Tag: Southern travel

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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A Seasonal Guide to Experiencing Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia, with its blend of historical splendor, rich cultural offerings, and picturesque landscapes, stands out as one of the South’s most captivating cities, as per this travel guide from Travel + Leisure. While every season casts its own charm over the cobblestone streets, travelers will find that some months offer a more comfortable and enriching experience than others.

Fall is widely regarded as the optimal time to visit. With daytime highs in the 70s and lighter tourist crowds, autumn in Savannah delivers both comfort and beauty. November, in particular, is praised as a prime travel window; this stretch of time before Thanksgiving brings the added bonus of seasonal festivals without the congestion of peak tourism. The city’s famous oak-lined streets take on a golden glow, and outdoor exploration is at its most enjoyable.

Travelers hoping to explore Savannah without contending with summer’s intense heat or spring’s tourist rush may find the shoulder season—from August through December—especially appealing. October is rich with events such as the SCAD Savannah Film Festival and the Savannah Greek Festival, while September hosts the popular Savannah Jazz Festival, with live music echoing across public squares and venues throughout the city. Art lovers also gravitate toward the SCAD Sidewalk Arts Festival, held in spring, when students transform Forsyth Park’s sidewalks into vivid chalk masterpieces.

Spring in Savannah is breathtaking. Azaleas bloom in vibrant pinks and purples, and temperatures range from the high 50s to the mid-80s. However, as this is also the high season, expect larger crowds, especially around St. Patrick’s Day in March. The holiday is marked by a multi-day celebration featuring a parade, a themed 5K, and even the ceremonial “greening” of the fountain at Forsyth Park. Though the festivities energize the city, the evenings can become rowdy, with some businesses opting to close early to sidestep the revelry.

Nature in Savannah is not confined to its parks and gardens. Just a short drive from downtown, Georgia’s coast offers serene beach escapes that pair beautifully with the city’s historical charm. While summer brings challenges in the form of 90-degree temperatures and soaring humidity, it can still be a worthwhile time to visit if beach days and indoor activities are high on your itinerary. The city’s acclaimed restaurants and cultural venues, many of them air-conditioned, provide welcome retreats from the heat.

Visitors seeking lower prices and quieter surroundings will benefit from traveling in the off-season, which spans January and February. Though temperatures are cooler and some flowers lie dormant, the city’s architecture and charm remain on full display. This period often sees reduced hotel rates and discounted airfare. Budget carriers flying into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, such as Allegiant, make the city accessible from various U.S. hubs, and lighter tourist traffic means easier navigation through Savannah’s walkable neighborhoods.

Spring and fall also bring brief afternoon rain showers, typically around 3 p.m. Marks notes that these showers last about 30 to 40 minutes, and far from detracting from the experience, they add to the ambiance. Spanish mossglistening with raindrops in the sunlight offers a uniquely Savannah moment—one that enchants visitors and locals alike.

Even in early summer, around June, it’s possible to experience the tail end of pleasant weather before the arrival of peak heat. Whether you’re drawn to Savannah for its seasonal festivals, vibrant arts scene, or the sheer romance of its historic streets and coastal proximity, there’s never truly a wrong time to visit—just different ways to experience its beauty, each offering a uniquely memorable Southern getaway.

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Apalachicola, FL Uncovered: A Coastal Retreat of History, Nature, and Flavor

Nestled along Florida’s quiet Panhandle coast, Apalachicola is a town where history, nature, and small-town charm converge in delightful harmony, as per this travel guide from Southern Living. While it doesn’t rely on the buzz of crowded beaches or high-rise resorts, this coastal gem offers a refreshing change of pace and an abundance of unforgettable experiences. From Victorian architecture to white-sand shores and marshy backwaters teeming with wildlife, Apalachicola reveals its treasures slowly, rewarding travelers who crave authenticity over flash.

To fully appreciate the town’s deep-rooted history, start your visit with a walk through the historic district. Apalachicola’s legacy as a booming cotton and timber port in the 1800s left behind over 900 historic buildings—many of them lovingly preserved. The best way to experience this architectural past is through a self-guided walking tour of the downtown area. If you happen to visit in May, don’t miss the Historic Apalachicola Home & Garden Tour hosted by Trinity Episcopal Church, offering rare access to private homes and gardens steeped in Old Florida charm.

Further explore the area’s heritage at Orman House Historic State Park, an antebellum residence built in 1838 with elegant views of the river and a peaceful botanical garden. Just a short distance away, the John Gorrie State Museumtells the story of Dr. John Gorrie, the local physician who invented the first mechanical ice maker—a pivotal step toward the development of modern air conditioning. Another must-see stop for history lovers is the Raney House Museum, where visitors can gain insight into antebellum life through preserved furnishings and artifacts curated by the Apalachicola Area Historical Society.

Nature lovers will find that Apalachicola offers more than scenic views—it invites you to immerse yourself in its wild, water-bound world. The town sits at the meeting point of the Apalachicola River and Bay, making water an essential part of life and recreation here. Paddle along the Apalachicola River Paddling Trail System, which spans nearly 100 miles of waterways winding through dense swamps and shaded tributaries. Those looking for an adrenaline-fueled ride can take an airboat tour with Apalachicola Airboat Adventures, while aspiring anglers can head out on a fishing charter with Apalach Anglers, led by Captain Jared, to reel in redfish, speckled trout, black drum, and more.

While Apalachicola itself is steeped in bayfront beauty, a quick drive across the St. George Island Bridge reveals another side of coastal Florida. St. George Island boasts 22 miles of white-sand beaches kissed by emerald Gulf waters. This island retreat invites long bike rides, leisurely walks to its historic lighthouse, and relaxed meals at open-air eateries where sandy feet are always welcome.

Back in Apalachicola, downtown presents a curated mix of boutique shopping and culinary gems. Downtown Books & Purl offers a cozy spot to browse novels and knitting supplies. Apalach Outfitters provides resort wear and gear for your next outdoor excursion, while Becasa and Bee Inspired Too sell coastal-chic décor, gifts, and accessories. For a sweet souvenir, stop by the Apalachicola Bee Company to sample local Tupelo honey, harvested from the surrounding river basin.

Seafood is central to life in Apalachicola, and local restaurants take full advantage of their location along the Gulf. For the freshest fare, head to Hole in the Wall, a humble green clapboard house where a commercial fishing fleet brings in the day’s catch. Up the Creek Raw Bar serves oysters and seafood baskets on a breezy deck overlooking the water, while The Station Raw Bar, set in a converted gas station, delivers live music and seafood classics like clam strips and smoked fish dip.

Whether you’re paddling through swampy creeks, admiring Victorian homes, or savoring seafood straight from the boat, Apalachicola proves that you don’t need crowds or skyscrapers to enjoy the best of Florida.

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