This morning we begin our scenic drive along Georgia’s Antebellum Trail. This 100 mile trek includes seven historic communities rich with antebellum architecture, Civil War history, a deep rooted heritage past with ancient American Indian culture, and beautiful scenery. From here, we travel to the “Cherry Blossom Capital of the World,” Macon, Georgia. You’ll fall in love with the pink blush of over 300,000 blooming Yoshino cherry trees as we travel along the Cherry Blossom Trail. Late afternoon we arrive in Macon and visit the Festival at Carolyn Crayton Park featuring vendors, music, rides, and food trucks. Stretch your legs, get a bite to eat, and shop a bit before we head to our hotel and check in for a 2-night stay.

Before our tour begins this morning, we tour the stateof- the-art Visitors center. Next, our step-on guide will offer tales & colorful history of this beautiful town and we see the sites and the beautiful neighborhood districts of Macon. We visit St. Joseph Catholic Church which is reminiscent of European cathedrals. Marvel at beautiful cross-topped spires, Bavarian stained glass, Italian marble, statues and altars. Mulberry Methodist Church celebrates the Old City Flower Festival with floral designs throughout the sanctuary with hundreds of beautiful flowers and arrangements. We take our seats for an organ concert in the sanctuary. After lunch we continue our day touring the Hay House, an 1860 Italian Renaissance Revival style,15,000 square foot Southern mansion, featured on A&E’s “America’s Castles”: National Historic Landmark. We hear about the history and impact of Capricorn Records and Capricorn Sound Studios in the context of Macon’s rich music heritage. You’ll see more than 1,200 square feet of artifacts, murals and interactive digital kiosks featuring music, video and text bringing Capricorn’s story to life. We have time to return to our hotel before we enjoy an included dinner together this evening. (D)

Today we travel to visit the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. We’ll be impressed with their numerous garden displays, nature trails, and conservatory. We arrive home early evening.