20 Spectacular Free Tourist Attractions in the Southeast
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
16. Pinellas trail
This wonderful 75 mile long bike path has been inducted into the Rail Trail Hall of Fame. It is easily one of the best bike trails in the country. Rail trails are basically multi-use recreational trails created on former railroad corridors. Running from Tarpon Springs to St. Petersburg, there is lots to see and do along the course. If you are not up for a long ride, simply pick a section (the 7 mile route from Dunedin to Tarpon Springs is fantastic). Not only is exercising on the trail a great way to burn some calories sand soak in some sunshine, but it’s also a great way to explore the area without dealing with the congestion and traffic. Highlights along the route:
- Downtown Dunedin – Charming Main St. home to many local independent restaurants and shops. Check out The Beatles museum.
- Downtown Tarpon Springs – The Greek capital of the world is home to the largest percentage of Greek Americans. Treat yourself to a spanakopita and Baklava cheesecake at Hellas. Also 90% of sponges are harvested here, making it “the sponge capital of the world.”
- Wall Springs Park – Historic Palm Harbor park was once home to a healing mineral spa. Now home to a 35 observation tower & nature trails.
17. Charleston historic district
The second largest city in South Carolina is home to a wonderful historic downtown which has been declared a National Historic Landmark. Beautiful 18th and 19th century buildings dot the historic district. Prevalent architectural types include: Greek Revival, Georgian, Classical Revival, and Gothic revival. The French Quarter is a gorgeous section of the city home to many old churches. Charleston was nicknamed “the Holy City,” for the abundance of places of worship, in addition to its’ past history of religious tolerance. Although you could book a pricey carriage tour, free walking tours are a budget friendly alternative.
Historic district highlights
- Rainbow Row – Block of 13 colorful pastel colored houses – one of the top photographed spots in the city.
- Charleston Battery – Defensive seawall home to multi million dollar mansions.
- City Market – 200+ year old market where you can shop for handmade artisan goods.
- Old City Jail – In operation between 1802 and 1939, it housed many notorious criminals. Not surprisingly, today it is considered haunted. Tours available.
18. Hilton Head Island beaches & bike trails
One of the best vacation destinations in the Southeast is beautiful Hilton Head Island. Although hotel rates can be pricey, many beautiful resorts are heavily discounted during the off season. Hilton Head, located in the low-key lowcountry region of South Carolina, is a nice quiet alternative to oftentimes rowdy spring break hotspot Myrtle Beach. Hilton Head is known for its’ award-winning golf courses, beaches, biking paths, and spas. With 12 miles of coastline, you have plenty of beautiful beaches to enjoy. Coligny is a wonderful free choice.
Also be sure to enjoy the extensive biking network featuring over 108 miles of paved recreational paths. The community was recognized as one of only 21 U.S. cities awarded the Gold Level Bicycle Friendly Community Award from the League of American Bicyclists. Also, Audubon Newhall Preserve is a fantastic place to birdwatch.
Check out my HHI Vacation Guide for more fun ideas for your trip.
19. Asheville art district
This small city in the Blue Ridge mountains is often acknowledged for its’ proximity to natural wonders. It’s definitely a great base for exploring the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway, as well as many waterfalls and hiking trails in the Pisgah National Forest. However, “the Paris of the South” also enjoys a thriving art scene including endless art related events and festival throughout the year. Most notably, the River Arts District is a tourist hotspot. This former industrial area, once home to many factories, has been transformed into a colorful art oasis. Today, you can visit working art studios, attend art walks, and enjoy colorful & creative graffiti art on the exteriors of many old buildings.
More Asheville art gems
- Woolworth Walk – Historic department store now home to 175 local artists. Gorgeous place to browse through even if you don’t intend to buy anything. Located downtown. I have found many surprisingly wonderful and affordable art pieces here including a beautiful Abbey Cats Beatles inspired painting.
- Grovewood Village – Adjacent to the beautiful Omni Grove Park Inn. At one point, it was home to the woodworking & weaving operations of Biltmore Industries. Today, you can tour an antique car museum, visit Biltmore Homespun Museum, view live craft demos, and marvel at an outdoor sculpture garden.
- Lexington Glassworks – Enjoy live glass blowing demonstrations. Located downtown.
- Kress Emporium – Highlights the works of more than 80 talented local artists. Located downtown.
20. Greenville Museum of Art
Small, yet wonderful free museum considered to be the best American art museum in the South. The museum’s claim to fame is being home to the largest collection of watercolors by renowned artist Andrew Wyeth. Also quite impressive are the many paintings/drawings by artist Jasper Johns. The museum frequently hosts special exhibits, so there is something new and interesting to see no matter when your visit falls. I was a regular visitor during my 2 years living in Greenville. I love that they frequently run special exhibitions to keep things interesting.
