Georgia - Blogs - Tripatini2024-03-28T21:59:42Zhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/feed/tag/Georgia10 Top Attractions for Family Fun in Atlantahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/atlanta-georgia-family-travel2023-09-20T08:05:00.000Z2023-09-20T08:05:00.000ZStephen Salvadorhttps://tripatini.com/members/StephenSalvador<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/11072729253?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br />
This vibrant city is filled with all sorts of stimulating stuff to see and do - and families are very well catered to indeed! Check out these top examples and you´ll see what we mean: </span></p>
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This vibrant city is filled with all sorts of stimulating stuff to see and do - and families are very well catered to indeed! Check out these top examples and you´ll see what we mean: This vibrant city is filled with all sorts of stimulating stuff to see and do - and families are very well catered to indeed! Check out these top examples and you´ll see what we mean:This vibrant city is filled with all sorts of stimulating stuff to see and do - and families are very well catered to indeed! Check out these top examples and you´ll see what we mean:This vibrant city is filled with all sorts of stimulating stuff to see and do - and families are very well catered to indeed! Check out these top examples and you´ll see what we mean:This vibrant city is filled with all sorts of stimulating stuff to see and do - and families are very well catered to indeed! Check out these top examples and you´ll see what we mean:This vibrant city is filled with all sorts of stimulating stuff to see and do - and families are very well catered to indeed! Check out these top examples and you´ll see what we mean:This vibrant city is filled with all sorts of stimulating stuff to see and do - and families are very well catered to indeed! Check out these top examples and you´ll see what we mean:</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xKFZZumEuiM?si=eBWPP1SS69l2gvoE" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></span></p>
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</span><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://beltline.org/" target="_blank">Atlanta BeltLine</a></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Still a work in progress, this 22-mile corridor of walking and biking trails developed around disused rail lines crosses and connects various neighbourhoods, and lets visitors experience an dynamic array of shops, bars, eateries, parks, and cultural opportunities including museums and public art.<br />
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<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uF-aO8jgDxk?si=W0uzgMLlEJrEj4eW" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://puppet.org/" target="_blank"><br />
Center for Puppetry Arts</a></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Marking its 45th year in <strong>Midtown</strong> Atlanta, the center covers the ancient art of puppetry with exhibits covering various eras and parts of the world. But its main focus is puppets in contemporary pop culture, and especially the Muppets, including the world´s largest collection of <strong>Jim Henson</strong> artifacts. In addition to Kermit, Miss Piggy, their crew, and the <em><strong>Sesame Street</strong></em> gang, you´ll also see items like <strong>Madame</strong>, from the act of ventriloquist comedian <strong>Wayland Flowers</strong> as well as puppets from <em><strong>The Lion King</strong></em> and <strong><em>The Dark Crystal</em></strong>. Plenty of shows and interactive fun!<br />
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<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/whlPNOx2BDA?si=d8CZN5btdWCwS5Fc" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://childrensmuseumatlanta.org/" target="_blank">Children's Museum of Atlanta</a></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Located next to downtown´s <strong>Centennial Olympic Park</strong> and aimed especially at kids younger than ten, this 20-year-old museum of more than 16,000 square feet provides fun, hands-on learning in four zones, with a lively staff of actors and educators on hand to bring learning to life. Explore the layers of Earth and enter a magical woodland, make gigantic sandcastles, attend mini-musicals and story hours, and unleash your inner artist.<br />
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<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cRVRnDuge1A?si=6G3qh6_cm_9xtgLU" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br />
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<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://www.fernbankmuseum.org/" target="_blank">Fernbank Museum of Natural History</a></strong></span><br />
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In a word - dinosaurs! This museum east of <strong>Midtown</strong> is packed with them, including an Argentinosaurus, at 123 feet long the biggest dino ever discovered. There´s plenty else to keep the kids enthralled, too, such as ¨A Walk Through Time in Georgia¨; a 900-gallon saltwater aquarium; kids´ discovery rooms; NatureQuest, with all sorts of engaging activities plus live-animal habitats; and a giant screen theater with cool fare about blue whales, the Serengeti, the U.S. wilderness, and more.<br />
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<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H_gI78b38u0?si=XR2o-gzTWpcjpO1K" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://www.georgiaaquarium.org/" target="_blank"><br />
Georgia Aquarium</a><br />
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<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Also downtown, it has more than 10,000 animals of more than 500 species (more than any other aquarium!) housed in 60 habitats and some 11 million gallons of water. Key exbibits include ¨Aquanaut Adventure,¨ ¨Cold Water Quest,¨ ¨Ocean Voyager,¨ ¨River Scout,¨ ¨Tropical Diver,¨ and of course the very popular ¨SHARKS! Predators of the Deep.¨ And of course everyone loves the dolphin shows!</span></p>
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<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WfgFUxFUb8g?si=ugFfPNyExgFjuaNs" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></span></p>
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<span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://www.legodiscoverycenter.com/atlanta/" target="_blank">LEGO Discovery Center</a></strong></span><br />
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Opened in the <strong>Buckhead</strong> district just this past spring as the first of several such centers around the USA, it´s billed as ¨the ultimate indoor LEGO playground,¨ including both oversize LEGO attractions and miniature cityscapes of local landmarks; play and build areas (including building workshops); rides; a rollicking4D movie; a café; of course a shop, and more.<br />
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<span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12218438862,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12218438862,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12218438862?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sign_with_King_Birthplace_Across_the_Road_-_Martin_Luther_King,_Jr._National_Historic_Site_-_Atlanta_-_Georgia_-_USA_%2834134059102%29.jpg" target="_blank">Adam Jones</a></em></span><br />
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<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://www.nps.gov/malu/index.htm" target="_blank">Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park</a></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">Not necessarily what you´d nromally think of as a ¨family¨ attraction, but if you care about teaching your kids about history, civil rights and social justice, it´s an important one. Part of the <strong>U.S. National Parks</strong> system, the site includes <strong>MLK</strong>'s birth home; <strong>Ebenezer Baptist Church</strong> where he preached; and the <strong>King Center</strong>, established by his widow <strong>Coretta Scott King</strong>. Both moving and educational!<br />
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<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zsE6AdQ4Ao0?si=x-LEaUavmIk2g6wu" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></span></p>
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<span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://poncecityroof.com/" target="_blank">The Roof at Ponce City Market</a></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">In a part of town called the Old Fourth Ward and one of the key sites along the BeltLine, an old Sears store was turned into a complex featuring shops, a food hall, and this rooftop with retro carnival-style games, other amusements (including an 18-hole mini-golf course), food, and drinks - plus some pretty sweeping views out over the city.<br />
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<span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12218543685,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12218543685,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12218543685?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:SkyView_Atlanta,_Atlanta,_GA_%2840508040873%29.jpg" target="_blank">Warren LeMay</a></em></span><br />
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<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://www.skyviewatlanta.com/" target="_blank">SkyView Atlanta</a></strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;">It seems that big fancy Ferris wheels are a must-have for any city with pretentions to greatness, and Atlanta´s 20-story version is certainly an experience. Its 42 gondolas - air conditioned in warm weather and heated in cold - provide a great view out over downtown, and it´s especially impressive. And for $40 extra you can opt for the ¨VIP¨ gondola, with a glass floor, ¨Ferrari-style¨ seats, and a longer ride time (with the regular ones it´s just seven to 12 minutes!); you also get to skip the line).<br />
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<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PMC4VyQMwuo?si=5TclB3cWQEEALO_2" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></span></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><a href="https://www.worldofcoca-cola.com/" target="_blank">World of Coca-Cola</a><br />
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</strong></span></span><span style="font-weight:400;">There´s something for everyone at this entertaining center devoted to Atlanta´s flagship brand as well as one of the world´s best known.A bit of science, a bit of pop culture, a bit of fun - and a lot of bubbles! <br />
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<p>And for cheap flights to Atlanta, <a href="https://www.lowestflightfares.com/cheap-flights/north-america/united-states/georgia/atlanta/" target="_blank">click here</a>!</p></div>The Top 10 Things to Do in Atlanta, Georgiahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/atlanta-georgia-attractions2019-03-18T12:31:45.000Z2019-03-18T12:31:45.000ZHeena Adwanihttps://tripatini.com/members/HeenaAdwani<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009279497,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009279497,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009279497?profile=original" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>Lee Howard</em></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> <br /> Atlanta is the state of Georgia's premier cultural hub. and despite being a major urban hub, still has plenty of southern charm, as well as myriad attractions, sightseeing, and activities. Let us take a look at the many things that are a must on a visit. <a href="https://www.triphobo.com/tripplans/atlanta-united-states/1-day" target="_blank">Atlanta itinerary 1 day</a> <br /> </span><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Sightseeing</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> Do not miss the world’s largest aquarium, ‘the Georgia aquarium’, the Fox Theatre Centennial Park, Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Site, Piedmont Park, The High Museum of Art and the Turner Field on a visit to this city.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><br /> Activities</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> If you are someone who can’t sit in one place or a fitness freak, do take a walk run or jog around the Atlanta Beltline. Cycling is also an option here.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> The city is rich with specialty shops, malls, souvenir shops, antique markets and more.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> Take a Segway tour around the city digging into its history and exploring the best restaurants and specialties here.</span></p>
<p><strong><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;">General Tips</span></strong></p>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-weight:400;">Fall and the initial days of winter are when you should visit Atlanta.</span> <span style="font-weight:400;">Avoid visiting this city in the month of August as the weather is very humid during this month of the year.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-weight:400;">The city is extremely crowded on weekends and Labor Day. If you want to enjoy the city at leisure, choose to explore the city on a weekday.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-weight:400;">To enjoy the bliss of azaleas and dogwoods visit the city in spring months. That’s when these flowers bloom.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-weight:400;">Visit the city in July to indulge in the street food festival.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-weight:400;">If you’re visiting in May, do not miss the jazz festival.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-weight:400;">If you’re on a budget, the city has quite a few free attractions to enjoy like historic sites, parks, markets and more.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-weight:400;">The city has hiking trails. Adventurers come prepared with comfortable shoes for hiking.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-weight:400;">The weather is pretty warm here. Wear sunscreen whenever you get out.</span></li>
<li style="font-weight:400;"><span style="font-weight:400;">It rains throughout the year in the city; pack your rain gear while visiting here.</span></li>
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<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009279694,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009279694,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009279694?profile=original" width="640" /></a></span> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Best Places to Visit in Atlanta</strong></span></p>
<p><strong><br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:12pt;">The Aquarium</span></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> The Georgia Aquarium is located on the downtown of Atlanta and is been open for public viewing since 2005. The aquarium has more than eight gallons of water and enough aquatic life, compared with all others in the world. It is also the largest aquarium ever made by man.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009279694,original{{/staticFileLink}}"> </a></span></p>
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<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009279901,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009279901,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009279901?profile=original" width="640" /></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>World of Coca-Cola</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> This was opened 2007 in the heart of the city of Atlanta downtown from the Centennial Olympic Park. The facility has more than a thousand artifacts and exhibits and is open for public viewing. A 4D theatre, views of the bottling line that produced eight-ounce bottles of the drink and a tasting lounge with free samples are its highlights.</span></p>
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<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}11003486876,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}11003486876,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="750" alt="11003486876?profile=RESIZE_930x" /></a> <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Martin_Luther_King%27s_Boyhood_Home.jpg" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>Mikefairbanks</em></span></a></p>
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<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Martin Luther King National Jr. Historical Park</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> Basically a living memorial complex, this <strong>U.S. National Park</strong> includes the civil rights leader's childhood home (above) the <strong>Ebenezer Baptist Church</strong> where he and his father were pastors; the grave sites of <strong>MLK</strong> and his wife <strong>Coretta Scott King</strong>; and a visitor's center with a good overview of King's life and legacy.<br /></span></p>
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<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009280683,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009280683,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009280683?profile=original" width="640" /><br /> </a><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong> Centennial Olympic Park</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> This centennial facility was developed for the summer Olympics in the year 1996 and was later designated for public use. This is a 21 acre downtown facility with the largest interactive fountain with the Olympic ring symbol. There are exhibits water gardens and children play zones to enhance its beauty. It has ample scope for Atlanta sightseeing as special annual events and festivals are hosted in the park in the winter season.</span></p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009280683,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><br /> </a></p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009281101,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009281101,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009281101?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Museum of Art and the Woodruff Arts Center</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> This is one of the top places to see in Atlanta and is the center for visual arts and performance centers in the city. The Woodruff arts center has this art museum along with alliance theatre, The 14th Street Playhouse and the symphony orchestra and offers comprehensive entertainment portals for its visitors.</span></p>
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<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009281486,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009281486,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009281486?profile=original" width="640" /></a></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>CNN Tour</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> This is the behind the scenes tour favoring the CNN news channel at its global headquarters. The tour is open daily and lasts for less than an hour to explore the real happenings at the station. It is important to reserve ahead for the tour.</span></p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009281486,original{{/staticFileLink}}"> </a></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Atlanta Center for History</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> This place indeed connects people with their culture and history. There are exhibits here depicting memories of the civil war, folks, and arts of the south and the development of Atlanta across ages. There are also children's playhouses and a living history farm to offer a comprehensive cultural experience for visitors.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong><br /> Botanical Garden</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> The garden is located at the midtown of Atlanta and is spread over 30 acres of gardens and has the best orchids in the entire nation. The rose gardens and the children gardens spread their fragrance to the entire world. There are ongoing educational programs organized for all age groups.<br /> <br /> </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Fox Theatre</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> This is a premier entertainment venue in Atlanta and offers exclusive performances starting from concerts to movies and live shows to attract tourists.</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9009281284,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9009281284,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9009281284?profile=original" width="640" /></a></span></p>
<p><span style="font-size:12pt;"><strong>Nightlife</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> Dance the night away by being part of the glam party scene in the city. The nightlife of Atlanta is zealous and vibrant with a fleet of clubs, strip clubs, and party houses. You, of course, have a vast variety of social fun to choose from. The superlative restaurants serve delicious food here. Try out maximum clubs you can in a single night. Use taxis, car services, or MARTA to commute.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight:400;"><br /> After all the club hopping, you definitely would want to grab a bite somewhere good. The city of Atlanta has plenty of late-night dining restaurants.</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight:400;">You can best explore the city with <a href="https://www.triphobo.com/tripplans/atlanta-united-states" target="_blank">Atlanta itineraries</a> to take the perfect glimpse of the city and get a perfect trip planned for a memorable vacation.</span></p>
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<p> </p></div>The USA's Top Martin Luther King, Jr. Siteshttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/top-martin-luther-king-jr-sites2018-01-15T17:42:15.000Z2018-01-15T17:42:15.000ZJosé Balidohttps://tripatini.com/members/JoseBalido<div><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008749698,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008749698,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008749698?profile=original" width="640" /></a><br /> As many Americans honor the towering Civil Rights icon who gave his life to make the USA a little better place, his legacy is under greater attack than its been in years - including now at the highest levels of the U.S. government. And so on this <strong>Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, </strong>as a Cuban-American with afro-Cubans in my family tree, I’m proud to offer a rundown of the top sites throughout the American South that visitors can experience and learn about the history and legacy of this country’s greatest civil rights icon (and I say “top sites” because obviously the man got around far more than this, but for the most part these are the ones that are the most iconic and/or have organized visitor programs). Happy <strong>MLK Day</strong>!<br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008749070,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008749070,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008749070?profile=original" width="250" /></a><strong><u>Alabama</u></strong><br /> <br /> <strong><a href="http://www.dexterkingmemorial.org/c_church.cfm" target="_blank">Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, Montgomery</a> </strong><br /> <br /> Dating from 1889 and today a National Historic Monument, in the late 1950s this white-trimmed red-brick church had King as its pastor and was the nerve center for the famous <strong>Montgomery Bus Boycott</strong> (see Rosa Parks, below). All that and much more is covered in the next-door parsonage, which has been made into an interesting little museum. It’s still a working church, by the way, and no tours are given on Sundays, but you’re welcome to attend services. <br /> <br /> <strong><a href="http://www.nps.gov/semo/index.htm" target="_blank">Selma-to-Montgomery National Historic Trail</a><br /> </strong> <br /> This 54-mile trail follows the route of the 1965 <strong>Voting Rights March</strong>, from Selma’s Brown Chapel A.M.E to the Alabama State Capitol building. Today’s trail starts at a slick interpretive center, has another interpretive center at midpoint, and ends at a third in Selma. Groups of 10 or more may schedule park ranger-led tours. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008750267,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008750267,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008750267?profile=original" width="250" /></a><strong><u>Georgia</u></strong><br /> <br /> <strong><a href="http://www.nps.gov/malu/index.htm" target="_blank">Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, Atlanta</a> </strong><br /> <br /> Centered around the house where young Martin lived till age 12, (left) as well as the adjacent tomb of MLK and his mother <strong>Coretta Scott King</strong>, this 35-acre portion of the Sweet Auburn district is free of charge to visit and includes tour of local landmarks like <strong>Ebeneezer Baptist Church</strong>. (Only 15 people per tour, though, and first-come, first-served, so get there early). <br /> <br /> <strong><u>Michigan</u></strong><br /> <br /> <strong><a href="http://www.thehenryford.org/museum/index.aspx" target="_blank">Henry Ford Museum, Dearborn</a> </strong><br /> <br /> OK, why is this on my list? Because this extraordinary collection of American vehicles and technology of the past century or so includes the bus on which <strong>Rosa Parks</strong> as part of the <strong>Montgomery Bus Boycott</strong> organized in part by MLK in 1955, took her historic stand – well, seat. I was moved to tears here.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008750462,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-right" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008750462,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008750462?profile=original" width="350" /></a><strong><u>North Carolina</u></strong><br /> <br /> <strong><a href="http://www.visitraleigh.com/listings/Dr-Martin-Luther-King-Jr-Memorial-Gardens/61134/" target="_blank">Dr. Martin Luther King Memorial Park</a></strong> <br /> <br /> I happened across this and thought I’d throw it in, but the first public park in the U.S. devoted exclusively to MLK, in Raleigh, it offers a lifesize statue, water monument, pretty landscaping and not all that much else. Still, if you just happen to be in town…<br /> <br /> <strong><u>Tennessee</u></strong><br /> <br /> <strong><a href="http://www.civilrightsmuseum.org/" target="_blank">Lorraine Motel/National Civil Rights Museum</a></strong> <br /> <br /> This of course is the place in <strong>Memphis</strong> (right) where King was assassinated on the balcony in front of Room 306 on April 4, 1968. It includes an $11-million annex called “Exploring the Legacy.” Guided tours are offered on Mondays and Tuesdays.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008750494,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-left" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008750494,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="9008750494?profile=original" width="325" /></a><strong><u>Washington DC</u></strong></p>
<p><br /> <strong><a href="http://www.nps.gov/mlkm/index.htm" target="_blank">Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial</a></strong><br /> <br /> The latest homage to Dr. King, inaugurated in 2011, is a 30-foot statue on the <strong>National Mall</strong> – the only such monument here to a non-president. OK, so it was created by a sculptor from Communist China, but it’s still moving. Also in the District, <strong>Cultural Tourism DC</strong> has information on the local self-guided <strong><a href="http://www.culturaltourismdc.org/things-do-see/tours-trails/african-american-heritage-trail-washington-dc" target="_blank">African-American Heritage Trail</a></strong>, of which other local MLK-linked sites are prominent - with the Lincoln Memorial, of course, at the top of the list thanks to the “I Have a Dream” speech (left). And of course the recently inaugurated Smithsonian's <strong><a href="https://nmaahc.si.edu/" target="_blank">National Museum of African-American History and Culture</a> </strong>includes generous covering of the Civil Rights movement and Dr. King's leading role in it. <br /> <br /> <a href="http://www.culturaltourismdc.org/things-do-see/tours-trails/african-american-heritage-trail-washington-dc"><br /> <br /> <br /> </a> <span class="font-size-1"><em>photos (all from Flickr): Cocoabiscuit,<strong id="yui_3_7_3_3_1358693577382_1042" class="username"> <a id="yui_3_7_3_3_1358693577382_1053" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jfgallery/" name="yui_3_7_3_3_1358693577382_1053"></a></strong>kenfagerdotcom, jimbowen0306, jshyun, e-strategyblog.com</em></span><br /> <br /> <strong id="yui_3_7_3_3_1358693001684_1141" class="username"><br /> </strong> <strong id="yui_3_7_3_3_1358692438862_1255" class="username"></strong></p></div>The Southern Spirit of St. Simons Island, Georgiahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/st-simon-island-georgia2013-05-23T20:26:31.000Z2013-05-23T20:26:31.000ZLinda Kissamhttps://tripatini.com/members/LindaKissam<div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">There’s a lot to be said for Southern hospitality. There’s much more to be said experiencing it for yourself. I was very fortunate to do just that in a five-day trip to St. Simons Island, Georgia. For a<img style="float:right;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008574055,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="" width="300" /> traveling wine aficionado and foodie like me, this has got to be one of my top three trips this year. It’s quite clear that Southern hospitality focuses heavily on food and the role it plays in daily life and social interaction. Add some great wines, amazing beaches and fun activities… and Voila! I found Southern nirvana.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">For a Southern California girl it’s a bit unnerving to be addressed as “Ma’am “all the time. I am more used to hearing “Babe, ”Dude,” and “Hey”. But there’s a whole lot of emphasis in the South on the etiquette of being addressed as “Ma'am" and "Sir" to demonstrate respect. After about 20 minutes I actually rolled quite easily into the greeting. How nice to find that manners still exist and flourish in today’s casual world.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">My St. Simon’s experience began with a 5-hour plane ride to Jacksonville Airport. Arriving a bit late, <img style="float:left;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008573696,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="" width="300" />I decided to rest up and regroup at the newly refurbished and award winning Crowne Plaza Hotel. This is one of the few hotels that still offer a free shuttle to/from the airport. I was treated to an amazing executive level room overlooking a beautiful courtyard. I loved, loved loved the beautiful business center located just feet from my room. It offered a computer and printer to conduct business at and luxe furnishings (including a huge flat screen TV) to stretch out and relax in. I was delighted to also find a great coffee maker featuring lattes, cappuccinos, teas, and hot chocolate; and a refrigerator stocked with ice cream, fruit and other delights. These people understand the business traveler.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">While touring the hotel’s impressive restaurant, conference/event areas, lobby bar, Internet Café, and fitness center, I noticed a solid mix of business and family guests. I headed back to my room<img style="float:right;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008574863,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="" width="300" /> where I was met by Executive Chef Arthur White carrying a yummy welcome fruit platter. He was kind enough to sit with me awhile while we talked about his background, his philosophy and the foods he loves to prepare. This 31-year veteran started his career at the property as a dishwasher. His hard work ethic and culinary mastery eventually earned him the top chef spot. He describes his cooking style and offerings as a mixture of Southern, Caribbean, Italian, Cajun and American cuisine. He shared with me that his favorite ingredient is cream as he loves creating cream soups, sauces and Seafood Newburg. Eating at the restaurant is a treat. I highly recommend this hotel for its upscale amenities, friendly business traveler atmosphere, and its family-friendly facilities. How they can blend all that into one fabulous hotel experience I am not sure, but they do, and you should take advantage of it whether flying in for a cruise, a sports game, or a trip to the dazzling St Simon’s Island.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;">The next morning I was picked up by</span> <a href="http://www.carservicebrunswickga.com/"><span style="font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;">Max Transport</span></a> <span style="color:#000000;font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;">for the one-hour ride to St. Simons and my <img style="float:left;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008575662,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="" width="300" />lodging</span> <a href="http://www.kingandprince.com/"><span style="font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;">The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort</span></a><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">. I began to first understand the extraordinary St. Simons Island aura as I crossed the five-mile causeway experiencing stunning river views, immense salt marshes, and my first glimpse of the Atlantic Ocean. Once on the Island, tunnels of Live Oaks, picturesque ocean-side streets and homes, and all the natural beauty, beaches, intriguing shopping opportunities and an array of restaurant choices all called out to me to stop, relax and renew.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">The historic King and Prince Resort has been welcoming guests since 1935. I could go on and on about the historic resort. The room choices are endless and appropriate for every need and budget. Think beach front rooms, villas, suites, and<img style="float:right;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008576091,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="" width="300" /> guest homes. Add in 10, 000 sq. ft. of ocean front meeting, conference and function space, wedding facilities and several excellent dining options and you have the ultimate experience. My beach front room was just steps from the beach, was beautifully appointed and featured a lovely patio to chill out on. Wine in one hand, computer in the other… I was soon relaxing on comfortable wicker furniture listening to the soothing sounds of crashing Atlantic waves.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;"><img style="float:left;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008576301,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="" width="300" />Having met up with several friends, I was soon hopping on the</span> <a href="http://www.lighthousetrolleys.com/"><span style="color:#0000ff;font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;">St. Simons Lighthouse Trolley</span></a> <span style="color:#000000;font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;">to begin my exploration of St. Simons’ history and the Southern fun and hospitality experience. First stop was the</span> <a href="http://saintsimonslighthouse.org/"><span style="font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;">Coast Guard Maritime Museum.</span></a> <span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">This was to be my introduction to the intriguing history of the Georgia Coast. A 20-minute video and a 30 minute tour of the museum explained the ecological nuances of the Georgia's barrier islands of which St. Simons is the second largest of Georgia's 18 barrier islands, encompassing 31 square miles. Open seven days a week with an admission price of $6.00, be sure to stop by.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">With the day waning, the trolley made a final sunset stop at Gould’s Inlet. Gould's Inlet is the <img style="float:left;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008577301,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="" width="225" />opening between St. Simons East Beach and the south tip of Sea Island providing inspiring views of coastal birds. Picturesque wooden observation platforms are part of the experience for wildlife viewing. Migrants and resident species of birds can be seen every day. High or incoming tides are best for birding at this site, but something will be there all the time, as was the case with my time there.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Dinner that night was at the hotel in the lovely Solarium. We were treated to appetizers and White Sangria, with a main course of Wild Georgia Shrimp & Grits, seafood salad, and Peach Cobbler…all via a culinary demo featuring Chef Robyn Gomez. Have to confess, up until that night I had never had grits or White Shrimp. Both were exquisite and made an<img style="float:right;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008577853,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="" width="300" /> immediate convert out of me. The food, the service, and the culinary talents of Chef Gomez defines gracious Southern hospitality and is definitely what culinary memories are made of. And oh yes, you have to love that the perfect wine – a 2007 MontGras Reserva Sauvignon Blanc from Casablanca Valley, Chile was chosen to pair with the dinner.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">Next morning my friends and I popped into the King & Prince King’s Tavern for their world-famous Breakfast Buffet and to listen to a short talk on 75 years of St. Simons History with Curt Smith, the Lighthouse Events Coordinator and Historian. Let me just say that “Wow” defines the buffet and the Mimosa’s. I loved the eclectic mix of Southern focused dishes and all- American favorites.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;"><img style="float:left;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008578460,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="" width="300" />Back on the trolley, the group headed out for an afternoon of golf and lunch at the</span> <a href="http://kingandprince.com/golf.php"><span style="font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;">King and Prince Golf Course</span></a><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">. Paired up in two’s in golf carts we toured the award-winning course well-known for its challenging layout amongst ancient forests, vast salt marshes and dramatic island holes. Had to love the two alligators sunning themselves on the 15<sup>th</sup> hole (see on the left)! After the tour we were treated to a golf lesson including a swing lesson and a putting lesson. I sucked big time at learning how to swing a club, but was dynamite in the putting class. Lunch came next in the comfortable clubhouse overlooking the huge lake that adds to the challenge of the course’s 9th hole. If it’s golf you like, this is the place for you. Also a great place for a wedding.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;">Back at the hotel I opted for a walk on the beach at low tide. The soothing coastal air and wet sand beneath my toes reinforced that this untouched island haven is a luxury of time well spent. Dinner was a short stroll away at the</span> <a href="http://www.saltcow.com/"><span style="font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;">Saltwater Cowboy</span></a><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">. Owner George Stewart‘s vision for this casual eatery centers around steak, seafood, low country boil, burgers and a nice selection of cocktails, beer and wine. I had a lovely Cabernet with my generous tasty 16-oz Rib Eye. Open seven days a week for dinner, enjoy the frequent live music and really cool bar.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;">Up early the next morning, our group was back on The Lighthouse trolley to the Sandcastle Café. Tim and Melissa Welford have a gold mine in this village, “hole in the wall.” The place was<img style="float:right;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008579060,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="" width="200" /> crowded, and for good reason. The food is good, plentiful, affordable and easily lives up to its “family legend” status of 20 years. Order off the menu or enjoy the breakfast buffet. Afterwards <img style="float:left;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008578864,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="" width="300" />stroll the shops and sights that make up this scenic waterfront village. I certainly scored in several of the boutique shops, but in a few hours I was back on the trolley heading out for lunch at</span> <a href="http://southernsoulbbq.com/"><span style="font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;">Southern Soul BBQ</span></a><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;">This is what I had been waiting for …Southern BBQ, and I was not disappointed. Another crazy-busy spot this Southern smoke joint slow hardwood smokes their ribs, chicken, sausages and beef.<img style="float:right;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008579686,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="" width="250" /> Featured on Food Network’s, “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” this is a local landmark and deservedly so. Eat inside or outdoors, expect a short wait, and delicious melt-in-your mouth BBQ. Geese I really really loved the variety of squirt bottles of spicy, mild, smoky, and Carolina- style sauces available at each seating area. Get yourself some spicy ribs, sweet tea or cool beer, and be ready for the experience of a lifetime.</span></span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color:#000000;font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;">Filled to the gills, we were off to an authentic shrimp boat experience aboard the</span> <a href="http://www.shrimpcruise.com/"><span style="font-family:Calibri;font-size:medium;">“Lady Jane.”</span></a> <span style="font-size:medium;"><span style="font-family:Calibri;"><span style="color:#000000;">For me, this particular experience was my “Wow” moment of the trip because it brought together all the St Simons Island puzzle pieces together. it<img style="float:right;" src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008579487,original{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="" width="300" /> was the culmination of the beauty, the brawn and the ecological magic that makes this place so special. The Lady Jane is a United States Coast Guard certified 49 passenger steel shrimping vessel painstakingly refurbished for an enjoyable seafaring cruise. Lady Jane is the only shrimp vessel on the entire east coast that has been certified by the USCG to carry 49 passengers. Our crew and guides, Paul Christian (Marine Biologist), Phillip Flournoy (Marine Biologist)and a very mature and focused teenager Clifford Credle (aspiring Marine Biologist) dredged the inland coastal waterway for shrimp. We were invited to help sort through the catch of shrimp, Bonnethead , Blacktip, Sand shark, Horseshoe Crab,Puffer Fish, Amberjack, Crocker, Spot, Whiting, Bluecrab, and Skate while learning about the waterway ecology and each portion of the catch from Cilfford. As a extra bonus we were offered fresh shrimp to eat, boiled and prepared by First Mate John Tyre. Weather is never a concern, as the Lady Jane performs quite nicely in the protected waters of St. Simon Sound, has an air conditioned cabin, restroom, and large open decks with ample room to walk around and enjoy the views. About $40 per person, this is a deal …and a memory for a lifetime.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="line-height:115%;font-family:Calibri, 'sans-serif';font-size:11pt;"><span style="color:#000000;">The “Southern” experience is something I highly endorse. If you’ve never been a part of this engaging phenomena, I suggest you start the discovery process at the King and Prince resort on St. Simons Island.</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:0in 0in 10pt;">If you already know what I am talking about, then you know how right I am … so what’s keeping you from booking a room at The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort, and falling in love all over again?</p></div>