Debra Pamplin-Todd
Jacksonville
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Articles by Debra Pamplin-Todd
This Small City By The Georgia-Florida Border Has A Historic Downtown Brimming With Southern Charm
Throughout the state of Georgia, there are several small towns with a claim to fame. St. Marys is the gateway to Cumberland Island, while Helen is the gateway to a German-inspired fairytale. Then, there's Folkston, Georgia, the gateway to the Okefenokee Swamp Park. This small town is located on the Florida-Georgia border, approximately an hour-long drive east of Jacksonville, along U.S. Highway 1.
Situated between Nashville and Knoxville is Tennessee's artsy city known for Victorian charm and scenic views
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Situated Between Nashville And Knoxville Is Tennessee's Artsy City Known For Victorian Charm And Scenic Views
Tennessee is full of towns and cities famous for music, mountains, and mesmerizing natural beauty. Towards the east, cities like Nashville and Knoxville are music hubs, boasting live music and a strong musical background. Known as the "Cradle of Country Music," Knoxville is where artists such as Dolly Parton, Chet Atkins, and Roy Acuff began their careers. Knoxville is also where the South's oldest symphony orchestra resides.
Oklahoma's Underrated Mountain City Of Towering Waterfalls And Zipline Adventure Is A Thrill Seeker's Dream
Aerial view of 77-foot waterfall in Turner Falls State Park - Patrick Horton/Shutterstock It's common knowledge that Oklahoma is home to the Sooners, hard-working cowboys, and oil fields. Less commonly known is that the Sooner State is also home to some pretty impressive waterfalls. Throughout the state, there are 35 locations with cascades and waterfalls.
Hidden In The Alleghenies Is A Peaceful Mountain Escape With Skiing, Nature Trails, And Scenic State Parks
Nestled within West Virginia's Allegheny Mountains is the Canaan Valley, a hidden area featuring a wealth of outdoor activities, regardless of the season. The valley contains three towns: Thomas, Davis, and Parsons. Davis is the state's highest incorporated town, while the underrated city of Thomas features waterfalls and nature trails. Parsons offers additional outdoor experiences, including 26 miles of hiking and biking trails.
Between Akron And Cleveland Is Ohio's 'Tree City USA' Getaway With Family-Friendly Parks, Trails, And Outdoor Fun
There are many charming small towns in Ohio that offer up a relaxed atmosphere, but one city stands out for its prioritization of nature in particular. Known as one of Ohio's Tree City USA locations, Stow has received national recognition for 44 years as a part of that community. The National Arbor Day Foundation presents this award for a city's hard work and achievements regarding woodlands and trees.
Between Norfork And Batesville Is Arkansas' Town Pairing Trout Fishing And Trails With A Quaint Downtown
Most city names in the United States belong to multiple states. Springfield, Franklin, and Centerville can be found throughout the nation. Arkansas is home to the world's one and only Calico Rock. This city's name was created by French fur traders around 1820. After seeing White River's multi-colored bluffs, it reminded them of calico cloth, prompting the traders to name the area "Calico Roche" or "Calico Rock" as it's known in English.
Between Norfork And Batesville Is Arkansas' Town Pairing Trout Fishing And Trails With A Quaint Downtown Original
Most city names in the United States belong to multiple states. Springfield, Franklin, and Centerville can be found throughout the nation. Arkansas is home to the world's one and only Calico Rock. This city's name was created by French fur traders around 1820. After seeing White River's multi-colored bluffs, it reminded them of calico cloth, prompting the traders to name the area "Calico Roche" or "Calico Rock" as it's known in English.
Wedged Between Two North Carolina Rivers Is This Sweet, Scenic Town With Craft Brews, Wine, And Outdoor Fun
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Outside St. Louis Is A Missouri City Full Of Parks, Restaurants, And A Stunning Bird Sanctuary
The Show-Me State is well-known for gambling establishments (like this charming casino in Boonville), the Kansas City Chiefs' Arrowhead Stadium, and one of the best-rated zoos in the Midwest. The metropolis of St. Louis is home to the Gateway Arch National Park, which stands out among more than five dozen national parks in the country as the only one that is completely within city limits.
Outside St. Louis Is A Missouri City Full Of Parks, Restaurants, And A Stunning Bird Sanctuary Original
The Show-Me State is well-known for gambling establishments (like this charming casino in Boonville), the Kansas City Chiefs' Arrowhead Stadium, and one of the best-rated zoos in the Midwest. The metropolis of St. Louis is home to the Gateway Arch National Park, which stands out among more than five dozen national parks in the country as the only one that is completely within city limits.
Wedged Between Two North Carolina Rivers Is This Sweet, Scenic Town With Craft Brews, Wine, And Outdoor Fun
North Carolina offers a well-kept, hidden gem of a town that sits in the valley between two common vacation towns. Situated twenty minutes from both Asheville and Hendersonville, North Carolina, the small town of Mills River can be found. Greenville, South Carolina, is also nearby, accessible by a 30-minute drive. Prefer to fly instead? Hop a plane to land at Asheville Regional Airport and take off in a rental car to reach Mills River.
Wedged Between Two North Carolina Rivers Is This Sweet, Scenic Town With Craft Brews, Wine, And Outdoor Fun Original
North Carolina offers a well-kept, hidden gem of a town that sits in the valley between two common vacation towns. Situated twenty minutes from both Asheville and Hendersonville, North Carolina, the small town of Mills River can be found. Greenville, South Carolina, is also nearby, accessible by a 30-minute drive. Prefer to fly instead? Hop a plane to land at Asheville Regional Airport and take off in a rental car to reach Mills River.
Wedged Between Two North Carolina Rivers Is This Sweet, Scenic Town With Craft Brews, Wine, And Outdoor Fun
Why one man says the ‘airport divorce’ is the best way to start a vacation This week in travel: a secret garden is a secret no longer in Beijing, one of France’s classic pastries is the subject of a surprising debate, and why some couples are ditching each other at the airport. Divide and conquer He likes arriving four hours early for a domestic flight and then chilling in …
Missouri's 'Gateway To The Ozarks' Features Numerous Springs, A Trout Pond, Hiking Trails, And Local Charm Original
Known as the "Show Me State," Missouri earned its nickname from its rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, caves ripe for exploration, and sparkling lakes, all of which showcase an abundance of natural beauty. Neosho, a small city in the southwestern part of the state, certainly lives up to the state's motto. While Neosho itself is quite lovely, it also serves as a gateway to the Ozarks, a highland region rich in flora and fauna that extends across several states.
Missouri's 'Gateway To The Ozarks' Features Numerous Springs, A Trout Pond, Hiking Trails, And Local Charm
Known as the "Show Me State," Missouri earned its nickname from its rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, caves ripe for exploration, and sparkling lakes, all of which showcase an abundance of natural beauty. Neosho, a small city in the southwestern part of the state, certainly lives up to the state's motto. While Neosho itself is quite lovely, it also serves as a gateway to the Ozarks, a highland region rich in flora and fauna that extends across several states.
Between Little Rock And Hot Springs Is An Arkansas City Offering Off-Roading, Cabins, And Park Access
Arkansas gained the nickname of the Natural State officially in 1995, based on its superb natural landscapes that transform seamlessly from rich farmland, rushing rivers, lush forests, rolling hills, and a few mountain ranges. A gem of the state might be Hobbs State Park, Arkansas' largest state park, located in a city about 200 miles away from the state capital. Though not as well-known, there's a city closer to Little Rock built for outdoor adventurists.
Between Little Rock And Hot Springs Is An Arkansas City Offering Off-Roading, Cabins, And Park Access Original
Arkansas gained the nickname of the Natural State officially in 1995, based on its superb natural landscapes that transform seamlessly from rich farmland, rushing rivers, lush forests, rolling hills, and a few mountain ranges. A gem of the state might be Hobbs State Park, Arkansas' largest state park, located in a city about 200 miles away from the state capital. Though not as well-known, there's a city closer to Little Rock built for outdoor adventurists.
California's Underrated Town In The Mountains Boasts Rich Gold Rush History And Vibrant Fall Foliage
Although it is now the third-largest state in the U.S., California once had a population of just around 14,000 people. California's population boom was a direct result of the gold rush back in 1848. A few years into the California Gold Rush, miners flocked to Weaverville after news broke of Pierceson B. Reading's success from mining the Trinity River. Today, abandoned mining shelters, picked-over mines, and perfectly preserved gold rush towns are all remnants of the state's historical gold rush.
Situated Between Nashville And Knoxville Is Tennessee's Artsy City Known For Victorian Charm And Scenic Views
Tennessee is full of towns and cities famous for music, mountains, and mesmerizing natural beauty. Towards the east, cities like Nashville and Knoxville are music hubs, boasting live music and a strong musical background. Known as the "Cradle of Country Music," Knoxville is where artists such as Dolly Parton, Chet Atkins, and Roy Acuff began their careers. Knoxville is also where the South's oldest symphony orchestra resides.
Texas' Premier Family-Owned Adventure Park Is A Huge Underground World Of Fun And Unique Beauty In San Antonio
Located just outside of San Antonio, the family-run Natural Bridge Caverns holds several titles and claims to fame that set it apart from other nearby locations, such as the Longhorn Cavern State Park, less than a two-hour drive from San Antonio. The caverns are the seventh-longest cavern system in the state of Texas and the biggest, based on volume. With 400,000 yearly visitors, it was listed as the state's most actively explored cavern system from 2019 through 2023.
Texas' Premier Family-Owned Adventure Park Is A Huge Underground World Of Fun And Unique Beauty In San Antonio
As many San Antonio restaurants are making their mark on the statewide, national and even international stage (hello Michelin!), there are still more …
Alabama's NASCAR City Is An Unexpectedly Serene Wilderness Getaway For Hikers, Campers, And Adventurers
The state of Alabama is filled with landmarks from the civil rights movement, bordered by beautiful beaches, and topped off with heaping helpings of Southern hospitality. The "Heart of Dixie" has some standout locations with unique titles, such as Albertville, which is the "fire hydrant capital of the world." The state's oldest city, Childersburg, is home to an ethereal cave system. For motorsports fans, Alabama is home to a very important destination: Talladega's Superspeedway in Lincoln.
This Small City By The Georgia-Florida Border Has A Historic Downtown Brimming With Southern Charm
Folkston, Georgia is known as the gateway to the Okefenokee Swamp Park, located on the Florida-Georgia border. The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge in Folkston covers 680 square miles and offers opportunities for camping, wildlife viewing, and swamp boat rides. Train enthusiasts gather at the Folkston Funnel in Folkston to watch passing trains on double tracks heading to or from Jacksonville and other parts of Georgia.
This Small City By The Georgia-Florida Border Has A Historic Downtown Brimming With Southern Charm
Throughout the state of Georgia, there are several small towns with a claim to fame. St. Marys is the gateway to Cumberland Island, while Helen is the gateway to a German-inspired fairytale. Then, there's Folkston, Georgia, the gateway to the Okefenokee Swamp Park. This small town is located on the Florida-Georgia border, approximately an hour-long drive east of Jacksonville, along U.S. Highway 1.
One Of America's Top Retirement Destinations Is A Charming Outdoor Paradise In Arkansas' Ozark Mountains
When adults retire, many become snowbirds, relocating to sunny states like Florida or Arizona. For those seeking four seasons in a retirement destination, a top contender is a city nestled in the scenic Ozarks region. Bella Vista, situated in the northwestern corner of the Natural State, got its start as a resort town in the 1920s.
One Of America's Top Retirement Destinations Is A Charming Outdoor Paradise In Arkansas' Ozark Mountains
It’s Going to Be an “Intense, Stormy Winter.” These Cities Will Get the Most Snow. Most of us make our holiday travel plans well in advance, before knowing what the winter forecast will bring. We hope those plans won’t be changed by what we eventually learn. Well, the verdict is in. We have an “intense, stormy winter” ahead for some parts of the country, according to the …
California's National Forest On Oregon's Border Is A Vast Outdoor Gem With Renowned Campgrounds And Rafting Original
Sprawling across 1.7 million acres throughout Northern California and into southern Oregon, the Klamath National Forest & Butte Valley National Grassland provide perfect environments for campers, rafters, and wildlife enthusiasts. Its also nearby other outdoor adventures, such as Mt. Shasta and Trinity National Forest. Numerous trails lead the way into the wilderness, ranging from a moderate level of hiking to easy foot travel for guests and their horses.
California's National Forest On Oregon's Border Is A Vast Outdoor Gem With Renowned Campgrounds And Rafting
Sprawling across 1.7 million acres throughout Northern California and into southern Oregon, the Klamath National Forest & Butte Valley National Grassland provide perfect environments for campers, rafters, and wildlife enthusiasts. Its also nearby other outdoor adventures, such as Mt. Shasta and Trinity National Forest. Numerous trails lead the way into the wilderness, ranging from a moderate level of hiking to easy foot travel for guests and their horses.
Between Phoenix And Flagstaff Is 'Arizona's Country Town' With Friendly Farms And Four-Season Fun Original
Arizona is the nation's sixth-largest state by area, boasting a population of 7.58 million in 2025, and is known for its prime tourist destinations, including the Grand Canyon National Park, one of the seven wonders of the natural world. Anchor cities such as Phoenix, Tucson, Sedona, and Flagstaff offer plenty of beautiful arid landscapes, such as the desert gem Saguaro National Park, located just west of Tucson.
Between Phoenix And Flagstaff Is 'Arizona's Country Town' With Friendly Farms And Four-Season Fun
Arizona is the nation's sixth-largest state by area, boasting a population of 7.58 million in 2025, and is known for its prime tourist destinations, including the Grand Canyon National Park, one of the seven wonders of the natural world. Anchor cities such as Phoenix, Tucson, Sedona, and Flagstaff offer plenty of beautiful arid landscapes, such as the desert gem Saguaro National Park, located just west of Tucson.
Northern Mississippi's 'Friendliest Town' Is A Charming Destination With Fall Foliage And An Annual Autumn Festival
Mississippi is ideal for travelers looking for the natural beauty of fall foliage. Considered to be the most affordable state for scenic byway road trips, there are plenty of beautiful locations to drive through.
Wyoming's Glorious Fall Foliage Colors Are On Full Show Alongside This Lofty, Mountainous Skyway
Leaf peeping season has arrived, and many consider the New England states to be home to the prettiest fall hues. New Hampshire and Vermont are two destinations that are ranked among America's finest fall foliage getaways, and Pennsylvania's Laurel Hill State Park is a vibrant paradise where you can enjoy the colors while hiking and camping. However, don't count the West out of the autumn scenic drives.
Florida's Beautiful National Forest Is Now A Major Source Of Controversy Causing Thousands To Protest
In central Florida, controversy is boiling around a bill that would change the Ocala National Forest into a national park. Florida Congressman Randy Fine (R-Fla) introduced a bill in Congress in August, 2025 to consider turning the Ocala National Forest into Florida Springs National Park. He said one benefit of this action would be an economic boost due to increased tourism, another would be recognizing the forest with the special status.
San Francisco's New Public Park Is A Waterfront Sanctuary With Food Trucks, Music, And Epic Panoramic Views
In San Francisco, there are 37 officially designated neighborhoods, and one of those neighborhoods has just received its first public park. Treasure Island is an established neighborhood with over 2,000 residents, along with restaurants, commercial tenants, schools, and athletic organizations. Home to public art and themed festivals each year, new activities can be found at the island's island's first city park: Cityside Park.
These Tiny Twin Towns Tucked In West Virginia's Mountains Are Packed With Art, Historic Sites, And Breweries
Two sister cities in West Virginia, Thomas and Davis, are wonderfully complementary of each other, providing the perfect pair of vacation locations in West Virginia. The West Virginia mountains hide Davis, the state's highest-elevated incorporated town. Thomas is special in its own right, as a West Virginia city with unending waterfalls and cute shops. Another claim to fame of Thomas is that it houses one of the oldest distributing microbreweries and tap rooms in the state.
One Of The Midwest's Most Magical Fall Destinations Is A Dreamy Island With Horse Trails And Waterfront Sunsets
When considering stunning fall travel destinations with picturesque backdrops of crisp leaves in various hues of red, yellow, and orange, the New England states might come to mind. Woodstock, Vermont, named the most beautiful town in America, provides vivid views of fall foliage. Massachusetts' highest point is another spot for panoramic views of fall foliage. Yet another popular destination for leaf-peeping is the treehouse resorts of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia.
Louisiana's Underrated State Park Boasts A Glistening Lake For Recreation, Pretty Trails, And Cozy Cabins
Louisiana is a water lover's paradise, home to a plethora of bayous, lakes, and swamps that can provide endless hours of aquatic activity. However, one state park stands out for its ideal freshwater lake: Lake Claiborne. Just off the under-the-radar Boom or Bust National Scenic Byway in the town of Homer, Lake Claiborne State Park is easy to get to, nestled equally between Monroe and Shreveport.
Along Georgia's Coastal Edge, This Moss-Draped Island Hums With Deer, Trails, And Salt Marsh Magic
Savannah is a mecca of the South, being rich in history, natural beauty, and plenty of entertainment. Horse-drawn carriages click-clack down charming cobblestone streets, while the Savannah Bananas bring equal parts sportsmanship and dance to Grayson Stadium's baseball field. And don't forget that Savannah is also home to a mouth-watering culinary scene. These are just a few reasons ten million tourists traveled to "The Hostess City of the South" for at least one night in 2023.
Along Georgia's Coastal Edge, This Moss-Draped Island Hums With Deer, Trails, And Salt Marsh Magic
Where Spanish Moss Hangs Low And Waterfalls Flow—These 14 Places In Georgia Escapes Like A Dream Georgia may not be as well known as its southern neighbor, but the Peach State is one of the top 10 most visited states in the country, thanks to its …
Arizona's Last Stagecoach Town Hides In The Superstition Mountains With Quirky Charm And Fun Souvenirs
Tourist towns are throughout the nation, with the majority boasting the newest technology in shows, lighting displays, and modern roller coasters. The common denominator for the majority of them, such as Branson, Myrtle Beach, and Gatlinburg, is the town's steady, stable population of citizens. All of these vacation spots have a healthy mix of locals and tourists ... except one. Tortilla Flat, Arizona's tourist town, is different from all the others for two reasons.
Wisconsin's Underrated Riverfront City Is A Countryside Charmer Brimming With Outdoor Fun And Rodeo Thrills
Hidden gems and local events can sometimes easily be found in lesser-known cities, adding to the overall uniqueness of a vacation. This is especially true of Wisconsin's best-kept secret: Manawa. Within this under-the-radar city, you'll find plenty of outdoor thrills thanks to its location along the Little Wolf River. Visitors can enjoy year-round fishing, boating expeditions, and nature trails for biking and hiking enthusiasts.
A Small Town Nestled Along Florida's Nature Coast Offers Lively Waterways And Abundant Wildlife
Florida is well known as the Sunshine State, but its quieter, natural beauty often flies under the radar. Thrilling roller coasters and magic kingdoms do make for a fun vacation, but for those looking for something more serene and calm, a visit to Inglis, nestled on Florida's "Nature Coast," is the answer. To reach the small town of Inglis, travelers can fly into the nearby Tampa International Airport (TPA) — favored by travel expert Samantha Brown — and drive north for about 90 miles.
A Family-Friendly Park On Lake Michigan's Immaculate Shoreline Is A Sandy Spot With A Charming Lighthouse
Michigan might not be the first place that comes to mind when dreaming of a beach vacation; one of the sunny and pretty must-visit Florida island towns might seem to be the top choice when planning a relaxing getaway. But to find all the sunshine, waves, and sightseeing imaginable, consider this Michigan location instead. Often referred to as the North Pier, Tiscornia Beach Park is a city park in St. Joseph, Michigan.
Oklahoma's First Oil Boomtown Is A Thriving Historic City With Unique Shopping And World-Class Museums
The Sooner State has always been rich in oil, and one small prairie town turned the findings of the black oil into Oklahoma's first boomtown. In 1897, Bartlesville officially became incorporated as a city with a meager population of just 200. That minuscule citizen count would change drastically after the state's first commercial oil well, Nellie Johnstone No. 1, was established.
Missouri's 'Queen City Of The Ozarks' Is A Mountain Charmer Brimming With Big Flavors And Quirky Vibes
When it comes to America's heartland, Missouri cities such as Kansas City or St. Louis likely come to mind. However, nestled in the southwest corner of the Show Me State is a lesser-known gem of a city with a royal nickname. Springfield, a.k.a. the "Queen City of the Ozarks," is a bustling cultural hub. Probably the best-kept secret of this city is the creative food scene. No matter your palette's preferences, Springfield has you covered with over 800 restaurants to discover.
This Thriving Connecticut Beach Town Offers Plenty Of Recreation, Restaurants, And Eclectic Shopping
Connecticut is commonly known for its lobster rolls, picturesque New England homes, and America's oldest public rose garden. Residents and vacationers know the Constitution State offers much more, especially in the small town of Fairfield, which stands out for its large variety of activities indoors and in nature. Arriving by car to Fairfield is just a convenient 28-or-so-mile drive on I-95 S from Tweed New Haven Regional Airport in New Haven, Connecticut.
'The Birthplace Of America' Is A Hidden Midwest Lake Haven With Resorts, Campgrounds, And Shops
A well-known fact is that St. Augustine, Florida, is the nation's oldest city, but historians have assigned the title of "birthplace of America" to Alexandria, Minnesota. This claim-to-fame title stems from the World Famous Kensington Runestone, an artifact disputedly belonging to the Scandinavian Vikings that dates back to 1362. This artifact was discovered in 1898 by a local farmer in Kensington.
A City Famous For Its Rodeo Is The 'Country Music Capital Of Canada' Full Of Nashville Vibes
When people think of live country music, Nashville, Tennessee, will likely come to mind as the live music capital of the world. However, one city in Canada's province of Alberta is quickly closing the gap on that reputation. Calgary, Canada's third-largest city, currently holds the title of the Country Music Capital of Canada, while also allowing its stages to be graced by all varieties of music genres. A Calgary must-visit for any music lover is its famous Music Mile.
Oklahoma's Underrated Mountain City Of Towering Waterfalls And Zipline Adventure Is A Thrill Seeker's Dream
It's common knowledge that Oklahoma is home to the Sooners, hard-working cowboys, and oil fields. Less commonly known is that the Sooner State is also home to some pretty impressive waterfalls. Throughout the state, there are 35 locations with cascades and waterfalls. One resort town, Medicine Park, provides a serene scene with its own waterfall but is somewhat overshadowed by the mountainous (yet underrated) city of Davis with its claim to fame: the tallest waterfall within the state.
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