10 Prettiest Small Towns In The Southern United States
Comprising of 16 states and the District of Columbia, the Southern United States is geographically diverse, with regions containing mountains, deltas, bluegrass, swamps, coastal plains, plateaus, and bayous. With so many beautiful towns to choose from, it is difficult to select the top ten. However, some towns definitely stand out, not only for their natural beauty and landscape, but also for their historic and commercial landmarks. Whether you are looking to get out and explore or sit back and relax, these sweet spots will welcome you in with that warm, southern hospitality and leave a lasting impression long after you leave.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a charming mountain town with a population of approximately 3,700. Described as one of America’s premier outdoor destinations with over 800 miles of hiking trails, Gatlinburg is home to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America. But you don't have to go for a hike to get scenic vistas in Gatlinburg. A glass elevator takes you to the top of the 407-foot Space Needle observation tower, which overooks the downtown core, and the SkyLift whisks visitors up to the summit of Crokckett Mountain, where you can have a snack with a view at 1,800 feet. From ziplining through forest canopies to a theme park atop Anakeesta Mountain, Gatlinburg’s blend of thrilling attractions and natural beauty is an adventurer’s dream.
Helen, Georgia
With a population of around 600, Helen, Georgia is a small town that packs a big punch. This German-inspired mountain town, located 90 minutes north of Atlanta, offers many activities throughout the year, such as tubing through town, ziplining, and hiking. Surrounded by Bavarian-style buildings, shops, and restaurants, visitors can take a walk downtown and feel like they are in a different country. Relax and enjoy the scenery of Anna Ruby Falls, a double waterfall formed through the emergence of two creeks. Those who want to experience Helen at a faster pace can take the Georgia Mountain Coaster, which is the only alpine coaster in the state.
Cherokee, North Carolina
In western North Carolina on the reservation home of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation sits the town of Cherokee. Oconaluftee Island Park, Soco Falls, Appalachian hiking trails, and the nearby Great Smoky Mountains represent just some of the natural beauty of the town. Located off of Big Cove Road, Mingo Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in southern Appalachia. The short but moderately challenging hike into the falls is well worth the trek. Visitors can also spend their time learning about the history of Cherokee and its original inhabitants at the Museum of the Cherokee People, or head to Mountainside Theater to watch the outdoor drama, Unto These Hills.
Bluffton, South Carolina
Bluffton, South Carolina is a town that has had a dramatic increase in population over the last couple of years, and it is not difficult to see why. Whether playing golf on one of the many world-class courses, each with their own beauty, or visiting the Heyward House Museum that acts as a welcome centre to the town and offers a wide range of tours, you will always find something fun to do. Enjoy a stroll and a picnic at Bluffton Oyster Factory Park and check out the Harbour Town Lighthouse on Hilton Head Island, with each level showcasing a different period in the history of South Carolina. When you reach the top, look out over the majestic water at this perfect harbor side location.
Covington, Louisiana
Located at a fork of the Tchefuncte River and Bogue Falaya is Covington, Louisiana. This beautiful town, with a population of approximately 11,618 is a good representation of Southern hospitality. Enjoy good food and good company in the heart of downtown Covington. Those who want to get active and experience nature up close can ride the Tammany Trace Bike Trail, which runs all the way to Slidell. Take a cruise with Bayou Swamp Tours and experience up-close the incredible wildlife and striking scenery along the river. For a cultural experience, the Maritime Museum Louisiana has a range of exihbits and hosts community events, such as the Maritime Music and Art Festival, and The Icons Museum offers a unique collection of modern pop culture portraits.
Highlands, North Carolina
Highlands, North Carolina is a nature-lover's dream located in the midst of the Nantahala National Forest. This mountain town is filled with biological diversity and scenic attractions. With several water falls in the region, such as Dry Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Glen Falls, there are many opportunities to experience the true beauty of Highlands. Step out onto Sunset Rock to get a breathtaking view of the mountains. Walk along trails and bridges at Western Carolina University's Highlands Biological Station, a nature preserve which features six main trails and two connecting trails. Visitors are able to immerse themselves in the stunning flowers, lake, and rich natural heritage.
Blue Ridge, Georgia
The mountain town of Blue Ridge, Georgia also has numerous outdoor adventures. Walk or bike the Blue Ridge trails at Aska Adventure Area through the Chattahoochie National Forest. Visitors can also spend the day picking apples at Mercier Orchards amid scenic mountain views, or capture a memorable photograph on the Toccoa River swaying bridge. Float down the river care of Blue Ridge Mountain Kayaking or take the family to Blue Ridge Aerial Adventure Park and spend the day hanging out in the sun. Visitors can also take a journey on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, which begins at the historic depot in downtown Blue Ridge and travels along the Toccoa River through the North Georgia countryside.
Fairhope, Alabama
Fairhope, Alabama is a resort town that began as a utopian city. With an award-winning rose garden, duck ponds, and a striking fountain, the town's municipal pier makes for a captivating town square. Visitors can spend their time at the many parks that Fairhope has to offer, which include Tolstoy Park, with its historic residence known as the Henry Stuart House; North Beach Park, which has a paved walking trail leading to a white sandy beach; Bohemian Park, perfect for a casual stroll and a picnic; and the Eastern Shore Trail, which connects Old Towne Daphne and Fairhope. Other popular attractions include the Fairhope Museum of History, Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, and a delicious meal at Sunset Pointe in the Fly Creek Marina.
Sanibel, Florida
Known for its pristine beaches, the town of Sanibel is in Southwest Florida on Sanibel Island. Whether you like to fish, swim, paddle, or picnic, Sanibel is the place to visit. Bowman’s Beach, Sanibel Lighthouse Beach Park, Blind Pass Beach, and Turner Beach Park provide visitors with the chance to relax and enjoy the incredible view. Animal lovers are also encouraged to visit the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which covers approximately half of the island and is part of the country's largest mangrove ecosystem, offering plenty of opportunities to discover a wide range of exotic animals, including many species of tropical birds.
Blowing Rock, North Carolina
No list on the beauty of the South would be complete without mentioning Blowing Rock, North Carolina. With a population of approximately 1,350, this village is named after a geological formation on the Johns River Gorge. Located on scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, Blowing Rock has a wide range of natural, commercial, and historical sites that are sure to inspire. In addition to the stunning forests and sweeping peaks, visitors can explore the trail from Annie Cannon Gardens to Glen Burney and Glen Marie Falls. A trip to Grandfather Mountain Nature Park and Swinging Bridge is worth the drive, and Mystery Hill is a unique gravitational anomaly that acts as an optical illusion, making it look like water is running uphill. There are hands-on activities in the attraction's Puzzle Room and Bubble-Rama, making science and nature fun for the whole family.
Conclusion
What makes a town special is not only its geographical location and access to interesting activities and events, but also the history and people of the towns themselves. These ten small towns represent just a fraction of what the South has to offer. With amazing landscapes and stunning views, the sweetness of the South is evident in these awe inspiring destinations. Whether you want adventure, to connect with nature, or learn about the past, each of these towns will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
