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16 Interesting Day Trips From Atlanta For Your Bucket List

April 5, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

While the city has so much to offer, it’s time to take some day trips from Atlanta to get out and explore. Haven’t you ever wondered what else the Peach State has in store for your Georgia state of mind?

The state of Georgia borders many states, making your possibilities endless! Surrounding the state are Tennessee, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida! Depending on how far you want to drive, you can really get a change of scenery.

It doesn’t matter what you want to do. Georgia and its surrounding states have so much to offer. Whether you want to explore national parks, waterfalls, or just quaint rural towns, there’s a lot to keep you busy on your road trip !

The Metro area can get tiresome really quickly. So when you’re tired of the hustle and bustle, in desparate need of an escape, and you don’t know where to go? Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. Here are the best day trips from Atlanta to feed your wanderlust.

Day Trips From Atlanta Within 1 Hour

At a mere 26 minutes northwest of the city, Marietta makes one of the best day trips from Atlanta! With a historic town square surrounded by a dramatic mountain backdrop, it’s just far away enough from the city to feel cozy.

To get a good feel for the town, you can take the Marietta Trolley for a one-hour, fully narrated tour from Antebellum Square on Thursdays through Sundays. You’ll tour grand antebellum homes and the battlefields at Kennesaw Mountain.

Nature lovers will love the hiking trails at the Chattahoochie River National Recreation Area. Take a raft and drift leisurely through the shoals or go fishing on the misty waters as the sun comes up. You can even have a picnic with some friends!

Drop the kids off at Six Flags White Water for a day of water park fun while the adults can go play at Treehorn Cider. Get a true taste of Treehorn by sampling their hot mulled cider or the drop biscuits with cider sage butter. Don’t forget to take home some hard cider for later!

Serenbe Farms

Just 35 minutes to the south, you’ll realize that Serenbe Farms makes one of the best day trips from Atlanta! A truly magical community near Chattahoochee Hills, you couldn’t feel further away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Serenbe describes itself as a wellness community connected to nature. A neighborhood full of fresh food and fresh air, the citizens and community are focused on wellbeing. The community is small, just hitting 350 homes over the past 15 years of development.

Check out the Artisan and Farmers Market every Saturday from April through November. You’ll find organic food and artisan goods. While you shop, you’ll be listening to live music and be able to participate in other fun activities too! Not to mention the views of the Georgia landscape can’t be beat!

Callaway Gardens

Just an hour and fifteen minutes west and a little bit to the south, you’ll find a lush paradise that makes one of the best day trips from Atlanta! Callaway Gardens is a beautiful haven for nature and flower lovers alike!

Over 2,500 acres, beautiful plants and flowers decorate the grounds. If you want to extend your day trip, there’s even a resort and spa! You can unwind with luxurious spa treatments Thursday through Monday 11 AM to 6 PM, but keep in mind, they’re closed on Tuesday and Wednesdays.

Callaway Gardens also boasts biking and hiking trails, a swimming beach, and two incredible golf courses. If you’re the outdoorsy type, you’ll love traversing the grounds at your leisure. Drop your kids off for some swimming while you hit the links!

The gardens also host events throughout the year, too! Check out Fantasy in Lights during the holidays which has been profiled by National Geographic! You can see colorful balloons float through the air in September during the Hot Air Balloon Festival. Head over to the swimming beach for the July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party for some fireworks!

Just an hour away from the big city, LaGrange makes one of the best day trips from Atlanta! Back in the early 1800s, General Marquis de Lafayette was reminded of his estate in France when he saw the area’s rolling hills, so he named this area LaGrange!

LaGrange is home to the Great Wolf Lodge. A gigantic indoor water park hotel, this is a perfect place to drop off the kids for the day! Day passes start at $40. In addition to the water park, you can also enjoy mini-golf, a rock climbing wall, bowling, an arcade, a ropes course, and more!

While the kids are playing, head to the Nutwood Winery and sample homemade breads, Amish cheeses, and a variety of desserts to pair with their signature wines. Then you can hit the links at the Fields Golf Club, which also hosts festivals and live music!

LaGrange also has amazing restaurants, the Biblical History Center, and is home of the Azalea Storytelling Festival! Just outside of town you’ll find the Hills Dales Estate and the Wild Animal Safari Park where you can drive through and feed the hungry animals!

Just an hour away from the big city, Senoia makes one of the best day trips from Atlanta . There are two major reasons to head to Senoia: if you’re looking for a relaxing break from city life, or if you’re a fan of The Walking Dead!

Senoia illustrates just how wonderful a slower pace of life can be. Get away from the hustle and bustle of Atlanta at Merimac Lakes Park. Walking trails are open every day of the year and if you have a valid fishing license, you can take advantage of the fishing venues!

The town’s downtown area is filled with shops and antique stores, so you’ll always find something unique. Don’t forget to hit up the amazing restaurants like the Southern Country Steakhouse & Saloon. You can even tour the beautiful historic homes and leave feeling refreshed!

If you’re a Walking Dead fan, there’s even more for you to do here! Take one of the many tours available in Senoia like Dad’s Zombie Roadtrip and you’ll be able to see many of the show’s filming locations starting from Season 1. Afterward, grab a frightfully good cup of coffee at the Walking Dead Cafe!

Atlanta Day Trips Between 1-2 Hours Away

Named for Christopher Columbus, Columbus makes one of the best day trips from Atlanta, only one and half hours away. Originally inhabited by the Creek Indians, it was an important shipping port and today is still popular because of its location along the Chattahoochee River.

Outdoor adventurers absolutely rave about Whitewater Adventures. USA Today named it the number one Man-Made Adventure in the World! You’ll glide down the river with your family along either a mild Lazy River or down wild and crazy Class V rapids.

You can also explore Uptown Columbus, the area’s entertainment district. Right along the Chattahoochee River, you can walk or bike the RiverWalk, a 22-mile paved trail that follows the river. The area also hosts Market Days on Broadway with a farmers market! And don’t forget about the free concert series!

Columbus is also a haven for art lovers! Along Broadway, you can take in the Sculpture Walk where you’ll see original art and sculptures. Each year, they add more pieces, so it’s never the same! You can also tour the National Civil War Naval Museum at Port Columbus for a taste of history.

If you’ve never been to Macon, then you’re missing out. One of the most quaint and charming towns in Georgia , this is one of the best day trips to take from Atlanta, especially for all things pink!

Among other things, Macon is home of the Cherry Blossom Festival. Held for two weeks every spring, the trees are lined with the pink petals and make the downtown area truly a beautiful wonder to behold. Even if you don’t visit during the festival, the trees themselves make the perfect Instagram photo op!

Macon’s downtown area is filled with activities and even hosts a two-day music crawl event every July. Bragg Jam allows you to see your favorite musicians while experiencing specials at the local restaurants and shops in the downtown area. During the holidays, the area is decorated with lights and just beautiful.

If you’re the outdoorsy type, then visit Amerson River Park. You can walk the paths by the Ocmulgee River. Watch the kayakers paddle by or hop in one for yourself and take in the sights! Then visit the Ocmulgee National Monument, hike the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail, or pack a picnic to enjoy on Lake Tobesofkee!

Great Wolf Lodge

Let’s face it, they don’t call it Hotlanta for nothing. This is why the Great Wolf Lodge makes one of the best day trips from Atlanta. The perfect way to beat the unbearable summer heat? Hit up Georgia’s indoor water park, the Great Wolf Lodge.

At the Great Wolf Lodge, the water is always 84 degrees. Not too hot and not too cold! The water park has plenty of slides, pools, and activities for all ages. At the end of the day, you can even retire to a hotel room, or a charmingly themed Wolf Den for kids.

Enjoy simulated rapids on River Canyon Run. Leave the kids at Fort MacKenzie, a four-story water treehouse while you relax with the adults at Northwood Oasis. Or simply relax in Otter Run, the park’s lazy river.

When you need to dry off but you’re still not done having fun? Don’t worry, the Great Wolf Lodge still has plenty of fun and adventure for the whole family. Hit up the kid-friendly bowling alley! There’s also mini-golf, a ropes course, an arcade, a rock climbing wall, and even a Build-A-Bear workshop!

One of the best day trips from Atlanta is to visit Helen, just one and a half hours to the north of the city. Who says you have to get on a plane to feel like you’re in a different country? When you visit Helen, you’ll feel like you’re taking a vacation in Germany!

The Bavarian village of Helen in the Blue Ridge Mountains is not your ordinary town. Its charm comes from the architecture. Since 1969, city leaders have decided to model the town’s buildings on south-German architecture, creating a quaint Bavarian feeling when you walk through the neighborhoods.

Helen also boasts incredible hiking trails nearby. Of all of the trails, you’re going to want to see Anna Ruby Falls, one of the prettiest waterfalls in Georgia . You’ll find access via a paved trail to viewing platforms. You’ll be so close to the falls you’ll be cooled by the mist from the cascading water!

To get the most German experience, take a carriage ride downtown and visit the quaint shops and restaurants. You don’t want to miss out on the Biergartens either. You can’t go wrong visiting during one of Helen’s extraordinary community events like Oktoberfest or Christmas in Helen!

Chattanooga, TN

Chattanooga is one of the great romantic getaways in TN . As a small city, it boasts the perfect combination of city life and nature escapes.

The Tennessee Riverpark in Chattanooga is a fantastic example of when city life meets nature. While the Riverpark is nestled in downtown Chattanooga, you’ll also get an up-close view of the Tennessee River, including the flying seabirds and bustling fishing piers.

Other than the Riverpark, Chattanooga also has the breathtaking Tennessee River Gorge, the underground waterfall known as Ruby Falls, and the Tennessee Aquarium. For those looking to experience more of the city side of Chattanooga, there is also the Creative Discovery Museum as well as the many restaurants and shops of downtown Chattanooga.

Southern Living Magazine voted  Blue Ridge, Georgia  one of the best mountain towns! Located just 90 minutes from Atlanta, it is perfect for a romantic getaway or a family mountain vacation. Don’t forget it when planning one of your day trips from Atlanta!

Known for its Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, wineries, and brewers as well as a more upscale dining and shopping destination. Take a ride on the railway or go trout fishing on the Toccoa River!

Blue Ridge is a great year-round town to visit for the outdoors where you can hike on the Appalachian trail, go tubing, visit a brewery or winery, enjoy a scenic drive or play golf! You can even try whitewater rafting or pick apples at a local orchard in the fall!

Amicalola Falls

Located near Ellijay, Georgia, this waterfall towers to a height of 730 feet and is definitely a sight to see while you’re in Georgia. The water spills over a cliff onto multiple layers of rock that create the beautiful whitewater visuals, making it one of the best day trips from Atlanta, only an hour and fifteen minutes away.

You can reach this Georgia waterfall from the Amicalola Falls Trail which is located in the Chattahoochee National Forest. The Amicalola Falls State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Georgia, and visitors frequent this park during any season.

From snow in the winter to leaves in autumn, or the bright sun of the summer, this waterfall is a top pick for many hikers. The hike is just over 2 miles round trip, but because of the elevation it is rated as a more difficult hike. Get ready to climb stairs, there are over 620 total!

Atlanta Day Trips Over 2 Hours

Providence ridge canyon state park.

Known as Georgia’s ‘little Grand Canyon’, Providence Canyon State Park is located in Stuart County and was formed by poor farming practises in the 1800s with some of the gullies going as deep as 150 feet. It’s unique scenery makes it one of the best day trips in Atlanta!

Just to the south of Columbus and only two hours away from Atlanta, the views are truly breathtaking here. The orange, pink, purple, and red of the soil provide a truly unique scene. And if you visit during July and August, you will see the rare Plumleaf Azalea in bloom.

There’s a number of different hiking options at this southern national park, whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for something more strenuous , or something easier with handicap access there will be something for you. You can even enjoy a picnic area above the canyon as well as a playground!

Oh, and dogs are also allowed on a 6 feet leash!

If you follow golf, then this next entry on our list of best day trips from Atlanta should seem like a no-brainer. That’s because Augusta is home to a little golf tournament every year called The Masters! Okay, it’s not so little, but there’s more to do than golf here.

The Partridge Inn should certainly be on your list for romantic weekend getaways in Georgia . The mix of luxury and cozy is the perfect spot for a couple to get away from it all. You can enjoy the spacious balcony rooms to enjoy your morning coffee with a view, relax by the gorgeous pool, grab a drink at the rooftop bar, or enjoy a meal on the veranda.

Visit the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area and cruise down the canal in a boat tour! Then take a walk around the museum in the Discovery Center. If that’s not enough history for you, you can visit the Augusta Museum of History and then take a trolley tour.

For the more adventurous, rent a kayak and paddle the Augusta Canal yourself or explore Phinizy Swamp Nature Park! If golf isn’t your cup of tea, then head on over to SRP Park during baseball season and catch an Augusta Greenjackets game!

SAM Shortline

The Blue Ridge Railway has NOTHING on the SAM Shortline Train. One of the best day trips from Atlanta, you can visit Georgia’s only rolling state park! Taking a ride on this train is the best way to see the full beauty of the entire state.

You can board the train at Georgia Veterans State Park in Cordele to enjoy a ride in an air-conditioned, vintage train car! The best part of the SAM Shortline Train is you have multiple options as far as destinations go! Choose between Plains, Americus, or Archery! Each one is rich in history!

The town of Plains is home of 39th President Jimmy Carter. Here you’ll see an inside look at his campaign and his life and get a deeper education in American politics. Archery is the site of President Carter’s boyhood home where you’ll see what rural life was like in the early 1900s!

The ride from Americus to Plains is the shortest option and perhaps the most scenic. However there’s so much to do that your time will fly and you might need to take a second trip! As you sink back in your comfy chair, you’ll enjoy a mix of romantic yesteryear with the excitement of today’s South!

No, we’re not talking about the Albany in New York! In Southwest Georgia, just under 3 hours away from the city, you’ll find the town of Albany, one of the best day trips from Atlanta with a multitude of family-friendly activities.

Everybody simply adores the Flint RiverQuarium. This is one of the few open-air aquariums in the world, focusing on the fish and plant life found in the Flint River. You can also get close to exotic animals at the zoo at Chehaw Park. Make sure to ask about Chloe!

Make sure to visit the Ray Charles Plaza in the center of the Flint River. A life-size sculpture of the soul musician is seated at a Baby Grand piano, resting on a rotating pedestal. You can enjoy a concert as his beloved melodies play at timed intervals while water flows over the pedestal and into a reflecting pool.

For even more fun, visit the All American Fun Park to enjoy two miniature golf courses, a 1/4 mile go-kart track, sixteen bowling lanes, and much more! There are also bumper boats, laser tag, and a roller coaster simulator!

While Atlanta has so much to offer, sometimes you need to get out of the big city and explore. Georgia has a wealth of opportunities for the solo traveler with insatiable wanderlust or the family looking for a new adventure. Just remember that your next day trip from Atlanta is only a short car ride away!

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101 family day trips and staycation ideas around atlanta.

Free activities and splurges that are worth it. The coolest stuff for a staycation in town and road trips for less than a tank of gas from Atlanta. Kids Out And About has tons of ideas for family travel, with places to explore, learn, and have fun!

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Limiting our list to 101 ideas meant some great destinations may have been left off the list - if there is something you’d like to see added, share it with us on Facebook !

Most of these destinations are within an hour from downtown Atlanta. For those that are a bit farther away:

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These 10 day trips from Atlanta are as much fun in winter as in summer

Dec 13, 2021 • 11 min read

There's always live music somewhere in Athens, Georgia © Jennifer E Wolf / Getty Images

Sizzling with subculture, simmering with flavors, alive with green spaces and studded with iconic Civil Rights landmarks, Atlanta rewards visitors in all the right ways. But Georgia's capital is just the gateway to the myriad delights on offer in the largest state east of the Mississippi.

Georgia rolls from coastal swamps through rich, red-soiled farmlands and peach orchards to the sprawling foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, putting endless adventures within easy day-tripping reach of Atlanta. And that's not even counting the other fun-filled cities within two hours drive, from Birmingham and Montgomery in Alabama to Chattanooga in Tennessee.

With Georgia's year-round mild weather, day trips are a 365-days-a-year activity. While northern states are shivering under a blanket of snow, Georgia still has great weather for exploring, with daytime temperatures that hover around 60°F. Even the hiking is good in winter – not too frosty, and with excellent views as the hilltop forests lose their curtain of leaves.

Whether you're seeking cutting-edge art encouters, backcountry hikes, award-winning wineries, Civil Rights landmarks, legendary live music, or even a miniature mock-up of Bavaria, here is our pick of the best day trips from Atlanta.

Athens, Georgia

A beery, artsy and laid-back college town, Athens has an extremely popular football team (the University of Georgia Bulldogs), a world-famous music scene, a busy restaurant culture and engagingly diverse nightlife. The university fuels Athens' youth-oriented culture, ensuring an ever-replenishing supply of young bar-hoppers and concert-goers in the walkable downtown area. The hometown of the B52s and REM is the small town with big city spirit.

Highlights for visitors include the Georgia Museum of Art – a smart, modern gallery where brainy, arty types hang out to study while art hounds gawk at modern sculpture in the courtyard garden and a tremendous collection from American realists of the 1930s. Or head to the State Botanical Garden of Georgia with its winding outdoor paths and a socio-historical edge.

Last but certainly not least, plan your trip around a show at the legendary 40 Watt Club . Athens' most storied joint has lounges, a tiki bar and $2.50 Pabst Blue Ribbons . The venue has welcomed a generation of indie rockers to its stage since REM, the B-52's and Widespread Panic owned this town, and this is still where the big hitters play when they come to town.

How to get to Athens, Georgia:  It's only an hour and 15 minutes to Athens from Atlanta by car, and not much longer on the regular buses that connect the two cities.

North Georgia Wine Country

The Appalachian foothills north of Atlanta are an increasingly respected viticultural region, thanks to the ultra-quaffable wines produced around Dahlonega . There are more than a dozen wineries to choose from, many with breathtaking mountain views, live music or patios that are perfect for whiling away an afternoon. Pull up a stool and a spitoon in Dahlonega to sample the best of the region. Downtown Courthouse Square is an attractive mélange of wine-tasting rooms, gourmet emporiums, great food, countrified shops and foothills charm.

Wine-tasting in the surrounding vineyards is on the rise too. Frogtown Cellars  is a beautiful winery with a killer deck where you can sip libations and nibble cheese. It bills itself as the most awarded American winery  not  in California, which we can't confirm, but the wine does go down a treat with a mountain sunset. For a more low key experience, Three Sisters is a wonderfully unpretentious vineyard where Cheetos, overalls and bluegrass tunes – or posher cheeses and great views – pair just fine with the wine.

Meanwhile, Wolf Mountain Vineyards  lures a hip and trendy 30-something crowd to its gorgeous, 30-acre winery that frames epic sunsets over Springer Mountain from its tasting-room terrace. Top wines like its  méthode champenoise  100% chardonnay Blanc de Blanc and crisp and fresh Plentitude (an unoaked chardonnay/Viognier blend) are the way to go.

How to get to Dahlonega: It's a two-hour drive to Dahlonega and surrounding wine country from Atlanta. You can also get here by taking a Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) train to North Springs station and catching an Uber from there.

Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia

You might not expect Grand Canyon-style landscapes within an easy drive of Atlanta, but that’s what you’ll find at Providence Canyon . Sometimes described as Georgia’s "Little Grand Canyon," this 1003-acre state park is something to behold. Geological evidence indicates this area was once the bottom of the sea, but the canyons you can see today were formed by natural erosion after farmers dug poorly thought-out ditches through the soft sedimentary beds.

The otherworldly formations include 150ft gullies with beautiful layers of orange, red, purple and pink sediment. Visitors can explore via a variety of hikes, including an easy rim trail with spectacular views over the canyon, plus longer trails on the canyon floor. Keep your eyes peeled for resident armadillos, deer, raccoons and butterflies.

How to get to Providence Canyon State Park: It's two hours and twenty minutes from downtown Atlanta, give or take traffic.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga has charisma to spare. With world-class rock climbing, hiking, cycling and water-sports, it's one of the South's best cities for outdoor fun. It's lovely to look at too: just check out those views from the Hunter Museum of Art in the Bluff View Art District! It's also remarkably eco-conscious, with free electric buses, miles of well-used waterfront trails, and pedestrian bridges crossing the Tennessee River. It's all a far cry from the 1960s, when Chattanooga was slated as America's dirtiest city.

The city was a major railway hub throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, hence the "Chattanooga Choo-Choo," originally a reference to the Cincinnati Southern Railroad's passenger service from Cincinnati to Chattanooga, and later the title of a 1941 Glen Miller tune. The  Tennessee Aquarium  physically and metaphorically anchored downtown's revitalization in the 1990s, followed by family-friendly developments like  Ross's Landing & the Passage  and  Coolidge Park  across the river.

Chattanooga's eminently walkable downtown is a maze of historic stone and brick buildings featuring tasty gourmet kitchens, craft breweries and distilleries. Sparky neighborhoods like the increasingly lauded Southside District keep things interesting, with the  Sculpture Fields at Montague Park , Flying Squirrel  – a hip bar that has its own boutique hostel right next door – and the annual MainX24 festival.

How to get to Chattanooga: You can reach Chattanooga in two hours driving due north on I-75 from Atlanta, baring any unexpected traffic jams.

Birmingham, Alabama

This hilly, shady city, founded as an iron mining outpost, is still a busy center for manufacturing – many Birmingham residents work at Mercedes Benz USA in Tuscaloosa – but visitors are more interested in the university and college buzz and the excellent dining and drinking scene. The past also resonates strongly in Birmingham, thanks to the city's pivotal role in the rise of the Civil Rights movement.

The downtown Civil Rights Heritage Trail  begins at Kelly Ingram Park – where you can see powerful statues recalling police violence against peaceful protestors. Be sure to stop at the Civil Rights Institute to add context to your walk. The 16th Street Baptist Church is worth a visit, too; it was a gathering place for organizational meetings and a launchpad for protests in Birmingham in the 1950s and 1960s, before being targeted by a deadly Ku Klux Klan bombing in 1963.

Experience another side of Birmingham at the famous Sloss Furnaces . From 1882 to 1971, this was a pig-iron producing blast furnace and a cornerstone of Birmingham's economy. Today, instead of a wasteland it's a National Historic Landmark, a red mass of steel and girders rusted into a Gothic monument to American industry. Quiet pathways pass cobwebbed workshops and production lines that make for extremely atmospheric photos. Once a year this post-industrial playground becomes the setting for Furnace Fest , a music-packed weekend that pulls bands like Taking Back Sunday and Further Means Forever.

How to get to Birmingham: The drive from Atlanta takes two hours and 20 minutes by car; the journey is possible by train but much slower.

Helen, Georgia

This kitschy, Epcot-style Alpine playground was dreamed up in the 1960s by a few local business people seeking to revitalize their backwater town. In 1969, local businesses and carpenters got to work – with help from a local artist with German roots – transforming this former mill town into the self-proclaimed best little German town in America.

Surrounded by the bucolic Appalachian foothills, Helen is an ideal springboard for trips to  Anna Ruby Falls  and  Unicoi State Park , for hiking sections of the Appalachian Trail, or floating the Chattahoochee River. Or you can just stick around to enjoy the "Appalachian" charm at spots such as Catch 22 .

How to get to Helen: Helen is 86 miles northeast of Atlanta by car following Hwy 19 S; allow two hours.

Montgomery, Alabama

Alabama's capital is a knot of forested streets, red-brick architecture and lonely railways, attached to a few government buildings and a cobblestoned downtown. With a few exceptions, most of the main points of interest here are tied to the Civil Rights movement, in which the city played a key role.

In 1955 Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat to a white man on a city bus, launching a bus boycott led by Martin Luther King Jr, then pastor of Montgomery's Dexter Avenue Baptist Church . This action ultimately desegregated city buses and galvanized the Civil Rights movement nationwide, helping to lay the foundation for the Selma to Montgomery protest marches of 1965.

One of the country’s most important sights is just a short drive along I-85. The National Memorial for Peace and Justice is the first-ever tribute to the more than 4000 known victims of lynching in the United States. The 800 monuments each mark a county where a lynching took place, and the nearby Legacy Museum puts this awful history into modern content.

How to get to Montgomery: Allow two hours 20 minutes to reach Montgomery from Atlanta by car.

Pasaquan, Buena Vista, Georgia

Fans of unusual photo ops and outsider art shouldn’t miss Pasaquan , a unique art space near Buena Vista. After having visions in which he was chosen by “people of the future” to depict their culture of peace and love, self-taught artist Eddie Owens Martin (1908–1986) turned his mother’s 19th-century farmhouse into a psychedelic wonderland over the course of three decades. The site – which includes six buildings – is an explosive, rainbow-hued fusion of African, pre-Columbian Mexican and Native American motifs.

How to get to Pasaquan: You can drive to Pasaquan from Alanta in two and half hours.

GHS Swamp Rabbit Trail, South Carolina

Rails to Trails projects have produced beloved recreational opportunities across the US, and this 19-mile trail that runs from charming Greenville to quaint Traveler’s Rest is one of the best. Joggers, cyclists and families can be found enjoying this relatively flat, shady greenway, which links a chain of parks and green spaces. 

A walk here is a great way to enjoy the mild Georgia weather, and it's well worth the trip out of Atlanta to experience this thoroughly relaxing slice of the South. Stop at Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery to grab a picnic to munch on the way.

How to reach the GHS Swamp Rabbit Trail: The drive to Greenville from Atlanta takes around two hours 40 minutes.

Blue Ridge, Georgia

Cutesy and wildly popular, Blue Ridge was founded in 1866 as a railroad junction and its historic depot, rebuilt in 1906, still sits across from its postcard-perfect Main St. This little town draws hordes of fans in summer for its charming linear downtown studded with restaurants, bars, antique shops and locally owned businesses.

While it's hard to believe it was once promoted as the "Switzerland of the South," Blue Ridge is  easy on the eye and offers more quality distractions than other North Georgia towns. Amongst other things, this is Georgia's trout capital and fly-fishing in the surrounding countryside is a big draw year-round. The town is often considered Atlanta’s backyard – a hotbed for wealthy Atlantans to lay down roots with a second home in the mountains.

Popular day hikes around Blue Ridge include Falls Branch Falls, a half-mile round-trip waterfall hike that's part of the Benton MacKaye trail system , and Long Creek Falls, a 2.4-mile round-trip hike on a section of the Appalachian Trail. At Lake Blue Ridge, 1.5 miles from downtown Blue Ridge, you can rent kayaks and paddleboards at Morganton Point Recreation Area from April through October. 

Kids will love the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway . Starting from the historic downtown depot, this scenic-railway ride takes you along 1886-laid tracks to the quaint sister towns of McCaysville in Georgia and Copperhill in Tennessee, winding along the bank of the Toccoa River (check the schedule online).

You might also like: Top 15 things to do in Atlanta How to see the best of Atlanta for free Atlanta's best neighborhoods to spend a perfect winter break

This article was first published August 2020 and updated December 2021

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The 30 Best Day Trips From Atlanta GA

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial & privacy policies .

[Updated May 16, 2023]

As a lifelong metro Atlanta resident, I’ve always felt that the natural beauty of the state of Georgia is vastly underrated.

In my experience, even locals tend to forget the amazing amount of green space we’re blessed with, which offers endless excellent opportunities for recreation and ecotourism adventures.

But taking day trips from Atlanta is a great way to explore all the beauty the Peach State has to offer, from cool caves, majestic mountains , and dazzling lakes to rushing rivers and wondrous waterfalls .

With hundreds of city parks, more than 40 state parks , and five national parks located in North Georgia alone, the South’s most bustling metropolis also boasts plenty of outdoor activities.

And most of them can be reached in less than two-hour road trips from Atlanta .

Whether you prefer relaxing activities like fishing, biking, and tubing, or extreme adventures like rock climbing, caving, and ziplining , read on for a diverse array of options for amazing day trips from Atlanta.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Places to Celebrate Christmas in Atlanta GA

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Best day trips from atlanta guide.

• Amicalola Falls State Park
• Apple Picking in Ellijay
• Biking the Silver Comet Trail
• Boating on Lake Lanier
• Black Rock Mountain State Park
• Callaway Gardens
• Chasing Waterfalls in Rabun County
• Check Out the Athens GA Music Scene
• Climb Blood Mountain
• Cloudland Canyon State Park
• Day Hiking the Appalachian Trail
• Driving the Richard B Russell Scenic Hwy
• Explore Downtown Blue Ridge
• Hiking in the Chattahoochee National Forest
• Fly Fishing for Trout
• Fort Mountain State Park
• Learn Native American History
• Providence Canyon State Park
• See 4 States at Brasstown Bald
• See Rock City Gardens
• Shoot the Hooch
• Seeing Northwest Georgia Caves
• Spend a Day in Dahlonega
• Sunsets on Lake Allatoona 
• Tallulah Gorge State Park
• Wine Tastings at North Georgia Wineries
• Visit Alpine Helen
• Unicoi State Park 
• Vogel State Park
• Whitewater Rafting on the Chattooga River

READ MORE: The 15 Best Fall Fairs in Georgia

1. Amicalola Falls State Park

Our of our family’s favorite North Georgia day trips ever since my daughter was born, Amicalola Falls  easily ranks among the most popular places to visit near Atlanta.

This is largely thanks to its easy access, easy hiking trails (some of which are paved with recycled rubber), and 729-foot cascading waterfalls (the tallest east of the Mississippi River).

Amicalola (Cherokee for “tumbling waters”) has seen marked improvements in recent years, including the addition of a new observation deck that provides incredible scenic vistas.

Hardcore backpackers often come this way, making the 8.5-mile hike to Springer Mountain, which marks the southern end of the 2,135-mile Appalachian Trail.

But most visitors go for more casual hikes, fish for freshwater trout in the well-stocked pond, and enjoy a quiet picnic near the base of the falls. It’s a beautiful way to spend a warm spring or autumn day!

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Scary Escape Rooms in Georgia

2. Apple Picking in Ellijay

Gilmer County is widely known as “the Apple Capital of Georgia,” so it’s no surprise that  apple picking ranks among the most popular things to do in Ellijay GA .

Apple picking in Ellijay is best from early September through the end of October, right as the fall colors in North Georgia begin to reach their peak.

There are many great apple orchards in Ellijay GA  to choose from for Atlanta day trips, including Hillcrest Orchards, Panorama Orchards, and the Red Apple Barn. But  B.J. Reece Orchards is tops among the perennial favorites.

The family-owned  farm encompasses 120 acres and offer around 30 different kinds of apples, including Cameo, Candy Crisp, Fuji, Gala, Mutsu, Red Delicious, and Winecrisp. 

They usually start offering you-pick apples around Labor Day. But the orchard’s market offers bagged apples, apple cider donuts, “World Famous” fried pies, and other tantalizing treats all year round. 

Visiting Reece Orchards is also a family favorite for other reasons, including activities such as a petting zoo, cow milking demonstrations, and old-fashioned wagon rides.

3. Biking the Silver Comet Trail

Formerly the route of the Silver Comet passenger train , this paved recreational trail extends 61.5 miles from the northwest Atlanta suburb of Smyrna all the way west to the Alabama state line.

The city’s first ever rails-to-trails project, the Silver Comet Trail is renowned for its many spectacular scenic vistas as it traverses numerous trestles and bridges.

The trail also offers direct access to Heritage Park, which features more than 14 acres of wetlands and the ruins of Concord Woolen Mill .

Don’t have a bike? No problem! Just rent one from Comet Trail Cycles , which offers full and half-day rentals on carbon road bikes, comfort hybrids, youth bicycles and child trailers.

Of course the path can also be used for hiking, jogging, and rollerblading as well. 

READ MORE: The Top 10 Treehouse Rentals in the Georgia Mountains

4. Boating/Kayaking on Lake Lanier

Encompassing 38,542 acres in Gainesville, this popular Georgia lake was named after 19th century poet Sidney Lanier.

Lake Lanier was formed when the Buford Dam was created in 1956, with water flowing in from both the Chattahoochee and Chestatee Rivers. It’s the biggest lake in Georgia , with around 700 miles of shoreline.

Recreational activities here include boating, water skiing , swimming, kayaking and standup paddle boarding.  There’s also great fishing, with commonly caught species such as bluegill, catfish, redbreast, spotted bass, striped bass, white bass, and walleye.

There are plenty of great picnic spots and camping opportunities on the lake, with 40 parks and 10 campgrounds along the shoreline.

Lake Lanier is home to Georgia’s newest state park,  Don Carter State Park , which features 4 miles of hiking trails , a recreational beach, and cabin rentals .

There’s also the upscale Lanier Islands Resort, which offers a variety of lodging options, plenty of lakeside amenities, and one of our favorite North Georgia Christmas events .

READ MORE: The 15 Best Lakes in the North Georgia Mountains

5. Black Rock Mountain State Park

Located at an altitude of 3,640 feet along the Eastern Continental Divide, Black Rock Mountain State Park offers extraordinary views of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Georgia.

Located near the town of Clayton, it’s one of the impressive North Georgia attractions, offering 5 hiking trails that range in length from the .10-mile Norma Campbell Cove Trail to the 7.2-mile James E. Edmond Trail.

The most popular is the 2.2-mile Tennessee Rock Trail, which takes you through some of the park’s highest forest . The exceptional views span some 80 miles into North Carolina , South Carolina, and Tennessee.

There are numerous scenic overlooks in the park offering amazing sunrise and sunset vistas, as well as fishing, kayaking/canoeing in Black Rock Lake, and visiting the Foxfire Museum of Appalachian culture and history .

The park is also home to one of the most picturesque campgrounds in the region, as well as our favorite Georgia State Park cabin rentals . 

READ MORE: The Best Places to Celebrate Christmas in Georgia

6. Callaway Gardens

Although the Atlanta Botanical Garden  will always hold a special place in my heart as a hometown hotspot, Callaway Gardens is a world-class attraction located just 80 miles south of Downtown Atlanta. 

One of our favorite romantic getaways in Georgia, Callaway features over 2,500 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens nestled in the southernmost foothills of the Appalachian Mountains . 

The ever-popular resort offers four different types of accommodations, 12 restaurants, a 10-mile biking trail, and lots of different nature trails for visitors to explore. 

Family-friendly attractions at Callaway include the Azalea Garden, Butterfly Center, Discovery Center, swimming at Robin Lake Beach, and Treetop Adventure Ziplines . 

We’re also huge fans of their annual “Fantasy in Lights” holiday celebration, which is one of our favorite Christmas light displays in Georgia .

READ MORE: 25 Beautiful Birds of Georgia

7.  Chasing Waterfalls in Rabun  County

There are an estimated 700 waterfalls in the state of Georgia, the vast majority of which are located in the North Georgia mountains .

Every hiker has their personal favorite North Georgia waterfalls . But, for our money, the best place to visit multiple mind-blowing waterfalls in one day is Rabun County, in the northeast corner of the state. 

Want easy trails to wondrous waterfalls with very little hiking involved?

Check out Toccoa Falls, Minnehaha Falls , Becky Branch Falls at Warwoman Dell, and Hurricane Falls at Tallulah Gorge (which you can view from the top after a short walk to the Rim Trail). 

If you visit Minnehaha, it’s a short drive to the Lake Rabun Beach Campground, where you can hike to Panther Falls and Angel Falls on a moderate 1.75-mile round-trip trail. 

Other great waterfalls in the area include Martin Creek Falls (on the same trail as Becky Branch), Dick’s Creek Falls, Ammons Creek Falls, and the Hemlock Falls trail at Moccasin Creek State Park .

READ MORE: The 20 Best Easy Hiking Trails to Waterfalls in Georgia

8. Check Out the Athens GA Music Scene

The town of Athens GA is best-known for the University of Georgia Bulldogs, whose football team has won 16 conference championships and 4 national championships (including back-to-back wins in 2021 and 2022). 

But as a lifelong Georgia resident, I’d say the town is equally noteworthy for having the state’s best live music scene. 

In the ’80s, Athens-based bands such as the B-52’s, R.E.M., Pylon, Love Tractor, and Oh-OK (which featured Michael Stipe’s sister, Lynda, and Matthew Sweet) blazed trails for the burgeoning college rock field.

By the ’90s, the town had birthed beloved acts ranging from singer-songwriter Vic Chesnutt and Southern rockers Drive-By Truckers to the arty Elephant 6 Collective (Neutral Milk Hotel, Olivia Tremor Control, Of Montreal, etc.).

From the Boar’s Head Lounge and The Warehouse to larger venues like the 40 Watt, Classic Center Arena, and Georgia Theatre, there are still lots of good places to see great live music in Athens today. 

READ MORE: The History of the Banjo, from Africa to Appalachia

9. Climb Blood Mountain

One of the most popular North Georgia mountains for hiking , Blood Mountain is the first trail I ever remember hiking with my parents as a young boy. 

With an elevation of 4,461 feet (making the highest spot on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia ) and a distance of 4.3 miles round-trip, this is one of the more difficult hiking trails in North Georgia . 

From the Byron Reece Trailhead near Neels Gap, the adventure takes you through a creek valley lined with rhododendron and other wildflowers . You’ll meet the Appalachian Trail at .7 mile and head westbound.

The Blood Mountain trail reaches the summit at 2.15 miles, where you can take in jaw-dropping sights of the rolling  Blue Ridge Mountains landscape from a huge rocky outcrop. 

Once you’ve had time to catch your breath and get your fill of the sensational scenery, the hike retraces the outbound route to return to the trailhead.

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Things to Do in Blairsville GA & Union County

10. Cloudland Canyon State Park

This 3,485-acre state park, located 35 miles north of sleepy Summerville GA, is rarely crowded except on peak summer weekends. But it offers a diverse range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts of all fitness levels.

Casual nature lovers can simply stay in the picnic area parking lot, where you can get stunning overviews of the canyon without ever breaking a sweat.

But hardy hikers will love the 4.8-mile West Rim and Waterfalls Trail, which offers more in-depth exploration of the area (which ranges in elevation from 800 to around 2,000 feet).

The gorge was cut into the mountain by Sitton Gulch Creek, producing striking rock outcroppings that are offset by colorful wildflowers . These stunning views grow increasingly spectacular in the autumn months, when the colorful Fall foliage begins to change.

The park really earns its name in the morning, when the rolling fog over the hills makes it seem as if you’re walking in the clouds. In addition to 100+ campsites, they also have recently renovated Cloudland Canyon State Park Cabins and 10 awesome yurts.

READ MORE: The 10 Best Things to Do in Summerville GA

11. Day Hiking the Appalachian Trail in Georgia

The Appalachian Trail is one of the most iconic hiking trails in the world, stretching 2,190+ miles across 14 different states. Due to its length, most thru-hikers 5 to 7 months to tackle the entire trail.

Trekking from Georgia to Maine isn’t possible (or advisable) for the average hiker. But the AT in Georgia offers an array of easy, moderate, and strenuous trails that explore some of the state’s most scenic summits.

It’s possible to take day trips from Atlanta to hike parts of the Appalachian Trail in Georgia , which begins at Springer Mountain in Blue Ridge. 

The most popular sections include the aforementioned Blood Mountain trail, the Springer Mountain Loop, Preacher’s Rock, and the Long Creek Falls trail . 

If you’re up for a more strenuous trekking challenge, there’s the 5.2-mile hike from Dicks Creek Gap to the summit of Powell Mountain, the 8.6-mile Three Forks to Springer Mountain section, and the 14.5-mile stretch from Hogpen Gap to Unicoi Gap.

READ MORE: The Best Christmas Lights in Atlanta & North Georgia

12. Drive the Richard B Russell Scenic Highway

Though North Georgia doesn’t offer any epic winding roads to rival the Blue Ridge Parkway , the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway offers a stunningly picturesque mountain route on a much smaller scale. 

Also known as Hwy 348, it stretches 23 miles from Helen to Blairsville GA. But it’s easy to extend the drive by heading further north to Young Harris and Hiawassee, or following the larger Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Byway  loop (40.6 miles total). 

There are plenty of cool things to do along the Richard B. Russell stretch to make a full day of it.

Start the morning fishing or hiking at Smithgall Woods State Park , then head north on Hwy 348 for fairly easy waterfall hikes at Dukes Creek Falls (2 miles round-trip) and Helton Creek Falls (0.3 miles). 

If taking a gander at jaw-dropping scenic vistas is more your speed, don’t miss the three roadside scenic overlooks that are located along Hwy 348.

All of them are worth a stop, but our favorite by far is Hogpen Gap, which is located along the Appalachian Trail. It’s a great place for an evening picnic while you soak in the dazzling colors of an amazing sunset!

READ MORE: The 20 Best Places to Live in the Georgia Mountains

13. Explore Downtown Blue Ridge GA

One of our favorite Blue Ridge Mountain towns in GA , the charming town of Blue Ridge has long been considered one of the best places to visit near Atlanta. 

Founded in 1886, Downtown Blue Ridge offers upscale restaurants , shopping, and culture, including vibrant art   galleries , a theatre, and live music on weekends.

There’s an extensive array of outdoor activities nearby, including horseback riding, white water rafting on the Ocoee River, ziplining, and boating and kayaking at Lake Blue Ridge .

There’s also lots of great hiking trails, including the Benton MacKaye Trail, the AT, and several impressive  waterfalls near Blue Ridge  (including Long Creek Falls, Fall Branch Falls, and Sea Creek Falls ). 

To learn more about the Fannin County area, hop aboard the historic Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and take a train ride through North Georgia along the Toccoa River, just as travelers did in the late 19th century.

If you want to extend your visit, there are loads of accommodation options, ranging from local campgrounds to luxurious tree houses and Blue Ridge cabins . 

READ MORE: The 20 Best Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA

14. Hiking in the Chattahoochee National Forest

The Chattahoochee National Forest encompasses around 867,000 acres of largely pristine land, offering some of the most rewarding opportunities for outdoor adventure in North Georgia .

The forest spans 26 counties and boasts hundreds of miles of hiking trails that lead to wildflower-lined streams, glistening waterfalls , peaceful lakes , and jaw-dropping mountain vistas.

Our favorite easy hiking trails in the National Forest include the 0.8-mile Toccoa Swinging Bridge trail near Blue Ridge, the 0.4-mile Sosebee Cove trail near Blairsville, and the 1-mile Lake Chatuge trail in Hiawassee. 

Those seeking moderate hikes in the forest will enjoy the 3-mile Rabun Bald trek near Clayton, the 4.9-mile the Raven Cliff Falls trail near Helen, and the 3-mile Grassy Mountain Tower trail in the Cohutta Wilderness. 

Hardy hikers will love the challenging elevation gain offered by the 4.4-mile Yonah Mountain trail in Helen, the 8.4-mile Smith Creek Trail to Anna Ruby Falls , and the 12.9-mile Coosa Backcountry Trail in Vogel State Park.

READ MORE: The Best 15 Hiking Trails in the Chattahoochee National Forest

15. Fly Fishing for Trout

Atlanta anglers seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the 9 to 5 life often head north of the city, where an array of different rivers and streams await.

There, colder waters provide an ideal habitat for trout, not to mention wildlife such as beaver, waterfowl, raccoons, and white-tail deer.

Experienced fly fishing guides such as River Through Atlanta ’s Chris Scalley can help you find the best hush-hush hotspots, where you can immerse yourself in Mother Nature’s pastoral beauty while also reeling in some tasty supper .

Scalley, who was recognized by Field & Stream magazine as a finalist for their 2007 Heroes of Conservation Awards for his efforts to protect the area’s sport fishery, offers a few tips on the best areas to land a big one.

“I’m a big fan of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area , specifically the areas near Bowmans Island, Settles Bridge, and Jones Bridge. I also like the Conasauga River and Jacks River section of the Cohutta Wilderness; and the Chattahoochee National Forest’s Jones Creek, and High Shoals Creek.”

READ MORE: How to Get to Horse Trough Falls in Helen GA (Upper Chattahoochee River Campground)

16. Fort Mountain State Park

Located in Chatsworth GA, Fort Mountain State Park makes an excellent North Georgia day trip, offering some of the best hiking near Ellijay GA.

In fact, the #1 thing to do at the state park is to explore its 25+ miles of hiking, horseback riding , and mountain biking trails (which includes 8+ miles on the Gahuti Trail).

If you can only do one, the CCC Fire Tower Combination Loop is our favorite. Its total distance is listed as a mile, but you can easily extend it to around 2 miles.

From the parking lot, take the trail on the right, going past the “Stone Tower Trail” sign and continuing east on the Stone Wall Trail. This takes you on a rarely-traveled path around the Fort Mountain summit, with incredible views and massive boulders. 

It eventually connects to the West Overlook Trail, which takes you to an awesome overview of the surrounding landscape.

Retrace your steps and you’ll see signs leading to the 4-story CCC Stone Tower, which was built back in the 1930s. Head back down the mountain from there to see the mysterious stone wall and CCC-built steps.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Cabin Rentals in Ellijay GA

17. Learn Native American History

Before the 1828 Georgia gold rush and Georgia land lotteries , which forced the removal of indigenous people on the tragic Trail of Tears, Cherokee people  had lived in the North GA mountains for hundreds of years.

And while you may not learn much about this sad chapter in U.S. history in school, there are plenty of North Georgia day trips that will immerse you in the 100-year history of Native American history.

For the ancient history, check out the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site in Cartersville.

The prehistoric archaeological site contains one of the largest Indian mounds in North America, which were built by indigenous peoples of the South Appalachian Mississippian culture  starting around 900 AD.

For more recent history, visit the New Echota Historic Site in Calhoun.

Established as the capital of the Cherokee Nation in 1825, the town was home to the first Indian language newspaper, the signing of the New Echota Treaty (which relinquished all tribal lands in the Southeast), and the beginning of the Trail of Tears. 

Other excellent sites where you can learn more about Native Americans in Georgia include the Track Rock Gap Archeological Site  in Blairsville, the Funk Heritage Center at Reinhardt University in Waleska, and the Chieftains Museum/Major Ridge Home in Rome. 

READ MORE: 6 incredible Indian Mounds in Georgia to Visit

18. Providence Canyon State Park 

Located in Lumpkin GA, about two hours south of the Atlanta airport, Providence Canyon State Park is known as “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon” due to the multi-colored hues of the dynamic landscape. 

The vibrant striations in Providence Canyon were formed by gradual erosion of the soil, which was caused by unsustainable  farming practices back in the 1800s.

Today, the canyon can be viewed from several great hiking trails , including one that meanders along the rim at the top and others that lead hikers down into the canyon. 

Stop by the park’s museum to learn more about the area’s history, or bring a packed lunch to be enjoy at one of the picnic tables or shelters (which are available for rent).

Backpackers are invited to camp overnight along the backcountry trails, but guests can also reserve a camping spot in the state park.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Hiking Trails In Atlanta GA (& Hikes Near Atlanta)

19. See 4 States From Brasstown Bald

Brasstown Bald is Georgia’s highest mountain, towering at 4,784 feet above sea level. It’s also arguably the best place in the state to get a view of fall colors in the North Georgia Mountains at their most radiant.

Known to the Cherokee people as Enotah, the site’s current name comes from a misunderstanding of the Cherokee word “Itse’yĭ” (New Green Place), which settlers mistook for “Ûňtsaiyĭ” (Brass).

The “Bald” refers to the unparalleled, unobstructed 360-degree view visitors get from the top, where you can see four states (Georgia, North Carolina , South Carolina, and Tennessee) simply by turning your head.

As a result, the moderate hiking trail up to the Observation Tower can get a bit crowded during peak season, as can the shuttle that takes visitors most of the way to the top.

But with rocking chairs, a small picnic area, and remarkably scenic surroundings waiting at the summit, it’s a fantastic place to spend an autumn afternoon!

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Things to Do in Hiawassee GA & Young Harris GA

20. See Rock City Gardens

Growing up in North Georgia in the 1970s, it was rare that we took a road trip without seeing one of the iconic “ See Rock City ” barns, over 900 of which were painted in 19 states between 1935 and 1969. 

Located two hours north of Atlanta on the Tennessee border, Rock City Gardens & Fairyland Caverns is a world-renowned tourist attraction that draws thousands of visitors to Lookout Mountain GA each month.

The attraction dates back to the 1920s, when Garnet Carter and his wife developed Lookout Mountain as a residential neighborhood. They built Fairyland Caverns, which included a  rock garden  and America’s first mini-golf course.

Freida Carter planned many of the Lookout Mountain hiking trails, planting wildflowers  and importing Bavarian gnomes for her unique garden .

Today, visitors can hike to Lover’s Leap, view 7 states from atop Lookout Mountain, and much more. And don’t miss Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights , one of our favorite places to celebrate Christmas in Georgia!

READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Lookout Mountain GA/TN

21. Shoot the ‘Hooch on a SUP

Made famous by country singer Alan Jackson, the Chattahoochee River stretches from northeast Georgia down through metro Atlanta suburbs such as Roswell and Sandy Springs.

“Shooting the ‘hooch” on a raft, tube , canoe, or kayak has been a local tradition for decades.

In recent years, High Country Outfitters has been offering a new way to experience one of Atlanta’s favorite outdoor recreation pastimes, with 3- and 6-mile jaunts down the river’s in-town heart (from Powers Ferry Rd to Paces Mill Rd) via stand-up paddle board.

The company has several certified paddleboard instructors on staff, as well as equipment rentals for self-guided trips.

“We’ve all sat down in a kayak or canoe and floated down the river,” says veteran guide John Sloane, the son of the owners.

“But when you’re on a paddleboard, it’s like walking on water, and also a tremendous workout. It’s very easy to do, but it’s an amazing workout from your feet all the way up to your shoulders, and especially your core.”

READ MORE: The 10 Best Places for River Tubing in Georgia

22. Seeing Northwest Georgia Caves

TAG is the popular nickname for the beautiful area in the Cumberland Plateau where northwest Georgia meets Alabama and Tennessee .

Thanks in large part to the Southeastern Cave Conservancy , the area has lured cavers from all around the world eager to explore its labyrinthine underground passages. Pigeon Mountain is particularly popular, thanks to its vast network of limestone caves .

Pettyjohn’s Cave has six miles of previously mapped passageways that often attract a healthy weekend crowd. The 13 miles of Ellison’s Cave that have been explored include the 440-foot-deep Incredible Dome Pit and the 586-foot-deep Fantastic Pit.

Note that underground caves and caverns can be extremely dangerous for people without proper equipment or caving experience.

So please learn more about the sport before embarking on your first caving expedition, and we highly recommend hiring local guides if possible.

READ MORE: 7 Cool Caves & Caverns in North Carolina

23. Spend a Day in Dahlonega GA

Dahlonega GA  has been one of my favorite North Georgia mountain towns for 30+ years now, and makes for a fantastic day trip from Atlanta.

Located just an hour north of Downtown Atlanta, Dahlonega is best known as the site of the first major gold rush in the US. The Dahlonega Gold Museum is a great place to learn about the state’s early gold mining history. 

Historic Downtown Dahlonega features numerous 19th century buildings that are home to an array of charming local shops and great restaurants . 

The town is known as one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in GA. Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas   celebration is a personal favorite, including a parade, the Lighting of the Square, and free photos with Santa. 

Dahlonega also hosts an array of fun annual festivals , including the Bear On The Square Mountain Festival (a celebration of Appalachian music and culture) in April and Gold Rush Days in October.

READ MORE: Top 20 Things to Do in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia

24. Sunsets on Lake Allatoona

We’re biased towards 12,000-acre Lake Allatoona. It’s the closest of Georgia’s lakes to our house , we’ve kept our pontoon boat docked there for 13 years, and it’s our home away from home when we’re not traveling.

It’s also home to 1,562-acre Red Top Mountain State Park (named for the iron-rich soil’s deep red color). It’s 45 minutes from downtown Atlanta, making it one of the most popular Georgia day trips for nature lovers.

The lake attracts avid boaters and fishermen all year-round, and the park’s 15.5 miles of hiking trails provide frequent wildlife sightings, including herons, egrets, kingfishers, osprey, geese, and ducks.

Lake Allatoona is an incredible place for a picnic, swimming, kayaking , and standup paddle boarding, with numerous parks (including Dallas Landing Park and Cooper’s Furnace Day Use Area), campgrounds , and marinas along its shores. 

It’s also a magical place to just sit back and watch the sunset over the water . 

READ MORE: The 10 Best Romantic Getaways in the North Georgia Mountains

25. Tallulah Gorge State Park

Georgia may not be able to match the Grand Canyon for sheer size and scope. But this 2,689-acre park is arguably among the most impressive canyons east of the Mississippi.

Considered one of Georgia’s “Seven Natural Wonders,” Tallulah Gorge is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep, with over 20 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. It’s also home to some of the most majestic waterfalls in North Georgia. 

Permits for hiking in the gorge (which take you close to the waterfalls) are available at the park’s Interpretive Center. But note that spots tend to fill up quickly on the weekends , so it’s best to arrive early in the morning.

If you choose to tackle this unique trekking adventure, be sure to carry plenty of water, as the bottom of gorge can get extremely hot on sunny days.

Hikers can also follow rim trails to scenic overlooks and cross a suspension bridge that is 80 feet high, offering some of the best views in the park. 

During specific times of the year, they open the Tallulah River dam to offer excellent white-water rafting and kayaking opportunities!

READ MORE: The 20 Best Things to Do in Clayton, GA (the Gem of Northeast Georgia)

26. Wine Tastings at North Georgia Wineries

The unique climate and soil conditions of the  North Georgia mountains make it the perfect place for growing grapes and producing wine. 

Despite the fact that there have been vineyards in the state for centuries, Georgia wineries didn’t gain much attention until the 1990s. But in recent years they’ve garnered national notoriety for their award-winning wines.

There are now nearly 60 licensed wineries in Georgia, which is nearly double the number of a decade ago.  Many of them offer wine tastings with breathtaking mountain views and southern hospitality. 

The town of Dahlonega GA is home to many of the most popular North Georgia wineries , including the 57-acre Frogtown Cellars, the 184-acre Three Sisters Vineyards, and the award-winning Wolf Mountain Vineyards.

But our favorite is the Montaluce Winery, which is also home to one of Dahlonega’s best restaurants .

Other wonderful wineries in North Georgia include Bear Claw Vineyards in Blue Ridge, Habersham Winery in Helen, and the Fainting Goats Vineyard & Winery in Jasper. 

READ MORE: 10 Festive Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Dahlonega GA

27. Visit Alpine Helen

Helen GA is a unique mountain town that combines the Alpine beauty  of Bavaria with the stunning landscapes and endless outdoor recreation opportunities of the Blue Ridge region.

The charming town boasts cobblestone walkways, German-inspired architecture, and lots of great German restaurants , where you can enjoy everything from schnitzel and wurst to massive steins of beer.

When you’re not exploring the tourist-oriented town, you can explore some of the myriad hiking trails, including Yonah Mountain and a diverse array of impressive waterfalls near Helen (such as Anna Ruby, Dukes Creek, Horse Trough, Raven Cliff, and Water’s Creek Falls). 

Other popular things to do in Helen GA include tubing down the Chattahoochee River, panning for gold and gems in the Dukes Creek Mines, riding the Alpine Mountain Coaster, and visiting Unicoi State Park. 

Perhaps the most famous attraction in Helen is their annual Oktoberfest festival in autumn, which is the largest in the world outside of Germany.

But we also love spending  Christmas in Helen GA , which includes the lighting of the village, a Christmas parade, Christkindlmarkt, and more.

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Rental Cabins in Helen GA

28. Unicoi State Park 

Though it’s located just a few miles from downtown Helen, Unicoi State Park & Lodge feels like a secluded haven for outdoor adventure lovers. 

Popular Unicoi hiking trails include the Bottoms Loop Trail (which passes by an old homestead), the Lake Trail, and the Smith Creek Trail (which stretches from the campground to the Anna Ruby Falls Recreation Area).

Other fun activities in the park include archery, an air gun range, a GPS scavenger hunt, guided nature hikes, fly fishing classes, guided kayaking , and paddle boarding classes.

The park offers an array of overnight accommodation options. They’re best known for the retro-hip Unicoi State Park Barrel Cabins , but they have cabins along Smith Creek and Deluxe Cabins as well.

There are also plenty of campsites for RV and tent camping to choose from, each of which includes water, power, a fire ring, grill, sewer, and dump station nearby.

READ MORE: Unicoi State Park & Lodge: Camping & Hiking Near Helen, GA

29. Vogel State Park

Not far from popular Blairsville GA Restaurants , Vogel is one of the oldest North Georgia State Parks . It was established in 1931, with buildings constructed during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps .

With its dynamic landscapes and spectacular views of Blood Mountain, Vogel State Park remains one of the most visited parks in north Georgia, offering 17 miles of hiking trails . 

The popular Trahlyta Lake Trail crosses an earthen dam created by the CCC in 1935, while the Bear Hair Gap Trail takes you past picturesque Trahlyta Falls and through the lower ridges of Blood Mountain.

Other fun activities in the state park include visiting the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum and renting kayaks, stand up paddle boards, pedal boats, and bikes.

If you want to make it an overnight or weekend visit, the park also offers 1- to 2-bedroom cabins , walk-in campsites, a 50-person pioneer campsite, and RV-accessible campsites.

READ MORE: Vogel State Park: Camping, Hiking & History in North Georgia

30. Whitewater Rafting on the Chattooga River

The Chattooga River (whose headwaters begin in Cashiers NC ) is most famous as the place where much of the classic action flick Deliverance  was filmed. Today it is an extremely popular place for whitewater rafting .

Designated by Congress as one of America’s “Wild and Scenic” rivers back in 1974, the Chattooga offers challenges for rafters of all skill levels in the picturesque setting of the Blue Ridge Mountains .

For more extreme adventure lovers, there’s Section IV, where Class IV and V rushing whitewater speeds you down the river at a breakneck pace, climaxing with an invigorating plunge down the legendary Five Falls and Soc-em-Dog.

For families seeking a kinder, gentler ride, there’s also Section III, a beginner-friendly float trip with a Class IV ending at Bull’s Sluice.

Going with an experienced tour outfitter such as Southeastern Expeditions will ensure safety and maximum enjoyment of your whitewater rafting adventure.   –By Bret Love; lead image by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett

We encourage anyone who loves the Blue Ridge region to learn about the  Leave No Trace   principles of responsible environmental stewardship. 

Stay on marked trails, take only pictures, pack out your trash, and be considerate of others who share the trails and parks you explore. 

Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous. Never try to climb waterfalls or get close to a ledge to get a selfie.

When you're exploring the wilderness, it's better to be safe than to be a statistic!

Bret and Mary

The BRMTG was created by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett, the award-winning team behind the world-renowned responsible travel website Green Global Travel. Born and raised in North Georgia, Editor-In-Chief Bret Love grew up hiking and camping in the Blue Ridge Mountains with his family. A professional writer/editor since 1995, he's covered travel and culture for 100+ publications, including American Way, Destination Marriott, Georgia Travel Guide, National Geographic, and Southbound. In 2010 he co-founded the award-winning website, Green Global Travel, which is ranked among the world's top travel blogs. Since launching BRMTG in 2020, he and Mary Gabbett have visited 50+ Blue Ridge Mountain towns together. Though she lived in NYC for 14 years, photographer/Business Manager Mary Gabbett's family has Georgia roots dating back 200+ years. Her great-grandfather was President of the Western Railroad of Alabama. Before moving to Atlanta in 1989, she fell in love with the North GA mountains, where her aunt owned a cabin. In 2010 she co-founded Green Global Travel, and has since traveled to more than 40 countries on six continents. Her photos have appeared in numerous travel publications (including National Geographic and Southbound) and various textbooks.

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Home » North America » USA » 10 Must-Do Day Trips from Atlanta | 2024

10 Must-Do Day Trips from Atlanta | 2024

Atlanta is filled with glass high-rises in downtown, but it’s also a city with some exceptional landscapes. You’ll find small towns oozing southern charm, and rich history.

There’s natural beauty in spades to explore on walks and hikes, and a variety of other fun activities. Within just a couple of hours from Atlanta, you can explore on some amazing day trips, venturing out of the hustle and bustle into nature. Head out on your own trip, or join a guided tour, there’s no right way to explore Atlanta.

Take a look at our favorite day trips from Atlanta, that promise a fun and memorable experience – without having to travel too far.

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Getting Around Atlanta and Beyond

Half-day trips from atlanta, full-day trips from atlanta, final thoughts.

Staying in Atlanta is a reasonably easy getaway. Visitors will be able to take advantage of the city’s robust public transport systems. Like most big cities, Atlanta is plagued by traffic woes so if you’re hiring a car, try to stay off the roads during peak times. 

Having your own set of wheels will allow you the freedom to head out on day trips to explore at your own pace. However, with so many great guided day trips available from Atlanta, having a car isn’t essential.

• The transit rail system is your best bet for getting around within the city and beyond. It’s fast and reliable, and safe!
• Buses are great for getting around within the city, but fall short when heading out of Atlanta. 
• It is a very walkable city. You can choose to walk or take a bike ride if you’re feeling energetic. 
• The Atlanta Streetcar is relatively new on the scene. It operates in a loop, so it’s not ideal for accessing areas not on route, but it’s super fun. 
• Taxis and ride shares operate everywhere – as per usual. Be conscious of distances, as fees can escalate pretty quickly. These are usually best for the ‘last mile’ when you need to get from the airport/train station to your accommodation. 

Visitors who find themselves with a free morning or afternoon should check out half-day trips. They are a great way to see something fun, and experience warm Southern hospitality in spades.

The eclectic town of Athens is just 15 minutes from Atlanta, and has everything you’d expect from a small college town. The thriving music scene, music venues, and artsy vibe makes for a memorable and charming escape.

The historic downtown features restored Victorian-era buildings, a range of galleries, trendy shops, and dining venues. There’s a growing food scene, too, as well as a brewing beer brewing culture – see what I did there.. 

When you’re not touring breweries and exploring historic sites, enjoy a tranquil stroll through the State Botanical Garden or a visit to the Georgia Museum of Art. Athens boasts 17 historic districts where you can discover the history and heritage of the town.

Be sure to stop by the Tree That Owns Itself – a white oak on the edge of downtown Athens.

Suggested trip: Let’s Roam Athens Scavenger Hunt

Summerville

The small Blue Ridge Mountains town of Summerville is a hidden gem about an hour and a half from Atlanta. The town is blissfully free of crowds of tourists, but there is still so much to see on your day trip from Atlanta.

With a steady stream of events and festivals year-round, there’s always something going on. The town has a pretty interesting history dating back to 1839.

Downtown Summerville has loads of old buildings, like the courthouse, the Historic Summerville Train Depot, and the Couey House – a traditional log home originally built in 1840. 

Try and hike the Marble Mine Trails in James H Floyd State Park. It’s a relatively easy trail of only 1.7 miles, passing abandoned mining buildings and wildflowers, and ending at a lovely waterfall. 

Make sure you don’t leave town without a stop at Paradise Garden – the creation of famous folk artist Rev Hoard Finster. Containing 22 structures, buildings, sculptures, and murals created by Finster, the Paradise Garden is a remarkable sight. If you’re keen to make a weekend of it, you can even stay in the onsite bungalow.

Day trips from Atlanta will get you out and about exploring all the best bits of the region. Visit nearby towns and cities, and explore unbelievable natural settings all just a short drive from the heart of the city.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Two hours north of Atlanta, and across the Tennessee state lines, lies the city of Chattanooga.

The city’s location between the mountains of Southern Tennessee and the Tennessee River, makes it a dream destination for adventurers – there’s plenty of natural beauty to explore. Try your hand at rock climbing, road and mountain biking, hiking, rafting, or horseback riding! Chattanooga has loads of walking trails and picnic spots for those just wanting to relax and enjoy the fresh air. 

History buffs can look forward to learning about the rich railroad history, military parks, and museums. There’s even a fascinating Native American heritage, civil war sites, and black history commemorations. 

In downtown Chattanooga you’ll find restaurants, craft breweries, and distilleries. The area is so walkable, you can spend hours wandering the maze of streets through historic stone and brick buildings. 

Suggested trip: Historic Downtown Chattanooga Segway Tour

Oozing Southern charm, the town of Macon is an enjoyable day trip just over an hour from Atlanta. With a rich and diverse history, the town is home to some fantastic sites.

The Tubman Museum has an extensive collection of African American art, history, and culture, while the Ocmulgee Mounds National Park offers a look into the Native American tribes of the region. Civil War buffs should check out the Cannonball House, while architecture enthusiasts must pay a visit to Hay House and the Grand Opera House. 

There are acres and acres of parks and natural settings to explore in Macon. Amerson River Park is great for walking, riding, or running along the trails. It has kayaking, canoeing, or tubing on the river, too!

As you’d expect in the South, food is a massive part of the culture. Be sure to check out H&H Soul Food, Nu-Way Weiners, and The Rookery for DELICIOUS food. 

Providence Canyon State Park

Also known as Georgia’s ‘Little Grand Canyon,’ Providence Canyon is a beautiful place for a day trip from Atlanta.

The canyon’s geological formations are the result of poor farming practices in the 1800s. Some of the gullies are as deep as 150 feet, creating a magnificent landscape for hiking. 

As you explore the terrain, keep an eye out for the rare Plumleaf Azalea, which only grows in this area. For those visiting in July and August, you are likely to see the rare shrubs in bloom.

There are 16 different canyons at Providence Canyon, exposing layers of pink, orange, red and white soil. Climbers can try out the Canyon Climbers Club challenge, and those who want a more chilled visit can simply wander around.

You can extend your visit with a stay in this  charming country house .

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest has 867,000 acres of exceptional scenery, natural beauty, and pristine wilderness. 

This enormous forest has over 86 trails for hiking, or simply walking. Immerse in magnificent views and unparalleled beauty. Photography enthusiasts – be sure to bring along your camera, there are some stunning viewpoints and scenic spots.

You can find a shady spot to enjoy a picnic, and go horse-riding, or mountain biking. The streams, lakes, creeks, and ponds are perfect for swimming, waterskiing, boating, and canoeing. 

Fishermen will find lots of spots to cast a line, whether from the shoreline or in one of the top trophy trout streams. If the fishing’s good, consider extending your stay for a night or two at a hideaway cabin .

Augusta 

The city of Augusta is located near the South Carolina border, on the banks of the Savannah River. It is mainly known for the famed Augusta National Golf Course, which hosts the annual Master’s Tournament. If you’re keen to play a round of golf, be prepared – it doesn’t come cheap.  

Augusta is a picturesque city and foodie’s paradise, with more than 100 restaurants. There is a huge collection of galleries and museums to entertain everyone too. From the Augusta Museum of History to the quirky and fun Pexchos’ American Dime Museum, Augusta has an interesting history to uncover.

The Savannah River is an attraction in itself, where you can hop on the popular Augusta Riverwalk along the banks. Augusta Canal has a waterfall where you can swim, and a spot for rock climbing. It is a great place to spend a summer’s day! Stay a little longer with this canal-side cottage as your home away from home.

Like many towns in Georgia, Blue Ridge has its roots in the railroad, and while it’s small in size, it’s big on charm. 

The town’s central feature is the quaint main street lined with restaurants, bars, and antique stores. It’s picturesque, to say the least, and draws visitors in their numbers. Lucky Atlanta residents have a second mountain home here for weekend getaways. 

There are several scenic hikes and trails around Blue Ridge, with creeks and rivers that are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. Fly fishing is renowned here, with it being Georgia’s trout capital. Nature lovers be ready to stay a little longer in a gorgeous cabin .

The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is a must-see if you are traveling with kids. The railway starts in downtown Blue Ridge, and travels along the original 1886 tracks to the sister towns of McCaysville and Copperhill (in Tennessee). Along the way, you’ll pass through the gorgeous Chattahoochee National Forest. 

Plan a stay in Blue Ridge if you want to soak up more of the small town charm.

Toccoa Falls

Tucked in a pretty wooded area on the Toccoa Falls College campus, you’ll find its namesake.

At 186ft tall, the Toccoa Falls is 26ft taller than Niagara Falls, and is one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls east of the Mississippi. 

The word ‘toccoa’ means beautiful in the Cherokee language, and once you’ve visited, you’ll agree that the name is fitting. Don’t let the college campus fool you; the Falls are hidden away, far from the bustle of students in a 1,100-acre wooded area. 

There’s a small entrance fee of $2 to visit the falls. The short walk is very accessible and easy for most visitors.

Toccoa Falls is a great place to enjoy a quiet afternoon strolling the grounds, and watching the falls. There are benches where you can sit and appreciate the wonderful setting. If you’d like to extend your visit, there are many great places to stay in the area, like the  Treetop Cottage . 

North Georgia Wine Country

A super popular day trip from Atlanta is a visit to the North Georgia Wine Country. This region has been producing commercial wines since the 1700s, and is now home to award-winning, family-owned wineries. 

The town of Dahlonega, and the surrounding wine country, is about 2 hours from Atlanta. You can pop in to the various wineries, enjoy wine tours and tastings, and even purchase bottles to take home. 

You’re in for a day of great food, excellent wine, live entertainment, and sunny patios to relax on and take in the view of rolling vineyards with the Appalachian Mountains in the distance. 

It would be hard to pick a favorite experience to enjoy on a day trip from Atlanta, but a visit to the North Georgia Wine Country should not be missed. It’s one of the best things to do during an Atlanta trip .

Suggested trip: North Georgia Wine Country Tour from Atlanta

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Don’t Forget your Atlanta Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Atlanta is a popular stop for visitors looking for rich history, diverse culture, and phenomenal scenery. Southern hospitality oozes from every nook and cranny, you’re guaranteed to feel right at home from the minute you arrive. 

Surrounding Atlanta are quaint towns, quirky cities, waterfalls, vineyards, mountains, and more. Whatever your interests, there’s an Atlanta day trip for you. 

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mary Beth Skylis

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54 Perfect Day Trips from Atlanta

BY Atlanta Magazine - August 22, 2018

Photograph by Growl

From surreal folk art environments to glitzy hotels, from secret gardens to town squares, here are our favorite quick escapes—all within 200 miles of Atlanta.

Edited by Betsy Riley with contributions from  Mary Logan Bikoff , Steve Fennessy , Mara Shalhoup , Matt Walljasper , Myrydd Wells , Thomas Wheatley

• Take a zombie tour in Senoia
• Splash at the 100k square-foot indoor water park at LaGrange's Great Wolf Lodge
• 2 holy places to explore
• See 7 states from Lover’s Leap at Rock City
• 24 hours in Birmingham
• Bring a friend (or 8) to LaPrade’s Marina on Lake Burton
• 2 venues to discover the best in indie music
• Meet 2 peafowl at Andalusia, the Milledgeville home of Flannery O’Connor
• 3 secret gardens in Georgia
• Discover 200 years of pottery at the Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia
• 2 great places to see a show
• See the 46,991 artworks at Howard Finster's Paradise Garden
• 24 hours in Chattanooga
• 3 things to do with kids in Dahlonega
• Visit 2 national-quality museums in Cartersville
• Visit 6 fun Minor League ballparks
• 3 places to see white columns
• 12 festivals worth the drive
• Explore 7 colorful acres of folk art at Pasaquan
• Taste medal-winning wines at Tiger Mountain Vineyards
• 24 hours at Barnsley Resort
• 5 stops for auto buffs
• Burn calories hiking to the top of Kennesaw Mountain

Tags Andalusia Cartersville Dahlonega day trips Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park Madison Paradise Garden Pasaquan Rock City Senoia Serenbe Playhouse travel

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25 Best Day Trips from Atlanta

Last Updated By VI on April 14, 2024 in Day Trips from Atlanta & Weekend Getaways

Athens (1 hour 20 min Day Trip from Atlanta)

Chattanooga (2 hours), stone mountain park (30 min day trip from atlanta), blue ridge (1 hour 30 minutes from atlanta).

• Complete List & Map

For art lovers, the city offers an array of eclectic art galleries, both large and small alike. With two performing arts centers within the city limits, Athens is never wanting for cultural experiences, while sports fans can get their fill by attending the Bulldogs’ games at the university’s stadiums.

However, more formal history tours can be found at the 6th Cavalry Museum, the Cravens House, or the Chickamauga Civil War Battlefield. Named “Best Town Ever” by Outdoor magazine, Chattanooga also has plenty of outdoor fun. In addition to parks and the Riverwalk, there are also a host of adventurous activities to enjoy along the rushing Tennessee River, such as white water rafting, hang-gliding, and hiking.

1000 Robert E. Lee Drive, Stone Mountain , GA 30083, Phone: 800-401-2407

There are around 300 miles of hiking trails and an estimated 100 miles of trout springs waiting to challenge you. Other attractions include wineries, breweries, great restaurants and excellent shopping opportunities. website

Birmingham (2 hours 10 min)

Today, Birmingham is Alabama’s cultural capital, with many large performing arts theaters, several well-attended annual festivals, and lots of museums, including the biggest art museum in the Southeast, the Birmingham Museum of Art. It is also the site of several universities and colleges, which add to the life and energy of the city. More Day Trips from Athens, GA

Dahlonega (1 hour 30 min)

Dahlonega’s quaint downtown is listed in the Historic Register, and the community celebrates its history with a number of museums and tours. It is also known for its many festivals, which are dedicated to its rich past and fortunate place among the surrounding nature. Next read: Romantic Weekend Getaways from Atlanta

Romantic Lake Lanier (1 hour)

Several parks are located just off the lake, and there are also a number of forest hiking trails nearby. Thrill seekers can try jet skiing out on the water or zip lining through the trees above, while those looking for a more laidback afternoon can try fishing or soaking up some rays on the sandy banks. More beaches near Atlanta, GA

Mableton (20 min)

Another attraction is the Silver Comet Trail, a hiking trail that runs along the route of the old Silver Comet railroad line all the way out to the Georgia-Alabama state line. Mableton also has a wide selection of restaurants with both home-style and contemporary menus for visiting foodies to enjoy.

Callaway Gardens (1 hour 20 min)

17800 US Hwy 27 Pine Mountain, GA 31822, Phone: 800-852-3810

Romantic Day at Toccoa Falls (1 hour 40 min)

Toccoa , GA 30577, Phone: 706-886-8451

Brasstown Bald (2 hours 20 min)

Georgia Spur 180, Blairsville, GA 30512, Phone: 706-745-6928

Providence Canyon State Park (2 hours 10 min)

Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites Headquarters, 2600 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge, GA 30281, Phone: 770-389-7286

Nashville (4 hours)

Nashville also has many smaller, intimate venues where future stars of the genre perform for local audiences. This Tennessee gem is divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each of which has its own personal vibe. It has a growing culinary and arts scene and is quickly developing into a beloved tourist destination for Americans and foreigners alike. Things to Do in Nashville

Chattahoochee National Forest (2 hours)

Suches, GA 30572, Phone: 770-297-3000

Gatlinburg (4 hours)

The area contains an impressive diversity of wildlife and is one of only a few International Biosphere Reserves across the world. Some well-known natural Gatlinburg attractions within the park include Cades Cove, a popular biking area, and Roaring Fork, the site where two stunning waterfalls meet. The town abounds with historical cabins and mills that give a glimpse of what Smoky Mountain life was like many years ago. Things to Do in Gatlinburg

Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge (1 hour 10 min)

718 Juliette Road, Round Oak, GA 31032, Phone: 478-986-5441

Consolidated Gold Mine (1 hour 20 min)

185 Consolidated Gold Mine Road, Dahlonega, GA 30533, Phone: 706-864-8473

Andersonville National Historic Site (2 hours)

760 POW Rd, Andersonville, GA 31711, Phone: 229-924-0343

Anna Ruby Falls (2 hours)

3455 Anna Ruby Falls Road, Helen, GA 30545, Phone: 706-878-1448

National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force (3 hours 30 min)

175 Bourne Avenue, Pooler, GA 31322, Phone: 912-748-8888

Museum of Aviation (1 hour 35 min Day Trip from Atlanta GA)

1942 Heritage Blvd, Robins AFB, GA 31098, 478-926-6870

Rock City Gardens (2 hours)

1400 Patten Road, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750, Phone: 706-820-2531

Mercier Orchards (1 hour 40 min Day Trip from Atlanta)

8660 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513, Phone: 706-632-3411

Amicalola Falls State Park (1 hour 30 min)

280 Amicalola Falls S.P. Rd, Dawsonville, GA 30534

Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park (1 hour 50 min)

3370 LaFayette Road, Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742, Phone: 706-866-9241

• 1. Athens (1 hour 20 min Day Trip from Atlanta)
• 2. Chattanooga (2 hours)
• 3. Stone Mountain Park (30 min Day Trip from Atlanta)
• 4. Blue Ridge (1 hour 30 minutes from Atlanta)
• 5. Birmingham (2 hours 10 min)
• 6. Dahlonega (1 hour 30 min)
• 7. Romantic Lake Lanier (1 hour)
• 8. Mableton (20 min)
• 9. Callaway Gardens (1 hour 20 min)
• 10. Romantic Day at Toccoa Falls (1 hour 40 min)
• 11. Brasstown Bald (2 hours 20 min)
• 12. Providence Canyon State Park (2 hours 10 min)
• 13. Nashville (4 hours)
• 14. Chattahoochee National Forest (2 hours)
• 15. Gatlinburg (4 hours)
• 16. Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge (1 hour 10 min)
• 17. Consolidated Gold Mine (1 hour 20 min)
• 18. Andersonville National Historic Site (2 hours)
• 19. Anna Ruby Falls (2 hours)
• 20. National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force (3 hours 30 min)
• 21. Museum of Aviation (1 hour 35 min Day Trip from Atlanta GA)
• 22. Rock City Gardens (2 hours)
• 23. Mercier Orchards (1 hour 40 min Day Trip from Atlanta)
• 24. Amicalola Falls State Park (1 hour 30 min)
• 25. Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park (1 hour 50 min)

The area around Atlanta is beautiful and well worth exploring on a day trip . Highlights include the Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains, as well as a number of small towns with thriving museums, cultural venues and romantic getaways . For another taste of Southern big cities, Nashville and Birmingham provide different perspectives on urban centers in the region. Regardless of where one goes on a day trip outside Atlanta , the immediate vicinity will certainly not disappoint.

More Features

Tybee Island Light Station and Museum

Consolidated Gold Mine in Dahlonega, GA

Athens Institute for Contemporary Art, Georgia

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103 Family Day Trips From The South Metro Atlanta Area

Sep 30, 2022 | Guides , Travel

Want to go on a day trip? Here are 103 travel options to get you started. The farthest is about 3 hours from our office in Jonesboro, Georgia! So what’s stopping you? Get out, explore, and find your family fun. Remember, you can get passes for some of these places through the library, and most have free days throughout the year (if they aren’t already FREE).

Drive Guide:

1-2 Hours **

2-3 Hours ***

3+ Hours ****

• Atlanta Zoo *
• Wild Animal Safari *
• North Ga Zoo  **
• Yule Forest  * (closed for the season)
• Chattanooga Zoo  ***
• Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary   *
• Georgia Aquarium  *
• Tenessee Aquarium  ***
• Six Flags Over Georgia  *
• Six Flags White Waters  *
• Stone Mountain  *
• LanierWorld  **
• The Rock Ranch *
• Southern Belle Farm *
• Dunwoody Nature Center  *
• Gwinnett Environmental Nature and Heritage Center  **
• Chattahoochee Nature Center  **
• Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center  ***
• Lake Conestee Nature Park  ***
• Elachee Nature Center  **
• Georgia Nature Center  ** (currently closed)
• Newman Wetlands Center  * (reopens June 2021)
• Sandy Creek Nature Center  **
• Reynolds Nature Preserves  *
• Atlanta Botanical Gardens  *
• Tennesee River Gardens and Nature Perserve  ***
• South Carolina Botanical Gardens  ***
• Atlanta Botanical Gardens-Gainesville  **
• State Botanical Gardens  **
• Birmingham Botanical Gardens  ***
• Calloway Garden  *
• American Camellia Society  **
• Roper Mountain Science Center  ***
• Fernbank Science Center  *
• Tellus Science Museum  **
• McWane Science Center  ***
• Coca-Cola Space Science Center  **
• Colburn Earth Science Museum  ****
• Atlanta Children’s Museum  *
• Chattanooga Children’s Museum  ***
• Greenville Children’s Museum  ***
• Delta Flight Museum *
• Museum of Aviation *
• Atlanta History Center  *
• Babyland General Hospital  ***
• Fernbank Museum of Natural History *
• Birmingham Museum of Art  ***
• High Museum of Art  *
• Micheal C. Carlos Museum  *
• Heritage Park Veterans Museum  *
• Center of Puppetry Arts  *
• National Center of Civil and Human Rights  *
• Martin Luther King Museum  * (currently closed)
• The Columbus Museum  **
• National Infantry Museum  **
• William Breman Jewish Museum  *
• APEX Museum  *
• Southeastern Railway Museum *
• World Of Coca Cola *
• Kennesaw Mountain  *
• Tallulah Gorge  **
• High Falls State Park  * (The Historic Trail will be closed until further notice for renovations. The Falls View and Tranquil trails will remain open.)
• Amicalola Falls  **
• Soco Falls  ****
• The Ridge Nature Area  *
• Flat Creek Nature Trail  *
• Cedar Falls Park  ***
• Ruby Falls-Chattanooga  ***
• Rock City  ***
• Lake Lanier  **
• International Park  *
• Little River Canyon National Preserves  ***
• Great Wolf Lodge (LaGrange) **
• Bridal Veil Falls  ****
• Fort Yargo Beaches  **
• Robin Lake Beach *
• Village Park at North Henry *
• North Georgia Premium Outlet  **
• Tanger Outlet-Commerce  **
• Tanger Outlet- Locust Grove  *
• Pendergrass Flea Market  **
• Calhoun Premium Outlet  **
• The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta  **
• Greenville, SC  ***
• Helen, GA  **
• Chattanooga, TN  ***
• Birmingham, Al  **
• Athens, GA  **
• Ashville, NC  ****
• TreeTop Quest-Dunwoody  *
• TreeTop Adventure  * (closed until March 2021
• Historic Banning Mill  *
• Blue Ridge Canopy Tours  ***
• The Sandbar Kayaking and Zipline Canopy Tour  ***
• The Gorge Zip Line Canopy Tours  ****
• Escalade Rock Climbing  *
• Party-By-Design TM *
• High Point Climbing and Fitness  ****
• Climb @ Blue Ridge  ****
• Climb Max Climbing  ***
• The Garden **

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• Last Updated On
• June 24, 2023

25 Best Weekend Getaways From Atlanta — Quick Trips!

Atlanta City is a gorgeous metropolis known for its thriving hip-hop scene and prominent history.

It’s also known as a shopping paradise, with beautiful street art lining the streets and lush greenery all around.

Growing up, my family always visited Atlanta City to visit relatives, so I’ve got quite a good grip on the best spots to stay at.

And if you’re planning to visit, you’ll need a comfortable stay to match your preference so you can save time and money.

So I gathered as much information as I could, visited these hotels and resorts, and gave my two cents about each one.

This article will rate the room variety, comfort and cleanliness, location, affordability, and family-friendliness of each one, so don’t blink.

Now pack your bags, take that leave from work, and enjoy the best weekend getaways from Atlanta.

Best Weekend Getaways From Atlanta Compared

From luxurious hotels to charming family-friendly resorts, here’s a quick comparison of the best spots to stay in while you’re in Atlanta.

Editor’s Choice

Azalea Inn and Gardens – Savannah

Azalea Inn and Gardens is an elegant bed and breakfast in Savannah, established in 1889.

• Room Variety: 4/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 5/5
• Location: 5/5
• Affordability: 5/5
• Family-Friendliness: 5/5

#2nd Best Choice

Barnsley Resort, Adairsville, Georgia

Barnsley Resort is a historical southern estate with plenty of family-friendly activities.

• oom Variety: 5/5 Comfort and Cleanliness: 4.5/5 Location: 4.5/5 Affordability: 4/5 Family-Friendliness: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Mansion on Forsyth Park, Savannah

The Mansion on Forsyth Park is a local hotel located in Georgia’s historic district.

• Comfort and Cleanliness: 4.5/5
• Location: 4.5/5
• Affordability: 4.5/5

Here are top 25 weekend getaways from Atlanta.

1. Azalea Inn and Gardens – Savannah (Editor’s Choice)

217 E Huntingdon St Savannah, GA 31401 (912) 236-6080 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Cozy, charming Southern vibe
• Convenient location close to restaurants and attractions
• Rooms are small

This gorgeous historic getaway is 3.5 hours from Atlanta and is excellent for a luxury experience.

It has a romantic garden you can stroll in and an outdoor pool.

Most guest rooms have fireplaces, jetted bathtubs, and private porches, so you know you’ll have a good time.

They also offer nightly wine, fresh-baked desserts, and complimentary wireless internet.

There are also plenty of shops and restaurants that are just steps from the inn.

2. Barnsley Resort, Adairsville, Georgia

597 Barnsley Gardens Rd NW Adairsville, GA 30103 (770) 773-7480 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Room Variety: 5/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Plenty of family-friendly activities on-site
• Great packages available
• Restaurants are expensive

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway from Atlanta, go no further than the Barnsley Resort, which is about 1.5 hours away.

You have the option of staying in the inn’s standard rooms, a suite, or one of the standalone cottages.

This cozy retreat, with its English-style decor, is a win-win.

It also offers the outdoor enthusiast plenty of space to relax among the trees and wildlife.

Depending on your preferences, you can pick from a wide variety of opportunities.

Golfing, horseback riding, shooting, and hiking are all fun options you could do.

Schedule some time at their luxurious spa if you’d rather take it easy.

End your day with a delicious meal at The Woodlands Grill and Rice House after a day of sightseeing.

3. Mansion on Forsyth Park, Savannah

700 Drayton St Savannah, GA 31401 (912) 238-5158 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Luxurious rooms
• Convenient location
• Extra charge for some amenities

This gorgeous Victorian Romanesque mansion is 3.5 hours away and one of the best weekend getaways from Atlanta.

The Grand Bohemian Gallery is also found in this unique hotel, housing 400 original art pieces.

Indulge in modern luxuries during your stay, enjoy musical performances while having dinner, or listen to jazz in Casimir’s Lounge.

You can take a cooking class at 700 Kitchen Cooking School or relax at Poseidon Spa.

4. Chateau Elan Winery & Resort

100 Rue Charlemagne Dr Braselton, GA 30517 (678) 425-0900 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Chateau Elan Winery & Resort is a fantastic alternative to Mansion on Forsyth Park, Savannah.

It has a similar vibe to a mansion, but its amenities are complimentary, and they have a vineyard.

Chateau Elan Winery & Resort is a premier resort in Braselton located on 3,500 acres of wooded forests and hills.

This beautiful staycation destination is only 1 hour away from Atlanta.

Not only does it offer 275 striking rooms, villas, and suites, but it’s also surrounded by stunning wine country views.

Visit the winery for special events, cooking classes, and a wine market with your favorites.

Head to the spa to get the tensions melted away, or play a round of golf at one of the 63 scenic holes.

It’s an excellent place for couples on a honeymoon or friends who want to bond.

5. St. Simons Island

St. Simons Island, GA Visit Website Open in Google Maps

St. Simons Island is the Golden Isles’ largest barrier island, known for its picturesque views.

The drive will take 4.5 hours from Atlanta, so bring a snack and ready your road tunes.

Visit the island’s lighthouse that’s been standing since 1872, and see spectacular views from there.

Then head to the beach for a few hours of swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, or fishing.

You could even play a round of golf if you’re up to the challenge.

Set some time aside to check out the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, where you’ll learn about the cutest sea turtles.

Whatever you decide to do, bring a camera to capture rare moments.

If you’re looking for long weekend trips from Atlanta that are perfect for couples or families, this island is a must-visit.

Recommended Hotel: The Inn at Sea Island

Related: St Simons Island Restaurants

Related: Hotels in Augusta

6. Columbus, Georgia

Columbus, GA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Columbus is a city in western Georgia known to be the home of Fort Benning and the longest urban whitewater course in the world.

This easy 90-minute drive is one of the best Atlanta weekend getaways you could have.

Have some fresh air and go for a walk or jog along the Chattahoochee RiverWalk, with great river views.

You’ll find plenty of art galleries, museums, and world-class restaurants along the way.

Go for zipline adventures or have a relaxing time just tubing down the river.

For history buffs, the National Infantry Museum and Historic Westville is a fun find for history.

So if you’re down for short trips from Atlanta that feature nature and history, this town is always a great choice.

Recommended Hotel: AC Hotel by Marriott Columbus Downtown

7. Pine Mountain, Georgia

Pine Mountain, GA Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Pine Mountain is a town in western Georgia known for its natural sceneries and preserves.

If you’re looking for a peaceful weekend getaway, Atlanta is less than an hour’s drive from this gorgeous hotspot.

Take a horseback tour with Roosevelt Stables to explore the beautiful pine forests.

The Wild Animal Safari is also a popular option for kids and is no less fun for adults.

Head to the Chipley Historical Center to learn more about this town’s fascinating history.

Or visit Callaway Gardens to view beautiful flowers and stroll among the butterflies.

Bring a camera to take pictures of mysterious stone chapels, which take you back a few hundred years in time.

As small as this is, Pine Mountain is one of the most intriguing Atlanta area weekend getaways.

Recommended Hotel: Callaway Resort & Gardens

8. Hilton Head Island, SC

Hilton Head Island, SC Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Hilton Head Island is a quaint city in South Carolina known for its sandy beaches and nature preserves.

This staycation destination is about 4 hours by car from Atlanta and about 1.5 hours by air.

You can visit Coligny Beach Park to relax for a few hours in its shady gazebos, swing chairs, and free Wifi.

You’ll also find plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops along the boardwalk of this beach.

Visit the Harbour Town Lighthouse, also home to a fascinating museum you might enjoy.

Then check out the Coastal Discovery Museum to have a blast with hands-on exhibits with the gang.

Recommended Hotel: Home2 Suites By Hilton Hilton Head

Related: Best Day Trips From Hilton Head

9. Tybee Island, Georgia

Tybee Island, GA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Tybee Island is a tourist attraction known for its beaches and surfing spots.

It’s a 4-hour drive from Atlanta, but it is worth every second of the trip.

Start your vacation off right by hitting the beach.

Mid Beach is the place to go if you’re looking for a less busy beach.

And if you’re looking for a place to stay close to a variety of dining and entertainment options, go no further than South Beach.

Hotel Tybee is a fantastic place to spend the night if you want easy access to the Tybee Island Marine Science Center.

If you’re looking to have a cool overnight trip by the ocean, Tybee Island is a must-visit.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Tybee

Related: Georgia: Weekend Getaways

10. Stone Mountain Park, Georgia

1000 Robert E Lee Blvd Stone Mountain, GA 30083 (800) 401-2407 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Stone Mountain Park is a 3,200-acre natural park offering plenty of family-friendly activities.

This beautiful landmark may only be 20 minutes away from Atlanta, but it feels like it’s on a different planet.

Take a few pictures with the gigantic rock in the center with carvings of amazing people of the past.

Try to visit during the evening, when a laser show is bound to leave you amazed.

It’s a popular hit with kids and adults alike, and worth the timing.

You can also opt to play golf, visit a granite museum, or ride a cable car at Summit Skyride to enjoy the views.

This is one of the best last minute weekend getaways from Atlanta you don’t want to miss.

Recommended Hotel: Atlanta Evergreen Lakeside Resort

11. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, NC Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Asheville , North Carolina, in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is famous for its flourishing arts scene and stunning Victorian architecture.

Travel time from Atlanta is estimated at 3 hours and 34 minutes.

Visiting Pisgah National Forest is a worthwhile adventure.

There are more than a hundred waterfalls and miles of trails to explore in this forest, which spans over half a million acres.

There are also camping and picnic spots and trails for those interested in trekking.

Downtown is the best place to see examples of a wide range of architectural styles, from the traditional to the avant-garde.

Asheville is a fantastic option if you’re looking for inexpensive weekend getaways near Atlanta.

Recommended Hotel: Cambria Hotel Downtown Asheville

12. Toccoa, Georgia

Toccoa, GA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Founded in 1905, Toccoa is one of Georgia’s most remote cities in the state’s extreme northeast.

Even though it’s 1 hour and 37 minutes from Atlanta, the trip is well worth it because of this fascinating city.

More than 75 national and local retailers call this picturesque city home, with plenty to explore.

There are also suburban shopping malls and a historic downtown you might find interesting.

Then visit Main Street downtown to see art galleries, cozy restaurants, and entertainment centers for the gang.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Club Vacations Apple Mountain Resort at Clarkesville

13. Lake Oconee, Georgia

Greensboro, GA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lake Oconee is a reservoir in central Georgia that was created in 1979.

This gorgeous place is just over an hour away from Atlanta, so there’s plenty of time to explore.

Rent a boat or jet ski from Oconee Wild Watersports and cruise around the lake in search of excitement.

There are also a few golf courses to pick from nearby, like the Great Waters Golf Course.

Memory Lane Classic Cars is a great place for car enthusiasts to check out a variety of vintage classics.

If you’re looking for places near Atlanta for vacation, Lake Oconee is a fantastic option.

Recommended Hotel: Tru By Hilton Greensboro Lake Oconee, GA

14. Greenville, South Carolina

Greenville, SC Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Greenville is a city in South Carolina home to renowned art galleries.

Drive 2.5 hours south of Greenville, and you’ll reach this little paradise.

Explore the city by renting a bike through Reedy Ride.

Follow the Rabbit Trail and make stops along the city to see landmarks and unique stores.

TD Saturday Market and the Cottage Grove Vintage Market are amazing markets to check out if you love variety.

Then head to Fells Park for a thrilling walk through a suspension bridge while admiring the waterfalls below.

Finally, ask for a room that overlooks the Reedy River at the Hampton Inn and Suites Greenville to spend the night.

If you’re looking for places near Atlanta for vacation, Greenville is a great staycation.

15. Jekyll Island, Georgia

Jekyll Island, GA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Jekyll Island is located on the coast of Glynn County and is one of the Golden Isles of Georgia barrier islands.

The drive will take under 5 hours to complete, but it’s worth the trip.

Head to Driftwood Beach to see fascinating natural sculptures of trees and go swimming.

Learn about turtles at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, or visit Horton House for a tour of history.

Then head to Summer Waves Water Park to cool off and have a blast with the water slides and rides.

Don’t forget to explore downtown to see the heartbeat of this place in restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques.

Recommended Hotel: Jekyll Island Club Resort

16. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, SC Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Charleston is a port city in South Carolina founded in 1670.

This drive will take you 4 hours and 38 minutes from Atlanta.

Be sure to visit the South Carolina Aquarium to see fascinating marine life in action.

Tour a plantation nearby to breathe fresh air and savor beautiful views.

Or relax on the beaches of Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach, which also have amenities that will make your stay comfortable.

If you’re planning to spend the night, Wentworth Mansion is a fabulous option if you’re looking for something pet-friendly and luxurious.

Atlanta vacations have never been this good, and it’s a fun experience for friends, families, couples, or solo travelers.

Recommended Hotel: The Charleston Place

17. Helen, Georgia

Helen, GA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Helen is a mountain town famous for its vineyards and Bavarian-style architecture.

The estimated driving time is 1 hour and 47 minutes from Atlanta, assuming no traffic.

Enjoy water sports at Unicoi State Park or wander the quaint streets of the historic center.

Explore the Chattahoochee National Forest on foot and marvel at the Raven Cliff waterfalls, a highlight of any trip to the area.

Bring the gang for some relaxation on the Chattahoochee River and some exciting zip line adventures.

If you’re looking for fun places to go for a weekend trip near you, Helen is the way to go.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Helen, an IHG Hotel

18. St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, FL Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

St. Augustine is a city on the northeast coast of Florida known to be the oldest city in the country.

The drive from Atlanta is a little under 6 hours, with plenty of scenic views along the way.

Take a boat ride with Schooner Freedom Charters to see a beautiful sunset over the waters.

Then visit the Fountain of Youth and the Lightner Museum for a fascinating glimpse of history.

A tasting at the San Sebastian Winery and a trip to the Alligator Farm are two popular and fun things to do here.

St. Augustine also has a thriving tourism industry thanks to its trolley excursions and haunted history tours.

Recommended Hotel: Renaissance St. Augustine Historic Downtown Hotel

19. Blue Ridge, Georgia

Blue Ridge, GA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Blue Ridge is a mountain town located in northern Georgia, known for its artistic community.

This charming destination in the mountains is only 2 hours from Atlanta.

If you need solitude and tranquility, this weekend getaway is for you.

Aska Lodge is a fantastic place to stay in Georgia’s beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains if you want scenic views.

You should definitely visit Falls Branch Falls if you find yourself in Blue Ridge for fun hiking and picnics.

The Appalachian Trail’s official beginning is not far away, so it’s perfect for outdoor lovers.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Inn & Suites Blue Ridge

Related: Blue Ridge Restaurants

20. Destin, Florida

Destin, FL Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Destin is a city in northwest Florida located in the Panhandle known for its Gulf of Mexico and many golf courses.

It’s a 5-hour drive from Atlanta, but it’s worth it if you want to truly relax.

Visit Henderson Beach State Park for a few hours of swimming and beach fun.

Another beach you could visit is Crystal Beach which isn’t as crowded and has picnic areas.

You can also take boat tours to see dolphins and other sea creatures.

The Wild Animal Safari and F.D. Roosevelt State Park are two of the best stops you can make en route to Destin.

The Henderson Park Inn is a luxurious hotel on Destin’s beautiful beach, perfect for a holiday with your loved one.

You and your special someone can relax and take in the sights along the Emerald Coast.

Recommended Hotel: Home2 Suites by Hilton Destin

21. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg, TN Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Tennessee’s Gatlinburg is a popular tourist destination because of its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that’s worth the 4-hour drive from Atlanta, this lovely city is a fantastic option.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an absolute must-see for outdoor enthusiasts and sightseers.

Gatlinburg is also home to Tennessee’s only ski resort, Ober Gatlinburg, making it an ideal winter vacation destination.

Recommended Hotel: Greystone Lodge on the River

22. Savannah

Savannah, GA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Savannah is a coastal Georgia city known for its parks and unique architecture.

This beautiful city is a mere 3.5-hour drive from Atlanta and is worth every second.

Elegant parks and finely kept architecture make this city a pleasure to stroll through and discover its rich history, charm, and romance.

Its historic squares provide a rare look into the past and are great places for a relaxing stroll.

There are plenty of photo opportunities in these areas, so bring a camera.

Then have a picnic at Forsyth Park with its picturesque fountain and paths covered by Spanish moss.

Savannah also boasts world-class restaurants, vibrant entertainment venues, and many things to do.

This is one of the best romantic getaways from Atlanta when it comes to the atmosphere.

Recommended Hotel: JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District

23. Augusta, Georgia

Augusta, GA Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Augusta is a city in Georgia known for hosting the Masters Golf Tournament.

You can reach the city of Augusta in about 2.5 hours.

You’ll most likely come across the world-famous Augusta National Golf Course for a fun-filled few hours of golf.

If golf isn’t your thing, you can take a fun trolly tour to see downtown murals and learn about Augusta’s history.

There are many iconic landmarks to see, like the James Brown statue.

Then explore the Forks Area Trail System to paddle a boat or rent a mountain bike to enjoy nature.

If you’re looking for getaways in Atlanta that the whole family will enjoy, this is a fun city to choose.

24. Hotel Indigo – Athens

500 College Ave Athens, GA 30601 (706) 546 0430 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Hotel Indigo was established in 2009 and is located in downtown Athens.

This hotel is a quick trip of just 1 hour and 20 minutes from the city and is perfect for cheap vacations from Atlanta.

Apart from this hotel’s comfortable wooden rooms and full bar, it also has a gallery showcasing modern art.

Have some wine while enjoying the gorgeous views of downtown from this hotel.

Then have a delicious meal at Madison Bar & Bistro to taste regional cuisines.

25. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga, TN Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Located in southeastern Tennessee at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains is Chattanooga .

Only around 2 hours away from Atlanta, this stunning location offers visitors breathtaking scenery and a rich cultural experience.

Explore the Creative Discovery Museum or the Tennessee Aquarium to have a blast with kids.

The adventures you can take at Raccoon Mountain Caverns & Campground are fascinating and will take you to some beautiful natural landmarks.

Family-friendly activities like gemstone panning are also offered.

Seeing natural rock shelters worldwide can be exhausting, so at the end of the day, nothing beats relaxing by a campfire with a view of the Raccoon and Lookout Mountains.

This area is a favorite for campers wishing to combine a trip to Music City with a getaway to the great outdoors.

Recommended Hotel: The Read House

Getaway Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

Choosing the right hotel or resort is essential, especially if traveling with a group.

Depending on your intentions, you might want to look for places close to the attractions you intend to visit or one that caters to children more.

As a traveler and parent myself, I always take into consideration the comfort of my family first.

Barnsley Resort is a beautiful village-like resort with cottages and plenty of family-friendly activities on-site.

You can explore the historic ruins and gardens, play some golf, or even go horseback riding.

Now although the amenities are a blast to enjoy, they do cost extra.

If you’re looking for a little more pizazz, the Mansion on Forsyth Park might be for you.

It’s a snazzy place with luxurious rooms and a gorgeous lounge, but the food is as pricey as it is fancy.

A great alternative to this is the Chateau Elan Winery and Resort, which is a lot bigger and offers more activities to do. 

Plus most of their amenities are free of charge and the food is phenomenal.

But the top pick is definitely the Azalea Inn & Villas.

This charming bed and breakfast is a cozy escape from the modern world, with excellent service and the most lovely rooms in town.

Breakfast here is fantastic, and it’s within walking distance of several major attractions and restaurants in the city.

How I Picked The Destinations 

We often visit Atlanta because of relatives, and we try different hotels and resorts each time.

After doing this for a few years, I thought why not compare the best?

I’m also a parent and traveler so I have an eye for amenities, location, and prices so that I can fit it better for future itineraries.

Of course, I asked people around about their favorite spots, and I’m pleased to know it’s very similar to what I have in mind.

Our Property Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Room Variety: I use this to rate the room options offered by every property. What room types are available? Can it accommodate different budgets, group sizes, and preferences? I ask myself these questions when evaluating the property’s room variety. 
• Comfort and Cleanliness: This measures the overall cleanliness and comfort of the accommodations. Does it have comfortable beds? Are the rooms spotless and dust-free? These are important factors I consider when rating comfort and cleanliness. 
• Location: This is used to evaluate how convenient and accessible the property is. How close is it to the attractions? Are there good public transportation options near the location? Is it easily accessible for families? These questions are important when I rate the location of every accommodation. 
• Affordability: I use this to evaluate the property’s affordability. Are the room rates reasonable? Does the property have any additional fees? Does the property offer discounts or packages? I ask myself this in order to rate affordability. 
• Family-Friendliness: This evaluates the family-friendliness of each property. Does it offer babysitting services and children’s activities? Does it have connecting rooms for families? I use these questions to rate the family-friendliness of the property. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the closest mountain getaway to atlanta.

The closest mountain getaway to Atlanta is the Blue Ridge Mountains area in North Georgia. One of the most popular destinations in this area is the city of Blue Ridge, Georgia. It’s approximately a 90-minute drive from Atlanta, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway.

What Months Are Best To Visit Atlanta?

The best time to visit Atlanta is during the spring or fall when you can avoid the heat and humidity of the southern summer. 

Finding the right hotel or resort to match your itinerary doesn’t have to be a headache.

All these hotels are close to local attractions, some even within walking distance.

But what’s essential is the experience during your stay, and it’s important to know which ones suit your preference.

My family enjoyed the Barnsley Resort because of the cottages, and we all enjoyed the golf and horseback riding activities.

The Mansion on Forsyth Park is a luxurious pick, and although the restaurant was pricey, we didn’t mind walking to the nearby restaurants.

Chateau Elan is an alternative to the mansion, with its huge space, unending amenities, and stunning vineyard.

But our top pick has to be the Azalea Inn & Villas for the best weekend getaways from Atlanta.

The gang absolutely loved the charming, 1800s rooms, hot breakfast, and spectacular service.

It’s also within walking distance of many museums and restaurants, so we did plenty of exploring.

It feels like a home away from home, and it’s no wonder why it almost always has perfect ratings.

15 Best Weekend Trips from Atlanta Georgia

• Atlanta / Georgia / In the City / North America / USA

Looking for a weekend getaway from Atlanta? Here are the best spots to go!

I was born and raised in Atlanta and can’t say I’ve spent that much time exploring Georgia or even outside Greater Atlanta. If you live somewhere for so long, it’s easy to take a place for granted and assume you’ll just get to it later. We’ve been there.

To give you some inspiration to get out and explore, we’ve put together a list of best weekend trips from Atlanta. Just a short drive away, you can find yourself surrounded by lush, green forests, small historic towns, and even beaches. 

If you are really limited on time, check out our  15 Most Popular Day Trips from Atlanta , which are even closer. You can always make them weekend getaways too!

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: March 8, 2024

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• Best Weekend Trips from Atlanta GA
• More Weekend Trip Ideas Under 7 Hours
• Map of Weekend Getaways from Atlanta

Planning Checklist

More resources, 1. chattanooga, tennessee →.

Distance:  118 mi / 1 hr 46 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Ruby Falls, Rock City Garden, Tennessee Aquarium What to Eat:  Maple Street Biscuit Company ,  Public House Where to Stay:  Find hotels in Chattanooga

Chattanooga has a ton of charm. We visited often when I was a kid, and I have fond memories of the Tennessee Aquarium, Rock City, and Ruby Falls.

Even to this day, the attractions are fun to explore and there are many outdoor activities in the area too. Regardless of your interest, there is plenty to keep you busy over a weekend.

See More: 17 Fun Things to Do in Chattanooga TN

2. Asheville, North Carolina →

Distance: 208 mi / 3 hr 25 min ( map ) Can’t Miss Attractions:   Biltmore Estate , Looking Glass Hike, Foundation Walls What to Eat:   49 Best Places to Eat in Asheville Where to Stay:  The Best Places to Stay in Asheville

Asheville has a bit of everything! There’s an amazing food scene, craft breweries to quench your thirst, beautiful outdoor landscapes, fun murals and art to track down. Our last family trip was to Asheville during the holidays.

See More: 101 Things to Do in Asheville NC

3. Augusta, Georgia

Distance:  145 mi / 2 hr 10 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Augusta Canal, Phinizy Swamp Nature Park, Augusta Museum of History What to Eat:  Frog Hollow Tavern ,  Jackie M’s & Son ,  Abel Brown Where to Stay:  Search hotel deals in Augusta

Most well known for The Masters, Augusta is Georgia’s second oldest city. It definitely draws golfers from all over the world but is a great spot for weekend getaways.

With plenty of food options, eat til you can’t walk anymore, check out the growing arts and theater scene or catch a concert.

4. Blue Ridge Parkway

Distance:  164 mi / 2 hr 55 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Fall Foliage, Tons of Stops Along the 469-Mile Road What to Eat:  Haywood Smokehouse ,  Buttered Biscuit ,  The Sweet Onion Where to Stay:  Find hotels near the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is an amazing spot for anyone who loves the outdoors. There are beautiful hikes, fishing, and camping.

If you don’t like being outdoors, you can enjoy the beauty without getting out of the car on the scenic drive. Don’t forget to check out all the amazing spots the drive takes you through.

5. Charleston, South Carolina →

Distance:  305 mi / 4 hr 40 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Our Charleston Bucket List What to Eat:   49 Best Places to Eat in Charleston Where to Stay:  Hotels in Charleston

Charleston is one of my favorite cities close to Atlanta. It’s the oldest and second largest city in the state. I love the cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and beautiful architecture. On top of that, there are amazing rooftop bars and delicious seafood!

See More: 101 Things to Do in Charleston SC

6. Destin, Florida →

Distance:  315 mi / 5 hr 10 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Henderson Beach State Park, Destin Harbor Boardwalk, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park What to Eat:  McGuire’s Irish Pub ,  Boshamps Oyster House , Louisiana Lagniappe Where to Stay:  Hotels in Destin

If you’re looking for clean, white sand beaches, Destin is your spot! Spring Break will bring party-ers to town but much less than some of the neighboring beaches. Though I prefer to stay longer when we drive down to the panhandle, we’ve done it for a weekend before.

See More: 17 Unforgettable Things to Do in Destin FL

7. Great Smoky Mountains NP / Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Distance:  196 mi / 3 hr 50 min ( map ) What to Do / See:   Great Smoky Mountains NP , Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park, Sky Life What to Eat:   Crockett’s Breakfast Camp ,  Delauders BBQ ,  Pancake Pantry Where to Stay:   Search for nearby Hotel Deals

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the closest national park to Atlanta and the most visited in the US. Fall is one of the busiest times with everyone enjoying the foliage, but there are plenty of spots to explore. 

Although touristy, Gatlinburg is a popular spot to set up home base and also gives you more options for attractions and restaurants.

See More: Complete List of National Parks by State

8. The Golden Isles: Jekyll Island, St Simons, Little St Simons, Sea Island

Distance:  322 mi / 4 hr 40 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Driftwood Beach, Fort Frederica National Monument What to Eat:  Southern Soul Barbeque , Driftwood Bistro , Halyards Restaurant Where to Stay:  Search for Hotels in the Golden Isles

Located on the Georgia coast are four beautiful islands: St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. Pristine marshlands fill the landscape accompanied by beautiful beaches. Each island brings its own character. On one hand, Jekyll Island is popular with families, on the other, Little St Simon is privately owned and only 32 people can stay there at a time.

9. Greenville, South Carolina →

Distance:  145 mi / 2 hr 15 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Swamp Rabbit Trail, Greenville Zoo, Liberty Bridge What to Eat:   Takosushi ,  The Trappe Door ,  Thomas Creek Brewery Where to Stay:  Greenville Hotel Deals

Find waterfalls, hike beautiful trails, or fly down a zip line in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Greenville has something to offer year round. You can also find one-of-a-kind shops, art galleries, museums, and attractions for the whole family.

See More: 13 Absolutely Amazing Places to Eat in Greenville SC

10. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Distance:  281 mi / 4 hr 5 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Coastal Discovery Museum, Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, Hunting Island State Park What to Eat:  Lucky Rooster ,  A Lowcountry Backyard ,  Skull Creek Boathouse Where to Stay:  Hilton Head Island Hotels

Look for starfish, sand-dollars, and sea turtles at the beach, or spend your day on the golf course, biking, or kayaking. There are beautiful resorts and hotels set amongst spectacular scenery.

11. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Distance:  362 mi / 5 hr 30 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, Myrtle Beach State Park What to Eat:  Johnny D’s Waffles and Bakery , Eggs Up Grill , Simply Southern Smokehouse Where to Stay:   Search Myrtle Beach Hotels

Myrtle Beach has sixty miles of beautiful sandy beaches. Bask in the sun or play in the water. If you need a break from the sun, there are a ton of live shows, endless shopping, a lot of great restaurants.

12. Nashville, Tennessee →

Distance:  250 mi / 3 hr 45 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  9 Awesome Things to Do in Nashville What to Eat:  Peg Leg Porker ,  Hattie B’s Chicken ,  Biscuit Love Where to Stay:  Nashville Hotel Deals

Nashville is the country music capital! Catch an amazing live show on Broadway, see the Country Music Hall of Fame, or try some Nashville hot chicken. Also, there’s a full-sized replica of the Parthenon in Centennial Park.

See More: 9 Awesome Things to Do in Nashville Tennessee

13. Savannah, Georgia

Distance:  248 mi / 3 hr 30 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Savannah Historic District, Oatland Island Wildlife Center, Fort Pulaski National Monument What to Eat:  The Olde Pink House ,  Savannah Seafood Shack , Treylor Park Where to Stay:   Hotel Deals in Savannah

Explore Savannah on a kayak, ride a carriage around town, or hop on a historical bus tour. If you’re a bit more daring, take a walking ghost tour. Savannah is a quintessential southern town with so much southern charm.

14. Birmingham, Alabama

Distance:  147 mi / 2 hr 15 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  McWane Center (Aquarium and Science Exhibits), Birmingham Museum of Art, Ruffner Mountain Nature Center What to Eat:  Bamboo on 2nd ,  El Barrio ,  Saw’s Soul Kitchen Where to Stay:   Search for Hotels in Birmingham

Birmingham is currently the largest city in Alabama and is where history meets present day. Even though the city is relatively young, it has a lot of historical significance that you can learn more about in their museums.

If you’re a sports fan, be sure to check out the nation’s oldest baseball stadium. If you’re looking for colorful photo spots, check out the rainbow-lit tunnel ( map ).

15. Orlando, Florida →

Distance:  442 mi / 6 hr 15 min ( map ) What to Do / See:   101 Things to Do in Orlando What to Eat:  Cafe Tu Tu Tango ,  Christner’s Prime Steak & Lobster ,  Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa Where to Stay:  The Best Hotels in Orlando

Our parents own a timeshare down in Orlando, so we’ve been going at least once a year ever since I was a kid. Even as adults, we’re still big fans of Disney.

Obviously, there’s Disney World and the Universal Parks, which can keep you busy in and of themselves, but there’s plenty around town if you’ve already been.

See More: The Ultimate Orlando Bucket List

Map of the Best Weekend Trips from Atlanta

More Weekend Trips from Atlanta

• Adairsville, GA (61 mi / 55 min /  map )
• Lake Oconee, GA (77 mi / 1 hr 20 min /  map )
• Pine Mountain, GA (78 mi / 1 hr 10 min /  map )
• Suches, GA (80 mi / 1 hr 30 min /  map )
• Americus, GA (143 mi / 2 hrs 25 min /  map )
• Cherokee, NC (161 mi / 2 hrs 45 min /  map )
• Tybee Island, GA (265 mi / 4 hrs /  map )
• Winston-Salem, NC (320 mi / 4 hrs 50 min /  map )
• Alys Beach, FL (300 mi / 5 hrs 10 min /  map )
• Pensacola, FL (324 mi / 4 hrs 55 min /  map )
• Oxford, MS (331 mi / 4 hrs 55 min /  map )
• Amelia Island, FL (356 mi / 5 hrs 15 min /  map )
• Durham, NC (382 mi / 5 hrs 45 min /  map )
• Memphis, TN (391 mi / 5 hrs 45 min /  map )
• Raleigh, NC (405 mi / 6 hrs 5 min /  map )
• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on Atlanta hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Georgia travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Save money on attractions with CityPASS .
• S is for Southern – a Guide to the South from Absinthe to Zydeco
• Rand McNally Easy to Read Georgia Map
• 60 Hikes within 60 Miles of Atlanta
• Hiking Waterfalls in Georgia and South Carolina
• Georgia Beer Cap Map

How many of these weekend trips from Atlanta have you done? Can you think of any other weekend trips you’ve done?

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DIY WALKING DEAD TOUR OF ATLANTA

“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J) , YouTube , TikTok , and Pinterest.

This Post Has 6 Comments

A lot of these are within a workable travel distance from DC, too, so we’re excited about trying some of them out! We usually stop in either Atlanta or Savannah when we’re driving back to DC from Scott’s folks’ place in Florida, and I would love to extend our path out to one of these awesome spots!

Ooh that would be a fun trip! When’s the next time you’re thinking you’ll be in the area? :)

This is great!

Maybe you could actually find things to do closer by or actually in the state of Georgia? Warm Springs? Call away Gardens? Any of half a dozen places in North Georgia mountains? Okefenokee Swamp?

We actually included many of those on our day trips article which is linked at the top of the post :)

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The 16 best weekend getaways from atlanta.

Atlantans have an array of options for quick trips, from alpine adventures to serene seaside escapes.

Top Weekend Getaways From Atlanta

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Walk along beaches of the southeast coast, hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and explore cities like Chattanooga and Asheville on your next trip out of Atlanta.

Atlanta is a thriving Southern metropolis with world-class cultural attractions, sporting events and historic landmarks – an amazing standalone destination in its own right. The state's capital also makes a great home base, in part because of its prime location in north-central Georgia. City dwellers have access to major freeways and airports that make it a breeze to hop on the road and explore the surrounding Appalachian and Southern regions just a few hours away.

From charming coastal enclaves to sprawling golf resorts to rustic rural hideaways, Atlanta is perfectly positioned for access to a plethora of fun family trips and romantic getaways . Make your great escape from the city to one the top weekend getaways from Atlanta.

The Best Weekend Getaways From Atlanta

About two hours or less:, lake oconee, georgia, amicalola falls state park, georgia.

• Barnsley Resort, Georgia
• Callaway Resort & Gardens, Georgia

About three hours or less:

Brasstown valley resort & spa, georgia, chattanooga, tennessee, great smoky mountains national park, about four hours or less:, asheville, north carolina, columbia, south carolina, about five hours or less:, tybee island, georgia, hilton head island, south carolina, golden isles, georgia, jekyll island, georgia, about six hours or less:, myrtle beach, south carolina, a quick flight:, nashville, tennessee, key west, florida.

Located about 85 miles east of Atlanta, this recreational haven is perfect for those seeking a weekend trip with plenty of outdoor activities. While in Lake Oconee, enjoy fishing, camping, golf, hiking and water sports. Visitors admire the scenic beauty and serene atmosphere of this rural gem, which provides year-round family fun. The reservoir itself boasts nearly 375 miles of lush shoreline, lined with lakefront homes, marinas, restaurants and geologic features – like the popular Jumping Rock, accessible only by boat. Landlubbers can hit the trails at the Rock Hawk Effigy & Trails center to hike, mountain bike and watch wildlife.

The nearby town of Greensboro beckons visitors with art galleries, restaurants and boutiques to browse. You can download a free historic walking tour brochure to study while you stroll so you don't miss any notable landmarks, including several Revolutionary War- and Civil War-era structures. Balance the rustic and the regal with a stay at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee , boasting five golf courses and a unique lakefront swimming pool – perfect for a romantic getaway in Georgia .

Conveniently located 70 miles north of the city, this expansive recreation area in Georgia makes for an easy weekend getaway in the great outdoors. The park's 800-plus acres harbor the tallest waterfall in the region and a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels, including a connector to the official Southern starting point for the renowned Appalachian Trail. The approach to the falls is challenging but worthwhile, according to visitors who appreciate the trek for its stunning scenery. Supervised activities like a zip line, archery sessions and live wildlife presentations offer additional family-friendly entertainment and adventure.

Refuel at the park's mountaintop restaurant, popular for its Sunday brunch and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the forest. On-site accommodations range from glamping and camping sites in the forest to resort-style lodge rooms and cabins – which feature beautiful views in every direction, according to travelers. The park is accessible year-round, and past visitors mention that they enjoyed the experience with fewer crowds during the winter months.

Barnsley Resort: Adairsville, Georgia

Courtesy of Barnsley Resort

This sprawling 3,000-acre property nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains was once the countryside estate of one of the South's first cotton barons, complete with elegant architecture and pristine landscaping. Visitors say the natural beauty and regal ambiance of Barnsley Resort create a quiet serenity that quickly erases any tension built up from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located about 65 miles from Atlanta, the grounds feature riding stables, a golf course, a 10-acre lake for recreation and a sport shooting facility. Other amenities – ranging from an on-site spa and seasonal outdoor pool to curated experiences like bourbon tastings and fireside s'mores – provide everything you need for a well-rounded romantic respite or girls getaway .

Despite the array of adventurous activities, a leisurely stroll through the resort's 10 acres of heirloom gardens is a must. The estate gardens, designed in the 1840s, are featured on the Georgia Garden Trail, a collection of 26 public landscapes with native blooms and historic significance. The nearby town of Adairsville is on the National Register of Historic Places, providing a charming spot to spend an afternoon of antiquing. It also offers additional dining options, which some guests felt were lacking on-site.

Address: 597 Barnsley Gardens Road NW, Adairsville, GA 30103

Callaway Resort & Gardens: Pine Mountain, Georgia

With its two golf courses, a full-service spa, expansive botanical gardens, mini-golf and private lakes featuring a 1-mile white sand beach , a weekend getaway to this 2,500-acre resort is a one-stop shop for fun and relaxation. Located about an 80-mile drive from Atlanta, Callaway Resort & Gardens boasts many activities and amenities that are accessible to non-lodging guests for a daily admission fee, providing entertainment for visitors to the nearby town of Pine Mountain, too.

Seasonal surprises and special events – including vibrant azalea blooms in the spring, foliage in the fall , beach access in the summer and an award-winning holiday light display in the winter – keep travelers returning time and time again. Nature lovers will find delight in a network of trails; the Discovery Center, with wildlife exhibits and live shows; and a conservatory with some 1,000 free-flying butterflies, which many visitors claim as their favorite feature. In addition to Aqua Island, the resort's floating water park, kids of all ages love the challenge of conquering three aerial adventure courses made from a collection of zip lines, ladders, bridges and other fun obstacles (additional fees apply).

Address: 17617 U.S. Route 27, Pine Mountain, GA 31822

Just over 100 miles from Atlanta, this secluded, family-friendly mountain lodge sits in the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, spotted with the manicured greens of an on-site golf course. Travelers are enchanted with the beautiful scenery, complete with hardwood forests and flowing streams, which can be explored on a hike or horseback trail ride around the 503-acre property. Equestrian enthusiasts will feel right at home at this full-service north Georgia resort, with its stables, guided trail rides, riding lessons, and customized experiences like catered picnic outings and hayrides. Afterward, soak away any soreness with a refreshing dip in the indoor-outdoor swimming pool or a visit to the spa before heading to dinner at one of the two on-site restaurants. Located on sacred Cherokee ground, Brasstown Valley Resort offers spa services that incorporate ancient Indigenous healing practices.

The surrounding area boasts additional restaurants and attractions such as Crane Creek Vineyards for wine tasting or Lake Chatuge for fishing and boating, which the resort concierge can assist in making arrangements to visit. While people adore the rustic fireplaces throughout the lodge for setting a nice scene to relax with a book or glass of wine, some travelers say the guest rooms feel outdated.

Address: 6321 U.S. Route 76, Young Harris, GA 30582

This midsize mountain town about 120 miles from Atlanta is known as the "Scenic City" for its location on the banks of the Tennessee River at the base of Lookout Mountain – a beautiful natural area that can be explored with a thrilling ride on the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway , a Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark. Then, plunge underneath the peak to discover Ruby Falls, the country's tallest and deepest underground waterfall. Visitors advise that although tickets and reservations are required for each of these top-rated activities, both experiences are worth the cost of admission. For a more laid-back trek, you can take a stroll across the Walnut Street Bridge – one of the longest footbridges in the world – at sunset.

Chattanooga is a great place for multigenerational families to vacation together thanks to an array of historic and cultural attractions that pique the interest of all ages. Stop by the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum and Tennessee Aquarium , which residents and tourists alike admire for its impressive collection of more than 9,000 living creatures arranged in thoughtful displays. All of these attractions are easily accessible from The Westin Chattanooga , an upscale hotel located downtown whose rooftop restaurant serves up an impressive view.

[See more of Chattanooga:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Visitors gush about the scenic trails, waterfalls and wildlife that abound in this natural treasure, and Atlanta residents can experience it all for themselves during a long weekend. The entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park located in Cherokee, North Carolina, is about 165 miles from Atlanta. The more than 522,000-acre park straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee and hosts more than 11 million visitors each year – the most of any U.S. national park. A drive north along Newfound Gap Road, the park's main thoroughfare, covers about 30 miles, but you'll want to allow at least two hours to stop at the numerous scenic overlooks and landmarks, such as Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the park, and Mingus Mill, a historic gristmill that gives live demonstrations.

If time allows, hit the trails for a more in-depth view of the park, including its many notable waterfalls. Located near Sugarlands Visitor Center, the popular Laurel Falls Trail is about 2.5 miles round trip with a moderate incline, leading to a picturesque 80-foot cascade. There aren't any hotels or restaurants located within the park (save for a few snack items found at the visitor centers), but a plethora of shops, dining and accommodations options can be found in the resort town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee , located near the northern park entrance. The Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is top-rated by travelers for its good value, ambiance and amenities.

[See more of Great Smoky Mountains National Park:  Things to Do  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Hop in the car and cruise north about 200 miles to this vibrant town in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains for a romantic North Carolina getaway or family trip. You'll enjoy access to outdoor recreation, farm-to-table cuisine and the iconic Biltmore Estate : an 8,000-acre property with a chateau museum, restaurant and winery. The historic landmark is top-rated by travelers for its architecture and gardens, especially during the holidays, but some guests warn that admission is a pricey affair. Immerse yourself with an overnight stay at one of the on-site hotels , where you can get the royal treatment with special activities like wine tastings and a falconry experience.

In downtown Asheville , follow the Asheville Urban Trail to work your way through some of the city's other notable spots, from public artwork and indie bookstores to historic buildings and markers, with a plethora of restaurants, shops and parks to explore along the nearly 2-mile route. Travelers can also get out into nature on one of the area's top hikes . Make sure to stop at a brewery to sample the local suds, too, as the city is known as the beer capital of the Southeast and has more than 100 craft beers to offer.

[See more of Asheville:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

This midsize college town is chock-full of trails, events, attractions, restaurants and history to discover – including plenty of free things to do – for a fun weekend trip in South Carolina's state capital. You'll find this city a 215-mile drive from Atlanta. Start with a stroll around the recently revitalized downtown district: Attractions range from the Columbia Museum of Art, known for its thematically organized galleries, to the Soda City Market, a weekly roundup of regional eateries and artisans adored by both travelers and residents alike for its charming atmosphere and variety of vendors. Keep your eyes peeled for public artwork tucked into otherwise nondescript nooks and crannies, including the zany "Tunnelvision" mural by Columbia-born artist Blue Sky.

Next, head to the Congaree riverfront; you can float or paddle the muddy waters, or simply watch for birds and enjoy the lush scenery from the shore. Along the Saluda River sits the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, which houses a nature trail lined with Civil War-era landmarks in addition to more than 2,000 animals. End your day at Terra restaurant, a farm-to-table eatery where diners can enjoy modern dishes and traditional Southern flavors crafted by a James Beard Award-winning chef – such as a pimento cheeseburger pizza.

[Read: The Top Things to Do in Columbia, South Carolina .]

Located just off the coast of Savannah, Georgia , near the South Carolina state border, Tybee Island is heralded for its beautiful beaches and water sports like kayaking and fishing. It sits about 265 miles from Atlanta. The laid-back island is also known for its collection of seaside eateries: Stop by the North Beach Bar & Grill at the base of the Tybee Island Lighthouse or feast at the Crab Shack. You can refuel at the latter with the Snow Country Boil platter, the outpost's unique twist on the traditional Southern seafood dish piled high with shrimp, potatoes, corn on the cob and snow crab legs. Although this popular dining spot and former fishing camp overlooking Chimney Creek can feel a bit touristy, travelers say it's at least worth a stop to check out the on-site alligator lagoon.

The top-rated Tybee Island Inn is described as charming and serene by guests who come back again and again for the bed-and-breakfast 's convenient location near the beach.

Located around 280 miles from Atlanta, this world-class coastal destination is worth the drive for its golf courses , pristine beaches and waterfront dining , most of which can be enjoyed year-round thanks to its warm climate. While on Hilton Head , indulging in Lowcountry cuisine is a must; enjoy seafood boils, fried okra and grits with views over the water at restaurants like the Skull Creek Boathouse. To learn even more about the Lowcountry region's heritage, head to the Coastal Discovery Museum , which is free to enter and lauded by patrons as a hidden gem.

The island is home to two dozen gorgeous championship golf courses and regularly hosts PGA tour events that attract spectators from around the world. The swanky Sea Pines Resort showcases Southern hospitality at its finest, and its Harbour Town location provides plenty of entertainment of its own.

[See more of Hilton Head:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

This cluster of barrier islands on Georgia's Atlantic coast – known as the Golden Isles for its cream-colored sand – provides paradise for those seeking to escape the heat and hustle of the city for a few days. The area is popular for its iconic marshland scenery, laid-back lifestyle and acclaimed golf courses, but each of the islands has distinct offerings. Start with a stop by the historic mainland city of Brunswick – about 305 miles from Atlanta – to poke around its Colonial squares and landmarks before heading to the coast.

The largest of the Golden Isles, St. Simons Island, is home to Pier Village, a quaint district with shops, restaurants and an iconic lighthouse, where visitors say the panoramic views from the top are well worth the climb. Heading north, the exclusive resort community of Sea Island boasts a private beach club, championship golf courses, horseback riding, and a variety of dining and lodging options, including the internationally acclaimed Cloister at Sea Island hotel.

For ultimate privacy and serenity, hop on a ferry at the Hampton River Marina on St. Simons Island for access to the northernmost outpost: Little St. Simons Island. Here you can partake in a naturalist-guided tour of its 11,000 acres of undeveloped beaches, maritime forests and wetlands teeming with wildlife, including 300-plus species of birds. Or, book a cottage at The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island. This all-inclusive resort full of Southern charm accommodates just 32 people per night – ideal for a romantic weekend getaway or a small family reunion.

Guests must pay a parking fee to gain access to Jekyll Island, the southernmost island of the Golden Isle chain. Once covered with sprawling Civil War-era plantations, the island is now a haven for nature lovers with trails for hiking, biking and bird-watching. Its pristine beaches are known for their extraordinary shelling. Travelers say the remote Driftwood Beach, located on the north end of the island, is a must-visit attraction for iconic photos of the sandy strip's twisted log formations and stunning sunsets.

Jekyll Island is also home to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, a state-of-the-art rehabilitation and research facility. Sea turtles are the unofficial mascot of the area, and visitors will find turtle-themed events and activities planned throughout the year, including the Turtle Crawl races and Turtleween festivities. Half a mile from the turtle center sits the Jekyll Island Club Resort , a historic enclave on the banks of the East River with a variety of lodging options, applauded by guests for its beautiful grounds and Southern charm.

Drive directly east of Atlanta and you'll reach Myrtle Beach in about 360 miles. This beach resort is great for families with kids, as an array of entertaining attractions will keep them busy. Check out the oceanfront Family Kingdom Amusement Park , Myrtle Waves Water Park, mini-golf courses and Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach , where visitors of all ages find delight in unique exhibits like a shark tunnel, penguin pool and stingray touch tank.

The beach itself is 60 miles long and lined with hotels and high-rise apartment buildings for easy access to sand and surf for sunbathing, water sports and sunrise (or sunset) strolls. Its crown jewel is the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, a scenic promenade complete with a 200-foot Ferris wheel: The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, featuring a cutting-edge design and enclosed gondolas for up to six people, was the first of its kind in the country. If sand traps rather than sandcastles are more your style, Myrtle Beach also boasts more than 80 golf courses , many of which are PGA-rated and celebrity-designed.

[See more of Myrtle Beach:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

A short flight:

Nashville is conveniently only about an hourlong flight away. Traditionally known as the "Country Music Capital of the World," this glitzy Southern city has become a popular destination. There's so much more to see than the Grand Ole Opry (although this renowned landmark is still not to be missed). Guests of the Fairlane Hotel enjoy a central location from which to explore the expansive city.

The best way to see as much as possible during a quick weekend trip to Nashville is to purchase tickets for the Old Town Trolley: a hop-on, hop-off tour that shuttles travelers to more than a dozen popular attractions around the city. Stops include the Ryman Auditorium , a famous concert venue and original home of the Opry, and the Parthenon in Centennial Park, a full-size replica of the Greek original that houses a collection of artwork. After the trolley tour, you can quench your thirst at Nelson's Green Brier Distillery , a historic watering hole whose interesting tour and tasty whisky samples visitors rave about.

[See more of Nashville:  Things to Do  | Tours |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Atlantans can board a less than two-hour flight for a tropical weekend getaway to Key West , known as the southernmost city in the continental U.S. for its location about 90 miles north of Cuba. The town boasts crystal-clear sea and picturesque beaches as well as various annual festivals and events. The wild Fantasy Fest around Halloween is one draw to Key West; there's also the Hemingway Days Festival, a celebration of the famous author whose historic home is now a local museum. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is one of the city's top attractions for its witty and informative tour guides.

Watching the sunset is another popular pastime in Key West: The city's Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park , a former Civil War fortress, is one of the best viewing spots around. Travelers also recommend heading to Mallory Square for its nightly sunset celebration featuring street performers, food trucks and ocean views. Once the sun goes down, Duval Street comes alive with a mile of lively open-air bars and restaurants where visitors can sip rum cocktails and dance until the sun comes up again. Recover in the shade of a palm tree on Smathers Beach , a serene swath of sand just steps away from the hip Margaritaville Beach House Key West.

[See more of Key West:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

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Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas , Georgia Vacations , Southeast Vacations

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The Family Vacation Guide

Atlanta Family Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting with Kids

posted by Charmaine Cortes on February 21, 2023 // last updated on March 13, 2023

The capital of Georgia , Atlanta oozes southern charm with its fast-paced city. The best part is that the city has something for everyone. You just have to know where to go and what’s in store for you at each family attraction.

There is no visiting Atlanta without a solid plan, especially when you have kids with you. You would need to keep everyone happy, safe, and entertained everywhere you go and this Atlanta family travel guide will tell you exactly how to do that along with everything you need to know before visiting with kids.

Five Reasons Why Atlanta is the Perfect Family Vacation Destination

When’s the best time to visit atlanta with kids, what’s the weather in atlanta across the year, what’s the perfect length of time to spend in atlanta, the best things to do with kids in atlanta, the best family hotels and resorts in atlanta, the best places to eat with kids in atlanta, the best day trips from atlanta that the whole family will love, how to get around atlanta during your vacation, the best ways to get to atlanta for your vacation, top tips for staying safe in atlanta when visiting with kids.

Atlanta is an amazing place to visit. There is always something fun happening that you can enjoy. However, these are the top five reasons why Atlanta is perfect for a family vacation.

Rich History

The resting place of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his wife, this city is rich in American history. Atlanta burned during the Civil War and is, therefore, a crucial landmark for the American Civil Rights Movement. It will serve as a pivotal place for you and your family to learn more about Atlanta’s civil rights heritage and you can retrace the steps for yourself through the city. You can also visit the Atlanta history center, which is a famous research center and museum.

Great Restaurants

Whether your family loves international cuisines or traditional southern food, Atlanta has some of the best restaurants in the state. With fresh produce coming from the local urban farms, Atlanta does not disappoint when it comes to food. Southern fried chicken, delectable barbecues, sweet treats, and diverse international restaurants will satisfy your tastebuds everywhere in the city.

Outdoor Activities

Being in the south means that Atlanta has great weather most of the time and tourists can take full advantage of this. Atlanta has several outdoor activities that the entire family can enjoy. You can enjoy the many parks, go for a hike, and enjoy one of the many family-friendly attractions. These include the Atlanta Zoo, the beautiful Centennial Olympic Park, and Piedmont Park.

The Arts and Culture Scene

If your family loves art, Atlanta can deliver. Whether you like to explore a leading art museum or the awesome street art in Atlanta, it is an incredible journey. Atlanta has several talented artists that have their work on display throughout the city. It is also home to various theatres which vary in the shows. From theatrical shows to the best stand-up comedy shows, Atlanta will keep your family entertained.

Seasonal Events

No matter when you visit Atlanta, there’s always a fun event happening on the weekend. The city is known to host multiple seasonal events that include concerts, food festivals, and arts and crafts fairs. There is so much fun to be had at these events because you get to experience the famous southern hospitality at its best.

As much as everyone loves a great summer vacation, the best time to visit Atlanta with kids would probably be in the spring or fall months. This allows you to enjoy the city when it’s not too hot and humid. 

Spring provides a beautiful landscape when the flowers are all in bloom in the many parks around the city. The Autumn months are much cooler and are the perfect time to visit Atlanta for fun festivals and music concerts. In addition, if you visit Atlanta during these months, the city will not be too busy, and you might avoid the high prices that the holiday season brings.

Atlanta has moderate weather throughout the year. However, the changes from season to season may be a bit of a shock to tourists who aren’t used to the South.

Summer (June – August)

Summer in Atlanta is hot and humid. The daytime highs can reach up to 90°F and get very uncomfortable. The hottest time of year to be in Atlanta is around July. This is also the month that you would experience the most rainfall in the city.

Fall (September – November)

Fall in Atlanta is a beautiful time of year. The trees start changing colors and the temperatures cool off substantially from the summer months. Around September, the temperature peaks at about 80°F but drops doe to around 60 ° F in November. October in Atlanta is usually the month with the least amount of rain expected. This is why it is a popular time for outdoor festivals and concerts.

Winter (December – February)

Winters in Atlanta are cold and wet. The temperatures drop below 60 ° F and the coldest month is usually January. Although not the wettest time of the year, it can rain for quite a bit over winter. This is usually the quietest time for tourism in Atlanta, but the Christmas tourists still love it.

Spring (March-May)

Spring temperatures in Atlanta are very similar to their fall. The temperature ranges between 60 and 80°F. This is the time of year when the flowers begin to bloom and you can enjoy outdoor activities to the fullest. There are still quite a few wet days around this time of year, but it is still better than summer.

Traveling with the family means that you would want to get as much done as possible without missing any of the family-friendly attractions. To do this you need approximately three to four days in Atlanta. During this time, you can secure an Atlanta City Pass that will ensure that you don’t miss any of the fun activities and places to visit in Atlanta.

If you want to plan your own itinerary, the next section will go over the best places to visit with kids in Atlanta.

There is so much family fun to be had in Atlanta, you will be surprised! It’s best to have a plan and visit as many attractions as you can when you are in a particular area. For this reason, we have separated these family-friendly attractions according to the districts they are in.

Downtown Atlanta

The downtown area is where most tourists choose to stay. It provides easy access to many attractions and various stations. Most venues are within walking distance from each other.

Atlanta Skyview Ferris Wheel

You can’t miss the Atlanta Skyview Ferris Wheel. It is a landmark in downtown Atlanta and a must if you want to see the beautiful city in all its glory. Skyview provides the perfect place to show your kids all the exciting places around the city that you are going to visit. It also gives you an appreciation of the area and the green space dotted amongst the city buildings.

World of Coca Cola

The World of Coca-Cola is definitely worth visiting, especially if your family loves Coca-Cola. You have the opportunity to taste different products from across the globe that you probably didn’t even know existed. It doesn’t end there though, you can explore their interactive exhibits and discover how this famous soft drink came to be.

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

Whether you love history or not, a stop at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a must for all families. It is a place to learn and to inspire. Young minds will get to learn more about civil and human rights, and will undoubtedly have a greater appreciation of the American civil rights movement.

Georgia Aquarium

Just across the street from the World of Coca-Cola, the Georgia Aquarium is a delightful place for families to visit. The largest aquarium in the US is quite a sight to behold and never fails to fascinate kids and adults alike.

College Football Hall of Fame

The Chick-Fil-A College Football Hall of Fame is the best place to take your family if they love football. Whether you want to inspire aspiring football players, or just check out the stats of your favorite college football teams, the Hall of Fame has what you need.

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta offers an array of exhibitions that will satisfy the curiosity of your kids. They even have an opportunity to create and showcase their artwork at the museum’s art studio. This museum is best for kids under 10 years of age.

Centennial Olympic Park

The site of the 1996 Olympic Games, Centennial Olympic Park is a central meeting point for everyone in Atlanta. Kids love running through the fountains and they often have festivals in the park that are suitable for the entire family.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change

Better known as The King Center, The Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, was founded by Coretta Scott King a year after her husband’s assassination. It is housed in the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site which also includes Dr. King’s birthplace and church. It’s an important piece of history that you can’t miss visiting while in Atlanta with the family.

Midtown Atlanta

Piedmont park.

Piedmont Park is the perfect place to let your kids have some fun. It has plenty of green space, a pool, and fun activities for them to enjoy. If you want to take a break from sightseeing, you can have a relaxing picnic in the park and just let the kids have a break.

High Museum of Art

The largest museum for visual art, The High Museum of Art is a great pit stop to explore different types of art. It provides valuable art education to young visitors who want to learn more about creative processes.

Center for Puppetry Arts

The Center for Puppetry Arts is a fun experience for kids. They get to learn the history of puppet making and get to see the global collection of puppets that the center holds.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

The Atlanta Botanical Garden is an absolute adventure for the entire family. Not only does the garden provide multiple themed areas to explore, but they often have scheduled events and activities that families can partake in. Their website has a calendar that will tell you more about them.

East Side Atlanta

Fernbank museum of natural history.

The Fernbank Museum of Natural History is not your typical museum. Your kids will not be confined indoors and can learn while they explore the outdoor areas. The Museum of Natural History has a number of outdoor exhibitions and allows kids to experience the exploration of nature for themselves as they take a walk through Fernbank Forest.

Zoo Atlanta

With over 1500 animals to visit, Zoo Atlanta is a day guaranteed to be filled with family fun. The giant pandas and their babies are always a crowd-pleaser along with the wildlife shows and the KidZone. Filled with fun things to do, the zoo is a must-see for animal lovers.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

You can find the LEGOLAND discovery center at Phipps Plaza. Your kids will have the times of their lives as they unlock their inner builders. LEGOLAND not only spurs creativity but gives your kids a chance to experience its interactive exhibits, race track, and 4D cinema.

Other Special Mentions

Stone mountain park.

Stone Mountain Park is a short drive northeast of Atlanta. It provides an excellent escape from the city for families who love the outdoors. You can take a trip on the Summit Skyride, enjoy the golf course, or have fun shopping and eating at the many establishments in the area. There’s also the world’s largest laser show spectacular that uses the massive granite outcropping as its backdrop.

Six Flags Over Georgia

When Six Flags is so close, you can’t help but spend the day there with your family. The theme park is fondly called The Thrill Capital of the South and has a range of rollercoasters that are child-friendly and fun rides for the entire family.

Atlanta Beltline

The Atlanta Beltline is a loop of Atlanta that utilizes the old railway line. It provides a convenient track through the city that hopes to connect neighborhoods previously cut out from the city. It is still a work in progress but it is still an excellent way for you to visit several attractions throughout the city. You can go for a hike on one of six trails or rent bikes to ride through the Beltline instead of walking. 

Most of the hotels and resorts in Atlanta offer excellent access to the surrounding attractions and various transport systems in the city. The popular areas to stay in are downtown Atlanta, Midtown, and Buckhead which is just outside the city.

Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead

This 5-star, luxury hotel will not disappoint the family. With its indoor pool and incredible spa, the Waldorf Astoria is the ultimate indulgence. It’s also pet friendly if you are traveling with your furry family members.

Loews Atlanta Hotel

Classified as an ‘Aparthotel’, Loews is another popular choice for families. The hotel is conveniently located in Midtown allowing you to walk to many of the attractions nearby. Also, if you are staying there, you have access to the hotel’s courtesy car. It is pet-friendly and has free wi-fi to keep the entire family satisfied.

Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center

The Omni Atlanta Hotel can be found at the CNN Center in downtown Atlanta. It provides direct access to the State Farm Arena and is within walking distance of the Georgia Aquarium and other attractions. They even have a fun Coca-Cola-themed suite available that will make the kids giddy. The fact that the hotel is in the CNN Center will also make it easy for you to nab a CNN studio tour with the family. You can also enjoy several dining options and the outdoor pool while staying here.

Four Seasons Atlanta

The Four Seasons Atlanta is in Midtown and within walking distance of Piedmont Park, The High Museum of Art, and the Atlanta Botanical Garden. This is a wonderful hotel choice for families and maybe a bit more laid back than other hotels. You will gain use of their indoor saltwater pool and they have a parking garage if you are traveling by car.

Artmore Hotel

Like the name hints, the Artmore Hotel can be found in the artistic area of midtown Atlanta. Just four minutes away from the High Museum of Art, the Artmore Hotel looks charming with its quaint courtyard and tranquil exterior. It is a restored building that boasts a variety of different suites and bi-level units that are perfectly suitable for families.

The Crowne Plaza Atlanta Midtown

This hotel is great for families and provides an exceptional view of the midtown area. Families staying at The Crowne Plaza can enjoy the rooftop pool, free Wi-Fi, and a wonderful breakfast at this restaurant. The hotel is so close to the Georgia Aquarium, you can just walk over and Six Flags is only a short drive away. Families also have a choice on how their suite is set up in terms of beds and sleeping arrangements. This is great because you don’t have to worry about the kids being in separate rooms.

What’s the Average Cost of a Hotel in Atlanta?

The average cost of a hotel in Atlanta depends on the hotel you choose. The variation between hotels is quite high because they offer different amenities, are in different locations, and will have different types of rooms available. You must also remember that average costs will usually be given per person and will not consider your family size or the ages of your kids. It is best to start searching for a hotel long before you plan your trip so that you can compare hotel prices for your family.

Atlanta is known for its impressive array of restaurants and global cuisine. Families with adventurous palates can try Indian street food from Chai Pani Decatur or Japanese cuisine at Nakato. These restaurants both have authentic cuisine that represents their countries with a little Georgia twist. Here are some other popular places to take the kids to eat in Atlanta.

Farm Burger

For kids who just want to have a good burger and fries, Farm Burger has a few restaurants in Atlanta. They provide mouth-watering burgers that the kids will love. You can even try their catfish sandwich to get a taste of real southern food.

Folk Art Restaurant

You can find Folk Art Restaurant in Inman Park. It is the ideal breakfast spot to visit in Atlanta with kids. They have delectable waffles and pancakes that will have the entire family fighting for more!

Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q

A fantastic place to visit for some traditional barbecue is Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q. Perfect for the entire family, Fox Bros. provides the best southern foods and traditional barbecue. Kids have an incredible choice of food as well and they will not turn down the slow-cooked ribs in this joint!

Majestic Diner

The Majestic Diner has been in operation since 1929. An absolute treasure in Atlanta, you will love going to the diner for breakfast. It is traditional and tasty, and being in the diner itself feels like you stepped back in time.

Victory Sandwich Bar

Victory Sandwich Bar is a small establishment, but it serves great meals at affordable prices. They have outdoor seating on their patio and ping-pong tables to keep the kids occupied. 

Staying in Atlanta will allow you to go out on some amazing day trips with the family. Here are some of the popular getaways for families.

Callaway Gardens

Just under a 90-minute drive outside the city, Callaway Gardens has many fun things for the whole family to enjoy. You can enjoy watersports on the lake, go to the shopping center or head on over to the beach. Callaway Gardens is also known for its many natural exhibits.

Great Wolf Lodge

Great Wolf Lodge is an indoor waterpark that’s a whole lot of fun. It’s just an hour away from Atlanta and has some amazing activities for kids. If you get your timing right, you can enjoy some of the festivals in the area.

Lake Lanier

Lake Lanier is that common day trip from Atlanta. Even the locals love it! There are so many fun things to do with the whole family. You can go hiking or take the kids to LanierWorld which features incredible water slides and mini golf courses. The little Lanier Islands also offer great outdoor activities like ziplining and watersports.

Getting around Atlanta is easy thanks to their efficient transport systems. It’s pretty easy to understand the schedules and stops, and traveling with the family is safe. Let’s take a look at your options.

Getting around Atlanta with a car is easy and there are many parking garages that you can use for minimal cost. However, you must keep the fuel cost in mind and whether that fits your budget.

Nevertheless, everything is pretty close together, so if you plan your trip properly, you won’t have to do much driving in the city.

MARTA Public Transit

MARTA refers to Atlanta’s rapid transit rail system that will take you anywhere you want to go. In fact, you can even get from the airport to downtown Atlanta without any hassle. With a train every 20 minutes, you can get to many destinations within the city and even head to Buckhead. You can also purchase your passes beforehand and load all your trips on it, so you don’t have to worry about it.

Atlanta Streetcar

Another great way to get around Atlanta with kids is to use the streetcar. It will take you to several neighborhoods in Atlanta and connects directly with MARTA’s Peachtree Center Station. It’s affordable, convenient, and safe to use in the downtown area.

You can still use a taxi in Atlanta if you really need to. They are readily available and have flat rates for popular destinations. They’re just not really a necessity when there is such great public transport. However, when traveling with kids, you never know if you may need one!

The best way to get to Atlanta depends on where you’re coming from. Hartsville Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the best place to fly to. It is just 10 miles from downtown Atlanta making it a quick journey from the airport using the train.

Traveling by train, bus, or car to Atlanta is also possible but much slower. On the positive side, it is also much cheaper to travel this way with your family. You just have to consider your budget and how well your kids can handle the long travel time.

Firstly, you should be aware that Atlanta is known for its gang-related crime. However, it rarely ever involves any visitors, and the tourist spots in the city are safer than other neighborhoods. You have to just remain vigilant and follow the below-mentioned tips.

Stick to Tourist Areas

These are areas that are busy and are less likely to be a problem. Tourist areas usually have a good police presence, and the venues are safe. Try not to venture out into quieter or more unknown areas if you are unsure of where to go.

Travel In a Group

Families are generally a group in themselves. Try to stay together at all times and don’t split up if you don’t have to. Chances are you will also meet other families at your hotel or at the attractions. Traveling together when visiting different tourist attractions can be fun and provide safety in numbers.

Don’t Stay Out Too Late

When you have kids, it’s a good idea to not stay out too late. If you are attending a festival or event at night, ensure that you have an idea of where you are going and have your transport finalized beforehand. Stick to brightly lit, busy areas, and don’t let your kids wander off on their own.

Plan an Itinerary

Having an itinerary may seem boring to you but it is important when you’re traveling with kids. You can still surprise them by not telling them the plans, but have a clear idea of where you are going and what is in the surrounding areas. Transportation options, restaurants, and police stations are all things that you should have an idea of. In this way, even though you are enjoying the attractions, you are well aware of your surroundings.

Teach Your Kids Basic Safety Rules

It is crucial to teach your kids basic safety rules when traveling. They should know what to do in case they get lost, how to contact you in an emergency, and how to locate a police officer or security guard. It is a scary thought, but if they are separated from you for any reason, they should know what to do. Furthermore, if any of your kids are non-vocal, you should write your contact details down somewhere on their clothing or belongings.

You have to visit Atlanta if you are heading to the state of Georgia. It is a great place filled with history, fun things to do, and beautiful parks to explore. Whether your family enjoys the outdoors or prefers chilling indoors, Atlanta has many opportunities to do both. 

The convenient public transport system makes it easy to travel around the city. However, you can simply walk from one attraction to the next given their close proximity. Atlanta with kids holds so much for them to learn and experience. It’s not just the history either, it’s the future that Atlanta is working toward.

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes