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Charlie & Debbie

Best Weekend Getaways In North Carolina Finds This Unexpected Hidden Gem

Author Debbie Nance

Living in the Carolinas as opposed to my home state of Texas has some advantages.  And, one of the best things is the ability to do quick weekend getaways to beaches and mountains.  So, if you find yourself getting winter cabin fever and in need of adventure, you’re in luck.  Travel+Leisure helps out with their 15 Best Weekend Getaways In North Carolina list.  And, an unexpected hidden gem in North Carolina landed on their radar.

The spot suggested for one of the best weekend getaways in North Carolina is Bryson City in Western North Carolina.  Travel+Leisure points out it’s known as ‘the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.’  Visitors to Bryson City have so many things to choose from, including rail tours, whitewater trips or just relaxing.

And, this rings true from my experience.  A few years ago during the first part of February, some of our closest friends decided we needed a quick weekend getaway.  So, almost as if closing our eyes and pointing to a dot on the map we landed in Bryson City.  The Charlotte area received no snow to that point in the season.  And, my friend was on a quest to see some before winter ended.  So, we lucked out.

But, before we arrived in Bryson City, we stopped off at a few wineries along the way.  Of course, there’s no way I remember all of them from that wonderful trip several years ago.  However, I did run across a picture of us at Burnt Shirt Vineyards in Hendersonville.  They also have a Chimney Rock location, too.  It’s beautiful, and I can’t wait to go back!

Then, we arrived at the most gorgeous cabin we rented for the weekend getaway.  Before heading to our cabin, we found some delicious Mexican food at an unassuming spot in a nearby shopping center.  I think the restaurant may have been Guayabitos. Great spot.

Next, off to the cabin.  The place had a huge porch with a fireplace.  So, we built a fire, made some drinks and plugged in our electric blankets on the porch couch and enjoyed the evening.

And, the next morning we awoke to the most beautiful blanket of snow.  It was magical.  We had no sleds.  So, we took the floor mats out of the SUV and used them as makeshift sleds!  We laughed until we cried.  A quick day trip into Bryson City followed with a delicious burger at a little local spot.  Although we wanted to do the train tour, we just didn’t have time for the 2 hour trip.  But, next time!  Check out the aforementioned link for all the info.

snow covered hill in Bryson City, North Carolina

However, I highly recommend a trip to Bryson City.  It’s no wonder Travel+Leisure included this hidden gem on their list of 15 best weekend getaways in North Carolina.  And, make sure to see the full list for other spots they highlight.

North Carolina Has One of the Best Winter Getaways in the U.S.

It’s never too early to start planning an exciting winter getaway, especially since the most popular winter vacation spots get booked up quickly. The good news, though, is that most people take vacations in the summer, so traveling in the winter can be a bit more relaxing. You are also able to usually find better travel rates during the winter season, except during the holidays. If you don’t have to travel during the holidays, just don’t, because it’s a mess. So, what are the best winter getaways in the U.S.? North Carolina has one of them.

I’ve researched some of the most popular winter vacation destinations in hopes of finding the perfect spot. The following list includes not just sunny, warm getaways, but also some areas that people who love snow can enjoy. Honestly, many people who live in a warm climate like to flock to a snowy location for a bit during the winter to get that seasonal experience, even if that seems counter intuitive. Of course, those who live in the northern parts of America love to go to a warm spot and get away from their daily lives filled with snow and ice.

I’m a Michigan girl, so I’m very familiar with the cold and ice in the winter. Not that I like it. Each year, I say I’m going to escape, even if it’s just for a few days, to a warmer location. But, I never do. Maybe this year will be different. Looking at vacation rates, it’s fairly easy to find some good deals, again, if it’s not during the holiday travel season. Read on for some of the bets winter getaways in the U.S., based on my research. What’s your favorite winter vacation spot? Reach out to me on social media here and let me know. Have a fantastic winter, and stay warm.

Best Winter Getaways in the U.S.

  • 5. Savannah, Georgia

    If you’re looking for a mild getaway, Savannah, Georgia, is a great choice. It’s pretty mild in the winter, so not too cold or too hot. The Historic District is a popular winter vacation spot, too.

    Visit Savannah

    Your complete guide to what to do, where to stay and where to eat in Savannah, GA. Plan a charming, Southern escape, where quirkiness materializes through art and period architecture houses trendy boutiques, where ghost stories are set under a veil of Spanish moss and where local cuisine comes straight from the coast.

  • 4. Asheville, North Carolina

    The beautiful area of Asheville, North Carolina, has plenty of gorgeous snowfall, and it’s less dangerous than many other areas with snowfall. Lately, Asheville has one up in population, but it’s still a popular tourist destination. One choice spot is the French Broad River, with lots of winter activities, breweries and restaurants.

    Explore Asheville | Things to Do, Events, & Hotels | Asheville, NC's Official Travel Site

    Find things to do, events, hotels, trip ideas and outdoor activities in Asheville, North Carolina. Find great package deals and local restaurants too.

  • 3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

    If you want to enjoy a winter vacation and learn about history, Philadelphia is a great vacation spot. Sure, it’s won’t be like sunny Florida. But, Philly has lots of great museums and historical spots to enjoy indoors, while staying toasty.

    VISIT PHILADELPHIA | Visitphilly.com

    Visit Philadelphia is the official visitor website for Philly travel and tourism information including hotels and overnight options, restaurants, events, things to do, and local attractions. Plan your visit!

  • 2. Traverse City, Michigan

    I know what you’re thinking. Why go to Michigan in the winter? Well, if you love snow, then it’s worth the trip. Traverse City, Michigan, is a quaint town, but it’s big enough to have lots of things to do and places to stay. It’s also cold in the winter but not as cold as, say the Dakotas.

    Traverse City Hotels, Events, Restaurants & Things to Do

    Find information on hotels, events, restaurants and things to do in Traverse City, Michigan. Start Planning your trip to Traverse City today!

  • 1. Key West, Florida

    If you want to get away from the snow and ice, go to Key West, Florida. It’s considered one of the finest tropical spots in the U.S. during the winter months. Soak up the sun and have a margarita, because why not?

    Key West Travel | Key West Hotels & Vacation Planning with Keywest.com

    Plan your Key West travel here. We're your source for Key West hotels, resorts & info about vacation attractions such as fishing, diving & sightseeing

Debbie Nance is the afternoon co-host along with her husband on "The Charlie and Debbie Show" at WSOC, Country 1037 in Charlotte, North Carolina. She has been with the station for 18 years. Debbie is a CMA Award winner for Radio Personality of the Year. And, she has worked in radio for 40 years. Before her current afternoon position, Debbie spent more than a decade as co-host on morning shows in several markets across the Southeast. As a content creator for Country 1037, Debbie writes articles about food, new restaurants in the Carolinas and travel experiences.

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