The best destination hotels outside Tennessee for a quick vacation

Summer is over, and kids are back in school which means travel fewer opportunities to travel for many families.

And while week-long trips may not be possible, there are still places to visit for a quick getaway. USA TODAY recently released its rankings of the best hotels among several categories ranging from best hotel restaurant to best family resort. All locations are voted on by a panel of specialists and USA TODAY readers.

These hotels are close enough for an extended weekend stay during the school months such as Labor Day, fall break, Veterans day and other three-day weekend holidays. See the picks.

Best hotels for Tennesseans to travel to

We narrowed down the list from over 100 to just around 20 for Tennesseans to travel to across different categories. The focus was on border states, or states close enough that a weekend trip doesn’t include too much travel.

Pull up a stool and peruse our winners for Best Hotel Bar. These bars were selected for their great atmospheres and stellar mixologists. These are top-ranked locations closest to Tennessee.

Carousel Bar & Lounge at Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans, Louisiana
The Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt New Orleans in New Orleans, Louisiana
The Wayward at Perry Lane Hotel in Savannah, Georgia

Some of the leading restaurants in the United States, led by talented and often award-winning chefs, can be found in hotels and resorts. And the cream of the crop, like these hotel restaurants, go the extra mile with superior service and one-of-a-kind touches. One of these locations is right here in Tennessee.

Chez Phillip at The Peabody Memphis in Memphis, Tennessee
Frannie & The Fox at Emelin in Charleston, South Carolina
King Brasserie & Bar at Kimpton Hotel Fontenot in New Orleans, Louisiana

Traveling can be stressful, whether you’re on vacation or hitting the road for business. If you’re in need of a little pampering, you’ll find it at this hotel spa, selected for the quality of their facilities, treatments, and services. This is the location nearest to Tennessee.

The Spa at The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina

If you’re looking to experience the charm and hospitality of a destination, staying at a bed-and-breakfast can be a great idea. They offer a more intimate setting, where guests can get to know the hosts as well as other travelers. Not to mention, you’ll enjoy a delicious home-cooked breakfast every morning, often featuring local specialties and fresh ingredients.

C.W. Worth House Bed & Breakfast in Wilmington, North Carolina
The Historic Magnolia House in Greensboro, North Carolina

Boutique hotels offer an escape all their own, complete with a more customized experience and the best modern amenities and service. These properties offer unique accommodations in the middle of some of the nation’s greatest destinations.

Beaufort Hotel in Beaufort, North Carolina
The Graylyn Estate in Winston-Salem, North Carolina
GunRunner Hotel in Florence, Alabama
Hotel Trundle in Columbia, South Carolina
Wentworth Mansion in Charleston, South Carolina

Sometimes a hotel is simply a place to lay your head at night, but it can also be a destination in its own right. Each of these U.S. resorts lavish guests with plush accommodations, top-notch dining, and a host of activities — a complete vacation in a single package. Here are the locations nearest to Tennessee.

Barnsley Resort in Adairsville, Georgia
Jekyll Island Club Resort in Jekyll Island, Georgia
The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia

These resorts cater to families with a host of awesome amenities. That includes kids’ programs, gourmet dining with kids’ menus, roomy accommodations, and a wealth of activities that the entire family can enjoy.

1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa in Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Barnsley Resort in Adairsville, Georgia

In today’s travel landscape, filled with shiny new resorts and ultra-modern skyscraper hotels, a bit of yesteryear is often welcome. Each of these classic accommodations has witnessed a great deal of history, and each has held true to its historic roots and unique sense of place.

Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa in Point Clear, Alabama
The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia
The Peabody Memphis in Memphis, Tennessee

Whether by a lake or overlooking the sea, there’s something special about vacationing near water. This U.S. waterfront property sets the scene for a memorable and relaxing vacation.