Southside

Day Trips

Start your day in Atlanta with a visit to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park, where you can tour MLK's childhood home and the Ebenezer Baptist Church. Afterward, grab breakfast at a local cafe, savoring classic Southern biscuits. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the iconic skyline before heading to your next adventure.

Spend your afternoon at the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world. Marvel at the diverse marine life, including the magnificent whale sharks and playful sea otters. You can grab lunch at one of the nearby eateries, perhaps enjoying some famous fried chicken.

In the evening, head to the historic Buckhead district for some upscale shopping and dining. Choose from a variety of restaurants offering everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. Conclude your day with a stroll through the stunning Atlanta Botanical Garden, where the flora is beautifully lit at night.

Begin your day in Charleston with a leisurely walk along the historic waterfront at Waterfront Park, savoring the colorful flowers and oak trees. Follow up with a traditional Southern breakfast at a downtown café, where you can enjoy grits and eggs. After breakfast, consider a visit to the historic Battery to admire the architecture of the antebellum homes.

In the afternoon, take a Fort Sumter National Monument ferry to explore the site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. After returning, indulge in lunch at one of the local seafood shacks, sampling the renowned Lowcountry shrimp and grits. Spend the rest of your afternoon strolling through the Charleston City Market to discover local crafts and food.

As evening approaches, so does the perfect opportunity to dine at one of Charleston's famed farm-to-table restaurants, focusing on fresh local ingredients. After dinner, consider attending a live music event at a downtown venue or enjoying a ghost tour for a unique and spooky perspective of the city. Finish your night with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop, enjoying the warm Southern breeze.

Kick off your Smoky Mountains adventure with an early hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, exploring trails like Alum Cave or Laurel Falls. The serene morning air and stunning vistas will invigorate your spirit as you connect with nature. Enjoy a picnic breakfast amidst the trees, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

After your hike, spend the afternoon in Gatlinburg, where you can visit the SkyLift Park for breathtaking views and walk across the scenic sky bridge. Grab lunch at a mountain lodge, perhaps indulging in some hearty Appalachian fare. Afterwards, explore downtown Gatlinburg, filled with quirky shops and attractions.

As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at a rustic mountain restaurant, enjoying local specialties. Afterward, take a scenic drive through Cades Cove, perfect for spotting wildlife under the evening sky. Round off your night by sipping hot cocoa by the fireplace at your cabin, sharing stories under the stars.

Begin your day in the charming city of Savannah by enjoying a classic Southern breakfast at a quaint local eatery, savoring dishes like peach French toast. Next, take a walk through Forsyth Park, where the iconic fountain serves as a perfect photo backdrop. Enjoy the sights and sounds of this historic district as you prepare for a day of exploration.

Spend the afternoon visiting the historic district, where you can take a guided walking tour to learn about the city's rich history and architecture. Don’t forget to stop by the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace to understand the roots of the Girl Scouts. For lunch, head to a riverfront restaurant, relishing some fresh-caught seafood while watching boats glide by.

In the evening, indulge in a dining experience at a renowned restaurant that highlights Low Country cuisine. After dinner, take a ghost tour through the haunted streets of Savannah, where you'll hear spine-tingling tales of the city's past. Finish your night with a leisurely walk along River Street, enjoying the lively atmosphere and local musicians.

Wake up in New Orleans to the sounds of live jazz peeking through your window and enjoy a classic beignet breakfast at Café du Monde. Embrace the morning by strolling through the French Quarter, taking in the beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to explore the local art galleries and shops along Decatur Street.

In the afternoon, visit the National WWII Museum, one of the most acclaimed museums in the country, to deepen your understanding of history through powerful exhibits. Afterward, savor a leisurely lunch at a Cajun restaurant, trying gumbo or jambalaya for an authentic taste of the city. Spend your afternoon soaking up the atmosphere at Jackson Square, where artists and street performers add vibrant energy.

As the sun sets, prepare for an evening of unforgettable cuisine at one of the city's renowned Creole restaurants. After dinner, join a lively jazz performance at a local venue, experiencing the rich musical heritage that defines New Orleans. Wrap up your night by indulging in classic cocktails at the historic Carousel Bar, a unique bar that's always in motion.

Kick-start your day in Mobile with a visit to the Mobile Museum of Art, where you can explore diverse collections and perhaps join a morning art class. Afterward, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local diner, known for its warm hospitality and delicious specials. Stroll through the nearby Bienville Square, adorned with towering trees and beautiful statues.

Spend your afternoon at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, exploring the historic battleship and other military artifacts. Grab a quick lunch nearby, indulging in the region's famous seafood dishes. Continue your adventure with a visit to the Mobile Botanical Gardens, showcasing stunning floral displays.

As night falls, treat yourself to dinner at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood with a picturesque view of the sunset. After dinner, consider visiting a local theater for a live performance or pick up some unique handmade crafts at a nearby market. End your day by taking a peaceful walk along the Mobile Riverfront, soaking in the calm ambiance.

Begin your day in Gulf Shores with breakfast at a beachfront café, where you can enjoy views of the ocean while savoring fresh pancakes and coffee. Spend your morning lounging on the beautiful sandy beaches, soaking in the sun and listening to the sound of waves crashing. For a more active start, consider renting kayaks or paddleboards to explore the nearby coastal waters.

In the afternoon, visit the Gulf Shores State Park for a scenic hike and the chance to see local wildlife. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park's beautiful picnic areas, surrounded by nature. After lunch, relax on the beach or try your hand at beach volleyball or frisbee.

As the sun sets, look for a beachside restaurant to enjoy a fresh seafood dinner, opting for local favorites like shrimp and oysters. After dinner, explore the lively beach boardwalk with its shops and entertainment. Cap off your evening with a sunset cruise, allowing you to take in the stunning views as the day comes to a close.

Start your morning in Texas Hill Country with a hearty breakfast at a cozy café, enjoying local specialties such as breakfast tacos or biscuits and gravy. Afterward, head to the stunning wineries for a tour, where you can learn about the winemaking process. Make sure to stop by at least one vineyard for a tasting of their renowned wines.

Continue your wine adventure by visiting several more wineries, each with its unique charm and offerings, allowing you to sample a variety of blends. Take a break for lunch at one of the picturesque wine cellar restaurants, pairing your food with the region's exquisite wines. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming local towns of Fredericksburg or Grapetown, filled with shops and galleries.

As evening falls, enjoy a dinner at a country inn or winery restaurant, where you can savor a farm-to-table meal paired with local wines. After dinner, consider joining a sunset wine tour or heading to a local distillery for a unique tasting experience. Wrap up your day by enjoying a scenic view of the Texas Hill Country, relishing in the serene landscape.

Kick off your Nashville adventure with breakfast at an iconic diner, sampling dishes like country ham and eggs. Afterward, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame to learn about the legends who shaped the world of music. Stroll through the vibrant Music Row, admiring the murals and studios that make Nashville famous.

Spend your afternoon exploring the Parthenon in Centennial Park, a remarkable replica of the original in Athens. Grab lunch at a local barbecue joint to enjoy some authentic Southern flavors. Afterwards, check out local shops on Broadway, soaking up the lively atmosphere of the Music City.

As the sun sets, head to a popular downtown honky-tonk for live music and dancing. Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring Southern cuisine, perhaps trying Nashville hot chicken for a true local experience. Cap off your night with a visit to The Bluebird Café, where you might catch a surprise performance from a local artist.

Start your day in the Ozarks with a hearty breakfast at a local café and prepare for a day of outdoor exploration. Head to the Ozark National Forest to hike through stunning trails and enjoy the sights of cascading waterfalls. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, making your morning a truly immersive nature experience.

In the afternoon, visit the spectacular Thorncrown Chapel, a beautiful structure made of glass and wood that blends seamlessly with its surroundings. Take your lunch at a picnic area in the forest, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Continue your adventure with a canoe or kayak trip down the White River, experiencing the beauty of the Ozarks from the water.

As evening descends, prepare for a dinner at a rustic lodge, relishing in hearty Ozark cuisine after a day of adventure. If time permits, consider attending a local festival or fair to immerse yourself in the community atmosphere. Conclude your night by stargazing in the clear Ozark sky, amazed by the abundance of stars.