From Key West in Florida to Nashville, Tennessee, there are a lot of popular vacation destinations in the Southern USA. Of course, the popular the destination, the higher the prices and the thicker the crowds. Whatever your reason is for choosing a destination off the beaten path, we’ve got you covered with a list of the best secret vacation spots in the South.
Some of the destinations below are more popular than others, but each offers a less crowded experience compared to the top spots. Keep reading to check out our list of vacation destinations in the South.
1. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
The first stop on our list of vacation spots is Pigeon Forge in Tennessee. The city’s claim to fame is the Dollywood amusement park, but there’s plenty more to do in this picturesque town. You can catch live country music in one of the city’s music revues, including the Smoky Mountain Opry, or see a show at the Dixie Stampede. If theme parks aren’t your thing, you can get a taste of history at the WonderWorks or TITANIC Museums, or have some outdoor fun in the Blue Ridge Mountains at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park just a short drive from town.
2. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Hilton Head Island is the perfect getaway for anyone who loves pristine white sand beaches and relaxing in the sun. Home to an eclectic mix of boutiques and a wealth of rolling golf courses, this island offers its own unique southern charm. You can check out the Harbour Town Lighthouse and museum or the Coastal Discoveries Museum featuring heritage buildings and themed gardens for you to explore. There are several resorts for you to choose from, with an abundance of natural beauty to enjoy.
3.The Outer Banks, North Carolina
A group of barrier islands on the Atlantic Ocean, the Outer Banks are a unique vacation destination in the Southern United States. This getaway offers endless beautiful beaches and fascinating historic sites. You could spend your entire trip just visiting and enjoying the many beaches and parks of the Outer Banks. Take a stop at the Wright Brothers Museum or catch a show at The Lost Colony to experience the rich history of the area. This East Coast destination is just what you need to relax and unwind this year.
4. New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia
This newly established national park is a great hidden gem option for vacationers. With plenty of trails for hiking and biking, thousands of rock climbing routes, and opportunities for hunting and fishing, this park has it all. You can take guided tours to get a deeper understanding of park’s environment and history, or take one of the park’s scenic drives. You can camp out in the park with your family for easy access to all this amazing destination has to offer.
5. St. Augustine, Florida
Small towns can be fun, too! In St. Augustine Florida, you can discover a window into history. As the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental U.S., this beautiful destination is full of unique historic sites. The most well-known spot is the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, which is the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. At the monument, you can explore the fort and take in historic weapons demostrations. This spot could make the perfect day-trip in the south.
6. Virginia Beach, Virginia
Found where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, Virginia Beach gives all the sunny fun of more popular beachy destinations, with fewer crowds. You could spend a whole vacation on the beach, but there’s plenty more to do. You can enjoy delicious food and even live music at one of the city’s amazing restaurants, or visit some of the local art galleries and shops. Get big-city fun without the big-city chaos when you visit Virginia Beach.
7. Tybee Island, Georgia
For another destination that combines beach fun with historic exploration, you’ve got to make a stop in Tybee Island, Georgia. With great museums and a vibrant music scene, this island and city is full of southern charm and pure magic. You can explore the island’s many beautiful beaches or take a sunset cruise down the river. Just a short drive away, you can enjoy the maritime trails and birding opportunities at the Skidway Island State Park, or take a stroll through historic Savannah.
Catch Affordable Flights to Southern USA With Valley International Airport
You don’t have to go to New Orleans or Key West to have fun in the southern states. There are tons of less popular destinations that are full of adventure and excitement! No matter where you choose to go on your trip to the Southern US, you can book a convenient and affordable flight from Harlingen, TX, at Valley International Airport.
Here at Valley International Airport, we are dedicated to providing superior travel experiences at competitive prices. We offer a range of one-stop flights throughout the U.S., as well as connecting flights to any destination you may want to reach.