Thank goodness we’re not spending two back-to-back summers in quarantine lockdown. That’d be a real doozy, right? Instead, things are looking up with more and more COVID-19 restrictions being lifted by the day, including those related to mask wearing. Goodbye, maskne and hello summer vacay!
That’s right. Vacations are a real possibility and we’re here to help you make this summer one to remember. Starting now, you’ll hear from us weekly and, after 15 weeks, you’ll have enough travel tips to fill 15 summer weekends.
Where are we going for Summer Weekend #1?
Music festival heaven.
Yes, we can once again attend concerts in person with other humans. Take your pick from a quick weekend trip to Savannah, Georgia for Savannah Music Festival (May 23-30) or head to Charleston, South Carolina for Spoleto Festival USA (May 28 – June 13). If you have a little more time than a quick weekend, knockout both festivals for an exceptionally musical getaway.
Below you’ll find our top picks for things to do, restaurants to enjoy, and places to stay in both cities. Want to know one other reason we love visiting these two Southern gems now versus later on this summer? Two words that both start with “h”: heat and humidity. Like in most of the South, heat and humidity will only rise in Charleston and Savannah over the coming months. So book your trip now and enjoy these two cities without melting each time you step outside.
Savannah, Georgia
Things to Do
Enjoying the Savannah Music Festival is an obvious choice – just be sure to plan your trip between May 23 and May 30 and grab your tickets quickly as events are selling out. When you’re not taking part in one of the musical festival events, simply strolling around this gorgeous city allows you to take in the scenery while walking off the delicious food you’re likely to enjoy. If you’re someone who likes a little guidance as you walk, checkout one of Savannah’s many great tours – from history to food to ghosts, this city has it all! Finally, if strolling along the waterfront on River Street leaves you craving a beach vibe, head to nearby Tybee Island for rays and surf.
Restaurants to Enjoy
Big Bon Bodega for wood fired bagels
Cotton & Rye for a New American gastropub
Common Thread for fresh ingredients and great seafood
Fox & Fig for plant-based fare and coconut cream milkshakes
Chive for vintage cocktails and seafood
The Olde Pink House for classic Southern cuisine in an elegant 1771 Colonial mansion
Places to Stay
To enjoy one of Savannah’s many wonderful inns or B&Bs, checkout: The Kehoe House, The Inn On West Liberty, McMillan Inn, or The Azalea Inn & Villas.
For private suites with fully equipped kitchens, living rooms, and dining rooms, book a stay at The Jules. If you’re traveling with a large group, you also have the option to book all of The Jules’ suites which means you and your party will have a 1870 historic mansion on Bull Street all to yourselves.
If you’re looking for a boutique hotel experience, you’ll love The Drayton and The Present. Both hotels feature super stylish rooms and unique decor. If you’re looking for room options with a full kitchen, The Present’s for you. If a restaurant on-site or a rooftop lounge speaks to your soul, The Drayton’s more your speed.
Charleston, South Carolina
Things to Do
A trip to Charleston between May 28 and June 13 isn’t complete without enjoying the many events of Spoleto Music Festival USA. If you happen to pull yourself away from the festival’s many events, checking out Charleston’s food scene should be top on your list, including a sunset cocktail overlooking the city at Citrus Club. For locally made Charleston keepsakes, we love the PSC Shop on King Street. Still have time to spare? Hop over to Sullivan’s Island for serenity by the shore or treat yourself to activities on Kiawah Island (think spa and/or golf, etc.).
Restaurants to Enjoy
This South Carolina gem of a city has such a great food scene – it’s hard to go wrong when it comes to restaurant choices. Some of our favorite spots include:
Chubby Fish for amazing dock to table seafood with an innovative menu that changes daily
Jackrabbit Filly for new Chinese American cuisine prepared by a James Beard Rising Star Chef
The Shellmore for a cozy wine and oyster bar in Mount Pleasant
Neon Tiger for 100% vegan cuisine and cocktails
Stella’s for fresh modern Greek cuisine
Circa 1886 for ultra fine dining and old-world charm
The CODfather for line worthy fish and chips in North Charleston
Doar Bros. for cocktails
Bistronomy by Nico for French food paired with carefully selected French wine
Bumpa’s for your Irish pub fix
Places to Stay
For the ultimate boutique hotel experience in Downtown Charleston, we love the pet-friendly Hotel Emeline on Church Street. Right now, they still have some wonderful travel deals like a fourth night free, complimentary valet, and a $50 dining credit. While you’re there, be sure to visit their Keep Shop for hand-crafted local goods and enjoy your morning espresso from their adorable coffee shop, Clerks. Plus, with Crosley turntables and custom vinyls in all suites, you’ll be able to keep the music going long after the festival ends.
To stay out of the hustle and bustle of downtown, take a peak at these two Airbnbs: Kiawah Island and Marsh Views. Both feature enough space for the whole family (5 bedrooms, 5 beds, and 4+ bathrooms) plus extra amenities like a private pool.
For more travel inspo…
Follow us on Instagram at @adventuredesigned. We’ll be back in just one week to share our second destination for your 15 summer weekends. Want to be sure we feature a spot you’ve been dying to visit? Email us at hello@adventuredesigned.com. Until then, happy traveling!
