Benedek / Getty Images Your first trip toNew Orleansis a memorable one. This charming town knows a thing or two about history and culture. It also boasts a rich food scene, distinctive architecture, and locals sporting that unmistakable NOLA accent. Credit:Benedek / Getty Images While Gretnas laid-back vibe is a contrast to its lively cousin city, its offerings are equally unforgettable. Heres how to spend a day exploring Gretna, Louisiana....

Get ready to relax with a glass of smooth Tennessee whiskey. Tennessee Tourism Lynchburg, Tennessee, is an invitation to slow down for a spell. Thisquaint small townis tucked within southern Middle Tennessees gentle rolling hills and buttressed by tranquil countryside farms. Explore the quaint Tennessee town where the famous Jack Daniel’s whiskey was born.Credit:Tennessee Tourism The regions fertile lands have long been ideal for growing corn and barley. Tours come with six uniquewhiskey samples....

Getty Images Theres no question that North Carolinas roster of mountain towns is stacked. One of those such places is Maggie Valley (population 1,720). Ready to plan your mountain getaway? Credit:Getty Images Here are the best things to do in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. Hit The Slopes At Cataloochee Ski Area Maggie Valley doesnt completely shut down in the winter. Schedule a half-day or a full-day tour with a guide fromMaggie Valley Fly Shop....

Heres how to make the most of your time in Melbourne. Rain Tree Mercantile stocks locally-made goods like pottery, coffee, jewelry, and hot sauce. Genesis Boutique sells gently used clothing with proceeds benefiting a local shelter for women and children. Credit:Getty Images/Brad McGinley Photography Sendalas specializes in fragrances for the bath and home. Paradise Beach has pristine shores with plenty of space to spread out. Unlike most coastal areas in Florida, it is possible to catch some big waves in Melbourne....

Visit Pensacola Youve likely heard ofor been toOrange Beach, Alabama. Along with neighboring townGulf Shores, this popular vacation destination attracts beach lovers nearly year-round. But just minutes away across the Florida line, Perdido Key offers travelers a quieter, more affordable escape. Credit:Visit Pensacola But that doesnt mean that the beach is the only thing to do here. There are plenty of activities in Perdido Key, like biking, snorkeling, and golfing....

Seagrove, tucked between Seaside and Watersound, exemplifies everything you imagine small town beach life to be. Bike shady tree-lined paths or spend the day chasing waves in the sun. Either way, a fresh seafood dinner awaits when the sun goes down. Credit: Tommy Crow Here are the best things to do in Seagrove, Florida. Kayak and stand-up paddle board rentals are just a call or visit to the flagship store away....

While the area wasaffected by hurricanesin 2024, the town has rebounded and is ready to welcome visitors. Here are a few of the best things to do in Siesta Key. Take a Kayak Tour Explore area wildlifelike manatees, birds, and dolphinsby boat withAdventure Kayak Outfitters. Credit:Visit Sarasota Kayak tours leave from Turtle Beach Lagoon and wind through the Jim Neville Marine Preserve. A concession stand, pavilions, and volleyball nets make this a family-friendly spot....

A peaceful barrier island off the Florida Panhandle, St. George Island is one of the Sunshine State’sbest-hidden destinations. The 22-mile stretch of land straddles the Gulf andApalachicola Baytalk about the best of both worlds. Come for the daytime shelling and beachcombing, then stick around for a night of stargazing. Credit:Jim McKinley/Getty Images The island’s serene vibe makes it the perfect spot to cast a line. Rent a kayak or consider booking withIsland Charters: Fishing + Toursfor a guided experience....

Experience the heart of Cajun country and the “Crawfish Capitol of the World.” The Cajuns of south Louisiana trace their ancestors to the French Acadians exiled from Nova Scotia around 1755. By the 1800s, thousands of Acadians had settled in the rural areas west of New Orleans. Credit:St. Martin Parish Tourism Commission Visit theLongfellow-Evangeline State Historic Siteto learn about this important part of history that shaped much of this area....

A true coastal gem. A small town by the ocean is a rare thing inFlorida. But Tequesta is an exception. Credit: GabrielPevide / Getty Images Or explore the wilderness in nearby Jonathan Dickenson State Park. When you work up an appetite, the area has an impressive number of restaurants for its size. Ideal for a day trip or long weekend, Tequesta feels a bit like a hidden gem. Credit:Bruce Bain/Getty Images...

This Middle Tennessee gem has everything from whiskey to waterfalls. Located in southern Middle Tennessee, Tullahoma was founded in 1852 as a key stop along thenew railroad linebetweenNashvilleandChattanooga. History and technology weave together in Tullahoma to shape a town rich in both modernity and nostalgia. Rutledge Falls in Tullahoma Tennessee.Credit:Getty Images Situated on Tennessee’s Highland Rim, Tullahoma is close to a variety of lakes and natural areas. If youre ready to explore this unique small town, we have your itinerary ready....

Everything about theunder-the-radar destinationencourages guests to exhale and enjoy the beauty before them. Located in the Gulf of Mexico about an hour fromFort Myers, Captiva is as secluded as they come. Theres a small number of local restaurants where you’re able to sample fresh-from-the-sea fare. Captiva Island.Credit:CEDRIC ANGELES Two waterfront resorts, plus rental properties, are your main options for lodging. There are no chain restaurants, high-rise condos, or tourist traps to contend with on Captiva....

Beaches, seafood, and family fun…what’s not to love? Here’s what to plan for your visit to this well-knownEast Coast gem. This island has been home to generations of watermenpeople who make their living off the sea. Credit:VIRGINIA TOURISM CORPORATION/TODD WRIGHT Im what the natives call a come-over because I didnt grow up here. Chincoteague has a way of captivating its visitors, and some make it a way of life. For some quick and easy fun, fish or crab at Chincoteague Veteran’s Memorial Park....