Taking the Road Trip to 3 Lesser-Known Southeast Getaways Worth the Detour

For the curious traveler who’s seen the big names but craves the hidden gems, here are three under-the-radar Southeast destinations that feel like your own private postcard. These aren't your typical tourist stops. They're where you go when you're craving character, quiet charm,and the kind of travel stories that don’t start with “Well, we were stuck in line for two hours…”

Thomasville, Georgia

The charm of the South without the crowds of Savannah.

This small town near the Florida border is bursting with Southern hospitality, historic charm, and walkable streets shaded by oaks dripping with Spanish moss. Known as the “City of Roses,” Thomasville feels like Savannah’s less showy cousin—and that’s a good thing.

• A delicious mix of down-home eats and upscale bites (don’t miss Jonah’s or Sweet Grass Dairy).

• Unique shops, handmade goods, and a surprisingly creative arts scene.

• Historic estates like Pebble Hill offer elegance without the elbow-to-elbow crowds.

  
  

  Locals-Only Food Spot: Jonah’s Fish & Grits—known for crab cakes that locals swear by and hushpuppies that flirt with divine. I personally give this restaurant my 100% approval. LOVE every meal we have had there! And the owners are simply fantastic people who love what they do and the people they serve
  

  Highly Reviewed Eatery: Sweet Grass Dairy Cheese Shop—artisanal cheeses, paninis, and a glass of wine on a shady patio.
  

  Historic Site: Pebble Hill Plantation—elegant and understated, with art, architecture, and peaceful walking grounds.
  

  Crafters' Delight: Visit the Firefly boutique, where you’ll find handcrafted Southern home goods and a DIY apothecary bar.
  

  Unexpected Treat: The Rose Show & Festival in spring—this town goes all-in with flower floats, live music, and literal rose-colored glasses.

  
  

Florence, Alabama

Music, muscle cars, and makers all in one funky river town.

Set along the Tennessee River, Florence blends small-town warmth with big cultural punches. It’s part of the Muscle Shoals area, home to legendary recording studios and a thriving arts community—plus a revitalized downtown that feels fresh without losing its soul.

• It’s a music lover’s paradise with FAME Studios and the W.C. Handy Home.

• Frank Lloyd Wright fans will geek out over the hidden gem of the Rosenbaum House.

• Boutiques and galleries showcase crafters and makers doing seriously cool things.

Locals-Only Food Spot: Bunyan’s Bar-B-Q—tiny, old-school, and famous for hot slaw sandwiches and sweet tea.

Highly Reviewed Eatery: Odette—farm-to-table Southern fusion with a seasonal menu that makes regulars out of visitors.

Historic Site: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Rosenbaum House—the only Wright-designed structure in Alabama.

Crafters' Delight: Stroll the Shoals Artists Gallery where regional artists exhibit pottery, fiber arts, and sculpture.

Unexpected Treat: Catch a tour at FAME Studios—you’ll stand where Aretha Franklin and Etta James once recorded.

Cedar Key, Florida

Old Florida vibes with none of the theme park traffic.

About an hour west of Gainesville, this old-school fishing village feels like a throwback to Florida before chain restaurants and mega-resorts. Think slow sunsets, wild coastline, and clam chowder so good it’s won international awards.

• Quiet Gulf views, no traffic, and the salty charm of a place time forgot.

• Incredible seafood, especially Tony’s world-famous chowder and waterfront dining at 83 West.

• Nature lovers and artists will both find their happy place in this quirky, creative coastal hideaway.

  
  

  Locals-Only Food Spot: Tony’s Seafood Restaurant—their award-winning clam chowder has won three times at the international level.
  

  Highly Reviewed Eatery: 83 West—oyster platters and Gulf views that’ll stop your scrolling mid-sip.

  
  

  Historic Site: Cedar Key Museum State Park—charming, quirky, and a glimpse into pre-Disney Florida history.

  
  

  Crafters' Delight: Explore Island Arts Gallery, a co-op of local makers offering coastal-inspired pieces and hands-on workshops.

  
  

  Unexpected Treat: Kayak to Atsena Otie Key—an abandoned island town with ruins and wild horseshoe crabs.

Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just need a peaceful reset, these small-town Southern escapes prove you don’t need a big name to make big memories. Throw a bag in the car and take the road a little less traveled to one or all of these southeast getaways.

For inspiring travel photos, check out Miles2GoBeforeISleep.com .

Photo credit: for photos include Miles2Go (above) , onlyinyourstate.com, & Google