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    • The Best New Haircuts to Try in 2022

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    The Coziest Winter Nail Colors for January 2022

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    The beginning of a new year often has us all feeling like starting off fresh by taking on better habits, getting rid of old ones, and—most commonly—changing up our look. While others are hitting the squats and going into the salon for a pixie cut, why not start slow and steady with a cozy winter manicure in a color that feels new to you? It takes only a little courage to step outside your usual OPI Lincoln Park After Dark or Essie Bordeaux, which is all you need to kick 2022 off on a fanciful foot.  From new wintry takes on classic dark nail colors to unique pops of color that'll have you feeling the opposite of boring, these are the best nail colors to try this January and tick off all the way into spring. 
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    16 Kitchen Design Trends Southern Designers Predict Will Be Everywhere in 2022

    16 Kitchen Design Trends Southern Designers Predict Will Be Everywhere in 2022

    There's no denying how the pandemic fundamentally changed the world—including how we live (and work) inside our homes. An overall trend toward celebrating the history and originality of our homes is displacing ultramodern aesthetics and sharp lines as we all look to create cozier, colorful, more personalized spaces that better suit our lifestyles. We're turning away from big-box stores and toward vintage items—first, out of necessity due to supply-chain issues, and now, for design reasons—to add charm and character to every room in the house, including the kitchen. Here, interior designers from around the South share their predictions for what's trending in kitchen design for 2022 and beyond.
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  3. 50 Undiscovered Places You'll Love in the South

50 Undiscovered Places You'll Love in the South

Valerie Fraser Luesse, Author and Senior Travel Editor for Southern Living
By Valerie Fraser Luesse
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Standing Along Cinnamon Shore Texas
Credit: Robbie Caponetto
Part of the fun of travel is discovery—and that never gets old, no matter how many miles you roam. Some places can be famous locally or within select circles and remain undiscovered by the rest of us. Maybe it's that tucked-away blues joint that everybody in town knows about but you've never heard of. It could be a big city attraction with a hidden gem; a secret bottle of sauce that will transform whatever you just ordered; or a mysterious mailbox on an undisturbed beach with no house in sight. What on earth? Some things you just have to see for yourself. So check out our discoveries and then make your own list. (And check it twice.)
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Take Your Camera: Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge

Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
Credit: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau

These 7,000 protected acres on the Fort Morgan Peninsula at Gulf Shores represent a rare find in Alabama: undeveloped, pristine coastal barrier habitat. The refuge not only offers free beach access but is also a magnet for photographers, birders, hikers, anglers, and paddlers. (Tip: The one-mile Jeff Friend Trail is universally accessible.)Bon Secour National Wildlife RefugeGulf Shores, Alabama

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Coming Soon: Coastal Arts Center

Coastal Arts Center Orange Beach
Credit: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau

Visit Alabama’s only public-access glass-blowing studio—The Hot Shop—or try your hand at pottery in The Clay Studio. Both will be housed in the Coastal Arts Center’s new gallery, set to open on Wolf Bay in the spring of 2017. The Center’s annual juried festival will be held March 11-12, 2017.Coastal Arts CenterOrange Beach, Alabama

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Get Sauced: Rusty’s Bar-B-Q

Rusty’s Bar-B-Q Double Burger
Credit: Robbie Caponetto

We love a smokehouse with a few tricks up its sleeve. The 5-ounce burger at Rusty’s stands on hand-pattied beef cooked on a flattop and served with standard fixings. But owner Rusty Tucker puts a bottle of his house-made Alabama white sauce on every table, so fall in step with the locals and squirt some on your burger.Rusty’s Bar-B-Q Leeds, Alabama

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Hidden Blues Trail: Helena to Blytheville

Helena to Blytheville Music Heritage Trail

Chances are, you know all about the Mississippi Delta Blues Trail, but there’s a lesser-known Music Heritage Trail for blues fans in Arkansas. Tune into America’s longest running blues radio show, King Biscuit Time, at KFFA 1360 in Helena, and treat yourself to a stay at the Cedars of Marion B&B in Marion. While you’re in town, have a half-pound Big John Burger at Big John’s Shake Shack.Music Heritage TrailArkansas

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Escape to “The Quiet Resorts”: Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island

Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island Delaware
Credit: Getty Images: The Washington Post/Contributor

Expect a slower pace in these small, family-friendly towns, where most visitors stay in rented beach houses, and you might see kids pedaling their bikes down the street or flying kites on the beach.Bethany Beach and Fenwick IslandDelaware

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Sweet Little Surf Town: Flagler Beach

Flagler Beach Florida
Credit: Robbie Caponetto

Get this: December temps in the 60s and 70s. This great little old-school beach town took a hit from Hurricane Matthew, and some repairs could be ongoing. But iconic beachfront U.S. A1A is open again, as are plenty of Atlantic beaches. There are some terrific local eateries and galleries that are ready and waiting for you, so pack away your Rudolph sweater, break out your Wayfarers, and head on down there.Visit Flagler BeachFlorida

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Swim With the Manatees: Plantation at Crystal River

Plantation at Crystal River Florida
Credit: Plantation on Crystal River

The Plantation at Crystal River—part of Florida’s “Nature Coast”—is the only spot in North America where you can legally swim with the West Indian Manatee in its natural habitat. The resort’s Adventure Center offers guided tours, with prime manatee viewing from October 1 through March 31.Plantation at Crystal RiverCrystal River, Florida

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Florida Blizzard: Now Snowing Nightly

Now Snowing Nightly Family in Snow
Credit: Courtesy of Experience Kissimmee

Through December 31, you can experience nightly snowfalls at 6, 7, 8, and 9 p.m. at the Celebration Town Center. “Now Snowing Nightly” also features strolling carolers, photos with Santa, an ice rink, and more. Now Snowing NightlyKissimmee, Florida

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See the Sponge Docks: Tarpon Springs

Tarpon Springs Man on Boat
Credit: Chris Rogers

This historic town on the Anclote River is just north of St. Petersburg and a short hop from the Gulf of Mexico. Known as the “sponge capital of the world,” it offers gorgeous waterfront views, a historic downtown, and the sponge docks, where you can experience the Greek culture Tarpon Springs is known for.Tarpon SpringsFlorida

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St. Joe Peninsula

St. Joe Peninsula Beach Sunset
Credit: Robbie Caponetto

Looking for a blissfully uncrowded beach? The T.M. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park is home to big dunes, big views, and an unspoiled Gulf beach.St. Joe PeninsulaApalachicola, FL

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Like Sleeping in a Palace: Casa Monica Resort & Spa

Casa Monica Resort Lavish Hotel Florida
Credit: Robbie Caponetto

Built in 1888 by industrial tycoon Henry Flagler, this Moroccan-style hotel in St. Augustine’s historic downtown was renovatedby Richard Kessler for his collection of boutique hotels, The Kessler Collection. You’ll have to see the lobby to believe it. Also enjoy the Cobalt Lounge, Grand Bohemian Art Gallery, Poseidon Spa, and Costa Brava restaurant.Casa Monica Resort & SpaSt. Augustine, Florida

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Happy New Year: Beach Ball Drop

Beach Ball Drop Panama City
Credit: Courtesy of Visit Panama City Beach

This is one beach burg that gets into the holidays. The New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop at Pier Park includes an 8 p.m. countdown for kids, fireworks, and a drop of 10,000 beach balls, followed by more festivities and the lowering of a giant lighted beach ball from the new Celebration Tower to signify the New Year.  Get discounts on lodging during “Beach Home for the Holidays,” and enjoy lots of special entertainment.Beach Ball DropPanama City Beach, Florida

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Beyond the Beltline: Shop, Hike, and Jam

Alpharetta Georgia Ice Skating
Credit: Alpharetta Convention And Visitors Bureau

Just 40 minutes north of Atlanta, find a fun mix of indoor and outdoor adventure— plus retail therapy—in Alpharetta. Explore 16+ miles of hiking and biking trails, or rev it up at the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s internationally recognized rider training classes. Check out three music venues: Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, The Velvet Note, and Matilda’s. Shop 250+ stores across the city’s five shopping districts.Things to do in AlpharettaGeorgia

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Sip the Trail: Georgia’s Wine Country

Georgia’s Wine Country Aerial Shot
Credit: Wolf Mountain Vineyard & Winery

You don’t have to cross “the Pond”—or even the Georgia state line—to savor award-winning wines. Dahlonega, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is home to five wineries and several tasting rooms: Cavender Creek Vineyards & Winery; Frogtown Cellars; Montaluce Winery; Three Sisters Vineyards & Winery; and Wolf Mountain Vineyards. Three limousine and van companies can take you safely along the wine trail.Georgia’s Wine CountryDahlonega, Georgia

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Get Outside: The Dunwoody Nature Center

Dunwoody Nature Center
Credit: Dunwoody Convention and Visitors Bureau

Just outside of Atlanta, escape the hustle and bustle at the nonprofit Dunwoody Nature Center, with hiking trails, gardens, wetlands, geocaching, playgrounds, beehives, and more.Dunwoody Nature CenterDunwoody, Georgia

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Chattahoochee Views: Morgan Falls Overlook Park

Morgan Falls Overlook Park Chattahoochee River
Credit: Sandy Springs Hospitality And Tourism

Besides incredible views of the Chattahoochee River, this 30-acre park also features playgrounds, fishing and boat docks, and bench swings. Rent paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes from The High Country Outfitter’s Paddle Shack, which operates here in season.Morgan Falls Overlook ParkSandy Springs, Georgia

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Visit the “Little Grand Canyon”: Providence Canyon State Park

Providence Canyon State Park Georgia
Credit: Georgia Department of Natural Resources

What began with poor farming practices in the 19th century resulted in one of Georgia’s most beautiful natural wonders, as huge gullies carved canyons in the pink, orange, red, and purple terrain. Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon” offers hiking trails, the Plumleaf Azalea blooming in July and August, and major photo ops.Providence Canyon State ParkLumpkin, Georgia

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Head of the Bourbon Trail: Bardstown

Bardstown Small Town Kentucky
Credit: Robbie Caponetto

The oldest city in the Bluegrass State is home to six distilleries—and roughly 80 percent of the world’s bourbon can be found within 20 miles of downtown. But even if you’re not interested in sippin’, there’s plenty to do in this historic town with an eclectic population.Visit BardstownKentucky

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Ramble the “Red Stick”: Baton Rouge

Visit Baton Rouge Cajun Cuisine
Credit: Alexander’s Highland Market

There are tons of hidden gems in this great river city. For starters, the City Pork franchise is new to Baton Rouge and already has three hot locations. At the Perkins Road Overpass area, find classics like the original George’s restaurant, Zeeland Street Market, and The Royal Standard gift store, plus newer hot spots like Magpie Café (for organic/seasonal food) and The Overpass Merchant (beer garden + bar + restaurant space). More picks: Baton Rouge Beach, a hangout where the LSU Lakes come together; The Rural Life Museum; Alexander’s Highland Market (upscale grocery and café with pop-up markets, Cajun food demos, and wine dinners); and Circa 1857 (an antique store/art gallery/restaurant on a large property).Visit Baton RougeLousiana

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Two NOLA Gems: The Fly & Tchoup Yard

The Fly & Tchoup Yard NOLA
Credit: Rebecca Ratliff/New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau

We wouldn’t exactly call Audubon Park “undiscovered,” but The Fly is another story. Locals come here to sit outside when the weather is nice—or to enjoy a picnic and watch the sun go down over the Mississippi. It’s on the waterfront portion of the park, behind Audubon Zoo. As for Tchoup Yard, just ask a Millennial to point the way. This top-of-the-cool-list bar was opened by the same owners as NOLA legend F&M Patio Bar.The Fly & Tchoup YardNew Orleans, Louisiana

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Explore the Northshore: Covington

Covington Northshore Louisiana LOLA Restaurant
Credit: Courtesy of LouisianaNorthshore.com

Less than an hour from New Orleans, explore Covington and other charming towns on Lake Ponchartrain’s Northshore. The husband-and-wife chef owners of LOLA Restaurant both came from the landmark Brennan's restaurants in New Orleans. After Katrina, they evacuated to the Northshore and eventually decided to open their own place—now much lauded. They’ve even appeared on Chopped. Annadele’s Planation, a B&B and restaurant right off the bayou in Covington, is a great place for a nice dinner; it’s also a popular wedding venue.LOLA ConvingtonSt. Tammany Parish, Louisiana

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Explore the Shore: Talbot County

Talbot County Shoreline Maryland
Credit: Mark Sandlin

Talbot County has 600 miles of scenic shoreline—including Tilghman Island—as well as gorgeous architecture and plenty to see and do. Whether you prefer biking or paddling, download a trail map from Talbot’s website and set off to see this picturesque county on the Chesapeake.Visit Talbot CountyMaryland

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The Waterfront’s Back: Old Town

Old Town Sycamore House Bay St. Louis Mississippi
Credit: Ellis Anderson

Tiny Old Town, the historic waterfront downtown of Bay St. Louis, took a major hit from Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and its comeback was years in the making. Now it has a cool stay, the Bay Town Inn, a new marina, and lots of shops, galleries, and restaurants. (Don’t miss 200 North Beach, The Sycamore House, and Trapani’s Eatery.)Old TownBay St. Louis, Mississippi

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Ultra-Coastal Town: Pass Christian

Live Oak Trees Pass Christian Mississippi
Credit: Courtesy of Visit Mississippi Gulf Coast

This sleepy little town just off Beach Boulevard (U.S. 90) has some of the prettiest houses and live oak trees on the Gulf Coast. While it had a difficult recovery post-Katrina, downtown Pass Christian now has a cluster of shops, galleries, and eateries that are walkable and fun to explore.Visit Pass ChristianMississippi

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Go Jukin’: Red’s Lounge

Red’s Lounge Mississippi
Credit: Robbie Caponetto

At his gritty Delta joint, owner Red Paden features “real blues,” like “Howl-N-Madd” Perry and 17-year-old local phenom Christone “Kingfish” Ingram. And he only takes cash, so don’t show up with plastic. 398 Sunflower AvenueRed’s LoungeClarksdale, Mississippi

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Not Since Prohibition: Lazy Magnolia Brewery

Lazy Magnolia Brewery Mississippi
Credit: Lazy Magnolia Brewery

Mark and Leslie Henderson own the oldest packaging brewery in Mississippi—and they’ve been open less than 15 years. Lazy Magnolia is the first Mississippi brewery of its kind since Prohibition, and its beer is now distributed in 18 states. You can sample brews from locally sourced ingredients like roasted pecans and family-produced honey.Lazy Magnolia BreweryKiln, Mississippi

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Lace Up Your Blue Suede Shoes: Elvis Presley Birthplace Trail

Elvis Presley Birthplace Trail Tupelo Mississippi
Credit: Tupelo Convention & Visitors Bureau

Tupelo recently completed the multimillion-dollar Elvis Presley Birthplace Trail, which ties downtown shops and restaurants to the Elvis Presley Birthplace. Rent a bike at CRAVE, Tupelo’s downtown dessert café, and visit sites on the Elvis Driving Tour, like Tupelo Hardware Company, where Mama Presley bought the Guitar Man his first guitar. (He’s got a birthday coming up in January.)Elvis Presley Birthplace Trail Tupelo, Mississippi

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Head for The Hill: St. Louis

The Hill St. Louis
Credit: Getty Images: Steve Grundy/Contributor

This historic Italian neighborhood is home to the late Yogi Berra, not to mention about 20 restaurants and markets. Here, you’ll find many variations on a St. Louis specialty, toasted ravioli.Visit The HillSt. Louis, Missouri

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Diner Bordering on Dive: Jeff’s Burgers, Dogs & Shakes

Jeff’s Burgers North Carolina

At this fast-food diner, owner Jeff Bender and his staff hand-cut everything from fries to fish. Jeff’s serves a mix of locals and Marines (from nearby Camp Lejeune). Don’t miss the Paul Parker, a sandwich named after a local 50s radio personality. Pork tenderloin is fried and finished on the grill to give it a “cheese lacing,” then cradled on a toasted bun with bacon, lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise. Jeff’s Burgers, Dogs & ShakesJacksonville, North Carolina

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The New Chef’s Capital: Downtown Raleigh

New Chefs in Downtown Raleigh
Credit: Felicia Perry Photography

James Beard Foundation winner Ashley Christensen has helped turn North Carolina’s capital city into a culinary mecca. Recently, four-time James Beard nominee Chef Scott Crawford opened his first restaurant, Crawford and Son, serving elevated Southern food like Parmesan Grits with Smoked Pecans. Just a few blocks away in Historic City Market, chef Jeff Seizer has opened Royale, a French and European inspired bistro. Also in Raleigh: Loatian dumplings at Bida Manda; locally sourced Indian at Garland; Korean-inspired Kimpab; casual Café Lucarne; and farm-to-table Provenance.Visit Downtown RaleighNorth Carolina

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Historic Waterfront Town: Edenton

Waterfront and Lighthouse Edenton North Carolina

A former haunt of Blackbeard and other assorted pirates, this small town on Albemarle Sound dates back to the 18th Century, with a 1767 courthouse still in use. Explore such downtown shops as Polka Dot Palm and Edenton Bay Trading Company. Guided Walking and Trolley Tours start at the Penelope Barker House Welcome Center.  Edenton recently added a self-guided Museum Trail with 10 sites, including historic homes, churches, a lighthouse, and more. Get seriously into the coastal spirit with a cruise on the six-passenger Liber-Tea.Visit EdentonNorth Carolina

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Mystery Beach Mailbox: Kindred Spirit

Mailbox on Bird Island North Carolina
Credit: North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands

About a mile from the pier on Bird Island’s pristine Sunset Beach is a strange and intriguing sight: a mailbox labeled “Kindred Spirit,” with a bench next to it—no house—just a bench. The mailbox is filled with notebooks, where you can share your reflections on life and read those of others.Visit Bird IslandBrunswick Islands, North Carolina

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Go for the Trout: Western North Carolina Fly-Fishing Trail

Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail
Credit: Jackson County TDA

This fly-fishing trail has more than 70 miles of rivers and streams. It’s also home to a popular favorite among anglers, the Tuckasegee River.Western North Carolina Fly-Fishing TrailSylva, North Carolina

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NASA Shares a Secret: PARI

PARI NASA North Carolina

Developed by NASA during the pioneering days of the U.S. space program, historic PARI—the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute—has been transformed into a public science center. A 200-acre campus in the heart of the Pisgah National Forest, PARI features spectacular mountain views, hiking trails, Space Shuttle artifacts, stargazing with knowledgeable astronomers, hands-on science activities suitable for all ages, and more. TIP: In August 2017, PARI will be a premiere viewing site for the first total solar eclipse to be visible across the U.S. in 99 years.Visit PARIRosman, North Carolina

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Go Off Road on the Beach: Outer Banks

Fun Little Car in the Outer Banks
Credit: Peter Frank Edwards

Few things match the sense of freedom and adventure you’ll get by four-wheeling down a beach with the Atlantic Ocean out your window. Currituck County on Bodie Island has an off-road community where there’s no pavement, and you can cruise the sands of other islands, as well. If you didn’t arrive with lockable hubs, rent a fun little get-around from Eric and Valerie Stump on Hatteras Island. (Wait till the weather warms up; it’s a tad breezy on the Banks right now.)Visit Currituck CountyOuter Banks, North Carolina

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Come and See Us: Southern Living Store

Southern Living Store South Carolina
Credit: Harry Taylor Photography

Next time you’re on Myrtle Beach, stop by our first-ever retail store at The Market. Shop great merch in fashion, home, garden, travel, and food. (Of course there will be tastings.) 3064 Howard Ave.Read more about the Southern Living StoreMyrtle Beach, South Carolina

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​One Tiny, Fabulous Burger: Little Jack’s Tavern

Little Jack’s Tavern Famous Burger Charleston

A steakhouse that doesn’t take itself too seriously and a tavern where the martinis are shaken, Little Jack’s feels like the Southern godson to Manhattan’'s 21 Club or P.J. Clarke’s. But this just in: Little Jack’s is home to one of the most satisfying burgers in the land, the Tavern Burger. Petite enough to be an appetizer, it  features 4 ounces of USDA Prime beef (a 50/50 blend of chuck and brisket) cooked to a perfect medium-rare, blanketed with American cheese and just a smear of sunchoke relish on a sesame-seed bun. Little Jack’s TavernCharleston, South Carolina

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Doggie Day Camp: PetSafe Village Pet Resort & Spa

PetSafe Village Pet Resort Knoxville
Credit: Laurey W. Glenn

With cat condos and luxury pup suites—not to mention a dog park, pampering, grooming, and 24/7 care—Fido and Fluffy might never come home again. You might wish you could book a room yourself.PetSafe Village Pet Resort & SpaKnoxville, Tennessee

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Eat on the Cheap: Dino’s

Dino's Dive Burgers in Nashville
Credit: Andrew Thomas Lee

This great old dive got rehabilitated by restaurateur Miranda Whitcomb Pontes, who kept its character and charm—not to mention the famous burger, served with fries and a Miller High Life pony for ten bucks.Dino'sNashville, Tennessee

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Louisiana Flavors in Tennessee: The Second Line

The Second Line Louisiana-Style Food in Memphis
Credit: Stephen Devries

Order soul-soothing fries covered with Andouille, crawfish, and pimiento cheese at The Second Line, where chef Kelly English has brought his Louisiana heritage to this barbecue town.The Second LineMemphis, Tennessee

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Break Out the Napkins: Stanton’s City Bites

Stanton’s City Bites Bacon Cheeseburger Houston
Credit: Wynn Myers

The building doesn’t look like much, but you won’t care after your first bite. Start with the bacon cheeseburger: a half-pound of griddled Texas beef on a challah bun with all the standard fixings.Stanton’s City BitesHouston, Texas

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Arcade-Eatery-Marina: Ski Shores Café

Ski Shores Café Austin
Credit: Ski Shores Café

At this lakeside, Texas-style hole-in-the-wall, you can’t help relaxing as you dine in the shade among the Austin hipsters. Their motto is, “If it’s above 60 degrees and dry, come on by.” Burgers, beer, and a view of motorboats and skiers whizzing past—just pretend you’re from Texas and hang out for the afternoon.Ski Shores CaféAustin, Texas

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Most Southern Town in Texas: Georgetown

Shops in Georgetown Texas
Credit: Rudy Xiemenez/Visit Georgetown

The whole town square, built around the courthouse, lights up for the holidays (but it’s Southern as all get-out year-round). Have a bite at Burger University before hitting the antique shops, toy stores, boutiques, and more.Visit GeorgetownTexas

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Get Outside: Cibolo Nature Center & Farm

Cibolo Nature Center and Farm Texas
Credit: Cibolo Nature Center & Farm

One woman’s vision sparked a community effort that preserved 100 acres along Cibolo Creek in this small Texas town. Wade in the creek under the shade of cypress trees, hike the trails, or even go horseback riding.Cibolo Nature Center & FarmBoerne, Texas

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Upscale Beach Charm: Cinnamon Shore

Standing Along Cinnamon Shore Texas
Credit: Robbie Caponetto

A New Urban community with a commitment to responsible development, Cinnamon Shore offers beach rentals on Mustang Island, near Port Aransas and Corpus Christi. If you’re looking for upscale charm along a scenic barrier island, this is the spot.Cinnamon ShorePort Aransas, Texas

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An Audience with “The Queen”: Mission San José

Mission San José Texas National Park
Credit: Getty/MyLoupe/Contributor

Of all the beautiful Spanish missions in Texas, the Alamo attracts the biggest crowds, but don’t miss “The Queen of the Missions” south of downtown. A World Heritage Site and National Park site, Mission San José was almost fully restored in the 1930s, giving visitors a sense of what all these amazing communities once looked like.Mission San JoséSan Antonio, Texas

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Kansas City ’Cue in Texas: 18th & Vine BBQ

18th and Vine BBQ Dallas
Credit: Wynn Myers

This relatively new hot spot feels more like date night than dive, and it sidestepped all the Texas barbecue debates by going Kansas City. Don’t skip the burned-end pork belly potato skins with Cheddar and scallions, for starters.18th & Vine BBQDallas, Texas

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Keeping It Natural: RdV Vineyards

RdV Vineyards Virginia
Credit: Charlotte Strode/Polished Pig Media

This 100-acre boutique vineyard and winery believes in growing its own fruit, working in harmony with the land, and minimizing interference with the natural growing process. Led by Rutger de Vink and master sommelier Jarad Slipp, RdV focuses on creating world-class Bordeaux-style blends. Wines are available only at DC-area restaurants, through the vineyard’s Ambassador Program mailing list, or at the vineyard.RdV VineyardsDelaplane, Virginia

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Blue Ridge View: Bolling Wilson Hotel

Bolling Wilson Hotel Perch Rooftop Terrace Virginia
Credit: Lacy Irby/Polished Pig Media

Blue Ridge travelers enjoy a road break and sophisticated Southern dining at the Bolling Wilson Hotel’s Graze on Main restaurant and Perch Rooftop Terrace. Consulting Chef Travis Milton combines local produce with regional ingredients to make such dishes as Carolina Gourdseed White grits and mushroom, seasoned with Benton’s Bacon, smoked butter, lemon, and herbs ($14). Enjoy a cocktail with a mountain view around the fire pit at Perch.Bolling Wilson HotelWytheville, Virginia

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Pig’s Feet, Greens, and Yams: Florida Avenue Grill

Florida Avenue Grill Soul Food Washington DC
Credit: Robbie Caponetto

Though it no longer cooks its sides with meat, this place claims to be the world’s oldest soul food restaurant. It still serves classics like scrapple, chitterlings, and pig’s feet.Florida Avenue GrillWashington, D.C.

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    1 of 50 Take Your Camera: Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
    2 of 50 Coming Soon: Coastal Arts Center
    3 of 50 Get Sauced: Rusty’s Bar-B-Q
    4 of 50 Hidden Blues Trail: Helena to Blytheville
    5 of 50 Escape to “The Quiet Resorts”: Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island
    6 of 50 Sweet Little Surf Town: Flagler Beach
    7 of 50 Swim With the Manatees: Plantation at Crystal River
    8 of 50 Florida Blizzard: Now Snowing Nightly
    9 of 50 See the Sponge Docks: Tarpon Springs
    10 of 50 St. Joe Peninsula
    11 of 50 Like Sleeping in a Palace: Casa Monica Resort & Spa
    12 of 50 Happy New Year: Beach Ball Drop
    13 of 50 Beyond the Beltline: Shop, Hike, and Jam
    14 of 50 Sip the Trail: Georgia’s Wine Country
    15 of 50 Get Outside: The Dunwoody Nature Center
    16 of 50 Chattahoochee Views: Morgan Falls Overlook Park
    17 of 50 Visit the “Little Grand Canyon”: Providence Canyon State Park
    18 of 50 Head of the Bourbon Trail: Bardstown
    19 of 50 Ramble the “Red Stick”: Baton Rouge
    20 of 50 Two NOLA Gems: The Fly & Tchoup Yard
    21 of 50 Explore the Northshore: Covington
    22 of 50 Explore the Shore: Talbot County
    23 of 50 The Waterfront’s Back: Old Town
    24 of 50 Ultra-Coastal Town: Pass Christian
    25 of 50 Go Jukin’: Red’s Lounge
    26 of 50 Not Since Prohibition: Lazy Magnolia Brewery
    27 of 50 Lace Up Your Blue Suede Shoes: Elvis Presley Birthplace Trail
    28 of 50 Head for The Hill: St. Louis
    29 of 50 Diner Bordering on Dive: Jeff’s Burgers, Dogs & Shakes
    30 of 50 The New Chef’s Capital: Downtown Raleigh
    31 of 50 Historic Waterfront Town: Edenton
    32 of 50 Mystery Beach Mailbox: Kindred Spirit
    33 of 50 Go for the Trout: Western North Carolina Fly-Fishing Trail
    34 of 50 NASA Shares a Secret: PARI
    35 of 50 Go Off Road on the Beach: Outer Banks
    36 of 50 Come and See Us: Southern Living Store
    37 of 50 ​One Tiny, Fabulous Burger: Little Jack’s Tavern
    38 of 50 Doggie Day Camp: PetSafe Village Pet Resort & Spa
    39 of 50 Eat on the Cheap: Dino’s
    40 of 50 Louisiana Flavors in Tennessee: The Second Line
    41 of 50 Break Out the Napkins: Stanton’s City Bites
    42 of 50 Arcade-Eatery-Marina: Ski Shores Café
    43 of 50 Most Southern Town in Texas: Georgetown
    44 of 50 Get Outside: Cibolo Nature Center & Farm
    45 of 50 Upscale Beach Charm: Cinnamon Shore
    46 of 50 An Audience with “The Queen”: Mission San José
    47 of 50 Kansas City ’Cue in Texas: 18th & Vine BBQ
    48 of 50 Keeping It Natural: RdV Vineyards
    49 of 50 Blue Ridge View: Bolling Wilson Hotel
    50 of 50 Pig’s Feet, Greens, and Yams: Florida Avenue Grill

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    50 Undiscovered Places You'll Love in the South
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