Things To Do
in Southeast
The Southeast region of the United States is known for its warm climate and diverse landscapes, ranging from beaches to mountains. States in this region include Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Louisiana, and more. The Southeast is rich in cultural history, with influences from Native American, European, African, and Caribbean traditions.
Southern hospitality is a prominent characteristic of the Southeast, with residents known for their friendly and welcoming demeanor.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day exploring the beautiful beaches of Clearwater. Enjoy the warm sun and soft sand as you stroll along the shore.
Visit the iconic theme parks like Disney World or Universal Studios for thrilling rides and attractions. Make sure to grab a quick lunch at one of the many food stalls.
Wind down by watching the sunset at one of Florida's famous beaches. Consider a beachside dinner with fresh seafood for a perfect ending to your day.
Begin your journey in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Take an early hike to witness the stunning views of the mist-covered mountains.
Have a picnic lunch amidst nature and then explore the various trails. Be sure to visit the picturesque Cades Cove area that showcases wildlife and historical buildings.
Return to Gatlinburg and enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant. Consider taking a drive to see the beautiful night views of the mountains.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Mild winters and warm summers, making it attractive for year-round living.
- Rich cultural heritage and diversity, leading to a vibrant community life.
- Lower cost of living compared to many other regions of the U.S.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes including mountains, forests, and coastal areas.
- A growing job market in various sectors such as technology, healthcare, and agriculture.
- High humidity and heat during summers can be uncomfortable.
- Possible exposure to natural disasters like hurricanes and severe storms.
- Certain areas may have limited public transportation options.
- Cultural and regional differences can lead to social tensions.
- Healthcare access can be limited in rural areas.
Best Activities in Southeast
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with various trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
Experience the unique ecosystem of the Everglades by kayaking through mangroves and observing wildlife such as alligators and various bird species.
Enjoy a scenic ride along the Virginia Creeper Trail, which offers picturesque views of the Appalachian mountains and lush landscapes.
Spend a day relaxing on the beaches of Tybee Island, where you can collect seashells, enjoy water sports, and experience local seafood.
Challenge yourself with rock climbing in the stunning Red River Gorge, known for its impressive cliffs and diverse climbing routes.
Enjoy a day of fishing in Lake Lanier, one of the largest lakes in Georgia, where you can catch a variety of freshwater fish.
Camp near the beach at Assateague Island, famous for its wild horses and beautiful coastal scenery.
Experience the thrill of zip-lining in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Tours
Uncover the best of Southeast with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Southeast
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning mountain vistas, lush forests, and diverse wildlife for breathtaking photo opportunities.
Known for its historic architecture, charming streets, and scenic riverfront, providing numerous picturesque spots.
Boasts numerous overlooks with panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains and rolling landscapes.
Food in Southeast
Southeast Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Indulge in tender and smoky ribs, slow-cooked to perfection and often served with a side of hearty baked beans and coleslaw. Look out for renowned barbecue joints such as Fox Bros Bar-B-Q in Atlanta, Georgia.
Must-Try!
Experience the perfect blend of creamy grits topped with succulent, seasoned shrimp. Head to spots like High Cotton in Charleston, South Carolina, for an authentic taste of this iconic dish.
Savor the rich and flavorful stew, typically featuring shellfish, sausage, and okra, served over rice. Visit New Orleans, Louisiana, to savor this classic Creole dish at restaurants like Dooky Chase's Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Southeast better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this historic market in New Orleans, offering a diverse range of local flavors including beignets, po'boys, and traditional Creole cuisine.
Delight in the vibrant atmosphere and sample classic Southern street food such as boiled peanuts, sweetgrass baskets, and locally-made artisanal goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In the Southeast, being polite and friendly is highly valued. Greet people with a smile, say 'please' and 'thank you,' and use titles like 'Mr.' or 'Ms.' unless invited to use first names. Hospitality is central to social interactions; offering food or drink to guests is a common practice.
Southeastern culture is rich in history and traditions, often reflecting both African American and Southern American influences. It’s important to show respect for local customs, such as participating in regional festivals or understanding the significance of historical landmarks.
Communication tends to be conversational and indirect. It's customary to engage in small talk before discussing serious topics. Being overly blunt or direct can be seen as rude, so it's advisable to approach conversations with a friendly, open demeanor while being mindful of people’s feelings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Southeast with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Southeast
Ensure a smooth experience
In the Southeast United States, tipping is a common practice in various service industries, particularly in restaurants and bars. It is generally expected to tip servers 15-20% of the total bill before tax. Tipping is not only a way to show appreciation for good service but also an important part of the income for many service workers, as they often receive a lower base wage due to the expectation of tips. Tipping customs may vary slightly by location, and some establishments may include a service charge for large groups.
Payment practices in the Southeast United States have evolved over the years. Cash remains a popular option for many consumers, especially in small businesses and rural areas; however, credit and debit cards are widely used across the region for convenience. Mobile payment options and apps like Venmo and PayPal are also gaining traction, especially among younger generations. In some areas, particularly tourist destinations, payment practices can be more varied, with some establishments accepting alternative forms of payment.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for outdoor activities, blooming flowers, and milder temperatures.
Ideal for beach vacations, water activities, and enjoying warm weather.
Great for autumn foliage, festivals, and moderate temperatures.
Good for holiday events, light crowds, and cooler weather.
Southeast at Night
Hiking in Southeast
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park offers diverse wildlife, beautiful vistas, and a variety of hiking trails from easy to challenging.
A famous long-distance hiking trail that stretches from Georgia to Maine, the trail offers many entry points in the Southeast with scenic views and varied terrain.
Located in South Carolina, this park features unique old-growth bottomland hardwood forest and offers several hiking trails, including a boardwalk loop.
Situated in Georgia, this park features a stunning gorge with hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of waterfalls and the gorge itself.
Known for its scenic beauty, this parkway connects several hiking trails across the Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina and Virginia.
Located near the Georgia coast, this area offers hiking trails through wetlands and along rivers, ideal for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
These adjacent forests in Virginia offer numerous hiking trails that traverse stunning landscapes, including mountains, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity.
Aiports
How to reach Southeast by plane.
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, it is the busiest airport in the world by passenger numbers.
Situated in Charlotte, North Carolina, it serves as a major hub for American Airlines.
Located in Miami, Florida, it is a significant gateway for international flights to and from Latin America and Europe.
Found in Orlando, Florida, it is a primary airport for tourists visiting central Florida's attractions.
Located in Tampa, Florida, it serves the Tampa Bay area and is known for its efficient layout.
Situated in Kenner, Louisiana, it serves the New Orleans metropolitan area and is named after the famous jazz musician.
Located in Baltimore, Maryland, it serves both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. metropolitan areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in the Southeast, encompassing those of European descent.
A significant demographic group with historical roots in the region, predominantly due to the transatlantic slave trade.
A growing demographic group, including individuals of Spanish, Latin American, or Caribbean descent.
A smaller but increasing demographic group, including various nationalities from East, Southeast, and South Asia.
Including various tribes and nations indigenous to the Southeast, though this group represents a smaller percentage of the population.
A minority group in the Southeast, including individuals from Hawaii, Guam, and other Pacific Islands.
An increasing demographic group consisting of individuals who identify with more than one racial background.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular sport in the Southeast, American Football is deeply ingrained in local culture, especially at the collegiate level with major conferences like the SEC.
Basketball enjoys a strong following in the Southeast, with both high school and college levels seeing competitive play. The region is also home to several NBA teams.
Baseball is another cherished sport, with Major League Baseball teams and a rich tradition of college baseball, particularly in states like Florida and South Carolina.
Soccer has been rapidly growing in popularity across the Southeast, with both youth leagues and professional teams contributing to its rise.
The Southeast is known for its tennis culture, with many players emerging from the region and hosting significant tournaments, especially in Florida.
Golf thrives in the Southeast thanks to its favorable climate, with numerous renowned courses attracting players from around the country and world.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Southeast.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While the region is renowned for its meat-centric dishes, many restaurants in urban areas like Atlanta, Nashville, and Charleston offer a growing selection of vegetarian and vegan options, providing plant-based twists on Southern classics.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find accommodating eateries across the region, with an increasing number of restaurants offering gluten-free menus or adaptable dishes to cater to dietary needs.