SEE THE SOUTH
Be immersed in dazzling natural landscapes, electrifying culture and Southern hospitality, alongside some of the most quintessentially American food and drink in the country.
The American South, which you’ll find referred to simply as ‘the South’ in the US, encompasses a wide geographical area that includes states ranging from verdant North Carolina all the way through to mountainous West Virginia.
Across the region’s nine states; Alabama, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia; there’s endless culture, history and nature to explore in big cities and small towns alike. Chase the horizon by road for total freedom on your journey, and to ensure nothing gets missed along the way.
We’ve teamed up with Travel South to curate guides to the best experiences to have in each state, which include a healthy mix of under-the-radar local gems and big ticket must-sees. Mix and match our recommendations to encounter a version of the South that’s unforgettably your own.
WHEN TO GO
The South is a diverse year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on the experience you are after. March–May offers mild temperatures, blooming landscapes and a lively festival season, while September-November’s cool climes and abundant foliage make it perfect for road trips. The weather warms up from June-August, a popular period for beach trips and lake sojourns. The quietest time to visit is December-February, except for in mountain regions which come alive with winter sports.
GETTING THERE
All states in the South have major airports to fly into, whether you choose to start your journey in music cities like Memphis or Nashville, or cities with distinctive culinary scenes like New Orleans or Charleston. While there are no direct flights from Australia, all eastern capital cities can connect through Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas, or Honolulu before arriving in one of the South’s many gateway cities — each of which is packed with exceptional food, music and history, and options to get started on your road trip.
HOW LONG
For a short getaway, focus on one or two states; immerse yourself in live music in Tennessee, coastal beauty in the Carolinas, or Southern flavours in Louisiana. A classic 2-week road trip lets you connect multiple states, from Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail to Missouri’s barbecue scene, Alabama’s Gulf Coast and West Virginia’s mountain landscapes. For the ultimate multi-week journey, explore it all; hike the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina, kayak Louisiana’s bayous, experience South Carolina’s historic charm and discover Missouri’s scenic riverways.
GETTING AROUND
The best way to experience the South is by hitting the open road. A road trip allows you to take in the region at your own pace, connecting scenic highways, historic towns, and vibrant cities with the freedom to stop wherever inspiration strikes. If you’d prefer to take the decision-making out of exploring the region, you can also join a tour or a cruise. Plus there are plenty of cycling trails and hikes to get your heart-rate going; some of our top picks include Alabama’s Chief Ladiga Trail and Texas’ Window Trail, which winds through Big Bend National Park.
Find your next adventure in the South. Discover more unforgettable destinations and start planning your trip with Travel South USA.