These 4 lively cities are the best getaways in the South to end autumn

Yay! Leave the chilly weather of the Northeast and Midwest: We head south to some of America’s most vibrant cities, with a mix of captivating history, banging live music, and top-rated beaches.

The experts at Travel + Leisure realized there’s no better time to prepare for the end of fall than now.

Compiling an insightful list that caught our attention here at Travel Off Path, we’ve limited their recommendations to the south, where hospitality is as warm as sunny skies, even at this time of year.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway, a weeklong beach vacation, or a passport-free European vibe, we’ve got you covered for an epic end to the fall season.

In no particular order, these 4 vibrant cities are the best destinations in the South to end autumn:

Jackson, Mississippi: where history meets hospitality

Let’s start with the biggest surprise, okay?

Despite being a state capital, aside from a Johnny Cash chorus, you don’t often see Jackson popping up anywhere, especially in the travel sphere.

But did you know that Mississippi is one of the 5 most visited states in America? Surprising, but true.

And that’s not just because of the shiny white sandy beaches, which are slowly but surely becoming more and more popular.

Like many inland Mississippi getaways, Jackson offers quintessential Southern charm, a storybook neighborhood, and a soulful blues scene that rivals Memphis.

Most notably, Jackson is very affordable. Travel + Leisure emphasizes the National Folk Festival in November with free admission.

Wherever your Jackson adventures take you, know that you’ll be welcomed by friendly locals preparing amazing southern staples and fall weather still in the 60s.

The only downside is Jackson’s crime rates Are something to shake a stick (sorry, I can’t help my southern roots sometimes)

Sarasota: America’s #1 Beach Destination

Every year, Sarasota finds itself in a duel with Clearwater for the title of America’s best beach.

Anyway, Travel + Leisure might as well have mentioned Southwest Florida as a whole instead of Sarasota specifically, because it’s the closest thing to the textbook paradise you’ll find in the United States.

Although my personal favorite beach town in Florida is near Nokomis, there’s no denying Sarasota’s very own beach town Siesta key is a perfect holiday destination.

Now that the summer crowds are gone, if there is ever a time to visit, it will be about a month before the “snowbirds” flock to Siesta Key’s Caribbean white sands, crystal clear waters, and 80 degree November days.

Better yet, Southwest Florida has 5 well-connected airports for a seamless start to an unforgettable trip:

• Tampa (TPA)
• Sarasota (SRQ)
• St. Peter (PIE)
• Punta Gorda (PGD)
• Fort Myers (RSW)

Austin: Come hungry and leave happy

Has every city in the US undergone a bigger shine than Austin, Texas?

Whether it’s the burgeoning comedy scene, always buzzing live music shows or groundbreaking culinary delights, from taco trucks to Michelin stars, and of course no visit to Texas is without enjoying some barbecue.

Although my personal favorite is somewhere in between. Cabo Bobs makes fresh burritos that would put Chipotle out of business if only more people knew about them, but I digress…

As much as Austin is a foodie city, there’s a lot more to do and see than just partying.

With 60 – 70 degree weather in November, this is the perfect time to explore one of America’s trendiest cities without the crowds (minus the ever-so-famous 6th Street).

The skyline of downtown Austin is barely recognizable if you haven’t been there in years, but the same outdoor adventures await, like kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, hiking Mt. Bonnell or dive deep into the Greenbelt for a much-needed reset.

Charleston: the fairytale city of the south

Let’s be honest: there is currently no other way to arrive in the South than on an empty stomach.

Charleston is yet another phenomenal food city, combining Southern staples with creative, modern twists.

Or there is Waffle House – always fun after midnight if you ask me…

But the real draw of Charleston is its timeless, European-esque cityscape, which oozes character.

A stroll through Charleston will make you feel like you’re in a postcard with cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages and an array of colorful facades, not to mention the backdrop of St. John the Baptist Cathedral, one of the most photo-worthy spots in the city.

If you’re planning a trip for November, Travel + Leisure marks these 2 events as must-visits (both extra fun because the weather is still nice and sunny):

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Sam Sears

Sam, our lead writer and San Diego-based journalist, has visited 36 countries and written more than 1,000 articles with an emphasis on sharing his own travel experiences and highlighting lesser-known gems.

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