SE USA road trip suggestions

Hey all, I'm an American but have never explored the SE part of the country. I'll be doing a 2 week trip starting next week from FL up through AL, TN, NC, SC, GA (maybe VA?). I'm more interested in scoping out interesting towns or small cities than I am in seeing tourist sites and the capital cities. Coming from the western US, real estate is much more affordable in this area, so I'm somewhat considering a move. I mean, not that seriously, but if I fall in love with a place. I work remotely, so I'd bring my job with me.

Already on my list: Chattanooga, Savannah, Charleston, Asheville (and small towns in that area), Birmingham, Greenville (maybe). I fly in/out of Tampa, and am already familiar with St Pete. For reference, my favorite towns in the west: Santa Fe, Bend, Santa Barbara, Missoula.

For some some nature stops I've got some springs on the way out of FL, Fall Creek Falls and Dismals Canyon.

Thanks for any more tips. I'm gonna car camp at cracker barrels and planet fitness at least half the nights. At least that's the idea.