Best Small Towns in the Deep South
There are many small towns in this area that are worth exploring, but we’ve rounded up our choices for the Best Small Towns in the Deep South – one per each of the 7 states we cover.
The Deep South is a region of the Southern United States. The term generally refers to the states that are located on the Gulf of Mexico and those that border it, including Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia.
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Natchez, Mississippi
Natchez is a tiny town in Mississippi. The town has a population of approximately 16,000 people. The town is located on the Mississippi River and is known for its antebellum architecture and rich history.
Natchez is also home to the Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile scenic highway that runs through the state of Mississippi.
Natchez is the oldest city on the Mississippi, with a walkable, vibrant, and picturesque historic downtown full of delicious cuisine and a lively music scene.
Foley, Alabama
Foley is one of the most charming small towns in Alabama! This natural beauty is located in Baldwin County, Alabama. The town has a population of just over 15,000 people.
This coastal town has a Southern charm and a variety of activities, events, and more to keep you coming back again and again.
Foley is sure to be a favorite with unique local shops in the city’s quaint and historic streets, over 100 tasty restaurants, and the thrills and entertainment.
Foley is also a popular shopping location, with unique local shops in the city’s quaint and historic downtown, and one of the state’s largest outlet malls, the Tanger Outlet Center. Approximately 120 brand-name outlet shops are found there.
Check out our Foley Vacation Guide here – be sure to grab your weekend itinerary, too!
Patterson, Louisiana
The best small town in Louisiana is undoubtedly Patterson. Patterson is located in St. Mary Parish, and it has a population of around 6,000 people.
Patterson is just 20 miles north of the Gulf of Mexico, in the midst of cypress swamps and sluggish bayous, on the banks of the Lower Atchafalaya River – making it one of those can’t miss hidden gems.
Patterson was once home to the world’s largest cypress sawmill, which belonged to Frank B. Williams and was operated by his son, Asa L. Williams. In 1997, the Louisiana State Legislature designated Patterson as the Cypress Capital of Louisiana in recognition of its long history with the timber industry.
Helen, Georgia
Helen is a small town located in White County, Georgia. The town has a population of just over 600 people. I’d say it is one of the most charming southern small towns in the south!
A bustling alpine village set against a scenic backdrop of mountains, forests and river banks, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to the cobblestone streets of Bavaria when you visit Helen.
This quaint little town is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is known for its annual Oktoberfest celebration on its main street. Then, people dress in traditional clothing, lederhosen and dirndls, and dance to the polka while eating German food and beverages.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is a small town located in Sevier County, Tennessee. The town has a population of just over 4,000 people.
This Smoky Mountain town is a popular tourist destination for its scenic beauty, its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and its many attractions, historic places, and antique shops.
In Gatlinburg, you can find a little bit of everything, from Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies to Ober Gatlinburg, an alpine-themed amusement park. There is also a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore.
White Springs, Florida
White Springs is a small town located in Hamilton County, Florida. The town has a population of just over 700 people. This historic small town is located on the Suwannee River, and it is known for its natural springs, which flow from the Okefenokee Swamp.
The springs attract visitors from all over who come to paddle, swim, and relax in the clear, cool water. Big Shoals State Park in White Springs, Florida, is about an hour west of Jacksonville and offers the state’s largest whitewater rapids.
In addition to its springs, White Springs is also home to the Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, which is dedicated to preserving the music and culture of the Florida frontier.
Marfa, Texas
Marfa is a small town located in Presidio County, Texas. The town has a population of just over 2,000 people.
This West Texas town is best known for its minimalist art installations, including the famous Prada Marfa sculpture. Marfa is also home to the Marfa Lights, unexplained lights that have been seen in the area for centuries.
In recent years, Marfa has become a popular tourist destination for its art, culture, and unique desert landscape.
All of these small towns offer a unique experience to those who visit them. If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the southern hospitality, then any of these towns would be a great choice.
