08/28/2026
We’re excited to see the Deep South USA shining in the JRNY America Awards 2026, with several finalists across destinations, cities, experiences, food, music and tourism initiatives! 🏆🇺🇸
From the vibrant streets of New Orleans to the musical heritage of Muscle Shoals, the history of the Alabama Civil Rights Trail and the great outdoors of Mississippi and Tennessee - there’s so much to celebrate.
Our line-up includes:
📍 Destination of the Year: Louisiana & Tennessee
⭐ State of the Year: Mississippi & Tennessee
🏙️ Medium City of the Year: Chattanooga, New Orleans & Lafayette, Louisiana
🏡 Small City/Town of the Year: Tupelo
🍴 Best Food City: New Orleans
🎶 Best Music Destination: New Orleans & Muscle Shoals, Alabama
✨ Best Emerging Destination: Tupelo & Clarksdale, Mississippi
🎭 Best Tourism Experience: Mardi Gras, New Orleans; Alabama Civil Rights Trail; and Music in Tennessee
🚴 Best New Tourism Initiative: The Great Mississippi Nature Trail & Bike Tennessee
A huge CONGRATULATIONS to all the destinations, cities, attractions and tourism teams that have been selected as finalists and we’ll be keeping everything crossed for some winners! 🤞🏆
Sweet Home Alabama - Explore Louisiana - Visit Mississippi Tennessee Vacation - Visit Chattanooga - Visit New Orleans
Lafayette, Louisiana - My Tupelo - Muscle Shoals - Visit Clarksdale