From Naples to St. Augustine and Orlando, Florida offers a wide variety of exciting weekend getaway options. However, if you’re looking to broaden your horizons, neighboring states like Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana each present their own unique attractions. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences, natural beauty, or new adventures, these nearby destinations provide excellent opportunities for a memorable weekend trip. Check out these suggestions for 5 great weekend getaways from Florida and get ready for an exciting adventure.
1. Orange Beach, Alabama
Delivering the best of the Florida Panhandle experience with fewer crowds, Ocean Beach is one of the Gulf's most underrated coastal destinations. From the beach to the zoo the spectacle of Tropic Falls at OWA in nearby Foley, there is plenty to do and see. You'll be blown away by the scenery and impressed by the friendly atmosphere.
- Recommended accommodations: Enjoy amazing Gulf views from your beautiful accommodations at the Perdido Beach Resort, which provides plenty of onsite recreation and dining opportunities. Otherwise, the Best Western Premier, Tides Hotel is a great option when you want budget-friendly accommodations. With fire pits, cruising bikes and a beachfront pool deck, this property offers plenty of amenities.
Suggested activities:
- Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. It may be small, but the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is worth visiting for its sheer diversity, which is impressive for a zoo of its size. Check out sloths and macaws as you wander the boardwalk or, better yet, feed the giraffes.
- The Wharf. Enjoy an exciting waterfront experience at Orange Beach's premier shopping and dining area, where you'll find not only a variety of cute stores and delicious cuisine, but also, an amphitheater, a movie theater, a Ferris wheel and even laser light shows.
2. Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Much like Orange Beach, Ocean Springs offers a relaxed, Panhandle-style atmosphere, but with a more laid-back vibe. Located just outside of Biloxi, which is also an excellent choice for a quick getaway, this charming beach town is popular with day-trippers from New Orleans. However, it also attracts Floridians seeking the warmth of Mississippi hospitality, all while maintaining a touch of New Orleans flair.
- Recommended accommodations: The Palace Casino Resort Hotel is situated nearby in Biloxi but provides easy access to the best of Ocean Springs. If you're willing to go without extra frills, however, you'll find clean and affordable accommodations at the Ocean Springs Studio 6.
Suggested activities:
- Fort Maurepas City Park. Enjoy a leisurely day at the beach as you explore the best of Fort Maurepas City Park. In addition to beach access, this sizable park keeps visitors busy with its pier, playground and splash pad. Visit at sunset to take in the amazing view.
- Walter Anderson Museum of Art. Take a break from the beach and discover the hidden cultural appeal of Ocean Springs, which is beginning to gain recognition for its artistic community. Pay homage to this museum's namesake — Walter Inglis Anderson — as you gaze at his vast and intricate murals.
3. Savannah, Georgia
Stunning architecture and lovely gardens have long distinguished the beautiful city of Savannah, which is a true Georgia gem. You could have an amazing time simply strolling beneath the majestic oak trees, but that's only the beginning. History buffs can learn plenty through walking tours or at local museums. As this is thought to be one of the nation's most haunted cities, some will enjoy Savannah’s spooky attractions such as its ghost tours.
- Recommended accommodations: Discover an urban resort like no other at Savannah's Hotel Bardo. After a day of wandering the city, you'll be ready to relax in the Mediterranean-inspired pool. Other offerings include fitness classes and family programming. For a truly glamorous experience, check in at the Perry Lane Hotel, where you'll find Italian linens, luxury bath products and a chic rooftop oasis at Peregrin.
Suggested activities:
- The Old Sorrel-Weed House Museum. Featured in everything from Forrest Gump to HGTV's Ghost Adventures, the Sorrel-Weed House is one of the most haunted buildings in a notoriously haunted town. Ghost tours are truly eerie, especially when wandering dimly lit hallways. Easily spooked guests may prefer the architectural tour, which is just as intriguing.
- Forsyth Park. As the largest (and oldest) public park in Savannah, this oasis is home to one of the city's most photographed spots: a beautiful fountain that has been the backdrop for countless engagements and other romantic moments. Quintessential Savannah scenery can be expected, including plenty of oak trees decked out with Spanish moss.
4. Jekyll Island, Georgia
Featuring expansive beaches and a vibrant history, Jekyll Island makes for a great weekend getaway spot from Florida. Boasting ten miles of shoreline, this is an amazing option for beach lovers who crave rugged beauty. Outdoorsy visitors adore this island (and the Golden Isles in general), although the historic district is also worth a visit.
- Recommended accommodations: The all-suite Jekyll Ocean Club promises luxurious and decidedly spacious accommodations, along with a lovely outdoor pool area and a cozy fire pit. The island's Hampton Inn & Suites provides easy access to a beautiful oak-lined boardwalk, plus a hearty breakfast and the chance to unwind at the pool.
Suggested activities:
- Driftwood Beach. Windswept and adorned with bleached and weathered trees, Driftwood Beach is a visually compelling destination and, while it's not ideal for swimming, you could easily spend hours just wandering among the driftwood and searching for shells. Those with keen eyes might enjoy the great birdwatching opportunities, or even spot the nearby capsized ship known as the Golden Ray.
- Georgia Sea Turtle Center. Do your part for the sea turtle population and visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, which is not only an informative attraction, but also, an important rehabilitation center. Immersive activities make learning fun and better yet, you can see the turtles receive much-needed care through a sizable viewing window.
5. New Orleans, Louisiana
Embrace the Creole and Cajun vibes of New Orleans, which is bursting with history. This city is the epitome of vibrant and, while Mardis Gras gets all the attention, you can enjoy a taste of the pizzazz any time of the year. The journey from the Florida Panhandle to New Orleans exceptionally beautiful, so consider adding an extra day to your getaway so you can take the time and enjoy the Gulf towns of Alabama and Mississippi along the way.
- Recommended accommodations: If you prefer to stay in the heart of the city, there's no better destination than the Waldorf Astoria property known as The Roosevelt New Orleans. This upscale hotel is mere steps from the iconic French Quarter — but with an amazing spa situated onsite, you may be tempted to stick around. The New Orleans Ritz-Carlton is also magnificent. This jazz lover's paradise offers an amazing live music experience in its tastefully decorated lounge.
Suggested activities:
- Jackson Square. As one of the city's most recognizable spots, Jackson Square is a must-visit during any tour of the French Quarter. The architecture is only the beginning, however. This is where wonderfully talented street performers showcase their talent. Don't forget to stop in at the nearby Cafe du Monde for beignets.
- Mardi Gras World. Curious about the artistry of the magnificent Mardi Gras floats? Learn more about the magic of the parade at Mardi Gras World, where you'll enjoy an insider's glimpse at the float-building process. You'll get far closer to the floats in the museum than you ever could during the parade — and you'll gain a newfound appreciation for the artists who make this spectacle possible.
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