If you’re looking to escape the hot and humid days of August, try heading “Up South.” Several towns in higher elevations host events and, even though the heat still reigns, it’s a significant drop in temperature compared to New Orleans.
Visiting Oz
For three weekends in September, the top of Beech Mountain, North Carolina turns into the Land of Oz. It’s so incredible, you’ll be convinced you have been dropped inside the famous 1939 film. We’re talking a replica of Auntie Em’s house, completed with tornado experience, and an interactive adventure following a golden brick road. Beech Mountain’s Oz has been a regional favorite among kids and adults alike for years and has returned bigger and better. Performances are Sept. 6-8, 13-15 and 20-22. For information, visit landofoznc.com.
Live Music
While you’re on the mountain, which is literally a mile high at its apex and temperatures rarely reach 80 degrees, check out the annual live music series at Beech Mountain Resort. But that’s not all. Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria offers performances Friday evenings until mid-August and on Saturdays visitors can take a scenic lift ride to the 5506’ Skybar at Beech Mountain Resort to enjoy both live music and breathtaking views. Then on Sundays, Fred’s General Mercantile hosts sunset concerts at the Gazebo and Top of the Beech Inn features Concerts on the Lawn.
World’s Longest Yard Sale
I don’t know about you, but my car naturally brakes for yard sales. Not sure how I will manage a 690-mile-long route spanning six states but the 127 Yard Sale beckons me every year. The annual collection of folks selling wares takes place the first Thursday through Sunday in August (that’s Aug. 1-4) and stretches through Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio and Michigan. For information on what to find and how to plan your trip, 127yardsale.com.
Unclaimed Baggage
Ever wonder where all the airport’s unclaimed luggage go? After a time, and if the baggage is not claimed, it heads to northern Alabama and a massive store that’s part thrift and part museum. The 50,000-square-foot store of Unclaimed Baggage in Scottsboro, Alabama is organized into 10 departments, selling everything you can imagine ending up in suitcases. There’s also a three-story Bargain Basement building next door and a museum showcasing unusual items found in luggage. One lucky visitor is chosen every day to watch the opening of an unprocessed suitcase.
Summer Festing
When I think of this Chattanooga, Tennesseee festival, I hear Andy Williams crooning the song written by Henry Mancini about his childhood in Savannah, Georgia. We have to wonder why Chattanooga’s Drew Holcomb named this late-summer festival the same name but glad he did. The two-day Moon River Festival featuring family-friendly fun happens Sept. 9-10 at Coolidge Park on the banks of the Tennessee River. And yes, it’s football season, but no worries. Visitors may enjoy the top college and NFL games streaming at the Lookout Lounge.
Go Rail Biking!
The day we chose to ride the rails in Blue Ridge, Georgia, temperatures reached into the upper 80s. But the movement of the rail bikes—think combination of pedal bike and motorized open-air rail car—provided just the breeze we needed. Now that the heat is cooling down in the north Georgia mountains, catching a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway bikes will be a delight. At first glance, the six-mile round trip through farms and mountain woods looks daunting. But don’t worry, the throttle pumps the movement so pedaling isn’t necessary. Unless you want to look cool. For a view of what this looks like, visit brscenic.com/railbikes.
