Discover the American South: Five States, Rich in Character and Contrast
Across Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, South Carolina and Tennessee, the American South unfolds through destinations with their own pace, personality and identity. Follow roads through mountain country and small towns, trace defining chapters of U.S. history, hear music where genres were born, and find coastlines, rivers, forests and cities that offer your clients plenty of reasons to stay a little longer.
Each state brings something different to the journey, from bourbon country and horse traditions to Civil Rights landmarks, creative food scenes, live music and wide-open landscapes. Together, they create a region well suited to road trips, deeper discovery and tailor-made holidays shaped by the people, places and experiences found along the way.
Use the links below to explore each state, or keep scrolling to discover the places, traditions and experiences that give the American South its unmistakable character:
Alabama | Arkansas | Kentucky | South Carolina | Tennessee | Explore the American South: Interactive Map
Five States, Five Ways to Experience the South
Alabama
From rocket science in Huntsville and Birmingham’s powerful Civil Rights story to legendary music, welcoming cities and sugar-white Gulf Coast beaches, Alabama gives your clients a wealth of memorable experiences. Recommend rich culture, distinctive flavours, inspiring stories and genuine Southern hospitality across the state.
Arkansas
Arkansas is The Natural State. A place where rivers carve through mountains, where gorgeous views stretch to the horizon and where every season is a reason to get outside. With over 50 state parks, thousands of miles of trails and some of the most scenic drives in the country, adventure is always within reach.
Kentucky
From the world’s longest cave system at Mammoth Cave to the excitement of Churchill Downs, Kentucky offers clients a wealth of unforgettable icons. Charming small towns, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, legendary horse country and Southern hospitality all help create journeys where every stop reveals a story worth discovering.
South Carolina
From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the golden sands along the Atlantic coast, South Carolina sets the scene for an unforgettable holiday. Historic cities, Gullah Geechee culture, celebrated food, championship golf and scenic parks give clients plenty to explore, while welcoming islands and beaches offer a slower pace shaped by Southern charm year-round.
Tennessee
Tennessee brings together legendary music, powerful history, distinctive food, scenic road trips and outdoor adventure. Memphis, Nashville, Chattanooga and Knoxville can be combined with welcoming small towns, mountain landscapes and unforgettable experiences, giving clients plenty of ways to discover the character of the state.
Explore the American South: Interactive Map
From music landmarks and historic cities to mountain landscapes, coastal escapes, distinctive food and outdoor experiences, Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, South Carolina and Tennessee offer plenty of inspiration for itinerary planning. Use the interactive map to identify standout places across all five states and explore the attractions, experiences and destinations that could add depth and variety to a Southern journey.
 Cities, Towns & Areas
 Food, Drink & Distilling
 Family Attractions & Discovery
 History & Heritage
 Music, Arts & Culture
 Nature & Outdoor Adventure
 Sports & Racing
Win a £280 Fortnum & Mason Hamper!
Fancy ending the year with something rather special?
We’re giving one lucky travel trade professional the chance to win a Grosvenor Hamper from Fortnum & Mason, worth £280 – packed with plenty of treats to make the festive season that little bit more indulgent.
Entering couldn’t be easier. Simply complete the form below and answer one question about our current promotion with Travel South to be in with a chance of winning.
The competition is exclusively open to those working in the travel trade, so get your entry in and keep your fingers crossed!
Competition closes at 11:59pm on 31st December 2026.
Good luck!