The best girlfriend getaways are relaxing, fun, and carefree. To maximize this, plan a trip to one of the South’s many walkable cities—from small towns to big cities. Pedestrian-friendly spots like Charleston or Washington, D.C. are perfect for some much needed girl-time. Or, a walkable small town like Beaufort, South Carolina, or Bentonville, Arkansas, makes any weekend escape that much more charming. Read on for our recommendations for the best getaways where you’re sure to get your steps in.
Richmond, Virginia
Experience the charm of Virginia’s historic capital where restaurants, bars, the river, and tons of jaw-dropping history are all within walking distance. For where to stay, play, eat, and more, check out our Richmond City Guide.
New Orleans, Louisiana
We couldn’t make this list without New Orleans—where blocks of good food and good times seem to stretch on endlessly. Take the street car to hop from neighborhood to neighborhood with ease. Our guide to the Crescent City.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
You may know Chattanooga for the aquarium, Rock City, or the Incline Railway. And we love those, but that’s not all there is in this humble Tennessee mountain town. Head into the heart of Chattanooga for quirky dining, a variety of accommodations, and tons of can’t-miss shops. Get the scoop in our Chattanooga City Guide.
Washington, D.C.
Settle in to one of the many walkable neighborhoods in the nation’s capital for an abundance of dining, drinking, and exploring options. Head to Georgetown for historic charm, Dupont Circle for restaurants and bars tucked between embassies, or downtown for quick and easy access to museums and national attractions. See it all in our D.C. Guide.
Savannah, Georgia
This city is getting all the buzz right now, and for good reason. (Though its charm is nothing new—it’s actually quite old.) Savannah is filled with historic, stately buildings, creative individuals, and maybe even a few ghosts. Ditch the car and head out on your town two feet. Or take a trolley tour! Read on: Savannah City Guide.
San Antonio, Texas
This Lone Star state gem boasts a vibrant arts scene and a downtown brimming with old and new favorite restaurants, bars, and shops. Navigate different sections of town via a water taxi or the walkway on the San Antonio River Walk.
Asheville, North Carolina
Head to this mountain town for charming small shops, a thriving arts scene, tons of delicious eats, and no shortage of breweries and bars. While some vistas and attractions like the Biltmore would require a ride, there’s plenty to do in the densely-packed center of town. Read our 48-hour Guide to Asheville.
Beaufort, South Carolina
One of our absolute favorite small towns, Beaufort is perfect for a brief vacation. The more than 300-year-old downtown is surrounded by scenic river views, and is filled with entertainment for a quick getaway. Find more info here.
Bentonville, Arkansas
This town has grown to be so much more than the hometown of Wal-Mart, with hip accommodations like the 21c Museum Hotel, where after checking in, you can take a walking trail to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Here's more on Bentonville.
Charleston, South Carolina
We couldn’t forget this year’s “Best City” as voted on by readers. As soon as you step out the door, you simply can’t miss the city’s charm: “a stroll through an old graveyard that has been around for centuries, a walk around the Battery, a meander down moss-lined cobblestone lanes, the feel of soft white sand underfoot, and the awe of standing under a majestic old oak tree.” Read on for why we love this walkable town.
