Just a few minutes north of Tallahassee on Highway 27 is the lovely little town of Havana. Have you been to Havana, Florida? With all the quintessential quaintness and charm of a small Southern town, Havana also claims a unique history which started with shade tobacco.
Full of antique shops, cafes, and murals, Havana is a fabulous find for both foodies and shoppers seeking a peaceful and scenic place to explore. You can leisurely stroll the streets and discover prime photo ops or the perfect memento to take back home.
Come with me now on this pretty pictorial tour of Havana.
Welcome to Havana, Florida. This adorable town of under 2,000 residents is known for its friendliness and its history of growing shade tobacco. There is even a shade tobacco museum that many have called a hidden gen. Havana is also now known for a growing number of fantastic art galleries and festivals.
SO MANY MURALS
Don’t you just love murals? I certainly do! Havana has an abundance of attractive murals which depict trains, fountains, bicycles, quilts, flowers, and more. I appreciate the talent of artists who share their vibrant creations so that all may enjoy.
SO MUCH TO EXPLORE
The community park area includes a butterfly garden where water bubbles from the top of a giant blue urn. Nearby is a Veterans memorial, a library, and a playground.
Blue urn with bubbling water makes my joy bubble over.
DOWNTOWN DELIGHTS
For such a small town, Havana is extremely picturesque. Community pride is evident in every shop, every festival, and every yard sale. The Planter’s Exchange and the Shade Tobacco museum honor the local history. Newer not-to-miss spots include the AHA Art Gallery and Weezie’s Cottage.
Dang, y’all, such a cute yard sale.
A MOST PLEASANT PLACE
On the outskirts of town is a most pleasant and wonderful place called Whitetail Hollow Farms. Once or twice a year they offer a tour to educate visitors about the holistic practices used on this outstanding agritourism farmstead. I love their huge variety of animals, especially cows, ducks, chickens, and emu.
Havana is a most pleasant place where life moves at a most pleasant pace. Have you been to Havana, Florida yet? Be sure to visit and allow the complete charm of this small town to embrace you. Dang, y’all will be glad you did!
The emu will be glad to see you. Don’t be chicken to come visit !!
Decatur Street, New Orleans: Colorful Architecture, Balconies, & Street Lamps.
How To Relax At Jackson Square In New Orleans
Here is a pictorial guide to my favorite ways to relax in and around the Jackson Square area of the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. You can spend several leisurely hours in this one small section of the city. This is an awesome place to try to see and do everything. Or RELAX, do hardly anything, yet still take tons of great photos to help remember your day.
Beauty & Celebration Take Many Forms
Practically as soon as I step out of the vehicle, at the Jax Lot (corner of Decatur and Toulouse), I begin to shoot photos. The architecture of old buildings (many from the 1700’s) combines so well with balconies and the fancy ornamentation of the wrought iron.
Wrought Iron: Great View In The Vieux Carre
New Orleans celebrates everything. On this most recent visit, I spoke with folks enjoying reunions, honeymoons, graduations, and retirements. Perhaps you can figure out which special day it was when you spot the green shamrocks. Yes, the ones on the balcony above the horse-drawn carriage.
The Crescent City Always Creates Memories
Down by the River
The riverfront is a photo op where you can see either the City of New Orleans or the Steamboat Natchez. There are two sections of the riverfront park. Woldenberg was named for a funder, while Moonwalk was named for former mayor “Moon” Landrieu.
City Of New Orleans Sits On The Mississippi River
While at the river you may see a gate where hundred of padlocks have been attached. This spot is known as Love Wins. It is where happy couples pledge their everlasting love together. It may not be historic, but Love Wins is a beautiful spot for anyone who believes in romantic love.
Couple Pledge Their Love With Locks Then Throw Key In River
Works of Art
After you climb the stairs to see the cannon at Washington Artillery Park, you may wish to browse for souvenirs or local art. You have three choices; local indoor shops, the open-air French Market, or the art displayed all around the fencing of Jackson Square. How exciting to search for your special memento as you wonder which of the local artists already is, or may become, famous.
THIS! This Is A Classic Scene At Jackson Square! Art Is Found Everywhere At Every Price Range
Take some time to consider the St. Louis Cathedral and the Andrew Jackson statue. Hopefully, you can put aside any religious or political issues long enough to appreciate that they are each a genuine work of art in their own way. Really stopping to take some mindfulness moments here at Jackson Square can be so very soothing on multiple levels. Listen to the sounds of the city, smell the newly mown lawn, watch the people who watch the artists who capture the joy of this place on canvas.
Works Of Art In Their Own Way
Colorful Characters
Call them weird, unexpected, bizarre, or fascinating… there is no shortage of colorful characters in this section of New Orleans.
Just One Of Many Characters At Jackson Square
You may spot a colorful character who is riding a bike, or playing an instrument, or is one of the many other types of street performers. Some seem to wear outlandish clothes for no reason, while others seek attention long enough to pass out literature for a favorite cause. And, of course, some are simply promoting the goods and services they want you to buy.
What’s This, A Living Leprechaun?
My Favorite Happy Ending
How many times have I been to New Orleans? SO, so many that I’ve lost count. But I can tell you this, my all-time favorite way to end a visit in the “Big Easy” is to sit leisurely eating fresh and hot beignets at Café du Monde. To me, life just does not get much better than that! I’ve stopped there with relatives or by myself. On this occasion I was with my best friend. We were having a wonderful time doing what everyone should do in New Orleans… and that is to take it easy and make very precious memories…and remember how to relax at Jackson Square in New Orleans!
Bainbridge, Georgia is a sweet small Southern town that you should visit!
When you seek the charm and hospitality of a welcoming and beautiful Southern town, then head to Bainbridge, Georgia. There you will find genuine joy as you explore architecture, culture, and history. The friendly local residents will point you in the right direction for food, art, music, shopping, and other entertainment.
A stroll around Willis Park is a photographer’s dream.
On the first Saturday in February I headed to Bainbridge to enjoy the second annual Bainbridge Jazz & Blues Festival. The main stage for such events is most often located at Willis Park. Here you can find cannons, monuments, a fountain, and a gazebo.
The morning’s anticipation leads to so many delights.
While waiting for the show to begin, I admired the details on several buildings and browsed in a couple of shops. I got some delicious coffee at The Bean Cafe. I struck up conversations with folks from nearby towns of Albany, Colquitt, and Tallahassee. We all agreed that the recent downtown revitalization has done wonders for Bainbridge and given a fresh new energy to this lovely little destination.
BBQ is a feast for the senses.
FOOD !!! For many of us, food is one of the first things we think of when setting out for a day of fun. Tyler Thomas (owner/chef The American) seemed to be everywhere at once, overseeing every detail. He was cooking the ribs, making sure the tents were set up, double checking lights and microphones. He and about a dozen other business owners sponsored the festival and made sure all went well. Inside The American, his wife Heather made sure all customers were happy, whether with a full meal or perhaps a slice of cheesecake.
Local sketchbook art shows such variety.
ART !!! The Firehouse Arts Center is an elegantly restored historic landmark that now hosts numerous art and cultural events. The sketchbook pin-up was a perfect way to introduce visitors to small examples of local art as they mingled and took in the surroundings.
There is just something soothing about a saxophone.
MUSIC…
MUSIC !!! Jazz and Blues both originated in the Southern USA in the late 1800’s and most often include horns, keyboard, drums, and an upright bass. Above, the Reese Cloud Quartet featured a super smooth saxophone better than most.
Talented musicians and singers graced five stages.
Meanwhile, over at Southern Philosophy, Rachel Hillman shows everyone what an awesome singer/songwriter/guitarist and her friends can do. While there, I grabbed a chance to see the brewing equipment and taste some samples.
Lots of adorable fur babies took in all the sights.
DOGS!!! Well, maybe that should be Dawgs…this is Georgia, after all! Lots of dogs of every shape and size were enjoying the cool day with their owners. From chihuahua to mastiff, at the festival every dog had its day.
The dogs were as varied as the people.
All the dogs seemed to be on their best behavior. Each one is just so dang cute!
Beautiful smiles just make my heart happy.
HAPPY FACES… so sweet!
HAPPY FACES !!! The Bainbridge Jazz & Blues Festival certainly gave everyone lots of reasons to smile.
Pure contentment on a totally relaxing day.
I love talking with new acquaintances and making new friends all over the South. Sometimes the conversation is brief, while at other times I get to interview folks and find out what makes them joyful.
Unexpected reunion with cousins was a deep pleasure.
A big thrill was running into my cousin Johnny and his wife Brenda. We had not seen each other in several years, so catching up was very gratifying as we regaled one another with recent family stories.
Everyone who made the day a success deserves a round of applause.
At Hook and Ladder, a wonderful open air venue, folks clapped in appreciation for the Ben Flournoy Trio. It made me think of how every sponsor and every individual who worked so hard on this festival really should be receiving a clap, a hug, or something.
THANK YOU, BAINBRIDGE, FOR A GREAT JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVAL !!
In 2021 I traveled through seven southern states and took hundreds of photos. I chose two from each state to share with you. Now I’m asking you to consider each one carefully, then vote for your favorite by leaving a Comment.
Narrowing them down to only 14 was quite difficult, yet a very enjoyable trip down memory lane. Every state has tons of beauty and vibrant colors. Were you able to get out and embrace any great spots in the past year?
If you ever want suggestions about any of these areas, I will be delighted to share my thoughts. Travelers should encourage one another to explore all the precious places that surround us.
Here are my photos, alphabetically by state.
ALABAMA
Fields of lavender were ready for harvest in the aptly named town of Harvest, Alabama. Lavender is said to represent silence and calmness, while the pretty purple color is often associated with royalty. I walked though this lovely area in silence and calmness, feeling like royalty as I took in all the allure of these exquisite flowers. https://www.facebook.com/Lavenderwynde
Early one morning I happened upon an eerie and mysterious site full of ruins in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Pieces of columns and wall took me by surprise, and I was completely fascinated. This had once been a grand building and had burned down in 1923.
FLORIDA
Folks who love hunting for antiques need to visit the small town of Havana, Florida. This is one of several nice murals in a setting of multiple antique shops and quaint cafes. Havana was once known for growing shade tobacco. A few old tobacco barns still exist and there is even a small museum dedicated to the subject.
Bradley’s Country Store in Tallahassee, Florida began in 1927. They make delicious sausage and host an annual fun day that includes music, art, and lots of activities. That is where I took this shot of horse drawn carriages by a scenic lakeside.
GEORGIA
Caught this fabulous shot at my favorite time of day (early morning) in Rome, Georgia. I love misty mountains, rain, and cemeteries…was thrilled to see them all in this photo. If you love old cemeteries, you must visit Myrtle Hill which has six terraces and over 30 tree varieties and is a gorgeous (and possibly haunted) destination.
The elegant fountain in Forsyth Park is a most picturesque place in Savannah, Georgia. It was built in 1858 and is surrounded by oaks, magnolias, and just about more park benches than you could count. Can you guess why the water is temporarily turned green every March?
MISSISSIPPI
In Columbus, Mississippi I was honored to interview a most unique and totally unforgettable character. Her name is Edwina Williams, but everyone knows her as “Mother Goose”. For over 30 years she has captured the hearts and imaginations of folks through her songs, stories, and her advocacy for literacy. People like her make life so special. For more info: https://www.columbusmainstreet.com/staff/mother-goose-little-goose/
In Tupelo, Mississippi I sloshed through snow to share a private moment with Elvis…okay, fine, with this STATUE of Elvis! Even though the snow had closed down nearly everything, I enjoyed taking photos of many Elvis-related items and his birthplace. https://www.tupelo.net/
NORTH CAROLINA
Fayetteville, North Carolina is fortunate to have Cape Fear Botanical Garden. If you love flowers, you could spend many happy hours wandering their 80 acres. It includes a river bluff, an old farmhouse, and a lake. There are so many photo ops! The daylily section is a true spectacle of color from every angle. For more info https://www.capefearbg.org/ .
Just off Interstate 95 in Hope Mills, North Carolina you can find Dirtbag Ales. A group of friends began brewing beer, then added food. They kept growing this one-of-a-kind spot that now includes playground, dog park, music, and farmer’s market. The place and the beer are simply beyond awesome. https://www.dirtbagales.com/
In the historic district of downtown Florence sits Top Hat Special-Teas, a pretty pink place where Laurie is the tea queen! It is tearoom, museum, and educational space combined to thrill and tickle the taste buds. View these brewing accessories and enjoy tea, quiche, and scones. https://www.facebook.com/tophatspecialteas .
TENNESSEE
Apple Valley Orchard in Cleveland, Tennessee is where I interviewed the owner of this family apple business and got this practically perfect picture of little green apples still growing on the trees. Happy little apples on happy little trees, I’m sure. https://applevalleyorchard.com/ .
These cute colors prove that there is art in architecture! Fayetteville, Tennessee is full of fantastic buildings with tons of history. Many of them are also full of antiques and colorful characters. https://www.fayettevilletn.com/tourism.php .
Conclusion
Thanks for checking out these photos. They were just a small sample of what I discovered on my 2021 travels as I sought to Embrace Southern States!!! Now, it is time for you to leave a nice Comment to VOTE for your favorite. Please share your thoughts and we can all decide the winners… together.
Wouldn’t it be nice to see some natural beauty right now? I am so thankful to live in the Florida Panhandle where nature and beauty put on a living art exhibit every day of the year. Nature is the nicest neighbor.
My human neighbors are just fine, but I don’t find myself eager to photograph them. Yes, they look okay, but nature outshines them.
All of the photos in this article were taken in Florida, most locations identified in captions.
It was lots of fun to browse through my photos and find just the thing that you can enjoy with me right now. Think of this as a refreshing pictorial break from whatever you are doing… a “walk in the woods” or “walk on the wildflower side”. Hope you find at least a couple of these that make you want to come visit or at least to share some thoughts!
Meander through the woods with me on this pleasant path.
A path at Lichgate on High Road in Tallahassee.
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Find Live Oaks showing off their friendship with Spanish Moss.
At Old City Cemetery in Tallahassee.
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Perhaps you prefer a vantage with a view of the local wildflowers.
Open field on Christy Cary Lane in Tallahassee.
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Happy flowers here attract the Zebra Longwing butterfly.
On my street (no I won’t post the name)!
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These Camellias bloom from November through January.
In my yard and so gorgeous.
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Then the Azaleas bloom from February through April.
Also in my own yard adding so much beauty.
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The gorgeous clusters on the Beautyberry can last for months.
Yep, still in my neighborhood. LOVE the color!
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Large creeks in Florida have alligators, turtles, and great fishing.
Black Creek is located in Middleburg, Florida.
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Lily pads seem so relaxed as they enjoy the sunshine.
Lovely lily pads located on Black Creek.
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Adventure awaits around the next bend!
This track is in Gadsden County near Havana, Florida.
-_-_-_-_-_-_ < Dang, sure hope y’all like the photos! > -_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_
By the way, if you are actually reading this…THANK YOU! Now could you do me a really super HUGE favor? Using the hashtag #embracesouthernstates please connect with me on these sites:
Drive slowly and discover southern farms that are picture perfect during your next road trip. Or to borrow a line from Foghat, “slow ride, take it easy”. Yes, I know that’s not what the song was about, but it still applies. Trying to break new speed records is not a good idea when on a road trip. That is especially true on curvy mountain roads.
Come on along with me and let’s take a look at some farms in the southern United States. Let’s make a game out of it. Which farm photo do you like best? Does it somehow soothe your soul? Does it evoke pleasant memories, or inspire your bucket list?
Do you prefer alpaca, horse, or sheep? Do you prefer apple, corn, or lavender? Is a young mystery crop more interesting with curves or with mountains? These are the bonus questions in today’s game. No, you don’t get to win a car or a vacation…but perhaps you will be on the lookout for such sights from your car window during your next vacation.
You should know that photographers usually crop and edit photos to bring out some extra little pop. But the ones I’ve chosen to share with you here are exactly the way I shot them. I wanted you to get a sense of what I saw and why it captured my attention. I will even tell you what time of day it was and stuff like that. Ready, let’s go!
This little alpaca farm with an adorable group of grazers is located near the tiny town of Minor Hill, Tennessee. Photo was shot around 10am on a cloudy morning. I like how you can see the shadow of the tree and the slight incline of the ground.
Horses are such beautiful creatures and can have so many color variations. Do you think this one is closer to chestnut or sorrel? This was taken at 9am on a nice clear day in Meridianville, Alabama.
I like this photo despite the obvious fence. I mean, sheep are just so cute and hard to resist, right? This is “1818 Farms” in Mooresville, Alabama. The tiny historic village is a true photographer’s dream. Taken at 9am (yes the majority of my pics are early morning).
Taken at 8:40am! Apple Valley Orchards in Cleveland, Tennessee is a family business where they avoid harsh chemicals. Their apple cider is awesome. So is the experience of walking around acres of apples still growing on the trees.
Loved seeing the vast corn fields leading your eye to the silver silos, mountains, and dark clouds as rain was approaching. Taken at 10:10am in Owens Cross Roads, Alabama.
Lavender Wynde is a small herb farm in Harvest, Alabama. Shot at 11:15 that bright morning. If I had waited two days, it would have been harvested and gone.
Not too far from Colquitt, Georgia and between rain showers, I just had to snap this one because I love seeing a “mystery crop”. I also like how the rows curve and how you can see the irrigation system in the background. It was 9:30am, I know you were wondering!
At 11:07am I crossed over from Tennessee and into North Carolina…and at 11:09 I pulled over to admire this sight. No idea what the crop is, but the way it gives depth to the scene is super. Some folks prefer a beach scene, I am much more drawn to mountains.
So there you have it. Eight simple and unedited photos. These southern farms are picture perfect just as they are. Southern road trips are so much fun. I hope you get to enjoy one very soon. Be sure to take a good camera.
Alpaca, horse, or sheep? Apple, corn, or lavender? A curved mystery crop combined with an irrigation system, or a straight one combined with cute clouds and mountains?
Oh, travel! Such a glorious and joyful discovery waits around every corner. For almost one year I have been sharing interviews, articles, and ideas about exuberant people and places in the southern USA. Now I am ready to share with you my current bucket list.
Always on the search for whimsical art.
This list includes at least three places I want to visit in each of the 13 states that I cover. The things I am most eager to see are whimsical art, unusual museums, natural beauty, and a great mix of big city highlights or small town charm.
Just one example of a lovely view. An old barn could definitely be found in many small towns.
YOU NEED TO share your own unique feedback about these choices. What did YOU see and do in any of these spots? Travel blogs like this are SO MUCH better when good folks like you take time to give helpful comments.
Here are my bucket list destinations, as they stand at this moment.
ALABAMA: Florence & the “Shoals” ; Forkland ; Selma
ARKANSAS: Eureka Springs ; Fayetteville ; Fort Smith
FLORIDA: Key Biscayne ; Key Largo ; Key West
GEORGIA: Blue Ridge; Ellijay; “Pasaquan” near Buena Vista
KENTUCKY: Lexington ; Morehead ; Paducah
LOUISIANA: Covington ; Natchitoches ; Shreveport
MISSOURI: Branson ; Novelty ; St. Louis
MISSISSIPPI: Jackson ; Leland ; Natchez
NORTH CAROLINA: Fayetteville; Kill Devil Hills; Raleigh; Wilson
WEST VIRGINIA: Charleston; Charles Town; Harpers Ferry; Morgantown
There you have it…my 13 southern states bucket list. Remember, if your favorite town is not on the list, perhaps I have already been there. I really hope you will take just a minute to add your positive comments about any town which IS ON this list. Thank you.
