Visiting Murphy, North Carolina

These are a little farther than others in our road trip series and will likely be an overnight trip; especially to experience the night time activities. Tennessee: The Bell Witch Cave In the tiny town of Adams Tennessee sits an old farm with an incredible history. It is the only case where a ghost was deemed legally responsible for a person’s death. It is believed that a spirit, dwelling in the cave was responsible for the harassment of the entire Bell family and eventual murder of the patriarch, John. We went there in 2023 and toured the cave and the replica cabin. It is a fairly easy cave to navigate but because of the nature of the site is not handicap accessible. Anyone who enjoys folk history, caves, or spooky things would have a fun time here. For more info: https://www.bellwitchcave.com/ Travel time from Blackwell Automotive : Approx. 3 hrs Kentucky: The Jack O’Lantern Spectacular Running from Oct 1 st through November 2 nd , Louisville hosts a massive carved pumpkin showcase. This is such an awesome atmosphere!! There is nothing scary about it and I love that it is something the whole family can do together. As you walk through there, are many pumpkins that are precarved but each year they carve fresh pumpkins with the most intricate details. You will see several themed areas and even a memorial section for celebrities that have passed away that year. (There was even one of a Richard Moll who had died just 3 days before our visit.) You’ve gotta see the pictures!!! For more info: https://www.jackolanternlouisville.org These first 2 are relatively close to each other so you could see both in the same weekend. When we went, we left out early on a Saturday Morning and saw the Bell Witch Cave around lunch time, saw the Spectacular that night, and drove home on Sunday. They also have a special rate with a LaQuinta Inn for only $104 per night so you don’t have to break the bank to make this trip. Travel time from Blackwell Automotive: Approx. 4hrs 45 min Travel time from Blackwell Automotive and stopping by Adams TN: Approx. 5hrs 30 min West Virginia: The Pumpkin House and the Mothman This is always listed as one of the top sites to see around Halloween every year. It is only for 1 weekend and is usually right before Halloween. The owners of the house, with the help of the community, carve over 3000 pumpkins to illuminate and decorate the house. The house sits on a regular street in Kenova WV and it is such a pleasant relaxed atmosphere. There are food trucks set up across the street and there is no admission fee to see all of the pumpkins. Oh, and there are no two pumpkins that are alike except for the musical instruments. They have several themes including the wall of musical instruments that illuminate when that particular instrument is used in the song that is playing. There is also a wall of presidents. Some of the pumpkins are carved by students at the school just down the street. For more info: https://www.facebook.com/KenovaPumpkinHouse/ Only an hour’s drive north sits the town of Point Pleasant, WV. Does this town sound familiar? It is the place of the famous Mothman and the Men in Black sightings. Back in the 1960s the Mothman was seen all over the western part of West Virginia and southern Ohio. There is a pretty cool museum dedicated to both where you can see old newspaper clippings and buy souvenirs. Also, Point Pleasant is the site of the Silver Bridge collapse that took 46 lives and changed the rules for bridge inspections and safety in America. For more info: https://visitpointpleasantwv.com/see-do/ Travel time from Blackwell Automotive: Approx. 6hrs Travel time from Kenova to Point Pleasant: Approx. 45 min West Virginia: Lake Shawnee Amusement Park This one could be more for adults but kids could go in the day time for tours. Lake Shawnee was a small amusement park back in the 1920s - 1960s. Once a bustling park it has since been left for nature to reclaim it. There are several legends of tragedies that happened on the property to give it a few ghost stories. It is definitely a great place for photographers to capture the rides that have been covered in vines and vegetation. For the teen to adult aged crowd, you can camp over night at the property Halloween. They also have a haunted carnival for those of you who are looking for something a little more scary. For more info: https://www.wvlakeshawnee.com/ Travel time from Blackwell Automotive: Approx. 5hrs 15 min Make it a spooktacular road trip and do them all in the same extended weekend! Start with the Bell Witch cave during the day on Thursday, then go to the Pumpkin Spectacular Thursday night. Friday drive to Point Pleasant and end the Day at the Pumpkin House. Saturday Visit the Lake Shawnee in the daytime to take pictures and stay for the Dark Carnival that night and drive home on Sunday.

There are several neat places to check out just south of Chattanooga, TN. One of these places is Rome, Georgia, which is a picturesque city located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in the northwestern part of the state. Known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant community, Rome offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities.

How about taking a day trip to Jackson County Alabama? Its less than an hour’s drive from Chattanooga and is where we grew up. With its rich history and natural beauty, this charming county has a lot to offer for visitors of all ages. From ancient caves to quirky attractions, here are some must-see places in Jackson County. First up is Russell Cave National Monument, a stunning archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the lives of prehistoric Native Americans. The cave, which is over 7,000 years old, has provided a wealth of information about the early inhabitants of the area, including their tools, weapons, and food sources. Visitors can explore the cave and its surrounding trails, learning about the fascinating history of this ancient site. For a taste of nostalgia, head to Paynes Soda Shop and Candy Store in Scottsboro. This charming establishment has been serving up sweet treats and old-fashioned sodas since 1869 . Step inside and you'll feel like you've been transported back in time, with its vintage decor and friendly staff. Whether you're craving a classic root beer float or a bag of homemade fudge, Paynes is the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth. If you're a nature lover, don't miss the Walls of Jericho, a breathtaking natural area that straddles the Alabama-Tennessee state line. This rugged, secluded gorge is home to stunning waterfalls, lush forests, and a variety of wildlife. Hikers can embark on the challenging trail that leads to the bottom of the gorge, where they'll be rewarded with stunning views and the peaceful sounds of nature. For those who love a good bargain, a visit to Unclaimed Baggage is a must. This one-of-a-kind store sells lost and unclaimed luggage from airlines across the country, offering everything from designer clothing and jewelry to electronics and sporting goods. You never know what treasure you might find at this unique retail destination, making it a fun and quirky stop during your visit to Jackson County. In addition to these standout attractions, Jackson County is also home to a variety of other points of interest. The scenic Lake Guntersville State Park is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts, with its hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and picturesque views of the lake. For a taste of local history, be sure to visit the Scottsboro-Jackson Heritage Center, where you can learn about the county's past through exhibits and artifacts. And if you're a fan of the performing arts, check out the lineup at the Scottsboro-Jackson County Heritage Center, which hosts a variety of live music and theater performances throughout the year. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying some good old-fashioned fun, Jackson County has something for everyone. These are just a few of all the things you will find in Jackson County. With its diverse array of attractions, this charming corner of Alabama is the perfect destination for a memorable and enjoyable day trip.

Exploring the Enchanting Yule Forest in Stockbridge, Georgia

Lets go to a little town about 3 hours south of here. We drove down last year and loved this area at Christmas. During This festive season of the year, Warm Springs, Georgia, becomes a charming winter wonderland, offering visitors a festive escape filled with holiday cheer. The historic town, known for its picturesque landscapes and therapeutic springs, transforms into a magical destination with twinkling lights adorning the streets and storefronts. During the holidays, Candlelight Weekends are an experience you don’t want to miss! They have old-fashioned carolers singing through the town. Through the month of December, the charming town transforms into a holiday Hallmark movie! The historic buildings and city park are decked out with thousands of lights The ambiance is heartwarming as locals and visitors come together for special events such as the annual Christmas parade, where brilliantly decorated floats make their way through the town, spreading joy and merriment. The streets are lined with boutique shops, inviting shoppers to explore unique gifts and crafts, perfect for those seeking one-of-a-kind presents. Each of these are unique and worth a visit any time of year. The scent of seasonal treats through the air, drawing people to cozy cafes and bakeries offering delicious holiday treats. If you are looking for additional Christmas entertainment our historic town is within a twenty-minute drive to the beautiful Callaway Gardens and Resorts. During the holiday season 2,500 acres are decorated with 10 million Christmas lights and are drive-thru accessible. While you’re there, be sure to check out the Callaway Christmas Village, Christmas Market or have your photo with Santa. Warm Springs captures the spirit of Christmas with a mix of Southern hospitality and festive activities, creating lasting memories for all who experience the holiday magic in this quaint Georgia town. Just down the street is the historic Roosevelt's Little White House State Historic Site where Franklin Roosevelt would come and enjoy the hot springs. Find out more at these websites: Warm Springs, Georgia Guide Callaway Gardens

Dahlonega, Georgia is one of my absolute favorite towns to visit. It is a charming town nestled in the North Georgia mountains, known for its rich history, outdoor activities, and picturesque scenery. Whether you're interested in exploring its gold rush heritage, enjoying the natural beauty of the region, or their local cuisine, Dahlonega has something for everyone. Begin your visit by exploring the charming downtown area of Dahlonega, which features well-preserved historic buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and great restaurants. We always have to stop by the old general store, check out the merch and hear the player piano play by itself. The town square is the heart of Dahlonega and often hosts events and festivals throughout the year, the largest of which is the Gold Rush Festival which brings in up to 200,000 visitors in one weekend! If you’re planning on spending the night, try the Dahlonega Square Hotel, which is a cozy boutique hotel with a unique bed and breakfast experience. Dahlonega boasts a variety of dining options that are worth checking out, from Southern comfort food to international cuisines. Bourbon Street Grille is a New Orleans style restaurant serving Cajun and Creole food like gumbo and blackened catfish. The Smith House, which is located in a historic inn, offers classic southern dining, where you can enjoy fried chicken, cornbread, and apple pie. The Picnic Café and Dessertery is perfect for a casual breakfast or lunch. They serve sandwiches, salads, quiches, and delicious homemade desserts in a friendly, quaint setting. Be sure to stop by Paul Thomas Chocolates while you're there. There are many outdoor activities available in Dahlonega for everyone to enjoy because of its location in the North Georgia mountains. Dahlonega is a popular place to visit during the fall to enjoy the beautiful vibrant colors of autumn. You can go hiking in the Chattahoochee National Forest, explore waterfalls like Amicalola Falls, or go fishing and tubing on the Chestatee and Etowah Rivers. The area is also popular for camping, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Christmas time is an especially great time to visit. The town goes all-out with decorations and creates a magical Hallmark Christmas atmosphere. You can stroll among the decorated streets or take a romantic carriage ride through the downtown area. This you have to see to believe. Take a second, after you read this blog, and image search "Dahlonega Christmas". Dahlonega has significant history because it was the site of the first major gold rush in the United States in 1828, before the California Gold Rush. You can visit the Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site, where you can learn about the town's mining history, see gold nuggets, and even try your hand at gold panning.  Before embarking on your road trip to Dahlonega, come and see us @ Blackwell Automotive to ensure that your vehicle is in perfect shape for your trip! We hope that our recommendations are helpful and that you enjoy your visit to Dahlonega, Georgia! Come by and let us know how your trip went and what you enjoyed the most! Thank you for reading and please continue to check our blog for more road trip recommendations! Travel time: Approximately 2hr 10 min from Blackwell Automotive