Hipmunk Hotels: Deep South Delights in Lafayette, Louisville, Durham, and More

Exploring the American Deep South is a delight for all types of travelers. Civil War and antebellum attractions draw hordes of history buffs each year, while the Cajun, Spanish, and African influences in areas such as Lafayette make foodies everywhere drool a little. Add a few science centers, annual events like the Kentucky Derby, or a few casinos, and you get the full flavors of this region of the American South. Here are a few destinations for you to explore, along with backpacking checklist tips for the area’s best hotels.

Durham, North Carolina

Durham serves as home to Duke University, a landmark for Civil War history, and a pillar in medical research. If you don’t want to feel overwhelmed by young crowds of tourists exploring Duke or cheering at basketball games during March Madness, try visiting in mid-summer. You’ll get better deals on Durham hotels and enjoy your time at places such as the Museum Hotel Durham, the Red Roof Inn Chapel Hill, or the popular Hilton Garden Inn Durham/University Medical Center.

Photo by Tear Knee via Trover.com

Greensboro, North Carolina

Another North Carolina gem, Greensboro is the perfect destination for those seeking the artistic side of travel. Stop by Elsewhere, the former thrift shop that’s now a prime spot for international art showings, or enjoy a live concert or movie screening in Center City Park. When you get hungry, explore one of the many food trucks in the park. When exhaustion hits, try one of the many affordable Greensboro hotels. Some visitor favorites are the Hyatt Place Greensboro, the DoubleTree by Hilton Greensboro, and the Regency Inn & Suites Greensboro for a historic touch.

Biloxi, Mississippi

Biloxi is a Mississippi favorite because of its mix of interesting sights, casinos, entertainment, and the well-known Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo. While fun for fishing enthusiasts, this isn’t the time to visit if you prefer to avoid crowds, as over 60,000 tourists take over the city. Biloxi hotels come in all shapes and sizes. Stay for less at popular venues such as the IP Casino Resort Spa or the Golden Nugget Biloxi, or enjoy the ocean views at the Four Points by Sheraton Biloxi Beach Boulevard.

Lafayette, Louisiana

This unofficial capital of Cajun country is a popular destination for its rich history, exquisite dining, and unique blend of Spanish, African, and French heritage. You can have your pick of Lafayette hotels in the center of the city, or you can head closer to the bayous and forests. Howard Johnson Lafayette, The Holiday Inn Express and Suites, or the Red Roof Inn Lafayette, LA are all popular choices.

Louisville, Kentucky

Home to the Kentucky Derby, the Louisville Science Center, and the Jefferson Memorial Forest, this Southern city draws large crowds and can get pricey. If you have a flexible timeframe, consider traveling to Louisville during autumn and winter, or simply avoid the spring. The Hampton Inn Louisville-Northeast, Marriott Louisville Downtown, and Hyatt Regency are some of the most popular Louisville hotels.