With the start of summer right around the corner, many families are pulling out their calendars and making plans for upcoming vacations. Whether you’re after a beach getaway or looking to reconnect with nature in the Great Smoky Mountains, we’ve rounded up five Southern destinations that are perfect for a family getaway!
Use these links to skip ahead to different destinations!
- Bowling Green, KY
- North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands
- Kiawah Island Golf Resort
- Ridgeland, MS
- Dollywood Resorts
Bowling Green, KY
From an award-winning roller coaster to underground adventures and exciting sporting events, Bowling Green, KY is jam-packed with things to see and do.
Thrill-seekers can look forward to a trip to Beech Bend Amusement Park & Splash Lagoon. In addition to the award-winning Kentucky Rumbler wooden roller coaster, the theme park also houses a section of rides for little ones! Be sure to stop and see one of the many theatrical shows that take place daily throughout the park, too.
As temperatures rise, many families love cooling off at Splash Lagoon, home to the Ragin’ Rapids water slide, a wave pool, and a lazy river. When you’re ready to retire for the night, you can reserve a spot at the nearby Beech Bend Campground.
Another unique way to cool off in Bowling Green, Lost River Cave offers underground boat rides. As you travel through the cave, you’ll see a variety of rock formations and learn about the history of the cave (including how it once served as a hideout for Jesse James!).
Lost River Cave is also the perfect outdoor playground, offering a Butterfly House, hiking trails to see the Blue Holes, and even gem mining section for the little ones! For more outdoor adventure, travel to the nearby Mammoth Cave National Park, about 30 miles outside Bowling Green.
If the timing is right, be sure to catch a baseball game as the Bowling Green Hot Rods Minor League Baseball celebrate their 15th anniversary. In addition to fun themed evenings and Friday night fireworks, home games offer a free playground and carousel.
For a hands-on learning experience, Chaney’s Dairy Barn is a working dairy farm that gives families an inside look at the world of agritourism. The self-guided tour invites you to explore and see Jersey Cows in their barn, or cows being milked by state-of-the-art robotic milkers.
Each summer, Chaney’s hosts its “Ice Cream and a Moovie” event, which includes free movie screenings and, of course, Chaney’s award-winning ice cream. Featured on Guy Fieri’s All American Road Trip, there are a variety of delicious flavors to choose from. The farm also offers burgers, sandwiches, and ‘moo pies’ (a fresh baked chocolate chip cookie in a mini skillet with a scoop of ice cream on top!).
Concerts in the Park is another popular summer event in Bowling Green. Taking place at Circus Square Park every Friday from June 21 through September 13, the free community event offers live music, food trucks, and kid-friendly activities.
While at the park, adults can enjoy beer and wine as they hop around the Fountain Row Entertainment District, which offers shopping, nightlife, and a handful of delicious restaurants, including 440 Main, Gerard’s 1907 Tavern, and Alley Pub & Pizza. Meanwhile, kids will love grabbing dessert at Meltdown Ice Cream & Soda Fountain.
And finally, no trip to Bowling Green is complete without a visit to the National Corvette Museum! Young children will love the newly opened Education Gallery, which offers a hands-on museum experience. Older children will appreciate the on-site Corvette simulator as well as the high-spend go-karts at NCM Motorsports Park.
North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands
Families seeking a relaxing beach getaway will love a trip to North Carolina’s Brunswick Islands. With 45 miles of pristine coastline spanning five islands — Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Holden Beach, Oak Island, and Bald Head Island — there are plenty of opportunities to unwind.
The Brunswick Islands are home to Old Baldy, the oldest lighthouse in North Carolina, and Oak Island Lighthouse, the last lighthouse built in the state. You can travel to the top of both — the Oak Island Lighthouse offers a series of unique ship ladders rather than a traditional spiral staircase!
For more outdoor fun, we recommend visiting one of the five public ocean fishing piers. Each offers handicap access and local food, bait, tackle, and equipment rentals. Families can also enjoy finishing along one of the local rivers or the Intracoastal Waterway.
For a more in-depth experience, multiple fishing charters are available for inshore, nearshore, and offshore excursions. You can choose from half-day or full-day adventures and sunset sightseeing cruises. To see a complete list of local charters, click HERE.
Golfers will enjoy the 30+ championship courses designed by architects like Rees Jones, Willard Byrd, Dan Maples, Arnold Palmer, and Fred Couples. To find your perfect course, view a complete list of courses HERE.
For a touch of adventure on the Shallotte River, The Swamp Park near Ocean Isle Beach offers ziplining over a cypress swamp, a 50-minute Swamp Boat Eco Tour, a seven-course Adventure Park, a 3,000-square-foot reptile sanctuary, and a serene nature trail.
During the summer months, take advantage of the handful of free local events like weekly outdoor markets, movies, and concerts. Many families also love the weekly “Turtle Talks” offered by the area’s Sea Turtle Protection Organizations. Taking place on several local beaches, these discussions educate locals and tourists alike about sea turtles and how to best protect the endangered species.
To learn about the Brunswick Islands and its maritime history, visit one of the local museums. The Museum of Coastal Carolina boasts life-size replicas of marine animals, and the famous Ingram Planetarium boasts an 84- seat theater with a 40-foot domed screen. The North Carolina Maritime Museum explores the natural and cultural history of North Carolina’s Lower Cape Fear through interactive exhibitions on fisheries, shipwrecks, piracy, and World War II.
When you’re ready for dinner, there are plenty of exceptional waterfront dining options, particularly in the charming fishing village of Calabash.
Affectionately known as the “Seafood Capital of the World,” standout Calabash restaurants include The Oyster Rock Waterfront Seafood (awarded by OpenTable’s “Best Restaurants for Outdoor Dining”) and Calabash Waterfront Seafood Shack (one of Yelp’s “Top 100 Seafood Spots” in 2024).
Kiawah Island Golf Resort
A getaway to Kiawah Island Golf Resort invites you to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature. From luxurious accommodations at The Sanctuary hotel to engaging activities and an award-winning beach, here’s how to make the most of your time!
As South Carolina’s only destination delivering triple Forbes Five-Star ratings for its accommodations, spa, and dining, The Sanctuary hotel is the perfect “home away from home” during your vacation, with 255 well-appointed guest rooms.
The hotel also offers complimentary beach umbrellas, towel service, and reclining chairs, making planning for a beach day seamless and easy! Kids can even enjoy beach toys and games that are available for rent (including bocce ball, cornhole, and Spikeball).
The resort also boasts 550 private villa and home vacation rentals. No matter your home base, be sure to take advantage of the two interactive pool complexes. The Night Heron Pool Complex offers two waterslides, a kids’ splash zone, and a junior Olympic-size pool. You can also enjoy poolside food and drinks courtesy of Night Heron Grill & Bar.
The West Beach Pool Complex is equally inviting, thanks to its kid-friendly aqua playground, spray features, and five-foot swimming area. Like the Night Heron Complex, the West Beach Pool offers a nearby Mexican cantina with delicious food and drinks.
Adults and older children can enjoy a round of golf at one of the five championship golf courses designed by some of the sport’s greats, including Pete Dye, Tom Fazio, Clyde Johnston, Jack Nicklaus, and Gary Player. The famed Ocean Course features unobstructed views of the coastline from every hole, while the Golf Learning Center at Turtle Point Golf Course offers expert instruction for both junior golfers and adults.
The resort is also home to the acclaimed Roy Barth Tennis Center, which has earned accolades for its facilities and professional instructors. With 22 tennis courts — including six new dedicated pickleball courts — young children, juniors, and adults can all play a match or two!
Many families also love Kiawah Island for its bicycle trails. From the 10 miles of hard-packed beach to 30 miles of paved trails, there is plenty of ground to explore. The resort also offers bike rentals, ranging from half-day options to monthly rentals.
Additional resort activities include paddleboarding, kayaking, boat tours, and playgrounds. Children and adults can adventure to the Heron Park Nature Center, which regularly hosts educational programs exploring the island’s abundant flora and fauna.
After a day full of excursions, you’ll likely have a hearty appetite. The resort offers 14 restaurants and cafés offering everything from barbecue to pizza, steak, and seafood delicacies. If you’d prefer to cook yourself, The Nest provides grocery delivery for guests staying in one of the resort’s villas or homes, all equipped with kitchens.
If you want to venture outside the resort, it’s a quick drive to Charleston! Less than an hour from the resort, you’ll find shopping, dining, and a variety of tours and excursions to explore the history and charm of this 350-year-old city.
Ridgeland, MS
Small-town Southern charm meets big-city amenities in Ridgeland, MS. No matter your passion — cycling, fishing, or exploring the local culinary scene — Ridgeland offers something for every type of traveler.
Each year, Ridgeland attracts droves of cyclists thanks to its premier location along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway. With thousands of miles of nationally recognized trails, you’re sure to find the perfect one for you and your family — whether you’re a seasoned pro or a new cyclist.
Ridgeland offers a Bikeshare Program for folks who don’t have (or don’t travel) with their own bikes. To rent a bike, download the free Koloni app, create an account, and unlock a bike by scanning its QR code. One bike-share rack is conveniently located near the entrance to Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail, a 10-mile paved path winding through the historic Choctaw homelands. The other is at the Renaissance at Colony Park outdoor shopping center.
More experienced cyclists will enjoy visiting the Ridgeland Mountain Bike Trails. Offering 10 miles of dirt paths, the trails are serviced by the Tri-County Mountain Bike Association.
The Magnolia Ridge BMX Track is another popular cycling attraction, offering tracks for all ages and skill levels. Younger children can learn how to balance on a Strider bike, while more experienced cyclists can wind through the exciting obstacles.
For those looking to get out on the water, plan to spend an afternoon at the Barnett Reservoir. Also known as “The Rez,” the 33,000-acre reservoir is a waterfront haven for boaters and anglers alike.
To enjoy a full day on the water, we recommend visiting the Main Harbor Store Marina to rent a traditional pontoon boat or a double-decker party pontoon with a slide. The marina also offers fishing supplies! You can also book a guided excursion with Brad Chappell Fish Guide, who provides all necessary gear and can teach you how to catch trophy-size crappie.
Pearl River Kayaks is another option for getting out on the water. The local outfitter delivers your kayak and all necessary equipment right to your door, and also offers experienced guides for birdwatching excursions and other themed tours.
The Bill Waller Craft Center is another popular Ridgeland attraction. The state-of-the-art facility displays works from over 400 members of the Craftsmen Guild of Mississippi, showcasing everything from glass art to quilts, handcrafted jewelry, and wood-turned goods.
When you’re ready to refuel with lunch or dinner, The Rez is home to a variety of restaurants. Head to Cock of the Walk to try their famous golden fried catfish or Crab’s Seafood Shack for tropical cocktails and a full seafood menu.
Pelican Cove Grill is located inside the same building as the Main Harbor Store Marina. It offers waterfront views, live music, and delicious food. And raw oyster lovers will enjoy the selection at Shucker’s Oyster Bar!
Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort and Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa
Surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains and adjacent to the excitement of the award-winning Dollywood theme park, this collection of resort hotels offers endless relaxation, a variety of accommodations, and delicious dining options for your entire family.
Dollywood’s newest lodging property is the spectacular HeartSong Lodge & Resort. It’s the perfect respite for busy families, offering spacious guest rooms and suites, comfortable beds, and complimentary high-speed WiFi.
Just outside the Resort is The Cove, an outdoor pool where guests are invited to relax, recharge, and play. In addition to a beautiful waterfall, the pool offers a splash pad for younger children and an outdoor hot tub open to guests ages 16 and older. Be sure to take advantage of The Cove’s poolside dining services. While you lounge, you can try favorites like the BBQ brisket nachos and the Tennessee Whiskey Bacon BBQ Burger.
On the resort’s first floor, you’ll find its indoor pool. A perfect year-round oasis, the pool is heated and offers tables and chairs for everyone to relax.
Beyond poolside dining, HeartSong Lodge offers multiple on-site restaurants where you and your family can refuel. Ember & Elm: Tastes Rooted In The Smokies offers delicious breakfast and dinner dishes carefully prepared by world-class chefs. Standout items include chicken and waffles, shrimp and scallop grits, and brick oven-fired flatbreads.
For more laidback dining, head to High Note: Casual Dining + Drink. Offering seasonal beverages, appetizers, and entrées, there’s something for everyone on the menu. Popular dishes include the East Tennessean flatbread, fried chicken sandwich, and filet mignon.
Another fantastic lodging option, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa offers a variety of room types so you can make the most of your stay. Guest rooms and suites offer more than 350 square feet of space, complimentary wireless high-speed WiFi, and flat-screen televisions with cable channels.
After you’ve settled in, it’s time to explore! DreamMore Resort offers two on-site pools. The Swimming Hole sits outside and features two cascading waterfalls, an interactive family splash pad, and a serene hot tub. If you’d prefer to enjoy your aquatic adventures inside, head to The Garden House Pool. The year-round heated pool is surrounded by large picture windows, offering sweeping views of the nearby Smokies.
Children and adults can spend an afternoon at Camp DW. Offering fun both inside and out, families can experience everything from arts and crafts to storytelling, trivia, live entertainment, and more.
Adults and older kids will enjoy a visit to The Spa at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort. Offering a variety of services, you can indulge in everything from manicures and pedicures to scalp treatments, massages, and facials.
When you’re ready for some traditional Southern cooking, visit the on-site restaurant, Song & Heart: A Southern Eatery. The DM Pantry is another great dining option if you’re on the go and need a quick snack, like Dollywood’s famous Grill Mist Cinnamon Bread!
And of course, outside the resort grounds, there’s plenty to see and do in the area, from a day at Dollywood to shopping, hiking excursions, museums, Pink Jeep Tours, and Dolly Parton’s Dinner Shows.
Happy travels!
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This article is sponsored by Bowling Green Area CVB, NC’s Brunswick Islands, Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Explore Ridgeland, and The Dollywood Company. All photography provided.
