Kara's Sights & Bites: It's not too late for one last summer vacation

By Kara Kimbrough

  Just like the old adage that white shoes can't be worn after Labor Day, there seems to be a misconception that vacations need to cease as well. In the south, the weather is still extremely warm. Let’s be honest: summer-like conditions will be around for quite a while. So, why not extend summer a little longer with a quick weekend getaway or longer trip using one of these suggestions?

·      The Mississippi Gulf Coast offers adventures around every corner. However, leaving the mainland and exploring the gulf waters is something most of us rarely do. One of the best ways to see magnificent views of the coastline, barrier islands and marine life is to book North Star Sailing Charters. North Star offers morning, afternoon and sunset charters. Best of all, trips of varying lengths can be booked, ranging from an entire day on the water or a shorter tour.

·      Additionally, Eco-Tours of South Mississippi takes adventure-seekers out for an up-close tour of the often-overlooked cypress swamps and salt marshes of the lower Pascagoula River as well as views of the barrier islands. And, the 2-hour sunset cruise is an amazing way to see the entire coastline and watch the glowing sun descend over the glistening gulf waters.

·      For the true thrill-seeker, a visit to Moss Point’s Gator Ranch is in order. At Gator Ranch, visitors can view some of the area’s oldest and largest gators, hand-feed the gigantic reptiles and view the abundant bird life on the Gulf Coast.

·      A little further north, the Mississippi Petrified Forest in Flora allows visitors to step back in time – 36 million years, to be exact – into an intriguing, beautiful area filled with archaic trees and stones. The forest’s earth science museum is filled with petrified wood samples from Mississippi as well as the other 49 states. Dinosaur footprints, fossils and minerals from around the world, whale bones and other interesting artifacts are also on display. Don’t forget to walk through the (mostly) shaded forest to view prehistoric fir and maple trees. After the tour, stop by the growing town of Flora for a variety of dining and shopping opportunities.

·      While you’re near the Capital City, stop by the Old Capitol Museum built in 1839 and take a walk back in time courtesy of hundreds of artifacts and photos depicting the origin of Jackson and the state; interesting elements of the Civil War and many other historical milestones during the state’s early years. 

     Touring the beautifully-restored former chambers of the State Legislature and a replica of an early governor’s office is an amazing experience. However, my favorite part is simply wandering through the cavernous building and soaking in the elaborate architecture, stunning rotunda and breathtaking dome while imagining the important people that have walked the halls, including U.S. Presidents.

·      Last, if a longer trip is an option, September is the perfect time to hop on a plane and visit New York City now that summer crowds have diminished. A visit to the 9/11 Museum and Memorial near the anniversary date of the terrorist attacks in 2001 is a moving experience. During the anniversary week, family members and others place state flags, flowers and other mementos on the names of their loved ones etched into the panels surrounding the memorial pools near the museum.

     For nighttime entertainment in the Big Apple, going to a Broadway show has never been easier. From Sept. 3-23, 23 Broadway productions like The Notebook, The Great Gatsby and Water for Elephants are offering 2-for-1 tickets, according to New York City Tourism + Conventions. Tickets are available for purchase at nyctourism.com/broadwayweek.

   As always, before visiting any site, it’s a good idea to check the website for hours of operation and fees.

Kara Kimbrough is a food and travel writer from Mississippi. Email her at [email protected].