Courtesy Georgia Dept. of Economic Dev.
Georgia
Groups visiting Georgia this year will find several new ways to explore the beautiful outdoors and the state’s extensive Civil War history.
Urban Whitewater in Columbus is projected to open early this summer. The Chattahoochee River has been restored to its natural state, creating the world’s longest urban white-water course at 2.5 miles. The course’s seven or eight rapids range from class II to class IV.
Cumberland Island has become easier to explore on the new Lands and Legacies tour offered by the National Park Service. Passenger vans and open-air trams transport groups to historic locations around the seashore, including Plum Orchard Mansion, First African Baptist Church in the Settlement and Cumberland Island Wharf. Groups arrive on the island via the ferry from St. Marys before departing from Sea Camp Ranger Station.
“Touring the island in five to six hours makes a great day trip,” said Stefanie Paupeck, communications specialist for the Georgia Department of Economic Development. “Cumberland Island is a special treat with its wild horses and history. Visitors often feel like they’re the only people on the island.”
One of the most prominent battles of the Civil War took place at Chickamauga Battlefield. It was the scene of the last major Confederate victory. Today, it’s the nation’s oldest and largest military park, containing numerous monuments, trails and more. The Battle of Chickamauga reenactment takes place at McLemore’s Cove, September 19-22.
South Carolina
New tourism developments can be found in several parts of South Carolina, from the mountains of the west to the coastal destinations in the east.
In the Pendleton area of the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills, the Bart Garrison Agricultural Museum of South Carolina will open in June. Formerly the Pendleton District Agricultural Museum, this collection of farm and farm life implements and machinery will be organized in five distinct exhibits. Farm-to-table production and South Carolina-grown food will be emphasized.
“Our upcountry is growing, and our small towns and byways have much to offer,” said Dawn Dawson-House, director of public relations and information for the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. “Their stories are as yet undiscovered, but are about to become discovered.”
Myrtle Beach’s boardwalk never fails to entertain visitors. The new Carolina Comedy Club opens this spring and will feature performances by stand-up comedians and the Carolina Improv Company. The 150-seat club will also house the Backstage Bar and Grill.
As part of its 2013 schedule, the Palace Theatre will offer two new productions. Running March through August, “Masters of Illusion” features illusionist Rob Lake in a full-scale production with dancers, special effects and elaborate scenery. “Jersey Nights” will run periodically throughout 2013 and entertain with the Four Seasons’ greatest hits.
Afterward, groups can order dessert at the I Love Sugar candy shop. The new 6,000-square-foot building on the boardwalk will house a candy store and an ice cream shop.
