See all rentals in Tarpon Springs from TripAdvisor! Be sure to make reservations to tour the early 20th century community of Hensley Settlement in the heart of the park. Down Main Street, find a perfect setting of greenspace, gardens, the Reedy River, and a gorgeous waterfall. The best destinations for a fall getaway during COVID-19 Devon Delfino 9/8/2020. Meg McKinney, Credit: At TripAdvisor Rentals, we’ve identified 10 down-south getaways to help you through winter. See all rentals in Black Mountain from TripAdvisor! This was the perfect getaway.” –, “The people are so friendly, [and] the history is all around you. The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2020 Whether you're traveling solo or planning a family vacation, here are the 50 best places to visit in 2020. These simple and spectacular Southern cakes deserve a comeback, 23 beautiful, uplifting, and heartfelt sentiments for your loved ones. Burlington, Vermont is covered in red, orange, and yellow hues as the leaves change every autumn, making it one of the best fall vacation destinations in the U.S. 5. Learn how to season this Southern kitchen staple in five easy steps. With more than 800 miles of hiking trails. Southern Living is part of the Meredith Home Group. More View All Start Slideshow. Delay travel plans until crowds depart and temperatures fall to reap savings on trips to these 30 enticing destinations, from Ohio to Hungary. […] So charming!” – Traveler Review. This Southern small town began as a 19th-century artists’ colony, so it’s no surprise that Fairhope is home to a thriving art scene, complete with studios, galleries, and an annual arts and crafts fest. It has been updated with new information. 8 Great Fall Weekend Adventures in the Southeast With summer squarely in your rearview mirror, it's time to explore adventures waiting among the vividly-colored forests of the Southeastern U.S. Pinterest this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. Last fall, our readers voted this friendly community the prettiest small town in America, and it’s not hard to see why. We will be back!” – Traveler Review. We’re particularly smitten with the downtown pedestrian mall, where you’ll find top-notch bars and restaurants, local bookstores, and colorful boutiques. Small towns dot the sprawling Ozark Mountains like scattered leaves across a field. In mid-November, art lovers can head into historical downtown for the annual Telfair Art Fair, featuring more than 100 artists, entertainment and kids’ activities. Where can you find historic attractions and a Great American Main Street just 17 miles from Music City? Established as a French fort in 1716, Natchez offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi from steep cliffs above the river. “We loved the historic charm and the amazing location (near the marina and museum, grocery store, shops, and restaurants).” – Traveler Review. Copyright 2013 Extremis Premium Magazine Theme, “All of our needs were met, as the house lacked nothing. Soak up the sun, save money, and avoid the crowds by planning a trip to one of the best beach towns to visit this fall. © Copyright 2020 Meredith Corporation. Cary Jobe. Find complete weekend itineraries and editors' favorite picks for these great fall trips and city destinations. “The location was well situated for our daily trips to Michie Tavern, Blue Ridge Mountain picnics, [and] Staunton’s museums.” – Traveler Review. […] All you need to escape or get out and explore.” – Traveler Review. See all rentals in Charlottesville from TripAdvisor! See all rentals in Fernandina Beach from TripAdvisor! If Virginia is for lovers, then Charlottesville is no exception—especially if you’ve got a place in your heart for history, wine, and stunning scenery. Although you can cover this route in a day, plan on two or three. The region is known for its small towns and fall foliage. When it comes to epic outdoor adventures, Southern small towns don’t get enough credit. Designated the Crawfish Capital of the World in 1959, Breaux Bridge is the birthplace of crawfish etouffee. Spend the morning at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, then climb aboard a sailing charter for a tour of the area—or head back to your rental and wait for low tide to try your hand at crabbing. Slip away to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park if you want to leave the bustle of the city for a getaway that isn’t overrun with tourists. When you picture charming Southern towns, maybe your mind jumps to the moss-draped oaks of Savannah, the colorful homes of Key West, or the (fictional) streets of Andy Griffith’s Mayberry. You can drive down highways 57 or 42 to see all of it, with lighthouses and European-styled buildings along the way. “Uncrowded and clean. Whether you decide to go backpacking in the Chattahoochee National Forest, catch a show at the Holly Theatre, take a historic ghost walk, or devote your days to wine tasting (this is Georgia Wine Country, after all), Dahlonega is a destination that’s easy to love and hard to leave. Little River Canyon threads through some of the most stunning fall color in Alabama. From the Ozark Mountains in northern Arkansas to the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, find all our favorite mountain getaways for fall. This mountain town is the gateway to the Cherokee National Forest, which boasts prime fly fishing and 150 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Called Butterfly Gap Retreat, it’s the biggest surprise we’ve found in the Smokies all year―and our favorite place to stay when we want a true getaway. South Padre Island is one of the best beaches in the fall; in fact, fall is actually the best time to visit this destination on the Gulf of Mexico. The Eastern Shore escape makes the perfect getaway from both Washington DC (80 miles) and Philadelphia (120 miles), with cottage rentals tucked into quiet coves and meandering bike trails along the shore. Dubbed “the Heart and Soul of the Chesapeake Bay,” St. Michaels is a small seaport known for its bustling marinas and historic architecture. Save FB Tweet. We’re talking about the Southern US; a region known for beach-like weather year round and the world’s best barbecue. “Nothing better represents the Fairhope experience. Whether you’re passionate about trekking through the mountains or touring the Biltmore Estate, you’ll be near dozens of exciting attractions. The long narrow Caprock Escarpment stands as high as 1,000 feet in places. This scenic route offers sweeping views of the fall foliage across the peaks, waterfalls, and forests of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park. Nicknamed the “Sponge Capital of the World,” this historic Greek community has spent decades harvesting the natural sponges that thrive in local waters. You can spend the day in Nashville at the Johnny Cash Museum or the Country Music Hall of Fame, then retreat to your rental in Franklin and relax in the backyard hammock. It’s more than just food-filled events that make Savannah one of the best fall vacations in the South. Located in the heart of Texas Wine Country, Fredericksburg charms visitors with its vineyards, vibrant art scene, and toe-tapping live music. Find your next great vacation spot—and the perfect local rental!—all on TripAdvisor. ... Visit South Walton. This family-friendly beach town on Amelia Island is home to peaceful shores and private rentals just a stone’s throw from the surf. We've got you covered on all the best fall getaways, whether you're looking for the best fall foliage , a tiny town in your state, the top pumpkin patch picks , or even a scenic train ride . The stroll to the beach from the house was down a beautiful, quaint path.” –, “So quiet, relaxing, and scenic! 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Summer isn’t necessarily the best time to take a trip. From beaches to mountains, outdoor recreation to indoor adventures, and everything in between, you will find more than enough to entertain both kids and adults, all without requiring a hefty wallet. The 9 Best Ski Resorts Near Washington D.C. in 2020 Best Vacation Destinations in the Eastern United States: Best Places to See Fall Colors in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC We loved the cabin and the small town of Brevard. Even on the drive, you get a close-up look at multicolored sandstone cliffs and rugged arroyos carved by tributaries of the Red River. South Padre Island, TX. Start by grabbing a refreshing frozen daiquiri from Wet Willie’s on River Street and then make your way down through the Historic District (yes, you can take your drink with you! There will likely be lots of other folks in search of seasonal vignettes, so we've planned a route that harvests bits of well-known drives while reaping a small crop of lesser-known destinations. Southern Living is a registered trademark of, These Haircuts Are Going To Be Huge in 2021, 7 Paint Colors We’re Loving for Kitchen Cabinets in 2020, 50 Books Everyone Should Read in Their Lifetime, Plan your weekend in Alabama's Mountain Country, Find out more about exploring the Bilmore Estate, Find more about traveling to Cumberland Gap, Plan a colorful fall excursion in the North Georgia mountains, Find more about activities, lodging, and attractions in Greenville, Find more information about Kentucky's Red River Gorge, Find more information about visiting Caprock Canyons, Find more information about Butterfly Gap Retreat and the Smokies, Check out our favorite spots along the parkway, Plan your weekend trip in the Ozarks of northwest Arkansas. We will be back!” –, “The town and national forest are only minutes away. We enjoyed the antique feel.” – Traveler Review. “All of our needs were met, as the house lacked nothing. ... Fall is, quite simply, the BEST season. No matter when you visit this Southern small town, you’ll discover a culture as soulful as the cuisine and a landscape as enchanting as the locals. With its horse-drawn carriages and antebellum mansions, few Southern vacations combine history, hospitality, and coastal charm like Beaufort. The bridge overlooks nature trails, landscaped flowerbeds, and people enjoying the season. Explore the grounds of Biltmore where new activities make it more than just a house tour. “If you like [to be] nestled away from the hustle and bustle, yet just minutes from dining, activities, and entertainment, this is perfect.” – Traveler Review. Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Greenville, South Carolina gives you the best of both worlds. The downtown area has darling shops, and there are many good restaurants! Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Greenville, South Carolina gives you the best of both worlds. And once you decide on a destination, you can book all your tours, activities, and attractions right on TripAdvisor, too. If you love to bike (or boat, crab, fish, or swim), you’ll be smitten with Jekyll Island, a classic destination for Southern vacations. Head out for a hike, go fishing at a local lake, or tube down the French Broad River. When you’re not out for a bike ride on the 25-mile paved trail system, you might find yourself fishing from the pier, playing a round of golf, or exploring Driftwood Beach, a must-see spot scattered with driftwood formations. We enjoyed lunch and shopping in Dahlonega’s quaint downtown.” – Traveler Review. The centerpiece of Greenville’s lovely downtown is stunning Falls Park. Take Tellico Plains, a gem in the Smokies where Appalachian heritage runs deep. This house has real home-away-from-home comfort.” –, “Uncrowded and clean. Set in the Pisgah National Forest—within an hour of equally charming Southern small towns like Lake Lure and Maggie Valley—Brevard makes an ideal base for exploring the region. This article was last published in September 2018. The 469-mile road reveals remarkable panoramic views of tree-blanketed mountains stretching to the horizon. “A splendid spot to unwind and enjoy nature. The Midwest's Most Stunning Fall Vacation Destinations. Bordering the southern side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Bryson City is a laid-back, non-touristy town of 1,500 with more stop signs than stoplights. Rich in Appalachian culture and charm, with art galleries, boutiques, and a downtown district listed on the Historic Register, this small town is a gem. And here, we're sharing the best under-the-radar spots with you—the Southern U.S. small town destinations that should be on everyone's bucket list in 2020. Leave the main road to discover the wild, untamed beauty of Caprock Canyons State Park in Texas. Set in the foothills of the Blue Ridge, this classy city is a hot spot for Southern vacations thanks to its mountain trails, elegant wineries, and attractions like Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. The region is also a top spot for boating and rafting thanks to several rivers and sparkling Tellico Lake. “The owners had thought about everything. After a long day of sipping, shopping, or antique picking,  you’ll want to head back to your rental—perhaps a renovated cabin owned by one of the town’s founders?—to relax by the fire pit. It is a great location to use as a base for touring. Credit: The Liberty Bridge spans it all, with its curved, 355-foot-long pedestrian walkway. If you’re looking to squeeze a long weekend into a tight budget, the South offers a diverse array of destinations where you can experience old-fashioned Southern hospitality at its finest. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a scenic drive on the Cherohala Skyway, a 36-mile route featuring stunning overlooks and picnic spots. The downtown area has darling shops, and there are many good restaurants! One of these 20 romantic fall getaways is sure to win you over. Down Main Street, find a perfect setting of greenspace, gardens, the Reedy River, and a gorgeous waterfall. The town’s famous Crawfish Festival blends Cajun flavors and family-friendly attractions with entertainment from traditional Cajun, Zydeco, and Swamp Pop musicians. One of the best drives in the region is the Blue Ridge Parkway, which winds 469 miles from Virginia to North Carolina. Discover the secret jewel cutting through the state's slice of Lookout Mountain. But we’re betting you won’t be thinking of Franklin, Natchez, or Fernandina Beach—which is why we’re featuring them in our list of Southern vacations you might not know about, but definitely should. “We found the most gorgeous sand dollars and had our ‘fresh catch’ cooked for the evening! You can ‘u-pick’ apples and pears, buy fresh apple juice and squash at farmer stands or pick out the perfect Jack o’Lantern pumpkin at a pumpkin patch. Book a cabin rental here for access to outdoor adventures from hiking and biking to golfing and fishing. 11 Caribbean Family Vacation Destinations For Kid-Friendly... 15 Sparkling Seaside Towns In The USA, From California... 20 Idyllic European Beach Getaways Travelers Love For Their... 15 Beautiful, Hidden-Gem Small Towns In Australia. Best destinations amid COVID-19. Along the Peach State's northernmost backroads, you'll encounter bucolic scenery, wondrous waterfalls, charming towns, and majestic vistas. Nicknamed the “Sponge Capital of the World,” this historic Greek community has spent decades harvesting the natural sponges that thrive in … Town is a relaxing location with lovely walks and historic buildings.” – Traveler Review. “This Cajun cottage was a highlight of our visit in the area. Through hikes, carriage rides, float trips, and rooftop views, discover what really brought George Vanderbilt to this land almost 120 years ago. #1 in Best Fall Vacations Asheville's proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Appalachian Trail means the views of fall foliage are unparalleled. Located an hour north of Atlanta, Dahlonega—the site of America’s first major gold rush—is a vibrant spot for Southern vacations. This was the perfect getaway.” – Traveler Review. The centerpiece of Greenville’s lovely downtown is stunning Falls Park. See all rentals in Jekyll Island from TripAdvisor! Few, however, know that the total Biltmore experience begins outside. Mother Nature may bring you here, but the antiques shopping and the enchanting small towns of Fort Payne and Mentone will keep you for the whole weekend. Get acquainted with this beautiful small town on a photo safari or fishing charter, or a history and film tour, then fall head over heels for the breezy views at Hunting Island State Park or Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. #17 in Best Family Vacations in the USA Hilton Head, South Carolina, is a great option for families looking for that easy, breezy vacation. With soaring cliffs and majestic arches, Red River Gorge is an awe-inspiring place to visit. Fall is also harvest season, so the best places to vacation include wine-country regions from California to Virginia. One of the best things for couples to do in Savannah is to simply take a romantic stroll through the historic district. JamesBrey/Getty Images Door County is said to be one of the best fall foliage spots in the Midwest. ‘Tis the season to ditch your all-white palette in favor of something a little bolder and brighter. This rugged region of geological wonders astounds visitors from other places, but it is beloved by Kentuckians and known the world over to rock climbers, partly because of its many overhanging cliff. Looking for a more urban feel in your mountain escape? Best 3-Day Fall Getaways in the Mountains From the West Coast to the East, fall is a wonderful time for biking and hiking in the mountains while enjoying beautiful fall foliage. Though they lie only about 20 minutes apart, they afford miles of memories for a perfect fall weekend. Located less than 20 minutes from downtown Asheville, Black Mountain is home to quiet neighborhoods and a quaint downtown dotted with restaurants, galleries, and an old-fashioned general store. See all rentals in Franklin from TripAdvisor! Fun for the family and perfect for a couples getaway, these cities offer laid-back vibes, easy access to cultural attractions and scenic landscapes like leafy […] The trendy haircuts you’ll be seeing everywhere next year. Located north of Clearwater, near some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches, Tarpon Springs offers its own unique take on charming Southern vacations. Whether you're traveling solo or planning a family vacation, here are the 50 best places to visit in 2020. See all rentals in Brevard from TripAdvisor! See all rentals in St. Michaels from TripAdvisor! Learn more about the town’s German settlers on a historic trolley tour, then purchase some peach jam at quaint country store Das Peach Haus or go climbing at Enchanted Rock State Area. Read on for 14 of the best fall vacations to take this year, in every bit of the U.S.—and just beyond. Cary Jobe, Art Meripol, Credit: “The people are so friendly, [and] the history is all around you. Of course, you don’t have to leave Brevard for big adventures. Rentals range from colorful carriage houses to restored cottages in the heart of the historic district. See all rentals in Beaufort from TripAdvisor! From the Ozarks to the Lowcountry, here are the best places to visit for your fall escape. When you’re not touring historic homes or browsing in art galleries, you might find yourself at the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians, a 130-acre museum complex celebrating Natchez Native American culture, or at the Delta Music Museum in nearby Ferriday. Book an oceanfront home overlooking the dunes for a setting sure to rival even your most memorable Southern vacations. Charlestown has the added bonus of its beaches—such as East Beach State Park and Blue Shutters Beach—making it one of the best fall vacations not … From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Gulf of Mexico, these Southern small towns are as scenic as they are hospitable, home to hiking trails, historic attractions, and hidden-gem cafes just waiting to be discovered. The stroll to the beach from the house was down a beautiful, quaint path.” – Traveler Review. While the heart of the city might be the iconic Sponge Docks, downtown Tarpon Springs—known for authentic Greek restaurants and antique shops—is also worth a visit. Cape May is great in the summer, but it’s magical in the fall. Hidden in the foothills near Maryville, Tennessee, lies an undiscovered spot, with five strikingly modern guesthouses, where you can have a private piece of these mountains. Beyond the boutiques in the historic district, attractions include wetland tours in the Atchafalaya Basin and spectacular birdwatching at Lake Martin. In fact, it can be one of the worst times to travel, due to hordes of other visitors and oppressive heat. The Hudson Valley in New York has so many fall attractions, it makes one of the best fall vacations in the US. Credit: Robbie Caponetto There’s something particularly magical about a beautiful resort with so much to offer that you don’t need anything else to have a great vacation. The South's Best Resorts 2020 The South's Best Resorts 2020. Autumn is when monarch butterflies converge upon this beach town for a few charmed weeks during their migration. See all rentals in Fredericksburg from TripAdvisor! Located between Savannah and Jacksonville in the Golden Isles, this barrier island boasts 10 miles of uncrowded beaches. What a beautiful little slice of heaven.” – Traveler Review. See all rentals in Dahlonega from TripAdvisor! Given its delightful downtown and storied antique shops, you might be content to abandon your car altogether. We loved the cabin and the small town of Brevard. “So quiet, relaxing, and scenic! Experience the swamps of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta on a kayaking tour, or head south to Gulf Shores for a laid-back beach day. This house has real home-away-from-home comfort.” – Traveler Review. Choose your own fall adventure at Primland, a sprawling 12,000-acre resort where treehouses, mountain homes, and country cottages capture the best views of Virginia's backwoods. With so many interesting states and attractions to see, the South is a great place to take a budget-friendly family vacation.From the thrills of the Disney parks in Florida and the historic charm of Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia and the excitement of learning about space in Houston, there’s truly something to do for every kind of family, no matter what their taste or travel budget allows. There are farms scattered throughout the valley that are open for visits. “Quiet, quaint, and close to Main Street (near all the restaurants, shopping, and wine tastings). ), stopping at the beautiful historic squares and taking in the ornate antebellum architecture. It's autumn, and that means it's the perfect time to hit the byways. Fall turns the South into a canvas, painting it with more colors than Pollock had at his disposal. Book a rental along the shore, and you might spot pelicans and sandpipers from your back porch! Welcome to Franklin, a small Southern town with a whole lot of hospitality. There are many ways to explore the scenic canyon―hiking, mountain biking, on horseback, or by car on a 5-mile loop. These gems, each defined by its own local color, make a fun drive for those with a wandering spirit. In early October, South Padre Island hosts Sand Castle Days, a fun event in which families are invited to watch master sand builders create fantastical creations. With its preserved antebellum mansions and 13 national landmarks, the historic and cultural attractions in Natchez are more than enough to rival Southern towns across the region. Each day, thousands trace the velvet rope-lined passages weaving through one of America's grandest homes. But beyond its 13 miles of pristine beaches, Fernandina is also known for lush, rambling golf courses, Victorian-era architecture, and iconic events like the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival. Our new 24-hour cancellation policy means you can pre-book before arriving, but still have the flexibility to cancel if your itinerary changes. See all rentals in Natchez from TripAdvisor! Visit Black Mountain, and you’ll want to sit down and stay awhile. 02 of 10 Spend the Day Celebrating the Harvest But it’s also a place for waterfront strolls and saltwater fishing, where bike trails wind through town and local joints serve up fresh seafood and piping-hot beignets. No matter where you stay, you’ll enjoy easy access to chic galleries and locally-owned Lowcountry restaurants. Located north of Clearwater, near some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches, Tarpon Springs offers its own unique take on charming Southern vacations. History buffs are covered too, with this fascinating private Civil War tour. “We felt comfortable and ‘at home.’ Black Mountain has much to offer, with great restaurants, walking trails, [and] Lake Tomahawk.” – Traveler Review. By Southern Living Editors March 10, 2020 Skip gallery slides. Throughout the South, though, there are a variety of locations that are ideal for a budget-friendly vacation for the entire family. These cheap fall vacations are easy last-minute getaways to book and plan. See all rentals in Tellico Plains from TripAdvisor! “The town and national forest are only minutes away. Each destination offers stunning vacation rental options at less the cost than other accommodation types. See all rentals in Breaux Bridge from TripAdvisor! The nightlife scene is quieter, but that’s not to say you won’t find live music here; don’t miss venues like the Franklin Theatre and Music City Roots at The Factory. After all, it doesn't need to be summer to warrant an epic vacation to Niagara Falls or the relaxing fall weekend in scenic Michigan.