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Southern hospitality is real. When my family moved to Nashville from Detroit in 1993, the locals welcomed us immediately. It took some time, but my internal clock eventually shifted from “hurry, hurry, hurry” to “what’s your rush?” And before I knew it, I was drinking sweet tea and starting sentences with “y’all.”
That renowned hospitality is extended to visitors, too. As we say in the South — “bless your hearts." If you’re craving a relaxing vacation, here are seven Southern cities that are perfect for a girls’ weekend, couples’ getaway, or solo retreat.
Nashville, Tennessee
Known as “Music City,” Nashville is a pilgrimage for country music lovers. Start on South Broadway, where dozens of honkytonks offer live music all day. Most spots open around 10 a.m., so go early to avoid the nighttime sea of bachelorette parties and urban cowboys.
Next, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, where you’ll find Elvis Presley’s 1960 “Solid Gold” Cadillac limo and costumes worn by Dolly Parton. Consider grabbing tickets to the Grand Ole Opry, where today’s biggest names still perform.
If you need a break from all that twang, decompress at Cheekwood, a 55-acre botanical garden and art museum. Or tour the Parthenon, the world’s only to-scale replica of the Greek monument. Built to celebrate Tennessee’s centennial, it’s a nod to Nashville’s other nickname, “Athens of the South.”
Fairhope, Alabama
HGTV named downtown Fairhope, Alabama, one of the South’s best small towns. It looks like the setting for a Hallmark movie with a tropical twist, as palm trees mix with historic homes. The city regularly hosts festivals, art walks, and concerts, and there’s plenty to do.
Located on Mobile Bay, the unofficial town square is Municipal Pier, where you can enjoy the sunset while pelicans enjoy their dinner.
Local restaurants, like Sunset Pointe, are known for fresh seafood. For breakfast or lunch, head to Panini Pete’s in the city’s French Quarter for beignets or a sandwich. Or make reservations for High Tea at the Grand Hotel Resort and Spa, one of the oldest hotels in the area. The facility served as a hospital during the Civil War, and a cannon is fired each afternoon, honoring the soldiers.
Savannah, Georgia
Nicknamed “The Hostess City of the South,” Savannah, Georgia, mixes history with mystery. Start with a tour of the famed Mercer House. The historic home was the setting for the movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, based on one of the city’s most infamous murders.
Savannah’s historic district offers plenty of shopping and dining options. Bring your appetite to the world-famous Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room, which serves family-style fried chicken, sweet potato souffle, and corn muffins. Other notable restaurants include The Olde Pink House and Paula Deen’s The Lady & Sons.
While cemeteries aren’t typical vacation destinations, Savannah’s Bonaventure Cemetery was voted one of the world’s most beautiful by CNN Travel. A leisurely paced one-mile walking tour includes the final resting spots of famous writers and musicians.
Asheville, North Carolina
Travelers who love all things creative should head to Asheville, North Carolina, specifically its River Arts District (RAD). In RAD, industrial warehouses have been converted to artist studios, and restaurants and craft breweries are also located.
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville’s scenery is a work of art, too. Bring your hiking shoes, as the area offers trails for all fitness levels. If you’re not into breaking a sweat, enjoy the breathtaking view from one of the city’s downtown rooftop bars.
No trip to Asheville is complete without a stop at Biltmore Estate. Take a self-guided tour of the 175,000-square-foot mansion that was once George W. Vanderbilt’s summer home.
Charleston, South Carolina
If you want a taste of Europe but dread a long flight, head to Charleston, South Carolina. The French architecture, wrought-iron balconies, and cobblestone streets will make you feel like you’re in Paris.
One of the best ways to see the sights is on a horse-and-carriage ride. Or stretch your legs in Riley Waterfront Park and grab a photo in front of its famous pineapple fountain. Charleston is also home to several beaches. Soak up some rays or enjoy a tour by boat.
You’ll also want to visit Charleston City Market, one of the oldest public markets in the U.S. Considered the city’s cultural and culinary hub, you’ll find prized souvenirs, like Charleston’s famous sweetgrass baskets. The market also hosts live entertainment as well as a variety of eateries.
Biloxi, Mississippi
Founded in 1699 by French colonists, Biloxi, Mississippi, is one of the oldest communities in the country, rich in history and flavor. Celebrate girl power with a tour of Biloxi Lighthouse. Built in 1848, the structure has been maintained by more female lighthouse keepers than any other in the U.S.
Water lovers will enjoy combing the city’s white sandy beaches, which are perfect for sunbathing or simply watching the waves roll in. Take a break from the heat with a visit to the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art and see the work of George Ohr, better known as the “Mad Potter of Biloxi.”
If you like seafood, you’re in the right place. Biloxi is located on the Gulf of Mexico, and shrimp boats come in daily. The area has several great restaurants, including Mary Mahoney’s, the Fillin’ Station, and Shaggy’s. And if you feel lucky, Biloxi is home to a slew of casinos.
Sarasota, Florida
Can’t decide between soaking up culture in a city or enjoying a beach escape? You get both in Sarasota, Florida. Start the day at The Ringling. Once the winter residence of John and Mable Ringling, the Venetian-inspired mansion hosts traveling art exhibits and the world’s largest collection of circus miniatures. Spend the afternoon shopping the boutiques of St. Armands Circle. Then, take in a show at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, the world's only purple seashell-shaped theater.
Sarasota’s sugar-white beaches are perfect for working on your tan or combing the shoreline for shark’s teeth. Then visit the Mote Marine Aquarium where you can get an up-close — but safe — view of sharks, manatees, otters, and other marine species.
When it’s time for dinner, try the cold stone crab claws at Walt’s Fish Market, the Old Bay fries at Owen’s Fish Camp, or the Cuban sandwich at Columbia Restaurant.
Now, head south this summer and savor our history, charms, and cuisine!
Have you visited any of the above cities? Let us know in the comments below.
