Hipmunk Hotels: Experience Southern Charm in Cities like Mobile, Gatlinburg, and More
If you’re looking to experience Southern charm and hospitality, visit the Deep South. Here, you’ll find some of the highest concentrations of Southern culture. With historical districts, boutique hotels, and delicious eats, a trip to the Deep South can be truly unforgettable.
Mobile, Alabama
In Alabama, you’ll find music plays a huge role in the local culture. When you come to Mobile, listen to beautiful gospel singers in church, or patronize bars filled with soulful blues, jazz, and even country. When it comes to food, there is no skimping on quality or portions. Enjoy slow-cooked pit barbecue, wild-caught shrimp, oysters, or blue crabs, and of course some Southern eats like Southern fried chicken, collard greens, and cheese grits.
Irving, Texas
Irving is a suburb of Dallas and a great budget-friendly alternative if you’re looking to visit the Dallas/Ft. Worth area for some serious sporting events or Texas BBQ. Just remember, when the Cowboys’ season kicks off, hotel prices start to rise, so Irving is an even better choice during peak visitor times. Hotel Las Colinas frequently offers deals, and you can sometimes find a room for under $100 a night, with free Wi-Fi, pool, free parking and a reasonably-priced pet policy.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg offers the best of Tennessee — music and nightlife, great food, and the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the country’s most beautiful nature areas — all rolled into one destination. Be sure to visit some of the local artisan areas, especially the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community that is home to more than 100 independent artisan shops on an eight-mile loop. When it comes to planning a trip to Gatlinburg, the sooner you can plan the better. Prices can be high throughout the year as the city hosts a number of popular events and festivals in addition to the steady stream of visitors for the Great Smoky Mountains.
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Renowned for its beaches and year round sunshine, Ft. Lauderdale is a popular Florida destination. Head into one of the historic districts for a taste of Southern charm and hospitality while learning about some of the important historical buildings and sites in the area. Snagging a hotel deal here needs a bit of work and planning ahead. If you insist on staying at the beach, opt for one across the street, which will cut costs and require only a few extra steps.
College Park, Georgia
College Park isn’t necessarily the best spot to enjoy the Deep South as a whole, but it’s a budget-friendly lodging option for those wanting to visit Atlanta. College Park is very close to Hartsfield-Atlanta International Airport, so it’s convenient for getting to and from the airport as well as downtown Atlanta. Because much of the lodging in this area is geared towards airport travelers, rooms can still fill up quickly in peak travel times. Aim for a four-star hotel like the Hilton Atlanta Airport that will offer luxurious amenities for a cheaper rate than a similar property in downtown Atlanta.