15 Best Weekend Getaways in the South

Sometimes we just need to get away from it all. That’s why weekend getaways are so perfect. You can escape for just a couple of days without having to make a huge dent in your vacation days at work. I always feel so refreshed and energized after a weekend away. It’s amazing what a change of scene can do for my mood.

When deciding where to go, look no further than the South. This incredible region of the US has everything from urban adventure to escapes into the great outdoors. And of course, there are so many different beach getaways just waiting for you.

This list has the 15 best weekend getaways in the South to help you decide which one is right for you.

 

1.  Great Smoky Mountains (Tennessee & North Carolina)

If you’re looking for one of the best weekend getaways in the South to get back to nature, set your sights on the Great Smoky Mountains.

These majestic mountains have everything from hiking, biking, kayaking, and scenic drives.

Folks say the best time to visit is to see the fall foliage. Or maybe it’s when the spring wildflowers are in bloom. Others claim it’s the perfect summer escape.

And others love the winter in the Smokies. So, as you can see, the Smokies are great year-round. I visited the GSM in the spring and fall, and both trips were fabulous. If you have the opportunity, just go!

Read my list of things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

 

2.  St Augustine Florida

In St. Augustine, you’ll feel like you’ve escaped to the old country without having to leave the US.

As the oldest city in America, the narrow cobblestone streets will transport you to another time and place, making it one of the true weekend getaways in the South.

St. Augustine has tons of places to explore, including historical sites and cute boutiques. I stayed on Anastasia Island and loved walking across the Bridge of Lions each day to the historic downtown each day.

You won’t want to miss the extraordinary Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental US. It’s made from coquina stone!

In St A, you’ll enjoy top-notch eateries and beautiful beaches for shelling, surfing, or simply relaxing to the sound of the ocean waves.

Read my list of 50 Things to do in St Augustine

 

3.  Chattanooga Tennessee

Chattanooga has a perfect balance of urban and natural surroundings.

So, if you’re looking for one of the best weekend getaways in the South that lets you enjoy both, Chattanooga is it.

Located on the Tennessee River, there are tons of ways to enjoy the great outdoors.

Within the city, hit up Riverwalk Parkway or Coolidge Park. Better yet, head to Lookout Mountain for breathtaking views while hiking the trails.

You’ll love the restaurant options and museums in Chattanooga too. Read my list of 21 Best Things to Do in Chattanooga; it also includes some of my favorite day trips from Chattanooga.

 

4.  Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)

If you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing return to nature for your next weekend getaway in the South, consider Shenandoah National Park.

Set out to see favorites like Stony Man, Dark Hollow Falls, Bearfence Mountain, and hike Old Rag.

At every turn, you’ll see the most incredible views of the landscape. In fall the foliage is magnificent!

If your legs are a bit tired, you can always drive the scenic Skyline Drive for a look at the beautiful park from the comfort of your car. There are lots of places to pull over and enjoy the views.

LEARN MORE: 18 Best Southeast Vacation Spots

 

5.  New Orleans, Louisiana

For the best party weekend getaways in the South, head to New Orleans.

It goes without saying that NOLA has incredible food, drink, music, and nightlife.

So, any trip to this fabulous city will have you partying from sunup to sundown. Or maybe it’s from sundown to sunup, if that’s what you’re up for.

NOLA also has so much history and culture to experience. Don’t miss exploring the French Quarter, admiring the mansions in the Garden District, or eating a beignet at Cafe du Monde.

The food + music scene in NOLA is outstanding any time of year! Although it’s best to avoid the summer heat and humidity, if you find yourself in New Orleans in summer you’ll still enjoy delicious eats and top-notch music. My favorite time of year to visit is during Jazz Festival, the last weekend of April and the first weekend of May.

 

6.  Savannah, Georgia

Picture yourself strolling among trees that are draped in Spanish moss.

It seems like a dream or something out of a movie, doesn’t it? Well, if you set your destination for Savannah, it could be your reality.

You’ll love exploring the city’s historic district with its many city squares, museums, churches, mansions, and monuments.

Balance your time between walking your way through Savannah’s historic district and sampling all the best Southern food.

 

7.  Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is one of the perfect getaways in the South for anyone who wants both outdoor adventures and city comforts.

Located off both the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Appalachian Trail, it’s a great home base or stopover. I loved staying in Asheville when I drove across Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway in October 2022.

There are great places to eat and a serious art scene in Asheville. There are also quite a number of wineries, breweries, and distilleries in Asheville.

And check out my list of day trips from Asheville for some places to visit if you have more time available.

 

8.  Ocala National Forest (Florida)

Ocala National Forest is the best weekend getaway in the South if you’re looking to get back to nature and recharge in therapeutic waters.

The forest has over 600 lakes and rivers where you can swim, fish, and canoe.

There are also tons of trails to hike. Wildlife viewing is incredible. You can see everything, from birds to alligators and even manatees. Just don’t fall off the boardwalk, like I did when I was trying to take a photo—not my proudest moment!

If you’re looking to relax in the natural springs, the Ocala National Forest has a bunch.

Choose from Silver Glen Springs, Juniper Springs, or Alexander Springs. See my full list of springs near Ocala.

 

9.  Hot Springs, Arkansas

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway in the South that’s all about relaxation and pampering, set your sights on Hot Springs, Arkansas.

This wondrous town is home to eight different thermal spas that use the natural spring waters in bathhouses and spas.

Guests at the spas can relax in the spring waters and enjoy other spa treatments like massages.

Nature lovers and history buffs won’t want to miss Hot Springs National Park for incredible views, hiking, and of course, thermal springs! Pay a visit to the historic bathhouses to soak up some history.

So, if it’s about time you did something nice for yourself, head to Hot Springs.

 

10.  Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores is one of the perfect getaways in the South for family fun.

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, the pristine white beaches are the best way to spend the day. You’ll love swimming in the clear waters and building sandcastles on the wide beaches.

Take the adventure up a notch with any of the water sports, like kayaking or parasailing. Even the kids can get into the fun. You’ll have everything you need for a stellar weekend getaway in Gulf Shores.

 

11.  Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia & North Carolina)

NOTE:  October 26, 2024, Per National Park Service website alert: Ridge Parkway is partially closed due to damage from Hurricane Helene. Most of the road closures are in the North Carolina section. Check for road closures before traveling in the area.

What’s better than an epic road trip through America’s great landscape? Right, not much. That’s why it’s one of the best scenic weekend getaways in the South.

You’ll love the views along any of the parkway’s 468 miles.

Stretching from Waynesboro, VA to Cherokee, NC, any section you drive will have gorgeous views and loads to do, like hiking, biking, and learning a bit of history.

Make sure to enjoy the small towns along the Parkway, like Waynesboro and Bedford in Virginia or Blowing Rock and Boone in North Carolina.

 

12.  Orlando, Florida

If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure at a theme park or four, you’re obviously headed to Orlando.

Known as the mecca of theme parks, you’ll have Disney, Universal, Lego, and Seaworld, to name just a few.

Beyond the rides, Orlando is one of the best weekend getaways all on its own. There’s lots of stuff to do in Orlando besides Disney.

You’ll find stellar shopping, restaurants, and resorts. Beaches and crystal clear natural springs are also nearby.

 

13.  Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is a fun time for everyone.

History buffs will love touring the historic district.

Beachgoers will have their pick of any of the town beaches, like Folly or Sullivan Island.

Animal lovers will have such a great time looking for dolphins on a boat tour.

Athletes should definitely get out on the water in a kayak or SUP, and the farmers market in Marion Square is where we can all support the local community.

Head to Charleston for a great southern vacation on the East Coast.

 

14.  Key West, Florida

If you’re itching to get away from it all, consider heading to the tropics. There’s no better place to be than Key West.

It’s in this fabulous place that you can let go of it all and just sit back and relax.

Key West is one of the best weekend getaways for outdoor adventure or kicking back and relaxing.

You can visit Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, or get out on the water for a boat trip and fishing excursion.

Before you know it, you’ll be lounging by the water, enjoying a cocktail, and drinking in all the sun your body needs to get on the sunny side of life.

 

15.  Atlanta, Georgia

A major metropolitan area, Atlanta has everything from great food to historic sites.

Anyone headed to Atlanta for one of the weekend getaways will have a full itinerary, for sure.

The World of Coca-Cola is a museum not to miss for anyone who enjoys soda pop or the history of it all.

Spend some time exploring the Centennial Olympic Park right in downtown Atlanta.

History buffs shouldn’t miss the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, the National Center for Human and Civil Rights, the Oakland Cemetery, and the APEX Museum, particularly the Women in STEM exhibit.

At night have some big city fun in Atlanta with theater and music events, take a ghost tour, or hop on the Skyview Ferris Wheel for a stellar view of the city.

 

Final Thoughts

As you can see, the Southern USA has many different types of vacation spots to choose from. And this list of the best weekend getaways has a variety of places to satisfy all sorts of travel styles. From partying it up in NOLA to admiring the landscape along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the choice is yours.

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