Louisiana isn't the only place that goes all out with floats, krewes and general revelry. A handful of destinations host similar festivities, all with unique touches. However, all celebrations have one thing in common ~ you're guaranteed to have a memorable time.  So, wear your best purple, green or gold duds and get ready to yell, "throw me somethin', mister!" Hold your hands out to catch the throws raining down from the floats, and  laissez les bons temps rouler  (let the g

Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture in New Orleans photo personal collection There's a mystique surrounding Mardi Gras, from the elaborate gowns and costumes to the colorful krewes and parades.  Even if you cannot attend any of the festivities that lead up to Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras), you can learn more about the history and pageantry regarding this annual celebration year-round at various Mardi Gras museums throughout the S

Courir de Mardi Gras  at   Vermilionville (Feb. 2024) photo personal collection New Orleans may get all the attention when it comes to Mardi Gras, but, truth be told, plenty of parades and celebrations happen throughout Louisiana that are just as unique, funky and memorable as the towns and cities they take place in. Check out the following five destinations for some Mardi Gras fun. Lake Charles Louisiana's second-largest Mardi Gras fete

The distinctive entrance to Colony House Motor Lodge in Roanoke, Virginia photo personal collection With its vintage signage and distinctive porte-cochere, checking in at the Colony House Motor Lodge in Roanoke, Virginia, feels less like booking a room and more like stepping back in time, when road trips meant paper maps, AM radio stations and indulging in a slice of homemade pie from a roadside diner. Built in 1959 in Googie style, an arch

The Hotel Monroe photo courtesy of The Hotel Monroe Some hotels are new builds, but The Hotel Monroe is more of a comeback story — where two historic buildings, old souls with stories to tell, are reborn as Monroe, Louisiana’s newest boutique stay. It all began a decade ago when Michael and Christie Echols pu

The Hunter Museum of American Art, the original mansion completed in 1905 for a wealthy insurance broker and later purchased by the widow...

Hauntings don't end on Halloween at any of these 21 accommodations.

Table for two ... maybe Muriel's New...

'Debby' resting at the McRaven House in Vicksburg, Miss., personal photo “We don’t know much about ‘Debby,’” says Michael Walker, the...

Best known for having a vibrant Latino community and as the birthplace of Tex-Mex, many are surprised to learn that San Antonio, Texas ,...

With their fresh air and charming atmosphere, mountain towns and cities often have a lasting impact on travelers. From outdoor adventures...

Puffy taco at Henry's Puffy Taco Cantina in San Antonio photo personal collection No doubt it: the South loves its food, whether it's regional specialties or well-known favorites perfected Southern-style. Not only are there annual festivals devoted to specific delicacies, but also food trails that you can partake in year-round. On your next getaway, tantalize your taste buds as yo

The Blue Room, circa 1930s, at the NuWray Hotel ...

From eye-catching exhibits to interactive displays to special events, military museums do more than bring stories to life. They also offer insight into the lives and experiences of service members. Remember and honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, who've served and the current active members year-round when you spend time at any of these 11 military or military-related museums in the South. National Medal of Honor Museum Arlington, Texas Exhibit from Rails to Rotors a

While the days continue to get longer, temperatures grow warmer, and pollen (thankfully) decreases in May, the events and festivals...

"When I was a little girl in the 1960s, my father took my two brothers and me out into the flatwoods to grunt for worms," comments Mary...

Thoughtful details, such as spa robes in each suite bathroom, warm hospitality like coffee, cookies and other treats at the coffee bar on...

Looking up inside the largest and most recognizable monument at Vicksburg National Military Park - the Illinois State Memorial ...

The festive season is an opportune time to reignite old traditions, start new ones, make memories and, most of all, have fun with family...

Even though the spooky season only lasts 31 days, you can still experience thrills and chills throughout the South year-round. Whether...