In the best possible way, the southern region of the United States is a total mixed bag. It has all the things you need (and some you don’t), from theme parks to gators to an impossible amount of Whataburgers. Rollercoasters and comfort food aside, the south also has incredible biodiversity. If you’re on a road trip and have been driving for hours, it’s always refreshing to take a break from driving and soak in the nature. The scents of the south are abundant: magnolia flowers, sunscreen, fresh peaches, and the damp, sticky traces of humidity. Open your car window and let it all waft in.
Since I have family in this part of the country, I’m no stranger to how beautiful and lively cities down there are. I’ve also developed a love for sweet tea, thanks to the amount of time I’ve spent in South Carolina. To learn what destinations are worth visiting on a road trip through the south, we reached out to four Her Campus chapters at southern schools for their takes on what to do and see. Their responses honestly made me want to pack my suitcase and take off — living in the northeast, I’m in need of some southern sunshine. If the warm weather isn’t reason enough for visiting there, these suggestions will convince you to take the road trip.
- Blacksburg, VA: Hike the Cascades.
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“The Cascades are the perfect mild hike to take for beautiful scenery and some great mountain air!” – Her Campus at Virginia Tech
- Tallahassee, FL: Jump in Wakulla Springs.
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“Experience the classic nature and culture of the Florida Panhandle.” – Her Campus at Florida State University
- Athens, GA: Attend a concert at The Georgia Theatre.
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“The Georgia Theatre is a huge piece of musical history in the south, and was a performance home for tons of Athens-made bands, like R.E.M, the B52’s, and Widespread Panic!” – Her Campus at University of Georgia
- Austin, TX: Drink Coffee and Hear live music at Mozarts On The Lake.
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“This iconic coffee shop has been serving Austin since 1993, and frequently features live music. It’s the best place to grab some coffee, study, listen to live bands, and see a great view of Lake Austin!” – Her Campus at Texas
