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Life is different down south. Warmer weather, laidback vibes, outdoor adventure — the southern states are a year-round playground for the whole family. The following hidden towns are the south’s best kept secret. Here, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy, from fishing excursions in the Gulf to touring antebellum homes and from star-gazing in a swamp to following in the footsteps of legendary blues musicians. For a vacation you’ll never forget, pack your bags and head south where adventure awaits in its secluded communities.

Cedar Key, Florida

On the scenic nature coast of Florida lies the small fishing village of Cedar Key, the state’s second oldest town. This charming coastal community is the best place to experience Old Florida and get away from the hustle and bustle of the state’s busy beaches. Visit the Cedar Key Historical Society Museum to step back in time to the Indian War era, European settlement, and why Cedar Key became an important base for Union soldiers during the Civil War.

Rent a kayak to explore the diverse nature on at the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge. Here, you can paddle the mangroves around 13 Gulf islands. Cedar Key is also a great place to book a fishing charter and spend a day angling for bass, trout, or cobia. You might even encounter a friendly pod of dolphins on their own fishing expedition. After exploring the great outdoors, fuel up at Steamers Clam Bar & Grill on the waterfront where clams and oysters are always on the menu.

Fargo, Georgia

Nestled in southern Georgia, just east of Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is the small town of Fargo, a prime destination for eco-tourism. This secluded southern community is where you’ll find one of Georgia’s seven natural wonders, the Okefenokee Swamp. Visit the Stephen C Foster State Park to access the swamp and explore the beautiful scenery and see local wildlife including alligators, raccoons, black bears, deer, herons, and red-cockaded woodpeckers. Boat tours of the swamp are available, visitors can also rent kayaks or canoes.

The Park is also one of Georgia’s top dark sky preserves, gaining a gold tier certification from the International Dark Sky Association. The park offers ranger-guided sunset tours so you can kayak under the dazzling night sky and has a 60-site campground for those wanting to spend the night under the stars.

Mentone, Alabama

Mentone, Alabama is an alpine village, perched on top of scenic Lookout Mountain. For a close-up look at the beautiful backdrop of this secluded community, visit Little River Canyon National Preserve where you can hike past cascading waterfalls, through wooded trails, and up to scenic viewing platforms for breathtaking panoramic views of the area.

If the weather doesn’t cooperate on your visit to Mentone, forget about the outdoors and spend the day shopping at Moon Lake Village, a renovated school campus which now boasts gift shops, galleries, and craft shops. Stop by Coming Up Violets to browse their collection of works by local artists, including mosaics, woodcarvings, and jewelry.

Also in town, you’ll find a unique local landmark — the Sallie Howard Memorial Chapel. Built in 1937, the one-of-a-kind chapel was constructed around a huge mountain boulder and is a popular spot for couples photoshoots and weddings.

Traveler’s Rest, South Carolina

The adorably-named Traveler’s Rest in South Carolina really is a great place to relax, forget your troubles, and enjoy the tranquility of small town life. Located in the southern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the town is best explored via the Swamp Rabbit Trail, a 28 mile hiking and biking path that runs along Main Street and out to the nearby town of Greenville. Look out for notable landmarks along the way, including the Bronze Bunny sculpture and a 1947 railcar which originally operated on the Southern Railway.

Downtown, explore the Traveler’s Rest History Museum to learn why the town became popular as a tourist stopover and take a stroll through the streets to see the collection of colorful murals that celebrate its culture, history, and community. Enjoy more beautiful walks on the hiking trails at the Bunched Arrowhead Heritage Preserve, a tranquil nature area with trails through meadows and woodlands.

Holly Springs, Mississippi

Tucked away in the northern hills of Mississippi, Holly Springs is a classic southern town with gorgeous antebellum architecture, lush scenery, and a fascinating history. There are more than 25 antebellum homes in town including Burton Place, built in 1848, and the Magnolia Mansion, constructed in 1852. While you’re exploring, keep a lookout for Mississippi Blues Trail Markers, signposts detailing the history of local legendary blues musicians. For more history, take a tour of the Hill Crest Cemetery. Among those buried here are Confederate generals, unknown Civil War soldiers, and several US senators including the first African-American senator Hiram Revels.

Just outside town is the Chewalla Lake Recreation Area, a great spot for a swim, a kayak, or a picnic on a sunny day. Enjoy other recreational activities at Wall Doxey State Park which includes the crystal clear Spring Lake. Here, you’ll find a boat ramp, disc golf, campgrounds, and a 2.5 mile trail that winds around the lake’s beautiful shoreline.

Round Top, Texas

Round Top may have just under 100 residents, but don’t overlook this tiny town which is best known as the antiques capital of Texas. Every year, hundreds of guests flock to the town’s Round Top Antiques Shows, held in spring and fall. You can hunt down unique treasures elsewhere in town. The Round Top Vintage Market is open on weekends year-round and hosts over 50 antiques dealers.

Stop by the Round Top Historical Museum to see a timeline of the town’s development and pick up a self-guided walking tour map which takes you past historic sites including the 1872 Rummel House, home to the town library, and Moore’s Fort, built in 1831.

Grand Isle, Louisiana

Louisiana’s only barrier island, Grand Isle is a secluded strip of land off the coast in the Gulf of Mexico. Known as a hotspot for anglers, fishing is a big deal in Grand Isle with a range of charters available. On the north side of the island, the water is perfect for kayak fishing. Anglers can expect to hook speckled trout, flounder, mackerel, and redfish.

Pack your binoculars for a visit to Grand Isle State Park at the far end of the island where the fishing is good but the birding is even better. Take the 2.5 nature trail to catch a glimpse of several unique species including heron, ibis, and egrets, as well as the Louisiana state bird, the brown pelican. If you’re hungry after your hike, why not try some local seafood? Don’t leave town without trying the Oyster po’ boy at the Starfish Restaurant, a favorite with both locals and visitors.

Secluded Gems in the South

Get away from the daily grind and broaden your horizons in these tucked-away towns in the southern United States. From an alpine hamlet perched on top of a mountain to a sheltered key in the Gulf, there’s lots to choose from on this list so you can pick your perfect destination. Each state in the south has its own distinctive identity but they all have one thing in common: southern charm. Head south and you’ll find a welcome as warm as the weather.