Best Places to Visit in Georgia, USA

When people ask me where they should go in Georgia, I'm a little biased. I always want to plan another road trip to Georgia's sandy beaches, waterfalls and lakes that I explored during two months while living there as a local. But just as mazing are Georgia's cities! This is exactly why I decided to share my best things to do in Georgia so that you can use my guide as an inspiration to plan your own road trip or even just a quick day trip nearby.

Wherever you decide to go in The Peach State, you’ll find yourself wrapped in Southern charm, natural beauty, and a mix great things to do. From my many trips exploring this diverse state, and our recent four week road trip, here’s my collection of favorite destinations and experiences. I hope you will enjoy them too.

Best Places to Visit in North Georgia (Mountains & Foothills)

This region is perfect when I'm in the mood for hiking, waterfalls, and a romantic weekend getaway surrounded by nature.

Things to Do in Blue Ridge

We absolutely love Blue Ridge, and have been many times since we moved to the South. It was an easy drive on our road trip from Atlanta (under 2 hours north by car). You'll find it near the Tennessee and North Carolina borders, so it's an easy day trip destination for many people.

But, what instantly made Blue Ridge one of my places to visit in Georgia was actually the surrounding nature. First thing the morning, I recommend exploring the nearby trails and waterfalls. Then enjoy a slow afternoon back in town. I'd definitely recommend planning some time around browsing Main Street’s historic brick storefronts from the early 1900s. The Swan Drive-In Theatre (open since 1955!) gave this trip a nostalgic flavor I adored.

My personal highlight was an amazing BLT at Harvest on Main where are refueled for lunch. The BLT came with rosemary potatoes and a slice of house-made pickle.

If you have kids and a little bit more time, my son loved riding on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway ($52, 26-mile round trip along the Toccoa River in vintage coaches).

Toccoa Falls Waterfall

Welcome to Georgia’s most breathtaking natural wonder and one of the best underrated gems in the state! Now, first things first, Toccoa Falls is honestly one of those vacation places that takes your breath away and instantly became my favorite thing to see on our journey through Georgia.

I love that it's easy to get to. You'll find it on the campus of Toccoa Falls College. It's a 186-foot waterfall, taller than famous Niagara Falls!

I loved that the falls are located directly on the college grounds, with a short and easy walking path leading to the viewing area. It's unmatched accessibility makes it perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. We thought it was cool how the gentle trail allows you to take in the sights without a strenuous hike.

Beyond the falls, I think you'll enjoy exploring the town of Toccoa with its historic downtown, local shops, and museums.

If you want to stay overnight, while there aren’t hotels at the falls themselves, Downtown Toccoa offers boutique stays and bed-and-breakfasts (from $92/night), while larger resorts and lodges are available in surrounding areas like Clarkesville or Tallulah Falls.

Lucille's Mountain Top Inn & Spa - 1 hour 35 minutes from Atlanta, GA

This is one of my favorite weekend getaways from Atlanta, and honestly I think it's one of the best mountain escapes in the U.S. because it truly lives up to its name. You really do feel like you’re perched on top of the world!

I felt completely captivated the moment I reached Lucille’s Mountain Top Inn & Spa in the Blue Ridge Mountains. I loved how our romantic room for two days had floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony. My favorite moments were watching the sunrise when I woke up early.

I spent our first afternoon at the spa where I had a 60-minute massage and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. It was the coolest way to recharge surrounded by nature.

You can explore the nearby wineries, hiking trails, and towns.

I also recommend ending the evening sitting on the terrace, watching the stars emerge above the mountains.

Best Places to Visit in Metro Atlanta

I love the world-class dining, culture, and entertainment alongside walkable downtowns and green spaces.

What to Do in Atlanta

Ready for a culture-packed getaway with heaps of things to do? Check out Atlanta, one of my favorite places in Georgia!

My mind was instantly blown by the contrast of tall skyscrapers on one hand and historic neighborhoods on the other. I love the food scene in Atlanta too. If you are a foodie this is the place for you to visit in Georgia!

I recommend heading to the Atlanta BeltLine first, an urban trail (a former railway corridor!) with murals, cafés, and greenery that connects several neighborhoods. My personal highlight was the Atlanta History Center, where you get to learn a lot about history all in one place, from the Civil War through the Civil Rights Movement.

If you’re spending just one day in Atlanta, I think you should consider heading downtown to visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. Walking through this area is incredibly powerful because you can visit Dr. King’s childhood home, Ebenezer Baptist Church, and learn about Atlanta’s role in the Civil Rights Movement. From there, it’s easy to explore nearby attractions like Centennial Olympic Park, the World of Coca-Cola, or the Georgia Aquarium which won numerous awards like the WAZA Conservation Award for its whale shark program and the Evoqua Water Sustainability Award.

I also recommend taking a break from exploring and stopping at Swan Coach House for amazing Afternoon Tea.

In the afternoon, my personal highlight was picking up snacks at Ponce City Market for an hour. It's actually open all day, from 10am to 9pm (11m to 8 pm on Sundays), so you can go any time.

Local tips:

To get around Atlanta, I suggest using MARTA whenever it makes sense, especially if you’re staying downtown or midtown. MARTA trains and buses are cheap (around $2.50 USD one way) and connect major areas like the airport, downtown attractions, and midtown neighborhoods.

I recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and starting early—Atlanta is spread out, but if you plan well, you can see a lot without feeling rushed.

I’ll warn you that Atlanta can feel deceptively close on a map, but distances add up quickly. Early on, we found it helpful to focus on one or two areas rather than bouncing all over the city. Taking a guided tour during our first visit really helped us understand the layout and history while making the most of our time. Now that we know the city well after so many visits, exploring on our own is easy!

Need a place to stay? No worries, there's heaps of choices for a vacation, even at the last minute.

What I loved best:

Last time we caught the Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival in March which celebrated spring so well with music, food and a lively social scene, my favorite highlight.

Marietta

This is one of the coolest small cities to visit near Atlanta! Its easygoing energy perfect for a day trip (or a romantic weekend getaway!) in Georgia.

We drove about 30 minutes northwest from Atlanta to Marietta, and I started exploring at the lively Marietta Square. Here you'll see boutiques, antique shops, and locally owned restaurants encircle a park with a fountain (in this photo). We enjoyed our time at the Marietta Square Market, a restored warehouse turned food hall. You can sample Southern comfort food and buy snacks for an affordable picnic lunch.

You can see history come to life at the Gone With the Wind Museum. In the afternoon, we hiked along part of Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park (2,965 acres, free entry) which offers interpretive trails that make the Civil War history come alive.

From Marietta we drove about 30 minutes to Cartersville on a side road trip. I'm most definitely not an expert because we only spent a few hours but it was a lovely place and I added it on my Georgia bucket list for our next road trip soon! My personal highlight was an amazing sandwich at The City Cellar & Loft in Cartersville for lunch.

Best Places to Visit in Central & East Georgia

My favorites in this region are college-town energy in Athens, Southern charm in Madison, and rich heritage along the Savannah River in Augusta.

Alpharetta

Ready for a food-and-fun-filled day just outside Atlanta? For me, Alpharetta is one of the absolute favorite places for a Georgia day trip. We started at Avalon, where tree-lined paths, glowing storefronts, and cafés created the kind of atmosphere that instantly puts you in a great mood.

My favorite part was strolling hand in hand through the open-air streets, stopping whenever something caught our eye.

Downtown Alpharetta had a warm feel, with brick sidewalks, historic touches, and so many great restaurants it was hard to choose where to stop. I recommend at Southern-inspired dishes The Southern Porch, exactly the kind of food you talk about long after the plates are cleared.

Macon - 1 hour 35 minutes from Atlanta

What I love about vacationing in Macon is that it’s easy to get around and has more than enough history, music, and great food to fill an entire weekend!

Getting to Macon is straightforward if you’re coming from Atlanta, with the drive taking about an hour and a half via I-75. Once you’re in town, having a car is the easiest way to get around, though the downtown area itself is very walkable.

Now, first things first, I think you should definitely tour the opulent Hay House, known as the “Palace of the South”. Afterwards, explore African American art at the Tubman Museum, and spend some time walking through downtown. Macon is deeply connected to music history and is also home to beautiful architecture, local shops, and great Southern food.

You can stroll along the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail, visit Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, stop for live music, explore museums, and enjoy classic comfort food.

I suggest stopping for lunch at The Rookery, a Macon institution with famous burgers and shakes! Afterwards, step into rock & roll history at the Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House to round out your day!

My Absolute personal highlight was Cherry Street with its shops, murals, and live music.

Things to Do in Athens, GA

Ready for a fun, culture-filled getaway? We absolutely love Athens, GA, and have visited several times. Athens is best known as the home of the University of Georgia, but it’s also one of the most influential music towns in the country.

After flying into Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) we drove 1 hour 30 minutes east.

Starting the day at Mama’s Boy was my favorite, the beloved breakfast spot where locals and travelers alike line up for biscuit sandwiches, creamy grits, and sweet tea.

We spent two lively days catching indie shows at the legendary 40 Watt Club, browsing vinyl at Wuxtry Records, and wandering through the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. To take it all in, you can join a tour with a local guide.

My favorite museums were at the Georgia Museum of Natural History and the Athens Institute for Contemporary Arts. I have to warn you, though, that parking can be a challenge!

Augusta

Set along the Savannah River, this is one of the most elegant cities I’ve explored in Georgia, and I think it’s one of the absolute best weekend getaways in the state. Why? Now, first things first, Augusta has historic neighborhoods, a revitalized downtown, and artsy pockets. In addition, we adored beautiful river views here, and a legacy tied to both music and golf by hosting the famous Masters Tournament .

We drove about 2 hr 15 min east from Atlanta to Augusta, one of Georgia’s oldest cities, founded in 1736. I recommend going for a walk along the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area (free trails, boat tours $14) to learn how this 1840s waterway powered textile mills.

Downtown, touring the boyhood home of President Woodrow Wilson (1858, $5 tours) was a standout, where Young Woodrow Wilson (then Thomas Woodrow Wilson) lived from around 1860 until 1870 (ages about 4–14) during his formative years overlapping the Civil War and Reconstruction.

For lunch, Hildebrandt’s is a solid choice, a family-run deli just a few blocks away. I ordered the German roast beef sandwich on rye, with a side of warm potato salad spiced with mustard and onion.

If you are wondering when to visit, spring is especially popular thanks to azaleas in bloom and the Masters, but fall and winter, for me, are quieter and great for sightseeing.

If you’re visiting for a day or two, you’ll need to be selective about what you see. Personally, the Augusta Riverwalk also tops my list. It’s a lovely scenic stretch along the Savannah River with walking paths, gardens, and great views, especially around sunset.

Madison - 1 hour and 15 minutes from Atlanta

Ahh Madison...one of the South’s best-kept secrets. This charming small town is often called the prettiest town in Georgia. Known for its graceful antebellum (pre-Civil-War) architecture, Madison feels like stepping into a slower era. If you love history, this is a day trip that absolutely deserves a spot on your list.

The town dates back to the early 1800s and somehow survived the Civil War well preserved. Walking through downtown honestly feels like wandering through a living museum.

You can enjoy the Madison Historic District, tour the Heritage Hall mansion, and browse local art at the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center.

Food-wise, you can choose classic Southern comfort food and charming farm-to-table spots.

Don't miss a drive along the Antebellum Trail, a scenic route linking Georgia’s most picturesque historic towns.

Where to Go in South Georgia

This area offers a slower pace and deep Southern charm, perfect for a day trip reset!

Things to Do in Thomasville on a Day Trip

Thomasville might not be on every traveler’s radar—but, for me, that’s exactly what makes it such a hidden gem. You'll find it in the rolling Red Hills of southwest Georgia,

Thomasville may be small, but it packs far more character than you’d expect. In fact, known as the “Winter Resort of the South” during the Victorian era, Thomasville has long attracted visitors seeking warm weather, good food, and hospitality.

So what is there to see in Thomasville? A great place to start is Downtown Thomasville. We caught the town as it was preparing for spring events. There were hints of the Rose Festival to come, with wreaths of blossoms appearing on storefronts and banners fluttering downtown. This festival is where Thomasville's nickname "The Rose City" comes from.

You can browse antique stores and indie boutiques on Broad Street, sip sweet tea at Grassroots Coffee, and visit the legendary Big Oak, a centuries-old tree so grand it feels almost alive with memory. For me, wandering through Pebble Hill was a standout, a beautifully preserved estate surrounded by gardens.

And of course, Thomasville takes food seriously. The city is known for its Southern cuisine, and we loved the way places like Jonah’s Fish & Grits and Sweet Grass Dairy Cheese Shop highlight local flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re craving comfort food or something more contemporary, I can guarantee that you won’t leave hungry.

Money-Saving Tip: Many of Thomasville’s best experiences are either free or inexpensive. Walking downtown, browsing local shops, and enjoying public spaces cost nothing, and attractions like the History Center and Pebble Hill are reasonably priced. If you plan your visit around local festivals or farmers markets, you can experience the city’s culture without stretching your budget at all.

Need a place to stay? Check out 3-star Hampton Inn Thomasville which is comfortable and affordable.

Best Day Trips to Coastal Georgia

Georgia's beaches are among my favorites in the world, and I've spent some of the most magical weekends here!

Tybee Island

It's not really possible to talk about the places to vacation in Georgia without this beautiful island! If you’re craving salty air, sandy beaches, and laid-back coastal vibes, Tybee Island delivers in the best way.

Tybee Island feels worlds away from Savannah though it’s only about 30 minutes down the road. When friends ask me where to go on a beach vacation in Georgia, Tybee Island is the first choice that pops into my head.

One of the island’s highlights is Tybee Island Beach, which stretches across several distinct areas. North Beach is quieter and more scenic, while South Beach is lively and close to shops, restaurants, and the iconic pier.

You can go swimming, sunbathing, fishing, or simply watching the waves roll in.

When I was feeling active, we climbed the steps of the Tybee Island Light Station (178 steps, $12 admission), my personal highlight. Nearby, history lovers should check out Fort Pulaski National Monument, where you can walk through a well-preserved Civil War–era fort surrounded by coastal wetlands.

Lunch at The Crab Shack is not to be missed, a unique historic eatery with wonderful sunset views. We were there during the annual Tybee Island Pirate Fest in October which was extra fun.

Things to Do in Savannah

It goes without saying that this is one of the most charming cities in the United States, and it quickly became one of my favorite places to visit in Georgia when I moved to the South.

What I found especially interesting about Savannah is how walkable and thoughtfully laid out the historic district is. The city is built around 22 picturesque squares, each with its own personality. There are also heaps of monuments, and shady benches. I love the way these squares connect everything (museums, churches, cafes) making Savannah easily explorable.

Hands down, the best way to experience Savannah is simply by walking through the Historic District. You’ll pass beautiful row houses, hidden courtyards, and centuries-old landmarks at every turn. My favorite spot is Forsyth Park, especially near the iconic white fountain. It’s the perfect place to slow down and people-watch.

We flew about 3.5 hours from Austin (950 miles) into Savannah and for two days. I started my morning at Foxy Loxy Café, nibbling on warm kolaches in the courtyard before going out and exploring.

Midday, we joined the Savannah Taste Experience food tour, which threaded through local eateries and taught me the stories behind local staples (like pralines and shrimp & grits!). Later, I rolled up my sleeves at Chef Darin’s Kitchen Table for a hands-on class—part cooking lesson, part Savannah history, fully delicious.

My personal highlight was dinner; a classic Lowcountry affair at The Olde Pink House.

The only caveat: the city’s popularity means some venues can feel crowded at peak times.

Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island

I thought this beach was one of the most otherworldly coastal landscapes I’ve ever seen! it was incredibly beautiful with bleached driftwood trees scattered like sculptures along the sand. Then there are the tidal pools, and the endless horizon that gave the place an almost surreal feel.

We drove about 1 hr 40 min south from Savannah (90 miles on I-95) to Jekyll Island (population 1,300), a famous retreat since the gilded age.

Before heading to the beach, I recommend stopping at the Jekyll Island Historic District (240 acres, $9 daily parking fee) and admiring grand “cottages” built by Rockefellers and Pulitzers.

For me, what makes Driftwood Beach so fascinating is how it came to be. I learned that years of erosion reshaped this part of the island, leaving behind sun-bleached oak and pine trees that now sit tangled along the sand. You'll see for yourself that no two pieces of driftwood look the same!

Cumberland Island

Cumberland Island felt like stepping into a wild world. It's an untouched barrier island where you are greeted with windswept dunes and pristine beaches.

We drove about 45 minutes north from Jacksonville (35 miles on I-95) to St. Marys, then caught the ferry (45 minutes, $20 round trip) to Cumberland Island (Georgia’s largest barrier island, 36,000 acres of protected wilderness).

You can spend the day exploring maritime forests, salt marshes, and miles of empty shoreline. Yes, wild horses really wandered around freely... One of the highlights was walking through the haunting ruins of Dungeness Mansion, a once-grand Carnegie estate that you can visit.

I found this island to be one of the places to visit in Georgia when I moved to the South.

Our son was thrilled when we spotted crabs scuttling across the tidal flats. It was a cool reminder of how untouched this island still is by civilization.

Local tip: The island’s sheer size means it’s impossible to see it all in one visit so don't worry about packing it all into one day trip!

Map, Planning Tips and Conclusion

Hi, We are Ema and Chris and we've spent years on the road. While our website VacationIdea.com is small with under 200 pages and all the content written by just the two of us, you'll find a host of diverse and hidden vacation ideas for weekend getaways, day trips, and longer vacations, based on our personal travels. Keeping this website small allows us to keep it up to date with our latest discoveries and photos while we travel. We hope that reading this inspires you to travel to our favorite hidden gems. Why trust us? We founded this site decades ago and not only are we expert road trippers, but we also work with tourism agencies to stay pluggend into the latest openings and what's new and unique in travel. Chris is an award-winning photographer and designer, giving our contant a visually stunning polish. We've received many awards and media mentions for our work. More about us.