The South has become one of my favorite parts of the United States. I’ll admit, before I started traveling, I had a lot of misconceptions about the Southern states. Growing up in New England and influenced by media stereotypes, I thought the South was full of backward, racist people, steeped in poverty and conservatism, and obsessed with guns and religion. But when I hit the road in 2006, everything changed.
As I drove through the South, I quickly fell in love with the region. The food, the people, the scenery, the architecture — it was all so much more than I had imagined. My old ideas about the South turned out to be completely wrong. Sure, the region has its struggles with racism, poverty, and conservative politics, but no place is perfect. More importantly, it’s not nearly as monolithic as the media often makes it out to be. Each Southern state is unique, and with a little time and curiosity, you can discover incredible food, rich culture, and warm hospitality everywhere.
I did another road trip in 2015 and found myself even more enchanted by the South. One surprise for me was Mississippi, which turned out to be a hidden gem. I never expected to be so taken with it!
What I’ve realized over the years is that the South is far more diverse than I ever thought. It’s a huge region, and each state has its own personality. Whether it’s the lively music scenes, the fusion of cultures, or the hearty Southern food, there’s something special waiting for anyone who’s willing to look beyond the stereotypes.
A lot of misconceptions about the South come from the news. While it’s true that there are political divides and tough issues here, there’s so much more beneath the surface. For one, the people are incredibly friendly and welcoming. I’ve also discovered a thriving arts scene, with people from all over the world contributing to the culture. Whether it’s murals in small towns or immigrants bringing their cuisine to the table, the South is full of life and diversity.
Speaking of food — it’s a huge part of why I love the South. You’ll find everything from soul-satisfying comfort food like fried chicken and collard greens, to lighter, healthier options, and dishes from all over the world. In Atlanta, for example, you can enjoy authentic Korean barbecue and then unwind at a Korean spa — something I absolutely love about the city. Food is a way of showing love here, and it’s one of the best ways to experience the culture.
There’s also something about the friendliness of the people. Neighbors look out for each other, and there’s a strong sense of community. And the music scene? It’s like no other. Whether it’s a country song or hip hop, you can find amazing live music in small venues almost anywhere.
The South is home to stunning natural beauty, too. From the barrier islands along North Carolina’s coast to the swamps of Louisiana and the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, there’s no shortage of breathtaking landscapes. And with the Appalachian Trail running through much of the region, nature is part of everyday life.
Food is also affordable here, and you can find delicious meals in the most unexpected places. Gas stations often serve up surprisingly good food — from fried chicken to Delta hot tamales. Whether it’s an upscale restaurant or a hole-in-the-wall diner, dining in the South is an experience in itself.
Historically, the South is hugely significant, too. It’s where European settlers first landed in America, and where the Civil Rights Movement sparked major change. Important landmarks like the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham and the Lorraine Motel in Memphis tell the stories of struggles for justice and equality.
The South is also a musical powerhouse. Blues, rock, bluegrass, country, hip hop — the region has influenced nearly every genre of American music. From Elvis Presley to OutKast, Southern musicians have shaped the sound of America, and cities like Nashville and Atlanta continue to be music hubs.
Traveling in the South is also surprisingly affordable. Flights into major airports like Atlanta or New Orleans are often cheaper, and car rentals are more reasonable compared to other parts of the country. While certain cities can be pricey, especially when it comes to accommodations, you can usually find affordable options, like bed and breakfasts, campgrounds, and Airbnb rentals.
If you want to explore beyond the well-known destinations like Charleston and New Orleans, there are so many hidden gems to discover. One of my favorites is the Mississippi Delta, where blues legends like B.B. King and Robert Johnson found their voices. Or take a trip to Northwest Arkansas, known for its mountain biking trails and craft breweries, or the funky little town of Eureka Springs, which looks like something out of a 19th-century postcard.
Even in the well-known cities, there are off-the-beaten-path spots that are worth exploring. In Atlanta, for example, I love visiting Buford Highway for its international food scene. When I lived in Charleston, I spent most of my time downtown, but on later visits, I found myself drawn to the Park Circle area in North Charleston. And just outside of Nashville is Franklin, a Civil War-era town with great live music and an annual festival that draws big-name acts.
And let’s not forget the quirky museums and landmarks in small towns. From ventriloquism museums in Kentucky to memorials to the victims of the Trail of Tears in Alabama, the South is full of surprising finds.
In short, the South is a place that deserves to be seen with an open mind. It’s not just what the media tells you — it’s a rich, diverse, and welcoming part of the country with something for everyone.
