Some of the South's best experiences are in places you've never heard of. These small towns reward slow travel — a weekend of wandering, good food, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you forget your inbox. Here are the ones worth planning a trip around.
Natchez, Mississippi
Perched on bluffs above the Mississippi River, Natchez has more antebellum homes than any other city in America. The Natchez Trace Parkway connects it to Nashville; the drive alone is worth the trip. Stay at a historic inn, tour the mansions, and eat at the Magnolia Grill. The town has a complicated history — it's worth engaging with it honestly.
Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort is the Lowcountry at its best — Spanish moss, waterfront views, and a pace that forces you to slow down. The historic district has Federal and antebellum architecture. Eat shrimp and grits at a local spot. Take a boat tour to see the dolphins. This is the kind of place where you leave feeling restored.
This is the kind of place where you leave feeling restored.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Built into the Ozark hills, Eureka Springs feels like a village from another era. It's a Victorian town with a thriving arts scene, quirky shops, and natural springs. The Crescent Hotel is allegedly haunted. The town has a progressive spirit that's rare in the region. Worth a visit.
Pro tip: The Natchez Trace Parkway is one of America's great drives. Allow a full day if you're travelling between Natchez and Nashville — the 444-mile route rewards slow travel with scenic overlooks and historic stops.
St. Augustine, Florida
America's oldest city — founded by the Spanish in 1565. The historic district has cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and a sense of history that's palpable. The Lightner Museum is in a former hotel. The Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the continental US. Combine history with beach time.
