24-07-2025
10 Family-Friendly Mountain Destinations in the Southeast
Portions of this piece were hosted. All opinions are my own.
The Southeast will always feel like home to me. It's where my husband and I grew up, met, and now raise our daughter. But there's something extra special about the region's mountain towns that keeps pulling me back.
As someone who loves hiking and spending time outdoors, I've explored mountain towns all over the country, but the Southeast has some of my absolute favorites. If you're looking to take your family on a getaway that offers fresh air, scenic views, and a chance to truly unplug, these destinations are the perfect place to start.
Pigeon Forge is a favorite for families, and it's easy to understand why. Tucked in the Smoky Mountains, this vibrant town is filled with attractions that appeal to all ages. Dollywood stands out with its exciting rides, live entertainment, and a water park during warmer months. Families can also enjoy go-karts, mini golf, and indoor spots like WonderWorks and the Titanic Museum.
On our last-minute trip, we booked through Whimstay, a vacation rental site that works well for spontaneous getaways. We found plenty of charming, family-friendly cabins near top attractions and close to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which made exploring the outdoors a breeze.
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Shenandoah National Park is one of the best places for families to unplug and enjoy the outdoors together. Skyline Drive winds through the mountains with scenic overlooks that even kids will love hopping out of the car for. There are hikes for all levels, from gentle waterfall trails to fun scrambles like Bearfence Mountain with rewarding views at the top.
For a great place to stay nearby, I recommend Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views in Luray. It's close to the park and offers glamping options, RV sites, and traditional campsites, along with family-friendly amenities like a pool and playground.
Asheville blends mountain adventure with artistic flair, making it one of my favorite places to visit with kids. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, the city offers a mix of scenic beauty and a lively downtown filled with kid-friendly restaurants, quirky shops, local bookstores, and laid-back breweries.
For a memorable stay, I recommend the Omni Grove Park Inn. It's beautiful and welcoming for all ages, with a spa and golf course for adults and a pool, kids' programs, and seasonal camps for the younger crowd. Asheville has that perfect mix of nature and creativity that makes family travel feel effortless.
Gatlinburg sits right at the doorstep of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it a perfect base for families who want both outdoor adventure and fun attractions.
The town is packed with things to do from riding the scenic SkyLift and walking across the SkyBridge to family-friendly trails like the Sugarlands Valley Trail inside the national park.
I recommend browsing properties on Whimstay when planning a visit because it's great having your own space where the whole family can relax and spread out. Many of the rentals are tucked into nature, which makes them ideal for spotting wildlife too!
Helen stands out as one of the Southeast's most unique mountain towns, thanks to its Bavarian-style architecture and festive, family-friendly atmosphere. The town fully embraces its alpine-inspired roots, especially during seasonal events like the Christmas market in winter and Oktoberfest in the fall, both of which add to its storybook charm.
Outside of festivals, families can enjoy tubing down the Chattahoochee River, hiking to nearby Anna Ruby Falls, playing mini golf, visiting candy shops, or taking a horse-drawn carriage ride. For lodging, the Helendorf River Inn is a favorite, it looks just like a cozy German inn that would be tucked into the European countryside.
Fayetteville is an adventure hub that's also incredibly welcoming for families. It sits right next to New River Gorge National Park, which is packed with easy hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for rafting or ziplining for older kids.
The town has a laid-back feel with cool coffee shops, casual dining, and colorful murals throughout. Families can stay in nearby cabins, lodges, or campgrounds. I recommend staying at The Outpost New River Gorge campground as it has cabins, tent platforms, and RV sites. It's a fun way to introduce kids to the thrill of outdoor adventure in a low-key, supportive setting.
Walhalla is a small town with big access to nature, making it an underrated gem for a family mountain escape. Located at the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it offers a quiet setting with plenty to explore nearby. Families can visit Issaqueena Falls, hike the Stumphouse Tunnel Trail, or picnic at Oconee State Park.
Lodging ranges from nearby cabins to state park campsites, all surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls. I recommend camping at Oconee State Park for plenty of time in nature!
Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Blowing Rock is a peaceful yet fun place for families to slow down and soak in mountain views. Kids love Tweetsie Railroad, a Wild West theme park with train rides, shows, and family-friendly fun. For outdoor lovers, there's the easy Glen Burney Trail or a stroll through Moses Cone Memorial Park.
Downtown is filled with quaint shops and casual restaurants, and there are plenty of cabin rentals and cozy inns nearby. I recommend staying at the Chetola Resort as it offers countless amenities for adults and children ranging from fishing, hiking, kayaking, an indoor pool, a playground, and so much more.
Banner Elk is a lesser-known gem that's perfect for families, especially those who love year-round mountain fun. In the summer, enjoy scenic hikes, gem mining, and visiting Apple Hill Farm, where kids can meet alpacas and goats. During the winter, Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain offer skiing, tubing, and snowboarding, all beginner-friendly.
The town itself is small and welcoming, with family-owned restaurants and mountain-style lodges, my favorite being the Best Western Mountain Lodge at Banner Elk Lodge. Whether you're sipping hot cocoa by the fire or hiking through wildflowers, Banner Elk is an easygoing destination with a little something for everyone, without the crowds of bigger mountain towns.
Mentone is a peaceful mountain town perched on Lookout Mountain, and it's perfect for families looking to truly slow down. The pace here is quiet, the people are friendly, and the natural beauty is stunning. Families can explore DeSoto State Park, with its kid-friendly hiking trails, waterfalls, and picnic spots. Little River Canyon is another highlight for scenic drives or overlooks.
In town, enjoy browsing local art shops and stopping for homemade fudge or a casual bite to eat. Cozy cabins and local inns, like the Mentone Inn Bed and Breakfast, make it easy to settle in for a relaxing stay.
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