10 Most Walkable Cities in the South - Embrace the Charm of Walkable Towns
Authored by Emily Colin, our insightful list of the top 10 walkable southern towns takes you through the allure of pedestrian-friendly communities.
What Does 'Walkable' Truly Mean?
What does it mean for a town or city to be 'walkable?' Clearly, pedestrians need to be able to walk from one place to the next-there needs to be sidewalks and crosswalks, stoplights and signs. But walkability is about much more than infrastructure. It's about creating a sense of community-the idea that there is someplace worth walking to, and people that you'd like to see when you get there. In a truly walkable town or city, you can satisfy a wide variety of needs within 15 minutes on foot. You can buy food, take in a play or a show, shop, and enjoy a green space such as a public park or trail. And while you're doing all of this, you can connect with others who share your interests, even if it's as simple as waving or saying 'hello.'
From Millennials to retirees, we're experiencing a tremendous uptick in the number of folks who place a high value on living in walkable communities. In part, this is because of the many health benefits that walking has to offer; in part, it's because of the expense and inconvenience inherent in traveling by car. Beyond these tangible benefits, though, walkable communities have a sense of vibrancy, life, and charisma that is tremendously appealing. Traveling on foot, you notice things you might not have otherwise-an architectural detail here, a hidden alleyway, a used bookstore or a cozy coffee shop there. You take your time, appreciating what's around you rather than rushing from one activity to the next, living in the moment.
Top 10 Walkable Towns
Explore our top 10 walkable Southern towns and cities. Each with its unique personality, these cities promise an immersive, walkable experience that you'll cherish. Take your time, soak in the surroundings, and live in the moment. Let's set off on a walk to remember.
Charleston, SC
Travel + Leisure magazine just named Charleston the top city to visit in the world-and why not? Between its Southern charm, meticulously-preserved historic homes, beautiful harbor, thriving arts community, and burgeoning foodie scene, Charleston is a place that honors its past while embracing the future.
The walkable downtown is a pedestrian's paradise, from shopping on King Street-home to the Design, Fashion and Antique Districts-to strolling along Museum Mile. Architectural enthusiasts will find much to appreciate on The Battery and East Bay Street, Rainbow Row, and the French Quarter. Relax at scenic Waterfront Park, with its iconic pineapple fountain, stroll through historic City Market, and then grab a bite at one of the many restaurants-you really can't go wrong. Slightly North of Broad, FIG, and Husk are some of the best, and Kaminsky's desserts are to die for. Cap off the night with a show at Dock Street Theatre.
Asheville, NC
If healthy living, arts and culture, locally sourced food, and a little bit of quirkiness set your heart a-flutter, Asheville is the place for you. Located in western North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville's nod to a history museum is their Urban Trail, a 1.7-mile, 30-station scavenger hunt that gives visitors a glimpse into the city's past.
Be sure to browse Malaprop's Bookstore, or, if you prefer a glass of fine wine with your second hand paperbacks, check out Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar. Culture buffs will appreciate Asheville Community Theatre, the Asheville Art Museum, and Colburn Earth Science Museum. A short drive away, you'll find all the adventure you could ask for-zip lining, white water rafting, hiking, mountain climbing, and more. Shop at the Grove Arcade, or eat your heart out at the Over Easy Cafe, Bouchon, Farm Burger Asheville, or the French Broad Chocolate Lounge. These attractions and more make Asheville one of the region’s most walkable cities.
Wilmington, NC
Wilmington was voted Best American Riverfront in USA TODAY's 10 Best Readers' Choice Contest and small wonder. Front Street, downtown's main thoroughfare, is jam-packed with restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, and entertainment venues. Within a few blocks you'll find historic Thalian Hall, a beautifully-renovated venue that hosts musicals, plays, and films year-round; City Stage, an assortment of comedy clubs and music venues; and the Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College, home to touring Broadway shows.
History buffs will find plenty to satisfy, from the Bellamy Mansion and Burgwin-Wright House to the restored homes and cottages that line the shaded streets. Start your day with breakfast at the Dixie Grill, eat light with tapas at Circa 1922, stroll along the riverwalk, and wind down at Le Catalan French Café and Wine Bar, where you can savor chocolate mousse and a bottle of wine while watching ships pass down the Cape Fear River.
St. Augustine, FL
Ponce de Leon made St. Augustine famous, and it claims the distinction of "the oldest city in the U.S." Located on northeast Florida's First Coast, St. Augustine has a thriving historic district, complete with cobblestone streets, bed and breakfasts, pubs, eateries, and plenty of places to shop. In About.com's AboutTravel named it Florida's most walkable city.
Bustling St. George Street, located in the center of the historic district, is for pedestrians only-no cars allowed. In search of something more low-key? Try historic Saint Aviles Street. Downtown hosts the Castillo de San Marcos, a walk-in park and fortress that's stood since 1672. Occupying two acres in the heart of the historic district, The Colonial Quarter brings days gone by to life. Other attractions include Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, the Limelight Theatre, and the delectable food at The Floridian and the Spanish Bakery and Café.
Greenville, SC
There's a reason that National Geographic named Greenville as one of its top 20 "Must See" places and it's probably the same reason that the New York Times called it "a national model for a pedestrian-friendly city center." Just an hour's drive from Asheville, NC, Greenville's walkable downtown area is an alluring blend of public art, delectable food-don't miss The Trappe Door and the Tupelo Honey Café-unique shops, and green space.
Just a few short blocks from Main Street, you'll find Falls Park, home to a waterfall that's nearly 40 feet tall, the pedestrian-only Liberty Bridge, and the Reedy River. Along the river runs Swamp Rabbit Trail, an old railroad bed transformed into a 21-mile greenway for pedestrians and cyclists. Downtown is also home to the Greenville County Museum of Art, Greenville Little Theatre, the Carolina Ballet Theatre, and the Peace Center for the Performing Arts.
Savannah, GA
With the country's largest Historic Landmark District, Savannah has earned its badge as a pedestrian-friendly city. It's organized around 22 squares, where passersby can sit a spell in the shade of giant, moss-hung oaks-but when you're ready to get up, there's no shortage of things to do. Home to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), downtown has over 18 historic house museums that are open to the public, including Flannery O'Connor's childhood home.
River Street, which meanders along the Savannah River, features former cotton warehouses that house a plethora of places to eat, shop, and browse. You'll find boutiques, galleries, the treasure-filled Paris Market and Brocante, and The Lucas Theatre on Broughton Street-as well as Leopold's Ice Cream, known for its marble soda fountain. Don't-miss eateries include Ms. Wilkes' Dining Room and The Olde Pink House, both Zagat-rated as Savannah's Best Southern Restaurants.
Fernandina Beach, FL
Located on Amelia Island, a barrier island off northeast Florida's Atlantic Coast, Fernandina Beach's National Register Historic District spans over 50 blocks and boasts over 400 buildings. It's home to The Florida House Inn-the oldest hotel in the state of Florida-as well as the Palace Saloon, the state's oldest continually operating drinking establishment.
The main drag, Centre Street, features two pocket parks where you can take in the sounds of local musicians after you've gotten your fill of browsing the historic district's many antique shops, boutiques, and galleries. Storytelling aficionados will get a kick out of the Amelia Island Museum of History, the first spoken history museum in the state of Florida. Dining hot spots include the Crab Trap, David's Restaurant and Lounge, The Happy Tomato Courtyard Café and BBQ, and Le Clos, a 1906 cottage where you can savor French cuisine by candlelight.
Sarasota, FL
TopRetirements.com rated Sarasota the country's ultimate city for retirees, booting Asheville out of the top spot for the first time since 2007. John Ringling of Ringling Bros' fame played a key role in developing the city, and his family mansion, Cà d'Zan, still stands today. The heart of downtown Sarasota is Five Points, where Main Street, Pineapple Avenue, and Central Avenue come together.
Nearby Palm Avenue is home to a variety of art galleries and antique stores, and there's great shopping to be had on Main Street, 1st Street, and Palm. Get your fill of drama and song at The Florida Studio Theatre and the Sarasota Opera House. Just a short drive away, you'll find The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art and the Marietta Museum of Art and Whimsy. Sample Peruvian food at Selva, taste fresh-caught seafood at Owen's Fish Camp, or go local at MADE restaurant, winner of several "best of" awards.
Athens, GA
Athens is widely known for its incredible music scene-it was the birthplace of the band REM, hosts several annual festivals, and offers a self-guided, 28-stop music walking tour. But this is not all it has to offer.
Forbes highlighted Athens in its "Best Places to Retire", and Money Magazine has also recognized it as a "Best Place to Retire." With its restaurants, shops, boutiques, and galleries, downtown Athens is very pedestrian-friendly. Culture buffs will flock to the Georgia Theatre, located in the heart of downtown, and Morton Theatre, a performance arts space that began its life as one of America's first African-American-built, owned, and operated vaudeville theaters. Don't miss The Tree that Owns Itself, an oak that can lay legal claim to the ground on which it stands. Foodies surrender to temptation at Creature Comforts Brewing Company, Big City Bread Café, Last Resort Grill, Clocked, and Weaver D's.
Beaufort, SC
Charming Beaufort, SC, pronounced 'Bu-fort', is home to a thriving historic downtown district and a beautiful waterfront. Southern Living named Beaufort a "small town we love," Coastal Living Magazine ranked it as #1 among America's Happiest Seaside Towns. It's not hard to see why-Beaufort embodies the relaxed spirit, coastal vibe, and Southern hospitality that defines the Lowcountry.
Wander along the downtown waterfront, shop for antiques at Lagniappe Lowcountry, browse at McIntosh Book Shop, or find the perfect piece of art at Salt Gallery. In the mood for adventure? Take a walking history tour, rent a kayak, or check out the dolphins and the salt marsh with one of Captain Dick's River Tours. Once you're back on land, grab a bite at Magnolia Bakery Café, Panini's on the Waterfront, Q on the Bay, or Saltus River Grill, a contemporary seafood restaurant with a stunning view of the Intracoastal Waterway.
Explore the Most Walkable Cities in the US
We invite you to explore these enticing walkable cities, perfect for a vibrant, health-focused retirement lifestyle. Choose from the communities below and receive detailed information to aid your next big decision. It’s time to make your dream of ideal living a reality.
Click to explore the following hiking and walking communities. Request information from multiple communities by selecting the checkboxes to the right and completing the form below.
Del Webb Savannah at Heartwood
Del Webb Savannah at Heartwood is an exclusive 55+ active adult community located in Richmond Hill, GA, near the charming city of Savannah, GA. This community is perfect for retirees and active adults seeking a vibrant, resort-style lifestyle in a serene coastal setting. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Jerico River and marshlands, residents of Del Webb Savannah at Heartwood are minutes from its historic district with antebellum mansions and beautiful squares—the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
The gated community boasts a luxurious clubhouse featuring a resort-style pool with a baja deck, cabanas, and serene pond views, making it the ideal spot for relaxation. For those who enjoy staying active, the state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor pool, and tennis and pickleball courts offer year-round opportunities for exercise and social interaction. Unique amenities like “The Fish Camp,” with its dock, kayak launch, and scenic firepit, enhance the outdoor living experience, while the full-time Lifestyle Director ensures a packed social calendar filled with activities, events, and clubs.
The premium Georgia real estate in the age-restricted community is thoughtfully designed for the modern active adult, featuring single-story homes with optional lofts. These homes are crafted with flexible spaces, allowing for personalization and entertaining, and are available with desirable marsh views of the Jerico River. Request More Information now!
Sea Island Collective
Sea Island Collective: Single-Family New Construction Homes for Sale in Beaufort, SC
Find your dream new-construction home at in the charming seaside town of Beaufort, SC. Unlike traditional new home communities, Sea Island Collective features new homes for sale in established communities where you’ll feel right at home. Choose between 3 floorplans of up to 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and 2,968 sq. ft., each finished in one of our designer-curated Looks: Loft, Farmhouse, Classic, or Elements. Enjoy breathtaking Lowcountry scenery and easy access to Bluffton and Savannah.
Explore available homesites in Camellia Banks and Overlook at Battery Creek, and discover a variety of thoughtfully designed new homes featuring high-end finishes, open floorplans, and an abundance of natural light.
Villages of Citrus Hills
Terra Vista is Florida’s premier master-planned community featuring incredible resort-style retirement living just minutes from the spectacular Gulf Coast. This amenity-rich community is set in unique surroundings characterized by rolling hills, towering oaks, and moderating Gulf breezes.
The Villages of Citrus Hills stands as a truly unique departure from the traditional Florida lifestyle experience. Citrus Hills is amenity-rich, resort- style living, at its finest. The community is set in unique surroundings characterized by rolling hills, with an elevation up to 260 feet, towering oaks, and incredible landscaping. While one of the highest elevations in Florida the community is just miles from the Gulf of Mexico. Terra Vista at Citrus Hills offers a beautiful selection of customizable, single-family homes with a wide variety of world-class amenities just minutes from your door including: championship golf, first-class tennis, private dining and a spectacular spa and fitness complex.
At Citrus Hills you’ll discover Skyview, the region’s most elaborate country club, along with two other challenging 18-hole golf courses, two tennis centers, private restaurants and a 50,000-square- foot Spa and Fitness Center. Best of all Citrus Hills blends suburban charm with easy access to cosmopolitan Tampa Bay, Orlando and Ocala, so you are close to everything you want, yet far enough away from what you don’t want.
The Villages of Citrus Hills offers customizable single-family homes and detached villas from $400,000 – $1.5 million in a choice of beautiful neighborhoods designed to accommodate a wide variety of tastes and needs.
The Villages of Citrus Hills unquestionably is one of the Southeast’s most exciting resort-lifestyle opportunities. You must see it to believe it.
Heritage Shores
The homes at Heritage Shores have been designed to maximize your lifestyle by incorporating the latest technologies that provide ease of maintenance and energy efficiency. There’s something for every taste and budget at Heritage Shores with a variety of flexible main-level living single-family home designs and virtually endless personalization possibilities.
Additional amenities include: Full-Time Lifestyle Director, 18 – Hole Arthur Hills Championship Golf Course, State-Of-The-Art Fitness Center, Indoor and Outdoor Swimming Pools, Tennis, Pickleball and Bocce Ball, Fresh Air Exercise Circuit, Health & Wellness Center, 28,000 sq. ft. Clubhouse, Kayak Launch, On-Site Restaurants, Woodshop, Aerobics and Dance Studio, Arts and Creative Studio, Billiards and Card Room, Pro Shop, Dog Park, Performance Lawn, Outdoor Chess and Checkers Tables, Shuffleboard, and Many Classes & Clubs.
Call (302) 219-4177 for more information or to schedule a tour.
Heritage Shores Stay & Play Discovery Package:
Ready to experience Heritage Shores like a resident, book a 2-Day / 1-Night Stay & Play Discovery Package for just $375 and experience this vibrant community first-hand!
Learn More About the Heritage Shores Stay & Play Discovery Package
*Pricing and incentives are subject to change without notice and are available for a limited time only on choice new, full price contracts that close by or before March 31,2025, with the use of builder’s preferred lender and title company and cannot be combined with any other offers or incentives.