7 Lovely Small Towns to Visit in the Southern United States This Summer

The Southern United States is undoubtedly filled with beauty and charm. As a Southern native born and raised in the South, I believe that the southern part of the United States never fails in its unique treasures, charming downtown areas, and, of course, Southern hospitality. As summer is finally approaching, it means planning those summer vacations. What better way to spend your summer vacation than in a quaint southern small town with character? Here are some lovely small towns to add to your summer vacation bucket list.

Cartersville, Georgia

With a population of 24,567, the quaint small town of Cartersville, Georgia, boasts charm and history. You can find it just northwest of Atlanta and 76 miles east of Chattanooga, Tennessee. People founded Cartersville, which was known as Birmingham, in 1832.

Many things fill Cartersville’s downtown area, such as shopping, theaters, museums, and restaurants. Spend the day walking around Downtown and take a stop by the rock 'n' roll-themed Ate Track Bar and Grill to have a drink and enjoy your standard American eats, or check out some vinyl records at the Rock 'n’ Shop, or indulge your sweet tooth at Agan's Bakery, the town's sweetest staple since 1961. Alternatively, explore Cartersville’s famous museums like the Booth Western Art Museum if you’re interested in the Wild West, The Tellus Museum for natural history and science enthusiasts, The Savoy Automobile Museum for car enthusiasts, The Bartow History Museum, and the Roselawn Museum for history enthusiasts.

Beaufort, South Carolina

Beaufort, South Carolina, was founded in 1711 and is the second oldest city after Charleston. It is located on Port Royal Island and has a population of 13,848. European settlers made several aborted attempts at colonization before the British founded the city. Also known as ‘The Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands,” Beaufort is filled with much history and many things to do in the summer.

Dive into many adventures, such as outdoor activities such as biking, hiking trails, camping, kayaking, boat tours, or hanging out at the beach. Explore the arts and culture scene, go shopping, eat locally, and explore the history with their many historical tours. Whether you’re going on a girls', family, or fishing trip, Beaufort has it all for a summer getaway.

Fredericksburg, Texas

German immigrants founded Fredericksburg, Texas, on May 8th, 1846. Prince Frederick of Prussia named the settlement Friedrichsburg (later changed to Fredericksburg). Due to the massive settlement of German immigrants, Fredericksburg has its own “Texas German” dialect used today.

This centrally located Texas Hill Country town is known for its German heritage and many wineries. Fredericksburg's Gillespie County boasts over 60 wineries, vineyards, and wine-tasting rooms, with dozens more located within a one- to two-hour drive. Fredericksburg offers a variety of summer outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, golfing, birding, horseback riding, and rock climbing at Enchanted Rock. Immerse yourself in Fredericksburg's history by exploring the numerous state parks, historical sites, and museums. Enjoy a leisurely walk along Main Street, which houses over 150 shops, boutiques, art galleries, and local restaurants. Alternatively, visit the Warehouse District, known for its home goods, unique antiques, and upscale dining establishments.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Tucked away in the mountains of East Tennessee is the charming town of Gatlinburg, more commonly known as the “Gateway to the Smokey Mountains.” This picturesque town has many shops, restaurants, and outdoor adventures. The popular resort was established when Martha Jane Huskey Ogle, her children, and other family members settled in a remote area of the Great Smokey Mountains. Visitors can now see the historic Ogle Cabin, where it all began in downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is home to Tennessee’s only ski resort. Here, you can go skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. Don’t worry; there are plenty of summer activities for families, friends, and couples in Gatlinburg. Cool off from the summer heat by visiting downtown attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium, enjoying delicious ice cream at Glades Soda Fountain or Mad Dogs, rafting, and exploring the arts and crafts loop. You can also try outdoor activities such as zip lining, fishing, picnicking, walking along the Little Pigeon River, or hiking to a waterfall.

Along with outdoor activities, there are other things to do, like the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, Gatlin’s Mini Golf, Laser Tag, Hollywood Star Cars Museum, Gatlin’s Escape Games, Westage Wild Bear Falls Water Park, Fannie Farkles and Anakeesta. Let's not forget to satisfy that food craving at the many restaurants in Gatlinburg. From pizza to BBQ, to steakhouse to seafood, your cravings will be satisfied, and let's not also forget the endless moonshine, whiskey, and wintery tastings that you can get your hands on.

Sanibel, Florida

Sanibel Island, Florida, was founded on November 5th, 1974, and it spans about 12 miles long and three miles wild and was believed to be discovered by Juan Ponce de Leon in 1513. The Spanish explorer named the island after Queen Isabella I of Castile,” but it has now been shortened to Sanibel. Sanibel Island is the perfect summer getaway for anyone, and it's filled with fine accommodations and many activities to get into.

Known for its sunsets, lighthouses, and stunning resorts, Sanibel Island screams summer vacation. The most popular activity on the island is shelling, called the “Sanibel Stoop,” where you can stop and search for unique shells. Along with shelling, there is fishing, The Great Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail, and the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. Soak up the sun at the many beaches on Sanibel Island, including Lighthouse Beach Par, Tarpon Bay Road Beach Park, Bowman’s Beach, and Lee County Beach Parks. Enjoy many waterfront restaurants like Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille, Island Time, Sanibel Grille and more after a long day at the beach.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores, Alabama, is another beach town perfect for a summer getaway. Established in 1956, Gulf Shores finally received incorporation validation by the judicial system in 1958. Gulf Shores, Alabama, has come a long way to become a popular summer destination spot. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Gulf Shores has it all.

After a day at the beach, enjoy Gulf Shore entertainment, including mini golf, dolphin cruises, bowling, ferry trips, a zoo, a water park, or an amusement park. Following an eventful day in the town, unwind at various restaurants offering seafood, American, Mexican, pizza, and Italian cuisines. Indulge yourself with ice cream or a sweet treat from the bakery.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs, Arkansas, is around 55 miles southwest of Little Rock. Hot Springs gets its name from the thermal spring waters that produce almost one million gallons of water daily. Long ago, the Native Americans called this land “the Valley of the Vapors.' It was a neutral territory, so everyone could enjoy its healing water powers. Due to the natural springs' popularity and wonder, in 1832, President Andrew Jackson made the hot springs a federal reservation, and Hot Springs were essentially America’s first national park.

Besides its famous hot springs, this small town offers much more. Explore the Hot Springs National Park’s Bathhouse Row, featuring historical buildings like the Fordyce Bathhouse Visitor Center and the Buckstaff House. Enjoy hiking trails, a petting zoo, museums, a casino, a water park, and various restaurants and boutiques.

Plan Your Southern Summer Escape Today

Each of these small Southern towns offers its own unique charm and hospitality. Whether you're wandering through the historic streets of Cartersville, soaking up the coastal beauty of Beaufort, experiencing the rich German heritage in Fredericksburg, enjoying outdoor adventures in Gatlinburg, collecting seashells on Sanibel's pristine beaches, having fun in the sun at Gulf Shores, or relaxing in the hot springs of Arkansas, you're sure to create unforgettable summer memories. Start planning your trip today and experience the warmth and charm of the South!