If you are searching for the best vacation spots to visit in the south, then you’ll want to check out Beaches Resorts. The resorts offer picturesque views of the ocean, and a relaxing atmosphere that’s sure to make your stay enjoyable. With so many places to see in the U.S., why vacation in the South? The reasons are endless, and while they’re not limited to what’s listed here, we want to assure you that you’ll have fun no matter where you choose to visit.

The American South is a mosaic of musical backdrops, scenic landscapes, and lively locales that boast rich history and quirky traditions. Here are the top 12 vacation destinations in the South worth traveling to. With the fickle weather patterns from the last few years, it’s hard to plan a vacation knowing exactly what kind of clothing to pack. But if you’ve been itching for some time off, now is a great time to plan a summer vacation in the south.

Fun Places To Vacation In The South

South America is home to some of the most spectacular natural areas, cities and resorts on the planet. Many people are surprised when they find out that South America is a continent all on its own. It’s made up of twelve countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay and Venezuela. If you haven’t already been to South America for vacation I highly recommend it.

Best Weekend Getaways in the South

Sometimes the best way to refresh the mind, body and soul after a long workweek is to enjoy a short weekend trip. Luckily, the southern United States is chock-full of interesting and diverse vacation destinations just waiting to be explored. To help you choose the right locale for a quick escape, U.S. News considered factors like accessibility, affordability, reader votes and entertainment options to pinpoint the best weekend getaways in the South. Have a favorite Southern spot? Cast your vote below to help us determine next year’s ranking. (Note: Some of the below destinations may be affected by the coronavirus outbreak. Check with the CDC and the U.S. Department of State before traveling.)

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• View 23 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoAsheville, NC#1 in Best Weekend Getaways in the SouthHome to breweries, a buzzing food scene and endless outdoor pursuits, Asheville, North Carolina, promises a fun-filled weekend trip for all types of travelers. “The Land of the Sky” is an easy drive or flight away from major East Coast cities like Charlotte, North Carolina, and Atlanta, meaning you won’t waste half of your weekend on travel time. Vacationers can tour the opulent Biltmore Estate, hike through the Blue Ridge Parkway and sample pints of more than 100 local beers. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO
• View 14 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoGatlinburg#2 in Best Weekend Getaways in the SouthGatlinburg, Tennessee, is the perfect getaway for those who want to hike, bike and horseback ride in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In fact, three entrances to the park are conveniently located downtown. What’s more, the town is home to the 407-foot-tall Gatlinburg Space Needle and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, and offers moonshine tastings – an Appalachian tradition. And in winter, travelers can enjoy skiing and tubing at Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO
• View 31 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoOrlando#3 in Best Weekend Getaways in the SouthWalt Disney World Resort has served as a weekend retreat among Floridians for decades thanks to its convenient location in the center of the state. Though you won’t be able to enjoy everything the area has to offer in just one trip (Disney encompasses four theme parks and two water parks, while Universal Orlando Resort features fun all its own), a weekend getaway to Orlando still promises a great time. If you’d like to squeeze in activities away from than the parks, spend a few hours shopping at the Orlando International Premium Outlets. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 32 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoSt. Augustine#4 in Best Weekend Getaways in the SouthAs the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in America, St. Augustine, Florida, offers plenty of historical sites to explore – plus beaches, bars and restaurants. Spend the weekend strolling up and down St. George Street, stopping along the way to browse its boutiques and dine at local eateries. Then, pay a visit to Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, a Spanish fort dating back to the 1600s. Other traveler-approved attractions include the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum and St. Augustine Distillery, which is praised for its handcrafted local spirits. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 61 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoCharleston, SC#5 in Best Weekend Getaways in the SouthIf you’re looking for a change of pace after a hectic week, head to Charleston. This South Carolina gem is the place to go for good food, quaint cobblestone streets and live oak trees as far as the eye can see. Stroll down Instagram-worthy Rainbow Row to see colorful homes along the water, or pay a visit to Magnolia Plantation & Gardens to see flowers in bloom. Close out your weekend trip with a boat tour at sunset. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO
• View 29 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoMiami#6 in Best Weekend Getaways in the SouthMiami is a top-notch weekend getaway destination for those seeking a buzzing nightlife, art and dining scene, with a splash of art deco architecture. Plan to stay by South Beach in neighboring Miami Beach to be in the middle of it all; you’ll have your choice of luxe hotels and the beach right at your doorstep. When hunger strikes, head to Little Havana to indulge in mouthwatering Cuban food. And to take a look at street art, head to the Wynwood Walls to see creative painted murals. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 30 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoDestin#7 in Best Weekend Getaways in the SouthLocated in the Florida Panhandle, Destin features white sand beaches and emerald water that attract visitors in droves. Plan a weekend escape to the coastal destination to sunbathe, swim and fish to your heart’s content, or buy tickets for a sunset cruise or dolphin-spotting excursion. If you need a break from the ocean, Destin also has golf courses, shopping malls and a marine adventure park, so no one will get bored. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 56 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoWashington, D.C.#8 in Best Weekend Getaways in the SouthAlthough there’s some debate about what region Washington, D.C., truly belongs to (the North, the South or the mid-Atlantic?), one thing is for sure: The nation’s capital is a great weekend destination. The District is easily accessible via car, plane and train, and there are seemingly endless indoor and outdoor attractions to enjoy. Hit up highlights like the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, then take your pick of dozens of museums. When you finish exploring the National Mall, visit Georgetown to indulge in some retail therapy or grab a sweet treat at one of the neighborhood’s acclaimed cupcake shops. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO

• View 40 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoAustin#9 in Best Weekend Getaways in the SouthThe self-proclaimed “live music capital of the world,” Austin promises visitors a good time. Sixth Street is the best spot to enjoy live music at bars and clubs. This quirky Texas destination has more to offer, too. Travelers can enjoy natural spaces like Zilker Metropolitan Park and Barton Springs Pool, or learn more about the history of the Lone Star State at the Texas Capitol, which opened in 1888 and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 46 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoNew Orleans#10 in Best Weekend Getaways in the SouthA weekend in the Big Easy is likely all you’ll need to get your fill of historic architecture, soulful jazz music and – of course – a cocktail or two. New Orleans’ must-see attractions include the iconic French Quarter (the city’s boozy party zone), St. Louis Cathedral and the historic Garden District. If you’d rather explore off the beaten path, consider signing up for a swamp tour to see alligators, deer and other wildlife throughout New Orleans’ bayous. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|FLIGHTS|THINGS TO DO
• View 42 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoOuter Banks#11 in Best Weekend Getaways in the SouthIf a quiet weekend on the warm sand – complete with spotty cell reception and a good book in hand – sounds like your type of escape, pack your bags and get to the Outer Banks. A string of islands off the coast of North Carolina, OBX takes relaxation seriously. Spend your days soaking up some rays at Cape Hatteras National Seashore and exploring picturesque lighthouses like the Bodie Island Lighthouse. The islands’ cozy beach house and cottage rentals guarantee a tranquil stay, and the seafood selection is not to be missed once mealtime arrives. READ MOREBEST HOTELS|THINGS TO DO
• View 39 PhotosBelongs on List?YesNoSan Antonio#12 in Best Weekend Getaways in the SouthFor the full Southern experience, look no further than San Antonio. This iconic Texas city features a mix of modern experiences and historic sites, including its most well-known attraction: the Alamo. You’ll only need an hour or two to visit this former Franciscan mission, so you’ll have plenty of time left in your weekend to explore Brackenridge Park’s 343 acres, tour San Fernando Cathedral and eat as much authentic Texas barbecue as your heart (and stomach) can handle.