The South has jaw-dropping scenery, historic towns, and welcoming people. You need to know where to look. This region has many stunning destinations that it will take you a while to explore. This region has something for everyone, from the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Parkway to smaller hidden gems like New Orleans and Chattanooga.
Add in a distinctive culture, some of the best food in the country, and affordable travel packages. You have got everything you need for an unforgettable weekend getaway from home. Whether you have your sights set on one particular location or are simply looking for inspiration, check out these 21 best weekend getaways in the South.

1. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is a laid-back city in Georgia where you can enjoy life at a much slower pace. This destination experiences sultry nights and warm days, making it ideal for a weekend vacation. Stroll the giant Southern live oak trees with your lover as you hold hands in this romantic getaway.

There are fun and exciting things you could do here, such as discovering the beautiful parks in the city like Forsyth and Daffin Parks. You could also browse through the fabulous boutiques and shops around the city center. Grab lunch at the shady patio for some mouth-watering delicacies.
You could marvel at the various museums in Savannah for lovers of history. Check out the Old Sorrel Weed House Museum, American Prohibition, and the Telfair museums. Surprisingly, Savannah is not as expensive, meaning you could explore many places on a budget.

2. New River Gorge, West Virginia

New River Gorge could be among the best weekend getaways in the South. The park has many fascinating activities to keep you occupied the entire weekend. You could spend the night around Beckley, near the main attractions in New River Gorge.

You can drive down the scenic Fayette Station Road and enjoy striking views of the river below. Stop by the famous Grandview Overlook and enjoy breathtaking views of the park. You could also head to the Sandstone Falls and hike the small boardwalk. Adrenaline junkies can walk to the edge of the falls, but you must be careful. Do not pass the Sandstone Falls Overlook for a chance to experience magnificent views of the surroundings and horizon.
If you seek a longer hike, traverse through the Glade Creek Trail and experience other alluring waterfalls on the way.

3. Jacksonville, Florida

Remember to include Jacksonville on the bucket list if you want a budget destination in the South. This bewildering destination encompasses family-friendly attractions as well as pristine beaches. You can enjoy incredible outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and beachcombing here. Once you are done on the outside, marvel at the Florida Theatre to discover artistic stuff. Also, ensure you interact with wildlife at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens after checking out the Riverside Arts Market in Jacksonville.

You could also visit the Cummer Museum of Arts and Gardens to enjoy the fresh scent of blooming flowers. Tour the Little Talbot Island State Park, observe the washed-up trees, or even stroll Jacksonville’s peaceful beaches. If you fancy water sports activities such as surfing, explore the beaches in Jacksonville.

4. Baton Rouge, LA

Louisiana’s capital is a vibrant city with distinct delectable Southern cuisine. Baton Rouge offers visitors a perfect blend of artistic, historical, and food-related attractions. Among the top and must-see attractions is the Louisiana State Museum. Here you will learn everything about Louisiana’s culture and history.

You could also check out the fabulous LSU Museum of Art and the Louisiana Art & Science Museum. Here you can explore the various modern art collections. Marvel at historical attractions such as the Old State Capitol and the USS Kidd Memorial. You could also visit Magnolia Mound Plantation and the Old Governor’s Mansion for more insights.
If you are a food lover, tour the C’est Si Bon Food Tour, and don’t forget to check out the Red Stick Farmers Market and explore what this side of town offers. Visitors that enjoy sports can marvel at the LSU Tiger football stadium or the Alex Box baseball stadium.

5. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans offers visitors the best weekend getaways in the South. The city boasts spectacular attractions and has everything a traveler could ask for. It offers excellent dining and entertainment, and Bourbon Street is a must-see.

The top must-see attractions in New Orleans include the Audubon Zoo, the Aquarium of Americas, and the Presbytere Museum. Immerse yourself in art at the Contemporary Arts Center, or check out Louis Armstrong Park. If you are a food lover, don’t miss out on dining at Franky and Johnny’s Restaurant or check out what Magazine Street offers. Visitors who love shopping can hit Frenchmen Street for souvenirs and jazz music from local musicians.
Also, explore some neighborhood favorites such as St. Roch Market or take a bike tour of the Bywater neighborhood.

6. Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix is a popular tourist destination with its giant orange-colored sun. Visitors can enjoy the heat and sun during their visit to Arizona, among other fascinating things.
The best places for entertainment and food are downtown or Scottsdale. Downtown has everything from shopping to great restaurants, while Scottsdale has world-class golfing and a zoo.

You can also check out the impressive museum in Phoenix, the Heard Museum, or Desert Botanical Garden. This lush garden offers visitors a chance to blend with nature and marvel at the different species of flora and fauna found here. Enjoy great shopping on Adams Street, as well as around Camelback Mountain. Some exciting and fun activities you can do here include skiing and biking.

7. Key West, Florida

Key West in Florida is another remarkable destination in the South. It lies on a narrow island between the Gulf of Mexico and the Florida Straits and is home to beautiful sunsets, colorful fish, and warm beaches.

There are many things to do in Key West, including shopping for souvenirs, visiting some of the historical sites of Key West, such as Hemingway House and Duval Street, and tasting delicious local cuisine. Stroll along Duval Street to experience live music and enjoy a cold beverage in one of the bars or restaurants.
Key West is widely known for its Key Lime Pie, one of the most popular desserts you will come across in Florida. Marvel at Florida Keys’ tropical beaches, surf, scuba diving, and golfing at one of the many courses.

8. Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia offers visitors the best weekend getaways in the South.
The city is located on the banks of the Congaree River and is known as the “River City.” Columbia has lots of things to explore and marvel at.
There are many historical sites and museums in Columbia, and Mount Pleasant Township is the only place in Columbia that has a neatly-preserved old downtown. Visitors that love water sports and horseback riding will experience the best moments. The city is surrounded by lakes like Lake Johnson, Lake Murray, and Lake Columbia.

Enjoy your vacation at a picturesque golf course like the stunning Linrick Golf Course. The golf course orchestrates manicured lawns and well-kept trails.
This area is also home to several graduate programs from prestigious universities like Clemson University and the University of South Carolina at Columbia.
Visit other impressive attractions such as Old Mill Antique Mall, EdVenture Children’s Museum, and the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.

9. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, NC, is a bustling city on the Tennessee-North Carolina border. The city is the perfect place to enjoy a weekend getaway for families, couples, and avid campers.

The culture of Asheville is so prominent and distinct due to its independent spirit and welcoming nature. The city has around 100 art galleries featuring artwork from local artists like Ed Beardsley, David Shire, and Jerry Dickey.
The Old City Historic District offers many of Asheville’s most beautiful historic sites within the museum district.
Visitors will also find quaint boutiques, exciting shops, and lush gardens in this area, including the North Carolina Arboretum, the First Art Museum at Vanderbilt University, the Blue Ridge Parkway Nature Center, and the Asheville Museum of Science.
There are several trails for adventurous travelers interested in hiking, including the Appalachian Trail, Hickory Nut Gorge Trail, and Botanical Gardens at Asheville. Visitors can also visit famous attractions like Carolina Raptor Center or spend some time at the famous Biltmore Estate.

10. St. Simons Island, Georgia

This island also offers the best weekend getaways in the South with impressive itineraries. Beautiful beaches provide pretty scenery, secluded coves, and many lovely parks to explore at St. Simons Island. A few are Neptune Park, Little St Simons Island Reserve, or the Igbo Landing Historic Place.

While vacationers can opt for the tranquility of natural settings or attractions for local families, there are several outdoor adventure activities available where visitors can go kayaking in the waters or mountain biking through the forest trails.
Cape Fear Memorial Trail is also one of the top destinations to hike on this beautiful island, where you will find stunning views. You will also discover incredible natural structures like old plantation boats which date back years before the American Revolution or historic lighthouses.

11. Norfolk, Virginia

Norfolk is a scenic city in Virginia with spectacular attractions for a weekend getaway. Many hotels and resorts offer stunning coastlines and outstanding golf courses, but there are also historic sites and parks to visit.

While you can easily sail through the Chesapeake Bay or get into the water at Virginia Beach, various guided tours are available to explore the city. You can also stop aboard sightseeing boats like Woodwind or Sunset Sails, which offer multiple tours through Norfolk’s waterways.
You could also discover the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Research Center. Your kids will surely love these interactive displays that provide guests with unique experiences. More than 60 species make up this aquarium, including hammerhead sharks, stingray tanks featuring all kinds of rays, and colorful fish.

12. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle beach in South Carolina is among the best weekend getaways. It has been voted as one of the best beaches in South Carolina, with over 60 miles of sandy beach coastline. While there are various hotels and resorts in the area, you could also go for a day cruise, which is perfect for families with kids. That will enable them to have fun and learn more about the area’s environment in detail.

Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, kayaking and surfing, and water sports on the beach, or enjoy sailing, fishing, and kayaking. You can also learn how to fish or relax by learning how to do yoga and tai chi with classes offered at local schools. There are several family-friendly attractions in Myrtle beach, such as Ripley’s Aquarium and lush amusement parks like The FunPlex Myrtle Beach.

13. Houston, Texas

Some of the most exciting attractions near Houston include The Galleria, a renowned shopping mall in Texas. It is one of the country’s best and largest open-air shopping malls. The Galleria includes restaurants, movie theaters, roller coasters, and water slides. Another popular attraction close to Houston is NRG park. It is an extreme sports amusement park where you can enjoy roller coasters and other activities.

If you love history, visit the Houston Museum District and explore the numerous museums found here with a rich history of Houston. Another top attraction in Houston is the Space Center Houston. Here you can experience interactive exhibits about space, rocket technology, and live presentations about the latest scientific breakthroughs.

14. Miami, Florida

The Miami Seaquarium is among the most visited attractions in Miami. It is home to real-life dolphins, sea lions, and manatees. Here, you can learn more about these fascinating creatures and witness their behaviors as they play and swim in their natural habitat. You could also discover the numerous resorts and restaurants along the beach for delicious cuisines and delicacies. Visitors can engage in activities, including exciting water sports like surfing, kayaking, and skiing.

Bask at the sandy beaches of Miami and soak in the sun. Ensure you also check out Little Havana, a local landmark. A must-see is the bustling Cuban District with its picturesque streets, restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Another must-have to explore in Miami is South Beach, an exciting place to admire its breathtaking surroundings. The South Beach of Miami comprises South Pointe Beach, South Pointe Park Pier, and Collins Avenue Mall, among others.

15. San Antonio, Texas

This bustling city also offers visitors the best weekend getaways in the South. San Antonio is home to the Alamo, a fascinating 19th-century Spanish mission and a National Historic Landmark. In San Antonio, you can enjoy shopping, dining, and having fun in the city. You can also take on exciting adventures, such as visiting Mission Concepcion and the San Fernando Cathedral.

San Antonio Riverwalk is another place to explore in San Antonio. The Riverwalk is a 4-mile walkway along the San Antonio River that houses several shops, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can engage in outdoor activities such as fishing, biking, and golfing.

16. Gulf Shores, Alabama

You can’t get any better than Gulf Shores for picturesque and panoramic beaches. Situated on the Emerald Coast, it is a tourist spot often visited by families and couples. The beaches bear white sand and crystal clear waters, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers. With fine dining options all around, there is no shortage of good places to eat in Gulf Shores.

The town also has drawbridges that appeal to historical site lovers and fishermen who enjoy catching redfish, trout, and flounder. You can visit various museums in town, such as the remarkable Gulf Shore Museum or the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. Gulf Shores also orchestrates lush parks and gardens where visitors can have the ultimate experience with nature. Such parks include Meyer Park, Gulf State Park, and the Wade Ward Nature Park.

17. Sedona, Arizona

This small town is known for its incredible rock formations and atmospheric red rocks. The city is also famous for its many places to visit, whether it is hiking, skiing, riding, or simply relaxing in the town of Sedona. The natural scenery in Sedona absolutely must be seen by outdoor enthusiasts. For these reasons, photos of the area are often used for calendars and postcards.

You can also visit the beautiful Sedona Oak Trail, which leads to a rock formation called Cathedral Rock, where you can take selfies that will never fade away from your memory. The town is famous for scenic hikes, with striking views of the surroundings and impressive rock formations. In Sedona, you will find many places to shop for gifts and local delicacies, such as the Four Peaks Brewing Company, which features a scenic view of the surrounding red rocks.

18. Florence, Alabama

Florence also offers the best weekend getaways in the South. It is a small town with a local population of only 1,500 people. You can get to Florence by driving through the Alabama Hills. The area is also home to one of Alabama’s most popular activities – hang gliding. The best time to visit Florence is from mid-October to early November due to Thanksgiving celebrations.

You will encounter lots of festivals and seasonal events for tourists in this exciting town that offers many things for those who love adventure and the outdoors. You can engage in several outdoor activities in Florence, such as hiking, fishing, bird watching, and great visual treats of the Alabama Hills.

19. Birmingham, Alabama

Birmingham is famous for its vibrant nightlife scene; whether you are into music, pubs, or clubs – you will find a place that suits your fancy in the city. Birmingham is also home to many attractions that provide great entertainment, such as the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, which offers regular concerts at various venues.

You can also explore the Birmingham Zoo, Botanical Gardens, and Avondale Park. Birmingham is a highly modern city with various high-tech industries and businesses, so you can spend time interacting with all the different types of people and industries. There is plenty to do in Birmingham, from learning about the city’s history to trying out one of their many fine restaurants.
Birmingham is home to the legendary Alabama School of Fine Arts, primarily known for its architecture and performing arts department.
Make sure you also check out the national monument commissioned by President Obama. Some exciting structures include Kelly Ingram Park, 16th Street Baptist Church, and the Gaston Motel.

20. Little Rock, Arkansas

Little Rock also offers tourists the best weekend getaways in the South. Numerous places to visit and things to do in Little Rock will keep you busy all weekend. The best places to spend time are the Arkansas Arts Center, the Arkansas Botanical Garden, the Waterfront Park, and historical sites, including City Market, Central High School, and the Governor’s Mansion.

The main attractions in Little Rock include its many beautiful parks, botanical gardens, museums, and historical sites. Some of the lush parks in Little Rock include Riverfront Park, Pinnacle Mountain State Park, and Maumelle Park. Enjoy seamless walks along the Arkansas River and marvel at the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden.
Make sure you check out the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum. Here you will have the opportunity to see a nuclear submarine.

21. Covington, Georgia

There are several tourist attractions in Covington, such as the Fort Pulaski National Monument, the oldest-in-the USA fort. The area offers scenic views of the surrounding forests, hills, and lakes.

Other places include Allatoona Dam State Park, a popular park in Covington for outdoor activities that families can enjoy together. You can also go to a water park, go on a fishing expedition or go hiking in the area.

Conclusion

For the best weekend getaways in the South, here are some of the best destinations. Visit these places to experience the beauty and wonder of the southern states. From historical monuments to lush parks and walking trails, you will fall in love with the South again.

FAQs

What are the affordable romantic getaways in the South?

The South has lots of unforgettable romantic getaways that you can marvel at. Some fascinating places include Beaufort, Williamsburg, Pigeon Forge, Gulf Shores, New Orleans, Charleston, and Fredericksburg.

What are the weekend getaways in the South for families?

The South has several getaways that are great for families. They may include Albany, Brevard, Chattanooga, and Gatlinburg.

What are the fantastic non-beach vacations in the South?

The southern part of the country encompasses various non-beach vacations where visitors can have a good time. Some destinations include Bluffton, Chicago, The Finger Lakes, New Orleans, Napa Valley, Providence, Vermont, Lake Tahoe, and Key West.