If you’ve ever wished you could roll out of New Orleans in the morning, sip your coffee, watch the Gulf Coast glide by your window, and spend the day hopping from beach town to beach town—then be back in the Big Easy by bedtime—the new Amtrak Mardi Gras Line just made your dream trip a reality. Amtrak is officially connecting New Orleans to Mobile with twice-daily trains—and along the way, you’ll make four unforgettable stops in Coastal Mississippi: Pascagoula, Biloxi, Gulfport and ...| It's a Southern Thing
Did you know that one Southern state has the second-largest number of distilleries in the entire country? And did you know that all of the states in the South have distilleries you can visit?Distilleries–locations where liquor is manufactured–can be found for almost all types of liquor. They can man...| It's a Southern Thing
I’m a firm believer that there are two types of travelers in the world: the “gotta get there”ers and the “let’s take a detour”ers. The first one, obviously, looks at a trip for its destination. There’s nothing inherently wrong with that (after all, you gotta make good time! you need to arrive before it’s too late!)...unless you’re a proponent of the second attitude toward a road trip. I am most assuredly of the second mindset. I’m a proud Detourer. --- I remember as a chil...| It's a Southern Thing
If you love music (and who doesn’t?), then you should thank Mississippi every day. “The Magnolia State” has played such a pivotal role in the American music scene that pretty much almost anything you listen to has been influenced by Mississippi in some way. It’s the reason why, if you visit Clarksdale, the tiny town in the Mississippi Delta known as the birthplace of the blues, you’ll talk to visitors from all over the world who want to explore the area’s magical music heritage. I...| It's a Southern Thing
If the summer heat has you sweltering, it may be the perfect time to get into a holiday mindset and plan a Christmas trip to one of the most magical celebrations in the South. Natchitoches, Louisiana welcomes visitors to its six-week-long Christmas Festival of Lights in a way that only Natchitoches–the oldest city in the state and the oldest permanent settlement from the Louisiana Purchase–can. The town creates an extravaganza of Christmas festivities that’s unmatched for its creativity...| It's a Southern Thing
Looking for a luxurious vacation on a budget – one of those getaways where the photos make everyone jealous? You’ve come to the right place! Because we have the perfect getaway for August and September that won’t break the bank. Our recommendation? Coastal Mississippi. Here are some places – and deals – you should put on your itinerary. --- Visit the beach. August and September are prime months to hit the Coast’s beaches. Why? School’s back in session across much of the South st...| It's a Southern Thing
Looking for a peaceful weekend where you can relax and decompress? Do you want a place with less traffic but plenty of activities, plus magnificent views? Let us suggest Blount County, Tennessee, also known as the Peaceful Side of the Smokies. The area consists of Townsend, Walland, Alcoa and Maryville, and it has chill vibes and a little something for everyone. Whether you want to spend a weekend mainly soaking up the views or exploring the area, you’re sure to have a blast. Want to know m...| It's a Southern Thing
When you think of Alabama’s Beaches, it’s easy to imagine the sun-drenched sands, the sound of the waves crashing, and the vibrant blue waters that stretch as far as the eye can see. But here’s the thing: there’s more to this gorgeous stretch of coastline than just beach fun. If you’re craving a road trip with a twist, Baldwin County is full of quirky, offbeat attractions that will make your family’s summer getaway even more memorable. Road trips are about more than just the desti...| It's a Southern Thing
Did you know that the South is home to the world’s longest cave system and the largest underground lake in the United States? Or that there are numerous caves where you can also enjoy dining, entertainment and history? The region has all this and more, at some of the most unique cave locations to visit during the summer. Check out these favorites: --- Lost Sea in Tennessee America’s largest underground lake is part of the Craighead Caverns cave system in Sweetwater, Tennessee. You can tak...| It's a Southern Thing
Summer is for ice cream, and the South has some of the best places imaginable to enjoy the sweet treat. Here are ten of our favorite places to enjoy ice cream across the region, but be sure to check out your own town and state. There are fantastic places throughout the South to enjoy a cone, sundae or milkshake of your choice. --- Leopold’s Ice Cream, Savannah, Ga. This ice cream parlor in the quaint garden square area of Savannah continues the legacy of the original Leopold’s, which firs...| It's a Southern Thing
I grew up in the rolling hills of northwest Arkansas, where childhood summers were made mostly for riding around on bikes with neighborhood friends, cooling off in sprinklers, lying under the big front yard tree with a good book and begging for a quarter to buy a treat from the ice cream man. My younger brother, friends and I could hear the rhapsodic sound of the ice cream truck’s song from streets away; we’d hear it, drop whatever we were doing and run swiftly to the road (stopping, of c...| It's a Southern Thing
There’s nothing quite like a road trip! I’ve traveled from one side of the United States to another, including one road trip from Alabama to California, another to Maine, another to Nebraska, and another to the Great Lakes. But I’ve also done my share of Southern road tripping, as I’ve ventured out with family and friends on the open road to visit such places as New Orleans, St. Augustine, San Antonio and the Florida Keys. A road trip is unique in its scope. It’s not just the destin...| It's a Southern Thing
Mississippi is often called the birthplace of American music, and while much of that claim is tied to iconic figures like Elvis Presley and B.B. King, the women of Mississippi have also played a monumental role in shaping the soundtracks of our lives. From country to opera to soul, Mississippi women have been trailblazers, influencing generations of musicians across genres. Ready to meet some of these legends? Here’s a look at some incredible Mississippi women who made a huge impact on the ...| It's a Southern Thing
This summer, the Magnolia State is making an appearance north of the Mason-Dixon Line. Mississippi is playing a big role in the Chicago Blues Festival, and it’s a must for your summer bucket list. The Magnolia State is where blues music was born (among many other genres), so it’s natural for it to be in the spotlight up in the Windy City. At least a dozen Mississippians have played the festival throughout the years – B.B. King, Terry “Harmonica” Bean, Bo Diddley, Jimmy Rodgers and T...| It's a Southern Thing
Coastal Mississippi is one of the South’s best gems. It has a little bit of everything: Beaches, art, casinos, fresh seafood, friendly locals – it has everything you need. In the springtime, the area is especially vibrant – perfect weather, beautiful blooms and gorgeous views. We love Coastal Mississippi so much that we want to highlight some of our favorite places there to enjoy this beautiful springtime weather. Check ‘em out: --- Spring sports If your perfect vacation isn’t just ...| It's a Southern Thing
There's nothing better than a wedding, except maybe a Southern wedding. That's because at a Southern wedding, there won't just be romance in the air -- there will probably be the delicious smell of barbecue too. And while the bride will likely be dressed in white like usual, at a Southern wedding, there's no telling what shoes will be on her feet. It could be flip flops or cowboy boots or no shoes at all. At least, that's what we've learned from asking our followers on the It's a Southern Thi...| It's a Southern Thing
If you're looking for a weekend getaway that combines great food, outdoor adventures and a healthy dose of quirky charm, look no further than Morristown, Tennessee. Situated in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, this small town offers a surprising number of road-trip-worthy experiences, perfect for a family vacation that’s both fun and laid-back. From family recipes to hiking trails with stunning views, here’s how to spend your weekend in Morristown—and why it should be at the top of...| It's a Southern Thing
Those last few days were like a taste of freedom. After months and seasons of going to school every day, we could see the light at the end of the tunnel – and boy, did it feel amazing. I have incredibly strong memories of the last days of school throughout my elementary years. And while those years are now many (many!) in the past, I hazard to guess that the last days of school in the 1970s aren’t too dissimilar from the ones kids experience today. --- Get the latest from It's a Southern ...| It's a Southern Thing
Since it first appeared on the big screen in 1977, the “Star Wars” franchise has become a worldwide phenomenon. From its three movie trilogies to its books and comics; from its toy franchises to its myriad of original streaming services…”Star Wars” and its worlds, characters and actors are part of the cultural lexicon. As a self-professed Star Wars nerd, I will strongly argue with just about anyone that the universe is the best thing imaginable. There’s not a whole lot I’d chang...| It's a Southern Thing
If you’re looking for a fun weekend getaway with an emphasis on history, then Natchitoches, Louisiana, is the place for you. Natchitoches (Let’s say it together: NAK-A-TISH) was the oldest settlement in the Louisiana Purchase, established in 1714. At more than 300 years old, the town has a fun European vibe with history brimming over every corner. In fact, you could visit Natchitoches for a week and still only learn a small fraction of its rich history. That’s what we’re here for: To ...| It's a Southern Thing
By now, we all know that there’s no other state that has as much music history as Mississippi. The Magnolia State has deeply influenced all genres of music, and I could spend this entire article talking about all the musical Mississippians who have made a major impact, and I’d barely scratch the surface. (There’s a reason Mississippi is regarded as the birthplace of American music, after all.) --- If you want the short version of it all, the Magnolia State is known as the originator of ...| It's a Southern Thing
Spring has officially arrived and with it comes the opportunity to visit beautiful botanical gardens across the South. Botanical gardens are typically designated for their scientific research, conservation and plant documentation, but our favorites combine such work alongside retreat-like settings and visitor attractions for people of all ages. A visit to these botanical gardens will make you feel like Spring has officially sprung (but they’re awesome destinations throughout the year). And,...| It's a Southern Thing
When you think of Cleveland, Mississippi, the first thing that might come to mind is the blues. After all, this is the heart of the Delta — the region that birthed legends and built soundtracks for generations. But step off the music trail for just a moment, and you’ll find something equally soulful: clay. Pottery in Cleveland isn’t just a craft — it’s a way of life, a family legacy and, for many travelers, a reason to make the pilgrimage. Whether you’re searching for an heirloom-...| It's a Southern Thing
The smell hits you first — salt air and something sizzling on the grill. Then come the sounds: seagulls overhead, shrimp boats humming along the shore, and the happy clatter of diners digging into just-caught seafood with their hands. This is Coastal Mississippi, where shrimp season isn’t just a time of year — it’s a way of life. Once dubbed the Seafood Capital of the World, the Mississippi Gulf Coast has long been anchored in the traditions of commercial fishing and maritime culture....| It's a Southern Thing
No matter how thick our accents are, all of us Southerners have at least one word that really sounds Southern. Even if you don't really have an accent, all it takes is one word to give away where you come from (which is a good thing). We asked our Facebook audience to let us know which word really brings out their accent. We had almost 3,000 responses, which you should read if you're ever having a bad day. We read through all of 'em to find a few of our favorites. Check 'em out! Get the lates...| It's a Southern Thing
If you haven’t been to Meridian lately, you’re missing out on one of Mississippi’s most exciting destinations. This vibrant city is alive with music, arts and history, offering something for every traveler. From a flourishing downtown scene to a rich musical heritage, Meridian is the perfect getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in culture, creativity and unforgettable experiences. --- A city with music in its soul Meridian has long been a city of music, and its legacy still e...| It's a Southern Thing
It seems like it happens overnight. I walk outside one morning and the redbud tree in my front yard is in bloom; its pink blooms (yes, they’re pink despite the tree’s name) are accompanied by the powerful scent wafting from the wisteria that’s attached itself to my mailbox; and peeking out all around both of them are yellow daffodils. Spring has officially arrived in the South, and with it comes the arrival of some of my favorite flowers and trees. (We’ll ignore the arrival of pollen ...| It's a Southern Thing
There’s something special about spending a day by the water, watching the sun rise over Alabama’s Gulf Coast while casting a line. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking to try something new, fishing at Alabama’s Beaches offers an experience like no other. From peaceful backbays to deep-sea adventures, the variety of fishing opportunities here means that every type of angler can find their perfect spot. Ready to reel in some memories? --- Don't forget your cooler!(Visit Alab...| It's a Southern Thing
Springtime in Corinth, Mississippi, is a welcome surprise for families who love to travel, experience local culture and participate in unique events. The town comes alive during this season with a combination of quirky festivals, outdoor activities and delicious food that’s worth the trip. If you’re looking for a memorable spring vacation, Corinth has you covered. From the Slugburger Festival to the Corinth Coca-Cola Classic 10K Run, there’s something out of the ordinary for everyone to...| It's a Southern Thing
There are colorful Southern expressions for almost everything, but the South seems to be overflowing with ways to describe the weather that are anything but typical. Whether it's burning hot, freezing cold or somewhere in-between, we've got a lot of creative ways to let people know about it. With th...| It's a Southern Thing
Are you up on your internet abbreviations, or do you have to google when someone starts rofl? Wouldn't life be easier if all those acronyms and initialisms represented the way we speak – you know, Southern?| It's a Southern Thing
This story is sponsored by Visit MississippiMississippi is a playground for animal lovers and nature buffs alike! With its lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems, the Magnolia State rolls out from the hilltops in the north down to the sprawling marshes of the Gulf Coast — each area bursting with uni...| It's a Southern Thing
When you think of the South, which locations first come to your mind? Which small towns and larger cities epitomize the things that the region is most affectionately known for?Hospitality and beauty; history and progress; uniqueness and importance…these are things that make these locations truly mem...| It's a Southern Thing
This story is presented by Visit Oxford.Yes, it may be a gazillion degrees outside right now, but it’s never too early to talk about Christmas – especially if we’re talking about the holidays in Oxford. The Mississippi college town has earned itself a reputation as a Hallmark movie town, and for goo...| It's a Southern Thing
This story is presented by Visit StarkvilleIf you've ever had the pleasure of visiting Starkville, Mississippi, you know this small college town packs a big punch when it comes to Southern charm and unique attractions. Whether you're a local or just passing through, there's plenty to see and do that...| It's a Southern Thing
This article is sponsored by Visit Mobile.Mobile, Alabama, is rich with history, art, culture and more, and much of it is tied to the city’s Black community. Of course, with so much to see and learn, deciding what to do first can be the hardest part of planning a visit to the Port City.With that in ...| It's a Southern Thing
This story is presented by Visit Ridgeland.Biking has a rich history in the U.S., and the South has its own special part in that story. Bikes rolled onto the scene in the late 19th century and quickly caught on, serving as both a handy way to get around and a fun new hobby. In the South, bikes were ...| It's a Southern Thing
This story is presented by Visit Oxford.If you ask people what they love most about the Square in Oxford, Mississippi, chances are every person will give you a different answer.That’s because the area has a little something for everyone, no matter what mood they’re in or what time of the day it is. ...| It's a Southern Thing
