6 of the Quirkiest Towns in Southern United States
It’s for good reason that the Southern United States is the most visited region of the country. Not only is the South the most populous part of the USA – it’s home to around 37 percent of the population (that’s 115 million people!) – it’s also one of the prettiest, with no end of beautiful scenery and fantastic small towns to explore.
There’s no better way to get to know the region than by paying a visit to some of the quirkiest towns in the Southern USA. From the stunning scenery of the Ozarks to the deserts of Texas and a few stops in between, these charming destinations present excellent opportunities to enjoy an authentic Southern travel experience.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Situated in the Ozark Mountains in Northeast Arkansas near the state border with Missouri, Eureka Springs is best described as a “slice of quaint Victorian charm.” It’s so nice that the entirety of Downtown Eureka Springs has been added to the National Register of Historic Places, with its winding, hilly streets lined with quirky Victorian-style shops, art galleries, and boutiques just begging to be explored. The architecture along Eureka Springs Main Street is particularly fun for a stroll and is home to the Crescent Hotel & Spa. Opened in 1886, this historic building has been dubbed "America's Most Haunted Hotel" and continues to offer luxurious stays… and, of course, ghost tours.
Another must-visit is Thorncrown Chapel, an architectural marvel built in 1980 that’s made almost entirely of glass and wood. Boasting panoramic views of the surrounding woods, it’s a popular spot for photographers… and weddings. The Great Passion Play, an outdoor drama depicting the last days of Jesus Christ, is another attraction that draws visitors and is performed in a purpose-built amphitheater set against the backdrop of the Ozark Mountains. The town is also close to the Ozark National Forest with its hiking trails and wildlife viewing adventures.
Helen, Georgia
If you’ve never been to Bavaria in Germany, Helen presents a quirky, closer-to-home “travel dupe.” Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Georgia, Helen re-invented itself in the 1950s by adopting an alpine theme reminiscent of a Bavarian village. It proved a hugely successful undertaking, with bylaws now in place that mandate all businesses adopt a European appeal in their design. The town is, of course, famous for its lively Oktoberfest, the longest-running in the United States, where locals and visitors alike enjoy German music, dance, food, and, of course, a variety of beers.
Outdoor activities are plentiful in and around Helen. The Chattahoochee River runs through the town presenting opportunities for tubing and kayaking, a favorite pastime in the warmer months. Just outside the town, Unicoi State Park & Lodge and the Anna Ruby Falls provide excellent hiking trails, picnic spots, and waterfall views. Another key attraction is the Helen Arts & Heritage Center, a combination of an art gallery, history museum, and artist studio. For a fun and centrally located stay, the medieval-themed Castle Inn is a great choice for its riverside setting.
Fairhope, Alabama
The quirky small town of Fairhope, Alabama, is something of a hidden gem located on the bluffs of Mobile Bay's eastern shore. Here, the “quirk quotient” stems from the town’s vibrant arts community which makes it a favorite among travelers seeking a fun mix of Southern charm and artistic flair. A walk through Downtown Fairhope reveals numerous independent shops and art galleries supporting the work of local artists. A fun time to visit is during the First Friday Art Walk, a monthly event that attracts locals and tourists alike to enjoy an evening of art and music.
Other fun things to do in Fairhope include visiting the Fairhope Museum of History with its insights into the town’s intriguing past; and exploring the Fairhope Municipal Pier and Park for its great views of Mobile Bay, especially at sunset (it’s also a popular fishing and birdwatching spot). Other highlights include Fairhope Beach, the Fairhope Rose Garden, and the annual Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival.
Marfa, Texas
The desert town of Marfa in the high plains of far West Texas has transformed from a quiet railroad stop to a vibrant hub of contemporary art and culture. It’s a popular spot for fans of quirky small towns for its minimalist art installations, many of them inspired by the Chinati Foundation. Established by artist Donald Judd, this contemporary art museum is set on a former army base and showcases large-scale installations and exhibits that seem to meld with the surrounding landscape (guided tours are available).
Another quirky Marfa attraction is the mysterious Marfa Lights, visible on clear nights near US Route 67. Also known as the “ghost lights,” this unusual phenomenon can be experienced at the Marfa Mystery Lights Viewing Area. The town is also home to Building 98, a historic site featuring German POW murals from World War II, as well as Prada Marfa, a faux Prada store located in the middle of the desert.
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Natchitoches is not only the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase territory, but it’s also one of the prettiest small towns in the “Pelican State.” The heart of Natchitoches' appeal lies in its Historic District, a 33-block area along the banks of Cane River Lake. This attractive area is home to beautifully preserved Cane River Lake buildings, some dating back to the 18th century. Front Street, a brick-paved thoroughfare lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and local eateries, makes for a superb place for a stroll.
Other top attractions in Natchitoches include Cane River Creole National Historical Park with its two French Creole cotton plantations, Oakland and Magnolia. Here, visitors can explore original buildings and learn about plantation life. Natchitoches is also fun to visit in winter for its annual Christmas Festival. The oldest such holiday celebration in the USA, this fun festival features over 300,000 Christmas lights and 100 set pieces displayed along the banks of Cane River Lake and attracts crowds from across the country. The town's starring role in the film Steel Magnolias can also be explored through tours of filming locations.
Beaufort, South Carolina
The picturesque coastal town of Beaufort in South Carolina’s Low Country region is a must-visit for those who enjoy their day trips and vacations on the quirky side. Located on Port Royal Island in the Sea Islands area, Beaufort’s well-preserved antebellum architecture is a big draw. Sightseeing should begin with a stroll through Beaufort Historic District with its tree-lined streets providing plenty of opportunity to view the elegant old mansions with their grand columns, wrap-around porches, and lush gardens. Guided walking, carriage, and trolley tours of the historic district are popular.
Another must-visit is the Penn Center on St. Helena Island, one of the first schools for freed slaves that now serves as a museum. Beaufort's location on the Intracoastal Waterway makes it a popular destination for water activities including kayaking, fishing, and boat tours, including dolphin-spotting excursions. Fun events include the Beaufort Water Festival held each May, and the Shrimp Festival held each October.
The Final Word
Southern United States is a treasure trove of quaint and quirky towns offering a unique look at the region's diverse cultures, histories, and scenery. From Eureka Springs' Victorian charm and Helen's Bavarian allure, and from Fairhope's artistic spirit to Marfa's minimalist desert art scene, these must-visit communities celebrate their uniqueness in a variety of fun ways. Exploring these towns provides a journey through the heart and soul of the South, revealing hidden gems along the way that make the region so much fun to visit.
