If you and your girlfriends are looking to get away, there are plenty of fabulous destinations throughout the South. Whether you’re in the mood for a charming small town rooted in history or a weekend of indulging at award-winning eateries and wineries, here are some of our favorite girlfriend getaways in the South.
South Carolina’s Old 96 District
For a charming escape that feels like a well-kept secret, look no further than South Carolina’s Old 96 District . Made up of five counties — Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick — this region specializes in a slower pace of life.
Start your weekend by checking into one of the area’s bed and breakfasts. Accommodations include the elegant Sharon Manor , the stately Veranda on Main in Abbeville, the historic Inn on the Square in Greenwood, or the grand Riegel Hall in Ware Shoals.
No girls’ trip is complete without a bit of retail therapy. Spend your afternoons hunting for vintage finds at Red Rooster Antiques in McCormick, refreshing your wardrobe at Sugar Boutique in Greenwood, or finding your favorite handcrafted soap scent at Breezy Quarters in Abbeville.
Between stops, head to Johnston, known as the “Peach Capital of the World,” to sip local Muscadine wines at Three Star Vineyard .
When hunger strikes, there are plenty of local eateries to choose from. Enjoy a refined meal at Pascal’s Café & Grill in Greenwood or savor the hyper-local flavors of Christine’s Farm to Fork in Edgefield. It’s the ultimate recipe for a weekend spent reconnecting and rediscovering the Palmetto State.
Columbus, MS
A girls’ getaway in Columbus, MS , captures the spirit of the Storybook South: charming, unhurried, and made for connection.
Historic Downtown Columbus sets the tone for your trip, offering walkable streets and locally owned boutiques that create the perfect setting for an afternoon of exploring. It’s a place where time moves more slowly, making room for easy conversation and shared moments. Favorite shops include Cobalt’s Boutique , Mira Mira , and the newly opened Saint & Scott .
For those drawn to the echoes of the past, Columbus unveils some of the South’s most storied historic homes. Grand residences like Riverview , Rosedale , and the Tennessee Williams House Museum offer more than just a glimpse into the architecture of a bygone era; they serve as a timeless backdrop for new memories.
Dining in Columbus is an invitation to relax and savor the flavors of the South. You might find yourselves sharing home-cooked comfort at Cafe on Main or lingering in the elegant, New Orleans-inspired atmosphere of J. Broussard’s .
For a more relaxed afternoon, The Grill or Up Down Eatery & Coffeehouse provides the perfect ambiance for a long brunch and even longer conversation.
Between the charming downtown streets and the quiet charm of the historic district, Columbus is a city built for catching up and staying a while.
Ellijay, GA
For those who want equal parts adventure and relaxation, Ellijay, GA , is a versatile Appalachian retreat. The lodging scene is a primary draw for the town, offering more than 1,500 rental cabins equipped with group-friendly amenities, including personal saunas, riverfront fire pits, and gourmet kitchens.
When you’re ready to start your adventure, begin your morning with coffee from Das Kaffee Haus and gluten-free pastries from Sharp Sickle . For a bit of self-care, IMBALI Wellness Spa offers group bookings for facials and massages.
Spend your afternoon exploring the outdoors at the Tumbling Waters Trail or visiting Chateau Meichtry for a refreshing glass of wine while you soak in the surrounding mountain views.
When you’re ready for a beverage or bite, enjoy live music and creekside views at Buckley Vineyards , or visit the woman-owned distillery House of Applejay . For an elevated evening, Roo Mountain Vineyards offers rooftop bites at The Nest, while Downtown favorites include the modern steakhouse The Butcher and Bottle and The Door , a hidden speakeasy.
Whether you’re experiencing the outdoors or taking in mountain views over a glass of wine, Ellijay provides a scenic, laid-back atmosphere for reconnecting.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort, SC
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Kiawah Island Golf Resort remains a premier Lowcountry haven for a sophisticated girls’ group escape. Located just a short drive from Charleston, SC, the resort is home to 10 miles of private shoreline and the prestigious Sanctuary hotel, the only destination in South Carolina to hold a Forbes Triple Five-Star rating for accommodations, dining, and spa.
For those seeking ultimate relaxation, The Spa at The Sanctuary offers a serene oasis for your mind and body, featuring tranquil spaces and award-winning services designed for a full day of pampering.
New for 2026, The Treehouse Activity Center adds a playful edge with bowling lanes, golf simulators, an arcade, and The Perch pub. Outside, active groups can transition from the court to the coast through specialized women’s tennis, pickleball, and golf workshops, or explore 30 miles of trails via bicycle.
Dining is also a highlight of the resort, with 16 distinct eateries offering everything from authentic Italian and poolside bites to the state’s only Forbes Five-Star steakhouse.
Whether you’re enjoying a traditional oyster roast and BBQ or participating in an early morning yoga session, Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s blend of world-class recreation and coastal luxury ensures a one-of-a-kind getaway — five decades and counting.
Athens, GA
More than a college town, Athens, GA , is a destination defined by refined design and a vibrant creative spirit. The lodging scene features a handful of high-end repurposed spaces, including Rivet House, a former textile factory; The Bell Hotel, a converted telecommunications headquarters; and The Athenian, a restored Greek Revival home.
Once you’re settled in, it’s time to explore the city’s culinary scene, anchored by James Beard Award winners alongside other well-known chefs. Five & Ten , founded by two-time James Beard winner Hugh Acheson and now led by Peter Dale, remains a cornerstone of modern Southern dining.
For a global twist, visit Puma Yu’s , where James Beard semifinalist and Chopped contestant Pete Amadhanirundr serves Southeast Asian fare, or book a table at Pretty Boy , where chef-owner and Top Chef alum Kenny Nguyen brings bold, contemporary flavors to the table.
Downtown Athens is full of locally owned boutiques and artisan shops. Browse curated fashion and accessories at fab’rik Athens and Cheeky Peach , discover sustainably made pieces at Community , or hunt for vintage treasures at Agora Vintage .
No trip to Athens is complete without experiencing its legendary music scene. Be sure to catch a headliner at the new Akins Ford Arena (home to the Georgia Music History Collection) or see a show at the historic Georgia Theatre .
Hattiesburg, MS
If you and your friends value creativity and unexpected finds, Hattiesburg, MS , offers a vibrant, walkable escape. The city offers unique, shareable experiences, from hunting for tiny exhibits at the quirky Hattiesburg Pocket Museum to booking a private glassblowing class at Mohawk Steel & Glass .
The downtown area serves as a hub for local shopping, anchored by The Lucky Rabbit , a massive two-building vintage marketplace known for its eclectic treasures and photo ops.
For a more active afternoon, the Longleaf Trace provides miles of paved trails for cycling, while the Hattiesburg Zoo offers a fun outdoor detour between shopping stops.
Perhaps the biggest draw, the city’s culinary scene balances elevated Southern cuisine with fresh Gulf seafood. Buschman Street Café is a local mainstay for a sophisticated brunch, offering a relaxed atmosphere for a morning catch-up.
For a celebratory dinner, Patio 44 features a premier outdoor space and modern Southern fare, while Blu Jazz Cafe provides an intimate “speakeasy” vibe with live music and New Orleans-style dishes.
Whether you’re exploring the downtown boutiques or gathering for a seafood dinner, Hattiesburg’s mix of “hub city” energy and small-town charm makes for a seamless weekend itinerary.
Oldham County, KY
Trade your packed schedules for scenic vistas in Oldham County, KY . Just 20 minutes from Louisville, the Farm Tour Capital of Kentucky is a luxe region specializing in countryside retreats (think horse farm B&Bs and cozy vacation rentals). It’s designed for enjoying early morning coffee, sunrises, and quiet evenings on the porch with a cocktail.
In Crestwood, the county’s fastest-growing city, you’ll find the new Crestwood Mercantile , a three-story vendor market with 80+ curated boutiques. It’s located just blocks from a new local wellness favorite, SALT Wellness, a Himalayan salt cave that offers a moment of restoration between shopping stops.
The local food and drink culture is not to be missed. Book a farm tour and dine in a converted horse barn at Barn8 Restaurant & Bourbon Bar at Hermitage Farm , or head to 3rd Turn Oldham Gardens , the state’s largest beer garden, landscaped and housed in wisteria-covered greenhouses, offering your choice of three new restaurants.
Additional highlights include a visit to Kentucky Artisan Distillery & Bourbon Clubhouse or a stroll through the new Castle Gardens at Yew Dell Botanical Gardens , one of two stops on the Kentucky Garden Trail.
Perfect for rediscovering the joy of an unhurried getaway, Oldham County is designed for those who prefer meaningful memory-making over strict schedules.
Oxford, MS
Equal parts charming and lively, Oxford, MS , sets the perfect scene for a girls’ getaway filled with delicious food, on-trend shopping, and plenty of time to unwind. Centered around its iconic Square, the walkable college town makes it easy to hop from coffee to cocktails without ever needing a car.
To begin your adventures, check into The Oliver Hotel for a polished stay with thoughtful Southern touches, or opt for the colorful, Ole Miss–inspired Graduate Oxford , where a rooftop drink at The Coop is an absolute must-do to add to your itinerary.
Build in time for a little self-care at Mia June Facial Bar , then ease into the day with coffee and pastries from local favorites like Velvet Ditch Coffee or Bottletree Bakery . From there, spend the afternoon browsing The Square’s boutiques, including perusing the staples like Neilson’s Department Store or the trend-forward finds at Cicada Boutique .
Oxford’s dining scene is reason enough to plan the trip, now offering four Michelin Guide-recommended restaurants. Beloved favorites include Saint Leo for wood-fired fare, City Grocery for elevated Southern classics, and Snackbar for a fresh take on regional flavors — all balanced by casual favorites like Ajax Diner .
S top the “ someday ” talk and start packing. These hidden gems are even better in person !
This article is sponsored by Old 96 District South Carolina, Visit Columbus, Pick Ellijay, Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Visit Athens, VisitHATTIESBURG, Oldham County KY Tourism, and Visit Oxford.
