7 Landmarks for a Unique Southern Experience

The South has much more to offer than just soul food and friendly people. It is packed with history, diverse landscapes and some of the most interesting landmarks you’ll find anywhere.

Whether you have learned about the South from the internet, a trusted bingo site that the locals love or popular TV, you may not know about a few of the places on this list.

Everglades National Park

The Everglades is a unique biome that can be found only in Florida. It is filled with everything from a variety of flora to swamps, dozens of bird species and the famous Everglades alligators. While you don’t want to travel this “other world” alone, an airboat can zoom you along the rivers for an unforgettable look at this tropical wetland.

If you want to experience swampy Florida overhanging with mangroves like you’ve seen on TV and in movies, this is the way to do it. The Everglades were declared a national park in 1934 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

Graceland

If you’re an Elvis Presley fan—or have a newfound interest after seeing the recent movie—and find yourself in Memphis, don’t leave without stopping by Graceland. Located at 376 Elvis Presley Blvd., this was the home to the King himself. After his death, it was opened as a museum and now sees tens of thousands of visitors every year. There’s also a museum, hotel and entertainment complex on the site now.

U.S Space & Rocket Center

Located in Huntsville, Alabama, the U.S Space and Rocket Center is a museum dedicated to the history and achievements of the United States space program. The museum is packed with rockets, satellites and numerous exhibits and has given Huntsville the name “Rocket City.” This tech hotspot also has the densest concentration of antebellum homes in the state, a science fiction convention in October and, of course, Space Camp.

Savannah, Georgia

While Savannah may not be an individual sight or experience, the city is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful in the country. Filled with both historic and modern architecture, moss-draped oaks, luscious parks, ghost tours and some of the best food you’ll find in the region, Savannah is the place to visit next.

Multicultural Miami

If you want to get a taste of how the rich and famous live, look no further than the bright sun and crystal-clear waters of Miami. The city is multicultural, with many locals tracking their roots from across the United States, Central and South America, Europe, Africa and Asia. Don’t miss the coffee, cigars and croquetas in Little Havana.

Miami is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches you will ever find. To see more of Florida’s coastline, take a scenic drive up to Orlando or Tampa or travel south and see the famous Florida Keys.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles Tennessee and North Carolina. Sweeping mountain ranges, magical forests and beautiful rivers and animals can be found all across the park. This time of year, the leaves are starting to change, making for stunning views and drives through the park.

Mississippi’s Grand Canyon

Never heard of it? It might be the state’s best-kept secret. Located off the Pearl River, Red Bluff in Marion County is a hiker’s dream. Majestic hues of red, orange and even purple invite visitors to choose their own paths to descend into the canyon.