4 Exciting End-of-Summer Getaways Around the South

4 Exciting Cities for End-of-Summer Getaways

Make the most of the season’s final days by planning an end-of-summer escape to one of these four Southern cities that promise abundant entertainment, unforgettable sites, and warm hospitality.


1. Georgetown, South Carolina

Historic home in Georgetown, SC

Wafting through mighty oaks, a coastal breeze adds to the ambience of this quaint waterfront locale that combines the romance of bygone days with all the fresh catch you can eat, historic venues, and fun specialty boutiques.

Georgetown, South Carolina, waterfront fountain and dining
Left: At the southern end of Front Street, Joseph Rainey Park is named for a Georgetown native, who was the first African-American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives. Right: Enjoy seafood dishes and a lovely view from the porch at Between the Antlers.

Friendly locals are happy to guide you as you stroll along Front Street, which runs parallel to Georgetown’s pleasant Harborwalk, lined with sailboats, waterside entertainment, and dozens of eateries. Order fresh catch at Big Tuna Restaurant & Raw Bar, SoCo Grille, or upscale Root; try Aunny’s Country Kitchen for homestyle Southern fare.

Kaminski House and Gullah Museum of Georgetown, SC

The Kaminski House Museum (above, left), built on a bluff overlooking the Sampit River, showcases the Lowcountry’s Georgian-style architecture from the mid-18th century as well as furnishings from the period. At the Gullah Museum (above, right) you will discover vibrant story quilts, including a replica of one now in the Smithsonian that traces former First Lady Michelle Obama’s own Gullah heritage.

Home decor showroom at Augustus & Carolina
Shoppers will adore the block-long furniture mecca of Augustus & Carolina.

Front Street’s boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores are enough to keep even the most avid shopper busy. Browse the lively work of local artisans at Georgetown Art Gallery, seek a memento from Whimsy Roost, and peruse shoes and accessories for every occasion at Head Over Heels.

Photography by Steve Rizzo