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21 Best Resorts in Georgia for 2020

Travel

Are you looking for the perfect warm-weather resort getaway with stunning views of the mountains?

Would you like to take a beach vacation on a practically deserted stretch of sand right outside a five-star resort?

How about a vacation filled with the excitement of a big city and all of the amenities that go with it?

Or maybe you’re coming down scouting out the state to find the perfect retirement community in Georgia.

With options that range from the quiet of the mountains to the beauty of the Atlantic coast to the hustle and bustle of a major city, Georgia is one of the most underrated vacation destinations in the entire country. 

To make things easier, we’ve broken this guide down into the following sections:

No matter what type of vacation you are looking for, you can find something that fits the bill somewhere in the Peach State.

Here at Retirement & Travel, we have scoured the entire state to find the very best of the best luxury hotel and resort destinations for your next trip. 

Georgia Mountain, Lake, and Winery Resorts

When it comes to truly amazing vacation experiences, the hotel or resort you choose is often the driving force behind that experience. These options represent some of the best that the state has to offer if you are interested in exploring the mountains, lakes, and wineries of rural Georgia. 

Barnsley Resort

Barnsley Resort is a 3,000-acre property in northwestern Georgia that provides a unique combination of rustic charm and luxury amenities. Shooting and horseback riding are just two of the unique amenities you will find here, and the property also includes a Jim Fazio-designed golf course, luxury spa facilities, and access to miles of hiking trails. 

The first option for accommodations at Barnsley Resort are the rooms and suites available at The Inn. However, anyone looking for more private options will want to upgrade to one of the many cottages available behind The Inn, which are available with up to four bedrooms. 

Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa

Located near the northern Georgia border in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa is a fabulous destination where luxury is perfectly blended into a love for the great outdoors. 

In addition to a stunning mountain golf course, full-service spa, and first-class dining options, Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa also offers a working stable where guests can sign up for one or two-hour horseback riding excursions across the resort’s five miles of trails. 

That combination of luxury and rustic beauty can also be seen in the 102 lodge guest rooms and the 32 cottage guest rooms available at the resort. And then there is the fabulous spa suite that comes complete with a private rooftop deck. 

Chateau Elan Winery & Resort

The vineyards at Chateau Elan Winery & Resort date back to 1983, and the Chateau Elan Inn & Conference Center officially opened in 1993. Since then, this hidden gem about an hour northeast of Atlanta has continued to grow and expand both as a winery and a resort. 

Guests at Chateau Elan can enjoy all of the standard golf, spa, and restaurant amenities that they would expect from a luxury hotel experience, but the thing that really separates Chateau Elan from other options is its rich history as a winery. They regularly host wine tastings and winemaking events that are always amazing. 

The Inn is the primary destination for standard rooms and suites at Chateau Elan. Then there are upgraded accommodations available like The Spa Suites that let you stay right in the spa, or The Villas, which are perfect for golf groups. 

Foxhall Resort

Described as “a refined retreat for outdoor pursuits,” Foxhall Resort in Douglasville, GA offers a unique combination of luxury and outdoor amenities. 

Guests can enjoy a 15-station sporting clay course, 16 freshwater fishing lakes, a traditional archery range, and more than 2,000 acres of hunting grounds. Then any of those activities can be followed with a five-star meal at the resort’s farm-to-table restaurant. 

Accommodations at Foxhall Resort start with the luxurious rooms available in the resort’s lakeside lodges. Then there are the stunning lakeside villas and cottages, which come in either three or four-bedroom options. For large parties, the resort also offers two luxury homes that can accommodate 12 and 18 guests. 

The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee

Located about an hour east of Atlanta and an hour south of Athens, The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee describes itself as “a quiet retreat just outside of Atlanta.” 

Amenities here include a total of five championship-level golf courses, a full-service spa and fitness center, and dining experiences that range from restaurants like Linger Longer Steakhouse and Gaby’s by the Lake to more private options like dinner for two enjoyed by the lake. 

The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee offers an assortment of rooms and suites that are each available with views of either the lake, the golf course, the pool, or the gardens. Then there are also cottages like the 5,400 Lake House available for a truly impressive getaway experience. 

Valhalla Resort Hotel

Located in northern Georgia near the Chattahoochee National Forest, Valhalla Resort Hotel offers a vacation experience that feels more like the mountains of Europe than the mountains of Georgia. Between the full golf and spa programs, multiple dining options, and a gorgeous wine cellar, there is plenty to keep you busy right on the property. 

With just 25 rooms and suites available, Valhalla Resort offers a lovely combination of luxury and quiet serenity. In addition to those accommodations, there are also a small collection of private bungalows on the property, and a larger villa is available just a short distance from the resort. 

Georgia Coastal Resorts

With miles of beautiful beaches, the Georgia coast is where beach-lovers go to vacation, and there are plenty of great luxury resort and hotel options here. 

The King and Prince Beach & Resort

Located about 90 minutes south of Savannah, The King and Prince Beach & Resort has a reputation as one of the most romantic getaway destinations along the Georgia coast. Amenities here include beautiful oceanfront views, a golf course, a “Royal Treatment Cottage,” resort-style pools just off the beach, and a state-of-the-art exercise facility. 

The main accommodations at The King and Prince Beach & Resort are available in four different buildings that each offer unique views and decor. And for an even more upscale experience, there are also two and three-room villas that each come with their own private pools. 

Beachview Club Hotel

Beachview Club Hotel is a boutique hotel property on Jekyll Island that is best known for offering its guests access to one of the most uncrowded stretches of beach in all of Georgia. Guests can enjoy relaxing on the beach using one of the many oversized lounge chairs the hotel has available, or by kicking back at the perfectly maintained pool. 

The Beach House Restaurant located on the property is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their menu focus is on locally-sourced seafood and other southern specialties. They also have an impressive 24 craft beers on tap and plenty of TVs for checking out whatever game happens to be on. 

There are only 38 rooms available at Beachview Club Hotel, but those rooms come in a number of options like a standard room, suite, or king feature guestroom. 

Jekyll Island Club Resort

With a history that dates back to 1888 and plenty of major updates over the years, Jekyll Island Club Resort offers guests the perfect combination of history and modern amenities. And when you factor in its location right on the beach, it is hard to beat the experience you can find here. 

Guests at Jekyll Island Club Resort can enjoy a private stretch of beach, a relaxing outdoor pool, and a first-class fitness facility. The resort also offers croquet on the lawn and bicycle rentals for anyone looking to explore the rest of the island. 

There are also plenty of dining options to choose from including everything from high-end restaurants like The Grand Dining Room and The Wharf to more casual options like Eighty Ocean Kitchen and Bar and The Pool House. 

The rooms at Jekyll Island Club Resort start with the history of the Island Club rooms and the Island Club Cottages. However, there are also more modern accommodations like the suites you can find at the beachfront Ocean Club. 

The Cloister at Sea Island

Known for five-star accommodations where every detail is covered, The Cloister at Sea Island is one of the three premium resort properties on Sea Island. In addition to four world-class restaurants, The Cloister also offers a wine cellar that is stocked with more than 1,000 different bottles from around the world. 

Guests have their choice of staying in The Cloister Main Building and Wings, The Cloister Beach Club, or The Cloister Ocean Residence. Each option presents its own unique advantages, but the ocean residences will blow you away with their combination of privacy and access to the beach. 

The Inn at Sea Island

Comfortable and relaxed are the words most commonly used to describe The Inn at Sea Island, but don’t let that relaxed comfort distract you from the fact that the service here is right on par with the other Sea Island Properties. In addition to the standard amenities like beach access, a lovely pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness center, The Inn also offers a complimentary BMW for all guests and access to the TopGolf Suite on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

All of the rooms at The Inn are decorated in the same casual style, and each offers a large space with high ceilings and comfortable beds. 

The Lodge at Sea Island

Located right between the Atlantic Ocean and a beautiful golf course, the view from The Lodge at Sea Island is lovely, no matter which way you are looking. This English-style manor offers amenities like an oceanfront pool, three restaurants, a massive wine cellar, and in-room dining. 

Accommodations at The Lodge are available in one of their 57 guest rooms and suites, as well as six different cottages that range from two to four bedrooms. All of these rooms and cottages feature balconies with stunning views of the ocean and nearby golf courses.  

Savannah Resorts

What do you get when you combine a coastal town that is passionate about the arts with historic architecture and a thriving culinary community? The answer sounds a lot like Savannah. 

With all that there is to see and do in the amazing city, Savannah should be on just about everyone’s vacation bucket list. 

The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront, Autograph Collection

Filled with artwork and decor that is every bit as unique as its name would suggest, The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront, Autograph Collection is located right on the famous cobblestone streets near the Savannah Riverwalk. In addition to standard amenities like a fitness center, the hotel is also home to the fabulous Rocks on the River restaurant, as well as the Rocks on the Roof lounge, which is…you guessed it…up on the roof. 

Available in either two-queen or one-king options with views of the city or the river, the rooms at The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront, Autograph Collection are all decorated with colonial-themed touches and a carefully curated collection of unique artwork. 

Mansion on Forsyth Park

Mansion on Forsyth Park is a hotel that truly embraces the culture of history in Savannah, and its location right on Forsyth Park is second to none. Guests have access to traditional amenities like restaurants and lounges, a relaxing spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and an outdoor pool. Plus there are available extras like participating in the famous 700 Drayton Cooking School Experience. 

Rooms at Mansion on Forsyth Park are available in Standard, Deluxe Forsyth, and Executive King options. Each of those variations includes a good night’s sleep on one of the most comfortable beds you will find anywhere. 

Perry Lane Hotel

Known for putting a modern twist on the historic feel of Savannah, the Perry Lane Hotel is filled with contemporary decor that feels right at home in the heart of downtown Savannah. Dining is the big selling point here, and guests have their choice of locally sourced ingredients at The Emporium Kitchen & Wine Market, dinner and conversation at The Wayward, or the stunning views from the roof at Peregrin.

Accommodations at the hotel include everything from standard rooms with two king beds to 1,080 square foot suites with separate living spaces and dining rooms. All of the rooms are decorated with unique artwork that is native to Savannah.  

Atlanta Area Resorts

As the capital and cultural hub of Georgia, Atlanta is the prime destination for anyone that wants to have plenty of excitement on their vacation. This vibrant city offers a rich history that combines seamlessly with world-class dining and more festivals and attractions than you could possibly enjoy in one trip. 

Atlanta by Four Seasons

Located right in the heart of the city, Atlanta by Four Seasons offers guests the perfect combination of modern luxury and classic southern charm. Taking some time for personal care at the spa is one of the most popular ways to spend a day here, and having drinks at Bar Margot is the perfect way to spend an evening. 

Accommodations at Atlanta by Four Seasons include individual rooms and suites that are decorated with modern elements like polished chrome, gray-washed wood, and soft velvet. Many of those rooms and suites also offer stunning views of the city, which get even better after the sun goes down. 

InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta

Between its unique event spaces and gorgeous ballrooms, the fabulous cuisine available at award-winning chef Art Smith’s restaurant, and the more than 70 bourbons available at Bourbon Bar, it is easy to see why travelers love staying at Intercontinental Buckhead Atlanta. And that isn’t even touching on all of the ways you can pamper yourself at the Jurique Spa. 

Classic rooms are always the starting point at InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta, but there are plenty of extras that come with upgrading to an executive room or suite. Guests staying in the executive rooms have a tremendous view of the legendary Peachtree Road, and the suites come with more space than most people know what to do with. 

The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta

Located in downtown Atlanta, The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta offers guests all of the luxury amenities that they could possibly desire. With more than 17,000 square feet of event space, a first-class steakhouse, and a high-end cocktail bar, this is the perfect location for meeting anyone in the city. 

The rooms and suites available at The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta are all decorated with a combination of modern style and classic southern charm, and they all feature stunning views of the Atlanta skyline. If you are fortunate enough to upgrade to one of the suites, you won’t believe how big they are. 

The St. Regis Atlanta

The St. Regis Atlanta is known as the premier luxury option in the city’s popular Buckhead neighborhood. One of the most luxurious aspects of any stay here is definitely going to be spending time enjoying the 40,000 square foot pool piazza. 

Guests at The St. Regis Atlanta can choose their accommodations from 151 guestrooms and 31 suites that come in a number of different variations. Each and every one of those options includes the always-impressive St. Regis Butler Service. 

Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead

Another luxury hotel option located right in Atlanta’s popular Buckhead neighborhood is the Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead. This legendary luxury hotel brand offers a first-class experience complete with an upscale spa that covers 15,000 square feet across two floors. Guests also have access to a yoga studio and an indoor lap pool. 

Accommodations at the Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead include rooms and suites that are all gorgeously decorated. Some of the higher-level rooms and all of the suites include terraces overlooking the city. 

The Whitley

The Whitley is a Marriott Luxury Collection Hotel in Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood that offers a cosmopolitan-style twist on the combination of modern luxury and southern charm that we have seen from other hotels on this list. In addition to a massive amount of meeting and event spaces, the hotel amenities also include a tranquil spa experience, a relaxing pool atmosphere, and a world-class restaurant. 

With more than 500 guest rooms that include 56 luxury suites, there are plenty of options when it comes to accommodations at The Whitley. At the top of the list is The Whitley Suite, which includes a pool table and piano just to show off how much space its guests have to play with. 

Where Do You Want to Go First?

With so many different resort options available in Georgia, the hardest part about planning a vacation here is forcing yourself to choose which region of this amazing state you want to visit.

Fortunately, you aren’t limited to only one Georgia vacation in a lifetime. 

Between the comfortable climate and the unique natural beauty you can find across the state, Georgia is the type of resort destination that you can visit on multiple occasions and find a completely different experience each time.

So whether you are in the mood for the mountains, the beach, or the city, Georgia has a perfect resort waiting for your next trip!

48 Hours in Charlotte, NC

Blog, North Carolina, Travel

Located in south-central North Carolina, Charlotte is a sprawling city of unique neighborhoods that is absolutely packed full of fun and exciting things to see and do. Whether you are looking for arts and culture, outdoor activities, professional sports, or just a great meal, the Queen City has got you covered.

To introduce you to some of the best that Charlotte has to offer, we put together a three-day itinerary that will take you through some of the city’s greatest hits and expose you to a number of different things you might want to explore further on follow-up trips.

Day One – BBQ, Tours, The Cellar, and Cocktails

There are going to be a lot of choose-your-own-adventure options during our stay in Charlotte, but lunch on our first day is not going to be one of them. Welcome to North Carolina, now let’s get you some decent BBQ. Midwood Smokehouse is one of the top rated BBQ joints in all of Charlotte, and you can’t make a trip to the Carolinas without getting some pulled pork.

Once we have our bellies full of some good Q, it’s time to get out and tour the city. And the three best ways to do that are Charlotte Center City Carriage Tours, Queen City Rides, and Charlotte Comedy City Tour. Depending on your preference for horse-drawn carriages, stretch golf carts, or raunchy comedy, you can pick the option that sounds most appealing.

For dinner on our first night in Charlotte, we’re heading underground to The Cellar at Duckworth’s. This American gastropub will blow your mind with their high-end versions of classics like Hand Cut Truffle Fries, Tuna Tartare, and Lamb Chops. You’ll also want to try their House-Made Waffle Cones that come filled with Pone Poke Tuna, Coconut Shrimp, and Sriracha Honey Chicken.

The cocktail menu at The Cellar at Duckworth’s is quite impressive, but when you are ready for a change of scenery, The Cotton Room is just a short Uber ride down the road, and the cocktail craftsmen here will blow your mind with their creations. No matter what your drink preference, there is something new and creative for everyone to try here.

Day Two – Museums, BBQ, Nature, Fine Dining, and Live Jazz

Our second day in Charlotte is going to kick off with a visit to either the NASCAR Hall of Fame or the Billy Graham Library. If you are a race fan or a religious person, this will be an easy choice, but each of these attractions is popular among a much broader base of visitors than you would initially expect, which is why they both rank highly on just about every list of things to do in Charlotte.

For lunch today, we are going to try a very different type of BBQ from what you would expect here in North Carolina. Seoul Food Meat Co. prefers to be known as a southern BBQ restaurant with heavy Korean influences, which means that you are going to get some amazing pork belly and kimchi here. And don’t forget to order the Soy Garlic Wings!

Since we are going to need to work off some calories before dinner, the next stop on our 48-hour tour of Charlotte is either going to be the U.S. National Whitewater Center or Freedom Park. Adventure junkies will jump at the chance to go whitewater rafting on the Catawba River, and those of us who are a little calmer can opt to enjoy the sights and sounds of a calm stroll through Freedom Park.

We’re going classy for our second dinner in Charlotte with reservations at The Fig Tree. The menu here will feature a seasonal selection of French and Italian inspired dishes where seafood and chops are always the stars of the show. You can feel free to order anything off of the menu, but the Elk Chop is the dish that gets the most compliments.

After dinner, we’re heading over to The Imperial where you can almost always enjoy some live jazz music along with one of their famous signature cocktails. And if you need help selecting something from their menu, start off with a Royal Apple Mule, which comes with a flaming lime boat!

Day Three – More Museums, Brunch, and Shopping

On our third day in Charlotte, we are going to start with a trip to either the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art or the Levine Museum of the New South. Whether your preference is for modern art or the history of Charlotte, both of these options will get your mind moving in a way that only Charlotte can.

And once your mind is running, it’s time for one of the best brunches in the area at Haberdish. They like to call themselves a “Mill Town Kitchen,” but we tend to think of Haberdish as THE place in Charlotte for fried chicken, waffles, and biscuits…preferably all mixed together with a healthy side of grits.

Our last stop before leaving Charlotte will be one of the outstanding shopping areas you can find located around the city. If mall shopping is your preference, you can stop at the SouthPark Mall, the Northlake Mall, or the Carolina Place Mall. And if you would rather have a more boutique shopping experience, then head down to NoDa for an eclectic collection of shopping options.

Where to Stay in Charlotte

If your preference is to stay right in the heart of Charlotte, then it doesn’t get much better than the accommodations you will find at The Westin Charlotte. And anytime you can take advantage of sleeping on one of those glorious Westin Heavenly Beds, you should absolutely do it!

Another option that offers more of a resort feel is The Ballantyne Hotel, which provides the ultimate in southern hospitality mixed with first-class amenities. The regular rooms are stunning here, and they also offer larger suites, as well as spa packages and golf course access.

After seeing and doing everything that we have packed into these 48 hours in Charlotte, you are probably going to be pretty exhausted. But you are also going to be excited to start planning your next trip to the Queen City because we have only just begun to scratch the surface of everything that this destination has to offer.

Interested in sticking around for a little or a lot longer than 48 hours? Check out our Charlotte Retirement Guide here.

48 Hours in Charlotte

South, Travel

Located in south-central North Carolina, Charlotte is a sprawling city of unique neighborhoods that is absolutely packed full of fun and exciting things to see and do. Whether you are looking for arts and culture, outdoor activities, professional sports, or just a great meal, the Queen City has got you covered.

To introduce you to some of the best that Charlotte has to offer, we put together a three-day itinerary that will take you through some of the city’s greatest hits and expose you to a number of different things you might want to explore further on follow-up trips.

Day One – BBQ, Tours, The Cellar, and Cocktails

There are going to be a lot of choose-your-own-adventure options during our stay in Charlotte, but lunch on our first day is not going to be one of them. Welcome to North Carolina, now let’s get you some decent BBQ. Midwood Smokehouse is one of the top rated BBQ joints in all of Charlotte, and you can’t make a trip to the Carolinas without getting some pulled pork.

Once we have our bellies full of some good Q, it’s time to get out and tour the city. And the three best ways to do that are Charlotte Center City Carriage Tours, Queen City Rides, and Charlotte Comedy City Tour. Depending on your preference for horse-drawn carriages, stretch golf carts, or raunchy comedy, you can pick the option that sounds most appealing.

For dinner on our first night in Charlotte, we’re heading underground to The Cellar at Duckworth’s. This American gastropub will blow your mind with their high-end versions of classics like Hand Cut Truffle Fries, Tuna Tartare, and Lamb Chops. You’ll also want to try their House-Made Waffle Cones that come filled with Pone Poke Tuna, Coconut Shrimp, and Sriracha Honey Chicken.

The cocktail menu at The Cellar at Duckworth’s is quite impressive, but when you are ready for a change of scenery, The Cotton Room is just a short Uber ride down the road, and the cocktail craftsmen here will blow your mind with their creations. No matter what your drink preference, there is something new and creative for everyone to try here.

Day Two – Museums, BBQ, Nature, Fine Dining, and Live Jazz

Our second day in Charlotte is going to kick off with a visit to either the NASCAR Hall of Fame or the Billy Graham Library. If you are a race fan or a religious person, this will be an easy choice, but each of these attractions is popular among a much broader base of visitors than you would initially expect, which is why they both rank highly on just about every list of things to do in Charlotte.

For lunch today, we are going to try a very different type of BBQ from what you would expect here in North Carolina. Seoul Food Meat Co. prefers to be known as a southern BBQ restaurant with heavy Korean influences, which means that you are going to get some amazing pork belly and kimchi here. And don’t forget to order the Soy Garlic Wings!

Since we are going to need to work off some calories before dinner, the next stop on our 48-hour tour of Charlotte is either going to be the U.S. National Whitewater Center or Freedom Park. Adventure junkies will jump at the chance to go whitewater rafting on the Catawba River, and those of us who are a little calmer can opt to enjoy the sights and sounds of a calm stroll through Freedom Park.

We’re going classy for our second dinner in Charlotte with reservations at The Fig Tree. The menu here will feature a seasonal selection of French and Italian inspired dishes where seafood and chops are always the stars of the show. You can feel free to order anything off of the menu, but the Elk Chop is the dish that gets the most compliments.

After dinner, we’re heading over to The Imperial where you can almost always enjoy some live jazz music along with one of their famous signature cocktails. And if you need help selecting something from their menu, start off with a Royal Apple Mule, which comes with a flaming lime boat!

Day Three – More Museums, Brunch, and Shopping

On our third day in Charlotte, we are going to start with a trip to either the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art or the Levine Museum of the New South. Whether your preference is for modern art or the history of Charlotte, both of these options will get your mind moving in a way that only Charlotte can.

And once your mind is running, it’s time for one of the best brunches in the area at Haberdish. They like to call themselves a “Mill Town Kitchen,” but we tend to think of Haberdish as THE place in Charlotte for fried chicken, waffles, and biscuits…preferably all mixed together with a healthy side of grits.

Our last stop before leaving Charlotte will be one of the outstanding shopping areas you can find located around the city. If mall shopping is your preference, you can stop at the SouthPark Mall, the Northlake Mall, or the Carolina Place Mall. And if you would rather have a more boutique shopping experience, then head down to NoDa for an eclectic collection of shopping options.

Where to Stay in Charlotte

If your preference is to stay right in the heart of Charlotte, then it doesn’t get much better than the accommodations you will find at The Westin Charlotte. And anytime you can take advantage of sleeping on one of those glorious Westin Heavenly Beds, you should absolutely do it!

Another option that offers more of a resort feel is The Ballantyne Hotel, which provides the ultimate in southern hospitality mixed with first-class amenities. The regular rooms are stunning here, and they also offer larger suites, as well as spa packages and golf course access.

After seeing and doing everything that we have packed into these 48 hours in Charlotte, you are probably going to be pretty exhausted. But you are also going to be excited to start planning your next trip to the Queen City because we have only just begun to scratch the surface of everything that this destination has to offer.

Interested in sticking around for a little or a lot longer than 48 hours? Check out our Charlotte Retirement Guide here.

48 Hours in Mesa

Southwest, Travel

Mesa, Arizona Skyline

Because it is located so close to Phoenix, the city of Mesa often gets overlooked by baby boomers who are exploring places to retire in Arizona. However, anyone who spends a couple of days in Mesa will quickly find out that the community has a vibe that is entirely its own.

If you are interested in learning more about the Mesa area, this 48-hour itinerary is the best way we have found to pack as much punch as possible into your visit.

Day One – Get To Know Mesa

Whether you’re flying in through Phoenix or coasting into town on fumes, the first stop for everyone spending 48 hours in Mesa should be a Tex-Mex restaurant. Jalapeño Bucks does a fantastic job of combining the best of Texas with a little bit of Mexican salsa. Everything on the menu here is outstanding, but if you are only going to visit once, you have to try one of their green chili burritos.

Now that you have recharged your batteries with a little bit of local cuisine, it’s time to explore the desert with Green Zebra Adventures. They will hook you up with a state-of-the-art off-road vehicle that they call a Tomcar, which will give you a ton of freedom to get out and cruise the desert.

For dinner on your first night in town, we’re going casual with a meal from Bobby-Q. With three locations in the state, Bobby-Q is a big name here in Arizona, and their barbecue is outstanding. But great barbecue isn’t the only thing on the menu here, make sure you check out the “Woodfired Steaks, Chicken & Fish” section of the menu too!

After dinner at Bobby-Q, we’re heading over to TQLA where you will find an impressive selection of tequila. We recommend ordering flights of tequila to share, but you can also treat yourself to one of their fantastic tequila cocktails.

Day Two – Expanding Your Arizona Horizons

With more than 40 first-class golf courses, we are pretty much obligated to kick off our second day in Mesa by breaking out the clubs and heading to a golf course with a view. And if you aren’t quite feeling like playing a course, you can also check out TopGolf, which is a three-level driving range with all kinds of fun targets and side games.

For lunch, we’re going to Backyard Taco for what will most likely be the best carne asada burrito you will ever put in your mouth. The chicken and “Al Pastor” options are also excellent, but the carne asada is a must-order here.

We explored the beautiful desert scenery in Tomcars on our first day in Arizona, so now it’s time to dig a bit deeper into the history of the area at one of the local wild west towns.

Rockin’ R Ranch and Rawhide Wild West Town both offer fun-filled wild west experiences where you will find yourself in gunfights, panning for gold, and souvenir shopping. Both towns will take up about two hours of your time, so adjust your plans to attend one or both depending on how late in the day it is.

For dinner, we are making a reservation at BBQ House. Have you noticed that every restaurant we have visited so far has been a slightly different twist on barbecue? Welcome to Arizona!

This version is a Korean BBQ restaurant where they will keep bringing you more than 40 different cuts of meat to cook on your own tabletop grill until you are full.

Following dinner, it’s off to the Fort McDowell Casino for a fun night of gaming. You can have your pick of slots and table games here, so kick back and enjoy your big night in Arizona.

Day Three – A Little Bit of History

On our last day in Mesa, we are going to sleep in a bit before going to Worth Takeaway for brunch. You can feel free to order the Breakfast Sandwich or Breakfast Burrito here, but we recommend stepping out of your comfort zone and trying the Pastrami Croque Madame or the Chicken Veggie Hash….or maybe both. 🙂

After brunch, it’s time to take in just a bit of the local history at the Arizona Museum of Natural History. Not only will you find dinosaurs here, but there are also tons of exhibits that will help give you a better perspective on what Arizona is all about.

Where to Stay in Mesa

For the most amazing experience possible in Mesa, you have to stay at the Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch. This rustic hotel is a historical experience complete with the absence of TVs or phones. You might not find the traditional amenities here, but you also won’t get the same view anywhere else.

If a great deal is what you are looking for, then the Courtyard by Marriot Phoenix Mesa is probably going to be your best bet. The room rates here will blow you away, and you won’t have to sacrifice any bit of service or cleanliness.

Anyone who really embraces the Arizona landscape could probably spend an entire 48-hour trip kicking back and looking at the mountains in the distance. While that experience would be fantastic in its own way, our itinerary will help first-time visitors get to know a more well-rounded Mesa, which will undoubtedly be helpful when deciding whether you want to start calling this area home.

48 Hours in Charleston

South, Travel

With beautiful beaches, fabulous golf courses, and a rich sense of history, Charleston offers up something to appeal to just about everyone. Actually, there are so many exciting things to do here that planning a quick trip to the area can actually be quite overwhelming.

If you have to squeeze as much Charleston as possible into a quick 48-hour visit, here is a starting point that will introduce you to the broad range of experiences available in the Carolina Lowcountry.

Day One – She Crab Soup & Horse-Drawn Carriages

Located in Charleston’s historic French Quarter, 82 Queen is one of the most popular high-end dinner options in town. They are best known for their She Crab Soup, which makes a perfect introduction to dining in Charleston upon your arrival.

Following a quick lunch at 82 Queen, head over to the Old South Carriage Co. to continue your introduction to Charleston. This horse-drawn carriage tour will highlight all of the most famous parts of the city and provide you with a general sense of direction.

After spending the afternoon riding around town in a horse-drawn carriage, it only makes sense to have dinner in an old stable, but Circa 1886 isn’t just any old horse stable.

This former stable in the Wentworth Mansion’s garden is actually one of the most impressive fine dining locations in all of the Carolinas, and Executive Chef Mark Collins has created an inspiring menu of high-end Lowcountry cuisine.

After dinner, you can spend your first night in town at Stars Rooftop & Grill Room, which has been voted the best rooftop bar in Charleston. The downstairs restaurant is also excellent, but it is all about that craft cocktail nightcap on the roof for this visit.

Day Two – Plantations, Museums, and Husk

On your first full day in Charleston, you will already have a basic overview of the city and some delicious meals under your belt, so it’s time to dig a little deeper into the heart of the south.

Our first stop today will be one of the many preserved plantations surrounding the area. Take your pick between Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, Boone Hall Plantation, Middleton Place, or McCleod Plantation Historic Site and spend the morning learning about the rich history of the area.

For lunch, we’re heading to Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oysters. This is a classic southern lunch spot that specializes in fried chicken, oysters, salads, and beer. You’re going to be tempted to order the fried oyster sandwich, but don’t overlook the Char-Grilled Oysters, which are one of the best bites in the city.

The Gibbes Art Museum is our afternoon destination, and here you will learn about the history of the artists of the Lowcountry and how that history connects to the thriving art community that exists here today.

(Choose Your Own Adventure Option: If art museums aren’t your thing, this is also a great time to hit the links at one of the many local golf courses, spend some time exploring the downtown shopping, or relaxing at the beach!)

If you have seen the Netflix series, The Mind of a Chef, then you already know that a visit to Sean Brock’s Husk is an absolute must when you are in Charleston. This will be one of the best locally-sourced fine-dining experiences of your life no matter what you choose to order. Enjoy!

Following your meal, head over to The Cocktail Club to have your mind blown all over again by the incredible bartending skills on display at this craft cocktail bar.

Day Three – Hominy Grill & The Notebook

At this point in the trip, you have already had more than enough delicious food, but we aren’t quite done yet.

Hominy Grill on Rutledge Ave is our first stop today for one of the best brunches in Charleston. They have different menus depending on the day and time you visit, but you can always get the two dishes they are best known for: Shrimp & Grits and the Charleston Nasty Biscuit. We recommend both.

Before you head out of town, make one last stop in Mount Pleasant for a casual stroll down historic Pitt Street.

Here you will find the Old Village Post House, which was famously featured in The Notebook. Take some time and enjoy a scoop of ice cream here, just like Allie and Noah did.

Where to Stay in Charleston

There are dozens of lodging options to choose from all over Charleston, but the one that stands out most for many visitors is Wild Dunes. This stunning resort is located right on the beach and offers enough amenities to keep you busy for days without ever even making it out to the rest of the city.

If you are looking for alternative options, The Restoration is a very trendy option that is located right in the heart of downtown Charleston. Then, on the other end of the spectrum, 86 Cannon is a historic home that will really give you the feeling of staying in the old south.

No matter where you stay or what you do, 48 hours is just barely enough to scratch the surface of all that Charleston has to offer. But with this guide in hand, you are sure to enjoy your first visit and can expect to book many more after that.

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Where to Catch Spring Training in Arizona

Things to Do, Travel

A total of 15 Major League Baseball teams get ready for the season in a fairly tight radius surrounding Phoenix.

For baseball fans living in or visiting the Phoenix area, there’s simply no better time of year than springtime!

Here are the teams you can watch in Arizona’s Cactus League and where to see them.

Los Angeles Angels – Tempe, AZ

The Angels started adding to their roster leading up to the trade deadline in 2017, and they kept up those improvements throughout most of the winter.

The end result is that they have a new-look team surrounding Mike Trout, who is still the best player in baseball by just about any metric. Look for the additions of Shohei Ohtani, Justin Upton, Zack Cosart, and Ian Kinsler to turn this solid team into a legit contender in 2018.

Arizona Diamondbacks – Scottsdale, AZ

The addition of outfielder J.D. Martinez boosted the Diamondbacks to a Wild Card Game win last season, but his departure for the Boston Red Sox leaves a big hole in the middle of their lineup heading into this season.

The current plan to fill that hole is Steven Souza, but depth is going to be an issue in the bullpen here as well.

Chicago Cubs – Mesa, AZ

The Cubs failed to return to the World Series last season when they ran into an outstanding Dodgers team in the NLCS, and their effort to get back this year will largely hang on the arm of Yu Darvish, who they signed away from LA this offseason.

Unfortunately, Darvish will likely be sliding into the spot vacated by current free agent Jake Arrieta.

Cincinnati Reds – Goodyear, AZ

While the odds of the Reds becoming a serious contender this year aren’t great, this is a team that is filled with exciting players to watch.

Luis Castillo and Raul Iglesias are two of the most exciting young fireballers taking the mound this season, and speedster Billy Hamilton has the potential to steal any base at any time.

Cleveland Indians – Goodyear, AZ

Much like the Cubs, the Cleveland Indians came up just short in their effort to return to the World Series last fall.

The dominant pitching staff that has powered the Indians over the past few seasons will be back in full force this year, but they will be without hitters Carlos Santana, Jay Bruce, and Austin Jackson.

Colorado Rockies – Scottsdale, AZ

With stud hitters like Charlie Blackmon and Nolan Arenado coming back for another season in Coors Field, the Rockies expect to remain one of the most intimidating offenses in all of baseball.

The question here is whether or not they have the pitching staff to seriously compete with some of the best teams in the national league. Of course, when you play half of your games in Colorado, it makes sense to prioritize the ability to hit the ball really far.

Chicago White Sox – Glendale, AZ

With one of the worst records in the majors at last year’s trade deadline, the White Sox decided to pack it in and fully commit to rebuilding. What that means for this year’s team is that you are going to see stud hitter Jose Abreu surrounded by a bunch of guys you’ve never heard of.

But there is still plenty of talent throughout this organization, so watch out for which guys take advantage of opportunities in Arizona this spring.

Kansas City Royals – Surprise, AZ

As a kid growing up I used to watch the Royals during Spring Training in my home state of Florida, but they made the move to Arizona in 2003.

Free agency was brutal for the Royals this year with Eric Hosmer and Mike Moustakas seeking bigger deals elsewhere, but the emergence of second baseman Whit Merrifield is one bright spot worth watching in 2018.

Los Angeles Dodgers – Glendale, AZ

The Dodgers came up just short of winning the World Series last fall, and aside from losing Yu Darvish to the Cubs in free agency, they are basically bringing back the same team again this season.

Look for them to remain one of the absolute best teams in baseball, and make sure you show up early to spring training in order to get autographs from the ridiculous number of all-stars on this rosters.

Milwaukee Brewers – Phoenix, AZ

The Brewers had a respectable campaign in 2017, but needed to add some significant pieces to their solid core in order to have a chance in 2018.

Fortunately for Milwaukee residents, that is exactly what they did when they acquired Christian Yelich, Lorenzo Cain, and Jhoulys Chacin. Their offense looks really good on paper, so the thing to watch here is how well their pitching staff looks this spring.

Oakland A’s – Mesa, AZ

Remember those commercials about how “Chicks dig the longball?” Well, that must be what Billy Beane and David Forst were thinking while putting together this lineup filled with sluggers like Khris Davis, Matt Olson, and Matt Chapman.

They also added Stephen Piscotty in right field for even more pop. If you are heading out to see the A’s in spring training, make sure you don’t miss batting practice!

San Diego Padres – Peoria, AZ

The Padres were one of the absolute worst teams in baseball last year, and they aren’t going to be a whole lot better this year. However, they did make an effort to improve by bringing in guys like Eric Hosmer, Chase Headley, Freddy Galvis, and Tyson Ross.

Any exciting spring surprises this spring will likely come from young players, so make sure you bring your depth chart.

San Francisco Giants – Scottsdale, AZ

Just about everything that could go wrong for the Giants did last season, but they are bringing back a strong core that got a whole lot better over the winter.

The additions of veterans Andrew McCutchen, Evan Longoria, and Austin Jackson should do a lot to improve the offense, and pitching has never been a problem for the Giants since Madison Bumgarner arrived.

Seattle Mariners – Peoria, AZ

The Mariners surprised a lot of experts by finishing third in the AL West last season, but they will have to do a lot better to keep pace with the other teams in their division this year.

The additions of Dee Gordon and Ryon Healy should add some excitement to the offense, but the player that has people in Seattle really excited is James Paxton.

Paxton was putting together a career year before getting hurt last season, so if he can regain his pre-injury form, he could be the dominant force that leads the M’s back to the playoffs.

Texas Rangers – Surprise, AZ

The Rangers missed the boat when they failed to sign pitcher Yu Darvish, so they are entering spring training with a pretty glaring hole in their pitching rotation. With Carlos Gomez and Andrew Cashner also heading for greener pastures, it looks like the Rangers could be a few rocky months away from a complete rebuild.

The one bright spot to watch here is third baseman Joey Gallo, who can hit the ball a country mile when he is able to make contact.