In the American South, meals turn into memories and strangers greet you like family. Explore the region’s treasured places – think cobblestone streets, moss-draped squares, mountain trails and coastal enclaves – then spend some time getting to know its friendly people and diverse cuisine. On this road trip, trace the flavors and essence of the Southern USA from bustling cities to quiet mountain towns across Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina.

Atlanta, Georgia

Fly intoGeorgia’s capital city – a gateway to the Southeast, packed with attractions, shopping and hip neighborhoods like Inman Park and Little Five Points. Food lovers can explore everything from modern takes on Southern classics to international cuisine and chef-driven fine dining. Fried chicken and collard greens shine at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, while upscale Bacchanalia offers MICHELIN-starred tasting menus. Visit Ponce City Market on the Atlanta BeltLine to browse shops, grab Southern-inspired small plates at Nine Mile Station and sip cocktails with skyline views. Then, tradeAtlanta’s skyscrapers for Savannah’s oak-lined avenues and historic squares just four hours away.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah enchants visitors with historic homes, eclectic architecture, natural beauty and soulful cuisine. The Historic District is filled with cafés and inventive kitchens, while River Street offers waterfront dining and sweet shops. At Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room, communal tables serve timeless recipes like meatloaf, butter beans and black-eyed peas. For refined regional flavors, visit The Olde Pink House for fried green tomatoes and sweet corn, or try The Grey, a 1938 Art Deco Greyhound bus terminal-turned-restaurant, for creative dishes like cornbread dressing with scallops. After sampling Lowcountry flavors, drive an hour to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, for beaches and seafood.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island welcomes you with pristine beaches, salt and freshwater marshes and live oak trees. From laid-back beach bars to polished dining rooms, the island’s flavors are as diverse as its landscapes. Join locals for a traditional Lowcountry boil of shrimp, crab and corn, or dine at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, a favorite for over 50 years. Stop by Skull Creek Boathouse for casual plates with seaside views or enjoy an intimate dinner with live music at The Jazz Corner. After you’ve savored island breezes and oyster roasts, continue two hours northeast to Charleston for history and haute cuisine.

Charleston, South Carolina

Founded in 1670,Charleston pairs rich colonial and Civil War history with coastal elegance, an outstanding food scene and Lowcountry hospitality. From oceanside oyster bars to comfy cafés, every meal feels like a bespoke experience. Modern eatery Husk rotates its menu daily, offering seasonal takes on Southern favorites, while Fleet Landing serves fresh seafood right on the Charleston Harbor waterfront. For sunset views, enjoy cocktails and craft beers on a rooftop patio. Charleston’s harbor views and historic streets are the perfect send-off before heading three hours northwest to Greenville,South Carolina.

Greenville, South Carolina

Greenville flaunts a walkable and waterfall-filled downtown, proximity to mountain trails and a thriving culinary scene. Stroll along downtown Greenville’s tree-shaded sidewalks lined with cafés, farm-to-table spots and eateries serving global flavors. At Soby’s, savor dishes like pimento cheese dip and hearty pork chops with seasonal accompaniments. Jianna serves Italian-inspired plates with a Lowcountry twist – and picture-perfect views of Falls Park. An hour north, Asheville, North Carolina, awaits with mountain-inspired cuisine, local brews and scenic panoramas.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville anchors the Blue Ridge Mountains with a downtown full of Art Deco buildings, locally owned shops and hip brewpubs. Food takes center stage here, with 15 farmers markets, over 250 independent restaurants and more than 20 local craft breweries. Chefs highlight farm-fresh Appalachian and Southern ingredients such as heirloom tomatoes, wild onions, artisan cheeses and spicy apple butter. While Asheville is known as Beer City USA, it’s also home to one of the country’s most-visited wineries at Biltmore Estate. Just two hours away, Boone,North Carolina, offers even more small-town treasures.

Boone, North Carolina

Boone is a must-see stop for food lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The city sits amid the Appalachian Mountains, where the Blue Ridge Parkway and Linn Cove Viaduct offer breathtaking views. Indulge in downhome comfort food like slow-cooked pork, savory stews and baked biscuits. Craft breweries, including Lost Province Downton Brewpub and Appalachian Mountain Brewery, offer regionally inspired beers. Try their unique drafts infused with Appalachian flavors like chestnut, honey or local berries for a delicious tasting experience. Less than 20 minutes away, your next stop in Blowing Rock offers scenic adventures and an inviting downtown.

Blowing Rock, North Carolina

Visitors to Blowing Rock are drawn to its small-town character and mountain adventures, from natural overlooks to the famous Tweetsie Railroad, a steam-powered train and Wild West theme park dating back to the 1950s. Dine inside a log cabin at The Best Cellar for hearty mountain-inspired dishes, like roasted duck and North Carolina Mountain Trout. For a sweet treat, stop by Blue Deer on Main to create your own ice cream cookie sandwich with locally made cookies and ice cream. Next, head two hours south to Charlotte for nightlife and city sights.

Charlotte, North Carolina

InCharlotte, adventure is always on the menu. This fast-growing Southern city is known for NASCAR racing and cosmopolitan neighborhoods. The dining scene features inventive chefs, mixologists and brewers putting fresh spins on Southern classics. At Optimist Hall, wander through more than 20 food and drink stalls, sampling flavors from around the world. Grab a table at  Camp North End to enjoy delicious options ranging from ramen to Latin street food. Live music and cocktails mobile cocktail bars keep the good vibes going. From Charlotte, it’s about a three-hour drive to North Carolina’s capital and the final stop on your culinary and sightseeing adventure.

Raleigh, North Carolina

You’ll discover vibrant arts and culture, a legendary music scene and renowned restaurants inRaleigh. Eclectic gems are scattered across the city, including Brewery Bhavana. Stop by this Belgium-inspired brewpub that also houses a dim sum restaurant, community library, bookstore and flower shop. Craving even more variety? Morgan Street and Transfer Co. Food Halls serve everything from tacos to ice cream. When happy hour hits, sample from the world’s largest draft selection with more than 350 options at the Raleigh Beer Garden. Once you’ve had your fill in Raleigh, plan to fly home via Raleigh-Durham International Airport.

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