If you’re craving warm hospitality, rich history, and bold flavors, I can tell you—there’s nothing quite like a trip through the Southern USA. When I explored this region, I was swept up in the rhythm of it all. Whether I was tapping my foot to live jazz in New Orleans or savoring hot chicken in Nashville, the South met me with open arms and unforgettable energy. You’ll feel it too, that soulful blend of tradition and creativity that lingers long after you leave.
I hiked misty trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains and lounged on sugar-sand Gulf Coast beaches. You might find yourself doing the same, or discovering your own favorite corner. And the food? I tasted everything from smoky barbecue to buttery biscuits, and I promise, every bite tells a story. Whether you're here for the music, the flavors, or the kind of charm that makes strangers feel like neighbors, I think the South will welcome you the way it welcomed me—with heart, history, and more than a few surprises.
Southern USA Highlights:
- For Music Lovers: Explore Nashville, Tennessee – Tour the Grand Ole Opry, country music museums, and live honky-tonks on Broadway.
- For History Buffs: Walk the streets of Charleston, South Carolina – Discover antebellum mansions, cobblestone lanes, and Civil War sites.
- For Foodies: Taste your way through New Orleans, Louisiana – Try beignets, gumbo, jambalaya, and Cajun flavors in the French Quarter.
- For Outdoor Fans: Hike the Great Smoky Mountains – Explore misty trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks in Tennessee and North Carolina.
- For Beach Seekers: Lounge on the Gulf Coast – Visit Destin, Gulf Shores, or the Florida Panhandle for sugar-white beaches and emerald water.
Best Time to Visit the Southern USA
The best time to visit the Southern USA is during spring (March–May) and fall (September–November). These seasons offer mild weather, blooming landscapes, and vibrant festivals. Summer can be hot and humid but ideal for beach vacations, while winter is great for city breaks and coastal escapes with fewer crowds.
How to Get to the Southern USA
- By Air: Major airports include Hartsfield-Jackson (Atlanta), Nashville International, Charlotte Douglas, and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International.
- By Car: I-10, I-20, I-40, I-75, and I-95 make Southern road trips scenic and accessible.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Crescent, Silver Service, and City of New Orleans routes connect major cities throughout the region.
Where to Stay in the Southern USA
- Recommended for History Lovers: The Peabody Memphis (TN) – Famous for its historic charm and daily duck parade in the lobby.
- For Romantic Getaways: French Quarter Inn (Charleston, SC) – Boutique hotel steps from iconic landmarks and restaurants.
- For Beach Vacations: Henderson Park Inn (Destin, FL) – Adult-only beachfront B&B with elegant rooms and ocean views.
Best Things to Do in the Southern USA
Explore Everglades National Park, Florda -
Stroll through the gardens at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Texas -
Learn about Southern culture at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, Louisiana -
Visit the legendary Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum -
Marvel at the diverse marine life at Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta -
Visit Graceland, Elvis Presley's estate -
Go hiking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park -
Stroll through the heart of New Orleans: Jackson Square -
Admire masterpieces from around the world at the Ringling Museum of Art -
Learn about the history of bat making at the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory -
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Explore Everglades National Park, Florda
- • Stroll through the gardens at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Texas
- • Learn about Southern culture at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, Louisiana
- • Visit the legendary Elvis Presley Birthplace & Museum
- • Marvel at the diverse marine life at Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta
- • Visit Graceland, Elvis Presley's estate
- • Go hiking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- • Stroll through the heart of New Orleans: Jackson Square
- • Admire masterpieces from around the world at the Ringling Museum of Art
- • Learn about the history of bat making at the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory