How have I waited this many years before visiting this beautiful gem in the middle of a big city? We went this weekend and they were having a huge plant sale! The whole place was super crowded, but after circling the lot twice, we lucked up in a parking spot. Parking is free and entry is free! What a gift to the people of Birmingham and its visitors!
Though there appeared to be a ton of folks here, we never felt crowded. The park is so spread out with something to see in every single corner. We loved the conservatory with its water feature and tropical plants, the beautiful fountains, the winding paths to get to each area and the thoughtfully placed swings and benches along the way to rest your tootsies. Far and away my favorite garden was the Japanese Garden.
The Japanese Garden has a Tori Gate at the entrance to welcome you and it sets the tone perfectly for the wonders you are about to see. Beautiful photo ops await with the koi pond, the meandering bridge, the turtles sunning themselves on the rocks and the tea garden. Do not miss this.
We didn’t see everything we wanted, so I know I’ll be back when I’m in town again. So peaceful and lovely.
Is there anything better than a cool treat on a hot day? Only issue is you gotta eat it fast so you don’t wear it! Here are a list of my favorite frozen goodies:
Half Watermelon Half Wedding Cake Snoball from Pelican’s Snoballs in Lincolnton
Oh, how I adore cheese. You could melt it on a cardboard pizza top and I’d probably eat it. These dishes are my favorite cheesy dishes at restaurants I’ve tried.
Pimiento Cheese Spread from Boschamp’s in Destin, FL
Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese at Safari Miles in Denver
Pepperoni and Mushroom Pizza at Tony’s in Hickory, NC
My state is so beautiful. To the east we have beaches and to the west we have mountains. Truly, something for everyone. If you come visit, don’t miss these bright spots:
Grandfather Mountain: A mountain that is over 300 million years old and rising nearly 6000 feet above sea level is right here in North Carolina! Enjoy the mile high swinging bridge, walking and hiking to see the wild animals, and the nature museum! Definitely one of my favorite places. For more info: Grandfather Mountain
Biltmore Estate: This home is the largest private residence in the United States. Built in 1895, this 250 room French Renaissance Chateau boasts 175,000 square feet! On a tour, not only will you get to see this gorgeous home, but you’ll see the beautiful gardens, visit the winery on site and explore the village. I recommend you come at Christmas when the estate is decorated. For more information: https://www.biltmore.com/
Chimney Rock: Do you like magnificent views? Well, you need to get over to Chimney Rock. Hiking, animal den for learning and even animal encounters, rock climbing, music and checking out the gorgeous flowers: just a few of the activities that await on your mountain adventure. For more info: https://www.chimneyrockpark.com/
The Outer Banks: The Outer Banks are islands right off of the coast separating the mainland from the Atlantic Island. Special because of their beauty, lighthouses and plenty of wildlife, people flock here to enjoy the wide open sea views and diving to see the ship wrecks off shore. Life is slower here and in some places the population is sparse. Come here to relax!
Clingman’s Dome: At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The observation tower on the summit of Clingmans Dome offers spectacular 360° views of the Smokies and beyond for visitors willing to climb the steep half-mile walk to the tower at the top. On clear days views expand over 100 miles. Unfortunately, air pollution often limits viewing distances to under 20 miles. It’s seven miles to the end of Clingmans Dome Road and there are scenic pullouts with endless views of ridges and valleys along the way. The road ends in a large parking area from which a 0.5-mile trail leads to the summit. The trail is paved but steep and leads to an observation tower on top. For more information, visit: Clingman’s Dome
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