I’ve wandered throughout the South, and every tucked-away cottage, winding road, peaceful riverfront, marshy hideout, and natural wonder there has offered me a new chance to experience the true Southern culture.
Let me share with you 11 of my favorite little spots in the South. To me, these are the true hidden gems – and the stories not yet told. These are totally worthy of your next retreat – whether you are a Southerner or a Northerner.
Featured Image Credit: Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons.
Brevard, North Carolina
Perched 500ft up on the Blue Ridge Mountains (called the ‘Land of Waterfalls’ because it is surrounded by more than 250 waterfalls), Brevard is home to the gorgeous Looking Glass Falls. Surrounded by lush hills, the town is no stranger to adventure, with plenty of hiking, biking and rock climbing opportunities. The nearby Pisgah National Forest – another popular natural sight and a great place for scenic drives and for walks through nature – is also worth checking out. The local arts culture is thriving, too; there are plenty of art galleries and craft shops, many of which proudly exhibit works by local artists.
Natchez, Mississippi
Natchez is a historic town, and you’ll see remnants of its storied past in the beautiful antebellum homes that are preserved to this day. You can tour Sacred Heart Church, built in 1820; St Paul’s Church, built before the Revolution; and the historic homes of Natchez: Longwood, a ‘gothic revival’ home built between 1852-61, and the equally grand Dunleith, built around 1855. Guides, many wearing colonial dress, offer tours of the homes from morning to late afternoon.
One of the most popular attractions in Natchez is to stroll the Mississippi River, taking in the view, especially around sunset. Second, take a leisurely drive along the Natchez Trace Parkway, a quiet yet beautiful road that showcases the region’s historic and natural highlights. The parkway, located about 2 miles to the east of Natchez, offers pull-offs and signposts so you can stop at places like the Dufferin Plantation – a restored plantation house that was built in 1826. You’ll learn not only how the plantation operated but also about the lives of those who lived here.
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Eufaula, Alabama
Eufaula – nestled among picturesque historic homes with scenic views of lakeside vistas – is a wonderful place for a quiet weekend. The downtown area is a picturesque historic district where more than 700 historic structures add to the charm of Eufaula’s quaint getaway experience. Many of these structures are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge features more than 25 species of birds found within portions of the Central Flyway bird migration path. Birdwatching and photography activities are enjoyed in and around this area. Parks situated along Lake Eufaula for picnicking and fishing are also available choices for outdoor enthusiasts.
Fairhope, Alabama
Fairhope is on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay and has a lovely downtown lined with art galleries, shops, and terrific restaurants. The Fairhope Pier is the perfect place to take in the view of the bay and the sunset. It’s home to the annual arts and crafts festival, and artisans from all over flock to attend. It boasts lovely parks and manicured gardens that wind through town and along the streets. It’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina/Virginia
Known as ‘America’s Favorite Drive’, the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the Appalachian Mountains and offers an impressive array of views. A particularly good time to drive the parkway is in the fall when the leaves change color. There are also plenty of trails along the parkway, many of which are easily accessible and offer short, easy hikes. There are more hikes that last longer as well, leading to spectacular vistas, waterfalls, and even picnic areas. The visitor centers and cultural sites on the parkway help to detail the history and tradition of the Appalachian region.
Augustine, Florida
The US’s oldest city and an endless source of culture and lore, St Augustine features cobblestone-lined streets lined with adorable shops and restaurants and plenty of history-focused sites such as the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fort that looms over the water from atop an ominous hill. Other highlights include access to gorgeous beaches and a thriving arts scene in a gorgeous city center, as well as some fantastic dining, from seafood fresh off the boat to Southern staples at a wide variety of eateries.
Tybee Island, Georgia
Only a 20-minute drive outside Savannah, Tybee Island is a charming seaside getaway featuring laid-back beach culture and spectacular coastal scenery. The island offers several sandy beaches ideal for lazing in the sun or lapping up the sea air, while the Tybee Island Lighthouse and Museum provides mesmerizing views of the coastline. Several nearby nature reserves attract a diverse array of native birds and make Tybee Island a must-see here in Georgia’s Outer Coast region for all nature enthusiasts.
Little River Canyon National Preserve, Alabama
It is a fabulous natural area that boasts several waterfalls, a beginning-intermediate trail system, and scenic lookout points along the Little River. The river is one of the very few in the United States that flows atop a mountain ridge and offers many opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and rock climbing. There are several picnic areas for locals and tourists who visit the park to embrace the outdoor lifestyle. Additionally, there is diverse wildlife for those who are highly interested in photography and exploring nature.
Savannah, Georgia
Despite its tourist-friendly nickname, there’s still much more to Savannah than first meets the eye. Take a stroll through any of its large, historic squares – all 22 of them – to wander through green spaces and stunning monuments. The Bonaventure Cemetery also makes for intriguing historical sightseeing, with a hauntingly beautiful collection of sculptures and notable historical grave sites. Walk a haunted history tour, and you’ll encounter a few terrifying stories and plenty to learn about Savannah’s past. Amid elegant architecture and lush green foliage, the city definitely has a story to tell.
Bainbridge, Georgia
Bainbridge, Georgia, sits on the banks of the Flint River and is a well-preserved town in south Georgia with an active community. Its museums such as the Bainbridge Historical Museum are living expressions of the community’s history. The river that runs through the town offers excellent fishing, boating and picnicking. The town hosts a variety of festivals, farmers’ markets and events throughout its seasons inviting visitors to enjoy their Southern hospitality.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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