I first visited Georgia back in 2020, when remote work became the norm and I found myself drawn to its mix of city life and outdoor spaces. As one of many digital nomads who discovered the state during that time, I got to explore at my own pace, discovering spots that most tourists typically rush through.
What makes Georgia special is how it seamlessly blends the old with the new. From the busy streets of Atlanta with its modern attractions and food scene, to the quiet corners of Savannah where Spanish moss drapes over historic squares, to the peaceful trails winding through the North Georgia mountains – each visit reveals something different about the state’s character.
So, what are the best places to visit in Georgia? I’ve combined my personal experiences from multiple trips across the state with recommendations from local friends to create this carefully curated list of must-see destinations.
Savannah, Georgia
Many travelers come to Savannah for its historic district filled with Spanish moss-draped oak trees and antebellum mansions, but the city can also be considered a food lover’s paradise. The cobblestone streets of River Street and Broughton Street offer some of the South’s best restaurants, serving up classic dishes like shrimp and grits alongside modern interpretations of Low Country cuisine. While spring brings the famous St. Patrick’s Day parade and azalea blooms to Forsyth Park, you can find plenty to do in Savannah year-round, from ghost tours through historic squares to shopping at the City Market.
Atlanta, Georgia
Ever had a burger at The Varsity while watching planes land at the world’s busiest airport? That’s just another day in Atlanta, Georgia’s energetic capital city where Southern charm meets big-city buzz. The birthplace of Civil Rights legends and Coca-Cola, Atlanta serves up a perfect mix of history and modern culture. You can explore the massive Georgia Aquarium, walk the Atlanta BeltLine’s art-filled trails, or catch a Braves game at Truist Park. The city’s also home to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, where visitors can step into the story of America’s Civil Rights movement, and the World of Coca-Cola, where you can taste sodas from around the globe.
Jekyll Island, Georgia
Ever seen a sea turtle lay eggs on a moonlit beach? It’s a magical experience you can witness on Jekyll Island, a serene barrier island off Georgia’s Atlantic coast. This former winter playground of America’s wealthiest families now welcomes all visitors to explore its 10 miles of pristine beaches and centuries-old oak trees draped in Spanish moss. You can bike along winding trails, visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center to meet rescued turtles, or wander through the Historic District where grand Victorian cottages tell tales of the Gilded Age. The island’s Driftwood Beach, with its weathered trees creating natural sculptures against the shoreline, offers some of the most unique coastal views in the Southeast.
Tybee Island, Georgia
Head to Tybee Island for a laid-back beach escape just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah. This barrier island offers 5 miles of wide, sandy beaches where you can swim, surf, or simply lounge in the sun. Visit the Tybee Island Light Station, one of America’s oldest lighthouses, for panoramic views of the coastline and Atlantic Ocean. When you’re ready for a bite, stroll to any of the casual seafood spots along the pier, where you can dig into fresh-caught shrimp while watching dolphins play in the waves. It’s an ideal spot for families looking to combine beach time with a dash of history.
Helen, Georgia
If you’re looking for a taste of Bavaria without crossing the Atlantic, head to Helen, Georgia. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this charming Alpine village brings a slice of Germany to the South with its characteristic architecture, complete with half-timbered buildings and cobblestone walkways. The town offers traditional German restaurants serving schnitzel and bratwurst, plus a calendar full of festivals – including one of the longest-running Oktoberfest celebrations in the United States.
Blue Ridge, Georgia
Take a step back in time when you visit Blue Ridge, a charming mountain town in North Georgia. The historic downtown area features local shops and restaurants housed in buildings from the 1800s, while the nearby Blue Ridge Scenic Railway offers rides through the mountains on vintage trains. Nature lovers can explore the Chattahoochee National Forest’s hiking trails or spend a peaceful afternoon fishing for trout in the Toccoa River. For a taste of local flavor, stop by Mercier Orchards, a family-owned farm where you can pick your own apples and enjoy fresh-baked treats at their market.
Cumberland Island, Georgia
Just off Georgia’s southeastern coast lies Cumberland Island, the state’s largest and southernmost barrier island. Like other coastal retreats, it has pristine beaches and maritime forests, but what sets Cumberland apart is its wild, untamed character. As you stroll the island’s 17 miles of secluded beaches, you’ll spot wild horses roaming freely – descendants of domestic horses left behind centuries ago. The island’s rich history comes alive through the ruins of Dungeness, a mansion built by the Carnegie family in the 1880s, now softened by time and weathered by salt air. Because only 300 visitors are allowed on the island per day, and you can only reach it by ferry, Cumberland Island feels like a peaceful escape where nature and history blend together in the most unexpected ways.
Athens, Georgia
A little over an hour east of Atlanta sits Athens, home to the University of Georgia and a music scene that shaped bands like R.E.M. and the B-52s. Like many college towns, Athens has its share of buzzing bars, indie coffee shops, and late-night eateries. But unlike other university cities, it manages to blend Southern charm with an artistic edge that feels authentic rather than forced. Just walk down Broad Street past the Victorian-era buildings housing quirky boutiques and local music venues, and you’ll see what makes this place special. Because of its deep musical roots from the 1980s, Athens continues to draw creative types from across the Southeast, and you’ll find homegrown bands playing almost any night of the week in legendary venues like the 40 Watt Club.
Stone Mountain Park, Georgia
Just 16 miles east of Atlanta sits Stone Mountain Park, a natural wonder I first visited back in 2019. This massive granite dome rises 825 feet above the surrounding landscape, making it one of Georgia’s most recognizable landmarks. The park spans 3,200 acres of natural and recreational spaces, anchored by the iconic Confederate Memorial Carving etched into the mountain’s north face. Walking trails wind through pine forests and past lakes, while the Summit Skyride cable car carries visitors to the top for sweeping views of the Atlanta skyline. The park’s vintage railroad circles the base of the mountain, offering a relaxed journey through Georgia’s geological history, while the nearby village recreates life in the 1870s with period buildings and craft demonstrations.
Golden Isles, Georgia
Ever wondered what it’s like to walk on a pristine beach where wild horses roam free? That’s just another day in Georgia’s Golden Isles, a cluster of barrier islands along the Atlantic coast. Made up of St. Simons, Jekyll, Sea Island, and Little St. Simons, these laid-back coastal havens offer a perfect mix of Southern charm and natural beauty. You can spend your days biking under Spanish moss-draped oaks, fishing in the salt marshes, or exploring historic lighthouses that have guided ships for centuries. The islands are also home to some of the South’s finest golf courses and resorts, where you can sip sweet tea on a veranda while watching dolphins play in the distance.
Amicalola Falls State Park, Georgia
There’s something extraordinary about standing at the base of Amicalola Falls, Georgia’s tallest cascading waterfall. This 729-foot natural wonder anchors a state park that draws hikers and outdoor enthusiasts from across the Southeast. The park’s crown jewel is its 8.5-mile approach trail, which serves as the gateway to the famous Appalachian Trail and challenges visitors with 604 steps to the waterfall’s peak. It’s not just about the falls though – the park offers cozy lodge rooms, rustic cabins, and camping spots that let you wake up surrounded by the peaceful North Georgia mountains. While it’s a popular spot year-round, visiting in autumn when the forest transforms into shades of red and gold makes for an especially memorable experience.
Callaway Gardens, Georgia
About an hour southwest of Atlanta sits Callaway Gardens, a 2,500-acre nature retreat that feels like stepping into a secret garden. Unlike your typical botanical gardens, this place is all about getting close to nature – whether you’re walking through clouds of butterflies at the Day Butterfly Center or biking along 10 miles of woodland trails. The gardens have been around since the 1950s, and they still maintain that mid-century charm with their vintage cottages and meandering paths. What makes this spot special is how it changes with the seasons – from spring azaleas painting the grounds pink, to summer beach days at Robin Lake, to the famous Fantasy in Lights show that turns winter nights into a wonderland of color.
Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia
Located about two and a half hours south of Atlanta lies Providence Canyon State Park, affectionately known as Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon.” Unlike its Arizona cousin, this 1,003-acre park wasn’t carved by natural forces over millions of years – it formed in the 1800s due to poor farming practices. But what started as an environmental mishap has become one of Georgia’s most interesting geological features. The park’s colorful layers of orange, pink, and purple soil create patterns that look like they belong in the American Southwest, not the Deep South. Hikers can explore more than 10 miles of trails that wind through the canyons, while photographers often gather at sunset when the low light makes the soil colors really pop. Because it’s less visited than other Georgia parks, you’ll often have the trails and overlooks all to yourself.
Dahlonega, Georgia
About an hour north of Atlanta lies Dahlonega, a charming mountain town with deep roots in America’s first major gold rush. Like many historic towns in the South, Dahlonega has its share of antique shops, local restaurants, and friendly faces. But unlike the others, it feels like you’ve stumbled into a living piece of 1800s Georgia. Just peek inside the century-old buildings around the town square or visit the working gold mine, and you’ll see what I mean. Because of its gold mining history and prime location in Georgia’s wine country, Dahlonega draws both history buffs and wine enthusiasts, and you’ll find family-owned wineries and gold mining artifacts scattered throughout the region.
Augusta, Georgia
Augusta is where Southern charm meets sporting history along the banks of the Savannah River. Golf fans know this city as the home of the prestigious Masters Tournament, but there’s more to Augusta than pristine fairways and green jackets. The historic downtown area tells stories of the Old South through its red-brick buildings and cotton warehouses, now housing local restaurants and quirky shops. I especially love strolling along the Augusta Riverwalk at sunset, watching boats drift by while locals gather for outdoor concerts. It’s not the flashiest city in Georgia, but its blend of sports heritage, riverside scenery, and genuine Southern hospitality makes it worth more than just a quick stop.
Lookout Mountain, Georgia
Head to the natural wonder of Lookout Mountain, where you can explore three unique attractions in one scenic spot. Take a walk through Rock City’s ancient rock formations and winding paths that lead to the famous “See Seven States” viewpoint. For underground thrills, venture into Ruby Falls to witness America’s highest underground waterfall cascading 145 feet down. Round out your visit with a ride on the Incline Railway, one of the world’s steepest passenger railways that climbs straight up the mountain face. It’s an ideal destination for families looking to mix outdoor adventure with historic charm.
St. Simons Island, Georgia
If you’re looking for a classic coastal escape in Georgia, St. Simons Island needs to be on your list. Located along the state’s Atlantic shore, this charming barrier island combines rich history with laid-back beach vibes, featuring centuries-old oak trees draped in Spanish moss, historic lighthouses, and 2.5 miles of sandy beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Lake Lanier, Georgia
Located just 45 minutes from Atlanta, Lake Lanier draws visitors year-round with its 692 miles of shoreline and endless water activities. The lake serves as both a weekend escape for city dwellers and a favorite spot for boating enthusiasts who come to explore its many quiet coves and open waters. While most people visit for swimming and water sports during summer months, the lake’s surrounding parks and campgrounds offer hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots that can be enjoyed throughout the year. The lake’s proximity to the North Georgia mountains makes it an ideal base for travelers who want to combine water recreation with mountain adventures, and its numerous marinas and rental facilities ensure visitors can easily access everything from pontoon boats to kayaks.
Cloudland Canyon State Park, Georgia
Nature enthusiasts flock to Cloudland Canyon State Park for its deep gorges and waterfalls, but this natural wonder in northwest Georgia offers much more than just scenic views. The park sits on the western edge of Lookout Mountain, where visitors can explore over 64 miles of trails that wind through thick forests and along rocky cliffs. In autumn, the changing colors paint the canyon walls in warm hues, while spring brings wildflowers and flowing waterfalls. Whether you’re interested in hiking to the canyon floor, mountain biking the Five Points Recreation Area, or spending a night under the stars at one of the park’s campsites, Cloudland Canyon provides year-round opportunities for outdoor adventure.
