TRAVEL RESOURCE: The South

From Mark Twain to Harper Lee, from The Sound and the Fury to Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café, Southern literature has been transporting readers to the distinct history, culture, and character of the American South for centuries. In the following pages of Destinations, we’ll take you on a journey to ABA member attractions and experiences that exemplify why the South is one of the most written about regions of the U.S.

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Alabama

Set in the South: Year of Alabama Food

“Welcome to Alabama, where we’re celebrating the Year of Food with a feast for your taste buds. Dive into our vibrant culinary tapestry, from mouthwatering barbecues to the legendary flavors of Fried Green Tomatoes at [places like] the Whistle Stop Café. Experience the literary magic of Monroeville, Montgomery, Birmingham, Mobile, and Huntsville, where every bite tells a story and every meal is a celebration of our heritage. Discover why Alabama is a hotspot for foodies and history buffs alike, offering a tantalizing blend of Southern flavors and unforgettable cultural experiences. I invite groups to come hungry and leave inspired. After all, this is Alabama, where every meal is an unforgettable journey!”

—Shawna Faniel, Senior National Sales Manager,
Alabama Tourism Department

To learn more about Alabama’s diverse dining experiences, visit alabama.travel. For Alabama tour itineraries and other group travel resources, visit tourism.alabama.gov or contact Shawna Faniel, National Sales Manager, Alabama Tourism Department, at shawna.faniel@tourism.alabama.gov or (334) 353-1907.

Alabama Tourism Department | tourism.alabama.gov, (334) 242-4169

Photo credits: CHRIS GRANGER; ART MERIPOL; JAMIE MARTIN.

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Arkansas

Set in the South: Grit Meets Charm in Fort Smith

“Today’s Fort Smith offers a vibrant, updated twist on the dusty town described in Charles Portis’s classic Western novel, True Grit. In it, he tells the story of Deputy U.S. Marshal Rooster Cogburn, which is a character role that earned American actor John Wayne an Academy Award for the 1969 movie adaptation. Now, Fort Smith’s unique blend of modern-Southern charm and old Wild West grit make it a new frontier for visitors to explore. It’s a one-of-a-kind city full of thoughtful art and music, historical sites, fun outdoor adventures, and flavorful dining. We’d love to welcome your groups to Fort Smith for their next adventure!”

—Amy Jones, Director of Sales, Fort Smith CVB

Easily accessible for motorcoach groups and served by major highways and scenic routes, Fort Smith in Western Arkansas has unique attractions and experiences for groups of all ages and interests to enjoy. Art lovers can take a guided tour of the Regional Art Museum, a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Fort Smith that features permanent and rotating fine art exhibits, programs, artist-led workshops, a gift shop, and more. While downtown, discover The Unexpected Project—vibrant murals painted by local and international artists on various outdoor spaces. For history buffs, the new U.S. Marshals Museum, which opened in 2023, features five immersive galleries that educate groups about America’s oldest federal law enforcement agency. 

Learn more about Fort Smith’s group-friendly dining, state and regional parks, historic sites, and concerts and annual events such as the Fort Smith Levitt Amp Series and Peacemaker Music Festival at discoverfortsmith.com or contact Jones at amy@fortsmith.org.

Fort Smith CVB | discoverfortsmith.com, (479) 783-8888

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Florida

Set in the South: Daytona Beach Prohibition Era Tour

“The Daytona Beach area is known for its 23 miles of serene white sand beaches and thrilling Daytona International Speedway. But did you know it’s also steeped in history from the Prohibition era? Groups can step back into the world of speakeasies and bootlegging on the Prohibition Era Tour, one of the many themed itineraries developed by the Daytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau to help tour operators provide immersive and unforgettable experiences for groups.”

—Karen DiGiacomo, Tour and Travel Sales Manager, Daytona Beach CVB

Start your Prohibition Era Tour at the Halifax Historical Museum, located in the 1910 Merchants Bank Building on historic Beach Street in downtown Daytona Beach, where you’ll learn about the area’s famous sea captain and rumrunner, Bill McCoy. Known as “The Real McCoy” for the quality and unadulterated whiskey, rum, and other spirits he smuggled into the eastern coast of the U.S. during Prohibition, McCoy was also a skilled yacht builder for millionaires like Andrew Carnegie and the Vanderbilts.

After a walking tour of the Riverfront Esplanade, enjoy a scenic cruise along the Halifax River—the same waters McCoy once sailed. Sample artisan spirits and find out how sugar cane transforms into liquor at Copper Bottom Craft Distillery; learn first-hand the history of the historic and iconic Streamline Hotel, once home to moonshine runners; relax and soak in the speakeasy vibe of 31 Supper Club; and more. 

No trip to “The World’s Most Famous Beach” is complete without a chance to soak in the warm Florida sunshine. So, grab your beach read (a rare copy of Frederic F. Van de Water’s The Real McCoy, perhaps?), stay awhile, and let the team at the Daytona Beach Area CVB help you create lasting memories for your group. Visit daytonabeach.com or contact DiGiacomo at kdigiacomo@daytonabeach.com and (386) 255-0415.

Daytona Beach CVB | daytonabeach.com, (386) 255-0415

Photo credits: RIVERFRONT ESPLANADE; DAYTONA BEACH AREA CVB.

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Georgia

Set in the South: Charming, Inspiring Pooler

“Nestled just a stone’s throw from the historic charm of Savannah, Ga., Pooler welcomes you with open arms. Whether you are planning a group excursion or are in town attending our annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival (with round-trip motorcoach shuttle service between Pooler and Savannah), Pooler offers an inviting blend of Southern hospitality and modern convenience. From its vibrant shopping at Tanger Outlets and delectable group-friendly dining options to its rich cultural attractions like the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force, there is something for everyone in this charming town. Come explore Pooler, where every visitor is treated like family, and every moment is infused with warmth and welcome.”

—Sharon Dupont, Director of Visitor Economy,
Greater Pooler Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau

Located in southeastern Georgia, Pooler is approximately 10 miles northwest of downtown Savannah where the Eighth Air Force was activated in January 1942. Adult and student groups can take a docent-led tour of the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force, which showcases the history of the Eighth Air Force during World War II and features over 90,000 square feet of exhibits, including “Honoring the Eighth,” displaying some of the personal, treasured items of the men; “A Brush With Destiny,” an exhibit of artwork by those who served; the interactive “Gunner” exhibit where visitors practice shooting down enemy fighters; and more. Add a buffet luncheon at Miss Sophie’s on-site restaurant before or after your tour or relax and enjoy a dinner buffet at Western Sizzlin.

History buffs can read about the U.S. Army Air Forces unit that played a critical role in the air campaign against Nazi Germany in museum Trustee Emeritus Donald Miller’s book Masters of the Air, which was also the inspiration for the 2024 Apple TV+ miniseries. For help planning your visit to Pooler contact Dupont at sharon@poolerchamber.com.

Greater Pooler Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau | visitpooler.com, (912) 748-0110

Photo credits: NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE MIGHTY EIGHTH AIR FORCE; NAAN APETIT; GREATER POOLER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND VISITORS BUREAU;SAVANNAH SPORTS COUNCIL; VISIT SAVANNAH.

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Kentucky

Set in the South: Louisville’s Seelbach Hotel

“Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025, the classic novel The Great Gatsby may not exist had it not been for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s time in Louisville, Ky. Inspired by his frequent visits to the city’s Seelbach Hotel, Fitzgerald mixed and mingled with infamous mobsters, gangsters, and the ‘King of the Bootleggers,’ George Remus, who is said to have been the inspiration for the title character, Jay Gatsby. During your next visit to Louisville, we invite you to stay, tour, or grab a bourbon and champagne cocktail at the Seelbach Hotel, known as the location for the extravagant wedding of Daisy Buchanan (the object of Gatsby’s love) and her husband, Tom.”

—Saundra Robertson, Senior Tourism Sales Manager, Louisville Tourism

The Seelbach Hotel is located in the center of downtown Louisville, close to museums, theaters, shopping, dining, and attractions and experiences like the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Churchill Downs, and Louisville Ballet. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this architectural masterpiece boasts more than 300 luxury guest rooms and suites, the elegant Grand Ballroom captured in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, the medieval-style Rathskeller banquet room, made of rare Rookwood Pottery, and more.

For help planning your group tour of Louisville, visit gotolouisville.com or contact Robertson at srobertson@gotolouisville.com or (502) 560-1496.

Louisville Tourism | gotolouisville.com, (888) 568-4784

Photo credit: LOUISVILLE TOURISM.

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Mississippi

Set in the South: Jackson’s Literary Tradition

“The City With Soul—Jackson, Miss.—invites groups and tour operators to immerse themselves in its literary culture. Not to be missed is the Eudora Welty House and Garden, where you’ll discover the inspiration behind Welty’s vivid Southern tales. Walk the halls of the Smith Robertson Museum and Cultural Center, where writer Richard Wright began his journey. The Margaret Walker Center at Jackson State University is a must-experience destination for a study in the history, life, and culture of Black people during the Civil Rights Movement. These landmarks offer a personal connection to the stories that have shaped Southern literature, highlighting Jackson’s unique and influential role in American storytelling.”

—Paul Wolf, Director of Destination Storytelling,
Visit Jackson

Whether you want to time your visit to coincide with the annual Mississippi Book Festival held each September or you’re looking for a few more unique experiences to add to your group itinerary, the team at Visit Jackson can help customize your tour. Contact Sherri Ratliff, senior business development  manager, at sratliff@visitjackson.com to learn more about Jackson’s literary attractions that inspire creatives of all ages and interests. Highlights include the typewriter, literary awards, and other possessions of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Eudora Welty at the Eudora Welty House and Garden; the Jackson State University campus where English professor and writer Margaret Walker founded the Black Studies Institute and where her manuscript collections are housed today; and even a stop for lunch at Brent’s Drugs, the restaurant featured in the book and film version of the historical fiction novel The Help.

Visit Jackson | visitjackson.com, (800) 354-7695

Photo credits: TOM BECK; DREW DEMPSEY – TELL AGENCY; VISITJACKSON.

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South Carolina

Set in the South: Hopsewee Plantation

“With its natural beauty and Southern hospitality, historic Hopsewee Plantation is that special place where human history and Southern charm combine to create a memorable experience for everyone. Come take a guided tour of the home, built in the 1740s and  the birthplace of Thomas Lynch Jr., one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Enjoy lunch in our beautiful River Oak Cottage Tearoom and explore original slave cabins. Visit our new Hopsewee Museum, where we share the experience of the enslaved West Africans on this historic plantation, including their contributions to the wealth and influence of colonial South Carolina.”

—Raejean Beattie, Co-Owner, Hopsewee Plantation

Located in Georgetown—midway between Myrtle Beach and Charleston—Hopsewee Plantation is a National Historic Landmark that was once one of the South’s major rice plantations. Groups can learn about the rich history of Hopsewee and its previous and current owners by taking  a guided house tour. Groups can also enjoy a three-course Southern Tea or Lowcountry favorites, explore the Hopsewee Historical Museum, walk through original slave cabins, or learn sweetgrass basketmaking and see indigo-dyeing demonstrations.

Indigo was one of the largest exports out of South Carolina and the first cash crop for the plantation. Based on the real story of Eliza Lucus, The Indigo Girl by Natasha Boyd tells a fascinating historical fiction account of how a teenage girl produced indigo dye to save her family’s plantations and ended up playing a pivotal role in South Carolina’s agricultural history. 

Although her accomplishments are largely overlooked, when Lucas passed away in 1793, President George Washington served as a pallbearer at her funeral.

For Hopsewee Plantation hours, accessibility information, reservations, and more, visit hopsewee.com, email mail@hopsewee.com or call (843) 546-7891.

Hopsewee Plantation | hopsewee.com, (843) 546-7891

Photo credit: HOPSEWEE.

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Virginia

Set in the South: 40 Years of Loudoun Wine

“Now is the perfect time for groups to visit Loudoun, Va., as the destination celebrates the 40th anniversary of its wine region. Beginning with Willowcroft Farm Vineyards, which bottled Loudoun’s first wine in 1984, the county is now home to 50 wineries and vineyards, all within an hour’s drive of the nation’s capital. Groups can take in the breathtaking views of the countryside as they experience unique pairings, seated tastings, tours, and even a dinner theater production inside a historic building on a vineyard. Complement your wine experience with guided tours through our historic towns filled with great boutiques and farm-to-table dining.”

—Hannah Oliver, Tour & Travel Sales Manager, Visit Loudoun

Did you know? Loudoun County may be DC’s Wine Country^®, but it’s literary country, too. A single street in tiny Waterford (est. 1733 and a National Historic Landmark), has been home to three Pulitzer Prize-winning writers: Larry McMurtry (Lonesome Dove), Geraldine Brooks (March), and journalist Tony Horwitz, author of Confederates in the Attic, as well as award-winning playwright John Guare (Six Degrees of Separation). 

To learn more about group travel to Loudoun, including group-friendly dining, themed itineraries, and educational student tours, visit visitloudoun.org/groups or contact Oliver at oliver@visitloudoun.org or (703) 669-4434.

Visit Loudoun: DC’s Wine Country | visitloudoun.org, (703) 669-4434

Photo credits: VISIT LOUDOUN; RODNEY BROWN.

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West Virginia

Set in the South: Legendary Group Adventures in Stonewall Country

“Lewis County, W.V.—also known as Stonewall Country—invites groups to experience legendary adventures and unique attractions. Whether you are looking for a one- or two-day itinerary or would like to mix and match your tour options, the Lewis County CVB can help maximize your visit. History enthusiasts will enjoy the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, Appalachian Glass, and museums like the Mountaineer Military Museum and the Museum of American Glass in West Virginia. Thirsty? Head to Lambert’s Winery or MannCave Distillery. Ready for more? Discover an array of outdoor activities at Lewis County Park, Stonewall Sporting Clays, Stonewall Lake and Resort, and more. And this is just the beginning!”

—Chrissy Richards, Executive Director, Lewis County CVB

Steeped in history, the boyhood hometown of Civil War General Thomas J. ‘‘Stonewall’’ Jackson will immerse your group in the rich culture of West Virginia. On a “Present of the Past” itinerary groups can take a historic or paranormal tour at the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum; learn about the history of the region’s glass heritage at the Museum of American Glass, then head to Appalachian Glass for live glass-blowing demonstrations and shopping; tour the beautiful grounds of Lambert’s Winery and sample wine in their tasting room constructed of hand-cut stones from the state. After a good night’s rest at Stonewall Resort, with its breathtaking views from the Adirondack-style lodge, discover West Virginia’s military history at the Mountaineer Military Museum; try your hand at a sporting clay shooting experience at the Stonewall Sporting Clays, open year-round; and quench your thirst with the spirits made at MannCave Distillery.

For a complete list of all the group-friendly attractions, restaurants, hotels, and activities, visit stonewallcountry.com. To customize your tour of Stonewall Country, email Richards at crichards@stonewallcountry.com or call (304) 269-7328. 

Lewis County CVB | stonewallcountry.com, (304) 269-7328

Photo credit: LEWIS COUNTY CVB.