7 Most Historic Small Towns To Visit In The Southern United States
The Southern US is an area known for its vibrant cultural traditions, breathtaking natural landscapes, and illustrious histories as diverse as the area itself. Throughout the South, there are a multitude of charming small towns showcasing this storied heritage through attractions, landmarks, and cultural sites that bring the region’s history to life. From colonial beginnings in Williamsburg to Boone’s pioneer past; cultural meccas like Oxford to iconic towns like St. Augustine, these bustling small towns are cornerstones of the South’s rich historical tapestry.
Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg is the epitome of rich southern heritage. Founded in 1632, the small town has many historical claims to fame: it was Virginia’s first state’s first municipality, served as its colonial capital, and, since the 1930s, has been home to the largest US history museum in the world, Colonial Williamsburg. In Colonial Williamsburg, it is not just about discovering America’s colonial past but living it through immersive experiences, demonstrations, and exhibits throughout its over 300-acre site. From its costumed performers to lovingly preserved buildings, Colonial Williamsburg is one of the South’s most historic places.
However, there’s more to Williamsburg than its large living museum—the charming Virginia town has many distinctive attractions. Step outside colonial times with visits to the Virginia Musical Museum, The Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, or the Williamsburg Contemporary Art Center; experience the area’s scenic beauty with a visit to the Williamsburg Botanical Garden or explore outdoor recreation along the Colonial Parkway; catch some thrills at Busch Gardens Williamsburg; or embark on an unforgettable tour; from ghost tours to foodie adventures, Williamsburg has it all. Additionally, nearby Jamestown and Yorktown are nearby day trips that offer bustling historic districts of their own.
St. Augustine, Florida
Florida may be known for its spectacular beaches and legendary theme parks. However, the Sunshine State has its fair share of history, too—especially in places like lovely St. Augustine. Often referred to as “The First City,” St. Augustine is generally considered to be America’s oldest city. Explore over 450 years of St. Augustine's history with a visit to its Historic Downtown. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the bustling area is home to many of the town’s most popular spots, including the Colonial Quarter, where visitors can experience hundreds of years of living history; the Lightener Museum, a St. Augustine landmark known for its eclectic collections and immersive experiences; and Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental US and the “crown jewel” of St. Augustine.
To learn even more about The First City’s rich heritage, explore the notable attractions outside the historic district, such as Ponce de Leon’s “Fountain of Youth,” Fort Mose Historic State Park, Fort Matanzas on remote Rattlesnake Island, and Aviles Street, the oldest street in the US. And for those looking for some Florida fun in the sun, St. Augustine has plenty of beautiful beaches right on its doorstep. While exploring, be sure and visit another famous local attraction, the St. Augustine Lighthouse. From stunning architecture to beautiful Matanzas Bay views and vibrant heritage to one-of-a-kind attractions, St. Augustine is one of the most historic and charming towns in the Southern US.
Boone, North Carolina
Nestled amid the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone is known for its outdoor recreation and picturesque mountain scenery. Famed destinations, including Grandfather Mountain, the Appalachian Trail, and the Blue Mountain Parkway, are right on its doorstep, while activities like hiking, mountain biking, climbing, skiing, watersports, and more are popular pastimes throughout the region.
However, the small North Carolina town is also steeped in history. Located in the Appalachians—aka America’s first frontier—Boone is famed for its pioneer past as well as its scenic beauty. Explore the local spots honoring the famed frontier figure Daniel Boone on the NC Boone Heritage Trail. Boone’s trail stops include commemorative sites, including a plaque at the Watauga Courthouse, the River Street Boone Monument, and the Boone Trail Marker at Blowing Rock Museum; as well as the Hickory Ridge Living History Museum, home to the annual show Home of the West, celebrating the life and times of Boone and early area settlers. Additionally, visitors can walk in the footsteps of Boone himself at spectacular Elk Knob State Park. The breathtaking North Carolina town also honors its Indigenous heritage, seen throughout the area at cultural institutions like the Native American Artifacts Museum, natural attractions like The Blowing Rock, and yearly events like the Trade Mill Native Heritage Days and Pow Wow.
Oxford, Mississippi
Often described as the “Cultural Mecca of the South,” Oxford is a bustling Mississippi town with a storied heritage. Home of the Magnolia State’s first university, the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), Oxford’s charming streets are lined with attractions—many within walking distance—showcasing everything from its Civil War history to its cultural contributions. Visit the University of Mississippi Museum before taking a walk on the Bailey Woods Trail to Rowan Oak, the former home of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner. The stately home and picturesque grounds are now a museum open to the public. Literature buffs can also visit Faulkner’s final resting place, St. Peter’s Cemetery.
Nearby, the historic Oxford Square (dubbed “The Square”), is home to a variety of local attractions like the Historic Oxford Courthouse and an eclectic variety of museums, restaurants, art galleries, and shops, including Nielson’s Department Store, the oldest department store in the South. More historic sites throughout Oxford include the significant African American historical landmark Burns-Belfry Museum & Multicultural Center; the L.Q.C. Lamar House, a National Historic Landmark; and Ole Miss campus stops like the Civil Rights Monument, the University Museum, and The Blues Archives, a renowned collection of blues recordings and memorabilia.
Jonesborough, Tennessee
Established in 1779, Jonesborough is the oldest town in Tennessee and there are plenty of ways for visitors to enjoy its storied past. Start at the Historic Jonesborough Visitors Center and Old Town Emporium, home to the Jonesborough-Washington County Museum and helpful information about self-guided tours. Guided Historic Walking Tours are also available and include costumed guides and visits to notable Jonesborough sites like the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum, Main Street buildings like the Eureka Inn, and town cemeteries. Jonesborough’s museums also give a glimpse into the charming Tennessee town’s past. Located in the town’s oldest commercial building, the Chester Inn Museum documents Jonesborough’s history, including exhibits, photographs, and town artifacts, while the Chuckey Depot Museum chronicles the town’s railroading days.
Not only is Jonesborough the oldest town in the Volunteer State, but it is also the self-proclaimed “Storytelling Capital of the World.” Storytelling is an integral part of Jonesborugh’s history, and visitors can experience the town’s penchant for telling tales at its International Storytelling Center, or by attending the famous National Storytelling Festival in October.
Dahlonega, Georgia
While large cities like Atlanta and Savannah are some of Georgia’s most historic places, the Peach State’s scenic small towns have their share of history, too—and Dahlonega is no exception. From Cherokee nation roots to America’s first major gold rush; Civil War era past to university present, the Lumpkin County gem has a wealth of local heritage to explore. Dahlonega’s charming downtown has many notable buildings and sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site, located in the Old Lumpkin County Courthouse; the 1884 Lumpkin County Jail and Museum; and Price Memorial Hall, located on the University of North Georgia campus. Another way to learn more about Dahlonega’s past is by visiting its gold mines: the Consolidated Gold Mine has a walking tour and gold panning, while the Crisson Gold Mine offers panning and mining opportunities, gem scrubbing experiences, and displays of antique gold mining machines.
Located in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills, Dahlonega has a breathtaking backdrop to accompany its rich heritage. Picturesque local drives like the Lumpkin-Union Loop and the Brasstown Bald Loop perfectly showcase the area’s natural beauty and provide many scenic stops, heritage sites, and outdoor activities along the way; while the nearby Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is a top destination for outdoor recreation, spectacular views, and a notable cultural and historical site.
Maysville, Kentucky
Maysville is a historic small town in Northeastern Kentucky. And while its lovely Ohio River location offers a spectacular backdrop for outdoor recreation, it is the quaint community’s storied history that lends it a unique character and charm. Anchoring the historic downtown area is the distinctive, fire-engine-red Cox Building, a one-stop-shop for Maysville history and culture and home to the Maysville-Mason County Convention and Visitor's Bureau, The Ohio River Valley Artist Guild, The Masonic Lodge, The Downing Music Academy, and more. The Kentucky Gateway Museum Center is another historical and cultural mecca and includes the Old Pogue Experience exploring the area’s bourbon-distilling roots. The Old Washington Visitor Center is another must-visit destination for history buffs and offers tours of museums and buildings throughout the Historic Old Washington District. More popular local tours include Covered Bridge Tours, Maysville Trolley Tours, and Old Pogue Distillery Tours. The downtown area is also home to the National Underground Railroad Museum, the Old Pogue Museum, and two historic theaters, the Russel Theatre and The Washington Opera Theatre.
Steeped in tradition, these charming communities take a step back in time to explore signature Southern moments throughout history. From Indigenous roots and pioneer settlers to Civil War battles and Civil Rights struggles, these historic Southern towns may be small, but they still display the region’s culture and heritage in a big way—making them must-visit destinations for travelers everywhere.
