8 Most Laid-Back Small Towns in the Southern United States
The Southern United States is a fascinating region that boasts many enviable things. Stretching from Texas and Oklahoma to Delaware and Maryland, the South is the most culturally diverse and historic region in the US. On top of that, it is blessed with striking natural beauty defined by the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, the vast Appalachian Mountains, the Southern Great Plains, and many other awe-inspiring wonders. Year-round, this region invites tourists from all over the country and worldwide to explore. And while the large cities are great places to set base (sometimes), the towns bring something more valuable—laid-back atmospheres. From avid adventurers to peace-loving folks, travelers will appreciate the towns in the South for their tranquility, friendly aura, and uncrowdedness. Without further ado, here are the eight most laid-back towns in the Southern United States you must visit next.
Pine Mountain, Georgia
With a population of about 1,200 people, Pine Mountain fits the bill for a quintessential laid-back small town where time seems to move slowly. This town is the gateway to Callaway Gardens, a 2,500-acre resort dubbed the world's largest azalea garden. The resort features butterfly and vegetable gardens, walking and biking trails, a zipline and obstacle course, four restaurants, and two bars, including a small creek. The garden area is also home to Robin Lake Beach, where tourists can swim, enjoy a floating obstacle course on its Aqua Island, and play in the sands. Another top attraction in Pine Mountain is the drive-thru Wild Animal Safari which is home to 65 unique animals, including zebras, deer, wildebeest, giraffes, and lions. Elsewhere in town, Chipley Historical Center offers a peek into the area’s history through the lens of archaeological exhibits, photography, and artifacts. Don’t forget to head downtown after all the exploration to enjoy a meal at Eatz on the Corner.
Guntersville, Alabama
Guntersville is a pleasant town in Alabama that sets the stage for an unforgettable getaway alone or with family and friends. For one, having the gorgeous and magnificent Lake Guntersville to explore is pure bliss, alongside the serenity and picturesque charm it offers. Visitors can relax on the shores of this 69,000-acre lake to admire the views, enjoy picnics, and stroll, or boat, fish, and kayak on the water. For fishing enthusiasts, the Town Creek Fishing Center is the perfect destination to enjoy the thrill of a catch. Away from the outdoors, Guntersville Museum invites visitors to delve into the town’s history through various displays and exhibits. And for a sumptuous lunch after a long day outdoors, step into the serene ambiance of Old Town Stock House.
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
Bay St. Louis is a magical town on the Gulf Coast, far away from the bustle and hustle associated with big cities. This laid-back and scenic town is perfect for relaxation, especially for visitors interested in nature and its evergreen beauty. While here, visit the picturesque sugar-white sand beach to stroll, sunbathe, picnic, and admire the sunset. Afterward, head downtown to grab antiques and handcrafted items at Magnolia Antiques or Antique Maison LLC, and savor delicious seafood and grills at Cuz’s Old Town Oyster Bar & Grill. On the lanes of history, the Bay St. Louis Historic L&N Train Depot houses the Mardi Gras Museum, which hosts more than a dozen Mardi Gras outfits. The train depot is also home to the Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum, where visitors can peruse a collection of antiques and folk art by Alice Moseley.
Fernandina Beach, Florida
Fernandina Beach is a charming town on Amelia Island, full of history and beautiful natural scenery in a relaxed ambiance. History buffs will appreciate this town, as there are plenty of attractions to explore, such as Fairbanks House (1885), Nassau County Courthouse (1891), and Fort Clinch State Park, which hosts a 19th-century castle. In addition, the Amelia Island Museum of History is in town. It offers a wide variety of exhibits and programs aimed at showcasing the island’s history dating back thousands of years.
Away from history, visitors can experience the town’s airy and cozy atmosphere while strolling or picnicking at Main Beach Park. Peters Point Beachfront Park is an alternative, featuring a sandy beach for sunbathing, picnicking, and promenading, while fishing is also permitted. Art enthusiasts can visit the Island Art Association Gallery to explore the works of over 45 local artists. Afterward, reline at the Green Turtle Taverns to enjoy cocktails and snacks in a scenic beach-house setting.
Mount Dora, Florida
Mount Dora is a pretty town with a unique small-town setting despite its large population of over 16,000 people. Once here, visitors can begin a satisfying vacation by roaming the laid-back downtown overlooking Lake Dora and purchasing antiques at the Village Antique Mall. Next, visit the town's various museums, such as Mount Dora History Museum and Modernism Museum, to see exhibits and relics of the past, including creative works of art and craftsmanship. For art enthusiasts, the town also hosts the Mount Dora Center for the Arts while the Donnelly House (built in 1893), is another spectacle for history buffs. In the outdoors, visitors can fish, boat, and canoe on Lake Dora or head to Grantham Pointe Lighthouse across the lake to enjoy picnics and lake views. For more outdoor adventures, head to Palm Island Park, as it has a fishing pier on the lake, walking trails beneath trees, and picnic shelters.
Townsend, Tennessee
Townsend is an adorable little town in Blount County that boasts a tranquil ambiance and slow-paced life. Also, the town is a gateway to Cades Cove, a picturesque valley filled with wildlife, historic structures dating to the 1800s, and mountain views in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Additionally, the town is home to Tuckaleechee Caverns, a 150-foot-deep cave system stretching for a mile and housing the 210-foot Silver Falls - the tallest underground waterfall in the country. History buffs in town are invited to the Little River Railroad and Lumber Museum to learn more about the area’s once-thriving railroad and lumber industry through artifacts and exhibits. Before leaving, head to the Apple Mountain Village & Café to relax and enjoy burgers, shop for souvenirs at the gift shop, and enjoy wines at the bar.
Blowing Rock, North Carolina
Blowing Rock is a charming little town with laid-back vibes, thanks partly to its small population of just below 1,500 people. Visitors will be entertained by the many attractions, including The Blowing Rock. Standing at 4,000 feet above sea level, this unique rock formation is renowned for its strong wind, which propels objects upward. Visit this rock to admire the gorgeous mountain scenery before visiting the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum to immerse in the region's history, arts, and Southern heritage. Afterward, check out the beautiful Bass Lake and hike along its trails to enjoy natural views of the area. For something different, head to Mystery Hill to get hypnotized by mysterious artifacts, exhibits, and strange occurrences such as a ball rolling upwards and water flowing uphill. When hungry, go to Bistro Roca to relish southern culinary delights.
Walhalla, South Carolina
Walhalla is a natural jewel in South Carolina, nestled at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and featuring several waterfalls and mountainous attractions. Thankfully, with its small population and chilled-out atmosphere, visitors will enjoy the iconic attractions in tranquility. Start with some history at the Oconee History Museum and then visit the Museum of the Cherokee in South Carolina to learn about this peculiar native American tribe. Later on, grab a camera and head to the iconic Stumphouse Tunnel to marvel at the uncompleted structure. The famous 100-foot-tall Issaqueena Falls is close to the tunnel and deserves a visit, especially as it is surrounded by mesmerizing greenery. After the adventures, grab a seat at the 3 Amigos Restaurant to enjoy sensational grills and authentic Mexican food.
Spread out across the states of the Southern United States are several small, magical towns with unperturbed atmospheres worth visiting. A visit to these towns guarantees an escape from the crowd while still having many incredible attractions at arms reach. Step away from the large cities today and head to these towns to relax, play, and get intimate with nature. Be sure to come with a large diary or writing pad and a good camera because there will be so much inspiration to write and so many beautiful pictures to capture.
