“The South” is an unlimited area of the U.S., together with North Carolina, which seems like an oxymoron. But what may very well be moron-ic is writing off what’s generally known as the ‘Deep South’.
No, it isn’t all Natty Light-drinking, Rebel Flag-bearing, closed-minded hillbillies.
Given an opportunity, penetrating the Deep South could make for the journey of a lifetime, whether or not it is Louisiana’s hidden seashores or Alabama’s picturesque waterfalls.
Although Gulf Shores is undoubtedly ‘Bama’s hottest getaway, it could improve tenfold with the thrilling announcement that this metropolis shall be providing business flights for the primary time ever!
But there’s one other Alabama coastal treasure too typically ignored – a tranquil city boasting bayside bliss and southern appeal. Southern Living went so far as saying it is ‘The Most Underrated Vacation Spot.
Century-Old Stays & ‘French Quarter’ Vibes
New Orleans’s most well-known district is not as distinctive as you may suppose. While it is likely to be greater, Fairhope might show the age-old adage that dimension would not matter.
Why? Even with blocks and blocks of wrought-iron balconies and photogenic buildings, you definitely will not waft the evening earlier than such as you would in New Orleans.
Plus, there is a sure intangible appeal to smaller cities, proper? Fairhope definitely has it.
The small but pleasant sliver of city generally known as the ‘French Quarter’ exudes character and nostalgia with vibrant French-inspired structure however no Sunday morning aftermath.
French settlers definitely left their mark, and it has been immaculately preserved. Best of all, you’ll be able to take pleasure in the identical scrumptious grub you’d in New Orleans, however much less touristy and extra reasonably priced.
I imply, do you actually wanna pay $20 for a bowl of Gumbo? You will not must at Tamara’s.
Fairhope beholds some unbelievable historic stays too, whether or not it’s upscale resorts or cozy Bed & Breakfasts.
Among the top-rated is The Fairhope Inn, set in a revamped 1906 residence initially serving the group as a makeshift fish market.
Don’t fret, although. According to the current visitors’ stellar critiques, there isn’t any phrase of any stench left behind.
For vacationers looking for a mixture of luxurious and historical past, nonetheless, there’s solely a spot for you. That’s the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, initially constructed within the 1840’s and now providing all the fashionable comforts you need overlooking the Mobile Bay for epic sunsets.
Fairhope’s Bayside Bliss And Welcoming Locals
Have you ever watched Peter Santanello on YouTube? He’s change into fairly a sensation within the journey world, whose movies sometimes draw thousands and thousands of viewers.
Recently, he had the pleasure of visiting Fairhope, the place locals could not have been extra welcoming and proud to point out off their beloved bayside haven.
Equal components charming and pleasant, Fairhope show “southern hospitality” is actual in any case. In truth, increasingly outsiders are transferring right here. They adore it a lot, largely as a result of Fairhope welcomes all walks of life.
Remember what I mentioned concerning the South? Never choose a e book by its cowl.
What may shock you is Fairhope’s thriving arts scene with highlights comparable to Gallery By The Bay, springtime’s Fairhope Arts & Crafts Festival, together with varied artisan outlets dotting this metropolis of 25,000 residents.
But what’s apparent is that Fairhope is about as laid again because it will get. The idyllic shoreline is the right place to unwind for a fast weekend getaway or long-term keep.
Take a stroll down the scenic Fairhope Pier or meander alongside the waterfront generally known as “town square” with stunning parks, quaint seashores, and bayside trip leases.
Just know you do want a license to fish, however should you choose to go away it to the professionals, reap the benefits of Fairhope’s phenomenal seafood scene like native favourite Sunset Pointe.
Reaching Fairhope Is A Breeze – And Only Getting Easier!
Fairhope could also be off-the-radar because it’s sandwiched between Gulf Shores and Mobile, however that is truly to your benefit.
Alabama could also be generally generally known as a street journey vacation spot, however Mobile’s airport is barely a 45-minute drive from Fairhope, with flights from main hubs, comparable to Dallas, Houston, and Washington D.C.
On the flip facet, with Gulf Shores opening its airport to the general public for the primary time ever in May 2025, Fairhope will solely change into simpler to entry because it, too, is barely 45 minutes away.
Uber, Lyft, and boring ol’ taxis all function in and round Fairhope, making transit rather more handy.
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This article initially appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed listed below are the writer’s alone, not these of any financial institution, bank card issuer, resort, airline, or different entity. This content material has not been reviewed, permitted or in any other case endorsed by any of the entities included inside the put up.