Rathbone Mansions
Historic New Orleans Hotel, Steps From the French Quarter
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Insiders Guide of things to do, eats and drinks in New Orleans

Rathbone Mansions Insiders Guide

With its unique, vibrant history, award winning chefs, craft cocktail bars, and party atmosphere, there's no wonder NOLA is consistently ranked one of the best cities to visit. We've got you covered with insiders' tips on the best places to visit, eat and drink during your stay. Click through our blog for suggestions, current events and truly experience New Orleans like a local.

New Orleans has a unique, vibrant history, award winning chefs, craft cocktails galore, and a low-key, Southern fun atmosphere. There's no wonder NOLA is consistently ranked one of the best US cities to visit.  We've got you covered with tips on locals' favorite spots to check out during your stay. Scroll through our blog for suggestions, current events and truly experience New Orleans like a local.

 

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Seven Parks to Visit in the South

At Rathbone Mansions we appreciate green spaces all over the South. For a list of parks near the hotel, CLICK HERE. For road trip ideas, keep reading!

Since so many of us have stayed put during the nation’s “lockdown” period, I think it may be a good idea to get out and see what nature has to offer. Here’s a list of seven parks where you and your friends and family can enjoy some of the best natural beauty the south has to offer.

There’s nothing like the healing power of the great outdoors

There’s nothing like the healing power of the great outdoors

I. Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina/Tennessee) 

This park is spread over the North Carolina/Tennessee border and offers over 500,000 acres of Southern Appalachian natural beauty, wildlife and culture. It has over 800 miles of trails and an estimated 1,500 black bears. You can stop at scenic spots such as Mount Le Conte, which is the third-highest peak in the park.

It’s popular because it’s accessible from major cities such as Atlanta, Charlotte, Asheville, Knoxville and Nashville. In mid-September the trees start to change from green to bright oranges, yellows and reds.  

II. Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)

You’ll be able to enjoy 5,550 acres of hilly forest, scenic hiking trails and, best of all, thermal hot springs – where the park gets its name. Since the mid-19th century, bathhouses have been a staple here. You can bathe in the hot spring water at Buckstaff Baths, which has operated in the park for over 100 years.

Have you heard? Swimming works every single major muscle group in your body. Go for it!

Have you heard? Swimming works every single major muscle group in your body. Go for it!

This park is one of Arkansas’ best-kept secrets. It’s as picturesque today as when it was launched in 1832 and predates Yellowstone (1872), which is traditionally recognized as the country’s first national park.

III. Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky)

In the hilly terrain of south central Kentucky you’ll find Mammoth Cave National Park. It has over 400 miles of explored passages and is the longest known cave system in the world. There is no entrance fee to the park. However, fees are required for tours and camping. For your first visit, the Historic Tour or the Domes and Dripstones Tour are good options.

Allow at least three hours to take a tour and see exhibits in the Visitors’ Center. If you enjoy nature hikes you can easily spend a full day or more at Mammoth Cave National Park.

IV. Tallulah Gorge State Park (Georgia)

This is undoubtedly one of the most stunning river canyons in the southern states. The beautiful rugged terrain of Tullulah Gorge State Park offers spellbinding waterfalls, pools and the Tallulah River. The Hurricane Bridge, a swaying suspension bridge, hovers 80 ft. above the rocky gorge and offers breathtaking views of the park.

This gorge is located 90 miles from Atlanta and, if you drive you can park close to the Visitors’ Center – it is only a short walk from there to the falls. This picturesque canyon is two miles long and nearly 1,000 ft. deep.

V. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)

When you see the rugged mountains, serene hollows and beautiful waterfalls of Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park it’s hard to believe that Washington D.C. is less than 100 miles away. But, rest assured, this Blue Ridge Mountain wilderness is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. The Skyline Drive runs the entire length of the park.

For fall foliage weekends – now, through October – you can do the entire length of the Skyline Drive in about three hours without stopping. The entrance fee is $25 per vehicle.

VI. Congaree National Park (South Carolina)

This is one of the country’s newest national parks. It is spread over 25,000 acres. Whether you are coming for a short stroll on the boardwalk or taking a canoe trip down Cedar Creek this park has a variety of ways for you to enjoy your visit. Come and explore the splendor of one of the oldest and tallest forests east of the Mississippi.

The entire boardwalk trail is wood and is easy to walk. You’ll see a wide diversity of trees and plant life. This park is about 20 miles south of Columbia, South Carolina and roughly 120 miles northwest of Charleston.

Walking is one of the best ways to exercise – it costs nothing and makes one feel great

Walking is one of the best ways to exercise – it costs nothing and makes one feel great

VII. Everglades National Park (Florida)

An awe-inspiring array of wildlife call the Everglades National Park home – there’s everything from wading birds such as great egrets and wood storks to Florida panthers and American alligators. This park is 1.5 million acres of wetland and offers a wide range of activities: you can go camping, ride a bike, paddle a canoe, hike a trail, climb a tower or just watch a sunset.

There is a per person fee when one comes by bike or walking and enters at the main entrance – this is good for seven consecutive days. Individuals 16-years-old and younger are admitted free. Kids love this park!

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Rathbone Mansions