Moving back across the country, we head to the Southeast in this week’s look at the great destinations around the United States. This area of the country shines with warm weather, tropical climates and a rich history – not to mention the unbeatable recipes found in Southern cuisine. From music and culture to entertainment and sports, there’s no limit to the options in the Southeast. Check out our top five selections for visitors to the Southeast and along the Gulf Coast!
In this five-part series, we’re exploring the best destinations to travel to right here at home. With our coverage of the five main regions of the continental U.S. – Northeast, Northwest, Southwest, Southeast and right here in the Midwest – we’ll take a look at some of the top romantic getaways, family destinations, historic and sightseeing tours and unique locales that make the states so great!
Top City to See: Fort Lauderdale
This beachside city is the place to be in South Florida, no matter what kind of getaway you are seeking. From sports and entertainment to water activities and fantastic food, Fort Lauderdale offers a little something for everyone, set to a beachy pace that oozes energy. Nightlife is in abundance, both on Los Olas Boulevard and along the Riverwalk, located in the downtown Fort Lauderdale area. During the day, relaxing beach or poolside is a standard, but there are also incredible local shopping opportunities at high-end stores and flea markets to satisfy every binge-shopper’s appetite. Don’t forget to check out the local nature preserves and explore the historical sites of South Florida while you’re in town!
Best Place for Families: Atlanta
A city offering the best of everything for a great family vacation is Atlanta, Georgia. From historical monuments like Stone Mountain to incredible art galleries, science and history museums, zoos and aquariums, this Southern town is chock full of fun things to keep the kids busy. Chowing down is easy in A-town, with tons of family-friendly dining everywhere you look. Hotels and flights tend to be affordable in Atlanta, and you can even pick up a great deal on a multi-attraction access pass to see notable destinations all around the city. Don’t forget to plan a trip to Six Flags Over Georgia, offering visitors water rides and high-speed thrills that are sure to excite parents and children alike!
Spend a Romantic Evening in: Palm Beach
Spending time with your significant other in the Southeast doesn’t get any better than in Palm Beach, Florida, where you can indulge, dine, party and unwind at a luxury resort like The Breakers, a world-renowned hotel with romance written all over it. With a staff of more than 1,800 highly trained service professionals, The Breakers is a hugely popular Italian-Renaissance hotel with restaurants, a spa and much more to offer snuggly couples. Spread out on the sand and enjoy mojitos brought out by the concierge, or take in the local nightlife, which offers everything from upscale cigar and wine outings to off-Broadway shows and moonlit walking tours. Boating is a big deal here, and even with a dingy, you can make your way to the famed Peanut Island, where JFK once had a bunker built. Take a break from reality and show that someone special in your life how important they are in Palm Beach.
Sports: Charlotte
An perhaps unexpected place to find a sports fan’s fantasy vacation is Charlotte, North Carolina, which offers professional teams like the Carolina Panthers (NFL), Charlotte Hornets (NBA) and Carolina Hurricanes (NHL). Fans who need a little more speed must remember that this town is famous for its NASCAR Sprint Cup as well, with many major racing organizations involved in the excitement. Like lacrosse? Take an afternoon to watch the Charlotte Hounds dominate the field, or catch a little kicking action at a soccer game featuring the Carolina Railhawks. Food is easy to find, so grab a bite and a beer, and get your butt to the games!
Can’t Miss Slice of Americana: Memphis
Come for the music, and stay for the history lesson in Memphis, Tennessee, long heralded as a hub for blues music. Prepare to go with the flow as you explore this city soaked in emotion and grit, where you can visit sites like the Stax Museum of American Soul and the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. Boogie down at famed clubs like Boogie Café, Blues Hall or the Tap Room, but make sure you make your way to B.B. King’s Blues Club down on the west end of the Beale Street Entertainment District. Weekly blues concert schedules can be found at the Center for Southern Folklore, and remember as you are seduced and impressed by the sax and guitar, that this is a town steeped in red, white and blues!
At Blue Horizon, we have connections all around the country to help you plan your perfect domestic getaway. We can help you find great deals and excellent accommodations at an even better price. Contact one of our travel experts today and get started on planning your next vacation!
