Final Up to date
If there’s one journey publication that is aware of the ins and outs of the South, it is gotta be Southern Residing.
Not too long ago compiling a list of 25 of the South’s greatest locations to go to in 2025, there have been some actual surprises intermixed with cultural icons, equivalent to New Orleans.
Proper now, given the chilly entrance spreading out a lot of the mainland, you may suppose Florida can be the place to be, however there are tons of hidden gems and overshadowed cities ready to be found by mainstream vacationers.


Anybody who has traveled via the South is aware of that “southern hospitality” is an actual factor, the place you are greeted with “How ya’ doin’?” and left with “Have a blessed day”, in contrast to different main cities the place you are simply one other face within the crowd.
In the event you’re searching for laid-back getaways with pleasant locals, savory consolation meals, and affordable luxury, then look no additional than these 4 shocking U.S. cities named as the very best Southern U.S. locations for 2025.
Montgomery: A Historic Capital Teeming With Riverfront Delights
With MLK Day across the nook, let’s begin off with certainly one of America’s most traditionally vital cities.


House to the Rosa Parks Museum, Montgomery Bus Boycott Memorial, and Dexter Avenue King Memorial Church, Martin Luther King Jr. as soon as ministered, Montgomery checks off all of the packing containers for historical past buffs.
That being stated, Montgomery affords much more than intriguing museums showcasing America’s turning level right into a extra inclusive and simply society.
Montgomery boasts a picturesque downtown with rows of historic buildings, however the place to be is the Riverfront District.


Whether or not it is indulging in traditional soul meals staples, perusing boutique outlets, or hopping aboard the Harriott II Riverboat for a scenic trip alongside the Alabama River, you are certain to have an excellent time.
Lexington: Kentucky’s Underrated Metropolis To Horse Round
Your first thought is likely to be Kentucky Derby or fried hen with regards to visiting the state that simply so occurs to resemble a hen leg, however there’s excess of meets the attention past Colonel Sanders’ in style quick meals chain and Louisville’s ‘most fun two minutes in sports activities’.
Lexington could not host the Kentucky Derby, however there’s nothing improper with second-best (except you are Ricky Bobby, after all).


Lexington is named the ‘horse capital of the world’; in reality, the place you possibly can take pleasure in thrilling races like Keeneland or go for a enjoyable horseback trip at Whispering Woods Riding Stables, welcome to all ages.
Higher but, it is all the time an excellent time to horse round together with your buddies, and what higher place to do than Lexington’s Distillery District?
Higher but, Lexington luxurious inns are very reasonably priced, like Origin Hotel, for beneath $100 in late winter/early spring.
Richmond: Uncover Historic Websites And Riverside Gems
Whether or not or not Richmond is actually “the South” or not is one other query for one more day, however there’s doubt Virginia’s capital metropolis is brimming with timeless allure and riverside gems.


Whereas many Virginia vacationers could go for Virginia Seaside proper now in quest of winter solar, do not sleep on Richmond, a really underrated metropolis beholding fascinating historic websites equivalent to Richmond Nationwide Battlefield Park, Black Historical past Museum and Cultural Heart of Virginia, and quite a few plantation tours.
Richmond sees freezing temps now and again throughout winter, however a springtime go to to Richmond’s Belle Isle, residence to the hidden gem of North Seaside, a tranquil hideaway tucked away from the cityscape.
Additionally, take a look at Richmond’s thriving beer scene, particularly top-rated Legend Brewing with skyline views.
Chattanooga: Scenic Practice Rides And Down-House Attraction


Nashville could also be hogging middle stage in Tennessee, however Chattanooga will not disappoint with far much less crowds for bar-hopping Station Avenue, amongst different shocking delights to take pleasure in earlier than sunset.
Exploring downtown’s historic streets is a should, however what folks could not understand about this buzzing school city are the enjoyable sights even Nashville cannot match, such because the world-renowned Tennessee Aquarium and quite a few scenic prepare rides (Southern Residing highlights 7 of them here).
Chattanooga is so stepped in locomotive historical past that there is even a brand new, upscale train-themed lodge, Hotel Chalet.


The most important shock of Chattanooga could also be how lovely it’s with astounding nature like Lookout Mountain with postcard-worthy Ruby Falls.
↓ Elevate Your Journey↓
Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No adverts, VIP Content material, Private Journey Concierge, Large Financial savings, Each day Offers, Members Discussion board & Extra!


✈️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: The place vacationers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even discover like-minded journey buddies!
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your e mail tackle to subscribe to Journey Off Path’s newest breaking journey information, straight to your inbox.
This text initially appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed listed below are the creator’s alone, not these of any financial institution, bank card issuer, lodge, airline, or different entity. This content material has not been reviewed, accredited or in any other case endorsed by any of the entities included throughout the put up.