Anticipated Southern Journeys in 2025 as Suggested by Our Expert Team
Anticipated Southern Journeys in 2025 as Suggested by Our Expert Team
As a travel editor with an insatiable desire to explore, my travel wishlist seems to expand perpetually. Each destination I tick off (this year, I can officially cross off Taiwan and the Outer Banks), only encourages me to add more. Fortunately, my career allows me plenty of opportunities to traverse the South, enabling me to visit some truly amazing places like Daufuskie Island in South Carolina and Harpers Ferry in West Virginia. This year, I discovered that many of my colleagues at Southern Living share my enthusiasm for adventure and wanderlust. When I solicited their travel plans for 2025, an eclectic mix of destinations emerged. Some are planning to visit legendary Southern cities, while others are eager to delve into lesser-known locales. If you're seeking inspiration to guide your travels in the n years, this list of 12 places our editors can't wait to explore in 2025 just might do the trick.
01of 10## The Greenbrier
White Sulphur Springs, Virginia
Features editor Betsy Cribb Watson has long had her sights set on The Greenbrier, an iconic resort nestled in the stunning Allegheny Mountains. Known for its classic Dorothy Draper design, the resort boasts over 710 rooms, eight dining options, four lounges, and more than 55 activities to keep you busy. According to Watson, "I've yet to meet a chintz I don't adore, and this iconic Southern establishment is at the very top of my travel bucket list."
02of 10## Great Smoky Mountains National Park
As America's most popular national park, it's no surprise that senior newswriter Meghan Overdeep has this natural wonder at the top of her list. Spanning Tennessee and North Carolina, there are countless ways to explore the park, from hiking and white-water rafting to scenic drives and fly fishing. Overdeep plans to enhance her trip with stops in Gatlinburg and Dollywood.
03of 10## New Orleans, Louisiana
Few cities capture hearts the way New Orleans does. Beloved Today show host Hoda Kotb said it best, "New Orleans has a heartbeat-it's alive. When the city celebrates, we celebrate. When the city hurts, we hurt. New Orleans has a soul."
Associate homes editor Cameron Beall is determined to immerse himself in the city's unique culture and live music scene in 2025. "As someone who relishes live music, delicious food, and cultural experiences, I've been neglecting an iconic city that's long overdue a visit," he says. Jazz Fest is also on his list of things to experience.
04of 10## Beaufort, South Carolina
Digital editor Kaitlyn Yarborough Sadik had planned a trip to this Lowcountry gem in 2024 but was ultimately unable to go. Now, more motivated than ever, she's eager to explore Beaufort. Finalist in our annual South's Best poll for Best Small Town, Beaufort offers historic charm, beautiful beaches, and breathtaking waterfront vistas. "From the photos I've seen, it looks like an idyllic vacation destination," Sadik says. "I can't wait to bike around and soak up the sunset over a marshy inlet."
05of 10## Austin, Texas
Austin boasts a vibrant culinary scene, live music scene, and countless outdoor activities. Home to the University of Texas and the state's capital, the city has grown progressively popular over the past decade. Deputy editor Lisa Cericola is looking forward to visiting the Texas metropolis in 2025. "The hotel scene is really exciting, and there's so much delicious food and exciting sites to see," she says.
06of 10## Charleston, South Carolina
Our team often refers to Charleston as our "satellite office" due to the endless events and activities taking place in the city. Assistant digital food editor is making a promise to finally visit the picturesque Southern charmer in 2025. "I've never been, and I can't wait to explore the waterfront, history, and a particularly delicious meal at Chubby Fish," she says.
07of 10## Jackson, Mississippi
Last year, associate homes editor Cameron Beall made a brief, whirlwind trip to Jackson for a wedding, and she's since been enchanted with the city's food scene. "I want to return to Jackson to explore more of the city's food scene-Elvie's, the Mayflower Cafe, and Brent's Drugs have all gotten rave reviews," she says. "There are also some fun speakeasy-style bars to check out."
08of 10## Bentonville, Arkansas
Bentonville is the birthplace of Walmart, and it's become an unlikely cultural hub in recent years. Home to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, this burgeoning metropolis has caught the attention of many of our editors. According to senior homes and garden editor Judith Troen, "The modern architecture and beautiful art museum make Bentonville an appealing option on my 2025 travel list."
09of 10## Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville has long been a haven for artists, intellectuals, and nature lovers. With its vibrant arts scene, stunning natural beauty, and world-class breweries, it's no wonder Asheville is a perennial favorite among our editors. "Asheville is simply magical," says senior food editor Robbie Myers. "I'm excited to explore the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains and sip local craft brews at the Biltmore Estate."
10of 10## Paducah, Kentucky
Known as the "World's Most Beautiful Small Town," Paducah is a haven for art enthusiasts and architecture buffs. This picturesque river town offers everything from museums and galleries to the beautiful Broadway Historic District. Senior food editor Robbie Myers is especially excited about the city's impressive murals, regardless of the season. "I love the idea of strolling around town, admiring the murals, and indulging in delicious barbecue," she says.
Around four years ago, our deputy editor Lisa Cericola journeyed to Bentonville, Arkansas for our September 2023 issue. She was left amazed by the city's impressive blend of nature and art. Known for its excellent bike trails and situated in the Ozark Mountains, it's the perfect spot for a serene fall vacation. Lisa is already planning to revisit in 2025, with museums on her mind. The Crystal Bridge Museum will no doubt have a fascinating exhibit, and its satellite location, The Momentary, will be celebrating its fifth birthday that year.
Everglades National Park, Florida
I've set my sights on visiting all 63 national parks in the US. This year, I hope to tick off a few Southern parks from my list. The colossal Everglades National Park, also America's largest subtropical wilderness, covers over 1.5 million acres. It may seem daunting, but I think I've decided to explore from two bases: Everglades City in the west and Homestead in the east. I'm planning on embarking on an airboat tour through the wetland marshes, kayaking through the mangrove-lined channels, and observing the diverse wildlife.
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
My second aspiration for 2025 is another South Florida national park: Dry Tortugas. This place is predominantly water, with just a few sandy island outcrops breaking up the sapphire-blue expanse. The main attraction here is the snorkeling. Located 70 miles off the coast of Key West, Dry Tortugas might be tricky to reach, but that's part of its charm. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, you'll find no modern amenities in the park, but camping under the mind-blowing stargaze and witnessing breathtaking sunsets more than makes up for it.
Did this help? Your thoughts on this matter are greatly appreciated! Let us know why!
- For the upcoming winter, I'm considering adding Southern Living's travel recommendation of The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, Virginia, to my itinerary. This iconic resort offers a plethora of activities, making it an ideal destination for my wanderlust.
- In alignment with Southern Living's editorial team's travel plans for 2025, I am also keen on visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The natural beauty and numerous activities make it an exciting and must-visit Winter Travel Idea.