Welcome to Charlotte, North Carolina, the Queen City. On this driving tour, you’ll explore the heart of Charlotte and learn how this crossroads town grew into one of the South’s fastest-growing cities. The name Queen City comes from Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, the wife of King George III of England. But despite that royal connection, Charlotte has always had a rebellious streak. During the Revolutionary War, locals resisted the British so fiercely that General Cornwallis called Charlotte a “hornet’s nest of rebellion.” That spirit is still part of the city’s identity today. As we drive, you’ll hear us refer to this area inside the I-277 beltway as Uptown Charlotte. Most cities have a “downtown,” but Charlotte is different. In the city’s early days, the intersection of Trade and Tryon Streets sat on the highest point of land in the area. People said they were going “up to town” when they headed here, and that phrase never disappeared. By the 1980s, “Uptown” was officially adopted as the name. So here, you don’t go downtown — you go Uptown. Today, Charlotte is known as America’s second-largest banking center, home to Bank of America and Truist, and as the capital of NASCAR, with most of the sport’s teams based nearby. But you’ll also find world-class museums, historic neighborhoods, vibrant parks, and a skyline that reflects the city’s growth and ambition. Over the course of this tour, we’ll highlight Charlotte’s landmarks, share its history, and point out some fun surprises along the way. Our route starts right here with a tribute to Charlotte’s need for speed — the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
Welcome to Tampa, Florida, a city where history, culture, and sunshine all meet on the shores of Tampa Bay. From its cigar-rolling heritage in Ybor City to its modern skyline and waterfront parks, Tampa has always been a city of reinvention—a place shaped by the people and communities who came here to build a new life. On this tour, we’ll take you through Tampa’s most iconic sights and neighborhoods. You’ll see the Moorish minarets of the Gilded Age Plant Museum, explore the Latin roots of Ybor City, and discover vibrant gathering spots like the Riverwalk, Armature Works, and Sparkman Wharf. We’ll pass cultural gems like the Tampa Theatre, modern landmarks like Benchmark International Arena, and scenic stretches like Davis Islands and Bayshore Boulevard, before ending with a grand finale at Ballast Point Park, overlooking the wide waters of Hillsborough Bay. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of cigar rollers and immigrant families who built “Cigar City,” of Gasparilla pirates who still “invade” every year, and of the city’s transformation into a hub for sports, culture, and waterfront living. So get ready for a journey that blends Tampa’s past and present. From historic neighborhoods to sparkling bayside views, this tour will show you why Tampa is one of Florida’s most distinctive cities. Our adventure begins right here, at the University of Tampa, where old-world architecture meets modern campus life.
Welcome to Louisville, Kentucky, a city where tradition and innovation meet along the banks of the Ohio River. Louisville is best known as the home of the Kentucky Derby, but there’s much more to explore—world-class bourbon distilleries, historic neighborhoods, cutting-edge art, and the legacy of a man the world will always know as The Greatest, Muhammad Ali. On this tour, you’ll drive past the landmarks that tell Louisville’s story. You’ll see the Louisville Slugger Museum, where bats for baseball legends are made, and distilleries like Michter’s and Angel’s Envy, proving why bourbon is more than a drink here—it’s a heritage. You’ll pass cultural treasures like the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts and the Speed Art Museum, as well as Old Louisville, one of the largest Victorian neighborhoods in the country. We’ll guide you to Churchill Downs, where the thunder of hooves has electrified race fans for nearly 150 years, and to the Muhammad Ali Center, which celebrates the life and values of Louisville’s most famous son. Along the way, you’ll also get a taste of the city’s vibrant spirit—from the energy of Fourth Street Live! to the timeless charm of the Belle of Louisville, the oldest operating steamboat in the world. Our journey will finish at the Big Four Pedestrian Bridge, overlooking the Ohio River. Once an abandoned railroad crossing, it’s now a glowing symbol of connection, linking Kentucky and Indiana while offering some of the best views in town. So as you follow along, enjoy the drive, keep an eye out for these landmarks, and get ready to discover the sights, sounds, and stories that make Louisville one of America’s most distinctive and dynamic cities.
Welcome to Salt Lake City, Utah, often called the Crossroads of the West. On this driving tour, we’ll explore the landmarks, history, and hidden stories that make this capital city so unique. Salt Lake City was founded in 1847, when Mormon pioneers arrived after a long and difficult journey across the plains. Brigham Young looked out over this valley and declared, “This is the place.” From that moment, the city began to grow—from a desert outpost into a thriving center of faith, culture, and government. Along the way today, you’ll see some of Salt Lake’s most iconic landmarks—like the soaring spires of the Cathedral of the Madeleine, the heart of Temple Square, the sandstone beauty of the City and County Building, and the grand Utah State Capitol. You’ll also pass through parks and neighborhoods that show how the city balances community life with its love of the outdoors. But this tour isn’t just about what you’ll see—it’s also about the stories. You’ll hear about the pioneers who built the city, the railroads that connected it to the world, the geothermal water flowing beneath downtown, and even a few ghost stories from historic buildings. We’ll also touch on Salt Lake’s modern side—its music, art, and the surprising ways it continues to reinvent itself. As you drive, just follow the directions and enjoy the ride. By the time we finish, you’ll have experienced Salt Lake City from many angles—its past, its present, and its place in the wide-open West.
Welcome to Boise, Idaho—the City of Trees, and the capital of the Gem State. I’m excited to take you on this journey through one of the most surprising and charming cities in the American West. Over the next couple of hours, we’ll uncover Boise’s history, culture, art, and natural beauty, all while cruising through its streets and neighborhoods. Boise’s story began in the 1800s, when French trappers, miners, and soldiers settled along the Boise River. They named the place boisé, meaning “wooded,” after spotting its tree-lined valley rising out of the desert. From those humble beginnings as a frontier fort and supply town, Boise has grown into a modern capital city—one that still keeps its friendly, small-town spirit. Along the way, we’ll pass some of Boise’s most iconic landmarks: the elegant dome of the Idaho State Capitol, the colorful murals of Freak Alley, the historic Old Penitentiary, and the serene Idaho Anne Frank Memorial. We’ll roll through leafy parks like Julia Davis and Camel’s Back, explore the Basque Block that celebrates Boise’s unique cultural heritage, and catch glimpses of the foothills that frame the city with trails and wide-open skies. But this tour isn’t just about buildings and monuments—it’s also about the stories. You’ll hear how geothermal hot water still heats downtown buildings, why Boise State’s famous blue football turf made national headlines, and how Basque immigrants helped shape the city’s identity. We’ll share fun facts, famous names, and even a few quirky surprises along the way. By the end, you’ll have seen Boise from every angle: its past, its present, and the natural beauty that makes it such a beloved place to live and visit. So settle in, roll down the windows, and get ready to discover Boise, a city that always has more to offer than meets the eye.
Welcome to Birmingham, Alabama—a city with iron in its roots, courage in its history, and creativity in its future. Known as “The Magic City,” Birmingham seemed to spring up almost overnight in the late 1800s thanks to a rare combination of iron ore, coal, and limestone—all the ingredients needed to make steel—right here in the ground. That natural advantage turned a railroad stop into one of the fastest-growing cities in the South. On this tour, you’ll discover the landmarks and neighborhoods that tell Birmingham’s story. We’ll begin with Vulcan, the towering cast-iron statue that watches over the city from Red Mountain. Then we’ll head downtown to explore the beating heart of the Civil Rights Movement—passing Kelly Ingram Park, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, and the 16th Street Baptist Church, where history was written in struggle and courage. But Birmingham isn’t only about history. You’ll also see how the city has reinvented itself with green spaces like Railroad Park, family favorites like the McWane Science Center and the Birmingham Zoo, and cultural landmarks like the Boutwell Auditorium, the Birmingham Museum of Art, and lively neighborhoods such as Avondale and Five Points South, where food, music, and nightlife come alive. Along the way, you’ll hear some fun local stories too—like Miss Fancy, the elephant who once wandered out of the Avondale Zoo and became the unofficial mascot of her neighborhood, or how basketball legend Michael Jordan once played baseball here with the Birmingham Barons. And finally, we’ll close the journey in a place of peace and beauty: the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, where winding paths, themed gardens, and seasonal blooms provide the perfect ending to your time in The Magic City. So keep your hands on the wheel, your eyes on the road, and let this guide point out the sights as we go. Birmingham has stories to share at every turn, and together we’re about to discover them.
Welcome to Boston, Massachusetts—one of America’s oldest cities and the place where history, culture, and innovation all come together. Founded in 1630 by Puritan settlers, Boston grew from a small colonial town into the “Cradle of Liberty,” where the seeds of the American Revolution were planted. This is the city of the Boston Tea Party, the Midnight Ride of Paul Revere, and the first reading of the Declaration of Independence. On these streets, ordinary citizens took extraordinary steps that changed the course of history. But Boston isn’t just about revolution—it’s also about reinvention. From its early days as a seaport and marketplace, to its rise as a center of education, science, and medicine, Boston has always been a city that pushes boundaries. You’ll see that mix everywhere we go. Cobblestone streets in the North End still echo with the footsteps of patriots, while grand boulevards like Commonwealth Avenue showcase 19th-century elegance. Modern towers like the Hancock Building rise beside historic treasures like Trinity Church. And neighborhoods from Beacon Hill to Back Bay all tell a different part of Boston’s story. Along the way, we’ll pass world-class cultural landmarks like the Museum of Fine Arts, Fenway Park, and the Boston Public Library. We’ll point out the quirky spots too—from the Cheers Bar to the bench where Robin Williams filmed Good Will Hunting. And of course, we’ll explore the flavors of Boston, from North End cannoli to the city’s obsession with seafood and chowder. Boston is also a city of firsts: the first public school, the first public library, the first subway, and the first great American ballpark. Famous figures like Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Paul Revere, Louisa May Alcott, and Martin Luther King Jr. all have ties here, leaving their mark on both the city and the nation. So buckle up as we set off on this driving tour of Boston. We’ll blend history with fun facts, point out landmarks on your left and right, and give you a true sense of what makes this city so unique. From revolution to Red Sox, from cobblestones to skyscrapers—this is Boston. Let’s hit the road!
Welcome to Providence, Rhode Island! You’re about to explore one of America’s oldest and most creative cities — a place where history and art live side by side, and where every corner has a story to tell. Providence was founded back in 1636 by Roger Williams, a man who believed in freedom of conscience and the separation of church and state — ideas that were radical for the time, but later became cornerstones of American democracy. From those early days, the city grew into a bustling industrial hub, and today it thrives as a cultural capital, blending its proud history with a bold, youthful energy. As we drive, you’ll see architecture that spans centuries — from elegant colonial homes and ornate 19th-century landmarks to striking modern designs. Providence is also home to world-class institutions like Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design, both of which add to the city’s reputation as the “Creative Capital.” And of course, no visit here is complete without a taste of Federal Hill — Providence’s legendary “Little Italy” — where the air is filled with the aroma of fresh bread, simmering sauces, and espresso. Along the way, we’ll point out lively neighborhoods, public art, waterfront views, and some hidden gems you might otherwise miss. So buckle up and get ready for a journey that combines history, culture, and a dash of delicious flavor. By the end of this tour, you’ll see why Providence may be small, but it’s brimming with character, charm, and stories worth remembering.
Welcome to Memphis, Tennessee—a city that has shaped the soundtrack of America and played a central role in our nation’s history. Founded in 1819 by John Overton, James Winchester, and Andrew Jackson, the city was named after the ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis, which also sat on a great river. Fittingly, our Memphis was built along the mighty Mississippi, and the river has been the city’s lifeline ever since. Memphis grew quickly as a trading hub, especially for cotton and river commerce, and became known as the “Cotton Capital of the World” in the 19th century. But it wasn’t always easy—the city nearly collapsed during devastating yellow fever epidemics in the 1870s, losing thousands of lives. Memphis rebuilt, though, and emerged stronger, fueled by industry, resilience, and, above all, culture. And culture is what makes Memphis unforgettable. This is the Home of the Blues, the Birthplace of Rock ’n’ Roll, and the launching pad for soul music that swept the world. Legendary names like Elvis Presley, B.B. King, Jerry Lee Lewis, Isaac Hayes, Johnny Cash, and Aretha Franklin all have roots here. Beale Street became the heartbeat of the blues, Sun Studio gave us rock ’n’ roll, and Stax Records created a sound that blended gospel and rhythm into something uniquely Memphis. But Memphis isn’t just music—it’s history. The city was at the center of the civil rights struggle, from the 1866 Memphis Massacre to the 1968 Sanitation Workers’ Strike, which brought Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. here for what would be his final days. Today, places like the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel and the I AM A MAN Plaza keep that history alive. And then there are the fun facts: Memphis is famous for its barbecue, with more than 100 BBQ joints serving slow-smoked pork and ribs. It’s also home to the Peabody Ducks, who march daily through the lobby of the grand Peabody Hotel. And let’s not forget, Memphis gave the world not only Elvis, but also literary giant John Grisham, actress Cybill Shepherd, and NBA star Penny Hardaway. So as we begin this tour, buckle up and get ready for a journey through a city that has seen tragedy and triumph, but always managed to turn its story into music, soul, and spirit. From the banks of the Mississippi to Graceland itself, this is Memphis—let’s hit the road and explore it together.
Ace RV Rentals Roadtrips: Self-Guided Driving tour from Raleigh, North Carolina to Savannah, Georgia
Welcome, road-trippers, and thanks for joining me on this Ace RV Rentals tour! Today's drive is from Raleigh, North Carolina to Savannah, Georgia — a route that takes us through the heart of the Carolinas and into one of the South’s most unforgettable cities. Along the way, we’ll pass through landscapes of pine forests, rivers, and swamps, with stops to explore the stories of towns like Florence, a railroad hub, and Walterboro, the “Front Porch of the Lowcountry.” We’ll hear about the hidden wetlands of the Black River Basin, cross the sweeping waters of Lake Marion, and learn about nearby capitals and coastal cities like Columbia and Charleston, even if we don’t leave the interstate to visit them. Finally, we’ll cross the Savannah River into Georgia and arrive in Savannah itself — a city of shaded squares, cobblestone streets, and centuries of history. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the stories that bring this road to life.