Fall Weekend Excursions in the South

Yellows and greens mix and mingle against the vibrant blue sky. Wisping gusts of light, chilly breezes sweep the heat into the past for a day or two. Grills and smoke houses fill the air with the scent of smoldering oak and pecan as ribs and steaks soak up the smoke like a sponge. Sweaters are donned as children run out doors, tagging each other along the way. Squeals of delight waft over the streaming sounds of front porch pickers. Fall in the South has it's own unique traditions and festivals. An excitement fills the air in anticipation of upcoming events, celebrations, and holidays.

If I were to choose three destinations for the perfect Southern fall excursion, they would be Stone Mountain in Georgia, Artesia in New Mexico and Safford in Arizona.

If you are looking for an urban experience, Stone Mountain is the place to go in the fall. I would go for Thanksgiving Weekend. My first stop would be Macy's Lenox Square Mall in Atlanta, Georgia. I would go through the Mall that afternoon, then that evening I'd enjoy the lighting of Macy's Christmas tree at Lenox Square Mall. This year, Josh Turner's deep, southern song will sweep through the evening chill to warm the hearts of all who are listening. Also performing will be an all star line-up, including Third Day, LeeAnn Rhimes, and Truth Squad. After an incredible evening, I would head for Country Inn and Suites at Stone Mountain, Georgia, which is about 16 miles from Macy's, but near Stone Mountain. The next day, I would spend the whole day at Stone Mountain Park as they celebrate a Stone Mountain Christmas.

Artesia, New Mexico is bustling with activities. The first weekend in November is the Balloons and Bluegrass Festival. The balloons are released from Eagle Draw, but the bands and many of the festival activities will be at the corner of 6th St and Main St. I recommend staying at the Heritage Inn. It is about 5 blocks from the festival activities, but it is a straight shot. It has an elegant colonial decor, with an endless swimming pool, whirlpool, exercise rooms, and more. It is right across the street from some of Artesia's restaurants, such as Piccolino's Italian cuisine, La Fonda's Mexican Restaurant, and Everspring Chinese Buffet.

If you really want to get away from everything, Safford, Arizona is nested in the Pinalino Mountain Range near the base of Mount Graham. Roper Lake, just 6 miles from Safford, is a popular fishing spot for trout. Canoeing, kayaking, and wind surfing are all popular sports in this area. Hiking and horseback riding are also some favorite pastimes here. Some area attractions include Fort Bowie National Historic Site, Chiricahua National Monument, and Mount Graham International Observatory. This is also an incredible spot for photography during the fall. My choice for accommodations would be Safford's Quality Inn and Suites. If you are looking for a country or scenic outing, this would make a great place to go.

Resources for Southern Fall Excursions

http://www.atlanta-downtown.com/events/

http://projects.accessatlanta.com/topics/atlanta-holiday-guide/events/atlanta-thanksgiving/

http://www.stonemountainpark.com/

http://www.stonemountainpark.com/dates-hours/default.aspx?date=11/26/2009

http://www.hotels-rates.com/hotels/locations/Atlanta/GA/usa/241/#trafficLogID=570967208&visited=true&clickingLogId=53238502&cityID=7

http://www.hotels-rates.com/hotels_reservations/property/70915/#visited=true

http://www.hotels-rates.com/hotels_reservations/property/97611/#visited=true

http://www.mytravelguide.com/restaurants/near-69784505-United_States_Georgia_Stone_Mountain_Stone_Mountain_Park_restaurants.html

http://www.newmexico.org/calendar/events/index.php?year=2009&month=11

http://www.artesiachamber.com/home.htm

http://www.bricescrossroads.com/page1.aspx

http://www.visitmississippi.org/packages/search.asp?Category=Attractions&Group=Consumer

http://www.artesiaheritageinn.com/rooms.htm

http://www.yelp.com/biz/everspring-chinese-buffet-artesia

http://www.go-arizona.com/Safford

http://www.go-arizona.com/Quality-Inn-and-Suites-Safford/

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g31337-d242244-Reviews-Quality_Inn_Suites-Safford_Arizona.html