The holiday season is the perfect time to load up the car, grab some snacks, and hit the road for a festive adventure. The Southeast is packed with charming towns, glowing light displays, scenic winter landscapes, and holiday traditions that make every stop feel special. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly experience, or a cozy small-town Christmas, these holiday road trip ideas around the Southeast will help you make the most of the season.
1. Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge, Tennessee – Smoky Mountain Winterfest
Nothing compares to the magic of the Smoky Mountains during Christmastime. The entire region glows with millions of lights, festive shows, holiday shopping, and mountain-town charm.
Highlights:
- Winterfest Light Displays
- Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
- Scenic drives through snow-dusted mountains
- Cozy cabins with fireplaces and hot tubs
Perfect for families and couples alike.
2. Asheville, North Carolina – Christmas at Biltmore
Asheville turns into a dreamy Christmas destination, especially with the Biltmore Estate fully decorated inside and out. The city’s artsy vibe blends beautifully with classic holiday traditions.
Highlights:
- Candlelight Christmas tours at Biltmore
- Winter lights at the North Carolina Arboretum
- Craft breweries + cozy downtown shops
- Blue Ridge Parkway winter overlooks
A relaxing, magical getaway full of charm.
3. Dahlonega, Georgia – A True Hallmark-Style Christmas Town
Dahlonega is one of the Southeast’s most famous small-town Christmas destinations. Its entire downtown becomes a glowing snow globe of lights, music, and events.
Highlights:
- Dahlonega’s Old-Fashioned Christmas festival
- Horse-drawn carriage rides
- Wine tasting rooms with holiday décor
- Historic courthouse Christmas tree
An ideal trip if you love small-town magic.
4. Charleston, South Carolina – A Coastal Christmas
Warm lights, historic homes, horse-drawn carriages, and ocean breezes make Charleston a uniquely festive getaway.
Highlights:
- Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island
- Candlelight tours of historic mansions
- Waterfront Park decorated for the season
- Holiday markets + Southern cuisine
A great choice for those wanting Christmas charm without freezing temperatures.
5. Nashville, Tennessee – Music City Holiday Magic
If you want a mix of big-city energy and festive cheer, Nashville is perfect for a holiday road trip.
Highlights:
- Gaylord Opryland’s massive ICE! attraction
- Holiday lights at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens
- Country Christmas concerts
- Downtown Nashville’s festive nightlife
There’s something for everyone—from kids to adults.
6. Helen, Georgia – A Bavarian Christmas in the South
Helen transforms into a mini German Christmas village with alpine charm and festive traditions.
Highlights:
- Christkindlmarkt
- Bavarian-style lights and décor
- Mountain views
- Cozy restaurants and candy shops
It feels like traveling to Europe—by car.
7. Savannah, Georgia – Historic Holiday Elegance
Savannah offers a peaceful yet enchanting holiday experience with its grand squares, historic buildings, and mild weather.
Highlights:
- Holiday tours of historic homes
- River Street Christmas Market
- Boat parades along the Savannah River
- Iconic oak trees wrapped in twinkling lights
Calm, romantic, and beautiful.
8. Chattanooga, Tennessee – Scenic City Christmas
Chattanooga offers family-friendly fun mixed with stunning views of mountains and rivers.
Highlights:
- Enchanted Garden of Lights at Rock City
- Tennessee Valley Railroad’s Holiday Train Rides
- Holiday lights on the riverfront
- Ice skating at the Chattanooga Choo-Choo
A perfect weekend getaway for families.
9. Biloxi & Gulfport, Mississippi – Coastal Lights & Holiday Fun
Enjoy a different kind of Christmas along the Gulf Coast—mild weather, beach views, and fun holiday attractions.
Highlights:
- Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival
- Coastal casinos with festive decorations
- Waterfront dining
- Walking on the beach even in December
A refreshing twist on a holiday vacation.
10. Louisville, Kentucky – Lights Under Louisville
Louisville offers one of the most unique Christmas attractions in the country.
Highlights:
- Lights Under Louisville: a 30-minute underground drive-through light show
- Historic district light displays
- Festive bourbon tours
- Holiday markets and ice skating
A fun and unusual holiday road trip option.
The Southeast Is Full of Holiday Magic
From mountain towns to historic cities to coastal getaways, the Southeast offers endless holiday road trip options filled with warmth, charm, and festive spirit. Whether you’re exploring Tennessee or crossing into neighboring states, you’ll find Christmas cheer, beautiful scenery, and unforgettable holiday memories everywhere you go.
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