If you love the bright lights and big city feel, all with a side of Southern charm, these are the larger Southern cities you should have on your radar. Each offers a robust culinary scene, rich history and plenty of sights to see. These are some of the most popular Southern cities to explore.
Larger Southern Cities to Explore
Alexandria, VA
Alexandria, VA, hums with a cosmopolitan feel and a walkable lifestyle — perfect for a weekend getaway. Take a virtual tour of this charming city. Click HERE.
Take a virtual tour of Alexandria’s most iconic street — Captain’s Row. Image: Sam Kittner of Visit Alexandria
Austin, TX
It’s a Southern city with the hustle and bustle for your next big adventure. Take a virtual tour of Austin, TX, to start planning your next escape. Click HERE.
Explore Austin’s Hike and Bike Trail for spectacular skyline and lake views. Image: Visit Austin
Chattanooga, TN
From the Tennessee Aquarium to picturesque views atop Lookout Mountain, it’s no wonder Chattanooga, TN, is a top travel destination. See what makes this city unique in this virtual tour — and then start planning your own trip! Click HERE.
Travel to the top of Lookout Mountain to get a glimpse of seven states at once — Tennessee, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama. Image: Visit Chattanooga
Dallas, TX — The Margarita Mile
As the birthplace of the frozen margarita machine, Dallas, TX celebrates the invention with the Margarita Mile. Take a virtual tour of the strip — one cocktail at a time. Click HERE.
A margarita with a popsicle? Yes, please! Check out this one and four more you’ll only find on the Margarita Mile in Dallas, TX. Image: Joseph Haubert
Louisville, KY
Beyond the bourbon, Louisville, KY is an energetic Southern city. Take a virtual tour and see what gives the city its “Gateway to the South” nickname. Click HERE.
Take a virtual fitness class at beautiful Waterfront Park. Image: Go To Louisville
Memphis, TN
Whether you’re interested in the vibrancy of Beale Street or explore the more low-key Shelby Farms Park, Memphis offers something for everyone. Take a virtual vacation to this top Southern travel destination. Click HERE.
Montgomery, AL
Montgomery, AL, has played a significant role in America’s history and continues to prosper today. Take a virtual tour of this revolutionary Southern town! Click HERE.
Nashville, TN
Music City is a hot spot, but there’s more than Broadway and honkytonks. Check out five fabulous destinations in Nashville, TN in this virtual vacation. Click HERE.
Nashville’s 12South neighborhood is one of the city’s most vibrant spots. Image: Nashville Convention & Visitors Center
Norfolk, VA
Norfolk, VA, is a 400-year-old port city and home to the largest naval base in the world. Explore all this waterfront city has to offer by taking a virtual tour. Click HERE.
Catch a breath of fresh air at Norfolk Botanical Garden. Image: Visit Norfolk
Pensacola, FL
With 50-plus miles of coastline, white-sand beaches and emerald-green water make up the views in Pensacola, FL. See for yourself in this virtual tour — and then start planning your next beach getaway. Click HERE.
Sarasota, FL
With breathtaking beach views, Sarasota, FL, continues to be a tropical destination for families year after year. Start planning your own getaway with this virtual tour. Click HERE.
The quartz-crystal sand at Siesta Beach is like walking on clouds. Image: Eddie Kirsch
Happy exploring!
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Find more amazing Southern destinations in our travel archives. Click HERE!
