Work & Travel

Summer Activities in the South

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1. Hear real country music in the Grand Ole Opry
Dedicated to honoring country music鈥檚 rich history and dynamic present, the  is an American icon, and the premier showcase for country legends and the young musicians who are carrying on a rich and dynamic musical tradition.

2. Explore Virginia's geological wonders
With cool below-ground temperatures, the  and  are comfortable to visit year-round. Or enjoy the trip along scenic  and go see the , a towering limestone arch with a fascinating history.

3. Visit America鈥檚 most popular National Park
Every year, more than 10 million people visit  in North Carolina and Tennessee. But with more than 800 miles of hiking trails, featuring beautiful forests, creeks, and waterfalls, and, of course, impressive mountain views, it doesn鈥檛 feel crowded. You might even spot a black bear!

4. Go to Churchill Downs in Kentucky
Stroll the historic grounds of this thoroughbred  in Louisville, home to America's most legendary horse race, the Kentucky Derby, held every May. Other races are held throughout the year.

5. Dance in the streets in North Carolina
Join an old-fashioned mountain hoedown (dance) in downtown Waynesville, where  events are held throughout the summer. You could even learn to clog!

6. Tour a historic Southern plantation
Walk the grounds of one of these magnificent  while learning about the region鈥檚 history. Many are in states that make up the Deep South, including Georgia, Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi.

7. Learn about civil rights in Atlanta
With videos and interactive displays, the new  honors the American Civil Rights movement and explores current global human rights issues. At the , sign up for a tour of the civil rights leader鈥檚 nearby birthplace.

8. Eat a peach
Although Georgia is known as the 鈥減each state鈥 for its many peach trees, South Carolina produces more peaches than any other southern state. Whether you find the sweet and juicy summer fruit at a roadside stand or in a store, try it in pie, cobbler, ice cream, or .

9. Walk around Savannah, Georgia
Explore the nation鈥檚 largest registered Urban Historic Landmark District in . The district contains 22 green squares and more than 1,600 historically and architecturally significant structures 鈥 all within a 2.5-square mile area. When you鈥檙e ready to rest, Tybee Island, on the Atlantic Ocean, is only 20 minutes away!

10. Volunteer in your local community
Whether you prefer to walk the dogs at an , serve food at a , or plant a tree with a , there are many ways to volunteer in your local community. You鈥檒l find plenty of other opportunities at  or . Be sure to tag #cieegivingback when you post your photos! 

We鈥檇 love to see and hear about your adventures on .