Living in the South has taught me that you don’t need to travel far to find romance. My partner and I discovered this last spring when we decided to skip the long-haul flights and explore what was right in our backyard. We found ourselves falling in love not just with each other, but with hidden small towns, coastal hideaways, and mountain retreats that felt worlds away from our daily routine.
The South has this special way of slowing things down, letting couples really connect without the usual day-to-day distractions. Whether you’re craving a quiet weekend in a mountain cabin, a food-focused adventure through historic districts, or lazy days on lesser-known beaches, there’s something here for every kind of couple.
After exploring dozens of Southern destinations over the past few years and chatting with other traveling couples, I’ve put together this list of getaways that are perfect for when you need that quality time together – without spending too much time getting there.
- Best romantic spot: Charleston, South Carolina
- Perfect for wine lovers: Texas Hill Country
- Most relaxing beaches: Gulf Shores, Alabama
- Historic charm central: Savannah, Georgia
- Mountain escape pick: Asheville, North Carolina
- Food lovers’ paradise: New Orleans, Louisiana
Savannah, Georgia
Stroll hand-in-hand through Savannah’s historic district, where Spanish moss drapes over centuries-old oak trees and 22 peaceful town squares dot the landscape. The city’s old-world charm comes alive as you wander past preserved antebellum mansions and along cobblestone streets. Stop by Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room for authentic Southern comfort food, served family-style at communal tables. For a romantic evening, book a ghost tour through the historic district, or enjoy fresh seafood at The Grey, housed in a renovated 1938 Greyhound bus terminal. The river walk offers plenty of spots to watch the sunset while ships pass by on the Savannah River.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston has a way of winning over every couple who visits its cobblestone streets and historic harbor. This South Carolina gem blends Southern hospitality with coastal charm, where horse-drawn carriages still clip-clop past antebellum mansions and salt breezes carry the scent of jasmine through the streets. It’s a place where mornings start with shrimp and grits at local cafes, afternoons are spent wandering through the City Market, and evenings end with fresh seafood on rooftop restaurants overlooking the water. While the city’s pace is leisurely, there’s always something happening – from food festivals celebrating Lowcountry cuisine to sunset sailing trips past Fort Sumter.
Mind-Blowing Fact:
Charleston’s Rainbow Row features 13 pastel-colored historic homes that date back to the 1700s, making it one of the most photographed spots in the entire city. While the houses were originally painted in bright colors to help drunk sailors find their way home from the nearby harbor, today they serve as a perfect backdrop for Instagram photos and guided walking tours through the historic downtown.
Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Asheville is where southern charm meets artistic spirit. Like many mountain towns, you’ll find hiking trails, craft breweries, and local artisans. But unlike its counterparts, Asheville marches to the beat of its own drum. Just wander through the River Arts District, where old warehouses have become artist studios, and you’ll see what I mean. Because of its prime location between the mountains and the coast, Asheville has attracted free spirits and creative minds for generations, and you’ll find quirky art galleries, farm-to-table restaurants, and street musicians on every corner.
New Orleans, Louisiana
If you’re looking for romance with a side of soul, New Orleans delivers in spades. Tucked along the Mississippi River, this charming city mixes French Quarter magic with jazz-filled evenings, making it perfect for couples who love good food and even better music. Stroll hand-in-hand down cobblestone streets, share beignets at Café du Monde, or take a sunset riverboat cruise while a live band plays. The city’s unique blend of Creole culture, historic architecture, and lively entertainment creates the kind of weekend where memories are made.
St. Augustine, Florida
Romance seekers flock to St. Augustine for its distinctive blend of Spanish colonial history and laid-back coastal charm, but this northeast Florida gem offers far more than just historical appeal. The city’s cobblestone streets wind through centuries-old buildings and lead to quiet beaches where couples can walk hand in hand at sunset. During the day, visitors can explore Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S., or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district. While the winter months bring the popular Nights of Lights festival, when millions of tiny white lights illuminate the city’s historic center, St. Augustine’s mix of cozy bed & breakfasts, fresh seafood restaurants, and waterfront views make it an ideal couples’ escape any time of year.
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville first caught my eye back in 2019 when I visited for a long weekend with my partner. Known as Music City, Nashville sits along the winding Cumberland River in central Tennessee, where country music spills out of every storefront on Broadway. The city balances its honky-tonk heart with quiet neighborhoods like 12 South and East Nashville, where couples can explore local coffee shops and vintage stores at their own pace. Beyond the neon signs and guitar riffs, you’ll find peaceful spots like Centennial Park, home to a full-scale replica of the Parthenon, and the rolling hills of Cheekwood Estate where seasonal gardens offer a perfect escape. The city’s food scene goes well beyond hot chicken, with cozy date-night restaurants tucked into historic homes and rooftop bars that give you a perfect view of the sunset over the Nashville skyline.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
Ever soaked in thermal springs that have been soothing aches and pains for centuries? That’s just another day in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where natural healing waters bubble up from deep within the Ouachita Mountains. This charming town, just an hour from Little Rock, earned its nickname “The American Spa” back when baseball legends and gangsters alike came here to take the waters. Today, you can still enjoy those same mineral-rich springs in historic bathhouses along Central Avenue, or venture out to Lake Ouachita for kayaking and fishing. The nearby Garvan Woodland Gardens offers peaceful walks among seasonal blooms, while the town’s cozy bed-and-breakfasts and local restaurants serving up Southern comfort food make this the perfect spot for couples looking to slow down and unwind.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is the kind of place that makes you forget about your daily worries the moment you arrive. This mountain town brings together everything couples need for a cozy weekend away – from peaceful hiking trails through ancient forests to local distilleries serving up Tennessee whiskey. What I love most about Gatlinburg is how it manages to be both a gateway to outdoor adventure and a charming small town where you can spend hours browsing art galleries or sharing a romantic dinner. The Aerial Tramway gives you amazing views of the mountains without breaking a sweat, while the nearby national park offers over 800 miles of trails for those seeking a more active escape. It’s not the quietest mountain town you’ll find, but that’s part of its charm – there’s always something going on, whether you’re in the mood for mountain adventures or just want to stroll the main street hand in hand.
Natchez, Mississippi
Step back in time when you visit Natchez, a charming Mississippi River town known for its antebellum mansions and Southern hospitality. You can tour over a dozen pre-Civil War homes, each with its own unique story and architecture, including the famous Longwood – America’s largest octagonal house. Take a romantic carriage ride through the historic district, then head to the bluff overlooking the Mississippi River for a spectacular sunset view. End your evening at one of the cozy bed and breakfasts housed in restored mansions, where you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight into “Gone with the Wind.”
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Looking for a beach getaway without the international travel? Gulf Shores, Alabama might be exactly what you need. Like many coastal towns along the Gulf of Mexico, it has pristine white sand beaches and clear waters perfect for swimming. But unlike its Florida neighbors, Gulf Shores maintains a laid-back, small-town charm that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a hidden gem. Just take a stroll down the public beach at sunset, watching families build sandcastles and pelicans diving for fish, and you’ll see what I mean. Because of its location on the Alabama coast, Gulf Shores combines Southern hospitality with beach town vibes, creating a unique atmosphere where you can enjoy both fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants and classic Southern BBQ just a few blocks away.
Fredericksburg, Texas
Ever seen a 100-year-old German beer hall in the middle of Texas Hill Country? That’s just another day in Fredericksburg, a charming town where German heritage meets Texan hospitality. Just an hour and a half from Austin, this former German settlement serves up authentic schnitzel alongside locally-made wines from over 50 nearby vineyards. Couples can spend their days hopping between tasting rooms on the famous Wine Road 290, browsing through the many antique shops on Main Street, or hiking the massive pink granite dome at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. When wildflower season hits in spring, the surrounding fields burst into a sea of bluebonnets, making those romantic picnics in the countryside even more special.
Key West, Florida
Key West sits at the southernmost tip of Florida, where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Atlantic Ocean. Like many coastal towns in the South, it has warm beaches, fresh seafood, and plenty of water activities. But unlike the others, it feels like you’ve stepped into a laid-back Caribbean paradise right here in the U.S. Just walk down Duval Street, lined with open-air bars and live music floating through the air, and you’ll see what I mean. Because of its location just 90 miles from Cuba, Key West developed a unique blend of cultures, and you’ll find Cuban coffee shops, colorful conch-style houses, and street performers around every corner of the historic Old Town.
Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort feels like stepping into a living postcard of the Old South, where Spanish moss drapes over centuries-old oak trees and antebellum mansions line quiet streets. This coastal gem sits tucked away on Port Royal Island, where the pace of life slows down just enough to let you truly unwind. Walking through the historic district, you’ll find yourself wandering past preserved Civil War-era homes and along the waterfront where fishing boats bob gently in the harbor. It’s not just a place for history buffs though – couples can spend their days kayaking through the nearby salt marshes, cycling under canopies of ancient oaks, or simply rocking on a porch swing while watching dolphins play in the Beaufort River.
Blue Ridge, Georgia
Just a few hours north of Atlanta, Blue Ridge is where city folks go to trade skyscrapers for mountain peaks. This former railway town has transformed into a perfect couples’ retreat, where you can spend your days hiking through the Chattahoochee National Forest or riding the historic Blue Ridge Scenic Railway through the mountains. The downtown area is lined with local shops and restaurants housed in buildings from the 1800s, and couples often spend evenings sampling craft beers at the local brewery or picking apples at nearby orchards. It’s not the kind of place where you’ll find fancy resorts or high-end spas, but that’s exactly what makes it special – the simple pleasures of mountain living and quality time together are what draw people back again and again.
Oxford, Mississippi
If you’re planning a Southern weekend escape, Oxford needs to be on your radar. Home to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), this small-town gem blends literary history with classic Southern charm. Book lovers can visit William Faulkner’s historic home Rowan Oak, while foodies will find their happy place at James Beard Award-winning restaurants around the iconic town square. The city’s famous Grove creates the perfect setting for romantic picnics under towering oak trees, and the thriving music scene offers plenty of spots to dance the night away.
Wilmington, North Carolina
Many couples come to Wilmington for its historic riverfront district along the Cape Fear River, but this coastal gem can also be considered a beach town. There are several beaches nearby — including Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach — that provide perfect spots for swimming and sunbathing. During summer, the Riverwalk comes alive with festivals, outdoor dining, and horse-drawn carriage rides, but you’ll find plenty to do in Wilmington year-round. The city’s well-preserved historic district features mansions from the 1800s, while nearby film studios have earned it the nickname “Hollywood East.” From exploring the USS North Carolina Battleship to strolling through Airlie Gardens, couples can easily fill a weekend with memorable experiences.
Helen, Georgia
Ever wondered what a Bavarian village would look like in the middle of Georgia? That’s exactly what you’ll find in Helen, a charming mountain town that feels like it was plucked straight from the Alps and dropped in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This little slice of Germany comes complete with cobblestone streets, Alpine-style buildings, and beer gardens that’ll make you feel like you’ve crossed the Atlantic. You can float down the Chattahoochee River in summer, wander through Unicoi State Park’s hiking trails, or time your visit for Oktoberfest, when the town really comes alive with authentic German music, dance, and food. Just two hours from Atlanta, Helen is home to cozy bed and breakfasts like the Helendorf River Inn, where you can wake up to mountain views and the sound of the river right outside your window.
Blackberry Farm, Tennessee
Escape to the peaceful foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains at Blackberry Farm, a luxury resort that feels like your own private countryside retreat. This 4,200-acre estate combines Southern hospitality with world-class dining, featuring ingredients from their own garden and working farm. You can start your day with a yoga session in the wellness center, spend the afternoon horseback riding through rolling hills, or take a cooking class together to learn the secrets of farm-to-table cuisine. When evening comes, cozy up in your elegant cottage or suite, or head to The Barn for a romantic dinner featuring their famous wine collection of over 160,000 bottles.
Amelia Island, Florida
If you want to feel like you’ve stepped into an old-world coastal paradise, Amelia Island belongs at the top of your list. This barrier island off Florida’s northeastern coast combines 13 miles of quiet beaches with a rich history dating back to the 1500s. The historic district of Fernandina Beach, with its Victorian-era architecture and brick streets, tells the story of the eight different nations that once claimed this territory. It’s a place where you can spend your mornings collecting shells on uncrowded beaches, your afternoons exploring local shops in the historic downtown, and your evenings watching the sunset from a horse-drawn carriage. While plenty of Florida beach towns cater to the spring break crowd, Amelia Island maintains its laid-back, romantic atmosphere year-round.
Interesting Fact:
Did you know that pirates used to frequent Amelia Island during Florida’s early days, with famous buccaneers like Luis Aury and Gregor MacGregor using it as their base for raids and smuggling operations in the early 1800s? The island actually changed hands between eight different nations’ flags over time – including Spain, France, and Mexico – earning it the nickname “Isle of 8 Flags,” making it the only place in the U.S. with this unique distinction.
Bardstown, Kentucky
Put on your bourbon-tasting shoes and head to Bardstown, Kentucky, known as the Bourbon Capital of the World. The charming downtown district is home to six different distilleries where you can sample Kentucky’s finest spirits and learn about the art of bourbon-making. When you’re not sipping whiskey, explore the My Old Kentucky Home State Park, where you can tour a historic mansion and stroll through peaceful gardens. For dinner, grab a table at the Old Talbott Tavern, one of America’s oldest stagecoach stops, where you can enjoy traditional Southern cooking in a building that dates back to 1779.
This is interesting:
Known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” Bardstown is home to several historic distilleries and produces about 80% of the world’s bourbon supply. This small Kentucky town’s charming downtown area features over 200 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, making it one of America’s best-preserved 18th and 19th century communities.
