From Augusta To The Mountains, It’s Time For A Family Day Trip!
Now is peak timing for heading to the mountains to see the leaves change. Which makes it the perfect time for family road trips from Augusta! Here in the CSRA, we’re in the perfect location to make a day trip out of it for the whole family. If it’s something you’ve ever done, you know how breathtaking the views can be. Northern Georgia and SC are not that terribly far away. And because of our proximity to the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains, they offer some premium leaf watching activities! Whether you enjoy a refreshing hike in the National Parks in either state or a leisurely drive through the foothills, there’s something truly nostalgic about the short drive with the family to “see the leaves change”.
A family tradition
When I was growing up I had an aunt who lived in North Georgia. That meant an annual trek to visit in the fall was mandatory. As a kid I had very little appreciation for the gorgeous scenery. I just knew I’d be stuck in a hot car with my stinky cousins while the adults oohed and aahed over the lovely views for several hours. Kids today have no idea how lucky they are with their various gadgets to dilute the boredom of an all day car ride. But I’m not sure we realized how sweet the memories of getting to spend time with rarely seen family would be.
A Lovely Escape
As an adult I came to appreciate the peaceful enjoyment of a day trip. It’s a chance to escape the every day and simply get away from it all and take in the majestic beauty that nature has to offer. It’s also a lot more comfortable driving for several hours with heated seats and cabin temperature controls that simply didn’t exist when I was a kid. Where once we alleviated boredom with multiple rounds of a game of “I-spy” now everybody has access to their favorite videos or games, mp3’s or podcasts.
So Where To Go This Year?
Tallulah Gorge offers some spectacular hiking in North Georgia. Also, Symmes Chapel in Greenville County, SC has a magnificent view. Plus, there’s the added bonus of an opportunity to commune with nature, pray or meditate or simply get some fabulously fresh mountain air! It’s a great way to create some amazing memories and spend some quality time with the family for the day.
Georgia Has One of the Most Affordable Christmas Vacations in the U.S.
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is located in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, and it offers a beautiful view of snowy hills and Amish country. It’s a very old-fashioned type of town, making it a charming winter getaway. There are plenty of fun, holiday-type things to do in Lancaster that won’t break the bank.
Getty Images / 2windspa
Frankenmuth, Michigan
Frankenmuth, Michigan, is the self-proclaimed Christmas capital city of the world. Okay, so many argue that Strasbourg, France, takes that honor, but Frankenmuth is close, and it’s a lot cheaper to get there. No passport needed. The villiage’s Franconian-style architecture has given it the loving name “Little Bavaria.” Frankenmuth is also home to the world’s biggest Christmas store.
Getty Images / Michael Deemer
Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte, North Carolina, is a great spot to visit in the holiday season, because it’s not as crowded as other times during the year. It’s also less expensive to visit during the holidays and offers beautiful decorations during Christmas. Don’t forget the many holiday markets.
Getty Images / Sean Pavone
