Southport’s slow pace and Southern charm may make you think otherwise, but this historic town is full of things to see and do. Steeped in local legend, Southport’s appeal lies in curiosities ranging from the Orton Plantation gardens’ elaborate designs and live alligators to an 800-year-old tree thought to mark an old Native American trail. At the centuries-old Chapel of the Cross at St. Phillip’s, look for the display with every flag flown in Southport—Spanish, British and American—since 1741. And stop at the beautiful Old Smithville Burying Ground to read stories of Southport’s past residents detailed on the stones. Take a piece of culture or history home with you after an afternoon spent perusing galleries or antiques shops, or try golfing, sailing or even skydiving in the area. Whether you simply soak in the Old-South atmosphere or visit the sites, Southport is a vacation to discover the old and enjoy it anew.