7 Underappreciated Towns to Visit in the Mid-South

The Mid-South is a region of the United States made up of various states, including Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky. It is known for having some of the best seasons in the country, without extremely cold winters or hot summers. Moreover, with tons of culture, from amazing drinking hubs to intriguing music history, it is a hub for tourism. That said, hidden behind the popular urban centers like Memphis and Louisville lie many small towns often overlooked by tourists. These towns are perfect for a vacation, showcasing the true Mid-South without unnecessary crowds or distractions.

Paducah, Kentucky

Paducah, the county seat of McCracken County, Kentucky, is a lovely destination bustling with culture. First settled in 1821, the town has a rich history as a headquarters for barge companies, a port for steamboats, and an important station on the Illinois Central Railroad. Today, visitors can imbue themselves with local tales in the historic downtown district, which is full of 19th-century architecture. Some of the top draws here are the 1927 Columbia Art House, a lovely performance space, and the 1861 Lloyd Tilghman House & Civil War Museum, a home once owned by General Lloyd Tilghman.

Hand in hand with the history is tons of artistic creativity, palpable on each corner. A short stroll through town will reveal the Floodwall Murals, a set of 50 painted panels that showcase local heritage through art. For a more in-depth experience, one can visit the National Quilt Museum, which boasts over 600 quilt pieces and is a wellspring for the art of quilting. Those confused about where to go can hop on a horse-drawn carriage with John’s Pass Carriages for a historic, spooky, or artistic town tour. After indulging in the town’s charm, end the day at the riverfront to witness the cascading waters of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Get away from the hustle and bustle of urban cities in the resort town of Hot Springs in Arkansas. This scenic town in the Ouachita Mountains is a relaxation hub, and its hot springs are at the top of the chart. Most visitors head straight to Bathhouse Row, which hosts eight historic bathhouses above natural hot springs from the late 1800s. Here, one can relax and bathe in the mineral waters, which are sure to ease the mind and body.

The best part about Bathhouse Row is that it is located within Hot Springs National Park, a 5,550-acre expanse including outdoor sights and part of downtown Hot Springs. So, after a dip in the water, outdoor enthusiasts can choose between various activities such as hiking, birding, biking, and fishing. Hiking is among the most popular, as the park boasts over 25 miles of trails through lush forests with plenty of wildlife for company.

Those not interested in the outdoors opt for the paved streets of town, which bustle with artistic allure. This is palpable through the many events that take place in Hot Springs, such as the Hot Springs Music Festival and the Valley of the Vapors Independent Music Festival. From performances by local bands to delicious food and games, these events are perfect for a Mid-South vacation.

Siloam Springs, Arkansas

Two hundred miles north of Hot Springs is the town of Siloam Springs, an often overlooked destination in Arkansas. Home to 17,000, each street exudes friendly vibes, and there are plenty of ways to ease off. Tourists interested in the outdoors adore the Siloam Springs Kayak Park, where kayaking, swimming, and boating are available. For a less intense experience, the park also has fishing and picnicking opportunities, so everyone can have a blast. Similarly, the Siloam Springs Golf Course and Bob Henry Park provide endless ways to take in nature’s appeal.

After the outdoors, visitors can spend time meeting the welcoming locals throughout the town. For example, the Siloam Springs Farmers Market is a bundle of joy with charming locals, fresh produce, and tons of fun activities. Or, get something a bit more cooked at Mellow Moose Burgers, known for their hefty hamburgers and positive ambiance.

Harrodsburg, Kentucky

Known as the oldest permanent American settlement west of the Appalachians, it is surprising how Harrodsburg isn’t one of Kentucky’s most popular towns. Each street seeps with history, and each landmark has an interesting tale to tell. Old Fort Harrod State Park is one of the most popular showcasing a reconstruction of Fort Harrod, the Mansion Museum, the Lincoln Marriage Temple, and one of the state’s oldest cemeteries. From learning about the town’s Civil War past to taking photos under the country’s largest Osage Tree, it is a blast to the past.

Nearby, the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is another way to enter the past, claiming to be “Kentucky’s largest National Historic Landmark and the country’s largest private collection of original 19th-century buildings.” This claim might be true, as it houses 34 historic structures that enthusiasts can witness through the site’s tours. After learning all about Harrodsburg’s past, one can take a piece of it home from the Rags to Riches Antique Mall. Full of interesting trinkets and artifacts, it is the ideal place to get a Mid-South souvenir.

Rocheport, Missouri

Continuing the historical trend, Rocheport is another town with an exciting past. Once a trading post for settlers and Native Americans, this town of 200 residents was founded in the early nineteenth century. Visitors can take a step back in time in the Rocheport Historic District, which makes up most of the town with many historic structures dating from 1830. One of the most popular spots is the Moses U. Payne House, a historic home from 1856 featuring intricate ironwork on the front porch. Along with this, Friends Together Antiques and the Rocheport Community Hall are popular sites nearby.

Running along many local landmarks in Rocheport is the Katy Trail, a 240-mile trail built on the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad. Rocheport’s section of the trail is full of restaurants, forests, and shops for a fun experience. Whether you want to grab a bite at the Meriwether Cafe or learn about the past at the Friends of Rocheport Historic Museum, all you need to do is follow along the trail. Moreover, it is perfect for a biking expedition, with tons of unique sights that anyone will enjoy.

Jonesborough, Tennessee

Those on the western end of the Mid-South can opt to visit Jonesborough, a quaint town in Tennessee. The county seat of Washington County, this town is revered as “Tennessee’s oldest town” as it was founded in 1779 before Tennessee became a state. Today, the history is evident no matter where you go, with plenty of guided tours on offer. Interested tourists can join a group tour to witness sites like the Replica 1910 Carnegie Hotel, the 1797 Chester Inn State Historic Site & Museum, and the 1906 Chuckey Depot Museum. From staying the night in a historic boutique hotel to viewing a restored Southern Railway caboose, these sites are a dream for history enthusiasts.

Jonesborough also has a second nickname many overlook: “The Storytelling Capital of the World.” This name comes from the International Storytelling Center on West Main Street. The unique center beckons fans of the art with its annual National Storytelling Festival in October. With over 35 years of history, people storytellers from all over perform in the main tent, creating an atmosphere like nowhere else. No matter how you spend your time in Jonesborough, be sure to stop by The Black Olive for a delicious Italian meal before leaving.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Another Tennessee destination, Gatlinburg, is a resort town famed for its location near the Great Smoky Mountains. To this end, the town is known as the “Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains” and boasts endless recreational activities. Most people head straight to the 520,000-acre Great Smoky Mountains National Park, home to some of North America’s largest peaks. Adventurers have plenty of options, such as hiking the challenging Appalachian Trail, fishing in one of many lakes, or going for a scenic drive along Fontana Lake.

Back in town, people can rest up before or after their time with nature. Plenty of hotels provide a relaxing stay, with some notable names being the Gatlinburg River Inn, Buckhorn Inn, and The Lodge at Buckberry Creek. That said, many people overlook the indoor attractions in this lovely town. For a fun family time, opt for Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, a large aquarium home to sharks, turtles, stingrays, and more. Kids adore the facility, and they even offer glass-bottom boat rides that you’ll never forget. One can also hop on Ripley’s Mountain Coaster or get a tour of the historic Ole Smoky Distillery.

Hidden Gems of the Mid-South: Your Next Destination Awaits

The Mid-South region of the United States is a treasure trove of charming small towns that offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the historic streets of Paducah and Harrodsburg to the serene hot springs of Hot Springs and the artistic allure of Siloam Springs, each town provides a unique experience. Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures, soak in cultural festivals, or delve into the rich history that these towns preserve. These hidden gems are ideal for those seeking an authentic Mid-South experience away from the hustle and bustle of major urban centers.