By Glenn H. Kipps

Always wanted to go to Paris, France? Can't afford it? Why not try Paris, Kentucky? Maybe it doesn't have the Eiffel Tower or the famous fashion district, but it is a proud little city with a lot to offer.

For a trip into the past, take the family to see the Coleridge covered bridge. Not far from the bridge is the Hopewell Museum, which is unique in its exhibits, including a free-standing one of Garrett Morgan, an African-American man born in Paris who invented the gas mask and the traffic light.

For those who are amazed by the "artwork of nature", there is the Nannine Clay Wallis Arboretum, which features many species of the colorful flora from the Paris and Bourbon County countryside, including a wide spectrum of fall colors.

The Duncan Tavern is the state headquarters for the Daughters of the American Revolution (D. A. R.), and a tour of it is rich in history from the Revolutionary War era.

The historic Cane Ridge Meeting House is open to the public and boasts of its own museum taking visitors back in history.

Golf enthusiasts can play a few rounds at the Houston Oaks Golf Court or Shady Brook Golf Course. Or visit the beautiful, modern playground with its towering shade trees, picnic tables, and fascinating challenges for the children.

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Or perhaps you were thinking of Rome, Italy. Budget problems again, huh? Why not try Rome, Georgia? It may not have the Vatican nearby, and you won't see the pope, but if you're a decorative art enthusiast, the citizens will tell you, "You've come to the right place."

Three rivers run through Rome - the Etowah, the Oostanaula and the Coosa - adding sunlight sparkle and moonlight reflections to this historic community.

Between the rivers is the site of Rome's founding in 1834. Its courthouse was built in 1892. First a thriving river trade and later the railroads helped turn Rome into a regional hub for commerce from Calhoun, Georgia to Gadsden, Alabama. The prosperous period ended during the Civil War when General Sherman's troops burned most of the city on their march to Atlanta.

Today's Rome boasts one of Georgia's finest Victorian City Centers with a thriving downtown in the "Between the Rivers Historic District". Explore downtown and gaze at the lovely houses and churches that stretch from Broad Street southeast to the Etowah River. Its Victorian architecture and charm make the Main Street City well worth the visit.

About The Author
Glenn H. Kipps is the owner of http://www.validtravel.com, a travel resource. There are over 100 articles to browse through and over 700 products by Coleman to look through in our new adventure travel catalog. ValidTravel.com is also affiliated with Samsonite. Free newsletter available.