8 Most Laid-Back Small Towns in Mid-South
You always hear about the Midwest and the Deep South, but rarely about the Mid-South. So, what falls under the "Mid-Southern" umbrella, with its already informally defined borders? For one thing, the area is rich in historical landmarks and towns dating back to the American Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement. The land itself is described as "the richest agricultural region in the world." From west Tennessee to southeastern Missouri, visitors will always find something to do in this region, rich in both history and scenery. Whether you are a history buff hunting for landmarks, an outdoorsman seeking to get in touch with nature, or just looking to enjoy some world-famous BBQ, pack your bags and check out these restful, laid-back towns in the Mid-South.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Hidden in the Ozark Mountains, the Victorian-era town of Eureka Springs is known for its beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture and historic downtown. This destination is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has, interestingly enough, no traffic lights or big-box stores. History buffs will be delighted to know that historical attractions like the Grotto Spring and Christ of the Ozarks sit atop this mountain. Aside from that, entertainment like The Great Passion Play—performing May through October each year since 1968—is close by since Eureka Springs is not a very large town and just an eight-minute car ride from Little Lake Eureka.
Clarksdale, Mississippi
Known as the birthplace of the blues, Clarksdale is steeped in musical history. The Delta Blues Museum, dedicated to preserving the legacies of legends like Muddy Waters and John Lee Hooker, is a must-visit for music enthusiasts. Every August, Clarksdale becomes an even more exciting spot with the Sunflower River Blues & Gospel Festival. You will find The Blues Crossroads, a historical landmark that cannot be passed up while visiting this town. Either that or unwind at Clarksdale Park for what residents like to call "porch-sitting."
Bardstown, Kentucky
Bardstown is a key stop on the Bourbon Trail, where visitors can tour popular distilleries such as Maker’s Mark. The town offers an authentic taste of Kentucky's bourbon-making heritage without the overwhelming crowds of larger cities. Bardstown is also home to an early 1800s American mansion known as Wickland, Home of Three Governors—definitely worth stopping by. You can also visit Little Patch of Heaven to go camping or relax at My Old Kentucky Home State Park. Before leaving, visit the Oscar Getz Museum of Bourbon History to get a rare sip of pre-colonial American antiquity.
Mountain View, Arkansas
If you are looking for a place to kick back and enjoy the view while listening to some folk music, then you should drive up to the aptly named Mountain View. This town maintains its relaxed ambiance with a town square that brings together residents and visiting musicians, offering free, front-row seats to local talent. The Ozark Folk Center preserves traditional crafts like blacksmithing and weaving, adding to the town’s rustic feel. Also, you will find that White River runs nearby, contributing to a low-key atmosphere where fishing is common and a relaxing way to spend one's time.
Hermann, Missouri
Founded by German immigrants in the 19th century, Hermann continues to be known for its wineries and vineyards. Right off the bat, you will find the Stone Hill Winery, Hermann Wine Trail, and Hermannhof Winery all within walking distance. This town moves at a relaxed pace, where even the crowds at Hermann Oktoberfest are manageable, making it feel more like a gathering of friends than a large festival. This beautiful land also overlooks the Missouri River, where many residents enjoy quiet, riverside picnics, probably after a little visit to the Hermann Farm Museum built on the riverbed.
Greeneville, Tennessee
Aptly named for its gorgeous green hills, the town holds historical significance for its involvement in the Civil War and, though it does not attract heavy crowds, maintains a peaceful environment. Nolichucky River runs through the area, and locals often spend quiet afternoons fishing or kayaking. A more convenient plan might be to visit W.T. Daniels Park or Hardin Park. If you are looking for something with more historical significance, the home and homestead of President Andrew Johnson are preserved as a National Historic Site at Andrew Johnson's Early Home.
Holly Springs, Mississippi
A town surrounded by the Holly Springs National Forest, Holly Springs (the town) is known for its beautiful antebellum homes, many of which survived the Civil War, offering visitors a slice of Southern history to go with that mid-southern hospitality. The town is largely agricultural and has that small-town Southern lifestyle, which is best experienced in the many hunting and fishing experiences provided by the surrounding woodland. But more interesting is the fact that this town is also home to the Ida B. Wells Museum, which honors the famous African American journalist and civil rights activist who was born here.
Paris, Texas
Not quite the Paris one would expect, though it is known for having a replica of the Eiffel Tower, topped with a red cowboy hat, which stands near Dragon Park. This community is home to many historic buildings, including the Sam Bell Maxey House, a preserved Victorian-style mansion. A lot less noisy than the streets of the other Paris, this one has a much more laid-back vibe where the weekly farmers market—which locals use more than tourists—contributes to the town’s easy pace of life. You can find that in the Market Square Farmers Market near the Paris Public Library.
Some travel to explore and take in as much of the world as possible, while others do so merely to follow commercial trends. However, I believe the point of a vacation is to kick your feet up and decompress. I say if the destination was not laid-back, I am not going back. Is it any wonder why the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions the word “vacation” is the image of a paradise island and a lazy beach serving cocktails? The Mid-South may not be a paradise island, but it sure has the laid-back ambiance to go with its friendly communities offering mid-southern hospitality.
