Looking for a Southern getaway? Here are a few great places.
Gatlinburg TN
Nestled in the Great Smokey Mountains, this is the ideal setting for romance, family fun, or just quiet seclusion. If seclusion is on your mind, eighty dollars will rent you a cabin overlooking the mountains and surrounded by nature lovers delight. Family wanting excitement and entertainment? “Dollywood,” “Dixie Stampede,” tons of local shopping, outlet malls, festivals, comedy shows, etc….. line the main strip. Maybe, you are searching for a romantic getaway or hearing wedding bells. Gatlinburg is the ideal place for honeymooners. There are several chapels that offer the whole package. Bring yourself and your mate and they take care of everything else. I was actually married at Sugarland Wedding chapel. Whatever your pleasure is, Gatlinburg is sure to please.
Helen, Georgia
Now this place is filled with Alpine authenticity. A sauerkraut and Bratwurst lovers delight. The entire town looks like it was lifted from an Alpine village and set down in sunny Ga. Hundreds of shops with heritage items line the main strip. River rafting tours are great fun and run right through the middle of town. Hold on to your hats in October. Oktoberfest makes the town one big beer fest with dancing, all night parties, and more sausages than you ever thought possible.
Pensacola Florida
Great beaches without the crowds Destin, Ft Lauderdale, etc bring. Never fear, the beach will still be active…..just not elbow to elbow. “Florbama” is a must see for those over 18. It is located on the Florida/ Alabama line. The entire bar is on the beach and sand is the flooring. The bar is cut up into sections. One section may be playing country music. Whereas, the section next to it will be playing hip hop. It is huge and loads of fun! Pensacola is also home to a Navy base. The base has a great museum and visitor center.
Memphis, TN
Memphis combines all aspects of culture. From theater to Beal Street Blues, Memphis has it all. Beal Street is a smaller version of New Orleans's Bourbon Street. “Rondeveous” ribs will make you slap your mama. Graceland will make even those that don't dig Elvis cower to appreciation. “Libertyland” is the Memphis version of Six Flags. “The Peabody” ducks walking thorough the hotel are a sight to see and right outside you can take a horse drawn carriage ride through the middle of town. “Mud Island” has concerts during the summer. I recommend to stay downtown and avoid hotels near the airport and Graceland.
Biloxi, MS
If you are looking for casinos, this is the place to go. The town is still reconstructing after Hurricane Katrina. However, the beaches are starting to reline with Casinos. Its like Vegas without the glitz and crowds. There are tons of outlet malls. Ship Island is a forty minute boat ride. Great crabbing and saltwater fishing. Kessler Air Force base keeps the bars full of cutie pies for the single ladies. Check out “Cruzin the Coast” dates if you are a vintage car , motorcycle, or fast cars lover.
