6 Offbeat Places to Visit in the South
No road trip, especially one through the Southern states, is complete without a few quirky, roadside stops. Sometimes it’s fun to get off the beaten path and discover places that might not be in the guidebook. Below are six locations from Florida to Louisiana that promise to entertain, enlighten and make for good photos.
Amish Beach in Florida
The Amish community is fascinating, and its members travel far and wide in search of new experiences.
One such place they often seek out is the sunny state of Florida. The warm weather, beautiful beaches and unique attractions bring thousands of Amish families to the Sunshine State every year. Many Amish families will opt for a horse-drawn carriage instead of a car as their mode of transportation during their stay in Florida. If you want to enjoy the company of Amish people, you should visit the tiny town of Pinecraft in Sarasota.
South Carolina Tattoo Parlors
When tattoos were finally legalized in South Carolina in 2004, tattoo artists began to practice and perfect their craft, allowing people to express themselves outwardly. With no limits on creativity, some of the most intricate designs and artwork can be found in South Carolina’s tattoo parlors. Many tattoo artists are also willing to customize a design just for you if you don’t find something that suits your style. Before legalization, just like with betting sites, people went to other states to enjoy the ink of tattoos, but now you can visit award-winning shops like the Painted Pony in Anderson or Elite Ink in Myrtle Beach.
The World’s Largest Drive-In Restaurant In Georgia
The Varsity is more than just a restaurant, it’s an experience. Established in 1928, this Atlanta institution has served hot dogs and shakes for over 90 years! It’s the perfect spot to bring friends and family all year round, no matter what season. The original location takes up two city blocks and can seat 800 diners for everything from chili dogs to burgers, onion rings and shakes.
Miniature Washington Monument in Mississippi
A mini version of the Washington Monument on Hwy. 55 in Ridgeland, Mississippi, is actually a cell phone tower. The obelisk was built with careful attention to the original’s detail and features white marble with little windows on top. If you’re in the Jackson area, be on the lookout for this photo opp.
Louisiana’s Above-Ground Cemeteries
The people of Louisiana have an interesting way of honoring their dead. Instead of burying them, they build cities of the dead. These cities comprise tombs and mausoleums where citizens can come to pay respects and remember those who have gone before. The tradition has been around for centuries, with some sites dating back to 1700. The best place to tour these interesting, and often creepy, sites is in New Orleans.
The Longest Continuous Sidewalk in Texas
The Great Galveston Storm of 1900 remains the deadliest natural disaster in United States history. On September 8, a powerful hurricane landed on Galveston Island in Texas. With winds estimated at 120 miles per hour and a 15-foot storm surge, the storm destroyed thousands of homes and businesses. To ensure this didn’t happen again, engineers recommended the construction of a seawall to protect the island. The initial segment was completed in 1904, and additional stretches were added to make up the 10-mile-long seawall that’s there today. Rising 17 feet above sea level, the Galveston Seawall is the longest continuous sidewalk in the country.
