The Southern United States' 7 Most Underrated Towns To Visit In 2026
Country music fans still make pilgrimages to Bristol, Virginia, where the 1927 recordings that launched the genre were captured, while history runs deep in St. Augustine, Florida, founded in 1565 and recognized as the oldest continuously inhabited European-established city in the US. Yet beyond these well-documented landmarks, smaller Southern towns continue to shape their own stories through independent festivals, preserved downtown districts, riverfront parks, and working waterfronts that remain part of daily life. In 2026, these communities stand out not for mass tourism, but for authenticity, accessibility, and strong ties to local tradition. Here are seven Southern towns worth your attention this year.
Helen, Georgia
Known as "Georgia's Alpine Village," the charming town of Helen, Georgia, is one of the most underrated southern towns to visit in 2026 for outdoor adventures, art, and unique German experiences. On May 23, 2026, the town hosts BavarianFest, featuring a live oompah band and delicious German food. The town also celebrates its artistic roots throughout the year at annual festivals hosted by the Helen Arts and Heritage Center, including Summerfest and Art-Oberfest, which bring regional makers and artisans downtown in midsummer and again in October. More fall events occur from September 10 through November 1, 2026, when the town celebrates Oktoberfest, one of the longest-running Oktoberfest celebrations in the United States.
For those looking for outdoor activities, Helen is one of the best southern towns to visit. On March 28, 2026, the town will host the 37th annual Helen Trout Tournament, where anglers will fish for trout in the Chattahoochee River. More outdoor adventures await in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, such as hiking the 1-mile Helen to Hardman Heritage Trail to learn more about native plants and the Bavarian influences in town. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore nature in the adjacent Chattahoochee National Forest by hiking or biking at Unicoi State Park.
St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine, Florida, is the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited European-established city, founded in 1565. On September 6, 2026, the city will mark its 461st anniversary during Founders Day in St. Augustine. The exciting event includes a reenactment of the Spaniards arriving at Mission Nombre de Dios, and many visitors pair the celebration with a stop at the Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. While there, park visitors can explore the Spanish-style watchtower overlooking Matanzas Bay, take a scenic waterfront walk, and view the 1513 Ponce de Leon landing memorial.
St. Augustine is also known for its delicious food and local art. From February 19 through 21, 2026, food and wine enthusiasts can enjoy the Spanish Food and Wine Festival at various venues, including events hosted on Flagler College’s campus and at the nearby Lightner Museum. Located at Flagler College, the Crisp-Ellert Art Museum features rotating mixed-media exhibits throughout the year. More art can be enjoyed each month in St. Augustine at the First Friday Art Walk, when visitors can explore local art at more than two dozen galleries, including Sea Spirits Gallery and Gifts in the town's historic district.
Abingdon, Virginia
The historic town of Abingdon, Virginia, is one of the most underrated southern small towns to visit for cultural events in 2026. From July 24 through August 2, 2026, the town will host the Virginia Highlands Festival, featuring more than 200 events, including walking tours of local vineyards, concerts, and retro finds at antiques and vintage markets. Festival-goers can also go on an outdoor excursion to nearby Hungry Mother State Park. The park offers a scenic beachfront at Hungry Mother Lake and beautiful woodlands for hiking.
A trip to downtown Abingdon must include a stop or stay at the Martha Washington Inn and Spa. Built in 1832 as a private residence, the Martha, as it is affectionately called, later served as a hospital during the Civil War. History buffs can also explore America's pioneer history along the wilderness route known as the Great Road, which passes through downtown Abingdon. While strolling the historic route, view the stunning Washington County Courthouse built in 1868 and enjoy a drink at The Tavern. Built in 1779, The Tavern is one of the oldest tavern sites in Virginia and among the oldest continuously operating pubs in the United States.
Bristol, Virginia
Known as the "Birthplace of Country Music," Bristol, Virginia, is one of the best southern towns to visit for music lovers and history buffs in 2026. Although many people may consider Nashville, Tennessee to be the home of country music, the town of Bristol, Virginia, was home to the 1927 Bristol Sessions that launched country music and distributed the genre nationwide. Visitors can explore the town's musical past and present at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, an affiliate of the Smithsonian.
For live music, you shouldn't miss the annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion festival happening from September 11-13, 2026. Situated in downtown Bristol—straddling the Virginia-Tennessee border—the festival offers a vibrant atmosphere. The charming downtown area also features the historic Bristol Train Station, built in 1902, where visitors can explore the railroad's history. This historical ambiance extends to Cumberland Square Park, home to a Veteran's War Memorial and an exhibit featuring a Vietnam War-era aircraft.
Bardstown, Kentucky
The underrated southern town of Bardstown, Kentucky, is the perfect southern town to explore history and enjoy bourbon in 2026. Known as the "Bourbon Capital of the World," Bardstown is home to the historic Old Talbott Tavern, which bills its bar as the world’s oldest bourbon bar. Built in 1779, visitors can enjoy a drink at the place where President Andrew Jackson and the infamous Jesse James once reportedly stayed. Bourbon fans and history buffs can also enjoy the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, which returns to Bardstown for a long weekend in mid-September 2026. The festival is located on the lawn at Spalding Hall, home to the Oscar Getz Museum of Bourbon History and the Bardstown Historical Museum. Visitors can explore the history of the area, along with moonshine and prohibition exhibits.
Explore more history with a tour at My Old Kentucky Home State Park, set on a plantation and mansion from the early 1800s. Guests can admire the original artwork and interior design, as well as learn about the Civil War era that influenced the area. Visiting in 2026 offers an opportunity to experience one of Kentucky State Parks’ iconic historic sites, especially after the park system’s centennial celebration in 2024.
Fairhope, Alabama
Fairhope, Alabama, is one of the most underrated southern towns on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, perched on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay. Art lovers can enjoy the Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival from March 20-22, 2026. Located near Mobile Bay, festival attendees can stroll along the shores at South Beach Park or view pelicans and fish at Fairhope Municipal Pier. Visitors can also watch paddlers take on the Great Alabama 650, billed as the longest annual paddle race in the United States. The 650-mile route begins in Northeast Alabama at Weiss Lake and finishes at Fort Morgan on Mobile Bay, passing the bluffs of Fairhope along the Eastern Shore.
Fairhope is a charming southern town perfect for experiencing arts, culture, and outdoor activities in 2026. Visitors love exploring its historic French Quarter, featuring a cobblestone courtyard, a large crape myrtle tree claimed to be one of the biggest in the South, and local shops such as the historic Page & Palette bookstore.
Rogersville, Tennessee
Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Rogersville is one of the most underrated towns in the South to visit in 2026. The historic town was settled in 1775 by the grandparents of David Crockett, an American politician and hero of the Alamo. Rogersville is proud of its heritage and celebrates the town's history each October during the Heritage Days Festival. Visitors can enjoy Appalachian music and local vendors and stroll through the town's historic district during the festival. The area features the state's second oldest courthouse, the Hawkins County Courthouse, which was built in 1836. The historic area also boasts several annual festivals in 2026, including the Junk-n-Jam Spring Market.
Rogersville ranks among the top places in Tennessee for stargazing in 2026. For the best experience, head to Crockett Spring Park and Arboretum. This peaceful park, named after the Crockett family and once part of their land, offers stunning night sky views. During the day, visitors can enjoy the large spring and scenic walking trails in addition to the incredible stargazing opportunities.
Hidden Gems Of The South
These charming towns in the Southern United States are wonderful destinations to visit in 2026 for anyone eager to enjoy the great outdoors, immerse themselves in lively cultural festivals, and explore regional art. From the delightful alpine village of Helen, Georgia, where German traditions and outdoor adventures come together, to the historic town of Abingdon, Virginia, known for its vibrant cultural events and the Virginia Highlands Festival, each hidden treasure offers a special mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. If you're looking to unwind and escape the busy pace of everyday life in 2026, these inviting southern towns are perfect places to relax and refresh.
