Why travelers come to these 3 lively southern cities in record numbers

Yeehaw! The south is booming! There are a number of enormously surprising destinations that currently see record -breaking tourist songs.

Although some parts of the south need a PR company to adjust their often misunderstood reputation, many cities in the region are safe, hospitable, affordable and have a beautiful countryside-to to be silent from one of the most delicious cuisine in the nation.

We at Travel Off Path have recently reported on countless southern hotspots, ranging from the vast metropolis of Houston to the shiny white -sandy coasts of Mississippi that are finally owed, competing Gulf Shores and the top of Florida.

Now it is a trio of the turn of lively cities in the spotlight who will soon be filled out of fun, even if you can only squeeze in a weekend.

Lexington, Ky: Horse around Kentucky’s most underrated city

In a recent reportSaid Kentucky Gouverneur Andy Beshear said: “Kentucky’s tourism industry experiences the largest historical winning series we’ve ever seen”.

Your first thought could be that Louisville is only the driving force behind this push – wrong.

It’s okay, I was surprised too.

Such a revelation was the new popularity of Lake Cumberland, the new summer hotspot of the state for water fun in the sun and houses of the lake to lean back and recharge.

But perhaps an even greater surprise is the rise of Lexington to familiarity. Largely overshadowed by Louisville, or perhaps it is just the edge of massive hats in the derby, Lexington is not only one of Kentucky’s most undervalued cities, but the south in general.

The city has its third consecutive year of record numbers, largely supported by a range of outdoor adventures, especially because it is known as the “horse capital of the world” with beautiful horse farms to tour.

The locals are very friendly here; Always happy to show off their beloved hometown. We dare say they are great …hink-to drill? 🐴

Whether it is riding, the exciting breeders ‘cup, the highly exclaimed’Bourbon Trail‘, or just read the timeless streets for a feeling of southern charm, you will easily see why Lexington was crowned the best city in the south.

North Carolina’s new hotspot: Travelers Raleigh Love this city!

North Carolina is an oxymoron as a southern state, but that does not prevent travelers from visiting the Jumbo shrimps of the south, not actually in the least.

With the continuous comeback from Asheville, hidden gems are revealed left and right, outdoor benches’ Netflix fame, and now raleighs Record break yearNorth Carolina has a moment.

Raleigh may be a name that we all know, but what there is to do here, you may be wondering …

A lot of!

First and foremost, NC is the undisputed king of barbecue. Even vegans can change teams and claim that they are in “holiday mode”, only for a nibble.

Raleigh is an important reason why. According to Visit Raleigh, their city is known for ‘chopped pork, ribs, chest and classic Carolina sides’. Umm, sold.

Apart from food, there is much more to be experienced, especially autumn. Raleigh has an extensive Greenway system, but it is far from green in 2-3 months from now on.

Explore more than 180 miles of the nature routes through lush parks, which illuminate the best colors of Fall. In the lively urban districts of Raleigh you will find numerous historical attractions and museums, such as the North Carolina Museum of History and the State capitol.

You can also catch a ‘canes game 🏒 – they are great this fall! Although a really surprising aspect of Raleigh’s tourist increase is not Raleigh at all – it’s the city next door.

Last year we reported on Cary as the new hotspot from North Carolina. With fun, family friendly events Kept all year round, like the coming HarvestDon’t skimp on the charm and affordability of Cary.

Everyone flows to Nashville

Is there a surprise that Nashville is rising to new heights? Unlikely.

Nashville got a page from Austin’s book, which undoubtedly became the new go-to city of the South.

Travelers not only come here in record numbers, but real estate is also through the roof!

Although Nashville is largely known for buzzing bars and country music icons that anchoring through the world -famous Grand Ole Opry, it is not just the neon lights of Broadway that attract a crowd.

The last tourism report Claims that nearly 25 million people visited Nashville during the last tax year.

Although it is true that a majority will step one of the many Honky-Tonks, just like Raleigh, the food scene is unparalleled, especially since Nashville becomes more a melting pot and celebrities make their name on restaurant facades.

But there are also some fantastic surprises. The city is also teeming with history, a complete replica of the Parthenon and insightful plantation tours.

The disadvantage is that large herds of travelers and new residents have increased prices, but Visit has provided Nashville Budget tips To squeeze money during your next trip.

Sam Sears

SAM, our main writer and journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and wrote more than 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and throwing a light on lesser -known gems.