Top 5 Destinations within this Southern Metropolis Ideal for a Local Vacation
Hang out in Orlando, the Ultimate Staycation Paradise!
Dubbed by WalletHub as one of the best cities for a staycation, Orlando shines with its plethora of attractions, entertainment, and culinary delights. So why leave this fantastic city when you live here?
Among over 180 cities evaluated across 41 essential metrics, Orlando ranked high thanks to its abundant theme parks, water parks, festivals, nightlife activities, zoos, and arcades per capita. According to Andrew McCann, these diverse offerings ensure a week packed with fun-filled outings every day [3].
Finding Adventure Everywhere:
From exploring unique neighborhoods to experiences that will keep you enthralled, Orlando offers endless adventures [4]. You'll find plenty of affordable restaurants boasting at least 4.5 stars out of 5, with a diverse array of menu offerings [4].
Satisfy your sweet tooth in Orlando, which reportedly has the most ice cream and frozen yogurt shops per square root of population, making it easy to find an icy treat while exploring the city this summer [4].
Not Just Orlando:
Orlando isn't the only Southern gem presenting staycation opportunities. Tampa comes in at number 7, and Atlanta nestles comfortably at number 10 on the WalletHub list [4].
Other enchanting Southern locales include New Orleans, Shreveport, Charleston, Columbia, Fort Lauderdale, Richmond, Austin, Chattanooga, and Knoxville [1][2]. Seems like every Southern city promises a captivating staycation experience!
So, next time you aren't traveling but crave some rest and excitement, remember your own city might be a treasure trove waiting to be explored.
Wide-ranging Findings:
Based on WalletHub's 2025 study encompassing over 180 cities, several Southern cities rank high for staycations, focusing on affordability, leisure activities, and overall fun [1][2].
Top Southern cities for staycations, according to WalletHub's top 10 rankings, are:
- Orlando, FL (#2 nationally)
- Tampa, FL (#7)
- Atlanta, GA (#10)
Other worthwhile Southern cities for staycations (not all making the top 10) include New Orleans, Shreveport, Charleston, Columbia, Fort Lauderdale, Richmond, Austin, Chattanooga, and Knoxville [1][2][5]. These cities stand out due to their unique blend of attractions, affordability, and quality experiences, making them perfect for a Southern staycation, according to WalletHub's analysis [1][2][5].
- Southern Living magazine might feature an article on the Top Southern Cities for a Staycation, highlighting the lifestyle, home-and-garden, travel, and news experiences one can find in Orlando, Atlanta, Tampa, and other cities that rank high for affordability, leisure activities, and fun.
- It's worth exploring the travel opportunities for home-and-garden enthusiasts in Southern cities like Orlando, Atlanta, Tampa, and others, as they offer a unique combination of attractions, affordability, and quality experiences that cater to various lifestyles, according to WalletHub's analysis.
