GG_JJ25_SummerTravelGuide_2
ALABAMA
Hungry for a dining destination that’s authentically Southern? In Alabama, eat your way through culinary hubs like Birmingham, where acclaimed chefs serve up Gulf Coast seafood, Southern staples, and globally inspired fare at standout spots like Helen, Automatic Seafood, and the newly opened Bayonet. Then explore the Birmingham Museum of Art, home to over twenty-nine thousand works—a vibrant indoor cultural experience to add even more flavor to your trip.
BARNSLEY RESORT, GEORGIA
Breathtaking natural beauty meets luxury accommodations at this North Georgia retreat. Home to a championship golf course, premier spa, and unparalleled field sports, Barnsley Resort is the place to nurture a deep connection with the great outdoors. Play on a Jim Fazio–designed golf course, test your aim at the Beretta Shooting Grounds, or indulge in farm-to-table dining. New in 2025: an enhanced pool with luxury cabanas, a reimagined biergarten, six pickleball courts, and a second resort pool and Himalayas putting green debuting this summer.
BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA
For a laid-back Southern getaway, Baton Rouge seamlessly blends Louisiana culture, rich history, and effortless charm along the Mississippi River. Stroll past colorful murals, browse boutique shops, and enjoy unhurried meals and decadent cocktails at spots like BLDG 5 or Tsunami. The city invites visitors to experience a refined take on Louisiana’s vibrant spirit—one delicious, leisurely moment at a time.
BERMUDA
On Bermuda, turquoise waters flow over pink-sand beaches and history blends effortlessly with a modern cosmopolitan scene. Explore UNESCO-listed St. George’s, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, or unwind in luxury at Hamilton’s Pink Palace. Sample fresh island cuisine, stroll colorful streets, and immerse yourself in legendary hospitality. Bermuda is more than a vacation—it’s an unforgettable journey just a short flight away.
BRASELTON, GEORGIA
Beyond the beauty of the rolling foothills of North Georgia, discover Braselton, a small town brimming with charm. Among its rich historic architecture, stroll the downtown filled with boutique shops and local eateries. Amp up the excitement at the nearby Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta for high-speed thrills or experience award-winning wines and a stunning stay at Chateau Elan Winery & Resort.
THE BROADMOOR
Set against Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes, The Broadmoor’s all-inclusive Wilderness retreats—Cloud Camp, The Ranch at Emerald Valley, and Fly Fishing Camp—offer unmatched luxury and adventure. Choose mountaintop serenity, untamed forest vistas, or an angler’s paradise to make your vacation on the southern edge of the Rockies one to remember.
CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
This summer, step into the charm of the Charleston area, where rich coastal culture and Southern hospitality meet. With over three hundred years of history, the Lowcountry invites you to step back in time along cobblestoned streets, tour historic landmarks, dine in world-class restaurants, and soak up the sun on stunning beaches. In the Charleston area, hospitality isn’t just a tradition—it’s a way of life, offering an endless welcome to all who visit.
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA
South Carolina’s capital is a city of delights, where a creative pulse flows from its university roots into dynamic streets filled with art, culture, and a thriving culinary scene, including James Beard Foundation–recognized restaurants. Just beyond the urban energy, nature awaits—winding rivers, lush gardens, scenic trails, and the tranquil beauty of Lake Murray offer a perfect escape.
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DAHLONEGA, GEORGIA
For Hallmark movie allure and incredible natural beauty, escape to Dahlonega, north of Atlanta. This gorgeous North Georgia mountain town was the site of America’s first major gold rush. Today it’s better known for its storybook appeal with charming vineyards, rich history, lovely boutiques, and breathtaking mountain views—the perfect setting to write your own vacation story.
THE FLORIDA KEYS & KEY WEST, FLORIDA
Stretching 125 miles into the turquoise sea, The Florida Keys offer five unique island destinations—Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, the Lower Keys, and Key West. Enjoy luxury resorts, world-class dining, and thrilling water adventures. Dive, fish, and savor fresh seafood and flavorful local ingredients. Then soak in the laid-back island vibes in this real-life paradise.
FREDERICK, MARYLAND
Looking for a destination that offers history and culture in equal measure? Frederick is the place. Walk in the footsteps of history at the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, Monocacy National Battlefield, and Catoctin Iron Furnace. Explore the charming Main Street, hike scenic state and national parks, and savor Maryland’s best wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Then stroll a fifty-block stretch with shopping, dining, and performing arts opportunities.
HAYWOOD COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
If you’re looking for authentic Appalachian charm, look no further than Haywood County, home to quaint towns of Canton, Clyde, Lake Junaluska, Maggie Valley and Waynesville. Explore forty-six miles of scenic Blue Ridge Parkway drives, hike the Great Smoky Mountains, and enjoy stunning vacation rentals with breathtaking views—an unforgettable mountain escape for all.
HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA
Innovation, culture, and outdoor beauty are the hallmarks of Huntsville. Experience a dynamic arts scene at The Orion Amphitheater, Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment, and the Downtown Secret Arts Trail. Explore the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, home to the Saturn V Rocket and Space Camp. Then hike Burritt on the Mountain and Monte Sano State Park or visit the Land Trust of North Alabama’s waterfalls and caves before savoring award-winning dining, breweries, and craft cocktails.
KENTUCKY
Filled with equal parts small-town warmth and big-city energy, Kentucky is a destination that offers something for every traveler—whether it’s exploring the rolling hills of horse country, touring a world-class bourbon distillery, or immersing yourself in the vibrant arts and music scenes of its bustling cities. Beyond great whiskey and equine attractions, discover the world’s longest cave system, full-service state parks, and two million acres of national forests in this matchless destination.
KIAWAH RIVER, SOUTH CAROLINA
Go behind the curtain of Kiawah River, a Lowcountry community gem. Paddle serene waters with Coastal Expeditions, try playful goat yoga, and savor seafood at Linnette’s, a contemporary Lowcountry restaurant. Shop local at Rosebank Farms; unwind in The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection’s charming cottage-inspired rooms and suites; and indulge in therapeutic treatments at Aster Spa. Explore, dine, and relax—embrace Lowcountry living in 2025.
LAKE OCONEE, GEORGIA
Luxury meets waterfront serenity at Lake Oconee. Stay at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, where world-class spa treatments, fine dining, and five-star service set the tone for relaxation. Tee off on one of six championship golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio, or wander through the charming streets of Greensboro, where antique shops hold Southern stories in every piece. Out on the lake, the day is yours— boating, fishing, and wakeboarding under the warm Georgia sun before settling in for a stunning sunset.
LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY
With national accolades and must-visit attractions, Lexington is a destination you’ll want to enjoy for more than just a weekend. Tour picturesque horse farms, witness elite equestrian events, and explore world-class distilleries in Bourbonland. Discover a thriving arts scene, energetic nightlife, and award-winning dining. See where horses, bourbon, and culture create an unforgettable getaway.
LOUISVLLE, KENTUCKY
The world’s only walkable spirits destination, Louisville is home to more than twenty distillery experiences, the Urban Bourbon Trail, and bourbon-themed hotels. In between tastings, explore legendary attractions like Churchill Downs, the Muhammad Ali Center, and Louisville Slugger. Experience the flavors of this award-winning culinary hub and its LouGrass music, a riff on the Kentucky classic featuring free live bluegrass performances April through October.
MCLEMORE RESORT, GEORGIA
Cliffside dining. A luxury spa. Breathtaking views. It’s all available at McLemore Resort, a premier mountaintop retreat just a short drive from Atlanta, Nashville, and Birmingham— close enough for convenience, yet worlds away. Perched atop Lookout Mountain outside Chattanooga, at 2,300 feet elevation, this distinct getaway is home to two world-class golf courses, exceptional dining, endless outdoor activities, and Cloudland, a luxurious Curio Collection by Hilton hotel—peak luxury stay.
TheMclemore.com
@MclemoreResort
MISSISSIPPI
Discover family fun in Mississippi. Explore the LeFleur Museum District in Jackson, home to four museums, including the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science and the award-winning Mississippi Children’s Museum. Visit the Hattiesburg Zoo for animal encounters and thrilling ropes courses, or dive into aquatic adventures at the Mississippi Aquarium in Gulfport. From history to wildlife, Mississippi has something for everyone.
MOBILE, ALABAMA
Mobile, the birthplace of the original Mardi Gras, is a coastal city rich in history, art, and cuisine. It’s older than the state of Alabama itself. Mobile’s rich history is a vibrant blend of French, Spanish, and deep African influences, shaping its music, cuisine, and festivals. Centuries of tradition make it a city truly born to celebrate.
MYRTLE BEACH, SOUTH CAROLINA
Picture it: sixty miles of sun-kissed shores stretching across a string of coastal communities, a dazzling array of attractions, and a seemingly endless choice of dining options—from soul food to fresh seafood, barbecue to Lowcountry fare. Welcome to Myrtle Beach, an oceanfront destination celebrated for its world-class golf courses, charming mini-golf spots, and lively boardwalks. Here, adventure awaits at every turn, no matter your pace.
NAPLES, FLORIDA
Coastal summer escapes don’t get more delightful than Naples, Florida. Stroll 5th Avenue South and Third Street South, where luxury boutiques, art galleries, and award-
winning dining abound. Explore Marco Island’s pristine undeveloped beaches—perfect for shell collecting—then venture to Everglades City, “Florida’s Last Frontier,” and savor the freshest seafood for a perfect coastal holiday.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA
If your appetite for travel is as big as your love for food, summer in New Orleans is calling. Savor Creole tomatoes, Gulf shrimp, and soft-shell crab at iconic restaurants, sip for a cause at New Orleans Wine & Food Experience, and dance your way through music festivals like ESSENCE and Satchmo SummerFest. Dive into hidden hotel pools and take in spellbinding historic architecture. New Orleans feeds every craving.
NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FLORIDA
Known for top-tier surfing, diverse outdoor adventures in the Indian River Lagoon, and seventeen miles of sun-drenched shoreline, New Smyrna Beach, blends small-town appeal with big-city flavors. Add in a thriving arts scene and it’s a haven for culture and relaxation. Enjoy fresh local cuisine and soak in the coastal beauty—this is where travelers go to unwind.
OAKLAWN HOT SPRINGS
Escape to Oaklawn Hot Springs, Arkansas’s premier hotel and spa, where luxury meets indulgence all next to one of the best Thoroughbred racetracks in America. Unwind at the Forbes Four-Star Astral Spa, then revel in fine dining at The Bugler and OAK room and bar, and enjoy a refined stay at the Oaklawn Hotel and 24/7 smoke-free Casino. From top-tier relaxation to games of chance, your perfect getaway awaits.
OXFORD, MISSISSIPPI
Famed for its literary legacy, Oxford also boasts a thriving culinary scene filled with award-winning restaurants, Southern staples, and innovative flavors. Plan a destination dining trip with visits to James Beard Foundation–recognized restaurants like Snackbar, Saint Leo, and City Grocery. Then taste test the small but mighty newcomer, Good Day Cafe. When the sun sets, toast the great eats at Wonderbird Spirits, a gin distillery and delicious getaway just ten minutes from downtown.
PINEHURST, NORTH CAROLINA
Pinehurst, the Home of American Golf, offers more than legendary fairways. Tee off your trip at the third annual Peach Week (July 18–27), a celebration of all things peach. Or, sip your way through Sandhills Pour Tour Passport program, featuring breweries, BHAWK Distillery, and James Creek Cider House. Explore Seagrove Potters, the nation’s largest pottery community, where you can meet artists and discover unique works.
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
In Raleigh, North Carolina, fresh ideas fuel unforgettable experiences. From an award-winning culinary scene to world-class, free museums, this city is constantly evolving. Explore two hundred miles of greenways and ten thousand acres of parkland. Splash and play at Fantasy Lake Adventure Park, home to Tarzan swings, cliff jumps, and an inflatable water park. Find inspiration at thought-provoking art galleries, stroll through the largest museum park in the United States, and more.
REYNOLDS LAKE OCONEE, GEORGIA
Reynolds Lake Oconee blends bespoke luxury with laid-back lakefront living just east of Atlanta. One of the country’s esteemed private communities, Reynolds offers award-
winning golf, marinas, culinary options, wellness pursuits, and a robust social calendar. The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee provides a perfect introduction into the heart of the community with a warm welcome of luxury accommodations, a spa, and refined Southern hospitality.
ReynoldsLakeOconee.com
@ReynoldsLakeOconee
RUSSELL LANDS, ALABAMA
In Alabama, lake living isn’t just a dream—it’s a way of life. Russell Lands’ The Heritage, Lake Martin’s premier luxury community, spans fifteen hundred acres and has twelve miles of pristine shoreline. With marinas, restaurants, trails, championship golf, and The Benjamin—an exclusive waterfront lake club opening this summer—The Heritage redefines lakeside luxury.
SAVANNAH, GEORGIA
Beat the heat while immersing yourself in Savannah’s rich history, culture, and Southern appeal. Step into air-conditioned retreats like the Harper Fowlkes House or the Davenport House Museum, where stunning architecture comes to life. Explore contemporary creativity at the Jepson Center or Savannah College of Art and Design’s Museum of Art. Then, switch gears with a culinary tour or let the river breeze carry you away on a Savannah Riverboat Cruise.
SEVIERVILLE, TENNESSEE
Make a splash this summer in Sevierville at year-round indoor and seasonal outdoor waterparks. Enjoy Kaleidoscope Kavern Lazy River (a light-show float), and visit Soaky Mountain Waterpark’s new Rafter’s Rage, a first-of-its-kind water slide opening this summer. Then go higher, exploring the Smoky Mountains via SkyLand Ranch, home to the thrilling new Wagon Wheeler Swing Tower. In Sevierville, big thrills await.
SHELBY COUNTY, KENTUCKY
Tucked between Louisville and Lexington, Shelby County, the American Saddlebred Horse Capital of the World, boasts more than one hundred farms and the prestigious Shelbyville Horse Show. With upscale boutique shopping, celebrated Southern cuisine, and legendary bourbon, including Jeptha Creed and Bulleit distilleries, this county distills the best of Kentucky’s finest traditions into one unique destination.
SOUTH CAROLINA
There’s a place where you can paddle cypress-lined lakes, then tee off on world-class golf courses. A place where you can walk cobblestoned streets, then learn about Gullah Geechee heritage. Whether you want to lounge on the beach or eat the freshest just-caught seafood, South Carolina is a vacation destination that’s as rich in beauty and history as it is in family-friendly attractions.
ST. AUGUSTINE & PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FLORIDA
Along Florida’s Historic Coast, time travel feels possible. In St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches, history lives and breathes. Founded by the Spanish in 1565, this is the oldest continuously inhabited, European-established settlement in the United States, home to over sixty storied sites. Yet the future is present here, with forty-two miles of pristine beaches, world-class golf, stylish boutiques, and a dynamic culinary scene all woven seamlessly into old-world charm.
TENNESSEE
Tennessee blends natural beauty with legendary sounds. Take in the sights at a vast range of state parks and national parks as you hike, climb, fish, and cycle through stunning landscapes.Then, dive into the state’s rich music culture at festivals like CaveJam in Pelham or Fun Fest in Kingsport, where live performances and glowing hot air balloons create unforgettable experiences.
TYBEE ISLAND, GEORGIA
Immerse yourself in the barrier-island culture of Tybee Island. Make the most of your beach days with Tybee Surf Lessons or experience the scenic waterways with Sea Kayak Georgia. Take a private charter for a magical sunset ride or spot dolphins in their natural habitat. Then savor the flavors of the coast, dining indoors or on welcoming spacious decks, or at sidewalk cafés with live music. Casual attire? Highly encouraged.
VICKSBURG, MISSISSIPPI
Vicksburg shaped American history marking the site of the Civil War turning point that secured the Mississippi River for the Union. Celebrate its bicentennial with Mississippi’s longest fireworks show on July 4 and the lively Hipstoric Art Festival (September 26–28). Discover the city’s remarkable past and vibrant present in this milestone year.
VICTORIA 1883, FLORIDA
A historic accommodation can define your trip. At Victoria 1883, immerse yourself in the timeless charm of New Smyrna Beach, all from the comfort of the oldest standing structure nestled in the city’s quaint historic district. Explore lush gardens, uniquely themed rooms and suites, inspired gathering spaces, and a secret speakeasy—all of which invite you to reimagine your stay or wedding beyond what you thought possible.
WEST VIRGINIA
Swap screens for stargazing, emails for endless hikes, and Zoom calls for the call of the wild this summer in West Virginia. With its uncrowded beauty, it’s the perfect place to unplug—chase waterfalls, conquer white-water rapids, or ride a scenic train through the mountains. Find a cozy cabin and embrace time off the grid.
