10 Towns in Mid-South that Were Ranked Among US Favorites
The Mid-South may not boast the beaches of the Deep South — or the region’s sunny climate — but what it lacks in climate and coastline, it more than makes up for in gasp-inducing natural beauty and romantic scenery. Plus, the Mid-South is dotted with a delightful array of small, beautiful towns, many of which are ranked among U.S. favorites. From Lynchburg, Tennessee, to Lewisburg, West Virginia, discover below 10 towns in the Mid-South that are often ranked among U.S. favorites.
Bell Buckle, Tennesee
A cute little town of less than 500 residents, Bell Buckle is tucked away in the horse country of central Tennesee, just an hour southeast of Nashville. Although it was once a dusty railroad village, Bell Buckle has turned the corner to become one of the most beautiful and charming small towns in the Mid-south. One will find eye-catching murals in the downtown area, tasty restaurants, small but beautiful boutiques, and, yes — daffodils. Speaking of daffodils, Bell Buckle hosts the Daffodil Day every year on the third Saturday in March, a fun, sprightly event for both young and old. Forget the name; Blue Bird Antiques is loved for its homemade ice cream; you don’t want to miss what many travel over for. For some antiquing, the go-to spot is usually Phillips General Store. Just ensure you get a fried pie at the cafe. Wondering where to start? Some homemade oatmeal cake at Bell Buckle Cafe often sets the mood.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
From proposing to your cherished one at the Garvan Woodland Gardens amid the austere grandeur of the Ouachita Mountains to exploring the Hot Springs National Park, where old bathhouses stand on top of natural hot springs, there is much that makes Hot Springs a U.S. favorite. After exploring the world-famous Bathhouse Row, Hot Springs Plaza Shopping Center will be waiting to provide some much-needed retail therapy. It does not end here. From the beautiful to the fabulous, the Artists' Workshop Gallery, right on Central Avenue, displays a fantastic selection of art from local artists. Just don’t miss the Gangster Museum of America if you want to learn about the town’s relationship with Al Capone, who used to rent a room, sometimes an entire floor, at the Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa, situated on Central Avenue.
Staunton, Virginia
Although it is sometimes overshadowed by Charlottesville, Staunton effortlessly holds its own in the vacation landscape. It steals the show with its beautiful Victorian architecture (just traipse through Beverley Street), its association with the most educated president in the history of the United States, and its world-class arts and culture. President Woodrow Wilson’s Birthplace is a historical gem — and keeps rare exhibits that open the lid on his life and work. Besides, one can catch a show at the American Shakespeare Center's Blackfriars Playhouse, ride the Virginia Scenic Railway, or marvel at thousands of cameras at the largest camera museum open to the public in the United States. You can start this off with some yummy scallops at the highly-rated Zynodoa Restaurant, located close to the Blackfriars Theater.
Dandridge, Tennessee
With the Great Smoky Mountains on its outside patio, Dandridge boasts a setting that would make most towns go green with envy. It was founded in 1783, making it the second-oldest town in Tennessee. The town was named after Martha Dandridge, the first First Lady of the United States. With its long history, it is no surprise the town drips Old-world charm. Shepard Inn, whose registry books feature the names of up to three U.S. presidents, has been hosting guests since 1820. The downtown area, one of a few registered National Historic Districts, is filled with beauty and charm at every corner. If scoping for a good burger, crispy edges and all, Tinsley-Bible Drug Co., Inc. checks every spot. But if you want to reel in some yummy catch, Douglas Lake, famous for its bass-fishing potential, is right at the doorstep.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Nature and culture combine to make Gatlinburg one of the towns in the Mid-South ranked among U.S. favorites. There is the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, which alone can transform any drab location into a highly sought-after favorite. Yet the Great Smoky Mountain, America's most visited national park, is not Gatlinburg’s singular attraction. There is the Gatlinburg’s Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum, the only one of its kind in the nation. There is also the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, the longest suspension bridge in North America. If tagging children along, they will never forget their time at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, which boasts about 10,000 exotic sea creatures, including penguins, known in the avian world as expert lovers. A male penguin, for example, will comb an entire beach for the perfect pebble as a proposal gift.
Abingdon, Virginia
Abingdon is a coy, slow-paced town framed by the awe-inspiring Blue Ridge Mountains of southwest Virginia. Abingdon is a great place to visit, whether for its history (It was incorporated in 1778), charm-soaked streets, or Barter Theatre — the longest-running professional Equity theater in the United States. Barter Theatre opened shop during the difficult Great Depression years and had a reputation for allowing admission on the basis of agricultural produce (like vegetables) or livestock. A pig, for example, was worth ten tickets. Check out artsy spots such as The Arts Depot, where various kinds of paintings will fire your imagination. Be sure to ask for the story of the building, especially its conversion to an art gallery. Spend some time at the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace, if just to chill out with locals and feel the town’s pulse. If beautiful scenery lights up your face, the Virginia Creeper Trail should be high on your list.
Aiken, South Carolina
One of Aiken’s draws is Hitchcock Woods, a quiet, amazing place with scenic trails and jaw-dropping scenery. It is also the site of America’s oldest drag-hunt, which takes place on specific days from October through to March. Plus, we are talking about one of the largest urban forests in the United States. One can start her adventure at Malia’s, a nice, slightly upscale spot that serves high-quality food with fresh ingredients. But if you are looking for a well-curated Vegetarian menu, Taj Aiken Indian Cuisine is hard to beat. A meal at either of the two spots should pave the way for the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame, founded to celebrate Aiken’s equestrian heritage and tradition.
Lynchburg, Tennessee
Lynchburg is a U.S. favorite for several reasons, including its quaint, historic district, which spots stately mansions, the oldest municipal cemetery in Virginia still in use, and the Legacy Museum of African American History, with its friendly and well-informed docents. James River flows through the town, adding a layer of rustic charm to an already breathtaking spot. Hollins Mill Park, with its spectacular waterfalls, picturesque hiking trails, and calm ambiance, is a true escape into the heart of nature. Just don’t miss the Jack Daniels Distillery, the first registered distillery in the United States.
Lewisburg, West Virginia
If West Virginia is almost heaven, Lewisburg is its portal. This is an amazing, historic town full of beauty and charm. Considering the town’s long list of attractions, a first-time visitor will be spoilt for choice. Carnegie Hall, for example, is one of only four Carnegie Halls in the world. It was built in 1902 and displays some great local artwork. Funtime Bowl, though smaller than many of its peers, is loved for its cozy and inviting feel. But wait until you hear about the haunted properties in the town’s precincts and the fascinating historical facts that come with them. General Lewis Inn, for example, is rumored to be the playground of three unusual guests. And with the Greenbrier River — and some of the most beautiful mountain views in the South — Lewsiburg has a lot going in its favor.
Jonesborough, Tennessee
One of the reasons Jonesborough is a U.S. favorite — besides its well-preserved Main Street — is the fact it is Tennessee's oldest town, with a settlement history that goes back to the 18th century. Yet Jonesborough’s appeal, like a rainbow, is multifaceted. It is home to the International Storytelling Center — and a recipient of a unique title: the Storytelling Capital of the World Award. That said, arm yourself with a blanket and enjoy live music during the Music on the Square Festival, held each Friday evening from May through September. The Lollipop Shop, with its old-fashioned versions of sweets, does not get as many mentions as it should. Then there is Gabriel’s Christmas, just two or three steps away, which boasts an awesome selection of gifts and decor. The only year-round Christmas store in the Tri-cities.
Although these boundaries are not officially designated by Congress, Americans like to place their towns and cities within specific geographic and cultural zones. And so we have the East Coast and the West Coast, New England, and the Midwest — and the North, South, or Pacific Northwest. The Mid-South, anchored by the Memphis metropolitan area, has a romantic landscape, four distinct seasons, and some of the most beautiful towns in America. Speaking to the last point, towns such as Abingdon and Aiken, and the rest highlighted here, are among the Mid-South towns ranked among U.S. favorites. For a first-timer, each of these will deserve a separate trip.
