The best places to Visit in Georgia range from sprawling cities to lesser known hidden gems tucked away in nature.
The sheer variety of locations Georgia has to offer is unmatched by many other US states, including busy metropolis, hip and eccentric villages, picturesque mountains, stunning beaches, and rolling farmlands, to mention a few. Whatever kind of visitor you are, Georgia has a tonne of fun things to do, so you won’t get bored there.
I’ve put up a list of beautiful places you must visit if you find yourself in the south as a native of the peach state. Here are the top Georgia tourist attractions that you should put on your bucket list.
Places to visit in Georgia
Best Cities to Visit in Georgia
Dahlonega, Georgia
The first significant American Gold Rush took place in this little city, which is situated in the North Georgia Mountains.
You may experience the sense of a little village here without ever getting bored. Dahlonega is a city that offers a variety of extraordinary experiences and stunning views, from surrounding hiking trails, mountain peaks, and waterfalls to local vineyards and tasting facilities and even gold mining. At any time of year, it ranks high on the list of the top locations to visit in Georgia.
Advice: If you’re looking for a beautiful places to eat or shop locally, check visiting Dahlonega Square.
Places to visit in Georgia
Helen, Georgia
Have you ever wanted to travel to Germany’s Bavaria? This place is a close second, though.
Helen, a mountain village in northeast Georgia, is a taste of Europe in America.
Visitors have the impression that they are in a little German town because of the architecture in Bavarian style. Popular German fare and beverages including schnitzel, pretzels, sausage, and beer are also available at nearby eateries. As you eat, wave to individuals “shooting the ‘hooch” while looking out over the Chattahoochee River.
Visit Helen in October when Oktoberfest is being celebrated with dancing, dining, and drinking for an even more enjoyable experience. Helen is a great family destination thanks to the neighbouring mini golf facilities, campgrounds, hiking trails, zip lines, and river tubing businesses.
If you’re looking for European charm in the US, Helen has got you covered. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Georgia.
Places to visit in Georgia
Athens, Georgia
There are times when residents of Athens forget that the city is home to more than just the top-ranked University of Georgia. There are other noteworthy aspects of this city in addition to the beautiful campus and the uniqueness of a “Athens Saturday.”
The bar scene is fairly amazing to begin with. There are so many bars in the area that you’re sure to find one you like. However, if you would rather stay in, don’t worry; this town still has a lot of interesting characteristics that make a trip there worthwhile.
R.E.M., the B-52s, and a host of other artists have made Athens famous for its music scene. Each and every traveller should see a concert at the storied Georgia Theater.
Athens is a city known for its music as well as its fantastic eateries. Try The Place, South Kitchen + Bar, or the Last Resort if you’re in the mood for something more upscale. Cali ‘n Titos, Raising Canes, and Clocked Diner are also excellent choices if you want high-quality food at a reasonable cost. Don’t forget to look into The Grill as well. This 1981-built diner-style eatery is open every day of the year and provides burgers, milkshakes, and other food.
Be sure to see The Tree that Owns Itself when you are in Athens as well. I bet you had no idea an oak tree could own land, did you?
And if you want to see the best sunset or dawn, take a 20-minute journey to Watkinsville to see the Iron Horse, a large iron horse statue that dominates a cornfield.
Athens is a city in Georgia that you shouldn’t miss out on if you’re planning a trip since it has authentic Southern charm and beautiful places people, food, and music.
Places to visit in Georgia
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, the oldest city in Georgia, is brimming with charming old charm and beautiful architecture.
This city, which is situated on the Savannah River, is well-known for its renowned River Street. River Street is home to many unique stores and mouthwatering eateries, and it has gorgeous views of the river where cargo ships and ferry boats travel. The St. Patrick’s Day festivities on River Street are famous.
Spanish moss, oak trees, and antebellum buildings will surround you as you go closer to the city centre. You will be surrounded by Savannah’s Historic District, which is renowned for its cobblestone streets and living history. You can tour the City Market, ride a trolley or a horse-and-carriage through this neighbourhood, see historic homes, go to museums, and stroll around Forsyth Park.
Forsyth Park, the biggest park in the city, offers a variety of amenities including a spectacular fountain, live music, and greenery. Take a ghost tour of the city after dark if you enjoy chills and thrills and want to learn about the legends and eerie activity that keeps things spooky at night.
The Wormsloe Historic Site and the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist are two further noteworthy Savannah attractions.
A weekend trip to this picturesque city is a wonderful way to experience its history, saltwater taffy, and stunning architecture. It’s not surprising that this city is one of Georgia’s East Coast’s coolest travel destinations.
Places to visit in Georgia
Atlanta, Georgia
You already know the rest, so welcome to Atlanta. The state capital of Georgia is the best city in the country.
There are several attractions for visitors of all ages on the touristy side of things. America’s top aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is a must-see attraction. You just cannot miss this location, which is home to whale sharks, sea lions, and penguins.
The World of Coca-Cola is around two minutes away. Did you know that Georgia is where the Coca-Cola brand had its start? Here, you can sample a variety of Coca-Cola products from around the globe.
The CNN Center is then next across the street, where you may have a bite to eat and visit the CNN offices and studios.
The Atlanta Hawks NBA club and the Atlanta Dream WNBA team both call State Farm Arena, which is attached to the CNN Center, home.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the home of the Atlanta Falcons NFL club and Atlanta United MLS team, is situated next to State Farm Arena. The SEC Championship game, played each December, is also held at Mercedes-Benz.
If you enjoy animals, you should visit the Grant Park-based Atlanta Zoo. Atlanta’s Grant Park is the city’s oldest park, and the areas around it are home to many Victorian-style homes.
Piedmont Park and Centennial Olympic Park are two further noteworthy parks in Atlanta. The 1996 Olympic Games were held at Centennial Olympic Park, and Piedmont Park is a nice place for picnicking, dog walking, and throwing discs.
The MLK National Historic Park, the Belt Line, Ponce City Market, and Oakland Cemetery are just a few of the intriguing locations in Atlanta. There are so many additional interesting things to visit while you’re in town, even if this list just includes the main attractions.
Places to visit in Georgia
Top Coastal Places to Visit in Georgia
Tybee Island
A barrier Island off the coast of Georgia, Tybee Island is packed of historical attractions and family-friendly activities.
This island is a terrific destination to spend a day at the beach because it has over 5 miles of sandy beaches.
Be sure to study about Georgia history and visit some of the old forts, such Fort Screven. Additionally, there is a still-functioning lighthouse from the 18th century that is absolutely worth visiting.
Places to visit in Georgia
Jekyll Island is one of the best places to visit in Georgia
Jekyll, a barrier island, is charming and rich in history.
Nearly 10 miles of beach are available here for relaxing, and there are several walking and bike routes for people of all ages.
Don’t forget to visit the historic area to see what life was like on Jekyll in the 1700s! Driftwood Beach is without a doubt Jekyll Island’s most scenic location. Discover the historic driftwood trees that line one of the most picturesque beaches in America.
Jekyll Island is not only one of the top tourist US destinations in Georgia, but it’s also one of the country’s best kept secrets.
Places to visit in Georgia
Cumberland Island
Georgia’s largest and southernmost barrier island is Cumberland Island. There are many mysteries and surprises on this undeveloped island. To go to the island, you’ll need to board a ferry; when you there, get ready to explore!
This island will wow you with its natural tranquillity and historical beauty. If you want to really explore the island’s natural beauty, make sure to bring some hiking boots or rent a bike. Jeep tours with guides are also offered.
You might come across several wild horses as you explore the island. One of the few sites in North America where you can see feral horses is Cumberland Island.
The Dungeness Ruins are another interesting beautiful places. It was once a mansion owned by the Carnegie family and is now a must-see location on the island.
Cumberland Island is a Georgian gem, regardless of whether you spend the day there, camp out all night, or stay at the opulent Grey field Inn. It truly combines history and environment to give guests an experience they won’t forget.
Places to visit in Georgia
St. Simons Island
St. Simons Island offers everything! This coastal area is home to salt marshes, fishing piers, and sandy beaches. This island, which is noted for its massive oak trees covered in Spanish moss and Antebellum-era architecture, is full of southern charm. The sight is very captivating.
Discover the kilometres of beaches, tennis courts, golf courses, bike paths, specialty stores, and restaurants that make this island so unique. A functional lighthouse that aids ships in navigating the St. Simons Sound is the St. Simons Island Lighthouse, so be sure to check that out as well. This lighthouse was originally constructed in 1810, was later damaged during the Civil War, and was rebuilt in 1872. It has since guided ships. Saint Simons Island is certainly one of the best places to visit in Georgia for people of all ages.
Places to visit in Georgia
Best Nature Spots to Visit in Georgia
Providence Canyon State Park
One of Georgia’s lesser-known attractions, this state park is referred to as the “Little Grand Canyon” and deserves some attention.
These canyons, which are in Southwest Georgia close to Columbus, are covered in layers of orange, yellow, pink, purple, and red walls, which is what makes this place such a beautiful backdrop for photographs.
To appreciate the true majesty of the walls up close and with fewer obscuring trees and plants, make sure to get to canyons four and five. Backpackers have the option of spending the night along the backcountry trail, but this state park also makes for a fantastic and exciting day excursion.
