It’s no doubt that Atlanta is a captivating destination of its own — with its world-class aquarium, luxe hotels, celebrity sightings, high-end restaurants and a nightlife scene that rivals New York and Los Angeles. But, in the midst of a pandemic, sometimes escaping the bustling city life is all you need to relax, rejuvenate and recharge from the thralls of it all.
Thankfully, because it’s the Southern epicenter, there are also some other amazing places to visit in the region if you’re setting your sights on a weekend escape. From here, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and other undiscovered parts of Georgia are all within just a few short hours.
So, if you’re looking for a weekend getaway, here are a few easy options that will have you on the road in no time.
01
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Everyone’s looking for that perfect vacation; the kind where you return refreshed and rejuvenated. The sugar-white sands of Alabama can be your perfect vacation, whether your goal is to lie on the beach or take an adventure on the surrounding bays and lakes. Twin treasures located right on the Gulf Coast, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama provide visitors with countless ways to discover 32 miles of sugar-white sandy beaches, the clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico and exciting eco-friendly adventures. The 6,150-acre Gulf State Park is an especially good place to get a handle on this fascinating region that’s home to nine different ecosystems and a 28-mile Backcountry Trail for biking and hiking.
02
Savannah, Georgia
About five hours from Atlanta, Savannah is an idyllic Southern city that sits near the coast and offers a weekend of outdoor activities, historical sites, and good food — and best of all, Insta-worthy architecture. These all combine to provide a beguiling charm, and the atmosphere is always relaxed, giving the feel of a small Southern town. Savannah’s downtown is the nation’s largest Urban Historic Landmark District, with 22 green squares and more than 1,600 historically and architecturally significant structures within a 2.5 square mile area.
03
Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville’s proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains means endless ways to explore the outdoors on foot, by bike or by boat. Greenville offers a number of water experiences from stunning waterfalls and lakes to the centerpiece of downtown, the Reedy River- making it possible to spend a day on a pontoon boat and eating at a James Beard nominated restaurant for dinner. Enjoy the 22+ mile Prisma Swamp Rabbit Trail that’s perfect for a leisurely bike ride, and just 7 miles from downtown, Paris Mountain State Park offers more than 15 miles of hiking trails and lakes for fishing and swimming. Or just pack a picnic lunch (by grabbing lunch to-go from a number of downtown’s acclaimed restaurants) and sit by the Reedy River in Falls Park overlooking the beautiful falls and Liberty Bridge.
Asheville is home to historic landmarks, cultural arts, and breathtaking natural beauty, all which continue to entice and enchant visitors year after year. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountain range and bordered by the French Broad River, it’s an easy drive from Atlanta and remains a favorite southern escape by not just Atlanta city dwellers but travelers along the East Coast. There’s plenty to do all year long, with kayaking, rafting, hiking, cycling and climbing all as some of the most popular options within reach of the city.
05
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga has been named one of the top places to visit in the United States, and for a great reason. The Chattanooga area is continuously growing and boasts many new experiences and places to stay, eat, drink, and explore. In fact, it has racked up several accolades over the past few years, including the “Top 10 Small Cities in the United States” list. Outdoor adventure and music await in the gorgeously scenic Chattanooga, that is the birthplace of noted jazz figures Bessie Smith, Yusef Lateef and Lovie Austin. The riverfront, the mountains, the history, the restaurants, the arts…it’s all right there for you to explore. Not to mention, the city has been an area of Black history and commerce for more than 100 years.
06
Charleston, South Carolina
For a beach retreat, head to the coast of South Carolina, which is nearly 5 hours from Atlanta’s city center. Charleston is home to colorful streets, iconic cuisine, tons of Black history and old school Southern charm. What makes it even more special, is its quaint small-town charm, mixed with its tourism flair, making it a fun year-round destination to visit. Popular activities include horse-drawn carriage rides along cobblestone streets or or soaking under the sun on Folly Beach. If you’re looking for more excitement, head to the French Quarter or Battery districts of this port city in South Carolina. And, if you wish to support some Black owned businesses, there are nearly 100 Black owned restaurants and businesses where you can stimulate their economy.
Star Gazing: Super Bowl LIX Weekend, NYFW ‘25, Gabrielle Union, Cardi B And More
The Big Game brought celebrities worldwide to The Big Easy for a collection of exciting events and activities.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 07: Gabrielle Union and Saweetie arrive at EA Sports presents The Madden Bowl at Orpheum Theater on February 07, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/Getty Images)
This past weekend, New Orleans transformed into a vibrant hub of star-studded events, with Black celebrities making notable appearances across the city. The festivities culminated in Super Bowl LIX at the Caesars Superdome, where the Philadelphia Eagles triumphed over the Kansas City Chiefs.
The halftime show was a highlight, featuring an electrifying performance by Kendrick Lamar, who was joined by SZA. The show also included surprise appearances by Samuel L. Jackson, portraying Uncle Sam, and tennis legend Serena Williams.
Throughout the weekend, various events attracted diverse crowds. At the DraftKings x KLUTCH Sports Group Super Bowl LIX Party, industry moguls and athletes mingled, celebrating the intersection of sports and entertainment. The MAXIM Saints & Sinners Big Game Party saw appearances from stars like Megan Thee Stallion, who later delivered a dynamic performance at a FanDuel event.
Jeffrey Lurie, Jalen Hurts at Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome on February 09, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Penske Media via Getty Images)
50 Cent’s Super Bold Comedy show brought laughter to attendees, and the 2025 Fanatics Super Bowl Party was another hotspot, drawing celebrities from various sectors. In a unique collaboration, Tequila Don Julio x Popeyes teamed up for a Big Game Celebration in NOLA, offering guests a fusion of flavors and entertainment. EA Sports’ The Madden Bowl and the GQ Bowl were also star-studded, with athletes and entertainers sporting their best threads in celebration of the big game. Hosted by Taylor Rooks, the 6th Annual Sports Power Brunch honored influential figures in sports, with several Black celebrities recognized for their contributions.
Simultaneously, New York Fashion Week concluded with the Sergio Hudson Fall/Winter 2025 Fashion Show, where Keke Palmer turned heads in a cream ensemble, embodying leadership and authority.
From the bustling streets of New Orleans to the runways of New York, stars showcased their influence and style, making this weekend a memorable celebration of culture and achievement.
Let’s take a look at the stars spotted across the country.
Ledisi sings the Black National Anthem.
US singer songwriter Ledisi performs “Lift Every Voice and Sing” ahead of during Super Bowl LIX between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, February 9, 2025. (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP) (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images)
Jon Batiste shines in his hometown.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 09: Jon Batiste performs the National Anthem onstage prior to Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome on February 09, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images)
Kendrick Lamar and SZA at the Halftime Show.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 09: Kendrick Lamar performs with SZA in the Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show at Caesars Superdome on February 9, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)
Gayle King at the KLUTCH Sports SBLIX Party.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 08: Gayle King attends the DraftKings x KLUTCH sports group Super Bowl LIX party sponsored by Smirnoff and NYX Professional Makeup on February 08, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for DraftKings and KLUTCH Sports Group)
Latto shows love.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 08: Latto attends 2025 Fanatics Super Bowl Party at The Sugar Mill on February 08, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/WireImage)
GloRilla in The Big Easy.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 08: GloRilla attends 2025 Fanatics Super Bowl Party at The Sugar Mill on February 08, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/WireImage)
The Bayou Barbie is back home.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 08: Angel Reese attends 2025 Fanatics Super Bowl Party at The Sugar Mill on February 08, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/WireImage)
Russell and Ciara at the Fanatics Super Bowl Party.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 08: Russell Wilson and Ciara attend 2025 Fanatics Super Bowl Party at The Sugar Mill on February 08, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/WireImage)
A’ja Wilson poses for a picture.
MIAMI, FLORIDA – FEBRUARY 08: American basketball player, A’ja Wilson poses for a photo during the 15th Annual Miami Heat Charitable Gala at Kaseya Center on February 08, 2025 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Brennan Asplen/Getty Images)
Taylor Rooks in NOLA.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 08: Taylor Rooks attends 2025 Fanatics Super Bowl Party at The Sugar Mill on February 08, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/WireImage)
The New Orleans native at the MAXIM party.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 08: Dawn Richard attends the MAXIM Saints and Sinners Big Game Party at Generations Hall on February 08, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/WireImage)
Karrueche Tran on the red carpet.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 07: Karrueche Tran attends FanDuel’s Super Bowl Party Powered by Spotify on February 07, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty Images for FanDuel’s Super Bowl Party Powered by Spotify!)
Taylor Rooks attends the GQ Bowl.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 07: Taylor Rooks attends the GQ Bowl at Hotel Peter and Paul on February 07, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images)
Cardi B attends Beacher’s Madhouse at Republic NOLA.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 08: Cardi B attends Beacher’s Madhouse at Republic NOLA on February 08, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Marcus Ingram/Getty Images)
Ochocinco at the SB Parade.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 08: Chad Ochocinco Johnson throws balls to fans and rides on the DraftKings Super Bowl LIX host committee float on February 08, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for DraftKings)
Jordan Chiles attends the Leigh Steinberg Super Bowl Party.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 8: Jordan Chiles attends the Leigh Steinberg Super Bowl Party at New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old US Mint on February 8, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Peter G. Forest/Getty Images)
Odell Beckham Jr. takes a picture.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 06: In this image released on February 8, 2025 Odell Beckham Jr. poses in the portrait studio during FRI&NDS Super Bowl Party at Merchant Hall on February 06, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/Getty Images)
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Tinashe performs onstage during SB LIX weekend.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 07: Tinashe performs onstage during Tequila Don Julio x Popeyes Team Up for A Big Game Celebration in NOLA on February 07, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images for Tequila Don Julio)
Larry Morrow attends the 2025 Fanatics Super Bowl Party.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 08: Larry Morrow attends the 2025 Fanatics Super Bowl Party at The Sugar Mill on February 08, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Anna Webber/Getty Images)
The Pivot podcast hosts.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 07: Members of The Pivot Podcast arrive at EA Sports presents The Madden Bowl at Orpheum Theater on February 07, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/Getty Images)
Tarriona “Tank” Ball attends the NFL Night of Pride with GLAAD.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 07: Tarriona Tank Ball attends the NFL Night of Pride with GLAAD at The Joy Theater on February 07, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jenn Devereaux/Getty Images)
Cardi B visits Fat Tuesday on Bourbon Street.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 07: Cardi B visits Fat Tuesday Bourbon 2 at Fat Tuesday Bourbon 2 on February 07, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Marcus Ingram/Getty Images)
Marsha Cooke attends the 6th Annual Sports Power Brunch.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 05: Marsha Cooke attends the 6th Annual Sports Power Brunch at Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans on February 05, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Jenn Devereaux/Getty Images)
Megan Thee Stallion in New Orleans.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 07: Megan Thee Stallion performs onstage during FanDuel’s Super Bowl Party Powered by Spotify on February 07, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Daniel Boczarski/Getty Images for FanDuel’s Super Bowl Party Powered by Spotify!)
Danielle Deadwyler attends the 30th Annual Critics Choice Awards.
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 07: Danielle Deadwyler attends the 30th Annual Critics Choice Awards at Barker Hangar on February 07, 2025 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for Critics Choice Association)
Ebro Darden, Nadeska Alexis and Kendrick Lamar.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 06: (L-R) Ebro Darden, Nadeska Alexis and Kendrick Lamar speak during the Super Bowl LVIX Pregame & Apple Music Super Bowl LVIX Halftime Show Press Conference at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on February 06, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images)
Aldis Hodge in Los Angeles.
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 07: Aldis Hodge attends the 30th Annual Critics Choice Awards at Barker Hangar on February 07, 2025 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Critics Choice Association)
The cast of ‘Harlem’ celebrate the series finale.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 06:(L-R) Tyler Lepley, Shoniqua Shandai, Tracy Oliver, Grace Byers, Gail Bean, Meagan Good, Jerrie Johnson and Jonathan Burke attend Season 3 Celebration Event For Prime Video’s “Harlem” on February 06, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Arnold Turner/Getty Images for Prime Video)
Janelle Monáe attends the 27th Annual Costume Designers Guild Awards.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 06: Janelle Monáe attends the 27th Annual Costume Designers Guild Awards at The Ebell of Los Angeles on February 06, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)
Keke Palmer during NYFW.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 06: Keke Palmer attends the front row for the Brandon Maxwell show during New York Fashion Week on February 06, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)
Storm Reid in Beverly Hills.
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 04: Storm Reid attends the Fashion Trust U.S. Cocktail Event in Los Angeles to Celebrate the FTUS 2025 Finalists at Private Residence on February 04, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for FTG)
Crystal Hayslett and Devale Ellis attend the 13th SCAD TVFest.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – FEBRUARY 06: (L-R) Crystal Hayslett and Devale Ellis attend Tyler Perry’s “Sistas” Q&A during the 13th SCAD TVfest on February 06, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images)
Mary J. Blige performs onstage during her “The For My Fans” tour.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – FEBRUARY 03: Singer Mary J. Blige performs onstage during her “The For My Fans” tour at State Farm Arena on February 03, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)
Usher skates on the Jennifer Hudson Show.
BURBANK, CALIFORNIA – January 31, 2025: Usher appears with Jennifer Hudson on “The Jennifer Hudson Show” airing February 4, 2025 in Burbank, California. (Photo by Chris Haston/WBTV via Getty Images). Check your local listings for times
Winnie Harlow visits the Empire State Building.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 05: Winnie Harlow visits the Empire State Building on February 05, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by John Nacion/Getty Images for Empire State Realty Trust)
Gabrielle Union attends 2025 Fanatics Super Bowl Party.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 08: Gabrielle Union attends 2025 Fanatics Super Bowl Party at The Sugar Mill on February 08, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Kaitlyn Morris/WireImage)
Muni Long attends the Sergio Hudson Fashion Show.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 07: Muni Long attends the Sergio Hudson Fall/Winter 2025 Fashion Show at NeueHouse Madison Square on February 07, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Udo Salters/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)
Zoe Saldaña attends AARP’s Annual Movies For Grownups Awards.
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 08: Zoe Saldaña attends AARP’s Annual Movies For Grownups Awards at the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel on February 08, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for AARP)