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If there’s one travel publication that knows the ins and outs of the South, it’s gotta be Southern Living.
Recently compiling a list of 25 of the South’s best destinations to visit in 2025, there were some real surprises intermixed with cultural icons, such as New Orleans.
Right now, given the cold front spreading out much of the mainland, you might think Florida would be the place to be, but there are tons of hidden gems and overshadowed cities waiting to be discovered by mainstream travelers.
Anyone who has traveled through the South knows that “southern hospitality” is a real thing, where you’re greeted with “How ya’ doin’?” and left with “Have a blessed day”, unlike other major cities where you’re just another face in the crowd.
If you’re seeking laid-back getaways with friendly locals, savory comfort foods, and affordable luxury, then look no further than these 4 surprising U.S. cities named as the best Southern U.S. destinations for 2025.
Montgomery: A Historic Capital Teeming With Riverfront Delights
With MLK Day around the corner, let’s start off with one of America’s most historically significant cities.
Home to the Rosa Parks Museum, Montgomery Bus Boycott Memorial, and Dexter Avenue King Memorial Church, Martin Luther King Jr. once ministered, Montgomery checks off all the boxes for history buffs.
That being said, Montgomery offers a lot more than intriguing museums showcasing America’s turning point into a more inclusive and just society.
Montgomery boasts a picturesque downtown with rows of historic buildings, but the place to be is the Riverfront District.
Whether it’s indulging in classic soul food staples, perusing boutique shops, or hopping aboard the Harriott II Riverboat for a scenic ride along the Alabama River, you’re sure to have a good time.
Lexington: Kentucky’s Underrated City To Horse Around
Your first thought might be Kentucky Derby or fried chicken when it comes to visiting the state that just so happens to resemble a chicken leg, but there’s far more than meets the eye beyond Colonel Sanders’ popular fast food chain and Louisville’s ‘most exciting two minutes in sports’.
Lexington may not host the Kentucky Derby, but there’s nothing wrong with second-best (unless you’re Ricky Bobby, of course).
Lexington is known as the ‘horse capital of the world’; in fact, where you can enjoy thrilling races like Keeneland or opt for a fun horseback ride at Whispering Woods Riding Stables, welcome to all ages.
Better yet, it’s always a good time to horse around with your buddies, and what better place to do than Lexington’s Distillery District?
Better yet, Lexington luxury hotels are very affordable, like Origin Hotel, for under $100 in late winter/early spring.
Richmond: Discover Historic Sites And Riverside Gems
Whether or not Richmond is truly “the South” or not is another question for another day, but there’s doubt Virginia’s capital city is brimming with timeless charm and riverside gems.
While many Virginia vacationers may opt for Virginia Beach right now in search of winter sun, don’t sleep on Richmond, a very underrated city beholding fascinating historical sites such as Richmond National Battlefield Park, Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, and numerous plantation tours.
Richmond sees freezing temps on occasion during winter, but a springtime visit to Richmond’s Belle Isle, home to the hidden gem of North Beach, a tranquil hideaway tucked away from the cityscape.
Also, check out Richmond’s thriving beer scene, especially top-rated Legend Brewing with skyline views.
Chattanooga: Scenic Train Rides And Down-Home Charm
Nashville may be hogging center stage in Tennessee, but Chattanooga won’t disappoint with far less crowds for bar-hopping Station Street, among other surprising delights to enjoy before sundown.
Exploring downtown’s historic streets is a must, but what people may not realize about this buzzing college town are the fun attractions even Nashville can’t match, such as the world-renowned Tennessee Aquarium and numerous scenic train rides (Southern Living highlights 7 of them here).
Chattanooga is so stepped in locomotive history that there’s even a new, upscale train-themed hotel, Hotel Chalet.
The biggest surprise of Chattanooga may be how beautiful it is with astounding nature like Lookout Mountain with postcard-worthy Ruby Falls.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
