The Best Girlfriend Getaways in the South

If you and your girlfriends are looking to get away, there are a handful of perfect destinations throughout the South. Whether you’re in the mood for white-sand beaches, a charming small town rooted in history, or a weekend of indulging at award-winning eateries, here are some of our favorite girlfriend getaways in the South!

Vicksburg, MS

Dubbed “The Key to the South,” Vicksburg, MS, offers everything you need for a memorable girlfriend getaway. Spend the night in a luxurious bed and breakfast before exploring local museums and boutiques.

Boasting 12 historic tour homes — nine of which are bed and breakfast inns — a vacation to Vicksburg is like traveling back in time. To immerse yourself in the town’s history, book a stay at Oak Hall Bed and Breakfast, Bazsinsky House Bed and Breakfast, Corners Mansion Inn, or the newly renovated Inn at Cedar Grove.

To soak in even more history, Vicksburg offers six museums within walking distance of one another. The Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum is a popular option, as Vicksburg is the place where the popular soda was first bottled. Other standout museums include Vicksburg’s Old Court House Museum and the Catfish Row Museum.

Art lovers will have fun on a guided Art of Commemoration Tour at the Vicksburg National Military Park. The 1,800-acre space features over 1,400 pieces of artwork worth between $4 and $5 billion. Each piece honors the era in which it was created — from classicism to abstract.

Downtown Vicksburg is also home to three art galleries that showcase work from local artisans. Attic Gallery is Mississippi’s oldest art gallery and offers everything from Southern folk art to pottery and jewelry. Just a few steps away is H.C. Porter Gallery, which features original paintings, serigraphs, and fine art prints.

Newer to Vicksburg’s art scene is the Jackson Street Gallery at The Mulberry. An outpost of Paula Jackson’s gallery of the same name in Ridgeland, MS, here you’ll find a variety of artwork from artists across the South.

If you’re looking for art that also serves as a beautiful backdrop for photos, visit any one of the city’s riverfront murals. Other popular murals include a large postcard on the opposite side of the floodwall and the Wings on Washington Murals in Gordon’s Alley.

After exploring museums and art galleries, stop by local shops to find something that will help you remember your trip forever. Offering apparel, gifts, and beauty products, you can’t go wrong stopping by the Vicksburg Mall, the Vicksburg Commons Shopping Mall, or the Plaza at Vicksburg.

For local boutiques, Downtown Vicksburg offers a handful of options. Levee Street Marketplace and The Open Market are popular stores for antiquing, while Sassafras and Peterson’s are sought-after for home decor.

After shopping, unwind at one of Vicksburg’s rooftop restaurants. Downtown’s 10 South Rooftop Bar & Grill offers a vast selection of food and cocktails. Popular libations include the Mississippi Sunset and “Kentuk” Mule.

Another popular rooftop to watch the Mississippi sunset is The Roof at 1311 at Key City Brewery. Sit back, relax, and enjoy views of the river below as you sip a craft beer or munch on a hand-crafted pizza.

South Carolina’s Old 96 District

For a charming small town with plenty of character and history, visit South Carolina’s Old 96 District. Made up of five counties — Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick — you’ll find a wide variety of outdoor adventures, delicious eateries, and relaxing spas during your visit.

If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay, the Old 96 District is home to a handful of distinct lodging options. Inn on the Square is the city’s only full-service boutique hotel, offering modern amenities like fine linens and high-speed internet. For a cozy bed and breakfast, Lady Amelia’s Bed & Breakfast Inn and Belmont Inn are popular options. Both places make guests feel like they’re stepping back in time while still offering the luxuries of modern-day living.

Next, it’s time to start exploring. History buffs will enjoy strolling through the Benjamin E. Mays Historical Preservation Site. The museum explores the life of Benjamin Elijah Mays, a mentor to Martin Luther King Jr. and a prominent leader in the civil rights movement.

Another popular attraction, the state parks in McCormick County are not to be missed. Popular options include Hickory Knob State Park, Hamilton Branch State Park, and Baker Creek State Park.

For art lovers, The Arts Center of Greenwood is home to art exhibits, art classes and workshops, and even a clay studio. Visitors can view everything from pottery to paintings, sculptures, and more.

If you want to spend some time outside, make a trip to Calhoun Falls State Park. Located in Abbeville County, this is the perfect place to enjoy activities like swimming, kayaking, tennis, and fishing.

If you’re looking to knock out some shopping, Main & Maxwell offers some of the best local and regional crafts, while Sugar Boutique is a popular clothing store that offers well-known brands like Lilly Pulitzer and Southern Tide.

For furniture and home goods, Thayer’s Furniture and Fine Gifts won’t disappoint. Offering multiple rooms of items, you can peruse the store’s extensive collection of home furnishings, art, and everyday china.

SB Tip: Head to the nearby town of Abbeville for more local shops, including standout options like Pendleton Farms and Divine Your Space.

No vacation is complete without a bit of relaxation. Whether you’re in need of a facial, pedicure, or body scrub, spots like The Vintage Vault and The Spa on Maxwell are sure to leave you feeling rested and rejuvenated.

After a full day of fun, there are plenty of ways to refuel around town. For a casual dinner with drinks, Good Times Brewing offers craft beer alongside delicious brick-oven pizzas. Christine’s Farm to Fork and Miss Ann’s Fried Chicken are great options if you’re craving authentic Southern fare.

Montague’s is a more elevated dining option. Offering French-American-inspired dishes, standout entrées include the Chicken Willa, Seafood Charleston, and Isabelle’s Alfredo. We also recommend pairing your meal with one of the restaurant’s signature cocktails!

Corinth, MS

For a taste of Mississippi charm, head to Corinth, a small Southern town known for its unique lodging options, delicious eateries, and trendy boutiques.

When it comes time to pick a place to stay, the Generals’ Quarters is a popular boutique hotel that offers luxurious guest suites. Amenities include high-speed internet, Monarch linens, and daily housekeeping services.

If you prefer a vacation rental, The Cottage is a bungalow nestled in the heart of downtown Corinth. For larger groups, The Carriage House is a newly renovated rental with four bedrooms accommodating up to eight guests.

Once you’re settled in, we recommend booking reservations at Rossi’s Relaxstation Boutique Spa. Located in Corinth’s SoCo District, guests can enjoy everything from a hair refresh to manicures and facials.

After your spa appointment, spend time perusing Corinth’s local boutiques. Sanctuary is a must-visit, offering a handful of vintage home accessories — from rugs and lighting to artwork.

You can also explore the shops throughout downtown Corinth’s leisure district, which allows visitors to enjoy cocktails as they browse. For on-trend clothing, popular stores include Shirley Dawgs, Sage & Willow, and Lipchic Boutique.

To truly enjoy the sights of downtown Corinth, take the self-guided tour aptly named ’60 Sights in 60 Minutes.’ Visitors can use an interactive Google map or a brochure from the Visit Corinth office to explore parks and historic sites.

For interactive, personalized fun, Elizabeth Spencer Designs and Kates & Co. offer floral arranging and painting classes by appointment, while The Studio 662 can help plan your next event.

After a day of exploring, it’s time for dinner. Abe’s Grill is a Corinth staple as the oldest diner on Highway 72. The eatery is known for its legendary biscuits, tenderloin, and burgers.

You can also stop by Mississippi’s oldest drugstore, Borroum’s, to try its famous Slug Burger paired with a beverage from the old-fashioned soda fountain. Another popular casual eatery, V Taco offers delicious tacos, paninis, and margaritas. Be sure to grab a seat on the restaurant’s rooftop deck to enjoy sweeping views of Corinth!

If your group is craving Italian, Pizza Grocery is known for its pizza, pasta, calzones, salads, and steaks. After dinner, head to the upstairs coffee shop for a post-dinner tiramisu or bread pudding.

Vicari Italian Grill is a fabulous fine-dining restaurant that offers more than just Italian dishes. In addition to craft cocktails and elevated desserts, standout entrées include the fried lobster tail, lollypop lamb chops, and eggplant Parmesan. Its sister restaurant, Conservatory by Vicari, offers a great open-air option with a fabulous rooftop patio and serves everything from salad and sandwiches to flatbreads.

New Smyrna Beach Area, FL

The New Smyrna Beach Area is home to five unique coastal getaways: Edgewater, Osteen, Port Orange, Oak Hill, and New Smyrna Beach. No matter where you visit, you can enjoy miles of white-sand beaches, a booming art scene, delicious restaurants, and more.

For the perfect home base, Inn On The Avenue is a popular bed and breakfast. Offering seven unique guest rooms, the inn is steps away from the beach, shopping, and a bustling nightlife scene. In addition to the eclectic, colorful decor and modern amenities, guests can enjoy a delicious gourmet breakfast every morning, beginning at 9 a.m.

For more bed and breakfast options that offer stunning views and are within walking distance to local antique stores, boutiques, and restaurants, Anchor Inn, Night Swan Intracoastal Bed and Breakfast, and Victoria 1883 Waterfront Estate are sure to make you feel right at home.

No trip to the New Smyrna Beach Area is complete without spending a day exploring the 17 miles of white-sand beaches. Popular options equipped with amenities like public pavilions, grills, restrooms, and picnic areas include Canaveral National Seashore, Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park, Grayce K. Barck North Beach Community, and Marianne Clancy Park.

For a beach day paired with breathtaking hikes, Smyrna Dunes Park is home to over two miles of boardwalk. As you peruse the 184-acre park, stop at any of the scenic overlooks for one-of-a-kind views of the Atlantic Ocean, Indian River, or Ponce de Leon Inlet.

With so many beaches, it’s no surprise that the New Smyrna Beach Area is home to plenty of water-related fun — from kayaking and canoeing to paddle boarding. If you need to borrow the proper equipment for your adventure, local outfitters include JB’s Lagoon Adventures, Nichols Surf Shop, and Paddleboard New Smyrna.

In addition to outdoor adventure, the New Smyrna Beach Area is home to a large and expansive art scene. Located in the area’s historic art district, Jane’s Art Center offers permanent and rotating contemporary art exhibitions. The center also hosts frequent art classes, which make for a fun afternoon activity!

Visit any of the city’s local art galleries to take a piece of New Smyrna home with you. Popular options from local artists include Ring Gallery, Chadds Ford Gallery Inc., Fernandez Photography & Fine Arts Gallery, and Wirth Gallery.

When you’re ready for dinner, there are a handful of local eateries nearby. Third Wave Cafe & Wine Bar is a laid-back restaurant known for its coastal-inspired dishes and extensive wine menu, while Ciao Bella is an excellent fine dining option.

If you’re craving something sweet after dinner, DoughGirl Confections offers homemade cookie dough — popular flavors include Birthday Cake, Cookies and Cream, and Brownie Batter. You can also visit Frosty King to cool off with ice cream or a snow cone.

Cinnamon Shore Vacation Rentals

Consider a stay at Cinnamon Shore for a beach getaway that offers everything you need in one place — including lodging, dining, and activities. Located along the Gulf Coast in Port Aransas, TX, these vacation rentals can accommodate a wide range of groups.

Whether you’re in need of a quaint cottage or beachfront condominium, there are hundreds of Cinnamon Shore rentals to choose from. Each home has a similar architecture and decor style, clean lines, a coastal-inspired interior, and breathtaking landscaping. Plus, each home is thoughtfully designed to foster a sense of community, so guests are invited to mingle with one another and walk to the surrounding shops, pools, parks, and restaurants.

Your stay also includes a handful of amenities to enjoy throughout your vacation. Be sure to reserve a spot on the beach for a private bonfire. For a set fee, Cinnamon Shore can handle the set-up, lighting of the fire, and s’mores. Plus, they use premier pinion wood for every fire.

In addition to easy access to the beach, Cinnamon Shore is also home to lakes and pools if you and your girlfriends are looking for even more waterfront fun. Lake Gavin and Lake Colby are both fully stocked with fish if you’re up for casting a line or two!

If you prefer to spend the day sunbathing while enjoying delicious food and drinks by the pool, head to Keira’s Pool. Overlooking Lake Gavin and the surrounding beach homes, guests can enjoy bar and food service from the nearby C Bar. Other on-site pools include Cabana Pool at ‘South,’ Dune Pool, and Still Water Pool.

Cinnamon Shore also offers a handful of interactive activities to keep you entertained. You and your girlfriends can tap into your creative side during a paint-and-sip party. For adrenaline seekers, consider trying to ride the ocean waves during a kite surfing lesson.

If you find yourself in need of a caffeinated pick-me-up, head to Coffee Waves. The on-site coffee shop is known for its iced coffee, hot coffee, and an array of frozen drinks — including fruit smoothies.

After a day in the sun, you can stop by Coffee Waves again to cool off with gelato. If traditional ice cream is more your speed, C Treats offers a variety of flavors in addition to snow cones.

For a filling lunch or dinner, Dylan’s Coal Oven Pizzeria offers everything from pizza to sandwiches, salads, and pasta, while Lisabella’s is a fine dining restaurant known for dishes like crab cakes, sea scallops, and Mermaid Soup.

For a fun, interactive dinner option, Cinnamon Shore also offers a full-service catering experience that offers in-home shrimp boils and paella parties. The shrimp boil includes a half pound of shrimp per person, potatoes, corn, sausage, cocktail sauce, and lemons, while the paella package offers chicken, chorizo, and shrimp options.

Happy travels!

This article is sponsored by Visit Vicksburg, the Old 96 District, and Visit Corinth.

All photography provided unless otherwise noted.