Road Tripping Southern Style
Text and photos by Amy Bailey
Fall in the South...just the words evoke images of brightly colored leaves, fields of cotton, apple pie, tailgates, multi-hued sunsets and hiking trails. Perhaps nothing is more American than a road trip. From coast to coast we are connected to each other and to this land by patterns in pavement. From farmhouses and fields, to forests and mountain peaks, to coastlines and city lights, the road trip gives a wide view of America, and the Southern road trip offers some of the most diverse scenery and experiences. From fall foliage to sandy shores, here are five destinations to chart as temperatures become more mild and the amber-tinted light of autumn sets in.
Fall in the South...just the words evoke images of brightly colored leaves, fields of cotton, apple pie, tailgates, multi-hued sunsets and hiking trails. Perhaps nothing is more American than a road trip. From coast to coast we are connected to each other and to this land by patterns in pavement. From farmhouses and fields, to forests and mountain peaks, to coastlines and city lights, the road trip gives a wide view of America, and the Southern road trip offers some of the most diverse scenery and experiences. From fall foliage to sandy shores, here are five destinations to chart as temperatures become more mild and the amber-tinted light of autumn sets in.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Just a short drive from North Alabama is a place where the mountains tower above, the river runs deep below and the cool vibe is present almost everywhere you go. That place, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, is Chattanooga.
Where to stay
The Edwin This downtown luxury hotel is situated right by the pedestrian walking bridge and located in walking distance to many attractions and restaurants. Its convenient location, well decorated interiors, renowned spa and attentive service make it a favorite place to gather for visitors and locals.
Where to eat
Urban Stack Gourmet burgers of all kinds with unique, locally sourced sides anda a lively atmosphere make Urban Stack a must when in the Nooga.
Easy Bistro is an award-winning restaurant located in downtown Chattanooga. Enjoy slurping tasty bivalves while sipping on a craft cocktail or mocktail then move along to small, medium or large plates that use the freshest local ingredients.
Alleia Mouthwatering fare with an Italian theme, Alleia is an ideal spot for dinner. The contemporary decor and romantic lighting make it a great place to snuggle up with a date too.
Whitebird Located inside The Edwin, enjoy Southern fare with a twist while immersed in a beautifully designed space. Its location also makes it ideal for watching the sunset.
What to do
Hiking A hiker’s paradise, Chattanooga is the place to explore the outdoors in fall. In this city, bordered by mountains and carved by the Tennessee River into a “moccasin bend,” it is easy to find a great hike. Two of my favorites are Cravens House to Sunset Rock and Rainbow Lake to Signal Point. Both offer vistas for miles that are sure to mesmerize and give your body a workout.
Bluff View Art District The Hunter Museum of American Art in the Bluff View Art District offers some of the Southeast’s best exhibits. A stroll through the Bluff View Art District is a treat in itself as you pass by the blown glass exhibit overlooking the Tennessee River and stroll through the garden art exhibit. Rembrandt’s Coffee House offers coffee, breakfast and lunch. Make a stop at the River Gallery which features many local and regional artists.
Tennessee Aquarium Chattanooga is home to America’s best aquarium with a wide range of exhibits to explore and creatures to discover, a must for anyone with children. Not only will the kids learn something new, so will you.
L2 Outside Paddleboard and kayak rentals are offered daily by L2 Outside for trips along the Tennessee River Gorge. It is easy to do from downtown Chattanooga. For a real treat, book a sunset tour for only $40.
Waynesville, North Carolina
Old Crow Medicine Show’s “Wagon Wheel” chimes in your head as you travel past the Ocoee and the Nantahala rivers into North Carolina. The destination? Waynesville, a small town in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. On the itinerary: fly fishing, horseback riding, hiking and fall foliage.
Where to stay
The Schoolhouse on Hemphill offers a quaint, relaxed setting that remains true to the mountains. Built in the 1800s, it was one of the first schools in the area. You will find treasures from its early days like a corn cob floor patch and students’ names carved into the bead board wall. Off a main road, the schoolhouse has all the modern amenities you need - a fully stocked kitchen, coffee bar, Wi-Fi, a copper bathtub and a selection of DVDs - plus some charming amenities like rocking chairs, a screened porch, and a mountain stream to relax by. The Schoolhouse is available to rent through Airbnb.
The Swag is a Relais Chateaux property offering gorgeous alpine interiors, chef-prepared meals, the area’s best hiking trails right outside your door and the best views in the Great Smoky Mountains. It’s a place that couples will want to return to again and again to relax and reconnect.
Where to eat
Sweet Onion Located in downtown Waynesville, this restaurant has fans driving in from Asheville for its fare. Might we suggest grilled trout as a great option for the locavore?
The Patio Great sandwiches, salads and soups with a beautiful courtyard patio. It is also dog friendly.
Suwana Thai in the Smokies? Why not? This Thai restaurant, nestled on Main Street in downtown Waynesville, is superb. If you are a fan of Asian food, this place will be among your favorites.
Smokey Shadows Lodge Enjoy a quaint, down-home communal dinner while enjoying a great view of the Smoky Mountains at Smokey Shadows Lodge, which is nestled on a 4,500-foot-high bluff. Music is also part of a typical dinner here.
What to do
Downtown Waynesville Along one of the most picturesque main streets you will find, downtown Waynesville offers great restaurants, antique stores, children’s boutiques, bakeries, art galleries and the iconic Mast General Store. With Asheville only 20 minutes away, this downtown is frequented by visitors for its charm and down-home feel.
Cataloochee Guest Ranch A 30-minute drive from Waynesville, this ranch offers horseback riding through mountain trails reaching over 5,200 miles above sea level. Renovations are underway and lodging will once again be available in 2023.
Wheels Through Time This museum has Harleys from the early 1900s on as well as the world’s rarest motorcycle, the Traub.
Blue Ridge Parkway Whether you are driving or hiking, this heavenly stretch of highway is food for the soul. In autumn it offers the most majestic colorful views in the United States and should be on your bucket list.
Hiking Whether you choose a short hike like Waterrock Knob or Graveyard Fields or a longer venture like the Cataloochee Divide, there is no shortage of adventure to be found in this part of Mother Nature’s playground.
Lexington, Kentucky
Rolling green hills dressed in wildflowers, thoroughbreds grazing behind white fences that sweep along the highway, this is Lexington, Kentucky. Besides the obvious reasons people visit – horses and bourbon – Lexington is a town full of charm, creativity and fun for the whole family that is staking its claim in the modern South.
Where to stay
1880s Historic Cabin in Paris, Kentucky Situated on a vast horse ranch right outside of Paris, Kentucky, and right beside Claiborne Farm, this historic log cabin was built in the 1880s and is as charming as it gets with plenty of amenities – a beautiful screened porch, fully equipped kitchen, fireplace, sunrise and sunset views, kayaks, a canoe, Adirondack chairs overlooking Stoner Creek and a gorgeous outdoor dining area. Owners Chet and Diane are incredible hosts and make sure you are well taken care of. Fifty horses live in the pastures surrounding the cabin and sheep roam freely. A kayak or canoe trip down the slow-moving Stoner Creek is as peaceful as it gets. The Cabin on Stoner Creek is available to rent through Airbnb.
Gratz Park Inn sits on land first settled in 1781 and is conveniently located in historical Lexington with downtown in easy walking distance. The hotel exudes Southern hospitality with nicely furnished rooms, a beautiful library and even gardens to sit and relax in.
Where to eat
Third Street And Stuff This is one of the coolest coffee shops I’ve ever been in. Enjoy reading the walls outside and inside while browsing the art. Third Street serves up fair trade, certified organic, locally roasted coffee, breakfast and sandwiches. They also have a slew of unique gifts to shop.
Lockbox Led by executive chef Jonathan Searle, the menus at Lockbox showcase a deep network of local providers and the bounty of ingredients fed by Kentucky’s limestone-rich soil.
Crank and Boom is a must visit for those with kids or those who are kids at heart. Enjoy a flight of ice cream or any of their signature flavors: bourbon and honey, Kentucky blackberry and buttermilk, coffee stout, vanilla bean, blueberry lime cheesecake, super fudge, fresh strawberry and salted caramel.
What to do
Keeneland No doubt you are aware that Kentucky is known for its racing, but did you know that one of the most beautiful race tracks in the world is in Lexington? Only open in October and April, Keeneland is a part of Lexington life, and if you visit during these times of year, for a mere $5 general admission or $10 grandstand seat you can partake in its Southern sophistication and exciting energy too. Watch the horses up close as they parade around the majestic stone paddocks before each race, and if you want, make a fun wager on a pony or two. With the announcers speaking loudly and excitedly and the crowd cheering and jumping up out of their seats, you will see why Keeneland is an iconic part of Kentucky life.
Claiborne Farm Want to visit where Secretariat lived along with other Triple Crown, Derby, and Breeder’s Cup winners? Take a trip to Paris (Kentucky, that is) and book the 10 a.m. or 11 a.m. tour at Claiborne Farms. You will learn the history of Claiborne Farms and meet horses valued at $85 million.
Historic Downtown Walking Tours Learn about the history of downtown Lexington as reflected in its historic homes, churches and commercial buildings. See Henry Clay’s law office, Christ Church Cathedral, Transylvania University, the pre-Civil War homes of Gratz Park and more. Regular tours offered on Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays, as well as custom group and private tours by appointment.
PRHBTN PRHBTN is an annual celebration of art forms that have been criminalized, marginalized and underappreciated in the mainstream. It features public murals alongside an exhibition of street art in a space that complements the raw, powerful nature of the message and artistry of each piece. The gathering of artists from around the world usually occurs in October.
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill Something the whole family will enjoy is a visit to Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, just 30 miles south of Lexington. You can stay, dine, or just enjoy the day with incredible activities and events throughout the year. Regularly occurring events include riverboat rides, paddleboarding, cycling, music on the lawn, horse-drawn carriage rides and gardening classes. Special events include Harvest Fest, Halloween Boo! Cruise, Spirit Strolls, Family Quail Dinner, and Blessing of the Hounds. A visit to Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill will make you wonder why we spend so much time on screens. Outdoor play abounds, and the connection with the natural land is felt the moment you wander one of their many paths to discovery. On hiking trails see deer, butterflies, rabbits, and the most beautiful fields of wildflowers. Wooden swings are positioned throughout the property. A visit to the farm to meet Poco the mini donkey and to see the zinnias in full bloom is a must. Whether you make a day trip or you spend the night in one of their many historic lodging options, you will enjoy the stillness and the natural beauty that is Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill.
Orange Beach
It can easily be argued that the best time to visit the beach is October, and what a gift that our Sweet Home Alabama not only has mountains, but also white sand beaches that stretch on and on. If you are looking to get away this fall there is a little slice of heaven due south that can recharge you, calm you and heal you.
Where to stay
Turquoise Place This high-rise offers penthouse accommodations towering above the Gulf Coast’s white sand beaches that offer the best panoramic views of sunrise and sunset. Even though it’s consistently ranked one of the world’s best beaches, accommodations along Alabama’s gulf coast can sometimes be outdated. This is not the case at Turquoise Place. Starting at three bedrooms, rental units have balconies that stretch across the back of each condo. A hot tub sits on every balcony with access from the master suite. There is also a state-of-the-art fitness center, sauna, steam room, large indoor and outdoor pools, a heated lazy river and plenty of activities for adults and children.
Where to eat
Fisher’s at Orange Beach Marina One of the best restaurants in Alabama, Fisher’s OBM showcases the best of the South, from the ambiance situated on the Orange Beach Marina to chef Bill Briand’s expertly crafted fresh food. For an evening to remember, join Briand and a variety of chefs for the Fisher’s Southern Grace dinner series.
Playa Chef Bill Briand’s menu features great local seafood, delicious oysters, steaks, vegetarian dishes and tacos made with homemade tortillas. Playa offers something for everyone in the family, served in a casual atmosphere with a beautiful waterfront view.
Bahama Bob’s A landmark along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, you do not want to miss a visit to Bahama Bob’s. The motto here is “the lower the latitude, the better the attitude.” A menu with every type of seafood served every type of way awaits you. Specialities include grilled fish, coconut shrimp and steamed crab legs, or try one of Bahama Bob’s famous po’boys.
Tacky Jack’s has a fun and lively atmosphere with typical beach fare and a key lime pie to rave about. You can get to this favorite local hangout by land or sea.
Chronic Tacos Looking for simple, grab-and-go food for a day at the beach? It doesn’t get easier or more delicious than Chronic Tacos, located right off Perdido Beach Boulevard.
What to do
Dauphin Island Sea Lab One of the coolest experiences in our state, the Dauphin Island Sea Lab offers a variety of programs for children during the summer, ranging from single-day programs to residential camps and academic courses. Highly qualified educators will guide campers and students through all activities, and residential students are well supervised by counselors.
Bayou La Batre A day adventure beyond the beach, Bayou La Batre is Alabama’s seafood capital. It is not just home to Alabama’s shrimp industry, but also an oyster movement to grow the best-tasting, best-looking oysters in the South, pioneered by the Zirlott family, a fifth-generation seafood family and owner of MurderPoint Oysters. A day trip to Bayou La Batre should include seeing the iconic shrimp boats lined up along the intercoastal and a stop in Sugar Rush, where they serve up freshly made gourmet donuts and coffee.
Alabama Point East For a relaxing, peaceful and pristine stretch of beach, visit Alabama Point East just .3 miles east of Perdido Pass. Pack a picnic, enjoy a nature walk and make a day of this state park.
Perdido Key National Seashore - A short drive into Florida, you will find one of the most serene spots along the coast, Perdido Key National Seashore. It’s my favorite place to watch the sunrise.
New Orleans
If there is a Southern city that best captures the charm, the character and the diversity of the South, it is New Orleans, a city that has maintained its unique multicultural flavor, instead of conforming to convention. It is a city that truly represents what Southern hospitality is all about.
Where to stay
Windsor Court Hotel This luxury hotel is reason enough to fall in love with New Orleans. If you want to feel like royalty, book one of the Windsor Court’s Club Level suites. These rooms have a foyer, bar, living room, bedroom, vanity and closet room, bathroom and two balconies with unrivaled views of New Orleans. The Club Level doesn’t just provide happy hour and pastries, it boasts a gourmet breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails and heavy hors d’oeuvres. With attentive service, a heated rooftop pool and plush linens, it is hard to leave the Windsor Court.
Where to eat
Doris Metropolitan Looking for a scene? Doris Metropolitan may be a meat lover’s dream, but the menu is packed with creative delicious fare for palettes of all kinds. I highly recommend the beetroot (one of the best dishes I have ever eaten), artichoke flower salad and baladi eggplant. The view is quite nice; if you get a window seat, you may see wedding parties as they parade down Chartres.
Bywater American Bistro James Beard Award winner Nina Compton opened Bywater with Chef Levi Raines at the helm. While Compton’s Caribbean influence is seen in dishes like roasted Gulf fish with coconut crema and jerk peanuts served with burrata and peaches.
Galatoire’s For a taste of traditional New Orleans there is Galatoire’s. This iconic restaurant is one of those that should be on your bucket list. Reservations for Friday lunch is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Locals recommend the Oysters Rockefeller and escargot to start, Godchaux salad, and for an entree, the stuffed eggplant. You won’t regret it. And for quite the show, order the Café Brûlot for the table.
Cochon Whether you choose the restaurant or the butcher, you will be in for a treat. Cochon delivers some of the best food you will ever put in your mouth with the key ingredient being simplicity.
Pêche Honored with two James Beard Awards it is easy to see why Pêche has become a must eat in NOLA. Steak tartare with oyster aioli, marinated crab claws, crab and jalapeño capellini and the Louisiana shrimp roll are just a few choices you may want to try.
Café Du Monde Whether it’s early morning or late night, you just have to dive into that powdered sugar sand castle.
French Truck Coffee Located in walking distance from most hotels, French Truck has multiple locations and boasts a lively, fun atmosphere with delicious brew.
What to do
Preservation Hall Open nightly and all ages are welcome. What a treasure Preservation Hall is to New Orleans, to the South and to jazz music. This is a must whether you are traveling with friends, on a couples trip or with the family. Every night, Preservation Hall presents intimate acoustic concerts featuring bands made up from a current collective of over 100 traditional New Orleans jazz musicians. These master musicians have learned the traditional style from the greats that played before them at Preservation Hall. tickets
NOMA Impressive collections and unique exhibits await you at New Orleans Museum of Art. But perhaps one of the most fun excursions to the NOMA is a morning walk through the sculpture garden.
Nightcap at The Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt The original “who dat” drink, the Sazerac was created in New Orleans and The Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt carries with it as much history and folklore as the famed cocktail.