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DRIVE. EXPLORE. SAVOR: 5 Must-See Southeast Escapes from Wilmington

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to Florida’s Gulf Coast, the Southeast is a playground for road-trip adventurers. These are five must-visit destinations where history, culture, nature and unforgettable food and drink meet. Chase mountains, horses, surf, or Southern charm, and turn a few days into a full-on adventure. Best of all? Each stop is just a scenic drive from Wilmington—no airports, no layovers, no stress. Soak up the flavors that make every stop unforgettable. Mountains, beaches, equestrian escapes, or small-town charm—you pick the vibe, and the journey itself becomes part of the destination.



Roanoke, Virginia — Where the Blue Ridge Meets a Creative Pulse

Quietly cool and deeply rooted, Roanoke is a city that surprises you. Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, this former railroad town has become a hub of creativity, craft beer, and outdoor adventure—all within easy reach of downtown. Murals climb brick walls, hiking trails start minutes from the city center, and history is visible in every brick and beam.

Where to Stay: The Liberty Trust Hotel. A grand old bank transformed into a boutique retreat, complete with marble floors, copper doors, and a vault-turned-wine room.

Where to Eat & Drink: Brunch at Bloom, playful inventive dishes at Show Pony, elevated fast-casual at Food Hut, and small-batch ice cream at Blue Cow. Craft beer flows at Golden Cactus or swap trail stories at Solstice Farm Brewing.

What to See: McAfee Knob for jaw-dropping Appalachian Trail views, downtown murals, Black Dog Salvage, and the panoramic Mill Mountain Star.

Why It Works: Mountains by day, craft beer by night, and history everywhere—Roanoke proves a road trip doesn’t need a flight to feel transformative.



Ocala, Florida — Riding High in Horse Country

Ocala is where Florida’s wild heart meets equestrian glamor. The Horse Capital of the World mixes Southern charm with five-star luxury and crystal-clear springs. Billionaires and cowboys share the same arenas, while kayaks drift through Silver Springs and Clydesdales roam nearby ranches.

Where to Stay: The Equestrian Hotel. Opulent, immersive, and perfectly positioned to watch events at the World Equestrian Center.

Where to Eat & Drink: Emma’s Patisserie for pastries, Stirrups for elevated Southern fare, Mojo’s for Cajun-Cuban flavors, and Swampy’s for casual riverfront dining. Sip craft cocktails at the Yellow Pony Pub.

What to See: Grand Arena show-jumping, Silver Springs paddling, and towering Clydesdales up close.

Why It Works: Horses, high style, and hidden springs—Ocala is adventure and luxury rolled into a road-trip-ready package.



New Smyrna Beach, Florida — Old Florida Cool

Nostalgic and breezy, New Smyrna Beach is Florida at its most timelessly charming. With 17 miles of coastline, historic Flagler Avenue, and Canal Street’s artsy vibe, it’s a small town that still moves at a relaxed pace. Surf, art, and good food collide in a town that hasn’t lost its soul.

Where to Stay: The Black Dolphin Inn, shaded by a giant banyan tree, where breakfast comes with river views and slow-spinning fans.

Where to Eat & Drink: Third Wave Café for casual bites, The Baker’s Table for French-inspired coastal cuisine, and cocktails at Bar Leona. Don’t skip Sugarworks Distillery for a craft spirit tasting.

What to See: Surf breaks, pastel storefronts, banyan trees, Jane’s Art Center, and sunsets over the Indian River.

Why It Works: Soulful, artsy, and delicious—New Smyrna Beach proves Old Florida is alive and just a drive away.



Macon, Georgia — Music, History & Southern Charm

Macon is the heart of Georgia’s musical soul, a city steeped in history, antebellum architecture, and creative energy. Macon mixes culture and Southern hospitality with a foodie twist. Explore downtown murals, heritage sites, and live music venues while sampling the city’s evolving culinary scene.

Where to Stay: Hotel Forty Five. Modern comfort meets Southern style in this downtown boutique hotel, with sleek rooms, locally inspired design touches, and easy access to Macon’s arts and music hubs.

Where to Eat & Drink: Grab a bite at The Rookery, a Southern-inspired comfort food restaurant; try gourmet pizzas at Francesca’s, or indulge in inventive Southern dishes at Lewis Barbecue. Stop by The Hummingbird Stage & Taproom for live music paired with craft brews.

What to See: Historic Hay House and Cannonball House, the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, murals and street art downtown, and the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park just outside the city.

Why It Works: Music history, Southern charm, and a thriving culinary scene make Macon a road-trip-ready destination with soul.

Plan Your Visit: https://visitmacon.org



Mount Airy, North Carolina — Mayberry Magic

Mount Airy is the real-life inspiration for Mayberry, but this small-town gem delivers serious foodie and wine credentials. Heritage dishes, Main Street charm, and Blue Ridge vineyard vistas create the perfect weekend of discovery.

Where to Stay: Round Peak Vineyards cabins. Rustic, cozy, and just minutes from downtown, with vineyard and mountain views.

Where to Eat & Drink: Iconic ground steak sandwiches at The Speedy Chef, fruity Sonker at Miss Angel’s and Prudence McCabe, and a chef-curated tasting menu at Old North State Winery.

What to See: Main Street, Mayberry landmarks, vineyard landscapes, and Blue Ridge mountain vistas.

Why It Works: Heritage flavors, artisanal wine, and small-town charm prove that Mayberry magic is real—and best experienced on the open road.




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