A Summer Escape to Waynesville, NC – Our Home Away From Home

One of my favorite parts of summer is taking time to slow down, unplug, and enjoy a little escape with my family. And for us, there’s no better place to do that than Waynesville, North Carolina. Just a short three-hour drive from Atlanta, Waynesville has become our go-to summer destination—offering cooler temperatures, stunning scenery, and the kind of peace and quiet that’s hard to come by in the city.

The moment we pull into town, we can feel ourselves begin to relax. The air is crisp and fresh, often a good 10 degrees cooler than Atlanta, which makes all the difference during those hot summer months. Our mornings usually start slow, sipping coffee on the porch while looking out over the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s a breathtaking view that never gets old and always reminds us how important it is to pause and appreciate life’s simple moments.

We spend our days exploring local shops, enjoying delicious meals at family-run restaurants, and discovering whatever festival or event is taking place in town. From art walks to music festivals, Waynesville always has something happening—and it’s usually family-friendly, which our kids absolutely love. There’s a strong sense of community here that makes everyone feel welcome.

In the evenings, we’ll pour a glass of wine and sit out under the stars, reflecting on the day and reconnecting as a family. It’s these moments of calm and connection that make Waynesville so special to us. The people are warm and welcoming, the pace is slower, and it always feels like our home away from home.

Waynesville reminds us of the importance of balance—between work and rest, structure and spontaneity, goals and gratitude. In a fast-paced world, finding time to recharge is essential, and we’re grateful to have found a place that helps us do just that. – Elizabeth