Map Of The Southeast
The Top Attractions
The Southeast region of the United States boasts some of the most iconic attractions in the country. From the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, to the National Mall in Washington D.C., there is something for everyone. Other must-see attractions include the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, and the Bourbon Trail in Louisville, Kentucky.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are certainly worth a visit, don’t miss out on the hidden gems that make the Southeast so special. Take a stroll through the whimsical Dr. Seuss-inspired town of Seaside, Florida, or explore the mysterious Oak Island in North Carolina. The small towns of Oxford, Mississippi, and Savannah, Georgia, also offer charming and unique experiences.
The Food Scene
The Southeast is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine. Sample a classic shrimp po’ boy in New Orleans, Louisiana, or indulge in some southern-style barbecue in Nashville, Tennessee. Seafood lovers will enjoy the fresh catch in Charleston, South Carolina, and oyster lovers should head to Apalachicola, Florida. Don’t forget to try the famous hot chicken in Nashville!
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? There are still plenty of ways to enjoy the Southeast without breaking the bank. Visit state parks for a low-cost outdoor adventure, or take advantage of free museum days in major cities. Opt for street food or local markets instead of expensive restaurants, and consider staying in hostels or Airbnb rentals instead of hotels.
Outdoor Adventures
The Southeast is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee and North Carolina, or hike to the top of Stone Mountain in Georgia. Go kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of Florida’s Ichetucknee Springs or hit the slopes in West Virginia’s Snowshoe Mountain Resort.
Historical Landmarks
The Southeast has a rich history, and there are plenty of landmarks to explore. Walk the cobblestone streets of Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, or visit the Civil Rights Memorial Center in Montgomery, Alabama. Learn about the history of the Cherokee Nation at the Oconaluftee Indian Village in North Carolina, or explore the historic district of St. Augustine, Florida.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Southeast is a great destination for families. Take the kids to the family-friendly beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama, or visit the world-famous Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Explore the interactive exhibits at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, or take a family-friendly ghost tour in Savannah, Georgia.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, venture off the beaten path in the Southeast. Visit the abandoned town of Cahawba, Alabama, or explore the eerie ruins of the Old Sheldon Church in South Carolina. Take a ghost tour of the haunted Myrtles Plantation in St. Francisville, Louisiana, or go on a moonshine tour in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Natural Wonders
The natural wonders of the Southeast are not to be missed. Marvel at the towering waterfalls of North Carolina’s Pisgah National Forest, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Florida’s Rainbow Springs. Explore the eerie beauty of Alabama’s Cathedral Caverns, or take a sunset hike in Georgia’s Tallulah Gorge State Park.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Southeast comes alive at night, with plenty of options for a fun night out. Enjoy live music and craft beer in Asheville, North Carolina, or dance the night away in Miami, Florida. Bar hop in Nashville, Tennessee, or party on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Local Markets
Experience the local culture of the Southeast by visiting local markets. Browse the stalls at the Charleston City Market in South Carolina, or shop for fresh produce at the Farmers Market at the Curb in Nashville, Tennessee. Explore the eclectic mix of vendors at the French Market in New Orleans, Louisiana, or search for treasures at the Peachtree Road Farmers Market in Atlanta, Georgia.
Beaches and Mountains
The Southeast offers the best of both worlds with its beautiful beaches and towering mountains. Relax on the pristine beaches of Florida’s Gulf Coast, or hit the slopes in West Virginia’s Snowshoe Mountain Resort. Hike to the top of North Carolina’s Mount Mitchell, or soak up the sun on the white sand beaches of Alabama’s Gulf Shores.
Cultural Immersion
The Southeast is steeped in culture, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in it. Take a tour of the historic homes in Charleston, South Carolina, or learn about the traditions of the Gullah people in Beaufort, South Carolina. Explore the vibrant art scene in Asheville, North Carolina, or attend a powwow at the Cherokee Indian Reservation in North Carolina.
Art and Music Scene
The Southeast is home to a thriving art and music scene. Visit the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, Georgia, or explore the eclectic street art in Asheville, North Carolina. Enjoy live music at the famous Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, Tennessee, or attend the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival in Louisiana.
Walking Tours
Explore the cities of the Southeast on foot with a walking tour. Take a historic walking tour of Savannah, Georgia, or explore the street art scene in Asheville, North Carolina. Learn about the architecture of New Orleans, Louisiana, or take a ghost tour of the haunted streets of Charleston, South Carolina.
Architectural Marvels
The Southeast is home to some of the most beautiful and unique architecture in the country. Admire the stunning Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, or tour the historic homes in Charleston, South Carolina. Explore the unique Art Deco architecture of Miami Beach, Florida, or marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Savannah, Georgia.
Historical Sites
The Southeast is full of important historical sites. Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site in Atlanta, Georgia, or explore the Jamestown Settlement in Virginia. Tour the historic Fort Sumter in Charleston, South Carolina, or visit the birthplace of Elvis Presley in Tupelo, Mississippi.
Biking Routes
Explore the Southeast on two wheels with a scenic bike ride. Take a leisurely ride along the Gulf State Park in Alabama, or tackle the challenging climbs of the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. Enjoy the ocean views on the Virginia Capital Trail, or explore the picturesque countryside of Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail.
Wellness Retreats
Unwind and recharge at one of the many wellness retreats in the Southeast. Relax at the luxurious Blackberry Farm in Tennessee, or take a yoga retreat in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Enjoy a spa day at the historic Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina, or detox at the wellness resort of Canyon Ranch in Lenox, Massachusetts.