Tag: Southern travel

Fall Adventures Await in Columbia, South Carolina

Each year, travelers search for the perfect autumn escape, and this season, Columbia, South Carolina stands out as one of the most sought-after destinations in the United States. According to Google Flights and this article from Southern Living, Columbia emerged as the top trending city for Thanksgiving travel, ranking above well-known destinations across the country. This growing interest reflects the city’s mix of history, cultural energy, and natural beauty, making it a rewarding stop for those exploring the South during fall.

While many cities draw attention for their size or coastal appeal, Columbia is gaining traction for its welcoming downtown, accessible riverfront, and vibrant autumn activities. Travel to mid-sized American cities has been steadily increasing, with places like Little Rock, Arkansas and Knoxville, Tennessee also landing on trending lists, but Columbia leads the way with its combination of historic sites, outdoor adventures, and seasonal traditions.

One of Columbia’s defining features is its position as the South Carolina state capital. Visitors can admire the stately South Carolina State House, surrounded by gardens and monuments that showcase the state’s history. The nearby Main Street District offers opportunities for strolling past architectural landmarks, sampling local cuisine, and browsing boutiques under the glow of festive fall lights.

Autumn is also an excellent season for outdoor exploration. The Congaree National Park, located just outside the city, offers hiking trails through towering hardwood forests that come alive with fall color. For those who enjoy water-based recreation, the Saluda River and Three Rivers Greenway provide kayaking, walking, and biking paths framed by crisp seasonal air. These outdoor spaces make Columbia a natural fit for travelers hoping to balance city sightseeing with fresh-air escapes.

Another aspect of Columbia that draws visitors in the fall is its status as a lively college town. Home to the University of South Carolina, the city buzzes with school spirit, particularly during football season. Thanksgiving weekend traditionally brings the Palmetto Bowl, the fierce rivalry game between the South Carolina Gamecocks and the Clemson Tigers. Attending this matchup allows travelers to experience local traditions firsthand, as thousands gather to cheer on their teams in one of the South’s most passionate sporting events.

Columbia’s cultural offerings also add to its autumn appeal. The Columbia Museum of Art showcases rotating exhibitions and a notable permanent collection. Nearby, the South Carolina State Museum combines history, science, and art in one expansive space, while the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden offers both wildlife exhibits and botanical displays glowing with seasonal colors. Together, these attractions create a balanced itinerary for travelers who enjoy art, history, and the outdoors.

Of course, Columbia’s popularity during Thanksgiving is part of a broader trend. Google Flights analyzed data from November 23–30 departures, showing a surge in interest in Columbia compared to the previous year. Other trending destinations included Bozeman, Montana, Spokane, Washington, and Colorado Springs, Colorado. This pattern suggests travelers are increasingly seeking smaller, approachable cities rich in culture and natural surroundings.

For those planning ahead, airfare booking strategies also matter. Google Flights reported that the lowest Thanksgiving fares often appear around 51 days before departure, meaning travelers who organize early may secure the best deals. With Columbia topping the seasonal charts, advanced planning ensures availability and affordable pricing for flights into Columbia Metropolitan Airport.

While Thanksgiving highlights Columbia’s popularity, the city’s attractions extend well into December. Its tree-lined avenues, local markets, and holiday lights transition seamlessly from autumn harvest themes into winter festivities. For travelers who prefer warmer international escapes for Christmas or New Year’s, Google also noted trending destinations such as Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, St. Lucia, Marrakech, Morocco, Tel Aviv, Israel, and Curaçao. But for those remaining stateside, Columbia offers a seasonal experience that captures the essence of Southern hospitality, cultural pride, and natural beauty.

Columbia, South Carolina, presents the ideal fall travel destination: a mix of landmarks steeped in history, outdoor adventures framed by seasonal landscapes, and energetic events fueled by collegiate tradition. For visitors eager to embrace autumn while discovering a city both accessible and distinctive, Columbia remains a premier choice.

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Why Black Mountain Should Be on Your Travel List

Nestled just 20 minutes from Asheville, the town of Black Mountain is steadily gaining recognition as a vibrant travel destination. Known as the “Front Porch of Western North Carolina,” this mountain community blends culture, natural beauty, and a thriving arts scene into a welcoming retreat, as per this travel blog post from Southern Living. Despite setbacks caused by Hurricane Helene in September, the town has made significant strides in recovery, with restaurants, shops, and accommodations reopening to greet travelers. The chamber of commerce reports nearly 2 million annual visitors, and that number is expected to grow as word spreads about this hidden gem.

Two standout accommodations provide distinctly different atmospheres while both remaining close to downtown. The Monte Vista Hotel, a historic boutique property, offers 45 renovated rooms, an inviting courtyard, and on-site dining. Its quiet setting just a few blocks from central streets ensures convenience without sacrificing tranquility. Alternatively, theRed Rocker Inn, an 1896 Victorian mansion turned bed-and-breakfast, provides 17 rooms and suites. Known for its homemade breakfasts and charming character, it is ideal for travelers seeking a cozy, historic ambiance.

Entertainment thrives in Black Mountain thanks to beloved venues like White Horse Black Mountain. This nonprofit music hall presents bluegrass, jazz, blues, and Americana in an intimate listening-room atmosphere. Occasional vaudeville shows, songwriter circles, and film screenings round out the calendar. Known locally as “the town’s living room,” the venue highlights the community spirit that defines the region.

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Black Mountain is an excellent base for outdoor adventures. The Lookout Mountain Trail in nearby Montreat provides a brisk 1.4-mile round trip with sweeping views of the Seven Sisters range. For a longer trek, the Graybeard Trail offers a 9.5-mile journey through hardwood forests, cascading waterfalls, and mountain vistas. Those preferring a leisurely outing can enjoy Lake Tomahawk Park, complete with a walking path, tennis courts, fishing piers, and picnic pavilions.

Culinary variety is another hallmark of Black Mountain. Bush Farmhouse showcases South African flavors, with dishes such as Umngqusho and Bunny Chow. The restaurant’s garden setting, live music, and resident animals add to its distinctive character. At The Pure & Proper, a renovated 1940s gas station houses an all-day eatery known for globally inspired plates like okonomiyaki, poached pear gnudi, and duck confit—all at surprisingly approachable prices. Meanwhile, Cousins Cuban Café attracts long lines for authentic Cubano sandwiches, ropa vieja, and ham croquetas, cementing its place as a downtown staple.

Compact and walkable, Black Mountain’s downtown encourages leisurely exploration. Coffee at Dripolator provides a starting point before perusing shops such as Seven Sisters Craft Gallery or Mountain Nest Gallery, where hundreds of regional artisans showcase jewelry, ceramics, paintings, and hand-blown glass. At the historic Old Depot Gallery, once a train station, rotating exhibits highlight the region’s creative depth.

For eclectic finds, Chifferobe Home & Garden offers antiques and décor, while Sassafras on Sutton caters to book lovers. Since 1928, Town Hardware & General Store has provided everything from vintage tools to unique gifts, earning its place as a cornerstone of the community.

Markets and outdoor events are regular fixtures in Black Mountain. The town’s Tailgate Market draws residents and visitors alike with fresh produce, handmade pottery, and live folk music. Seasonal festivities bring energy to the compact downtown, while giant rocking chairs placed throughout town serve as iconic symbols of its relaxed pace. Pausing in the square with a cupcake from Hey Hey Cupcake offers a fitting end to a day of exploration, surrounded by flowers, fountains, and mountain views.

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The Top Southern Cities for Independent Adventures

There’s something freeing about traveling alone—no competing schedules, no compromise on activities, and no pressure to keep anyone else entertained. You set the pace, curate the itinerary to your interests, and focus entirely on experiences that inspire and rejuvenate you. Solo travel has shed its “last resort” label and emerged as an aspirational way to explore. As per this travel blog article from Southern Living and according to TripAdvisor’s Trendcast 2025, more people are booking independent adventures than ever before, discovering that time alone can be the perfect way to connect both with themselves and new places. From stylish city breaks to serene nature escapes, the South offers an array of destinations perfectly suited for independent travelers.

Naples, Florida
Located about two hours south of Sarasota, Naples lives up to its Paradise Coast nickname. Charming streets lined with galleries, boutiques, and cafés make it easy to wander at your own pace, whether by bike, water taxi, or on foot. If fashion excites you, plan your trip during Naples Fashion Week each March. After a day of shopping along Fifth Avenue South or Waterside Shops, catch the sunset at Naples Pier or tour the Historic Palm Cottage, the oldest home in town. All of this makes Naples an ideal location for independent adventures.

Austin, Texas
The “joy of missing out” is trending, and Austin delivers it in style. Lavish stays like Miraval Austin Resort & Spa offer wellness programs, dining, and activities so appealing you may never want to leave the property. For city views paired with top-tier cuisine, The Loren at Lady Bird Lake impresses with its rooftop restaurant Nido. If you do venture out, immerse yourself in native flora at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center or explore immersive art atWonderspaces Austin.

Sarasota County, Florida
On Florida’s Suncoast, turquoise waters lap at white-sand beaches perfect for a restorative retreat. Pedestrian-friendly boardwalks connect beach parks, shops, and dining, making exploration effortless. Beyond the shore, Sarasota boasts cultural gems like The Sarasota Ballet and eco-friendly beauty at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Lido Key Bike and Kayak Tour offers a mix of exercise and scenic Gulf views, while Myakka River State Park invites nature lovers to hike among Florida’s diverse wildlife.

Houston, Texas
Houston is a city where culinary ambition thrives. With over 13,000 restaurants representing more than 70 global cuisines, the dining scene is as diverse as its population. In late 2024, six restaurants earned MICHELIN Stars, and another 17 were awarded Bib Gourmands. Between meals, explore the legendary Johnson Space Center, browse the international goods at Phoenicia Specialty Foods, or enjoy live music at the iconic Continental Club.

Little Rock, Arkansas
The capital city of Arkansas offers a compelling mix of historical significance and contemporary culture. Visit theWilliam J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum, tour the Arkansas State Capitol, or follow the Arkansas Civil Rights Heritage Trail to see where pivotal moments unfolded. Outdoor beauty awaits at The Old Mill, famously featured in Gone With the Wind, while local restaurants serve innovative Southern fare.

Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville brims with creativity and charm. Tour the grand Biltmore Estate, browse artisan goods at Grove Arcade, or follow The WNC Cheese Trail for flavorful discoveries. Outdoor escapes are close at hand, with retreats like The Swag offering Appalachian-inspired adventures just beyond the city limits.

Each of these destinations offers a unique independent adventures / solo travel experience—whether that means basking on pristine beaches, losing yourself in historic landmarks, indulging in culinary masterpieces, or simply soaking in the views from a luxurious hotel suite. Traveling alone here isn’t just about seeing new places—it’s about feeling empowered to explore at your own rhythm, discover hidden corners, and create a journey defined entirely by your own interests.

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Hospitality in Every Detail: Resorts Across the South Worth the Trip

The South has long been known for its warmth—both in climate and in welcome—and that reputation extends to its resort scene, according to this travel guide from Southern Living. Across the region, sprawling properties set against mountain ridges, lakesides, and oceanfronts offer unmatched relaxation paired with outdoor adventure and luxurious amenities. These resorts embrace all styles of travel, from rugged exploration to poolside lounging, and they deliver thoughtfully curated experiences that leave guests eager to return.

One such gem is Cataloochee Ranch in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. Set high in the Great Smoky Mountains, this Relais & Châteaux property blends rustic charm with top-tier service. Visitors can ride horseback through national park trails in the morning and tackle an adventure course by afternoon. Birdwatching, hiking, and evenings by the fire offer a peaceful mountain escape, with cozy cabins spacious enough for larger travel groups.

Down on the Florida Gulf Coast, JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa is a standout destination. Clearwater Beach is known for its sugar-white sand and warm, shallow waters, and this resort capitalizes on the setting with a rooftop pool, private beach access, and suite-style accommodations. Guests can rent bikes, join beachside scavenger hunts, or simply unwind with panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico.

For travelers seeking Southern heritage with a coastal twist, Jekyll Island Club Resort on Jekyll Island, Georgia provides both historic charm and beachside relaxation. Once the winter retreat of America’s wealthiest families, this 5,700-acre property now offers activities ranging from croquet to guided history tours. Visitors can rent bikes to explore the island or choose between two distinct lodging experiences: the oceanfront Jekyll Ocean Club or the more traditional, historic Jekyll Island Club Hotel.

Up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, High Hampton in Cashiers, North Carolina delivers a relaxed yet upscale experience. With tennis courts, croquet lawns, fishing spots, and hiking trails, the resort offers year-round entertainment in a refined setting. Its multi-room suites and cottages make group travel seamless, while a reservation-only activity hub provides additional ways to unwind.

Just over the border in Walland, Tennessee, Blackberry Farm remains a top-tier destination. Famed for its culinary program and elegant accommodations, the resort also offers a wealth of outdoor programming. Its Family Adventure Series allows guests to experience the Smokies through archery, geocaching, and immersive farm tours, while Camp Blackberry offers structured activities for younger travelers with a focus on the area’s natural and cultural riches.

In the Golden Isles of Georgia, The Cloister at Sea Island provides a luxurious base for exploring the coast. Situated on Sea Island with proximity to St. Simons Island, the resort includes multiple pools, direct beach access, and water activities such as kayaking and sailing. Guests can also learn local crafts through guided programming, take part in beachcombing tours, or explore the private island by bike.

A short drive from Hilton Head lies Montage Palmetto Bluff, tucked inside the scenic waterways of Bluffton, South Carolina. This Lowcountry resort offers expansive accommodations, a riverfront marina, and countless on-site activities including kayaking, biking, golfing, and roasting s’mores under the oak trees. For those traveling with companions of all interests and paces, the variety of pursuits ensures everyone finds their niche.

Finally, Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms, South Carolina is a coastal haven built for long days in the sun. The 1,600-acre retreat includes beach condos, suites, and rental homes, giving guests flexible lodging options. On-site amenities range from a golf course and spa to oceanfront pools and tennis courts. Its proximity to Charleston offers the chance to blend beach life with city excursions.

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Breeze Expands in New Orleans with Routes to Top South Carolina Cities

Travelers departing from New Orleans now have convenient access to two standout destinations on the South Carolina coast: Charleston and Myrtle Beach. As per this article from The Advocate, these cities, which are celebrated for their distinct cultural offerings, historical landmarks, and scenic landscapes, are now within easier reach thanks to nonstop flights offered by Breeze Airways.

Breeze Airways, a low-cost carrier that began operations in 2021, has expanded its New Orleans offerings. Starting September 4, the airline introduced new direct service to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, with flights available on Thursdays and Sundays. One-way tickets start at $59. Additionally, Breeze resumed nonstop flights to Savannah, Georgia, beginning September 5, available on Mondays and Fridays, with fares starting at $49.

Kevin Dolliole, Director of Aviation at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, noted that these new routes enhance travel accessibility for the region’s residents while demonstrating the airline’s dedication to serving the local market. He emphasized that Breeze’s growth at the airport signals confidence in New Orleans as a travel hub.

Echoing that sentiment, Breeze Airways founder and CEO David Neeleman acknowledged the importance of New Orleans in the company’s expanding network. He expressed optimism about the airline’s continued growth in the city, pointing to the addition of Myrtle Beach and the return of Savannah as key steps forward.

Breeze Airways now operates more than 275 year-round and seasonal routes across 72 cities in 32 states, using a fleet of Airbus A220-300 aircraft. These aircraft are designed for comfort and efficiency, helping make shorter trips like those from New Orleans to Charleston or Myrtle Beach even more seamless.

One of the highlights of the current Breeze lineup is Charleston, South Carolina—a destination that shares architectural and cultural similarities with New Orleans. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and marshland scenery, Charleston has long served as a picturesque backdrop for films such as The Notebook. Visitors often compare its charm to the historic French Quarter in New Orleans.

The city’s vibrant culture is reflected in its culinary offerings. Signature dishes such as she-crab soup, fresh oysters, and Hoppin’ John—a combination of rice, black-eyed peas, pork, and cornbread—highlight the region’s Gullah Geechee heritage. Local lore suggests that enjoying Hoppin’ John on New Year’s Day brings good fortune for the year ahead.

Charleston’s fine dining scene includes restaurants like Fig, which has produced two James Beard Awardwinners. Other standout spots include Frannie and the Fox, which specializes in inventive Italian cuisine, andPeninsula Grill, renowned for its coconut cake.

For panoramic South Carolina views, visitors can relax at Joe Riley Waterfront Park, home to the iconic Pineapple Fountain, or walk the Ravenel Bridge to neighboring Mount Pleasant for more coastal vistas. Shopping enthusiasts often gravitate to King Street, where high-end stores and local boutiques line a street often traveled by horse-drawn carriages.

Charleston, South Carolina also serves as a gateway to golfing destinations like Hilton Head and Kiawah Island. Breeze operates nonstop flights to Charleston from New Orleans on Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Myrtle Beach, located just up the coast, offers a different but equally vibrant experience. With a shoreline known as the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach features 60 miles of beaches and countless activities—from water parks and aquariums to amusement parks and golf courses.

One of the city’s most notable attractions is the SkyWheel, a 187-foot Ferris wheel offering sweeping views of the coastline. For a tranquil and artistic excursion, Brookgreen Gardens blends sculpture and nature across 9,000 acres. More secluded stretches of sand can be found at North Myrtle Beach’s Windy Hill Beach, where scenic views meet cozy restaurants and boutique shops nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway.

As Breeze Airways continues to expand its footprint in Louisiana, residents and visitors alike can enjoy increased options for exploring the southeastern coast.

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Scuba, Cast, Camp: Explore Every Corner of Dale Hollow Lake

Nestled between the Kentucky-Tennessee border and stretching across Clinton, Cumberland, Overton, and Pickett counties, Dale Hollow Lake offers an escape into nature that few other Southern destinations can match, as per this travel blog guide from Southern Living. This 27,700-acre reservoir delivers serenity in abundance, thanks to its undeveloped shoreline, remarkably clear water, and an atmosphere that feels worlds away from busier lakefront hubs. Formed in 1943 by damming the Obey River, Dale Hollow Lake is not only one of Kentucky’s oldest artificial lakes but also a pioneering project of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

A short two-hour drive northeast of Nashville, transports visitors to a peaceful landscape where glassy waters reflect dense forests and bald eagles soar above the treetops. The lake’s calm surface invites moments of stillness, but it also sets the stage for a wide variety of outdoor pursuits, from paddling and camping to scuba diving and angling.

Fishing is a major draw at Dale Hollow, particularly for smallmouth bass, which thrive in its clean, cool depths. Anglers will also find plentiful largemouth and spotted bass, crappie, muskie, bluegill, and stocked brown trout. Fly fishing enthusiasts especially appreciate the quiet coves and underwater clarity, which allow for a more immersive—and successful—experience. Visit the Dale Hollow Lake Fishing page for more details.

For those eager to dive deeper, quite literally, scuba diving in Dale Hollow is a hidden gem. Thanks to its purity, the lake ranks among the cleanest in the region, making visibility underwater ideal. Beneath the surface lies the submerged remnants of Willow Grove, a town that was flooded when the reservoir was formed. Divers can explore submerged barn foundations, old roads, and even the outline of a schoolhouse—adding a sense of mystery and history to their descent.

Water lovers will also find plenty of ways to explore above the surface. Houseboats are a staple on the lake, and marinas around the shoreline offer rentals for all kinds of watercraft, including pontoon boats, fishing boats, jet skis, and kayaks. Check out the Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park and Sunset Marina for rental and boating options.

Camping is another standout option at Dale Hollow Lake. Whether pitching a tent or rolling in with an RV, visitors can find welcoming campsites with lakeside views. Popular options include Dale Hollow Dam Campground, Dale Hollow State Park Campground, and the facilities at the State Resort Park.

When it’s time to take a break from the water, hiking and wildlife viewing await nearby. The surrounding trails are ideal for both walkers and horseback riders. Wildlife lovers

will want to keep their eyes on the skies—Dale Hollow boasts the second-highest concentration of bald eagles in Tennessee, according to Tennessee Watchable Wildlife. Spotting one perched above the lake or gliding across the treetops is an unforgettable experience.

Dining around Dale Hollow is as charming and laid-back as the lake itself. Sunset Marina & Resort serves up food from a floating restaurant where you can feed turtles just steps from your table. Over at Mike’s Landing Restaurant, enjoy lakefront views and live music from the outdoor deck. For a change of pace, head west to Celina, Tennessee, a quaint town filled with old-school diners and local cafes. On the east side, the communities of Allons and Livingston offer additional restaurant options that make perfect post-adventure stops.

Whether you’re reeling in a trophy bass, drifting across a glassy cove, exploring underwater ruins, or simply taking in a bald eagle sighting at sunrise, Dale Hollow Lake delivers a kind of natural immersion that stays with you long after you leave. With its blend of historic intrigue, recreational opportunity, and untouched beauty, it remains one of the South’s most underrated lake getaways.

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