The Best Weekend Getaways In The South
Perhaps one of the best aspects of the South is how our region encompasses the beach, desert, mountains, and scenic plains all at once. In just a few hours’ drive across states like Alabama or North Carolina, you can wade in the ocean and hike in the hills. That’s why it was hard to pick our favorite weekend getaways in the South. From the gorgeous autumn color along the Blue Ridge Parkway to the bustling streets and delicious food of the French Quarter in New Orleans to the palm tree-lined boardwalks of the Low Country, these are our favorite weekend getaways for couples, girlfriend trips, or even solo adventures. No matter where you choose, you’ll see the beautiful landscapes and generous people that the South is all about in these weekend getaway destinations that are within a few hours from home.
The Great Smoky Mountains
Old-growth forests give the Great Smoky Mountains a sense of wonder worthy of a fairytale. Footpaths wind through the lush green folds where waterfalls and creeks rush by bus-size rhododendrons. These are our nation’s oldest mountains, and they continue to provide fresh experiences with each visit.
Take a car hike. Our favorite drives include the loop road around Cades Cove, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail out of Gatlinburg, and Balsam Mountain Road off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Charleston, South Carolina
The Historic District’s cobbled streets feel as hospitable as the drawled accents of the shopkeepers in notable Charleston. Craftswomen sell intricate woven sweetgrass baskets at the City Market, and carriages roll past storied restaurants. And, oh, the shopping along King Street!
Orange Beach, Alabama
Sugar-white sands, Gulf breezes, and a bustling coastal village. From amusement park rides, water parks, and lazy rivers to championship golf, world-class fishing, and big-name concerts, Orange Beach blends action with a laid-back style.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Although it’s only a little more than an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C., this park gets a fraction of the visitors of other parks. That means you practically have it to yourself. Stretching for more than 100 miles through Virginia, it features gorgeous mountain vistas, winding trails, and tumbling waterfalls.
Of the four campgrounds, we like Loft Mountain best, especially the views from campsites A2-A10 on the west and A34b-g on the east.
Nashville, Tennessee
Though it’s the home of country music, Nashville keeps the welcome mat out for new styles and new artists. It’s a hotspot for dining and shopping, too, whether you like it fine or countrified.
Music City might be a bastion of “C&W,” but some of the best music in town is Americana, which derives from a wide variety of American roots music. Visit americanamusic.org for more information.
Keewaydin Island, Florida
Hidden in plain view, this tropical retreat straddles the Gulf Coast between Naples and Marco Islands. No bridges connect it to the mainland, so you’ll need to make like a local and go by boat to spend the day on this secluded beach.
On the first weekend in May, locals from Naples and Marco throw a beach party at Keewaydin, linking their boats around the south end of the island.
The Blue Ridge Parkway
This 469-mile ribbon of asphalt connects the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Shenandoah National Park while sticking to the ridgelines. Every turn reveals something special—a split rail fence, an awe-inspiring vista, a stacked-stone bridge.
From the 360-degree, four-state view from Waterrock Knob (milepost 451), you can see the Smokies, the Nantahalas, the Pisgahs, and the Cowee Mountains.
New Orleans, Louisiana
This amazing city is a bundle of contradictions, from the brass of Bourbon Street to the grace of Royal. Once you’ve experienced the storied history and round-the-clock entertainment of this Creole-flavored party town, you’ll never forget it.
For Jazz Fest, if you stay in or near the Quarter, take a taxi but be ready to pay cash. For the return trip, skip the long taxi lines and catch the bus. (Visit norta.com for details.)
Georgia Coast Road Trip
Scenic Highway 17 delivers three picture-postcard destinations across coastal Georgia—iconic Savannah and St. Simons Island, as well as a lovely, lesser-known find, historic Darien.
You’ll find one of Savannah’s most affordable dinners in the basement of one of its finest restaurants. Make a meal of the appetizers at the tavern, located downstairs at The Olde Pink House Restaurant.
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio’s distinctively Spanish accent makes it a family getaway like no other. And while River Walk lodging can be pricey, the rest of your trip will be easy on the budget.
Buy a water taxi ticket for 24 hours of unlimited on/off privileges at stops running the length of the River Walk.
Blowing Rock, North Carolina
Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, charming Blowing Rock delivers for adventure seekers, shoppers, and those looking for a restful stay. The downtown is chock-full of shops, galleries, award-winning restaurants, and picture-perfect spots. Head to the Blowing Rock for breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Hike the carriage trails at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and check out the art on display at the Southern Highlands Craft Guild, housed in Cone’s former mansion.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
You’ll find a little bit of everything in this Tennessee River city. Explore the river by kayak, take in a show at the Tivoli Theater, and bike across the Walnut Street Bridge to the shops and restaurants in the North Shore neighborhood.
The Tennessee Aquarium located along the riverfront traces the path of water from the mountains to the sea. Learn about animals native to the Southeast.
Louisville, Kentucky
This Southern city may be home to the Kentucky Derby, but it has even more to offer than its legendary track. Taste your way through Louisville’s food scene, or follow the bourbon trail. There’s something for every taste.
Dahlonega, Georgia
Get away to festive Dahlonega, Georgia, to find joy during the holiday season. Decked in lights, the small Georgia town celebrates Christmas for a full month. Visit the town square, shop, and sip local wines.
Book a room right in the town square so you don’t have to walk far to get in on the action in this Hallmark town.
Oxford, Mississippi
Head to this college town for game day and tailgate at The Grove. Or head to Oxford outside of football season to take in its charm, catch live music at Lyric Oxford, and visit the shops and restaurants in the square.
