Open Roads and Hidden Stops: Scenic Drives Through the Southern U.S.

Ashton McCullough • May 6, 2025

There’s something timeless about a Southern road trip. The kind where the journey matters just as much as the destination. It is not just about covering miles but about uncovering the character of every small town and stretch of highway along the way. Whether you're craving nature, culture, or a taste of small-town charm, the South offers scenic routes filled with personality and warmth. These five drives are more than just roads—they are windows into the heart of the region.

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Begin your journey on the Blue Ridge Parkway, a drive renowned for its uninterrupted Appalachian views and quiet charm. This route connects Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains, offering stunning overlooks, hiking trails, and cultural stops along the way. Pause in small towns like Boone or Asheville, where creativity spills onto the streets and into the local cafes. The road moves slowly here, inviting you to do the same. Scenic pull-offs like Craggy Gardens and Mabry Mill provide postcard-worthy stops that make the journey as rich as the destination.

Further west, the Natchez Trace Parkway cuts a peaceful path through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee. Steeped in history, it follows the trails of Native Americans, traders, and Civil War soldiers. The drive itself is a meditative experience, with minimal traffic and plenty of scenic pull-offs. Small-town museums, preserved battlefields, and riverside picnic areas give you reason to stop and reflect. Highlights like the Emerald Mound and the Pharr Mounds offer glimpses into thousands of years of human history that still shape the region.

If ocean views call your name, Florida’s A1A Scenic Byway delivers. Hugging the Atlantic coast, it leads you through historic towns, beachside boardwalks, and sleepy fishing villages. Enjoy seafood fresh off the boat and let the salty breeze do the talking. This route feels like summer on repeat, the kind of drive that makes you roll the windows down without thinking. Explore the historic charm of St. Augustine or stop in Flagler Beach for an easy mix of surf, art, and sand between your toes.


In the heart of Texas, Hill Country offers a different rhythm. Rolling hills, live music, and roadside BBQ define this region. The drive between towns like Fredericksburg and Wimberley is marked by vineyards, swimming holes, and scenic overlooks. It’s a road trip that pairs comfort with character, where the miles are short but the experiences linger. Stop at places like Enchanted Rock or take a dip at Blue Hole to feel the spirit of Texas beyond the highways.

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Each of these drives offers more than just scenic beauty—they invite you into the rhythm of the region. With every mile, there’s something to savor: a small-town café, a historic overlook, a coastal breeze, or a winding hill that opens to wide-open sky. The South reveals itself slowly, rewarding curiosity and spontaneity. Let the road guide you, and you might just find that the journey becomes your favorite part of the story.

Seclusion and Sunsets: Coastal Getaways That Feel Like a Private Island

By Ashton McCullough • June 2, 2025
You don’t need a private jet or a members-only resort to experience coastal calm and barefoot luxury. Around the world, there are places where the beach is never far, the crowds are minimal, and the energy is just right. Think beach bars with hammocks, quiet walks that lead to waterfalls, and evenings that start with grilled seafood and end with stargazing. These aren’t places to get lost. they’re places to land softly. Whether you're traveling solo or with company, these coastal gems feel like a deep breath in motion.

Built for the Last Block: How City Design and Small Wheels Are Powering the Future of Urban Movement

By Ashton McCullough • March 10, 2025
Urban design is evolving and it’s doing so at street level. Cities around the world are rethinking how people move, and it's not just about getting from point A to B. It's about building communities around walkability, accessibility, and freedom of choice. The “last block”, that final leg of your daily trip is becoming a central focus for urban planners. Wider sidewalks, curb-level bike lanes, and smart parking for e-scooters and bikes are replacing outdated infrastructure that once prioritized cars. These changes are turning city streets into shared spaces where micromobility thrives.

How to Discover Local Gems on Your Next Trip

By Ashton McCullough • January 7, 2025
We all know the feeling: you arrive in a new city, scroll through endless activity suggestions, and still end up at the same overrated attractions. What if your trip was curated with experiences that reflect the heart of the place, not just the travel brochure version? That’s the promise of local gems the hidden corners and cultural hubs that locals love. These places offer more than just a stop; they give you a glimpse into the everyday rhythm of a destination. Whether it’s an underground art gallery, a street food stall with a loyal following, or a neighborhood jazz bar, these spots have stories worth uncovering. Uncovering those stories takes curiosity, not just a map.

Mastering the Art of Planning a Multi-Destination Vacation

By Ashton McCullough • July 20, 2024
Planning a multi-destination vacation can be an exciting yet complex endeavor, offering the thrill of exploring multiple places within a single trip and making the most of your travel time by experiencing diverse cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. However, the logistics can be daunting, so this guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure your multi-destination vacation is well-organized, enjoyable, and memorable. Start by defining your travel goals, such as exploring historical sites, indulging in culinary experiences, relaxing on beaches, or going on adventurous treks. Knowing your priorities will help you choose destinations that align with your interests and ensure you have a fulfilling trip.

Role of Technology in Enhancing Micromobility Services and Choosing the Right Option for Your Needs

By Ashton McCullough • July 8, 2024
The rapid evolution of urban transportation has been significantly influenced by the emergence of micromobility services, such as bike-sharing and electric scooters. These innovations have not only changed how people move around cities but have also been greatly enhanced by technological advancements.

Exploring the USA’s Top National Parks

By Ashton McCullough • December 22, 2023
National parks in the United States are unparalleled in their ability to showcase the country’s most breathtaking and diverse landscapes. These protected areas offer an extraordinary range of natural wonders, from the dramatic geysers of Yellowstone to the majestic granite cliffs of Yosemite. Each park provides unique opportunities to connect with nature, explore vast wildernesses, and experience the awe-inspiring beauty that defines America's natural heritage. Here are some of the top national parks in the USA that every nature lover should visit.

Elegance Redefined: Boutique Hotels and Their Distinctive Allure

By Ashton McCullough • August 11, 2023
In a hospitality landscape often dominated by uniformity, boutique hotels emerge as exquisite gems that redefine the art of accommodation. Unlike regular hotels, these distinct establishments offer a deeply personalized and enchanting experience that is tailored to the discerning traveler. This article delves into the captivating world of boutique hotels, exploring how they stand apart from regular hotels and showcasing iconic examples across Europe, the United States, and serene island escapes. As fall approaches, we also present a curated selection of boutique hotels to consider for a unique autumn getaway.

Charging Ahead with Solar: The Sustainable Synergy of Sunlight and Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

By Ashton McCullough • August 9, 2023
In an era marked by the urgent need to address climate change and transition towards cleaner energy sources, the fusion of solar power and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure stands out as a remarkable innovation. The marriage of these two technologies, harnessed together in a sustainable synergy, presents a promising solution to reduce carbon emissions and revolutionize the way we power our transportation systems. This article delves into the significance of solar-powered EV charging and highlights some pioneering providers that are driving this transformative movement.

Car Rental and The Sharing Economy: Blurring Lines in Transportation

By Ashton McCullough • August 9, 2023
In the realm of travel, an intriguing convergence is taking place as two influential trends, the sharing economy and traditional car rental, intertwine. These once-separate worlds are colliding, reshaping the way we access vehicles and navigate our journeys.

Top Culinary Travel Destinations for Food Enthusiasts

By Ashton McCullough • May 11, 2023
For food enthusiasts, travel is more than just visiting new places; it's an exploration of flavors, cultures, and culinary traditions that tell the story of a destination. Around the globe, cities and regions have become renowned for their unique and delectable cuisine, drawing travelers eager to indulge in local delicacies. Whether you’re sampling street food in Bangkok or savoring gourmet dishes in Paris, these top culinary travel destinations promise unforgettable experiences.
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