Southern USA
For many the south begins in Kentucky - is refined in Tennessee and defined by Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia, although North and South Carolina is also called the South.
Kentucky is horse heaven. If you like horses, Kentucky is THE tourist destination. From the world famous Kentucky Derby, run at Churchill Downs in Louisville the first Saturday in May to a host of museums in both Louisville and Lexington. For the true horse enthusiast, go to Lexington.
The Kentucky Horse Park is an equine Disneyland - get there early, wear comfortable shoes and be immersed in the culture of the horse. With a museum, wall of breeds, gift shop, outdoor wagon rides, the big barn with live horses of many breeds as well as celebrity horses in residence. One of these, the Thoroughbred champion Cigar, as well as champions of several other breeds are available to see. It is also the final resting spot of world reknowned champion John Henry, who died in 2007 and is among those buried at the park. Statues of Man O War and Secretariat pay tribute to horses which made Lexington famous. The Park also hosts world class equine competition such as Rolex for "Olympic" type competition and "Breyerfest" for the horses that line millions of shelves in homes far and wide.
Downtown there is much to see also. With prior reservations, many of the world famous horse farms have public tours available where you can see Kentucky Derby winners as well as winners of other major races in other countries that call this area home.
If you aren't a horse fan, you might be interested in historical sites that surround the Lexington area. There is a Shaker settlement for a step back in time, and nearby the home of the Kentucky Wildcats sports team.
A half day drive south will put you in Nashville Tennessee - with a wide range of activities always on tap. Plan early and attend the Country Music Association's festival, also known as fan fair. If you're a member of any one of many country entertainers' fan clubs and book well in advance there are fan club parties to attend, usually with the entertainer present. While there is an admission to many areas those with tickets can get autographs, see concerts and much more. Celebrity softball, archery and much more is available. If you don't have a CMA fest ticket - do not dispair there is still LOTS to see! An active hostel is available just a mile or so from the downtown area where there is music going almost all the time in places like the Wildhorse Saloon, the Bluebird Cafe and much more. There is a hall of fame, the Grand Old Opry and many shops and other activities. Even walking the streets taking in the atmosphere you might run into Montgomery Gentry, Canada's Terri Clark or any one of hundreds of country music stars that come home to greet the fans on their home turf. Wear comfortable walking shoes and hot weather attire but keep a light jumper handy as sometimes nights can be cool, and summer rainstorms are possible at any time.
Journey over to Memphis, the home of Elvis Presley, and see Graceland, or venture to Tupelo Mississippi for the Elvis festival held every year. Southern Mississippi and Alabama as well as Louisiana, all hit hard by hurricane Katrina in 2005, are rebounding and offer beaches and being right on the Gulf of Mexico.
Also in Tennessee near the Carolina border is Gatlinburg and Dollywood, the latter created by entertainer Dolly Parton as a destination getaway. Sitting in a mountain range not often thought of existing in the eastern US, it is a different culture within a culture.
Tours of places like Jack Daniels, Dickel, Makers Mark and other whisky makers are available for those interested - some may be age over 21 only so check ahead on their websites for tour info.
All across the south are Civil War and other historical sites, museums, state parks, concerts, sporting events and many many things to see. Soak up the smells and tastes of real southern cooking that is as unforgettable as the music and culture. See restored mansions, watch Tennessee Walking horses strut their stuff and soak up the atmosphere. These states are easy to visit and tour in a three week trip, although direct from Lexington Kentucky to Gulf Shores in Alabama is a full long day's drive straight through.
Those who follow NASCAR racing will find the home of their sport in this region also with Talledaga Speedway just one location hosting major events during the year.
