Rainy Days and Mondays...

You’ve worked, you’ve planned, and you've counted the days before your vacation.  Day dreams of waterfall hikes, horseback riding, kayaking and outdoor adventure are suddenly squashed by the reality of “weather”!  Oh no!  Say it ain't so.  James Spann has predicted 2 inches of rain, thunderstorms and wind gusts!  

Don’t let rainy days and Mondays get you down…

The good news is that it’s not likely to rain every day you’re in Mentone.  You might be waylaid one day or maybe an afternoon but chances are you’ll be able to enjoy a colorful sunset at Brow park after the storm or the rush of water over Desoto falls after a good rain.

Okay, here’s some ideas to salvage your rainy mini-vacation in Mentone, Fort Payne and the surrounding area  (Click on the links for info):

Embrace the Indoors:

• Explore Orbix Hot Glass: This is a great option for a rainy day. You can watch glassblowing, take a class, and buy unique art.

• Sallie Howard Memorial Chapel:  Located near Desoto State Park, the church was built by Col. Milford Howard as a memorial to his late wife Sallie.  It’s notable for being constructed around a large boulder which forms part of the altar.  The church is always open to visitors and they have regular service on Sundays at 10:00 AM.  (come as you are).  Maybe this is one of my favorite spots because my husband and I were married here?

• Visit Local Museums: Check out the Fort Payne Depot Museum or the Alabama Fan Club and Museum in nearby Fort Payne to learn about the area's history and culture.

• DeSoto State Park Lodge: Even with rain, you can enjoy the cozy DeSoto State Park Lodge. Relax, enjoy the views, and have a meal at the restaurant.

• Local Food Scene: Use the opportunity to explore the restaurants in Mentone and Fort Payne. Enjoy some classic Southern cuisine or try something new.

• Dave's Antiques:  Real, unadulterated barn finds and antiques. A literal warehouse full of vendors selling items circa 1800’s to mid-century 50’s and 60’s. (this happens to be one of my favorite “rainy day activities”).

• The shops in Mentone and Moon Lake Village:  This area features a collection of unique stores in rustic log cabins.  Featuring hand made pottery, art, furniture, clothing, beautiful hand-woven items, a hardware store, Moonlake garden center and more.  (Don’t miss the ice-cream shop!)  Farther down SR 117, the former Moon Lake Elementary School campus was transformed into a hub for local artisans and businesses.

• Unclaimed Baggage:  The store purchases lost luggage items from airlines and sells them at the location in Scottsboro, Alabama.  They have a diverse and ever-changing inventory of anything you can imagine that was packed in a suitcase!  Electronics, books, Jewelry, clothing, etc.

• Chattanooga, Tennessee:  Chattanooga is a city that has successfully blended its historical significance with modern development, creating a unique and appealing destination.  Take the scenic shortcut from Mentone via the back way on Ga hwy 156 and drive through some beautiful mountains on the way to Rock City, Ruby Falls, or the Tennessee Aquarium.  If you’re a train lover then stop at the famous TVRM, one of the largest railroad Museums in the Southeast.  Take one of the historic trains on journeys throughout the area and into Georgia.  This is definitely a “must see” whether it rains or not. Chattanooga is about a 45 minute drive either using the back roads or via I-59 to I 29.  (I suggest the back roads).

A Little Rain Won't Hurt:

• DeSoto Falls (Slightly Rainy): The paved pathway to the falls overlook makes it relatively accessible even in light rain. The falls can be especially dramatic with the increased water flow.

• Little River Canyon Rim Parkway Drive:  Hwy 176 is a 23 mile drive with multiple overlooks that provide views of the Canyon and Little River Falls.  No need to get out of the car to enjoy the picturesque beauty.  (however bring an umbrella because you’ll be compelled to see the many waterfalls along the way).  Grab yourself some fabulous picnic food at Mentone Market, stop at an overlook and have yourself a “car-cuterie”. 

• LIttle River Falls Overlook:  This accessible overlook offers a view of Little River Falls, where the river begins its descent into the canyon.

With a little planning, you can still have a memorable and enjoyable mini-vacation in Mentone/Valley Head and Fort Payne, even if the weather doesn’t cooperate!  

What is YOUR favorite “rainy day” place to visit in Mentone/Valley Head and Fort Payne??

Little River Falls