Charleston, South Carolina
Defined by its rich history, cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages and antebellum architecture, the Holy City draws summer crowds to beaches like Hilton Head. But the Southern belle is even more charming in fall and winter, when temperatures hover between 60 and 70 degrees. The weather is ideal for bike rides and picnics along the scenic waterfront, self-guided walking tours through the historic town, or sunset cruises aboard the Schooner Pride.
Charleston is also a magnet for foodies, and with the money you'll save on an off-season hotel, you'll be able to enjoy award-winning cuisine at places like FIG and Slightly North of Broad. In the heart of the historic district, the Spectator boutique hotel offers spacious rooms combined with upscale design and many daily amenities, including an artisanal breakfast delivered to your room, free vintage bicycles for exploring the city, and a shuttle service. evening turndown, as well as prices reduced by 20 percent. we are headed into the fall off-season. Gastronomy lovers, this is a great car trip destination for you!
Grant Teton and Yellowstone, Wyoming
According to Vrbo, average nightly rates for vacation rentals can drop by 20% or more during the “shoulder season,” the period directly following the peak summer season. And one of Vrbo's top destinations for saving money during the shoulder season is Grand Teton and Yellowstone, and it's easy to see why. Wide open skies, soaring mountains, dense greenery and wildlife are exactly what outdoor travelers are looking for. According to a recent Vrbo study, travel demand for lake, river and mountain homes has increased due to COVID-19, and 95% of recent demand has been focused on non-urban destinations.
One of the top vacation home picks on Vrbo is the Moose Creek Cabin in Jackson Hole, a 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom lodge-style home with a wood-burning fireplace and a wall of windows to view the changing skyline (and maybe even see moose or elk). This is a great cabin to visit if you are looking for something other than a Airbnb.
Asheville, North Carolina
Very popular in summer and autumn, charming Asheville is often overlooked in winter, but the moderate weather allows you to enjoy all the highlights of the Blue Ridge Mountain town without the crowds. Asheville's Art Deco downtown remains walkable in the off-season with picture-perfect shopping, romantic restaurants, and easy access to hiking trails. Or take in stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains on a winter hike. Several trailhead access points remain open year-round on the Blue Ridge Parkway and through the Pisgah National Forest.
And of course, visit the grand Biltmore Estate, one of the largest mansions in America. Its expansive grounds, including the most visited wine tasting room in the country, are perfect any time of year. Winter offers the best rates of the year, including at The Foundry, the luxury boutique hotel built in the city's former steel foundry that forged the steel for the Biltmore Estate. While you're here, you can embark on a one-on-one tour of the neighborhood with an on-site historian before heading to the hotel's regionally inspired restaurant. Dumpster on Eagleled by five-time James Beard nominee John Fleer.
