Enjoy all of these!

Inlet Point Plantation Horseback Riding  | North Myrtle Beach . SC

Giddy-up, old Paint
First, you don’t have to be a skilled rider to enjoy this trip. I hadn’t been on a horse since I was 12, but when the opportunity arose to saddle up, my husband, Bob, and I jumped at the chance. I must admit to being a bit apprehensive. Those babies are big – really big. My fears, however, were groundless. Our guide, Jason, introduced us to our horses – Jesse, the Quarter Horse was mine, and Tonto, the American Paint, was assigned to Bob. These weren’t tired old nags, but they weren’t spring chickens, either. Jason explained that it was a job the horses seemed to enjoy, and as we mounted and walked toward the beach, I could feel Jesse’s gait pick up a bit.

Cresting the hill, the all-but-deserted island sand awaited. It was magnificent. There were shrimp boats, a jet ski or two and many seagulls, but that was about it. Far to the right, across the inlet, I could barely see the high rises of North Myrtle Beach – but they seemed a million miles away.

In all, the plantation covers about 4,000 acres. Waites Island, which we reached via a small bridge, is private, and covers more than 1,200 acres. The Smith family owns and runs Inlet Point Plantation, which has had its share of historical visitors, and was once the site of Fort Randall. The open fields near the stables were cleared by Confederate soldiers, and legend has it that Billy the Kid lived here, and Blackbeard, the pirate, took refuge here as well. There are Native American burial grounds and archeological artifacts dating back to 600 BCE.

Today, almost 50 horses live here, and some have the run of the plantation. Visitors are urged to tred lightly on this land, preserving its wilderness state.

WOW Factor: The horses are beautiful and very well-trained, and the staff is professional and friendly. They want you to have fun, stay safe, and take in the beauty surrounding your walk.

Hint: Beach Dreams Photography will take a few photos of your visit. You aren’t pressured to buy, but you’ll want a reminder of a wonderful day. Wear sunscreen, and depending on the time of year, insect repellent. Listen to your guide, who’s done this a time or two. Reservations are required.
Learn more at: InletPointPlantation.com and more about North Myrtle Beach.
 

Wheels through Time | Maggie Valley . NC

Get your Motor Running
Full disclosure. I am not a motorcycle mama. I’ve ridden them, and they’re lots of fun, but it’s not my life’s passion, if you know what I mean. That said, the Wheels through Time Museum is home to arguably the world’s finest collection of rare American vintage motorcycles.

Here’s how one visitor described her experience on Trip Advisor: “an amazing (and huge) collection and we are so glad we went there. You don’t have to be a motorcycle expert to love it, either – we were just three 22-year-old girls on a road trip that went through Maggie Valley. Will definitely be back some day.”
And that’s not the only rave review. Tour groups come from Italy, France, all over. The museum has been lauded in magazines worldwide. It is clearly something special.

With more than 300 of America’s rarest and most historic classic motorcycles, you’ll see products from Harley Davidson, Indian, Excelsior and others. There are exhibits on early modes of transportation, military and law enforcement use of bikes, board track racing, hill climbing machines and much more.

Founded by Dale Walksler in 1993, the museum houses more than bikes. Memorabilia is on display that will take those of a certain age back to childhood and help visitors understand the integral part this gasoline-powered beast played in the pursuit of the American dream. It carried folks to work, and afterwards, took them out to play. It was affordable freedom on two wheels. Many early models are on display and, even more fascinating, a number of them are in good working order. Among the reviews on Trip Advisor, you’ll find several people who were taken out for a ride during their visit.

WOW Factor: They glitter, purr and roar. Hundreds of videos include antique motorcycle restoration programs, as well as event shows, virtual tours, feature bike shows and more. The gift shop provides fun souvenirs including hats and t-shirts. (If you want a woman’s shirt that says “Pretty Fast,” this is the place.) Mugs, decals and all things Harley can be found here. Stay tuned, because the Discovery Channel is in production with a new program that will showcase motorcycles and so much more.

Hint: When cycle fascination ends, the museum is just five miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway as well as Maggie Valley’s scenic charms and Western North Carolina’s many attractions.
Learn More at: Wheelsthroughtime.com / Call 828.926.6266

 

Asheville Food Tours | Asheville . NC

Walk, Taste, Savor
There are ways to learn about a town, and one of our favorites is a food tour. Asheville may be the quintessential foodie town, with so many dee-vine tasting options that you know you’ll have to return time and again just to cover all the chocolate shops, bakeries, bistros, markets and cafés. And then you’ll have to go back for more.

Asheville Food Tours is at the top of its game, attracting rave reviews from Yelp and Trip Advisor, as well as from some of my foodie friends who tried it – and loved it. What else would you expect from the home of the Foodtopian Society and one of the country’s strongest farm-to-table movements?

Choose between a downtown tour or a Biltmore Village tour. Better yet, take ‘em both, because there is no better way to survey the territory and make notes for must-come-back-here experiences.

When you visit “Paris of the South,” take a guided tour of this city’s culinary treasures, even as your guide, Chris, shares tempting tidbits about history and the landmarks you see along the way.

WOW Factor: Every tour is slightly different, but odds are you’ll taste artisanal chocolate, just-baked bread, local cheese, little bites, and your favorite beverage. Each Asheville Food Tour visits seven to 10 different specialty food shops and “handpicked” neighborhood restaurants. What’s more, you’ll actually meet the creatives behind these independent enterprises. You’ll learn why they love Asheville and how they decide on their next palate-pleasing delight.

This stroll is limited to 12, so the crowd never becomes overwhelming. Plus, you’re guaranteed to make a new friend or two, even as you pick your personal favorites worthy of a return visit – perhaps that very evening!

Hint: It is a walking tour and, although not terribly strenuous, it is, well, a walking tour. Wear comfortable shoes, an umbrella if the skies look threatening, and layer for the frequent in-and-out explorations. Substitutions are not possible, so consider any dietary restrictions before you go. Shopping is verboten along the way, but take your Discount Passport – available from the tour. Tours are available Tuesday-Friday, at 2 pm, from March through November, excluding holidays.
Learn more at: www.ashevillefoodtours.com

Hot Air Balloons | Anderson SC . Simpsonville, SC . Statesville NC

Up, Up and Away

Photo courtesy: Ashley Fetner • www.ashleyfetnerportraits.com

Hot air balloon rides are beautiful, gentle adventures. There’s something to be said for a bird’s eye view, and safely ensconced within these gentle giants, the ride is exhilarating, and at the same time, quite calming up there above the madding crowds.

Gentlemen propose to their lady loves mid-flight, while families and friends take celebratory rides together. Anniversaries are commemorated, and sometimes dares are accepted and embraced.

If you’ve ever come upon a balloon festival, the sight is truly breathtaking, as the huge, colorful orbs rise to meet the sky. The Carolinas offer perfect surroundings for a hot air balloon ride – and www.blastvalve.com lists a number of North Carolina balloon operations guaranteed to give you a good time.

In Anderson, SC, Skyscapes of America offers balloon rides year round. Their experienced pilots keep you happy in the air with vistas as far as the eye can see.

OK, perhaps you’re attached to Mother Earth and don’t want to leave her. You can still enjoy the thrill of ballooning at one of the Carolinas’ three balloon festivals.

• Freedom Weekend Aloft – in May, at Heritage Park, Simpsonville, SC
• Balloons over Anderson – in October, in Anderson, SC
• Carolina Balloon Fest – in October, in Statesville, NC

At all three events, balloons are the star attractions, but there’s plenty going on, with food, beverages, entertainment and more.

WOW Factor: Let’s face it, these vessels are quite beautiful, and very romantic for those seeking a memorable way to pop the question, say “I’m sorry” or enjoy a get-together. The festivals are pure fun, in the air or in your lawn chair. And for those who’ve included a hot air balloon ride in their bucket list, these are friendly towns to visit for after hours.

Hint: You’ll want your camera or video, for sure, but don’t spend so much time recording that you miss the event. A bottle of water is a good idea as well. Long pants and tennis shoes are advisable, and layers are always a good idea. Tethered balloon rides are offered for those who prefer to stay attached. Balloon rides generally run about $200 per person; children are less. In Anderson, the balloon is aloft about an hour, but the entire event takes about three hours.
Web addresses:
Simpsonville: www.aloft.org
Anderson: www.balloonsoveranderson.org
Statesville: www.Carolinaballoonfest.com
Rides: www.skyscapesofamerica.com | www.blastvalve.com

 

Earthshine Discovery Center | Lake Toxaway . NC

A personal connection to nature
If you haven’t heard about Earthshine Discovery Center, you soon will. The property offers a wonderful opportunity for families (as well as school classes and businesses) to connect and learn something about themselves as well as the remarkable natural world of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Children of all ages (as well as their parents) enjoy the perfect combination of recreation, outdoor activities and learning.

On Pioneer Mornings, all ages will learn to press apple cider, make hand-dipped candles, spin wool and take a turn at blacksmithing. Cherokee Morning offers opportunities to grind corn, make clay beads and throw tomahawks. Critter Hunt opens up 80 acres of mountain land to inquisitive eyes. Families will be able to meet a few of the residents who call this magnificent property home.

Mealtimes offer hearty, tasty fare. The adventure course, zip lines, and high ropes course offer quite the challenge for those ages 10 and up. Nature hikes, treasure hunts, nighttime campfires (with s’mores, of course), and scavenger hunts round out the activities.

Sounds like it’s a lot of fun – and it is! Just as important, there’s time to unwind and be with the family on an entirely different level from weekday school, work and routines.

WOW Factor: Try out the seven-stage zip line course, including a 400-foot tandem run – not for the faint of heart. Equally non-wimpy is the high ropes course – an obstacle course that ends with the Leap of Faith. Families build team spirit (and precious memories) with a multi-challenge low-ropes course designed for all ages. How does the Puzzle Platform of Doom sound? We thought so. There‘s a climbing wall, creek hike, and in the midst of it all, killer views and up-close encounters with the creatures who live on the property year-round. (Goats are actually very nice, once you get to know them.) Check out the Destination 1840 immersion in living history, or maybe the Earth Explorers, where folktales become all-too-real.

Hint: Bring outdoor shoes, bathing suits and layers of clothes. Earthshine Mountain Lodge is quite comfortable and the chefs know how to grill some perfect ribs, or fry a mountain trout to perfection. You will leave with great photos and long-lasting memories. As one family said, “Why would we ever go anywhere else?”
Learn More at: www.earthshinediscovery.com
828.862.4207

 

DuPont Planetarium | Aiken . SC

In a galaxy far, far away
There are so many ways to have a good time in Aiken, but one of the arguably lesser known adventures can be found at DuPont Planetarium, on the USC Campus in downtown. All ages are awed by observing planets, stars and nebulae up-close from a darkened room. It’s a little otherworldly, and has been for eons.

Although most of us can’t navigate by the stars as early humans did, the sky still holds ultimate fascination as we look up and wonder, “What’s out there?” Now, you can find out.

The DuPont Planetarium inspires visitors to explore the majesty of the heavens. There are public shows covering everything from “Ancient Sky Lore,” to “Blown Away: Wild World of Weather.” Public programs also include a “Solar System Adventure Tour,” “Mission to Mars,” and “To the Moon and Beyond.” It’s not stuffy in the least, with live presenters explaining the stunning images, and music setting the stage and enveloping you into the story.

WOW Factor: Some of the programs are particularly intriguing, including the “Voyager Encounters,” where you can view amazing images of Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune. Another program incorporates the fictional tale of young Carol and her dad as they experience the exciting adventures of the Apollo astronauts on the moon. And in “Worlds in Motion,” learn how fast the earth moves through space – pretty awe-inspiring.

Hint: The DuPont Planetarium is located at the Ruth Patrick Science Education Center (RPSEC), located on the campus of University of South Carolina Aiken. Weather permitting, the RPSEC housing the Bechtel Telescope will be open for viewing after each public show. Visitors ages four and older may attend the shows, and should arrive at least 20 minutes before showtime.
For schedules and special programs, visit: planetarium@usca.edu.


 

Take the Trail and Take your Time

Everywhere we turn, folks share that they are loving the Swamp Rabbit Tram Trail, a nearly 14-mile multi-use (walking and bicycling) greenway that traverses along the Reedy River. This old railroad corridor and city parks connect Travelers Rest with the City of Greenville, South Carolina. It’s great for every age and skill level, and despite its beautiful scenery and rural feel in much of it, there are important amenities for those enjoying the ride.
The paved trail varies from 8 to 12-feet wide and is designed for bicycles, skaters and walkers, with an additional rubberized surface in places for runners. Amenities include lighting, picnic areas, benches, water fountains, restrooms, signs and bicycle racks. Views of the Reedy River are plentiful throughout that part of the trail.

The northern end of the Swamp Rabbit Tram Trail begins across from North Greenville Medical campus of the Greenville Hospital System, and continues south along the Cleveland Street side of Greenville Tech in the city of Greenville.

WOW Factor: Travelers need not bring their bikes – there are bikes available from several stores, including one called “Reedy Rides.” (They will even bring the bikes to you at the trail.) Traveling with children? No problem. Ask for a babyseat bike or children’s bicycles. “Bike the Rabbit” is another excellent bike rental option that delivers. And should you have a problem, several bike stores are found along or near the trail, at about Markers 24, 31.5 and 33. Another tip: Furman University is at mile marker 27, and worth a detour through their lovely campus.

One more Wow: Want a real souvenir of your ride? Rent a Go Pro HD Camera and remember your trip with videos and pictures. Ask at the bike shop.

Hint: On-Trail Use with a Smartphone requires downloading a free mobile application to convert the map that’s available online at Greenville Parks and Recreation to view on a variety of mobile devices. For iPhone and iPad devices, go to the iTunes App Store and search for the ArcGIS application and install it to your device. For Android devices go to the Google Play Store and search for the ArcGIS application and install it on your device.

 

Massacres, Murder and Mayhem

This little fishing town is full of history, nature and good times. All ages will create fantastic memories along the Beaufort Ghost Walk Tour, where the tour guides are pirates, and the path passes historically spooky buildings and grounds.

Don’t expect “ghostly” encounters, but do anticipate learning so much about the adrenalin-pumping exploits of those who settled Eastern North Carolina more than 300 years ago, in 1709. You may pass by Blackbeard’s home, and you’ll hear tales of the murders that rocked the small town for generations and learn about the ghost ships some say still troll the waters.
Soldiers and sailors came and went, and the anecdotes about them prove both entertaining and enlightening.
This is a fun nighttime activity, and the walking is brisk, but the guides keep things light and there are kernels of truth in what you’ll hear. (You decide whether the houses are truly haunted, but either way, the good times roll.)

WOW Factor: Most folks love walking past the cemetery and everyone recommends returning during the day to walk through the Beaufort Burial Grounds, where headstones tell the stories and ancient trees provide perfect photo opportunities. Be sure to stop by the Visitor Center for a map of the Burial Grounds.

Hint: Wear comfortable shoes, of course, but depending upon the time of year, take/wear bug repellent. This is the coast after dusk, so be forewarned. Plan to walk for about an hour, often at a fast pace. Take your camera and know that some of the stories are more than a little creepy. Reservations for the Ghost Walk Tour are necessary, and as long as enough folks sign up, the tour is given year round. The meeting point is at the Grayden Paul Park, located across from the Beaufort Town Hall. Parking’s a breeze. Many yachts and sailboats moor along the public docks. Walk the waterfront, enjoy the salt air and look across Taylors Creek for the wild ponies and horses that make their home on Carrot Island.
Learn more at www.beauforthistoricsite.org
More about the Ghost Walk: www.PCTourco.com
 

Where the race lives on.

Get your motors running during a super Carolina Adventure at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte. Now, we know what some of you are thinking: I’m not really a racing fan. Would I enjoy this? The answer, friends, is a resounding YES!.

This is one family-friendly destination, with 150,000 square feet of fun. There are more than 50 interactive attractions, from the Pit Crew Challenge, to a very realistic Racing Simulator. Toddlers love the Kobalt Kids Zone, and children love the puzzles, challenges and imaginative activities.One reviewer on Yelp suggests starting in the High Octane Theatre to “get your heart pumping.”

The short video really sets the stage for your time here. There’s a Glory Road collection of cars that everyone enjoys. Another visitor talks about playing games, taking quizzes, and riding in simulators, including experiencing the Daytona Speedway at 170 miles per hour! Not for the faint of heart, for sure.
This attraction is perfect for inter-generational family outings, where the old-timers will enjoy a nostalgic look at the racecars and the youngsters will love the touchy-feely exhibits. All ages will have fun on the simulators and in the pit crew.

WOW Factor: The raceway simulations are so realistic that bumps in the road have been scanned in to add authenticity to the experience. Over and over, visitors say that after a minute or two the ride becomes as real as can be, an adrenalin-pumping race for the glory. NASCAR fans are guaranteed to love it, but even folks who have never seen a race will be thrilled with the high-tech fun to be had here.

Hint: Take your AAA Club card for a freebie or two. Get your Hard Card and use it throughout the exhibits. Plan to spend at least two hours and if you have little ones, you may need to schedule more time. And, visit the gift shop. You’ll find some items that nobody else has, for sure, including die-cast cars and all sorts of memorabilia!
Get the details at www.nascarhall.com
 

Visit the land between the waters

Calling all history lovers, nature enthusiasts, feminists and environmentalists. Hobcaw Barony, a 17,500 acre wildlife refuge near Georgetown, is one great destination for a Carolina Adventure in the Lowcountry.

Find it between the Waccamaw River, Winyah Bay and the Atlantic Ocean (the Native American name, Hobcaw, means land between the waters). This land grant from the 1700s eventually became 14 separate rice plantations, and the owners made multiple fortunes and helped nearby Georgetown grow and prosper as well. By 1860, these properties on the Waccamaw Neck produced more than 14 million pounds of rice per year. After the Civil War, the lack of slave labor caused the decline of the plantations, and severe storms damaged the land, obliterating many of the manmade channels that helped to flood the fields.

Rice fields became wetlands, attracting waterfowl and the wealthy men and women who liked to hunt them. One, Bernard Baruch, began to purchase the plantations and by 1907, all but three were in his possession.
And so it went. Hobcaw Barony was visited by many of the most powerful people of the day, including Winston Churchill, Generals John Pershing and George Marshall, and Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. Mr. Baruch became famous as well, and served as advisor to eight presidents, beginning with Woodrow Wilson and ending with John F. Kennedy.

Belle Baruch, eldest daughter, loved the Barony as much as her father. She bought parcels and eventually established the Belle Baruch Foundation, which oversees the property to this day.

You can visit, taking a tour, or perhaps taking advantage of one of many special programs frequently held to introduce visitors to the delights of this property.

WOW Factor: The history, the buildings, the wildlife and picturesque scenery. A three-hour tour requires little walking, but features the highlights of Hobcaw’s history, driving past Bellefield, which was Belle Baruch’s home, her stables, Friendfield Village (the last 19th Century slave village on Waccamaw Neck), and portions of the original King’s Highway.

Hint: Visitors rave about Lee Brockington who leads tours at Hobcaw and who has written a book entitled Plantation between the Waters: A brief Biography of Hobcaw Barony. Some very young children might not appreciate the tour; however, older children and adults invariably find it fascinating.

Bellefield is currently being restored to its former glory and will provide even more reasons to make this adventure one you’ll enjoy time and again. This was a rural residence so don’t expect a palatial home. No matter. You’ll find plenty to see and much to remember. Want to know more before you go? SC’s ETV produced a super documentary, “The Baruchs of Hobcaw” which is periodically shown on television and is available for purchase at SCETV.org.
Learn more www.HobcawBarony.org
 

Poet of the People

There are dozens of adventures to be had in and around Connemara, the late-in-life home of America’s poet, Carl Sandburg. Found in the village of Flat Rock, near Hendersonville, the property includes a beautifully preserved home, goat farm, dairy barn, five miles of hiking trails, ponds, lakes, flower and vegetable gardens, and an apple orchard.

The farmhouse was originally built by a slave owner who served in the Confederate government. More than 100 years later, it was sold to the Sandburgs and became the site where the poet would receive recognition for his work on civil rights.

After Carl Sandburg died in 1967 at age 89, his wife sold the property to the National Park Service and included all of the family’s belongings, allowing the house to stay remarkably as it was when the couple lived there. Thirty-minute tours are offered daily, beginning at 9:30 am and ending at 4:30 pm. But, that’s not all there is to see.

The primary reason the Sandburgs left Illinois was to benefit his wife’s goat farm operation. Paula (her name was Lillian, but he called her Paula) longed for greener pastures and a longer browsing season for her goats. Today, the descendants of that herd still live on the property and visitors can see them. Toggenburgs, Saanens and Nubians share pasture and barn and are delightful creatures.

WOW Factor: Carl Sandburg spoke to working people as well as the elite of America. His work was admired and enjoyed worldwide. Touring his home, observing the 11,000 books that remain from his 16,000-volume collection, walking the paths he loved, and seeing the room where he wrote a number of famous poems is a treat. There’s something for everyone.

Excerpt from “Testament,” by Carl Sandburg:
“I have had my chance to live with the people who have too much and the people who have too little and I chose one of the two and I have told no man why.”  (Read the entire poem at www.poetry.org)

Hint: Take cash or a check to tour the home. Wear comfortable shoes. Bring food if needed, and a bottle to get water from the fountain. Note that most visitors spend about two hours on the property. Depending on the season, nearby Flat Rock Playhouse is a great addition to your adventure (reservations usually required). The performances are purely professional and endlessly entertaining. During the summer, live performances of Sandburg’s Rootabaga Stories and excerpts from the Broadway play, The World of Carl Sandburg are presented in the park amphitheater.
Learn more at www.nps.gov

 

“Real food, done real good”

OK, you’ve got to want this culinary adventure. Off the beaten path, find Grits and Groceries south of Greenville, SC, at a country roads crossing. The food is home cooking, for sure, but don’t let the name fool you. Owners and chefs Heidi and Joe Trull earned their cooking chops in New Orleans – she, as owner/chef of the popular Elizabeth’s, and he, as pastry chef at Emerill Lagasse’s restaurant, NOLA.

When it came time to raise a family, however, New Orleans paled in comparison to the countryside of South Carolina.

An old country store at Saylors Crossroads was purchased (including a home and acreage for raising horses), renovated, and has now been included on the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor.

The food features daily specials that combine Southern cooking traditions with Creole and Cajun influences. The dessert menu is the domain of Joe and changes daily. Heidi creates the savory dishes, and both source locally whenever possible, including from their extensive garden, and the nearby dairy, Happy Cow Creamery.

They have special events as well, such as oyster roasts, pig roasts and barbecues. But it’s the staples that draw locals back time after time. Reviewers on Yelp.com rave about the praline bacon, as well as the French toast. In season, the tomato pie is legendary and rumor has it that more than 100 pies a day are prepared. Some folks wax poetic over the crab cakes, while others positively drool in print for the chocolate Coca-cola cake. I’m intrigued by the plum good spice cake, which claims to be gingerbread’s sexier cousin – good enough to “make a preacher blush.”

They’ve been found, of course. The tomato pie’s been tasted on national TV, and national magazines have done features. But the fact that they’re on the foodie world’s radar shouldn’t discourage you from trying it for yourself. We’re planning a road trip any day now.

WOW Factor: The food, the food. This is not diet food but it’s oh-so-tasty. Hit the gym five times next week to do penance and don’t back off while you’re there. The groceries include specialty items for a bit of Southern shopping
Hint: This restaurant is cash only, and you pay more than the usual mom & pop meat-and-three prices, but it’s worth every dollar. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. If it’s real busy, you may be seated with strangers. That’s ok; introduce yourself and share the happiness.

Check out directions, times and specialty menus here: www.gritsandgroceries.com

Our fine feathered friends

OK, birders, this adventure is for you. Currituck is named for the land of the wild goose, and there may be nowhere better to spot migratory birds than on this prow of land jutting out into the Atlantic. There are 400+ species of birds and a variety of habitats attracting them. Depending on the time of year you visit, you’ll see Canada Geese, of course, as well as Great Blue Herons, Brown Pelicans, Snowy Egrets, Yellow-rumped Warblers, and NC’s colorful state bird, the Northern Cardinal.

It’s not a stretch to say that this area is critically important to the well-being of thousands of migratory birds each year, with the largest numbers passing through in spring and fall (perfectly lovely times for humans to pass through, as well).

Perhaps most thrilling, however, is late winter, when Tundra Swans leave for the Great Lakes, and ultimately, the summer home in the Arctic Tundra of Alaska and Canada, and Snow Geese pass overhead on their way elsewhere. In early November, “Wings over Water” occurs, offering so many ways to enjoy the area (100+ field trips offer plenty of options).

If you’re a novice, you’ll want to check out expert assistance from a variety of sources. And although it’s rewarding to see a bluebird or small finch at your feeder, there’s something majestic about watching the big birds soaring overhead in the midst of 3,000-4,000 mile journeys.

Don’t forget that locals frequently enjoy up-close and personal birding encounters, such as pelicans jumping into boats and ride sharing from the mainland to the islands, or birds choosing unorthodox real estate for their nests. If you’re in the Outer Banks, it comes with this very beautiful territory.

WOW Factor: Cape Hatteras National Seashore is amazing, as are the many parks dotted throughout the Outer Banks. There’s something about watching animals in nature, following routes that are generations old, and seeing these magnificent creatures hunting, flying, resting and communing with one another.

Hint: Binoculars, camera, great walking shoes, notebook and snacks. Get information from the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education.

Learn More: www.VisitCurrituck.com/birding.aspx

 www.WingsoverWater.org

www.ncwildlife.org

 www.audubon.org

Come outside and play

This four-season playground, learning center and nature conservatory is worth a visit all year, but especially so in spring, summer and fall. The North Carolina Arboretum is nestled in 434 acres of some of the most beautiful and botanically diverse land in America, and it’s a treasure for those who visit.

Visitors from around the world enjoy the art installations and 65 acres of cultivated gardens. One of the finest bonsai collections in the United States is found here (remember, less is more in shaping a miniature living sculpture). The Education Center features displays from regional artists and crafts people, and the Baker Exhibit Center is an attractive learning resource for all ages.

Outside the cultivated area, you’ll find more than 10 miles of hiking and biking trails – rated Easy to Moderate, and Moderate to Difficult. My personal favorite is the Bent Creek Trail. At 1.3 miles in length, the trail is restricted to foot traffic and winds around, near the road and the creek and passing the National Native Azalea Repository – beautiful in season.

The popular sport of geocaching, which combines technology and recreation, is found at the Arboretum. Using a handheld GPS unit, visitors can use hints and clues to search for the treasure. Ten geocaches are found here, under special permit from the U.S. Forest Service. Just starting out on this new sport? No problem. Borrow a geocaching packet from the front desk at the Baker Exhibit Center. It’s a great, family-friendly way to spend time outdoors and work together. Walking on trails is encouraged and please, stay off the plants.

The Connections Gallery offers an eclectic selection of gifts including paintings, crafts, jewelry, fiber art, and seasonal gifts.

WOW factor: A visit to the Arboretum is enhanced through learning about how this lovely flora was raised. The Production Greenhouse showcases innovation in horticulture, while the Exhibit Greenhouse provides more insights. Visit soon and you’ll enjoy the “evildoers” of the plant world. These “Wicked Plants” are toxic, poisonous, and even carnivorous and many of them are available at your local nursery. (Who knew?)

Hint: If you’re searching for a unique gift, consider a handmade broom. Something as ordinary as a household cleaning device becomes a work of art and elevates chores as mundane as sweeping the floor.

Learn More: www.ncarboretum.org.

The grandest of them all

Apparently, those in charge of the complex at Tryon Palace have heard children complain about having to visit boring museums. They listened, and acted. Tryon Palace is an adventure, on top of a museum, enveloped by gardens that appeal to all ages, with all interests. That’s why the entire family can visit and come away happy and entertained.

First, the history of the area is beautifully preserved and, in some cases, recreated. Originally built around 1770, Tryon Palace was considered “the grandest public building in all the colonies.” Designed by noted London architect John Hawks, the Palace served as the first permanent capitol of North Carolina and home to Governor William Tryon and his family.

Although the Palace was destroyed in a fire in 1798, the stable wing survived, was restored, and is open for tours. Through the meticulous (and passionate) efforts of a number of citizens, the original design of the building was used to rebuild on its original foundations and the interior and exterior offer remarkable voyages back in time. Guides help set the stage. A handheld History Navigator offers a self-guided tour. The complex is nothing short of amazing.

There are 14 gardens covering the 16-acre property. Each one has a theme, a story, a presence. The North Carolina History Center offers interactive historical activities, and the Pepsi Family Center is a virtual time machine that takes visitors to a river village, circa 1835. In particular, children enjoy getting into character to sail a ship, or assist the storekeeper in finding merchandise.

Surrounding the Palace are several historic homes and buildings that help tell the story of life in historic New Bern, including wealthy landowners whose ships raided British vessels to aid the American cause during the American Revolution.

WOW Factor: In springtime, the gardens are breathtaking, but there’s something lovely on the grounds throughout the year. It’s the attention to detail that takes all ages beyond the traditional museum experience and helps make it all so real to those entering the world of imagination.

Hint: Take time to visit the gift shop, where Civil War items are popular. (Apparently, a number of children fulfill requirements for scout badges, here.)

Live plants are for sale, too, developed and grown in the complex greenhouses. An on-site café offers light fare and nearby New Bern is a delightful small historic town worth a long weekend for discovering the area’s 300 years of history, and river culture.

Learn More: www.tryonpalace.org

 www.visitnewbern.com.

Deliver Me

How adventurous are you? For this high-energy adventure, you’ll be traveling down the Wild and Scenic Chattooga River, scene of the high-tension 1972 movie thriller Deliverance, based on the 1970 novel by author, and former USC professor, the late James Dickey.

Largely unknown until America watched Burt Reynolds, Ned Beatty and Jon Voight make their ill-fated water run, the river became a sporting paradise after that. As a result of fears that the wild beauty of the area would be compromised, the U.S. Congress made the “Wild and Scenic” designation, and the river and surrounding areas are as beautiful now as they were 40 years ago.

For this adventure you’ll need a guide and there are plenty of good ones who’ve helped more than 50,000 adrenalin-seeking souls successfully navigate these rushing waters. Southeastern Expeditions and Nantahala Outdoor Center are two good ones, but there are others. From personal experience, the Section III trip offers plenty of thrills, great views, and lunch on the rocks, waterside (you'll need the time to rest).

If you’d rather view scenery from your vehicle, or along a walking trail, you’ll still have a wonderful time. In addition to those wild and scenic rivers, the Mountain Lakes Region of SC has pristine lakes for swimming and boating, and wilderness parks for camping and picnicking. The Chattooga River Festival, held in June, showcases the area and the river. Remember "Dueling Banjos," that iconic song that still sends your feet tapping? Ronny Cox was the guitar player in the movie and he’s still performing concerts. He'll be at the festival, which features live bluegrass as well, so prepare to be entertained.

WOW Factor: The river, in all its rushing, rock-swirling glory, accompanied by the wilderness areas that look untouched by human hands. Locals enjoy all of the nearby lakes and rivers, with favorite swimming holes and sunning ledges. Stake your claim and settle in for vicarious pleasures as wild-eyed rafters shoot past. The small towns of Seneca, Westminster and Walhalla have unique charms and great shopping, too.

Hint: Rent a copy of Deliverance and watch the movie before you go (and promise yourself you won’t back out if you're planning a rafting trip). Listen to “Dueling Banjos” and catch the intricate fret work. Pick up some apple butter or apple cider at a roadside stand because this is apple country. Take your camera.

Learn more: www.SCMountainLakes.com.
 

A real tea party

While coffee gets America rolling each morning, there’s something a bit more civilized about having a cup of tea – any time, day or night. For Made in America aficionados, that means one thing – the only tea grown in the U.S. is the source for fabulous teas.

If you’re planning a trip to the South Carolina Lowcountry, consider adding this tea plantation tour to your list of activities. The plantation can be found a short distance from Charleston on historic Wadmalaw island. With one bridge connection to the mainland, the drive is an amazing step back in time. On 127 acres, the fields are covered with 321 varieties in thousands of camellia sinensis tea plants – used to make black and green teas in a variety of flavors. A trolley tour, followed by a factory tour, gives you an education on tea and why it grows so perfectly in this climate and its sandy soil. While there, enjoy as many glasses of iced tea as you like.

WOW Factor: It’s pretty and if your timing is good, your visit may coincide with the First Flush Festival in May – lots of fun. William Barclay Hall is the founder of the tea plantation; he’s a world-renowned tea taster and expert and may be available to teach fun facts and enhance your experience. If you want something a bit stronger, Wadmalaw Island is also home to the Firefly distillery and Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka – made with American Classic Tea, of course. No tours available, but tasting a-plenty.

Hint: Enjoy your own lunch by the lake, and then finish your Wadmalaw Island visit with a tasting at Firefly, or perhaps a taste at their next-door vineyard. Before you leave the island, stop to admire Angel Oak, perhaps the oldest living oak tree in North America, and estimated at about 1,500 years of age. You’ll feel its energy, for sure.

20 Sites, South Carolina
Living History

The South Carolina National Heritage Corridor extends 320 miles across the state, from the mountains, alongside rivers, and ending in Charleston. Travelers can download maps and learn the significance of certain areas and small towns, the contribution of African Americans to the state, the importance of various crops (and the farms still producing them), the beautiful gardens along the way, and military sites and history.

Today’s adventure covers the military trail, a route that stretches across the state and includes more than 20 sites in 14 counties. Some sites are quite well developed. All of them are significant, and for those to whom history comes alive, this route is worth the drive and the stops.

Eutaw Springs Battle Ground can be found just off of SC Highway 6, northeast of Eutawville. Recognized as the site of the last major battle of the Revolutionary War in SC, it’s also known as a huge strategic victory for the Colonists.

Also close to Charleston, Fort Moultrie National Monument, on Sullivan’s Island, was the site where the British navy was defeated at an unfinished palmetto log and sand fort. It also played an important role in Fort Sumter’s bombardment during the Civil War. Liberty Square is a National Park Service site that is the departure point for those visiting Fort Sumter. Allow enough time to look over the exhibits featuring antebellum Charleston and the causes of the Civil War.

River’s Bridge State Historic Site, in Ehrhardt, SC, marks the site of one of the Confederacy’s last stands against General William T. Sherman’s sweep across the South. There are many notable Civil War Sites in the state, however, this is the only preserved battlefield. Take the ¾ mile guided trail, and take advantage of the knowledge of the ranger, who will help you better understand the site.

WOW Factor: Twenty sites like the four described above make for an intensive look at how South Carolina participated in every major conflict since the Revolutionary War. Stay off the Interstates, because the drive is an important part of this adventure.


Hint: Do your homework. Visit www.sc-heritagecorridor.org and click on the military icon, then prepare to be fascinated.

For more assistance, go to  preferredpartner@scnhc.com

Johnson & Wales Cooking Classes . Charlotte, NC
Ina, Giada, Paula. It all begins here.

OK, so maybe you don’t envision yourself as the next Food TV star. That’s a lot more work than it seems. But perhaps you’d like to expand your cooking repertoire, or learn culinary techniques that seem unfathomable. We’ve got the plan.

Johnson & Wales University offers Chef’s Choice Recreational Cooking Classes, and with a campus in Charlotte, you can plan a fun visit and add a new skill at the same time. They invite novices as well as serious amateurs – and everyone in between. Professional chef-instructors must stay awake at night thinking of great themes and cool ideas, because the roster of classes sounds like pure fun for a girlfriends’ weekend, a romantic adventure, or a solo expedition.

For example, holiday offerings include Twisted Thanksgiving, Holiday Entrees with Style, Champagne Brunch, and Deep Fried and Proud of It! What about Homemade Dairy, Little Havana, or a Taste of Spain? The selections offer a culinary world tour, as well as basic skills that will impress even your mother-in-law.

WOW Factor: Being in the company of fabulous chefs is a bit awe-inspiring. Having fun while you learn something new is ultimately satisfying. Showing off for family and friends? That’s nothing short of priceless!

Hint: Classes are addictive and fill up very quickly. You may have to haunt the website to reserve a place before others grab their seats.

Discover more: www.jwu.edu/charlotte/chefschoice/

Email Patricia DelBello at pdelbello@jwu.edu


 

Newberry Opera House . Newberry, SC
Curtain up. Light the lights.

Ethel Merman would have loved the Newberry Opera House. The First Lady of Musical Comedy would have felt right at home on this venerable stage, which was built in 1881, flourished until the talkies hastened its demise in 1952, and was presumed dead until a determined group of citizens resurrected this French Gothic inspired structure, renovated it, and brought it back to life.

Newberry is 34 miles from the state capital of Columbia and a powerhouse of culture, history and the arts. Newberry Opera House has contributed mightily to its appeal, as folks from all over trek to Newberry for an evening’s entertainment. Theatregoers enjoy hearing such acts as The Temptations, Chad and Jeremy, Arlo Guthrie, and the Oak Ridge Boys, as well as a variety of orchestras and dance troupes, the Vienna Boys Choir, operas, Broadway productions and comedies.

The theatre is intimate, yet can accommodate Broadway plays and large groups of performers. You’re never very far from the stage and action.

WOW Factor: Depends. For me, an evening with Kris Kristofferson was a voyage back in time, and the night Don Mclean sang the 20-minute version of “American Pie” (accompanied by most of the 400 people in the audience) was a true delight.

Hint: Make an evening or afternoon of it. There are a number of fine restaurants close to the Opera House, including Steven W’s Bistro, Delamater’s, and the Cabana Café.

For a schedule, visit www.newberryoperahouse.com, or call 803.276.6264.


 

NC Center for Creative Retirement . Asheville, NC
What are you doing the rest of your life?

If you’re within driving distance of Asheville, and you’re contemplating the next phase of this earthly adventure, consider the North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement (NCCCR). This award-winning, internationally acclaimed learning community is dedicated to lifelong learning, leadership, community service and research.

And those participating are getting younger every day (especially from this boomer’s perspective). Were you there in front of your family’s black and white TV when Elvis and/or the Beatles made their respective debuts to a bunch of screaming American teens? Wished you had the nerve to skip school and travel to Woodstock? Were passionate about all sorts of social issues? You’ll have lots in common with almost 50% of NCCCR’s members who participate in their programs and are under 64.

Are you a member of the “greatest” generation? There are 17% aged 75 and above who also participate. In between? You’re welcome there, as well, and you’ll have lots of company.

What will you do? Whatever tickles your fancy, from special interest groups such as bridge, backgammon, MAC users, poetry lovers and skeptical inquirers (15 groups and growing), concerts, astronomy, theatre, opportunities for volunteering, political discussions and so much more. Some programs are ongoing; others are special events.

WOW Factor: Their Paths to Creative Retirement Weekend. Join more than 500 people from around the U.S., Canada and England who’ve attended these weekends. You’ll come away with insights on how to spend the rest of your life. The possibilities are endless.

Hint: These weekends will fill up quickly, so go ahead and visit www.PathstoCreativeRetirement.com or contact Michelle Rogers at 828.250.3871.

 

Take a Day Trip . Daufuskie Island, SC
The Water’s Still Wide

Islands are romantic, a bit mysterious, set apart. That’s what makes them so appealing – the very act of leaving the mainland behind in search of adventure. Daufuskie Island, near Hilton Head Island, is a picturesque, historic destination that was first made famous by Pat Conroy’s extraordinary memoir, The Water is Wide. Based on his experience as the only teacher in a tiny schoolhouse, he worked with forgotten children who lived on the island. It was a year that changed his life and he wrote about it and published the book in 1972.

Much has changed, while many aspects of the island have remained the same. Many of the same families still live there. It’s accessible by boat, as it always has been. Development is now a part of the landscape, but the feel of the island remains alluring – full of secrets, yet sharing itself with those who visit (and some who live there).

The island is fringed with waving marshes; fishermen cast their lines from the shore or small vessels, and shrimp boats can be seen heading out in search of the day’s catch. On land, where descendants of slaves settled, shards of pottery have been found dating back more than 9,000 years. Plantations once flourished here, often producing the Sea Island cotton still prized by many.

We suggest that you make a day of it and plan an excursion with Live Oac Outfitters, whose boats depart from the Hilton Head Island harbor. The boat will show you island landmarks from the water, such as Haig Point Lighthouse, and landing options might include visiting a remote beach, or perhaps exploring the island’s fascinating historic sites by golf cart.

TripAdvisor gives Live Oac Outfitters great accolades for any of their tours, so we called and chatted with Scott Mooneyhan, who shared some of his tips for visiting Daufuskie.

“The only way you can reach Daufuskie is by boat,” he explained. “Our tour is the most fun when the weather is comfortable – usually spring and fall. There are gated communities on about half of the island, and the rest is where we spend our time.” He says that tours enjoy visiting the First African Union Baptist Church, built in the 1870s. There are older homes where the Gullah people lived and they offer a good perspective on life after slavery. The Mary Field Elementary School is another stop that’s interesting. He also takes his tours to the shops on the island, including the Iron Fish Gallery, where folk artist Chase Allen creates collector’s items with aquatic themes. Another stop is Silver Dew pottery, where Lancy and Emily Burn create beautiful pots that are inspired by the Indian pottery shards he collected growing up on the island.

The island has been both prosperous and poverty-stricken – many times. General Sherman burned some of the buildings and records were lost. Today, perhaps 400 residents live there, some with deep roots, and others who come for a laidback lifestyle. Try it for an experience that’s very different from Hilton Head Island and Beaufort.

WOW Factor: Nature, history, water, arts, a place apart.

Hint: Not really designed for very young children. Eat at Marshside Mama’s. Anything goes.

Call: 888.254.8362 www.liveoac.com.


 

Riverbanks Zoo . Columbia, SC
Wild thing, you make my heart sing

Some zoos can leave animal lovers depressed and sad for the creatures kept in confinement in tiny cages with limited movement. Not so at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. A walk through the spacious, well-kept grounds reveals animals at play, doing what comes naturally. Cages are replaced by natural-looking habitats, and the animals are close enough to watch their behavior, but far enough away to seem oblivious to curious human eyes.

The sea lions enjoy sunning themselves on rocks after taking a dip in the water. Watch them being fed twice each day. The big cats yawn and stretch and indulge in morning naps, afternoon naps, and the occasional stroll around their kingdom. Over at the African Plains, the giraffes continue to be among the most popular inhabitants, and at 19 feet from head to toe, the tallest. A new giraffe overlook lets visitors get up close to feed these majestic mammals.

The Birdhouse features a variety of winged creatures, many separated by just a trick of light. The Gentoo penguins are a perennial favorite.

In all, more than 2,000 animals in natural habitats live at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. The zoo makes a great outing for families and is open daily except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. The Botanical Gardens are almost as much fun, with 70 acres devoted to woodlands, gardens, historic ruins, plant collections and a Visitor Center. There’s always something in bloom and the helpful staff seems eager to answer questions. The old rose garden is simply spectacular.

WOW Factor: Hearing the animals “talk” with one another. The sounds are incredible. Watching the profusion of animal babies born every year (a sure sign of emotional health). Seeing the look on a child’s face when observing an elephant for the first time. Spending quality hours away from the cell phone, TV and computer.

Hint: Comfortable shoes, of course, and layers for abrupt temperature changes when entering and leaving buildings. Remember your camera. There are several food establishments. Or, bring a picnic and dine al fresco at the west end of the park.

Learn more: Call 803.779.8717; www.riverbanks.org


 

NCBS Historic Barbecue Trail . North Carolina
Cradle of ‘Cue

Go to the website of the North Carolina Barbecue Society and you’ll find dozens of ways to pay homage to what happens when a pig is slow-cooked on hickory or oak for about five-to-six hours, then cut off the bone, sauced (or not), and served with a big side of coleslaw.

If pig served in 24 different establishments is your cup of tea, The Historic Barbecue Trail is your dream come true. Start in Ayden, NC, at the Skylight Inn and enjoy owner Pete Jones’ vinegar, pepper and spice blend on top of wood-cooked ‘cue. You’ll enjoy every mouthful. At the other end of the state, in Murphy, Herb’s Pit BBQ has a sweet sauce and a tantalizing taste. In between, 22 other venerable restaurants dish out their prized, often secret, pork barbecue to a discerning clientele.

Just anyone can’t make the cut to join these illustrious pit-cooking pantheons of pork. The restaurants so favored must cook their meat on pits fueled with wood or charcoal, make their own sauce, show staying power by having been in business 15 years or more, and provide a finished, high-quality product that represents North Carolina Barbecue well.

WOW Factor: Taste, taste, taste. Atmosphere, not so much. This trail is for eating some of North Carolina’s finest food, not hampered by the trappings of fine dining. Go hungry, leave happy. There have even been books written to glorify pork, including Pig Perfect, by Peter Kaminsky, and Holy Smoke, written by John Shelton Reed & Dale Volberg Reed.

Hint: No matter how much you love the stuff, this will take planning, and multiple trips. Start by visiting the North Carolina Barbecue Society website: www.ncbbqsociety.com.When you go, save room for the sides. Coleslaw, cornbread, macaroni and cheese, and a host of sauces enhance the flavor of the ‘cue. Finally, plan extra trips to the gym before and after your excursions. That way, not even one second of calorie guilt can interfere with your symphony of swine.

Outer Banks Ferry Rides
It's Better By Boat

It's better by boat ... ferry, to be exact. If you’ve not traveled the length of the Outer Banks, let this be the year to carve out quality time to explore North Carolina’s island playgrounds. And remember, getting there is half the fun, especially in spring or fall when summer crowds are back at home.

There’s something, well, exotic about arriving at your destination via boat. Sets the stage with a bit of drama. We suggest you drive to Cedar Island to begin this adventure, and then cut off your cell phone and prepare for enchantment.*

First, the ferries are large and roomy, with nice lounges for viewing seabirds, sunsets and pleasure craft – real fun for all ages and no crowded airports, or long lines.

When you arrive at Ocracoke after your 2½ hour journey, you’ll have lots of options, from soaking in the sun and surf on a nearly deserted beach, to shopping at countless art galleries and unique shops. Spend the night. You’ll find great restaurants, charming B&Bs and a slow-down pace.

Hint: Sweet Tooth and Fig Tree Bakery & Deli rated #1 with Trip Advisor reviewers. Take a cooler and picnic basket, and stock up on their goodies for your drive north, along a two-lane road that stretches endlessly with water on either side.

It feels deliciously secluded, and exhilaratingly free. Along the way, stop at the Cape Hatteras lighthouse and climb its 268 steps. The view is well worth the effort.

The more adventurous might want to pause at Kitty Hawk to pilot a hang glider down Jockey Ridge sand dunes (instruction required and advisable, since this writer wrecked a glider there during her honeymoon many years ago). Of course, nothing could be more romantic than visiting Corolla and getting a glimpse of the wild mustangs at play.

It almost feels a bit European and along the way, you’ll feel wonderfully liberated, entertained and very, very glad you chose this getaway.

Wow factor: Natural beauty, without the hordes.

Discover more:
www.ComeToOurBeach.com
www.corollawildhorses.com

* Ferries run 365 days/year. Reservations required.
Cost is $15/one way. www.ncferry.org or call 1.800.BY.FERRY.
 

Pisgah Forest National Park, NC
Serenity Rocks!

Serenity Rocks!  Hike the Pisgah Forest National Park and you’ll find flora and fauna to take your breath away (literally, at certain altitudes). The trails range from easy to heart-pumping, and the waterfalls are hidden gems to seek out and enjoy.

With over a half-million acres in the eastern edge of Western North Carolina, you can choose between off-the-beaten-path and just-off-the-highway. Hiking trails, fishing, camping, picnic sites and waterfalls are yours for the exploring. Sometimes, though, the serenity comes from quietly walking through the forest, listening to the birds and lowering your blood pressure.

Mountain laurel, towering hardwoods and endless streams provide entertainment. Expect to find crowds if you visit Sliding Rock, but along with that, you’ll see children of all ages sliding down the same rock their parents and grandparents enjoyed. In this instance, natural thrills are the best!

Hint: Spend the night at Key Falls Inn. Most visitors give it rave reviews and love Ms. Patricia for her attentive innkeeper skills. Of course, Looking Glass Rock and Falls are arguably the best known, but there’s a reason – the sheer beauty and accessibility. Other destinations take more dogged determination, but you don’t get serenity standing in the middle of a crowded tourist attraction.

Wow factor: These beautiful surroundings originally caught the eye of Cornelius Vanderbilt, who added Mount Pisgah and environs to his Western NC land collection. Sold by his widow, it now comprises a significant amount of forested land in the area.

Start at the Website: www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc or www.pisgahforest.com/public-lands/pisgahnationalforest/

Call: 828.257.4200, or write: U.S. Forest Service, 160 A Zillicoa Street, Asheville, NC 28801.
 

Rudy Mancke Nature Walk . Congaree National Park, SC
Learn from the Best

Learn from the best.  Budding nature lovers can do no better than accompanying well-known naturalist Rudy Mancke on one of his guided nature walks. Long a beloved figure on SC Educational Television, Mr. Mancke is now semi-retired and an adjunct professor at the University of South Carolina.

Mention his name and you’ll hear, “He knows everything,” from admirers throughout the state.

Our pick for the perfect guided walk? Congaree National Park, with its 2.4 mile boardwalk loop trail, over 20 miles of backwoods hiking trails, canoeing, kayaking, fishing and more. It’s one of our nation’s newest national parks, but this treasure is the largest remnant of old-growth floodplain forest remaining on the North American continent! Experience national and state champion trees, towering to record size amidst astonishing biodiversity.

Go ahead. Ask questions. You’ll be astonished at Mr. Mancke’s wealth of knowledge.

Afterwards, head back to the Five Points area of Columbia, where you’ll find a college vibe rubbing shoulders with the artsy set. Try Mr. Friendly’s for a yummy lunch and dinner. Great wine list and art on the walls. (It’s adjacent to Claussen’s Inn.)

Congaree National Park is located about 20 miles from downtown Columbia, South Carolina, in the Hopkins/Gadsden community. www.nps.gov/cosw

Contact: Mr. Mancke at: mancke@environ.sc.edu
 

Gullah Culture . Lowcountry, SC
Step Back in Time

Step back in time and experience the Gullah Culture from fourth generation Gullah family members who can relate firsthand stories of family life, the Gullah Language and traditional food.

You’ll wander down hidden pathways on Hilton Head Island, SC, and weave your way through 10 family-based villages that continue to sustain themselves after more than a century.

Gullah culture comes from West Africa, and through centuries of slavery, followed by more than a century of a free lifestyle, it has survived. It makes an interesting juxtaposition next to the Hilton Head resort atmosphere.

Hint: Wear comfortable shoes and plan ahead. Spring and fall are best.

Wow Factor: Plan to enjoy lunch at Dye’s Gullah Fixin’s. Here’s what one reviewer on Trip Advisor said about the experience. “The food is as good or better than any Southern food I've ever eaten. We had cornbread which was light and fluffy, mac and cheese, collards, butter beans, yams, and fried chicken which had a very nice coating and not greasy at all. For dessert we had peach dump which is like peach cobbler but done on top of the stove. The owner cooks her own recipes. It is the real thing when it comes to Southern cooking, and I highly recommend it.”

Starts at: Discovery Museum of Hilton Head

Call: 843.681.7066. www.gullaheritage.com

John Campbell Folk School . Brasstown, NC
Learn a New Skill

Want to tap into your inner artist in a new and different way? John Campbell Folk School provides experiences in non-competitive learning and community life that are “joyful and enlivening.” Year-round weekend or week-long classes are offered in everything from cooking and gardening, to craft, music, art and dance. Or, sign up for nature studies, photography or writing classes.

You’ll enjoy a convivial setting, meet new friends, and learn something along the way. Think the muse passed you by when giving out talent? Test yourself. You might be as surprised as many others who’ve gone once and returned again and again.

Hint: Step out of your comfort zone. Think you can draw but not write? Take a writing class. Love to garden but can’t take a photo? Take a photography class and learn how to document your garden treasures.

Wow Factor: One blogger describes the experience as, “more a state of mind than a place. Sure the food is great and the mountains are beautiful, the people are friendly and the classes engaging … but it’s sort of a Peter Pan kind of place. Each week, more than a hundred grown-ups arrive and leave behind the cares and responsibilities of our adult worlds to play.”

Located: Brasstown, North Carolina
www.folkschool.org   1.800.FOLK.SCH (365.5724)
 

ACE Basin Bird Watching . Coastal SC
Bird the ACE

Bird the ACE!  Offering some of the best bird watching in South Carolina, the ACE Basin includes more than 50,000 acres of public lands, providing a huge variety of birding opportunities. With planted pine, managed wetlands, a maritime forest and beach, among others, more than 265 species of resident and migrant birds visit or live here.

You’ll find a number of access points in Bear Island and Donnelley Wildlife Management areas, or the ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge, Edisto Nature Trail, Edisto Beach and Hunting Island State Parks, and others.

Hint: Bring a spotting scope. You’ll need it and it will definitely enhance your birding experience.

Wow Factor: Bear Island welcomes several pairs of nesting Bald Eagles during the winter. An observation platform gets you a bit closer, and miles of dikes for walking put you in the middle of everything. Call first to ensure accessibility.

Located: ACE Basin in Green Pond, SC 29446 843.844.8957 www.acebasin.net
 

Brookgreen Gardens . Pawleys Island, SC
Ever Changing. Simply Amazing.

Penland School of Crafts . Spruce Pine, NC
Be Fearless!

Be Fearless! It’s hidden, rustic, friendly and mildly Bohemian – in a good way. Visitors can wander into working studios, meeting artists and generally soaking up the creative atmosphere.

Penland School of Crafts is a national center for craft education that helps people live creative lives. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, near Spruce Pine, Penland offers workshops (one, two and eight weeks), in books & paper, clay, drawing, glass, iron, metals, photography, printmaking and letterpress, textiles, and wood. The school also sponsors artists’ residencies, community education programs and a craft gallery.

Here’s an excerpt from a class description on drawing and painting.

Instructor Bill Logan, on teaching Fearless Ink: “In a gleeful and hugely exploratory experience, we will do our inventive best to throw every notion of drawing and perception completely off balance ... These are the only stipulations: You will be working in ink and you must fearlessly make marks!”

Sounds like fun, and it is. Penland does not require students to be expert craftspeople, although professionals mingle and share with novices. All ages (students must be at least 18) and all experience levels take classes. For instance, there may be students taking glassblowing who have never touched a blow pipe in their lives, while other students may have their own studios and are taking a class to expand their knowledge and techniques.

Wow factor: You’ll learn something about the craft you study, but you’ll learn even more about yourself. For some, Penland is a yearly pilgrimage site that frees them from daily pressures and encourages a blossoming of the soul.

The setting is described as rural, pastoral and even idyllic. Friendships are forged that last a lifetime, and skills are learned that enrich the lives of all who participate.

Hint: Many classes fill up quickly. Don’t dawdle if you’re interested.

For More Information: www.Penland.org

BMW Guided Tours . Spartanburg, SC
Vroom Vroom

Vroom Vroom. Want a backstage pass to watch a magnificent machine being assembled before your eyes? What about a stroll through a most unusual museum dedicated to BMW, past and present?

BMW’s only American factory, in Greer, SC, is fascinating and it’s open for guided tours. Costing just $5/person (12 and older), this working factory offers visitors an inside look at how these remarkable machines are constructed.

Groups of up to 20 are allowed, and no cameras or camera phones are permitted. After seeing the process, take time to visit the Zentrum Museum just next door. Here, self-guided tours reveal rare vehicles from the company’s past, designed by the likes of Andy Warhol and others. These exhibits feature cars that have starred in James Bondtm movies, won championship races, and inspired generations of fans.

Wow factor: Take your pick. This factory is the real deal, and the museum offers one-of-a-kind exhibits. Americans love their cars, and this is a visit to one of the worldwide stars in the business.

Hint: Wear fully enclosed, low-heeled, comfortable shoes – you’ll be walking a lot. The factory tour lasts about one hour, while a visit to the Zentrum may take longer, depending on your fascination. Factory tours available when the plant is working. The Zentrum is open Monday-Friday, from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.

For More Information: 1.888.Tour.BMW or www.BMWUSFactory.com

Music Festival . Cashiers, NC
Oh Play Me, Some Mountain Music ...

Oh Play Me, Some Mountain Music … Ever heard the Steep Canyon Rangers or Lizzie Long & Little Roy Lewis? Love the cool mountain air in July? Consider visiting Cashiers (pronounced like dashers) during July 2-3, when the Cashiers Mountain Music Festival will be held at the Village Green.

Bluegrass music is naturally infectious - guaranteed to have you smiling and stomping your feet. But that’s just one tiny reason to put Cashiers on your radar for a visit. (Pat Conroy and Cassandra King visit often, so you’ll be in good company.)

This tiny mountain hamlet has lots to amuse and delight, starting with hiking on Whiteside Mountain. To get there, go through Cashiers on Hwy 64 and after about five miles, turn left onto Whiteside Mountain Road. After one mile, parking is on the left. You’ll see gorgeous mountain views, and if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of peregrine falcons soaring overhead.

Wow factor: Easy trail, with five star views!

Later, stop by Buck’s Coffee Café and try a cup of coffee mocha. We’ve been told it’s nothing short of dreamy.

If the weather’s warm and the chill of a mountain pool beckons, seek out your inner adventurer and take the family to Cashiers Sliding Rock (not to be confused with another sliding rock near Brevard, NC). This is true family fun, although supervision of little ones is a must. The pool at the bottom of the rock is a perfect watering hole to cool down and relax. Take a picnic. Half the delight is watching others slide down and splash. Years ago, moms sewed old washcloths on the bottoms of bathing suits to provide a little “bottom” cushion. Still not a bad idea.

Dinner time offers lots of options, starting with the Orchard Restaurant, ranked #1 on Trip Advisor. Be sure to start with the local Dark Cove Farms goat cheese antipasto.

Hint: Jackson County is dry, so come prepared. Bring your own favorite libation to the Orchard for a brown-bagging fee of $4.95. If you’ve been saving that remarkable pinot noir for a special occasion, this might be the time. In between eating and playing, there’s great golf, water sports and a treasure trove of antiques in this small town.

For More Information: www.Cashiers-NC.com

SC Artisans Center . Walterboro, SC
A True Cultural Experience

A True Cultural Experience. Walk through the door of the SC Artisans Center in Walterboro, and you see pottery from SC artists. Look up and you’ll spot the most expensive item in the Gallery – a handmade red canoe which costs $13,000. (Don’t let that scare you. You can also buy a $1 ornament.)

Under the canoe you’ll find traditional topsy-turvy dolls and quilt dolls made from designs that date back hundreds of years. At the back of the front gallery is South Carolina’s answer to Dale Chihuly. Nearby resident Herman Leonhardt’s hand blown glass bowls are a vision.

Throughout the Center is the work of 270 talented SC juried artists who’ve created works of exceptional quality in every medium. A visitor will find one-of-a-kind garden sculptures, loomed shawls, hand-made jewelry, photography and one of the state’s best displays of sweet grass baskets.

“You’ll see interpretive panels that explain the history and craft,” says executive director Gale Doggette. “Folks interested in a particular artist will find bio cards and we can help them make contact.”

Visitors come from everywhere, including Canada and a recent group of Japanese tourists taking a day trip from Charleston to see the Center and enjoy the ambience of a small Southern town.

Wow factor: The sheer number of items and variety of creativity on display. Their best seller? Handcarved worn-out work boots made from a single piece of wood – laces and treads included. (Although for my money, the canoe looked very appealing.)

Hint: Keep young children in tow. There are so many items that little ones will want to touch. Afterward, hang around and explore Walterboro (just off I-95, between Charleston and Savannah). Downtown will make you nostalgic. Local lunches can be enjoyed at Carmine’s (Italian), the Blarney Stone (Irish Pub fare and “the best salmon BLT you’ve ever tasted”), and Hiott’s Pharmacy, where you’ll order an old-fashioned flat sandwich (precursor to panini) and soda fountain drink.

For More Information: www.SCArtisansCenter.com

Gem Mining  . Franklin, NC
Rubies in the Rough

OK, full disclosure. The first time I went gem mining, I took a 30 gallon trash bag to hold all my jewels. I realized that was probably a bit optimistic when I noticed everyone around me carried small plastic sandwich bags to hold their treasures. Oh well, hope springs eternal, I suppose.

There are two ways to go gem mining near Franklin, NC. Most mines enrich the dirt with purchased, uncut gems. That’s a sure thing, which might be more rewarding for children. (And a gem is a gem, is a gem.) Others sell native dirt. You may find something wonderful, or nothing at all. Depends if you’re a purist. At every mine, staff will show you what to look for. To the uninitiated eye, the gray stone you pluck from the dirt will look nothing like the sparkling gems fashioned into rings and necklaces.

Wow factor: Imagine taking your unpolished stone to an artist in the area who will turn it into a thing of beauty. That’s heady stuff. If you need encouragement, remember that Jake Hertzog found a 300 carat ruby at the Sheffield Mine in 2008.

Hint: Gems are heavier than rocks. Wash and rub together more than once. Keep looking. Have fun. The mines are usually open spring to fall and you should arrive several hours before closing time.Afterwards, visit the Franklin Gem & Mineral Museum. Free admission. For lunch, consider the Hidden Gem Café. It’s earned three diamonds from AAA.

For More Information:  www.Franklin-Chamber.com/VisitorInformation

Little River Blueway Outdoor Adventure Area . McCormick, SC
Happy Trails to You

Mepkin Abbey . Moncks Corner, SC
Mushrooms & Meditation

Walking Tour . Beaufort . SC
Let Jon Take You There

Fryar Topiary Gardens  .  Bishopville,  SC
Yard of the Year

Southern Highland Craft Guild  . East Asheville, NC
Beauty in the Making

Dirty Dancing  .  Lake Lure, NC
The Time of our Lives

U.S. National Whitewater Center . Charlotte . NC
Adrenalin rush? You Decide.

Looking for adventure? The world’s largest man-made recirculating river will provide the thrills you seek – in a controlled environment. With 400 acres of woodlands just minutes from downtown Charlotte, the USNWC features an environment for families and friends to play outside. With something for all ages, it’s an adventure that will draw you back, time after time.

Whitewater enthusiasts of all skill levels can choose between Family Rafting (ideal for youngsters) with Class ll and lll rapids. Adventure Rafting introduces a bit more excitement, with Class ll, lll and lV rapids. And Rodeo Rafting offers the biggest thrill of all, with aggressive drops, technical turns and extreme thrills (and a professional guide to help maneuver). There’s also kayaking for both flatwater and whitewater.

Dry land lovers have choices, too. Adrenalin junkies may want to test their nerve on the Mega Jump (you go first), where you step off a 46-foot Mega Tower and experience a controlled free fall. They promise a gentle landing, courtesy of the POWERFAN ® assisted free fall system that was pioneered in the film industry. Or, test your physical and mental strength on the ropes and plank bridges of the Adventure Course, an aerial obstacle course 20 feet high, in the trees along Adventure Ridge.

WOW Factor: So many thrills – yours for the taking. Visit once and you may want to play it safe. However, after watching more heart-pumping activities, you may decide to up your game. You will have fun, whether with family, friends, or your significant other.

Hint: Weather is a factor, so check out the skies before you arrive. Go online to look over the many activities not described here. With 14 miles of trails, you may decide to include walking, and perhaps a picnic, although a lovely restaurant is on the premises. Let us know what you think. Perhaps we’ll get the nerve to try that Mega Jump – someday. http://usnwc.org.

 

Swan Lake-Iris Gardens
Sumter . SC
A Lovely Mistake

That’s what Southern Living called a local Sumter businessman’s decision in 1927 to dump Japanese iris bulbs into a nearby swamp after they failed to produce on the grounds of his home. The following spring, they burst into glorious bloom. The result? One of the finest botanical gardens in the United States, and well worth a visit.

The grounds cover about 150 acres and are home to the Iris Festival, held each Memorial Day weekend when the flowers are at the peak of their blooming season. As South Carolina’s oldest continuous festival, it’s gained a reputation throughout the Southeast for its beauty and family-friendly fun.

Now, what about the swans? Among nature’s most graceful and appealing creatures, swans are the stuff of legends. Perhaps it’s because they generally mate for life (although occasional “divorces” may occur). Or, it may be their longevity. Depending on which research you read, swans can live up to 30+ years in captivity (much less when they are vulnerable to predators).

Predecessors to some of these particular Black Australian swans were originally imported in the early 1930s by the garden’s founder, Hamilton Carr Bland. This is the only public park in the U.S. to feature all eight swan species, including Royal White Mute Swans, Black-Necked Swans, the Trumpeter, Whistler and several more.

WOW factor: It’s not often you can find grace and beauty in such accessible surroundings. If you go during the height of blooming season, your camera will get a workout. This is a kid-friendly destination, and picnic tables and pathways invite exploration. Yelp reviewers give the lake and gardens five stars.

Hint: Visitors are asked not to feed the swans, as highly processed bread products are not good for their health. And although swans don’t bite (no teeth), they can pinch, so respect their long necks and habitat. You’ll also see many other birds, including several species of ducks, geese and anhingas, but arguably, these beauties are the crème de la crème.

Discover more online:
www.sumtersc.gov/VisitingUs/SwanLake.aspx
www.sumtersc.gov/VisitingUs/Festivals_Iris.aspx

 

Getting there is half the fun for Carolina Adventurists who want to take a slow ferryboat from Fort Fisher (15 miles south of Cape Fear Memorial Bridge) to the laidback coastal village of Southport.

Leave the car behind and rent bicycles from one of the local outfitters in Kure Beach or near Fort Fisher to enhance your sightseeing experience. Don’t take a picnic lunch, however; there are waterfront eateries in Southport which will satisfy.

The actual crossing takes 35 minutes – just long enough to disconnect from traffic and your GPS. But be forewarned. In summer, this is a very popular excursion and although there are lots of ferries traveling back and forth, you may get left behind if you’re not nimble. Once on board, try for a foredeck seat, where you’ll enjoy the water passage and catch a glimpse of Old Baldy lighthouse on nearby Bald Head Island.

In Southport, grab your bike and head for downtown along Moore Street – about three miles. Not a biking enthusiast? Don’t let that stop you. Cars ride the ferry, too.

Stop at the Southport Visitor Center downtown and pick up a town map with points of interest. There’s a Southport Trail brochure that features historic homes, churches, cemeteries and more. The live oak trees rustle with Spanish moss, the neighborhoods feature one charming home after another, and the shops offer collectibles of every kind. Don’t miss the Franklin Square Gallery, which displays the work of local artists and is staffed by the Associated Artists of Southport.

The North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport offers fun for everyone with interactive exhibits and the story of this area from its earliest days, when the Chicora Native Americans fished these waters.

Lunchtime? You’ve got options. The Provision Company and the Fishy Fishy Café are right on the water. Casual dining, fabulous views. The Provision Company rates #1 on Trip Advisor, especially for the tuna and fresh shrimp. Fishy Fishy has well-regarded she crab soup and fried catfish. Close to the waterfront is The Pharmacy, where patrons rave about the crab cakes and key lime pie.

Return at your leisure. The ferry runs all day during the season.

WOW factor: Simply being on the water is restorative. The ladies at the Visitor Center are friendly advocates for Southport. (One moved from the North and said this small town reminds her of New England fishing villages – with a Southern twist.) Live oaks are sturdy sentinels who’ve seen it all, from pirates to upscale community planners. Stop and enjoy being in their presence.

Hint: Check with 1-800-by-ferry, or go online to www.ncferry.org for up-to-the-minute schedules.

 

American music is as diverse as the people and cultures which make up the American melting pot. Travel anywhere in much of the world and you’ll hear American music somewhere. For those who’re planning vacation getaways, or fact-finding trips for possible relocation or retirement – check this out.

New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music is coming to 12 towns in South Carolina in 2011-2012, starting with a 50-day music festival ending May 29th in Gaffney. This traveling Smithsonian exhibit explores American music from blues to country-western, and folk ballads to gospel.

Here’s how the Smithsonian describes it:

“The instruments vary from fiddle to banjo to accordion to guitar to drum. But a drum in the hands of an African sounds different than one in the hands of a European. And neither is the drumbeat of an American Indian. Yet all the rhythms merge, as do the melodies and harmonies, producing completely new sounds – new music. The music merges because this is America.”

The New Harmonies South Carolina premier will be held in Gaffney, so plan a visit and enjoy this charming community as well as its fantastic, affordable, seven-week celebration. Learn more about discovering all about Gaffney at: www.carolinaliving.com/gaffney-fun.

If you’re near any of these SC towns when the celebration is underway, check ‘em out. This added bonus with delightful entertainment lets all ages learn a bit more about who we are and how we got that way.

October 29 - December 11, 2011
Laurens County Library
Laurens, SC
Contact: Joey P. Holmes, 864.681.7323

December 17, 2011 - February 4, 2012
Beaufort County Library
Beaufort, SC*
Contact: Amanda Brewer, 843.470.6524

March 3 - April 22, 2012
Southern Wesleyan University, Birchwood Center for Arts and Folklife, and Pickens County Museum
Central, SC
Contact: Helen Hockwalt, 864.898.5027
Dot Jackson, 864.898.1418

April 28 - June 10, 2012
Fairfield County Museum
Winnsboro, SC
Contact: Pelham Lyles, 803.635.9811

June 16 - July 29, 2012
McCelvey Center
York, SC
Contact: Michael Scoggins, 803.684.3948

August 4 - September 16, 2012
Landrum Library (Spartanburg County Public Library System)
Landrum, SC
Contact: Lee Morgan, 864.457.2218

September 22 - November 11, 2012
Black Creek Arts Council
Hartsville, SC*
Contact: Bruce Douglas, 843.332.6234

November 17, 2012 - January 5, 2013
Colleton County Museum, Colleton County Memorial Library, Colleton Center, Colleton County Arts Council
Walterboro, SC*
Contact: Gary Brightwell, 843.549.2303


For more information about these and other New Harmonies venues going through the beginning of 2013, please contact T.J. Wallace tjwallace@schumanities.org at 803.771.2477.

 *Read more about these towns in CarolinaLiving.com

 

Brevard Summer Music Festival
Brevard . NC
South CarolinaThese Hills are Alive

The Brevard Summer Music Festival has (literally) convinced scores of families to retire to this charming area in the Appalachian Mountains. If you’ve never made the trek to Brevard for one or more of these stellar performances, put it on your to-do list. Here’s the scoop.

Brevard Music Center hosts about 400 high school and college students as well as 65 artists from 48 states and 12 foreign countries. During the summer, there are generally more than 80 public performances, including orchestra, opera, and chamber music concerts, plus recitals.

Guest performers support the program with their talents as well. In 2011, Yo-Yo Ma will play for the season finale, held August 7. Works performed range from Classical (think Brahms, Rachmaninoff and Beethoven) to Pops. In fact, Maestro Keith Lockhart, conductor of the Boston Pops, is artistic director. He is an alumnus of the program and credits it with helping him decide to become a professional musician.

Opera lovers will enjoy performances of La Traviata, The Threepenny Opera and Hansel and Gretel, among others.

If you miss the 2011 season, there’s always next year. This program is well-respected nationwide and for many, makes this small mountain town a big-city equivalent when it comes to entertainment.

WOW factor: The sheer volume of talent. Plus the mountain scenery and fabulous restaurants. Even if the classics aren’t first on your music preference list, you will enjoy these concerts. And, you’ll fall in love with Brevard.

Planning to spend the night? Consider Red House Inn. It’s centrally located, extremely hospitable, and provides a fabulous English breakfast. Want to learn more about Brevard and what you can do before taking in a concert? Visit our Day Trippin’ directory to discover more ways you can spend time having fun in Brevard: www.carolinaliving.com/brevard-fun.