5 Swoon-worthy Romantic Escapes in the South

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Asheville, North Carolina 

My top pick for a romantic getaway in the South has to be Asheville, North Carolina. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, Asheville is home to great dining and the world-famous Biltmore Estate.  

Asheville makes a wonderful romantic getaway destination in any season, but it’s especially beautiful in the fall. Word on the street is that the variety of deciduous trees in the Blue Ridge around Asheville is what makes an especially vibrant and long fall color season. 

Hubby and I have spent three wedding anniversaries at The Inn on Biltmore Estate. Since we got engaged there, it has held a special place in our hearts. It’s our absolute favorite romantic weekend getaway. 

To find out more, read my full Inn on Biltmore Estate review.

And check out my itinerary for a weekend getaway at Biltmore Estate.

Where to stay in Asheville, North Carolina 

Luxury: The Inn on Biltmore Estate is our top choice or try the popular Omni Grove Park Inn – Asheville

Moderate: DoubleTree by Hilton Biltmore/Asheville is just minutes from Biltmore Estate and the shops at Biltmore Village. They also offer a free shuttle to downtown Asheville.

Affordable: Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites – Asheville-Biltmore Village Area is just a few blocks from the entrance to Biltmore Estate.

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Try a romantic weekend in Williamsburg, Virginia 

Hubby and I also love a Williamsburg weekend. Home to Colonial Williamsburg, the largest living history museum in the world, this part of Virginia is rich with history and beautiful architecture…plus some great places to eat. 

Even if you don’t buy a Colonial Williamsburg ticket, you can still enjoy the shopping and restaurants at Merchants Square, walk around the Historic Center, and dine in a historic tavern (definitely a “must do”).  

For the most immersive experience, stay at the Williamsburg Inn or Williamsburg Lodge just steps away from Duke of Gloucester Street (Colonial Williamsburg’s “main street” through the Historic Center).

Making the Most of Your Colonial Williamsburg Itinerary 

Where to stay in Williamsburg, Virginia 

Luxury: Book a stay at the Williamsburg Inn or the beautiful Williamsburg Lodge for the ultimate Colonial Williamsburg experience

Moderate: Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel features comfortable rooms very close to the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor’s Center.

Affordable: Residence Inn Williamsburg is located just a short drive from the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor’s Center. We loved having breakfast included in our room rate and a kitchenette to reheat restaurant leftovers the next day. 

The Ultimate Weekend Packing List (For Any Kind of Getaway) 

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

When you want a beachy good time with your spouse and some good food, try a Hilton Head Island getaway. We think Hilton Head Island is one of the best places in the South for a relaxing weekend.

Spend the day at the beach, visit Coligny Beach Park with its nearby shopping center, or check out Harbour Town (there’s a gate fee) and the lighthouse. Grab dinner at A Lowcountry Backyard. (Make sure you arrive early since they don’t take reservations.)

In the morning, you can enjoy breakfast at Palmetto Bay Sunrise Café like a local. 

We loved our stay at the Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa, which is right on the beach. So you’ll want to book a room with a balcony. We think it’s worth the extra money to wake up to this… 

Where to stay on Hilton Head Island 

Luxury: Inn and Club at Harbour Town was named one of the Top 10 Hotels in the U.S.A. for 2021 by U.S. News and World Report.

Moderate: Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa has a great pool area plus it’s right on the beach! We really enjoyed our stay there.

Affordable: Home 2 Suites by Hilton offers free breakfast

Savannah, Georgia

For a quintessentially Southern escape, you simply must book a weekend in Savannah, Georgia. And it helps if you say it all drawn out like Suuuuvannuuuh. Savannah simply drips with romance and history, like the trees drip with Spanish moss.

If you want to creep yourself out, try a nighttime ghost tour. The locals will tell you that Savannah is the most haunted city in America. I’ve decided not to test that theory. 

And the food. Oh, the food. You could go to Savannah only for the food and come away happy. Grab breakfast at The Collins Quarter before going on a history walking tour. Eat dinner at Vic’s on the River (ask for a window seat if they’re available) and then go for a stroll down the famous River Street or grab some amazing Leopold’s ice cream for dessert. 

Where to stay in Savannah, Georgia 

Luxury: Eliza Thompson House is a historical inn located very close to Savannah’s Forsyth Park and its famous fountain

Moderate: Marriott Savannah Riverfront is located right at the end of historic River Street and offers views of the steamboats on the Savannah River.

Affordable: Holiday Inn Express Savannah – Historic District offers comfortable and affordable rooms just steps from historic River Street.

Read more about getaways

• Southeast road trip itinerary
• Weekend trips from Savannah
• Vacation ideas for couples
• Romantic weekend ideas for couples
• Weekend packing list
• The essential overnight packing list

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