Spring Travel Guide - 2023

TRAVEL GUIDE

Crystal-Clear Emerald Coast Waters

Historic Lowcountry of the Carolinas and Georgia

Smoky Mountain Outdoor Activities and Experiences

White sands and clear waters help visitors sit back and relax along the Emerald Coast

The Emerald Coast, which includes Gulf Shores, Pensacola, Destin, and South Walton 30A beaches, is a popular tourist destination known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and a range of activities for visitors of all ages.

Gulf Shores, Alabama offers miles of white sandy beaches, the Gulf State Park, and OWA Parks and Resorts. Visitors can also take a dolphin-watching cruise or go deep-sea fishing for a chance to catch tuna, marlin, and other big game fish.

Pensacola, Florida is a historic city with a rich culture and a range of activities. Visitors can explore the historic downtown area, which features museums, art galleries, and restaurants, or take a stroll along the Pensacola Bayfront, which offers stunning views of the bay. One unique attraction is the Blue Wahoos Stadium, which overlooks the bay and is home to the Pensacola Blue Wahoos minor league

baseball team. Visitors can enjoy a game while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Destin, Florida is known for its sugar-white sand beaches and emerald green waters. Visitors can relax on the beach or explore the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, which features shops, restaurants, and water sports activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and dolphin cruises. The area is also known for its deep-sea fishing charters, offering a chance to catch red snapper, grouper, and other popular game fish.

South Walton 30A beaches, located along the scenic Highway 30A, are nestled next to charming towns that offer a laid-back atmosphere and a range of activities for visitors. One popular destination is Seaside, which is where the iconic movie, The Truman Show, was filmed. Visitors can take a walk through the town square and browse the local boutiques and art galleries. Other popular activities in the area include biking along the

Timpoochee Trail, which runs along the coast, and exploring Grayton Beach State Park, which offers hiking trails and a stunning beach.

In addition to these activities, the Emerald Coast offers a range of water sports, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. Visitors can also take a sunset cruise or a dolphinwatching tour to see the marine life up close. For those interested

in history, the area also features various historic sites, forts, and

The Emerald Coast is also known for its cuisine, which features fresh seafood, Southernstyle barbecue, and a variety of international flavors. Visitors can sample local specialties such as oysters, shrimp, and grouper at restaurants along the coast. Outstanding examples of which include Fish House in Pensacola, Bud and Alley’s in Seaside, and the Back Porch in Destin.

The Emerald Coast of Florida offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, history, culture, and entertainment. From the white sand beaches of Gulf Shores to the historic downtown of Pensacola to the charming beach towns of South Walton 30A, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this stunning and vibrant region.

Learn more at: www.alabama.travel www.visitflorida.com

TRAVEL GUIDE

Texas has a rich history and culture that offers visitors a variety of exciting opportunities for exploration and adventure. Three destinations that offer unique and fun experiences are Galveston, San Antonio, and the Texas Wine Country.

Galveston, located on the Gulf Coast, is a popular destination for beach-goers and history buffs. One fun activity to do in Galveston is to visit Moody Gardens, which is an entertainment complex that includes a variety of attractions, including an aquarium, a rainforest exhibit, a 3D theater, and a zip-line course. Visitors can explore the different exhibits and have an up-close look at various marine animals and rainforest creatures. Another fun activity to do in Galveston is to take a ghost tour, such as the Galveston Ghost Tour, which takes visitors through the city’s haunted history and folklore.

During the tour, visitors can learn about the city’s legends and stories while also getting a chance to explore the city’s historic architecture and neighborhoods. Finally, visitors can take a sunset sail on a tall ship, such as the Elissa, which is a 19th-century iron-hulled sailing ship. The Elissa offers visitors a chance to experience a sunset sail while learning about the history of sailing and the role that ships like the Elissa played in the early days of Galveston’s history.

San Antonio is a vibrant city with a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment.

One fun activity to do in San Antonio is to visit the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, which includes four 18th-century Spanish colonial missions. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the missions on their own while learning about the history of the missions and their role in shaping the culture of San

Antonio. Another fun activity to do in San Antonio is to visit the Natural Bridge Caverns, which is an underground cave system that offers visitors a chance to explore different formations and learn about the history of the cave. Visitors can take a guided tour, explore the caverns on their own, or try their hand at gemstone mining. Finally, visitors can also take a stroll along the River Walk, which is a network of walkways along the San Antonio River, lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. Visitors can take a riverboat tour or simply stroll along the river and take in the sights and sounds.

The Texas Wine Country is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. Visitors can take a wine tour, such as the Fredericksburg Wine Road 290, which is a self-guided tour of over a dozen wineries in the area. Visitors can taste a variety of wines, learn about the wine-making process, and explore the beautiful

countryside. You can also attend a wine festival, such as the Texas Wine & Rogue Art Fest, which is a two-day festival that features live music, art, and, of course, wine. Visitors can taste different wines from various Texas wineries while enjoying local food and entertainment. Finally, visitors can take a hot air balloon ride over the Texas Wine Country, which offers stunning views of the vineyards and countryside. Companies such as Austin Aeronauts offer hot air balloon rides that include a champagne toast and a breakfast buffet after the flight.

Overall, Texas offers visitors a wealth of opportunities for exploration and adventure. From the beaches of Galveston to the historic sites of San Antonio to the rolling hills of the Texas Wine Country, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Learn more at: www.traveltexas.com

From beaches to missions to wine country, there’s something for everyone in Texas

Live music, vibrant food scene and Texas history highlight must-see stops in Austin

Austin, Texas is a vibrant and exciting city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, live music, or delicious food, Austin is a city that won’t disappoint.

Visit the State Capitol -

The Texas State Capitol is a stunning building that is a must-see for anyone visiting Austin. The building is home to the offices of the governor and the state legislature, as well as a museum that showcases the history of Texas. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about its architecture and history.

Explore Lady Bird Lake –Lady Bird Lake is a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and hiking. The lake is surrounded by beautiful parks and trails that offer stunning views of the city skyline. Visitors can also take a scenic boat tour of the lake to see some of the city’s top attractions from the water.

Try some of Austin’s famous food – Austin is home to a vibrant food scene that features everything from traditional Texas BBQ to innovative fusion cuisine. Visitors can try some of the city’s famous food trucks, such as Torchy’s Tacos and East Side King, or dine at one of the city’s many farm-to-table restaurants.

Take a stroll through the University of Texas campus –The University of Texas is located in the heart of Austin and is home to stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the campus or attend a sporting event at the famous Darrell K RoyalTexas Memorial Stadium.

Check out the street art –Austin is home to a thriving street art scene that can be found throughout the city. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the city’s street art murals or book a tour with a local guide to learn more about the artists and their work.

scene – Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World” and for good reason. The city is home to hundreds of live music venues that showcase a wide range of genres, from country to blues to indie rock. Visitors can catch a show at famous venues such as the Continental Club, Antone’s, and the Broken Spoke.

Barton Springs Pool is a natural spring-fed swimming pool that is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The pool is located in Zilker Park, which also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a miniature train ride for children.

from Johnson’s

Smoky Mountains offer a scenic vacation option with plenty of activities for all ages

The Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee and North Carolina are a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With their stunning natural beauty and a wide range of activities, the Smoky Mountains offer an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. One favorite among tourists and locals alike is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park is home to over 800 miles of hiking trails, which range from easy nature walks to challenging

backcountry hikes. Some of the most popular trails include the Laurel Falls Trail, the Alum Cave Trail, and the Clingmans Dome Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

For families looking for a more leisurely way to explore the park, a scenic drive along the Newfound Gap Road is a must. The road takes visitors through the heart of the park and offers stunning views of the mountains, forests, and waterfalls. Along the way, visitors

can stop at various overlooks to take in the scenery and snap some photos.

Another fun activity is to go tubing down one of the many rivers that flow through the area. The Little River in Townsend and the Oconaluftee River in Cherokee are both popular spots for tubing, offering gentle rapids and stunning scenery.

For a unique and memorable experience, families can also try ziplining through the mountains. Companies such as Climb Works

offer zipline tours that take visitors through the forest canopy, offering a bird’s eye view of the mountains and valleys.

For families with younger children, the Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is a must. The park features a variety of rides and attractions for all ages, including roller coasters, water rides, and live shows. Dollywood also offers a range of dining options, from classic Southern cuisine to international flavors.

Another family-friendly attraction in the Smoky Mountains is the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The aquarium features over 10,000 sea creatures, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles, as well as interactive exhibits and touch tanks.

For families looking to learn more about the history and culture of the Smoky Mountains, the Mountain Farm Museum in Cherokee, North Carolina

is a great destination. The museum is an outdoor exhibit that features historic log cabins, barns, and farmhouses, as well as demonstrations of traditional crafts such as blacksmithing and weaving.

Finally, families can also enjoy a unique dining experience at one of the many dinner theaters in the area, such as the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud or the Smoky Mountain Opry. These shows offer a mix of live entertainment and delicious Southern cuisine,

making for a fun and memorable night out.

Visiting the Smoky Mountains with family offers a wide range of activities and experiences that are sure to create lasting memories. From hiking and tubing to theme parks and museums, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful and historic region.

Learn more at:

www.tnvacation.com/the-smokies

Starting

$2,999*

The southeastern United States is home to some of the most beautiful and historic places in the country, including the North Carolina Outer Banks, Charleston, South Carolina; Savannah, Georgia; and the Georgia Sea Islands.

The North Carolina Outer Banks is a 200-mile-long strip of barrier islands that offer stunning natural beauty and a rich history. Visitors can learn about the Wright Brothers and their historic first flight at the Wright Brothers National Memorial, relax on the beautiful beaches of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, and explore the historic lighthouses that dot the coast.

Charleston, South Carolina is a city with a unique blend of history, architecture, and culture. Visitors can take a carriage tour of the city to learn about

Charleston’s rich history, visit the historic homes and gardens, such as the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, and enjoy the local cuisine, such as seafood, lowcountry boil, and sweet tea.

Savannah, Georgia is a charming and historic city with a picturesque downtown area. Visitors can take a walking tour of Savannah’s Historic District to see the city’s beautiful squares and historic buildings, visit the Bonaventure Cemetery, which is known for its stunning natural beauty and Gothic architecture, and explore the Savannah Riverfront, which features restaurants, shops, and a beautiful view of the river.

The Georgia Sea Islands are a series of islands located off the coast of Georgia that offer a unique mix of natural beauty and cultural history. Visitors can visit the St. Simons Island Lighthouse

Museum to learn about the island’s history, relax on the beautiful beaches of Jekyll Island, which also features bike paths, hiking trails, and golf courses, and take a tour of the Sapelo Island Cultural and Revitalization Society to learn about the culture and history of the Gullah/ Geechee people who have lived on the island for generations.

Today, the Gullah/Geechee people preserve their culture and language through various initiatives such as the Gullah/ Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, which is a National Heritage Area that includes a network of sites and attractions that showcase the community’s

history and culture. The Gullah/ Geechee people are descendants of enslaved Africans who were brought to the region to work on plantations in the 17th and 18th centuries. Their unique Creole language has a distinct grammar and vocabulary that reflects their African roots, as does their cuisine, music and storytelling traditions. Visitors are sure to leave the area with a new appreciation for the Gullah/ Geechee people and respect for their heritage.

Learn more at:

www.discoversouthcarolina.com

www.visitnc.com/coast

Take a beach trip with a historic backdrop along the Southeast coast

Savannah waterfront at dusk