Best Places to Visit in the Southern USA
The Southern USA (where I live in Texas) is a region full of charm, history, and natural beauty, making it one of the most rewarding areas to explore. Having traveled through its vibrant cities, coastal escapes, and scenic countryside, I’ve found that the South offers a perfect blend of culture, hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.
I’ve enjoyed lively towns with rich traditions, peaceful landscapes that highlight the region’s beauty, and coastal spots where food, music, and community come together. From family-friendly attractions to romantic getaways and cultural adventures, the Southern USA has no shortage of amazing destinations. Here are the places I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Sarasota, Florida: White Sand and Arts in the Air
When I think about the best places to visit in the Southern USA, Sarasota, Florida always comes to mind as one of my favorite gems. Nestled on the Gulf Coast, just south of Tampa, this vibrant city offers the perfect mix of culture, relaxation, and natural beauty.
We drove about one hour south from Tampa to Sarasota, a Gulf Coast city with a long history as both a fishing town and an arts hub, where we stayed at Lido Beach Resort for three nights.
I love how Sarasota feels like an underrated dream destination where you get the spectacular beaches without the overwhelming crowds. Siesta Key Beach, with its cool powdery white sand, is honestly one of the absolute best spots I’ve ever sunk my toes into. The sunsets there are pure magic, and every evening feels like a joyful celebration by the water.
One of the coolest parts about Sarasota is its unique cultural scene. I found myself wandering through The Ringling, had the most exciting day exploring St. Armands Circle and my son adored Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. We also checked out the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Sarasota Jungle Gardens, and got some exercise in Nathan Benderson Park.
River Street Sweets was the highlight for my son. If you are traveling with kids, you should make this a stop on your itinerary get homemade pralines, plus treats like bear claws, glazed pecans & ice cream.
What makes Sarasota exceptional in my eyes is the balance it strikes between both laid-back and lively, beachy and artistic. Every time I visit, I leave feeling like I discovered one of Florida’s coolest hidden gems, and I can’t wait to see more of its spectacular beauty on my next trip.
2. Athens, Georgia: Music, Magnolias, and Mellow Streets
Nestled just an hour east of Atlanta, Athens, Georgia stands out as one of the most exciting destinations in the South. This college town might be small, but the vibrant mix of history, music, and Southern charm makes it feel larger than life.
When I was based in Athens for a month while living like a local, what I enjoyed most was the lively downtown, packed with quirky shops, cool cafes, and some of the best live music venues in the region. The atmosphere was electric, and I felt like every street had its own unique rhythm waiting to be discovered.
Another part of Athens that truly impressed me was the stunning architecture. Walking past historic homes and the beautiful University of Georgia campus, I couldn’t help but admire the blend of tradition and modern energy—it gave the city an unusual and inspiring vibe.
One of my favorite escapes was the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. It’s definitely one of the coolest free attractions I’ve found in the South. My other favorites here are Sandy Creek Nature Center, and seeing the murals and historic architecture throughout the city.
Of course, I also indulged in the local food scene. For me, Athens is an absolute gem—a place where culture, history, and music come together to create one of the best getaways in Georgia.
3. Bentonville, Arkansas: Trails, Art, and the Smoke in the Air
In the heart of Northwest Arkansas, Bentonville has quickly become one of the coolest and most surprising places I’ve visited in the South. What was once a quiet town is now a vibrant hub filled with art, outdoor adventures, and some of the best food scenes I’ve come across.
We drove about 3.5 hours northwest from Little Rock to Bentonville and stayed at 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville for three nights. My absolute favorite experience here was exploring Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art where the architecture alone was spectacular, and walking through the galleries felt like stepping into a dream. The Plaza Café at the museum had tasty sandwiches so we could stay longer. I thought it was one of the most unique and underrated cultural gems in the region.
The Bentonville downtown square had joyful energy, with boutique shops, cool cafes, and fun weekend markets that made me feel right at home. It was both affordable and exceptional for a quick getaway. For outdoor lovers, the biking trails around Bentonville are nothing short of amazing. I found myself pedaling past lush forests and peaceful streams, and it felt like discovering a hidden gem every mile. Whether for a romantic weekend or a family trip, the outdoor options here are truly the best. Rent a couple of bikes and check out the trails!
Farmer's market is fun. The food was another highlight. From food trucks serving creative bites to upscale dining experiences, Bentonville delivered flavors that were exciting and memorable.
To me, Bentonville is a spectacular example of a Southern town reinventing itself, and it has become one of my favorite underrated destinations in the South.
4. Bluffton, South Carolina: Lowcountry Light and River Time
When I visited this charming Lowcountry town in May, it turned out to be one of the sunniest and most pleasant times of the year – the weather was warm with a gentle coastal breeze, perfect for exploring the outdoors (with the occasional refreshing rain shower that made everything greener!).
It also happened to be the season when dolphins were frequently spotted along the May River, which made it feel extra magical. It was wonderful to see Bluffton come alive with its vibrant community events – there was the Bluffton Mayfest with live music and local art, the Bluffton Sunset Party series right by the water with food and dancing, and the quirky weekly Farmers Market, where I got to enjoy fresh seafood, handmade crafts, and live local bands.
I drove about 30 minutes from Savannah and spent five relaxing days at Best Western Plus Bluffton soaking in the Southern charm. It was a gorgeous trip filled with strolling the historic Old Town Bluffton with its oak-shaded streets and art galleries, watching kayakers on the May River at sunset, taking a day trip to nearby Hilton Head beaches, and enjoying laid-back dinners at The Bluffton Room, Nectar Farm Kitchen Old Town and Ma Daisy's Porch.
5. Madison, Alabama: Trains, Trails, and Front Porch Time
This friendly Southern city just outside Huntsville completely charmed me with its welcoming small-town vibe, lush greenways, quaint historic downtown, and family-friendly festivals. Nestled between rolling Appalachian foothills and the buzz of nearby Huntsville, Madison blends old-fashioned community warmth with easy access to modern attractions.
Just a short drive from Huntsville International Airport, we stayed for three nights at Best Western Plus Madison and Madison turned out to be one of the most underrated spots I’ve explored in the South.I found plenty of hidden gems that made it an exciting destination for a weekend getaway.
Strolling through historic downtown Madison was one of my favorite parts of the trip and I loved wandering through Dublin Park.
The food scene in Madison was another highlight, including Zanotta's Ristorante, Prohibition Rooftop Bar & Grill and Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill.
I also couldn’t get enough of the proximity to Huntsville’s space attractions. Staying in Madison gave me the peace of a small town while keeping the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and other Huntsville gems just minutes away so it felt like the absolute best of both worlds.
For me, Madison is a spectacular hidden gem, perfect for anyone seeking a unique, affordable, and exciting Southern place to visit.
6. Pittsboro, North Carolina: Small-Town Wonder and a Taste of Honey
We drove about 40 minutes southwest from Raleigh to Pittsboro, a historic county seat founded in 1787.
Not far from Chapel Hill and Raleigh, Pittsboro, North Carolina is one of those underrated Southern gems that completely surprised me. It has this cool small-town feel mixed with a creative, artsy vibe that makes it a unique place to explore on a weekend getaway.
My favorite part was wandering around the historic downtown. The streets were lined with antique shops, quirky art galleries, and cozy cafés that gave off such a joyful and welcoming atmosphere. I thought it was one of the most interesting small downtowns I’ve ever visited.
One of the coolest experiences I had was visiting the Carolina Tiger Rescue. Getting an up-close look at these big cats in a safe, ethical environment was unusual, exciting, and honestly unforgettable. It’s the kind of hidden gem that makes Pittsboro stand out from other Southern towns.
I also loved checking out the local food and drink scene. Affordable farm-to-table restaurants and vibrant craft breweries made every meal feel special. My favorite stop was a brewery tucked into the countryside—it felt like discovering a secret spot only the locals know about.
Nature lovers will also find plenty of magic here. Jordan Lake is just minutes away, offering spectacular views, peaceful trails, and the perfect setting for a romantic picnic or a family adventure. For me, it was one of the absolute best surprises of the trip.
Pittsboro might be small, but it’s packed with charm, creativity, and character—an exceptional hidden gem in North Carolina that I can’t wait to revisit.
7. Jackson, Mississippi: Soul, Stories, and a Soda Counter Still Standing
We drove about 3 hours north from New Orleans to Jackson (population around 150,000), Mississippi’s capital and largest city.
As the capital of Mississippi, Jackson is one of those underrated Southern cities that truly surprised me with its mix of history, culture, and soulful energy. I felt like every corner of the city held something exciting and meaningful to discover.
My favorite part was exploring the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. It was powerful, moving, and one of the most unforgettable experiences I’ve had in the South. The exhibits told stories that were both inspiring and deeply emotional, making this museum an absolute mustsee.
I also loved the vibrant art and music scene that gave Jackson so much personality. From cool murals downtown to live blues and jazz shows, the city had a rhythm that felt joyful and alive. It reminded me why Jackson is is often called the “City with Soul.”
The food here was nothing short of spectacular. I discovered affordable BBQ joints, unique soul food restaurants, and some of the best fried catfish I’ve ever tasted. Every meal felt authentic, comforting, and connected to the city’s culture in a delicious way.
One of the coolest surprises was how much green space there was. I spent a peaceful afternoon at LeFleur’s Bluff State Park, surrounded by trails, lakes, and a calmness that felt worlds away from the city—even though it was just minutes from downtown.
For me, Jackson is a hidden gem of the South—an exciting, soulful, and exceptional destination where history, music, and food come together to create a truly memorable getaway.
8. Blue Ridge Whispers in Blowing Rock
We drove about two hours northwest from Charlotte to Blowing Rock (population around 1,400), a storybook village tucked along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
High up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Blowing Rock, North Carolina instantly felt like one of the most magical and underrated towns I’ve ever visited. Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s a dream destination for anyone who loves spectacular mountain views, cozy small-town charm, and outdoor adventures.
My favorite moment was standing at The Blowing Rock itself, a unique cliffside spot with sweeping views that were absolutely breathtaking. The legend surrounding the rock added an unusual and romantic twist, making the experience even more memorable.
What I loved most about the town was its vibrant yet laid-back downtown. Lined with art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafés, it had the kind of joyful energy that made me want to linger for hours. I thought it was one of the coolest mountain towns in the South.
For outdoor lovers, the hiking trails around Moses H. Cone Memorial Park were a spectacular surprise. I found myself wandering through forests, past lakes, and along wide carriage trails that felt peaceful and inspiring—it was the perfect mix of nature and history.
The food scene was also a highlight. From affordable diners serving Southern comfort classics to upscale restaurants with mountain views, every meal felt warm and inviting. I especially loved ending the day with a hearty dinner and then strolling through the charming town streets.
To me, Blowing Rock is an exceptional hidden gem—an exciting, beautiful getaway where mountain magic, history, and small-town spirit come together in the absolute best way.
9. Manassas, Virginia: Battlefields and Brick Streets
We drove about 45 minutes west from Washington, D.C., to Manassas (population around 42,000), a city forever tied to the Civil War.
Just outside of Washington, D.C., Manassas, Virginia struck me as one of the most interesting and underrated towns in the South. Known for its rich Civil War history, it offers a mix of culture, charm, and unique experiences that make it a spectacular getaway.
We stayed at the 3-star Holiday Inn Manassas for three nigth and my favorite stop was the Manassas National Battlefield Park. Walking the trails where history unfolded gave me chills—it felt both powerful and peaceful at the same time. I thought it was one of the absolute best ways to connect with America’s past while enjoying the natural beauty of Virginia.
What really stood out to me was the vibrant Old Town Manassas. Lined with brick sidewalks, boutique shops, and cool cafés, the area had such a joyful and welcoming vibe. I loved how it balanced history with a modern, energetic atmosphere.
I also discovered some amazing hidden gems in the local food and drink scene. From affordable diners with classic Southern comfort dishes to unique breweries offering creative craft beers, every stop felt authentic and exciting. My favorite was a cozy spot where locals gathered for live music—it had the coolest vibe.
For families, Manassas offers plenty of affordable and fun attractions, from local museums to community festivals. I felt like every weekend held something new and interesting to enjoy.
To me, Manassas is more than just a historic site—it’s a vibrant, exceptional town filled with culture, history, and community spirit. It’s one of my favorite hidden gems in Virginia and an unforgettable Southern destination.
10. Greensboro, North Carolina: History, Art, and the Unexpected
We drove about 1.5 hours west from Raleigh to Greensboro (population around 300,000), a city with deep Revolutionary War and Civil Rights roots.
In the heart of North Carolina’s Piedmont region, Greensboro won me over as one of the most underrated and exciting cities in the South. It’s conveniently located between Raleigh and Charlotte, yet it has its own vibrant personality that makes it a spectacular getaway.
Our three day stay at the 4-star Grandover Resort & Spa was great. One of my favorite experiences was visiting the International Civil Rights Center & Museum. Standing inside the former Woolworth’s where the 1960 sit-ins began felt powerful and inspiring—it’s truly one of the best historic sites I’ve explored in the South.
I also loved how joyful and lively the downtown felt. With cool street art, boutique shops, and awesome restaurants, Greensboro had a unique energy that kept me exploring for hours. Elm Street, in particular, was filled with vibrant spots that made it one of my favorite areas to hang out.
Nature lovers will find plenty of magic here too. I spent a peaceful afternoon at the Greensboro Arboretum, which had trails, gardens, and the kind of serene atmosphere that makes you want to slow down and enjoy every moment. It was an affordable and beautiful escape right in the city.
The food scene was another highlight for me. From soul food classics to creative farm-to-table dishes, Greensboro offered some of the coolest and most delicious bites in North Carolina. Every meal felt memorable and full of Southern flavor.
For me, Greensboro is a spectacular hidden gem—an exciting mix of history, culture, food, and nature that makes it one of the best destinations in North Carolina to discover.
11. Texas Hill Country Blossoms and Great Hiking Trails
Deep in the heart of Texas, the Hill Country has to be one of the most spectacular and underrated regions I’ve ever explored. Rolling hills, winding rivers, and charming small towns create a landscape that feels both rugged and romantic—it’s honestly a dream destination for a Southern getaway.
One of my favorite parts was driving the scenic backroads. Every turn revealed hidden gems: fields of wildflowers in spring, peaceful vineyards, and cool little towns that felt like joyful discoveries. It was the absolute best road trip I’ve taken in Texas.
I loved stopping in Fredericksburg, which combines German heritage with vibrant Texas culture. The wineries here were amazing, and the food was unforgettable—from affordable biergartens to upscale restaurants serving local flavors, it was a foodie’s paradise.
For outdoor adventures, the Texas Hill Country is pure magic. I hiked at Enchanted Rock, where the giant pink granite dome gave me the most unusual and spectacular views. Swimming in the blue waters of Hamilton Pool Preserve felt like stepping into a hidden oasis—it was easily one of my coolest travel memories.
What made the trip even more exciting was the variety. One moment I was sipping wine at a romantic vineyard, the next I was tubing down a river with families enjoying the sunshine. The region is both lively and laid-back, affordable yet exceptional in experiences.
To me, the Texas Hill Country is one of the best hidden treasures of the South—vibrant, unique, and full of unforgettable adventures that I can’t wait to relive.
Conclusion
Looking back at all these Southern gems—from beach towns to mountain hideaways, historic cities to artsy small towns—I realize the South is full of spectacular and underrated destinations just waiting to be explored. Each place had its own unique magic, whether it was joyful community vibes, unforgettable food, or breathtaking natural beauty. For me, the absolute best part of traveling through the South is how every stop feels personal, warm, and deeply connected to its history and culture. No matter where you choose—whether it’s a romantic weekend escape, a family adventure, or just an affordable and exciting getaway—you’ll always find something memorable. The South truly holds some of the coolest hidden treasures in America, and I can’t wait to keep discovering more of them.
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Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
