The Southeast is a photographer’s dream, a landscape where light and history conspire to create something just short of mythic. In Beaufort, South Carolina, the waterfront glows gold at dusk, Spanish moss swaying in the salt-laden breeze as shrimp boats drift in with their catch. In Natchez, Mississippi, antebellum mansions perch on bluffs, their facades frozen in time while the Mississippi River rolls on, carving past and present into the same frame. These are towns that refuse to be rushed, where architecture, nature, and memory collide in ways that demand to be captured.
This article explores 20 of the best small towns in the Southeast for photography buffs—places where history lingers in the brickwork, where light bends around church spires and mountain ridges, and where every street corner holds the possibility of the perfect shot. From tucked-away mountain hamlets to forgotten coastal hideaways, each town offers its own palette of colors, textures, and stories waiting to be told through the lens.
20. Lewisburg, West Virginia – Historic Charm
Lewisburg is a delightful blend of rich history and vibrant arts nestled in the heart of the Greenbrier Valley. Wandering its well-preserved 18th-century streets, you’ll find endless opportunities to photograph charming brick buildings and quaint storefronts. The town boasts a thriving arts scene with numerous galleries showcasing local talent, making it a hub for creative inspiration. Don’t miss Carnegie Hall, one of only four in the world, which adds a touch of grandeur to your shots. Festivals like the Lewisburg Chocolate Festival fill the streets with color and life, providing dynamic subjects for your lens. The serene Greenbrier River Trail offers a natural backdrop with lush scenery perfect for landscape photography. If you’re considering settling in this picturesque town, a 3-4 bedroom home typically ranges from $300,000 to $500,000, offering a blend of charm and value.
Where is Lewisburg?
Nestled in southeastern West Virginia, Lewisburg sits at the crossroads of US Route 60 and US Route 219. Surrounded by the rolling Allegheny Mountains, the town offers picturesque views that change with the seasons. Its elevation provides a cooler climate, adding a refreshing feel to your outdoor excursions. You can reach Lewisburg via Interstate 64, and the nearby Greenbrier Valley Airport makes air travel convenient. Its location provides easy access to natural attractions like the Lost World Caverns, making it a great base for exploring the region.
19. Seaside, Florida – New Urbanist Design
Seaside is a quaint coastal town known for its pastel-colored cottages and impeccable architecture that embodies New Urbanism principles. Photographers will delight in the town’s harmonious design, where every building complements the next, creating a visually pleasing landscape. Stroll down pedestrian-friendly streets lined with white picket fences and capture the idyllic scenes reminiscent of a postcard. The town’s amphitheater and central square often host events, adding lively subjects to your portfolio. The nearby sugar-white beaches and emerald waters provide stunning seascapes, especially during golden hour when the light casts a magical glow. Homes here reflect the town’s exclusivity, with 3-4 bedroom properties ranging from $1,200,000 to $2,000,000.
Where is Seaside?
Located on Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, Seaside sits along Scenic Highway 30A between Destin and Panama City Beach. The town is part of the South Walton area, renowned for its beautiful beaches and dune lakes. This coastal haven offers a unique geography where the Gulf meets rare coastal dune ecosystems, perfect for nature photography. You can reach Seaside by flying into Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport or Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport, both just a short drive away. The town’s easy accessibility and walkable layout make it a favorite for visitors seeking relaxation and inspiration.
18. Bay St. Louis, Mississippi – Coastal Culture
Bay St. Louis is a vibrant town where Southern hospitality meets coastal charm. The historic Old Town area is filled with colorful shops, art galleries, and cafes that reflect the town’s creative spirit. Photographers can capture the serene beachfront views along the Mississippi Sound or explore the Bay Bridge for panoramic shots of the coastline. The Angel Trees, centuries-old oaks adorned with carvings, offer unique subjects that blend art and nature. Festivals like the Second Saturday Art Walk enliven the streets with music and local artisans, providing dynamic scenes filled with culture. In this charming coastal town, you can find 3-4 bedroom homes priced between $250,000 and $450,000, offering affordability with a view.
Where is Bay St. Louis?
Situated along the Gulf Coast, Bay St. Louis is about an hour’s drive east of New Orleans, Louisiana. The town sits on the bay of the same name, offering beautiful waterfront vistas and easy access to the beach. Its coastal geography includes sandy shores and marshlands teeming with wildlife, ideal for landscape and nature photography. You can reach Bay St. Louis via Interstate 10, taking Exit 13 onto Highway 603 South. The town’s proximity to larger cities while maintaining a laid-back atmosphere makes it a convenient and relaxing destination.
17. Floyd, Virginia – Bluegrass and Mountain Life
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Floyd is a gem for photographers interested in capturing Appalachian culture. The town is renowned for its bluegrass music scene, with the Floyd Country Store hosting lively jams that offer vibrant subjects full of emotion and movement. The surrounding countryside provides breathtaking panoramas of rolling hills, rustic farms, and mist-covered valleys. Artisans fill the town with handcrafted goods, and the Floyd Artisan Market is a treasure trove of colorful displays. Nature trails and the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway offer endless opportunities for landscape photography. For those looking to call Floyd home, 3-4 bedroom properties range from $200,000 to $350,000, making mountain living accessible.
Where is Floyd?
Floyd is located in southwestern Virginia, accessible via the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway and Route 8. Its mountainous terrain and elevation provide cooler temperatures and stunning vistas year-round. The town’s remote setting fosters a tight-knit community atmosphere, enhancing its charm. Floyd is approximately an hour’s drive from Roanoke, making it reachable yet secluded enough to feel like a true retreat. The area’s winding roads and overlooks are perfect for capturing the essence of mountain life.
16. Bardstown, Kentucky – Bourbon and Beauty
Bardstown exudes a rich history intertwined with Kentucky’s bourbon heritage. The downtown district is adorned with Federal and Georgian-style buildings, offering classic architectural subjects. Photographers can explore My Old Kentucky Home State Park, where the storied Federal Hill mansion sits amid manicured gardens. The annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival adds a lively atmosphere with parades, tastings, and street events. Visiting distilleries like Willett and Heaven Hill provide unique industrial and rustic scenes, showcasing the bourbon-making process against the backdrop of the rolling Bluegrass countryside. 3-4 bedroom homes here are priced between $200,000 and $350,000, combining charm and affordability in this historic town.
Where is Bardstown?
Located in central Kentucky, Bardstown is approximately 40 miles southeast of Louisville. The town is nestled among the state’s famed horse farms and gently rolling hills. Its position along the Bourbon Trail makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the region’s distilling history. You can reach Bardstown via the Bluegrass Parkway or by taking Highway 150. The area’s lush landscapes provide a scenic drive, enhancing the journey as much as the destination.
15. Jonesborough, Tennessee – Storytelling Capital
Jonesborough is Tennessee’s oldest town, famed for its rich tradition of storytelling. The downtown’s brick sidewalks and historic buildings create a charming atmosphere perfect for capturing the essence of small-town America. Photographers can immerse themselves in the International Storytelling Center, where tales are spun in ways that inspire visual interpretation. The annual National Storytelling Festival fills the streets with performers and listeners, offering dynamic and emotive subjects. Quaint shops and cafes line the streets, adding to the town’s inviting aesthetic. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in this storybook town are priced between $250,000 and $400,000, offering an opportunity to live where history and stories converge.
Where is Jonesborough?
Situated in northeastern Tennessee, Jonesborough is a short drive from Johnson City and easily accessible via Interstate 26. The town lies in the Appalachian Ridge-and-Valley region, offering rolling terrain and scenic backdrops. Its location makes it a gateway to the Appalachian Trail and Cherokee National Forest, ideal for nature enthusiasts. The regional Tri-Cities Airport provides convenient air travel options, making Jonesborough both a charming destination and a convenient base for exploring the area.
14. Abita Springs, Louisiana – Artistic Retreat
Abita Springs is a haven for artists and those seeking a laid-back atmosphere infused with creativity. The town is dotted with unique attractions like the Abita Mystery House, a quirky museum filled with folk art and whimsical displays that make for intriguing photographs. The historic district features quaint cottages and tree-lined streets, providing a peaceful setting. Local parks and the nearby Tammany Trace trail offer natural landscapes perfect for capturing the lush beauty of southern Louisiana. The Abita Brewing Company adds a touch of industrial charm, where you can photograph the beer-making process and enjoy a taste afterward. 3-4 bedroom homes are typically priced between $250,000 and $400,000, offering a serene and artistic lifestyle.
Where is Abita Springs?
Located on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, Abita Springs is about 45 miles north of New Orleans. The town’s serene environment is a world away from the bustling city, surrounded by pine forests and natural springs. Its flat terrain and abundant greenery make it ideal for cycling and leisurely exploration. You can reach Abita Springs via Interstate 12, exiting at Highway 59. The nearby Causeway Bridge offers a scenic route over Lake Pontchartrain, adding to the journey’s photographic opportunities.
13. Beaufort, North Carolina – Seaside Serenity
Beaufort exudes a tranquil coastal charm that beckons photographers seeking serene landscapes and maritime history. Stroll along Front Street to capture historic homes adorned with widow’s walks and picket fences overlooking the harbor. The waterfront is dotted with sailboats and yachts, creating picturesque nautical scenes. Nearby, the Rachel Carson Reserve offers a chance to photograph wild horses grazing amid dunes and marshes. The North Carolina Maritime Museum provides insights into the region’s seafaring past, adding depth to your visual storytelling. 3-4 bedroom homes here are priced between $400,000 and $600,000, offering coastal living with historical appeal.
Where is Beaufort, North Carolina?
Situated on the Crystal Coast, Beaufort is on North Carolina’s southern Outer Banks. The town lies where the Newport River meets Taylor’s Creek, providing a network of waterways teeming with wildlife. Its coastal location offers stunning sunrises over the Atlantic and easy access to barrier islands. You can reach Beaufort via US Highway 70 East, with the nearest airport in New Bern about 40 miles away. Ferry services to the surrounding islands expand your photographic horizons.
12. Mount Airy, North Carolina – Mayberry Revisited
Mount Airy invites you to step into the nostalgic world of Mayberry, the fictional town from “The Andy Griffith Show.” The town embraces its connection to the show, with landmarks like Floyd’s Barbershop and the Old City Jail providing whimsical photo opportunities. Vintage squad cars drive through Main Street, adding to the timeless atmosphere. Beyond the Mayberry charm, Mount Airy hosts local wineries and the scenic Granite Quarry, offering diverse subjects for your portfolio. The annual Mayberry Days festival brings the town to life with character reenactments and music. 3-4 bedroom homes are available for $200,000 to $350,000, making small-town nostalgia affordable.
Where is Mount Airy?
Located in northern North Carolina near the Virginia border, Mount Airy sits at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The town is accessible via US Highway 52 and is approximately a two-hour drive from Charlotte. Its proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway makes it a perfect starting point for exploring mountain vistas and rural landscapes. The area’s rolling hills and vineyards provide scenic backdrops, enhancing the town’s appeal to photographers.
11. Micanopy, Florida – Old Florida Charm
Micanopy captures the essence of “Old Florida” with its moss-draped oaks and historic architecture. Strolling down Cholokka Boulevard, you’ll find antique shops and vintage storefronts that evoke a bygone era. The Herlong Mansion and other historic homes offer grand facades ideal for architectural photography. Nearby, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park provides opportunities to capture wildlife and expansive prairie landscapes. The town’s quiet streets and relaxed pace make it a tranquil setting for capturing thoughtful compositions. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms typically range from $300,000 to $500,000, offering a slice of old-world charm in a serene environment.
Where is Micanopy?
Micanopy is nestled in north-central Florida, just south of Gainesville along US Highway 441. The town’s location near the crossroads of major highways makes it easily accessible while retaining its secluded feel. The surrounding area is characterized by wetlands and prairies, offering diverse ecosystems to explore. Gainesville Regional Airport is the nearest airport, about a 20-minute drive away, facilitating convenient travel. Micanopy’s central location makes it a perfect stop when touring Florida’s interior.
10. Apalachicola, Florida – Maritime Heritage
Apalachicola is a historic port town with a rich maritime legacy. The downtown area features brick-paved streets and well-preserved Victorian buildings that tell stories of a bustling 19th-century trade hub. Photographers can capture the working waterfront where shrimp boats dock and fishermen bring in the day’s catch. The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve offers stunning natural landscapes with opportunities to photograph diverse wildlife and pristine marshes. Local shops and seafood eateries add to the town’s authentic coastal vibe. A 3-4 bedroom home in this charming coastal town typically ranges from $350,000 to $550,000, reflecting its blend of history and seaside appeal.
Where is Apalachicola?
Located in the Florida Panhandle, Apalachicola sits at the mouth of the Apalachicola River where it meets the Gulf of Mexico. The town is accessible via US Highway 98, a scenic coastal route that meanders through small beachfront communities. The area’s geography includes barrier islands, such as St. George Island, offering beautiful beaches and sunsets. The Tallahassee International Airport is approximately 75 miles to the northeast, providing convenient access for travelers. Apalachicola’s remote location ensures unspoiled landscapes and a slower pace of life.
9. Eureka Springs, Arkansas – Victorian Village
Eureka Springs enchants visitors with its steep, winding streets lined with ornate Victorian homes and buildings. The entire town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offering endless photographic subjects of architectural beauty. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, the town’s hilly terrain creates unique perspectives and compositions. The artistic community flourishes here, with galleries and street art adding color and creativity to your shots. The iconic Christ of the Ozarks statue overlooks the town, providing a dramatic focal point against the natural backdrop. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms are priced between $250,000 and $400,000, making this Victorian gem both picturesque and accessible.
Where is Eureka Springs?
Situated in northwest Arkansas, Eureka Springs is accessible via Highway 62, about an hour’s drive from Fayetteville or Branson, Missouri. The town’s location in the Ozarks provides a lush, mountainous environment with numerous springs and caves. This geography makes it a haven for outdoor activities like hiking and biking, expanding your photographic opportunities. The twisting roads and scenic overlooks make the journey as captivating as the destination.
8. Natchitoches, Louisiana – French Creole Charm
Natchitoches (pronounced NACK-a-tish) is the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase, offering a rich tapestry of history and culture. The town’s historic district is adorned with French Creole architecture, wrought-iron balconies, and brick-paved streets reminiscent of New Orleans, but with a quaint, small-town feel. Photographers can capture the vibrant riverfront along Cane River Lake, where colorful festivals and light displays illuminate the water. The nearby Melrose Plantation provides insight into antebellum life and features the African House, home to famed folk artist Clementine Hunter’s murals. For those looking to live amid this historical charm, 3-4 bedroom homes range from $150,000 to $300,000.
Where is Natchitoches?
Located in north-central Louisiana, Natchitoches is accessible via Interstate 49 between Shreveport and Alexandria. The town sits along the banks of Cane River Lake, part of the Cane River National Heritage Area. This region’s lush landscapes and historic plantations offer a wealth of photographic subjects. You can reach Natchitoches by flying into the Shreveport Regional Airport, about 75 miles to the northwest. The scenic byways leading to the town enhance the experience with their Southern charm.
7. Natchez, Mississippi – Antebellum Elegance
Natchez boasts an impressive collection of antebellum homes, more than any other town in the United States. These grand mansions, like Stanton Hall and Longwood, provide opulent backdrops steeped in history. The town sits high on bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, offering stunning panoramic views ideal for capturing sunsets over the water. The Natchez Trace Parkway begins here, inviting photographers to explore a scenic route filled with natural beauty and historical sites. Annual events like the Spring Pilgrimage showcase the town’s heritage with home tours and costumed guides. 3-4 bedroom homes in Natchez are priced between $150,000 and $350,000, blending affordability with Southern elegance.
Where is Natchez?
Perched on the western border of Mississippi, Natchez overlooks the Mississippi River directly across from Louisiana. It’s accessible via US Highway 61, known as the Blues Highway, which adds a cultural journey to your trip. The town’s elevated position provides unique vantage points for river photography. The nearest major airport is in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, about 90 miles south, making Natchez a peaceful retreat away from bustling cities.
6. Abingdon, Virginia – A Cultural Haven
Abingdon is a charming town known for its cultural offerings and historic charm. The Barter Theatre, the nation’s longest-running professional theater, is a centerpiece that adds artistic flair to your photographs. The downtown area features brick sidewalks and 18th-century buildings housing boutiques and cafes. The Virginia Creeper Trail starts here, providing 34 miles of scenic paths through forests and over-restored trestle bridges for nature photography. The Martha Washington Inn & Spa, a former women’s college, offers grand architecture set against manicured gardens. For those captivated by this cultural hub, 3-4 bedroom homes range from $250,000 to $400,000.
Where is Abingdon?
Located in southwestern Virginia, Abingdon is accessible via Interstate 81, making it an easy stop for travelers exploring the Appalachian region. The town sits amid the Appalachian Mountains, offering a backdrop of rolling hills and lush greenery. Its proximity to the Tennessee border places it near other cultural hubs like Bristol. The Tri-Cities Airport in Tennessee is approximately 30 miles away, providing convenient access. Abingdon’s blend of small-town charm and cultural depth makes it a unique destination.
5. Dahlonega, Georgia – Historic Gold Rush Town
Dahlonega is steeped in history as the site of the first major U.S. gold rush. The town square is lined with 19th-century buildings that now house shops, galleries, and restaurants, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Photographers can explore the Dahlonega Gold Museum or venture into the Consolidated Gold Mine for underground shots. The surrounding North Georgia Mountains provide stunning landscapes, especially during the fall when the foliage bursts into vibrant colors. Local vineyards and wineries add to the scenic variety, offering lush vineyard vistas. A 3-4 bedroom home here is priced between $300,000 and $500,000, allowing you to experience the gold rush legacy in style.
Where is Dahlonega?
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Dahlonega is about 65 miles north of Atlanta, accessible via Georgia Highway 400. The town’s mountainous terrain offers winding roads with breathtaking overlooks. The nearby Appalachian Trail starting point at Springer Mountain makes it a gateway for hiking enthusiasts. You can reach Dahlonega by car, and the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the nearest major airport. Its location provides a perfect blend of accessibility and seclusion.
4. Fairhope, Alabama – Art and Bay Views
Fairhope sits gracefully along the eastern shoreline of Mobile Bay, offering stunning sunsets and a vibrant arts scene. The Fairhope Pier is a beloved landmark where photographers can capture panoramic bay views, especially at dusk when the sky explodes with color. The downtown area is dotted with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes framed by tree-lined streets. Festivals like the Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival bring the community to life with colorful displays and performances. The nearby Weeks Bay Reserve provides natural trails for wildlife and landscape photography. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms are priced between $400,000 and $700,000, reflecting the town’s blend of artistic charm and prime waterfront living.
Where is Fairhope?
Fairhope is located in southwestern Alabama, about 20 miles southeast of Mobile. Accessible via Interstate 10 and US Highway 98, the town is an easy drive from major cities like Mobile and Pensacola, Florida. Its coastal geography offers sandy beaches, estuaries, and rich marine life. The Mobile Regional Airport and Pensacola International Airport are both within an hour’s drive, providing convenient travel options. Fairhope’s blend of natural beauty and cultural richness makes it a captivating destination.
3. Helen, Georgia – Bavarian Alpine Village
Helen transports visitors to a Bavarian alpine village nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. Every building in town is designed with classic Southern German architecture, complete with cobblestone alleys and timber-framed buildings. Photographers can capture unique aesthetics, from colorful facades to ornamental details. The Chattahoochee River runs through town, offering serene waterside scenes. Festivities like Oktoberfest add lively performances and traditional costumes to your photographic repertoire. The surrounding mountains provide trails and waterfalls like Anna Ruby Falls, perfect for nature photography. 3-4 bedroom homes in Helen are priced between $350,000 and $550,000, offering Alpine charm in a Southern setting.
Where is Helen?
Helen is situated in northeastern Georgia, about 90 miles north of Atlanta via US Highway 19. The town is in White County, at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a mountainous backdrop. Its location along the Chattahoochee River adds to the scenic charm. The area’s geography provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, tubing, and fishing. The Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the nearest major airport, with shuttle services available to Helen.
2. Blowing Rock, North Carolina – Mountain Vistas
Blowing Rock offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a paradise for landscape photographers. The town’s namesake, The Blowing Rock, is a cliffside overlook where you can capture expansive vistas and dramatic rock formations. The charming downtown area features boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes along Main Street. The nearby Moses H. Cone Memorial Park provides picturesque trails, lakes, and historical structures. Seasonal changes bring vibrant foliage in the fall and blossoming flowers in the spring, enhancing the natural beauty. Homes with 3-4 bedrooms in Blowing Rock are priced between $500,000 and $700,000, reflecting its premium location and scenic appeal.
Where is Blowing Rock?
Located in western North Carolina, Blowing Rock is accessible via the Blue Ridge Parkway and US Highway 321. The town sits at an elevation of around 3,500 feet, providing cooler temperatures and crisp mountain air. Its proximity to Boone and the Appalachian State University adds cultural and educational dimensions. The region offers outdoor activities like skiing at Appalachian Ski Mountain and hiking along the many trails. The Charlotte Douglas International Airport is about two hours away, making Blowing Rock a convenient mountain retreat.
1. Beaufort, South Carolina – A Coastal Gem
Beaufort is a quintessential Southern town where history and coastal beauty blend seamlessly. The streets are lined with antebellum homes shaded by moss-draped oaks, creating an enchanting atmosphere for photographers. The historic district along Bay Street offers waterfront views with sailboats and dolphins often gracing the scene. Visit the picturesque Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park for panoramic shots of the Beaufort River. The town’s rich Gullah heritage adds cultural depth, with local artisans showcasing traditional crafts. Films like Forrest Gump and The Big Chill were shot here, a testament to its cinematic allure. 3-4 bedroom homes range from $400,000 to $600,000, offering a chance to live in this idyllic coastal setting.
Where is Beaufort, South Carolina?
Situated on Port Royal Island, Beaufort is part of the Sea Islands along South Carolina’s Atlantic coast. The town is accessible via US Highway 21, roughly halfway between Charleston and Savannah, Georgia. Its coastal geography includes marshlands, islands, and tidal rivers, offering diverse ecosystems to explore. The Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and Charleston International Airport are both about an hour’s drive away. Beaufort’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the Lowcountry.
