Vacations in the Southeast: Varied Vacations for Any Itinerary

Home to both warm weather retreats and cooler climates as well as relaxation and adventure, one region to note for its diverse climate and culture is the Southeastern United States, offering an array of vacation possibilities to suit any travel itinerary. Enjoy quiet, pristine beaches, majestic mountains, charming cities and exciting amusement parks without having to travel the world or even the entire country.

There is plenty to see and do in the Southeast, which is what makes it a popular draw for students and families alike. As you plan your trip, obvious points of interest will come to mind, but some are more appropriate for families and children than others during the travel season. Be aware of known party hot spots and head instead to less frequented, more family-friendly vacation destinations if you care to avoid rubbing elbows with the rowdy college crowd. See our suggestions for some of the best beaches, mountains and theme parks to include on your vacation to the Southeast, and start planning your escape today.

Best Bet Beaches in the Southeast

You don’t have to travel to faraway tropical islands to enjoy sun and sand. With nine states totaling more than 3,000 miles of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, there are beaches aplenty in the Southeastern United States, and not all are overrun by partygoers from February to April.

Barrier islands dotting the coast from North Carolina to Georgia are tranquil tropical oases compared to the bustling beach towns on the mainland and are often overlooked. Consider islands near Charleston, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia, for quiet beaches, quaint downtown areas and slow, Southern charm. You may be taking a risk with the weather, though, so check the forecast first if you are traveling to beaches further north in February or early March.

If you prefer a more guaranteed gorgeous day at the beach, Florida is, of course, an ideal destination. Once known for its reputation as a wild city, Ft. Lauderdale has recently reworked its image and actively un-welcomes college tourism. Be sure to stop by Butterfly World, home to some 10,000+ butterflies, and Flamingo Gardens, featuring rare and exotic animals native to the region.

Another option is wildly popular Orlando, Florida. Landlocked on all sides, Orlando is an unlikely ideal “beach” destination, but thanks to its many resorts with manmade beaches and water parks, the ultimate family theme park getaway is quickly becoming an alternative beach destination as well. Discovery Cove recreates an oceanside paradise complete with coral reef, sandy beaches and plenty of sea life. Guests can even swim with dolphins! You can also stop by Wet ‘n Wild for 30 acres of thrilling water rides, including a six-story water slide, 17,000-square-foot wave pool, and special kids’ rides too.

Blue Ridge Mountain Retreats for Relaxation and Adventure

Outdoor adventure enthusiasts are in for a treat in the Southeastern US thanks in part to the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Stretching as far north as Pennsylvania all the way down into Georgia, the Blue Ridge Mountains wind through multiple states and cities, making them easily accessible from various vacation destinations. Notably cooler than the surrounding areas, the mountains are not known as a popular destination. But with hiking, river adventures, animal sightseeing and more, there is plenty to keep you and your family busy. All you’ll miss is the sunburn.

In western North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Mountains climb to some of the highest peaks in the Eastern United States. Home to part of the Great Smokey Mountains National Park and Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests, North Carolina’s stretch of the Blue Ridge Mountains is one of the most frequented along the range. Also located in North Carolina is the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile drive offering breathtaking views of the mountains, as well as a large stretch of the Appalachian Trail, a 2,000-mile long hiking trail for adventurers. Asheville, North Carolina, a laidback Southern city with a lively arts scene, is a must-see stop in this area with easy access to the mountains and plenty to see and do downtown as well.

Virginia’s portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains features Shenandoah National Park, which includes the Shenandoah River, Skyline Drive, several magnificent waterfalls, and plenty of hiking trails. Also located in Virginia are the mesmerizing Luray Caverns, an impressive underground cave system, and Virginia’s Natural Bridge, a 215-foot tall rock formation once owned by Thomas Jefferson and fabled to be initialed by George Washington.

Fuss-Free Fun at the Southeast’s Best Theme Parks

For a ready-made vacation that requires little planning but includes endless activities to entertain all day long, consider a theme park.

Six Flags Over Georgia in west Atlanta offers roller coasters, carousels and attractions for all ages, and Warner Brothers characters can be spotted throughout the park. If you stay in Atlanta you’ll also have time to visit the famed Georgia Aquarium, home to more than 100,000 sea creatures living in 8.1 billion gallons of water and the World of Coca-Cola, where you can learn about and sample this classic all-American beverage.

Though not a traditional theme park by definition, Colonial Williamsburg offers plenty of entertainment by way of costumed characters, exciting reenactments, hands-on activities and more. Head to this historic city for an easy vacation that is both fun and educational. Plus, enjoy reduced price off-season tickets—kids are half off or free with the purchase of a reduced winter pass.

And what would a rundown of the Southeast’s top theme parks be without mention of Orlando, Florida? Home to dozens of different theme parks, zoos and aquariums, Orlando is nothing short of a child’s dreamland, and adults love it too! Must-see stops include Disney’s Magic Kingdom® Park, Universal Studios Florida®, and SeaWorld Orlando.