Hipmunk Hotels: Unique Southern Vacations in Panama City, Augusta, Durham, and More
Life is slower here in the South. The people are friendlier, the tea is sweater, and the weather is warmer, which is why so many Northerners head this way for their vacations. However, most never stray from the meccas of Atlanta, Myrtle Beach, and Orlando.
Bless your hearts, but if don’t move beyond those tourist hotspots filled with chain restaurants and clichéd fun, then you really aren’t experiencing the best that the South has to offer. Here are five unique Southern vacations.
Photo by Christy Woodrow via Trover.com
A Quiet Beach Vacation in Panama City, FL
Most of us conjure up images of Spring Breaks from yesteryear when we think of Panama City – keg stands, beach parties, and packed dance clubs. This is the Panama City that only takes place a few weeks in the Spring when the college kids are letting out some steam. The rest of the year, it’s a calm beach town with relaxing resorts, sparkling beaches, and a taste of old Florida. Watercrest by Royal American Beach Getaways will deliver the beach getaway you’re looking for.
A Family Vacation in Vero Beach, FL
Located on Florida’s Atlantic Coast between West Palm Beach and Daytona Beach is a quieter side of Florida perfect for a family vacation – Vero Beach. There’s something for all members of the family from the McKee Botanical Garden to nature boat rides to McLarty Treasure Museum. And of course, there’s everyone’s favorite activity, the beach! Enjoy a taste of Disney by staying at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort. The tropical themed hotel hosts several events where Mickey and friends make appearances.
A Taste of the Old South in Augusta, GA
Augusta may have earned a spot on the map because of that little golf tournament they host called The Masters. However, it deserves a spot for so much more. The city offers everything from outdoor fun at Phinizy Swamp Nature Park to history at the Augusta Museum of History. Many visitors just enjoy a stroll down the Riverwalk to see real life Augusta. For a hotel, check out the Partridge Inn Augusta, which was, build in 1892.
A Glimpse at the New South in Durham, NC
Durham is not the dying mill town that it once was. City leaders have made great strides to revitalize the downtown into a place where not only residents want to stay but where tourists want to visit. Highlights include Fullsteam Brewery, Durham Bulls minor league baseball team, and Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University. For evening entertainment, check out the revitalized American Tobacco Historic District. The Durham Marriott City Center will put you in the heart of the action.
A True Texas Experience in Amarillo, TX
When I first visited my wife’s family in Houston during the dating stage, I was expecting the TV images of the Lone Star state – wide open, cactus, and lots of tumbleweeds. What I found was a sprawling metropolis and lots of pine trees. The Texas I envisioned was Amarillo where popular tourist activities include horseback riding and the Route 66 Historic District. The Residence Inn Amarillo by Marriott will give the family plenty of room to spread out.
Which one of these Unique Southern Vacations best describes your travel style?
This article is part of the Hipmunk Hotels series.
