Southeast Family Travel Destinations

Photo by Todd Bush

Plan a visit to make summer memories at these family-friendly spots.

Table of Contents

Outdoor Adventures for the Whole Family

At a cool elevation of 3,701 feet in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, the resort town of Banner Elk offers lots of outdoor adventure. Get a rush at speeds up to 27 mph at Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster and enjoy a walk across the Mile High Swinging Bridge at Grandfather Mountain. Banner Elk visitors can see a real live elk in the animal habitats at Grandfather. Hiking, mountain biking, rafting, swimming and great restaurants, too. 828-898-8395.

Experience Nature’s Beauty

The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel, is a unique destination on the Alabama Gulf Coast with nature at its doorstep. Located within beautiful Gulf State Park, The Lodge offers direct beach access, delicious dining outlets and miles of white sand beaches. Connect with the outdoors on a whole new level. While enjoying the 28 miles of trails in the state park, experience the hotel’s conservation efforts to restore and maintain the beauty of this truly distinctive property. 251-540-4000.

The Ultimate Smoky Mountain Experience

The Ridge Outdoor Resort offers the ultimate Smoky Mountain vacation experience, located just three miles from Dollywood and all the family fun of Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Sevierville. Enjoy a luxury glamping experience in a Tiny Home Cabin or Luxury Canvas Tent, or choose an upscale RV site; some include a private hot tub and outdoor entertainment area. Amenities include two pools, a Lazy River (opening 2022), fitness room, kid’s camp, golf simulator, fishing pond and never-ending family activities. 865-505-3111.

Your Kids Can Live Like A Sailor

Operation Overnight lets your group of kids explore, learn, and sleep aboard an authentic WWII aircraft carrier. Charleston is home to Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, where crews of young sailors can experience the stories of American heroes during Operation Overnight. Mount Pleasant, S.C. 843-884-2727.

Explore South Carolina on a Road Trip

Get ready for a road trip with scenic state parks, historic sites, friendly farms and more. South Carolina’s Old 96 District is a great road trip destination for making memories. This guide showcases favorite places to stay, eat and explore. Featuring the counties of Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens and McCormick.