As I stated in my last post the time has come for me to leave Orlando, and head to Las Vegas to see what new Adventures await Billy!
When I hear the words “Road Trip” it conjures up all sort of images in my mind like Lucy, Ricky, Ethel, and Fred heading across Route 66 on their way to California! Is there anything more iconic in Americana? I don’t think so!My mother has just retired and when she found out I was transferring to Las Vegas she stated that a road trip across country was a bucket list item for sure, so here we go!
Today we started off from Orlando and headed to the heart of the Deep South – Atlanta!This would be my third visit to Atlanta and Mom’s first. You can read in my two other posts how much I love this city. The neighborhoods are beautiful, the food is great, and they embrace the arts!The drive up is serene and green. The palm trees give way to tall pines, and the flat landscape of Central Florida gives way to red clay hills, and vast farmlands.We took a detour just south of Atlanta to visit with my friend Patricia. She is the most positive and inpirational person I know. She is rising to a challenge like I’ve never seen somone do before. Love you, Patricia!

On arrival in Atlanta we headed right to the Georgia Aquarium, which is downtown in Centennial Olympic Park. This was a must do as Mom had never been there. The aquarium is home to whale sharks, and this is the only location outside of Asia where you will find them. Honestly, I could pack a lunch and go sit in the viewing room for the afternoon. If you have never been here and you are planning a trip to Atlanta this is an absolute must do!

 

The Beluga Whales are so much fun to watch, and they are very active!

 

There are also penguins, puffins, and sea otters!

 

The tropical fish and the jelly fish are so cool!

 

Of course the stars of the show are the Whale Sharks and Manta Rays!

After exploring the aquarium we headed to our hotel. I found this hotel nearby the Carter Presidential Library. I knew it was a nice part of town from previous stays, and I liked the idea of staying in a vintage hotel. The Highland Inn & Ballroom was opended in 1927, and the neighborhood around it is very trendy. It’s a mix of lovely old homes, unique apartments, and some new contruction. There are restaurants, coffee shops, and other unique shops in the area. The room was comfortable, clean, and the staff are very friendly!

After checking in we went next door to Sweet Auburn Barbecue for dinner. The food was great, and our server Jasmine could not have been nicer or more attentive! Mom had the Memphis Ribs with Bacon & Burbon Brussel Sprouts. I had the Pork and Brisket plate with Fries and Burbon Baked Beans. This place is out of this world, you gotta eat here folks!Well, tomorrow morning we are off to Memphis!, Tennessee I can’t wait to see what the road ahead holds for us!