The Birthplace of Country Music Museum opened its doors in August 2014 as a partnership between Virginia and Tennessee. The Smithsonian affiliate is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich musical heritage of Bristol and its impact on the development of country music. It's the site of what's called the "big bang" of country music, or the 1927 Bristol Sessions recordings. … [Read more...] about Visiting the Birthplace of Country Music Museum
Virginia
Where to Go (in the South) in 2023
When I sat down to make this list two years ago, I had no idea what would happen to the travel industry. But I'm so happy to see the interest in domestic exploration, especially in the small towns of the Southeast. This year, I've selected places that may be on your radar but have new things coming as well as some real under-the-radar spots. Auburn-Opelika, … [Read more...] about Where to Go (in the South) in 2023
Weekend Guide to Roanoke, Virginia
Originally called Big Lick, the city of Roanoke, Virginia, was established in 1852 along the namesake river. In the 1850s, it came to prominence for its strategic location on the Virginia and Tennessee Railroad. It remains an important stop to this day, still on the Amtrak route. Cotton mills were also a big part of the economy. Today, Roanoke attracts students to nearby … [Read more...] about Weekend Guide to Roanoke, Virginia
Southern Stays: Hotel Roanoke
The grand Hotel Roanoke was built in 1882 in Roanoke, Virginia for the Norfolk and Southern Railroad, located right next to the train tracks that service Amtrak and freight lines to this day. The Tudor Revival building originally had 34 rooms but now has over 300. In the 1990s, it was donated to Virginia Tech's hospitality school and is on the National Register of Historic … [Read more...] about Southern Stays: Hotel Roanoke
The Most Infamous Graves in the South
There are some truly spooky places around the South, including notorious cemeteries and haunted houses. But what about the stories behind them? These infamous graves are worth a visit in their own right to learn more about the grisly history. The Grave of Mary Phagan, Marietta, Georgia If you grew up in Atlanta's northern suburbs, and even if you didn't, you probably … [Read more...] about The Most Infamous Graves in the South
