By Explore Up Close | @exploreupclose
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Ordered by driving distance from Greenville, these weekend getaways will give you a taste of fall in three different states. Bring on the cider and changing leaves!
Photo credit: Explore Up Close
Weaverville, N.C.
Don’t we all want the mountain backdrop of Asheville without the traffic? Weaverville is only 7 miles north of Asheville and prides itself on its cozy small-town vibes. With a thriving local food and arts scene, and just a 10-minute drive from the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s the perfect home base for a weekend of mountain relaxation.
Driving time from Greenville: 1.5 hours
Eat: From low-key joints like Blue Mountain Pizza that offer live music every night of the week, to restaurants like the Glass Onion offering a diverse menu made with local ingredients, to the adorable Well Bred Bakery & Café, you won’t go hungry. Fans of craft beer (yes, we know that’s 99.9% of you reading this) will want to wet their whistle at Eluvium Brewery and Taproom.
Do: Weaverville has a flourishing arts community and takes pride in showcasing local makers. Stop in Artisans On Main to explore their collection of work by over 40 regional artists, or find something a little hotter at Crucible Glassworks with a glassblowing demonstration. Of course, Weaverville is perfectly positioned for outdoors exploration, with easy access to the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains. Even if you’re not much of a hiker, drive up I-26 W for scenic overlooks and sweeping views of the mountains in fall color.
Stay: Complete your Weaverville weekend by staying with the locals. Dry Ridge Inn offers plenty of B&B charm, just blocks away from the heart of downtown – or, you can feel close to nature in this adorable tiny house.
Amicalola Falls State Park, GA
Nestled in the heart of Georgia’s Chattahoochee National Forest, you’ll find the Amicalola Falls State Park. It’s a great weekend escape that showcases North Georgia’s mountain beauty. Whether you prefer hiking to the highest cascading waterfall in the Southeast or taking in views while you sip a glass of local wine, there’s something for everyone.
Photo credit: Explore Up Close
Driving time from Greenville: 2.5 hours
Eat: If you’re staying in the park, you can’t beat the Amicalola Falls Lodge’s Maple Restaurant for convenience and stunning views. About 20 minutes outside of the park, you’ll find more dining options in the direction of Big Canoe, GA – give Home Restaurant and Sourwood a try.
Do: Hiking, rock climbing, ziplining, and more – Amicalola State Park offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. See the park’s 729-foot waterfall, hike to Springer Mountain (the southernmost point of the Appalachian Trail), or simply relax by the fire with s’mores and a good book. You’ll also find local wineries in all directions from the park (we vote Fainting Goat Vineyards for beautiful views and furry friends), and winding country roads for scenic drives.
Stay: Relax at the Amicalola Falls Lodge for an iconic mountain retreat experience in a truly spectacular setting. For a more rustic stay, you can reserve a cabin, campsite or RV. Most are pet-friendly – so it really can be a getaway for the whole family.
Georgetown, S.C.
Where to go in the fall if you’re not a “mountain person”? One of South Carolina’s best-kept secrets is its third oldest city, Georgetown. Dating back to 1729, Georgetown is full of coastal charm and fascinating South Carolina history.
Photo credit: Explore Up Close
Driving time from Greenville: 4 hours
Eat: Craving fresh seafood? Stop in the River Room Restaurant for riverfront views, or Alfresco Georgetown Bistro for a bit of Old World atmosphere. Afterwards, enjoy strolling along the harbor walk to soak in the ambiance and views of the Sampit River as it flows into Winyah Bay.
Do: Georgetown’s main drag, Front Street, has something for everyone - pop into Head Over Heels for some early Christmas shopping, or discover regional artists at Georgetown Art Gallery. Learn about Georgetown’s rich history as a port city at the SC Maritime Museum. (For the history lovers and Hamilton fans: Aaron Burr’s daughter, Theodosia Burr Alston, departed from its harbor in 1812 and was lost at sea; a tragedy that captured the American public’s imagination for decades.) Step back in time at the Kaminski House Museum, or ramble through the historic district lined with beautifully preserved homes and churches. For evening entertainment, stop in at the 1941 Strand Theater for a film or performance by a local theater group, the Swamp Fox Players.
Stay: Check into the Mansfield Plantation, a former rice plantation that offers guided tours and serves as a delightful bed and breakfast. Your hosts will have plenty of stories to tell, as well as recommendations for more hidden gems in the area.
