Best Day Trips from Atlanta
Ready to unplug from the daily routine and take a day trip from the city? Well, you are in the right place! I think that day trips from Atlanta, Georgia offer the perfect way to escape the bustle of the city and discover the beauty, history, and charm of the surrounding region.
I’ve explored charming small towns filled with local flavor while based just outside Atlanta for four weeks, hiked to overlooks, and enjoyed peaceful days on the beach. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure, the area around ATL is full of memorable day trip options... Here are the ones I recommend, and I hope you’ll enjoy them too as a local.
1. Athens, Georgia - 1 hour 30 minutes from Atlanta
This is one of my favorite day trips because Athens offers such an effortless mix of Southern charm, youthful energy, and great food! In addition, for us it’s been easy and affordable getting to from Atlanta!
We enjoyed the buzzing downtown filled with cafés, and breweries, paired with quiet corners of campus green, botanical gardens, and art galleries. Athens balances culture and relaxation really well, in my opinion.
Athens’s a place where history and creativity intertwine. We saw Civil War–era homes, well-known music venues and cozy local eateries. For a day away from Atlanta, Athens offers a chance to slow down, explore, and soak in a town that hums with its own rhythm.
In one day, we:
- Explored the historic downtown, with stops at record shops, boutiques, and local cafés
- Visited the Georgia Museum of Art to take in both classic and contemporary collections
- Had lunch at Last Resort Grill, a local favorite blending Southern flavors with modern twists
- You can go on a self-guided walk around the University of Georgia campus. Don't miss the iconic Arch and Chapel Bell±
- We finished the day with live music at the historic 40 Watt Club, a legendary venue in Athens’ music scene
My personal highlight was strolling through the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. It was super peaceful right in the middle of the city, with walking trails and themed gardens.
2. Columbus, Georgia - 1 hour 35 minutes from Atlanta
Sitting along the Chattahoochee River, this is one of the most underrated small cities I’ve visited in Georgia, and I think it’s one of the best day-trip destinations from Atlanta. Why? This river city blends outdoor fun with museums and cafés.
The first time I visited, Columbus surprised me with its blend of riverfront adventure, Civil War history, and a revitalized downtown that feels both modern and deeply rooted in the past.
I loved getting to know the energy of the Chattahoochee RiverWalk, the stories preserved in museums and old mills. To me, The "Fountain City" feels both adventurous and reflective.
In one day, we:
- Started with a walk (or bike ride) along the Chattahoochee RiverWalk, a scenic trail following the river
- Visited the National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center, an award-winning space honoring military history
- Explore the Columbus Museum!
- I ended the day with dinner and a show at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts downtown
My personal highlight was lunch at Epic Restaurant with river views and great Southern cuisine.
3. Stone Mountain Park - 35 minutes from Atlanta
I thought that this place was one of the best day trips from Atlanta when I moved to the South. Why? Stone Mountain Park is one of those places where natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a touch of history all come together just outside Atlanta.
Centered around the massive granite dome, the park offers trails, lakes, and attractions that make it feel both iconic and approachable. It’s a spot where you can be as active or as relaxed as you’d like, all within a short drive from the city which is what I've always loved.
We loved visiting during the Yellow Daisy Festival, held annually at Stone Mountain Park.
You can go hiking to sweeping summit views, paddling across quiet waters, wandering through historic displays, and enjoying family-friendly attractions. The balance of outdoor exploration and curated experiences makes Stone Mountain feel like a choose-your-own-adventure kind of day.
- Skyride Summit gondola website
- Lasershow Spectacular website
- Map & Directions
My absolute favorite highlight was a picnic by Stone Mountain Lake. I think it's a peaceful local gem perfect for relaxing.
4. Blue Ridge - 1 hour 45 minutes from Atlanta
Tucked into the North Georgia mountains like a little postcard, this is one of the most peaceful yet lively mountain towns I’ve ever visited, and I think it’s one of the best quick day trips from Atlanta.
To me, Blue Ridge feels like a mountain retreat designed for slowing down and savoring the moment. I love that it's a place where I can sip coffee downtown at Mountain Mama's Coffee Lounge in the morning and find myself surrounded by mountain ridges and waterfalls by afternoon.
In one day, we:
- Strolled through downtown Blue Ridge, browsing art galleries, boutiques, and cafés
- Visited the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway depot and watched the historic train depart
- Took a short hike on the Aska Trails
- Had lunch at Harvest on Main, a farm-to-table favorite downtown
- Relaxed by Lake Blue Ridge, a peaceful spot for walking or picnicking
Visiting the Toccoa River Swinging Bridge was my personal highlight. It had been on my list of quirky places to visit for a long time.
5. Macon, Georgia - 1 hour 35 minutes from Atlanta
. I thought this was one of the best day-trip destinations from Atlanta when I moved to the South. Why? First off, I loved having so many things to do in in this city where history and music run deep.
In addition, to me it’s the kind of destination that pulls you in from multiple directions. One moment you’re in a museum honoring music legends, the next you’re walking through blooming neighborhoods or tasting Southern comfort food.
In one day, you can:
- Check out Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park
- Explore African American art and culture at the Tubman Museum
- Tour the opulent Hay House, known as the “Palace of the South”
- Stop for lunch at The Rookery, a Macon institution with famous burgers and shakes
- Step into rock & roll history at the Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House
My personal highlight was Cherry Street with its shops, murals, and live music.
6. Dahlonega - 1 hour 20 minutes from Atlanta
Ready for a mountain-town adventure? Check out Dahlonega—a real standout! I fell for this storybook mountain town, filled with charm, history, and natural beauty. Nestled in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains and just over an hour from Atlanta, it’s best known as the site of America’s first major gold rush, but today, it’s equally beloved for its wineries, waterfalls, and welcoming downtown square. Chris and I both think that the 3-star Smith House Historic Inn and Restaurant is an amazing place for romantic two day weekend.
What stood out most was how walkable and inviting it is: brick sidewalks lined with shops and cafés, history preserved in small museums, and vineyards rolling across the nearby hills. Dahlonega blends heritage with relaxation, offering a day that feels both enriching and restorative.
It’s a place where you can explore at an easy pace, dipping into the past, savoring local flavors, and venturing out into the surrounding mountains. For a day trip, Dahlonega offers a perfect mix of small-town warmth and natural escapes that completely won me over.
In one day, you can:
- Stroll around the historic town square, browsing boutiques, galleries, and cafés
- Visit the Dahlonega Gold Museum to learn about the 1828 gold rush
- Explore nearby waterfalls like Cane Creek Falls or Amicalola Falls
- Spent the afternoon wine tasting at Three Sisters Vineyards in the Dahlonega Plateau American Viticultural Area
- Ended the day with mountain views at a scenic overlook along the Appalachian foothills
We had lunch at Picnic Café & Dessertery, a cozy spot right off the square which was a highlight.
7. Mableton - 25 minutes from Atlanta
Set along the Chattahoochee River, Mableton is one of the most underrated pockets of metro Atlanta I’ve visited, and I think it’s one of the best quick escapes when you want a mix of nature, quiet neighborhoods, and easy access to trails.
It’s the kind of spot that makes for a relaxed day trip, one where you can enjoy music, step into history, and still find time to stretch your legs in the fresh air. Close to Atlanta yet distinctly its own, Mableton is a reminder that small discoveries are often just around the corner.
In one day, we:
- Explored the Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre
- Walked the riverside trails at Heritage Park, a hidden natural escape nearby
- Drove a short stretch to the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area for an afternoon hike
My personal highlight was visiting the Mable House Historic Site and learning about its 19th-century past.
8. Toccoa Falls - 1 hour 40 minutes from Atlanta
Ready for a history-rich, nature-filled escape from Atlanta? Check out Toccoa Falls—a real standout!
This place feels like a hidden gem tucked into the foothills of Northeast Georgia, a place where natural beauty takes center stage in the most unexpected way. Located on the campus of Toccoa Falls College, this waterfall drops an incredible 186 feet, making it taller than Niagara, yet it’s remarkably easy to reach.
I loved that one moment I was passing through a quiet college campus, and just a few steps later I was standing before a thundering cascade framed by rock walls and forest.
I think that Toccoa Falls is one of the best day trips in Georgia. Why? For a a quick but unforgetable day trip, I think that Toccoa Falls offers nature’s grandeur in its purest form.
In one day, we:
- Walked the short path to Toccoa Falls and took in the dramatic 186-foot cascade
- Browsed the Gate Cottage Gift Shop, located at the entrance to the trail
- Had lunch in downtown Toccoa. The Bearded Bean Coffee had tasty Latin food and great pastries.
- Visited the Currahee Military Museum, honoring the WWII paratroopers who trained nearby
- Took a short scenic drive along Currahee Mountain
We went on a peaceful walk by the Tugaloo River before heading back which was the highlight.
9. Lake Lanier - 1 hour 10 minutes from Atlanta
This is my favorite quick day trip from Atlanta. Why? First off, it's literally the city's backyard escape, a vast blue expanse surrounded by rolling hills, marinas, and hidden coves. In addition, I love that just under an hour from the city, it’s a place where I can spend the day on the water, relax by the shore, or simply soak in the beauty of Georgia’s largest lake. Whether you’re chasing adventure or quiet moments, I think that Lake Lanier delivers both.
I think these are the best things to do in a day:
- Relax at Lake Lanier Olympic Park, a scenic spot with trails and picnic areas
- Rent a pontoon boat to explore the lake’s islands and hidden coves
- Stop for a swim at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, water attractions
- Stop for lunch lakeside at Fish Tales Lakeside Grille, known for casual dockside dining
My personal highlight was watching kayakers on the quieter northern stretches of the lake.
10. Callaway Gardens - 1 hour 15 minutes from Atlanta
Spread across thousands of acres in Pine Mountain, this is one of the most beautifully curated nature destinations I’ve visited in Georgia, and I think it’s one of the best day-trips from Atlanta. Why? First off, this is a place where gardens, trails, and lakes all come together for a peaceful escape. In addition, about an hour and a half from Atlanta, it’s both a family-friendly destination and a haven for anyone who loves the outdoors. Every corner seems designed to slow your pace and invite you into the landscape.
It was our anniversary and we loved strolling through lush gardens, watching butterflies swirl inside a glass conservatory, and relaxing lakeside. Callaway balances activity and tranquility beautifully, making it easy to spend a full day immersed in nature without ever feeling rushed.
In one day you can:
- Wander through the Callaway Brothers Azalea Bowl (try to visit in spring if you can!)
- Visit the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center and admire thousands of free-flying butterflies
- You can rent a bike to ride onthe Discovery Bicycle Trail
- Have lunch at the Discovery Café with views of the grounds
- Relax by Robin Lake Beach. It's very popular in the summer.
For me, Callaway Gardens is one of the best day trips from Atlanta because it's peaceful, fragrant and unique!
We went for a quiet walk through the Meadowlark Garden, a personal highlight.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
