Considered the heart and soul of America, the Deep South is full of unique history and culture.

Whether you want to sample the delicious cuisine, hike through one of the stunning parks, or listen to some of the world’s best live music, the Deep South has so much to offer.

However, the Southern states also have plenty of lesser-known attractions, offering a truly memorable experience.

The Journeyscape team has pulled together some of the best secret spots to visit in Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee, ensuring you have the trip of a lifetime.

The best SECRET SPOTS IN ALABAMA

Alabama is a great place for history lovers to visit. The state played a major role in the American Civil Rights Movement and one of its most popular attractions is Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. Those interested in military history should head to the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. Here, you can see the battleship itself, the Submarine USS DRUM and over 30 different military aircraft.

But if you fancy exploring some of the state’s less well-known attractions, here are our top suggestions.

1. Avondale Bar & Tap Room, Auburn

Located in Auburn, Avondale Bar & Tap Room is the perfect secret spot to enjoy a drink. In its 20 Tripadvisor reviews, many people recommend the bar for its delicious cocktails. Signature drinks like the Silver Dollar Suzy feature house-made ingredients, such as limoncello made from scratch. The Speakeasy Sour even includes eggs sourced from the general manager’s backyard chickens, giving a homely twist to their offerings.

Avondale is a hidden gem in Auburn, located up a secret staircase next to the Auburn Popcorn Company. Its secluded position overlooking historic Toomer’s Corner offers stunning views, making it a perfect escape from the city’s usual college bar scene​.

2. Aliceville Museum, Aliceville

If you’re interested in history, the Aliceville Museum is a lesser-known spot to visit. Starting in the 1980s in a single room in the Aliceville Public Library, the museum now boasts four extensive exhibits, including the U.S.’s largest collection of WWII prisoner-of-war artefacts.

For a truly unique experience, visit the 1948 Coca-Cola bottling plant exhibit, which features original equipment, employee uniforms, and plenty of collectable memorabilia. Only 1,320 searches were made for the museum over the last year, showing it’s a well-kept secret.

3. Jim Reed Books, Birmingham

Book lovers should add Jim Reed Books to their list of must-visit Alabama attractions. The store, owned by the popular inspirational columnist and author Jim Reed, is filled with literary treasures, ranging from rare first editions and out-of-print classics to vintage magazines and historical newspapers.

Jim Reed is often around, offering friendly conversation and anecdotes, making the visit not just about the books but the experience. Of its 20 Tripadvisor reviews, 10% described Jim Reed Books as a ‘hidden gem’ or ‘undiscovered.’

The locals’ top pick: quilters of gees bend

Since the 19th century, women living in the African American settlement of Gee’s Bend, Alabama, have been practising the art of quilting. The area is named after Joseph Gee, who established a cotton plantation in 1816 after acquiring 6,000 acres of land.  The residents of Gee’s Bend are direct descendants of the enslaved people who worked at the plantation.

The women mainly made their famous quilts to keep themselves and their families warm, using materials such as old work clothing, fertiliser and flour sacks. Since then, the quilts made by the Gee’s Bend women have become an integral part of the African American contributions to the history of art in the US. Their creations are now a permanent exhibition in over 40 museums across three continents. You can view their work at four locations in Alabama: The Equal Justice Initiative, the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, The Alabama Department of Archives and History and the Birmingham Museum of Art.

The best cities in alabama for hidden attractions

As expected, Alabama’s capital, Montgomery, is the best city for those visiting hidden attractions. Almost 3% of the city’s attractions are classified as ‘hidden gems’ on Tripadvisor, including the Dexter Parsonage Museum, the Hank Williams Memorial, and the Eastbrook Flea Market.

Following closely behind is the largest city in Morgan County – Decatur. Here, you can visit the Cook Museum of Natural Science, which provides an immersive experience for kids and adults alike. Nature lovers can also see the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, home to many animals, including Canada and snow geese, Flame Chub and River Redhorse fish, and American alligators.

The best secret spots in louisiana

Louisiana is a melting pot of different cultures, including American, French and African. One of the things that the state is most famous for is the French Quarter in the city of New Orleans. Here, you can view stunning colonial architecture, watch skilled street performers, marvel at local landmarks, and listen to amazing live music.

If you fancy exploring some lesser-known gems, then here are our top secret spots in Louisiana.

1. Louisiana Military Museum, Ruston

The Louisiana Military Museum in Ruston is a great secret spot for history fans. Three areas are available for visitors, featuring various items from WWII, the Civil War, and the Spanish-American War.

Outside is also a range of aircraft, artillery, and other war vehicles, including tanks, cannons, and helicopters. 7.41% of the attraction’s Tripadvisor reviews mention terms such as ‘hidden gem’ or ‘undiscovered.’

2. Le Musee de f.p.c, New Orleans

Le Musee de f.p.c is one of the few museums in the U.S. dedicated to telling the story of free people of colour. The residence and its vicinity were originally part of the Domingo Fleitas plantation. Now, guests can admire an extensive collection of documents, paintings, and decorative arts made by those of African descent in New Orleans.

6.82% of Le Musee de f.p.c’s Tripadvisor reviews describe the museum as a ‘hidden gem’ and an ‘undiscovered’ attraction. Tours of the museum are limited, so booking in advance is essential if you want to experience this truly unique secret spot.

3.Southern Heritage Air Foundation, Tallulah

Aviation lovers should add the Southern Heritage Air Foundation to their must-visit list in Louisiana. The museum spans over 11,000 sq. ft. and is home to various aviation-related artefacts. Multiple displays honour local and regional veterans.

True daredevils can ride in one of the foundation’s four planes, including the Aviat Husky and the AT-6 Texan. Only 740 searches were made for the Southern Heritage Air Foundation over the last year, proving it is one of Louisiana’s best-kept secrets.

The locals’ top pick: TOLEDO BEND STATE PARK

If you’re a nature lover, then Toledo Bend State Park is the perfect place to visit in Louisiana. The park offers stunning scenic views of the waterfront and its nearby islands, and there is a 3,000-foot surfaced nature trail that you can use to explore the area. You can also partake in multiple outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling.

The reservoir itself is recognised nationally as a bass fishing tournament location, but plenty of other fish can be found in the water, including catfish, bream and white perch. The park is also a common nesting place for bald eagles, making it perfect for birdwatching.

The best cities in louisiana for hidden attractions

Known for its vibrant music scene, delicious cuisine, and stunning architecture, it’s no surprise that New Orleans is the best city in Louisiana for hidden attractions. 79 of the 1,749 total attractions in the city are classified as a ‘hidden gem’ on Tripadvisor, totalling 4.52%. Some of the best secret spots include Longue Vue House and Gardens, the Backstreet Cultural Museum, and the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture.

Shreveport also has multiple secret spots for tourists, such as the R. W. Norton Art Gallery, which includes the works of over 100 artists dating back to the 16th century. Activity lovers can visit Escape Shreveport, where you must find clues, solve puzzles, and crack codes as a team to escape the room.

The best secret spots in MISSISSIPPI

Mississippi has a huge music scene and is often considered to be the birthplace of blues music. Of course, the ‘King of Rock and Roll’ himself, Elvis Presley, was born in the city of Tupelo and you can visit a museum full of artifacts from his childhood. The Delta Blues Museum located in Clarksdale presents the history of the blues through photographs, written words and instruments.

If you prefer to go off-the-beaten track, then here are our favourite hidden attractions to visit in Mississippi.

1. Red Bluff, Foxworth

Anyone who loves to admire natural beauty should visit Red Bluff. Located in the town of Foxworth, the bluff was formed after the erosion of the west bank of the Pearl River. From the bluff, views of the Pearl River Basin and the eastern portion of the city of Colombia can be seen.

Visitors have described the attraction as “the mini Grand Canyon of Mississippi” and claimed it is perfect for adventurers. Just 180 searches were made for the Red Bluff formation within the past year, proving that it is one of the best-kept secrets in Mississippi.

2. Hops and Growlers, Ocean Springs 

If you love to experience a location by sampling the local beers, then Hops and Growlers is the perfect place to visit. The brewpub in Ocean Springs has an extensive list of beers to choose from, including stouts, pilsners, and IPAs. This means there’s something for everyone, depending on your personal preference.

Hops and Growlers also host weekly Trivia Tuesdays, making it the perfect secret spot to hang out with friends or family. Over 9% of the brew pub’s reviews on Tripadvisor describe the attraction as a ‘hidden gem’ or ‘undiscovered.’

3. African American Military History Museum, Hattiesburg

Those wanting to discover a history-filled secret spot in Mississippi should visit the African American Military History Museum. Located in Hattiesburg, the museum offers a range of exhibits, from World War I and II to the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Guests can also try on the uniforms of various branches of the military.

The museum is open from Wednesday to Saturday, and admission is free, making it an excellent option for those on a budget. 3.33% of the museum’s Tripadvisor reviews use terms such as ‘hidden gem’ and ‘undiscovered.’

The locals’ top pick: cypress swamp

Cypress Swamp is the ideal place to visit if you’re a fan of both history and nature. The location was once home to the Pearl River, before it changed course. The hiking trail weaves through an abandoned river channel adorned with various types of trees, such as willow, sycamore, red maple and of course, bald cypress.

Cypress Swamp also provides access to the Yockanookany Section of the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail. Avid hikers can walk 14.1 miles south to the West Florida Boundary or 8.9 miles north to the Yockanookany Trailhead.

The best cities in MISSISSIPPI for hidden attractions

Hattiesburg is the perfect city to visit for those interested in military history. In addition to the African American Military History Museum, Hattiesburg is also home to the Mississippi Armed Forces Museum. While wandering through the exhibits, visitors can learn wartime history and admire a variety of artefacts. Multiple educational activities are also available for children in grades three through 12.

If you fancy stepping away from educational activities and taking on a challenge, then make sure to visit Time Will Tell Escape Games. Five game rooms are available: KillerInn, The Great Western Heist, Kidnapped!, Steampunk’d, and The Crossroads. Each room has a different difficulty level, meaning the whole family can enjoy this secret activity.

The best secret spots in tennessee 

The state of Tennessee is also incredibly famous for its music scene. The performance show that made country music so popular, The Grand Ole Opry, is listed as Nashville’s number one attraction. You can also visit Graceland in the city of Memphis, which is better known as Elvis Presley’s former home. It is now the world’s largest and most comprehensive Elvis-themed museum.

If you’re looking for something a bit different on your next holiday, here’s our must-visit list of secret spots in Tennessee.

1. Little Congress Bicycle Museum, Cumberland Gap

Lovers of all things quirky should visit the Little Congress Bicycle Museum in Cumberland Gap. The museum has a vast and ever-growing collection of unique bicycles that showcase style, engineering, and the American way of life. R. E. McClanahan II, an avid bicycle collector and historian, has collected the items for over 41 years.

The museum opened in 2003 and is home to many bicycle models, including the Manark Super Deluxe, the Schwinn Krate Lemon Peeler, and the Elgin Equipped Standard Frame. Only 760 searches for the museum were made last year, showing just how unique the attraction is.

2. Picker’s Creek Winery, Lewisburg

Picker’s Creek Winery is the perfect secret spot for wine connoisseurs. Located in Lewisburg, the vineyard is owned by Phil and Lydia Butler George. Visitors can enjoy some live music and sample various wines while sitting on one of the expansive porches, under the trees, or by the bonfire.

The vineyard is home to unique and delicious wines, including the Harmony blend made of Chambourcin and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, the Tennessee Twang, and the Blackberry Blues. A massive 13.51% of Picker’s Creek Winery’s Tripadvisor reviews use terms such as ‘hidden gem’ and ‘undiscovered’.

3. Colditz Cove State Natural Area, Jamestown and Dandridge Golf & Country Club, Dandridge

Nature lovers visiting Tennessee should experience the beautiful scenery at Colditz Cove State Natural Area. The 165-acre cove is full of lush greenery, high cliffs, and wildlife, like the Black Mountain dusky salamander and the woodland jumping mouse. It’s also home to the stunning 60-foot Northrup Falls waterfall alongside Big Branch Creek.

There’s also a perfect secret spot for keen golfers in Dandridge. The town’s golf and country club was one of the first golf courses built in the area. The 27-hole complex is located among various valleys, hills, and woodlands, providing stunning backdrops. Visitors can also access amazing views of the Great Smoky Mountains and Douglas Lake.

The locals’ top pick: the lost sea

Listed as ‘America’s Largest Underground Lake’ in the Guiness Book of World Records, The Lost Sea is a must-visit attraction. Located inside Craighead Caverns, tours around The Lost Sea provide the perfect opportunity to marvel at rare rock formations, sloping pathways and immense cavern rooms.

By taking part in one of the tours, you can learn all about the cavern’s history. There’s also a ⅓ mile nature trail that winds through a cove-hardwood forest, allowing you to take in some stunning scenery.

The best cities in TENNESSEE for hidden attractions

Franklin, Tennessee, has the most hidden attractions, at 4.83%. This includes Leiper’s Fork Distillery, perfect for those who like to sample local drinks. The small-batch whiskey distillery produces just 25,000 gallons of liquor yearly, allowing for greater attention to detail. Tours of Leiper’s Fork Distillery take place from Tuesday to Sunday and are priced from $24.

You can find the perfect secret spot in Jackson for avid film and TV buffs. Rusty’s TV and Movie Car Museum is home to over 50 iconic cars, trucks, and motorcycles featured on both the big and small screen. Famous vehicles from Jurassic Park, Transformers, and Ghostbusters can all be found at the museum.

Methodology:

We began by using Tripadvisor to create a seed list of ‘hidden gem’ attractions in Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee. We used only attractions rated 4+ stars and with less than 500 reviews.

We then found the number of reviews for each attraction, including the terms ‘hidden gem’ and ‘undiscovered,’ before calculating this as a percentage of the total reviews.

Next, we used Google Keyword Planner to record the total U.S. searches for each attraction between September 2023 and August 2024. Any attractions with no available search data were removed from the seed list.

We then used World Population Review to find the top ten biggest cities in Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee. We recorded the total number of attractions in each city and the number of ‘hidden gem’ attractions before calculating this as a percentage of the total.

All information was compiled by Journeyscape.