You may think of country music and humid, sunny weather when you picture the American south. Plan a vacation to a gorgeous southern destination to find out how much more the south has hidden away. From historic parks to the Atlantic coast, you might just find a new favorite vacation spot.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is a beautiful, historic southern town covered in Spanish moss. You'll find it very walkable with lovely green spaces interspersed throughout the streets. Visit Forsyth Park, a beautiful park with a fountain, big open spaces perfect for festivals, and the famous Bird Girl statue. Take a walk down River Street to see one of the most iconic parts of Savannah, or book a historic walking tour to learn more about the history of this city.

Make your stay in Savannah an integral part of your visit there. Many of the hotels are boutiques with historical elements. Finding a bed and breakfast with historical elements will immerse you in Savannah's ambience. Unbeatable Savannah hotels include the Eliza Thompson House, the Gastonian, and the Olde Harbour Inn. These spots are a bit of a splurge compared to the Holiday Inn Express Historic District, but you'll be centrally located near downtown in a gorgeous building.

Nashville, Tennessee

Experience country music the Nashville way by booking your southern vacation in Tennessee. This live music mecca is full of country staples like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Nashville's history and heart is on Music Row, where the country music recording industry makes its home. Nashville also hosts Vanderbilt University and gorgeous Centennial Park, perfect for taking a walk during those gorgeous sunny southern days.

Stay near Vanderbilt University to be close to many Nashville sights without splurging too hard by choosing the Nashville Marriott at Vanderbilt University. Choose a Nashville hotel near the Grand Ole Opry for a budget-friendly experience. Accommodations like those at the Fiddler's Inn fit into many vacation budgets.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Summer vacation destination Myrtle Beach is an Atlantic coast paradise. Gorgeous beaches, gardens, and plentiful golf courses make Myrtle Beach a wonderful vacation destination, even if you choose the low season to visit. Expect attractions like dozens of mini-golf courses and Broadway at the Beach shopping to delight your family.

Beachfront stays are least expensive during low season, and you can book fabulous rates at spots like the Landmark Resort, which boasts pools and other amenities kids will especially love. If money is no object, choose the luxurious Units at Sand Dunes Resort by Elliott Beach Rentals, Myrtle Beach for serious pampering. Try a budget Myrtle Beach hotel like the Red Roof Inn Myrtle Beach Hotel - Market Commons to save while being only blocks away from the ocean.

Whether you choose to lounge in the sand in Myrtle Beach, listen to music in Nashville, or walk historic streets in Savannah, a southern vacation is the perfect way to let go of stress for a few days. What's your favorite southern destination?