In 2005 when the Georgia Aquarium opened, it was the largest aquarium in the world. This incredible attraction which serves to educate visitors about marine life was made possible by a large donation from the founders of Home Depot to tune of $250 million. It's spectacular and a real source of pride for the citizens of Atlanta. Inside we saw white beluga whales, a spotted whale shark, adorable penguins and … [Read more...]
Georgia State Capitol Building (Atlanta)
Time to explore the Georgia Capitol Building. Ever eat a dish that didn’t have enough salt or spices? That’s how Georgia’s capitol building is—bland. The building is pretty from the outside and as we drove up we were super excited to run in and see what treasures lay in store for us inside.. Sadly, inside there just wasn't a lot going on in fact it couldn't hold a candle to some of the more elaborate … [Read more...]
Morelli’s Ice Cream (Atlanta)
So I am just going to say it folks, Morelli's is the is the BEST ice cream we've had in the entire country. When our friends Barry and Jodie told us how good it was we went with an open mind eager to try something new. They told us there is a line there at all times which is always a sign of something being really good. We just had no idea how good. Upon arrival we got in line and perused the flavor board … [Read more...]
Ted’s Montana Grill (Atlanta)
For a unique dining experience we opted to try media mogul and Atlanta native son Ted Turner’s Ted’s Montana Grill—Ted Turner, who started CNN and at one time owned the Atlanta Braves, is the second largest individual land owner in the United States. He owns 2 million acres of ranch land in 5 states and manages 55,000 head of bison as well as cattle. This ranch style restaurant chain showcases bison … [Read more...]
Lake Oconee (Lake Oconee)
So my friend Barry and his wife Jodie have a cabin on Lake Oconee and invited us to spend a night and enjoy a day on the water-since it also happened to be on our way to Savnannah. It is a lovely spot and I would highly recommend staying at the hotel if you are in the area (the Lodge on Lake Oconee). It’s so lovely, in fact, that Carrie Underwood got married here. There are lots of activities like boating, jet … [Read more...]
Ghost Tour (Savannah)
If you are not traveling with super little kids (under 9 or 10), then you’ve got to do a ghost tour at night in the most haunted city in the USA-Savannah's claim to fame. There are some really good guides who will give you an unbelievable experience- but apparently I couldn’t find them. I did my research when I planned this trip, checking reviews, but it just goes to show you, even if you do all your … [Read more...]
Historic District (Savannah)
The Savannah Historic District is a National Historic Landmark. Laid out in a grid plan, the blocks are full of great examples of 18th and 19th century architecture.. The district encompasses the original town plan laid out in 1733 by Gen. James E. Oglethorpe, founder of the British colony of Georgia. Most of the original squares, which feel like mini plazas or parks, remain and each have their own unique focal … [Read more...]
Top 3 Must-See College Campuses
College campuses are not places I regularly seek out as stops on my road trips, but occasionally they can be historically significant or offer something unique, kitschy or cool that’s relevant to the place you are visiting. A quick visit can usually be accomplished in about 30 minutes. I’ll be the first to admit, one of the biggest motivating factors is leaving with a real deal souvenir t-shirt bought at the … [Read more...]
Winter Break in a Skiers Paradise – Park City, Utah
It’s all funny how we are all programmed one way or another. Most people either consider themselves beach people or snow people. I definitely fall into the beach category and generally deplore being in the cold which is why I have ignored my kids’ pleas year after year to take them skiing. Well this year I finally relented and took them all to Park City Utah since we had friends that would be there at the … [Read more...]
Itinerary #13: Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina
The South is wonderfully lush and beautiful. From the green Kudzu plant that covers everything, to the smoky BBQ, to the twangy accents peppered with “y’all,” you know you’re in a culturally rich, interesting, and unique place. We were very excited to explore, but really had no idea what to expect. When I think of Georgia and the Carolinas, I think of lemonade on the porch, biscuits and grits, and weeping … [Read more...]