Known for its food, music, and the welcoming nature of its inhabitants, the South will always make its visitors feel at home. Continue reading below for an overview of what this U.S. region has to offer to its visitors.

 

Geography

Comprised of 16 states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia. The South can be broken down into three smaller portions, which include the South Atlantic, the South East Central, and West Central.

The geographic makeup of Southern states can vary from one to another and within the states themselves with the presence of the Appalachian Mountains in landlocked states and waterfronts in coastal states.

 

Popular Locations

Southern U.S. states are popular tourist destinations for music, food, and a taste of history, which is usually related to the two items previously mentioned. Check out the four most famous cities in the South below.

      • Atlanta, Georgia

The most populous city in Georgia, it is no wonder that Atlanta is also the state’s capital. Known for being home to one of the busiest international airports in the U.S. and the host of the 1996 summer Olympics, this state is not lacking in history. Today’s visitors frequent the MLK Jr. National Monument, Centennial Olympic Park, and the Georgia Aquarium, among other attractions.

      • Dallas, Texas

More urban than Austin, this Texas city has a vibrant arts district and is home to state-famous events, including the Texas State Fair. Dallas visitors can enjoy a myriad of museums and outdoor spaces that weave through the spread-out network of urban areas.

      • Nashville, Tennessee

A center for education, healthcare, and music, this city is favorited by tourists, many who come for one of the many live music events hosted there annually. It is no surprise this city is sometimes referred to as ‘Music City U.S.A.’ If you have a chance to visit be sure to check out the Grand Ole Opry or the Country Music Hall of Fame!

      • Orlando, Florida

Situated in the heart of Florida, Orlando is a popular tourist destination with over 60 million visitors annually! Amusement parks like Universal Studios, Disney World, and Seaworld are always busy and a good place to visit if you have a full day free. For those with only a few hours to spare, Orlando’s downtown and International Drive are great locations for shopping and dining.

 

Climate

Like the geography of the region, the climate of the South can vary based on where you are at. The further south you go in the region, the warmer it gets. The average annual temperature of the state in the Deep South is 72 degrees Fahrenheit, or 21 degrees Celsius. In contrast to this, the northernmost portion of the state and those that contain the Appalachian Mountains can run cooler in the evenings and during fall and winter. The average annual temperature for these areas can be up to five degrees cooler. In these areas, there is also more rainfall and the occasional frost at higher elevations during the winter months.

Culture

The Southern states are known for their cuisine, country music, and hospitality. Dishes in the South often pack a punch with Louisiana creole cuisine and barbeque being popular. In states further west, Tex-Mex is popular. No matter where you travel in the South, though, there are always two things you can find—grits and sweet tea.

The South is also known for its music. Tennessee is home to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Rock N’ Soul Museum, and the Blues Hall of Fame. Even outside Tennessee, music is strong in the south. Live music is frequent in the region with locals frequenting counrty and western bars for two-stepping. For those who are averse to country music, Jazz is also popular. Fans of jazz might consider stopping by New Orleans during April and May for their annual Jazz and Heritage Fest.

 

Southern Clinical Experiences

Do you want to visit the South? A clinical experience with AMO could provide you the opportunity to travel and further your medical education. Click on the links below to view the experiences we offer in each of the following southern states.

Florida >

Georgia >

Oklahoma >

Tennessee >

Texas >

Virginia >

 

Not keen on the South?

Check out our AMO Visitor’s Guide to the Midwest >

 

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