The Southern United States's 7 Most Underrated Towns To Visit In 2024
The Southern United States is renowned for its incredible hospitality, local cuisine, and cultural heritage. In 2024, there are several towns in the Southern United States that provide unique historical tours, local festivals, and incredible outdoor activities. Although these underrated towns are often overlooked as getaway destinations, visitors are able to explore these towns without the hustle and bustle of more well-known towns in the region. These small towns offer musical festivals celebrating the birthplace of country music in Bristol, Virginia, as well as cultural events that commemorate the settling of America's first colony in St. Augustine, Florida. Here are seven hidden gems in the Southern United States that stand out as some of the best places to visit in 2024.
Helen, Georgia
Known as "Georgia's Alpine Village," the charming town of Helen, Georgia, is one of the most underrated southern towns to visit in 2024 for outdoor adventures, art, and unique German experiences. The town will host the annual Bavarian Fest on May 25, which features a live oompah band and delicious German food. The town also celebrates its unique artistic roots throughout the year at annual festivals hosted by the Helen Arts and Heritage Center, such as the Summerfest Arts and Fine Crafts Festival on July 20 and 21, and the Art-Oberfest Arts and Fine Crafts Festival on October 19 and 20. More fall events occur from September 5 through October 27 when the town celebrates Oktoberfest, the longest running Oktoberfest in the United States.
For those looking for outdoor activities, Helen is one of the best southern towns to visit. On March 30, 2024, the town will host the 35th annual Helen Trout Tournament, where anglers will fish for trout in the Chattahoochee River. More outdoor adventures await in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, such as hiking the 1-mile Helen to Hardman Heritage Trail to learn more about native plants and the Bavarian influences in town. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore nature in the adjacent Chattahoochee National Forest by hiking or biking at Unicoi State Park.
Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine, Florida, is the oldest town in America, established in 1565. On September 7, 2024, the town will mark its 459th anniversary during Founder's Day in St. Augustine. The exciting event includes a reenactment of the Spaniards arriving on the shores at Mission Nombre de Dios in the Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. While celebrating, park visitors can explore the Spanish Watchtower along the Matanzas River that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, take a scenic riverfront walk, and view the 1513 Ponce de Leon landing memorial.
St. Augustine is also known for its delicious food and local art. From February 29 through March 2, food and wine enthusiasts can enjoy the Spanish Food and Wine Festival at various venues, including the Grand Tasting at the Crisp-Ellert Art Museum. Located at Flagler College, the museum features various exhibits of mixed media throughout the year. More art can be enjoyed each month in St. Augustine at the First Friday Art Walk. Visitors can explore local art at 23 galleries, including Sea Spirits Gallery and Gifts, located in the town's historic district.
Abingdon, Virginia
The historic town of Abingdon, Virginia, is one of the most underrated southern small towns to visit for cultural events in 2024. This year, the town will host the 75th Virginia Highlands Festival from July 26 through August 4. The festival features more than 200 events, including walking tours of local vineyards, concerts, and retro items at the Antiques and Vintage Market. This year, festival attendees can also go on an outdoor excursion to nearby Hungry Mother State Park. The park offers a scenic beachfront at Hungry Mother Lake and beautiful woodlands for hiking.
A trip to downtown Abingdon must include a stop or stay at the Martha Washington Inn and Spa. Built in 1832 as a private residence, the Martha, as it is affectionately called, was used as a hospital for Confederate soldiers during the Civil War. History buffs can also explore America's pioneer history along the wilderness route known as the Great Road, which passes through downtown Abingdon. While strolling the historic route, view the stunning Washington County Courthouse built in 1868 and enjoy a drink at The Tavern. Built in 1779, The Tavern is the oldest bar in the state and the eighth oldest in the country.
Bristol, Virginia
Known as the "Birthplace of Country Music," Bristol, Virginia, is one of the best southern towns to visit for music lovers and history buffs in 2024. Although many people may consider Nashville, Tennessee, to be the home of country music, the town of Bristol, Virginia, was home to the 1927 Bristol Sessions that launched country music and distributed the genre nationwide. Visitors can explore the town's musical past and present at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, an affiliate of the Smithsonian.
For live music, a visit to the town's annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion music festival from September 13-15, 2024, is a must. The festival is located in downtown Bristol, which straddles the border of Virginia and Tennessee. The charming downtown is also home to the historic Bristol Train Station, built in 1902, where visitors can learn more about the railroad's history. A view of history in the downtown area continues at Cumberland Square Park, which features a Veteran's War Memorial and an exhibit of a Vietnam War-era aircraft.
Bardstown, Kentucky
The underrated southern town of Bardstown, Kentucky, is the perfect southern town to explore history and enjoy bourbon in 2024. Known as the "Bourbon Capital of the World," Bardstown is home to the oldest bourbon bar in the country, the historic Old Talbott Tavern. Built in 1779, visitors can enjoy a drink at the place where President Andrew Jackson and the infamous Jesse James once set foot. Bourbon fans and history buffs can also enjoy the Kentucky Bourbon Festival September 13-15, 2024. The festival is located on the lawn at Spalding Hall, home to the Oscar Getz Museum of Bourbon History and Bardstown Museum of History. Visitors can explore the history of the area, along with moonshine and prohibition exhibits.
More history can be discovered on a tour at My Old Kentucky Home State Park, located on the grounds of a plantation and mansion built in 1818. Visitors can view the original artwork and interior design of the mansion, along with the history of the Civil War that surrounded the plantation. Visiting My Old Kentucky Home in 2024 is also a great way to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Kentucky State Parks.
Fairhope, Alabama
Fairhope, Alabama, is one of the most underrated southern towns along the Gulf of Mexico to visit in 2024. Art lovers can enjoy the 72nd annual Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival from March 15-17, 2024. Located near Mobile Bay, festival attendees can stroll along the shores at South Beach Park or view pelicans and fish at Fairhope Municipal Pier. Visitors can also watch the longest paddle race in the United States at the 6th annual Great Alabama 650 paddle race from September 21 through October 1, 2024. The 650-mile race begins in Northeast Alabama at Weiss Lake and passes through Fairhope as paddlers make their way to Fort Morgan.
The charming town of Fairhope is also a great town in the south for experiencing the arts, culture, and outdoors in 2024. Visitors enjoy exploring the town's historic French Quarter, with a cobblestone courtyard, the largest crape myrtle tree in the south, and local stores, including the historic Page & Palette bookstore.
Rogersville, Tennessee
Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Rogersville is one of the most underrated towns in the South to visit in 2024. The historic town was settled in 1775 by the grandparents of David Crockett, an American politician and hero of the Alamo. Rogersville is proud of its heritage and will celebrate the town's history from October 11-13, 2024, during the Heritage Days Festival. Visitors can enjoy Appalachian music and local vendors and stroll through the town's historic district during the festival. The area features the state's second oldest courthouse, the Hawkins County Courthouse, which was built in 1836. The historic area also boasts several annual festivals in 2024, including the Junk and Jam Spring Market on June 1.
Rogersville is also one of the best places in Tennessee to view the night sky in 2024. For optimal viewing, visit Crockett Spring Park and Arboretum. The tranquil park is named after the Crockett family and was once part of the land owned by the Crocketts. Along with the incredible night sky, nature enthusiasts can enjoy the large spring at the park and the beautiful walking trails during the day.
Hidden Gems Of The South
These underrated towns in the Southern United States are some of the best places to visit in 2024 for those who want to explore the great outdoors, experience cultural festivals, and discover regional art. From the charming alpine village of Helen, Georgia, where German experiences and outdoor adventures meet, to the historic town of Abingdon, Virginia, with its cultural events and 75th Virginia Highlands Festival, each hidden gem offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor beauty. For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life in 2024, these southern towns provide the perfect getaway.
