travel
Welcome To Ashland County, Ohio
Franklin, North Carolina
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“From the heart of winter to the height of summer, there’s always something to do in Ashland County, Ohio—whether you’re lucky enough to call this place home or you’re paying us a weekend or weeklong visit! And what’s really irresistible about the deal is the diversity of offerings, both in terms of experience and tempo. You can slow down here and appreciate the restful serenity and genuine neighborliness all too
often lacking in bigger, busier locales. But for every farmland drive and forest campout there’s a cultural festival, sporting event, and boutique storefront to tempt you. The country and the cosmopolitan sit side-by-side in Ashland County: It’s no stretch to say there’s something for everyone.” Explore Ashland Ashland, Ohio 44805 419-281-4584 toll free: 877-581-2345 www.exploreashlandohio.com ¤
Ohio North Carolina South Carolina Georgia Florida Alabama Tennessee Florida
Discover Mohican! GuestQuest Traveler Vacation Guide takes you on a guided tour to various vacation locations. We feature information about accommodations, attractions and activities in many travel and vacation destinations. Providing you with article coverage on our advertisers, their amenities and services will assist you in making the right decision on choosing your accommodations, recreation, entertainment and more. Visit us at www.GuestQuest.com for additional advertiser information and links to their web sites. Distributed three times a year, Spring, Summer and Winter, with separate editions to Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Illinois/Indiana, North Carolina, Georgia/Alabama, Tennessee/ Kentucky and Virginia. Serving our advertisers and readers since 1984. For advertising information, questions or comments, call 1-800-644-8460. P. O. Box 33547, Cleveland, OH 44133. The accuracy of the information contained in these listings is the responsibility of each individual advertiser. Every effort has been made to offer upto-date information. Reproduction of editorial or graphic content in any manner without written consent of the editor is prohibited. 2
Send for our 2022 Adventure Guide and you will discover why the Mohican area is an amazing four-season adventure destination. Whether hiking, biking, snowmobiling or by horseback, the Mohican trails are full of scenic views and yearround beauty. Visit downtown historic Loudonville during Winterfest and stop in the unique specialty shops or take a day trip to Amish Country and tour an Amish home and farm. Visit area museums or take in a movie in Loudonville’s historic Ohio Theatre.
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Listen to live entertainment at one of our local wineries or breweries. Whether you choose to stay a week or a weekend, Mohican Country is home to many family-owned and award-winning accommodations. From rustic to royal, there are cabins, cottages, treehouses, a state park lodge and even a castle ready to welcome you. For more information visit www.DiscoverMohican.com or follow us on Facebook or Instagram at Discover Mohican. Mohican Visitors Bureau 419-994-2519 DiscoverMohican.com ¤
GEORGIA / ALABAMA ~ SUMMER 2022
north carolina
NORTH CAROLINA
Nature’s Paradise – Franklin & Nantahala, North Carolina
Located in the southern Appalachian Mountains, in the foothills of The Great Smoky Mountains, lie the communities of Franklin and Nantahala. We are an area rich in outdoor adventure opportunities as well as fantastic local shopping, dining, and museums. Franklin and Nantahala are home to some of the oldest mountains in world. Tucked away in those mountains are two very popular hiking trails: The Appalachian Trail and the Bartram Trail. If you want to get out and see the mountains but don't want to hike, a scenic drive up to Wayah Bald will put you at nearly one-mile-high elevation and there's a paved path that leads you to an enchanting view in all directions. Travel the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway and visit the waterfalls of
the Cullasaja and Nantahala River Gorges. Franklin and Nantahala are towns born from gem mining and agriculture, and over the years have transformed from the small rural areas, into outdoor adventure towns, inviting people of all ages to set out into the hills and valleys of the Nantahala National Forest. What was once known as the “Gem Capitol of the World”, we are still home to active gem mines where you can still sit down with a bucket of dirt and sift for precious gems and minerals that are still abundant to this day. Generations of families come each year to share in the experience of Gem Mining. If you’re looking for exciting adventures? Look no further than the Nantahala River where you can test your skill on the white water, wade
into the river for some world-class fly-fishing or soar above the trees with a ziplining experience. Discover Nature’s Paradise in Franklin and Nantahala, North Carolina and get to know your mountain side! www.ExploringWNC.com ¤
Best of the Blue Ridge – Hendersonville, North Carolina One of the best destinations in the Blue Ridge Mountains is Hendersonville, North Carolina – a vibrant and inviting town that’s not too big and not too small. In the last decade, Hendersonville has emerged from the shadow of nearby Asheville with possibilities as wide as its Main Street sidewalks. A pedestrian-friendly downtown greets visitors with attractions, museums, boutiques, galleries, shops, breweries and two dozen locally owned restaurants. During a recent visit, veteran travel writer Randy Mink of Chicago penned this description of Hendersonville’s Main Street: “Beautifully landscaped with flower beds, hanging baskets, planter boxes, shade trees, benches and old-time lampposts, the serpentine thoroughfare rates as one of the nation’s most attractive smalltown shopping districts.” With attractions like the Appalachian Pinball Museum, Team ECCO Aquarium & Shark Lab, Pisgah Forest Gem Mine and HVL Pedal & Brews pedal pub, travelers can focus an entire trip on the downtown area. However, much more awaits in the Blue Ridge countryside. GEORGIA / ALABAMA ~ SUMMER 2022
Outdoor adventure is the hallmark of DuPont State Forest. Several iconic waterfalls draw visitors, while 90 miles of trails encourage hiking, biking and horseback riding. Jump Off Rock’s mountaintop park offers more scenic beauty with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky mountains. Hendersonville’s Cheers! Trail showcases wineries, breweries and cideries. Locations include Sierra Nevada Brewing, one of the nation’s largest craft breweries, and Bold Rock Hard Cider, the nation’s largest craft cider producer. Seven picturesque wineries are on the trail, including two mountaintop vineyards. In the tucked-away Village of Flat Rock, Broadway-style shows are presented at the famed Flat Rock Playhouse, while across the street is the Carl Sandburg Home, former residence of the Pulitzer Prizewinning “Poet of the People.” Hendersonville is also the apple capital of North Carolina in late summer and fall. For information, call (828) 6939708 or go to www.VisitHendersonvilleNC.org. ¤ FREE TRAVEL INFORMATION ~ www.GuestQuest.com
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SOUTH CAROLINA
Savor the Seasons in Upcountry South Carolina!
Blooming Dogwood Trees and Azaleas signal that Spring has officially arrived in South Carolina’s Upcountry. In Summer, explore the numerous lakes, rivers, forests, and parks. Fall brings a display of brilliant foliage as you travel along the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway. In the Winter months, relax in a cozy mountain cabin and a hike to discover spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
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Further exploration of the Upcountry will allow you to learn about the rich history of the area. From the Native American Cherokee to the battlegrounds where American forces defeated the British during the American Revolution, to stone and covered bridges that will take you back a few centuries, traversing the backroads of the Upcountry will allow you to connect to the historic, cultural, and natural sites and points
of interest in the area. Be sure to allow time to explore the many waterfalls in the Upcountry, some of which can be easily reached, while others may require a bit of effort. For a more relaxing experience, take a boat ride on one of the freshwater mountain lakes or pack a picnic and spend the day in a state park. Take the opportunity to stroll through the small towns throughout the Upcountry. Here are a few helpful hints and “don’t miss” attractions and activities for those unfamiliar with the area. Don’t miss the best fried chicken in the state at a place called, “The Walhalla Steak House Cafeteria.” Also, steak isn’t on the menu there! Don’t forget to bring a flashlight when visiting the Stumphouse Tunnel, an unfinished railroad project carved through the granite mountain for about onequarter of a mile before abruptly ending. Hunt for “Mice on Main” in Greenville, the bronze creatures that can be found by following the hints on the website (miceonmain.com). For the thrill-seekers in your group,
book a driving experience at the BMW Performance Center in Greer. A few more ideas for you: Tee off at one of over thirty manicured golf courses found here. Take an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip on the National Wild & Scenic River. Listen (or join in) with the locals at one of the regular “Bluegrass Jams.” Go fish for trophy Trout on Lake Jocassee or one of the mountain streams. Or play with the “kids” at
Split Creek Farm in Anderson, where a herd of 400 goats resides. Whatever you like to do when taking a break from the everyday grind, the Upcountry probably has something for your taste! So plan a visit to the Upcountry soon, whether you’re ready for relaxation or for exciting adventures! Upcountry South Carolina 864-233-2690 www.upcountrysc.com ¤
Welcome to Conway – One of South Carolina’s Oldest Towns Conway boasts some of the best restaurants, stores and boutiques in the area. Visitors can take in a show at the downtown theatre, walk around to shop and eat or leisurely stroll the Riverwalk to take in the scenery. Conway is one of the oldest towns in South Carolina, founded in 1732. Conway’s past has been proudly preserved. A visit to the Horry County Museum or the LW Paul Living History Farm will find exhibits of life from a
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bygone era. The Conway Historical Trail identifies 39 historic, beautiful buildings and homes. Many of these dwellings are home to third or fourth generation family members who are tireless in caring for them. Conway is a delightful surprise and still not yet well-known by mass tourism. That will change, but until then, take advantage of all it has to offer. There truly is something for everyone! ¤
GEORGIA / ALABAMA ~ SUMMER 2022
Discover South Carolina's Hammock Coast®
Underneath sorbet-colored skies, you'll find the quiet, pristine beach communities of South Carolina’s Hammock Coast: Pawleys Island, Litchfield Beach, Murrells Inlet, DeBordieu Colony and southern Garden City. On the Hammock Coast are spacious beaches and pristine salt
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marshes, offering chances to soak up the sun, spirit away on a kayak or even catch fish and blue crabs for dinner. Perfectly situated between Charleston and Myrtle Beach, the Hammock Coast is serviced by two major airports. U.S. News & World Report, Southern Living, Garden & Gun,
Tripadvisor and more have designated Hammock Coast beaches as some of the best destinations in the South. In fact, Litchfield Beach, just north of Pawleys Island, earned TripAdvisor's designation as one of the Top 10 beaches in America! In addition to award-winning beaches, visitors can also discover
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two of the Hammock Coast's most famous attractions – Brookgreen Gardens and Huntington Beach State Park. Recognized as one of the top birding spots on the East Coast, the state park offers camping and access to an undeveloped beach. Just across Ocean Highway is Brookgreen Gardens, a 9,127-acre botanical and
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sculpture garden that has drawn visitors since 1931. Dotting the Hammock Coast are a dozen award-winning golf courses. Three of Golf Magazine's “Top 100 You Can Play” are here, in fact. For information or to request a free visitors guide, visit HammockCoastSC.com. ¤
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GEORGIA
Award Winning Beachside Hotel Days Inn & Suites Jekyll Island, Georgia Days Inn & Suites a Jekyll Island GA hotel features 40 Oceanfront onebedroom suites, 71 double-bed guest rooms and 13 king rooms. All rooms contain “free” in-room coffee, microfridges, hairdryers, clock radios and free WIFI access. Guests staying at the hotel enjoy the complimentary deluxe continental breakfast overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Visit www.DaysInnJekyll.com to This moderately priced sparkling oceanfront hotel in Jekyll Island, GA learn more about our many specials offers many things for guests to enjoy and packages – also sign up for our last minute “Hot Deals!” while at the hotel and on the island Days Inn & Suites – great beach access, two spacious 60 S. Beachview Drive swimming pools – one of which is Jekyll Island, GA 31527 heated seasonally, kiddie pool, hot toll free: 888-635-3003 tub, grilling, picnic areas and a fire Direct Line: 912-635-9800 pit. Bike rentals on property. Fax: 912-635-2287 ¤
FLORIDA
Visit Longboat Key for Island Inspiration, Leave with Memories for a Lifetime. Longboat Key. Pure Magic. One can only explain the lure of Longboat Key, Florida as a combination of magical transcendence into the perfect island escape and a blissful beach playground for an exclusive and pristine vacation destination. Named as one of the top ten island destinations in the U.S. in Conde Nast Traveler’s 2020 Readers’ Choice Awards, the twelve-mile island is luxuriously located on the Gulf of Mexico, bordered on the
west by azure blue waters and on the east by beautiful Sarasota Bay. Long known as the hideaway of celebrities and reclusive notables, Longboat Key offers visitors a respite from the crowds while still providing the quintessential Florida beach experience. Blue skies, swaying palms, sultry breezes, playful dolphins, sandy beaches and a quiet calm welcomes the evening sunset and beckons the discerning traveler.
The island is home to a variety of vacation options, from fullservice hotels to charming authentic beachfront resorts. Combined with island-inspired cuisine at a variety of award-winning restaurants and a sprinkling of delightful island boutiques, guests can immerse themselves in a true tropical getaway. For the outdoor enthusiast, Longboat Key offers choices beyond compare. From fishing charters to paddle-boarding, ocean kayaking and
even some of the most renowned birdwatching in the country, our island home is your island adventure. An array of seasonal activities provides cultural and artistic entertainment, and year-round vacationers can experience popular, family-friendly attractions in the Bradenton area.
Visit nearby shops and restaurants, just a short drive away, all offering the perfect location for a leisurely afternoon or sunset stroll. Visit Longboat Key for island inspiration, leave with memories for a lifetime. See ad on back cover
The Shores Resort & Spa – Daytona Beach Hotel Experience The Shores Resort & Spa, a premier luxury boutique hotel in Daytona, offers service, style and luxury resort amenities. Spacious accommodations include feather beds, doorless Italian marble showers, flat-screen televisions and gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean or Intracoastal Waterway. Relax on the oceanside sundeck
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with outdoor swimming pools, Jacuzzi, beachfront cabanas, Tiki Hut Barefoot Beach Bar, firepits where you can make your own Shores S’mores and miles of white-sand beach. Indulge spa presents guests with the ultimate in pampering and relaxation. Azure restaurant offers fine dining, while the Oceanview Lounge has
breakfast, lunch and dinner along with Sunday Brunch. Market Place features Starbucks® coffees along with unique gifts, apparel, food and snacks. Nearby access to all the fun of Daytona Beach – water sports, family and cultural attractions, motorsports, festivals, sporting events and more. Call 866-934-7467 or visit us online www.shoresresort.com. ¤
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GEORGIA / ALABAMA ~ SUMMER 2022
alabama / tennessee
ALABAMA
Welcome to Dauphin Island, AL!
Come and enjoy our little piece of paradise, dip your toes in the Gulf of Mexico waters, get sand between your toes and just RELAX on Dauphin Island, AL.
Come stroll some of our beaches, charter a boat to fish or to cruise, dine in our special eateries and visit gift shops and boutiques for that special item or gift. In our busy world,
we plan for tomorrow, but can’t live it until it arrives. We invite you to come enjoy Dauphin Island – TODAY. Standing guard between Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, Dauphin Island is a true barrier island – complete with dunes, maritime forests, salt marshes, tidal flats and two freshwater lakes. Named “barrier” for their role in protection of the mainland from 16 people. All units include AC, full nature’s fury of storm waves, barrier kitchens, cable TV, access to the Gulf islands also prevent the inflow Beach and numerous other amenities to help you enjoy your stay. Find rental properties for every budget and location preference including Gulf Beachfront, Beachside or Bayfront. Let Boardwalk Realty help you Book direct with the leading escape the hustle and bustle of local vacation rental company, ACP everyday life. Come play in the surf, Vacation Rentals, on Dauphin Island, stroll miles of sugar sand beaches, AL. ACP Real Estate, Inc. offers swim, go fishing or just spend a lazy home and condo vacation rentals afternoon relaxing in the sun. throughout Dauphin Island with a Come stay with us and enjoy the variety of choices from waterfront quiet, family friendly atmosphere and and water view, to “In the Pines” beautiful beaches of Dauphin Island, homes for birding. There are also Alabama’s Sunset Capital. Canal front homes for boaters and Boardwalk Realty fishing. Several homes are pet 1804 Bienville Blvd friendly. Vacation condominiums are Dauphin Island, AL 36528 available in Holiday Isle, Sandcastle, 877-861-3992 The Beach Club, The Surf Club and www.boardwalk-realty.com ¤ Fish Camps.
Escape Everyday Life and Enjoy Premier Vacation Rentals with Boardwalk Realty Boardwalk Realty is Dauphin Island AL’s premier source for vacation rentals. Choose from over 70 Dauphin Island homes and condos ranging in size from two to six bedrooms and sleeping up to
GEORGIA / ALABAMA ~ SUMMER 2022
of salt water from the Gulf into the bays and sounds by forming a physical barrier. This process is essential to maintaining the nursery characteristics of the estuarine ecosystem. Entry to the island is made by crossing a three-mile long highrise bridge, which was opened in July 1982 after the original drawbridge was destroyed by Hurricane Frederic in 1979. An automobile ferry from the eastern
Book Direct with ACP Real Estate on Dauphin Island, AL
shore also offers an entry point on the eastern end of the island. The island is approximately 14 miles long and 1 3/4 miles wide at the widest point. It is estimated that 1300 permanent residents call Dauphin Island home. The number of residents soars during vacation and holiday times. The entire island has been designated as a bird sanctuary and thousands of visitors come to experience the annual migrations. Visit us online at www.dauphinislandchamber.com or call 877-532-8744 for details. ¤
Some owners will accept two, three and four-day rentals for that last-minute getaway at most locations. Don’t forget, we have monthly snowbird rentals waiting for you! Call and book with us direct to save up to 10% off other online booking site fees. Our staff is ready to help you. We look forward to working with you! ACP Real Estate, Inc. Dauphin Island, AL (251) 861-3311 www.acpinfo.com rentals@acpinfo.com ¤
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GEORGIA / ALABAMA ~ SUMMER 2022