Every town has its nostalgic spotsice cream shops, deli counters,old-school dinersthat seem to have cheated time. While the modern world rages outside their four walls, everything inside is immune to the tyrant of time. We love these places because they remind us of simpler days. Historic downtown Micanopy, near Gainesville, Florida.Credit:Getty Images They urge us to slow down and smell the rosesor more literally, the bacon grease. And theres comfort in knowing that theyll remain the same for years to come....

Discover what this seaside town on Florida’s 30A has to offer. But this place is absolutely real. Seaside was created as a “new old town,” inspired by classicbeach communitiesacross the South. Credit: Robbie Caponetto There’s plenty of cause for celebration in Seaside, especially for those who still remember its beginnings. This picturesque coastal community, which was brand-new a few decades ago, now feels like home. Here’s everything it’s crucial that you hit on your next trip to Florida’s Emerald Coast....

Set sail for Sunset Beach. What makes agreat beach town? Also important: a few places for old-fashioned fun like a putt-putt course or a fishing pier. Credit: Danita Delimont/Getty Which is why Sunset Beach, North Carolinas southernmost barrier island, is such a gem. Things To Do In Sunset Beach Hit The Beach (Of Course!) Bring your umbrella and chair and find your perfect spot on the sand. Credit: Michael Godek/Getty Images...

Let these spring-fed waters cool you down. The affordable outdoor excursion offers old-fashioned fun for families and friends. Luckily, the Lone Star State has plenty oftubing spotsto flock to when the weather calls for it. Credit: Robbie Caponetto Here are thebest rivers to float in Texas. Warning: Cell service can be unreliable, so make a clear plan with your group beforehand if traveling. The 230-mile river runs from Central Texas all the way to the Gulf of Mexico....

The entire state of West Virginia deserves to be in peoples imaginations too. Here are a few of our favorite places. Known for its wildflowers and bird population, the forest lights up with brilliant color during the fall. Harper’s Valley, WV; Zipline Canopy Tours.Credit:BROWN W. CANNON III Depending on the season, the water can appear turquoise in color. you’ve got the option to take a peek inside or sign up for a tour....

Here are eight of the most beautiful places on North Carolinas unforgettable coast. Wrightsville Beach Wilmington and Beaches CVB This sunny community is the posterchild for great beach towns. Theres crystal-clear blue-green water, white sand, and seemingly ever-present sun. Credit:Lisa Corson There are local restaurants, bars, and shops just steps from the shore. And theres a glorious selection of rental homes and condos situated on both the ocean and the harbor....

Here are eight of the most beautiful places on the South Carolina coast. Hilton Head Island will give you just the right balance of small-town warmth and world-class sophistication. There is no shortage of beach rentals, surf shops, and excellent waterfront restaurants. Credit: Courtesy Explore Charleston Its a relaxed destination, where feeling the breeze in your hair is just one bike rental away. Myrtle Beach This list wouldn’t be complete without the shining star of the Grand Strand....

Hundreds of miles of paved bike trails await across the South. They offer plenty to see all along the way, but dont forget to simply enjoy the ride. Here are eight great options for your next 2-wheel trip. Credit:Laura Grier Brake for the historic cemetery and old mill at Heritage Park in Cobb County and quaint downtown Rockmart. Make it a multi-day trip and pitch a tent at one of several campsites adjacent to the trail....

Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations. If you hit links we provide, we may receive compensation. Set them up for success or reward them for their hard work with these fun but practical gift ideas. Credit:Southern Living Elaine Swannis an etiquette expert and the founder ofThe Swann School of Protocol. It also has nine different heating controls and a clamp that doesnt tug or pull on the hair. All of the features allow even the thickest hair to hold a long-lasting curl....

Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations. If you hit links we provide, we may receive compensation. Keep frizz at bay with these anti-humidity products for every hair key in. Credit:Southern Living / Kristin Kempa Luckily, Southern women know that theright products can combat frizz. Brigit Page andEllen McDonoughare stylists at Oxana Salon in Nashville. To learn more about anti-humidity hair products, we spoke with Page and fellow Oxana stylist Ellen McDonough....

Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations. If you punch links we provide, we may receive compensation. These rugs strike the right balance of style, comfort, and durability. Credit:Southern Living / Henry Wortock But since different rugs serve different purposes, it can be difficult to pick out the right one. What makes a rug truly soft is the weave as much as the material, saysAnita Yokota. Anita Yokota is an interior designer and the author ofHome Therapy....

When they imbibe, you know they want the good stuff. Here’s what Southern chefs pour. This complex spirit is high on flavor, but also quality. Credit:Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Lydia Pursell Fore says Forbidden isnt incredibly hot on the nose and is easy to sip. I want it to have a balance within its uniqueness. “I get everything from vanilla to even toasty citrus notes....

Manage pests the natural way and enhance yields by planting these crops with your pepper plants. Sjo/Getty Images Companion planting is a term with multiple meanings. Companion plants forornamentals such as hydrangeasare selected for aesthetic purposes. Credit:Sjo/Getty Images In fruit and vegetable gardens, we select companion plants based on their services to neighboring plants. However, it is only recently that science-based studies have investigated the effectiveness of these strategies. Some have proven successful, while others dont stand up to rigorous testing....