While there are infinite locations you should take the time to visit, we’ve put together a list of 20 must-see spots in the South. You’re going to love each and every one of them.
Why we love it – this city is full of amazing history, and it can be seen in every cobblestone. Rich with culture and magic, this is a must-see.
Best things to do – check out the New Orleans City Park, Jackson Square, New Orleans Museum of Art, Mardi Gras World, St. Louis Cathedral, French Quarter, Audubon Zoo, and the Shops of the Colonnade
Is this destination expensive? – It can be! Depends on chosen activities
As the birthplace of Jazz and home to some of the best food in the country, this city isn’t one you can miss. Not only is this city culturally diverse and beautiful, but that beauty extends far into hospitality, architecture, and every street.
You will find plenty of amazing antique shops around the city, as well as live music, street performers, nightlife, and excellent flavors. Be sure to stop by the French Quarter, and get a tour if you can! There’s a lot of rich history to unpack – both good and bad.
Why we love it – stunning landscape and surrounding scenery with plenty of things to do and enjoy
Best things to do – stop by Anakeesta, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Ober Gatlinburg, Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and more
Is this destination expensive? – no, very affordable
This mountain town is full of unexpected surprises and beauties. Here, you can visit a number of incredible spots, like the nearby national parks and even an aquarium!
Anyone can enjoy their time in a place like this, whether you’re looking for an outdoor experience or something more relaxing. Take in the stunning scenery and fresh air, and enjoy some much-needed relaxation.
Why we love it – this is a striking city with incredible culture, wonderful architecture, theaters, parks, and a showstopper harbor
Best things to do – visit the Charleston City Market, Joe Riley Waterfront Park, Rainbow Row, Fort Sumter National Monument, South Carolina Aquarium, The Battery, Angel Oak Tree, and Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Is this destination expensive? – It can be! Depends on chosen activities
Here, the city market offers a relaxed and enjoyable day out, as does the park on the waterfront. Rainbow Row is a great photography opportunity, too!
You won’t run out of things to do and enjoy during your time here, but you should definitely aim to spend at least three days in the area to really appreciate the place.
If the weather permits, heading down to the beach for a day out is recommended. Folly Beach will be everything you’re looking for, and a real treat for anyone who wants to kill a few hours in the sun.
Why we love it – breathtaking fall foliage with lots of wildlife with scenic landscapes
Best things to do – bird and wildlife watching, hiking, trails, scenic views
Is this destination expensive? – no
Shenandoah National Park stretches across 200,000 acres and is full of thick forest, waterfalls, and images from a dream. The location has been protected since 1935 in an effort to keep the local animal species safe.
These animals include bobcats, white-tailed deer, black bears, and so much more – so there’s plenty to see! You won’t want to skip past this place in the fall.
This national park is known for its stunning fall foliage, making hiking the trails a magical experience later in the year. The warm colors make the 500 miles of hiking trails an unforgettable experience.
Why we love it – the country music hometown with an incredible culture and energy
Best things to do – stop by the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame Museum, The Parthenon, Ryman Auditorium, Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, and much more
Is this destination expensive? – It can be! Depends on chosen activities
There are fewer places that have more to offer visitors and locals alike than Nashville, Tennessee. It’s stunning, full of culture, and rich with history and music. It’s beautiful year-round, and has a range of locations for everyone to stop by and enjoy.
This is a must-see location if you ever stop by the US, because there’s no way you will regret it. If you love bluegrass and country music, you are never going to want to leave.
Why we love it – quant and full of character, this is a stunning small city with lots to keep you busy
Best things to do – visit the Habersham Winery, Georgia Mountain Coaster, Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen, Outpost Gold & Gem Mining Co, and so much more
Is this destination expensive? – It can be! Depends on chosen activities
This small city has a rich history and is one of the most stunning locations on the map. Buildings are quaint, and the town looks like it belongs in Germany! Here, you can go ax-throwing, enjoy drinks at the winery, and even ride on the Georgia Mountain Coaster!
Families and couples alike will love this place, and it should be at the top of your must-visit list in the south!
Why we love it – this city has stunning architecture, as well as a beautiful backdrop with the Blue Ridge Mountains and also the Biltmore Estate
Best things to do – take a look at places like Biltmore, Western North Carolina Nature Center, Asheville Pinball Museum, Basilica of Saint Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr, The Omni Grove Park Inn, and the Botanical Gardens at Asheville
Is this destination expensive? – It can be! Depends on chosen activities
As one of the largest cities in the state, Asheville has plenty of attractions and makes a great vacation spot in the US. The city sits at the confluence of the Swannanoa and French Broad rivers, and boats of some incredible scenery.
Here, there’s plenty to do and enjoy year-round, making it great for hiking, skiing, and everything else you could ever hope for.
Why we love it – it was a wonderful old Southern feel, along with beautiful scenery around it
Best things to do – visit the Betsy Ann Riverboat, Hollywood Casino & Resort Gulf Coast, Silver Slipper Casino Hotel, St. Rose De Lima Church, and more
Is this destination expensive? – not especially
As the name suggests, you can expect to find not only stunning scenery here, but plenty of water and sports! Visitors can enjoy rides on the riverboat, or head out into the woods and enjoy the nearby trails.
If you’re looking for some unbreakable food, head to the Sycamore House. There are lots of delicious options to suit everyone’s needs! When you’re done, why not check out the museums and get a taste of the incredible history of the area?
Why we love it – stunning scenery with wildlife to enjoy and immerse yourself in
Best things to do – explore the trails and falls, and check out the various historic sites in the area
Is this destination expensive? – no, very affordable
You can spend the day here, or so much longer. At Providence Canyon State Park, there is so much to see and enjoy, and you can really immerse yourself in it.
Visitors can explore the trails and go on hikes, like the White Blaze Canyon Loop Trail, or pick another path! If you need any more convincing, just know that some people refer to this park as “Little Grand Canyon” – that tells you everything you need to know!
Why we love it – stunning city with a great culture, food, and scenery around it
Best things to do – stop by the Japanese Tea Garden, San Antonio Zoo, The Alamo, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, San Antonio River Walk, and more!
Is this destination expensive? – It can be! Depends on chosen activities
This busy and beautiful city is a hub for culture, arts, and history. Anyone can see the strong Spanish history and culture of this city, from the architecture to the food, there is plenty for everyone to fall in love with.
If you want to see stunning Latin art, the San Antonio Art Museum is a must-visit location in the city. Anyone can fit in and enjoy the calm and collected atmosphere, making this a great location for any kind of holiday.
Be sure to enjoy the Japanese Tea Garden on a sunny day and see all the animals at the zoo!
Why we love it – a beautiful city with proud and prominent architecture and surrounding scenes
Best things to do – check out the Avent Park, University of Mississippi, Lyric, Lamar Park, University of Mississippi Museum, and Vaught Hemingway Stadium
Is this destination expensive? – It can be! Depends on chosen activities
This wonderful historic city in the state of Mississippi is a stunning sight to behold. Here, the architecture takes you back in history, and surrounds you everywhere. There are a number of great locations to stop by, including the Oxford Treehouse Gallery and the Rowan Oak.
Spend some time here to look at the museums and enjoy the beautiful landscapes that surround the city. Don’t forget about all the parks to enjoy in the warm weather, too!
Why we love it – stunning scenery with beautiful and bountiful wildlife, pleasant weather
Best things to do – camping, boating, hiking, fishing, cycling, birdwatching, geocaching, kayaking
Is this destination expensive? – It can be! Depends on chosen activities
Here, there are incredible marine ecosystems, sanctuaries, and rich wildlife of all kinds. Some of the most notable animal species in the area include the docile manatee, the Florida panther, and of course the American alligator.
You can also see North American river otters, Burmese pythons, and a variety of beautiful birds like the roseate spoonbill. Exploring the area by boat is a popular option, but you can also explore on foot!
Airboat tours and kayaks are great for truly experiencing the watery wonder around you if you ever visit this location.
Why we love it – a charming and quaint town with a unique look and lots to offer
Best things to do – visit the Intrigue Theater, Christ of the Ozarks, Thorncrown Chapel, Basin Spring Park, Crescent Hotel and Spa, and the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge
Is this destination expensive? – It can be! Depends on chosen activities
This smaller city has a lot to offer, and you’re going to love it. It is quaint and interesting even on the outside, but plenty to enjoy when you dive in, too.
There’s so much to see and do, including visiting the Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway, the wildlife refuge, and then the Intrigue Theater.
If you’re looking for some excitement, why not check out the crescent hotel? It’s rumored to be haunted, so you might get more than you bargained for!
Why we love it – stunning scenes with plenty to see and enjoy
Best things to do – visit The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, Greenville Zoo, Falls Park on the Reedy, Peace Center Concert Hall, Liberty Bridge, and much more
Is this destination expensive? – It can be! Depends on chosen activities
Greenville is overflowing with charm and beauty. There are incredible spots for food and scenery, and the whole town has a laid back and pleasant feel to it.
You can visit all kinds of places on your way through, including the zoo, museums, and gorgeous parks. A stroll downtown will take you to some of the best spots in the city, and you won’t want to leave any time soon.
Why we love it – the oldest city in the state, Savannah is full of dark and light history, colorful buildings, horse-drawn carriages, and incredible antebellum architecture
Best things to do – explore Forsyth Park, the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, Bonaventure Cemetery, Savannah Historic District, The Olde Pink House, City Market, Chippewa Square, and Leopold’s Ice Cream!
Is this destination expensive? – It can be! Depends on chosen activities
There are plenty of interesting places to see around the city, including the Historic District and the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. Visitors can find joy around every corner here, and enjoy some of the best Southern dining that the country has to offer.
Popular foods come with a delightful twist for everyone to enjoy, and the drinks will flow. The Olde Pink House will fulfil all your needs for food, or you can try the wonderful Mrs. Wilke’s Dining Room for some incredible food.
Why we love it – stunning emerald waters with pristine beaches and a wonderful, relaxing atmosphere
Best things to do – visit the Isla Blanca Park, Laguna Madre Nature Trail, Beach Park at Isla Blanca, Andy Bowie County Park, Tea Turtle Inc. and South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center
Is this destination expensive? – no, very affordable
If you’re looking for a slice of paradise that isn’t in Hawaii, this is it! Here, you can enjoy the stunning beaches and ocean, a great atmosphere, and a tranquil setting. You can lounge around all day, or enjoy the various nature trails and parks in the area.
There’s even a dolphin watch and gravity park to enjoy! You won’t get bored if you choose to spend your weekend here, and you definitely won’t want to go back home.
Why we love it – a beautiful area with some of the best distilleries you need to try!
Best things to do – visit the Women’s Civil War Museum, My Old Kentucky Home Museum, Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, Lux Row Distillers, and much more
Is this destination expensive? – It can be! Depends on chosen activities
If you want an experience with some of the best distilleries in the country, you need to head to Bardstown. There are plenty of taverns and distilleries to visit, and even museums on various topics.
The landscape is just a bonus, and visiting in the fall will make for an unforgettable trip. This needs to be near the top of your list for locations in the south to visit, and any picture will be able to tell you why – it’s stunning, and full of character.
Why we love it – stunning scenery with waterfalls and forests to fall in love with
Best things to do – go swimming, hiking, and enjoying the beautiful scenes and wildlife around you
Is this destination expensive? – no, very affordable
If nature is your thing, and you want to get away from the busy hustle of society, this is a location you need to visit. Upper Caney Creek Falls is a spot filled with waterfalls and the tranquility of nature.
It makes for a perfect day out if you want to immerse yourself in the outside world. You can explore the area on the trails and stop by the swimming hole when you need a break. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to get moving!
Why we love it – lots to see and enjoy, including hiking, boating, and exploring vineyards
Best things to do – check out Somerset Peddler’s Mall, SomerSplash Waterpark, Somerset Falls Family Park, and many more exciting locations
Is this destination expensive? – It can be! Depends on chosen activities
Somerset, Kentucky, is only a small town of 11,000, but it has a lot to offer. Here, visitors can enjoy the day at the water parks, mall, or you can even enjoy the nearby lake!
This is an amazing location for adults and children alike, and there’s no way you will get bored. Be sure to visit the International Paranormal Museum and research Center if you’re looking for something spooky to do!
Why we love it – beautiful city with lots of great attractions and a lively vibe
Best things to do – visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Centennial Olympic Park, Piedmont Park, and many more incredible places
Is this destination expensive? – It can be! Depends on chosen activities
As one of the most popular locations to visit in the south, Atlanta has a lot going for it! It’s the home of CNN and is also the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. With so much to see around the city, you will never get bored.
There are plenty of great spots for food, and gardens and parks for the whole family to enjoy. Enjoy the rich history of the area, and be sure to check out the museums!
Final Thoughts
There are lots of fantastic locations to visit in the southern United States. Cities, large and small, and even some incredible parks like the Everglades.
No matter who you are and what you like, there are stunning places in the south that will draw you in. It’s up to you to plan your next journey and see them for yourself!
Hi, my name is Alex Kallen and I love to travel. Ever since I could afford the ticket, I hopped on a plane and never looked back. I’ve made a living writing travel guides and blogging my experience all over the world.
I want to encourage and inspire others to travel around the US like I am. There’s no need to go on vacation overseas when there is an amazing land of opportunity right on your doorstep. Enjoy my website, I hope to see you out here one day.
