“Fall” in Love with these Four Fabulous Southern Destinations

Just because it’s fall doesn’t mean it’s time to slow down on travel.

Just the opposite.

The season can be a great time to explore the region; and to get you inspired for a road trip (or two), here are four fabulous fall destinations to consider.

• Franklin, Tennessee

Many know Franklin as a suburb as Nashville, but it’s much, much more. Especially to those who are history buffs. Franklin is home to Carnton Plantation and the Carter House, and for those who know their Civil War history might recognize the two places had quite a role in the Battle of Franklin. If history is your thing, be sure to check out the different walking and driving tours to learn more about the area. Aside from its historical ties, there is much more that makes Franklin a worthwhile weekend destination. If you need any more incentive to visit, there’s the Natchez Trace Parkway, museums and the like ready for you to explore.

Head downtown… When you think of quaint downtowns, Franklin’s definitely should come to mind. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 15-block downtown district is a thriving area with one-of-a-kind shops, galleries and such. Take your experience of downtown further with one of the Franklin on Foot tours.

Visit here, too…Leiper’s Fork Village, a short drive from downtown Franklin as well as the Natchez Trace Parkway, is a collection of shops, galleries and restaurants. This is just one of those places that makes this area special.

• Beaches of South Walton

Some may find it unusual to visit beaches in the fall, but some consider it the best time to go. Not only is it less crowded, but also more comfortable – as in the temperature. That point aside, one thing that makes Beaches of South Walton, located in the Florida panhandle, worth visiting (and returning to) is the diverse 15  communities. Within the 26 miles, you can discover ample outdoor opportunities (YOLO, anyone?), local artists, unique restaurants and much more.

Stay here… The Inn by the Sea, a Vera Bradley-designed property, in Seaside, is  exactly what you expect to find in this coastal community. The nine-room inn itself is reflect of the Vera Bradley lifestyle. In addition, the full-service property allows for you to have full privileges at Seaside’s swim, tennis and fitness club.

Gotta do this…When you in this area, you can’t enjoy the outdoors enough. Aside from the beach, there are numerous state parks to explore, such as Grayton Beach State Park, Point Washington State Forest and Topsail Hill State Preserve Park. Each are filled with all kinds of nature “goodies” like coastal dunes lakes, various wildlife and more. Spend 30 minutes hiking along the trails to discover another side of Florida.

• Stillwater, Oklahoma

Here’s a hypothetical question for you- is Stillwater better known for being home to Oklahoma State University or Eskimo Joe’s? Perhaps the answer depends if you are a football fan or a lover of cheese fries. One thing about Stillwater is that it isn’t your typical town. Take a walking tour of OSU (24-hour advance reservations in required by calling 800-233-5019), explore the nearby Washington Irving Trail & Museum or discover what’s growing at the OSU Botanical Gardens and Arboretum, and you will quickly realize that this destination is different.

Listen to the music… Stillwater is the home of Red Dirt music, a slice of Americana tunes and you can soak up the music at various nightclubs around town. If you like it, be sure to return for Tumbleweed’s Calf Fry, April 29-30 and May 1-2, 2010.

Eat here or here or here… Whether it’s grabbing a quick bite at Shortcake’s Diner, enjoying a pizza at The Hideway or going all out at The Ranchers Club, one thing is for certain – you’re going to enjoy eating out in Stillwater. Not only does the food set the places apart, but so does the atmosphere. For instance, The Hideaway’s interior is on the eclectic side and happens to be the place where the board game, Pente was invented.

• Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

A few might say that it’s the Lake of the Ozarks’ location that makes it a desirable vacation spot, while others point to its overall appeal (think fishing, boating, shopping, golfing – you get the picture.) Whatever the reason may be, you won’t be disappointed spending a weekend (or longer) here. Within a few hours drive from both Branson and Kansas City, Lake of the Ozarks is also home to the state’s largest state park (Lake of the Ozarks State Park) and the popular Ha Ha Tonka State Park. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple or with family, you won’t lack for things to do here.

Go underground…Explore the three nearby show caves in the area: Bridal, Jacob and Ozark. Each noted for their beauty and uniqueness, Bridal is considered to be the most scenic, Jacob is the largest cave in the area and Ozark is a different experience from the others.

Dine around…Home to over 100 restaurants, Lake of the Ozarks is definitely a foodie’s paradise. From fine cuisine or “Ozark”-style dishes, expect the unexpected when it comes to dining here.

photo credit: (top left) an autumn afternoon on Main Street, Franklin, Tennessee, flickr, creative commons by lumierefl; (top right) sitting room at Inn by the Sea, personal collection; (bottom left) Eskimo Joe’s Stillwater, OK, flickr, creative commons by hz536n; (bottom right) bridal cave 013, flickr, creative commons by Josh Bozarth