The United States is an incredibly diverse country, with aspects such as cuisine, culture, and natural landscapes varying greatly depending on the region. The Southern region of the United States has graciously earned itself a reputation for its hospitality, warmth, and charm. In particular, eight towns in this genial region exemplify these traits in the best way possible. From the historical streets of Charlottesville to the white sands of Hilton Head Island, these tiny Southern towns invite visitors to step into a world where time seems to tardy down, and every interaction feels like a toasty embrace from an venerable friend.
Charlottesville, Virginia
The Downtown Mall in Charlottesville, Virginia. Editorial credit: ImagineerInc / Shutterstock.com.
Surrounded by significant landmarks and stunning natural scenery, a trip to Charlottesville is guaranteed to be memorable. Visitors can spend an afternoon in the brick-paved, Historic Downtown Mall, hosting over 120 shops and 30 restaurants, many of which are located in gorgeous, historic buildings. Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello is a mere 10-minute drive from downtown. Nearby, travelers can also visit the historic residences of two other US presidents, Madison and Monroe. Continuing the historical trail, the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center also has noteworthy historical exhibits and a rotating art gallery. If the opulent history of Charlottesville was not enough to convince you to visit, the nearby Shenandoah National Park promises hikers cascading waterfalls, meadows of wildflowers, wooded forests, as well as a variety of wildlife such as the native black bear, songbirds, and deer.
Dauphin Island, Alabama
Aerial view of Dauphin Island, Alabama.
Dauphin Island perfectly represents the southern coast’s charming, laid-back lifestyle. The town’s downtown area consists of an array of local shops, restaurants, and art galleries where visitors can spend the afternoon shopping. Wide, sandy beaches surround the center, where visitors can enjoy recreational activities such as swimming, surfing, shell hunting, and flying kites. A historical landmark, Fort Gaines, sits on the island’s east side, where history lovers can appreciate a well-kept Civil War site and enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. The nearby Audubon Bird Sanctuary hosts 164 acres of woodlands with an impressive variety of migrating bird species, where visitors can birdwatch from the sanctuary’s walking trails. The island also celebrates its wildlife through the Alabama Aquarium, which exhibits coastal Alabama’s four major habitats, showcasing an abundance of native marine species.
Fredricksburg, Texas
A scene from Fredericksburg, Texas. Editorial credit: Timothy L Barnes / Shutterstock.com.
Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a historic town with proud German roots, which visitors can experience through local cuisine and culture. Restaurants such as Altdorf Biergarten serve mouth-watering German dishes that will leave you reminiscing about the dishes for days after. The Behr House Bed and Breakfast is in a stunning, historic building dating back to the 19th century, built by a German immigrant family. Fredericksburg also has a energetic wine scene, hosting over 60 vineyards in its surrounding area, many of which have received worldwide recognition for their high-quality wine. There is a variety of outdoor recreational options near Fredericksburg as well. A 20-minute drive will take travelers to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, a 425-foot pink granite rock formation where visitors can hike, rock climb, picnic, and camp in the surrounding park area.
Saint Francisville, Louisiana
Rosedown Plantation in St. Francisville, Louisiana.
Located in the heart of Louisiana’s rolling hills and just a half hour north of Baton Rouge, Saint Francisville has a memorable southern charm and history that draws in travelers from all over the country. Visitors can stroll through an array of bookstores, flower shops, vintage malls, and boutiques. The town shares its fascinating history through the West Feliciana Historical Society Museum, which contains various exhibits and historical artifacts. Travelers who want to feel immersed in the town’s culture and history can visit The Royal Inn, a luxurious bed and breakfast located in Saint Francisville’s historic district. Saint Francisville’s surroundings are opulent in natural beauty as well, such as Clark Creek Natural Area, sometimes referred to as the “Little Grand Canyon,” consisting of seven stunning waterfalls and hiking trails.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Aerial view over Coligny Beach on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.
Hilton Head Island has some of the most stunning beaches and recreational spaces in the Southern United States, with 12 miles of pristine white sand beaches, draping live oaks, and crisp creeks. Visitors will have the opportunity to partake in a variety of recreational activities, such as kayaking, paddle boarding, biking, and dolphin tours. The town offers an electric bike tour, in which a local guide will share Hilton Head’s intriguing history while leading visitors through some of the town’s most scenic trails. For those interested in exploring the town’s food scene, Hilton Head is copious in delicious, highly-rated cuisine options, such as Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana. One of the best times to visit Hilton Head is during its Annual Wine and Food Festival, a 40-year-long annual tradition offering an array of wines to taste as well as savory dishes, all while enjoying the town’s festive atmosphere.
Manteo, North Carolina
The waterfront scene in Manteo, North Carolina.
Located on Roanoke Island in North Carolina, Manteo is copious in relaxing outdoor activities, such as fishing, sailing, kayaking, biking and more. The town has a opulent history, seen through its landmarks such as the Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse and the Pea Island Cookhouse Museum. The Downtown Waterfront Playground is great for families, filled with slides, colorful swings, and panoramic views of the gorgeous Shallowbag Bay. Manteo’s historic downtown district is walkable, offering waterfront views, unique shops, and wonderful culinary options.
Dahlonega, Georgia
Aerial view of the Dahlonega Gold Museum in Dahlonega, Georgia.
Travelers from all over the country flock to Dahlonega to see its roaring waterfalls and flowing cascades. Just 30 minutes from the town, visitors can visit Amicalola Falls State Park, home to the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi. It is also a popular point to start hiking on the Appalachian Trail. In addition to its natural beauty, Dahlonega also has a energetic art scene, with many art galleries scattered throughout the town containing paintings, photography, jewelry, pottery, and more. Boutiques, gift shops, vintage stores, and wine-tasting rooms attract many visitors. For those with a sweet tooth, Dahlonega will not disappoint. Picnic Cafe and Dessertery is a cozy cafe that sells coffee, handmade desserts, and lunches. The annual Dahlonega Chocolate Crawl will also be a memorable part of your trip, featuring participating chocolate shops throughout the downtown area that allow visitors to try an incredible variety of chocolate products and dishes!
Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Marshall Park in Ocean Springs, Mississippi.
Ocean Springs has earned its reputation in the south as an artsy, historic town filled with giant, draping oak trees. The town’s main street hosts a plethora of galleries, restaurants, and boutiques as well as the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, which exhibits the life of artist Walter Anderson and showcases breathtaking southern landscape and coastal culture art. Ocean Springs also hosts the largest arts festival in the state, the annual Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival, which features an abundance of art, crafts, and food vendors from all over the United States. Visitors must also visit the Davis Bayou Area Gulf Islands National Seashore, which has a fascinating coastal forest and bayous to explore while hiking and camping. Some visitors may even spot sea turtles, alligators, and native bird and fish species.
