South Travel Guide
Planning on visiting South? This comprehensive travel guide covers everything you need to know, from the top places to visit to the best food and drink scene, as well as local culture and customs and safety tips.
- Introduction to South
- List of Places to Visit in South
- Hiking/Biking Routes of South
- Best Things to Do in South: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for South
- Food and Drink Scene of South
- Where to Stay in South: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in South: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of South
- Best Time to Visit South
- Do’s and Don’ts of South
- Safety and Health
- Getting to South: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in South
- Where to Go Next from South: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to South
Welcome to South, one of the most diverse and captivating regions in the United States of America. From the iconic southern hospitality to the breathtaking natural scenery, South has something for everyone. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture or explore the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures.
List of Places to Visit in South
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
One of the best ways to learn about the culture and history of South is by visiting its museums and historical sites. The following museums and landmarks are not to be missed:
- The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.
- The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee
- The Kentucky Derby Museum in Louisville, Kentucky
- The Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi
- The Alamaba Theater in Birmingham, Alabama
Natural Attractions of South: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
South is home to some of the most picturesque natural wonders in the world. Here are just a few of the top spots to add to your itinerary:
- The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee and North Carolina
- The Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia
- The Gulf of Mexico in Florida
- The Everglades National Park in Florida
- The Mississippi River in Louisiana
Hiking/Biking Routes of South
With its stunning landscapes and temperate climate, South is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the best hiking and biking routes include:
- The Appalachian Trail in Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia
- The Natchez Trace Parkway in Mississippi and Tennessee
- The Silver Comet Trail in Georgia
- The Swamp Rabbit Trail in South Carolina
Best Things to Do in South: Activities and Tours
From thrill-seekers to families, there are plenty of activities and tours to keep everyone entertained in South. Here are some must-see attractions:
- The Bourbon Trail in Kentucky
- The Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama
- The Kennedy Space Center in Florida
- The Chattanooga Zoo in Tennessee
- The Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences in West Virginia
Week-Long Itinerary for South
If you only have a week to explore South, here is a suggested itinerary:
Day | Destination |
---|---|
1 | Washington D.C. |
2 | Nashville, Tennessee |
3 | Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee |
4 | New Orleans, Louisiana |
5 | Gulf Shores, Alabama |
6 | Atlanta, Georgia |
7 | Savannah, Georgia |
Food and Drink Scene of South
South is famous for its rich and diverse culinary scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Gumbo in Louisiana
- Cornbread in Mississippi
- Fried chicken in Kentucky
- BBQ in Tennessee
- Shrimp and grits in South Carolina
Local Beverages
- Bourbon in Kentucky
- Sweet tea in Georgia
- Mint julep in Louisiana
- Sazerac in Louisiana
- Moonshine in Tennessee
Where to Stay in South: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
South has a range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. Some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses include:
- The Peabody Memphis in Tennessee
- The Ritz-Carlton in New Orleans
- The Westin in Hilton Head, South Carolina
- The Greenbrier in West Virginia
- The Grand Hotel in Alabama
What to Buy in South: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
No trip to South is complete without taking home some locally made souvenirs and products. Some of the best items to buy include:
- Moonshine from Tennessee
- Handmade quilts from Mississippi
- Bourbon from Kentucky
- Hot sauce from Louisiana
- Peach preserves from Georgia
Local Culture and Customs of South
Southern culture is a blend of traditions and customs that have been shaped by its history and geography. Some of the most notable cultural practices include:
- Southern hospitality
- Family values
- Appreciation of arts and music
- Love of food and drink
- Respect for traditions and history
Best Time to Visit South
The best time to visit South depends on your interests and preferred weather conditions. Summer months are generally hot and humid, while winters can be chilly. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Events and festivals also take place year-round, so check local calendars before planning your trip.
Do’s and Don’ts of South
Do:
- Say “please” and “thank you” often
- Respect traditions and customs
- Interact with locals and learn about their history and culture
- Embrace the outdoors and natural wonders
- Try new foods and drinks
Don’t:
- Be disrespectful or discriminatory
- Criticize or belittle southern traditions and values
- Wear inappropriate clothing in public places
- Litter or damage natural sites
- Forget to tip service employees
Safety and Health
Safety in South
While South is generally a safe destination for travelers, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautionary measures. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:
- Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas
- Don’t leave valuables in your car or unattended in public places
- Follow local traffic laws and be cautious when driving
- Use caution and common sense when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities
- Be mindful of weather conditions, especially during hurricane season from June to November
Health in South
As with any travel, it’s important to stay healthy and avoid getting sick. Here are some health tips to follow:
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water
- Use sunscreen and insect repellent as needed
- Wash your hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer
- Be cautious when eating street food or drinking tap water
- Pack any necessary medication and keep copies of prescriptions
Getting to South: Transportation Options and Logistics
South is easily accessible and can be reached by plane, train, car, and bus. Here are some key transportation options to consider:
Airports Near South
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia
- Washington Dulles International Airport in Virginia
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport in Louisiana
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina
- Nashville International Airport in Tennessee
Bus Stations Near South
- Greyhound Bus Lines in various cities throughout South
- Megabus in various cities throughout South
Other Options
- Amtrak train service in Virginia, North Carolina, and Louisiana
- Car rental options in major cities and airports throughout South
How to Get Around in South
The best way to get around South is by car. However, other transportation options include rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, public transportation like buses and trains, and biking in some cities.
Where to Go Next from South: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you have additional time during your trip to South, consider visiting some of these nearby destinations:
- Nashville, Tennessee
- Asheville, North Carolina
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Washington D.C.
- New Orleans, Louisiana
Conclusion
Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, outdoor enthusiast, or just looking to relax and soak up the southern hospitality, South has something for you. This comprehensive guide will help you plan the perfect trip and make the most of your time in this amazing region of the United States.
South Image Gallery
![Atlanta](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8f/Bright_Atlanta.jpg/100px-Bright_Atlanta.jpg)
![A Civil War battlefield near Richmond (Virginia)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/af/Malvern_Cannons_%2C_Civil_War_Battlefield%2C_RIchmond_National_Battlefield_-_Stierch.jpg/100px-Malvern_Cannons_%2C_Civil_War_Battlefield%2C_RIchmond_National_Battlefield_-_Stierch.jpg)
![A bottle of Coca-Cola](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/87/CocaColaBottle_background_free.jpg/100px-CocaColaBottle_background_free.jpg)