20 Adventure Destinations in West Virginia

Whitewater rafting, hiking, steam train rides, handmade crafts, and fabulous food are just a few reasons to visit West Virginia.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | July 29, 2010

 Sitting at the top of the South as if a giant hand crumpled it up and tossed it there, West Virginia is made up of mountains that disappear into the clouds, and valleys that plunge deep into places where the sun only shines a few hours each day. The raw, powerful beauty of the land promises adventure and outdoor fun, and delivers much, much more.

We’ve explored The Mountain State up …

Come to Mt. Airy For a Taste of Mayberry

Andy Griffith's hometown and one of the cast members of The Andy Griffith Show welcome you to "Mayberry"

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | July 20, 2010

The town of Mt. Airy, North Carolina was the inspiration for the fictional town of Mayberry in the TV sitcom The Andy Griffith Show, which first aired on October 3, 1960. The show ran for 8 seasons, but over the years re-runs have enlisted new generations of fans who fall in love with the characters and the simple life lessons played out on the television screen. 

One of the best ways to see Mt. Airy, …

Cool Family Vacation in the Tennessee Mountains

The area of Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Gatlinburg offers excitement and back-to-nature activities for the entire family.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | July 20, 2010

A family vacation this summer calls for a cool place with a range of activities to please everyone, from the avid miniature golf enthusiast to the roller coaster fan and the nature lover.  Where’s the perfect place?  It’s the area in and around Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

The heat index seems to drop ten degrees whenever I just think about the Great Smoky Mountains. …

Favorite Mississippi Juke Joints

For live blues, as powerful and raw as the mighty Mississippi River, you have to follow the Mississippi Blues Trail.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | July 09, 2010

I like music: country, rock, classical, gospel, and jazz—you name it.

But I love the blues — live blues in particular. And not just any blues will do. I want Mississippi Delta blues, played in a Mississippi juke joint that looks like it’s seen better times, and sung by people who know something about hard work, hard times, hard-hearted women, and the men who love them.

So every once in a while I …

The Natural Wonders of Georgia

The wonders of Georgia never cease, from Stone Mountain to the Okefenokee Swamp, and from fabulous food to amazing people.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | July 07, 2010

From Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains to the Coastal Plain that’s edged with timeless marshes, the state is filled with natural wonders. They include rivers, waterfalls, islands, unique land formations, nature trails, wildlife, and people. All wait to be discovered, explored, and celebrated.

ENCHANTING ISLANDS

Washed by the restless pulse of the Atlantic Ocean, barrier islands stretch down Georgia’s coast for 100 miles. The first is Tybee, Savannah’s playground. It has …

Famous Southern Movie Scenes

The South is filled with small towns, city sites, and attractions where movies were filmed, and you can visit.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | June 28, 2010

It’s surprising how many movies have been filmed on location in the South. But what’s truly amazing is that in one movie you may recognize not just one, but many different places. The movie Forrest Gump, for example, was filmed in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Washington, D.C., and in five other locations outside the South.

When I go to a movie, I usually invite my daughter along, although she always gets a bit …

12 Reasons to Vacation in Alabama

From water sports to fabulous food, Alabama offers vacation options for every interest and taste.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | June 22, 2010

 There are as many reasons to visit Alabama as the state has towns, cities, museums, lakes and rivers, resorts, and other attractions. This makes it the perfect choice for family travel. Here, we narrow down our top 12 reasons to take a vacation in our home state. 

1. FUN ON WATER

When it comes to opportunities to get out (or in) the …

Stay and Play Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail

Summer value rates, stunning terrain, spas, and more make these sites perfect for golf, or just for a girl's getaway.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | June 14, 2010

 Some of Alabama’s most drop-dead gorgeous countryside can’t be seen from the interstate, or even along the backroads.  You have to get out on the golf course – specifically, one of the courses on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.  

The trail – which features 468 holes at 11 sites around the state – offers something for players at every level, from beginner to experienced. And for spouses …

Virginia Turns Independence Day History Into Fun

Parades, historic reenactments, concerts, and fireworks make Virginia the perfect place to celebrate July 4th.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | June 07, 2010

 There’s no better place to celebrate our country’s patriotic roots than in Virginia, birthplace of Thomas Jefferson, the primary author of the Declaration of Independence, and George Washington, our first president. So if you’re searching for events and activities with direct links to our nation’s early years, or just a cool way to combine a bit of history with a lot of family fun, take a look at Fourth …

Honeymoon on Georgia’s Golden Isles

Four of Georgia's barrier islands offer beachside romance in luxury settings, with plenty of outdoor activities on the side.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | June 02, 2010

Georgia’s barrier islands are so beautiful that four of them are known as the Golden Isles. Lovely wide beaches, resorts for every budget, and an air of romance, make any one of the four perfect for a honeymoon or a couple’s getaway.

LITTLE ST. SIMONS, A NATURAL PARADISE

For the rest of my life I’ll daydream about returning to Little St. Simons Island. Wrapped around the northern tip of St. Simons …

Visit a Vineyard, Picnic With a Llama

Divine Llama Vineyards in East Bend, NC offers wine tastings, as well as a hike and picnic with llamas.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | May 27, 2010

Having a picnic with a llama is one of the last things I ever imagined doing at a winery.  But at a place with a name like Divine Llama Vineyards, it seems perfectly natural. And it’s a great low-key activity for everyone, including families, couples, friends on a girl's getaway, and other groups.

About 20 minutes west of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, in the Yadkin Valley Wine Appellation  (yes, it’s an official wine producing …

What’s Cool, What’s New at the Tennessee Aquarium

Add a Backstage Pass for your coolest trip yet to the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | May 21, 2010

To cool off on at least one hot summer day each summer, I like to head for the water—thousands of gallons of water—at the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga.

Dipping my hand into the Tropical Cove Touch Exhibit and feeling the velvet skin of a stingray makes me forget all about the temperature outside. So does watching the penguins play in the chilly waters of the “Penguins Rock” exhibit.

I could rip right …

Spend Memorial Day on the Gulf Coast

Right now the water’s fine, so come on down to the Alabama and Northwest Florida Gulf coast for holiday fun.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | May 19, 2010

Memorial Day weekend usually means a trip to the beach. And one of the most popular vacation destinations in the South for this annual holiday is the area that stretches from Gulf Shores Alabama, eastward into Florida and past Pensacola, Destin, The Beaches of South Walton, and Panama City Beach.

This Memorial Day shouldn’t be much different from any other along the coasts of …

Karen Lingo’s Top 20 Things to do in Florida

Here are 20 things to do in Florida, from finding the perfect beach to kayaking and catching your own scallops.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | May 11, 2010

Florida has about as many different faces as a room full of clocks – one for every interest, whether it’s sunbathing, kayaking, learning to sail, dining on fresh seafood, or swimming with manatees. Make a Bucket List of things you want to try, because Florida has enough to keep you busy for the rest of your life. Here are 20 things to get that list started:

1. MEET A SEA CRITTER

If you’ve …

Relax at a Spa Resort

Treat yourself to round-the-clock pampering at this fabulous Florida spa and luxury resort.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | April 29, 2010

There are day spas, and then there are stay spas. If all I have is a few hours, a massage or facial at a day spa fits my time and budget nicely. But given a choice, I’ll take the stay spa any day of the week, especially if it’s at Florida’s Boca Raton Resort and Beach Club.

Wrapped in the lingering scent of lavender, I could close my eyes and drift sleepily …

Memphis Cooks and Rocks In May

Take a cue and come for Memphis In May, a month of festivals that feature barbecue, international culture, and barbecue.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | April 22, 2010

Memphis is known for barbecue and music. But during Memphis in May, this Tennessee city on the banks of the Mississippi River raises both to new heights. The sounds of rock bands and country legends, and the aroma of pork shoulders and ribs cooking on the grill float over the city like welcome banners to a reunion. And each year, the faithful come, hungry to sample the best-tasting barbecue in the …

Get Ready for the Kentucky Derby

Horses, mint juleps, and Louisville's Kentucky Derby Festival events mark the days leading up to the Run for the Roses.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | April 15, 2010

They’re off! So grab your hat; it’s time for the Kentucky Derby. The 136 Run for the Roses ranks as the most famous two minutes in sports. Post time on Saturday, May 1, is 6:24 p.m. at Churchill Downs in Louisville. Along with the four-legged million-dollar beauties that vie for the first win in horse racing's Triple Crown (the Belmont Stakes and Preakness Stakes are …

Make Some Memories in South Carolina

From its beaches to whitewater rivers, and small towns to historic cities, South Carolina offers experiences worth remembering.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | April 09, 2010

South Carolina is a state of “firsts” for my family. The list includes a whitewater raft trip on the Chattooga River, spending the night with ghosts, a speeding ticket, conch shells, and escargot.

Tongue-in-cheek, my daughter refers to her first visit to South Carolina as “the time Mom tried to drown me.”

I thought a raft trip with Wildwater Ltd. down the Chattooga River, made famous by Deliverance, the …

Springtime on Mobile Bay

This is the perfect time to catch azaleas at their peak, enjoy the warm weather, and dine on seafood along Alabama's Gulf Coast.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | April 01, 2010

Warm spring weather, flowers in bloom, fresh seafood, golf courses that spread like green velvet beneath 20-year-old trees, and the possibility of a Jubilee (a local natural phenomenon) provide plenty of reasons to head on down to the Mobile Bay area.

On my first trip through Mobile, riding home from a family vacation at the beach, my brother and I were excited at the idea of driving under the Mobile River by way of …

Easter Sunrise and More at Stone Mountain Park

Come for the Easter Sunrise Service, or make a trip for family fun at this state-operated park just 16 miles from Atlanta.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | March 25, 2010

The sun is rising on Easter morning. But while it still hovers below the horizon, casting a narrow band of pastel pink and yellow promise as a prelude to the day, families begin arriving atop Georgia’s Stone Mountain. Facing east, they spread their blankets and stadium cushions on the cold granite surface. Now they wait, and watch. If they turn around, they can barely make out the skyline of Atlanta, 16 miles away.  But most …

Discover North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway's 75th anniversary is a perfect reason to explore North Carolina cities, towns, and natural attractions.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | March 20, 2010

All roads in North Carolina lead to adventure and discovery. The granddaddy of them all is the Blue Ridge Parkway, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year.  Let it and other highways across the state take you into cities such as Asheville, Charlotte, Wilmington, Raleigh, and Durham; to delightful small towns such as Chimney Rock, Dillsboro, Edenton, and Pinehurst; and to the windswept shores of …

Cherry Blossom Time in Macon

This city south of Atlanta combines music, sports, and history with more Yoshino cherry trees than any other city.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | March 15, 2010

Each spring, Macon, Georgia appears to float amid a sea of pink clouds as blooms from more than 300,000 Yoshino cherry trees canopy downtown streets and neighborhoods. The city celebrates this phenomenon with an annual Cherry Blossom Festival, March 19-28. Activities include nightly concerts in Central City Park, a parade, bed race, hot air balloon event, tour of homes, and more.

STORY BEHIND THE CHERRY TREES

The Yoshino cherry trees around …

Things We Love About Savannah

Romantic Inns, fabulous dining, and history are just a few things that keep us coming back to Georgia's coastal city.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | March 10, 2010

I turn green with envy (figuratively, of course) every time someone tells me they’re going to Savannah. It’s where I fell in love with four-poster beds, afternoon tea, and historic inns; pigged out at my first oyster roast; and discovered the incomparable social experience of family style dining at a place called Mrs. Wilkes Boarding House.

This year marks the city’s 186th St. Patrick’s Day observance, beginning March 12 with …

Take a Break at Myrtle Beach

For a spring getaway, summer vacation, or any time, head to Myrtle Beach, one of the South’s liveliest resort areas.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | February 28, 2010

South Carolina’s Grand Strand likes to entertain. Coming just to lay out all day soaking up rays is like showing up at the hottest concert of the year wearing earplugs. You miss half the fun.

Now, we’re not suggesting you stay away from the beach altogether. After all, sun and sand top the list of reasons to make a trip to this slice of South Carolina coast anchored by Myrtle Beach.  Just …

Mississippi Means Great Food, Music, and More

Come for the blues, Elvis, fried catfish, fresh seafood, and small-town treasures

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | February 17, 2010

The best way to explore Mississippi is through the senses.

Taste the salty sweetness of Gulf Coast oysters cradled in a Po’boy, and the spicy heat of hand-rolled tamales fresh from the steamer. Hear the sizzle of catfish frying at an outdoor festival. Feel the excitement of riverboat casinos that come with headliner entertainment, gourmet restaurants, and luxury spas.

Listen to the Blues pouring out of a juke joint on a hot Delta night, to the …

Mardi Gras In Mobile

Mobile, along with New Orleans and Acadian towns such as Church Point and Mamou, celebrates Mardi Gras, so come join the fun.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | February 08, 2010

Some may dispute it, but Mobile, Alabama, lays claim to celebrating the South’s first Mardi Gras (French for “fat Tuesday,” the day before Lent). The city observed this country’s first-known Mardi Gras in 1703. But modern festivities date to 1866, when local resident Joe Cain dressed up like an Indian, decorated his mule and wagon, and held a one-float parade to boost post-civil War spirits.

The Mobile celebration may be less crowded than the one in …

Miami, Before and After the Super Bowl

Whether in town for the Super Bowl, or planning a visit later, here are some local highlights.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | February 01, 2010

Miami, for all its glitzy vibes and international sophistication, offers a fun, affordable vacation. You can sample the Cuban culture in Little Havana, shop the malls and trendy boutiques, swim with dolphins, or just hang out on the beach. And if you occasionally catch sight of celebrities such as J. Lo, Gloria Estefan (who with her husband, Emilio, owns the Cardozo Hotel in South Beach), or Will Smith, it just reinforces the city’s reputation …

Ski West Virginia

Head to West Virginia for winter sports that include skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and snowtubing.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | January 25, 2010

West Virginia ranks as one of my favorite places for outdoor adventure. From the air, it looks like crumpled pieces of construction paper, colored to match the season and tossed down at the top of the South. From the ground, it’s simply spectacular: Mountains rollercoaster to euphoric heights, and plunge into valleys carved even deeper by wild whitewater rivers. In winter they’re covered with snow, gloriously deep in all the right places …

Romantic Getaway to Lake Ouachita, AR

Mountain Harbor Resort highlights romance the entire month of February.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | January 24, 2010

My romantic getaways have to meet certain criteria—they must feel cozy, no matter what their size. They need to have a distinctive personality, provide a reasonable amount of privacy, offer a taste of luxury, and be located in an area with something interesting to see and do. Many southern inns meet all of these expectations. So do some of the South’s wonderful old hotels, and some of its resorts.

Luxury in the Woods

…

Louisiana: A State of Magic

The exotic cultures of Louisiana weave an enchanting web of fabulous food, music, history, and outdoor adventure.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | January 16, 2010

Fine cooking, lively music, and a unique blend of cultures give Louisiana an exotic brand of magic found nowhere else. It begins in New Orleans, spreads across the marshes, travels north past the bluffs and up through the pine forests, and comes to rest in the inky cypress swamps and meandering bayous that thread through the state.

Feel the magic as you explore the narrow streets of New Orleans’ French Quarter, or when you spend the …

Birmingham, AL’s Civil Rights Legacy

At sites related to Birmingham's black heritage, it is a time for reflection, and a time to look forward.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | January 08, 2010

Birmingham recalls its role in the Civil Rights movement with a world-class multi-media facility. It also honors the accomplishments of its African American sons and daughters with museums, music, historic sites, and special events. From the Civil Rights historic district downtown to the legendary Tuxedo Junction in the western part of town, it’s rich in history and heritage.

Looking Back

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, on the corner of Sixth Avenue North …

Find Your Fitness Getaway

Jump start a healthy 2010 with a hike in a state park, an eagle watch, or a few days at a fabulous fitness spa.

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | January 03, 2010

 I dread the thought of New Year’s resolutions almost as much as I dislike the stuffed, sluggish feeling that hangs on after too much good food and not enough exercise over the holidays. So each year I commit nothing to list form, particularly when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle or staying fit.

Instead, I treat myself.

One year my treat was a series of spa days that boosted my resolve to take …

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Gatlinburg, TN

Gatlinburg rings in the New Year with a giant street party, fireworks, and a New Year's Eve Ball Drop

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | December 23, 2009

When the lighted ball drops in downtown Gatlinburg on New Year’s Eve, the area around the Space Needle turns into a miniature Times Square. Music plays, people sing, and fireworks dance and pop against the towering curtain of mountains. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies rocks the old year out with champagne, food, and two dance floors, one featuring a live band and another with a DJ spinning tunes. Local restaurants feature special buffets, champagne toasts, and …

Christmas at Colonial Williamsburg

The best things about Christmas at Colonial Williamsburg are shopping, and holiday traditions, and dining

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | December 21, 2009

For our family, a holiday trip to Colonial Williamsburg always begins with last minute shopping in Merchants Square—favorite gifts include games and puzzles from The Toymaker of Williamsburg, warm woolen scarves and caps from Scotland House Ltd., and silver-plated trivets and Christmas ornaments from Williamsburg Craft House.  Then we grab a cup of soup at The Trellis, light fare that leaves room to share their signature dessert, “Death by Chocolate,” …

Christmas Lights at Callaway Gardens

Callaway Gardens glows with holiday tradition during Fantasy In Lights

by Karen Lingo, Executive Editor | November 24, 2009

As holiday traditions go, a trip to Callaway Gardens during Fantasy In Lights is on our list of family favorites. Millions of lights and holiday music during the annual event add a special glow to Christmas. Through December 30, the Gardens are open each day as usual, closing at 5 p.m., and then reopening at 6 p.m. for the Fantasy In Lights tours.

Get There Early

We arrive early afternoon to check out the floral displays …