The 8 Most Underrated Summer Vacation Destinations In The South

A Kentucky adventure hub, Red River Gorge has high sandstone cliffs, natural bridges, rock shelters, and waterfalls and is known for world-class rock climbing and hiking. Book a Canopy Crew tree house for a unique stay.

Red River Gorge, Kentucky

Pontoon boating on 38,000 acres of Lake Lanier, 30 minutes from Atlanta, and beachfront homes and cottages for rent are available. In Margaritaville, Lanier Islands Resort provides glamping tents.

Lake Lanier, Georgia

Richmond has urban and outdoor activities, including white water rafting on the James River, the only U.S. city with Class IV rapids. Sample local cuisine and listen to live music at Scott's Addition Brewery.

Richmond, Virginia

Blue Ridge offers lots of space for summer hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking despite city congestion. From May to July, Mercier Orchards offers strawberry, blueberry, and blackberry picking.

Blue Ridge, Georgia

Mercer County offers hiking in three state parks, blueberry picking, and local baseball games. Millionaire Row in the June Bramwell Tour features beautiful Victorian homes.

Mercer County, West Virginia

The peaceful Florida panhandle hamlet of Navarre offers white-sand beaches and few visitors. In Navarre Beach, the Gulf of Mexico's longest fishing pier, Windjammers on the Pier offers outdoor dining.

Navarre, Florida

The Southern Outer Banks, or Crystal Coast, spans 85 miles from Cape Lookout to Cape Carteret. Emerald Isle boasts 12 miles of public beaches and coastal residences, while Beaufort has a charming center with inns.

Crystal Coast, North Carolina

St. Michaels, a popular Washington D.C. getaway, has a walkable downtown with Victorian-era businesses and eateries. Enjoy a sunset sail and crab supper from April to September during high season.

St. Michaels, Maryland