Summer Activities in the South
1. Hear real country music in the Grand Ole Opry
Dedicated to honoring country music’s rich history and dynamic present, the Grand Ole Opry is an American icon, and the premier showcase for country legends and the young musicians who are carrying on a rich and dynamic musical tradition.
2. Explore Virginia's geological wonders
With cool below-ground temperatures, the Luray Caverns and Shenandoah Caverns are comfortable to visit year-round. Or enjoy the trip along scenic Skyline Drive and go see the Natural Bridge, a towering limestone arch with a fascinating history.
3. Visit America’s most popular National Park
Every year, more than 10 million people visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee. But with more than 800 miles of hiking trails, featuring beautiful forests, creeks, and waterfalls, and, of course, impressive mountain views, it doesn’t feel crowded. You might even spot a black bear!
4. Go to Churchill Downs in Kentucky
Stroll the historic grounds of this thoroughbred racetrack in Louisville, home to America's most legendary horse race, the Kentucky Derby, held every May. Other races are held throughout the year.
5. Dance in the streets in North Carolina
Join an old-fashioned mountain hoedown (dance) in downtown Waynesville, where Mountain Street Dancing events are held throughout the summer. You could even learn to clog!
6. Tour a historic Southern plantation
Walk the grounds of one of these magnificent farming properties while learning about the region’s history. Many are in states that make up the Deep South, including Georgia, Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi.
7. Learn about civil rights in Atlanta
With videos and interactive displays, the new Center for Civil and Human Rights honors the American Civil Rights movement and explores current global human rights issues. At the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, sign up for a tour of the civil rights leader’s nearby birthplace.
8. Eat a peach
Although Georgia is known as the “peach state” for its many peach trees, South Carolina produces more peaches than any other southern state. Whether you find the sweet and juicy summer fruit at a roadside stand or in a store, try it in pie, cobbler, ice cream, or fresh off the tree.
9. Walk around Savannah, Georgia
Explore the nation’s largest registered Urban Historic Landmark District in Savannah. The district contains 22 green squares and more than 1,600 historically and architecturally significant structures – all within a 2.5-square mile area. When you’re ready to rest, Tybee Island, on the Atlantic Ocean, is only 20 minutes away!
10. Volunteer in your local community
Whether you prefer to walk the dogs at an animal shelter, serve food at a soup kitchen, or plant a tree with a conservation group, there are many ways to volunteer in your local community. You’ll find plenty of other opportunities at networkforgood.org/volunteer/ or volunteermatch.org/. Be sure to tag #cieegivingback when you post your photos!
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