Travel South USA
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Travel South USA is the official regional destination marketing organisation for the southern United States. The non-profit organisation promotes travel to and within its member destinations: Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia. Travel South USA serves as an information source for journalists, tour operators, retail travel agents, and other travel professionals.
The south of the USA is full of year-round destinations. As each state’s geography can be quite different, there is no ‘best’ time to travel. It should be noted however that summer can get quite hot, and winter quite cold, depending on which parts of the south you might travel to.
There are easy connections from Houston, Dallas/Fort Worth, Chicago, LAX and San Francisco.
The easiest way to get between destinations in the South is on a self-drive road trip, utilising the far-reaching and efficient highway system.
No. Each year Travel South USA hosts an international showcase, where product and marketing managers meet with Travel South USA delegates. As part of the Hosted Buyer Program, these managers can be part of the “Super Famil”, touring the state.
Travel South USA look forward to heading Down Under June 2023. Stay tuned for further details.
Please contact penny@gate7.com.au for further inquiry
Travel South USA does not have specific agent discounts, but is happy to review requests on a case-by-case basis.
Everywhere! Southern hospitality is all about welcoming visitors into a family-style environment with shared meals and communal stories. Each state has their own variation but the south is warm and welcoming all over, and we can’t wait until you return or visit for the first time!
The stories of the south stretch back centuries, and the easiest ways to start to explore our history is through online platforms like The United States Civil Rights Trail. Additionally, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, or the Blues Highway are great ways to learn about how the South celebrates its history and culture.
Southern Barbecue is different across different states, with sauces, meats and flavours varying wildly. We encourage guests to sample locally in every town and city they go to to get the full experience in the South.
The South is the birthplace of a number of genres of music like Rock n Roll, Blues, Gospel, Soul and R ‘n’ B. Live music is a tradition in nearly every part of the south, but often centres on Nashville, Memphis, New Orleans. Visiting classic recording studios, and venues like Sun Studios, Stax, and the Grand Ole Opry is a huge honour for guests and artists alike.
One of the surprising parts of the South is the breadth of incredible landscapes in National, State and Local parks. From the bayous by the ocean to the Great Smoky Mountains, there is a diversity in the landscapes and views you’ll see.
Sample Itineraries
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On Two Wheels: Explore Alabama by Motorcycle
With its warm hospitality, historic landmarks and landscapes ranging from rocky hills to sunny beaches, Alabama offers diverse experiences in the U.S. South.
Adventure Road Trip South USA Style
Calling all wanderers, outdoor lovers and active families to experience a North Carolina Mountain tour!
Country Music Hot Spots in the South
Country music is all about roots, and in Southern USA they run deep. A country music trip is about more than just great entertainment. With these destinations, you’ll take a closer look at how country music came to be. Learn about its roots in folk music and bluegrass, commemorate musical legends and discover up-and-coming artists.
Festivals Galore in the South
Everyone loves a good festival, right? And what better U.S region to enjoy any reason to celebrate, than in the South.
Explore Lexington’s Street Art
Did you know… Lexington, Kentucky has more than 30 street murals and counting? There’s imaginative, beautiful, and thought-provoking street art around every corner. Bringing together street artists from all over the world, we’re sure you’ll agree that Lexington is the place to be! Check out some of our faves.
6 Romantic Getaways in North Carolina
Consider yourself warned: A sweetheart escape to one of these luxe resorts will make you want to stay forever.
The Ultimate Trip for College and Pro Sports Fans
No matter which sports are in season, in North Carolina, there are several museums, halls of fame and other notable attractions that honour the state’s rich sports heritage and create excitement year-round.
Four Memorable Golfing Holidays in North Carolina
There are many great golf resorts and accommodation across North Carolina, offering the amenities – and views – to make your experience unforgettable.
What to Eat and Drink in Charleston, SC Right Now
With its vibrant culture, rich history, exquisitely-preserved architecture, idyllic coastal location, celebrated dining scene, and friendly locals, Charleston, South Carolina, is one of America’s best-loved travel destinations. Check out this round up of Charleston foodie ‘must-visits’.
Louisiana Attractions for the Young and Young at Heart
Pet a baby ‘gator, enjoy high-speed hijinx, relax with your favourite arcade game, or zip-line through the park—and that’s just covering North Louisiana!
Family Fun & Kid-Reviewed Experiences Across Tennessee
Discover scientifically proven family fun at nearly 30 attractions across the state complete with candid reviews and surveys from kids.
Explore Hermann: Small-Town Charm in the Missouri River Valley
Tucked away in the Missouri River Valley, Hermann is the heart and soul of Missouri wine country—a picturebook village where 19th-century brick buildings hug the sidewalk and harken to this town’s German influence.
Move Over, Napa Valley… Augusta in Missouri has a Brand-New Wine Region
Wine aficionados originally flocked to Napa Valley, California, but soon Augusta, Missouri, will be on their radar.
Spotlight on: A Luxe Getaway at Big Cedar Lodge, Missouri
Looking for the ultimate luxury getaway? Perhaps you love to take to the water on a yacht, or enjoy a spot of golf with stunning views, and at the end of the day, come home to a luxurious lodge. Big Cedar Lodge has it all…
The Natural State: Hikes, Views, and Vistas of Arkansas
The darkest skies in The Natural State can be found at one of Arkansas’s greatest national treasures, The Buffalo National River.
Hot Springs, Arkansas opens two new properties
Hot Springs in Arkansas has recently launched two new properties: The Reserve at Hot Springs, and Oaklawn.
Christmas in Arkansas has arrived with Trail of Holiday Lights
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Especially in Arkansas, where many festive events light up the state.
West Virginia #2 Region for Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2022
It’s great news for our friends in the “Mountain State” as Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2022 announces West Virginia as its #2 Region to visit next year.
Haunted Hotels of the USA’s South
Halloween is approaching and we can’t wait for a scare. These haunted hotels and taverns in the USA’s South will send a shiver down your spine.
The Scenic Byways & Highways of North Carolina
Mother Nature endowed North Carolina with a wealth of natural beauty and scenic roads which offer travellers dazzling views of waterfalls, ancient mountains, and dune-lined beaches. Here are three of our favourites.
Endless Excursions Road Trippin’ in West Virginia
A road trip down U.S. Route 19 in West Virginia will take you through America’s newest national park and across the iconic New River Gorge Bridge. Because in West Virginia, excursions are endless.
Recreate Paul Prudhomme’s ‘Gumbo Ya-Ya’ Dish
The late famed chef Paul Prudhomme created “Gumbo Ya-Ya,” a local favourite at Mr. B’s Bistro in the French Quarter. However, until we can travel, you can make it yourself at home. In the interest of hearty Southern food, the recipe serves 10-12, but gumbo freezes well and can be thawed without losing flavour – perfect for a Sunday afternoon batch cooking session!
Southern USA-Inspired Cocktails
Southern USA is home to some of the finest liqueurs, whiskeys, and bourbons in the world! What better way to spend this extra time inside than by honing your mixology skills and bringing the USA to your home recreating some Southern USA-inspired cocktails? Here are three delicious recipes to try at home:
Urban Hiking in North Carolina
When you want the feeling of the great outdoors, but also never want to be too far away from the creature comforts you crave, North Carolina offers you, “urban hiking.” Reconnect with the eclectic urban energy of the city in open-air spaces that appeal to social distancing sensibilities including outdoor museums, waterfalls surrounded by skyscrapers, interactive art exhibitions, climbing walls, and colourful murals.
Amazing Places to Recharge in North Carolina’s Great Outdoors
Discover four new walls (and countless mountain vistas) that can help you recharge in the glory of the great outdoors. From luxurious to rustic and everything in between, North Carolina accommodation can include log cabins, spas, ski lodges, yurts, glamping domes, and more.
The newest places to stay in Knoxville, Tennessee
Knoxville provides a unique mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural attractions. You might say they’re a-nature-loving-adventure-seeking-artsy-kinda-town. And, the city has been busy building new accommodation options that give travellers plenty of choice on where to rest their heads when they’re not exploring this thriving city and Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains.
Lodging Mississippi Style – No Camouflage Required
Fall in Mississippi features crisp, cool mornings that lead to sun-warmed afternoons, green fields and towering pines with splashes of yellow, orange and red as far as the eye can see and the sounds of wildlife in full force – all enjoyed through open windows, screen doors and wide porches.
While we can’t yet travel internationally, check out these authentic Mississippi lodgings so you can plan your next visit.
Wonder Falls & More: Gadsen, Atalla, and Beyond
Alabama is a state full of surprises! Start in Gadsden with a visit to one of the area’s prettiest gems, Noccalula Falls. From there, travel to Attalla to visit Untamed Mountain and Tigers for Tomorrow. Travel north of Gadsden towards Valley Head to discover an abundance of natural wonder awaiting you at DeSoto Falls, right outside of Mentone. And beyond there? Check out this link for the full trip overview.
The Unique Flavours of Louisiana
Louisiana’s cuisine is influenced by a myriad of cultures including French, Spanish, African, and more, with names to suit those cultures like etouffee, boudin, andouille, maque choux, and jambalaya. read more…
Get on the Water in South Carolina
From waterfalls in the Upstate, to freshwater lakes in the Midlands and beautiful beaches of the coast, South Carolina offers a breathtaking oasis of cool comforts on the water. read more…
Six One-of-a-Kind Lodgings in South Carolina
For those looking for a unique experience at an off-the-grid destination, with a ready escape to the outdoors, here are six one-of-a-kind types of accommodation in South Carolina. read more…
Exploring Nature, History, and Culture in Louisiana’s Cane River National Heritage Area
The Cane River National Heritage Area in Natchitoches in north-western Louisiana is known for its historic plantations, creole architecture, and multicultural legacy. read more…
Uniquely Alabama
From unique flora and fauna to the World’s largest, Alabama is home to many things that make the state and its regions truly unique. read more…
Ghostly Legends and Lore Abound in Mississippi
Mississippians are natural-born storytellers, and ghost stories are no exception… read more…
Top 10 Things to See and Do in New Orleans’ French Quarter
Whether you’ve never been to NOLA or been dozens of times, there’s no denying the magic of the French Quarter. Here’s our Top 10 list of our favourite things to see, do and experience -bookmark ’em for that trip you’ve been planning in your head for months!
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Virtually Explore the Wide Open Spaces of the South
For now, until we can travel internationally, we can still dream! read more…
A Road Trip on Arkansas’s Great River Road
Arkansas’s Great River Road region is one of the most beautiful collections of landscapes you’ll find in the South. read more…
Love Music? These are the Three Southern Cities You Need to Visit!
Tap your feet to rhythm and blues in New Orleans, bust a move in one of Atlanta’s many RnB and hip hop clubs and enjoy legendary country music in Nashville! read more…
Top Foodie Stops in the South You Must Visit
Colonel Sanders may have put the Kentucky on the map with his 11 secret herbs and spices fried chicken, but the other Southern USA states are also known for their brilliant food and authentic flavours as well. read more…
What You Didn’t Know About the Southern States
Everybody knows a thing or two about New York and California, but how well do you really know America’s South? read more…
All Y’all are Welcome: Discover the Soul of the South with Darius Rucker
Join us in celebrating the rich culture, flavours, and hospitality of the South at this year’s All Y’all Are Welcome activation, presented by Discover South Carolina. Enjoy soulful music, complimentary catering, and an open bar as you embrace the spirit of the South. This exciting event will feature a performance by three-time Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and musician Darius Rucker. Come as you are and immerse yourself in an unforgettable celebration of Southern charm, culture, and warmth!
Sand In My Boots Festival
Country star Morgan Wallen is presenting the inaugural Sand In My Boots Festival in Gulf Shores Beach, Alabama. The star-studded lineup features artists like Morgan Wallen, Post Malone, Diplo, Wiz Khalifa and more. Spend a weekend ‘The Wallen Way’ with activities, beach clubs, good eats and music. The festival will take place from May 16 to May 18, and it’s an event you won’t want to miss!
The 2025 PGA Championship is coming to Charlotte, North Carolina!
Experience golfing excellence at Quail Hollow Club, home to the 2025 PGA Championship. Nestled in Charlotte, NC, this course boasts a rich history dating back to 1959. With a challenging layout and picturesque scenes, Quail Hollow has witnessed many memorable events. Experience the electric crowds of a live event, elevate your golf experience to new heights, and witness the 2025 PGA Championships live from Charlotte.
West Virginia Strawberry Festival
The West Virginia Strawberry Festival is a long-standing celebration of community spirit, agricultural pride, and small-town charm. First held in 1936, the festival honours the region’s strawberry growers and has since become one of the state’s most cherished events. Each May, the town of Buckhannon transforms into a vibrant hub of activity, welcoming more than 60,000 visitors for a full week of festivities. From live music and parades to food vendors, competitions and a lively carnival, the event offers something for all ages. Set in the heart of West Virginia, it’s a true showcase of local culture and hospitality.
54th Annual Charleston Greek Festival
The Charleston Greek Festival is a vibrant celebration of Hellenic culture, cuisine and community. Held annually since 1970, it’s the region’s longest-running cultural festival and now ranks as the third largest in the Lowcountry, drawing over 35,000 visitors in just one weekend.
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavours of Greece with a wide array of traditional dishes, drinks and desserts. From gyros and hearty platters to sweet pastries, Greek wine and coffee, there’s something to satisfy every appetite, all accompanied by lively music and traditional dancing.
Celebration in the Oaks
Celebration in the Oaks, City Park’s primary fundraiser, is a beloved New Orleans holiday tradition since the 1980s. This enchanting light festival not only captivates visitors but also plays a vital role in supporting year-round park maintenance.
West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival
Did you know about West Virginia’s deep Italian heritage? In the early 1900s, there was an influx of Italian immigrants making their way to West Virginia. The West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival is one of the largest and most widely known annual events in the state. The event draws many to Clarksburg to celebrate the rich history of Italians in the Mountain State.
Alabama Restaurant Week
Alabama Restaurant Week showcases the appreciation our locals and visitors share for Alabama restaurants and their staff. This culinary event unites Alabama’s diverse range of cuisine over a two-week celebration held August 15th – 26th, 2024, throughout the state.
COOLinary New Orleans
Cuisine is an integral part of the history, fabric and culture of New Orleans. Each summer, restaurants across the Crescent City take part in the culinary extravaganza known as, “COOLinary New Orleans.” Some of New Orleans’ finest dining establishments participate by offering specially curated prix-fixe menus at unbeatable prices.
US Golf Open
This year the golf world will turn its attention to North Carolina as Pinehurst takes center stage as the host for the prestigious US Open. As golf enthusiasts gather, they’ll witness top-tier talent navigating the challenging fairways and greens, all while soaking in the Southern charm and hospitality that North Carolina is renowned for.
150th Kentucky Derby
The 150TH Kentucky Derby presented by Woodford Reserve is the world’s Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports®. And this year, the excitement is bigger than ever. In 2024, we celebrate an incredible 150 years of history, making this a monumental celebration.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
Mardi Gras in Mobile – Alabama
Delighting both young and old from around town and across the nation, this magnificent celebration lasts more than two and a half weeks and culminates on Fat Tuesday, the day before Lent. The streets of downtown Mobile are filled with the sights and sounds of live marching bands, brilliantly coloured floats and crowds of parade-goers. The floats are glowing spectacles manned by masked riders festooned in satin and sequins and armed with crowd-pleasing “throws” such as beads, Moon Pies, doubloons, and candy.
What's New
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CPKC Stadium
CPKC is proud to announce that the first stadium for a women’s professional sports team to be built in the world will officially be known as CPKC Stadium. Located near downtown Kansas City, Mo. on a seven-acre site at the east end of Berkley Riverfront Park, the 11,500 seat stadium is slated to open at the start of the 2024 National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) season. The riverfront stadium will be right on the bank of the Missouri River with easy access to many restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. Kansas City’s free public streetcar will run to the stadium, allowing easier access. Inside the stadium visitors can get a taste of local cuisine, including Kansas City’s most famous offering – barbecue.
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Fire in the Hole
Silver Dollar City theme park unveils an all new version of a park favourite in spring 2024. The reimagined Fire in the Hole family roller coaster – the largest indoor coaster in the Midwest – is double the size of the original ride, a Silver Dollar City staple since 1972. You’ll find the new $30 million ride in the park’s Fire District.
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The George Hotel
Joining Georgetown, South Carolina’s historic district, The George is a posh waterfront hotel with 56 rooms and suites. Inspired by the town’s 18th- and 19th-century architecture and coastal landscape, the hotel houses eclectic furnishings, local art, and a seafood-driven restaurant/raw bar. Along the property’s waterfront greenspace, there’s marina access for boaters to dock and guests to adventure. Plus, there is an outdoor bar with lawn games and boat-watching galore.
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Cataloochee Ranch
Mountain cosy meets cowboy chic at Cataloochee Ranch, a new Relais & Châteaux hotel on a mountaintop in the Smokies. The 700-acre property is just 62kms from Asheville. Mixing classic ranch fun with top-notch accommodations and cuisine, the hotel will offer fishing, crafts, ropes courses, horseback riding, a spa, and more. Guests can book one of the twelve Ranch Cabins now, and the six-suite Lodge will open in March.
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Cloudland
A new Curio by Hilton hotel, Cloudland, will soon join the McLemore Club on picturesque Lookout Mountain. The elegant mountain getaway will feature a world-class spa and fitness centre, a cliffside infinity pool, numerous dining options, two world-class 18-hole golf courses, and numerous activities.
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Drift
Drift in East Nashville is taking the space of a 1966-built inn and will be the cool brand’s fourth property. Check-in is seamless, and the concierge is virtual for guests of the 87 multi-room suites. There will also be a pool (and cabana scene), three food and beverage concepts, and a spectacular penthouse suite.
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Dueling Dinosaurs
The Dueling Dinosaurs exhibit opening at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is a captivating journey back in time, immersing visitors in the awe-inspiring world of prehistoric giants. This groundbreaking exhibit showcases an extraordinary fossil discovery—a remarkably well-preserved and unique specimen featuring two dinosaurs locked in a dramatic duel. Stepping into the gallery, visitors are greeted by the majestic sight of these ancient adversaries frozen in time. Cutting-edge technology, including interactive displays and immersive visual aids, brings the Dueling Dinosaurs to life, offering a virtual time-travel experience that allows patrons to witness the intense battle between these colossal creatures. This exhibit offers a truly unforgettable and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
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The Flat Iron Hotel
Housed in one of Asheville’s first “skyscrapers” built in 1925, The Flat Iron Hotel will soon open with 71 well-stocked rooms, a locally sourced Italian restaurant, a rooftop bar, a coworking space, and a speakeasy.
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Printing House
The Printing House will be an exciting addition to 3rd Avenue in downtown Nashville. Across 11 floors will be 187 rooms, plus a garden terrace bar featuring live music, games, and craft cocktails. With its iconic address at Third Avenue and Peabody Street, this downtown modern hotel is located just four blocks from the bustling strip of historic Broadway and less than 2km from iconic Printers Alley, today the city’s nightlife hub. The city’s legacy is in the details from our exterior design to the menu offerings at the café.
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The Flying Fifty
We love a small-town boutique hotel addition, and The Flying Fifty will pay homage to the group of men of the same name who shaped Cullman’s unique history. The hotel has teamed up with local artists and brands like Red Land Cotton to outfit each suite’s linens.
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The Dunlin
Another Auberge addition, The Dunlin, opens this summer on the banks of the Kiawah River. The 72 cottage-style rooms and suites and 19 residential villas are just a slice of the 2,000-acre resort. Expect tons of outdoorsy and cultural entertainment on the 20 miles of waterfront, the 100-acre working farm, and the 32kms of nature trails on the property. The main Lodge has a roomy wraparound porch, a cosy library lounge, a cabana-lined pool, a luxurious spa, and much more.
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The Maidstone
The former Drifter Hotel on Tulane Avenue has been transformed into the Maidstone New Orleans. This updated 1956 motor lodge-style motel features 18 rooms and suites, blending historic charm with modern amenities. The chic pool and bar area will be open to the public as well as hotel guests.
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Renowned Alabama chef and six-time James Beard semifinalist to open new restaurant.
Bayonet, a new seafood restaurant and raw bar from Alabama chef and six-time James Beard Award semifinalist Rob McDaniel and his wife Emily, is set to open on 10 March in downtown Birmingham. Located in the Berry Building at 2015 Second Avenue North, it will sit next to the couple’s first restaurant, Helen.
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Trail Hotel
Opening in spring 2025, The Trail Hotel will be the first and only bourbon-centric hotel in Bardstown, Kentucky—the world's bourbon capital. With bourbon-themed suites, a luxurious resort pool, and a hidden speakeasy, this hotel promises a delightful experience for bourbon lovers. The hotel also features a specialized 'bourbon butler' who will guide you along the bourbon trail in style, providing exclusive access to distilleries, farms, restaurants, and more.
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The Cooper – Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston’s charming waterfront is getting a luxurious new addition with the debut of The Cooper. This highly anticipated hotel blends refined Southern style with unbeatable views of the Charleston Harbor. Set to open its doors in June 2025, The Cooper will offer elegant accommodations, elevated dining, and a front-row seat to the city’s historic charm and coastal beauty. Whether you’re sipping cocktails on the terrace or strolling the nearby cobblestone streets, this new stay is set to become a standout in the Holy City’s hospitality scene.
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The Printing House Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Scheduled to open on 1 July 2025, The Printing House Hotel is a new addition to downtown Nashville’s luxury accommodation scene. Part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, the hotel will offer stylish rooms and suites designed for comfort and elegance. Guests can enjoy amenities such as an on-site café, room service, a fitness centre, complimentary Wi-Fi, business facilities and valet parking. With its central location and thoughtful amenities, the hotel aims to provide a refined yet relaxed stay for both business and leisure travellers.
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Images
Access Travel South USA’s collection of imagery, videos, and b-roll footage to get a glimpse of the diverse offerings available in the South.
Whether you’re looking for food, music, outdoors, or culture, you’ll find it in the Travel South USA Media Room, and sign-up to the Travel South USA Asset Library, to download images for each of our states.
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