ST. MARYS, GEORGIA–AUGUST 2025–On Georgia’s southernmost coast, St. Marys offers a perfect spot for both those looking for a quiet respite or for outdoor adventure. And the historic downtown, less than an hour’s drive north of Jacksonville, Florida off I-95, has a personality all its own. It is a picturesque coastal town that highlights its beautiful waterfront with the large  St. Marys Waterfront Park (100 West St. Marys Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558), which includes a pier and fountain, along with paved walkways and pavilions and, of course, spots to just sit and enjoy the view. Downtown is also the departure point for ferry trips to much-loved Cumberland Island National Seashore, which combines pristine maritime forests, undisturbed beaches and a storied history.

Whether spending a day on the island or enjoying all that St. Marys has to offer, from one-of-a-kind finds at quaint downtown shops and seafood specialties at locally-owned restaurants to the many hiking, biking, fishing and kayaking opportunities here, finding that just-right “home” for your stay is a must. Luckily, the options for lodging are as eclectic and interesting as the destination itself.

The Federal Quarters(314 Osborne Street, St. Marys, Georgia; 31558 912-205-5732), also known as the Archibald Clark House, is an iconic Antebellum Home best known as the hiding place of Aaron Burr after his infamous duel with Alexander Hamilton in 1804. This charming home has three themed suites and is filled with historical elements and special features including a large library, bright sunroom and a breakfast nook overlooking the garden. Guests enjoy this convenient location with walks to downtown businesses or can even take the Model A Ford convertible for a drive. The owners also offer a discount on a sunset cruise on the Federals’ classic Grand Banks 46-passenger trawler.

The enchanting Merry Mermaid Cottage (202 Hall Street E., St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 31558 954-290-9873) is a special one-bedroom rental in the heart of downtown with a colorful décor that sets it apart. It is just blocks from St. Marys’ waterfront and is an ideal location for walking to shops, restaurants, live music and attractions. The cottage also welcomes pets and has a fenced back yard.

The Rose Lovell House (207 W. Weed Street, St Marys, Georgia 31558; 864-590-9096) remains true to its original design, while offering modern-day amenities. This 1907 home features hardwood floors, large windows, high ceilings, eight fireplaces and glorious porches. Inside, guests make themselves at home among the five bedrooms, formal dining room, comfortable living room and modern kitchen. The exterior, constructed using a rare granitoid block, is surrounded by camellias, azaleas, roses and more, throughout the half-acre property.

Grandview Cottage sits just across from the waterfront park on the St. Marys riverfront, with views and easy access to its variety of public amenities.  This versatile cottage is made for comfort with its large screened porch, outdoor dining area and fire pit. The three-bedroom rental is great for both families and business travelers, boasting large smart TVs and high-speed internet.

The Dusty Rose (912-424-5246) is a modern home curated with vintage touches. This four-bedroom home has a fully equipped kitchen, including two ovens, fit for a chef. There are common spaces for being together, including the welcoming screened porch and spacious back deck. There is also office space, as well as a wood-burning fireplace inside and a fire pit in the yard.

Sabina’s Cottage on Crooked River is a spot for those who want to connect with nature. Days begin with sunrise over the river amid the beauty and wildlife this destination is known for. Places for gathering include a sunroom, screened porch complete with comfy seating and dining area, a deck and back yard. The living area features an electric fireplace and large TV and guests enjoy cooking in either the fully equipped kitchen or on the gas grill on the deck. The two bedrooms are carefully appointed for comfort and convenience. The cottage is located next to Crooked River State Park, making it an excellent spot for those who want to explore its maritime forest and Intracoastal Waterway.

St. Marys has options for those who prefer camping, too. Some consider this the best way to enjoy the beauty and diversity of the outstanding natural beauty of the area, while staying just minutes from downtown amenities. The 500-acre Crooked River State Park (6222 Charlie Smith Senior Highway, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-5256) has 63 campsites surrounded by moss-draped oaks and can accommodate both tent and RV campers. There are also 11 cottages available for rental at the park. Nearby, A Big Wheel RV Park (6031 Charlie Smith Senior Highway, ​St Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-576-5386) has tent sites as well as paved, full-hook-up sites all surrounded by beautiful shade trees. There is also a fishing pond onsite.

Where to Eat:

Seagle’s Restaurant & Captain Seagle’s Saloon (105 Osborne Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-3242) is located in the historic Riverview Hotel on the waterfront. Seafood favorites fill the menu along with an extensive list of appetizers, salads and sandwiches.

The Riverside Café (106 West St. Marys Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-3455) menu features soups, salads, specialty sandwiches and Greek-style platters including bifteki, moussaka and pasticcio. Open for lunch and dinner.

Locals Dockside (307 West St. Marys Street, St. Marys Georgia 31558; 912-510-8577) is a seafood restaurant and steak house serving the best of local fare. A new addition to the local food scene, this spot has an extensive menu, from appetizers to desserts, featuring favorites like scallops, oysters and seafood platters.Not to be missed: morning fare and lunch specials, Spouses Bakery (901 Dilworth Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-439-3364); local brews, tunes and food truck eats, Brackish Beer Company (907 Dilworth Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-322-6743); pizza with flavor and an attitude “It’s not pizza. It’s ‘Ah-Beetz’!,” Yankee Pie Apizza (206 Osborne Street, St. Marys, Georgia; 912-419-7530)

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NORTH ALABAMA–MAY 2025–The diversity of North Alabama encompasses vast outdoor recreational areas, small towns filled with charm and downtowns that beckon those who love a city vibe. There are waterfalls, wineries and covered bridges. A legacy of music history stands alongside the best of contemporary performance venues. And there are scenic lakes, rivers and mountaintop views. This remarkable combination means the 16-county North Alabama region draws visitors with an assortment of interests. While here, they find that unique lodging options add to the enjoyment of any vacation stay.

Just an hour south of Nashville, at the Alabama state line, the region spans the width of the state and has a wide range of lodging options, including boutique hotels, state park lodges, camping, glamping and unique bed and breakfast inns.

AC Hotel Huntsville Downtown (435 Williams Avenue Southwest, Huntsville, Alabama 35801; 256-836-7776), with its floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors, modern essentials and the local charm and exquisitely appointed rooms of 106 Jefferson (106 Jefferson Street South, Huntsville, Alabama 35801; 256-288-0128) offer an exceptional experience, outstanding amenities and opportunities to connect to the downtown charisma of Huntsville. In the Shoals area, the GunRunner Boutique Hotel (310 East Tennessee Street, Florence, Alabama 35630; 855-269-4724) in downtown Florence features 10 spacious luxury suites with themes that celebrate the world-class music, fashion, art and history of the Northwest corner of Alabama. The Stricklin Hotel (317 North Court Street, Florence, Alabama 35630; 256-248-9982) sits amid the rich history and beauty of downtown Florence. Guests enjoy Southern charm and hospitality as well as an atmosphere of timeless elegance in this boutique hotel which features 24 guest rooms, each with a comfortable king-sized bed. 

Bed and breakfast options are as varied as the landscape across the region. The Mentone Inn (6139 Alabama Highway 117, Mentone, Alabama 35984; 256-634-4836) is a favorite, with its big porch, rocking chairs and Southern-style breakfast. Its 12 rooms each have a private bath with claw foot tub or shower. The majestic Secret Bed & Breakfast Lodge (2356 Highway, 68 West, Leesburg, Alabama 35983; 256-523-3825), along with four themed cottages (The Sugar Shack, The 1850s Jail, The Treehouse and the Nautical Cottage) are all located atop the Lookout Mountain Range. The property boasts a spectacular view by day, enchanting view by night. Amenities include Jacuzzis, roof-top pool, fireplaces, kitchens and a full breakfast

ReTreet (5843 Scottsboro Highway, Scottsboro, Alabama 35769; 256-273-3174) offers the height of glamping luxury on 40 private, wooded acres. The resort features 21 thoughtfully designed options including elevated treehouses, themed glamping tents with private hot tubs, cozy tiny cottages and two-bedroom cabins with sweeping lake views. At Fire Tower Camp (230 County Road 353, Crane Hill, Alabama 35053; 256-202-4841) there are tiny homes and a treehouse perched on 380 acres on the shores of beautiful Smith Lake. Guests enjoy boating, swimming, kayaking or canoeing in a quiet cove as well as hiking trails and bluff views.

Indian Mountain ATV Park (11620 County Road 8, Piedmont, Alabama 36272; 256-300-1223) is one of the largest private off-road parks in the South, with 4,700 acres at the foot of the Appalachian Mountain range to explore, including a stretch of the Pinhoti National Recreation Trail. Cabins and campsites are available for those who want to get the most out of their off-road adventure and wake up to the fresh mountain air. 

Grain silos, cabins and campsites are all available at Seven Springs Lodge (1292 Mount Mills Road, Tuscumbia, Alabama 35674; 256-370-7218). Located in northwest Alabama at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, guests can explore 20,000 acres of picturesque natural woodland. There are trails and stables for horseback riders as well as routes for hikers to enjoy. This is also home to the famed Rattlesnake Saloon, known as the watering hole under the rock, which is located in a mountainside cave.

There are seven unique Alabama State Parks in beautiful settings across the region. Park lodging options include combinations of camping, cabins and chalets and glamping is also an option at Monte Sano (5105 Nolen Avenue, Huntsville, Alabama 35801; 256-534-3757) and Lake Guntersville (1155 Lodge Drive, Guntersville, Alabama 35976; 256-571-5440), which, along with Joe Wheeler also has a lodge with lake views. 

Tourism ALL-a-Bama is a lodging program intended to serve individuals and traveling families with diagnosed sensory sensitivities or who are on the autism spectrum. The number of participating North Alabama hotels continues to grow.

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ALPINE HELEN, GEORGIA—FEBRUARY 2025—Situated in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia, the quaint Alpine village of Alpine Helen offers visitors a plethora of outdoor adventure. Helen is home to such an abundance of national forest, wilderness areas, state parks, rivers, scenic highways and trails that the area has been designated by the Legislature as “Georgia’s Official Outdoor Adventure Destination.” Here are a few ways to enjoy the great outdoors in Alpine Helen along with lodging options for every budget.

Alpine Helen is located just a few miles from the Chattahoochee National Forest, where visitors can hike just under five miles round-trip to the double-cascade Raven Cliff Falls. Raven Cliff Falls is one of the most unusual falls in Georgia due to water flowing through a split in the face of a solid rock outcropping to the ground 100 feet below. Behind the split, the water drops approximately 60 feet before rushing through the rock face and dropping 20 feet to a deep pool—a must see when visiting the area. For a bonus, there are also three other waterfalls near Raven Cliff Falls. Click here for more information on nearby falls. 

In nearby Cleveland, the multi-use trail system within Yonah Preserve, a 1,000-acre property near Helen, is open to the public Thursday–Sunday. Access the trailhead from Albert Reid Road and enjoy some 10 acres of walking space and mountain trail biking. Yonah Mountain is one of the top three rock climbing spots in Georgia and its climbing and trail hikes are challenging enough that the Army Rangers use them for training. Other unique opportunities to explore on foot include a section of the Appalachian Trail. It intersects GA75 and SR348 and offers parking at both locations. For more on hiking opportunities around Helen and White County, click here. 

If visiting during the warmer months, don’t miss a chance to tube down the Chattahoochee River. There’s no better way to celebrate summer than tubing along the Chattahoochee—or as the locals call it, “shoot the ‘hooch!” Whether you are looking for a leisurely float with friends or the thrill of a faster current, this quintessential summer activity is fun for the whole family. Check out Cool River Tubing for everything you need for a day of tubing. Cool River Tubing is open daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Memorial Day through Labor Day. Click here for more outdoor adventure in Alpine Helen. Cool River Tubing, 590 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen, Georgia, 30545; 706-878-2665

Looking for more water adventures? Check out Upper Chattahoochee River Water Trail which starts at Sautee Creek and the Chattahoochee River in White County and includes Class I – III rapids. Kayaking can be DIY or via a guided trip. Wildwood Outfitters takes guests on a Class I to II float down the river to soak in the scenery or a Class III rapids-running adrenaline kick. Overnight camping and other trips can also be arranged. Wildwood Outfitters, 26 Megan Drive, Cleveland, Georgia 30528; 706-865-4451

Try your luck and possibly strike it rich in Helen with a visit to Outpost Gold and Gem Panning. This long-time family attraction is fun for all ages. Try your luck with a Georgia Gold Rush Paydirt Bucket filled with either concentrated gold or take a chance on the Gemstone Bucket with rare earth gems such as rubies, sapphires, emeralds, amethyst, topaz and more. Get hands on lessons from trained staff members who are always nearby to help identify finds and evaluate them. Panning tables are covered and open rain or shine. Outpost Gold and Gem Panning, 7901 South Main Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-5065

Plan your stay

Alpine Helen offers a variety of lodging options to suit any budget. Whether you are looking to save, spend or splurge, there’s a perfect property for you. For those looking to save but not compromise authenticity, check in at Riverbend Motel and Cabins. Situated on the Chattahoochee River, this property offers rustic river view rooms and cozy cabins. Just a few steps from downtown Helen, guests love the location, spacious cabins, complimentary continental breakfast, riverfront amenities, convenient parking, free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly amenities and more. Riverbend Motel and Cabins, 134 River Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-2155

For more mid-range budgets, Helen’s Holiday Inn Express and Suites offers mid-range rates along with many perks and amenities. Ideally located within walking distance to the Festhalle, village shops, restaurants and many local attractions, this property is one of the newest in town. Guests also love the complimentary grab and go breakfast featuring cinnamon rolls, sausage biscuits and more. This property has everything you need from high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity, microwaves and refrigerators in each room, an indoor heated pool and a business center. Holiday Inn Express and Suites, 8100 South Main Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-1084

For more of a splurge, Valhalla Resort Hotel is a must. Helen’s mountain retreat resort is reminiscent of an ancient Scottish castle and is also close to downtown. Valhalla Resort Hotel offers sweeping mountain views, a relaxing pool, a rooftop sky bar and the area’s true fine-dining restaurant, all within the Innsbruck Golf Community. Upscale amenities include golf packages, concierge, valet, full spa services and three dining options. Packages can be arranged for hiking, fly fishing and winery tours Valhalla Resort Hotel, 688 Bahn Innsbruck, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-2200.

For more lodging options in Alpine Helen, click here. 

If you go

Alpine Helen offers outstanding restaurants, shopping, attractions and more. In addition to an abundance of outdoor adventure, visitors to the area can also experience arts and culture, history and heritage, vineyards and breweries as well as a host of annual events—there’s truly something for every member of the family. Top off your stay with ample dining options from al fresco dining by the water to pizza, German cuisine, family friendly cafes and more. Lastly, don’t miss shopping in downtown Alpine Helen. This distinctive Bavarian inspired destination is full of unique boutiques, gift shops and more.

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GULF COUNTY, FLORIDA–FEBRUARY 2025–It’s known as a laid-back destination with a low-rise vibe. Gulf County, Florida, has built a reputation as a place where unplugging and recharging go together. It’s a place to get away and to reconnect. And that combination is no more treasured than on a beachside camping trip. Just two hours southwest of Tallahassee and an hour east of Panama City Beach, Gulf County is a haven on the central Gulf Coast for nature lovers and those looking for opportunities to reconnect with each other and recharge on the water.

From spots on the white sands of protected lands to water’s edge views from a full-service RV park and marina, the options offer variety and flexibility and Gulf County’s location makes a camping trip easy and enjoyable any time of year. A variety of locations coupled with recent updates and additions to facilities give visitors even more options to enjoy camping their way in Gulf County.

At T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park (8899 Cape San Blas Road, Port St. Joe Florida 32456; 850-227-1327, Reservations: 800-326-3521), 20 miles of pristine beaches, dunes and marshes stretch between the waters of the Gulf of Mexico to one side and St. Joseph Bay to the other. This is the prime location for those who love to get immersed in a natural setting and enjoy hiking, paddling, fishing and more. Shady Pines campground features 36 standard campsites and 10 tent-only sites. All sites have electricity and water, a picnic table, an in-ground grill and a fire ring. Site options include paved surfaces and accessible picnic tables and grills, screened platforms with power and a ceiling fan. Pets are not allowed on these two sites. Two new bathhouses provide showers and restrooms. There are also 14 primitive sites in the park’s Wilderness Preserve, which can be reached by hiking trail or kayak.

William J. “Billy Joe” Rish Recreation Area (6773 Cape San Blas Road, Port St Joe, Florida 32456; 850-227-1876), known locally as Rish Park, has recently added two family-style cabins which are designed to be easily accessible for people with disabilities, their families and their caregivers. The two-bedroom cabins sleep up to five people and feature a living room and dining area and kitchen. Two accessible restrooms have zero-entry showers. The cabin is surrounded by a boardwalk.

Beautiful white-sand beaches and blue Gulf waters are the centerpiece of this 100-acre park. An accessible recreation area includes a day use park, boardwalk and an Olympic-size pool with chair lift and wheelchair ramp. Beach wheelchairs, motorized beach wheelchairs, boardwalk scooters and water wheelchairs are also available for park guests.

One of the area’s best known camping locations is Presnell’s Bayside Marina & RV Resort (2115 County Road 30A; Port Saint Joe, Florida 32456; 850-848-4914), a premier spot for enjoying sunsets on the bay. Located on the calm waters of St. Joseph Bay, Presnell’s offers paddleboard, kayak and boat rentals. There is also a swimming pool, clubhouse, ship’s store, boat ramp and marina onsite. This iconic Gulf County campground now has 110 sites, including 64 new full-service sites with 30- and 50-amp service, full sewer hookups and Wi-Fi. For those without an RV, cottage and park model rentals are also available on site. 

Indian Pass Campground (2817 Indian Pass Road, Port Saint Joe, Florida 32456; 850-227-7203) sits near the western end of Apalachicola Bay and has a character all its own. Sites shaded by native trees, waterfront sites with amazing views and remote tent sites are all a part of the mix here. There are restrooms, showers, laundry and a general store onsite. There is local beach access to a pet-friendly beach and a nearby county boat ramp.

Just a short drive inland, at Dead Lakes RV Campground (482 Gary Rowell Road, Wewahitchka, Florida 32465; 850-639-1008) visitors can experience a different yet equally inviting aspect of Gulf County. The Dead Lakes area encompasses 6,700 acres of unspoiled beauty amid the waters of the Chipola River, ancient cypress trees and stands of fertile Tupelo trees. Access to fishing, kayaking and hiking make this a favorite spot for some, while others just want to bask in the calm of the remote location. There are full-hookup sites with picnic tables and a designated tent area for groups. The property includes a family and pet-friendly playground with picnic pavilions, and general store with WIFI, showers and restrooms and boat ramp. There are also nearby kayak rentals and eco tours.

For those who are looking for a truly primitive waterfront experience, overnight camping is also allowed on Gulf County’s public beaches, with some restrictions. Be sure to check out the area’s Leave No Trace information for regulations and best practices.

From its accessible camping options to its pet-friendly beaches and restaurants, this is a welcoming coastal destination for all, filled with a whole host of opportunities to recharge and engage with family, friends and travel companions. The sustainable practices it upholds, like the Leave No Trace ordinance on all beaches, are aimed at maintaining the resources and the character of this special Gulf Coast destination.

If you go

Fighting Conch Rentals (Port St. Joe, Florida 32456, 850-247-9392) makes it easy to enjoy Gulf County by water or land. They offer kayak and paddleboard rentals, as well as guided eco tours on St. Joseph Bay. Whether you want a peaceful paddle along the shoreline or a curated outing with a local expert, they help visitors explore the natural beauty of Gulf County at their own pace.

Gettin’ Reel Sportfishing (Port St. Joe, Florida 32456, 850-381-1313) gives guests the chance to experience the thrill of inshore and offshore fishing with a seasoned local captain. From targeting redfish and speckled trout in the bay to heading offshore for grouper and snapper, this charter delivers memorable days on the water with a focus on fun, safety and local knowledge.

Off the Map Expeditions (482 Gary Rowell Road, Wewahitchka, Florida 32465; 850-819-3053) offers fishing, paddling, birding and eco tours on the Dead Lakes.

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1. First things first, book a cabin. With many lodging options available, you will find a spot that meets the needs of your group or family. From spacious cabins for multigenerational families to cozy creekside retreats perfect for couples, there is a plethora of choices ranging from luxury to rustic. Click here to see Blue Ridge lodging options. 
2. From annual holiday events to live music around town, there’s always something happening in Blue Ridge. Light Up Blue Ridge is a favorite among locals and visitors. This event is sure to fill everyone with holiday cheer. Click here to see a full list of winter happenings you don’t want to miss.
3. Taste the region by stopping in a local winery or brewery. With several to choose from, you’ll find some new favorites. Many offer live music on the weekends, stunning mountain views and food trucks on site. Don’t forget to pick up a few extra bottles to take back to your cabin.
4. Take a hike with the family. There are endless opportunities to explore the natural beauty of Blue Ridge. With 300 miles of hiking trails, including the Appalachian Trail terminus and three local waterfalls, it is easy to embark on a memorable adventure easily accessible from your Blue Ridge cabin. For an overview of area trails, click here. 
5. Spend a cozy evening at home! Think smores by the fire, football on the tv and some fun family games. Stop in Chester’s Provisions and pick up everything you need for a quiet evening in. Featuring specialty foods, local wine, craft beer and entertaining essentials, you’ll have everything you need for a low-key evening.
6. Take advantage of the stunning scenery. Make your trip to Blue Ridge even more memorable by capturing some professional family photos amid the area’s most stunning backdrops. With many local photographers, you’ll be able to document your trip in a very special way—and you’ll be so glad you did.
7. Discover the local flavors. A common theme among area restaurants is sourcing local ingredients. From local trout and barbecue to fried apple pies and biscuits and gravy, the Blue Ridge culinary scene has so much to offer. For a full list of where to eat, click here. 
8. Take a scenic drive. Drive in any direction from Blue Ridge and you’ll be met with beautiful scenery and gorgeous views. Click here for a full list of scenic drives and self-guided tours. 
9. Embark on a unique adventure with Blue Ridge’s Family Fun Adventure Game. This fun activity is one the whole family can participate in! Simply download and print out the game pages or pick up an official game booklet at the Fannin County Welcome Center. As you travel throughout the area, kids can fill out the game booklet answering questions about all the fun places you’ll be guided to. This self guided tour will have you making stops in the mountains, checking out nearby rivers, spotting wildlife and more. You’ll be amazed at all the cool things you experience along the way! For more information and details on how to play, click here.

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