Athens, Georgia
Home to the University of Georgia, Athens is a classic college town rich with history, Southern charm and a great music scene. Birthplace of the B-52s, R.E.M., Widespread Panic, of Montreal and more, Rolling Stone once named Athens the No. 1 college music scene in America.
If football is more your game, the Georgia Bulldogs take it seriously. Make the most out of your visit by going to a University of Georgia football game in Athens with your family. Even if you don’t have tickets to the game, tailgating in the SEC is an exciting experience.
The Bayou, Louisiana
Drive just outside New Orleans and experience the strange voodoo of the Louisiana Bayou by airboat, kayak or cruise. It’s as easy as scheduling a tour with Jean Lafitte’s Swamp & Airboat Tours near the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. Witness the rich wildlife and sense the mysticism in the murky waters — and, if you’re lucky, you may even spot an alligator. But don’t let superstition get the best of you. On your way back from the airboat tour, be sure to stop at Jan’s Restaurant & Sweet Shop for authentic New Orleans fare like shrimp po’boys, gumbo and jambalaya.
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, Alabama
Known as one of Alabama’s best-kept secrets, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach comprise a 32-mile-long stretch of clear water paradise located on Alabama’s southern border on the Gulf of Mexico. Not only a place to relax, Gulf Shores offers ongoing entertainment. Check the area’s events calendar for upcoming musical shows and festivals. Orange Beach is also known for its great deep-sea fishing adventures along the country’s largest artificial fishing reef. The area also features historical locations like Fort Morgan, which was constructed in the early 1800s and named after Revolutionary War hero Gen. Daniel Morgan. The fort has played an important wartime role throughout U.S. history. Take a drive over to Orange Beach and your family can feast on great seafood offerings, embrace adventure with a variety of water sports and relax while staying at one of the area's many rental beach houses.