5 Southern Towns to Visit This Spring & Summer

The South is home to destinations fit for all types of travelers, whether you’re looking to unwind in the charm of a small town or get active and explore. With so many getaways to choose from, we’re highlighting some of the best Southern towns to add to your travel bucket list this spring and summer. Each is unique in its offerings and has something for everyone — from families and groups of girlfriends to couples. Take a look, and start planning your next vacation!

South Carolina’s Old 96 District

Offering everything from small-town delights to 2024 springtime festivals and outdoor adventures, soaking up the sun in South Carolina’s Old 96 District is a fabulous way to spend the season. Here are a few ways to make the most of your time! One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of this South Carolina region is by attending the annual Spring Festival in downtown Abbeville. Now in its 42nd year, this three-day event is free and open to the public, running from Thursday, May 2, through Saturday, May 4, 2024. Offering fun for the entire family, you can enjoy everything from carnival rides to live music, local vendors, and delicious food. If you can’t make it to the Spring Festival, plan a summer trip to include Greenwood’s BBQ & Blues Festival of Discovery. Running from Thursday, July 11, through Saturday, July 13, 2024, along Main Street, the annual celebration offers delicious barbecue, live blues music, arts and crafts, and even a hot dog-eating contest.

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While the Old 96 District offers several beautiful bed and breakfasts for your lodging needs, spring and summer offer some of the best camping weather. Plus, with over 100,000 acres of water in the area, many of the local campsites offer sweeping waterfront views! Located on the shores of Lake Thurmond, Baker Creek State Park offers 34 campsites for RVs and tents. In addition to the campground’s convenient location to restrooms with hot water, campers can also enjoy trails for hiking and biking. Calhoun Falls State Park is another popular destination for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. Home to 86 standard campsites and 14 walk-in tent sites, you can also enjoy a scenic stroll along the park’s 1.75-mile loop trail. Golf enthusiasts will enjoy camping at Hickory Knob State Resort Park, as it offers an 18-hole, Tom Jackson-designed championship golf course. The park houses 44 campsites near Lake Thurmond in addition to a spacious picnic pad and a Pro Shop with food and drinks. SB Tip: If camping isn’t your thing, Hickory Knob State Resort Park is the only South Carolina state park that offers hotel lodging, too! 

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Also located along Lake Thurmond, Hamilton Branch State Park offers 150 beautiful campsites, most of which are waterfront. During the day, take advantage of the 12-mile Stevens Creek Bike Trail or one-mile hiking trail. You’ll also love the park’s easy access to water-related fun, like fishing and kayaking. Another great campground is located in Lake Greenwood State Park. Home to 125 paved campsites that offer up to 50 amps of electrical service, you can enjoy the 0.8-mile nature trail, fishing pier, and beautiful views of the 1,400-acre Lake Greenwood. And because South Carolina’s Old 96 District is home to three major lakes — Lake Greenwood, Lake Russell, and Lake Thurmond — there are countless adventures to be had on the water. Whether you’re an avid angler, love to kayak, or simply love to cool off with a swim, the Old 96 District is the place to be,

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Vicksburg, MS

Nicknamed “the key of the South,” Vicksburg, MS, offers fun for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a history buff or want to spend time in nature, there’s plenty to do and see in this Southern town! Before you begin exploring, we recommend booking a room at one of 11 available bed and breakfasts. Each one is located in a historic home and offers modern conveniences like comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and beautiful porch views. To see a list of available options, click HERE. Many of Vicksburg’s bed and breakfasts are located in the heart of the city’s Historic Downtown area. This is where you’ll find popular attractions like local museums (six of them, all within walking distance of one another!), art galleries, and parks. The Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum highlights the history of the local man who originally bottled the soft drink in Vicksburg in 1894. While you’re there, indulge in a Coke float as you peruse Coca-Cola memorabilia and souvenirs.

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For those interested in learning about Vicksburg’s role in the Civil War, we recommend visiting the Old Depot Museum, Vicksburg Civil War Museum, or the Vicksburg National Military Park. Each attraction offers an in-depth look into the war through rare artifacts, films, and dioramas. SB Tip: To make the most of your site-seeing experience, pick up a City Attractions Passport. Once you collect five stamps from participating museums and landmarks, redeem your passport for a free Vicksburg t-shirt!

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Art enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Vicksburg’s vast art scene. Many people enjoy strolling along Levee Street to see the city’s collection of 32 riverfront murals. Each mural is by artist Robert Dafford and explores the city’s rich past and present. The Attic Art Gallery is the oldest independently owned art gallery in Mississippi and houses artwork from creators around the South. You’ll find works ranging in genres and mediums — from folk art to pottery and jewelry. Just a few steps away is the H.C. Porter Gallery, where you’ll find original works highlighting the South’s and Vicksburg’s history, architecture, and landmarks. Newer to Vicksburg’s art scene is the Jackson Street Gallery at The Mulberry. An outpost of Paula Jackson’s gallery of the same name in Ridgeland, MS, here you’ll find a variety of artwork from artists across the South.

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For those looking to take in Vicksburg’s natural beauty, Quapaw Canoe Company offers single-day, overnight, and multi-day river expeditions, while Blue Cat Guide Services hosts guided fishing trips and river tours.

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No trip to the Mississippi Delta is complete without indulging in a few authentic tamales, and plenty of Vicksburg restaurants serve this staple. Solly’s Hot Tamales, The Tamale Place, and Divine Donuts (don’t let the name fool you!) are all frequented by locals and tourists alike. Vicksburg also hosts exciting signatures in the spring and summer seasons. The Classic ‘Sip Fest (March 11, 14-16) celebrates all things Coca-Cola with unique tasting events, a classic car and motorcycle show, an outdoor movie, and more. Or, if you find yourself in Vicksburg over Independence Day, consider attending one of the city’s handful of special events.

Bowling Green, KY

While Bowling Green, KY, may be most widely known as the place where Corvettes are manufactured, there is so much more to explore in the area. From underground adventures to museums and an amusement park, you’ll need to spend a day or two here to enjoy it all! Interested in seeing up-close views of the “Coolest Thing Made in Kentucky”? Bowling Green’s National Corvette Museum offers over 70 cars on display and a handful of interactive exhibits. Plus, the LUSTER exhibition is coming soon to the museum’s lineup (set to open on Saturday, March 16), which showcases the hyperrealistic artwork of Corvettes and other cars. Also headed to the National Corvette Museum in June is an exhibit titled Ground to Sky: The Sinkhole Reimagined, which highlights the infamous cave-in that the museum’s Skydome experienced in February 2014. In addition to offering a timeline of events, the exhibit includes Corvettes that were recovered from the sinkhole. Before leaving the museum, be sure to also visit the nearby NCM Motorsports Park. Not only does the attraction include high-speed go-karting for teens and adults, but you can also get behind the wheel of a Corvette. 

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Bowling Green has also been dubbed “Kentucky’s Cave Country,” so be sure to set out on an underground adventure or two during your stay. We recommend visiting Mammoth Cave National Park, as it’s the longest-known cave system in the world. Located 30 minutes outside Bowling Green, Mammoth Cave offers tours for everyone — from wheelchair-accessible options to more strenuous walking tours. Lost River Cave is another popular destination, offering guided boat tours where you can hear about the cave’s role in the Civil War and how it served as a hideout for the infamous outlaw Jesse James. After your cave tour, return to surface to explore the 72 acres of woodland and prairie pathways.

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For those seeking a bit of thrill, spend the day at Beech Bend Amusement Park. In addition to the award-winning Kentucky Rumbler wooden coaster, you’ll also find the sea dragon ride from Michael Jackon’s Neverland and the Splash Lagoon water park. For a taste of Southern charm, visit Chaney’s Dairy Barn. Aside from its authentic ice cream (which was featured on Guy Fieri’s All American Road Trip!), you can enjoy farm tours that offer close-up views of robotic milkers and Jersey Cows. Children will enjoy the expansive playground, jam-packed with slides, swings, and obstacles. When you’re ready for lunch or dinner, standout menu items include a signature pimento cheese sandwich (made from a secret recipe) and a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich.

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If you want to pick up a souvenir or two to remember your travels, be sure to visit Bowling Green’s Historic Downtown District. Standout shops include Barbara Stewart Interiors, Mary Jane’s Chocolates, and Candle Makers on the Square. If you can, we also recommend planning your Bowling Green vacation in the first week of June, as this is when Duncan Hines Days takes place. From Monday, June 3, through Sunday, June 9, celebrate the man behind the legendary cake mix. Events include wine tours, baseball games, live music, and more.

Oxford, MS

Whether you’re a creative, sports fan, or devoted foodie, a visit to Oxford, MS, is an absolute must, especially in the spring and summer months. Here are some of the city’s standout attractions — where to eat, drink, and play! Discover why Oxford was voted “America’s Best College Town” by ESPN by attending a sporting event at Ole Miss. The 2024 baseball season will not disappoint. Starting on Wednesday, February 21, home games take place at the Oxford-University Stadium/Swayze Field and offer so much more than baseball — including the famous Ole Miss Solo Cup Races in between innings. Plus, stick around until the end of the game on Friday nights to see the fireworks show over Swayze! Home games run through Sunday, May 12; tickets start at $10 each.

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If you’d rather watch a game from a lively Oxford sports bar (or enjoy a pre- or post-game drink or snack), there are plenty of places to do so. Craft beer lovers will enjoy a visit to Circle & Square, while The Blind Pig Pub serves hearty sandwiches and over 20 beers on tap. Funky’s Pizza & Daiquiri Bar is another popular option serving New Orleans-style daiquiris and homemade pizza with plenty of TVs to watch the game. Famous for having Katy Perry dive off the bar after a big Ole Miss win, you can spot a gift from her on the wall. Be sure to also check out the famous Oxford Square before or after a game! Home to a handful of charming shops and boutiques, the area is a premier shopping destination. Peruse the bookshelves at Square Books, or flip through the collection of vinyl records at The End of All Music. The Square is also where you’ll find the oldest department store in the South, Neilson’s Department Store. Another can’t-miss Oxford event is the Double Decker Arts Festival. The city’s largest spring event, the celebration returns for its 27th year on Friday, April 26, and Saturday, April 27. The event takes place in Oxford’s Historic Downtown Square and attracts over 65,000 visitors annually. What began as a concert on the bed of an old pickup truck has turned into a full-blown, two-day celebration of art, music, and food. This year’s event includes over 100 art vendors and nearly 20 local food vendors. Plus, don’t miss musical performances by Grace Bowers, Flatland Calvary, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Brittany Howard, and many more talented musicians.

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If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay during your Oxford vacation, we recommend checking into The Oliver Hotel.  Located on the south end of The Square, the hotel was recently renovated in the summer of 2023 and boasts 40 guest rooms and two on-site restaurants, Kingswood and Nightbird (a speakeasy perfect for cocktails!). Another popular lodging option includes the Graduate Hotel. Conveniently located on The Square, the hotel honors the history and heritage of Ole Miss. Plus, enjoy food and drinks from Cabin 82 or The Coop rooftop bar that overlooks the historic downtown.

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Kentucky Lake

If you’re looking to reconnect with nature, plan a getaway to Kentucky Lake. With stunning water and shoreline, avid anglers, hikers, cyclists, and golfers alike can enjoy an escape from the grind of daily life at Kentucky Lake. Home to tens of thousands of acres of water, anglers will enjoy spending a day or two on the lake. Home to everything from bass to crappie, panfish, catfish, and more, this is the perfect spot for all fishing skill levels. Beginner anglers can take advantage of several local guide services. To get started, be sure to acquire a fishing license and then book an adventure with companies like Brandon Hunter Fishing, Hook ‘Em Up With Matt Carter, or Papa’s Fishin For Fun. If you’re a more experienced angler or would prefer to embark on your own journey, some local outfitters rent boats, too. Popular rental companies include Shawnee Bay Resort, Whispering Oaks Resort, Malcolm Creek Resort, and King Creek Resort.

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The land surrounding Kentucky Lake also offers plenty of opportunities for hiking. For a relatively easy, dog-friendly trail, Eggner’s Ferry Bridge Hike & Bike Trail is about 1.5 miles in length and leads to the entrance of the popular Land Between the Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area. In addition to hiking, LBL offers opportunities for mountain biking, horseback riding, kayaking, and camping. Additional attractions include the Elk & Bison Prairie, the Golden Pond Planetarium, and the Woodlands Nature Station. Cyclists will enjoy biking along the Calvert City Greenway. Located along 5th Avenue in Calvert City and leading to Kentucky Lake, the greenway offers four paved trails in addition to an eight-mile single-track loop trail.

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Mountain bikers and hikers should take advantage of the Canal Loop Trail. As one of LBL’s most popular options, sections range from 1.5 to 11 miles. As you travel through the loop, you can enjoy sweeping views of Kentucky Lake, Lake Barkley, and the nearby canal. The Kentucky Lake area is also a popular golf destination, offering three standout courses. Benton Golf & Country Club and Calvert City Golf & Country Club are popular private club options, while Kentucky Dam Village State Park Golf Course is a championship-style par 72 public golf course. If disc golf is more your speed, head to Mike Miller County Park, Calvert City Old Park, and H.H. Lovett Park for a round. Or, visit Maggie’s Jungle Golf, Kentucky Shores Family Fun Center, and Forgotten Past for some miniature and putt-putt golf and arcades.

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After a day on the water or golf course, you will likely have worked up a hearty appetite. Luckily, there are plenty of local eateries to choose from. Barbecue enthusiasts will enjoy a trip to 4 Little Pigs, Amazin Blaze BBQ, Bad Bob’s BBQ, or J-Mack BBQ. After dinner, we recommend heading to Belew’s Dairy Bar (slated to open for its 2024 season in April) for a refreshing ice cream treat. To end the night, be sure to also visit the Calvert Drive-In to catch a movie! This article is sponsored by Old 96 District Tourism, Visit Vicksburg, Bowling Green Area CVB, Visit Oxford, and Kentucky Lake Tourism. All photography provided unless otherwise noted.