Southern Home Magazine

As autumn arrives across the South, so does the urge to get out and explore the beautiful towns and natural wonders that grace our region. From the rolling foothills and crisp breezes of Kentucky and northern Georgia to the coastal Carolinas and the bayou scenery of Louisiana, we share inspiration for hand-selected escapes that are beloved by our editorial team. Whether you prefer to discover a tucked-away gem, immerse yourself in local history, tap into your creative side, enjoy the great outdoors, or celebrate the season at a festival, these destinations are sure to hold ample appeal. It’s time to hit the road—turn the page and get inspired!

Every time of year in the South has its distinctive charms, but there’s something extra special about the fall months. The air grows crisp and clear; the sunlight shines golden; and the leaves take on their vibrant tints as the season settles in. It’s one of our favorite times to venture to new places, and there are treasures to discover in every corner of the region—beautiful towns, arresting mountain landscapes, pristine beaches, and stunning lakes.

Our readers love a good leaf-peeping trip, and there are so many enchanting spots to admire the seasonal colors. Take a drive through the Great Smoky Mountains or the Appalachians to see some of the most splendid foliage the region has to offer—perhaps along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway.

Editor’s Note:  As of this posting, certain areas are facing significant flooding and road closures. We encourage you to consult local authorities before finalizing any travel plans. We eagerly anticipate returning to all of these vibrant communities once they’re back on their feet.

Late October is the peak time to explore the area, with pretty towns such as Roanoke, Virginia serving as ideal stops to stretch your legs or spend the night. Other favorite routes that have appeared in the pages of Southern Lady include the Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina, the Natchez Trace Parkway in Mississippi, the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway in Georgia, and the Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway in Kentucky.

This is also the perfect time of year to enjoy whiling away lazy days by the water. Fall is one of our favorite seasons to visit Gulf Coast jewels such as Fairhope, Alabama and Pensacola, Florida. Along the Atlantic, the beaches of Kiawah Island, South Carolina and Georgia’s Golden Isles capture our hearts. If you prefer lakeside scenery, you’ll be spoiled for choice—plan a long weekend at Summersville Lake in West Virginia or Alabama’s Lake Martin. Fancy a luxurious sojourn? Consider a stay at The Greystone Inn on North Carolina’s Lake Toxaway or Lake Austin Spa Resort in Texas.

Arkansas’ Hot Springs area lures travelers with its thermal waters, spectacular woodlands, and old-fashioned charm. If an urban destination is more your style, it’s just the time to savor the shopping, dining, sightseeing, and gorgeous hotels of Southern cities like Chattanooga, Charleston, and Savannah.

No matter where you choose to travel this season, one thing is sure to remain constant: the warm welcome and Southern hospitality that will make you feel instantly at home.

Where better to enjoy dramatic shifts in elevation and tree-covered peaks and valleys than the Mountain State? Home to a swath of the Appalachians, West Virginia is laced with hiking trails and peppered with appealing burgs such as Davis, Snowshoe, and Harper’s Ferry. While you are there, you’ll want to plan an excursion to the United States’s newest national park: New River Gorge, tucked near the southern border and famed for its rushing waters and diversity of flora and fauna.

For pure pampering, spend a night or two at The Greenbrier resort, whose interior is largely as interior design maven Dorothy Draper orchestrated it in the mid-20th century. North Carolina and Tennessee are equally rich with autumn scenery amid the mountains. Mount Mitchell (the highest point in the eastern U.S.) lies roughly halfway between Knoxville and Charlotte, and it’s surrounded by a state park that makes for a great day out. A road leads nearly all the way to the summit; walk the last bit, and the payoff is an incredible panorama of the surrounding region. In eastern Tennessee, we can never get enough of the fall foliage in Sevierville and Pigeon Forge—especially when combined with a stay at nearby Blackberry Farm, one of our (and our readers’) all-time favorite luxury resorts.

Mississippi might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think about a coastal getaway, but one of the South’s best-kept secrets is the sweet, sleepy town of Ocean Springs. Blessed with soft sandy beaches, excellent shopping, and a thriving arts culture, it’s among our most cherished escapes for pure relaxation.

You’ll find compelling destinations along Virginia’s shoreline, too, such as Chincoteague and Assateague Islands—getting a first glimpse of Assateague’s wild horses will remain a treasured travel memory forever. Colonial Beach on Virginia’s Northern Neck, just four blocks wide, is well positioned for soaking up a bit of sunshine as well as meandering along the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail.

Although Florida and South Carolina are better known as Southern beach destinations, there are plenty of under-the-radar spots to discover in addition to famous favorites like Apalachicola, Key West, Hilton Head Island, and Isle of Palms. Fall brings mild temperatures and low crowds to Florida’s Gulf Coast, and it’s one of the best seasons to visit the 30-A corridor, home to a string of communities that includes Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Alys Beach. Meanwhile, we always enjoy a chance to slip away to Beaufort, South Carolina, a picture-perfect town that feels like a step back in time. And just a couple of hours north lies oceanfront Georgetown, which, like Beaufort, dates from the 18th century and has lots to captivate history buffs.

As the autumn days mellow, the South’s most beautiful lakes beckon, whether your passion is boating, fishing, canoeing, paddleboarding, or lounging dockside to watch the sun set over the rippling horizon. Among the top such destinations in the region is Arkansas’ Lake Hamilton, an easy drive from the popular town of Hot Springs. One of our favorite botanical gardens, Garvan Woodland Gardens, is tucked along its shores; pair time spent on the water with a stroll through its peaceful forests and a visit to its dramatic, light-filled Anthony Chapel, where the turning leaves are visible through towering glass-paneled walls.

Farther southeast, Georgia’s Lake Oconee draws guests who seek world-class golfing, fine dining, and luxe accommodations. The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee resort is a destination in its own right—with five championship courses, beautifully appointed rooms, ample outdoor activities, and a tempting full-service spa, it’s worthy of a special occasion or an indulgent weekend escape. Alabama has its share of likable lakes, too, and we love lazy afternoons gliding in a pontoon boat or kayak across Lake Guntersville, the largest in the state. When you’ve had your fill of the waterfront, explore Guntersville proper, with a historic downtown that offers boutiques to browse and restaurants where you can feast on Southern comfort food to your heart’s content.

Whether it’s idyllic appeal or urban bustle you’re after, the possibilities for town and city getaways abound. The cultural hub of Paducah, Kentucky, has come into its own in recent years—if you’ve never visited, or if it’s been a while, you’re in for a delightful surprise. The wonderful National Quilt Museum and the Floodwall Murals are essential stops, after which you can burn off a little energy with a stroll or bike ride along the Clyde F. Boyles Greenway Trail. If your Kentucky itinerary takes you through Berea, don’t miss the Kentucky Artisan Center, where all of the goods on offer are handmade in the Bluegrass State.

Tupelo, Mississippi
Birthplace of the King of Rock and Roll, Tupelo invites visitors to step into the world of Elvis Presley. Explore his childhood home, visit the Elvis Presley Birthplace Museum, and trace his early years in this charming Mississippi town. Beyond its musical legacy, Tupelo offers a warm welcome and a glimpse into the heart of the South.

Auburn, Alabama
Nestled in the heart of Alabama, Auburn is a vibrant town that seamlessly blends Southern charm with a lively college atmosphere. Home to Auburn University, the town buzzes with energy, especially during football season. Beyond the campus, explore the picturesque downtown, filled with boutiques, restaurants, and historic landmarks.

Alliance for Dade County, Georgia
Discover the natural beauty and rich heritage of Dade County, Georgia, through the efforts of the Alliance for Dade County. This non-profit organization works tirelessly to preserve the area’s scenic landscapes, promote sustainable tourism, and celebrate its cultural traditions. Explore hiking trails, visit historic sites, and experience the warmth of this close-knit community.

Gilmer County, Georgia
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Gilmer County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike to cascading waterfalls, fish in pristine streams, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. The county’s charming towns, like Ellijay, offer a taste of Southern hospitality and a chance to unwind in a picturesque setting.