This was the perfect getaway.” –, “The people are so friendly, [and] the history is all around you. What a beautiful little slice of heaven.” – Traveler Review. These cheap fall vacations are easy last-minute getaways to book and plan. The 469-mile road reveals remarkable panoramic views of tree-blanketed mountains stretching to the horizon. 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. From the Ozarks to the Lowcountry, here are the best places to visit for your fall escape. Book a cabin rental here for access to outdoor adventures from hiking and biking to golfing and fishing. See all rentals in Fredericksburg from TripAdvisor! We will be back!” –, “The town and national forest are only minutes away. Dubbed “the Heart and Soul of the Chesapeake Bay,” St. Michaels is a small seaport known for its bustling marinas and historic architecture. Be sure to make reservations to tour the early 20th century community of Hensley Settlement in the heart of the park. 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. Throughout the South, though, there are a variety of locations that are ideal for a budget-friendly vacation for the entire family. 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. Nicknamed the “Sponge Capital of the World,” this historic Greek community has spent decades harvesting the natural sponges that thrive in local waters. Experience the swamps of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta on a kayaking tour, or head south to Gulf Shores for a laid-back beach day. Save FB Tweet. We loved the cabin and the small town of Brevard. This place should have a centerfold in Coastal Living magazine.” – Traveler Review. With its horse-drawn carriages and antebellum mansions, few Southern vacations combine history, hospitality, and coastal charm like Beaufort. It’s more than just food-filled events that make Savannah one of the best fall vacations in the South. “This Cajun cottage was a highlight of our visit in the area. 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. 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. “Nothing better represents the Fairhope experience. See all rentals in Breaux Bridge from TripAdvisor! See all rentals in Brevard from TripAdvisor! Discover the secret jewel cutting through the state's slice of Lookout Mountain. The South's Best Resorts 2020 The South's Best Resorts 2020. This house has real home-away-from-home comfort.” –, “Uncrowded and clean. This mountain town is the gateway to the Cherokee National Forest, which boasts prime fly fishing and 150 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Though they lie only about 20 minutes apart, they afford miles of memories for a perfect fall weekend. See all rentals in Tarpon Springs from TripAdvisor! We’re particularly smitten with the downtown pedestrian mall, where you’ll find top-notch bars and restaurants, local bookstores, and colorful boutiques. 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. This was the perfect getaway.” – Traveler Review. The trendy haircuts you’ll be seeing everywhere next year. See all rentals in Beaufort from TripAdvisor! 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. 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. 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. Looking for a more urban feel in your mountain escape? 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. Autumn is when monarch butterflies converge upon this beach town for a few charmed weeks during their migration. Find your next great vacation spot—and the perfect local rental!—all on TripAdvisor. “The location was well situated for our daily trips to Michie Tavern, Blue Ridge Mountain picnics, [and] Staunton’s museums.” – Traveler Review. It's autumn, and that means it's the perfect time to hit the byways. These gems, each defined by its own local color, make a fun drive for those with a wandering spirit. ... Visit South Walton. 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. See all rentals in Jekyll Island from TripAdvisor! #17 in Best Family Vacations in the USA Hilton Head, South Carolina, is a great option for families looking for that easy, breezy vacation. 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 … “All of our needs were met, as the house lacked nothing. “So quiet, relaxing, and scenic! Whether you’re passionate about trekking through the mountains or touring the Biltmore Estate, you’ll be near dozens of exciting attractions. Located an hour north of Atlanta, Dahlonega—the site of America’s first major gold rush—is a vibrant spot for Southern vacations. 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. 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. Our new 24-hour cancellation policy means you can pre-book before arriving, but still have the flexibility to cancel if your itinerary changes. 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Designated the Crawfish Capital of the World in 1959, Breaux Bridge is the birthplace of crawfish etouffee. 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. See all rentals in Black Mountain from TripAdvisor! Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Greenville, South Carolina gives you the best of both worlds. 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. 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! 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. If you love to bike (or boat, crab, fish, or swim), you’ll be smitten with Jekyll Island, a classic destination for Southern vacations. ‘Tis the season to ditch your all-white palette in favor of something a little bolder and brighter. One of the best drives in the region is the Blue Ridge Parkway, which winds 469 miles from Virginia to North Carolina. “Quiet, quaint, and close to Main Street (near all the restaurants, shopping, and wine tastings). One of these 20 romantic fall getaways is sure to win you over. Fall is also harvest season, so the best places to vacation include wine-country regions from California to Virginia. The downtown area has darling shops, and there are many good restaurants! 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. 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. 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. 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. Small towns dot the sprawling Ozark Mountains like scattered leaves across a field. […] So charming!” – Traveler Review. […] All you need to escape or get out and explore.” – Traveler Review. We’ve scoped out dozens of destinations across the region to bring you this list of Southern vacations you simply can’t miss. Book a rental along the shore, and you might spot pelicans and sandpipers from your back porch! “We loved the historic charm and the amazing location (near the marina and museum, grocery store, shops, and restaurants).” – Traveler Review. 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. 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. We loved the cabin and the small town of Brevard. “Uncrowded and clean. The Hudson Valley in New York has so many fall attractions, it makes one of the best fall vacations in the US. There are farms scattered throughout the valley that are open for visits. This house has real home-away-from-home comfort.” – Traveler Review. 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. With soaring cliffs and majestic arches, Red River Gorge is an awe-inspiring place to visit. 02 of 10 Spend the Day Celebrating the Harvest this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. See all rentals in Fairhope from TripAdvisor! Credit: Visit Black Mountain, and you’ll want to sit down and stay awhile. By Southern Living Editors March 10, 2020 Skip gallery slides. Each day, thousands trace the velvet rope-lined passages weaving through one of America's grandest homes. 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. 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. See all rentals in Dahlonega from TripAdvisor! See all rentals in Charlottesville from TripAdvisor! The Midwest's Most Stunning Fall Vacation Destinations. You can drive down highways 57 or 42 to see all of it, with lighthouses and European-styled buildings along the way. Learn how to season this Southern kitchen staple in five easy steps. Of course, you don’t have to leave Brevard for big adventures. The best destinations for a fall getaway during COVID-19 Devon Delfino 9/8/2020. 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 […] 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. 5. 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. Each destination offers stunning vacation rental options at less the cost than other accommodation types. 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. 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. 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 Find complete weekend itineraries and editors' favorite picks for these great fall trips and city destinations. Delay travel plans until crowds depart and temperatures fall to reap savings on trips to these 30 enticing destinations, from Ohio to Hungary. Southern Living is part of the Meredith Home Group. Book an oceanfront home overlooking the dunes for a setting sure to rival even your most memorable Southern vacations. The region is known for its small towns and fall foliage. History buffs are covered too, with this fascinating private Civil War tour. JamesBrey/Getty Images Door County is said to be one of the best fall foliage spots in the Midwest. Copyright 2013 Extremis Premium Magazine Theme, “All of our needs were met, as the house lacked nothing. 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. Nicknamed the “Sponge Capital of the World,” this historic Greek community has spent decades harvesting the natural sponges that thrive in … We will be back!” – Traveler Review. This article was last published in September 2018. “We felt comfortable and ‘at home.’ Black Mountain has much to offer, with great restaurants, walking trails, [and] Lake Tomahawk.” – Traveler Review. From the Ozark Mountains in northern Arkansas to the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, find all our favorite mountain getaways for fall. “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. At TripAdvisor Rentals, we’ve identified 10 down-south getaways to help you through winter. The bridge overlooks nature trails, landscaped flowerbeds, and people enjoying the season. Through hikes, carriage rides, float trips, and rooftop views, discover what really brought George Vanderbilt to this land almost 120 years ago. Beyond the boutiques in the historic district, attractions include wetland tours in the Atchafalaya Basin and spectacular birdwatching at Lake Martin. See all rentals in St. Michaels from TripAdvisor! And once you decide on a destination, you can book all your tours, activities, and attractions right on TripAdvisor, too. Leave the main road to discover the wild, untamed beauty of Caprock Canyons State Park in Texas. 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. Although you can cover this route in a day, plan on two or three. The long narrow Caprock Escarpment stands as high as 1,000 feet in places. It has been updated with new information. Summer isn’t necessarily the best time to take a trip. Down Main Street, find a perfect setting of greenspace, gardens, the Reedy River, and a gorgeous waterfall. When it comes to epic outdoor adventures, Southern small towns don’t get enough credit. Located north of Clearwater, near some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches, Tarpon Springs offers its own unique take on charming Southern vacations. Rentals range from colorful carriage houses to restored cottages in the heart of the historic district. See all rentals in Fernandina Beach from TripAdvisor! There are many ways to explore the scenic canyon―hiking, mountain biking, on horseback, or by car on a 5-mile loop. 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. Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Greenville, South Carolina gives you the best of both worlds. Head out for a hike, go fishing at a local lake, or tube down the French Broad River. Last fall, our readers voted this friendly community the prettiest small town in America, and it’s not hard to see why. “The people are so friendly, [and] the history is all around you. Take Tellico Plains, a gem in the Smokies where Appalachian heritage runs deep. 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. With more than 800 miles of hiking trails. 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. Little River Canyon threads through some of the most stunning fall color in Alabama. The region is also a top spot for boating and rafting thanks to several rivers and sparkling Tellico Lake. The Liberty Bridge spans it all, with its curved, 355-foot-long pedestrian walkway. No matter where you stay, you’ll enjoy easy access to chic galleries and locally-owned Lowcountry restaurants. Fall turns the South into a canvas, painting it with more colors than Pollock had at his disposal. Cape May is great in the summer, but it’s magical in the fall. “A splendid spot to unwind and enjoy nature. © Copyright 2020 Meredith Corporation. It is a great location to use as a base for touring. 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