Luxury Tailor-Made USA Holidays The South 2024 & 2025
Culture, Cuisine, and Charm
The South of the USA is overflowing with flavours, history and traditions, waiting to be explored. From Alabama to South Carolina, you will find something for everyone in this vast region.
We can create a personalised itinerary, taking you to plantations of antebellum times all the way to the cobblestone streets of historic cities, such as Charleston and Savannah. Take a journey through old Civil War battlefields and trace the footsteps of iconic historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Elvis Presley, who left a mark that will forever be remembered.
However, The South is not all about the past. Bustling cities such as Atlanta, Charlotte and Nashville are pulsing with energy. Here you will find thriving arts scenes, innovative culinary experiences and a vibrant nightlife. Meanwhile, for a slower pace of life, head to the smaller towns in this region where front porch conversations and Sunday church gatherings are much cherished traditions.
Things to do and see in The South
New Orleans
Otherwise known as the 'Big Easy', this iconic city will captivate you and all your senses with sultry jazz music, delicious Creole cuisine, and colourful, French-colonial architechture.
Stroll down to the atmospheric French Quarter, where you will find lively jazz clubs, eclectic boutiques and world-famous restaurants. Explore historic landmarks like Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral, or discover the picturesque streets lined with ornate balconies and blooming bougainvillea, all while listening to the live music being played on every corner.
You can't visit New Orleans and not indulge in a bowl of gumbo, sip on a cocktail, and soak in the sights and sounds of Bourbon Street.
South Carolina
Head to South Carolina for southern charm and natural beauty. From the antebellum architecture of Charleston to the vast landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains, South Carolina has something for everyone. Along the Atlantic coastline you will find gorgeous beaches such as Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island, perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
Futher inland you can find historic landmarks like Fort Sumter and the African American History Monument to learn about the legacy of the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement.
If you class yourself as a foodie, then you need to try Chicken Bog, a simple yet hearty dish, and a staple, comforting meal of the Lowcountry.
Savannah
One of the oldest cities in Georgia, every corner in Savannah will tell you a story of Southern history. Stroll down cobblestone streets and lush public squares covered in moss, or meander down the riverfront of the Savannah River which gracefully winds through the city.
Explore this city's landmarks like Forsyth Park, the beautiful yet haunting Bonaventure Cemetery and more. The Historic District is definitely worth visiting as you will see architecture styles ranging from Georgian and Greek to Gothic and Victorian.
The annual Savannah Music Festival is another great activity to experience while visiting The South, showcasing a diverse range of music from all over. Matching this diversity is the culinary scene, a mixture of traditional Southern cuisine with international influences. Enjoy Lowcountry specialities, such as shrimp and grits, which can be found in City Market and River Street.
Bayou River
Nothing says 'The South', more than the Bayou River with its ancient cypress trees and the murky waters teeming with life. Take a tour of the swamps and mangroves to explore the marshlands where alligators sunbathe and herons glide gracefully overhead. Swamp tours in the morning are wildly different to the tours in the evening, seeing different wildlife each time. If you are a nature enthusiast, then this is the place to be.
Along the river you will find historic towns like Lafayette and Baton Rouge full of French colonial architechural influences and African-American heritage sites.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival is the staple event of New Orleans and really captures the vibrant spirit of the Crescent City. Held every year in late April and early May, this iconic event brings together a mix of music, food, and art, drawing performers and festival-goers from around the globe.
The infectious rhythms of jazz and blues to the soul-stirring melodies of gospel and Cajun will absolutely captivate you and the festival's diverse lineup reflects the diversity of music across New Orleans.
It's not all food though, you can indulge your taste buds with the culinary delights such as a savoury gumbo and spicy jambalaya to fresh oysters! This festival is a must-visit event when visiting New Orleans in Spring.
Visit a Plantation Home
Plantation homes stir up a sense of timeless elegance and Southern hospitality. Instantly recognisable with their stately columns, sweeping verandas and meticulously manicured grounds, these homes ooze opulence.
Once you step inside you are transported back in time, where intricate woodwork and lavish decor shows you how affluent the plantation owners once were. Yet amidst the beauty, these homes bear witness to the pains of slavery, a clear reminder of the human cost of such opulence.
Today, many plantation homes operate as museums, offering guided tours to provide insight into the lives of both the enslaved and the enslavers. When you visit these homes, you will encounter not only the architectural marvels of the past but also have the opportunity for reflection and open up a dialogue about the complexities of Southern history.
Austin
Austin is the state capital of Texas and also known as the 'Live Music Capital of the World', due to its vibrant music scene. Here you will find intimate little blues clubs to large imposing outdoor amphitheatres, showing off sounds of rock, country, jazz and everything in between.
Aside from the incredible music scene, you have an extremely dynamic culinary scene. From traditional Texas barbeque to farm-to-table restaurants, its perfect for any foodie. If you're travelling in November, make sure to check out the Austin Food and Wine Festival bringing you live music and tastes from top chefs.
There is something for everyone, from paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake to biking round the Barton Creek Greenbelt or cowboy boot shopping at Allen's Boots! You will not be bored in Austin.
Birmingham
Birmingham, situated in the heart of Alabama, is a city of contrasts and resilience, where history converges with modernity to create a dynamic urban landscape.
The city's Civil Rights District stands as a poignant reminder of its pivotal role in the struggle for equality, with landmarks such as the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the 16th Street Baptist Church serving as solemn tributes to the sacrifices made during the Civil Rights Movement.
Yet, amidst this historic backdrop, Birmingham pulsates with innovation and creativity, evidenced by its burgeoning culinary scene, thriving arts community, and revitalized downtown district. Neighborhoods like Avondale and Lakeview buzz with trendy eateries, craft breweries, and live music venues, while the lush green spaces of Railroad Park and Red Mountain Park offer respite from the urban bustle.
Best Time to Visit The South
Like many of the regions in the USA, you can visit the South year round. Below we have summarised each month and it's weather.
Spring
During Spring the temperatures are mild, makin git a popular time of year to visit. March and April are usually warm without the intense heat of summer. This time of year is brilliant for outdoor activities like hiking and going to the many festivals such as Mardi Gras in New Orleans, and much more!
Summer
Summer in most of the South is hot and humid, especially in states like Texas and Louisiana. The summer months are ideal for beach vacations along the Gulf Coast or Atlantic Coast and for outdoor events, music festivals and cultural celebrations. That being said, be prepared for the odd thunderstorm and hurricanes during these months.
Autumn
Another popular time to visit is Autumn, with mild temperatures, lower humidity and of course the autumn colours; states like Tennessee and North Carolina are stunning during these months. Again, this season is great for outdoor events like harvest festivals, Oktoberfest and more.
Winter
Temperatures can vary depending on the region during a winter in the South. New Orleans and Texas usually have mild winters with fewer crowds and during the holiday season, Charleston is magical with festive decorations and special events. Winter in the South is ideal for hiking and birdwatching also.
Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of the vibrant Southern cities, you'll find something to enjoy year-round in this diverse region.
Sample Itineraries Including The South
Our sample itineraries will show you suggestions for what you can do, see, and the best places to stay while travelling in The South.
If you like the look of any of these below, let us know and we can completely tailor-make your trip so it is totally unique to you!
Our Favourite Hotels in The South
The Alida
Ponchartrain Hotel
Zero George
Build Your Tailor-Made Holiday to the USA
Interested in booking a tailor-made holiday to the USA or have any other questions? Give us a call on 01442 617777 or fill out our contact form below.