Peace up, A-Town down. Get peachy this summer with a drive down 85 (or, our pick, a quick wheels up) that won’t let you down—from a stroll around Piedmont Park to drinks on the roof at Ponce City Market, followed by a scoot to the BeltLine for breweries, art, street music and more. Blues fans will wanna tune into the eternal Atlanta Blues Festival that is Blind Willie’s; sports fans’ll wanna make time for the College Football Hall of Fame; sneakerheads should step out for some shoe shops (ATL is known for its sneaker shops); and, well, everyone can and should get a brunch rez at brand-new 5Church Buckhead (pro tip: The sunroom is the perf perch for selfies).
Suches, Ga.
Be one with nature in North Georgia via this cluster of tiny cabins nestled in 57 wooded acres in the heart of the Chattahoochee National Forest. Dubbed Getaway Chattahoochee, the exotic-cool glamping excursion is just a two-hour drive from A-town—doubling the appeal for those who truly have Georgia on their mind this summer.
DC
POV? DC should be on your summer bucket list—including its primo POV rooftop bar overlooking the White House, soon to reopen after a monthlong reno. While there, bring the Natitude to a Nats game (America’s city, America’s game–how fitting); stroll M Street in Georgetown for that Fifth Avenue-meets-King Street in Charleston feel; sip drinks on the Washington Harbour; culture-hop across all the free things (monuments, museums and more)… and if you’re looking to make your stay extra presidential, lay your head to rest in Penn Quarter at the Riggs in one of the famed First Lady Suites.
West Virginia
Country roads take me home, to the place I belong. … Outdoor lovers are going to feel right at home in WVA. Test your fight or flight—er, swim—instincts via River Expeditions’ whitewater rafting trips on the New River Gorge or Gauley River; or channel your mountain mama and explore the Mountain State’s 100+ miles of trails by way of New River ATV, the New River Gorge’s premier ATV adventure tour. “Almost heaven, West Virginia…”
Charleston
Chucktown is more than just the iconic Pineapple Fountain and Rainbow Row (and art market and King Street…). It’s also a haven for award-winning eats and drinks—and plenty of other summer fun you’re gonna wanna check off your bucket list. Must do’s: We rec you wait in the (inevitable) line at Lewis Barbecuefor some of the best brisket in town; book a sunset cruise via Harborview Charters; and grab a nightcap at King Street Dispensary.
Greenville, SC
With its small-town feel and big-city charm, Greenville—voted one of the best cities in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler readers in 2021—serves as a great destination for family and couples (or friends!) alike, thanks to its fine eateries, upscale hotels, hip breweries, green spaces, and thriving arts and culture scene. So whether you’re looking to get your steps in on the 22-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail, have a drink a la Don Draper at subterranean drinking denVault & Vator, or nosh your way through the city’s culinary elite at euphoria (Sept. 15–18), Greenville’s got something for everyone to enjoy.
Richmond
The so-called River City is a rooftop bar oasis—making a rooftop barhop a must. Faves include Common House (which also boasts a rooftop pool!), Kabana Rooftop (go Sundays for a live DJ), Q Rooftop Bar at Quirk Hotel (get a hot dog when hunger strikes), and The HofGarden (aka The Hof). Because everyone knows RVA looks better from above—and with a drink in hand, obv.
Chattahoochee River, Ga.
Way down yonder on the Chattahoochee it gets hotter than a hoochie coochie. But nothing a little “Shoot the Hooch” can’t cure (aka what the locals call tubing the Chattahoochee River), so go lay rubber on the Georgia asphalt—er, river—and get a lil crazy… but never get caught.
Kiawah Island, SC
A barrier island situated just over 25 miles southwest of Charleston in Charleston County, this unspoiled luxe retreat is known mostly for its renowned hospitality, primo accommodations, championship golf (home to the 2021 PGA Championship) and world-class amenities… NTM perfectly preserved maritime forests, sand dunes and marshes (perf for turtle and seabird spotting).
Savannah
The best thing about Savannah? Its open container law. Grab a bev to-go from one of the many bars and restaurants along the Savannah River, then stroll through River Street—making sure to pit spot at the marketplace, shops, and sip and sup spots for lunch… and a refill, of course.
With luxury resort spas, world-class golf courses and miles of beautiful beaches, Kiawah Island is the dream getaway.
You don’t have to book a thousand-dollar-plus inclusive vacay to some tropical paradise to find untouched beaches, abundant wildlife, world-class golf courses, luxury spas and sparkling pools. In fact, you can find all that just a short four-and-a-half-hours southeast—on Kiawah Island.
Right off the coast of South Carolina, Kiawah Island is well-known for its award-winning golf resort, peaceful natural environment, family-friendly restaurants and, of course, its 10 miles of breathtaking beaches.
Explore local wildlife while kayaking or biking beautiful nature trails by day—or choose to take it easy and relax and unwind at a soothing spa. By night, sip cocktails by a saltwater pool or out on a restaurant’s patio overlooking the ocean. No matter which adventure you choose, Kiawah guarantees a refreshing vacation that’ll leave you coming back for more.
DO
The Ocean Course
The Ocean Course Kiawah is known for its golf courses, natch, but The Ocean Course is the most famous—and for good reason. We’re talking one of the best courses in the world, spanning nearly 3 miles of coast, and specifically designed so you can enjoy the views at every hole. But bring your A game—The Ocean Course requires great skill due to the Atlantic Ocean’s unpredictable breezes. kiawahresort.com
The Medical Spa at Kiawah Soothing oasis found. A vacation unto itself, the spa welcomes you to “max your relax” with a massage (or a couple’s massage if you’re feeling romantic), customized facial, LED light therapy and more. medspakiawah.com
Biking Nature Trails Explore the island and its lush maritime forests and sprawling beaches with over 30 miles of biking trails. And, along the way, don’t be surprised to find deer, bobcats, river otters, sea turtles and the like. Don’t have a bike? Rent one from Kiawah Island Golf Resort or SeaCoast Sports in Freshfields Village. kiawahresort.com
EAT
Jasmine Porch
Jasmine Porch Elevated low-country faves with the perfect ocean view satisfy for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Don’t miss the bangin’ shrimp and grits—and clear your schedule for a Sunday brunch featuring delectable caramel apple French toast, pancakes, eggs Benedict and more. The Sanctuary hotel, kiawahresort.com
La Tela Pizzeria Family-owned and -operated, this pizzeria serves up wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas and housemade pasta—all made using the best local and imported ingredients—to enjoy in its lively, rustic indoor setting or alfresco on the patio against the balmy ocean breeze. latelapizzeria.com
The Players’ Pub Sate your midday cravings after a successful round of golf or unwind after a fun day in the sun with some classic American cuisine. Think wings, burgers, beers, seafood—you name it, they’ve got it! kiawahresort.com
DRINK
48 Wine Bar
48 Wine Bar Pinkies up! With 48 featured vinos on offer daily, this wine bar is a must-stop. Via interactive wine stations, you can get a taste, a half glass or a full glass with your own WineStation SmartCard. fortyeightwinebar.com
The Ryder Cup Bar Some golf bars get written off as overpriced or overhyped—but not The Ryder Cup Bar. It’s worth the hype for its spectacular views alone, overlooking The Ocean Course and miles of beach. Request a seat on the veranda—the seascape will take your breath away. kiawahresort.com
Java Java Start your day off right at this delightful independently owned coffee shop in Freshfields Village, serving up coffee (made with locally roasted beans in Charleston), lattes, pastries, smoothies, and breakfast and lunch sandwiches. javajavaff.com
STAY
Andell Inn
Andell Inn Located on Andell Lake, this inn offers prime access to the island’s best shopping center, biking and kayaking rentals, and daily shuttles to Beachwalker Park. Enjoy gorgeous modern suites and amenities, including a saltwater resort pool and a stunning wraparound porch and bar. andellinn.com
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort Step back in time to an oceanside mansion that lives up to its name. This hotel, spa and salon boasts dozens of fine eateries, upscale shops and boutiques, luxury pools, and a fitness center—complete with the picture-perfect backdrop of Kiawah’s shores. kiawahresort.com
Pam Harrington Exclusive Rentals These primo private home, villa and cottage rental offerings dot Kiawah’s beautiful shoreline. Take your pick, from luxe amenities to private beaches to unbelievable views—making it easy to find and book the best spot for your ideal getaway. pamharringtonexclusives.com
