When you’re knee-deep in stress, overwhelmed by work, and exhausted by your everyday routine, then you know it’s time for a break. Take a deep breath, unplug, and hit the road. The perfect Southeastern US road trip is sure to leave you feeling relaxed, refreshed, and reinspired. Consider traveling down scenic A1A and soak up the warm Florida sun. If you’re in the mood for mountain views, head up the Blue Ridge Parkway for unforgettable scenes of towering peaks gracing blue skies.
Where will the road take you this year? Get a free copy of our Romantic Getaway Guide for some excellent suggestions on how to make your road trip a romantic retreat that you and your sweetheart can cherish for a lifetime!
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5 of the Top Destinations for Your Southeastern US Road Trip
“I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I intended to be.” – Douglas Adams
1. Lexington, KY
Lexington, KY, is known for its fantastic historical attractions, beautiful outdoor experiences, and, of course, horses. Visit historic sites such as the Mary-Todd Lincoln House and The Henry Clay Estate. Get outside for some kayaking in the Red River Gorge Area or hike around Mill Creek Lake and Falls and the Natural Stone Bridge State Park. You will also enjoy the quiet nearby suburb of Versailles, known for its homemade local bourbon. It’s truly the perfect place to relax and unwind from your busy lifestyle.
2. Western North Carolina
Traveling through Western North Carolina is a bucket list experience for many! Home to the Blue Ridge Parkway, magnificent waterfalls, and unparalleled outdoor adventures, there’s no surprise that this destination made it on our list. Challenge yourself to incredible uphill hikes that reward you with breathtaking views of the mountains. While Western North Carolina is lovely year-round, we recommend visiting in the fall when the leaves are changing colors. You don’t want to miss out on the mind-blowing scenes of fiery reds, burnt orange, and golden yellow hues lighting up against a beautiful blue-sky backdrop.
3. Amelia Island, Florida
If you have ever visited Amelia Island, you already know that there is an authentic one-of-a-kind charm that makes this destination so unique. Gorgeous beaches, delightful dining experiences, and a creative art scene draw visitors to Fernandina Beach all year long. Birdwatching enthusiasts are especially fond of this beautiful little island because of the incredibly diverse species of birds that make their home here throughout the year. We recommend exploring Fort Clinch State Park, horseback riding on the beach, and perusing the Amelia Island Historic District.
4. North Georgia Mountains
If you’re planning to visit the Northern Georgia mountains, don’t forget to pack your hiking boots. You don’t want to miss the views from the top of the mountains in this region. Take advantage of the many regional waterways during your trip. The area is known for its fishing, kayaking, tubing, and more! Besides exciting outdoor adventures, you can also find gorgeous vineyards, charming small towns, and relaxing vistas.
5. The Coastal Carolinas
North and South Carolina are home to stunning scenes, especially along the coastline. Drive past ancient oak trees with branches draped dancing Spanish moss. You might come across intriguing wildlife such as sunbathing alligators, bobbing turtles, and soaring sea birds. Spend your days lounging on the beach, hiking through swampy maritime forests, or exploring some of the nation’s first cities.
If you’re in Wilmington, NC, we recommend visiting the Airlie Gardens and strolling along the Riverwalk. In Conway, SC, take in their Riverwalk views or wander through the Waccamaw River Park.
Additional Road Trip Ideas
Whether you’re more interested in visiting a specific state such as Florida or hoping to venture further West or up North, you’ll find Select Registry properties in every corner of the United States. We’ve spent a lot of time researching the best road trip ideas across the country. Here are some of our most popular road trip itineraries:
- Soak up the Sun on the Ultimate Florida Road Trip
- The Top 10 Olympic Peninsula Road Trip Stops
- From Vineyards to Waterfalls: Map out Your Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
- A Southern-Fried Guide to the Best Deep South Road Trips
- 13 of the Best Scenic Road Trips in the USA
- Here Are Some of the Best East Coast Road Trip Ideas
- This Cape Cod Road Trip Itinerary Will Make You Want to Pack Your Bags Now
Stay Select Along the Way for an Incredible, Quality-Assured Experience You Won’t Ever Forget
There are so many beautiful places to see, exciting adventures to have, and captivating experiences to witness in the Southeast. Regardless of where the road takes you on your Southeastern US road trip, find comfort, quality, and enhanced experiences when you choose to Stay Select. Once you know what it’s like to stay at one of our quality-assured bed and breakfasts, inns, or boutique hotels, you will never want to go back to staying at a boring chain hotel. Our properties go above and beyond to ensure that your stay is one to remember. Plan a vacation that you know will not fall short.
