The FRIENDLIEST Places in the South 2024

Hospitality is a hallmark of our region, but people define it in different ways. Is it a conversation in the checkout line? A bartender who knows your order before you sit down? The way a community welcomes people who are just passing through? So we asked you, our readers, to share the places that make you feel right at home on every level. Narrowing down thousands of nominations for hotels, restaurants, stores, nonprofits, and more was no small feat, but it was very uplifting. As these 20 standouts show, Southerners go above and beyond to take care of one another.

- CAROLANNE ROBERTS

Paducah

Kentucky

A GREETING LIKE NO OTHER

Where the Tennessee and Ohio Rivers meet, historic steamboats dock and visitors stroll the Riverwalk and the Greenway Trail. Expect a warm welcome from a band of volunteer ambassadors known as the Red Coats. Easy to spot thanks to their crimson jackets, these helpers are on hand throughout the city to direct you to destinations like the Wall to Wall mural project, the Inland Waterways Museum, the National Quilt Museum, and Barrel & Bond (for sips of Kentucky bourbon). Composed largely of retirees, the Red Coats - more than 100 strong - also anchor events like the annual Barbecue on the River and are ready with an answer to any question you may have. paducah.travel

Publix 

Lakeland, Florida

WHERE SHOPPING REALLY IS A PLEASURE

You probably know that there's no tipping at Publix markets (headquartered in Lakeland, Florida) and that staffers will escort you to any product. But how about these facts? The grocery chain's seafood department will steam and season your shrimp or crabs at no extra charge; fruits and veggies are stacked to create eye-pleasing presentations; kids under 12 can ask for a complimentary cookie; and an employee who is commended by a customer may receive a free sub from the deli. Best of all, Publix teams up with Feeding America food banks to contribute just-pastdate produce, rotisserie chickens, and other items to neighbors in need. publix.com

Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany

Hill Mills River, North Carolina

BREAKFASTS TO WRITE HOME ABOUT