Day Trips in Georgia

Location:

Athens, GA

Highlights:

If you're planning a trip through Georgia, don’t skip Athens. This charming town blends historic elegance with a cool college vibe and tons of local culture.

We Recommend This For:

History buffs, music lovers, art enthusiasts, nature seekers, and anyone craving a lively yet laid-back Southern getaway.

What we Love:

19th-century architecture, legendary indie music roots, botanical gardens, and an energetic downtown filled with shops and restaurants.

• Explore historic homes like the T.R.R. Cobb House and the Taylor Grady House—both preserved as public museums.
• Immerse yourself in the local music scene that gave us R.E.M., the B-52s, and more.
• Visit the Georgia Museum of Art or enjoy peaceful trails at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia.
• Shop and dine in the Victorian-era downtown packed with unique boutiques and eateries.
• Time your trip to catch the summer’s AthFest music and arts festival for a full local experience.

Distance from Atlanta:

Roughly a 1 hour and 30 minute drive northeast of downtown.

How to Get to Athens:

Take I-85 North from Atlanta to GA-316 East. Continue on GA-316 East until it merges with US-29, then follow signs into Athens.

Quick weekend itinerary:

Location:

Thomasville, GA

Highlights:

Looking for a getaway that mixes rich history with nature and small-town charm? Thomasville is one of those hidden gems that’s perfect for a relaxed day trip or a low-key weekend.

We Recommend This For:

History fans, nature lovers, foodies, and couples or families seeking a charming Southern escape.

What we Love:

Historic homes and museums, scenic outdoor spaces, unique shopping, and a surprisingly vibrant dining scene.

• Tour the town’s many historical landmarks, including museums and the Thomasville History Center.
• Wander through the Thomasville Rose Garden or enjoy peaceful time at Cherokee Lake Park.
• Bike the area’s scenic trails or stroll through the shops in the walkable downtown district.
• Visit Birdsong Nature Center for a mix of wildlife, walking trails, and birdwatching.
• Taste your way through town on a food tour, then unwind at one of the many local restaurants and bars.

Distance from Atlanta:

Around 4 hours and 15 minutes by car, heading south.

How to Get to Thomasville:

Take I-75 South from Atlanta. Exit onto US-19 South in Albany and continue into Thomasville. ``

Location:

McIntosh County, GA

Highlights:

Want a wild, off-the-grid coastal adventure with a dash of pirate lore? Blackbeard Island is a secluded sanctuary teeming with nature, only reachable by boat or kayak.

We Recommend This For:

Adventurers, birdwatchers, kayakers, photographers, and anyone craving remote, untouched coastal wilderness.

What we Love:

Secluded beaches, legendary pirate history, migratory birdwatching, and a rare sense of wild solitude.

• Access this 5,618-acre National Wildlife Refuge via boat, kayak, or guided excursion—no roads or bridges here!
• Explore the island’s rich ecosystems with hiking and biking trails through maritime forest, salt marsh, and sandy dunes.
• Watch for shorebirds and migratory species protected by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
• Fish from surf or creeks with proper permits—just be sure to check seasonal regulations.
• Note the island is open daily sunrise to sunset, except during two annual three-day hunts requiring advance registration.

Distance from Savannah:

About 1 hour and 45 minutes to the nearest mainland access point by car, plus boat time.

How to Get to Blackbeard Island:

Drive to the Harris Neck area or other nearby boat ramps, then take a private boat, kayak, or join a local tour to reach the island.

Location:

Madison, GA

Highlights:

If you love elegant architecture, small-town charm, and boutique shopping, Madison is one of those towns that feels like a perfect Southern postcard come to life.

We Recommend This For:

Architecture lovers, antique hunters, history buffs, and anyone looking for a picturesque weekend escape.

What we Love:

Stately Antebellum homes, unique shops and restaurants, and a calendar full of charming seasonal events.

• Stroll through one of Georgia’s largest National Historic Districts and tour select Antebellum homes open to the public.
• Shop your way through hundreds of downtown boutiques, antique stores, and artisan shops.
• Dine on everything from down-home Southern BBQ to elegant Mediterranean fare.
• Hike or picnic at nearby Hard Labor Creek, one of the state’s biggest and most scenic parks.
• Join in annual celebrations like the Firefly Festival, Chamber Music Festival, and the beloved Spring Tour of Homes and Gardens.

Distance from Atlanta:

About 1 hour and 15 minutes east of downtown.

How to Get to Madison:

Take I-20 East from Atlanta to Exit 114 (GA-441 South). Follow signs straight into downtown Madison.

Location:

Canton, GA

Highlights:

Need a refreshing mix of mountain views, small-town charm, and lively local events? Canton is a scenic riverside gem with great parks and a buzzing historic downtown.

We Recommend This For:

Outdoor lovers, families, weekend wanderers, and fans of community festivals and local shopping.

What we Love:

Walkable downtown streets, lush parks along the Etowah River, and year-round events full of personality.

• Explore the historic downtown district through the Canton Main Street Program, packed with shops, restaurants, and cultural spots.
• Relax in public parks like Boling Park, Heritage Park, and Etowah River Park—with an amphitheater and scenic trails.
• Bike or hike the Etowah River Trail while soaking up Blue Ridge Mountain vibes.
• Catch local events like the Canton Farmers' Market, First Friday celebrations, and the spicy annual Chili Cook-Off.

Distance from Atlanta:

About 45 minutes to 1 hour north, depending on traffic.

How to Get to Canton:

Take I-75 North from Atlanta to I-575 North. Follow I-575 to Exit 20 for GA-5 Business, which leads straight into downtown Canton.

Romantic Day Trips in Georgia:

Location:

Off the coast of St. Marys, GA

Highlights:

Craving an untouched escape with wild beaches, historic ruins, and a hint of mystery? Cumberland Island is a breathtaking barrier island rich in both natural beauty and Carnegie family history.

We Recommend This For:

Nature lovers, history buffs, adventure seekers, and anyone dreaming of a truly off-the-beaten-path retreat.

What we Love:

Windswept beaches, wild horses, haunting mansion ruins, and a quiet stillness you can’t find anywhere else.

• Visit iconic sites like the Dungeness Ruins and the Georgian Revival-style Plum Orchard mansion, once Carnegie family homes.
• See the First African Baptist Church, known for its simplicity and its JFK Jr. wedding connection.
• Learn about the island's unique ecology and legacy at the visitor center and museum in St. Marys.
• Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including swimming, biking, boating, kayaking, and guided nature tours.
• Camp or hike through miles of undeveloped wilderness teeming with birds, turtles, and wild horses.

Distance from Savannah:

Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes south to the St. Marys ferry dock.

How to Get to Cumberland Island:

Drive to St. Marys, GA, then board the official National Park Service ferry. Advance reservations are recommended. Once on the island, explore by foot or bike—no cars allowed.

Location:

Dahlonega, GA

Highlights:

Ever dreamed of striking gold or sipping wine in the mountains? Dahlonega is a delightful blend of rich history, scenic beauty, and vineyard charm—all just an hour from Atlanta.

We Recommend This For:

History lovers, wine enthusiasts, art and music fans, and anyone craving a picturesque mountain town getaway.

What we Love:

Gold rush legends, charming tasting rooms, artsy college vibes, and quick access to epic waterfalls and forest trails.

• Step back in time at the Dahlonega Gold Museum in the city’s 1836 courthouse and learn about the 1828 gold rush.
• Tour an underground gold mine at Consolidated Gold Mine—complete with hard hats and rich stories.
• Sample local wines at one of many tasting rooms around the historic Public Square.
• Experience visual and performing arts at the University of North Georgia, including the Bob Owens Art Gallery and music concerts.
• Hike to Amicalola Falls and explore the lush beauty of Chattahoochee National Forest just minutes away.

Distance from Atlanta:

Roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes north by car.

How to Get to Dahlonega:

Take GA-400 North until it ends, then follow GA-60 or US-19 into the heart of downtown Dahlonega.

Location:

Duluth, GA

Highlights:

Want a low-key day trip with charm, culture, and great walkability? Duluth is a safe, artsy suburb with small-town vibes just a short hop from Atlanta.

We Recommend This For:

Families, art lovers, train enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a relaxed getaway with entertainment and great food.

What we Love:

Historic downtown strolls, a thriving local arts scene, railway history, and free concerts on the green.

• Explore Duluth’s charming downtown with its connected sidewalks, bike paths, boutiques, and Southern-style eateries.
• Catch live music or theater at the Red Clay Music Foundry and check out art shows at the Hudgens Center for the Arts and Sculpture Garden.
• Step aboard vintage Pullman cars, cabooses, and locomotives at the Southeastern Railway Museum.
• Celebrate local culture with events like the Duluth Fall Festival and the Town Green’s free concert series.

Distance from Atlanta:

About 30 to 40 minutes northeast by car, depending on traffic.

How to Get to Duluth:

Take I-85 North from Atlanta to Exit 105 (GA-120 West). Follow signs to downtown Duluth.

Family Day Trips in Georgia:

Location:

Fayetteville, GA

Highlights:

Looking for history with a modern twist and fun for the whole family? Fayetteville delivers charming streets, cultural gems, and one of Georgia’s best family amusement spots—all just south of Atlanta.

We Recommend This For:

History buffs, families with kids, Civil War enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a small-town feel close to the city.

What we Love:

Historic homes and museums, literary connections, and a surprisingly fun amusement park experience for all ages.

• Tour the 1825 Fayette County Courthouse—Georgia’s oldest surviving courthouse—and explore the town’s preserved Main Street charm.
• Step inside the Holliday-Dorsey-Fife House and walk through Civil War and local history at the Margaret Mitchell Library.
• Play at Fun Spot America Atlanta with more than two dozen rides, arcade games, and Georgia’s only multi-level go-kart track.

Distance from Atlanta:

Roughly 30 to 35 minutes south by car.

How to Get to Fayetteville:

Take I-75 or I-85 South from Atlanta, then connect to GA-92 or GA-85 to reach downtown Fayetteville.

Location:

Helen, GA

Highlights:

Want to feel like you’ve stepped into a Bavarian village—without leaving Georgia? Helen is a mountain town full of charm, adventure, and old-world flair.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, families, wine lovers, outdoor adventurers, and anyone craving a unique cultural twist on a mountain getaway.

What we Love:

Quaint Alpine architecture, artisan shopping, German eats, outdoor fun, and scenic waterfalls all in one spot.

• Wander through over 200 specialty shops—from candlemakers and glassblowers to antique treasures.
• Dine on hearty German and Southern fare at one of the town’s many cozy restaurants.
• Play outside at Unicoi State Park—hike, bike, or swim in serene Unicoi Lake.
• Taste award-winning local vintages at Habersham Winery or explore history at Hardman Farm State Historic Site and the Nacoochee Mound.
• Experience thrills with ziplining, tubing, go-karting, and visits to the stunning Anna Ruby Falls.

Distance from Atlanta:

Around 1 hour and 45 minutes northeast of the city.

How to Get to Helen:

Take I-85 North to I-985 North, then continue on GA-384 and GA-75 into downtown Helen.