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.
Callawassie Island
Callawassie Island, located in the heart of the Lowcountry, is a private, gated island community offering world-class Tom Fazio golf and a full complement of amenities including a tennis center, clubhouse, pools, fitness center, and River Club. Secluded from the noise and congestion of the highway, Callawassie lies miles from Hilton Head and is also convenient to Beaufort and Bluffton (15 minutes away); historic Savannah, GA (a 30-minute drive); and the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (40 minutes away). A half-mile causeway provides a relaxing, slow-paced approach to the island, where peace and quiet are as plentiful as vibrant activity.
The community hosts numerous social events, activities and clubs connecting members by their passions for nature, art and giving back locally. Members take full advantage of the island parks, historical sites and recreation areas for enjoying remarkable views of undisturbed nature. Island dwellers have access to four community docks providing leased slips, kayak launches and excellent opportunities for fishing, crabbing and shrimping. The River Club, overlooking the Colleton River, is a warm gathering center with a library and fireplace, family swimming pool, and offers seasonal dining.
For those seeking a golfing experience like no other, the 27-hole, Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course is truly spectacular. Voted one of South Carolina’s top 50 courses, Callawassie recently enhanced the design with a four-million-dollar renovation in 2014. This renovation resulted in a brand-new pro shop with three Class A PGA Golf Professionals. The courses meander intimately along the waterways and salt marshes in a way that environmental regulations have made difficult for newer courses; visual interest is natural not manmade.
Callawassie Island is the first South Carolina gated community to have been designated a “Community Wildlife Habitat” by the National Wildlife Federation. This coexistence brings a true community balance with nature. The island is covered with live oaks and palmettos, egrets and herons, and encompasses a thriving salt marsh ecosystem.
Today, Callawassie is one of only four South Carolina communities holding this distinguished designation. The homes and homesites, including waterfront property, are among the best values in the area.
South Harbor Towns
Welcome to South Harbor Towns by Ryan Homes – Our newest 55+ community in the Isle of Wight, from the low $300s. We are now scheduling private model tours; visit our website to schedule yours today! Join the VIP list to schedule yours today!
Ideal for the active adult lifestyle, South Harbor Towns is loaded with amenities. Here's just a handful of amenities that are coming to the community:
- Clubhouse with Indoor & Outdoor Entertaining Areas & Fireplace
- Resort-style Heated Lap Pool with Waterfall & Fire Features
- Water Aerobics & Water Volleyball Areas
- Outdoor Hot Tub & Resort-like Cabanas
- Miles of Nature Trails & Sidewalks
- Two Lighted Pickleball Courts, Bocce Ball, Putting Green & Shuffleboard
- Grandkid's Playground & Dog Park
- Year-Round Activities & Events
- Golf Cart Friendly with Reserved Golf Cart Parking at the Clubhouse
The homes will feature first-floor owner's suites, chef-inspired kitchens, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2-car garages, optional covered porches, and flex space options. Plus, one of the best features…it's a maintenance-provided community, meaning we'll handle all the lawn maintenance, landscaping, and upkeep so you don't have to!
This community is located near the historic town of Smithfield, with local shopping, restaurants, military bases, and more! We can’t wait to share more with you! Our team is here to help make this big step an easy one. Visit our website to schedule a private model tour and learn more.
Crossings at Sweetbriar
Retirees and other active adults who want a relaxing lifestyle in a perfect location are discovering Pennsylvania’s Crossings at Sweetbriar.
Developed by Landmark Homes, the regional leader in creating upscale age-55+ communities like The Crossings at Sweetbriar, residents have a choice of both one- and two-story designs with open floor plans. Customizable options and special features make each residence unique, and the area’s low cost of living and property taxes add to the value of every home.
The Crossings at Sweetbriar residents have their own private community clubhouse for meetings and special events, plus walking and biking trails through more than 20 acres of preserved open space. But Sweetbriar’s most desirable amenity maybe its tranquil location in the rolling farmlands of central Pennsylvania. Historic sites and seasonal farmer’s market make every day trip an adventure. The nearby town of Lebanon features fine and casual dining restaurants, retail stores, antique shops, and cultural centers like the Gretna Theatre. The Iron Valley Golf Course tops the list of local outdoor-recreation venues, while the Wellspan Good Samaritan Hospital and the Lebanon VA Medical Center offer top-rated health care services. Just a short drive to the southwest is the state capital of Harrisburg, the regional center of commerce and culture.
Request more information below to get all the details. The active-adult lifestyle at a great location offered by The Crossings at Sweetbriar may be just what you’re looking for.
Logan Homes
Coastal Living at Its Finest
Logan Homes mission is to build homes and develop communities where value, location and lifestyle come together. No matter what season of life you’re in, there’s a Logan Homes community and floor plan to fit every one of your needs. Based on your budget, personal style, desired amenities and preferred locations, the Logan Homes team is there to be your guide through it all, ensuring your experience is easy, simple and fun.
Logan Homes builds within a host of premier communities in the Southeastern parts of both North Carolina and South Carolina and Northeastern Georgia. Enjoy thoughtful plans and design features, curated by their professional in-house design team. In addition to a streamlined process, you will enjoy extra peace of mind with the Warranty Program, knowing the Logan Homes team will be there for you every step of the way.
Ready to get started? Explore communities and available homes on the Logan Homes website and contact Logan Homes today to get started on your new home journey!
The Isles of Collier Preserve
Hurry for Special Pricing on Final Phase, and for a limited time, receive $100,000 in free home options! Limited opportunities remain to buy a new home at The Isles.
Nestled within a pristine natural setting just minutes from Downtown Naples, Florida’s preeminent new home builder is creating a colorful update of classic coastal living. Inspired by the timeless architecture and traditions of Old Naples, elegant new Minto homes overlook miles of scenic kayak and hiking trails. With over half of the 2,400 acres dedicated to lakes, nature preserves, and natural habitat, combined with outdoor-inspired amenities, The Isles of Collier Preserve is an extraordinary new active adult gated community where the magic of Old Naples and unspoiled nature still coexist.
Enjoy all aspects of an active lifestyle influenced by wellness at The Isles Club, featuring resort-style amenities such as a resort-style pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, and a yoga lawn. After a scenic day exploring this beautiful community, sip on cocktails and savor coastal Florida flavors with family and neighbors at the resident-exclusive Overlook Bar & Grill, overlooking the Cypress Waterway.
The Isles is a master-planned community boasting 1,600 unique coastal-themed new construction residences for sale from the $500s, many with stunning water and nature views.