There’s a good reason why the southern United States is the most visited region in the United States. Not only is the South the most populous region in America, it is home to approximately 37 percent of the population (or 115 million people!). The South is also one of the most beautiful regions, with no shortage of beautiful scenery and wonderful small towns to explore.
There’s no better way to get to know the region than by visiting some of the most quaint towns in the American South. From the stunning scenery of the Ozarks to the Texas desert and several stops in between, these fascinating destinations offer great opportunities to enjoy an authentic Southern travel experience.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Located in the Ozark Mountains of northeastern Arkansas near the Missouri border, Eureka Springs is best described as “a piece of quaint Victorian charm.” It’s so great that the entire Downtown Eureka Springs area is now on the National Register of Historic Places. The winding, hilly streets are lined with quirky Victorian shops, art galleries and boutiques that will make you want to wander. The architecture along Eureka Springs’ Main Street is especially fun to stroll through, and it’s also home to the Crescent Hotel & Spa. Opened in 1886, this historic building has been dubbed “America’s Most Haunted Hotel” and continues to offer luxurious stays…and, of course, ghost tours.
Another must-see is Thorncrown Chapel, an architectural marvel built in 1980 made almost entirely of glass and wood. Boasting panoramic views of the surrounding forest, this location is a popular spot for photographers and weddings. One of the attractions that attracts visitors is the Great Passion Play, an outdoor drama depicting the last days of Jesus Christ, performed in a purpose-built amphitheater set against the backdrop of the Ozark Mountains. The town is also close to the Ozark National Forest, which offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing adventures.
Helen, Georgia
If you’ve never been to Bavaria, Germany, Helen introduces you to some quirky and familiar ‘travel ducks’. Located in Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Helen reinvented itself in the 1950s by adopting an alpine theme reminiscent of a Bavarian village. This proved to be a hugely successful undertaking, and now there is a by-law in place requiring all companies to incorporate European charm into their designs. The town is, of course, famous for its lively Oktoberfest, the longest running festival in the United States, where locals and visitors alike enjoy German music, dancing, food, and, of course, a variety of beers.
Outdoor activities abound in and around Helen. The Chattahoochee River flows through town, and you can enjoy tubing and kayaking, popular pastimes during the warmer months. Just outside of town, Unicoi State Park & Lodge and Anna Ruby Falls offer great hiking trails, picnic spots, and waterfall views. Another major attraction is the Helen Arts & Heritage Center, which combines an art gallery, history museum, and artist studio. For a centrally located and enjoyable stay, the medieval-themed Castle Inn in a riverside setting is the perfect choice.
Fairhope, Alabama
The quaint little town of Fairhope, Alabama is a hidden gem perched on the bluffs of Mobile Bay’s eastern shore. The “quirky quotient” here stems from the town’s vibrant arts community, making it a popular destination for travelers looking for a fun combination of Southern charm and artistic flair. Stroll through downtown Fairhope and you’ll find numerous independent shops and art galleries that support the work of local artists. A fun time to visit is during the First Friday Art Walk, a monthly event where locals and tourists alike enjoy a night of art and music.
Other fun things to do in Fairhope include visiting the Fairhope Historical Museum, which provides insight into the town’s interesting past. Explore the Fairhope Municipal Pier and Park for great views of Mobile Bay, especially at sunset (it’s also a popular spot for fishing and bird watching). Other highlights include Fairhope Beach, Fairhope Rose Garden, and the annual Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival.
Marfa, Texas
Marfa, a desert town in the highlands of West Texas, has transformed from a sleepy railroad stop to a vibrant center of contemporary arts and culture. It’s a popular spot for fans of quirky small towns, with minimalist art installations, many of which are inspired by the Chinati Foundation. Founded by artist Donald Judd, this contemporary art museum is housed in a former military base and features large-scale installations and exhibits that blend into the surrounding landscape (guided tours are available).
Another quirky Marfa attraction is the mysterious Marfa Lights, visible on clear nights near US Route 67. Also known as “ghost lights,” this rare phenomenon can be experienced at the Marfa Mystery Lights Viewing Area. The town is also home to Building 98, a historic site with murals of German prisoners of war from World War II, and Prada Marfa, a fake Prada store in the middle of the desert.
Natchitoches (Louisiana)
Natchitoches is not only the oldest permanently settled town in the Louisiana Purchase, but also one of the most beautiful small towns in the Pelican State. The center of Natchitoches’ appeal lies in its Historic District, a 33-block area along the shores of Cane River Lake. This charming area is home to beautifully preserved Cane River Lake buildings, some of which date back to his 18th century. Front Street is a brick-paved thoroughfare lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and local eateries, making it a great place to stroll.
Other popular Natchitoches attractions include Cane River Creole National Historical Park, home to two French Creole cotton plantations, Oakland and Magnolia. Here, visitors can explore original buildings and learn about plantation life. Natchitoches is also fun to visit in the winter for its annual Christmas festival. The oldest such holiday festival in the United States, this fun festival features more than 300,000 Christmas lights and 100 sets on display along the shores of Cane River Lake, drawing crowds from all over the United States.The main character of the town in the movie steel magnolia You can also explore through filming site tours.
Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort, a picturesque coastal town in South Carolina’s Lowcountry region, is a must-see for those looking for a day trip or an off-beat vacation. Located on Port Royal Island in the Sea Islands region, Beaufort’s well-preserved antebellum architecture is a big draw. Begin your visit with a stroll through the Beaufort Historic District. The tree-lined boulevards offer plenty of opportunities to admire elegant old mansions with grand columns, wraparound porches and lush gardens. Guided walking, horse-drawn carriage and trolley tours through the historic center are popular.
Another must-see is the Penn Center on St. Helena Island. It was one of the first schools for freedmen and now functions as a museum. Because Beaufort is located along the Intracoastal Waterway, it is a popular destination for water activities such as kayaking, fishing, and boat tours, including dolphin-watching tours. Fun events include the Beaufort Water Festival held each May and the Shrimp Festival held each October.
The last word
The southern United States is a treasure trove of quaint, quirky towns that offer a unique perspective on the region’s diverse culture, history, and landscape. From the Victorian charm of Eureka Springs to the Bavarian charm of Helen, and from the artistic spirit of Fairhope to the minimalist desert art scene of Marfa, these must-see communities celebrate their uniqueness in a variety of fun ways doing. Exploring these towns is a journey through the heart and soul of the South, and along the way you’ll discover hidden gems that make visiting this region so much fun.