Tag: USA
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Visiting Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument {New Mexico}
A few years ago, I found myself traveling through the deserts of New Mexico, and it did not take long to understand why the state is called the “Land of Enchantment.” Between the rugged mountains, winding roads, and endless desert landscapes, there is something about New Mexico that feels both beautiful and timeless. One of…
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A Snowy Day at Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park {Tennessee}
Snow in Tennessee is always an event. For weeks we had watched other places get snow while we looked hopefully at gray winter skies waiting for our turn. Then finally, the clouds delivered, covering much of the state in a rare winter storm. Whenever snow is in the forecast here, the entire state seems to…
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Lanterns & Pandas at IllumiNights-Zoo Atlanta {Georgia}
After experiencing the Chinese lantern festival at the Nashville Zoo the year before, we already knew how magical these nighttime lantern events could feel. So while we were visiting the Atlanta area and discovered that Zoo Atlanta hosted its own lantern festival called IllumiNights at Zoo Atlanta, we immediately added it to our plans. The…
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A Winter Hike at Tallulah Gorge State Park {Georgia}
We ended the year with a short trip to the mountains north of Atlanta, joined by my mom and one of my college friends for a visit to Tallulah Gorge State Park—one of the most beloved outdoor destinations in the state. The park had appeared in several of our favorite travel books over the years,…
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Holiday Experiences: Lights, Traditions, & Festive Places {Tennessee, Georgia, Kentucky}
We’ve been soaking in the festivities of the season over the past few weeks, with days filled with family gatherings, time with friends, holiday parties at work and school, and as many seasonal celebrations as we can possibly fit in. Even with the busy pace, I’ve really loved this stretch of time. The people and…
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Fall Creek Falls State Park: Waterfall Trails & Colored Leaves {Tennessee}
Over the past few years I’ve worked with international students. One of my favorite ways to share Tennessee with them is by taking them hiking at some of the state parks across the region. It’s one thing to experience Nashville and the well-known cities, but it’s something entirely different to step into the landscapes that…
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Our Camping Curse Continues-Big South Fork National Recreation Area {Tennessee}
Camping and our family have a complicated relationship. We love the idea of camping. We love campfires, hiking trails, sleeping under the stars, and waking up in beautiful places. Unfortunately, camping doesn’t always seem to love us back. Our first camping trip together happened while we were dating and included a visit to the doctor,…
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Appalachian Highlands Weekend Road Trip {Tennessee, North Carolina &Virginia}
Looking for a mountain getaway? This Appalachian Highlands weekend road trip combines Revolutionary War history, scenic drives, waterfalls, and stunning mountain views across Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia.
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Uncle Nearest Distillery: An Untold Story of Friends & Whiskey{Tennessee}
Discover the remarkable story of Nathan “Nearest” Green, the man who taught Jack Daniel how to make whiskey. A visit to Nearest Green Distillery in Shelbyville, Tennessee combines history, storytelling, whiskey tastings, and one of the most unique distillery experiences in the state.
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A Weekend in Tupelo: History, Elvis, & Neon Pig {Mississippi}
Looking for a unique Southern getaway? Spend a weekend in Tupelo, Mississippi exploring the Natchez Trace Parkway, Civil War battlefields, local restaurants, and the birthplace of Elvis Presley. This underrated destination is packed with history, music, and small-town charm.