Day 1 - Arrive in Myrtle Beach, SC

• Check in at host hotel
• Savor the delectable dishes from Myrtle Beach's finest choice of restaurants that offer group rates
• Catch live entertainment at one of Myrtle Beach's renowned theatres
• Return to hotel and settle in for an evening of rest and peace

Day 2 - Myrtle Beach Area

• Breakfast at host hotel
• Visit Brookgreen Gardens and its new Low Country Center that depicts the history of the Low country from its Native American beginnings to its slave era and beyond don't miss the entertaining and informative one-man show of Gullah native and historian Ron Daise tracing the history of the Gullah people from Africa to South Carolina's Low country (New Butterfly House, seasonal)
• Buffet or boxed lunch at Brookgreen Gardens
• Travel to Hopsewee Plantation for and afternoon tea and tour
• Shop along the coast for cultural arts and crafts including: quilts, sweet grass baskets, dolls, wood carvings, collectibles and memorabilia also set up a craft class making sweet grass baskets or grass dolls
• Return to Myrtle Beach for a dinner and show on the town
• Rest at your host hotel

Day 3 - Coastal SC

• Breakfast at host hotel
• Stroll along the New Boardwalk
• Ride the New SkyWheel
• Tour Broadway at Beach
• (below located at Broadway at the Beach)
• New WonderWorks
• Ripley's Aquarium
• Lunch at Local Restaurant featuring southern cuisine
• Catch live entertainment at one of Myrtle Beach's New Show's
• Return to hotel relax your weary bones and knotted muscles

Day 4 - Depart Myrtle Beach

• Breakfast at host hotel
• Depart From Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Area CVB
1200 North Oak Street
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 
Phone: (843) 916-7248
Phone: (800) 488-8998
Fax: (843) 448-3010 
E-mail: sandy.haines@visitmyrtlebeach.com 
Web: www.myrtlebeachgroups.com 

Fort Myers and Sanibel Island stand as exotic southwest Florida places to traverse.

White sand beaches with subtropical wildlife and lush foliage can be found here along with the heritage and homes of famed Americans named Edison and Ford.

Day One

Stop in at Edison & Ford Winter Estates, the Fort Myers winter homes for inventor Thomas Edison and automobile industrialist Henry Ford.

Take a 90-minute guided tour of Edison’s 14-acre riverfront estate, laboratory and experimental gardens. The three-acre winter home of Ford, nicknamed Mangoes, features a display of Ford vehicles dating to 1914. Consider the possibility of a river cruise in a replica of Edison’s electric launch, The Reliance.

After lunch, Babcock Wilderness Adventures can take your group on a 90-minute swamp buggy eco-tour with a trained naturalist through Telegraph Cypress Swamp. Look for cougars, alligators, snakes and birds along with natural fauna. 

Before dinner, stop in at the 50,000-square-foot Shell Factory and Nature Park, one of the largest collections of shells, fossils, corals, jewelry, pearls and resort wear anywhere. 

Both attractions are located just north of Fort Myers.

Day Two

Florida is known for citrus fruit, so squeeze in a little time south of Fort Myers to visit Sun Harvest Citrus, whose roots date to 1940 in Vero Beach along the Indian River. The Fort Myers retail store and packinghouse opened in 1990, when founder Robert Edsall Sr.’s granddaughter, Sandy McKenzie, decided to offer the Edsall Groves’ Indian River citrus to the public.

Visit Art of the Olympians Museum and Gallery on the waterfront in historic Fort Myers’ River District. The Art of the Olympians Al Oerter Center for Excellence is a popular destination for art lovers, sports enthusiasts and people of all ages. 

Oerter, a four-time Olympic gold medalist discus thrower, envisioned an arena that would be home to physical, educational and artistic excellence. The museum and gallery feature the art of celebrated U.S. Olympians such as ice skater Peggy Fleming, javelin thrower Ronald Bradstock and sprinter Florence Griffith-Joyner.

Next, check out the diverse wildlife along the Caloosahatchee River, including waterfowl, manatees and dolphins, along with various lush plants. J.C. Cruises offers a daytime cruise with narration aboard its triple-decker paddle-wheeler.

Then, stay downtown with Ft. Myers’ River District, known for its restaurants with outside cafe seating, specialty shops and art galleries.

Day Three

After breakfast, head to Sanibel Island for a 90-minute tram tour of J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, located on the subtropical barrier island of Sanibel in the Gulf of Mexico. 

The refuge is part of the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the United States. It is world famous for its spectacular migratory bird populations and offers kayaking.

Next on your visit to Sanibel, head to Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum and its display of shells from around the world with a focus on southwest Florida. 

In the afternoon, stroll the shell-laden beaches of Sanibel Island at Lighthouse Beach. The lighthouse, built in 1884, makes a nice backdrop for group photos.

Have dinner at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre. Celebrating its 18th season in Fort Myers, its facility includes a 448-seat dinner theatre, the 98-seat black-box theater The Off Broadway Palm Theatre, the 120-seat dining room Cafe Cabaret and The Art Cafe, a 30-seat space off the main lobby.

Day Four

Get away to Key West for the day aboard Key West Express, departing from Fort Myers Beach. Climb aboard the high-speed ferry before spending the day touring the Florida Keys and returning to Fort Myers Beach.

Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau
(800) 237-6444
(239) 338-3500
http://fortmyers-sanibel.com

Ponchatoula, a part of Tangipahoa Parish, has long been considered the “Strawberry Capital of Louisiana.” 

Its location along the Mississippi River Delta provides fertile soil perfect for farming these gems known for their sweetness. 

The local strawberry season begins in January and ends in early May. Occasionally, farmers can be found selling their produce as early as Thanksgiving. 

April is the month of choice if strawberry seeking is what you’re after.

Ponchatoula and Tangipahoa Parish celebrate the favored fruit with the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival, held annually the first or second weekend of April (rotating around Easter). It draws about 350,000 people annually, according to local estimates.

This year, the state’s largest free festival is April 13 to 15.

This three-day itinerary by the Tangipahoa Parish Convention & Visitors Bureau covers the festival’s run.

Day One 

Friday, April 13

10 a.m. — Tour downtown Ponchatoula. The points of interest include more than 40 antique and specialty stores, including the Louisiana Furniture Gallery. Be sure to stop in at Country Market and Berry Town Produce Market for some fresh berries. 

A visit to the Collinswood School Museum is a must. Free to visit, the museum explores the history of the strawberry capital, the Louisiana cypress industry and other topics, all in a former one-room schoolhouse. 

1 p.m. — Enjoy lunch at Berry Patch Cafe, which specializes in strawberry beignets, sandwiches, wraps and other tasty treats.  

3 p.m. — Tour Amato’s Winery in Independence. The family-owned business, the only vintner in the parish, produces dry, sweet and semi-sweet wines from Louisiana strawberries.

6 p.m. — Return to nearby Hammond for dinner at the Cate Street Seafood Station.

Day Two

Saturday, April 14 

9:30 a.m. — Begin the day at the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival parade.

Noon — Break for lunch at Rockefeller’s, a local hot spot serving New Orleans cuisine. 

1 p.m. — Split up for fun at the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival, with arts and crafts vendors, a midway, two entertainment stages, games and strawberry-eating contests all on tap. 

3 p.m. — Tour Kliebert’s Turtle & Alligator Farm. Its disabled-accessible tours introduce the working alligator farm. 

6 p.m. — Gather for dinner at O’Donnell’s Restaurant in Ponchatoula.

Day Three

Sunday, April 15

Morning — Check out of your accommodations.

10 a.m. — Enjoy strawberry picking in a local field and follow with a guided history tour. 

Noon — Swap stories over lunch at Middendorf’s Seafood Restaurant.

For more group details about visiting Ponchatoula and Tangipahoa Parish, contact Emily McKneely, Tangipahoa Parish CVB director of sales, at (800) 542-7520 or emily@tangitourism.com.

Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival
(800) 917-7045
www.lastrawberryfestival.com

Tangipahoa Parish CVB 
(800) 542-7520 
www.tangitourism.com

Hot Springs, which claims the distinction of having the oldest national park in the U.S., is alive with natural attractions, interesting history and a laid-back lifestyle. 

The city’s thermal waters are legendary. Native Americans and early settlers flocked to the area to discover the mystical healing power of the waters. 

The U.S. Congress granted federal protection to the area in 1832, naming it Hot Springs Reservation. It was renamed Hot Springs National Park in 1921.

Its nickname embraces its heritage as “America’s First Resort.”

Day One

7 a.m. — Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or at the historic Pancake Shop.

8 a.m. — Tour Garvan Woodland Gardens. Arkansas’ premier botanical garden is located on a 210-acre peninsula on Lake Hamilton. The garden features a welcome center, Outer Space Gift Shop, a four-acre Asian rock and stream garden, the Full Moon Bridge, Verna C. Garvan Pavilion designed by E. Fay Jones and Maurice Jennings, 20-foot-tall Canopy Bridge, waterfalls, springs, cascading streams, Japanese Maple Hill and Border of Old Roses. 

11:30 a.m.  — Lunch is at Smokin’ In Style BBQ, perfect for groups small and large. 

1 p.m. — Oaklawn Racing and Gaming is the South’s newest gaming center. Enjoy blackjack, Double Diamonds, video poker, Texas Hold ’Em poker tables. Catch top thoroughbred horse racing from January to April. 

5 p.m. — Load the bus for dinner. 

5:30 p.m. — Dine in Historic downtown Hot Springs. With many choices for dining you will find Italian and American menus to choose from. Two suggestions: Belle Arti or and The Brick House. 

7:30 p.m. — At Vienna Theater, let Ken Goodman’s voice serenade you while enjoying some memorable songs of the 1950s and Broadway. 

9:30 p.m. — Hit up a local hot spot for dancing or music or both; or return to your group’s hotel for the evening.

Day Two

8 a.m. — Eat breakfast at your hotel or at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store.

10 a.m. — Pause for a thermal bathing experience in the home of Hot Springs National Park. 

Bathing in the thermal mountain spring waters and partaking in a rejuvenating massage, manicure, pedicure or facial is a luxurious and unforgettable experience that has drawn visitors to Hot Springs for decades. 

Thermal baths are available at The Arlington Resort Hotel and Spa, The Buckstaff Bath House, The Springs Hotel and Spa, Spa in the Park – Austin Hotel and Quapaw Baths and Spa.

Noon — Lunch is on your own.

2 p.m. – Spend some time in the historic district. Stop at the visitor center of Hot Springs National Park in the Fordyce Bathhouse. Tour historic downtown Hot Springs and visit the Gangster Museum of America, the only museum of its kind featuring notorious mobsters from the 1920s, ’30s and ’40s.  

The Josephine Tussaud Wax Museum offers 38 exhibits featuring more than 100 wax figures on display. The latest exhibit is on the 9/11 tragedy. An extensive gift shop has been added on the first level. 

Check out the antique shops in the downtown area and the unique collections.

5:30 p.m. — Eat dinner.

Hot Springs CVB
(800) 922-6478
(501) 321-2835 
www.hotsprings.org

A charming town wrapped around a historic square is a common site in the South. 

But Oxford is a distinctive destination both within the bounds of its town square and beyond. 

This truly southern town is the home of the University of Mississippi, best known as Ole Miss. 

Author William Faulkner called Oxford home for years, and popularized the city for audiences around the world.

More modern authors John Grisham, Barry Hannah and Larry Brown also have connections to the town of 19,000 residents. It’s also home to Square Books, a renowned independent bookstore.

Day One

10 a.m. — A docent-led driving tour will introduce your group to the charms of Oxford and the university. 

11:15 a.m. — No literary fans worth their salt would miss a visit to the Faulkner Room at Ole Miss. The J.D. Williams Library houses this exhibit dedicated to Oxford’s own Nobel Prize-winning author. The actual prize is in the collection, along with the author’s private papers and other treasures.   

12:30 p.m. — It’s time for lunch on the square. Ever since Oxford was incorporated in 1837, it’s been a center of economics and culture. Oxford’s restaurants serve up a mix of Southern classics and other cuisines.  

1:30 p.m. — After the meal has wrapped up, enjoy the historic square. Square Books, an art gallery, a long-standing department store, boutiques and other charming places are there to discover. 

2 p.m. — Tour Rowan Oak, the home of William Faulkner. This 1844 stately residence provided a home to Faulkner from 1930 until his death in 1962. He christened the house Rowan Oak after the legend of the Rowan tree, which harbored magic powers of safety and protection according to Celtic legend. While he was living here with this wife and daughter, Faulkner wrote Absalom, Absalom! and Light in August, among other classics. 

5 p.m. — Return to the square for dinner.

Day Two

8 a.m. — Rise and shine in time for a leisurely breakfast in your hotel. 

10 a.m. — Enjoy the University Museum, which is comprised of the Mary Buie Museum, adjoining Kate Skipwith Teaching Museum, Seymour Lawrence Gallery of American Art and the Lib Fortune Gallery. 

11:30 a.m. — Remain on campus for a tour of the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts. The 88,000-square-foot event hall houses dance studios, a reception hall, green rooms and other spaces. 

12:30 p.m. — Break for lunch on campus or back at the square. 

2 p.m. — Visit the LQC Lamar House, a modest Greek Revival residence. Namesake Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus Lamar was active in politics before and after the Civil War. 

He is one of the few men ever to serve in all three branches of the federal government, as a U.S. senator, Secretary of the Interior and Supreme Court judge. 

3 p.m. — Depart Oxford.

For more details on group visits, itineraries and tours, contact Oxford Convention & Visitors Bureau Tourism Manager Mary-Allyn Roulhac at (662) 232-2477 or by email at maryallyn@oxfordcvb.com.

Oxford CVB
(800) 758-9177
www.oxfordcvb.com

Homegrown is the all the rage in this energetic college town — a real hub of artistic expression. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, about 70 miles from Atlanta, Athens is the home of the University of Georgia and is the city that nurtured music legends R.E.M. and the B-52s. 

Day One

Morning — You need not be a townie to become intimately acquainted with Athens’ greatest export: music. 

The Athens Music History Tour is an accompanied jaunt around town with insider commentary about all the famous figures and features of the local scene. 

Eclectic downtown Athens is a history hub, scattered with shops, galleries and African American heritage sites. 

From the center of the college music scene, cross Broad Street and pass through the famed arch to the University of Georgia’s tree-shaded North Campus, site of the first state-chartered university in the United States (1785). 

Afternoon — Enjoy lunch in downtown Athens. At The Grit or The Last Resort Grill, groups marvel at the art on the walls as well as the food on their plate. Many of the staffers are musicians themselves. 

Next, browse the wares of downtown shops. Find a rare recording in Athens’ renowned downtown local music stores. 

Evening — A true farm-to-table experience, Farm 255 features locally grown food for groups to savor. Most of the ingredients travel fewer than 10 miles to the eatery’s plates. 

Following dinner, learn why Athens is a live music hub. Visit Georgia Theatre, which has reopened following a complete post-fire restoration. It’s now Athens’ largest nightlife venue and features a rooftop restaurant and bar.  

There’s a good chance of catching a national touring act or notable regional artists at the 40 Watt Club or the Melting Point. 

Be on the lookout for upstart performers at smaller clubs such as Little Kings and the Caledonia Lounge. 

For a uniquely Athens experience, consider visiting the Chase Park Warehouse complex, home to Trace Gallery, Athens Institute for Contemporary Art (ATHICA) and Canopy Trapeze Studio. 

Stay overnight in your Athens accommodations.

Day Two

Morning — After a late night, nothing is finer than freshly roasted and brewed coffee. Experience a behind-the-scenes tour at Jittery Joe’s Coffee Roasting Facility downtown and learn the ins and outs of coffee production. 

Next, meet up with a guide from Athens Food Tours for a relaxing ramble taking your group to locally owned restaurants for a sampling of the offerings and a chance to meet the people who have made Athens a foodie’s paradise.

Afternoon — Stop at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. The 313-acre preserve features a stunning three-story tropical conservatory and gardens showcasing both native and international flora. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the cafe overlooking the International Garden. 

On the way back toward the city center, visit the artists in the barn-like shop of R. Wood Studio ceramics, where hand-molded dinnerware is produced in accordance with their motto: “Beauty everyday.”

Evening — Dine at Five and Ten in the Five Points neighborhood, the well-known restaurant of acclaimed chef Hugh Acheson, to see why he is a five-time James Beard Award nominee for the Southeast. 

Return to your accommodations.

Day Three

Morning — Break away from downtown for a visit to the Georgia Museum of Art or perhaps a private viewing at one of Athens’ many galleries. Check out contemporary art shows or stop in a studio for a glimpse of an artist at work. 

If you’re in the mood to raise your heart rate, line up a workshop in belly dance, beginner trapeze or tai chi and get a feeling for the way the city moves. 

Afternoon — Enjoy lunch and a tour at Terrapin Brewery. Learn the beer-making process and see how local boys made good on the ultimate college town business. Taste testing of the establishment’s award-winning beer is the way to go.

Athens CVB
(706) 357-4430
www.visitathensga.com

Fun in the sun, sugar-sand beaches, fresh seafood, fascinating attractions and so much more can be found along the Alabama Gulf Coast. 

Enjoy five days uncovering the treasures on and off the shores of Orange Beach, Gulf Shores and Dauphin Island — along with fantastic views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Day One

Begin your beach vacation with coffee served on your hotel balcony as you watch the sunrise. Follow with an early morning walk on the beach and searching for seashells. 

After the walk has wrapped up, enjoy some time at the beach, a must for an Alabama Gulf Coast getaway. Lounge in the sun, seek out water sports or go for a swim.

Take a break from beach for lunch at The Hangout — a Gulf Shores legend featuring some of the freshest seafood caught from the Gulf of Mexico. 

You’ll want to head back to those inviting sugar-sand beaches. This immediate area features 13 public access points, including Gulf State Park. 

Return to shore for dinner at Cosmo’s Restaurant and Bar in Orange Beach. The menu, which features sushi, steaks and other delights, is a favorite with the locals. 

If group members would like, add on a visit to Flora-Bama Lounge, Package and Oyster Bar. Right on the state line between Alabama and Florida, this local legend plays hosts to the Mullet Toss event every April and is a hoot to visit any night of the year.

Day Two

Begin today with breakfast at Tacky Jack’s of Orange Beach, followed by a four-hour fishing charter departing from a local marina. 

Return to land for lunch at Flippers of Orange Beach. Don’t worry, you can head back to sea in short order for an afternoon dolphin cruise. 

Then, enjoy a glassblowing demonstration at the Orange Beach Art Center and travel to the nearby Shipp’s Harbour Grill for another fantastic meal.

Day Three

Greet the morning with an adventure — a biking or eco-tour along the Hugh S. Branyon Back Country Trail.

Head to The Wharf for lunch and some afternoon shopping with the Intracoastal Waterway as a backdrop. Be sure to save time for a trip to Hope’s Cheesecake. 

The evening is free to enjoy as your group wishes. 

Day Four

Great weather and views make the Gulf Coast a natural place for golf. 

Choose one of several local courses for an 18-hole round. 

Enjoy lunch at the Original Oyster House, a local favorite since it opened in 1983.

Visit Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and discover the story of the “Little Zoo that Could.” After surviving three hurricanes, the zoo is opening an all-new, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum-certified facility this spring. 

After, experience another great coastal restaurant with LuLu’s at the Homeport Marina. Owner Lucy Buffett is the sister of rocker Jimmy Buffett, a restaurateur himself.

Day Five

Connect with history while touring Fort Morgan. 

After construction was completed in 1834, the fort was active during the Civil, Spanish-American and both World Wars. 

Hop aboard the ferry to Dauphin Island for a tour of Dauphin Island Sea Laboratory’s Estuarium and Fort Gaines. Enjoy a bakery lunch and the ferry ride back to the mainland. 

Before dinner, get active with some hiking at the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. 

After your workout, it’s time for dinner at The Beach Club.

Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism
(800) 745-7263
www.gulfshores.com

North Myrtle, Myrtle Beach, Conway and Little River are on the list of Grand Strand destinations for this four-day adventure- and entertainment-filled itinerary.

Also included are hops across the North Carolina border into Calabash and Sunset Beach to add to group wanderings in this tour designed by North Myrtle Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Day One

Start with a morning visit in Myrtle Beach to Ripley’s Aquarium’s 750,000-gallon tank. In the saltwater are 10-foot sharks and other assorted marine life. In Friendship Flats, touch Southern cow-nosed rays and bonnet-head Sharks.

Return for lunch in North Myrtle Beach at Barefoot Landing, followed by shopping at your choice of the 100 or so stores.

In the evening, head to the backside of Barefoot Landing with a buffet dinner cruise down the Intracoastal Waterway on the Barefoot Princess Riverboat. 

Day Two

Start the day with a trip to Calabash, N.C., home of the Hurricane Fleet.

Take the fleet’s Dolphin Eco Tour to an Atlantic Ocean barrier island. Gain insights from a marine biologist, who will cast nets and crab traps into the inlet and bring up an array of marine life that might include sea urchins, sand dollars, whelks, crabs and various plants. Observe shorebirds and hawks as well as tortoises, dolphins and alligators. 

Or try some deep-sea fishing with Little River Fishing Fleet’s Pride of the Carolinas.

In the evening after dinner, take in a performance at The Carolina Opry, which is in its 27th year. Its productions cover dancing and music from Broadway hits and gospel to country to pop, with accompanying performances by a tap-dancing team and a comedian.

Day Three

Housed in a converted post office adjacent to the downtown Conway Historic District, the Horry County Museum features monthly exhibits by local artists in addition to its historical and regional exhibits detailing South Carolina and Horry County life during the 18th century.

In the afternoon, see the skies and the stars at Ingram Planetarium in Sunset Beach, N.C. Its Museum of Coastal Carolina offers the audio and visual educational experience. The planetarium has planetary and astronomy programs and hands-on exhibits.

In the evening in North Myrtle Beach, hit The Alabama Theatre’s variety show, with music from Broadway to Gospel, production numbers and a comedian.

Day Four

Located in a natural coastal locale, Inlet Point Plantation Stables in North Myrtle Beach features a variety of equestrian adventures, including horseback tours. 

Inlet Point offers trail, pony and private island beach rides year-round.

In the evening, take on Pirates Voyage’s dinner-theater production in North Myrtle Beach. The junket includes mermaids, animals and salty surroundings with dramatic acrobatics, lighting, sound and pyrotechnics.

North Myrtle Beach Area CVB
(800) 356-3016
www.NorthMyrtleBeachChamber.com

Myrtle Beach Area CVB
(800) 488-8998
www.MyrtleBeachGroups.com

Named after the Spartan Regiment of the South Carolina Militia during the Revolutionary War, Spartanburg is a progressive town that also remembers and honors its past. 

Standing in the center of Morgan Square in the heart of downtown is a statue of Gen. Daniel Morgan, who led the American forces to victory at the Battle of Cowpens in the American Revolution. 

Day One

Start with an overview of Spartanburg’s history at the Spartanburg Regional History Museum. Exhibits cover textile and military history, beautiful handcrafted furniture and other decorative arts from Spartanburg County.

Visit Hub City Railroad Museum and learn how Spartanburg got its nickname of “Hub City.”

Have lunch at Nu-Way (Spartanburg’s oldest bar) downtown. Its redneck cheeseburger was voted best burger in South Carolina by Food Network Magazine. 

Make your way up South Carolina 29 to Cowpens National Battlefield, in nearby Cherokee County. Brigadier Gen. Daniel Morgan won the Battle of Cowpens, a decisive Revolutionary War victory, over British Lt. Col. Banastre Tarleton on Jan. 17, 1781. 

Next, head over to the Cowpens Veteran Memorial Park, which honors U.S. military men and women.

After visiting Cowpens, head to the former textile town of Glendale and see what is now housed in the old mill church and Victorian mill office. See where the ironworks once were and take a stroll across the pedestrian-only Glendale Bridge.  

Nearby Pacolet boasts heritage ranging from the Catawba and Cherokee Indians to textile history, with much of it detailed in Pacolet Museum. If your group has 50 or more people, Pacolet can package a full day tour for your group.

Pacolet also has arts-and-crafts-style homes — more than 250 to be exact, the largest concentration of the architectural style in South Carolina. Many of the homes are located in Pacolet’s Historic Mill District.

Day Two

Start at Nazareth Presbyterian Church, with graves dating to the 1760s. 

Established in 1765 and organized in 1772, portions of the present church date from 1832. 

Next, visit Walnut Grove Plantation. In late 1781, Loyalist William “Bloody Bill” Cunningham killed three patriot soldiers at the plantation and sparked a small skirmish with local militia, which is reenacted each year in early October. The house is open as a museum April through October.

After lunch, drive through Spartanburg’s historic districts. Hampton Heights has of homes from the early 20th century. Converse Heights was one of Spartanburg’s first suburbs, with most of its homes built between 1905 and 1950.

Genealogy fans can spend time in the Kennedy Room at Spartanburg Headquarters Library. 

Day Three

Travel to historic downtown Greer, also known as Greer Station.

The community near Greenville and Spartanburg has more than 40 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The downtown area is designated as a National Historic District. 

While there, be sure to visit the Greer Heritage Museum, open Fridays and Saturdays.  

Stop for lunch at The Great Bay Oyster House or Rivera’s on Poinsett Street, Mimi’s on Main Street or any of the number of restaurants on Trade Street.  

Stroll through downtown, with about 12 square blocks of retail, dining and entertainment establishments, including Acme General Store in the old Leader Department Store building. Stop for dessert at its old-fashioned ice cream counter. 

Take South Carolina 101 out of town and at the intersection with Interstate 85, visit the BMW Zentrum to learn about the history of automaker. Plant tours and driving experiences are also available, but must be scheduled in advance.

Spartanburg CVB
(800) 374-8326
www.visitspartanburg.com

Exploring NASCAR, knocking down tenpins, beer, driving sports cars, golfing and running some whitewater rapids are just some of the activities that can be included in this guys-only Charlotte tour.

The two-day itinerary is from Visit Charlotte.

Day One

As NASCAR nation’s hometown, a trip to Charlotte wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Charlotte Motor Speedway. Amp up the excitement with an exhilarating 160 mph ride in an authentic NASCAR stock car at the Richard Petty Driving Experience, then go behind the scenes for a tour of the speedway. 

Get extra track time by burning some rubber in high-speed go carts at Victory Lane Karting, and race your group for the fastest lap time. Groups can take advantage of block seating and a 10 percent discount for 30 or more tickets to races at the speedway, with customizable packages and additional extras like priority seating. 

The Richard Petty Driving Experience will work with groups from 10 to 1,500 to plan a personalized experience. 

www.1800bepetty.com 
www.charlottemotorspeedway.com
www.victorylanekarting.com

After a morning of thrills, relax with a tour and tasting at Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, offering up German-style lagers and ales. Savor your beverage in a tap room reminiscent of a German beer hall or take it outside to the beer garden. Groups can take advantage of free tours, available on Saturdays at 2, 3 and 4 p.m.

www.oldmeckbrew.com

Slip on your bowling shoes for a night at Strikecity and challenge your friends to a 10-pin showdown at the chic bowling lounge with food worthy of a taste test. Strikecity is part of the bustling Epicentre, a complex chock full of restaurants and nightlife in the heart of Center City.

www.strikecitycharlotte.com

Day Two

If you’ve ever dreamt of taking a spin in a Ferrari or Aston Martin, head to Supercar Sensation and get behind the wheel. Different packages allow you to customize your ideal experience, with a price tag that’s much easier on the wallet than owning your own luxury sports car. Living out your dream is easy. The hard part is deciding who gets which car.

www.supercarsensation.com

Practice your swing at The Golf Club at Ballantyne, a five-star championship course in Ballantyne. 

If you’re a little rusty or just want to improve your game, get pointers at Dana Rader Golf School, one of the top 25 schools in the U.S. as rated by Golf Magazine. 

Not a golfer? Relax with an athlete’s massage at the Spa at Ballantyne Hotel & Lodge or head to the ultimate men’s grooming destination, Emerson Joseph, for a hot towel facial.

www.theballantynehotel.com
www.emersonjoseph.com

Scale the rock-climbing wall or embark on a high-tech treasure hunt by eco trekking at the U.S. National Whitewater Center, a 300-acre outdoorsman’s paradise. Test your rafting and kayaking skills with class III and IV rapids; or brave the 1,100-foot Mega Zip line if you’re up for adventure. Discounted pricing and scheduling are available for groups. 

www.usnwc.org

Visit Charlotte
(704) 331-2748
www.charlottesgotalot.com

Discover eastern Tennessee riches on this three-day trek covering rural art, natural splendor, fabulous food, historic sites and the remains of exotic animals that once roamed this rich and varied destination.

Day One

Explore Farmhouse Gallery & Gardens for a one-of-a-kind experience. Enjoy fiddles and fabulous food topped off with a hayride and bonfire complete with ghost stories. Other regular programs include storytelling, carnivals, magician performances, comedy routines and drama. 

The venue’s large pavilion is situated at the edge of a one-acre pond and seats more than 200. The entire space can accommodate group functions ranging in size from 20 to more than 1,000 participants. 

Day Two

Depart for Bristol Motor Speedway, known as the fastest half mile in NASCAR. Experience the drivers’ perspective with a guided track tour, which includes a ride around the half-mile high banks. 

This is racing the way it ought to be. 

Depart for Rocky Mount Living History Museum. Capture the frontier spirit with traditional Appalachian music as Mr. and Mrs. Cobb welcome your group to Rocky Mount, the first territorial capital of the United States.

Next, head to Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium in Kingsport. The 3,500-acre nature preserve is the largest city-owned park in the state. It features a 44-acre lake, a nature center and animal habitats that are home to wolves, bobcats, raptors and reptiles. 

Then, check out Exchange Place, a historic 1800s farmstead where the Huggins family prepares an entertaining ceremony and dinner. 

Here, well-informed guides relate history, and groups enjoy catered breakfasts, lunches and dinners, comical hijackings, storytelling, a murder mystery dinner theater, craft demonstrations and hands-on projects. 

Return to accommodations. 

Day Three

Begin the day with the Big Dig at the East Tennessee State University Museum of Natural History’s Gray Fossil Site. The attraction is more than 7 million years in the making. It’s home to the largest deposit of ancient tapirs in the world. Less than 1 percent of the site has been excavated, so there’s a good chance to uncover fossils including alligators, shovel-tusked elephants, camels, saber-toothed cats and red pandas. 

Then, make your way to Andrew Johnson National Historic Site and trace the life of the industrious tailor who would later become the 17th president of the U.S. 

Have lunch at the Farmer’s Daughter. The eatery specializes in down-home country cooking served family style. 

After your meal, stroll through the Mennonite store before heading back to your accommodations. 

Finally, depart for Jonesborough, known as the storytelling capital of the world. Trace the footsteps of pioneers and presidents in the oldest town of Tennessee. Listen to a few tales and savor a sumptuous feast from Bistro 105, which specializes in fusion cuisine and is influenced by foods representing many cultures.

Johnson City CVB
(800) 852-3392
(423) 461-8000
www.visitjohnsoncitytn.com

Once winter finally gives way to spring, many heed the call to spend more time outside. 

Murray and its vast outdoor spaces are found in between Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes.

Whether groups stop over for a day or are looking for a base to explore western Kentucky, this college town of 17,000 is a great destination. The home of Murray State University matches its rich cultural assets with natural beauty beckoning you to get out and explore.

Day One

Morning

7:30 a.m. — A big breakfast starts the day off with a bang! Martha’s Restaurant has a breakfast menu that will satisfy the hungriest outdoor warriors.

8:15 a.m. — Head to Kentucky Lake for some fishing. Known as “Crappie Capital of the World,” Kentucky Lake is also known for its bass, and catching these fish reaching five pounds or larger is not uncommon.

11:30 a.m. — It’s a short drive back to Murray for lunch at Burrito Shack, which serves up burritos and tacos with a beach-themed atmosphere.

Afternoon

Noon — Whether a competitive or recreational golfer, Frances E. Miller Memorial Golf Course can challenge any group’s skills with its 18-hole layout. Before getting started, practice makes perfect on large greens, a two-level practice tee and a 315-yard driving range. 

4 p.m. — Toss that Frisbee and play some disc golf at Central Park, which has a 5,200-foot course.

Evening

6:30 p.m. — Feast on dinner at Mugsy’s, which specializes in Chicago-style pizza. 

8 p.m. — Head to The Keg to play darts, pool, listen to a band or just relax. For a late-night snack, try its char-grilled oysters or hot wings.

Day Two

It’s a whole new day to explore.

After a hearty breakfast, visit Murray’s downtown and historic square.

Discover charming cafes and shops. The Saturday farmer’s market is another favorite. 

Murray State, with about 10,400 students, offers plenty of options — academic, cultural, entertainment and athletic. 

On campus, University Book & Bean serves up coffee and souvenirs, and Wrather West Kentucky Museum highlights the university and the region. Clara M. Eagle Art Gallery exhibits student art and juried shows on a rotating basis throughout the year.  

Or if your group would rather stay outside, visit Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.  

With programs, demonstrations and a group planner, the National Forest Service-operated area offers 170,000 acres between 160,300-acre Kentucky Lake and 57,000-acre Lake Barkley in western Kentucky and Tennessee. There’s plenty of room for hiking, kayaking, fishing and other outdoor adventures. 

Its Brandon Spring Group Center offers a host of programs, along with meals and overnight lodgings in its dormitory-style cabins. Golden Pond Visitor Center offers an 84-seat planetarium. The Homeplace living history farm, Woodlands Nature Station and Elk & Bison Prairie are other prime features. Call (270) 924-2020 for details or to make reservations at Land Between the Lakes.

Murray CVB
(800) 651-1603
(270) 759-2199
www.tourmurray.com