Featured image: Elk & Embers
From a luxury treehouse with a soaking tub nestled in the forest to a purpose-driven hotel in a historic firehouse, the collection of new hotels this fall are reason enough to book a trip. Whether you’re looking for an upscale, urban stay or relaxing nature retreat, why settle for a simple sleep when you can check into one of the hottest stays in the South? We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites.
Some of these fabulous properties are already welcoming guests; others are putting on the finishing touches. Make sure to check each hotel’s website for anticipated openings.
Elevation Convening Center and Hotel | Montgomery, Alabama
Located in the quiet Cottage Hill neighborhood, Elevation Convening Center and Hotel pays tribute to history, equality, and social justice. More than a place to stay, this purpose-driven hotel celebrates the historical legacy of Montgomery with curated artwork, a 2,500-square-foot in-house library, and Black Southern cuisine at AYA Soulful Dining. Book a hotel package with tours of the city’s Legacy Sites, or pause by the hotel’s reflection garden. Come to learn, reflect, and rest in refined elegance. Elevated rooms on the top floors offer sweeping views over the city and Alabama River along with complimentary locally sourced snacks and beverages.
Hotel Burg | Leesburg,Virginia
Hotel Burg began welcoming guests in August, and is the first hotel to open in downtown Leesburg’s historic district in 60 years. Inspired by Ralph Lauren’s classic style, the hotel embodies Italianate, Federal, and Colonial architectural style, anchored by a preserved 1885 historic home. Showcasing local art, antique furnishings, and elegant finishes, the property feels more like a luxurious estate than a hotel. Each of the 39 rooms is named for Virginia’s native flowering trees. Vintage rugs and curated libraries add a unique touch. Explore 20 world-class wineries within 20 miles, hike, take in a polo match, or drink in the Virginia countryside views from the rooftop bar.
The Compton | Bentonville, Arkansas
Located in the Mountain Biking Capital of the World™, The Compton is designed for wheel-centric escapes. An onsite wash station, bike valet, and secure storage area make a seamless luxury stay for cycling enthusiasts. The lobby’s skylit ceiling brings natural elements inside, celebrating the beauty of the surrounding Ozarks. Named for Dr. Neil Compton, a renowned conservationist, the 142-room hotel sits steps from Bentonville’s historic town square and a new pedestrian promenade. Forest trails, world-class art, and a thriving culinary scene are a stone’s throw away.
The Douglas | Savannah, Georgia
Located in a peaceful residential area of historic Savannah, The Douglas is shaped by layers of the past. Built in 1853, this 16-room boutique hotel once served as an opulent residence, a gentleman’s club, and a boarding house before being transformed into The Douglas. Vintage furnishings, luxurious fabrics, and Aesop amenities add an elegant touch to the rooms, each with its own personality. Borrow a bike and explore the neighborhood, or step into the Parlor in the evening for complimentary canapés, best paired with a cocktail from the Drawing Room bar.
JW Marriott Reston Station | Reston, Virginia
Travelers passing through the Washington, D.C. area have a new sophisticated stay waiting for them at the JW Marriott Reston Station. Virginia’s first JW Marriott (and only the second in the D.C. area) is perfectly positioned along the Silver Line Metro making getting around the capital and connecting to Dulles International airport a breeze. This elegant, modern 28-story contemporary luxury hotel provides a tranquil respite for guests with floor-to-ceiling windows in each guestroom, punctuated with jewel tones and curated art. The well-equipped fitness room and on-site Simon restaurant showcasing seasonal ingredients make it easy to stay healthy on the road.
The Lantern Hotel | Columbia, South Carolina
The historic Columbia Central Fire Station is being transformed into The Lantern Hotel, a 59-key boutique property, complete with roll up garage doors, a lobby fireplace, and onsite Ladder 13 restaurant. In addition to preserving the past, the hotel plans to shine the light on future hospitality leaders with its partnership with the University of South Carolina and CarolinaLIFE, creating careers for students of all abilities.
Elk & Embers® | Waynesville, North Carolina
Choose from an elegant treehouse perched among hemlock trees, a well appointed cabin or an upscale glamping tent at Elk & Embers for the ultimate escape. Nestled on 108 acres in the Great Smoky Mountains less than an hour from Asheville, the property offers access to hundreds of miles of hiking trails, horseback riding, and whitewater rafting. Complimentary breakfast and a packed lunch are delivered to your door every morning, so you can focus on spotting elk, deer, turkeys, and foxes that roam nearby.
Birthplace of Barq’s Bed & Breakfast | Biloxi, Mississippi
Have you ever dreamed of spending the night in a museum? If you’re a rootbeer fan with a taste for nostalgia, the Birthplace of Barq’s Bed & Breakfast might just be the spot for you. Steeped in history of this beloved soda, the main living area is located in the lovingly restored bottling plant where Edward Barq first brewed up his sarsaparilla beverage in 1898. Relax on the porch, soak in the hot tub and dine on breakfast served on the Barq’s family china. Biloxi’s pristine white sand beach is a short walk away; casinos, museums, and other attractions are within easy reach.
The Nickel Hotel | Charleston, South Carolina
No need to wait to check into the Holy City’s latest luxury lodging. The Nickel Hotel now welcomes guests to its stylish hotel on Upper King Street in the vibrant Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood. Elegant wrought iron, lush foliage and rich textiles evoke an air of Southern sophistication in the 50 rooms and suites. Savor your morning coffee from a private patio overlooking the courtyard, or whip up breakfast from the in-room gourmet kitchen. Hop on a Nickel share bike and explore, or invite friends to join you on the rooftop Rosemary Rose lounge for cocktails and sweeping views.
Find more Southern travel inspiration here.
