The South's Best

The latest edition of Southern Living hit mailboxes this week. In this volume we find the special section on "The South's Best. Let me start by saying that this is NOT a rebuttal. This is not a challenge or an attempt to one up them. We're just taking a moment to offer a few alternatives to the crowdsource surveyed list our friends in Homewood compiled. Keep these in mind as the summer travel season approaches.

Tiny Towns

They said Helen, GA & Matlecha, FL

We can't take anything away from those two choices but if you are looking for some good experiences on a similar scale, try these:

Dahlonega, Ga: Nestled in the North Georgia Mountains you'll find this college town. With its quaint square, gold rush museum, and good local options for shopping and dining, Dahlonega is a must see.

Micanopy, FL: Sitting on the edge of Paynes Prairie between Gainesville and Ocala, Micanopy is a slice of old Florida. Beautiful architecture and  the moss covered oaks make this gem a must see. 

Beaches

They said Hilton Head, Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, Destin, Myrtle Beach, Isle of Palms

Can't really argue with that list, but here are a few more options:
​The Beaches of 30A, Florida
​Dauphin Island, Alabama
Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island, Georgia
Okaloosa Island, FL
St Augustine Beach, Florida
​We'd like to acknowledge that an argument can be made that the five best beaches in The South are along 30A in South Walton, Florida. However, in the interest of not making a true rebuttal, we'll just give our list here and move on. 

Small Towns

They said Gatlinburg, TN and Williamsburg, VA

Those are both good choices with plenty to do and see. But we have some quieter nearby options that can add to your visits there:

Sevierville, TN is just up the street from Gatlinburg. In fact, you go through Sevierville going to Gatlinburg from I-40. The birthplace of Dolly Parton has great scenery and even a covered bridge to explore. 

Yorktown, VA, don't go to Williamsburg without going to Yorktown. See the battlefield and Victory Center. And don't miss the riverfront. The best option is to walk around and see what all you can discover.  

Breweries

They said SweetWater (GA) & Cigar City (FL)

SweetWater is an excellent choice. Sweet Georgia Brown, as advertised, is "smother than a Bill Clinton apology." But come a little to the west and I think you'll be pleased with what you find at Burnt Hickory Brewing in Kennesaw.

Whenever I find myself in Destin or Okaloosa, I always stop by McGuire's Irish Pub. It is hard to be more microbrew than McGuires unless you make it at home. They offer some great food and the smell of the beer brewing in the room where you are dining adds to the appeal. I always choose the stout although they have light options available.