Travel The South's Best The South's Best Cities 2024 By Tara Massouleh McCay Tara Massouleh McCay Tara Massouleh McCay is the Senior Travel and Culture Editor for Southern Living. A writer and editor with nearly 10 years of experience in producing lifestyle content for local, regional, and national publications, she joined the Southern Living team in 2021. Southern Living's editorial guidelines Updated on April 15, 2024 Trending Videos Close this video player Photo: Peter Frank Edwards When you're craving a high-energy getaway with lots to see and do, there's no better place to visit than a Southern city. From North Carolina's majestic mountains to Texas's dizzying metros, this year's reader-voted best cities represent every corner of the region and offer a little something for every type of traveler. Eat at a Michelin-starred restaurant or sit down to a plate of no-frills, slow-smoked barbecue. Go on a long hike in the woods or explore a contemporary art museum. Engage in a little retail therapy or buy tickets to a live show. When it comes to the South's Best Cities, the options are endless. While some of this year's winners are familiar favorites, others are newcomers that have cracked the top 25 for the first time. While big cities are often accused of feeling a little stale, there's no shortage of character, or what we like to call "that special something," among these destinations. One thing they all have in common: a hearty helping of Southern hospitality. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book that flight (or load up the car), and get going. These top-notch Southern cities are more than ready to welcome you in. South's Best Voting Process An online survey was conducted by third-party agency Proof Insights among Southern Living consumers, asking them to rate their favorite places across the South for the South's Best Awards 2024. The survey was fielded from July 12 to August 23, 2023, and had over 20,000 respondents. 25. Little Rock, Arkansas Arkansas Tourism A first-timer on our Best Cities list, Arkansas' state capital offers the best of both worlds. You can embark on top-notch outdoor pursuits one day, and enjoy all the hallmarks of a buzzy metropolitan city the next. Start with a walk or peddle over the Big Dam Bridge, the continent's longest pedestrian and cycling bridge. Head to a bustling Ottenheimer Market food hall for lunch, then see the city's artsy side at the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden or Argenta Arts District. You can't leave Little Rock without exploring the River Market District, the city's central entertainment district where you'll find museums, shops, restaurants, and thriving nightlife. Explore Little Rock 24. Memphis, Tennessee Robbie Caponetto There's a lot of history behind this Southern city that's best known for barbecue, Elvis, and the blues. Scores of visitors make the pilgrimage each spring for Memphis in May International Festival, but the historic city has cemented its year-round appeal with newer additions like multi-use development Crosstown Concourse and an ever-growing culinary scene. Explore Memphis 23. Alexandria, Virginia Misha Enriquez for Visit Alexandria Just across the Potomac River from sprawling D.C., Alexandria may feel like a small town when compared to our nation's capital, but there's tons to explore in this historic city. Walk the cobblestoned streets that are lined with locally owned boutiques, delicious restaurants, and charming storefronts. When the riverfront is sparkling and there's a nice breeze in the air, you'll forget why you ever wanted to endure the hustle and bustle of D.C. in the first place. Explore Alexandria 22. Tulsa, Oklahoma traveler1116/Getty Images There are so many sides to this southwestern metropolis that it may take more than a long weekend to uncover them all. In Tulsa, the arts are alive and well thanks to organizations like the Tulsa Opera, Tulsa Ballet, and Tulsa Symphony Orchestra. Catch a show, or spend the evening rocking out in one of the city's many historic live music venues like Cain's Ballroom. During daylight, the city congregates at The Gathering Place, a nearly half-billion-dollar, 66-acre riverfront park that's fun for all ages. Attractions include a phenomenal playground, grand lawns, gorgeous gardens, trippy sculptures, outdoor adventure, and cooling water features. Explore Tulsa 21. Bentonville, Arkansas Robbie Caponetto Arkansas’ arts scene has a strong center in Bentonville, a city with a thriving creative community. Tucked in the Ozark Mountains of Northwest Arkansas, Bentonville is also home to world-class museums like the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and The Momentary, a contemporary arts space in a reimagined downtown cheese factory. Folks come for the art and outdoor pursuits, including world-class mountain biking. Along the way, they discover Bentonville’s growing food scene and vibrant community of small businesses, and eventually they end up falling in love with the town altogether. Explore Bentonville 20. Charlottesville, Virginia Gabriela Herman This college town has a lot more going for it than just the University of Virginia and Monticello—though both campuses are picturesque and definitely worth a visit. With more than 500 miles of Blue Ridge trails in the area, the city is a nature enthusiast's paradise. After a long day of hiking, visitors can return to town to find a restaurant-to-resident ratio that rivals major metros like New York City. If libations are more your speed, Charlottesville is packed with wineries, cideries, and breweries to satisfy your thirst. Explore Charlottesville 19. Athens, Georgia Robbie Caponetto College towns have a spirit all their own, and we recognized Athens's special something in our inaugural College Towns digital issue this year. Known for its excellent live music scene, we also love this place for its walkable downtown, spirited food scene, and just-big-enough feel. Don't leave without a box of treats for the ride or flight home from craft chocolatier Condor Chocolates. Explore Athens 18. Richmond, Virginia Robbie Caponetto It’s not hard to find a memorable meal in Richmond, which counts lauded eateries Alewife, L'Opossum, Sub Rosa Bakery, and Stella’s among the members of its culinary scene. Historic neighborhoods have appeal across the seasons, from blooming yards in spring to colorful foliage in fall and the occasional blanket of snow in winter. Situated along the James River, the city is filled with urban and riverside park systems with opportunities for kayaking, whitewater rafting, and fishing, making it a prime place for exploring. Explore Richmond 17. Louisville, Kentucky Photo: Robbie Caponetto Come May this place is overrun with people clamoring to see the "Greatest Two Minutes in Sports," but during the rest of year, you'll find a lively riverfront city that offers a little something for all. Yes, you can learn about baseball bats at the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factor, and you can certainly visit bourbon distilleries to your heart's content. But you should also also take in the abundance of art and historic architecture, stroll through an Olmsted-designed park, and get to know each of the Derby City's quirky neighborhoods. Explore Louisville 16. Fort Worth, Texas Scott Slusher This former cattle town has been picking up steam for the past decade as companies and young adults have decided to make their home here. Now, new developments like Mule Alley (an entertainment hub with restaurants, shops, heritage brands, shops, and a 4-star hotel) intermingle with the same timeworn cowboy spirit that put this place on the map in the 1800s. Explore Fort Worth 15. Birmingham, Alabama Robbie Caponetto Founded on the backs of the steel and iron industry, Birmingham's latest act sees the once forgotten downtown blossoming into a lively epicenter of community and culture. James Beard Award winners are a dime a dozen in this city, but what's equally impressive is the diversity of cuisine found here. Spend an afternoon catching a minor league baseball game, see the city's national championship-winning USFL team, or hit up one of more than 10 breweries located downtown. When you're reading to escape the concrete jungle, Birmingham's many nature preserves and state parks are just a short drive away. Explore Birmingham 14. Dallas, Texas Dallas, Texas. John Coletti/The Image Bank/Getty Images Don't try to do Dallas in a weekend, unless you're ready to pay a flight change fee to extend your stay. A week (or even a month) may be more appropriate if you want to get to know each and every one of this sprawling metropolis's unique neighborhoods. From the Design District's modern art galleries and sleek showrooms to the Main Street District's swanky cocktail bars and designer shopping, there's a new adventure waiting around every corner in Dallas. Explore Dallas 13. Chattanooga, Tennessee Robbie Caponetto Outdoor enthusiasts can't get enough of this active little city, where it's possible to go stand up paddle boarding on the Tennessee River and hiking in the Appalachian foothills in the same day—and still make it to a 7 p.m. dinner reservation at a cool downtown restaurant. The Walnut Pedestrian Bridge and Lookout Mountain Incline Railway are classic attractions, but people are increasingly exploring the Scenic City's local flair in areas like the Bluff View Art District and NorthShore neighborhood. Explore Chattanooga 12. Charlotte, North Carolina joe daniel price/Getty Images There's never been a better time to visit North Carolina's largest city. A glowing destination for the arts, you'll want to visit both the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture. Outdoor time can be spent at the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden or Little Sugar Creek Greenway. And you'll have your pick of the litter when it comes to dining options, from authentic Carolina barbecue to upscale global-inspired eats. Explore Charlotte 11. Lexington, Kentucky Courtesy of Visit Lexington With many of the same draws (horse racing and great bourbon to name a few) as its more well-known sister city Louisville, Lexington's distinctive set of charms can't be denied. Deep in the heart of horse country, you'll get your fair share of bucolic valley views in Lexington, but you'll also get to enjoy a vibrant downtown where historic buildings have been repurposed as hip hotels, modern eateries, and interesting shops. Explore Lexington 10. Orlando, Florida GINA PRICOPE/GETTY IMAGES Orlando will forever be tied to the litany of theme parks associated with its sunny sidewalks, but the city wears a lot of hats outside of its obvious role as Disney World's hometown. Not only has the city's culinary scene garnered national attention, but its other attractions like the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, the Orlando Museum of Art, and Leu Gardens offer plenty more to explore. Explore Orlando 9. Raleigh, North Carolina Mlenny/Getty The largest of the three Research Triangle cities, over the past few years, Raleigh has consistently been voted one of the best places to live in the country. The distinction was earned in large part because there's so much to see and do here. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art, go for a hike at William B. Umstead State Park, then take a self-guided tour of some of the city's favorite restaurants. Stanbury, Poole's Diner, and The Pit should be at the top of your list. Explore Raleigh 8. Austin, Texas The famed vintage-postcard mural at Roadhouse Relics, one of the most Instagrammed locations in Bouldin Creek. GABRIELA HERMAN One visit to Austin, and you'll be hooked (no pun intended). The city combines the best of Texas barbecue with great live music, secret swimming holes, and plenty of trails for hiking and biking. New hotels like the stunning Loren at Lady Bird Lake are taking the city's already robust class of accommodations to the next level. Shop wares from local artisans, explore the brewery scene, and take a leisurely paddle on the lake. Don't leave without trying the city's signature dish: a breakfast taco doused in hot sauce. Explore Austin 7. Atlanta, Georgia Getty Images You can visit this city a thousand times and never have quite the same experience. Often referred to as the Capital of the South, Atlanta's greatest strength lies in its incredible diversity. Sample cuisine from all over the world on Buford Highway, learn about America's favorite soda at The World of Coca-Cola, catch a baseball game at Truist Park, or set your sights on shopping in Buckhead. Every day brings an entirely new adventure. Explore Atlanta 6. Greenville, South Carolina Laurey W. Glenn Once a hidden gem destination, Greenville has officially risen the ranks to become one of the region's favorite cities. Greenville is at the center of everything. You can be in Asheville in an hour, Atlanta in two, and Charleston in three. But with the city's gorgeous Falls Park on the Reedy, a walkable and lively downtown, and the 22-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail connecting major attractions throughout the city, there's really no reason to leave. Explore Greenville 5. Asheville, North Carolina Kruck20/Getty Asheville will likely always have a home near the top of our reader-voted Best Cities list—and for good reason. Between the sprawling and stately Biltmore Estate, the endless hiking trails crisscrossing the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the close-knit community of artists that give this mountain town its quirky flair, there's a lot to love about Asheville. The city's penchant for the arts doesn't stop at just visual works, the craft beer and culinary scenes also benefit from an influx of creative talent. Explore Asheville 4. New Orleans, Louisiana SeanPavonePhoto/Getty There's no place quite like New Orleans. The Big Easy has a culture entirely its own that can be felt in everything from the crowds on Bourbon Street to the music drifting out of Preservation Hall to the cloud-like beignets served at Cafe Du Monde. Take a stroll through Crescent Park, stop to watch a saxophonist play, and make reservations for dinner at Commander's Palace. Each of these activities (and a million more) are rights of passage in the Crescent City. Explore New Orleans 3. Nashville, Tennessee Courtesy of Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp Broadway's iconic honky tonks aren't getting any less popular, but Nashville is certainly adding more reasons for visitors to make the pilgrimage to the Music City. You'll still want to catch a live show at the Grand Ole Opry or Ryman Auditorium, but you can also add shopping at the Gulch, dinner at Noko, and an afternoon exploring Cheekwood Gardens to your list of things to do. Explore Nashville 2. Savannah, Georgia Sean Pavone/Getty One walk around this charming city's shady squares and historic neighborhoods, and you'll see why it's a perennial favorite long-weekend destination. The scenic riverfront is speckled with old-fashioned candy shops (pralines and salt water taffy, anyone?), cozy bookstores, and whimsical boutiques. Moss-draped oaks and stately Georgian architecture complete the Pinterest-perfect picture in this beloved locale. Explore Savannah 1. Charleston, South Carolina Peter Frank Edwards What is there to say about Charleston that hasn't been said before? The Holy City's gorgeous architecture, picturesque streets, and welcoming Lowcountry spirit continue to impress year after year. From the pastel homes on Rainbow Row to the gorgeous sunsets at Waterfront Park to excellent meals at places like The Obstinate Daughter, The Ordinary, and Leon's Oyster House, we love every last detail that makes Charleston the shining star it is. 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