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9 Southern Must See Places

There are some places you want to go, and then there are some places you just need to go. If you happen to be traveling down south and want to hit all the best spots, check out the below list of 9 Southern Places to visit before you die and be sure to hit them all.

1. The Grand Ole Opry – Perhaps Nashville’s most notable attraction, the Grand Ole Opry has been showcasing country music’s most famous artists for almost a century. Membership into the Opry is still considered one of the highest achievements for any musical artist including such legends as Dolly Parton, Hank Williams, Minnie Pearl, and Reba McEntire. Be sure to book your tickets next time you’re in Nashville to take in “The Show that Made Country Music Famous”.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Spanning over two states, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a natural wonder that can be experienced any time of year. Astonishing foliage, make the park a prime location during the autumn months and adventurous hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult allow for young and old alike to enjoy the park’s natural features first hand.
3. Historic Downtown Charleston – Charleston South Carolina is the embodiment of Old World Southern Charm. Spend your day strolling the Battery and take in the pre-war homes that overlook historic Fort Sumter. Or, hop on a horse-drawn carriage and make your way down King Street where you can window shop for blocks on end. Be sure to take advantage of Charleston’s amazing food scene as well.
4. Churchill Downs – Kentucky is known for two things: bourbon and horses. We’ll get to the Bourbon in a minute but before that, it’s important to remember that the most exciting two minutes in sports takes place between the spires of Churchill Downs every May during the Kentucky Derby. If you can’t make it down for Derby Day, you can still visit their museum or catch a race depending on the day. So Indulge in a mint julep, don your best hat, and throw some money down on your favorite horse.
5. Graceland – What’s a trip to Memphis without a stop at one of the most famous homes in the world? The former home of music legend Elvis Presley pays homage to his lengthy career while allowing visitors a glimpse into his lavish and often eclectic lifestyle. The almost 14 acre estate is one of the most visited private homes in the United States.
6. The Southernmost Point – We are talking way down south. The most southern you can go, in fact, and still be in the United States. We are talking Key West’s Southern Most Point. Once there, don’t forget to grab a slice of key lime pie and take in a sunset at Mallory Square.
7. Biltmore Estate – A 8,000 acre estate, hidden (or as hidden as it can be) in Asheville, North Carolina lays claim to the largest privately owned home in the country. At almost 179,000 (yes you read that right) square feet, the Biltmore estate can take you literally a day to walk through while taking in home’s landscape, architecture, and priceless furnishings.
8. Bourbon Street – Going to New Orleans? Be sure to stop at the infamous Bourbon Street. Grab a signature hurricane and enjoy the sound of Blues music wafting through the air. There’s no shortage of fun to be had and even if you can’t make it down for Mardi Gras, there’s plenty to do, see, and indulge in any time of year.
9. Kentucky Bourbon Trail – There is only one place to indulge in most of the world’s bourbon supply and that is in Kentucky. Wind your way around the Bluegrass State and take in the sights, smells and sips of Four Roses, Jim Beam, Wild Turkey, Woodford Reserve, Evan Williams and more. Just be sure to take it easy on the samples.