Categories: TRAVEL

The Best Southern Weekend Getaways

The southern U.S. is a treasure trove of vacation destinations, especially when it comes to weekend getaways. Perfect places are a’plenty from the mountains to the coasts. From extravagant to the budget conscious, there is something for everyone. Practically every state has their own jewel for vacationing that is worth boasting about.

Savannah, Georgia

Georgia on your mind? My home state has a lot to brag about. Lazy days can be spent exploring Savannah, and the peaceful Tybee Island. Savannah has been voted to be one of the top ten American travel destinations by the elite Conde’ Nast Traveler magazine.

Savannah is the pinnacle of romance in the south. The city itself is 275 years old. Rich in culture , and history it has also been named “America’s Most Haunted City”. Take yourself back to a different time just by taking in the beautiful, picture perfect sites. Imagine 100 plus year old Oak trees with Spanish moss, and strolling along the side of a river with your loved one. Imagine stopping by the famous Paula Deen’s famed restaurant to enjoy some of the finest southern cuisine you have ever tasted. Imagine all in the same day watching the sunset with your toes in the sand at the beach. You have been imagining Savannah. A place where time stands still, and romance is in the air. Now make plans to take the most memorable weekend trip with your loved one a reality. Please visit www.savannahvisit.com , and www.tybeeisland.com for info on lodging, entertainment, food, and an array of unique, fun things to do. Y’all don’t forget to take a look at Paula Deen’s place The Lady and Sons restaurant. Please visit www.ladyandsons.com , and by the way I highly recommend Paula’s Ooey Gooey cake. Your taste buds will never be the same.

Biloxi, Mississippi

Are you the type of person looking for a weekend full of excitement, 24 hour gaming, spas, golf, and beaches? Biloxi on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast has it all. Although this wonderful town is still recovering from Hurricane Katrina, they are bouncing back full speed ahead. The eight major casinos are back, and are doing better than ever. I personally love the Beau Rivage, and the Hard Rock Casino. The Beau Rivage is the epitome of southern class, and the Hard Rock casino is the epitome of southern rock. There are many choices for your gaming experiences, but these rule the roost for me. Spas, five star restaurants, impeccable service, and endless choices have never made it easier for me to feel welcome. Mississippi’s Gulf Coast is a destination of true character, culture, and beauty. For those of you not gaming how about a round of golf, deep sea fishing, a relaxing massage, great night life, or a trip to the beach. In fact, the only negative thing I can think of is the amount of choices, and so little time. For more information on Biloxi, and Mississippi’s Gulf Coast please visit www.gulfcoast.org . I find their site to be the most informative . They have everything you need to know in a clear, user friendly way. Start planning your get away now! For information on my favorite casinos please visit www.beaurivage.com, and www.hardrockbiloxi.com .

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

You don’t always think of mountains when you think of the south. We actually have some of the most beautiful mountains in the world. The Great Smokey Mountains are a nature lover’s dream come true. Not only a haven for the nature lover, the Smokey mountains are also a great romantic get away, and great fun for the whole family. You will feel short of time as you hike up a mountain to see a beautiful waterfall. You will be enamored as you see a mother Black bear with her cubs as you drive the Motor Nature Trail, or Cades Cove nature park. Info on Cade’s Cove can be found at www.cadescove.net . Entertain your sense of adventure as you go white water rafting, or horse back riding. Do you like fishing? Enjoy some of the best Rainbow trout fishing in the world. Visit Cherokee Indians, and be intrigued by their heritage.

When you have had your fill of nature you can enjoy the many attractions, and shopping that is offered right down town. All easily accessed by walking makes it a breeze. Stay in a beautiful mountain chalet with breath taking views, or try a hotel with a balcony over looking the river where you can fish from the comfort of your own room.

Pigeon Forge is just a few miles away, and offers all the same experiences except that this is the home of the world famous Dollywood. Great fun for the whole family. Enjoy roller coasters, and rides mixed with good, old fashioned country fun. You can find out more about Dollywood at www.dollywood.com, or start planning your weekend get away to Gatlinburg by visiting www.gatlinburg.com . The Great Smokey mountains are a weekend that you will hold in your heart forever. Start making memories.

These are my favorite spots for an incredible weekend get away. I have personally experienced every place I have talked about , or mentioned. I have enjoyed each one in a differently, and made wonderful memories along the way. I also wanted to give honorable mention to several other places I have been that are definitely worth checking out. New Orleans, Louisiana is a city with character, and the most interesting history I have ever experienced. Visit www.neworleansonline.com for more information. Asheville, North Carolina is a great place for couples with the Grove Park Inn being my favorite spot in this town. Please visit www.exploreashville.com, and www.groveparkinn.com. Atlanta, Georgia is my home town, and although I live here we still use the city to “get away” . So much to do in our wonderful city that I cannot recommend it enough. Of course I have to recommend the Georgia Aquarium. After all, it is the world’s largest aquarium , and its pretty magnificent. Visit www.atlanta.net , and www.georgiaaquarium.org for more info on my spectacular city. Last, but not least is Florida. Anywhere in Florida will do as long as you are near a beach. If you are not near a beach you should be at Walt Disney World. Do not miss this wonderland. Its not just for children after all. Please visit www.visitflorida.com , and www.disneyworld.disney.go.com to get more information on this oasis they call the Sunshine state.

Weekend getaways are for unwinding, and refreshing. Each , and everyone of these destinations are great places to take you away from the everyday grind. Weekends are our designated days for ourselves so take the time for yourself and get away. Our southern hospitality can’t be beat, and you really do deserve it.

Sources:

www.atlanta.net

www.savannahvisit.com

www.tybeeisland.com

www.beaurivage.com

www.hardrockbiloxi.com

www.gulfcoast.org

www.ladyandsons.com

www.cadescove.net

www.dollywood.com

www.gatlinburg.com

www.neworleansonline.com