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10 Winter Vacation Ideas You’ll Want to Book Now
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10 Winter Vacation Ideas You’ll Want to Book Now

The South is full of variety. Our landscapes are as diverse as our accents (a Virginia accent is decidedly different from a Louisiana drawl), our definition of “Good” barbecue varies by stateand our music has connections to jazz, blues, country, rock’n’roll, gospel, and R&B, among other genres.

This shared guideline also carries over into our coldest season. Winter in the South has several connotations: some places are warm enough for swimming in December, others can experience regular snowfall through February and March. So if you want to travel this winter, you’ll need to start by deciding on your ideal weather and type of trip. Do you want a weekend in a comfortable chalet or a seaside getaway? Would you rather spend your time strolling quaint cobblestone streets or exploring a bustling city?

To help you get started on your thinking, we’ve put together a list of Southern winter vacation ideas — from a historic rodeo in Texas to holiday festivities in the nation’s capital.

Savannah, Georgia

Courtesy of Visit Savannah

If you can handle the humidity, there really is no bad time to visit Savannah. Winter, however, usually gives way to lower prices on flights and accommodation, as well as a whole list of fun events and reasons to visit. December, of course, is delightfully festive; THE Savane Christmas Market runs from November 21 to December 31. Allow time in your itinerary for some house tours – the Mercer-Williams House and the Davenport House Museum are popular options – and ice skating at Savannah Civic Center. In February, the Savannah Book Festivallocated in the historic district, brings together authors and bibliophiles from across the country.

Alexandria, Virginia

Virginia Tourism Society


Alexandria is a Hallmark-esque destination during the holiday season. From its tartan ribbons and red bows to its cobblestone streets and cozy cafes, the waterside town is ideal for a quick winter weekend getaway. Spend your days browsing the boutiques of King Street and sipping cocktails at Heron’s Hotel brand new craft cocktail bar, François Roomor admire the historic houses of the old town. You can also time your visit to coincide with Alexandria’s Scottish Christmas Parade or the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights in early December.

Miami, Florida

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While winter in the Carolinas doesn’t exactly come with beach-friendly weather — unless you want to bundle up in a few layers — temperatures in South Florida typically reach the mid-70s during the day. The ocean also remains temperate, allowing swimming, diving, and boating year-round. If you’re hoping to plan a trip that combines beach activities, cultural events, and a generally upbeat atmosphere, opt for Miami. Art Basel takes place in December, followed by Art Deco weekend in January.

Not to mention, it’s a city with a plethora of incredible beachfront hotels and unique neighborhoods to explore. THE St. Regis Bal Harbor Resortfor example, is nestled on the northern tip of Miami Beach and located right across the street from the Bal Harbor Shops, where you can do a little holiday shopping. After a relaxing day on the beach or poolside, treat yourself to a facial at The Spa at St. Regis and follow it up with a cocktail at the St. Regis Bar.

Johns Island, South Carolina

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Charleston’s low season is one of best times to visit the Holy City. Outside of the holidays – when magnolia garlands, wreaths and twinkling lights adorn historic homes in the South Side neighborhoods of Broad, French Quarter and Harleston Village – the destination is quieter and it’s much easier to find reservations and a parking. For an even more low-key stay, while still being just minutes from downtown, consider Johns Island, which just welcomed The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection. Situated on 2,000 acres of Kiawah riverfront and meadows, the 72-room property is the perfect place to relax, eat oysters and appreciate the beauty of South Carolina’s winter months.

Wintergreen, Virginia

Courtesy of Wintergreen Resort


The South may not be known for the best skiing or snowboarding in the world, but we still have our share of skiable terrain. Just southwest of Charlottesville, Wintergreen Hotel has 26 groomed and ungroomed trails, ranging from green runs to double black runs. Make your ski trip a weekend by booking a slopeside condo and bringing the whole family. In addition to its slopes, the resort offers activities that will please everyone, including Virginia’s biggest tubing hilla snow park and ski lessons for children.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Cedric Angeles


With the humidity of summer and hurricane season in the rearview mirror, New Orleans is transforming into a center of celebration. THE New Orleans Children’s Hospital Holiday Parade makes its way through the French Quarter and downtown in December, residents and visitors cheer on the Saints and Pelicans on their home turf, and Carnival season begins in early January.

The New Orleans food scene is another draw in winter, with warm, comforting bowls of gumbo, strong cocktails, and sweet dishes. king cake on the menu. This season will be particularly exciting since the bellthe latest venture from Charleston restaurateur and entrepreneur Brooks Reitz, will open at the end of the year.

Fort Worth, TX

Scott Slusher Photography


Over the past couple of years, Fort Worth has become one of the must-see places for travelers to explore. Thanks to a $500 million redevelopment and revitalization of the Stockyards, plus some exciting hotel openings (Bowie House, Hotel Le CroissantAnd Drover Hotel), the city has consolidated its status as an essential destination. However, to get a real taste of Cowtown, you’ll want to visit in January and early February, when the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo comes to town. Get ready for a bull ride, a cattle and horse show, live music and a sea of ​​cowboy hats and boots.

Greensboro, Georgia

Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee


Lake vacations may be more appealing in the summer, but don’t underestimate the appeal of the vacation season on Lake Oconee near Greensboro, Georgia. The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee has a solid schedule of winter activities to ring in December. Breakfast with Santa, gingerbread workshops, a 5,000 square foot skating rink and lots of hot chocolate, apple cider and hot toddies guarantee a strong dose of holiday cheer for guests at all ages. What if you were hoping to relax a little before the whirlwind of Christmas and New Year? Book a treatment at the on-site spa, which features a plunge pool, lap pool and hammam.

Nashville, Tennessee

Visit Nashville


Nashville is a destination that excels in several categories, including the winter season. In December, visitors flock Zoolumination at the Nashville Zoo, Holiday LIGHTS in Cheekwood, and Christmas at Gaylord Opryland. There are also holiday-specific concerts and performances at the Grand Ole Opry and the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. Other reasons to visit Music City in the near future include the new “Choose Your Own Adventure” dining experience at Fancy pants in East Nashville and the ever-changing selection of world-class boutique hotels (Bobby Nashville And Hotel in Hutton are two excellent options).