theatre, history or science, Prestonsburg has a little something for everyone. Located along U.S. 23, the country music highway, Prestonsburg offers an array of musical entertainment.

The Mountain Arts Center is a performing arts venue that hosts the Billie Jean Osborne’s KY Opry. Be mesmerized by the local talent on stage that will leave you understanding why we say, “There’s something in the water.” If you're looking for just a relaxing evening with music, check out some of our local restaurants

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such as McGuire’s Brickhouse or Lizzie B’s on Friday and Saturday Nights that have local bands performing.

During the summer, catch one of the outdoor theatre shows at Jenny Wiley Theatre. For history buffs, educate yourselves at the Battle of Middlecreek, the largest Civil War battle in Eastern KY or tour through the Historic Samuel May House. Explore the East Kentucky Science Center & Varia Planetarium one of the most technologically advanced planetariums in the nation.

For the outdoor enthusiast, enjoy Jenny Wiley State Resort Park. The park features plenty of hiking, biking, fishing, birding, boating opportunities and even elk tours during the fall & winter seasons.

Check out our newly created Sugar Camp Mountain Trails that add an additional 26 miles of mountain biking that are like no other in the region. Like Kayaking? Experience our Levisa Fork PaddleFest, the fourth Saturday May - Sept., and kayak up the Levisa Fork of the Big Sandy River. Of course no trip to Prestonsburg is complete without a trip to StoneCrest Golf Course, whether an avid golfer or just there to take in the views, this reclaimed strip mine is a beauty like no other.

Call 800-844-4704 or visit prestonsburgky.org for more information.

CRUISING THE

s e n i l t s a o C THE ULTIMATE SEASIDE ROAD TRIP

Are you in search of a quaint little seaside town to vacation to with the family? How about a historic coastal city that’s bubbling over with nightlife and art districts? If you’ve been dreaming of the perfect southern coastal road trip, drop all of your plans and jump in the car right now.

It’s time to fold the map up and shove it back into the glovebox; you won’t be needing it for this adventure. Everything is already mapped out for you here to enjoy the ultimate seaside road trip, from the calm shorelines of Charleston and Folly Beach, to the vibrant gulf city of Mobile, Alabama.

Cruise with us as we explore the soft sands, refreshing waters, and beautiful coastal towns that make up the southern shorelines.

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA Charleston is known to be one of America’s most favorite cities, and with loads of beautifully preserved land, along with the gorgeous seaside and deeply-rooted historic districts, it is no surprise why people are flocking there every chance they get. Residents are proud of their town, and their southern hospitality leaves them eager to show you what their town has to offer.

Start by taking a historical tour of the city, via Charleston Strolls. For about $25 per adult, Charleston Strolls will take you on a walking tour through some of the most historical points in the town, including Rainbow Row, the Antebellum mansions, and key sites from the Revolutionary War and Civil War. The Strolls are walking tours only, so

relish in the times as your feet hit the ground, and you’ll sink deeper into southern American history with every step. Each tour lasts for about 2 hours, and will begin at the Mills House Hotel.

Head to the 7-mile barrier island that is considered a Charleston Gem: Folly Beach. Labeled aptly as the “Edge of America,” Folly Beach is a funky seaside town known for cheap surfboard and bike rentals, along with quaint inns and B&Bs. Stop in for an authentic, homecooked meal at any of the mom-and-pop restaurants, and be sure to grab a souvenir within the surf shops that line the shores. The 7-mile-long beach is open for sunbathing and dipping your toes into the beautiful water.

“START BY TAKING A hISTORICAL TOuR OF The CITy, vIA ChARLeSTOn STROLLS.”

After a great day on the water exploring Folly Beach, top off the day by heading to Bowen’s Island Restaurant for an unforgettable meal. Bowen’s Island is located just five minutes from Folly Beach, so it is definitely and easy drive, and worth it when you arrive and finally see what you’re getting yourself into. Bowen’s Island, a James Beard Award-winning establishment, is known for its locally-harvested oysters and Frogmore Stew. When in season, you can order all-you-can-eat oysters for just $30!

The Frogmore Stew, AKA the “Low Country Boil,” consists of sausage, corn cobs, potatoes, and fresh shrimp. Order this for only $14 and eat your fill, surrounded by amazing marsh views and “dead televisions.” Tourists who visit won’t understand why nothing works, why there are piles of oyster shells everywhere, and what kind of a restaurant owner would keep decades of graffiti all over the walls, but when you’re finally savoring the roasted oysters while sipping an ice-cold beer after a day at the beach, it will all make sense.

ST. AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA

St. Augustine is known as the oldest city in the nation, having been founded in 1565 by the Spanish as a European settlement. Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles founded the city and named it after a saint of the Roman Catholic Church. In the late 1880s, Henry M. Flagler arrived and gave the city its first makeover as a resort town.

Flagler added two hotels to the area and took over a third, starting his Flagler System of hospitality.

Today, St. Augustine embraces its old-age history, and showcases more than 400 years of growth and culture within the city’s walls via “living history museums” and more-than-memorable seaside adventures.

Visit the Old City, where you’ll explore historic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. Castillo is a 17th century fort and the “largest masonry structure” in the entire nation. The Castillo de San Marcos is also known to be one of the most haunted places in St. Augustine. The fort was used to guard the shorelines and has been standing for more than 300 years. If you’re brave enough, make your way through a tour down to the dungeon, where some visitors have reported ice-cold temperatures and the feeling of “hands touching them.”

Old City also has plenty of bars, shops, and inns to satisfy the leisure traveler in us all. Take a horse-drawn carriage or trolley ride through the town and stop in for a drink at a quaint little bar. Everything here is within walking distance, which makes

for a perfect overnight stay during your road trip.

If you’re look for outdoor adventure along the coast, try the St. Augustine Alligator Farm. The once-tiny exhibit has now turned into a large park, featuring all 23 species of crocodilians in the world. Alligator Farm is the only animal park in the world that houses every species. If that wasn’t interesting enough, you can actually zip-line through the entire park to take it all in. Take the Crocodile Crossing Zip Line and experience an aerial overview of the park, as you get to see each animal in its natural habitat. Interacting with crocodiles and taking a zip line tour all in one day makes for an excellent thrill for tourists of all ages.

If Crocodiles aren’t your style, but you’d still like to experience the beautiful natural scenery that St. Augustine offers, head over to the Anastasia State Park. The park is only 5 miles away from historic downtown, so you won’t need to worry about preparing for a long trek. Anastasia State Park is home to more than 1,500 acres of wildlife, natural ecosystems, and coastal gems, include shoreline campsites and mangroves. Walk the beach or hike on one of the established walking trails for some amazing views. If you need to cool off, there are plenty of opportunities to go for a swim or rent a paddleboard or kayak to take out. If you’re planning on staying and setting up camp, there are set campgrounds, complete with grills for making your own special meal on the beach. With all of its natural wonders, Spanish colonial architecture, and deeply-rooted historical sites, you can’t go wrong when stopping in St. Augustine.

e, Florida St. Augustin

MOBILE, ALABAMA

If there ever was a town that showed the most pride in being the “fun south, it would be Mobile, Alabama.

Mobile is known for its rich 300+ year-old history, and its ability to throw one heck of a good party. Similar in nature to New Orleans, you’ll notice plenty of shotgun houses and vibrant colors, and maybe even an old pair of beads from a lingering Mardi Gras on the streets of Mobile.

Don’t be surprised if you stop in on an “off” weekend, and still find yourself in the midst of a live band playing in the park, or an artists’ display along the street corners. With so many events, cookoffs, festivals, and markets around, there’s always something in Mobile to keep even the most seasoned of travelers occupied.

n Marcos a S e d o l l ti Cas onument National M

Along with the lively neighborhoods, Mobile also makes for a great coastal road trip spot, as it sits on Mobile Bay. Mobile Bay is home to a speck of land known as Dauphin Island. It may be a 45-minute drive from downtown Mobile, but who cares, it’s a road trip! It will also be extremely worth it once you get there. Unique shops line the streets, seafood is sold by the pound, and the pier is always booming with life. Cross the bridge and you’ll feel as though you stepped back in time, as the island is till stuck in its 1950s era. The vintage feel of the architecture and the soft sand that blankets the beach is enough to make your entire road trip complete.

Stop in for a bite to eat at Skipper’s Seafood or Dority’s Bar & Grill, where you’ll find excellent choices, from the best shrimp cocktail around, to snow crab and U-Peel-Em shrimp by the boatload. Order a fried fisherman’s platter with a cold beer to beat the heat!

Take the ferry back to the mainland for the all-encompassing Mobile Bay experience.

Fill your tank, check your oil, and load down the trunk with all that you’ll need for this southern coastal road trip. From state parks and historical landmarks, to fried food and good ol’ sunburned skin, you’ll find everything under the sun along these routes. Whether you’re search for family fun or a weekend in the car with your sweetheart, you won’t find a better coastal experience than this. Embrace the southern charm and history, and with each mile, you’ll fall more in love with the low country shorelines.

Mobile Bay Travel South | Fall 2017 | 125

Mexico Beach, FL

e m i t t a h t r e b m e m e R er? h t e g o t y a w a n a r e w Fall is in the air, and there’s no better way to take in Florida’s coastal breeze than an escape to Mexico Beach! This quintessential Old Florida town on the Gulf of Mexico provides the ideal location for couples to get away this fall, with a variety of places to stay. Since many accommodations offer special rates this season, it’s also the perfect time to plan a beach vacation with friends.

For the perfect home-base for a girls’ weekend getaway, enjoy a spacious beachfront vacation rental just steps from the water’s edge. Or if an intimate, cozy retreat with your loved one is in need, adorable inns and motels are waiting. In fall, the heat and busy summer season vanish and make way for relaxing strolls on the beach or bike rides along the sleepy coastal highway. Beautiful houses, condos, inns and motels, and even campgrounds in Mexico Beach provide your front-row seat to the area’s best views as the sunsets cast dazzling orange, pink, and purple hues across the sky.

After a day at the beach, head out on the town to share dinner and drinks with your favorite people. Local restaurants are known for their fresh Gulf seafood, inviting atmospheres, and friendly staff. And don’t forget live music! With weekly sunset concerts, festivals, and more, Mexico Beach loves sharing the sounds of its local musicians just as much as sharing the sound of waves lapping against the sand.

Relax and soak up the laid-back atmosphere of Mexico Beach as you spend quality time together with friends and loved ones. A fall escape to the Unforgettable Coast® is sure to be a well-deserved treat!

Remember that time we had a girls’ night out?

Make your perfect vacation memories in Mexico Beach, Florida.

Discover a place to remember and request a free Visitor’s Guide at MexicoBeach.com.

F L O R I D A

The Unforgettable Coast

®

Harbourage Marina & Club MARTIN COUNTY, FLORIDA: YOUR NEXT ROAD TRIP! The question is not “Why should I take a road trip to Martin County?”

The question is: Why shouldn’t you?

With 22 miles of Atlantic shoreline, this charming hidden gem of the South Florida coast offers everything, from beach relaxation and wilderness adventures to boutique shopping and seaside dining. Whether you’re seeking a romantic respite or a family vacation, Martin County is a dream.

Roadtrippers looking to absorb the local culture can visit one of the many galleries, museums and historical sites in Stuart, Jensen Beach, Port Salerno, and Hobe Sound—there’s

128 | Fall 2017 | Travel South

even a scuba/snorkeling tour of a shipwreck site—or spend the day shopping at the local boutiques scattered throughout the historic downtowns.

For those looking for a more rugged experience, the area offers no shortage of natural wonders begging to be explored. Hike, kayak, bike, birdwatch—or just find a remote spot on the beach and nap the day away.

At the end of each day, taste the local

flavors at one of Martin County’s oceanfront restaurants.

If you have the kiddos, there’s plenty to do with them: Observe the area’s logger head sea turtles or feed the stingrays; go fishing or lounge on the beach; hit a waterpark or enjoy an outdoor concert on the Riverwalk. In Martin County, it’s all for the taking.

Plan your summer road trip today at discovermartin.com.

A road trip worth pulling over for.

When it comes to road trips, getting there is half the fun, and the scenic routes in Martin County, Florida offer plenty to look at along the way. Picture canopies of shady trees welcoming you, bright tropical colors, scenic vistas, beautiful sand beaches brimming with photo-ops, and the most bio-diverse ecosystem in the Northern Hemisphere. So go ahead and stretch your legs a bit. You’ll be glad you did.

Plan your trip at discovermartin.com

TIME 2 REMEMBER

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC

October 21st – October 22nd, 2017 marks the 37th Annual NC Oyster Festival in Ocean Isle Beach, NC.

What started as a simple oyster roast in the late 1970s has now become one of the largest oyster festivals in the country. Always the third weekend in October, the NC Oyster Festival draws 30,000 people each year to shuck, shag, shop and of course, eat!

Oysters are prepared in a variety of mouth-watering ways along with an assortment of appetizing culinary delights. Options are plentiful, from seafood to BBQ, wraps to brats, funnel cakes to frozen treats and so much more.

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TIME 2 REMEMBER

Festival goers enjoy live music all weekend from popular regional bands, and will be entertained between sets by this year’s Emcee, WWAY Evening News Anchor, Daniel Seamans.

Showcasing over 150 vendors, attendees can shop for unique and exclusive items, including this year’s Local Lane attraction featuring local boutique businesses with product giveaways each day.

On Sunday, we welcome Good Choice Kitchen, featuring Evonne Hardy, as she does a live cooking segment featuring oysters.

Rounding out the festivities are the annual oyster eating, shucking, stew and shag contests. The shucking contest winner of the professional division goes on to compete at the national level, while our oyster stew entrants vie for Judges and People’s choice.

Ocean Isle Beach, NC October 21 - 22, 2017 www.ncoysterfestival.com

regional bands take the l i v e Popular stage to play Beach, Country music and Variety. Get ready to dance! prepared in a variety of tasty Oysters delicious ways, Plus BBQ, brats, food wraps, seafood, sweets & more!

SHOP ping cont ests

presented by:

brought to you by:

Over 100 unique Arts & Crafts vendors & Local Lane featuring local boutiques and businesses.

Win big in the Oyster Eating, Stew & Shucking contests or dance for dollars in the Shag competition.Â

Each year a stunning piece of jewelry, crafted by Michael Abushakra of Brynn Elizabeth Jewelers and a new NC Oyster Festival tshirt designed by local artist, Keith White, are unveiled at the festival. NC Oyster Festival t-shirts sell out each year and can only be purchased on-site.

Hosted by the Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the Town of Ocean Isle, the 37th Annual NC Oyster Festival, presented by Novant Health is helmed by a strong committee of volunteers.

For more information, please visit www.ncoysterfestival.com.

NC OYSTER FESTIVAL

“Pack your bags, and come take a journey with us, as we peer into each state, and try to get

a taste of the best

they’ve got to offer.”

Traveling through the south can be tricky if you don’t know what to look for. When planning a vacation, we try to make sure we’re making the most of each day, and getting those authentic experiences that makes priceless memories and teach us along the way. You don’t want to stop by the most well-known places in each area and think that that’s all there is. We know there’s much more, so we’ve gone off in search of some of the most inspiring destinations within these southern states. This region has so much to offer – from Arkansas to Florida – and these attractions are but a taste of what each area can bring to those who are willing to explore.

Whether you’re interested in looking out from the highest point in Arkansas, diving into the history of voodoo in Louisiana, gambling in Mississippi, sealing your own bourbon in Kentucky, or trudging through the Everglades in Florida, the southern region has plenty to offer even the pickiest of travelers. Pack your bags, and come take a journey with us, as we peer into each state, and try to get a taste of the best they’ve got to offer.

orida

, Fl Orlando

f o e t s Ta Arkansas | Louisiana | Mississippi | Florida | South Carolina North Carolina | Tennessee | Kentucky

a gazine Mount M rk State Pa

sap The Mill ridge B Canopy A TA S T E O F

ArKaNsAs

The Natural State is known for its beautiful lands and abundance of streams, lakes, and wildlife, so Arkansas is a great place to go to enjoy the outdoors.

To immerse yourself in nature, visit Mount Magazine State Park. The park is on the state’s tallest mountain, Mount Magazine, which stands at 2,753 feet tall. Mount Magazine State Park is known as the “highest point in Arkansas.” There are many activities to do within the park, such as rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, ATV riding, fishing, picnicking, and more.

Stop in at the Visitors Center for information on interactive programs, and browse the gift shop for a unique souvenir. Go camping within the park, or opt for a luxurious stay at a cabin or in The Lodge at Mount Magazine. The lodge offers pristine views of the valley below, and top-notch amenities, along with exquisite cuisine from the Skycrest Restaurant. Inclusive packages are available, including a romance package that

comes with an intimate dinner for two!

Visit one of the many authentic restaurants that are serving up some the state’s most favorite meal: fried catfish!

Fried catfish can be found almost everywhere you turn, so be sure to order a platter with some homemade biscuits and fried okra to go along with it!

Arkansas is also home to beautiful, historic Victorian architecture, such as the buildings and homes found in Eureka Springs. The Crescent Hotel & Spa is a perfect example of this type of architecture, with towers, detailed trimming, and immaculate landscaping. The cities and small towns offer up plenty of things to do, and most places within the state embrace the natural beauty that surrounds them.

ck Little Ro

Check out Hot Springs, where you’ll be able to visit the Garvan Woodland Gardens, a 210-acre botanical paradise with everything from Bonsai gardens, to a canopy bridge. The Millsap Canopy Bridge is actually a local favorite, and is beautiful in the fall season. The cobblestone-like pavers and the rustic look of the bridge itself, blend in effortlessly with the tall trees that are constantly dropping their firecolored leaves to the forest floor.

If you’re a foodie and in the mood for a meal from the most-loved restaurant in Bentonville, head to Doe’s Eat Place.

The history of the restaurant began in 1903, with the background of Carmel Signa, and his choice to open up an “eat place” in the back of a honkytonk. The vibes are still the same in the restaurant today, as they serve up Mamie and Doe’s original tamales with a cup of homemade chili. Doe’s Eat Place is also

known for their massive steaks, which are by the pound and cooked to order, so be prepared to have on of the best steaks in your life. Visitors across the board say “it’s the best steak I’ve ever had!”

ExPlOrE MoRe

in Arkansas From the famous waters of Hot Springs National Park to the blues and barbecue in the Delta, from Epic rides in the Ozarks and Ouachitas to worldclass art at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, from natural beauty to urban amenities in the capital city of Little Rock, there is so much to explore in Arkansas.

These are some of the many reasons to travel to The Natural State – and it’s the prettiest time to arrive with fall color lining the roads along scenic highways and byways. Plan your visit around an exhibit, Broadway show, concert, food festival, football game, bike race or motorcycle rally. Popular fall events include: Bikes Blues and BBQ (Sept. 20-23) in Fayetteville; the Big Dam Bridge 100 bike ride in Central Arkansas (Sept. 23); and the King Biscuit Blues Festival in Helena-West Helena (Oct. 4-7).

For more upcoming events and ideas on things to see and do, visit Arkansas.com.

EXPLORATION Naturally Made

Arkansas in the fall is made for discovering new places and new experiences.

Whether your wandering leads to art galleries, espresso and shopping, or the great outdoors, you’ll run out of weekend before you run out of things to do. Explore everything The Natural State has to offer and plan your trip at Arkansas.com. What will you make in Arkansas?

Arkansas.com

Ranked among the Top Ten “Best Value Destinations in the US” for the last three years by Trivago.com, Little Rock continues to garner national and international acclaim for its quality of life, tourism amenities and ongoing revitalization.

Fall is a great time to experience all the city has to offer as performing arts groups kick off their new seasons, museums showcase new exhibits, and the city hosts a number of festivals and special events you won’t want to miss.

Little Rock

A GREAT CITY TO VISIT THIS FALL

[ Downtown Little Rock and Riverfront Park A catalyst for the city’s renaissance has been the William J. Clinton Presidential Center, propelling Little Rock as a true tourist and meetings destination. Since its opening, Little Rock has experienced more than $3 billion in revitalization and development that has produced new attractions, award-winning restaurants, entertainment venues, a burgeoning adult beverage scene and a number of new hotels.

One of the city’s newest additions is the grand re-opening of the state-of-the-art Robinson Center, the official performance home to the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, Ballet Arkansas and Celebrity Attractions’ Broadway Theater Series. It reopened in November 2016, after undergoing a 28-month, $70 million reimagining and expansion.

each night three downtown illuminated bridges put on free light shows and glow from dusk till dawn.

Little Rock’s Main Street Food Truck Festival

Arkansas’s capital city, Little Rock, is home to dozens of museums and cultural attractions, including Central High School National Historic Site, the state’s only zoo, the Arkansas Arts Center, and a vibrant live theater scene. Its downtown River Market entertainment district is also a visitor favorite.

Fall is a great time to experience the city’s craft beverage scene and visit its award-winning breweries, wineries and distillery, as well as enjoy several great food-related festivals and events, including: The Main Street Food Truck Festival (Oct. 7, 2017), the Arkansas State Fair (Oct. 12 – 22, 2017), the Arkansas Cornbread Festival (Oct. 21, 2017), and the World Cheese Dip Championships (Oct. 28, 2017). Named one of “Five Secret Foodie Cities” by Forbes Travel Guide in 2014, Little Rock has more than 600 restaurants and numerous artisanal food purveyors, providing plenty of dining options and palate-pleasing discoveries to make.

For additional information, visit www.littlerock.com, and see why the locals say, “Life is Better With a Southern Accent™.”

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Robinson Center

Little Rock’s dining and craft food and beverage scene is on the rise. Whether enjoying a romantic dinner for two, using our Locally Labeled Passport program to sample our city’s ever-expanding offerings of ales, wines and spirits or savoring any of the amazing products our artisanal food producers are making, there’s never been a better time to enjoy great food and drink in Little Rock.

IN GREATER LITTLE ROCK

• Little Rock named one of “Five Secret Foodie Cities,” Forbes Travel Guide, 2014 • Loblolly Creamery’s ice cream named a “Superior Scoop,” Saveur, 2014 • One Eleven at the Capital Semifinalist, Best New Restaurant, James Beard Awards, 2015 • Rock Town Distillery “2015 U.S. Micro Whisky of the Year,” The Whisky Bible, 2015 Edition • Big Orange Midtown “Great American Beer Bars,” CraftBeer.com, 2016 • Trio’s Restaurant named “Best Farm-to-Table Restaurant in Arkansas,” Travel + Leisure, May 2016

Tour Lost Forty Brewery > To see more, visit Littlerock.com

e Old Stat

Capitol

A TA S T E O F

LoUiSiAnA

Louisiana has many names: The Child of the Mississippi, The Creole State, The Bayou State, The Sugar State, and more.

All of these nicknames hold relevance, as Louisiana is known for being one of the most eccentric and historical states in the country. With so many cultural influences and artistic elements adopted by the state, there isn’t a single boring corner that you’ll explore.

For all of those who are history buffs, head to the National WWII Museum,

located in New Orleans. A tour through the museum will give you a firsthand experience of what it was like for Americans during the war. If you are looking for something unique and edgy to do, then dive into New Orleans’ voodoo history.

Start by visiting the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum, or Marie Laveau’s Tomb. Marie Laveau is the most famous voodoo priestess of

the area. There are plenty of historical areas to visit on your own, but if you want to explore everything with some background knowledge, opt for a city tour.

The French Quarter is another excellent place to tour if you’ve never been. The French Quarter itself is the oldest district in New Orleans, with building and homes that have been standing for over 300 years.

Mardi Gras is a popular event within the city, but we urge you to check out this part of historic New Orleans in the off season. The French Quarter has some of the best authentic creole and Cajun food around, and is home to many unique shops and artisan boutiques.

er

ch Quart The Fren

Speaking of old buildings, a visit to the Old State Capitol, in Baton Rouge, is a must. The building was designed in the “Gothic-Revival” style, and has two massive castle-like towers that stand at attention, and will take your breath away. It looks like an old castle, but is expertly maintained, and houses state exhibits that are on display to the public.

Along with the Old State Capitol, the National WWII Museum, and the French Quarter, there are a plethora of famous plantations and gardens to visit, so getting your culture and history fix in Louisiana will be a breeze.

Even if history isn’t your thing, you won’t be disappointed after visiting these places; they’re rated as top attractions for a reason.

Louisiana is also known as the “sportsman’s paradise,” and with the beautiful bayous, it isn’t hard to see why. Rent an airboat or take a tour along the bayou for the ultimate Louisiana experience. Whether you’re wanting to go on a fishing excursion, or view a gator up close, the bayou is the place to be.

ThE FrEnCh QuArTeR HaS SoMe Of ThE BeSt AuThEnTiC CrEoLe AnD CaJuN FoOd ArOuNd.

AN ECLECTIC CAJUN GETAWAY THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE LAKE CHARLES/SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA

For authentic charm, culture, history and delicious Cajun cuisine, you can get your fill in Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana. A colorful mixture of Cajuns, cowboys and the coast, you can experience the great outdoors, wildlife refuges and remote Gulf beaches along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, and later that evening, enjoy casino gaming or a night on the town.

The area is known for casino resorts, with four casino complexes in the area. Golden Nugget Lake Charles and L’Auberge Casino Resort sit side by side along the waterway, and both have beach docks where people can anchor or pull up their boats to enjoy seaside comforts of food and live music. Each also feature spas, golf courses, live entertainment, incredible restaurants and retail outlets in addition to the casino floor. Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel has a Texas flair with restaurants, an event center, and of course, seasonal thundering and majestic horseracing. Also, the Isle of Capri Hotel Casino has a relaxed atmosphere with a dancefloor for people wanting to do the two step or Cajun/Zydeco dancing.

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In Southwest Louisiana, you are never far from nature. The Creole Nature Trail All-American Road wraps around Calcasieu and Cameron Parishes. The trail is actually a 180 mile drive through marsh and prairie lands. The experience includes 4 wildlife refuges with walking trails, boardwalks along the marsh and prairie, and also, you can see alligators, birds, marshland creatures and flowers in bloom, especially in the spring and summer months. Get oriented on the culture, food, music, history and the outdoors with a visit to Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point.

The center explores wildlife found in the marshes, Gulf beaches and wetlands along Southwest Louisiana’s coast. Jump on stage and play Cajun and Zydeco music or step into a kitchen to smell Creole and Cajun spices.

Music, art, and culture are all thriving in Southwest Louisiana. With several art galleries and cultural museums, such as the Mardi Gras Museum, there is no shortage of stumbling upon something interesting with a nod to our history. There are outdoor concerts, live music, and a downtown area with all local food experiences, such as jazz brunches on Sundays to a Zydeco brunch on Saturday. Weekend brunches are delicious and a fantastic way to soak in culture and music. Local music can also be found in nightclubs, casinos and restaurants.

Festivals and performing arts events pack the calendar year round in the area. Several well-known festivals include Mardi Gras, the Contraband Days Pirate Festival, the Arts & Crabs Fest, Cajun French Music & Food Festival and a myriad of spring, summer and fall festivals all brimming with live music, food and fun.

Let’s not forget about the food! From jambalaya to gumbo, crawfish étouffée and the fresh catch of the day, you can taste Cajun cooking at every turn. Also, travel the Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail to taste one of Southwest Louisiana’s favorite finger foods – good for any time of the day from a boudin breakfast to a snack in the afternoon. While you’re in town, you can also shop at specialty stores for Louisiana prod-

ucts to bring home to your friends and family from spices and seasonings to coffee, food products and artwork. Everyone loves a gift from Louisiana!

For more information on Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana, festivals, attractions, places to stay, restaurants, shopping and more, log onto www.visitlakecharles.org/GoodTimes.

LOUISIANA

CrAwFiSh CaPiTaL Of ThE WoRlD...

These succulent red Crawfish can be served many ways. A fan-favorite is Boiled Crawfish!

Breaux Bridge, Louisiana Breaux Bridge was officially founded in 1829, when Scholastique Picou Breaux, a strong and determined French speaking Acadian woman, drew up plans for our city and began developing her property by selling lots to other Acadian settlers.

The growth of the town’s population eventually necessitated the establishment of a church parish in 1847, and in 1859, Breaux Bridge was officially incorporated.

One of Breaux Bridge’s main attractions is its cuisine, especially crawfish. Restaurants of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, were the first to offer crawfish openly on their menus, and it was here that the famous crawfish etouffee was created. Breaux Bridge became well known for its crawfish farming and cooking.

In honor of its centennial celebration in 1959, the Louisiana legislature officially designated Breaux Bridge as the Crawfish Capital of the World, "La

capitale Mondiale de l’ecrevisse.”

Since then, the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival, recognized as one of Louisiana’s finest festivals, is always held the first full weekend in May. Breaux Bridge is the perfect balance great food, history, nature, architecture, and "joie de vivre," ( joy of life).

“Along the Banks of the Bayou Teche”

Restaurants & Cafes, Cajun, French & Zydeco Music, Festivals, Cabins & Hotels, Outdoor Recreation, Antiques, Boutiques & Gift Shops, Artist & Art Galleries For more information visit our website: wwwbreauxbridgela.net Just off I-10 exit 109.

Visit our Tourist Center where you will be greeted by friendly Tourist Counselors who will give you information on our city and we speak French!

Located at 314 East Bridge Street Breaux Bridge, LA 70517 337-332-8500 phone 337-332-5424 fax tbegnaud@breauxbridgela.net mthibodeaux@breauxbridgela.net

ScHoLaStIqUe PiCoU BrEaUx Founder of Breaux Bridge

National g r u b s k c The Vi ry Park Milita

otel Nugget H i n e d l o G x no, Bilo i s a C d n a

A TA S T E O F

MiSsIsSiPpI

Mississippi is known, among other names, as The Hospitality State. With a nickname like that, we’d expect nothing less than living up to it.

This state surely does, and as you explore further into the land, you’ll see why people return year after year for the good food, interesting history, and great conversations.

which are all that remain of the Greekrevival mansion that once stood as the center of a plantation. It is said to be the biggest mansion that was ever built in the entire state.

If you’ve never been to Mississippi, you should know that it holds critical significance in the southern wars and slavery times, so there are many sites to visit that hold priceless value. The Vicksburg National Military Park is definitely one of those must-visit places, but for a deeper look into slave life, head to Windsor Ruins. The Windsor Ruins are giant pillars, or columns,

The mansion belonged to and was built for Smith Coffee Daniel II, a very wealthy plantation owner and cotton planter who had made a significant fortune by the young age of 30. The mansion eventually burned down in 1890, after standing for less than 30 years, and all that remains are the pillars that held the structure up. As you view the serene beauty around the

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pillars, and the pillars themselves, you’ll get a feeling of eerie nostalgia, knowing what the property used to be and how influential the land was in the south.

Biloxi is another great place to visit in Mississippi. Biloxi is one of the oldest communities in the entire country, being that it was settled in the late 1600s. Biloxi is a great town for tourists, as it has all of the best attractions. From sandy beaches, to casinos, museums, and year-round events, there’s always something happening in Biloxi, and surely something for everyone to enjoy.

Biloxi offers “24-hour non-stop casino resorts,” as well as deep-sea fishing excursions. The vibrant city is also home to some of the best golf courses in the state, so if you’re looking for a southern vacation spot that includes coastlines, casinos, and courses, Biloxi is your city.

Biloxi

s sor Ruin d n i W e Th

Biloxi

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VISIT Jackson, Ms Many thoughts come to mind when you think of the word ‘soul’, such as someone’s spirit, a feeling, courage or the essence of a specified quality. Jackson is known as the “City with Soul” and embodies these characteristics. The word takes on a whole new meaning when it comes to food, Soul Food that is! now imagine Grandma’s experienced hands making cornbread dressing, greens and fried corn, fresh from the garden; or ham hocks from the pig in the barnyard you thought was a pet. now that’s soul Food!

You can’t talk about the culinary scene without mentioning the phenomenal chefs and committed mom-and-pop restaurants that have been staples in this community. Jackson has an array of options, from Greek to seafood, but it holds a special place for soul Food. a perfect example that has made its mark in the culinary world is Bully’s Restaurant, being named one of america’s classics by the James Beard Foundation in 2016.

Tyrone Bully and his father built the mansard-roofed restaurant with their own hands. Today he and his wife, Greta, operate Bully’s, and you will always find Mr. Bully behind the counter with his white bouffant cap and a smile. The soul food dishes are made from scratch with fresh ingredients and

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include: smothered oxtails, smothered pork chops, fried chicken, beef tips, freshly picked greens, macaroni and cheese, yams and an assortment of cobblers, just to name a few.

Chef Nick Wallace is the Executive chef at The Palette Cafe at the Mississippi Museum of art. He has coupled the influences of his Grandmother’s upbringing as the matriarch of the family farm with French technique to fuse some amazing elegant southern dishes.

Jackson is chock full of options! check out Pearl’s southern cooking, Lou's Full-serv, sugar's Place or (collin’s) Mama’s Dream kitchen to get started!

DiScOvErY

Inside + Out For some, the discovery starts with the finest shopping in Mississippi. Boutiques, galleries and stores are located along the Ridgeland Retail Trail from one end of the city to the other. Stroll the brick streets of the Renaissance at Colony Square, a true lifestyle center featuring fountains and high-end shops. A few miles away in Olde Towne, the Jackson Street District is bustling with specialty shops, restaurants, spas and bike stores. The renowned Mississippi Craft Center features treasures from over 400 artisans and is located just off the Natchez Trace Parkway.

With the perfect purchase in hand, it’s on to outdoor fun. Ridgeland is well-known as a cyclists paradise. Serious cyclers and casual cruisers share the Natchez Trace Parkway and Ridgeland’s Multi-Use Path.

RIDGELAND, MS

And a slate of biking events, including the Natchez Trace Century Ride and the Ridgeland Tandem Rally, are available throughout the cycling season. Adrenaline junkies will thrill to Ridgeland’s BMX and mountain biking. Somehow, all that high performance fun is even better knowing that southern hospitality, fine food and crisp sheets await at the end of the day!

Ridgeland has also been named the state’s best waterfront destination. The Ross Barnett Reservoir (called the Rez) has more than 105 miles of shoreline bounded on the north by the Natchez Trace and 33,000 acres that invite boating, sailing, fishing, swimming and water sports. Camping on the shore offers an inside + out water adventure. The Rez is also Ridgeland’s hot spot for events including the famous Dragon Boat Regatta that attracts more than 60 teams from across the region.

Adventurous, artistic, hospitable, delicious, desirable. This is truly a destination that is naturally stylish and an unexpected delight. Ridgeland isn’t just a place to see; it’s a place to experience…INSIDE+OUT.

ViSiT MeRiDiAn

When it comes to arts and entertainment, Mississippi is a land of legends. It gave birth to the blues and put the swagger in rock ‘n’ roll. It nurtured creative masters who defined 20th-century American literature. Across every field of visual and performing arts, its influence is immeasurable.

Exhibits will explore the connection of painters, potters, and photographers to the land, the connection of culinary artists to their homes and communities, and the connection of actors and musicians to the theaters, TV and movie studios, and honky-tonks where they perfected and displayed their skills.

On April 29, 2018, The Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience – The MAX – will open in Meridian. It will celebrate Mississippi’s legends and demonstrate how their Mississippi roots have shaped their art.

While sitting in a juke joint, you will be able to listen to music from Mississippi legends and create your own band from a selection of musical icons. In the kitchen, you will interact with culinary greats to complete well-known dishes. In the art studio, you will create masterpieces in the styles of great and emerging artists.

There’s magic in this place we call home. Meridian is one of the south's historically significant cities. It sits in the middle of everything, centrally located on major interstate and railway corridors at the midway point between Atlanta and Dallas, and between New Orleans and Memphis.

The museum, too, will put you in the middle of everything. Cutting-edge immersive technology will share stories through artworks, artifacts, moving images, and music.

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In these spaces, The MAX will showcase Mississippi’s global legacy, honor our historic legends, and inspire tomorrow’s artists to follow their own creative dreams.

Visit msarts.org in the weeks and months to come for more details as excitement builds toward the grand opening.

Elvis Presley Birthplace TUPELO, MS Located in the foothills of Northeast Mississippi, Tupelo is the epicenter of America’s music, where, in 1935, the world’s greatest entertainer was born in a two-room shotgun shack.

The gospel tunes he sang in his boyhood church, the soulful blues that he heard coming from the juke joints in the Shakerag district, and the country music that he listened to on the radio from his front porch, enabled Elvis Presley to blend the sounds and deliver what we all know as Rock ‘N’ Roll, to the masses. Visitors can immerse themselves in America’s musical heritage, by beginning their journey in a town called Tupelo.

Travelers to Tupelo can experience the first part of Elvis’ incredible story by visiting the birthplace where he took his first breath, the church where he sang his first song, and the hardware

store where he strummed his first guitar. A statue commemorating his 1956 Homecoming concert stands in Tupelo’s Fairpark District, and a driving tour highlighting 11 significant places in Elvis’ childhood is also part of the visitor experience.

Getting to Tupelo is as much a part of the experience as spending time in the city where anything is possible. The 444mile Natchez Trace Parkway was established over 10,000 years ago. Reaching from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee, this national scenic byway is headquartered in Tupelo and still invites guests to find their own adventure, whether on two wheels or four.

Tupelo’s beat resounds in the many attractions that showcase the city’s unique southern charm. From the Tupelo Automobile Museum exhibiting over 100 antique and classic cars and the interactive HealthWorks!

Kids Museum, to the Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo. Tupelo’s rich cultural history is also presented through a Chickasaw trail, Civil War trail and a Civil Rights and African American Heritage trail.

With quality accommodations, over 160 restaurants, three distinct shopping districts, and exciting events throughout the year, imagine what you can do here!

tupelo.net

Tishomingo County Tourism-Quart.qxp_Layout 1 7/10/17 6:01 PM Page 1

welcome to our table

Downtown & Around Town FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF DINING EXPERIENCES DOWNLOAD THE VISIT CORINTH APP

Electriied with local color and charm, downtown is a treasure trove for name-brand fashion, Corinth-made gifts such as pottery and art, and an array of cuisines. American, Thai, Tex-Mex, and Italian restaurants—all locally owned—are just a few of the options downtown. Or try Borroum’s, the oldest drug store in the state of Mississippi, and order a Corinth original: the Slugburger.

HISTORIC CORINTH, MISSISSIPPI (662) 287-8300 | visitcorinth.com CO R I N T H A R E A CO N V E N T I O N A N D V I S I TO R S B U R E AU

# V I S I TCO R I N T H

One of the Best Kept Secrets of the South.

Tishomingo County Tourism 1001 Battleground Dr. Iuka, MS 38852 662-423-0051 | www.tishomingofunhere.org

FIND US. FOLLOW US. SHARE US.

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Miami A TA S T E O F

FlOrIdA Florida, known as the Sunshine State, is the home of many iconic attractions that keep tourists coming back year after year. Places like Orlando, Miami, and the Everglades National Park are where you’ll want to go first if you’ve never been.

Miami

Orlando is the theme park epicenter of Florida. With Universal Studios, Walt Disney World, MGM Studios, Islands of Adventure, Epcot, Volcano Bay, and so much more, it is no wonder that Orlando is the “Florida city that never sleeps.” Walt Disney World, alone, makes for the number one attraction in all of Florida, and not just for children.

Located in central Florida, Orlando is easy to get to, and offers up plenty of things to do outside of the big parks. Head to Old Town for an antique car show, a tarot card reading, a haunted mansion experience, and even year-round carnival rides. The theme parks offer season passes, so if you’re local and considering multiple visits, a pass is the best idea.

Beyond the hustle and bustle of the family-fun city of Orlando, Miami is more adult-oriented, and has some of the best nightlife in the country. From icethemed clubs, to tiki bars on the beach, Miami will be an oasis for the party animal in you. Stay in a high-rise hotel on the beach and enjoy the best that Miami has to offer, from the theater and art districts of downtown, to the plethora of golf courses, cruises, boat tours, and more.

The Everglades National Park is a widely popular attraction, bringing in tourists from around the world.

es Everglad ark P National

Orlando

Beginning in December, the Everglades experiences what is known as a true winter dry season. Being that the Everglades has a subtropical climate, the best time to visit the park is during this dry season. The humidity is low, so visiting the park during this time makes for a much more enjoyable experience, as the weather in this area can be unbearable most of the time. The Everglades is also the largest tropical wilderness in the United States. There are more than 30 endangered or threatened species that thrive in the Everglades, including the Florida panther, West Indian manatee, and the American crocodile.

There are approximately 350 species of birds in the park as well, and more than 300 species of freshwater and saltwater fish.

For any of those who may be space fanatics, take a trip to the Kennedy Space Center. The space center is more than 100,000 acres in area, and has successfully launched countless space shuttles. Bus tours of the entire facility are available, as well as the hands-on exhibits inside the center, and guided tours through the Mission Zones, which are done chronologically. Experience the Apollo moon landing, get to know some of the NASA and space pioneers, and see what the astronauts are up to today.

The “Springs Capital of the World” invites you to explore the 55-Mile Gilchrist Blueway Trail; perfect for paddling, swimming, tubing, snorkeling, diving, camping, observing wildlife or just plain relaxing, you’ll find it all in Gilchrist County, Florida. If fishing is more your style, the Santa Fe & historic Suwannee River offer up a wide variety of catches such as bass, catfish and sunfish. The Suwannee River is “Home of the Jumping Sturgeon." The Suwannee is considered one of the last “wild” rivers in Florida. There are no man-made structures or dams on the river and the sturgeon have access to the entire river.

Many of the springs run in the Santa Fe River, and have numerous lime rock ledges, a sandy bottom, and native eelgrass waving in the current. It is home to a high diversity of freshwater turtles; the Suwannee Cooter is most often observed basking on logs. In addition, caves and conduits are common in the basin (much to the delight of cave divers!). As you journey along the Santa Fe and majestic Suwannee River, the crystal clear, 72-degree Fahrenheit springs lure you to descent into Blue Springs, Ginnie Springs, Ellie Ray’s, Hart Springs and Otter Springs. Grab a mask/snorkel and be astonished with schools of gar, bream, mullet and bass shimmering through the majestic waters.

GILCHRIST COUNTY, FL

Many of our parks offer rentals of canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and tubes. For the land lover, we offer scenic trails in a natural setting for a wide array of nature-related activities.

and be astonished with schools of gar, “ Grab a mask/snorkel bream, mullet and bass shimmering through the majestic waters.”

to ty e m un

lcost Co e W hri c Gil

“Springs Capital of the World” Your Adventure Awaits Enjoy canoeing / kayaking, swimming, diving, camping, and more!

VisitGilchristCounty.com

Whether you enjoy tent camping or prefer an RV, our Natural Escapes are part of the all-family oriented recreation you can enjoy in the “Springs Capital of the World." Add the warmth of our Southern Hospitality, and you’ll have the perfect haven to escape the everyday hustle and bustle!

Hamilton County, FL

Resting on the Florida-Georgia border, Hamilton County is truly set apart from the rest of the Florida. It is bordered by the Withlacoochee River on the west and the famous Suwannee River on the east and south. Hamilton County is a peninsula within a peninsula, uniquely separated from the rest of Florida. The mysterious Alapaha River splits the county. Hamilton County is a paradise for nature lovers, outdoor sports enthusiasts, and wildlife viewers of all ages. The protected waters of Hamilton County’s rivers, springs, and lakes are an unending source of pleasure for those who enjoy fishing, kayaking, canoeing, snorkeling, swimming, and diving. The banks and surrounding habitats offer a world of possibilities for camping, hunting, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

Jasper is the county seat and offers a wide array of historic homes, buildings, and churches. The second oldest jail of Florida is located here. The original hanging tower is still in place. Jasper is also home to Hamilton County Historic Museum and Heritage Center; the museum tells the story of Hamilton County from the time of the Micco Indians to today. The Hamilton County Rodeo, Blackberry Festival, 4th of July Celebration, Pioneer Day, Heritage Festival, and Sweets N the Streets Festival are held in Jasper.

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Jennings is the smallest town in Hamilton County, and is the heart of the county's history in agriculture. Most of the rivers are on the north side of the county, making Jennings a good fishing and outdoor adventure area. Jennings is also home to Crossroads Motorplex and Jennings GP. White Springs is the most southerly town in Hamilton County, and has the largest historic district in the county, as well. The Wild Azalea Festival, Big Shoals, Suwanee Bicycle Association, Florida Folk Festival, and Festival of Lights make their home here. Stephen Foster Folk Culture State Park is nestled beautifully along the banks of the historic Suwanee River.

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Myrtle B A TA S T E O F

SoUtH CaRoLiNa The Palmetto State is known for its beautiful coastlines, beaches, and sea islands with a lush, subtropical, marshy feel.

Head to Myrtle Beach to experience the beaches that so many rave about.

Myrtle Beach is a beautiful coastal town, praised for its golf courses, white sands, unique shopping districts, and family-friendly waterparks and beach activities. Take a helicopter ride over the town, or enjoy some of the fresh seafood offered at awardwinning restaurants along the coast.

Broadway at the Beach is another popular tourist attraction in Myrtle

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Beach, with Fantasy Golf, Ripley’s Aquarium, live entertainment and dinner shows, WonderWorks, Pavilion Park West, Soar & Explore (a zip-line tour), and an abundance of shopping and dining options.

Myrtle Beach may be too bust for some, so if you’re looking to enjoy a quieter beach, head to Hilton Head Island. As a laid-back, more country part of the state, you’ll be able to enjoy smaller crowds of people, relax-

ing atmospheres, and a calm day of shopping and dining activities. The beaches are beautiful, and the surroundings are much more accommodating to an adult crowd; Hilton Head is perfect for a romantic getaway!

South Carolina is another state that is known for its historic plantations, with over 2,000 properties that still stand today. Plan a statewide tour to catch all of these beautiful plantations, or pick a few of your favorites and head to those. The long-living live oaks that droop over the walkways lined with wildflowers, and the timeless architecture of the buildings, make for a beautiful stroll.

ead

Hilton H

e Gorge e s s a c o J Lake ountains M

Visit Columbia, the state capital, for a look into the state’s history. Plan for a day at the South Carolina State Museum, where your entire family will have fun, from spending time in the planetarium, to watching a movie in 4D! Exhibits showcase everything from war history to local artists, and more, so if you’re local, you may want to consider becoming a member.

Clemson, South Carolina is a great town to visit if you’re looking for an upbeat atmosphere that happens to be nestled in the heart of the state’s natural beauty. Take in native birds and wildlife, waterfalls, rolling hills and winding backroads, as you explore the home of the Tigers.

There are plenty of dining and nightlife options, but the real

awe is within the parks around the town. Head to places like Devils Fork State Park, where you’ll be able to fish for trophy trout in the 7,500 acre lake.

There are cabins and villas available for rent in the park, and the Jocassee Gorges (waterfalls) are only accessible by boat, making this attraction all the more appealing.

Newberry, South Carolina

Just off Interstate 26 in the scenic Midlands of South Carolina lies the City of Newberry — one of South Carolina's cultural and historic treasures, known locally as, “The City of Friendly Folks.”

Newberry is a town rich in history and known for its small town charm.

Founded in 1789, the town boasts beautiful antebellum mansions, treelined streets, and is known for its rural beauty.

Although, it is a place where the past has been carefully and beautifully preserved, it's also a town with a vibrant present and an eye towards the future. Often described as a small town with big city luxuries, we're home to plenty of mom-and-pop shops, but also boast state of the art facilities and attractions. Newberry is home to the state of the art Newberry Hospital medical facility, high-tech Newberry Firehouse Conference Center, the world-class Newberry Opera House performing arts center, and one of the Southeast’s finest private colleges, Newberry College. Our downtown full is of quality shopping, antiquing, and dining.

All this influences Newberry’s thriving economy.

Newberry is located midway between Columbia (the state capitol) and Greenville (a cultural and economic hub of South Carolina). Visitors and residents can enjoy a small town pace of life, but also know that the hustle and bustle of a larger city is just a short drive away.

Additionally, the arts are alive in Newberry! The revitalization that began with the Opera House in the late 1990s has continued to influence Newberry’s arts culture. Our local community theater is alive and well, housed in downtown’s historic Ritz Theater.

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Festivals abound in Newberry. Annually the City of Newberry host a variety free admission, family friend festivals and events including spring events, bbq competitions, holiday lights, and more, but by far the Newberry Oktoberfest is the largest of all.

The Newberry Oktoberfest is a one day celebration of Newberry’s founding German heritage, held on the first Saturday of October. The event features German cuisine and biergartens, fine artists and craftsmen, Kindertown: Kids Zone, Midlands SC Muscle & Classic Car Group, and a variety of live music.

The City of Newberry maintains fifteen local parks encompassing 100 acres. Parks range from scenic sites to ball fields, to parks with playground amenities. Most recently, the City of Newberry has created the Oakland Tennis Center, complete with tennis pro-shop, six hard courts, and three all-weather ClayTech brand tennis courts.

In recent years the Newberry Arts Center was founded as an arts school providing quality visual arts experiences for all ages.

The official South Carolina Clay Conference, a three-day weekend of workshops and events for pottery enthusiasts and professionals, is hosted annually by the Newberry Arts Center and offers one of the largest pottery sales in South Carolina.

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The surrounding countryside of Newberry offers diverse outdoor activities. Just a short drive through the city, our visitors can enjoy horse trails and hiking, and bike trails in Lynch's Woods, a nearby forest preserve. Play a round of golf at one of our two area golf courses, the Country Club of Newberry and the Mid Carolina Country Club. Just minutes from town, you’ll find two local wineries, Proverbs 31, and Enoree River Winery & Vineyard, both offering tours and wine tastings. Local fishing, water sports, and recreation can be found nearby at, Lake Greenwood, Lake Murray’s Dreher Island State Park, and the Saluda River. The Sumter National Forest covers over 56,000 acres in Newberry County and provides hiking and horse trails, boating, fishing, picnicking, bird-watching, and primitive camping.

For your next day trip, weekend getaway, or family vacation, consider a visit to Newberry, SC. A good time is guaranteed!

annual OktOberfest | October 7th

VisitNewberrySC.com

Find Yourself A World Away Shop our fine antique stores and boutiques. Dine at one of our many restaurants. Stroll our historic downtown streets. Experience world-class entertainment at the Newberry Opera House. Visit Newberry for our Annual Oktoberfest October 7th. VisitNewberrySC.com

BARBEQUE, BLUETICKS, &BlAcKwAtEr ORANGEBURG, SC Barbeque, Blueticks, and Blackwater Makes Orangeburg the Highlight of the South!

It’s been said that barbeque dates back to Neanderthal man when forest fire ruins led way to chargrilled animals. It’s our guess that these humans were obviously ancestors of the south and resided in what is now Orangeburg County. Although pitmasters may have been women in ancient times, there is a long line of male lineage tied to this pork of the pit. Located in every corner of the county, you’ll find a barbeque joint stocked with loaves of freshly baked bread, pitchers of sweet tea and aisles of barbeque buffets. Sweet pickles or dill, potato salad or slaw, win-win decisions no matter the choice. The “comfort food capital of the world," Orangeburg County reserves bragging rights on being skilled with the grill.

In their talks of where to locate for the annual hunt, good barbeque must have been a deciding factor for the United Kennel Club. The Grand American Hunt has been a tourist attraction for 52 consecutive years, bringing forth the best of the best in coonhound breeds. From Blueticks to Red Bones, dog winners listed as best of show preserve the integrity of the great kennel breeds. Each January, hunters head out with the sun sinking, knowing success is almost entirely dependent on the quality of the dogs they have access to. An avid hunter knows location is key! Access to land in areas with lots of edge habitat, swamp thickets free from fencing is ideal for the great hunt. Naturally, with no pun intended, great hunting areas are located adjacent to our Edisto Blackwater River. The Edisto River is one of the longest free-flowing rivers in North America, flowing over 250 miles from its sources in Saluda and Edgefield counties to its Atlantic Ocean mouth in Edisto Beach. This tea-stained river serves not only as a border to some of the finest hunting areas, but also as an inviting canoe run. Free from dams and rapids, the lazy, lolling current makes for a southern sanctuary in outdoor entertainment. What better way to relax after a barbeque filled lunch than a river rendezvous? Our river, framed by the largest old growth-stands of Cyprus, is a paddler’s paradise. And if you’re lucky, just as the sun sets, you may see a Bluetick coonhound at the base of a Cyprus tree with a treed raccoon.

DID YOU

KNOW?

IT’S BEEN SAID THAT BARBEQUE DATES BACK TO NEANDERTHAL MAN WHEN FOREST FIRE RUINS LED WAY TO CHARGRILLED ANIMALS.

Cherokee

A TA S T E O F

NoRtH CaRoLiNa Home of the Tar Heels and known as the Old North State, North Carolina is a very popular vacation state, for a variety of reasons.

It’s family-friendly, it’s extremely romantic, it’s a great retirement destination, and an outdoorsman’s heaven-on-earth. With so many things to do, from the coast to the mountains, it’s no wonder why people are choosing to visit this state year after year.

A less-known fact about North Carolina: it is home to one of the largest film production studios outside of Hollywood. Screen Gems Studios, lo-

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cated in Wilmington, North Carolina, has shot more than 400 film, television, and commercial projects since 1985. Recent projects include #1 box office hits such as Iron Man 3 and The Conjuring. Screen Gems is 50 acres in size and offers a fully equipped shooting space, as well as some of the most sophisticated screening and editing facilities in the nation.

Tours of Screen Gems are available to the public, and while walking around the area, don’t be surprised if you see a movie star, or two!

North Carolina’s Asheville and surrounding areas were also used in the filming of The Hunger Games, and with all of the natural beauty that thrives within the state, it isn’t a surprise why filmmakers and tourists alike are flocking to the land. Also in Asheville, you’ll find the Biltmore.

Visit the Biltmore Historic Site for your dose of Carolina history, and walk through the famous mansion.

The Biltmore is known as America’s largest home, and hosts a wide variety of events all year long, including outdoor concerts, wine tastings, festivals, and more.

e Ashevill

North Carolina also has beautiful coastlines and tons of waterfalls and parks to visit, with hiking and biking trails, waterfall viewing cliffs, scenic roadways, and more. Take a wild horse tour in Corolla, North Carolina, where you’ll be able to experience the beauty of these animals in close proximity from a 4x4 SUV. Call ahead and make your reservation in advance, as these tours can fill up quickly. Visit Sliding Rock and slip down a crystal-clear natural water slide, or check in at the Old Cardinal Gem Mine. You can sift through dirt and find your own gems, or take a dark, historic train ride through mining tunnels and forests. Visit Cherokee, North Carolina for an authentic Native American experience, where you’ll witness actual daily routines of the In-

dians, as well as being able to walk through an original tipi. The kids will enjoy the North Carolina Zoo and the North Carolina Aquarium, where you can view humpback whales in their natural habitat.

o olina Zo r a C h t r No

Franklin,

North Carolina Franklin was voted the “Best Small Outdoor Town” for two consecutive years by readers of Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine in 2015 & 2016.

Looking for EXCITING ADVENTURES? We've got you covered!

Soar above the trees with a Ziplining experience. Take a hike to the top of a mountain where you can see for miles and miles in all directions. Test your skills at Fly Fishing or visit a Trout Farm, where you are guaranteed to catch your trout for dinner.

Hit the rivers for the thrill of conquering the rapids in a kayak or raft. Take a mountain bike ride or a road trip on several mapped bike routes. Find your own precious or semi-precious gemstone in any of the ten gem mines that are open to the public in this area. Long known as the “Gem Capital of the World,” Franklin should be your first stop for collecting an everlasting memory that you and your loved ones can cherish for generations. Have your own special piece (or pieces) of jewelry made from the treasures you find while having a fun mining adventure. Caution: this can be addictive!

Franklin Welcome Center 98 Hyatt Road, Franklin NC 28734

www.VisitFranklinNC.com 800-336-7829

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“

Take a walk along the Little Tennessee River on our beautiful Greenway, A great walk for birdwatching, wildflowers and stress relief.

Take a leisurely walk along the Little Tennessee River on our beautiful Greenway, a great walk for birdwatching, wild flowers and stress relief. See the many beautiful waterfalls in the area, including one you can walk behind and one you can drive behind (not dangerous). Rent a mountain cottage and relax by the fireplace with a book or on the porch overlooking beautiful mountain scenery. Photo opportunities abound!

Looking for a more RELAXING vacation?

Got you covered on this one, too!

Make memories with your own personal album. Enjoy quiet solitude, and peaceful sleep. Wake up refreshed and relaxed for another day of exploration and adventure. Have a relaxing day in a pontoon boat (available for rent at the marina) on pristine Lake Nantahala, the 2nd highest lake by elevation east of the Mississippi.

Don't worry about bringing all of your

gear for any of these activities. We have shops and businesses where all your needs can be met.

Start planning your next vacation now. You can find all the details at www.visitfranklinnc.com. In case you need to speak with someone, call us at 1-800-336-7829, we are eager to help you!

Nantahala offers peace and quiet and

Relaxation, The Nantahala Community is centrally located within all the great vacation activity areas of Western North Carolina.

Nantahala Lake, at 3,012 feet elevation, is the 2nd highest lake east of the Rocky Mountains. The pristine waters of Nantahala Lake cover 1,600 acres with 29 miles of shoreline. Activities available on the lake include swimming, boating, fishing, and a perfect place to spend a quiet day relaxing.

You can go whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River, fish for trout in pristine streams, or bass in high mountain lakes. Visit Cherokee Indian Reservation or nearby Franklin, NC, as "Gem City," because of all the great gem mines in the area.

Take a hike in the Joyce Kilmer Forest or Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The road from Franklin to Nantahala is a beautiful, scenic drive which is designated as a National Scenic Byway, known as the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway. A side trip to Wayah Bald is recommended. There is a mile-high overlook from an old stone fire tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Four states are visible from the tower which gives you a panoramic view in all directions.

Queens Creek Lake is a small reservoir on Winding Stairs Road. There's riverbank fishing and a small park with picnic tables and a wheelchair-accessible fishing pier. Trout fishing is subject to "Hatchery-Supported Waters" regulations (no size limit or bait restriction and a creel limit of seven trout per day).

The Bartram Trail is a national recreation trail that travels across the Nantahala National Forest from the Nantahala Gorge, east and south into Georgia. The trail takes its name from William Bartram, a naturalist and explorer who roamed the southern wilderness from Florida to North Carolina 200 years ago. The Nantahala section of the Bartram Trail stretches 21 miles (a two-night hike).

The world-renowned Appalachian Trail also passes through Nantahala. The trail is accessible from Wayah Road southeast of Nantahala Lake and at Wesser.

yet it's surrounded by all the activities the Smokies have to oer.

The Nantahala River offers anglers some of the south's most celebrated trout-fishing waters.

Between the lake and the gorge, the Nantahala River drops almost a thousand feet, creating some of Western North Carolina's most spectacular cascades and waterfalls.

North Carolina Game and Fish named it one of the state's "Ten Best" trout streams and Trout Unlimited listed it as one of the nation's "Top 100" trout streams. The river is stocked by the state of North Carolina but also has a very good population of native trout.

The Upper Nantahala offers a consistent flow and is arguably one of the most scenic mountain rivers in the nation, with its many cascades and waterfalls.

The Lower Nantahala is also classified as Hatchery-Supported Trout Waters, with no size limit or bait restriction and a creel limit of seven trout per day. Because this is where most rafting and kayaking activity occurs, the Lower Nantahala is the only stream in the state where night fishing is allowed.

A North Carolina fishing license is required for fishing in the lake and streams. Fishing licenses may be purchased online or at local sporting goods locations, an ID is necessary to obtain a license. www.ncwildlife.org/Licensing/Licenses-and-Regulations.

Get away to one of the most beautiful and remote spots in the North Carolina mountains.

The Nantahala Community is ideally located for a relaxing getaway — secluded, yet close to all the outdoor activities, scenic drives, attractions, and shopping in Western North Carolina.

You'll find cabin rentals, chalets, vacation rentals and campgrounds scattered throughout the mountains and in the woods, beside pristine creeks with mountain views, in Nantahala Gorge and overlooking Nantahala Lake.

Visit us online at: www.visitnantahalanc.com

Fishing

Franklin/Nantahala Visitors Center 98 Hyatt Road, Franklin, NC 28734 800-336-7829 www.VisitNantahalaNC.com

DISCOVER THE COLORS OF FALL IN HENDERSONVILLE, NC

Enjoy the hospitality of the Hendersonville area, known for its gentle climate, beautiful scenery, richness in culture & history, and friendly people. Hendersonville is located in Western North Carolina, 22 miles south of Asheville, in the Blue Ridge Mountains on a plateau, 2,200 feet above sea level.

Bask in the bounty of the fall apple harvest amidst the scenic beauty

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of the Hendersonville area. As you plan your fall mountain getaway, your window of opportunity is larger than you think. The peak leaf color season lasts from early October to mid-November, depending on where you are. The Western North Carolina mountains provide a variety of elevations, from the highest peaks to the warm, gently rolling foothills. The change in color begins in the higher elevations and cascades

down the mountainside to the foothills. The chances to witness spectacular fall color and beautiful mountain vistas are plentiful in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The fall season oers apples from the grower to the table. North Carolina is the 7th largest apple-producing state in the nation and Henderson County is the largest apple-producing county in North Carolina.

Where do you want to be?

Don’t take the same old journey.

Be somewhere genuine.

Be somewhere amazing.

Be changed.

800.828.4244 visithendersonvillenc.org

Call for your complimentary Getaway Guide

The apple harvest season runs from late August through October. Fresh apples, cider and many other items may be purchased at the local roadside stands.

Many orchards oer tours and allow you to pick your own apples, hayrides, corn mazes and pumpkin patches. Enjoy a self-guided driving tour in and around Henderson County's apple country for apple products and to view the orchards.

One of the most popular destinations for leaf lookers is to venture to the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, located approximately 15 miles north of Hendersonville.

Accommodation options in Hendersonville range from elegant bed and breakfasts to rustic cabins, oering a variety of amenities. For information call 800-8284244 or visit our website visithendersonvillenc.org.

RICHMOND COUNTY, N O R T H

C A R O L I N A

You may know us from our rich racing history that began with The Rock, and continues today with the Rockingham Dragway, but we are much more than that. We are also a community of natural riches, with pristine forests, unspoiled rivers, and fertile farmland. We are the entrance to Central Park, NC, and a base camp for people who want to experience the great outdoors.

Richmond County is defined by our authentic, small southern towns. From the railroad history in Hamlet, the historic courthouse town of Rockingham, the agricultural center of Ellerbe, or the crossroad communities of Hoffman and Norman, with just a short drive people can escape the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Richmond County is one for the active. Children from all over the region flock to Discovery Place KIDS to laugh and learn. Sportsmen retreat here to hunt the lush long-leaf pine woodlands of the Sand Hills Game Lands, get a unique wing-shooting experience at hunting plantation, or even compete in field trials and sporting clays. Adventurers come to our scenic rivers and roads for fishing, canoeing, hiking, and biking experiences that are second to none.

Richmond County's history is rooted in agriculture. While other communities have lost that heritage, ours is still alive and well today with small family farms, destination produce stands, peach orchards, and wineries.

Most importantly, we offer visitors an escape to a more traditional time, one where we respect the land and nature, and are dedicated to its preservation. Whether it's outdoor adventure, agritourism, heritage tourism and, yes, motor sports, Richmond County is the perfect getaway.

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Richmond County Tourism Development Authority P.O. Box 203 / 101 W. Broad Avenue Rockingham, NC 28380 (910) 895-9057 / Fax (910) 817-6140

O O Z [ Nort h C aro

l ina

over 1,600 animals

You don’t have to travel far to see a world of animals at the North Carolina Zoo! With over 1,600 animals representing the North American and African continents, the 500 developed acre conservation park has fun and educational opportunities for everyone.

At the North Carolina Zoo we celebrate nature. Because we believe nature’s diversity is critical for our future, we offer our guests a personal connection with wildlife. The North Carolina Zoo is the world’s largest natural habitat zoo featuring life-changing, fun, family-friendly experiences for the hundreds of thousands of people who visit our zoo each year.

Our guests witness the majesty of the wild in the heart of North Carolina. Located in Asheboro, the geographic center of the state, the zoo also features 52,000 plants in addition to those already found in the area. Find yourself surrounded by some of Africa’s giants, including elephants, rhinos, and giraffes. Share the love of gorillas with Mosuba and his six-member troop, watch polar bears Nikita and Anana take polar plunges every day at their Rocky Coast habitat, or join in the fun at the mud café in the Kidzone.

Our dedicated team of experts – biologists, habitat designers and veterinarians –provide exceptional, compassionate care for the animals that call our park home.

We believe that experience is indeed the best teacher. The best way for children to learn about nature is to experience it firsthand and there is nowhere to compare the experience the North Carolina Zoo offers. By providing hundreds of educational exhibits and programs, we inspire a lifelong curiosity about animals and a passion for protecting wildlife.

The North Carolina Zoo also leads efforts locally and globally to protect the diversity of wildlife and wild places.

The North Carolina Zoo is an adventure like no other anywhere. Plan your adventure at www.nczoo.org.

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Nashvill

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rac Elvis’s G

A TA S T E O F

TeNnEsSeE Beyond the history of the war, Tennessee actually has a lot of cool places to hang out in, thanks in big part to the musical influence that has grown throughout the land.

nation. Prepare to view a wide variety of assets and memorabilia from the star, including his impressive collection of cars, the family tomb, and a tour of his home and music room.

ning radio broadcast in American History. It is prized as “The Show that Made Country Music Famous.” If you’re looking for the roots of Rock & Roll, then you undoubtedly have to head to Memphis. There are well over 100 enormous names in music that all come from the state in general, and Memphis showcases a bit on them all in its many museums, including the Rock n’ Soul Museum, Stax Museum, the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, and the Blues Hall of Fame.

Start by visiting Elvis’s Graceland.

Graceland provides an inside look at the life of “The King,” and highlights his accomplishments, family life, and personal aspirations. The estate itself has been dubbed the “most famous Rock & Roll residence” in the

Tennessee is often considered to be the birthplace of several genres of music, so if you’re all about the tunes, you’ll want to check out Memphis and Nashville. Nashville houses the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grand Ole Opry, the longest-run-

After you’ve listened to your fair share of Rock & Roll, Blues, Soul, and Country hits, head over to Dollywood in Pigeon Forge. Dollywood brings in fun for the whole family with the water park and theme park that cater to all ages.

Tennessee is known as The Volunteer State. It is said that the nickname came about during the War of 1812, when volunteer soldiers came from Tennessee to assist troops.

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Witch The Bell

Dollywood is a stone’s throw from the Great Smoky Mountains, as well, so the entire area has enough activities to fill an entire season without rest.

For a more unique vacation, plan a visit to The Bell Witch Cave. The Bell Witch Cave is located in Adams, Tennessee, and is host to THE famous legend of the Bell Witch.

The witch was said to be invisible to most, and she is widely known as the sole cause of terror and abuse to the Bell family back in the early

1800s. Legend has it that she eventually killed the head of the household, John Bell, but only after she spent many nights terrorizing the family with eerie noises throughout their house. Although she may sound evil, she did save children, or one child at least.

While exploring one day, a group of children came upon the cave and one fell down a dark hole within the caverns. Bursting into panic, the children screamed and tried to help, when they heard the voice of none other than the Bell Witch herself, saying, “I’ll get him out!” And so she did, and the child was saved. Why she terrorized the Bell family, or even if it was truly her, no one really knows, but to this day, the

cave still remains quite a popular attraction. Visitors have reported a variety of strange phenomena within the cave, and reviews call it “the scariest place in Tennessee.”

Cave

DALE HOLLOW IS A JEWEL OF A LAKE IN TENNESSEE

Nestled in the rolling foothills of the Upper Cumberland, and straddling the state lines of Tennessee and Kentucky, Dale Hollow is a "jewel" - a jewel of a lake.

Dale Hollow Lake can claim the designation of a jewel for many reasons: unsurpassed beauty, world-class fishing, houseboating, water sports of all kinds, and many others. In days gone by, forgotten by most now, many people equated the lake to flood control and hydroelectric power.

These are just some of the things that make up the rich, multi-faceted history of Dale Hollow Lake and two nearby rivers – the Obey and Cumberland. It's a history that includes state, continent and world fishing records, and visitors in the dozens of millions through the decades.

From the Southeast to the Midwest, Dale Hollow has long been renowned as a vacation and fishing spot, and lays claim to the world record smallmouth bass.

You may not know exactly where Celina, Tennessee, is but chances are great you've heard of Dale Hollow Lake.

In addition to the world record for smallmouth bass, the lake (and nearby Obey River) has yielded numerous state and continent fishing records.

Pickaslip.com has rated Dale Hollow as the top houseboating destination not only in the U.S., but on the continent, ahead of such vacationing heavyweights as Lake Powell in Utah, Lake Mead near Las Vegas, and the Grand Canyon.

Dale Hollow Lake is as pristine as any lake you’ll visit.

It has been kept purposely underdeveloped by the Corps of Engineers and is well known for its clarity and purity. It’s a popular scuba-diving spot.

The nearby town of Celina (population 1,400), the southern gateway for Dale Hollow, is a former river town that has retained its laid-back, folksy charm.

CELINA, TENNESSEE Gateway to

Dale Hollow Lake • Best Houseboating lake in the U.S. • World-record Smallmouth Bass lake

www. DaleHollowLake.org 424 BROWN ST., CELINA, TN 38551 • 931-243-3338

VISIT GRACELAND IN MEMPHIS NOW OPEN 14 NEW EXHIBITS AND ATTRACTIONS AT THE ALL-NEW ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX

G R AC E L A N D . C O M • 8 0 0 - 2 3 8 - 2 0 0 0 © EPE. Graceland and its marks are trademarks of EPE. All Rights Reserved. Elvis Presley™ © 2017 ABG EPE IP LLC

®

A TA S T E O F

KeNtUcKy

The Bluegrass State is widely known for a single event, if nothing else: The Kentucky Derby. Every early May, the state comes alive with festivals and events that cater to the race of the year.

Since we’re now in the off-season, we encourage you to explore the Kentucky Derby in another way, via the Kentucky Derby Museum. Known as the museum “Where Every Day is Derby Day,” the Kentucky Derby Museum is always planning events to keep the state in good spirits. Interactive exhibits, lunches, historic walking tours, media experiences, and up-close interaction

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with horses are all only a part of what the museum has to offer. Adults are $15 and children are $8. Plan your visit to the museum to experience a behindthe-scenes look at the races, as well as how the Kentucky Derby came to be.

If you’re a fan of bourbon, you won’t want to miss the Maker’s Mark Distillery tour. Head to Loretto, Kentucky, for your

chance to dip your own bottle into the famous red wax seal. The tours are mostly outdoors, so prepare for the weather during your trip. Each tour is about $12, and groups of 5 or more are encouraged to call ahead and make a reservation.

Kentucky also has many natural wonders, including the Mammoth Cave National Park, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Daniel Boone National Forest, and many more. Labeled as the “world’s longest cave,” the cave systems within Mammoth Cave National Park, house over 400 miles of passageways and caverns to explore. Guided tours are available and highly recommended.

y Distiller k r a M s Maker’

oone Daniel B rest Fo National

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is known as “the Niagara of the south,” and there are walking trails and a viewing area to marvel at the 125-foot drop from the top of the waterfall to the Cumberland River.

Cumberland Falls is also unique in that under a full moon, will produce the only moonbow in the western hemisphere. A moonbow is similar to rainbow in every effect, other than the fact that it is created by the moonlight, rather than direct sunlight.

The Daniel Boone National Forest is praised for its ex-

tremely rugged terrain, from steep cliffs and bluffs, to forested slopes and very narrow ravines. There are three large lakes within the forest, and the land itself is great for exploring, or even camping out if you’re up to it. Activities you can do within the forest include fishing, camping, hiking, biking, rock climbing, picnicking, and much more. The Natural Bridge within the forest is a must-see while you’re there. It measures over 60 feet high and about 75 feet wide, and was naturally created by erosion and weather conditions over the years.

DISCOVER Excitement, fun, and relaxation welcome you to Glasgow – the county seat of Barren County – in southcentral Kentucky! Fun-producing adventures all around include: boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, waterskiing, hiking, biking, camping, a fun center, golf courses, museums, special events, car shows, and festivals!

GLASGOWBARREN COUNTY, KENTUCKY

The community is rich in history, as Barren County was established in 1798, and Glasgow was designated as the county seat in 1799. The area, known for its rich Scottish heritage, celebrates the Annual Glasgow Highland Games the weekend following Memorial Day. The area is surrounded by nature, from the water wonderland known as Barren River Lake, to the underground world of caves. Barren county is simply teeming with natural beauty.

Surrounded by gently-rolling, tree-covered hills, Barren River Lake is a water lover’s paradise. With over 10,000 acres of water, the lake provides a great place to kick back, relax, and make memories that go home with you. Hiking, horseback riding, a sand beach, boating, canoeing, and kayaking are available for pleasure. The lake contains crappie, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill.

Hit the trail at Brigadoon State Nature Preserve. The name is Scottish, and means, “a place that is idyllic, unaffected by time, or remote from reality.” It truly is a special place that offers 184 protected acres as foot trails weave through ridgetops, mature forests, and scenic ravines. An array of plants and flowers live at Brigadoon, and many are rare. No picking or digging is allowed, as the land is protected. Take photos to capture natural beauty.

The resident and migratory birds create superb opportunities for birding and nature photography.

Glasgow is located a few miles from Mammoth Cave National Park, as well as other beautiful caves. Mammoth Cave, with 400 miles of trails within, is referred to as a “world wonder.” A promise of phenomenal exploration and soul-renewing relaxation occasionally exist where you least expect it.

Visit www.visitglasgowbarren.com for more information.

m o r f s g n Greeti

KENTUCKY VisitBerea.com Exit 77 or 76 off I-75

MAYSVILLE, KENTUCKY All big cities look the same with all the chain restaurants and stores.

If you want to experience how real American people work, live and play, then Maysville, Kentucky is your destination. There is only one Maysville, Kentucky, with unique shops and a history that dates back to the beginning of our country. Imagine travelling in time from 1776 to present, getting a glimpse of ages passed in architecture, early history (including stops on the Underground Railroad), and the stories of influential and famous people who hail from this special spot. Who are these famous people? Well how about a little taste of George Clooney and his famous Aunt Rosemary Clooney? Let us help you conjure up adventures of the famous pioneers, including Daniel Boone and Simon Kenton. We can tell you an interesting story about Harriet Beecher Stowe and her connection to a prominent family who once lived here.

If a trip to Maysville, Kentucky is planned precisely, one can experience Steam boats and paddle Wheelers docking to tour. If you enjoy spirits, we have Bourbon at the Pouge Distillery and Wine tasting at Maysville Uncorked. We even have spirits, not of this world that we can share. Another fun, “down home” experience is Pig Out, if you like BBQ. In September you can step back in time to a pioneer event known as The Simon Kenton Festival, consisting of the Kenton Ken, and the Piqua Shawnee Tribe. This event offers Music, food and fun for the entire family.

Maysville, Kentucky is not just another small town but it is an experience for all who visit.

We are the only city in Kentucky that creates a personal, customized tour for you and your group’s needs. Contact us at The Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) at 1-606-563-2597 or www.cityof Maysville.com

EAT

K N R D E R O L P X E

UCKY T N E LLE, K I V S Y MA

KENTUCKY

www.cityofmaysville.com

info@maysvilleky.net

606-563-2596

Maysville-Mason County CVB

share-worthy selfies

THE GOOD LIFE IS SERVED. KentuckyTourism.com

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SEE IT. BET IT. TASTE IT. Celebrate Mardi Gras in Shreveport-Bossier with tons of beads, mouthwatering king cake, family-fun parades, glitzy parties and glamorous bals. Have a group of 10 or more? Book today and reserve your spot for the coveted 2018 Red River Mardi Gras Bash.

Red River Mardi Gras Bash Feb. 3, 2018

Krewe of Centaur Mardi Gras Parade XXVII Feb. 3, 2018

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Tickets to the Red River Mardi Gras Bash are $40 per person. For group information contact Erica Telsee, group sales manager at the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau at 800-551-8682 ext. 104 or etelsee@sbctb.org.

www.ShreveportMardiGras.org

Full of natural wonders.

Here in Martin County, we know a thing or two about natural beauty. Our warm waters and wave patterns are beloved by surfers, and our soft-sanded beaches are perfect for sunners, swimmers, and snapshots. Prefer something more adventurous?

Not only is Martin County the sailfishing capital of the world, but it also plays host to a native coquina reef, perfect for eye-catching snorkeling. And there's no better way to enjoy our breathtaking views than with a morning stroll at sunrise along our beachside boardwalk. It's just one of the many things that make Martin County, Florida naturally quaint.

discovermartin.com

Naturally Quaint

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Wildlife Refuge - Ponies - Coastal Cuisine - Kayak - Fish - Tours - Hike

VisitCIVA.com 757.336.6161

National Seashore - Boat Cruise - Canoe - Bike - Crab - Museums - NASA...

A New Destination Awaits On Virginia’s Only Resort Island

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FXVA.com George Washington’s Mount Vernon

Travel South | Fall 2017 | 199

Feed Your Soul InJackson

Convention & Visitors Bureau 126 E. Race St. Martinsburg, WV 25401 304.264.8801 | 800.4WVA.FUN travelwv.com

Remember that time we had a girls’ night out?

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*All loans are subject to credit approval by LightStream. If approved, your APR will be based on loan purpose, amount, term and your credit profile. Conditions and limitations apply.

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Three days in Kentucky. That’s all it takes to discover that horses, bourbon and bluegrass are just the beginning. For sample itineraries and travel tips, visit KentuckyTourism.com/weekend.

No weekend plans?

TRY some of ours.

#travelky