Stone Mountain Park

Stone Mountain, an 863-foot-high granite outcrop with a bald dome that stands out dramatically from the surrounding area, is virtually completely devoid of trees or plant life. Between 1923 and 1970, a massive relief of three Confederate leaders was carved into the sheer eastern slope, a memorial that has sparked much debate in recent years. A cable car takes you to the top for panoramic views of the Atlanta skyline, which is barely 15 miles away. You can also ascend to the summit or take a suspended rope walk through the treetops to complete one of the endurance courses.

A 1940s locomotive transports visitors around the park on a five-mile track, and a land-and-water tour aboard a 1940s Army DUKW highlights local history. A reconstructed antebellum plantation and a museum with Native American artifacts are among the other attractions. The petting zoo and the dinosaur park, which features 20 life-size ancient monsters that move and roar, are popular with families.

Location: Georgia Florida