View Full Version : other great southern cities ...
electric_lady
03-21-2007, 12:33 PM
what other cities in the south does everyone love and/or recommend?
it seems the south is rising again, in regards to economy (jobs, industries, etc.) the rust belt is moving to the sun belt!
imho: asheville, nashville, charleston, savannah, austin (just so i can mention it) ...
there's so many i haven't been to!
Belle
03-21-2007, 12:37 PM
I love Memphis, Austin. Savannah, Charleston, Charlottesville, San Antonio, Mobile, and the list goes on....
Priestboy
03-21-2007, 01:54 PM
My brother (Mightyradgumbo) and I are partial to Hollywood Beach, FL (we co-own a time share, and have spent time in HB), which I love because it's so low key. Our brother (that would be fatherbrother's brother for all y'all keeping score at home!) lives in Hampstead, NC (just outside of Wilmington), which is a nice little southern community. The only thing I don't care for in the south is the humidity! We have it somewhat up north, but all y'all down south can keep it down there! Boy, howdy, does it get sticky down there (and not in a good way;) !)!
funkkjunkie
03-21-2007, 01:55 PM
When my friends Steve and Daph became refugees in Little Rock after the thing, they couldn't believe what a cool city it is. Having grown up there, and now living 35 miles north, I just hadn't ever looked at it in that way. They said all kinds of great places to eat, a river market area with great music, clinton's library, and friendly, friendly folks among other things.
Frosty
03-21-2007, 02:15 PM
Well, I've always wanted to go to Rio, the home of Carnival.
Zydekitten
03-21-2007, 02:17 PM
I'm holding out for Sydney myself - I hear it's great!!!
stlbarb
03-21-2007, 02:20 PM
My brother (Mightyradgumbo) and I are partial to Hollywood Beach, FL (we co-own a time share, and have spent time in HB), which I love because it's so low key. Our brother (that would be fatherbrother's brother for all y'all keeping score at home!) lives in Hampstead, NC (just outside of Wilmington), which is a nice little southern community. The only thing I don't care for in the south is the humidity! We have it somewhat up north, but all y'all down south can keep it down there! Boy, howdy, does it get sticky down there (and not in a good way;) !)!
and a vote for the southern most city in the 48 states - Key West.
its a great place to do nothing. plenty to do if you want.
bluedog
03-22-2007, 01:01 PM
my faves are .... St. Augustine, FL - Key West, FL - Anna Maria Island, FL - and our condo in Punta Gorda, FL - land was REALLY cheap after Hurricane Charlie so we bought a condo and the place is slowly reviving from FEMA city to a retirement community. Go figure ... but the fishing is phenomenal!
Zydekitten
03-22-2007, 01:24 PM
Having spent a great deal of my childhood with my Dad and Grandparents in Georgia and Tennessee, here some southern cities I've enjoyed:
- Dalton, GA (The Carpet Capital of the World)
- Chattanooga, TN (Home of the Chattanooga Choo-choo)
- Nashville, TN (Check out Third St. and the Loveless Cafe)
- Gatlinburg, TN (it's kind of a tourist trap, but at the entry of the Great Smoky Mtns Park)
- Charlotte, NC (Check out their folk art museum and Mert's Heart and Soul soul food)
- Louisville, KY (Home of the Lebowski Fest and Hot Brown)
- Memphis, TN (Beale St. Music Festival and Graceland)
- Boone, NC (Grandfather Mtn. Highland Games and great arts/crafts)
- Summerville, GA (Home of Howard Finster, famous "outsider" artist0
Having spent a great deal of my childhood with my Dad and Grandparents in Georgia and Tennessee, here some southern cities I've enjoyed:
- Dalton, GA (The Carpet Capital of the World)
- Chattanooga, TN (Home of the Chattanooga Choo-choo)
- Nashville, TN (Check out Third St. and the Loveless Cafe)
- Gatlinburg, TN (it's kind of a tourist trap, but at the entry of the Great Smoky Mtns Park)
- Charlotte, NC (Check out their folk art museum and Mert's Heart and Soul soul food)
- Louisville, KY (Home of the Lebowski Fest and Hot Brown)
- Memphis, TN (Beale St. Music Festival and Graceland)
- Boone, NC (Grandfather Mtn. Highland Games and great arts/crafts)
- Summerville, GA (Home of Howard Finster, famous "outsider" artist0
On the other side of Smoky Mts. Park is the jewel of the Smokies- Asheville, NC. I could live there easily. An eclectric mix of artisans, hippies, and bible thumpers. Unbelievable natural beauty and a warm climate. Great mix of cuisine and the Bele Cher music festival.
Zydekitten
03-22-2007, 01:35 PM
On the other side of Smoky Mts. Park is the jewel of the Smokies- Asheville, NC. I could live there easily. An eclectric mix of artisans, hippies, and bible thumpers. Unbelievable natural beauty and a warm climate. Great mix of cuisine and the Bele Cher music festival.
Yeah, Asheville is cool and funky - not to mention they've got Biltmore there for some conspicous consumption history!
nashvegasfess
03-22-2007, 01:50 PM
I'm holding out for Sydney myself - I hear it's great!!!
??
BigDag
03-22-2007, 01:55 PM
??
I believe the reference is to the Southern Hemisphere.
I'd kinda like to visit Melbourne myself. It's almost footy season.
nashvegasfess
03-22-2007, 02:02 PM
I know this will get everybody going but ignite your flame throwers. The 'South' as narrowly defined by those from the South most certainly does not include Florida. And while I enjoy the Keys and Destin et al ALOT I most certainly do not consider it Southern. Florida is a peninsula that attached itself to the South. I even thing some economic analyses leave Florida off as it is an economy in and of itself.
I even think I hear the chant "Spaniard" in the background as I enter the Coliseum on this one.
BigDag
03-22-2007, 02:06 PM
I know this will get everybody going but ignite your flame throwers. The 'South' as narrowly defined by those from the South most certainly does not include Florida. And while I enjoy the Keys and Destin et al ALOT I most certainly do not consider it Southern. Florida is a peninsula that attached itself to the South. I even thing some economic analyses leave Florida off as it is an economy in and of itself.
I even think I hear the chant "Spaniard" in the background as I enter the Coliseum on this one.
Florida south of I-10 may not be "southern". But Florida north of I-10 most certainly is.
Zydekitten
03-22-2007, 02:07 PM
I know this will get everybody going but ignite your flame throwers. The 'South' as narrowly defined by those from the South most certainly does not include Florida. And while I enjoy the Keys and Destin et al ALOT I most certainly do not consider it Southern. Florida is a peninsula that attached itself to the South. I even thing some economic analyses leave Florida off as it is an economy in and of itself.
I even think I hear the chant "Spaniard" in the background as I enter the Coliseum on this one.
Nash - I tend to agree with you, but then it might be my Georgian family bias ;) . . . you'll notice I didn't list any Florida cities in my list - although that's mostly because I've only ever been to Orlando (which is okay). I've heard LOTS of great things about other places in FLA and hope to see them sometime (like the Keys, Miami, etc.) :D
nashvegasfess
03-22-2007, 02:13 PM
On the other side of Smoky Mts. Park is the jewel of the Smokies- Asheville, NC. I could live there easily. An eclectric mix of artisans, hippies, and bible thumpers. Unbelievable natural beauty and a warm climate. Great mix of cuisine and the Bele Cher music festival.
But a slim sliver of land that would be lost on most. I am from Mobile originally as well and went to Auburn. I can tell you when you stop for boiled peanuts in DeFuniak Springs its both Southern and southern.
nashvegasfess
03-22-2007, 02:14 PM
Apologies.
Mojo Rises
03-22-2007, 02:20 PM
The lowcountry of South Carolina is the place to be. Great weather, fantastic food, & some of the finest people I've ever been around. Just a fun place to live. Traveled all over the world (twice) & I wouldn't call anywhere else home. Except maybe momma's place back in Mobile.
Mojo Rises
03-22-2007, 02:21 PM
Roll Tide!
Mojo Rises
03-22-2007, 02:22 PM
I am from Mobile originally as well and went to Auburn.
I'm a Mobile guy myself...ROLL TIDE!
dank_bass
03-22-2007, 03:17 PM
The lowcountry of South Carolina is the place to be. Great weather, fantastic food, & some of the finest people I've ever been around. Just a fun place to live. Traveled all over the world (twice) & I wouldn't call anywhere else home. Except maybe momma's place back in Mobile.
How expensive is Charleston?
nashvegasfess
03-22-2007, 03:44 PM
I'm a Mobile guy myself...ROLL TIDE!
War Damn Eagle.
Festvet
03-22-2007, 04:33 PM
On the other side of Smoky Mts. Park is the jewel of the Smokies- Asheville, NC. I could live there easily. An eclectric mix of artisans, hippies, and bible thumpers. Unbelievable natural beauty and a warm climate. Great mix of cuisine and the Bele Cher music festival.
Asheville is beautiful!
Festvet
03-22-2007, 04:34 PM
I know this will get everybody going but ignite your flame throwers. The 'South' as narrowly defined by those from the South most certainly does not include Florida. And while I enjoy the Keys and Destin et al ALOT I most certainly do not consider it Southern. Florida is a peninsula that attached itself to the South. I even thing some economic analyses leave Florida off as it is an economy in and of itself.
I even think I hear the chant "Spaniard" in the background as I enter the Coliseum on this one.
and everyone who knows NOLA knows that you got to travle north to get to the south.
VWGal
03-22-2007, 04:42 PM
Haven't read the whole thread, but my first introduction to the south were trips to Savannah, Augusta and Hilton Head. Can't say Hilton Head did much for me (this was during the years I dated a golf-nut lawyer so frankly I saw a lot of golf courses, and the Masters, which was memorable of course).
But I digress. I did fall in love with Savannah, which kicked off my intention to get to New Orleans, which resulted in my first visit to Fest in 2004, which....
Well you can guess the rest!:D
The lawyer had to go...
pokerchick66
03-22-2007, 05:06 PM
Having spent a great deal of my childhood with my Dad and Grandparents in Georgia and Tennessee, here some southern cities I've enjoyed:
- Dalton, GA (The Carpet Capital of the World)
- Chattanooga, TN (Home of the Chattanooga Choo-choo)
- Nashville, TN (Check out Third St. and the Loveless Cafe)
- Gatlinburg, TN (it's kind of a tourist trap, but at the entry of the Great Smoky Mtns Park)
- Charlotte, NC (Check out their folk art museum and Mert's Heart and Soul soul food)
- Louisville, KY (Home of the Lebowski Fest and Hot Brown)
- Memphis, TN (Beale St. Music Festival and Graceland)
- Boone, NC (Grandfather Mtn. Highland Games and great arts/crafts)
- Summerville, GA (Home of Howard Finster, famous "outsider" artist0
Ha! Great minds. I was just about to say I'm going to Chattanooga in June and Memphis for Labor Day weekend. Can't wait. I'm gonna see Elvis.
pokerchick66
03-22-2007, 05:08 PM
Roll Tide!
Heh heh.
pokerchick66
03-22-2007, 05:08 PM
War Damn Eagle.
Roll Tide Dammit.
Zydekitten
03-22-2007, 05:51 PM
Ha! Great minds. I was just about to say I'm going to Chattanooga in June and Memphis for Labor Day weekend. Can't wait. I'm gonna see Elvis.
Both great places - say Hi to Evlis (what we call him in my family), and my Dad for me when you're there . . . and if you have time, go eat at The Commissary (http://www.commissarybbq.com/) - it's got incredible BBQ!!!
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o67/Zydekitten/elvis.gif
pokerchick66
03-22-2007, 06:01 PM
Both great places - say Hi to Evlis (what we call him in my family), and my Dad for me when you're there . . . and if you have time, go eat at The Commissary (http://www.commissarybbq.com/) - it's got incredible BBQ!!!
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o67/Zydekitten/elvis.gif
Thank you. Thank you very much.
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o231/monica7966/lilElvis.gif
bluedog
03-22-2007, 06:14 PM
I know this will get everybody going but ignite your flame throwers. The 'South' as narrowly defined by those from the South most certainly does not include Florida. And while I enjoy the Keys and Destin et al ALOT I most certainly do not consider it Southern. Florida is a peninsula that attached itself to the South. I even thing some economic analyses leave Florida off as it is an economy in and of itself.
I even think I hear the chant "Spaniard" in the background as I enter the Coliseum on this one.
OUCH! oh that's painful! Dissin' my FL roots! I AM south of I-10 and I AM southern! I cook southern, I talk southern and all of my family is from FL. I'm about as FL cracker ass as you can get thank you very much! And my Grandfather helped build The Coliseum in St Pete, FL *puffs up & sticks out tongue*
nashvegasfess
03-22-2007, 06:19 PM
OUCH! oh that's painful! Dissin' my FL roots! I AM south of I-10 and I AM southern! I cook southern, I talk southern and all of my family is from FL. I'm about as FL cracker ass as you can get thank you very much! And my Grandfather helped build The Coliseum in St Pete, FL *puffs up & sticks out tongue*
I hear you....but you and yours may be like that tribe in Indonesia that was discovered and had never had contact with civilization....You must be in a vast swamp and untouched by the Yankee snow birds.
Is that a gasoline or diesel powered flame thrower I hear crankin' up.
funkkjunkie
03-22-2007, 10:18 PM
Oh, PC, a trip to memphis is sooo much fun. I have never been an elvis fan but I loved my one and only tour of graceland. What a trip!
Zydekitten
03-22-2007, 10:19 PM
Oh, PC, a trip to memphis is sooo much fun. I have never been an elvis fan but I loved my one and only tour of graceland. What a trip!
I KNOW! Isn't it fun?? I loved the Jungle Room!
pokerchick66
03-22-2007, 10:23 PM
Oh, PC, a trip to memphis is sooo much fun. I have never been an elvis fan but I loved my one and only tour of graceland. What a trip!
Oh, really, kk? I am soooo excited about this trip. We drove up to Graceland when I was a kid but we didn't actually go in. I've always wanted to. So Americana, ya know? I can't wait to check out Beale Street, too. Never been. I think we're gonna be staying in the downtown Marriott. I'm very pumped about this trip. It's only a four hr. drive from my house, too.
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o231/monica7966/lilElvis.gif
pokerchick66
03-22-2007, 10:24 PM
I KNOW! Isn't it fun?? I loved the Jungle Room!
Elaborate, please. :)
Zydekitten
03-22-2007, 10:31 PM
Oh, really, kk? I am soooo excited about this trip. We drove up to Graceland when I was a kid but we didn't actually go in. I've always wanted to. So Americana, ya know? I can't wait to check out Beale Street, too. Never been. I think we're gonna be staying in the downtown Marriott. I'm very pumped about this trip. It's only a four hr. drive from my house, too.
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o231/monica7966/lilElvis.gif
Oooh, oooh - I HIGHLY recommend seeing the ducks at the Peabody Hotel in downtown Memphis!! I like seeing them at the end of the day while I have a lovely Cosmo!
Also, Sun Records and the National Civil Rights Museum which is the old Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King, Jr. was killed - it's a GREAT musuem now.
Zydekitten
03-22-2007, 10:32 PM
Elaborate, please. :)
Hmmmm, I'm not sure I want to be a spoiler . . . ;)
pokerchick66
03-22-2007, 10:34 PM
Hmmmm, I'm not sure I want to be a spoiler . . . ;)
Okay, don't then. I've heard a little tiny bit about it but not enough for it to stand out. I think I'll let it be a good surprise. :D
mightyradgumbo
03-22-2007, 10:35 PM
Roll Tide Dammit.
Love the Carolinas and YYR Mojo the lowcountry is a fine, fine place. I love Savannah, GA as well. Florida is much more southern than some people like to admit (even wit' da snowbirds) and of course Tuscaloosa, Alabama for thier so,so (as opposed to so-so) fine Southern belles ;)
Memphis and Nashville are great cities, too. Asheville NC produced the likes of Warren Haynes.
pokerchick66
03-22-2007, 10:36 PM
Oooh, oooh - I HIGHLY recommend seeing the ducks at the Peabody Hotel in downtown Memphis!! I like seeing them at the end of the day while I have a lovely Cosmo!
Also, Sun Records and the National Civil Rights Museum which is the old Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King, Jr. was killed - it's a GREAT musuem now.
Tell me about the ducks.
I'm going to see the Chattanooga ducks when I am in Chattanooga. Those are actually military water vehicles and they take you on this cool one hr. tour . . . for FREE. I can't wait to do that.
mightyradgumbo
03-22-2007, 10:41 PM
Tell me about the ducks.
I'm going to see the Chattanooga ducks when I am in Chattanooga. Those are actually military water vehicles and they take you on this cool one hr. tour . . . for FREE. I can't wait to do that.
Free??? Whaaaa??? We have Duckboat tours of the city up heah that charge you an arm and a leg (or should I say a wing and a web) but you get rude Bostonians making duck sounds at the boats as they go by (that we provide as a free service)
stlbarb
03-22-2007, 10:47 PM
Tell me about the ducks.
I'm going to see the Chattanooga ducks when I am in Chattanooga. Those are actually military water vehicles and they take you on this cool one hr. tour . . . for FREE. I can't wait to do that.
try 'em with the orange sauce.
oh sorry, different kind of duck.
pokerchick66
03-22-2007, 10:47 PM
Free??? Whaaaa??? We have Duckboat tours of the city up heah that charge you an arm and a leg (or should I say a wing and a web) but you get rude Bostonians making duck sounds at the boats as they go by (that we provide as a free service)
lol, that's funny.
Yea, I can't wait to do it, too. We are doing Rock City and the Incline, of course on Saturday. And Sunday we are doing the ducks and the Tennessee Aquarium. Then the park if we have enough time.
pokerchick66
03-22-2007, 10:48 PM
try 'em with the orange sauce.
oh sorry, different kind of duck.
Oooh, I love Duck a l'orange.
Zydekitten
03-22-2007, 10:48 PM
Tell me about the ducks.
I'm going to see the Chattanooga ducks when I am in Chattanooga. Those are actually military water vehicles and they take you on this cool one hr. tour . . . for FREE. I can't wait to do that.
'kay, I can tell you about the Peabody Ducks :) - they're not at all like the other kind, which I've taken in Boston - you even get a duck call on the tour and I got to drive the one I was in when we went in the Charles River!!!
Anyway, back to the Peabody Ducks, here's a really good article that will explain about them SO much more effectively then I can:
http://www.peabodymemphis.com/peabody_hotels/the_peabody_ducks.cfm
bluedog
03-22-2007, 10:52 PM
Oh, PC, a trip to memphis is sooo much fun. I have never been an elvis fan but I loved my one and only tour of graceland. What a trip!
mmmmmm can't wait to do Memphis ... I actually have a velvet painting! Cheesy? Yes but I HAVE IT!
pokerchick66
03-22-2007, 10:54 PM
mmmmmm can't wait to do Memphis ... I actually have a velvet painting! Cheesy? Yes but I HAVE IT!
When are you doing Memphis?
NeenAtlanta
03-22-2007, 10:59 PM
On the other side of Smoky Mts. Park is the jewel of the Smokies- Asheville, NC. I could live there easily. An eclectric mix of artisans, hippies, and bible thumpers. Unbelievable natural beauty and a warm climate. Great mix of cuisine and the Bele Cher music festival.
and impossible to get a job, unfortunately.
I'd love to live there too. I spent my summers in the Hendersonville/Asheville area and it feels like home to me.
bluedog
03-22-2007, 10:59 PM
When are you doing Memphis?
don't have a date yet ... but it's on my list of things "to do" ... wanna make a "save the date?"
NeenAtlanta
03-22-2007, 11:03 PM
Since no one mentioned it, I've got to stick up for Atlanta. The music scene here is red hot. Lots of friendly people and wonderful, funky neighborhoods. Not far from the GA mountains. I've lived here since 1977 and I have to admit, I love this city. It is a really easy place to live.
Zydekitten
03-22-2007, 11:08 PM
Since no one mentioned it, I've got to stick up for Atlanta. The music scene here is red hot. Lots of friendly people and wonderful, funky neighborhoods. Not far from the GA mountains. I've lived here since 1977 and I have to admit, I love this city. It is a really easy place to live.
D'oh! I meant to mention ATL, I lived there myself for several years - although it's gotten even better since I moved West (1974). Love The Varsity drive-in!!
However, I've only been there once since I was old enough to *really* enjoy it - so hopefully one of these days, I'll get to spend some quality time rediscovering it.
NeenAtlanta
03-22-2007, 11:23 PM
D'oh! I meant to mention ATL, I lived there myself for several years - although it's gotten even better since I moved West (1974). Love The Varsity drive-in!!
However, I've only been there once since I was old enough to *really* enjoy it - so hopefully one of these days, I'll get to spend some quality time rediscovering it.
Oh man- a TON has changed since 1974! Whole population immigrations have occurred. Now all of the intown neighborhoods that were deserted and in decline have come back and are pretty funky and fun.
let me know if you ever come to town, I'd be glad to give you a tour!
Zydekitten
03-22-2007, 11:33 PM
Oh man- a TON has changed since 1974! Whole population immigrations have occurred. Now all of the intown neighborhoods that were deserted and in decline have come back and are pretty funky and fun.
let me know if you ever come to town, I'd be glad to give you a tour!
I KNOW!!! Now, there's Asian food (my grandparents must be shaking their heads wherever they are about sushi) and all kinds of GREAT diversity. I was there briefly for a business trip in 2002, but didn't really get to go out and sample the new hotness in ATL.
I'd love to have you as a guide if I ever get back there!! :D
and impossible to get a job, unfortunately.
I'd love to live there too. I spent my summers in the Hendersonville/Asheville area and it feels like home to me.I hear ya. Would love to retire there though! Besides Bele Cher, I've been there for fishing trips in the mts. (right by Earth Mother's house), a wedding, and last Labor Day we had a family reunion at a resort right outside of Hendersonville. Love that area!!
Oooh, I love Duck a l'orange.
mmmmmmmmmm, Peking Duck!
pokerchick66
03-22-2007, 11:48 PM
don't have a date yet ... but it's on my list of things "to do" ... wanna make a "save the date?"
I'm going on Labor Day weekend. 8/31 to 9/3.
NeenAtlanta
03-22-2007, 11:48 PM
I hear ya. Would love to retire there though! Besides Bele Cher, I've been there for fishing trips in the mts. (right by Earth Mother's house), a wedding, and last Labor Day we had a family reunion at a resort right outside of Hendersonville. Love that area!!
What was the name of the resort, do you remember?
sophisticated sissy
03-22-2007, 11:49 PM
Excuse me, but aren't we supposed to call it Beijing Duck now?
pokerchick66
03-22-2007, 11:51 PM
Excuse me, but aren't we supposed to call it Beijing Duck now?
Hey Hotmama. :)
What was the name of the resort, do you remember?Highland Lake Inn. Had a killer, killer restaurant where they used fresh herbs and produce grown on the grounds. And an award winning wine list!
Excuse me, but aren't we supposed to call it Beijing Duck now?
Oh, miss PC is it now??? :D
Hi girl, howzit?
sophisticated sissy
03-23-2007, 12:13 AM
Oh, really, kk? I am soooo excited about this trip. We drove up to Graceland when I was a kid but we didn't actually go in. I've always wanted to. So Americana, ya know? I can't wait to check out Beale Street, too. Never been. I think we're gonna be staying in the downtown Marriott. I'm very pumped about this trip. It's only a four hr. drive from my house, too.
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o231/monica7966/lilElvis.gif
Poker, I took my daughter to Graceland last summer while we were on a mom/daughter road trip. We had a ball. One thing about Graceland is that when you first step inside, you feel like you're going into a funeral home.When the front door is opened, you are blasted by the aroma of formaldehyde. I guess they must spray all the fabrics and everything with it to preserve them.
The place was sad and sweet and funny at the same time. I came away with the impression that Elvis was nuts and enjoyed living very much. It's sad that he surrounded himself with leeches and barracudas.
When you go, make sure to take a sharpie pen with you to sign the stone wall out front. If you've got the extra cash, go for the VIP tour because you spend less time waiting in line, you get an uncrowded shuttle across the road, "up to that mansion on the hill, where you can get your prescription filled (any kind of pill)", and you are permitted to stay as long as the place is open. You can go back and re-visit as many rooms as you like with the VIP ticket. The regular tour ticket allows you to pass through only once. I went through once with the headset on and did a repeat pass without them on.
sophisticated sissy
03-23-2007, 12:17 AM
Oh, miss PC is it now??? :D
Hi girl, howzit?
Fantastic! If I felt much better, I'd have to sit on my hands to keep from waving to passersby!:)
How's it going in your world?
pokerchick66
03-23-2007, 12:23 AM
Poker, I took my daughter to Graceland last summer while we were on a mom/daughter road trip. We had a ball. One thing about Graceland is that when you first step inside, you feel like you're going into a funeral home.When the front door is opened, you are blasted by the aroma of formaldehyde. I guess they must spray all the fabrics and everything with it to preserve them.
The place was sad and sweet and funny at the same time. I came away with the impression that Elvis was nuts and enjoyed living very much. It's sad that he surrounded himself with leeches and barracudas.
When you go, make sure to take a sharpie pen with you to sign the stone wall out front. If you've got the extra cash, go for the VIP tour because you spend less time waiting in line, you get an uncrowded shuttle across the road, "up to that mansion on the hill, where you can get your prescription filled (any kind of pill)", and you are permitted to stay as long as the place is open. You can go back and re-visit as many rooms as you like with the VIP ticket. The regular tour ticket allows you to pass through only once. I went through once with the headset on and did a repeat pass without them on.
Wow, thanks, Crepes! Thanks for the sharpie tip, too. I am so looking forward to this. How much more is the VIP ticket than the regular? Also, about that "up to that mansion on the hill, where you can get your prescription filled (any kind of pill)". It's worth paying extra then! ;)
sophisticated sissy
03-23-2007, 12:28 AM
Ah, sorry, poker... that was just a line from a John Hiatt tune that popped into my head!
I can't remember the price right off the top of my head, but I'll see if I can find out for you.
pokerchick66
03-23-2007, 12:32 AM
Ah, sorry, poker... that was just a line from a John Hiatt tune that popped into my head!
I can't remember the price right off the top of my head, but I'll see if I can find out for you.
Aww, you don't have to do that, precious. I'm about to go to bed anyway. My eyelids won't stay open. Love you!
stlbarb
03-23-2007, 12:34 AM
Poker, I took my daughter to Graceland last summer while we were on a mom/daughter road trip. We had a ball. One thing about Graceland is that when you first step inside, you feel like you're going into a funeral home.When the front door is opened, you are blasted by the aroma of formaldehyde. I guess they must spray all the fabrics and everything with it to preserve them.
The place was sad and sweet and funny at the same time. I came away with the impression that Elvis was nuts and enjoyed living very much. It's sad that he surrounded himself with leeches and barracudas.
When you go, make sure to take a sharpie pen with you to sign the stone wall out front. If you've got the extra cash, go for the VIP tour because you spend less time waiting in line, you get an uncrowded shuttle across the road, "up to that mansion on the hill, where you can get your prescription filled (any kind of pill)", and you are permitted to stay as long as the place is open. You can go back and re-visit as many rooms as you like with the VIP ticket. The regular tour ticket allows you to pass through only once. I went through once with the headset on and did a repeat pass without them on.
and its much smaller than you would expect. we only did the house, back in '95 when you still got tour guides instead of headsets. but i've heard the oterh parts, the jet, etc, are good too - its just a lot to do alla t once. and each part costs more - unless that's included with the VIP.
Paul Simon's singing in my head 'Going to Graceland, Graceland, Memphis Tennessee'
Fantastic! If I felt much better, I'd have to sit on my hands to keep from waving to passersby!:)
How's it going in your world?
Good. Biding our time until fest.
Zydekitten
03-23-2007, 12:44 AM
Wow, thanks, Crepes! Thanks for the sharpie tip, too. I am so looking forward to this. How much more is the VIP ticket than the regular? Also, about that "up to that mansion on the hill, where you can get your prescription filled (any kind of pill)". It's worth paying extra then! ;)
I took the VIP tour also and it's definitely the way to go when touring Graceland. Here's some more detailed info:
https://www.elvis.com/graceland/tickets/secure.asp
The only thing better is what my brother's ex-girlfriend had - her dad is the CFO of Elvis Presley Enterprises and is the only person other than Priscilla and Lisa Marie to be allowed on the third floor which is private for family, but I think he was able to take her up once . . . I told my brother he shouldn't have broken up with her before he was able to get up there ;)
NeenAtlanta
03-23-2007, 09:30 AM
Highland Lake Inn. Had a killer, killer restaurant where they used fresh herbs and produce grown on the grounds. And an award winning wine list!
Now that is just too damn funny. I thought that might be the case.
That place actually used to be a summer camp, and I worked there every summer throughout my high school years. I've been up there a few times since they turned it into a resort, and it cracks me up how much they've fancified things since back then. It used to be called "Our Lady Of The Hills" camp, and the lake was Madonna Lake. Good catholic summer camp.
YYR about the food though - fantastic. Although I still think of it as the "dining hall" not as the "restaurant". lol!
It was wonderful to spend so much of my growing-up time in that part of the country. Even during the rest of the year when I was in Greenville, SC, I'd fill my car with friends and we'd go hiking up in the pisgah national forest to find a cozy place to drink, suplementalize and just hang out in nature.
NeenAtlanta
03-23-2007, 09:33 AM
and its much smaller than you would expect. we only did the house, back in '95 when you still got tour guides instead of headsets. but i've heard the oterh parts, the jet, etc, are good too - its just a lot to do alla t once. and each part costs more - unless that's included with the VIP.
Paul Simon's singing in my head 'Going to Graceland, Graceland, Memphis Tennessee'
Yeah, I was also surprised at how small the place was when we did the tour. And also how cheap looking it was. It's like he had these tacky decorating visions, but didn't spend the money on it.
But that's okay - I loved it anyway. Mephis is a blast!
Mojo Rises
03-23-2007, 10:13 AM
Love the Carolinas and YYR Mojo the lowcountry is a fine, fine place. I love Savannah, GA as well. Florida is much more southern than some people like to admit (even wit' da snowbirds) and of course Tuscaloosa, Alabama for thier so,so (as opposed to so-so) fine Southern belles ;)
ohhhhh...those Tuscaloosa girls are something else. Nothing like em! I spent 5 years of undergrad chasing them. Finaly married an Ole Miss gal. (She is actually from Tennessee but I refuse to admit that.)
Now that is just too damn funny. I thought that might be the case.
That place actually used to be a summer camp, and I worked there every summer throughout my high school years. I've been up there a few times since they turned it into a resort, and it cracks me up how much they've fancified things since back then. It used to be called "Our Lady Of The Hills" camp, and the lake was Madonna Lake. Good catholic summer camp.
YYR about the food though - fantastic. Although I still think of it as the "dining hall" not as the "restaurant". lol!
It was wonderful to spend so much of my growing-up time in that part of the country. Even during the rest of the year when I was in Greenville, SC, I'd fill my car with friends and we'd go hiking up in the pisgah national forest to find a cozy place to drink, suplementalize and just hang out in nature.What a trip! My family will enjoy hearing this. It was a very relaxing place and a great home base for all there is to do in the area. We spent a lot of time in the Pisgah Forest at the various waterfalls and Sliding Rock, went to the NC Apple Fest too. I never imagined so many things could be made from apples :p
NeenAtlanta
03-23-2007, 11:06 AM
What a trip! My family will enjoy hearing this. It was a very relaxing place and a great home base for all there is to do in the area. We spent a lot of time in the Pisgah Forest at the various waterfalls and Sliding Rock, went to the NC Apple Fest too. I never imagined so many things could be made from apples :p
Did you slide? Man that water is COLD!!!
funkkjunkie
03-23-2007, 01:44 PM
Hey, Tyler ? is from Greenville, SC. I just saw his chefography on food network wed night.
rosetree
03-23-2007, 01:47 PM
Did you slide? Man that water is COLD!!!
I've been to sliding rock!!! And yes, that water is freezing...brrrrrr
Staxsun
03-23-2007, 06:52 PM
Ha! Great minds. I was just about to say I'm going to Chattanooga in June and Memphis for Labor Day weekend. Can't wait. I'm gonna see Elvis.
Don't forget to look up your threadhead buddy! We love to visit and host visitors.
pokerchick66
03-23-2007, 06:58 PM
Don't forget to look up your threadhead buddy! We love to visit and host visitors.
Get out! I'll be there Labor Day Weekend. Send me your email: monica7966@yahoo.com.
Staxsun
03-23-2007, 07:08 PM
Get out! I'll be there Labor Day Weekend. Send me your email: monica7966@yahoo.com.
I'm out of town and using my wife's laptop. Probably the easiest way to get me when I get back is BluesToday (at) webtv (dot) net. I'll send you a better one when I get home, and I'll e-mail you.
pokerchick66
03-23-2007, 07:10 PM
I'm out of town and using my wife's laptop. Probably the easiest way to get me when I get back is BluesToday (at) webtv (dot) net. I'll send you a better one when I get home, and I'll e-mail you.
Groovy, baby. Thanks! :)
Zydekitten
03-23-2007, 07:18 PM
Yeah, I was also surprised at how small the place was when we did the tour. And also how cheap looking it was. It's like he had these tacky decorating visions, but didn't spend the money on it.
But that's okay - I loved it anyway. Mephis is a blast!
Well, you can definitely tell that the house was decorated by dirt poor folks made good and rich, so they did whatever they had dreamed of when poor . . . kind of like Steve Martin in The Jerk.
breambob
03-23-2007, 08:54 PM
I've read all these posts, and not one mention of Shreveport.
There is a reason for that. Many reasons, actually.
Me, I like southern towns more than southern cities.
:)
NeenAtlanta
03-23-2007, 10:35 PM
Hey, Tyler ? is from Greenville, SC. I just saw his chefography on food network wed night.
Sorry - I'm at a loss ???
NeenAtlanta
03-23-2007, 10:37 PM
I've been to sliding rock!!! And yes, that water is freezing...brrrrrr
I used to do it all the time as a teenager. (That was back before there were paths and guardrails and lifeguards, etc.)
Nowadays, I think it would give me a heart attack.
linza22
03-23-2007, 10:54 PM
Having spent a great deal of my childhood with my Dad and Grandparents in Georgia and Tennessee, here some southern cities I've enjoyed:
- Dalton, GA (The Carpet Capital of the World)
- Chattanooga, TN (Home of the Chattanooga Choo-choo)
- Nashville, TN (Check out Third St. and the Loveless Cafe)
- Gatlinburg, TN (it's kind of a tourist trap, but at the entry of the Great Smoky Mtns Park)
- Charlotte, NC (Check out their folk art museum and Mert's Heart and Soul soul food)
- Louisville, KY (Home of the Lebowski Fest and Hot Brown)
- Memphis, TN (Beale St. Music Festival and Graceland)
- Boone, NC (Grandfather Mtn. Highland Games and great arts/crafts)
- Summerville, GA (Home of Howard Finster, famous "outsider" artist0
mert's is wicked good, ain't it?
Zydekitten
03-23-2007, 10:56 PM
mert's is wicked good, ain't it?
Mert's IS wicked, hella good and they were so nice to hang with the night I was in Charlotte on business and looking for a cool eatery. Love them!
linza22
03-23-2007, 10:59 PM
What a trip! My family will enjoy hearing this. It was a very relaxing place and a great home base for all there is to do in the area. We spent a lot of time in the Pisgah Forest at the various waterfalls and Sliding Rock, went to the NC Apple Fest too. I never imagined so many things could be made from apples :p
pisgah is like no other. spent many a childhood night in those mountains. i used to love sliding rock, but i don't think i could do it now! it's funny when you're a kid, you don't even feel how cold the mountain waters are!
NeenAtlanta
03-23-2007, 11:05 PM
pisgah is like no other. spent many a childhood night in those mountains. i used to love sliding rock, but i don't think i could do it now! it's funny when you're a kid, you don't even feel how cold the mountain waters are!
I hope one day to retire to that area. Of course, that's assuming I ever get to the point where I can retire.
Even though there have been many changes, that part of the country is still, as you say, "like no other".
I lived in Charlotte for a few years, then in Greenville, SC for high school. Family trips to the mountains were a given every year. We'd spend a week riding around, visiting Ghost town, Tweetsie Railroad, etc.
Did you slide? Man that water is COLD!!!
It was jacket weather...no way! My 10 yr old nephew begged and begged, so they finally let him. When he hit the icy pool at the bottom he went into shock for a second, eyes as big as saucers, and then bawled his little eyes out. <be careful what you wish for...>
pisgah is like no other. spent many a childhood night in those mountains. i used to love sliding rock, but i don't think i could do it now! it's funny when you're a kid, you don't even feel how cold the mountain waters are!well, some kids ;)
sophisticated sissy
03-24-2007, 12:20 AM
I like Birmingham, AL, a lot. It has changed so much, in a good way, in the last 30 years.
Memphis is cool, too.
Natchez, MS is a place I spent many afternoons sipping iced tea or a tall, cool one under the hill.
I don't like the way Nashvegas and Atlanta have sprawled all over the place in recent decades, but it seems to be happening everywhere in the U.S.
Most of the people in places in the south are so much friendlier and more courteous than in the north.
Milton, FL is remembered in a really scary episode. Quote of that day: "People say, you come to Milton, you buy a one-way ticket to hell." Buddy Holly's "That'll Be The Day" played on the car radio. I still don't understand how I got out of that one. The joys of hitch-hiking!