Set Out to See the Stunning Southeast

Whether for its distinctive hospitality, cultural vibrancy, powerful history, or diverse geography, the southeast region of the U.S. is a favorite for traveling groups looking to expand both their perspectives and experiences. Join us as we explore a sampling of what the region has to offer!

In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, Virginia is pulling out all the stops. The Virginia 250 Passport—a collaborative, statewide initiative encouraging folks to engage with the Commonwealth’s foremost historic sites and museums—allows groups to collect unique stamps while visiting each passport site. From the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation Museums and The Sovereign Nations and Indian Tribes of Virginia, to the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia, Military Aviation Museum, Rising Sun Tavern Museum, and more, groups have plenty to explore.

In addition, Virginia Beach is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Visit the Cape Henry Lighthouses, take a kayak tour in Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, enjoy a dolphin cruise out on the water, and more.

Photo courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com.

Whether driving through the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway in the mountain region, exploring the state’s largest cities in the central region, or appreciating the hundreds of miles of beaches found along the coastline, North Carolina brings a beauty all its own to the forefront. In the Outer Banks, groups could appreciate nature and wildlife found at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the area’s famous wild horses. Asheville is also a must, where creativity comes to life through group art experiences at ArtPlay Studio in the city’s Downtown Art District, local history shines through a walking tour led by Asheville by Foot, and the secrets of craft beer are revealed through various behind-the-scenes tours.

Also consider a stop in Cherokee, where Indigenous history comes to life through various institutions dedicated to North Carolina’s first inhabitants (who still proudly uphold their traditions and call the land home today).

Photo courtesy of Kentucky Tourism.

In Kentucky, there’s no shortage of opportunity for groups to enjoy all the stunning state has to offer. Appreciate the history and greats of bluegrass music at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum in Owensboro, visit the beautiful horses of Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm (which provides dignified retirement to former racing and breeding Thoroughbreds) in Georgetown, take a factory tour at the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, and more. Kentucky is also home to a number of sites and cities along the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, an essential component to any group trip to the southeast region. Whether you choose the Muhammad Ali Center, Lincoln Hall at Berea College, the statue dedicated to civil rights pioneer Alice Allison Dunnigan, or another notable place, the trail helps keep this imperative history alive and accessible to groups of all kinds.

Photo courtesy of Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp.

From the Great Smoky Mountains, to the home of country music, to Dolly Parton’s hometown, Tennessee has a spirit that seems to be ever-present in its hills, valleys, streams and mountain tops. Venture to Sevierville to catch some stunning views via chairlift at SkyLand Ranch, find history and artifacts at The Titanic Museum Attraction, get your thrills via the rides and live entertainment at Dollywood, and more. Be sure to snap a photo with the city’s hometown hero herself (in bronze statue form), in downtown Sevierville.

Nashville, of course, offers various country music venues such as the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium, while in Memphis groups can tour the legendary Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Photo courtesy of Eifel Kreutz.

Louisiana is a state that truly feeds the soul. Avery Island, located in Iberia Parish, is home to the TABASCO® brand pepper sauce factory, as well as Jungle Gardens and its Bird City wildfowl refuge—both of which offer tours. Of course, you can’t mention Louisiana without touching on New Orleans. Whether visiting for Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, or any other number of yearly events, the Crescent City delivers. Refuel at the charming Fourth Wall Coffee (located a short stroll from the French Quarter), enjoy fragrances and body care at the historic Hové® perfumery, hop on the streetcar and ride along St. Charles Avenue, shop physical music at Peaches Records, and more.

Groups could also venture out onto the Louisiana Film Trail, which spotlights the destinations used for the more than 2,500 films shot in Louisiana to date.

Photo courtesy of Kennedy Space Center.

When it comes to adventure, Florida shines—literally! Those groups interested in the wonders of space will feel right at home among the stars at The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, located on the state's east coast near Cape Canaveral. Plan your visit around a rocket launch, appreciate space legends in the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame®, and see the Space Shuttle Atlantis® up close to round out the experience. Known as the "Theme Park Capital of the World," Orlando is perfect for groups chasing an adrenaline rush and magical wonder. Parks like Walt Disney World® Resort and Universal Studios Orlando (and its new Universal Epic Universe) ensure groups leave satisfied and with forever memories.

Be sure to also catch a live performance at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, in addition to a tour through the Everglades with Captain Jack's Airboat Tours.

Photo courtesy of Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism.

Be sure to also consider:

• Alabama | tourism.alabama.gov

• Arkansas | arkansas.com

• Georgia | exploregeorgia.org

• Mississippi | visitmississippi.org

• South Carolina | discoversouthcarolina.com

• West Virginia | wvtourism.com

Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for Groups Today.

This article originally appeared in the Mar/Apr ’26 issue of Groups Today.

Main photo courtesy of Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau.