Southeast Free Travel Guides

In a charming university community located only a short distance from Atlanta, Birmingham, or Montgomery, you’ll find the twin cities of Auburn-Opelika, Alabama. An eclectic and diverse southern town, it’s genteel tradition juxtaposed comfortably alongside the progressive innovation that springs from being the home of Auburn University.

Our world-class golf along the renowned Robert Trent Jones Trail is just one of the reasons Golf Digest named us the #1 Golf City in America and HGTV featured us in their You Should Live Here series.

You’ll also discover a bevy of historic and cultural attractions and an extensive selection of shopping and dining opportunities. With lodging and meeting facilities to suit any taste, Auburn-Opelika is a perfect choice for a relaxing getaway or your company’s next annual conference.

Enjoy the thrill of college football in the crisp autumn air, the sense of peace and renewal found among the blooming dogwoods and azaleas of spring, or the mild atmosphere of our winters and summers where activities abound for just about any interest. Experience the history, heritage, and hospitality that make this a place that – although you may only come to visit – will always feel like home.

Website: Http://www.aotourism.com

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Ever taken a shower of butterflies? Gainesville now offers the chance to come face-to-face with exotic, vibrant butterflies fluttering atop a lush tropical canvas of foliage and flowers as you experience the Butterfly Rainforest, at the Florida Museum of Natural History on the University of Florida Campus. A screened vivarium is home to subtropical and tropical plants and trees which support 55 to 65 different species of butterflies. The McGuire Center receives butterflies from farms as far away as the Philippines, Malaysia, and Madagascar. At the Florida Museum, visitors will be able to get a close-up view of scientists at work in the world's largest research facility devoted to Lepidoptera.

When traveling it is fun to see where the locals dine. Gainesville is home to a truly unique dining treat, Satchel's Pizza. It is one of those combinations that blend family friendly entertainment with delicious food. This truly local hangout offers great salads, calzones and of course pizza. In the back is Lightning Salvage, a combination five and dime store for souvenirs, a live music venue and a true junk museum. Satchel's is not to be missed when in Gainesville because it is not just a pizza place, it's an experience.

There is more happening in Gainesville than the Gator Chomp. Gainesville delivers exciting nature based activities, outstanding cultural offerings and delicious local cuisine. Come experience how friendly a spot we are and see how these things combine to make Gainesville the place Where Nature and Culture Meet.

Website: Http://www.visitgainesville.com

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play in Augusta. While Augusta is known worldwide for the Masters® and the coveted green jacket, you'll find that Georgia's second-oldest and second-largest city - also known as the "Garden City" of the South - is full of history, atmosphere, Southern charm, and activities to engage everyone's interest.

play like you're kids. Augusta has so much to see and do, from touring one of our unique historical or fine art exhibitions to relaxing along Riverwalk, a two-tiered park along the beautiful Savannah River. No matter your interests, everyone is sure to find something they will enjoy.

play with food. Because any successful trip involves pleasing your stomach, Augusta’s selection of locally-owned restaurants is sure to satisfy the foodie in you. From farm-to-table freshness, to baked-this-morning pastries and desserts, house-made ice cream flavors and more - there are plenty of ways to satisfy your tastebuds.

play in museums and galleries. Learn about Augusta’s days as a bustling cotton market, its place in golf history, and Augusta’s own “Godfather of Soul”, Mr. James Brown at the Augusta Museum of History. Appreciate excellent works by Southern artists, spanning more than 200 years, at the Morris Museum of Art.

play where history lives. Georgia's second oldest city, Augusta was established as a colonial trading post in 1736. Augusta's history includes an important role in the Civil War and contributions to American development throughout the last three centuries. Visit the Augusta Canal Interpretive Center to learn more about how the vital waterway shaped the city.

Website: www.augustaga.org

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Columbus, GA What Progress has Preserved

It's perhaps a more fitting description of a person than a city, but that's what makes Columbus, Georgia such a truly special place. Like an old friend, we have a personality that makes us unique…and totally unforgettable.

From military history, art and science museums, to Broadway shows, Columbus, GA takes the best of the past and merges into the present, creating a place that is both timeless and comfortable.

So we invite you to experience the energy of this vibrant city! Explore the 15-mile Chattahoochee RiverWalk, step aboard the USS Water Witch, a life-size replica of the Civil War ironclad gunboat at the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus, blast millions of light years into space at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center, take in a performance at the Springer Opera House, the State Theatre of Georgia, and trace the footsteps of the infantrymen from the French and Indian War to Vietnam to the sands of the Persian Gulf at the new National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center at Patriot Park. Music, Broadway shows, art, history, great food and true Southern hospitality…discover it all in Columbus, GA!

www.visitcolumbusga.com
ccvb@visitcolumbusga.com
(800) 999.1613

Website: Http://www.VisitColumbusGA.com

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Conveniently located halfway between Atlanta and Chattanooga,
Gordon County, Georgia, is a unique community in Northwest Georgia which is enriched with Nature, Civil War, Southern and Cherokee Indian history, antique shopping, outlet mall shopping and casual to fine dining. Also, Gordon County offers Cultural Arts that express our rich Southern Heritage.

Website: Http://www.ExploreGordonCounty.com

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Located in the heart of Central Kentucky, Lexington is home to world-class horses, breathtaking landscapes and a culture rich in Southern tradition.

Visit the Kentucky Horse Park, featuring more than 50 breeds of horse at work and play. The park is also a world-class competition facility and site of the 2011 Alltech National Horseshow. In the Bluegrass, you can tour private horse farms or for a behind-the-scenes look at the daily life of a thoroughbred in training, visit The Thoroughbred Center.

The Bluegrass is full of inspiring history. Discover 19th-century life in one of the region's many historic homes or explore Kentucky's pivotal Civil War battles. America's largest restored Shaker Village, Pleasant Hill, is set on 3,000 acres and is a National Historic Landmark. This living history museum offers a glimpse into the lives of America's longest lasting communal society and offers more than 40 miles of hiking and special programs.

Kentucky produces nearly all of the world’s supply of bourbon! Visit historic distilleries along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail to discover the heritage of the United States’ only native spirit.

In addition, numerous vineyards dot the countryside around Lexington, providing a wonderful getaway for wine lovers from around the world. These vineyards offer wine tastings, unique merchandise and festivals on their picturesque grounds.

Indulge in regional cuisine and enjoy warm southern hospitality while experiencing the sights and sounds of the Bluegrass that will create memories to last a lifetime.

Website: Http://www.visitlex.com

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Explore beautiful Kentucky Lake, one of the world's largest man-made lakes, with 2,380 miles of shoreline and 160,000 acres of water. Ah-h-h-h. The gentle lap of the waves, the splendor of a virtually untouched eastern shoreline bursting into an array of fall colors, the magnificent sunrises and sunsets, and impressive stringers of slab crappie, catfish, blue gill, white bass, sauger, and of course--bass. Record catches of largemouth and small mouth can be had right here. An outdoor paradise located in the heart of America. If fishing isn't your passion, try some of our other activities: boating, golf, camping, dining, live music shows, antiques--whew, the list goes on and on. To begin your exploration of Kentucky Lake, visit www.kentuckylake.org.

Website: Http://www.kentuckylake.org.

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While planning your next vacation take a look at Shepherdsville and Bullitt County. From weekend getaways to week long adventures, we have you covered.

We have the Jim Beam American Outpost, museum house and distillery. This 200 year old landmark features the fascinating art of bourbon making as well as the Beam family history. Hey! You can even try a sip.

While you're sipping, you might as well try one or both of our newly opened wineries. Wight-Meyer or Brooks Hill Wineries offer a large array of wonderful wines.

Bullitt County is also the home to Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest. Check out new Visitor Center or take a walk among the tree branches on their Canopy Tree Walk.

Hawks View Gallery offers visitors the opportunity to get up close while artisans make hand blown glass artwork. And certainly you must dine. The Café is wonderful.

Get your motor running at Kart Kountry. Home to the nation's longest go cart track, add their putt putt course and arcade with trampoline basketball and you have the makings for a day you won't soon forget.

Contact us or check us out on the web. 1-800-526-2068 / info@travelbullitt.org www.travelbullitt.org

Website: Http://www.travelbullitt.org

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We’re so much more than fast cars! As the 3rd largest city in Kentucky and the dining and shopping mecca for a dozen surrounding counties, we’re brimming with restaurant and splurging options. Nowhere else on earth allows you to watch as shiny, new Corvettes roll off the line at the GM assembly plant, experience KY's only underground boat tour at Lost River Cave and take a twisted ride through the air at Beech Bend Park all in one day!

Ladies will be sure to enjoy our fine spas, antique/boutique shopping and gourmet cuisine while children can get interactive at the National Corvette Museum, Kentucky Museum, the Railpark and Train Museum, Chaney’s Dairy Barn, Jackson’s Orchard and the Hardin Planetarium. Guys, we haven’t forgotten you! Visit Corsair Artisan Distillery to see (and sample) their locally handcrafted spirits and whiskies or cheer on your favorite driver at Beech Bend Raceway. Families will feel right at home at the ballpark with the Bowling Green Hot Rods Minor League baseball team or taking a stroll in Historic Fountain Square Park in Downtown Bowling Green.

The first of only two cities in Kentucky to be named a Dozen Distinctive Destination by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, we show off our past through numerous historic districts and restored landmarks like the 1920’s Standard Oil Station or Aviation Heritage Park.
If that isn’t enough, a short drive up I-65 will bring you to Mammoth Cave National Park, the word’s longest known cave system!
Call 800-326-7465 or go to VisitBGKY.com for info.

Website: Http://visitbgky.com

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Welcome to the Bluegrass, Blues and Barbecue Region of Kentucky, an area of the Commonwealth that is rich in tradition and home to legends.
The region takes its name from the two musical genres and the unique style of cooking that each has their genesis here and has quickly grown to world-famous stature.
Two musical pioneers have called the area home; the music they created shaped not only the local experience but has had a profound impact on American culture. Bill Monroe, born in Rosine, is the Father of Bluegrass Music, having invented this groundbreaking art form in the 1930s. W.C. Handy, known as the Father of the Blues, wrote that his time spent in Henderson greatly influenced the music he would later write.
The region carries on the legacy of these famous founders today. Owensboro is home to the International Bluegrass Museum, and numerous annual bluegrass and blues festivals are celebrated throughout the year.
The region’s barbecue heritage traces to the 1830s, when churches began holding annual barbecues to build community and raise funds. Today, the traditional manner of barbecue continues in the region, with an abundance of church festivals and restaurants slow-cooking mutton, chicken and pork for hours at a time over smoky hickory-wood fires.
Beyond the toe-tapping tunes and mouth-watering foods of the Bluegrass, Blues and Barbecue Region, there are the sights, sounds and smells of the area’s natural beauty for campers, boaters, hikers, bikers and sportsmen of all types. The region’s myriad museums recount the history, art and culture of the area in fascinating detail.

Website: Http://www.bbbregion.com

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Dating to 1780, Bardstown is Kentucky's second oldest city. Since that time when log, brick and stone homes rose from the wilds of western Virginia, Bardstown has welcomed travelers from around the world. For more than 225 years our southern hospitality, fine restaurants in historic surroundings, and accommodations have made you feel right at home.

We're strong in spirit -- A Southern spirit that welcomes you home to one of The Best Small Towns in America. A religious spirit that's appropriate for the home of the first diocese of the West. And a little spirit we call bourbon.

Our eclectic shops, cultural and historical heritage blend beautifully with that spirit. We're home to My Old Kentucky Home and The Stephen Foster Story, vintage trains, and museums dedicated to the Civil War, railroads and bourbon.

Our more than 30 annual events draw people from around the globe to sample the spirits, sounds and flavors that are quintessentially Bardstown. In fact, Kentucky's Bourbon Trail, of which Bardstown is the heart, was featured in 1,000 Places to See Before You Die, the New York Times bestseller by Patricia Schultz.

Come sample the spirits, sounds and flavors that are quintessentially Bardstown.

Website: Http://visitbardstown.com/tourism

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Grand Rivers is located in the heart of Kentucky's Western Waterlands between Kentucky and Barkley Lakes, and at the north entrance to Land Between the Lakes Recreation Area. Grand Rivers offers the unspoiled charm of the lakes area, prized restaurants, world class resort marinas, Branson-style theatre, and unique shops.

Grand Rivers is home to two of the region's finest resorts. Located on Kentucky Lake, Lighthouse Landing Resort offers lakeside cottages with dramatic sunsets, a 200 slip marina, sailboat rentals, and sailing school. Located on Lake Barkley, Green Turtle Bay Resort offers a 420 slip marina, vacation condominiums, boat rentals, two waterfront restaurants, and outdoor and indoor pools.

Connecting the two lakes is the heart of Grand Rivers with the nostalgic Main Street feel of simpler times. Here you’ll find shops from antiques to boutiques, the famous Patti's 1880's Settlement, and Badgett Playhouse Theater.

Patti's 1880's Restaurant is an award winning restaurant known for their 2 inch thick pork chops, desserts, and flower pot bread. The Badgett Playhouse is home to Variety! Music, Memories and More; a fast paced, two-hour Branson-style musical revue. The theater's schedule also includes up to 10 special productions and over 175 performances each year.

With all of its charm, it is no wonder that this tiny village draws national attention. The Grand Rivers Jetty on Kentucky Lake was named by Cosmopolitan Magazine as a top 50 romantic spot, and Southern Living Readers honored Grand Rivers with two Readers Choice Awards in 2008.

Website: Http://www.grandrivers.org

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Come visit the Land Between the Lakes, the National Quilt Museum, the Marion Amish settlements, and many more high quality attractions. We are the perfect place for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or the small meetings market.

Visit www.kentuckylakebarkley.org or call 1-800-448-1069 for free
information from Kentucky's Western Waterland and partners.

Website: www.kentuckylakebarkley.org/

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The Northern Kentucky River Region - spectacular scenery and historic venues await you. Experience beauty and sights that will last a lifetime!

Near scenic Carrollton rests Big Bone Lick State Park, where giant mammoths roamed and perished in the quagmire, resulting in numerous fossilized remains.

Get revved up at the Kentucky Speedway, where cars race on the state of the art track seating 106,000 and allows campers and RV's a front row seat.

In Grant County, stay overnight in an 1850 log cabin and feel what it was like to live like a pioneer.

Owenton offers the Elk Creek Hunt Club, a world-class shooting facility including archery and sporting clays along with the fabulous wines of Elk Creek Vineyards.

The river front cities of Covington and Newport show off the mega-entertainment complex of Newport on the Levee, offering numerous nightclubs, riverside dining, shopping and cinemas along with the world-renown Newport Aquarium.

Augusta features numerous historic homes that took part in assisting slaves across the river to freedom in the Underground Railroad.

Take a front row seat at an authentic battle re-enactment of the Battle of Blue Licks at the Blue Licks Battlefield Sate Resort.

Eavesdrop on history as you walk down original flagstone sidewalks on a costumed tour of Old Washington, a 200-year old village featuring 18th century log cabins.

A photographers dream is visiting the “Official Covered Bridge Capital of Kentucky” – Flemingsburg - featuring 3 of the 13 remaining KY bridges.

800-225-TRIP www.nkytourism.com

Website: Http://www.nkytourism.com

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Besides all the water activities, the Lake Barkley area offers biking, hiking, hunting and an abundance of scenic by-ways. There are many interesting attractions for the whole family to enjoy. There are plenty of antique shops, historical attractions, museums and shopping and a fantastic water park.

Fishing on property managed by the Corps of Engineers for the operation of Lake Barkley has become a tradition and is a favorite pastime for many people. With over 57 thousand surface acres of water available for public use, Lake Barkley supports diverse and abundant fish populations.

In addition to fishing on Lake Barkley, there is a Civil War Monument, historic relics, commercial marinas, public parks and wildlife refuges. The many species of wildlife here, including golden and bald eagles, make bird watching and nature photography exciting pastimes.

Lake Barkley belongs to its visitors. Treat the area with respect by keeping it clean and attractive. Enjoy yourself, have a safe visit, and come back again soon!

Website: Http://www.lakebarkley.org

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Located in Western Kentucky, Henderson is a historic riverfront town that boasts beautiful views, genuine southern hospitality and fun activities for the whole family.

John James Audubon State Park & Museum houses one of the largest collections of Audubon’s world-renowned artworks. View authentic pieces by Audubon, and hike the scenic trails where the artist once studied migratory birds.

Henderson is full of fascinating history. Take a historic walking tour of downtown or stroll through the nearby tree-lined streets and view notable homes on Main Street. Shop at the unique specialty stores and enjoy lunch in one of the many shaded parks.

Don’t miss the summertime tradition of live thoroughbred horseracing at family-friendly Ellis Park Race Course. Discover the thrill of choosing a horse, and watching it race across the finish line.

Annual music festivals attract thousands to the river. Both named ‘Top 20 Events in the Southeast’ by the Southeast Tourism Society, The W.C. Handy Blues and Barbecue Festival and The Bluegrass in the Park Folklife Festival offer top-notch FREE live music in a beautiful riverfront setting.

If quieter adventures are more your style, spend an afternoon strolling the grounds at Ruby Moon Vineyard & Winery. The wines, made from small batches of estate grown grapes, are available for sampling in a quaint Tuscan inspired tasting room or at the outdoor patio.

Visit Henderson, Kentucky today and discover what makes us different!

Website: hendersonky.org/

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Hopkinsville is located just an hour from Nashville, Tennessee off I-24. We are 15 minutes from Fort Campbell Army Base, home to the 101st Screaming Eagles!
Enjoy one of our many festivals and events and see the reMARKable attractions that Hopkinsville has to offer. Our mild climate allows visitors and residents to enjoy the outdoors in all four beautiful seasons but you will want to see our indoors too! Visit museum row with the Pennyroyal Area Museum, the Fire & Transportation Museum and our new Circus Museum.
You can walk the footsteps of the Cherokee Indians at the Trail of Tears Commemorative Park and uncover the secrets of Edgar Cayce while taking the Edgar Cayce Cell Phone Tour. For the adventurous at heart golf our courses, bike and hike our many trails, scavenger dive to find underwater treasures or simply enjoy nature at the Jeffers Bend Environmental Center and Botanical Gardens.
Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park offers many outdoor activities throughout the year on its 863 acres and 712-acre lake area. Enjoy the beauty of the Pennyrile Forest in the 36-site campground or for horse lovers you can take advantage of the 8 new pull-through campsites specifically designed for horse owners. If camping is not your thing they have a 24 room lodge and 13 cottages. Visitors can boat, fish, golf, swim or hike the many trails.

Phone: 800-324-2615.

Website: www.visithopkinsville.com

Website: Http://www.visithopkinsville.com

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Offering visitors a surprisingly diverse environment, the Currituck Outer Banks, located in the northeastern corner of North Carolina, seems to have something for everyone.

In the summer, families flock to its beaches, attracted by a perfect combination of sand, sun and water. But every season brings something special to the Currituck Outer Banks--the temperatures stay temperate through October and the water temperatures are ideal for a dip in the ocean. Although water temperatures are colder, spring is mild, the air is fresh and clean and the beauty of nature is coming to life. Even winter has its own charm, when the forces of nature seem a perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.

Currituck County has much more than one of the finest beaches in the world to offer. Before the first summer visitor come to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, its was known as a sportsman’s paradise--a hunting and fishing destination that attracted worldwide attention.

Surrounded by Currituck County, Currituck Sound is a an important part of the Atlantic Flyway. Every autumn hundreds of thousands of waterfowl land in its waters to feed after their long flight from the north. The Sound is a birder’s paradise and Mackey Island National Wildlife Refuge in the northern corner of the county is a must see site for birders and the curious.

With its flat, shallow waters, Currituck Sound is an ideal setting for novice kayakers to learn how to paddle. More Currituck Sound Outer Banks, NCexperienced paddlers will want to explore the many marshes and islands of the sound. Numerous paths and easy hiking trails border the shoreline inviting the whole family to explore the maritime forest that is unique to the Outer Banks.

There is much more to the Currituck Sound than its natural side. One of the first lands inhabited by European settlers, it has a long and fascinating history. Those first settlers were, for the most part, farmers, and that tradition continues today, with produce stands selling just-picked fruits and vegetables.

Currituck County seems to have something for everyone. On the mainland, a slower pace of life that is so much a part of its farming heritage and the Currituck Outer Banks, a sophisticated tourist community that has kept its southern charm.

Website: Http://www.VisitCurrituck.com

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Discover mother nature at Chimney Rock State Park, enjoy a Forest City Owls baseball game or celebrate at one of our many festivals. Take advantage of outdoor adventures that range from hiking, biking and water sports to walking tours of historical areas. Then
re-charge at a quaint bed and breakfast before you set out to explore the rest of what we have to offer.
Stop by Spindale Drug Store for a freshly made sandwich and old-fashioned milkshake before immersing yourself in history and heritage on the walking tour of Rutherfordton.
Treat the car enthusiast in your group to Bennett Classics Antique Auto Museum in Forest City which houses over 50 antique cars then take in a Coastal Plain League baseball game at Owls stadium.
Visit the town of Lake Lure, which boasts a gorgeous man-made lake and beach.
Fishing, ziplining, golf and boat tours are just a part of what makes the town and lake
itself a favorite to many. Movie lovers will want to see the areas where several films were made, including the remake of “The Last of the Mohicans”, filmed in and around Chimney Rock State Park, and “Dirty Dancing”, filmed at Lake Lure. Boat cruises of Lake Lure show some of the spots.
When you visit Lake Lure & the Blue Ridge Foothills youʼll find yourself surrounded by history and culture, outdoor adventures and bounds of family fun. Please join us and see all that Lake Lure & the Blue Ridge Foothills has to offer.
Visit BlueRidgeFrontPorch.com for more information.

Website: Http://blueridgefrontporch.com

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Website: Http://www.durham-nc.com

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Historic sites and museums are at the top of vacation to-do lists this year according to a 2011 travel trends survey released by TripAdvisor last November. As part of America's "New Frugal" attitude, travelers will continue to demand more in exchange for their vacation dollar.

So where in the world do history and frugal get together to have a good time? In Revolutionary Spartanburg, South Carolina!

Spartanburg is the site of more than 10 Revolutionary War engagements—including Cowpens, a decisive battle that turned the tide of the war. The region is rich in period architecture, historic venues, museums and walking tours.

Combine that with the fact we're at the crossroads of Interstates 85 and 26, and you've got a convenient weekend escape on the drawing board. Mix in a lively arts scene and unique attractions like the BMW Driving Experience...and you're really having affordable fun!

Request your Spartanburg visitors guide to learn more about:
- Revolutionary War sites and events in and around Spartanburg
- The Spartanburg Music Trail and today’s vibrant music scene downtown
- BMW’s Driving Experience—a road rush like no other
- Spring Fling, Mighty Moo, Red White & Blue…and other unique festivals throughout the year
- Carolina Panthers Summer Training Camp—ranked in the top 5 NFL training camps for fan friendliness
- And so much more.

Revolutionize your weekend! In Spartanburg, South Carolina. VisitSpartanburg.com 1-800-374-8326.

Website: www.visitspartanburg.com

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What more could you want in a travel destination?

No matter what time of year you travel here, Tennessee's mild weather offers a comfortable environment for you to enjoy the state. Spring blooms with wildflowers and dogwoods. Summer displays an ideal climate for playing outside. Colorful leaves and cool breezes are delightful occurrences in autumn. And our wintry weather delivers quiet surroundings with occasional dustings of snow.

The state is divided geographically as well as legally into three regions, the state's Grand Divisions: East, Middle and West. Each region of the state furnishes a unique variety of geography. West Tennessee is the most geographically defined of the three regions bordered by the Mississippi River on the west and the Tennessee River on the east with an abundance of smaller rivers and lakes in between.

Middle Tennessee has a little more height with rolling hills and smaller streams. Dome-like geography, the Nashville Basin, surrounds the state's capital Nashville with steep slopes and ridges called the Highland Rim. Moving into the Eastern Time Zone, East Tennessee offers a mountainous region including the Great Smoky Mountains. The Tennessee River makes its way back into this portion of the state after running through the West, dipping down into Alabama and coming back into East Tennessee.

Website: Http://tnvacation.com

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Townsend, Tennessee – The Peaceful Side of the Smokies

Enjoy the mountain air of Townsend, Tennessee - a quaint mountain community located at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We call it The Peaceful Side of the Smokies. You can stay in a cabin, hotel, bed and breakfast, or at a campsite. Townsend offers the best in Smoky Mountain culture, including arts/crafts, museums, hiking, biking, tubing, horseback riding, live music, and four annual festivals.

Four times a year, Townsend comes alive as 25,000 visitors come together to celebrate Appalachian culture at the Winter, Spring, Pottery and Fall heritage festivals. The festivals have been selected more than once as one of the Southeast Tourism Society's top 20 events, and admission is free.

Smoky Mountain culture is the heart and soul of the festivals, with hundreds of local musicians, artisans, crafters, quilters, chefs, antique collectors and pottery makers participating in these events.

The Winter Festival is held in mid-February, and the Spring Festival is held the last week in April and the first Friday and Saturday in May, an ideal time to view the abundance of wildflowers in the mountains. The Pottery Festival takes place in June, and the fall festival is held the last Friday and Saturday in September, allowing visitors to experience the changing colors of fall.

Smoky Mountain Convention and Visitors Bureau

Website: Http://www.SmokyMountains.org

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Amid the splendor of the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg embodies the simple goodness of small town life. Gatlinburg is where we gather together and stand in awe of nature's glory. Here, we fill our spirits, seek inspiration, and continue the journey toward what we know is right.

The adjacent Great Smoky Mountains National Park, has transformed Gatlinburg into a mountain resort destination, packed with Smoky Mountain cabins and lodging of every sort, dozens of local to national restaurants, and attractions galore. Visitors from all over come to experience Gatlinburg cabins, golf, outdoor activities, and more!

Everything you need in order to plan your Gatlinburg vacation is right here in the Free Vacation Guide and Gatlinburg emails. Complete listings of our Special Events, mileage and seasonal temperature charts, and an alternate route map that can save you at least an hour in traffic coming and going! Plus, you'll find a listing of virtually every shopping, restaurants, lodging, attraction, and retail business. With all there is to see and do in Gatlinburg, you'll be thankful to have this informative guide and emails to help make your Gatlinburg vacation better than ever!

By requesting a brochure, you agree to receive a brochure plus any email updates about upcoming future events.

Website: Http://www.gatlinburg.com

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Website: www.visitsevierville.com/

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Hardin County has something for everyone! Whether it is history that interests you, playing a round of golf, catching a championship fish on Pickwick Lake or meeting with friends, family or co-workers, Hardin County is sure to captivate you and reveal the many reasons our visitors return again--and again!

From catfish to cannonballs and conferences to conventions,
Hardin County is the perfect destination for you. With its world famous golf courses, historic Shiloh National Military Park, and southern hospitality and style, it is no wonder so many people seek out Hardin County to call their home.

Legend has it, once you put your feet into the waters of Hardin County, you’ll always come back... back to the memorable places and friendly people. So pack your bags for Hardin County... we’ll be waiting for you!

Website: Http://www.TourHardinCounty.org

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Your Guide to Richmond Travel and Tourism
Discover history, adventure and an easily accessible location in the Historic Richmond Region. Here, more than 400 years of American history live on through magnificent architecture, monument-lined cobblestone streets, and world-class museums – for an experience that’s anything but textbook.
But the area makes history in other ways, too. Brave the gorgeous yet intense James River, which distinguishes the Richmond Region as the only urban setting with Class IV rapids. It’s just one form of outdoor recreation for thrill seekers. Event planners will love the Greater Richmond Convention Center, a prime destination for meetings and groups. See how the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is expanding its world-class offerings. And with more than 900 restaurants, diverse shopping and enticing events, the Region is ideal for weekend getaways and vacations. Experience the premier destination for Virginia travel and tourism.
Connect with the powerful legacy of the Historic Richmond Region. Few places blend 400 years of rich history and Colonial charm with trendy restaurants, upscale shopping, and world-class art and attractions. Create a vacation, weekend getaway or business trip you’ll never forget. Whether you take part in an organized tour, or plan to develop your own itinerary, we make it easy to map out your trip with sample itineraries, weekend getaway ideas, exclusive vacation packages, area visitor centers, maps and driving directions, hotels and bed & breakfasts, and much more. Plan your trip to the Richmond Region online today!

Website: www.visitrichmondva.com

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Website: Http://www.VisitWytheville.com

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The best of all world--The Top of West Virginia sits between Ohio and Pennsylvania and offers the diversity you look for in a getaway. You'll find thoroughbred horse racing and the gaming action of Black Jack, Craps, Roulette and Poker at Mountaineer Casino, Race Track and Resort. Escape the daily routine with camping at Tomlinson Run State Park, golfing at Brooke Hills Park, rodeos at Peace Point Equestrian Center, or dining on the Ohio River. Get into the action when you drive your boat up and down the mighty Ohio River or bring your bicycle and ride the trails. Love that Fiesta Ware? Go straight to the Homer Laughlin China factory and outlet store.

The small-town ethnic communities of Hancock and Brooke Counties are rich in history and heritage. They offer great festivals and fairs throughout the year and recreation for all seasons.

Weirton sits on the county line, just 6 minutes from concerts at Post Gazette Pavilion,20 minutes from the Pittsburgh International Airport and 25 minutes from Pittsburgh.

When you stay in one of our fine hotels, you can stretch your getaway to include a major league ballgame, the Pittsburgh Symphony or big city shopping.

The center of Hancock and Brooke Counties – is just one hour away from Youngstown – and two hours away from culture of Cleveland Ohio. A trip to the edge of the Great Lakes or the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is within a two hour drive from the Top of West Virginia!

See what's waiting for you at the Top of West Virginia! Log on to www.topofwv.com and register to win free hotel accommodations.

Website: topofwv.com/

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