athenians are all acquainted with the traditional blossoming towns of the southeast during the fall when they watch their beloved Bulldawgs take on a fellow rival. But sometimes a weekend simply isn’t long enough. everyone, including you, needs a little adventure from time to time. planning a road trip? have no fear; your personal travel agent is here. Welcome to your exclusive guide to taking the ultimate road trip through the southeastern conference.

BY: Dana J. horTman

ON THE R O A D AGAIN

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Residence to Steve Spurrier and his infamous visor, Columbia, S.C. is nicknamed “Famously Hot” for its broad range of attractions and local hot spots. Up for fun in the sun? Visit Columbia’s very own beautiful Lake Murray where tourists can enjoy canoeing, sailing or perhaps a nice dip in the water. After a relaxing day, visit the Five Points area of Columbia. This urban, Bohemian-style neighborhood offers chic specialty shops and restaurants. Enjoy live music at Five Points Pub. Starving? From Maurice’s to Shealy’s, go on the ultimate food crawl to find Columbia’s best mouth-watering barbeque joints.

Located in north central Mississippi, Oxford, Miss., blossoms with beautiful historic, southern charm and a distinctive rebel yell for ‘Hotty Toddy.’ Though there are numerous New Orleans and antebellum style homes and buildings to tour, one of the main places to visit is located in the Historic Downtown Square. Drop by Neilson’s Department Store, the oldest running department store in the South. The store features clothing, shoes, gifts and home furnishings, too. After shopping, grab a bite to eat at The City Grocery, an upscale southern-style restaurant famous for its shrimp and grits dish. Following dinner, enjoy drinks and live music from local artists at Proud Larry’s or Parrish’s.

Also recognized for being the other Bulldog Nation, Starkville, Miss., like Oxford, thrives with southern presence and decorated, classic architectural finesse. From the beautiful Cotton District to the unchanged Greensboro District, tourists can marvel at the traditional Victorian, Tudor-revival and Colonial style homes and neighborhoods. After touring the different districts, take some time to shop around town at the many antiques stores, consignment shops and boutiques. If you’re in the mood for more traditional southern food, visit Little Dooey’s for fresh barbeque, catfish and ribs.

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Though this town offers the most unique tailgating, on-the-water to be exact, Knoxville, Tenn., is mostly celebrated for its downtown area. Formally titled the Market Square, this district located in the heart of the city offers an array of specialty shops and diverse eateries. For an appetizing brunch, visit the Tomato Head, a French bistro turned Italian, for a slice of smoked turkey and spinach pizza. Once your food settles, spend the afternoon browsing the Market Square’s assortment of shops filled with gifts, apparel and home décor. At night, get spooked on the bone-chilling Haunted Knoxville Ghost Tours led by professional paranormal experts.

1. “roam” by B-52s2. “life in the Fast lane” by eagles3. “ramblin’ man” by allman Brothers4. “paradise city” by Guns n’ roses5. “Baba o’riley” by The Who6. “american pie” by Don mclean7. “proud mary” by creedence clearwater revival 8. “Don’t stop Believing” by Journey9. “The Joker” by steve miller Band10. “every Day is a Winding road” by sheryl crow11. “Follow You Down” by Gin Blossoms12. “losing my religion” by r.e.m.13. “all For You” by sister hazel14. “Barracuda” by heart15. “heartbreaker” by pat Benatar16. “18 Wheels of love” by Drive-by Truckers17. “mustang sally” by The commitments

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Beyond the “Dynamite” fight song, Mr. Commodore and the Vandy campus, Nashville, Tenn., is legendary for being the birthplace of country music. Upon arrival, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame. From priceless weathered instruments of famous country singers to their personal items such as clothing, the Country Music Hall of Fame is one of Nashville’s most popular attractions. If you’re hungry, grab a bite to eat downtown at B.B. King’s Blues Club & Restaurant, where diners can not only enjoy delicious seafood gumbo, fried pickles and “Memphis style” ribs, but live music as well.

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Welcome to the Swamp, or Gainesville, Fl., habitat to our biggest SEC foe and the birthplace of ‘jorts’. Walk over to the Florida Museum of Natural History to explore the Butterfly Rainforest, fossils and other interesting exhibits. Working up an appetite? Try the modern flair of 101 Downtown, a restaurant and martini lounge. Be sure to taste the variety of tapas or bistro sandwiches. 101 Downtown also offers a nightlife atmosphere where goers can enjoy dancing and delicious signature martinis from the three different bars. They even offer free limo services to parties of eight or more.

Home of the 2011 NCAA football champions, Auburn, Ala., is the epitome of southern hospitality mixed with urban charm and pizzazz. Stroll over to Toomer’s Drugstore, a unique soda fountain-style diner and drugstore known for their famous hand-squeezed lemonade. Next, go see one of Auburn’s greatest game day traditions, Toomer’s Corner. But, don’t poison the trees. Hungry? Head over to the original Momma Goldberg’s Deli for fresh-steamed sandwiches and delicious nachos. At night, have a few rounds at the Skybar Cafe, Auburn’s popular hangout spot that is known for its unique open roof, acoustic music and karaoke.

Situated in the heart of the Blue (grass) and white Region, Lexington, Ky., is properly known as the “Horse Capital of the World.” Visit the 1,200-acre Kentucky Horse Park, which is one of 150 working horse farms in Lexington. Tourists may tour the facility and see 50 different breeds of horses, including the 2003 Kentucky Derby winner, Funnycide. Thirsty? Trot on over to the Wild Turkey Distillery, where you can tour the full-running distillery and learn about the bourbon-making process. For a great dining experience, go to Atomic Café, a vivacious tropical-themed restaurant featuring Caribbean music, jerk chicken and conch fritters.